Your Kubota BX2380 sub-compact tractor requires specific filters and fluids to operate reliably and reach its expected service life. Using the correct parts and following proper service procedures prevents expensive repairs and keeps your BX performing optimally. This comprehensive guide covers every filter and fluid your BX2380 needs with part numbers, capacities, specifications, and detailed service information. For full machine details, see the Kubota BX2380 complete specs.
The BX2380 is Kubota’s popular 23-horsepower sub-compact tractor, part of the BX80 series built from 2015 to 2021. These versatile machines handle everything from mowing and landscaping to light farming and property maintenance. Understanding their filter and fluid requirements is essential for proper ownership.
Engine Oil and Filter
The heart of BX2380 maintenance is regular engine oil and filter changes. The Kubota D902-E4 diesel engine is a robust three-cylinder design, but it demands clean oil and proper filtration for long life.
Engine Oil Specification
Capacity: 2.5 quarts (2.4 liters) with filter change
Oil specification: Kubota-approved 15W-40 diesel engine oil meeting API CI-4 or higher
Kubota recommends using 15W-40 multi-viscosity diesel engine oil for most operating conditions. This viscosity provides adequate protection from -10°F to 100°F+. For extreme cold (below -10°F), use 10W-30. For sustained operation above 100°F, 20W-50 is acceptable.
Use diesel-rated oil meeting API CI-4, CJ-4, or CK-4 specifications. These oils have the additive package required for diesel engines, including detergents, dispersants, and anti-wear compounds. Never use straight automotive motor oil—it lacks the protection diesel engines need.
Synthetic oil is acceptable and provides better protection in temperature extremes, but follow the same change intervals unless you implement an oil analysis program. Synthetic oil doesn’t eliminate the need for regular changes—contaminants and additive depletion still occur.
Engine Oil Filter
Part number: HH150-32430 or HH150-32094 (both fit BX2380)
Alternative aftermarket numbers: Cross-references to multiple aftermarket brands
The engine oil filter is a spin-on cartridge that mounts on the left side of the engine near the oil pan. This small filter is critical—it captures wear metals, carbon particles, and contaminants preventing them from circulating through engine bearings, cylinder walls, and the turbo (if equipped). Change the oil filter every time you change oil. Never reuse an oil filter to save a few dollars—contaminated filters dump their trapped particles back into fresh oil when you start the engine. Cheap insurance is what an oil filter represents.
Oil Change Procedure
- Change engine oil and filter every 200 hours or annually, whichever comes first. The first oil change should be at 50 hours to remove break-in contaminants.
- Run the engine for 5 minutes to warm the oil—warm oil flows faster and carries more suspended contaminants. Shut off the engine and let it sit 5 minutes for oil to drain back to the pan.
- Position a drain pan under the drain plug on the bottom of the oil pan (accessible from the right side of the tractor). Remove the drain plug with a 14mm wrench. Let oil drain completely—about 10 minutes for 2+ quarts.
- While draining, remove the old oil filter with a strap wrench or filter pliers. It’s tight—expect resistance. A small amount of oil spills when you remove it, so have rags ready. Clean the filter mounting surface on the engine.
- Fill the new filter about half full with clean oil and coat the rubber gasket with oil. Thread it onto the mounting stud by hand until the gasket contacts the engine, then tighten 3/4 turn more by hand. Don’t use tools to tighten—hand-tight plus 3/4 turn is correct.
- Reinstall the drain plug and tighten it snugly (20-25 ft-lbs). Don’t over-tighten—the aluminum pan threads strip easily.
- Pour 2.25 quarts of fresh oil into the engine through the filler cap on top of the engine. Start the engine and let it idle 30 seconds, then shut it off. Wait 5 minutes and check the dipstick. Add oil to bring the level to the FULL mark (typically another 1/4 quart). Check for leaks at the filter and drain plug.
Fuel Filter and Water Separator
Diesel fuel contamination damages injection pumps and injectors, costing thousands in repairs. The fuel filter and water separator are your first line of defense.
