My Husqvarna Z254 zero turn, although drivable, steers differently on the left side versus the right. Left has minimal steering impact. The linkages and belt look good. Am I missing a key maintenance function like hydraulic fluid or an adjustment screw? Feeling dumb! Thanks for any advice.
This is the most common "fault" with ZTR's that is posted on here.
IT happens because the deck throws more dirt on the left hydro so it does not cool as well as the right and because the left hydro is on the push side of the belt so it goes slack and slips thus the left turns slower.
Slow turing causes extra wear internally on the left so it fails before the right .
Worn belts , tension arm pivot not lubricated enough & wear in the pivot & spring all make this worse .
I test the function by their resistance to rolling with the engine off & brake off.
A good hydro will not roll down the hill even if pushed
A bad one will run away the instant you let go of it .
If you determine yours is shot then there are 2 fixes
1) put heavier oil in there and see if you can get a few more seasons out of it
2) replace the pump-motor unit, they are a drop in service replacement
