How to Change Lawn Mower Hydro Oil | Ariens®

[@robertmurray3510]

Wondering how the wheel can turn with the transaxle disengaged during purging process?

[@michaelmiller6843]

I have the same question!

[@rickc303]

2:38 pouring oil out of bottle "backwards", causing it to "gulp", flip bottle around so spout is on top and it'll pour smoothly

[@specialized29er86]

I went to our one and only mower servicing place and asked for the transaxle filters for my Edge model 915245, S/N 010108 and they said it takes 2 filters and the same ones that also fits the Gravely and I'm stuffed if I can find the filters.

[@Frazercuts]

When purchasing a new apex from a dealer. Does the mower. Need to be serviced by a dealer every year to keep the 4 years warranty?

[@jeremyhampton635]

I have an Aaron's icon XD Mower and it does not have the oil field canisters in the location that you're stating where else would they be located

[@Mark-rh6ub]

Thank you that should help. All as I got to do is find hydraulic reservoir. Looks like it's stuffed in by the fuel tank on my model ikon x Briggs and Stratton 22hp. This information was not in my operation manual. Model number 915207, purchase in July 2017..

[@Estacado45]

I have a 2021 Apex. The parking brake has to be engaged (up position) in order to start the motor. However, as soon as I release the brake (move into down position) the motor automatically shuts off. So, how can I move the steering arms to purge air from the system if the brake has to be off in order to move them?

[@angusbauman7887]

Release the brake. Wheels are up on Jackstands. Cant go anywhere

[@jimtyrrell1]

Very Professional! Thank you Ariens.

[@AriensChannel]

Glad you liked it, Jim!

[@eschaton2834]

How many hours are recommend in-between hydrostatic oil change?

[@jrussianintel]

About 100

[@redczr]

My Ariens edge is leaking a lot of oil from one of the hydros, my question is are they repairable or are they sealed? ZT model 915254

[@ncmadniss870]

I have the Ikon XD52 and its a great machine but lately my left side has weak pull to it and seems to have a slight stutter when it starts moving. i know the trans are sealed but my question is if i can swap the sealed trans for one that is maintainable. I am at the end of my 3rd season of mowing with it at around 180+ hrs but buying a trans every 3 years with each trans costing 750 dollars seems a little steep at 1500 dollar maintenance every 3 years. what is my best option here?

[@TheHockersmith]

You can change the oil in the sealed units, however they have to be removed from the machine and drained through the fill hole, hydrogear has info on their site

[@titouanpasquiou6527]

I expect this mower will last several seasons with decent care. kzbin.infoUgkx1VWTrayKBdCKAjzAcZ_Eg4dhHTae3LkN also recommend Also, I ran across the problem with it not starting the 2nd time I used it. There is a safety switch which is pushed in by the chute or mulching piece being attached to the deck. I took the cover off and it wouldn't start. Put it back on, no problem. It takes only a minute with 2 easily accessible wingnuts and no tools. This mower starts up first crank each time and it is a joy to use. It also mows in reverse by putting the key to the reverse area after starting and pushing in the triangular button. It will stay in reverse mode until you turn it off. All in all, for my homeowner needs, I really like this mower-and at 70 bucks a cut here in Miami, it's already more than 1/3 paid for itself in a month.

[@michaelmiller6843]

How much oil does each transmission require?

[@petersavoie8261]

Why did Ariens change to a non-serviceable trans axle on the Icon XD series?

[@joefro9473]

These non serviceable hydros are a pain in the a$$!!!!

[@charlesbeall2589]

@@joefro9473 Also cheaper to buy for chincy bean counters who ruin everything they touch.

[@pollinateordie6399]

My Ariens Apex 60 has a COMPLETELY different setup in regards to the vent plug. It actually doesn't even have a vent plug per se. It has a fitting there that has a hose running down to it from the expansion tank. I'm really not sure of the best way to go about refilling things? I've looked at lots of online vids and don't see a similar setup anywhere.

[@jonsmith5774]

Changed the fluid this morning on the LHS of my Apex 60 and will do the other side tomorrow. The vent plug is there - directly over the axle line and in about 2 or 3 inches inside of the tire (if it were on). Just enough room to get a wrench (and torque wrench) on it without dismantling the little seat damper. I took the plug off and slowly filled the reservoir on top until the new oil overflowed the vent plug. Replaced the plug and done. I expected to have to add fluid after purging but didn't have to. 2.5 quarts and it ended up 1/4" above the "full" line. Good for 400 hours now.

