453b access question

[SlowDave]

Hi, I have a 1995 453 b with a hydraulic leak. Looking behind the alternator I can see two steel tubes which come down to the engine compartment deck and appear to go under the engine. I can see bubbly hydraulic fluid in the area. How do I get access to find the leak?

 

[Markle]

On my 743, engine had to be removed. Then I had access to lots of good stuff. Those lower steel lines are usually compacted in muck, debris, schmutz, and they corrode. This is a pic AFTER hours of cleaning. Good luck

 

[SlowDave]

Thank you. How long did the engine removal take?

 

[Markle]

Great question. The 743 engine is direct drive and in line with the hst pump, through a ujoint coupler. No more that an hour to get that engine out.

 

[Markle]

I looked at a pic of the 453 and the engine is transverse mount, driving hst pump with a belt. From the looks of it, I wouldn't shy from it. I take lots of pictures of where stuff goes, esp wires, when I do something like this first time. If you do it, think of other things that might be needed while engine is out, like other steel hydr lines with exterior corrosion though not yet leaking, and valve spool access might be much easier with engine out (might be worth changing spool seals if not done on your watch before) older machine…runs and drives good…does what you need it to…no computers…might be worth it. Good luck.

 

[SlowDave]

Thank you. I purchase the machine for a job where I had to remove 70 tons of concrete in a back yard and the build a new flag stone patio and place a bunch of boulders in the landscaping. It doesn't have too many hours on it and otherwise has been great. I never knew how handy having this around would be. It's a keeper.