Tech Tips – Residential IHT (w/ integrated reservoir tank) Oil Maintenance

Tuff Torq Oil Service Procedure for Residential IHT  units with Internal Reservoir Tank

Models covered by this procedure:

  • K46 Series
    • Manufacturing ID: K46AA, K46AC, K46AG K46AW, K46BA, K46BC, K46BE, K46BL, K46BM, K46BN, K46BP, K46BR, K46BT, K46C, K46CJ, K4CR, K46CW, K46HD, K46V, K46Z
  • K57 Series
    • Manufacturing ID: K57A & K57F
  • T40A & T40J

Normally the model K46 & T40A transaxles, that are featured in many tractor and rider models, do not require any servicing for the life of the vehicle. If checking the oil level/condition, it may be necessary to remove the transaxle from the vehicle.  This is necessary to access the fill port (black cap) located under the pulley and fan (see diagram below).

After removing the unit from the vehicle, place the transaxle on a level surface and remove the fan and pulley. Then remove the black cap shown in the diagram below.  Maintain the oil level at 20~25 mm (3/4”~1”) below the lip of (black cap) port (see diagram below).

Technical note: Check oil level when oil is at room temperature (20°C or 68° F) and the unit case is level and secure.

Always use the fill port (under the black cap) to drain the oil from your Tuff Torq unit. Do this by removing the cap and inverting transaxle.

Tuff Torq recommends using only using approved Tuff Tech drive fluid when servicing any of our transaxles.  Only use the fill port (covered by the black cap) to refill unit. You will need approximately 2.2 liters of oil to properly refill the unit if completely empty. The amount of oil needed may vary for your service, due to the amount of residual oil remaining in case after draining and the condition/age of the unit you are servicing.

While reinstalling the fan & pulley be sure to place all components on the drive shaft in the reverse order from which they were removed and verify proper torque for each bolt.

Tuff Torq Oil Service Procecdure Diagram

Tuff Torq Oil Service Procecdure Diagram

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  • Greg Tennant says:
    Your comment is awaiting moderation. This is a preview; your comment will be visible after it has been approved.
    Hi,my dads mower has 46BT unit.Never touched or PM in 30 yrs.Last summer it would stop going forward or rev.let it sit for abit an it worked. only did this a few times.So could it just need oil changed esp after 30yrs, of no pm as if it starts that was all Dad cared about.so does oil turn to sludge after time an would get hard for pump to work,or oil just be low maybe,still needing oil change,or could it be the pump etc.Why no drain an fill plug?when needs change in 200 hrs?
  • Eric Michotte says:
    Your comment is awaiting moderation. This is a preview; your comment will be visible after it has been approved.
    Bonjour j’ai remplacé sur ma boîte K46 CW0001268 le pignon avec disque de frein et le pignon réducteur. J’ai utiliser l’huile TUFF TECH et depuis à froid pas de soucis le tracteur monte normalement les pentes comme avant mais après 10 min il ne monte plus. Merci de votre retour Eric
  • Glenn Plunk says:
    Your comment is awaiting moderation. This is a preview; your comment will be visible after it has been approved.
    7A646084180 46BT0346221. 405384 I changed the oil purged it also a few times still no luck it goes forward ok but backing up has very little power (won’t back up a real small hill any help is needed is it time to rebuild and where can i get parts for rebuild rearend I can put it in gear and still push it very very little resistance
  • Raymond Padilla says:

    i have a tufftorq trans axle K46BA model 917.289140 i wanted to know what fluid to put in or if Walmart hydraulic oil will work fine

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      Best oil you can use in a Tuff Torq unit is our own Tuff Tech Premium Hydrostatic Oil. It is designed to be in your transaxle. Part number is 187Q0699000 for a 3-liter bottle.

  • Wil Burns says:

    Bought an LGT2654 used and three hours after running it around the farm, it started loosing power in the drive.
    TUFF TORQ 7A646084091
    S/N:46AW0126010
    HOP P/N:448354
    416 hours on the clock.

    I checked the fluid and it’s and light tan milky consistency. Reminds me of moisture in the oil.

    What color is the oil supposed to be?

    Does this sound like a fluid replacement issues or should I just rebuild?

