Simplicity Hydro Fluid

[mytoys]

I have an 80's, 12 horse, simlicity lawn tractor with a haydrostatic trans. I think the model is a 7112. In any case, I keep having to drive 20 mi to the similicity dealer and order hydro fluid in guarts, then go back and pick it up when it comes in. This is tedious. Is anyone aware of a substitut for the hydro fluid for this? It's red in color. Perhaps some type of auto transmision fluid? I remember an old Case backhoe I had used dextron as a substitute. Any help is appreciated.

 

[DieselPower]

I don't know for sure on the Simplicity but a large portion of hydrostatic transmissions in lawn mower/tractors use ATF. I have a late 90's vintage Craftsman with a Pearless hydrostatic trans and it takes ATF. You would probably be safe with Dexron III / Mercon in it. ATF fluid is afterall a hydraulic oil.

 

[KentT]

You can substitute Type F transmission fluid, but don't tell anyone I told you...

 

[mytoys]

Thanks much, I appreciate the help.