Abstract: A pair of zero-turn, hydrostatic transaxles (HZTs) that may be joined to form an integrated, zero-turn, hydrostatic transaxle. Each of the hydrostatic transaxles are further comprised of a casing carrying a hydraulic pump driven by an input shaft, a hydraulic motor driven by a the hydraulic pump through porting contained within a center section, and an axle shaft driven by the hydraulic motor. The hydrostatic transaxles are joined along an interface extending generally perpendicularly to the axle shafts.

Abstract: A pair of substantially mirror image, zero-turn, hydrostatic transaxles (HZTs) that may be joined to form an integrated, zero-turn, hydrostatic transaxle. The control arm and brake mechanism associated with the HZTs can be mounted on either the inboard or outboard side of the HZT casing. In one embodiment, an integrated, inboard brake mechanism is provided for the joined HZTs.

Abstract: A filter assembly for a hydrostatic transaxle comprising a hydraulic pump and a hydraulic motor in fluid communication via porting formed in a center section. The filter assembly includes an upper filter member having a generally horizontally oriented filter media adapted to be positioned adjacent to the center section. A lower filter member is attached to the upper filter member to form a filter housing having an interior area such that make-up fluid enters the interior area substantially via the filter media. A conduit places the interior area of the filter housing in fluid communication with the porting of the center section through which make-up fluid is allowed to enter the porting of the center section.