Ask the Mechanic

Steve Thompson, Contributing Columnist

Not only can coolant overheat in an engine, but hydraulic oil can also overheat. As hydraulic oil goes about its business, it is under pressure, and that raises the temperature of the oil. A hydraulic system that is running a hydraulic motor generates extra heat, and some tractors do not have enough hydraulic cooling capacity to run a hydraulic motor. A tractor with an open center system running hydraulic motors can create very hot oil. Always be careful when unplugging hoses quickly after use. They can be extremely hot. I recommend gloves.

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