Bumping a Jurassic thread as is my wont.
In line with bumping an ancient thread, my Dad just gave me a 1968 (plus or minus) Sears Super HydroTrac 12 garden tractor. It is amazingly original and complete. It's been stored for about 10 years so I'm doing fluids, cleaning out fuel system etc.
This question is about hydrostatic drive and fluid:
JTK: Hoping you see this. Do you have a fluid recommendation for a 46 year old hydrostatic drive like this? Anyone?
I've looked all over and can't seem to find the capacity. Info on that appreciated as well.
Owner's manual says: "Type A Hydraulic Fluid". Tractor forums recommend everything from Dexron to Mercon to 30w non detergent oil. They advocate the 30w non-det opining that detergents might stir up contaminants layered on the pan. Many like 20w50 HDEO and fewer seem to suggest full synth 15w50 or 20w50 (I have some old Castrol 20w50 muscle car synth on the shelf but don't want to use it blindly).
The oil I drained LOOKS like ATF but smells like mint or something. Zero burnt smell, etc. Looks clean; crystal translucent red; no signs of water or other visible problems. Of course, that means not a lot.
(aside: the grungy diff gear oil (not red) also smelled like mint. not like typical ugly gear oil smell... anyway, back to topic)
Inverted J shaped dipstick doubles as vent tube and it was plugged. It is now unplugged.
Papa-san says it was working fine way back when; probably should've just left it alone. Anyway, the hydro oil is out now so... input would be much appreciated on best juice to use.
Thanks,
Micke