2010 1/2 Grasshopper Hydraulics 226V

[LeGear1!]

My lawnmower is very slow in moving when first started. It takes a while of working the controls for it to move like it should. I have removed the old fluid, filter, strainer, and used compressed air to remove all the old fluid from the system. It worked better for a short time but with the temperature dropping it is worse than before. I used all specified Grasshopper parts. Has anyone had the same problem that could give me some info on what I need to do next?
Thanks for any help,
WL McCabe

 

[mechanic mark]

HOW TO BLEED HYDRAULICS ON GRASSHOPPER ZTR - Google Search

www.google.com

I believe you need to bleed air from hydraulics, see above. Are new filters full of fluid?

 

[LeGear1!]

HOW TO BLEED HYDRAULICS ON GRASSHOPPER ZTR - Google Search

www.google.com

I believe you need to bleed air from hydraulics, see above. Are new filters full of fluid?

I have gone through the bleed process multiple times. I just completed the process again and the wheels turn but the steering levers have gotten very stiff. The oil is still at required level in the reservoir. The reason I replaced the oil and filters was because the steering was hesitant on the takeoff. Changing everything did not help for long.
Thanks,
WL McCabe