How to Change Exmark Hydraulic Oil: Parts Intervals
The residential customers I have worked with seem comfortable changing their own engine oil and filter, but when you mention hydraulics, they seem unsure about the process.
Many of them end up taking their Exmark mowers into the dealership to have a hydro service performed. If you can change your own engine oil, you most likely will be able to change your own hydraulic oil and filter.
Change your Exmark Hydraulic Oil and Filter by gathering your supplies and tools, removing the hydraulic filters, draining the hydraulic oil, installing new filters, filling with fresh hydraulic fluid, and removing air out of the hydraulic system.
The advantage of having your local Exmark dealer change your hydraulic fluids is they can check over your Exmark and make sure your mower is in good condition.
Dealerships will check your starting system, safety switches, charging system, belts, pulleys, and more. Just make sure you let them know you want your mower checked over when you schedule your next maintenance.
Keep reading and I’ll explain what products you need and how to change the oil in your hydraulic system.
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Follow all safety instructions provided in your equipment operator’s manual before diagnosing, repairing, or operating. Consult a professional if you don’t have the skills, or knowledge or are not in the condition to perform the repair safely.
Exmark Zero Turn Hydrostatic Ground Drive Systems
The hydrostatic transmissions used in Exmark zero turns vary by model. Here is a chart of the transmissions used in current zero-turn models.
| Quest S-Series | Hydro Gear ZT-2200 | Exmark Premium Hydro Oil | |
| Radius E-Series | Hydro-Gear ZT-2800 | Hydo Gear (2) | Exmark Premium Hydro Oil |
| Radius S-Series | Hydro-Gear ZT-3100 | Hydo Gear (2) | Exmark Premium Hydro Oil |
| Radius S-Series Rear Discharge | Hydro-Gear ZT-3400 | Hydo Gear (2) | Exmark Premium Hydro Oil |
| Radius X-Series | Hydro-Gear ZT-3400 | Hydo Gear (2) | Exmark Premium Hydro Oil |
| Lazer Z E-Series | Parker Unitized Pump 12 cc Wheel Motor System | Exmark Filter (2) | Exmark Premium Hydro Oil |
| Lazer Z S-Series | Parker Unitized Pump 12 cc Wheel Motor System | Exmark Filter (2) | Exmark Premium Hydro Oil |
| Lazer Z X-Series | Parker Unitized Pump 16 cc Wheel Motor System | Exmark Filter (2) | Exmark Premium Hydro Oil |
| Lazer Z Diesel | Kanzaki KPS-18T Trans 18cc Pumps Hydro Gear HGM-18 Motors | Exmark Filter (2) | Exmark Premium Hydro Oil |
| Navigator | Hydro-Gear 12 cc Pumps, Hydro-Gear H Series Motors | Exmark Filter (1) | Exmark Premium Hydro Oil |
| Older Lazer Z Models: Lazer Z, Lazer Z HP, Lazer Z AS, Lazer Z CT | Exmark Filter (1) | Exmark Premium Hydro Oil |
Type of Hydraulic Oil to Use in Your Exmark
Exmark recommends you use its Exmark Premium Hydro Oil. Mobil 1 15W-50 oil can also be used in place of Exmark’s oil, however, when using Mobil 1 you must change your oil more frequently.
Although Exmark’s oil is a little pricier than Mobil 1, it is well worth the extra money especially when you factor in replacing hydraulic filters and spending the time to change your hydraulic fluid twice as often.
When Exmark recommends changing your hydraulic oil every 500 hours, you must replace it every 250 hours if you choose to use Mobil 1 15W-50.
Intervals the Hydraulic Oil and Filter Need to Be Changed
Exmark recommends your first hydro oil change be done after an initial break-in period. This break-in period varies according to Exmark model. Refer to the chart below.
Exmark recommends using Exmark Hydro Oil for most models. Lazer Z models with the Yanmar diesel engine use the Ruby Tran Fluid. Z-Spray models use 5W-40 synthetic oil for their hydraulic system.
Mobil 1 15W-50 can be used in place of the Exmark Premium Hydraulic Oil for Exmark mowers (except Yanmar diesel models); however, the oil must be replaced more frequently at 250 hours.
The Quest E-Series some S-Series models have hydraulic systems that are non-serviceable. What this means is the system is sealed and you are unable to change the hydraulics. If you experience any problems with your sealed system, contact your local Exmark dealer.