  • Ben says:

    Hello.
    In the UK with my K46 g , can I use a 5W50 Transmisson oil, or do I need a 5W50 Motor oil. I have ordered the trans oil as it is for mowers/tractors with hydrostatic trans. But upon trawling the questions you mention motor oil?

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      The problem with Motor oil is that it is set to relaese its protective qualities at a muchhigher temperature than a transaxle will ever get to. (Hopefully) That said since there is a compliance issue with our Tuff Tech oil in the EU it is difficult at this time to get our Premium oil in the EU. so you may just have to use a motor oil to get back up and running.

  • Clell Logan says:

    I AM IN THE PROCESS OF HAVING THE PUMP REBUILT FOR MY TUFF TORQ 46 TRANSMISSION. Will you please identify the correct filter and fluid that i need to order to replace after the parts are returned as well as the recommended gasket case sealant. My part number from the transmission case is the k461A6460-24162. the 1 in the number may be the letter I , Of that I am unsure.. By the way I called the website number to report that the catalog has no pictures and my part number cannot be searched. Thank you

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      I am sorry but that is the part number for the case. It is not a unique identifier for your unit. There should be a bar code sticker on the case close to one of the axles and that will have the serial number listed right after the S/N. If you can get me that number, I can help you.

  • Dean Cooper says:

    1F218H20222 -2018
    Model number 14B7A6CA010
    Gx54 Fab D
    Tough torque #7A632084830
    S/n: 62AF0003060
    MTD PN: 618-07281

  • Dean Cooper says:

    1F218H20222 -2018
    Model number 14B7A6CA010
    Gx54 Fab D
    Also, so anyways I pulled the battery. I have the black cap to the left that actually goes to the transaction itself and it’s about half to 3/4 of an inch from the top and then to the right of that I have the reservoir which is very very low. There’s only about 3/4 of an inch in the reservoir itself how high do I fill that and what fluid should I put in it? Any recommendations would be very grateful and helpful. Thank you guys.

  • Dean Cooper says:

    I have a 2018 xt2 gx54 with diff lock I just hit 500 hrs want to change trans oil im getting very different answers from using 10w30 synthetic oil to 20/50 synthetic oil can you tell me what’s to correct oil to use thank you

  • Chris Wium says:

    Thank you for answering my question. Can transmission oil leak from the Tuff Torq Transaxle fill port or breather port if the machine its fitted to is placed on it side?

  • I have a simplicity Prestige, 2016 – The simplicity manual says to use 10W30 synthetic, is this okay?
    I may have a bad axel seal and lost the fluid. I haven’t drove since but moved it 20′ and it was fine
    I just want to add oil in the reservoir. Thanks in advance

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      It really depends on what transaxle you have in your mower. Can you get me the serial number of the transaxle? It is on a bar code sticker on the case close to one of the axles.

  • Robert Gish says:

    How do I remove the black cap on the fill port and then how do I put it back? This cap seams very tight and If it breaks what do I replace it with?

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      To remove the sealing cap you get a slotted screw driver and tap it under the lip of the cap and using the case a s a fulcrum pry it up. Normally it just pops out with zero issues. However, if there is a issue with the cap and you have a K57, K46, T40, or TL-200 then the part number would be 187T0136300.

  • Florencio says:

    Repuestos,en dónde,en ARGENTINA??

  • Philip L. Koeberlein says:

    What is the cost of a 3-liter bottle of your Tuff Tech oil? I have a K51A transaxle. How can I order it?

  • Craig Francis says:

    I have a JD L111 from 2005 with around 450 hours on it. When doing some repairs on the tractor I noticed the fan blade on the T40 were all missing but one. I pulled it out of the tractor. The magnet at the fill had almost no metal shavings. I am replacing the fan and the oil. Do I need to check the internal filter and/or replace any of the seals or just let sleeping dogs lie? I do not see any leaks.

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      I would not change the filter unless you need to split the case. I also would not change seals unless they are leaking. When you remove the snap ring on the pump shaft make sure you do not stretch it out by opening it too wide. Maybe order another to have on the ready. I would do the same with the sealing cap and order one in case it gets damaged on removal.

  • Very helpful for several reasons, in ordering identified parts as well as assisting others ! Thank You…
    Do vent valves or caps ever need service or replacing?
    ?

