Abstract: A hydrostatic transmission using a hydrostatic pump, a hydrostatic motor, and a pressure compensating load sensing auxiliary pump. The hydrostatic pump is fluidly connected to the hydrostatic motor using fluid lines and a center section. The hydrostatic pump additionally has an input shaft that drives the hydrostatic pump to provide the hydrostatic motor with power. Additionally, the pressure compensating load sensing auxiliary pump is in line with the hydrostatic pump and is rotated with the input shaft. This configuration allows the input shaft to operate the power takeoff (PTO) shaft while the hydrostatic motor output shaft operates the axles of a vehicle via a differential.

Abstract: A hydraulic valve assembly configured for controlling the elevation and operation of a mowing deck of a power mower. The valve assembly includes a housing having a valve spool positionable in four positions, a cylinder activation position, a neutral position, a cylinder relief and motor start position, and a motor run position. In the cylinder activation position pump pressure is connected to a deck raising cylinder. In the neutral position, a status quo is maintained, and pump is vented to tank. In the cylinder relief and motor start position, the mowing deck, if elevated, is lowered under its own weight by relieving pressure on the deck cylinder, and the mowing motor is started in operation under low pressure. In the motor run position, the motor is connected to high pressure, and the deck cylinder continues to be vented to tank.