Hydrostatic pump durability discussion
 

Next project: Kohler command 20 swapping a 129! (maybe)

It’s very rare to hear about a hydro pump giving out on any IH cub, and they don’t seem to wear out on a 16 horse either. I’ve done research on v twin swaps and found everything it needs to work right (flywheel driveshaft adapter, heavier driveshaft, mounting plate, etc) but i’m curious to hear everybody’s experiences with hydro pumps. I would use it to pull a trailer on my property with many hills, and a 3 speed climbs the hills too fast in 1st and creeper gearboxes are hard to find for a reasonable price, so the hydrostat will have to do. So do please tell your stories with hydrostatics, and keep in mind this is just an idea of mine that hasn’t been taken seriously (yet)

The Sundstrand Hydro is rated for 25HP. It is relatively bullet proof. I have towed a 3/4 Ton 4x4 Pickup with almost no issue (loss of traction).


:IH Trusted Hand:

I use the 125 and the 1862 to haul some heavy loads quite often. Mostly
trailer loaded with fire wood. Winter, summer, chained up. Never had a hint
of trouble. Never tried to tow the pickup though. :bigthink:

Ken

Main thing is not to overheat them, and use the proper fluid and filter in them. I've heard only a small percentage of failed units from either J**n D***e or Cub Cadet units. I'm sure neglect and abuse played a role in their demises.

Like the rest of the machine, they were overbuilt and last for decades.

I have a plan for the overheating issues, the fan on the driveshaft isn’t very efficient so i’ll wire 2 12 volt fans to the ignition switch and put them beside the driveshaft. If it’s stupid and it works, it ain’t stupid lol

I think the driveshaft fan worked fine, and was reliable. The problem was/is that very few people cleaned the fins of dirt and debris on the hydro unit, so they didn't stay cooled effectively.

I have yet to take apart any garden tractor, Cub or otherwise that was
not 3 inches under goo. Overheating is a maintenance problem, I concur.

Ken