I have a Craftsman Model 917.257280 lawn tractor (about 20 yrs old) with a snowblower attachment on it. Last year I used it, there was some issues with the transmission having a little delay in starting after put in gear and making some noise, almost a grinding or belt slipping noise. Then spring came and snow melted. I was busy all summer was not able to replace the belt and I made two passes this winter down my driveway and there was a lot of noise, almost like a grinding noise... I parked it, got a new belt, but it still makes that noise. Also, it only moves at a snails pace, no matter what gear it is in and has no power. It will not move on the clear concrete incline to get into my garage without help... I didn't get the last two belts from craftsman, they were from a local hardware store who said they would fit. Wondering if my mower is acting consistent with an incorrect belt, or if I sheered off the gears inside of the transmission. The belt I purchased is 1/2"x90", which according to sears is the correct size. Thanks!
#2
ILENGINE
Two things that I can think off right now. make sure the input shaft is turning properly, meaning maybe the key on the input shaft has worn in two, preventing the pulley from turning the shaft. The other thing is, if it has a peerless, or spicer the shift keys inside the tranny could be worn or broke, causing it to jump inside the gear that it is suppose to turn.
Hi there, and good luck with the problem. Almost 2 years ago I bought a craftsman DYT 4000 with a 24 hp B&S with 42 inch deck. Went through a lot of small things needing repaired or replaced. I went to my local Theison's store and bought new belts for both deck and ground drive. Neither would last long at all, trying to save money. Come to find out, the belts I got were just different enough that they would wear very fast and/or break, all usually within a a week or two. I looked and checked for things to cause this, come to find out the belst I was getting was not quite close enough to right size, plus not designed or made to handle the extra stress of running the transmission or deck. I broke down and went through a regular mower parts/repair shop and got the right ones with no more problems. Also, I started idleing down the engine before engaging the deck (my deck has electric pto). So I would make sure to get regular belts designed for mowers, may be just a few $$ more, but worth the investmant and may save on the headaches you sre having. Just a thought, and good luck.:confused2:
