Question about hydraulic fluid leak on M444

[GlennsM444]

Does anyone have experience with hydraulic fluid leaking from the front shaft on the M444? It's dripping at about a quart an hour and I just keep adding it. It is leaking from both sides. I notice in the M444 parts book there is a square gasket up against the bearing assembly. Should I be thinking about replacing the gasket? I've never opened a side cover on one of these but now is as good a time to learn as ever. Just wanted to see if there is a quick fix before I go dirtying up. gc

 

[Tazza]

Is this shaft the axles or part of the pump?

 

[GlennsM444]

Is this shaft the axles or part of the pump?

It is the axel. Also known as the "jack shaft."

 

[6brnorma]

It is the axel. Also known as the "jack shaft."

Glenn.....I make no claims of being an expert on the 400 series but if I'm not mistaken, the internals are not that much different than the 600 series. That being said.....the 'jackshaft' is the shaft that the 'driven' sheave (spring loaded sheave) rides on. If you are losing hydro oil at the axels it is most commonly at the 'oil' seal not at the gasket......again, assuming it is similar to the 600 series. After years of use the oil seals wear grooves in the shaft and allow oil to seep out. My apologizes if I'm completely off on the design of the M444.

 

[GlennsM444]

Glenn.....I make no claims of being an expert on the 400 series but if I'm not mistaken, the internals are not that much different than the 600 series. That being said.....the 'jackshaft' is the shaft that the 'driven' sheave (spring loaded sheave) rides on. If you are losing hydro oil at the axels it is most commonly at the 'oil' seal not at the gasket......again, assuming it is similar to the 600 series. After years of use the oil seals wear grooves in the shaft and allow oil to seep out. My apologizes if I'm completely off on the design of the M444.

I ended up finding the jackshaft bearing and housing assembly at loader parts source for 100 bucks. That did the trick. And I believe you are right - most of the non engine parts seem to be interchangeable from 444 up through 600 and even 610. Thank goodness!