Hi, My name is Dale. I have a Honda Harmony 2013 HDA lawn tractor that I purchased new in 1998. Every time I think its time to put it down, I find a way to fix it and keep it running. It has been leaking hydrostatic fluid lately and finally stopped moving. I took it a part to find that an oil seal is the culprit. I think. I'm waiting for the part to come in and will see if that takes care of it. If not, I plan to buy a Cub Cadet to replace it. I have not put hardly any money into this Honda not even a belt and unfortunately, they do not make these little tractors anymore. To replace the 3.28 quarts of hydrostatic fluid after the seal installation, I plan on using SAE 30 non detergent motor oil or regular hydraulic oil ($14) instead of the Honda hydrostatic fluid because the cost is about $40 plus and I'm not 100% sure the seal will fix the problem. If anyone has experience with that I will welcome the advice. Anyway, I look forward to getting a new Cub Cadet if the seal does not work but will be sorry to say farewell to the faithful little Honda.
I can't speak for the Honda riding tractors, but Robert (a Honda employee), says not to use a non Honda hydraulic fluid in their walk behind hydrostatic transmissions.
40 dollars doesn't sound like a lot, for the Honda, being the Cub Cadet probably isn't built nearly as well.
You could go to a Tractor Supply store to see if they sell hydro fluid that lists Honda compatibility on the label. Their Universal Hydrostatic Fluid doesn't list Honda on the label.
