Adding Case Drain Line to Skid Steer Brush Cutter

[Mighty Mouse]

I picked up a brush cutter for my skid steer at an auction this week. It’s a cheap generic import (with known weaknesses) that I’m planning to upgrade. I’m going to replace the T-bar with a stump jumper, install thicker blades, and upgrade the motor/gearbox mounting bolts. Another modification that I’ve seen recommended but am on the fence about is adding a case drain line. I have a case drain port on my skid steer, but I’m wondering if it’s really worthwhile to add a hose to connect it to the motor case on the brush cutter. It seems like most of the higher quality, name brand manufacturers put case drain lines on their high flow brush cutter models but not on their standard flow models. I’m not opposed to adding a case drain line, just not sure what (if any) benefit it would yield. Photos of the motor on my new brush cutter attached for reference.

 

[chevytaHOE5674]

Every hydraulic motor has some internal leakage. Case drain allows the leakage someplace to go. Without it you can build internal pressure and push past seals.

For something with short duration use like a post hole digger it's no biggy. For things with long continuous use its much more beneficial.

 

[Lucky]

Our brush cutter is a low flow and doesn't have a case drain.

 

[chevytaHOE5674]

A case drain isn't always a necessity, but there are no downsides to adding one. And there are upsides like less chance is pushing seals out, decreased operating temps, etc.

Should also mention it depends on the flow of your skid steer vs the flow rating of the motor. A skid steer with 15gpm flow and a motor with 20gpm demand isn't going to be an issue. A SS with 25gpm flow and a 20gpm motor is going to have more leakage and heat build up.