A little update; I decided to purchase genuine valve plate kit – K7571-91374 (includes 3 valve plates, two gaskets and a manual for installation). Cleaned everything down with WD40 and tried my hardest to keep it clean whilst installing…very tricky at times!! Extracted all 3 valve plates and installed new (existing inner valve plates had grooves in them which could be felt when running finger nail over it, outer one appeared sound). New gaskets installed, bolts and filter reinstated and all tightened up. I was a bit confused by the manual as it said “notch” to valve plate was to be installed against the block, however I installed valves plates to match those extracted with brass side facing out. Started it up this morning, checked HST oil levels and topped up. Started up again and tried drive….but no movement….arrrrg!!! I am concerned that the hidden valve plate could have dropped off when installing – is this likely to have happened….is there space for it to fall off or if it did surely I wouldn’t have been able to tighten up casings and surely an external leak would be occurring?? I could see one of the concealed plates on the back of shaft was present by looking through. I also recall the inner swash plate (located behind filter) having an upper notch/knuckle on it – has this perhaps been dislodged during the process and not engaging? If I open up again will I need to renew gaskets again?
I recall reading someone experiencing this situation and they took it to a dealer to be told nothing was wrong with it (appeared to sort itself out!!). Perhaps oil and suction filters are airlocked? Any suggestions would be appreciated. Many thanks, David