FAQ
TL;DR: 0 bleed steps—"This box requires no bleeding." Use the original specified oil and fill via the diaphragm service point. [Elektroda, SKM 1964, #17193811]
Why it matters: This helps owners of Tecumseh/Peerless 205-025B hydrostatic boxes fix no‑drive issues and choose the right oil without damaging the unit.
Quick Facts
- Design: Manufacturer marks the 205-025B as non-repairable; service it via the diaphragm oil-change point. [Elektroda, jdubowski, post #17193796]
- Fluid spec: Dexron III ATF is recommended; older units used Dexron II. [Elektroda, SKM 1964, #17194790]
- Bleeding: 0 bleed steps required; fill with the original oil only. [Elektroda, SKM 1964, #17193811]
- Wrong oil impact: Mixing 10W40/80W90 led to weak or no drive for users. [Elektroda, mareckip26, post #17193757]
- Parts: OEM internals aren’t sold; some local shops fabricate oversized pistons. [Elektroda, jdubowski, post #17196950]
Do I need to bleed a Tecumseh/Peerless 205-025B after an oil change?
No. This hydrostatic box self-purges and has no dedicated bleed screw. Use the specified original oil and cycle the drive gently. "This box requires no bleeding. Pour original oil, it's important." [Elektroda, SKM 1964, #17193811]
What oil should I use in a 205-025B Peerless hydrostatic transaxle?
Use Dexron III ATF. Older versions used Dexron II. Avoid gear or engine oils. "Dextron 3. In older versions, dekstron 2." This aligns with field advice shared in the thread. [Elektroda, SKM 1964, #17194790]
Can I use 80W90 gear oil in the hydro box?
No. 80W90 gear oil is not suitable for this type of hydrostatic unit. It can cause loss of drive or harsh operation. The advice in the thread is clear: do not use 80W90 in this box. [Elektroda, SKM 1964, #17195730]
What happens if I mix in 10W40 or the wrong oil?
Users reported weak or no drive, only moving after long warm-up, and stalling on small obstacles. One case mixed 10W40 and 80W90 and the unit stopped working after reassembly. Drain and refill with the specified ATF. [Elektroda, mareckip26, post #17193757]
How much oil does the 205-025B take?
The manufacturer does not publish a capacity because the box is considered non-repairable. Service guidance is to change oil via the diaphragm. Fill through the diaphragm port per the method shown, not to a fixed volume. [Elektroda, jdubowski, post #17193796]
How do I change/refill oil on a 205-025B?
Use the diaphragm service point.
- Unscrew the diaphragm cover as shown in the referenced video.
- Drain the fluid completely and clean the mating surfaces.
- Refill through the diaphragm port with the specified oil, then reassemble and test.
This method is the suggested service approach for these units. [Elektroda, jdubowski, post #17193796]
It only moves after a long warm-up or bogs on small bumps—how do I fix it?
These symptoms were reported when 10W40 and 80W90 were used. Replace the mixed fluids with the specified ATF and test again. Avoid gear or engine oils in the hydro section. If performance remains poor, inspect for internal wear. [Elektroda, mareckip26, post #17193757]
It ran for about an hour on Dexron then stopped—what should I check first?
Inspect linkages and wheel keys. A simple mechanical issue can mimic hydraulic failure. As one expert said, check for a “simple problem, such as falling out of the groove fixing one of the wheels.” Verify external drives before opening the case. [Elektroda, jdubowski, post #17196950]
Did anyone actually report the “1 hour then stopped” case?
Yes. A user refilled with Dexron, the mower drove for about 1 hour, then it stopped. That report prompted repair and parts questions in the thread. Use it as a diagnostic data point, not a general rule. [Elektroda, mareckip26, post #17196163]
Is the 205-025B repairable, and can I buy OEM internal parts?
The manufacturer treats this model as non-repairable. OEM internal parts are not sold for typical service. You can open it for inspection, but plan around limited parts availability. This is why correct oil and external checks matter first. [Elektroda, jdubowski, post #17196950]
Are there rebuilders or custom fixes for these hydro boxes?
Some local specialists reportedly machine custom internals, including oversized pistons. Results vary, and availability is regional. Expect a bespoke repair rather than a catalog part. Contact experienced small-engine or transmission shops for options. [Elektroda, jdubowski, post #17196950]
Should I convert to a manual transaxle if my hydro fails?
It’s a valid path. One user converted to a manual unit with small bracket modifications and a shifter-hole cut. They reported it “works half a day” after the swap. This can be faster than chasing scarce hydro parts. [Elektroda, mareckip26, post #17222511]
Loud noise after an oil change—will bleeding fix it or should I top up?
Bleeding is not required on this box, so focus on oil type and fill method. Use the original specified oil and refill through the diaphragm service point. Recheck the level and test under light load. Do not mix gear or engine oils. [Elektroda, SKM 1964, #17193811]
Can sealants used during reassembly cause failure?
Yes. Sealants can block internal passages and reduce output, and an oil change alone may not recover performance. If sealant entered the hydraulic section, teardown and cleaning are required. "If the problem is the use of sealants, it won't change much." [Elektroda, jdubowski, post #17195354]
Is there a video guide for the diaphragm oil-change method?
Yes. A member referenced a video demonstrating oil service by unscrewing the diaphragm. Use that method when changing fluid on the 205-025B. It’s the practical approach given the non-repairable designation. [Elektroda, jdubowski, post #17193796]
