Essential Tips for Changing Hydraulic Fluid in Your Massey Ferguson 135: A Step-by-Step Guide

Maintaining your Massey Ferguson 135 is crucial for its longevity and performance. One essential maintenance task is changing the hydraulic fluid. This fluid lubricates and cools the hydraulic system, ensuring smooth operation of the tractor’s implements. This guide will walk you through the process of changing the hydraulic fluid in your Massey Ferguson 135, providing a step-by-step breakdown for a successful and efficient fluid change.

Gathering Your Supplies

Before embarking on the hydraulic fluid change, ensure you have all the necessary supplies:

• New Hydraulic Fluid: Choose the correct hydraulic fluid for your Massey Ferguson 135. Refer to your owner’s manual for the recommended fluid type and viscosity.
• Drain Pan: A large drain pan to collect the old hydraulic fluid.
• Wrench Set: A set of wrenches, including a socket wrench, to loosen and tighten bolts and nuts.
• Funnel: A funnel to pour the new hydraulic fluid into the reservoir.
• Gloves: Wear gloves to protect your hands from the old hydraulic fluid.
• Cleaning Rags: Rags for cleaning up spills and wiping surfaces.
• Safety Glasses: Safety glasses to protect your eyes from splashes.
• Hydraulic Fluid Pump: A manual or electric pump to easily transfer the new fluid into the reservoir.

Preparing the Tractor

With your supplies gathered, prepare your Massey Ferguson 135 for the hydraulic fluid change:

1. Park the Tractor on a Level Surface: Make sure the tractor is parked on a level surface to prevent fluid from spilling unevenly.
2. Disengage the PTO: Ensure the PTO is disengaged to prevent accidental movement of implements during the fluid change.
3. Lower Implements: Lower all hydraulically operated implements to the ground to minimize the amount of fluid in the system.
4. Warm Up the Engine: Running the engine for a few minutes will warm up the hydraulic fluid, making it easier to drain.

Draining the Old Hydraulic Fluid

Now, it’s time to drain the old hydraulic fluid:

1. Locate the Drain Plug: Identify the drain plug on the bottom of the hydraulic reservoir. It’s usually a square or hexagonal plug.
2. Place the Drain Pan: Position the drain pan beneath the drain plug to catch the draining fluid.
3. Loosen the Drain Plug: Use a wrench to loosen the drain plug carefully. Be prepared for a gush of fluid.
4. Remove the Drain Plug: Once the fluid flow slows down, fully remove the drain plug and let the fluid drain completely.
5. Replace the Drain Plug: After draining, clean the drain plug and seal with a new gasket or sealant before tightening it back into place.

Filling the Hydraulic Reservoir

With the old fluid drained, you can now fill the hydraulic reservoir with fresh fluid:

1. Locate the Fill Port: Find the fill port on the top of the hydraulic reservoir. It’s usually marked with a symbol or “Hydraulic Fluid Fill” label.
2. Remove the Fill Cap: Remove the fill cap from the fill port.
3. Use a Funnel: Insert a funnel into the fill port to prevent spills.
4. Add New Fluid: Slowly pour the new hydraulic fluid into the reservoir using the funnel. Refer to your owner’s manual for the correct fluid capacity.
5. Check Fluid Level: As you add fluid, periodically check the fluid level using the dipstick. Ensure the fluid level is within the specified range on the dipstick.
6. Replace the Fill Cap: Once the reservoir is full, replace the fill cap tightly.

Running the Engine and Checking Fluid Level

After filling the reservoir, it’s important to check for leaks and ensure the fluid level is correct:

1. Start the Engine: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes.
2. Operate Implements: Cycle the hydraulically operated implements to circulate the new fluid through the system.
3. Check for Leaks: Carefully inspect the hydraulic system for any leaks.
4. Top Off Fluid Level: After running the engine and operating the implements, check the fluid level again using the dipstick. Top off the fluid level if needed.

Cleaning Up and Storage

After completing the fluid change, clean up any spills and store the old hydraulic fluid properly:

1. Clean Up Spills: Wipe up any spilled hydraulic fluid with cleaning rags.
2. Dispose of Old Fluid: Store the old hydraulic fluid in a sealed container and dispose of it properly at a designated recycling or hazardous waste facility.
3. Clean Tools: Clean all tools and equipment used during the fluid change.

Final Thoughts

Changing the hydraulic fluid in your Massey Ferguson 135 is a critical maintenance task that helps ensure the smooth operation and longevity of your tractor. This detailed guide provides a comprehensive step-by-step process you can follow. By following these instructions and using the correct supplies, you can successfully change the hydraulic fluid in your Massey Ferguson 135 and keep your tractor running smoothly for years to come.

Popular Questions

Q: How often should I change the hydraulic fluid in my Massey Ferguson 135?

A: Refer to your owner’s manual for the recommended service intervals. Generally, hydraulic fluid should be changed every 250-500 hours of operation or annually, whichever comes first.

Q: Can I use any type of hydraulic fluid in my Massey Ferguson 135?

A: No, using the wrong type of hydraulic fluid can damage your tractor’s hydraulic system. Always consult your owner’s manual for the recommended fluid type and viscosity.

Q: What should I do if I see a leak in the hydraulic system?

A: If you notice a leak, immediately stop operating the tractor and address the leak. A small leak can quickly become a major problem. Consult your owner’s manual or a qualified mechanic to diagnose and repair the leak.

Q: Is it safe to change the hydraulic fluid myself?

A: While changing hydraulic fluid is a relatively straightforward process, it’s important to follow safety precautions and use the correct tools and procedures. If you’re unsure about any aspect of the process, it’s always best to consult a qualified mechanic.