Fuel Filter Specifications
- Primary filter/water separator: Part number HH660-36060
- Secondary filter (inline): Part number HH670-43172 (if equipped—some BX2380 have single filter)
- Fuel system capacity: 6.9 gallons (26 liters)
The primary fuel filter is a combination filter and water separator mounted under the hood on the left side of the engine. It removes water and particles from diesel fuel before it reaches the injection pump. This filter is critical—water and contaminants destroy injection components. Some BX2380 configurations include a secondary inline filter providing additional filtration. Check your parts diagram or count the filters on your compact tractor to determine if you have one or two fuel filters.
Fuel Filter Service
- Change the fuel filter every 200 hours or annually. If you use off-road or farm diesel, or fuel stored for extended periods, change it more frequently—every 100 hours or twice annually.
- Turn the drain valve at the bottom of the filter bowl to drain fuel and water into a catch container. Drain completely, then close the valve. Use a filter wrench to remove the entire filter assembly by turning counterclockwise.
- Clean the mounting surface on the filter head. Fill the new filter about 2/3 full with clean diesel fuel to prime the system. Coat the gasket with diesel fuel or clean oil.
- Thread the new filter onto the mounting head by hand until the gasket makes contact, then tighten an additional 1/2 turn by hand. Don’t over-tighten—gasket compression seals it, not thread torque.
- Prime the fuel system by operating the priming pump lever on the filter head (pump it 20-30 times until resistance increases significantly). This fills the filter and lines with fuel, purging air. Some operators skip this and just crank the engine until it starts, but priming reduces cranking time and starter wear.
- Crank the engine—it should start within a few seconds. If it doesn’t start after 15 seconds, stop and prime again. Once running, check for leaks at the filter gasket and drain valve.
Water Separator Drain
Check the fuel water separator bowl weekly or every 25 hours of operation. Look through the clear bowl—water settles below the diesel fuel and appears as a distinct layer. If you see water, drain it immediately by opening the drain valve. Water in diesel comes from condensation in the fuel tank (especially in humid climates or when the tank sits partially full) or contaminated fuel from the supplier. Never operate with water in the fuel—drain it every time you see it.
Hydraulic/Transmission Fluid and Filter
The BX2380 uses an integrated hydrostatic transmission and hydraulic system with shared fluid. This system powers the transmission, three-point hitch, loader, power steering, and remote hydraulics.
Hydraulic/Transmission Fluid Specification
Capacity: 4.5 gallons (17 liters) total system capacity
Fluid specification: Kubota Super UDT2 universal tractor transmission fluid
Kubota specifies Super UDT2 for the BX2380 hydrostatic transmission and hydraulics. This is a premium multi-viscosity fluid engineered specifically for Kubota’s hydrostatic transmissions. It includes friction modifiers for wet brakes and clutches, anti-wear additives for hydraulic pumps, and viscosity suitable for hydrostatic drive units.
Don’t substitute generic hydraulic oil, ATF, or motor oil. The BX2380’s hydrostatic transmission requires the specific properties of Super UDT2 for proper operation. Wrong fluid causes sluggish response, whining noises, overheating, and premature transmission failure.
Alternative fluids meeting Kubota UDT specifications include some agricultural multi-purpose transmission fluids, but verify explicit Kubota UDT compatibility on the label. When in doubt, use genuine Kubota Super UDT2.
Hydraulic Filter
Part number: HH3A0-82623 or TC020-16320 (both fit BX2380, check your configuration)
Service interval: 400 hours or annually
The hydraulic filter is a spin-on cartridge located on the right side of the transmission case beneath the operator platform. It filters fluid protecting pumps, valves, cylinders, and transmission components from abrasive wear.
Change the hydraulic filter every 400 hours or annually. This filter doesn’t require changing as frequently as the engine oil filter because hydraulic fluid operates in a cleaner environment and doesn’t deal with combustion byproducts.
To change, position a drain pan under the filter—expect about a quart to spill. Use a filter wrench to remove it by turning counterclockwise. Clean the mounting surface.
Fill the new filter about 1/3 full with Super UDT2 and coat the gasket with fluid. Thread it on by hand until the gasket contacts, then tighten 3/4 turn more by hand.
Start the engine and let it idle while watching for leaks. Shut off and check the hydraulic fluid level, adding if necessary.
Hydraulic/Transmission Fluid Change
Change the hydraulic/transmission fluid every 400 hours or annually. This service is more involved than engine oil changes and requires about 5 gallons of expensive Super UDT2, so many owners have it done professionally.
