JD 425 mystery oil leak

[Deere1329]

I have upgraded from my GT235 to a 425 because it was a deal that was just to good to pass up. It only has 610 hours on it and needed a fuel pump and the fenders and hood were pretty busted up. But for $325 it didn't matter to me. Once I replaced the fuel pump and cleaned up the carb she fired up immediately and runs great. The only outstanding issue is the oil leak. After sitting overnight I see 2 small oil spots on the floor near the front of the deck (where the roller is). I have read that the valve covers are usually the culprit, however I am not really seeing any leaks there. Any one with a 425 have any advice? Also anyone have a PDF of the tech manual for a 425 that they would be willing to share with me? All help is appreciated. Thanks in advance.

 

[StarTech]

Install about 1/2 oz of oil uv dye, engine engine 5-10 minutes, and scan with uv dye leak detection light. Should make finding a lot easier than guessing.

 

[Deere1329]

Install about 1/2 oz of oil uv dye, engine engine 5-10 minutes, and scan with uv dye leak detection light. Should make finding a lot easier than guessing.

Thanks for the advice I will look into that and a few cans of part cleaner to get the oil build up off of everything

 

[JoeM(GA)]

valve covers did tend to leak, along with dipstick tube o-rings and with age the oil pan end crank seal as there is no true crank bearing. They ride on a machined taper in the cast aluminum oil pan and it can wear.

message me your email, I can help you out with the PDF

 

[StarTech]

They ride on a machined taper in the cast aluminum oil pan and it can wear.

Hmmm, When did the Kawasaki started using tapered main crank journals on the FD620D? As far as I know they straight line bored. And the crankshaft only has a taper for the flywheel.

Any way once the engine exterior is cleaned the UV dye will pin point the leaky area. Just this week I found the two leaks on a Husqvarna rider has been in the dealer three times for oil leaks and they couldn't find the leak which stood out like sore thumb with the dye.

 

[Scrubcadet10]

This have the FD620 Kawasaki?

 

[StarTech]

Yes the JD 425 came with several versions of the FD620D. It also came with a diesel engine.

 

[Deere1329]

Thanks everyone for the advice. I put in an order today for some uv dye, light and glasses kit. Fingers crossed!

 

[Hammermechanicman]

425 carburetor. 445 fuel injected. 455 diesel. If the gas engine made before 1998 may still have plastic cam. Around 800 to 1000 hours it will let go. Rebuilt a few of them.