Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): 1540 ariens hydro trans axle, ariens mower, axal

Question
I purchased a used ezr 1540 ariens Mower. It seemed to work fine, but the more I used it the left side has been losing power in reverse & forward. I looked at the left trans axal it seems to be leaking oil at the top were there is a rubber hose attached. My question is there a place to check the oil And fill if  needed

Answer
To download a full manual for your mower, go to www.ariens.com,
click on customer service.  You will need to find the model and
serial number off of the tag, just 1540 won't work.  It should go
through checking/ adding/changing fluids, etc..
Should also have a parts blowup.
  After curing the oil leak, you also might want to check the wheel
unloader valves, make sure they are fully closed.  They are on each side normally, and are opened so so you can push the mower when it is not running.  Check out that manual, and see if that helps,
and If I can help in any way, supply me with that model and serial
number so I know what kind of hydro setup you have.

  Thanks,

Fish