ModelSeriesDeck Size /Oil TypeHydro OilAmountFirst Oil ChangeOil ChangeInterval VIKING 36”, 48” Exmark Hydro Oil 2.4 Qt 250 Hrs Every 500 Hrs Turf Tracer S 36”, 48”, 52” Exmark Hydro Oil 2.4 Qt 250 Hrs Every 500 Hrs Turf Tracer X 52”, 60” Exmark Hydro Oil 2.4 Qt 250 Hrs Every 500 Hrs Vantage S 36”, 48”, 52”, 60” Exmark Hydro Oil 2.4 Qt 250 Hrs Every 500 Hrs Vantage X 48”, 52”, 60” Exmark Hydro Oil 2.4 Qt 250 Hrs Every 500 Hrs Quest E 42”, 50” Exmark Hydro Oil 4.8 Qt Sealed Quest S 42” Exmark Hydro Oil 4.8 Qt Sealed Quest S 50”, 60” Exmark Hydro Oil 4.8 Qt 75 Hrs Every 400 Hrs Pioneer E 48”, 52” Exmark Hydro Oil 4.8 Qt 100 Hrs Every 500 Hrs Pioneer S 44”, 48”, 52”, 60” Exmark Hydro Oil 4.8 Qt 100 Hrs Every 500 Hrs Radius E, S, X 48”, 52”, 60” Exmark Hydro Oil 4.8 Qt 75 Hrs Every 500 Hrs Lazer E, S 48”, 52”, 60”, 72” Exmark Hydro Oil 3.2 Qt 250 Hrs Every 500 Hrs Lazer X 52”, 60”, 72” Exmark Hydro Oil 3.2 Qt 250 Hrs Every 500 Hrs Lazer Diesel 60”, 72” Exmark Hydro Oil 5.5 Qt 250 Hrs Every 500 Hrs Lazer Diesel (Yanmar) 60”, 72”, 96” Ruby Trans Fluid 15 Qt 200 Hrs Every 800 Hrs Staris E 32”, 36”, 44” Exmark Hydro Oil 3 Qt 250 Hrs Every 500 Hrs Staris S 48”, 52”, 60” Exmark Hydro Oil 3 Qt 250 Hrs Every 500 Hrs
Zero Turn Transmission Oil Change on SEALED Hydro Gear! Synthetic vs. Conventional Oil
Changing Hydraulic Oil in Your Exmark Radius or Exmark Lazer Lawn Mowers
You will only be changing the hydraulic oil that is drained from the filter. You will never change oil in the whole hydraulic system unless the oil has been contaminated or become very hot. Changing the oil in the whole hydraulic system can cause contaminants to enter the system and cause damage.
Steps to Change Exmark Radius Zero Turn Hydraulic Oil
Step 1: Park Exmark on a Flat Surface
Park your Exmark zero turn on a flat surface. You may want to place cardboard on the ground to keep the spilled oil from penetrating the ground surface before parking your lawn mower on top of it.
Remove the key and engage the parking brake. Wait for all moving parts to stop before working on your Exmark. Note the engine and transmission can be hot. Take caution when working.
Step 2: Locate Filters Remove Guards
You will find the filter located near each rear wheel behind a guard (skid plate). Remove the guards and clean around the filters before removing them.
Don’t skip cleaning around the filters. You do not want to introduce any dirt or other foreign materials into the hydraulic system.
Step 3: Remove Filters Drain
Place an oil pan under one of the hydraulic filters. Unscrew the filter and let the oil drain. Repeat with the other hydraulic filter. Remove the drain pan and plan on bringing the old oil to your closest recycling center.
Step 4: Install New Filters
Apply a thin layer of hydro oil on the rubber seal of the new filters. Install the filters by turning clockwise. Once the filter makes a good connection to the filter adapter and continue to turn about another full turn.
Step 5: Loosen Vent Plug Fill with Exmark Hydro Oil
You will find a vent plug located on each transaxle. Loosen this plug on each side. You will fill the hydro oil through the expansion reservoir until oil comes out of the vent plug.
Once you see oil coming out of the plugs, tighten the vent plugs. The expansion reservoir is the little small plastic tank on the top of your mower behind the seat.