To change it yourself:
- Run the tractor for 15 minutes to warm the fluid. Park on level ground and shut off the engine. Locate the drain plug on the bottom of the transmission case (underneath, accessible from the rear).
- Position a large drain pan with 5+ gallon capacity. Remove the drain plug and let the system drain completely—45+ minutes. While draining, cycle the three-point hitch and loader with the engine off to push fluid from the cylinders back to the reservoir.
- Once drained, reinstall the drain plug with a new crush washer. Replace the hydraulic filter following the procedure above.
- Fill the system through the hydraulic reservoir opening on the left side beneath the operator platform. Pour slowly and use the dipstick to monitor the level. Fill to the FULL mark.
- Start the engine and let it idle. Slowly move the range selector through all positions. Operate the three-point hitch and loader through the full range 5-6 times to circulate fluid and purge air.
- Shut off the engine, wait 10 minutes, and recheck the fluid level. It will have dropped as fluid-filled lines and components. Add fluid to restore the FULL level. Repeat until level stabilizes.
Transmission Case Suction Screen
Part number: 3C081-26220
Service interval: Clean at every hydraulic fluid change
The suction screen is a metal mesh filter in the bottom of the hydraulic reservoir that pre-filters fluid entering the hydraulic pump. It’s often forgotten but critical—a clogged screen starves the pump, causing cavitation, noise, and damage.
Access the screen by removing the hydraulic reservoir access cover (multiple bolts on top of the reservoir on the left side of the tractor). Pull the screen straight up to remove it.
Clean it thoroughly in a solvent and blow dry with compressed air. Inspect for tears or damage. Replace it if damaged. Reinstall, ensuring it seats properly.
Air Filter
Clean air is essential for diesel engine longevity. The air filter prevents dust, chaff, pollen, and debris from entering the engine, where they cause cylinder and ring wear.
Air Filter Specifications
Outer element: Part number 6C060-99410
Inner element: Part number 6C050-99410
Service interval: Clean/inspect every 50-100 hours; replace every 200-400 hours
The BX2380 uses a dual-element dry air filter. The outer element gets dirty and requires regular service. The inner safety element stays in place and is only replaced when the outer element is damaged or at extended intervals (every other outer element change).
Air Filter Service
Inspect the air filter restriction indicator regularly. When the red flag appears in the indicator window, service the air filter. Don’t wait for the indicator—if you operate in dusty conditions, inspect and clean the filter every 50 hours.
Remove the air filter cover clips and lift off the cover. Carefully remove the outer element without bumping it against the housing.
Inspect the element for damage—tears, crushed pleats, damaged seal. If damaged, replace it. If intact, you can clean it with compressed air (blow from inside out at low pressure, under 30 PSI) or replace it. Replacement is recommended because cleaning never fully restores filtering capacity and elements aren’t expensive.
Never wash paper air filter elements with water or solvents—this damages the filter media.
Inspect the inner safety element but don’t remove it unless you’re replacing it. If the outer element was damaged, replace the inner element too. Replace the inner element every 400 hours or every other outer element change.
Install the new or cleaned outer element, ensuring it seats properly against the seal. Reinstall the cover and clips. Reset the restriction indicator.
Coolant System
The cooling system keeps your BX2380 engine at proper operating temperature, preventing overheating damage.
Coolant Specifications
Capacity: 2.1 quarts (2 liters) total system including radiator, engine, and hoses
Coolant specification: Kubota Super Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol coolant
Concentration: 50/50 coolant and distilled water for -34°F freeze protection
Use Kubota Super Coolant or a quality universal ethylene glycol coolant meeting ASTM D3306 specifications. Mix 50/50 with distilled water—never use tap water because minerals cause corrosion and scaling.
Pre-mixed 50/50 coolant is available and convenient—you pour it directly without mixing. Whether you mix your own or buy pre-mixed, the result is the same: 50% coolant, 50% water.
Coolant Service
Change coolant every 2 years or 400 hours regardless of condition. Coolant degrades over time, losing corrosion inhibitors, even if it still provides freeze protection.
With the engine cold, remove the radiator cap (on top of the radiator at the front of the tractor). Open the radiator drain cock at the bottom and drain coolant into a catch container. Dispose of used coolant properly—it’s toxic to animals but sweet-tasting, making it dangerous.
