Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Transaxle fluid

Question
I have a Murray 93264 Spicer transaxle. What fluid do I use in the transaxle.

Answer
You have a hydrostatic transaxle, correct?

It probably came with 30weight engine oil. The transaxles are shipped to the manufacturers dry and they fill them, Murray used 30W in most. On the Spicers, they are a little more forgiving than other brands and you can usually service them with 10w30. If it's in good shape you can use 10w40 or 20w50 if it's one that is not pulling as it should. Full synthetics are what many technicians use.  Some people don't like synthetic oil but many hydrostat manufacturers require them.

The heavier oils can fill the tiny scratches in the pistons and cylinders that cause you to lose power. It won't bring one back from the dead, but if it's not pulling as it should, it might help. You should drain the case if you switch to a heavier oil though.

Eric