  • Gonzalo says:

    Hola, tengo un outils wolf a80 pro, tengo que sustituir el transeje cual sería el que corresponde porque no veo el K46w que sería el suyo

  • Kay Johnny Gjerde says:

    Hello. I have to change the oil on a K46AC in a John Deere X165 due to hot running. Thinking of filling 5W50 oil for motorcycle since it contains additive to protect gear and clutch. Or should I use regular synthetic engine oil?

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      The best oil you can use is our Tuff Tech oil. Motor oil is designed to be in motors and is set to release protective qualities at a higher temperature than a transaxle will ever achieve. However, our premium Tuff Tech oil is set to release the additives at a lower temperature, thereby protecting your transaxle’s internal parts better. You can order some with the part number 187Q0899000 and it comes in a handy 3-liter bottle which is more than enough to fill a K46AC.

  • Bryan Lee says:

    This is very helpful, I have a 2010 John Deere x300 with a Tuff Torq K46BR. I drag around an aerator with concrete blocks, a thatcher, and a large utility trailer with a yard of bark, and the rear end is starting to groan a bit going uphill (without any extra weight other than my 200 lbs). I suspect some parts are worn but I’m hopeful that pulling the transaxle and replacing the oil will give me another 5 years. I’m wondering, however, whether I can pop off the air valve to check the oil level and top it off until I have the time (and the will) to pull the transaxle. easy to access the valve, not so easy to get to the fill port.

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      It is possible to check the oil there. it should be about 1.5 inches below the top of the case that holds the vent valve.

      • Bryan Lee says:

        Great, thanks. I assume I can pry off the valve with a flat-head screwdriver, right?

        • ggraham says:

          Yes, there is a dust cover, the black part, and the vent valve sits down in a pocket in the case itself. If the vent does not come out with the black dust cover then a slotted screwdriver is the tool to pry it out. Do be careful not to scratch the case, however.

  • Joe says:

    Can I use synthetic 10w30 in a k46bt?

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      Yes, you can use it, however, most motor oils are designed to be installed in, well– motors. They are designed to release their protection additives at a higher temperature than a K46BT will ever aspire to. While our Tuff Tech oil (187Q0899000) is set to give protection at a much lower temperature and give you the best protection and performance in a Tuff Torq hydrostatic transaxle.

  • Richard Rew says:

    K46I on Husqvarna Rider155: I want to confirm I can drain from the 2 drain plugs on the bottom and refill using the oil tank on the top.
    Simple question, I know, but I don’t want to mess up.

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      Yes indeed, the K46I does have two drain bolts.

      • David Wellborn says:

        Where are the drain plugs located got picture also can I split the case with the transaxle steel in the mower. Are the two drain plugs the ones that have the sealing washer on them

      • Richard Rew says:

        Hello again, just to be clear, I can fill my K46I through the oil tank (getting to the fill hole is a bare on this Husqvarna). Thanks again

        • ggraham says:

          Hello,
          Yes, I believe so. You may have to wait till it drains between the two chambers and because of that it could be slow filling but it will work.

  • Ambrus Adam says:

    Good afternoon. I have a John Deere mower LR175, with TUFF TORQ 7A646024051 46F-0137928 CASTEL GARDEN 18400950/1, can you tell me the exact type and capacity of oil for this mower to fill up?
    Thank you

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      The K46F holds 2 liters of oil. The best oil you can get is our Tuff Tech oil with a part number of 187Q0899000 and it comes in a 3-liter bottle. Otherwise, you can use synthetic motor oil in either 10W-30 or 5W-50.

  • Poli says:

    Hello. Could you please tell me the fluid type and amount for and LX176 John Deere mower, Tuff Torq K46F-0126185. Is John Deere HI-Guard oil suitable or not? Thanks

  • Terry Dimmer says:

    I have a John Deere 125 Automatic. I repaced the drive fluid and put it back together nowI cant get the axle to ingage. I spin the pulley and pull the lever that hooks to the pedal and nothing. The axles will turn and the pulley will turn but it wont work together. the tag on the transmission is
    Tuff Torq 768T2024010 S/N 40J-0017809 JDPP PN: AM 134582
    Thank You for your help
    Terry Dimmer

  • Richard Holloman says:

    Need help on draining and filling 7A632084690

  • Eric says:

    In the diagram in manual for cox lawn boss it has two drain bolts. Can these be used to drain the oil without removing unit, also has a resivor above can this be used to fill.

