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I have a grasshopper model 725. It makes a growling (howling noise) when turning. Is this a sign the Hydros are going bad?

WELCOME to these Forums...
I believe that mower uses a Parker wheel motor... They are great wheel motors, but they do have bearings and thrust washers that can be damaged...
so more information about that particular machine may be needed before I would guess what you might be hearing... :smile:KennyV

KennyV said:

WELCOME to these Forums...
I believe that mower uses a Parker wheel motor... They are great wheel motors, but they do have bearings and thrust washers that can be damaged...
so more information about that particular machine may be needed before I would guess what you might be hearing... :smile:KennyV

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I bought it used July 1st and this model 725 (gas) has 850 hours on meter. The dealer that sold it to me told me not to worry about it....most make the noise. Another guy who mows with one told me they all make that kind of noise. It's the same sound the power steering on car would make if it was low on fluid. The Hydro fluid level is ok.

You can jack that wheel up get a better feeling of how the bearings might be... but with those low hours I would not worry about worn parts... you might start considering changing the hydraulic oil... moisture contamination over the years will degrade the oil.. :smile:KennyV

No need to worry I have had three Grasshoppers and each had the hydro whine you describe. Of which my 2002, 725 is the noisiest of them all but also has the most power and torque to the hydro's of the three. Mine has 450 hours and has always made the whine especially when pulling or aggressively pushing the control sticks forward. Also I may add that if you move around at lower RPM it is worse than at full throttle. It is always a good thing to change the hydro fluid at recommended intervals.