Craftsman GT 5000 rider died

[blendmik]

I have a Craftsman GT 5000 rider, model number 917.276022.
Went to cut my lawn and it started normally and ran ok for 5 minutes or so. Then is appeared to lose rpm as I cut, similar to when you are cutting deep or wet grass. So I disengaged the blade PTO thinking the rpm would pick back up. It ran slower and slower then died. I went underneath the deck to check for clogs or debris but found nothing. The blades turn freely when the belt is pulled.. I then was able to start it up, but again, even with full throttle the rpm was low and stalled when I turned the PTO on again. Again I checked and still saw nothing underneath or in the blades that would stop it. Finally I was able to start it for the third time without the PTO engaged. It moved forward a little bit, still sputtering and barely running, THEN I heard and metallic "clunk" noise and it stopped. Now when I turn the key to start it, it clunks and the flywheel only moves about an inch.
The battery is brand new. Burns a little oil but runs great usually.
Any clues or advice is greatly appreciated. Thanks!

 

[bertsmobile1]

Is there any oil in the engine ?
If yes then pull the flywheel and look for loose magnets fouling on the stator
But it does sound more like a loose counterweight or bent con rod.

 

[Hammermechanicman]

Sounds like rod was seizing on the crank and finally broke.
Got oil?

 

[blendmik]

I just checked the oil and it's barely visible on the dipstick. That's odd because I just usually oil in it before O mow. But it looks like there's no oil in in, thanks

 

[bertsmobile1]

put your fingers on the upper side of the engine pulley.
If there is oil on it you have done a lower oil seal and probably the con rod as well.
Do not continue to crank the engine, you will only do more damage.
And yes it is time to pull the engine and dive inside.

 

[blendmik]

put your fingers on the upper side of the engine pulley.
If there is oil on it you have done a lower oil seal and probably the con rod as well.
Do not continue to crank the engine, you will only do more damage.
And yes it is time to pull the engine and dive inside.

After consulting two local sources that do outdoor equipment repair that it is more then likely a broken connector rod. You guys know what that means lol.
It appears I will be selling it for parts or the scrapyard.
Thanks to everyone!!

 

[Cusser]

I bought a complete new engine for my LT1000 back in 2013, easy bolt in.