When I operate the left stick, that side has as much power as the right, but it is a noisy squealing sound. I know some of these machines just have noisy hydrostats, but mine is just noisy on one side. But like I said, it drives great with good power. On a side note, I just checked my chain case level, and I got about 5 gallons of oil out of the drain plug. Could this be related to the noisy motor? Also, concerning the chaincase oil level...I'll have to look closely again...but it seems as though the check plug sits below the level of the axle tubes. If this is the case, how are the axle bearings getting lubed? Thanks for the help in advance. FYI-I'm also in the process of changing out my left rear axle seal and I thought the axle bolt had me defeated until I saw Tazza's advice on how to remove the bolt. I was giving it all I got to break that bolt loose from the inside and even rigged up a jack and tie down strap onto the wrench and ended up breaking the strap.