After draining, close the drain cock. Fill the system with clean water and run the engine until it reaches operating temperature. Drain the water and repeat. This flushes old coolant and contaminants.
Add fresh 50/50 coolant through the radiator filler, pouring slowly so trapped air can escape. Continue until the level reaches the base of the filler neck.
Start the engine with the radiator cap off and let it warm to operating temperature. Watch the coolant level and add as needed as air purges from the system. Once the thermostat opens (coolant starts circulating visibly in the radiator), the system is bled.
Shut off the engine, let it cool slightly, top off the radiator, and install the cap. Fill the overflow reservoir to the FULL mark.
Grease for Lubrication
The BX2380 has multiple grease fittings requiring regular lubrication to prevent wear in pivot points, bearings, and joints.
Grease Specification
Type: Multi-purpose lithium-based NLGI Grade 2 grease
Kubota part number: Various sizes available through dealers
Service interval: Every 50 hours or monthly
Use a quality multi-purpose grease suitable for agricultural equipment. Kubota sells their own branded grease, but any quality NLGI Grade 2 lithium grease works. Avoid mixing different grease types.
Lubrication Points
The BX2380 has these grease fittings requiring 50-hour service:
Front axle pivot – One fitting at the center pivot where the front axle attaches to the frame. Pump until you see grease purge from the seals.
Front wheel spindles – One fitting per front hub. Pump 3-5 shots per side.
Loader pivot pins – Multiple fittings on the loader attachment points and the bucket pivot. The exact number depends on your loader model. Grease all points thoroughly.
Three-point hitch linkage – Grease fittings on lift arm ball joints and leveling mechanisms. Pump until purge.
Mower deck spindles – If you have a Kubota mid-mount or rear-mount mower, the blade spindles have grease fittings. Pump 2-3 shots per spindle.
PTO shaft – Apply grease to the PTO output shaft splines to prevent wear and allow implement drivelines to slide freely.
Always use a grease gun and pump grease until you see old grease purge from the seals. This confirms fresh grease has reached the bearing surfaces, displacing old grease and contaminants.
Differential and Final Drive Fluids
The BX2380 has front and rear differentials that require periodic fluid service.
Rear Differential
Capacity: Approximately 1.2 quarts (1.1 liters)
Fluid specification: Kubota Super UDT2 (same as hydraulic/transmission fluid)
Service interval: 400 hours or annually
The rear differential shares fluid with the transmission and hydraulic system on the BX2380, so when you service the hydraulic/transmission fluid, you’re servicing the rear differential simultaneously.
Front Differential (4WD models)
Capacity: Approximately 0.9 quarts (0.85 liters)
Fluid specification: SAE 80W-90 gear oil or Kubota Super UDT2
Service interval: 400 hours or annually
Drain plug location: Bottom of front axle center housing
Fill plug location: Side of front axle center housing
If your BX2380 has four-wheel drive, service the front differential every 400 hours. Locate the drain and fill plugs on the front axle center housing. Remove the fill plug first (to verify you can remove it before draining—don’t drain if you can’t refill).
Remove the drain plug and let the fluid drain completely. Clean the magnetic drain plug and reinstall it.
Fill through the fill plug opening until fluid runs out—this indicates the proper level. Reinstall the fill plug.
Use 80W-90 gear oil or Kubota Super UDT2. Some operators prefer Super UDT2 for year-round use because it flows better in cold weather than 80W-90.
Fluids and Filters Quick Reference for Kubota BX2380
| Component | Capacity | Part Number | Specification | Interval |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Oil | 2.5 qts | – | 15W-40 CI-4+ | 200 hrs/Annual |
| Oil Filter | – | HH150-32430 | Kubota OEM | Every oil change |
| Fuel Filter | – | HH660-36060 | Kubota OEM | 200 hrs/Annual |
| Air Filter (Outer) | – | 6C060-99410 | Kubota OEM | 200-400 hrs |
| Air Filter (Inner) | – | 6C050-99410 | Kubota OEM | 400 hrs |
| Hydraulic Filter | – | HH3A0-82623 | Kubota OEM | 400 hrs/Annual |
| Hydraulic/Trans Fluid | 4.5 gal | – | Super UDT2 | 400 hrs/Annual |
| Coolant | 2.1 qts | – | Super Coolant 50/50 | 400 hrs/2 Years |
| Front Diff Fluid | 0.9 qts | – | 80W-90 or UDT2 | 400 hrs/Annual |
| Grease | As needed | – | NLGI #2 Lithium | 50 hrs/Monthly |
Aftermarket Filter Options
- Quality aftermarket filters meeting OEM specifications are available at lower prices than Kubota dealer parts. FridayParts offers filters for the BX2380 that meet or exceed OEM specifications, protecting your tractor without the markup.
