Section 7
29
7.3 HYDROSTATIC DRIVE SYSTEM
A. Checking Hydraulic Oil Level
The hydrostatic drive oil level should be checked after the
first 10 hours of operation. Thereafter, check the oil after
every 200 hours of machine operation or monthly, whichever
occurs first.
-IMPORTANT-
If the oil level is consistently low, check for
leaks and correct immediately.
1. Wipe dirt and contaminants from around the reservoir
cap. Remove the cap from the hydraulic oil reservoir.
2. Visually check the level of hydraulic oil. Hydraulic oil
must be at least 3 inches from bottom of fill port. See
Figure 7-2. If the level cannot be determined visually,
use a clean tape measure to check the level. If the
fluid is low, add recommended fluid. DO NOT overfill;
fluid level more than 3 inches below the bottom of the
fill port will spill from the reservoir.
3. Clean the cap and install it onto the reservoir.
B. Changing Hydraulic Oil
The hydraulic oil should be changed after every 500 hours
or annually, whichever occurs first. The oil should also be
changed if the color of the fluid has become black or milky.
A black color and/or a rancid oder usually indicates possible
overheating of the oil, and a milky color usually indicates
water in the hydraulic oil.
-NOTE-
The hydraulic oil should be changed every
time there is a major hydraulic component fail-
ure, or if you notice the presence of water or a
rancid odor to the hydraulic oil.
1. Park the mower on a level surface and stop the engine.
2. Place a suitable container under the hydraulic oil filter.
Remove the cap from the tee installed in the hydraulic
oil filter head. See Figure 7-2. Allow the fluid to drain
into the container.
3. Install the cap onto the tee and be sure it is tight.
4. Remove fill cap from reservoir and fill reservoir to 3
inches below fill port opening with recommended oil.
5. Start the engine and propel mower a few feet to fill all
the lines, pump, and motors with oil and to remove any
air in the system. Check the oil level in the reservoir.
If necessary, fill it to within 3 inches from the bottom
of the fill opening with SAE 10W30 motor oil.
6. Replace the reservoir fill cap.
C. Changing Hydraulic Oil Filter Element
The hydraulic oil filter should be changed after every 500
hours of operation or annually, whichever occurs first.
1. Remove the oil filter element and discard. Fill the new
filter with clean oil. See Figure 7-2.
2. Install the new filter element. Hand tighten only.
Fill Cap and Port
Hydraulic Oil
Reservoir
Hydraulic Oil
Filter
Drain Port Tee
Location
Figure 7-2 Hydraulic Oil Level
