Got out our Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro Series and notice a oil spill under the rear of the lawn tractor (mower). Once I got it backed out I let it sit for several days and when trying to move it while running it barely moved forward and very little in reverse. Oil had leaked from the "Hydrostatic Transmission" and is sealed at the factory and not a owner serviceable (as in add oil) unit. You cannot check or change the oil and is designed for the life of the unit. Some life! Bought it June 3, 2015 and so not yet 3 years old (which might be withing it's warranty period. I took out the battery and one of the brackets and low and behold on the left side is a cap. Got the cap off and I was able to look right down into the trans-axle. Only thing I had that looked like it might be compatible for a Hyrdostatic drive was my Honda CR-V, Genuine Honda Fluid 08798-9031 Manual Transmission Fluid. Our Honda CR-V is a 5 speed stick shift 2002 light RV. So the transmission oil is not transmission 90W or anything like ATF.
I added about 1-2 cups of this Honda oil, replaced the cap and "what do you know" I was able to move it like normal again. I am scheduled to take it to the Cub Cadet service center to have this apparent leaking seal fixed. BUT was wondering if any of you have heard exactly what type of oil is in these Hydrostatic Transmission on the MTD Cub Cadet lawn mower tractors??
I added about 1-2 cups of this Honda oil, replaced the cap and "what do you know" I was able to move it like normal again. I am scheduled to take it to the Cub Cadet service center to have this apparent leaking seal fixed. BUT was wondering if any of you have heard exactly what type of oil is in these Hydrostatic Transmission on the MTD Cub Cadet lawn mower tractors??