L2550 Radiator Hose

[1Sarge]

Hi, New here and glad I found this forum. I bought a L2550 over a year ago and love the tractor. I do have one issue with it. When I work the tractor a while the top radiator hose will colapse. The tractor has never run hot but I know this should not happen. At first the bottom one was doing it and I replaced it. Any ideas, new top hose?

[Michael]

Yes it is time for a new hose. The inside of the hose is going and it is only a matter of time for the hose to burst if it is left on the tractor. Pull that old hose and get a new one.

[1Sarge]

Sorry I haven't posted an update before now. I replaced the top hose with a new hose from NAPA that was similar to the old hose. I ran the tractor mowing for a while and the top hose is still closing up or sucking together. What could be the cause of this? I have seen other hoses with a spring in them to prevent this but don't know where I would find the spring. I also thought about useing a metal tube of some kind in the long area of the hose. Any suggestions?

[small&mighty99]

1- Look to see if the overflow hose has an obstruction,
2- Has the radiator cap been changed? if so! maybe wrong cap, or might need new cap?

[Service Dept Vic]

I'm going to go a little further and suggest a complete cooling system service. Since this is a "new to you" tractor, it's a great way to get to know your Kubota and establish this important service base-line.

Here's what I'd suggest:

Replace upper and lower rad hoses
Replace Bypass hose
Remove overflow bottle, wash out bottle, blow clear the overflow hose and reinstall
Replace T'Stat and gasket
Flush and fill cooling system, replace with 50/50 gylcol water
Replace fan belt
Unclip rad screen, remove and clean
Blow out radiator core fins from both sides
Replace Rad Cap
Blow out the side curtain screens

[1Sarge]

Thanks for the replys. I have already performed most of what has been suggested with the execption of a new rad cap and thermostat. I keep the tractor very clean to include the rad and rad screen. I installed a new water pump not long ago because of a slight leak in the old one. I am going to install a new cap and thermostat to see if that will help.
Thanks again

[1Sarge]

I ment to ask what pressure cap it should have on it. I have a local dealer but may have to get a new cap at the auto parts store. Anyone know?