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      Yes, you can fill it through the reservoir keep in mind it may take a while as the reservoir only fill the gear chamber so it may take time for it to overflow into the hydro chamber and fill that side of the transaxle.

  • Stacey hampton says:

    I’m planning on changing the oil in my lawn tractor that has a k46bt transmission this summer is it okay to use 10w 30 full synthetic

  • Phillip says:

    Do you not have a RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT TEAM to design and build a transmission with a site glass or plug easily accessible for checking and maintaining levels between regular scheduled service.

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      Of course we do and that is a great idea. However, our transaxles are built to the specifications of the Original Equipment Manufactures. To have something like that installed the OEM’s would need to give their assent and then pay the costs associated with adding that to the transaxle. Perhaps you should start by asking the OEM’s to have it installed in the transaxles that they are purchasing from us.

  • James Stepp says:

    [ have a john deere LX-188 stock # 8063043 SN #1678881 I looked on Transmission and found Tuff Torq # 129351 the tractor has a 17 hp kawasaki water cooled. the tractor has very few hrs. it was stored for a few years in shop . it has a leak coming out of seal at brake. it traveled for about 200 ft. and stopped traveling . i drained oil and it was milky. dropped tranny and filter screen was caked over with oil. while i have it down i feel a complete re-boild is wise thing to do . gears are i great shape. i just need to know what re-build kit i need.. thanks for info you can supply to me. John Deere refused to work on it for they couldn’t get parts from John Deere.

  • william monchunski says:

    How much trans oil is in john deere x350

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      It looks like that tractor has a K46 installed. so the oil capacity is 2.4 quarts. To verify check your transmission’s serial number that is on the bar code sticker close to one of the axles. If it says 46 and one or two letters it is a K46.

  • Hallo, mein Tuff Torq K46 7A646024051 S/N 46F-0181342 Einbau im Honda 2417 läuft Vorwärts einwandfrei die Rückwärtsleistung ist dagegen gering, Öl 10W-40 wurde gewechselt,
    die Leistung war vor und zurück voll da aber nach 30 Min hatte der Rückwärtsgang kaum noch Leistung .

    • ggraham says:

      Wie gehts,
      Things to check externally are:
      1) Linkages make sure nothing is bent or broken and look carefully for the pivot points to have an excessive play that could be eating up some control lever movement.
      2) Make sure the belt and pulleys are all good and nothing is making the belt not function properly.
      3) Also, check for debris that would make the control lever not able to move as it should.

      If all of that is ok then it might be time to rebuild the hydraulics in the unit.

  • BDC says:

    I have a T40J and live in North Florida where heat is our biggest enemy. What hyrdo transaxle oil spec should I use for the most protection and longest life? I don’t want to go too light or heavy to impact performance but I need protection from heat breakdown.

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      I would recommend either the John Deere oil J20C or you can get our tuff tech oil. either one is a good choice.

  • Jarmo Junttila says:

    How to make seals Last longer. Rider is in use obout 6mounths a year. What oil do You recommend if I don’t get tuff torq oil.

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      I believe Husqvarna has an oil that they recommend so you can get that otherwise I would recommend a 5W-50 synthetic motor oil.

  • Bianquis says:

    Bonjour, sur une boîte 7a632084581s/n j’ai deux fuites d’huile. Une au niveau de l’arbre de roue et l’autre au niveau de l’arbre de verrouillage (pour pouvoir pousser la machine à la main).
    Sur l’arbre, il ya beaucoup de jeu au niveau du roulement (est-il compliqué à changer ?) et c’est un joint spi qui fuit.
    Sur l’axe de verrouillage, l’opération est elle compliqué afin de changer ce joint, faut-il ouvrir la boîte ?
    Merci

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      it is not a difficult thing to change an axle seal. If you need some technical pointers you can go to our Youtube channel and there is a video for changing the K58 axle seal and it is close to a K62 so you should be able to extrapolate the information you need. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FCOLQXsT8zg&ab_channel=TuffTorqCorporation) Also, you may want to inspect the bushings so make sure they are not pushing against the axle seal to cause the leak. The bypass or freewheeling lever has 2 O-rings and you can just remove the lever by tapping out the roll pin holding it onto the shaft and pick out the old o-rings and insert new ones, and put the lever back on.