[@pollinateordie6399]

@@jonsmith5774 Thanks jon! Yep, you're right. I see it now right there on the top. Most setups have it on the side it seems.

[@shawnbond1975]

It's in the same spot on my Gravely ZTHD52. It was a PITA to get a wrench on. You can barely turn the wrench once you do get it on there. I'm glad I don't have to do it again for another 400 hours.

[@pollinateordie6399]

@@shawnbond1975 I wound up using a nearly flat ratcheting wrench. One of those that is boxed in on both ends and the inside of the box has gear teeth. Even then it was a tight fit. After the initial break loose of the plug I had to slip my off hand in there and hold down on the plug with a finger to keep it from just going back and forth.

[@jaredhobbs2871]

Can you tell me what type of jaw oil filter wrench is used in this video?

[@AriensChannel]

Sure thing, Jared. We use Snap-On tools in the Francis Ariens Service School, and though we aren't sure exactly which one that is, it's either their 61 - 124 mm spider filter wrench, or their 58 -110 mm spider filter wrench. We linked both below for your convenience. shop.snapon.com/product/Oil-Filter-Wrenches/61-124-mm-Spider-Filter-Wrench/OFCA2 shop.snapon.com/product/Oil-Filter-Wrenches/58-110-mm-Filter-Spider-Wrench/OFCA1

[@upscaledabooch]

It would be great if how to remove a 1 bolt rear tire and then list the appropriate torque when remounting that tire you can’t take off would be great!

[@Mark-rh6ub]

Yeah what's the torque on those bolts? My manual doesn't have those numbers listed. It's just the operator manual that came with it. Unless I missed it I'll check again in the morning.

[@olfactorysnuff4073]

Are the hydros on a mini zoom 1534 serviceable or no? If not where could I get replacement hydros for it?

[@madisongriffin7419]

Do all ariens zero turns use the same hydro oil?? I have a ariens apex 60in

[@heathtorres8996]

I have an ikon xl 60. How many quarts of oil do I need

[@glennwade9505]

I bought the IKON XD52 earlier this year and it works great, but it appears to have an oil leak somewhere. Not sure if it's engine oil or hydraulic fluid. When I check the engine oil dipstick, the level is fine. What should I do? I don't want the transmission to lock up. The oil puddle seems to collect under the transaxle, but it also is beneath the engine as well.

[@AriensChannel]

Thanks for asking, Glenn, and we're sorry you're experiencing that issue. It's unclear where the issue is, so please contact your nearest Ariens dealer for help. Our dealers are an extension of our team and will be able to diagnose and resolve the issue upon physical inspection of your unit. Click the link below to find a servicing dealer near you: www.ariens.com/en-us/dealer-locator

[@glennwade9505]

@@AriensChannel Thank you. I will go to Lowes where I purchased it and discuss with them.

[@AriensChannel]

@@glennwade9505 Actually, Glenn, you'll be better off going to an Ariens dealer. Lowe's is strictly sales only - they are not trained to service our units, nor will they be able to administer a warranty claim if one exists. You can find an Ariens servicing dealer by selecting "service" on our dealer locator tool that we linked in the last message.

[@appstate1996]

@@AriensChannel I'm thinking of purchasing an Ariens IKON XD 52. Does it have a serviceable transaxle? If not, how long would the transaxle last on a 3 acre plot of land with a 375' x 6' strip of rather steep slope 18%? Mowing once a week mid-April -October.

[@AriensChannel]

@@appstate1996 Thanks for considering us! Ikon XD-series models don not have serviceable transaxles. We're thinking that for your property, it might be more appropriate to move up to an Apex-series zero-turn.

[@joeygabagool3066]

I have an Ariens Icon X 52”. It does NOT have any expansion tanks nor does it have transaxle filters. The manual does not say how to change or how often to change my models transaxle hydraulic fluid. The model is a 915223. Any help would be appreciated.

