Scag STHM screeching noise and power loss

[jkendt1989]

I was given a Scag STHM-23SV to mow my 1 acre lawn. This summer when I started it up I noticed that there was a loud screeching noise when under load and power loss.

The Scag is hydraulics to move forward and turn the wheels. I am 99% sure that it is hydraulics related.

When going up hills it is the worst. The screeching noise starts and the tractor has trouble moving forward (The actual engine does not bog down at all). This noise comes from the main box where all the hoses go to and then go to the wheels.

The reservoir tank only has about 2-3 inches of the oil in it when the engine is not running. Should I start there to make sure that it has enough oil to function the hydraulics?

Any other tips or idea's would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks again!

 

[Don87]

Yes, start with the fluid level. But with that said, if it were mine I would do a complete service on the unit before using it. Then you know that part is taken care of, and can troubleshoot from that point.