JCB 3CX identification

[essexpete]

1982 Machine that will probably have the Borg Warner shuttle and a Perkins engine. The cab would have originally been white.
Worth checking the state of the transmission fluid, you dip whilst the engine is running. The oil originally was recommended to be a 10w transmission fluid but others have used an ATF without a problem. (ATF usually a pink/red colour. The gear box is a synchro 4 speed with a level plug. That needs an oil compatible with synchros. The rear axle needs a gear oil compatible with oil immersed disc brakes.

[supermondo]

Thank you Gecko, very helpful

[supermondo]

Thank you Pete,

[supermondo]

Hi guys, what is the best way to identify the ram seals for ordering new ones?

[gecko.cx]

First port of call is probably the JCB parts list online
https://parts.jcb.com/parts
Enter your serial number and it will offer you what was available at the time (not specifically what is on your machine).


[edit: I've just tried your serial and I can't get anything]

[mechman]

supermondo.
I've recently done the boom seals on my 3cx and got the seal kit from Vicary Plant Spares (about £20) they seem to be the go to guys for that sort of thing.
Norm.

[essexpete]

. Norman did you use the special three prong pliers when fitting the internal seals?

[mechman]

Pete.
Just used the ten fingers and thumbs type they went on without to much faff, unlike the King post pin which I posted on here. The guide part of the seals are split so no bother with them and the O rings being new are very flexible.
Norm.

[essexpete]

I got in mucking fuddle with a gland seal on the 814. Could not get one in. Bought the plier things, then snapped the seal. I think the seal had been hanging around a while.

[gecko.cx]

Heating the seal in hot/boiling water does help (a bit) to soften the seal.

If your seal was old and hard, it may have been a blessing is disguise that it failed before reassembly.