[@johnjennette4949]

Ariens claims it is not serviceable zt-2200 it is but there filter is internail think its every 200 hrs

[@joeygabagool3066]

@@johnjennette4949 thank you, appreciate the reply. I suspected as much. Apparently the “Ariens Authorized” repair center are clueless... or not well trained.

[@g4outdoors]

Is there not a driver presence sensor in the seat allowing you to drive this machine while not sitting in the seat?

[@AriensChannel]

Thanks for asking! The vision is obstructed in the video, but we put a weight on the seat to "close" the seat switch.

[@g4outdoors]

Ariens I was up and down on my seat about 10 times while doing leaf cleanups today wondering 🤔 🤣.

[@texson5378]

On my new Ikon XL 60, if the PTO is disengaged, the engine will keep running when I get out of the seat. When the PTO is engaged, the engine stops when out of the seat.

[@bobbrown8341]

@@texson5378 Yeah I can engage the brake turn off the PTO and get off the tractor while running. I have a ZT HD-52 about to change the hydro oil.

[@donaldhicks8002]

@@AriensChannel I have a Friend 1konx 52 in I don't see a hydraulic fluid tank anywhere so how do I check it ??

[@joeycarpeal]

My mower is 3 years old and I never replaced the fluid. Now the mower won't got forward or reverse. Does that mean my transaxles are bad and both need completely replaced???

[@AriensChannel]

Thanks for asking! Fluid replacement intervals aren't done by years, but by hours. For an Ikon XL, Apex or Zenith model, that's after the first 75 hours (break-in oil change) and then every 400 hours thereafter. We can't say for certain what's causing your issue, but first check that the transaxles aren't bypassed (check the small levers inside the rear wheels). Or, this could because the hydro belt is either broken, or because it slipped off a pulley. Otherwise, we suggest contacting your nearest Ariens servicing dealer. Our dealers are an extension of our team and will be able to diagnose and resolve the issue. You can find a dealer near you here: www.ariens.com/en-us/dealer-locator

[@johnstephens9853]

Do the 2020 Ariens IkonXD52" hydro 2200 have filter if not how do you change oile on them?

[@AriensChannel]

Thanks for asking, John! And no, all Ikon XD models are equipped with sealed, maintenance-free transaxles. There are no hydraulic oil expansion tanks on these models.

[@joefro9473]

Maintenance free, doesn't actually mean, "HEADACHE-FREE" !!! SMH

[@62saki91]

As the ikon xd has the ezt 2200 hydro transaxles, which are "maintenance free" and you dont change oil, how many hours of life do they give before they need to be replaced?

[@AriensChannel]

Thanks for asking. Our technical support team says these should last around 250 to 300 hours.

[@AriensChannel]

@Tom Fuller Thanks for asking, Tom. Which specific transaxle model were you curious about?

[@AriensChannel]

@Tom Fuller Thanks, Tom. Here's the links to the left and right transaxles on the Ariens parts site. The cost will be in the links of each: www.ariens.com/en-us/parts/list?model=&serial=&search=&query=05291800 www.ariens.com/en-us/parts/list?model=&serial=&search=&query=05291900 You can also source parts from your nearest Ariens dealer: www.ariens.com/en-us/dealer-locator

[@M70ACARRY]

@@AriensChannel That's a short service life.

[@M70ACARRY]

@Tom Fuller $500 each. Labor not included. Easy to swap out yourself.

[@SamW604]

Excellent video. Thanks.

[@joleaiperlis5347]

Is this procedure needed on a Gravely ZT 2040?

[@AriensChannel]

Thanks for asking. If you reply with the 6-digit model number and 6-digit serial number of your unit, we'll provide you with the required maintenance information for your unit.

[@parkerantoine8179]

Will the work on my Gravely? It has commercial 3100s on it

[@AriensChannel]

Thanks for asking, Parker. The procedure between this model and your model with the ZT-3100s will be very, very similar. Just double check the oil specs and quantity before starting.

[@stevenbelleville392]

Hi, why cant we service the rear axels on the IKON XD model? Is there a way I can service these on my machine as well?

[@AriensChannel]

Thanks for asking, Steven. The transaxles on previous Ikon XL models were serviceable, however, all Ikon XD models feature sealed, maintenance-free transaxles.

