OutdoorKing Repair Forum Forums Welcome to Outdoorking Forum HELP Area Site Problems/Suggestions and Updates Seperate section for Transmissions

These comments (amended) were copied from part of my post in "Off Topics" about a Kubota ride-on, but I also had issues with a Simplicity Zero Turn machine where the end result was the wrong oil being used in the Hydraulic System after a hose replacement. In this case, the transmission runs on 10W-50 and not Hydraulic Fluid as some/most may expect. So, unless the repairer read the Operators Manual (if held), they would not be aware of the oil used in the system.

I think it would be handy to have a Separate section for "Transaxles" and/or "Transmissions", which in my mind is the most expensive part of a mower to replace, let alone find parts, where members can share information and provide assistance to help save a heap of $$$$$?

I have a few .pdf files I can contribute for HydroGear, including some Service Manuals.

Another recent member I was involved with in the Forums had issues with their Transmission and, based on information I found, it only needed adjustment of the traction control pedal mechanism (yet to be fully tested), where they were looking at a full tear-down and possible replacement of some very expensive parts.

Thank you for your consideration of my suggestion.

Having no comments on my suggestion from ODK members on this subject, I now turn my thoughts to having a new Forum that maybe called "Hydraulics and Transmissions" rather than just "Transmissions" to cover the multiple areas of interest of members to include machines, not just running Hydraulic Transmissions, like HydroGear and Peerless, but to one that incorporates the ZTR (Zero Turn Riders) and alike, which use hydraulics to operate the machine.
If there is an issue with the complexities of giving advice or suggestions due to the technical nature of Hydraulic Systems, due to pressures and correct testing that are involved within the system, then add a clause of "Non-responsibility".
The idea behind the addition of the Subject is to provide basic assistance on what may be the root cause, not to avoid going to a professional for their advice, when it may be a simple "First Point of Call" to remedy that may save members huge costs, where it gives quicker access than trolling through pages of information relating to other unrelated issues.
Thank you.
Daryl :-)

G'day Bushy

My apologies for not responding sooner.
I hear you loud and clear, and I feel your idea and points are
good ones.

We are in the process of revision at the moment.
One of the common criticisms of the ODK forums is that there are too
many - and the logic makes it unclear where some posts should go.

We closed about half a dozen forums last year, and I would like to close
and/or consolidate many more. I would like to add one on lawncare
'show us your lawn or workshed (?)' and one as you describe.

I mean, there are engines, chassis, and transmissions.
I can only ask that you bear with us, and your points are noted.
In the meantime, the best place will be in ride-ons.

I will pass your comments on to Bruce.

Cheers and regards
--------------------------
Jack

Thank you Jack for your reply.
I'm not sure if it is a case of too many Forums, although it gets a little confusing trying to work out which is the best place to add a Topic or Ask a Question when it doesn't fit neatly in the box defined within a Topic, but maybe just a case of finding the right sub-sections to suit.
Due to the variety of machines being discussed, it could possibly be corrected by redefining a Subject Heading for clarity of purpose.
The ODK Forum breakdown by Machine Types makes it clear to find the section you are needing, then into their relative sub-sections helps with the flow. I think it is more of "What Box does it fit?" when it comes to Transmissions, Hydraulics and alike, which are really the only items not clearly designated a place like we have with Engines and Frames.
Maybe other ODK members could add their thoughts to help with the Forum Layout.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Daryl

G'day Daryl

You are always polite and considerate in discussion.
I thank you for these thoughts and suggestions ...

I would like to remove confusion on this site, and improve
the logic. I feel you have explained nicely the logical problems here.

-------------------
Jack

Hi all,

thanks Daryl for raising this in such a considered way. I had been wondering about the forum structure myself, finding the plethora of forums (fora?) somewhat confusing and overlapping. Not quite sure which one to put my thread in a lot of the time and often 'across' forums.

And since I've now said I'd like some change too I'll see if I can come up with some suggestions.

Cheers,

Thank you Jack and Patrick for your comments on my input and style. Much appreciated. :-)
Where possible, I like to suggest a solution to an issue, or an alternative that may help, rather than just say there is something wrong that needs fixing. This way, I can possibly contribute to the forum in a positive way to benefit all members and (hopefully) add value at the same time.
Quite often, it'll take me an hour or so to post a comment or reply, as I re-read it several times to get the wording right so it can be easily read and understood by others.
A few years ago, I registered with http://www.greenhulk.net/forums/index.php which is an Online Forum dealing with Jetskis. Their site has multiple sections for the various Manufacturers and then split into sub-sections for each one, similar to ODK between machine types. Just thought a view of the layout from another Online Forum may help with some ideas.
I can still navigate around the ODK site, but there does seem to be some overlap as Patrick pointed out.
Have a great day and enjoy your Easter.
Daryl

I agree with all said above. A topic covering fluid motion would be great. I reckon I'll be in need of help when I start on my Hydro drive.
Jack when I started here I was looking around and while I see the relevance to each and every area there seems to be a lot of them but I can't see any that wouldn't be relevant.
I think with all the different drive and pump systems, valves, pressures and fluids it could be one heck of a topic.

Agreed on the hydro forum. I've been looking around wondering what to replace my stolen greenfield with and am wondering about zero turns. Asking around at the various retailers I have heard comments about 20% ZTR to 80% lawn tractors was the ratio only a few years back, and now more like 50/50. There will be a growing need for information on the hydro drives as a result.

Your right Grl, there does seem to be a lot more of them getting around and I suppose its inevitable we will need an area for them. I guess the sooner we open one up the quicker our archives will grow. That being said I don't think I'll be spending much time there.

Hello Bushy and Contributors

We have split the forum dealing with repair and maintenance
of lawnmower frames into two forums - one dealing with walk-behinds,
the other dealing with ride-ons.

In the ride-on forum, there is facility for discussing the newer,
more complex hydrostatic, hydraulic, electric, or whatever transmissions.

I feel this change recognises the maturity of use of ride-ons in
both their residential and commercial variants.

Please let us know if this is an improvement.

--------------------------
Jack