How good are the Honda Hydrostatic transmissions?

[jrcowboys]

Guys:

Just wondering what your experience is with Honda Hydrostatic transmissions on 21 inch self propelled lawn mowers? Note: I am talking about the non commercial units that sell for $600-700.

Note: I had Honda with old French made transmission that only lasted two years (clutch apparently wore out).

Any info would be appreciated.

JR

PS: Currently have a snapper with the old belt driven disc transmission.

 

[JTK]

They're good.

Kanzaki/Tufftorq has supplied Honda with hydrostatic transmissions for years. Not positive if the little Honda push mower hydros are though.

Most common cause for them to fail is rusted/corroded/seized drive axle bushings. They can bind-up the drive axle to the point the hydro is overworked, overheated and ultimately cooked to destruction.

Joel

 

[morris]

" French made transmission" kind of like Italian , electronics.

 

[01rangerxl]

I have beat the heck out of two French made transmissions with zero problems from either one, but they were in trucks not mowers.

 

[kkreit01]

I would never pay close to that much for a push mower -- unless it came with a 10 yr (front wheel-to-handle) warranty. I really don't see the need to spend >$300 for a push mower.