[@stevenbelleville392]

@@AriensChannel thank you . How can oil in trans axles not be serviceable or good for life when the Apex and Zenith are serviable? Is it the same oil? I have seen in some videos that the oil can be serviced however the transaxle would need to be removed and emptied through the screw on top? Is this possible?

[@AriensChannel]

@@stevenbelleville392 thanks for asking, Steven. The Apex and Zenith are designed for larger properties and experience more cutting hours, which is why they have serviceable transaxles. It's the same oil, but please understand that the Edge and Ikon XD-series models were designed for smaller to medium-sized yards and are therefore expected to see fewer hours on each season - the lower hour count on these machines is why their transaxles is why they were equipped with non-serviceable transaxles. We advise against attempting to drain these transaxles. If you have more service-related questions, please reach out to your nearest Ariens servicing dealer using the dealer locator tool linked here: www.ariens.com/en-us/dealer-locator

[@stevenbelleville392]

@@AriensChannel thank you for your response, I truly appreciate the honesty. My property takes me aprox.4-1/2 to 5 hours every two weeks to maintain. I just cannot understand why you wouldn't want us to service them to keep these machines running smooth for a long time to come. I am all about keeping my equipment for a long time and oil changes on any type of frictional parts is essential. Is there a port on the top of the transaxle that can be removed?

[@AriensChannel]

@@stevenbelleville392 You're very welcome, Steven. There is no port on these transmissions, since they are sealed. To learn more about your options or for more information regarding your transaxles, we suggest reaching out to your nearest Ariens servicing dealer.

[@pjflintstone9310]

Is the Zoom XL serviceable? Each axle has hydro reservoir.

[@AriensChannel]

If you can reply with your 6-digit model number and 6-digit serial number, we'd be happy to look that up for you!

[@jesseamaya4413]

Just my 2 cents worth. If it has a reservoir it should be easy to service. It probably has a hydrogear transaxle. Hydrogear has sevice manuals online.

[@roncustis5386]

Does this apply to ariens edge 42 as well?

[@AriensChannel]

Thanks for asking, Ron. No, the Ariens EDGE is equipped with maintenance-free transaxles and does not require regular transaxle oil changes.

[@jacksonrenegar2175]

@@AriensChannelMy edge 42 seems to be leaking from one of the trans axles. How do I fix this issue if they aren’t serviceable?

[@aaronkerns6808]

What filter does it take? I have an IKoNXL 60

[@AriensChannel]

Thanks for asking, Aaron. According to the operator's manual for your unit, you'll need two 21545100 oil filters, which can be found here: parts.ariens.com/Hydro-Gear-Transmission-Oil-Filter-p/21545100.htm

[@hecter2100]

Mine does not have the expansion tanks. How do I go about adding oil back to it

[@AriensChannel]

Thanks for asking, Jeffrey. If you have an IKON X model, you have maintenance-free transaxles and do not need to perform transaxle oil changes. This video only applies to IKON XL models. Maintenance-free models will not have expansion tanks.

[@DS-zo8xs]

@@AriensChannel so glad I read this comment. I was looking at xl model maintenance instructions. You saved me so much unnecessary work. But nonthegreat video and easy to follow along. Please keep posting these helpful videos.

[@AriensChannel]

@@DS-zo8xs We're happy to be of service, Danielle! And you're in luck, because we're currently in the middle of producing new videos for EVERYTHING.

[@randyscruggs6346]

I can't find my oil filters on my toro

[@AriensChannel]

@@randyscruggs6346 That's a shame, Randy. If you want to switch to the Ariens family, we'll welcome you with open arms.. and we'll show you where the oil filters are 😉

[@andyrussell8510]

Can you service the transaxles on the ikon xd??

[@AriensChannel]

Thanks for asking, Andy! The Hydro-Gear EZT transaxles on the Ikon XD are a sealed, maintenance-free design.

[@tosc6004]

Absolutely mind blowing that a $3500 machine doesn't have hydro filters, or a way to change the hydro oil. Maintenance-free is maintenance neglect. I regret my purchase.

[@jeremyhampton635]

​@@AriensChannelso what do you do if you have a leak

[@aaronkerns6808]

Also what oil do you recommend

[@AriensChannel]

No problem, Aaron. You'll need 15W-50 synthetic motor oil, Ariens part number 00057100: parts.ariens.com/Gravely-Lawn-Mower-32-oz-Hydraulic-Oil-p/00057100.htm

[@billlovett4256]

15w50 synthetic hydrostatic transmission fluid. Stens sells an excellent one. Change every 200 hrs.

