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"Replacing hoses with the same lengths and diameters can help make sure the system works properly," he continues. "Avoiding pinched lines or other damage to connectors and hoses will also make sure proper flow and pressure drops are maintained."

Fluid selection tips
Don't overlook the fluid itself as a common cause of failure. "If the fluid is compromised through contamination (hard or soft particles, water or air), oxidation (thermal damage) or low viscosity (high-temperature operation), then the fluid can't carry out one of its critical functions - keeping the transmission adequately lubricated," says Casey.

Also make sure you use the right fluid. "The choice of fluid has a large impact on hydrostatic transmission life," says Wickenhauser. "I recommend the highest viscosity level fluid in the service manual for the ambient temperature range the machine is operating in."

Zumbusch agrees, noting, "While a hydrostatic transmission can run with a number of different fluid types, proper fluid selection that takes into account viscosity and additive packages will deliver longer life, cooler temperatures and better system efficiency. For many systems, we recommend a premium grade anti-wear (AW) hydraulic fluid."

"It is essential that the fluid used in any high-performance hydrostatic transmission has a robust anti-wear additive package," Casey states. "This usually means (but not always) a high zinc content (900 ppm or higher)."