Uploaded April 2023 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago

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Step by Step!

Sometimes these Hydrostatic Transmissions can develop air in them, even on these Residential units that (normally) don't require fluid replacement.

Shown in the video are Cub Cadet XT1 and XT2 riding lawnmowers that I am in the process of performing a full spring service on.

The XT2 has a Tuff Torq K46DM transmission, and my customer complained that the reverse seemed a bit weak. Sure enough, when I picked it up, it wouldn't even back into my trailer.

Today I'll be showing you how to "purge" the air out of these hydrostatic transmissions, and this can be done regardless of whether you've changed the fluid in them or not.

I've found on numerous occasions that doing this simple and quick purge significantly increases how the transmissions drive up an incline in reverse.

These residential units don't have External Oil Reservoirs, and as long as they're not leaking, generally don't need fluid added.

However, Tuff Torq does recommend you replace the hydrostatic transmission fluid on the K46DM in the 1st 50 Hours, and every 200 Hours under extreme operating conditions. This would include towing heavy loads, commercial use, etc...

Note: To drain and change the hydrostatic transmission fluid on these residential riding mowers, the transmission usually needs to be removed from the riding mower.

Even checking the fluid level on these can be difficult, due to the placement of the fluid fill cap on the hydrostatic transmission (shown in the video).

Tuff-Torq K46DM Maintenance Instructions: tufftorq.com/tuff-torq-k46-oil-maintenance

Hydro-Gear Transmission Purging Video (on incline): youtu.be/4C4P1Qt6_XY

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