  • JC says:

    Please tell me if trans 7A646084020 K57R-0184399 HOP PN: 437814 is a replacement for 7A646084180 S/N: 46BT0000304 on Craftsman 917. 276681 rider year 2006?
    Simple install or lots of work?
    Stuck without info here folks as no parts websites, not even Sears shows what trans to use for this unit, its trans is shot.
    Thanks

  • Rick says:

    Thanks! I’ve been changing the oil in my K46s’ for several years now. I have moved to a new home that has a very sloped yard and was wondering since most of my mowing is going up and down now, can or should I put a heavier weight oil (straight?) in the trans-axle instead of the recommended lighter weight?

  • Brian Hanrahan says:

    Hey I run a small engine shop. I have two John Deere mowers. One model number on transmission is 768t2024011 and the other ends in 4010. What are the differences in the two? Can I swap them as one no longer works on one of the mowers? I have found they are both labeled as T40J online that’s why I am asking. Thank You

  • JOE J RIEDEL says:

    Hello, I have a John Deere D120 lawn tractor. I’ve replaced the hydrostat, now it won’t pull itself up an incline. Suggestions for what to do next? Thanks!

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      so you have put in a new transmission and it will not work? I would check the installation then it could be something like the linkage for the control lever is not allowing the control lever to move its whole arc.

  • Rudy says:

    Can a k46v be installed on a JD Lt160 that had a K46C? What is the difference between the two units?

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      The logic is different between the two so if you install the K46V where the K46C was then when you step on the forward pedal it will go in reverse and vice versa.

  • John Blondin says:

    husqvarna k46 ia6460-84161 oil seals. dealer gave me a number of tuff torq #187t0134380 but they are somewhat larger.what is the correct number please.

  • Anthony Barton says:

    I have a Snapper 2691282-00 SPX 2548 48” fabricated 25 HP Lawn Tractor 150 series with the Tuff Torq K46BL transaxle, when I first purchased the mower everything worked fine, but now over the years the forward gear still works, but the reverse is barely working most of the time and when it does it is really slow, any idea as to what would cause this problem? Thank you!

  • Steffen Schirmer says:

    Hallo zusammen,
    Ich habe eine John DEERE LT 166 aus 2001 . In dem Traktor ist die John Deere Nummer Am 880203 verbaut.
    Können Sie mir sagen welcher Achstyp das bei Ihnen ist ???
    Aufkleber auf der Achse ist nicht mehr vorhanden .

    Danke
    Schirmer

  • Shaun McIntyre says:

    Recently I broke the long shaft in my mowers k46 transaxle. I order a new shaft and seals and fitted them as required before topping off with 5w40 oil. All went well for about 25 minutes then I lost all forward power and had very little reverse power. There were no visible leaks around the casing and the oil level in the reservoir was low despite having put in 2.2 litres, any ideas as to the loss of power before i remove the case again?

  • E. Yuhasz says:

    I have a K46BA0096113 trans in my craftsman mower. I removed the air vent cap and plug to check the oil level. How do i reinstall the plug and cap? are they supposed to be attached to each other? I ordered a new vent valve and the plug did not come with it. Can i reuse the same plug with the new vent valve? How does it get installed?

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      if you have a new vent cap it should have the plug in the rubber cap and you can install it by putting the center part in pushing it by hand to it starts in the case where the vent valve sits and you tap it lightly with a rubber or plastic hammer till it is seated.

  • Darren Robillard says:

    I have a k46 AW transaxle and broke the drive wheel axle, is it possible to change this shaft? If so will I need all new seals when I split the case open? I’m handy but not a pro by any means.

  • Justin says:

    7a646084100 no neutral noise at slow speeds and can’t reverse up grade seems slow little plastic washer broke by shifter bracket pivit

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      That item is on the Husqvarna side of things and I hear that it is rather difficult to adjust. You might seek the help of a dealer to ensure it is adjusted correctly.

  • ROBERT M TESSMER says:

    I have a Husqvarna yth24k54 with a rear axle serial number 46BT1233972. It has 405 hours on it and I finished cutting the grass and was in the process of pulling a lawn sweeper and the trans started to whine, and within 500′ or so it shuttered and stopped. The axle was covered in oil and it was dripping. Upon removing the axle, I found the cap had dry rotted and cracked, which caused the leak. When I drained the oil it was a dark brown/grey color. No burnt odor to it. I am hoping that I can refill and put a new cap on it and it will be fine. The magnet did have a thin layer on it. I am trying to figure out exactly what axle I have. The tag number is 7A646084181.

