3CX Oil leak from front and rear of gearbox - and sluggish drive

[jellwood]

Just bought a 1989 3CX (Grey Cab). When running, oil drips out of the hole in the bottom of the bell housing and also out from around the back of the gearbox (by the hand brake disc). There is a steady stream of oil leaking / dripping.

But, once the 3CX has warmed up, the dripping seems to get a lot less and nearly stop.

I have dipped the oil and it looks overfilled. Could it be the overfilling causing the problem, or do the seals at the front and rear of the box need replacing. Or any other suggestions?

Also, the 3CX seems to have very sluggish drive in forwards and reverse. In 1st gear, you need to give it at least half revs before it starts to move. And in 3rd gear, if it is going up an incline on the road, it just grinds to a halt (even on full revs). Could this be related to the gearbox leak, or is it something else that needs attention?

Thanks in advance,
Jamie

[philwheelton]

Sounds like the gearbox needs a full strip down.

[jimfoster4]

Could it be the torque converter?

[davereillo14]

hi there . i have a jcb 3c. torque. everything in the gearbox working fine. but the transmission oil keeps needing to be topped up as it is leaking from below like a tap a a quarter turned on. any one idea the exact problem here. Any expert advise appreciated. Also problem no 2 off topic is the tilt on the front loader is not working , the up and down and open and close grab working but the tilt function not working. looked through the manual am i dealing with an o ring failure or damage to a hose.

[dearjohn]

Re: 3CX Oil leak from front and rear of gearbox -
seal between torque and oil pump needs replacing.
Seal costs about a fiver, but box has to come out first.
If you have a workshop you trust, you needle box overhauled, or an exchange unit.
Check circular filter screen inbottom of gearbox first thing you do. its behind a lemon shaped plate on the left side of the box .Be ready to catch the oil.