Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Hydrostatic speed doesnt seem as fast, hydrostat, hydrostatic drive

Question
My hydrostatic drive doesn't seem to have the top speed it had about a couple months ago.  The belt is new and the tension seems tight.  It drives well just seems slower than usual.  I've been told it could be low fluid or belt slippage but I haven't seen any fluid in my garage.  Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks
Brad

Answer
Find the bypass valve on the transmission this bypass valve is used to push the tractor when it's not operating so the wheels turn freely.  Open it up push the tractor 20 feet and then close the valves securely not try if you put the front bumper against an immovable object and fully engage the drive at wide-open throttle you should be able to break traction on the tires in plain words, they would squeal.  If you can build that kind of pressure you could have charge pump problems inside the hydrostat.  This is best described as scratches on the pump plate to plate that the pump spins against when it builds pressure.  Rebuild kits are available if you're going to do this be sure to work clean.  Any debris left inside this transmission will cause the same thing to happen again.  Yes, you could have low fluid but I don't think that is the issue.  If there is a way to check the fluid level be sure that you check it cold because transmission fluid expands when it gets warm and you will get a false reading.  If there is a small about engine a half diameter plastic cup attached to the outside of the transmission there will be a line the inside or fluid level too much is not better.  I think that you will find your problem Somewhere along this troubleshooting path best of luck on your project.