Needing to add antifreeze everytime I use the machine.

[bu58]

I just bought my first skid steer loader (don't know how I ever lived without one). It is a 2006 John Deere 317 from a local rental place with 700 hours on it. When I checked the antifreeze level, the recovery tank was almost empty. I have run the machine four days (about three hours each time) and I have had to add antifreeze each time to keep it at the proper level. Is this normal? Since the previous owner of the machine has been less than truthful about a couple of things I am starting to get paranoid. P.S. Attachments are expensive!!!!

 

[OldMachinist]

First check the overflow tank and line for leaks. Next do a pressure test on the cooling system and if that doesn't show any leaks get a combustion gas test kit http://www.amazon.com/UVIEW-560000-Combustion-Leak-Tester/dp/B000NPDL76 and test the fluid. Also keep a close eye on the crankcase oil level to make sure the anti-freeze isn't leaking into it.

 

[bobcat_ron]

First check the overflow tank and line for leaks. Next do a pressure test on the cooling system and if that doesn't show any leaks get a combustion gas test kit http://www.amazon.com/UVIEW-560000-Combustion-Leak-Tester/dp/B000NPDL76 and test the fluid. Also keep a close eye on the crankcase oil level to make sure the anti-freeze isn't leaking into it.

You can smell the anti freeze in the crank case oil or it's getting burnt out through the exhaust system and turbo (if it's got a turbo)

 

[Tazza]

You can smell the anti freeze in the crank case oil or it's getting burnt out through the exhaust system and turbo (if it's got a turbo)

It could also be a tiny leak in the radiator or where the hoses connect to the engine and radiator.

 

[skidsteer.ca]

"P.S. Attachments are expensive!!!!"
mine are'nt!!!
www.skidsteer.ca
Also I tend to agree with Tazza, all comments a good ones, but don't for get to look for minor problems too, as in most cases, hopefully you will find the culprit is something simple.
Ken