ZTR with hydro problems I think.

22Acres · May 17, 2018

Hello All, I just purchased a 2009 Cub Cadet Recon - 48" ZTR, from someone on craigslist <- I know my first mistake. Well I ran it today for the first time, and while it was cold it was just fine, however once I started using it with some load, some hills, and a bit taller grass, however nothing major - maybe 4" tall. I noticed that the steering was becoming more and more eratic. After about 15 minutes I could barely get it to move forward or backward. I don't know much about hydrostatic systems but I suspect that there is a serious problem with this one. Can anyone give me some advice on this, besides the obvious kick the sellers butt. This is my first ZTR.

Any help would be appreciated.

More Info - The engine seems to be running fine even though the machine has trouble moving. At the same time, there is a gurgling sound coming from under the seat area, or at least that'a what it sounds like.

Richard001 · May 17, 2018

Sorry to hear about you ZTR issues.

:welcome:
But, Welcome to TBN.

RandyT · May 17, 2018

Does it have a oil tank under the seat or someplace that you can check the oil level in the tank. maybe it is low, and if it does have a tank see if the oil smells burnt. if it is effecting both sides then you need to look at what is common between the two drives. Likes belts, or oil tank/level/condition of oil

4570Man · May 17, 2018

Check the hydraulic oil level would be my first move. I suspect it’s very low. Find the source of the leak would be my next step.

22Acres · May 18, 2018

22Acres said:
Hello All, I just purchased a 2009 Cub Cadet Recon - 48" ZTR, from someone on craigslist <- I know my first mistake. Well I ran it today for the first time, and while it was cold it was just fine, however once I started using it with some load, some hills, and a bit taller grass, however nothing major - maybe 4" tall. I noticed that the steering was becoming more and more eratic. After about 15 minutes I could barely get it to move forward or backward. I don't know much about hydrostatic systems but I suspect that there is a serious problem with this one. Can anyone give me some advice on this, besides the obvious kick the sellers butt. This is my first ZTR.

Any help would be appreciated.

More Info - The engine seems to be running fine even though the machine has trouble moving. At the same time, there is a gurgling sound coming from under the seat area, or at least that'a what it sounds like.

After doing some due diligence and reading the prior posts, I have come to the conclusion that it is belts and / or hydro fluid. I should have done this first I know

- hey i'm still a noob. Especially considering this is ZTR Hydro problems 101 - which I just learned.

Well I will update when I have this beast fixed. I haven't named her yet, anyone have any suggestions?