Bush Hog Zero turn really jerky

[CNCGuy]

HI All,

I just got what I thought was a great deal on a 2012 (i think) Bush Hog 52" zero turn.
When I test drove it is seemed OK.
When I got it home and started the blades it is SUPER jerky.

The control arms dont work smooth and kind of jumps to a speed making it hard to control.
It is showing 450hrs
Any thoughts on where the problem may lie?

Thanks

 

[CCWKen]

Check the oil in both transaxles. Perhaps it and the filers were never changed. Check the manual for the type of oil. Most will be 20W-50 motor oil. There's a specific method to bleed air out after an oil and filter change. Maybe the PO took a short cut or put regular hydraulic oil in it. Bummer if he did as the units are probably toast.

 

[Maxify55]

In fact, most manufacturers call for a 20W50 synthetic oil.
My suggestion would be to purge both the hydro lines from the pumps to the wheel motors of air.
Google an owners manual if you didn't get one.
It's easy.