IH 300U

So after a weeks worth of tinkering I got her running tonight, runs very nicely but leaks oil from any number of places. I determined that it does not have the TA and it appears to have a transmission driven pto, looks like I've got a winter project.

I do come armed with some more questions,it has a rather disturbing whining noise coming from the distributor, it looks as though the hyd. pump has been rebuilt and the distributor looks OK, but I never looked at the drive gear, do these have problems or should it be noisy? The motor is very quite otherwise I might not hear the distributor.

I was impressed with how quick and smooth the lift arms go up and down and stay put when the lever is returned to center, but the other lever on the right side, which I assumed engaged/ disengaged the pto simply makes the lift arms drop, of course there was no load on the pto but does this lever need to be used in conjunction with the clutch?

Finally one more question, sorry to go on so I'm a little groggy as I should have opened the shop doors sooner, a little too much CO. Does anyone have some pics of what this tractor should look like in terms of paint colour?

Once again your thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

On the hydraulics, if it's making noise but still seems to be working OK, you've probably got a suction problem. First check the oil level - dip stick is in the fill plug at the front of the reservoir under the seat. If that looks OK, and you don't find any loose connections anywhere, you should seriously consider checking the suction screen inside the reservoir - these tend to get plugged and/or collapse. If you go that route be sure to lift the reservoir top STRAIGHT up when you take it apart or you'll destroy the screen in the process - best to have some help for that job since the lid is heavy and ackward. It's best not to let this noise continue - cavitation wrecks pumps and they're expensive.

On the PTO, if the handle is on the right, you have the live (or "independent") PTO. From what you're describing, I'd guess your tractor's serial number is 22895 or below, and the PTO "seasonal disconnect" under the transmission is in the disconnect position.

It would be a good idea to get some manuals from Binder Books for your tractor. The Operators Manual is a must (IMHO), and both the Service and Parts Manuals are very much worth having, especially if you plan to maintain the tractor yourself.

Good luck!

• IH 300U

Here is a picture of our 1956 300U

Sorry, can't help you on the noisy distributor but I am sure someone else will have an idea. Are you sure it is the distributor and not the water pump making the noise?

well...I am posting a picture of the correct paint scheme...

Good luck and remember that CO is cumulative in your system....so either get the garage ventilated or wear a respirator....