marchej 1 #1 Posted October 31, 2016 (edited) Whenever I change oil in my 312-8 with a K301 Kohler, I put 2 quarts in as proscribed in the manual, but the level on the dipstick barely registers on the bottom. Which is correct the manual or the dipstick? Has anyone else run into this? Also when I changed hypoid oil in the 8 speed trans axel, the manual says 2 quarts, but it will only take one. That is also what came out. Is the manual wrong about this? Edited October 31, 2016 by marchej Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
pfrederi 18,708 #2 Posted October 31, 2016 There is a ridge in the center of the rear end that traps oil up to the front so it doesn't all drain out. Also gear oil is clingy and takes for ever to drain. My manual says 2.5 qts for a 312 I would go with the dipstick. 5 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
gwest_ca-(File Mod) 11,510 #3 Posted October 31, 2016 1985 K301 takes 2 quarts. 1986 takes 2-1/2 quarts because of the addition of the low oil switch to the starting circuit. The operator manual got revised Garry 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
rmaynard 16,344 #4 Posted October 31, 2016 Where are you filling the 8-speed transmission? It needs to be filled either at the dipstick tube, or in the shifter hole with the shifter removed. If you are trying to fill from the plug on the left side of the transmission, you will always be between 8 and 10 ounces low. 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
marchej 1 #5 Posted October 31, 2016 I went thru the dipstick tube. It does register as full. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
marchej 1 #6 Posted October 31, 2016 4 hours ago, gwest_ca said: 1985 K301 takes 2 quarts. 1986 takes 2-1/2 quarts because of the addition of the low oil switch to the starting circuit. The operator manual got revised Garry Holy Cow I have the older manual that come with the tractor, so for 30 years I've been running it 1/2 quart low. Fortunately it doesn't seem any worse for it ie. does not use any oil and runs smoothly. Is there a link where I can download the updated manual? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
gwest_ca-(File Mod) 11,510 #7 Posted November 1, 2016 The link to the 810437R1 manual above will take you to it. Click on the red heading. Garry 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
marchej 1 #8 Posted November 1, 2016 Thanks so much it solves the mystery. The dealership who sold it to me said to follow the manual. I'm amazed that the engine is no worse for the error after 30 years. It is a testament to how tough those engines and the tractor that goes with it are. 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
