Dear Mjb,
Wow, wish you were closer! I was told by the seller that both belts were changed, in fact his buddy cracked a fender when lifting it to change the belt. I guess the seller was having the same issue, couldn't fix it and sold it (to me). Gee, I hate to spend more on the variator part than I did for the actual mower, and then trying to find someone able and willing to fix it? But it sure does sound like it could be the problem. I really like the size and go cart style of this mower (if it would go). The body is in great condition with the exception of that recently cracked fender.
Thanks so much. Sounds as though you have experience with this model.
Rosey
well if i was close to you I would take a look for sure, I like these riders. Im not saying that is what the issue is, it could be yes. Also, since someone changed the belts, take a look to see if there are belt #'s on them. Those two belts are different, and not interchangeable- maybe that is it? I hate to see you have to buy a part for it, it sucks and inside info for you- the dealerships hate them so they will want you to trade it in, or to replace the transmission cause they dont want to mess with it. Getting someone to work on it- ehh oh ehhh, I cant help you there. I have seen and know places that do a service on them, and change the blade belt but wont mess with the transmission belts at all. Not sure how handy you are if you would try it yourself or anything either. The variator can be "broken loose" if it is stuck. By that, you have to remove the belts, spray it with PB blaster, and tap it up and down until its sliding on its own. Then you get to polish it up so it will slide smooth on its own when it needs it. Its not hard, its just a pain if your not into it. Being in the northwest and all the rain here, I have seen about 10 rust up. I so far have gotten those 10 broken loose. I wasnt successful when I was working for JD in north carolina and in georgia. I had some that I looked at that just were frozen. Maybe I learned a few things, I da know. I hope that its just a simple case of the belt worn out or broken or even the wrong belt for you. Again, if i was close I would gladly help you out or steer you in the right direction- I like those rear engine riders and own two currently.