  • keith says:

    I have a k46c transaxle s/n46c-0011168 on a john deere lt 180 tractor . i need to know what position the wedged shaped block needs to be thick side up or down? is the narrow part of the block ever up ?

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      the thin side should be what you see looking down. The thick side goes into the upper case and thin side goes into the lower case.

  • Steve says:

    Why is my k46 grinding when I press the gas in and could the trans pulley be out it’s low on drive fluid but will that make it grind like that

    • ggraham says:

      A grinding noise means to me that there is metal on metal issues. I think input shaft and pulley or gears. You might have to pull the transmission from the tractor and inspect the fan, pulley, and input shaft. If all is well there you may need to open up the transmission to inspect the gears.

  • Kay Steder says:

    Good day,
    I have a gearbox No. 7A646084170 (K 46 BP) in a snapper. After 25 minutes of operation, this loses enormous power. (has 200 operating hours) Can you also change the oil on the gearbox and does it improve?

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      Yes, it could very well be that the oil viscosity is shot and changing the oil could definitely help.

  • Stanley Glenn says:

    Need to replace axle seals leaking but concern about if the bushing should be replace because of seals leaking but I don’t feel any play in the axle.

  • Jerry Wayne Blankenship says:

    How do you put grease back in after replacing axle seals

  • Patrick says:

    I have a K46 in a Troy Bilt Mfg. date Jan 2015. Serial number is not readable on label. Transmission # is K46 1A6468-29902 (the 68 could be 66 or 88). Tractor does not move unless it is running for 15 minutes with pedal depressed for the entire 15 minutes. Then is will inch forward a couple inches, after another 5 minutes inch forward again and then slowly pick up speed and operate fine until it is shut off and cools down. Transmission is remove and I see the fill cap. Cap is intact but deteriorating and afraid it my crack when removing it. Is the cap available if needed? Also what oil can I replace with after draining case? Any thoughts on why forward or reverse movement is non-existent. Until if appears oil warms up?

  • Terry Ott says:

    Is there any way the air purging procedure can be done with the transmission out of the tractor? The reason I ask this question is, I cant top off the oil once the transmission is back in the tractor. My John Deere is a 135 unit. Thank you.

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      If you put the oil level about 1/2 up the magnet you will not need to recheck as it will be at the correct level.

  • bobby says:

    my rider mtd 13a n601h729 work great in forward gears but dont want to work it want movie in revene

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      you should check the serial number of the transmission to see which transmission it is. I do not have good tractor data so I cannot be sure which unit you have. So, get the serial number of the transmission and I can help with troubleshooting.

  • And also how to check if it’s full of oil on the K46BT

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      A K46BT is full when the oil level under the sealing cap is 1/3 to 1/2 up the magnet that sits vertically under the cap.

  • K46 oil capacity and type of oil pls

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      It depends on which K46 you have. Check the bar code sticker on the transmission for the serial number and it will tell you which unit you have.

  • Mike Simmons says:

    OK, so I got to the “rubbery” black cap with the transaxle still on the mower. How do I get that cap off? Can’t find a “lip” or anything. Undersatnd there is a magnet under it as well?

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      a slotted screwdriver “tapped” under the lip of the sealing cap and pry it up using the case as a fulcrum.

  • PIERRE Arnold Jr. says:

    Fluid type and amount for and LX188 John Deere mower.
    Tuff Torq 19154-24122 upper case

  • Ed says:

    Hi, I have a JD L110 (but it has the 20hp vtwin when i bought it) with a K46. I only use it during the winter with a snow blower attachment. It goes forward ok, but has so much less power reversing. im thinking on changing the oil (drop-flip-refill) what would you recommend for oil if it only sees winter service -20F TO 40F mostly in the +20.
    do you think new oil might improve the reverse performance?
    If i see the upper magnet with a lot of metal, i would consider opening it up, so far no evidence of leaks on the shafts

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      The best thing to do is check with your John Deere Dealer to find out their oil recommendations. Usually, it is 10W-30 or for a K46 or T40, you could use the John Deere oil their J20C. both of those will work. Fillings on the magnet will indicate that the gears have smoothed off their rough edges unless the shavings are completely burying the magnet it is usually all right. Since in a Tuff Torq, the gear chamber is separate from the hydro chamber the filings will not be a problem. New Oil can help if the oil viscosity is shot and having a hard time holding pressure because of it. It is also a good idea as a starting point because it can be many other things like control lever not being able to move its whole arc that could be an issue as well that you will be able to check when you drop the transmission.

