How to Check the Fluid Levels of a Brush Cutter

Clearing brush can be very tiring, but having the right equipment can make it a lot easier. However, it is important to manage the care and upkeep of your equipment to ensure that you’re getting the job done effectively. This post will describe how to check the fluid levels of Virnig brush cutter attachments, so that you can clear dense terrains with ease. 

Maintenance Schedule

Before each use and after every 10 hours of operation, check the fluid levels of your cutters. The best fluid to use is SAE 80W-90 gear oil that is API-GL-5 approved, which can be purchased at most fleet supply stores or online.

Tools Required

• 5/16” Hex Key (Allen wrench) to remove the oil plug on the V40 Series, V50 Series, and V60 IRC
• 11/16” wrench to remove the oil plug on the V70 Tree Disc Mulcher

Steps to Checking Fluid Levels

The process for each of our models varies slightly. Make sure you follow the appropriate steps for your cutter attachment.

V40 Rotary Brush Cutter:

1. Remove the oil plug on the side of the Bearing Housing Adapter, just above the Mount Flange. 
2. If needed, add oil through the hole or remove the plug on top of the Bearing Housing Adapter located near the motor.
3. Reinstall plug(s). 

Note: Units are shipped with the proper amount of oil. When empty, the Bearing Housing Adapter holds 12 oz. of oil. Replacement oil should be SAE 80W-90 gear lubricant that is API-GL-5 approved.

V50 Rotary Brush Cutter:

1. Remove the oil plug on the side of the Floating Deck Bearing Adapter (spindle), just above the Mount Flange. Remove bolts holding it to the cutter deck.
2. If no lubricant comes out of the hole, fill until lubricant comes out of the hole. Oil can be added through the plug located on or near the top of the Bearing Adapter. 
3. Reinstall plug(s).

Note: Units are shipped with the proper amount of oil. When empty, the Bearing Adapter holds 14 oz. of oil. Replacement oil should be SAE 80W-90 gear lubricant that is API-GL-5 approved.

V60 Industrial Rotary Cutter:

1. Remove the oil plug on top of the Bearing Adapter located near the motor. You should see the flat, steel portion of the Spindle Casting through the hole. 
2. The oil level should be at or slightly above the internal steel plate. If needed, add oil until it reaches the plate.
3. Reinstall plug. 

Note: Units are shipped with the proper amount of oil. When empty, the Bearing Adapter holds 17 oz. of oil. Replacement oil should be SAE 80W-90 gear lubricant that is API-GL-5 approved.

V70 Tree Disc Mulcher:

1. Place mulcher on a level surface. Remove the front cover of the Bearing Adapter.
2. Disconnect the elbow from the Bearing Adapter.
3. Insert a piece of clean wire, zip tie, etc. approximately 4” into the drain hole and remove. If oil is present, the oil level is adequate. If there is no oil present, oil will need to be added. 

To add oil:

1. Reconnect the elbow to the Bearing Adapter. Make sure that the elbow is pointing upward.
2. Remove the cap from the elbow and place rags below the fill to catch any excess oil. 
3. Slowly add oil through the hole. Remove the elbow periodically to check the oil level. Do not overfill.
4. If oil comes out of the Bearing Adapter, let it drain until the flow stops. Otherwise, excess oil will spill out of the Pressure Relief when the mulcher is running.
5. Reinstall cap and cover(s) and check that all fittings are tight.

Note: Units are shipped with the proper amount of oil. When empty, the Bearing Adapter holds 22 oz. of oil. Replacement oil should be SAE 80W-90 gear lubricant that is API-GL-5 approved.

Now that you’ve checked the fluid levels of your cutters, you’re ready to get back to work! For more information about how to manage your brush cutter attachments, download this complementary guide.