A drive apparatus includes an internal sump and a center section having a pump running surface for mounting a pump cylinder block and at least one motor running surface for mounting at least one motor cylinder block. A brake mechanism includes set of brake rod guides are formed in and extend from the center section adjacent the pump running surface and the one or more motor running surfaces for supporting one or more brake rods. The brake rods may engage the motor cylinder blocks at oblique angle thereto, to provide a braking force. The brake mechanism may include a brake shaft, and a brake arm attached thereto and operatively engaged to the brake rods.