Once the plugs are tightened, keep adding oil until it reaches the “full cold” line shown on the expansion reservoir.
Step 6: Purge Air Out of the Hydraulic System
It’s important to get all the air out of the system by going through some steps with the drive tires turning freely. In order to let the Exmark drive wheels turn freely, you will need to get the rear wheels off the ground.
Do this by using jack stands to raise the rear of the mower just high enough so the wheel no longer touches the ground.
Start your mower and increase the throttle to about ½ throttle. Release the parking brake.
- Make sure the bypass valve is open and slowly move the motion control levers both forward and reverse about 6 times.
- Close the bypass valve and repeat the same procedure moving the levers both forward and reverse about 6 times.
- Check the oil level with the mower in the off position and once the hydros have cooled. Add more oil if needed until it reaches the “full cold” line shown on the expansion reservoir.
You may need to repeat the steps to purge the air. Once your drive tires move at normal speed and the noise level seems correct you can stop.
Steps to Change Hydraulic Oil on Exmark Lazer Z E-Series, S-Series- X-Series
Step 1: Park Exmark on Flat Surface
Park your Exmark zero turn on a flat surface. You may want to place cardboard on the ground to keep spilled oil from penetrating the ground surface before parking your lawn mower on top of it.
Remove the key and engage the parking brake. Wait for all moving parts to stop before working on your Exmark. Note the engine and transmission can be hot. Take caution when working around them.
Step 2: Raise Rear of Mower
Use Jacks or another comparable item to raise the rear of the lawn mower high enough to get the rear wheels off the ground.
Step 4: Clean around the filters
Don’t skip cleaning around the filters. You do not want to introduce any dirt or other foreign materials into the hydraulic system.
Step 5: Remove Filters Drain
Place an oil pan under one of the hydraulic filters. Unscrew the filter using a socket and let the oil drain. Repeat with the other hydraulic filter.
Remove the oil pan, and place the used oil back in the containers. Mark the containers to indicate the oil is old and plan on dropping it off at your nearest recycling center.
Step 6: Install New Filters
Apply a thin layer of hydro oil on the rubber seal of the new filters. Install the filters by turning clockwise and torque to 14 ft-lb.
Step 7: Fill with Exmark Hydro Oil
Slide your seat all the way forward and take a rag and clean around the hydraulic caps located on the left and right-hand sides of the mower behind the seat. Remove the caps and fill them with Exmark Premium Hydraulic Oil until it reads full on the dipstick. Replace the hydraulic oil caps.
Step 9: Purge Air Out of the Hydraulic System
It’s important to get all the air out of the system by going through some steps with the drive tires turning freely. Start your mower and increase the throttle to full throttle. Release the parking brake.
Move the speed levers all the way forward for one minute. Turn off your Exmark, let the hydros cool, and check the oil level.
How Do You Release Hydraulic Drive System on an Exmark?
Your Exmark stopped running and you’re stuck in the middle of your yard. Your zero turn is not moving even when you push it.
In order to push your Exmark, you must release the hydraulic drive system. The procedure to do this is a little different with each model. For more details, read (coming soon).
Related Topics
Winterize Your Exmark Lawn Mower
When you get to the end of mowing season you may be tempted to just store your lawn mower in the back of your garage or storage unit and forget about it until next year. Read why you may not want to do this in “How to Winterize Your Exmark Lawn Mower”.
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How To Change Hydraulic Fluid In A Zero Turn Mower?
Do you have a vast lawn that requires the use of a zero-turn mower? A zero-turn mower makes mowing such loans near-effortless but do you know how to change hydraulic fluid in a residential or commercial-grade zero turn mower.
If your zero-turn mower is to serve you well, you need to keep n tiptop condition. That means ensuring virtually all is components are in excellent working condition.
One of the things you need to ensure is in good condition is the hydraulic fluid.
How do you go about it, though?
Changing Hydraulic Fluid in Zero Turn Mower
What You Need
- Get a proper understanding of hydraulic systems work. Attempting to change the oil with little or no knowledge might lead to you damaging the machine.
- You need to have read the user manual. Manufacturers often include steps that help in changing the oil. It will be best if you acquaint yourself with the machine.
- Ensure you wear gloves and safety goggles to protect yourself from any effects the il might have on you.
