Transmission Removal/Replacement; Fluid - Cub Cadet RZT-S Professional Shop Manual

For Discount Cub Cadet Parts Call 606-678-9623 or 606-561-4983

Transmission removal/replacement

The Hydro-Gear shop manual for the EZT transmissions is form number BLN-52622. This manual is available
through Hydro-Gear.
Reasons to remove a transmission from an RZT-S mower:
1. To repair or replace the transmission
2. To change the transmission fluid
Repair or replacement
Before doing any work to the Hydro-Gear transmission in the RZT-S, refer to the Hydro-Gear Manual: BLN-
52622. Before doing any possible warranty work, refer to the generic check list found on the Dealer Service Site, and
contact Cub Cadet for an authorization at (800) 422-3381.

Fluid

The transmission fluid will typically last the lifetime of the transmission. The primary reason to replace the fluid
would be contamination. The leading cause of contamination is the mower getting submerged in water.
To check the level and condition of the fluid, clean any dirt or debris from the top of the transmission and remove
the socket-head plug using a 1/4" hex key. The level may be checked by inserting a clean bent wire into the port at
the top of the housing. The fluid level should be about 1" (2.5cm) down from the top surface of the casting.
To check the condition of the fluid, draw a sample of the fluid through the top port using a suction tool. Make a
visual inspection for cloudiness or suspended contaminants. If the fluid is contaminated, most of the fluid can be
removed or replaced using a pump, but it may take several changes to completely remove the contaminated fluid.
Transmission removal is not difficult and allows the transmission to be more completely drained.
The fluid used is 20W50 motor oil. Cub Cadet Hydraulic Drive System Fluid Plus (1 qt. P/N: 737-3120) is a pre-
mium alternative if the fluid is being completely drained and replaced.
After refilling, the transmission must be purged of air and the fluid topped-up to the specified level.
Symptoms and Causes
Because of the unique nature of the drive system on the RZTS there are symptoms that are not covered by the
generic check list.
Slow right turns: General loss of drive system performance that becomes more noticeable when the steering
wheel is turned to the right indicates a problem with the transmission that drives the left rear wheel.
Slow left turns: General loss of drive system performance that becomes more noticeable when the steering
wheel is turned to the left indicates a problem with the transmission that drives the right rear wheel.
If the problem exists in both forward and reverse, it is a problem with the total power output of the transmission. If
the problem is more noticeable in one direction of travel (forward or reverse) it is a linkage-related bias. Linkage
related bias can be either a Neutral control adjustment or a linkage travel issue.
If there is drive system growl with neither drive pedal depressed, the fluid level may be low, purging may be
needed, the neutral control adjustment may be off or the drive control rods may be out of adjustment.
NOTE: Things do not usually go out of adjustment on their own.
If the brake pedal and either drive pedal are depressed simultaneously, there should be no noise or motion from
the drive system. If there is noise from the drive system, the belt is not fully de-clutching.
If the mower is doing turf damage while turning, there may be a problem with steering or linkage adjustment, or
there may be a problem with the performance of one of the two transmissions.
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