I check the hydraulic fluid in my WD and the dipstick always seems to have a little bit of whitish stuff on it. Although the rams work fine, the system always seems to be low on fluid when I check it. I can't see any leaking. I've been adding ATF when it reads low on the hydraulic fluid dip stick. Also, the little drain plug seems to have a square head. What wrench size fits this? How can I loosen it without stripping the square head?

Our WD-45's have never had anything other than 10w-30 motor oil in the hydrolics..... I see no reason to use anything else. The "other" oil check points are on the same side as the hydrolic dipstick.... One for the transmission, and a Larger one farther to the rear, for the rear end. I use 90 wt in the transmission, and also in the rear end... They should be full to the threads of the plug. Pretty common for these tractors to seep oil out at the rear of the engine, at the front of the hydrolic resevoir....the seal gets grooved. should be fine, tho. Remember---DON'T hook your thumbs in the steering wheel, on rough ground...!!!!!!!! These ARE arm-breakers....!!!!!!

Whiteish stuff is probably moisture - an oil change (or two) to get the water out might be in order. You may have a seal leak internally if you don't see any external leaks and are losing fluid - check the other compartment and see if it's over-full.

Bryan,
Thanks. What is the 'other compartment' I should check?
Greg