Now that you are fully prepared, follow these steps:
- Prepare The Mower Turn off the mower, place it on level ground, and then use a jack to heave it off the ground. Turning off the engine will allow the mower to cool before you can start.
- Get A Bucket Under Drain Plug After raising the mower off the ground, get underneath it and put a container under the drain plug. A bucket or basin will come in handy here. You will find the drain plug under the hydraulic fluid reservoir.
- Release The Oil Remove the reservoir’s lid to let the oil flow freely into the container because of air escaping from the vacuum inside the reservoir. Removing the cap will have the oil move out faster.
The deep well socket might be instrumental when if the plug is too tight or hard to remove. After removing it, clean out any oil on the cap with clean water and a clean rag.
You can follow these steps also when changing the hydraulic fluid in Husqvarna zero turn mower or whatever brand you got.
Why Should You Change Hydraulic Fluid in a Zero Turn Mower?
Hydraulic oil is responsible in a significant way for the excellent running of a zero-turn mower. It doesn’t only act as a lubricant, but it’s also responsible for the running of the hydraulic system of the mower.
Hydraulic oil powers the whole system, and that is why it should be in good condition. Therefore, not changing the hydraulic oil after periods of use might affect how the mower functions.
Imagine wanting to use your mower only to find it isn’t in the best condition to tidy up your lawn. That is why you need to know how to change hydraulic oil. You don’t want to be hiring help every time the oil needs changing while you can do it yourself.
How often Should You Change Hydraulic Oil in a Zero Turn Mower?
We have already established the importance of hydraulic oil to the running of the mower’s hydraulic system. The question on most people’s minds will be how often to change hydraulic oil in zero-turn.
How often you do that will largely depend on how much you use your mower. It will also depend on the quality of the oil you have or the conditions you operate it in.
For the typical mower, it is advisable to check the hydraulic oil after 100 hours of operation. If the oil is still in excellent condition, you can be changing it after 1000 hours of operating the mower.
It will take about six months for a lawnmower to have gotten to 1000 hours of service. The six months are okay if you don’t use the mower zero turn mower too much. If you use it more often, then a lower period should be sufficient.
Most of the time, the manufacturer will recommend the suitable interval of time you need to change the oil. You will find these instructions in the user’s manual.
What Kind of Hydraulic Fluid Does A Zero Turn Mower Use?
If you own any machine and not just a zero-turn mower, you know that you can’t use any oil for any product. The oil needs to be specific to the machine you are using.
If not, you risk damaging the machine, which is something we wouldn’t want for you.
The Zero turn mower is a hydro-gear transmitter and will therefore use 20W- 50 motor oil. If you are using synthetic oil, 15W-50 will be okay for the mower. Remember to always check the oil level first before deciding to change it.
The mower will most likely have a vent by which to pour in the oil. A dipstick will help you determine the level of oil before deciding whether to change it or add some more.
Does Temperature Affect A Zero-turn Mower’s Hydraulic Oil?
Temperature does affect the hydraulic oil’s functioning. You already know that oil isn’t just for running the systems but also for lubricating the inner parts. If the oil becomes too cold, then it means the oil will be less viscous.
Oil with less viscosity will not be as efficient in maintaining any machine’s running leave alone a Zero turn mower. On the other hand, highly viscous oil isn’t desirable as well.
High viscosity oil doesn’t spread or distribute itself evenly in the machine’s parts. Consequently, it won’t reach all the parts fast enough to prevent damage. Exposure to high temperatures is responsible for the increase in viscosity.
Before starting your mower, use the dipstick to check for the viscosity of the oil. If it’s almost getting congealed, turn on the mower and give it some time to warm up and make the oil viscous.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
As zero turn mowers are equipped with Hydro-Gear hydrostatic transmissions, they require transmission oil. You can either use 20W-50 motor oil or 15W-50 synthetic motor oil.
Once the zero turn mower completed the 1,200 service hours, you should change it’s hydraulic fluid.
No, they are not the same. The hydraulic fluid is a rust and oxidation inhibited oil and is ideal for industrial and equipment applications whereas hydrostatic oil is ideal for severe service conditions like outdoors in the cold.
Yes, the hydrostatic transmission works using hydraulic fluid.
Any lightweight motor oil or machine oil of 10/20W instead of hydraulic fluid. Apart from that, certain vegetable seed oils and automatic transmission fluid can work as a great substitute.
