Hydro in my 1440

[Bill Trammell]

Few months ago I bought my 1440 and for months I had it sitting in garage, started and moved around several times. Now - I have removed all the plastic panels, hood and nose assembly - working on rebuilding broken nose as it is badly broken up. Now the issue:
After sitting for over a month I see oil is leaking from rear - cannot get to it yet to see what it's leaking so I assume it's the hydro..... Question is ---- do i plan on pulling the hydro and replacing or overhauling? What to look for and thoughts will help as I have worked on nearly everything "except" hydro systems. Thanks to all in advance

 

[1811Cub]

There are three common hydro transaxle leak points: First is the hydro pump unit to differential cork gasket. Second are the relief valves, and the other is the input shaft seal. All are readily available. The cork gasket requires the hydro transaxle to be removed from the tractor. The input shaft seal, and the relief valves can be replaced in the tractor.

 

[lpalma]

A 1440 uses a Hydro gear pump, it has an O ring between the pump and the tranny, so the leak points will the the crossover steel tube, return hose, filter, and the the release valve on the bottom of the pump. BTDT...
Worse case the bolts holding the trans to the frame are broken, missing, and cracked the trans case or a leaky welch plug.

 

[Bill Trammell]

What is a "Welch" plug

 

[mfrade]

looks like a freeze plug. Used to block off a passageway or port