Hydro gear transaxle problem


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Old 10-14-09, 08:17 AM
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Hydro gear transaxle problem

I have a 1998 Craftsman Lawn Tractor. The transmission has started whinning loudly and losing power after a few minutes operation. I have ordered a manual, but am not sure I want to try to rebuild it. Also, I saw a posting by Cheese from 2004 that he can get these trannies for about $200. I would appreciate any advice about repair/ rebuild or buy a new transmission for a reasonable price ($200).
Thanks
 
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Old 10-15-09, 06:31 AM
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Post the model and serial number from the tractor. Look at the transaxle for an ID tag and post the numbers from it.

If the transaxle tag is plastic, the numbers may easily wipe away so exercise care. The tractor parts list may identify the transaxle.
 
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Old 10-15-09, 08:42 AM
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Hydro Gear ID

Thanks for the response.
The Craftsman tractor model number is 917.271021, serial number- 031698E009498. The Hydro Gear transaxle model number is 310-0650. In talking with Sears, they say the part number for this transaxle is 150071 which they will sell me for $793.99 plus tax. I'm looking for a much less expensive tranxsaxle replace/ rebuild solution for my ten year old tractor. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
oldsoileau
 
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Old 10-16-09, 09:42 AM
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Hydro-Gear transaxles are top quality and very repairable. I suggest you start by checking the oil level. The oil used is SAE 20W-50 and the transaxle holds 81 ounces. Use oil with an API rating of SL or higher.

I hope that this will correct the problem if not post back.
 
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Old 10-16-09, 04:58 PM
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Thanks for the reply Airman. The oil level checks OK as best I can tell. It is very black though. I'm glad to hear that the unit is repairable. I am concerned about the best way to open this sealed unit and how to identify parts that need to be replaced. Can you help me with that? Thanks in advanced.
oldsoileau
 
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Old 10-16-09, 05:45 PM
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I can help you further when I get back home on Monday. I cannot do what I need to do on the laptop I am using. I can copy the pages you need from the service manual from the PC at home.

Send me a private message with an email address. Also, let me know where you live in TN.
 
 

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