STX38 Black Deck Hydro Fan Replacement - Do you have to drop the trans?

[Gorrillasnot]

I need to replace the hydro fan and there doesn't seem to be any room to get to it.
If the battery tray was removable it would be easy to get to, but the tray doesn't seem to be removable.
Does the trans axle have to be removed to replace the fan? or is there another way to get to it?
I've read the repair manual and the only place it shows removing the fan is in the section after removing the transaxle.
is there a way to do it with out dropping the transaxle?

thanks

 

[mechanic mark]

TractorData.com John Deere STX38 Yellow Deck tractor information

www.tractordata.com

Scotch front wheels jack up rear use jack stands disconnect linkages remove belt remove mounting hardware for transaxle, 4 bolts & nuts each side remove transaxle, let us know how it goes, thanks Mark
Having a helper will benefit & make the job go easier, remember "Safety First".