  • Allen Casto says:

    I have a K46 and the serial numbers are unreadable. How to tell what parts to order?

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      that is unfortunate. However, you should be able to contact the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and armed with the serial number of the tractor they should be able to tell you which transmission is installed in that particular tractor.

  • Amador Lopez says:

    Hi I got a K46BN trans and is in neutral cant foward or back ward any help????

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      You would want to check all the linkages on the tractor hooking to the transmission and make sure all is well with those. also, check all the pullies on the tractor to make sure those are all working. If everything externally is fine then you would want to change the oil in the transmission and the oil to use is a 5W-50 synthetic. A K46BN holds 2.4 quarts. if it does not get better after the oil change then the wear on the hydraulic parts is too bad for even the thick oil to help. You then would need a repair kit. and you can find that right on the website https://tufftorq.ordertree.com.

  • Roger Kingaby says:

    My 2006 Countax X series (20 ) 4 wheel drive hydrostatic mower is leaking oil from the Tuff torq K574 gearbox, the rubber oil seal needs replacing at the top of the gearbox casing, sealing the shaft assembly under the cooling fan. Can I replace the seal from the top without removing the gearbox ? Can you please advise. I believe the oil seal part no is 187T0134380 Many thanks.

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      I do not see these transmissions in the tractor. So I cannot say if you have to remove it or not. You do not need to split the case to change it you can do it right from the top.

  • Timothy Rude says:

    For my Husqvarna YTH21K46 with a K46BT transaxle, could I increase the travel speed by installing a slightly larger pulley on the engine shaft, or would that not work with this type of transaxle?

    • ggraham says:

      I am sorry but I cannot recommend changing the pulley to alter the specs that the transmission is designed to have. I am sure you can understand the liability associated with altering the intended workings of the transmission.

  • James says:

    I have a k46bn trans.how much for a rebuild kit?when it gets hot it won’t pull.does fine for a couple hours,then too hot and won’t pull.

  • Tom Cyr says:

    Your table “Fluids and Lubricants” does not specify the type of fluid used in the K46BT trans-axle, could you provide that info? Thanks

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      You can use 10W-30 motor oil; or a 5W-50 Synthetic. the best is our Tuff Tech brand of oil and the part number for a 3-liter bottle is 187Q0899000.

  • James Garnes says:

    I rebuilt the rear end in my lt 160 but when you push the petal to go forward it go in reverse what did I do wrong

  • William Mevissen says:

    I realized now that I used the wrong port to fill unit. Can you put in to much oil in the transmission? (K46A2)
    It moves if the wheels are off the ground. But when they touch the ground the tractor will not move.
    I didn’t see what port to use until I looked up on Tuff Torq Oil Procedure.

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      If it is acting in that way and you have purged the hydraulic circuit of air then it is probably too much wear on the hydraulic parts that the fresh oil cannot make up for. A repair kit is a hydraulic rebuild and you would need that to get your transmission running like new again.

  • gary kelly says:

    k57r transmission in a husqvarna yta24v48. noticed black gear oil is leaking out of my right rear axle tractor only has 60 hours on it after i replace the axle seal how do i top off the gear oil that leaked out and what weight oil do i use? and what part number is the axle seal.

  • dimitry says:

    hello where can i find parts in Belgium . where can i find more info how to calibrate the fulcrum at the 46 f gear ?

  • Barry Newman says:

    I do not find Tuff Torq transmission oil in the shuswap area. Please tell me the cross reference info so I can use automotive trans fluid.

  • Jerry Stollar Sr. says:

    Can I buy parts to repair my k46 in my jd lt 160 tractor?

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      Yes, you can order parts right off of the website: https://tufftorq.ordertree.com/ . All you need is the serial number of the transmission to find it on the website. And you can always call the helpful techs in the Service Department at 866.572.3441.