You can but should not because of the additives they use with motor oil to improve the viscosity index.
Final Thoughts
We hope by now you know how to change hydraulic fluid in a zero-turn mower. As you can see, it isn’t that complicated when you have this definitive guide with you. Remember to do it in hygienic conditions to avoid contaminating the oil.
Den Hicks
Traveler, food lover, interior designer, and blogger. I love gardening a lot! I designed my home myself with the help of my beloved wife. You are welcome!
How To Change Hydraulic Oil In A Gravely Zero-Turn Mower
Zero-turn mowers are enjoyable and can make cutting the yard fun. The mower operates on a hydro transmission that works the right and left sides of the mower separately. Gravely mowers are one of those zero-turns that have been around for over 100 years.
Gravely is a famous brand established in 1916 and continues manufacturing some of the most reliable mowers available.
With every piece of lawn equipment, there comes the time of maintenance. One of those essential things on the list is changing the hydraulic oil and filter. The hydraulic oil keeps the hydro transmission running smoothly the same way it does for a transmission on a car.
Here is how to change hydraulic oil in a Gravely zero-turn mower from the prepping to disposal of the oil. The primary steps include:
We will go through each of these steps, tips, and more throughout the article.
Preparing for the Project
There are a few tools you will need to begin this project, along with some safety items. Let’s start with the safety items first. Get some goggles or a face shield for any oil splashing and some latex gloves.
Motor oil seeps into the skin, causing cancer. Most mechanic shops started requiring their workers to wear latex gloves to protect their hands. You will not be able to keep oil from getting on your hands without the gloves.
For the parts, you will need hydraulic oil filters. Some Gravelys have one filter, and others have two separate pumps with filters. The hydraulic oil used is 15W-50 or 20W-50 motor oil.
You will also need a pan to drain the oil and a five-gallon bucket with the cover to store the old oil. At the end of the article, we will discuss the proper way to discard the oil.
The tools you will need are socket and ratchet sets, oil filter wrench, and you may need an Alan Wrench set for some. Not all Gravelys are made the same. It depends on the size of the mower and if it is commercial or homeowners.
Understanding Hydrostatic Transmissions
All Gravely mowers have hydro-gear hydrostatic transmissions. Information coming straight from the manufacturer tells us it provides smoother, improved torque ratings and infinitely variable speed adjustments. The hydro-gear transmissions operate off of motor oil which acts as transmission fluid.
All zero turn mowers have two reservoirs, and some have one or two pumps. The majority has two pumps that power each side of the back wheels individually for steering. Each reservoir has a cold line to show how much oil is needed, and it should get filled to the mark.
When it comes to maintenance, the hydraulic oil and filter need to be changed after the first 75 hours of running. Every 400 hours after the first hydraulic oil change, it should continue on that cycle. Getting some reading done in the owner’s manual can also get you more familiar with the oil change.
The Steps to Changing the Hydraulic Oil and Filter
Here are the steps on how to change hydraulic oil in a Gravely zero-turn mower.
Step 1: Prep the Mower
Park the mower on level ground and jack up the back end. If the mower ran for a while, leave the engine off to cool it off before getting underneath it.
Step 2: Get a Bucket to Catch the Oil
Get a bucket and place it under the drain plug. The drain plug will is located underneath the hydraulic fluid reservoir.
Step 3: Take Off the Drain Plug
Remove the lid to the reservoir to release the pressure to allow the oil to drain freely. Before you unscrew the drain plug, you should clean off the area to prevent contamination. Once the area is clean, unscrew the drain plug with an adjustable wrench or ratchet and socket to release the oil.
Step 4: Take Off Hydraulic Oil Filter and Dry Off the Old Oil
Let all the oil drain before doing this step. Use the oil filter wrench to remove the oil filter and continue to let the oil drain. Clean off all the excess oil when it is finished dripping.
Step 5: Reinstall the Plug and Filter
Screw the drain plug back into place, take some old motor oil, and rub it on the filter gasket. This will make it easier to remove the filter next oil change without the gasket staying behind. Screw the filter hand tight, then use the wrench and turn it 3/4 of a turn.
Step 6: Fill the Reservoirs with Oil
Fill both reservoirs with oil to the cold line. You will need a funnel for this step, and be sure to wipe off any excess oil from spillage.