- When selecting aftermarket filters, verify they’re designed for your specific model. Generic “fits most Kubota” filters may not seal properly or provide adequate filtration. Look for filters listing the BX2380 specifically in the application chart.
- Quality aftermarket filters use proper filter media, correct gasket materials, and appropriate construction. Avoid ultra-cheap economy filters from unknown brands—they may not meet filtration specifications or may have inferior gaskets that leak.
Fluid Quality and Condition Monitoring
Between service intervals, monitor fluid condition to catch problems early.
Engine Oil Condition
Pull the dipstick and examine the oil. Fresh oil is amber and transparent. As it ages, it darkens but should remain relatively clear. Very dark or black oil indicates it’s time for a change. Milky appearance means water contamination requiring immediate service.
Hydraulic Fluid Condition
Pull a sample from the hydraulic reservoir through the dipstick tube. Put a few drops on white paper towel. It should be amber to light brown and transparent. Dark or opaque fluid, metallic particles, or burnt smell indicate problems requiring immediate fluid change.
Coolant Condition
Check coolant color and smell. It should be bright green (or whatever color your coolant is when fresh) and have minimal odor. Brown or rusty coolant indicates corrosion and contamination. Sweet smell is normal; acidic or chemical smell indicates degraded coolant.
Common BX2380 Filter and Fluid Issues
- Oil consumption – The D902 engine typically consumes minimal oil between changes. If you’re adding more than a half-quart between 200-hour changes, investigate for leaks or engine wear.
- Hydraulic fluid foaming – Foamy or aerated hydraulic fluid indicates air entering the system, overfilled reservoir, or contaminated fluid. Check fluid level and look for air leaks at pump seals or suction lines.
- Overheating – If operating temperature climbs into the red, check coolant level first, then clean the radiator screen and fins. Verify the fan belt is tight and the thermostat opens properly.
- White smoke – White smoke at startup in cold weather is normal. Continuous white smoke indicates water in the combustion chamber from failed head gasket or cracked head.
- Black smoke – Black smoke under load indicates clogged air filter, wrong fuel, or injection timing issues. Check the air filter first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use John Deere Hy-Gard instead of Kubota Super UDT2?
While both are universal tractor transmission fluids, Kubota specifically requires Super UDT2 for BX hydrostatic transmissions. Using non-approved fluids may cause performance issues and could void your warranty. Stick with Super UDT2 or fluids explicitly stating Kubota UDT compatibility.
How often should I really change the hydraulic fluid?
Follow the 400-hour/annual interval. Super UDT2 is expensive, but hydraulic pump and transmission replacement is far more expensive. Degraded fluid causes premature wear. Consider the annual fluid change insurance against a $3,000+ transmission failure.
Can I extend oil change intervals with synthetic oil?
Not without oil analysis confirming it’s safe. Synthetic oil resists thermal breakdown better than conventional oil, but it still accumulates contaminants and depletes additives. Without oil analysis, follow the 200-hour interval regardless of oil type.
What happens if I use automotive oil instead of diesel oil?
Automotive motor oil lacks the additive package diesel engines need. It doesn’t handle combustion byproducts, heat, or soot as well. You’ll experience accelerated wear, sludge buildup, and shortened engine life. Always use diesel-rated oil meeting CI-4 or higher specifications.
Why is my hydraulic fluid milky?
Milky hydraulic fluid means water contamination, usually from condensation in the reservoir or a damaged seal allowing coolant to enter. Water destroys hydraulic pumps. Drain the fluid immediately, identify and fix the water source, and refill with fresh Super UDT2.
Using the correct filters and fluids keeps your Kubota BX2380 operating reliably for thousands of hours. Quality parts at fair prices make maintenance affordable. FridayParts stocks filters and maintenance parts for your BX2380 at competitive prices. We provide what you need to maintain your Kubota properly.