[@benknecht6287]

Any recommendation on how many hours in you should change the hydro oil?

[@AriensChannel]

Thanks for asking, Ben. Your operator's manual lists the exact recommendation, but typically you'll need to change the hydro oil after the first 75 hours of operation and then every 400 hours thereafter.

[@benknecht6287]

@@AriensChannel awesome, thank you for the quick reply!

[@AriensChannel]

@@benknecht6287 you got it, Ben! Always doing our best to support our customers.

[@benknecht6287]

@@AriensChannel Last question. I have the Ariens Ikon X 52 (915223). The manual does not list the hydraulic oil filter part number - is this because changing the hydro oil in this particular model isn't something that's easily done?

[@AriensChannel]

@@benknecht6287 thanks for the question, Ben. Actually, our IKON X models have maintenance-free transaxles. You don't have to change the oil! This video applies to IKON XL models only.

[@dedomv11]

I wish they were all serviceable. I have the Ariens 52 supposedly sealed system. What a terrible design.

[@dennisreynolds6915]

what hydros do xd's have?

[@AriensChannel]

Thanks for asking! The IKON XD is equipped with a pair of Hydro-Gear EZT maintenance-free transaxles. So unlike the IKON XL and its ZT-2800s in this video, you'll never need to change the hydro oil on the IKON XD 👍

[@dennisreynolds6915]

@@AriensChannel What is the actual hydros the XD has?

[@AriensChannel]

@@dennisreynolds6915 they're equipped with the Hydro-Gear ZT-2200 (also known as EZT) transaxles. For more information, we linked the product page from Hydro-Gear's website below: www.hydro-gear.com/zt2200-ezt/

[@whodoneit218]

Well and good, but mine is a residential model.

[@tosc6004]

For all you looking for the "non-servicable" transmissions..this is directly from Ariens... "This transaxle is factory filled, sealed and does not require oil maintenance. However, in the event of oil contamination or degradation, oil addition or change may alleviate certain performance problems." Do NOT buy this shit box. There's no way to change to oil in the rear hydros unless you want to suck it out and replace with 20-50. And there's no way to replace the filters unless you want to crack the cases, since the filter is internal. In my opinion..DO NOT BUY!

[@evlwevl69]

"Does not require oil maintenance" unless the seals start leaking profusely... Additionally Ariens does not sell replacement seals therefore possibly refilling the units for the rest of eternity....EXCEPT... the fill plug can not be reached due to additional poor engineering. A simple hole in the cross member would have been logical. This design clearly was deliberate OR extra stupid engineers at Ariens.

[@jaimehernandez4962]

wait, wait you dont completely drain the oil?

[@AriensChannel]

Hi Jaime, you are to drain all the oil when changing your transaxle oil. Is there a certain part of this video where we can provide more clarification?

[@jaimehernandez4962]

@@AriensChannel when you remove the oil filter. but, I worked as automotive lube tech and i usually see filter and drain plug. idk that oil filter completely drain oil on a hydro gear. watched couple of video until I realized it. sorry, your video was on point. just I didnt listen right on the first time lol.

[@AriensChannel]

@@jaimehernandez4962 no need to apologize, Jaime. We're glad you understand the procedure!

[@moistydad]

using chromes on an impact.. cringe

[@tosc6004]

Don't buy!

[@socomon69]

Does this apply to the Zoom?

[@AriensChannel]

Thanks for asking! The Ariens Zoom and Ikon X have maintenance-free transaxles and aren't serviceable. This only applies to machines in the Ariens lineup with serviceable transaxles, such as the Ikon XL and the Apex.

[@socomon69]

@@AriensChannel thank you for the reply.

[@2010stoof]

Did the xd line replace both the X and XL lines?

[@AriensChannel]

Thanks for asking! Yes, the Ikon XD did replace the Ikon X and XL lines.

[@2010stoof]

@@AriensChannel so now the ikon line doesn't have serviceable transmissions like the one in this video?

[@AriensChannel]

@@2010stoof That is correct 👍🏼