Don't change transmission oil? One and done?

[Powereng]

I changed the hydro trans fluid in my JD LX 176 with full synthetic. Just drained and re-filled. Mowed happly for 7 years until I bought my zero turn and sold the LX.

 

[3930dave]

Do the automakers know something that the transmission makers don't?

Just marketing to today's masses.

1) People are lazy. A machine with 5 Scheduled Service items is an easier sell than one with 8.

2) People don't want to spend money on maintenance. 2 things that often get ignored (all machines) are rad fluid, and hydraulic oil.

3) Some people (including commercial shops) can screw up anything - wrong oil, wrong fluid level....

I don't know this thread's transmission, but in general, I'd only count on "lifetime" fluid if I planned on selling a machine before the warranty was up.

Rgds, D.

 

[Usquebaugh]

Re: Don't change transmission oil?

I also have a Deere LX280 - and when adding transmission oil accidentally dropped the foam filter (under the cap) into the reservoir. So I am seeking advice on how to extract the foam filter from the reservoir without draining the transmission oil.

I have a John Deere LX280 lawn tractor with over 650 hours on it.
I started wondering if the transmission oil should be changed.
The manual only says to check the level every 50 hours.
and under the "How to check oil" section of the manual it says:

Transmission Oil

IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Dirt and debris in the hydraulic oil can cause damage to the transmission:
ｷ Do not drain or change the transmission oil.
ｷ See your John Deere dealer for service.
ｷ Do not mix transmission oils.

SAE 5W30 engine oil with API classification of SE or higher is recommended in the transmission.

Checking Transmission Oil Level

IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Dirt and debris in the hydraulic oil can cause damage to the transmission:
ｷ Do not drain or change the transmission oil.
ｷ See your John Deere dealer for service.
ｷ Do not mix transmission oils.


Anybody know why you shouldn't change the oil. Or when you should "See your John Deere dealer for service"? Pffft!
Are these transmissions a : Use the existing oil until they fail, "one and done" transmission?

 

[CobyRupert]

Re: Don't change transmission oil?

I also have a Deere LX280 - and when adding transmission oil accidentally dropped the foam filter (under the cap) into the reservoir. So I am seeking advice on how to extract the foam filter from the reservoir without draining the transmission oil.

I assume it's at the bottom of the reservoir tank? Other than disconnecting the hose that connects it to the transmission, draining it, removing the tank and flipping it upside down, will one of those flexible "reach claws" grab it?

 

[Usquebaugh]

Re: Don't change transmission oil?

I assume it's at the bottom of the reservoir tank? Other than disconnecting the hose that connects it to the transmission, draining it, removing the tank and flipping it upside down, will one of those flexible "reach claws" grab it?
View attachment 553169

Thanks - I extracted oil to the ADD level - disconnected the reservoir from the hose - fished out the filter with needle nose pliers - reconnected and filled - took about 10 minutes. Appears to work. - Thanks again for the response.