Step 7: Put the Cap on and Double Check Everything
Replace the cap and screw it on tight. If it is not screwed on tight, air can get inside the lines, or oil can spill out. Turn the motor on to expel air from the lines and filter.
Leave the motor running for about a minute, then shut it off. Go back and double-check the reservoir and the underneath of the mower to make sure nothing is leaking. If you notice the reservoir is low, add some more oil.
Once everything checks out, you can put the mower back down, and it is ready to cut some more grass.
Special Notes and Tips
Here are some things to consider when changing the hydraulic oil.
- There are 11 different types of Gravely mowers, both commercial and homeowners. Not everyone is made the same.
- Machines with wheel motors and pumps drain the oil straight from the reservoir tank only.
- When changing the hydraulic oil on transaxles, the vent plug must remain open when filling with oil.
Why Change the Hydraulic Fluid?
Hydraulic oil keeps the mower operating and steering smoothly. It is a lubricant and keeps the entire hydraulic system going. If the hydraulic oil never gets changed, it will affect the whole system.
Gravelys are expensive and run in the thousands of dollars. The last thing you want is to cut your grass to find out the hydraulic system is messed up. Remember, everything lasts longer when maintenance is a priority.
Many may wonder how long a Gravely zero turn mower will last. The answer is the warranty lasts for 1500 hours. After this time limit, you can expect to have problems.
Keep in mind; the manufacturer may void the warranty if the maintenance is not kept up. After 75 hours and 400 hours, the mechanics can tell if the hydraulic oil has been changed. Some say you can go 1000 hours, but that is not recommended for Gravely.
Hydraulic Oil and Temperature
Many people do not know the temperature affects hydraulic oil. In colder temperatures, the oil is not as efficient as in warmer temperatures. This means it is not lubricating the parts as much as it should.
The hottest temperatures are not suitable for the oil either. In the hottest temperatures, the oil does not distribute evenly among the inner parts of the system. This means the oil will not reach the parts in time to stop damages from occurring.
Here is a tip on how to get the oil right in different temperatures.
- Check the dipstick before starting the mower.
- If the oil is too thick, run the mower at idle speed for a few minutes.
- Running the mower at idle speed will get the oil to all parts before turning it up to full throttle.
Related Questions
What is a zero-turn lawn mower?
Most lawn mowers operate with the front tires turning the mower. With a zero-turn mower, the back tires work through a hydraulic system which can turn the mower in circles.
How long are 1,000 hours for a Zero Turn?
It is difficult to determine how long hours are to months. It depends on how often the mower is used. On average, 1,000 can be about six months during the grass-cutting seasons.
Are Gravelys good mowers?
Considering the competition and how long they have been around. Yes, they are good mowers. However, Cub Cadet has been listed at the top of the list when it comes to mowers.
Gravely came in at number six on the list.
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How to Change Hydraulic Oil in Zero Turn Mower- Pro Way
Are you in confusion about how to change hydraulic oil in zero turn mower?
Then, no need to frown so much as we have a total guide for the hydro gear oil change. The steps are quite simple; you just need to have some basics.
In this write-up, you will get a complete guideline to change the oil in zero turn mower, including professional tips and tricks. So, stay till the end lest you should miss any crucial point.
How to Change Hydraulic Oil in Zero Turn Mower?
Best Oil Filter for Zero Turn Mower
We will show you each step, from preparing your mower to testing the oil after replacement. Have a sigh and sit with a cup of coffee to know the steps with all the necessary details in one place.
However, suppose you’re looking for the steps for the Husqvarna zero turn hydraulic fluid change or John Deere zero turn hydraulic oil change. In that case, you can do it easily by following this guide, with no hassle.
Things You Need
- The compatible oil
- Jack stand
- A big pan to drain the old fluid
- Compatible oil filter
- ¾ inch wrench
- Gloves
- Paper towel
Let’s proceed with the steps.
Step-1: Make the Preparations for Oil Replacement
First, you need to make your zero-turn mower prepared for the hydro gear oil change. For that,
- Work keeping the mower on flat level space.
- Turn the engine key off and take out the key from the ignition.
- If you want, you can use any parking brake to stop all the engine parts and let it cool down.
- Check the manual guide that came with your zero-turn mower. Check if there are any precautions or specific instructions to follow for the hydraulic fluid change.
