List of Ariens Hydrostatic Transmission Problems (5 Expert Solutions)

In this brief guide, we are going to provide you with the common Ariens hydrostatic transmission problems and what are the solutions to these problems.

Ariens hydrostatic transmissions are used primarily in their lawn mowers. This transmission works mainly by belt driven on lawn mowers and by shaft on tractors. However, there are many problems with Ariens hydrostatic transmissions and we’ll tell you how you can solve them.

What are the common problems with Ariens hydrostatic transmissions?

Most of the common problems with Ariens hydrostatic transmission are:

  • Loss of drive
  • Drive pulley/belt breakage
  • Transmission overheating
  • Hydrostatic Transmission pump failure
  • hydraulic malfunction

Why is loss of drive a problem with Ariens hydrostatic transmissions?

You would want a seamless and smooth shift even at low throttle input, so if your Ariens hydrostatic transmission is not responding even at high throttle then there is definitely a problem

What signs are shown by this Ariens hydrostatic transmission problem?

You would immediately notice and sense if the Ariens hydrostatic transmission is shifting slowly from one gear to another as this is one of the most important issues with the Ariens hydrostatic transmissions.

What is the solution to this Ariens hydrostatic transmission problem?

Firstly try replacing the Ariens transmission pressure sensor, if that doesn’t work then check for an oil leak in the servo assembly of the particular gear. These are primarily two fixes for this problem.

Why is drive pulley/belt breakage a problem with Ariens hydrostatic transmissions?

Ariens hydrostatic transmission pulleys or belts break can cause seizure or breaking and they will cause problems during shifting speed while driving.

What signs are shown by this Ariens hydrostatic transmission problem?

Signs of a drive pulley/belt breakage present sloppier shifts than when the truck was new, or you could notice slow or no response from the transmission.

What is the solution to this Ariens hydrostatic transmission problem?

The pulley/belt breakage which is seized should be replaced with the new one and you will instantly notice the drive to be improved.

Why is transmission overheating a problem with Ariens hydrostatic transmissions?

Because transmission gears and shafts tend to get damaged, worn, and malfunction under high heat levels. This results in lower than the acceptable performance from the vehicle and high fuel consumption as well as lowering the life of mechanical components in the gearbox.

What signs are shown by this Ariens hydrostatic transmission problem?

Generally when an Ariens hydrostatic transmission overheats an error is shown. This error is not immediately visible on the screen but requires a diagnostic tool to get these actual error codes.

What is the solution to this Ariens hydrostatic transmission problem?

After cooling down the transmission check the gearbox oil for its condition. Change it if it is too thick and completely black. Also, check your clutch if it is the problem behind this malfunction.

Why is transmission pump failure a problem with Ariens hydrostatic transmissions?

The Ariens hydrostatic transmission is generally reliable, but begins to lose efficiency very early in life and it’s struggle to produce pressure quickly begins to deteriorate as it ages. This will mainly affect the shifting performance of the vehicle.

What signs are shown by this Ariens hydrostatic transmission problem?

While driving you will surely notice the shifting difficulty and in worst case complete failure for this problem. As this is a shifting failure, only while driving at the set speed and rpm you will notice this problem.

What is the solution to this Ariens hydrostatic transmission problem?

Usually the transmission oil pump is worn out and needs to be replaced to solve this problem. Also in other cases it has been seen that oil pump can be removed and rebuilt to solve this issue. 

Why is hydraulic malfunction a problem with Ariens hydrostatic transmissions?

Ariens hydrostatic transmissions are leakage proof systems and if anything is leaking out of them then it is definitely a sign of a hydraulic problem which may cause serious trouble for you in the future. 

What signs are shown by this Ariens hydrostatic transmission problem?

You would get an error such as P0842 or errors in the similar range which are associated with transmission fluid pressure. If these sensors get a low pressure this will indicate there is not enough fluid and a leakage somewhere in the transmission.  

What is the solution to this Ariens hydrostatic transmission problem?

You would get an error such as P0842 or errors in the similar range which are associated with transmission fluid pressure. If these sensors get a low pressure this will indicate there is not enough fluid and a leakage somewhere in the transmission.  

How to diagnose these common problems with Ariens hydrostatic transmission precisely?

As most of these problems can be felt while driving you can tell immediately the cause of the problem. If you want to pinpoint the cause then you can use a software diagnostic tool to be plugged into your transmission control unit but it is recommended to use one as written in the manual.

How to prevent getting these problems in the first place?

To prevent these problems you should also change the transmission fluids as recommended by the manufacturer. Also, you should service your vehicle at the recommended time or after specified miles from the previous one. 

FAQs: Ariens hydrostatic transmission problems

Do hydrostatic transmissions wear out?

Yes by not performing routine maintenance. The transmission has relief valves, so you can’t work it past its designed intent, but you certainly can damage them if you try, just like a gear transmission. You can stress it by being rough with it, but really, these last every bit as long as gear transmissions

How do you troubleshoot a hydrostatic transmission?

If the transmission is overheating then check the oil level in the transmission, inspect the heat exchanger, check the inline pressure filters, inspect the crossport relief valves, and check the pump and motor case drains for excessive bypassing.

Conclusion

In this brief guide, we have provided you with the common Ariens hydrostatic transmission problems and what are the solutions to these problems. 

If you have any questions or comments please let us know.

Citations:

https://www.mytractorforum.com/threads/ariens-hydrostatic-transmission-is-weak.89297/