I have a craftsman 1998 Riding Mower and right rear axle is leaking oil , I was going to remove the axle seal but on this model 917.270820 has sealed transmission, how do I get to axle seal on closed shaft ?
According to IP you have the Hydro Gear 310-0650 (150071).
It will need to removed and taken apart in order to change the axle seals. And I do recommend replacing all four axle seals.
2 EA #52 > HG PN 45076 > 53901
2 EA #91 > HG PN 50941
And you will have split the case to get the seals out.