LUBRICATION
47
3
2
1
2
1
2
Transaxle (Transmission) Fluid Change
This transaxle is designed with an external filter for
ease of maintenance. To ensure constant fluid quality
levels and longer life, an oil filter change interval of
every 200 hours is recommended.
The following procedure is performed with the
transaxles installed in the mower and the mower on
level ground. Apply the pump release valve for each
transaxle and set the parking brake.
1. Remove the three ¼" filter guard screws and filter
guard. Clean any loose debris from around the
perimeter of the filter. See illustration.
2. Place an oil drain pan (12" or more diameter and
8 qt. capacity is optimal) beneath the oil filter.
Remove the oil filter from the transaxle.
3. After the oil has drained, wipe the filter base
surface and apply a film of new oil to the gasket of
the replacement filter.
4. Install the new filter by hand, turning it three-
quarters to one full turn after the filter gasket
contacts the filter base surface.
5. Reinstall the filter guard. Torque screws to
65 in/lbs. each.
6. Repeat steps on the opposite side.
7. Drain old oil filters of all free flowing oil prior to
disposal. Place used oil in appropriate containers
and dispose of it in accordance with laws in your
area.
8. Remove the top port plug (see illustration) from
the left side and right side of the transaxles prior
to filling with oil. This will allow the transaxles to
vent during oil fill.
9. Remove the cap from the transaxles’ expansion
tank located on the vehicle frame.
10. Fill with 20W50 motor oil until oil just appears
at the bottom of each transaxles’ top port
(approximately 2 quarts per transaxle, 4 quarts
total). Install the top port lug into each transaxle
as the oil level reaches the port.
11. Install and torque the top port plugs to 180 in./lbs.
12. Continue to fill the transaxles through the
expansion tank until the FULL COLD line is
reached (this will take approximately 23 additional
ounces).
13. Reinstall the expansion tank cap by hand. Be
careful to not overtighten.
8019-010
1. Filter guard
2. Transaxle filter
3. Top port plug
ZT filter change
8019-012
1. Expansion tank
2. Transaxles
ZT filter change