3600 Diesel - Fuel in crankcase

Was advised to change Thermostart which was necessary since it was not working anyway. Also changed a seal in the injection pump right behind the end cover (this has the rotary pump). This seems to have reduced the problem, but am still seeing oil levels rising as it sits. Have taken to turning off the fuel at the pet-cock near the tank to minimize effects.

There is another seal in the pump located somewhere closer to the engine side. The exploded parts diagrams are sometimes deceptive as to where things really are located. I have a service manual as well, but it does not really describe the seal either. Anybody been inside one of these pumps to know how hard it is to get to the seal? I have the part ordered and it has arrived, but I need some confidence building before I take the pump off of the tractor. Is this a DIY project? My skills are pretty fair, but I know my limits too.

Thanks,

Kirk

Smells like diesel in the crankcase so that is where I have been focused. I suppose the possibility exists that the oil always smells a little like diesel in the crankcase.

There are 2 seals noted on the exploded parts diagram. I "cherry picked" the easy one, but am still having problems. Thus the continued follow-up. What should a pump rebuild cost (approx.)?

The power steering fluid theory does have some possibilities though. I regularly have to top off the PS fluid and whatever is in the crankcase is relatively clear.

Coolant level never moves so I have not considered that as a possibility, but will continue to monitor.

Thanks,

Kirk

Rod

So far the fixes have not cost much besides my time. Thermostart was about $25, but it needed to be replaced anyway. The seal I fixed was $10. While I was messing around with things I added a block heater so I should have cold starts going pretty well this year. The second seal is ~$23, I just am not sure how to get to it. Don't have any real clear description yet.

Regarding the Power Steering - I haven't seen any obvious external leaks. I might attack this if it is not too difficult. I just don't think the quantity of oil I keep draining matches the amount of PS fluid added. The first time I drained it the "oil" level was above the dipstick. Just flowed out the top. When I drained it I took most of 4 gallons out. Since then I monitor oil level much more frequently.

I am keeping the oil pretty refreshed for now. The tractor is used around our horse/hobby acreage. Probably only used about 2-3 hours a week.

Kirk

If you're draining off that kind of volume, then it must be fuel. That volume certainly didn't come from the steering system unless you allowed a lot to accumulate. I can't tell you the specifics of how to tackle the injection pump. If it was mine, then I might tackle it... but I don't have a clear picture of it in my head to lead you through it. One suggestion though, if you wish to try it yourself: go up to the Tractor Talk forum and ask the question. You might direct it at jdemaris. He's worked on more of those pumps that I've ever laid eyes on. Certainly know the answer if he's around. Your pump is a CAV model DPA. Include that in you post.... HTH.

Rod

Rod