[Shop-talk] must be mowing season

[John Innis]

Because the grass is tall, my mower is acting up and shop talk is flooded
with mower questions!

Saturday we a rare dry day and I was trying to get ahead of the grass.  Got
almost done when the mower started acting up.

The mower is a circa 2000 Grasshopper 725K will less than 700 hours on is
since new.  This unit has twin "Gemini" (Eaton) hydrostat units, one for
each drive wheel.

The left side is working great, but the right side is running VERY slow in
forward.  It seems ok in reverse, but with the drive controls all the way
forward, the left side is going MUCH faster than the right.  Traveling in a
straight line with the right control all the way forward, the tractor speed
a much slower than it has been in the past.

I checked the linkages, adjusted the neutral point, checked the hydro fluid
and brakes, and found no issues.  Fluid is full, belts are in good shape
with no evidence of slipping.  I lifted the frame up and confirmed that the
speed difference occurs even if there is no load on the wheels.

New filters and belts are on order, and will be installed with new fluid
when they arrive, but I suspect they won't solve this issue.  The thing
that is bugging me it that the transmission seems ok in reverse, so likely
not a clogged filter or slipping belt issue.  Also seems like it's not a
pump or motor problem, as one of these being weak would likely be weak in
both directions.

I have been warned that tearing this hydro down is not a job for a the home
mechanic, but even if I get brave, I'm not sure where to look.  This unit
doesn't work anything like the hydros I have serviced in the past.  Anyone
on the list have any ideas or helpful troubleshooting tips?

John Innis
Cedar Rapids, IA

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= Never offend people with style when you   =
= can offend with substance --- Sam Brown  =
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