Can't Measure MF 261 Transmission Oil Level.

[Eugene in Linn]

I recently bought a 1994 MF 261. Before using, I changed all oils and filters. The problem I have is I can't read the level of oil in the transmission. No matter how many times I clean the dipstick or how long I let the tractor sit, the dipstick still comes out covered in oil. I know it's not overfull. In fact, based on what I drained, what the manual says, and what I put back in, I should still be 1 - 2 gallons short. Can I tell the oil level at the fill point? If so, how? Any ideas you have on getting the dipstick to work would be appreciated.

 

[Fixingfarmer]

Does it need to run to fill some of the cavities in the transmission? I have had things go home that here ran for a couple days testing and running down the road looked fine but tip them going on a trailer or operate the right valve that I hadn’t yet and they need a gallon or even 2 added. Or some things don’t drain all the way perhaps you have an oil cooler or steering valves that weren’t quite empty. We had a 275 Massey at work that would get overfilled from time to time but it was mostly the loader hydraulics which I think on that were off their own pump the reservoir was in the frame of the loader

 

[Eugene in Linn]

Does it need to run to fill some of the cavities in the transmission? I have had things go home that here ran for a couple days testing and running down the road looked fine but tip them going on a trailer or operate the right valve that I hadn’t yet and they need a gallon or even 2 added. Or some things don’t drain all the way perhaps you have an oil cooler or steering valves that weren’t quite empty. We had a 275 Massey at work that would get overfilled from time to time but it was mostly the loader hydraulics which I think on that were off their own pump the reservoir was in the frame of the loader

I hauled it on a trailer 150 miles and mowed with it for a half day. I also operated the front end loader, and the mower is attached to the 3-point hitch. The loader acted like I was low on oil, but I can't tell. Everytime I check the dipstick it comes out completely covered in oil. Surely I am not the only owner to have this problem. Help!!