Step-2: Lift the Mower Using Jack Stand
Use 2 jack stands on the left and right of the rear wheel and lift the mower from the backside. If you’re using the Ariens z turn mower, then you can remove the wheel to access the oil filter.
Step-3: Remove the Oil Filter Guard Then the Filter
Remove the transaxle oil filter guard if there is any. Then use any wrench and loosen the oil filter. Don’t take it out now; just loosen it.
You will find the oil filter right behind the wheel and under the seat suspension system.
Pro Tips:
Some zero-turn mowers like the Cub Cadet may not come with the oil filter. In that case, you need to find the drain plug line and drain the fluid from there.
Step-4: Drain the Old Oil
Now place a pan that is quite bigger under the fuel filter. Now, twist the oil filter using your hand and take it out. The old fluid will be draining now.
Pro Tips:
Use gloves to sidestep any mess on your hands.
Step-5: Let the Oil Drain Completely
Leave it like this at least for 10 to 15 minutes to completely drain out all the old and sluggish oil.
Step-6: Install New Oil Filter
After all the old fluid is drained out, now it’s time to install the new oil filter. Apply some new oil on the new oil filter’s gasket and then mount it on the oil filter transaxle point.
Use your hand to twist the oil filter slowly and gently until it reaches the thread to the axle point. Now, use a wrench to tighten the filter. Keep a turn once; no need to twist more than once.
Pro Tips:
Make sure not to overtighten the oil filter. It might cut out the threads.
Step-7: Fill the Tank with New Fluid
Remove the tank cap and place a funnel. Now, pour the fluid into the fluid tank gradually. Check the oil expansion tank, or some mowers come with the dipstick as other motor vehicles have.
You can check the dipstick after filling to some extent and check if the oil level is full to the brim or not.
However, the Ariens zero turn mower comes with an oil expansion tank over there. Check if the oil is at the cold fill line or not. If not, then pour some more oil into the oil tank.
Step-8: take out the Funnel Purge the Air System
Now, take out the funnel and wipe out the exterior of the fuel tank. After that, mount the fuel tank cap.
Release the parking brake and move the steering lever forward and backward, keeping the bypass valve opened at least five to six times to purge the air.
Again, do the same with the bypass valve closed. Every time the engine should be in running position, meaning turning on the ignition key.
This purging is crucial for a zero turn mower engine. It helps clean the impurity and makes the machine ready for further use.
Changing hydraulic oil and filter on new Exmark
Step-9: Reinstall All the Things
Now, reinstall all the parts, such as the fluid filter guard, and then wheels along with the lug nuts. Must have a test ride with your zero turn mower after you replace the oil.
What Kind of Hydraulic Fuel Does a Zero Turn Mower Use?
Monograde to multi-grade oil with an average viscosity is recommended for the hydraulic zero turn mower. Straight 30, 10 W30, 15 W30, 20 W 50, and 15 W 50 are usable according to weather and regional condition.
However, in the case of multi-grade oil, the viscosity index should not be more than the VI viscosity index. Motor oil with high viscosity index is not suitable for its additives.
Some mowers grade such as the IZ, LZ, and BZ graded mowers use 10 W30 oil. And some commercial zero turn mower graded as EZ, MZ, and ZTH takes 20-W50 oil. Well, synthetic oil is good to have.
How Often to Change Hydraulic Oil in Zero Turn Mower?
Different hydrostatic machines may come with various fluids lifeline capacity. But the standard cycle you should maintain is to replace the zero-turn fluid every 500 rides, suggested by the Ariens.
However, checking the hydrostatic fluid every 100 rides is also recommended by most of the z turn manufacturers. Your zero-turn mower runs with a machine. It needs time-to-time maintenance with proper care to assist you with keeping your lawn or home yard beautiful and enchanting.
So, check the fluid level and the fluids every 100 rides to ensure the engine condition.
Bottom Lines
Changing the fluid in a zero-turn mower is not a very tough task to do if you know your mower well, along with the steps for how to change hydraulic oil in zero turn mower. We have covered the necessary guidance about how to change oil in a zero turn mower in this entire context. And some essential tips and recommendations are included as well.
So, get your Z turn mower to get the right fluid at the right time. Otherwise, you may face the annoyance of breaking the line in the middle of an essential ride.
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