  • Carl Ewing says:

    Following the recommended oil change procedure I’ve noticed that when the drive shaft at the top is being turned. clockwise on my K46AC, and the freewheel lever is disengaged I can grasp the turning portion of the axle (right side) and it simply stops in my hand. Is this normal?

    • ggraham says:

      Mr Ewing,
      It is not normal for the axle to just stop. You might have wear on the hydraulic parts which is allowing the oil to escape and lose pressure which is a loss of power, ultimately. it could be you need to replace those parts and a repair kit will be a total hydraulic rebuild. You can find the repair kit on the website: https://tufftorq.ordertree.com/. Or you can contact the helpful techs in the service department at 866.572.3441

  • Ben says:

    Could I replace a K46BC with a K56? Are they the same size, with the same mounting points?

    • ggraham says:

      Hello,
      These transmissions are built specifically for the tractors that they are in and swapping can cause all kinds of unforeseen issue. The K56 is a very different transmission than the K46 and no they will not interchange without major modifications.

      • Goose says:

        There is a upgrade kit for the K46 it is a K66 one of the best and heavy duty, way over what you will need and those attachments for your lawn tractor that will ruin your rigg faster than anything the K66 is made for those application. These kits are expensive but includes even new wheels to match the much heavier axle while you can still use your tires

  • William Black says:

    My shop was flooded in Hurricane Harvey. I am afraid water got into the transaxle. The top of the Tuff Torq was under about 8 ” water. Should I split it apart or just drain and put new oil?

  • Javier ibarra says:

    How do you remove the black cap seems to be stuck on? I am trying to refill the fluid because it has been leaking a little bit

  • mike russell says:

    what are the differences between a k46 and a k46ac

    • Hello Mr. Russell. Thanks for your message. While I am happy to help any way I can, you have several questions here that would be best answers by one of our service professionals. You can reach them at salessrvc@tufftorq.com or toll-free at (866) 572-3441. The short answer is the “AC” designation describes a particular control logic and specific design set defined by a particular OEM for their tractor application. If you contact our professional service team, they will be able to look up and help you understand the features and specifications of the K46AC model. Hope that is helpful, have a great day!

  • Erki Potisepp says:

    I have Ariens 46″ Lawn & Garden Tractor, 22hp B&S and i would like to change the hand gear to pedal gear (using Husqvarna YTH 20K46 parts)
    I have a question about K46 hydrostatic transmission. Whate are the main differences between K46ba (Ariens) and K46bt (husqvarna) hydrostatic transmissions. Does theoreticaly hand transmission connections fits with pedal transmission parts?

    • Hello Mr. Potisepp. There are several differences that can be designed into each K46 unit Tuff Torq manufacturers for an OEM. The main issue with using non-original parts in a repair is the danger of the non-original unit not having the same “control logic” as the original unit. Meaning, Tuff Torq has the ability to set up a transaxle to have forward/reverse initialized by the control arm in either the “push” or “pull” directions (depending on the need of a specific OEM). Using a transaxle from another OEM may create a situation where initializing your tractor in the forward direction would cause it to actually go backward, and vice versa. So, we do not recommend replacing units with transaxles designed for other vehicles. For more information, I recommend you contact our service team at salessrvc@tufftorq.com or give them a call toll-free at +1 (866) 572-3441. Hope this was helpful! Have a great day.

  • I have a tuff Torque K72 High speed transmission, and I would like to know if there is a service manual for this unit that I can get to better help be keep it maintained properly.? It’s in a 2017 Simplicity Prestige tractor. The owners manual that comes with tractor doesn’t cover good technical maintenance.
    Thanks for any info you can give me.

    • Hello Mr. Kraus. I’d recommend you contact our service department. They will be better equipped to find you the information you need to keep your K72 unit working at peak performance. You can reach them via email at salessrvc@tufftorq.com or toll-free at +1 (866) 572-3441. Have a great day!

  • Michael Lacy says:

    Wanting to know what the cost of a pump and motor for my K46 transmission would be. I’m doing a rebuild on it as the mower would not move in forward or reverse.
    Thx

    • Hello Michael,

      Since each model of our K46 transaxles is unique in its specifications outlined by the OEM, it’s probably best that you contact one of our service technicians with your specific model information. They will be happy to assist you with your request. Please feel free to contact them at (866) 572-3441 or via email at salessrvc@tufftorq.com. Thanks!

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