Problem With Right-Front Mower Wheel

[wheelpower]

I've got a nine year old Sears (AYP) mower with powered
front wheels. It usually starts and runs like a new mower
because I do all the necessary servicing and repairs.

Last year I had a problem with the right-front wheel. After a
few cuts it would stop turning. Cleaning and lubing the wheel
components was helpful, but the problem didn't go away. At
the end of the season I replaced several components like the
drive disc and torsion spring. The spline inside the wheel
looks good. The wheel pinion fits solidly on the axle.

I've already used the mower twice this season because the
winter almost didn't happen! The right-front wheel is turning,
but it appears to be weak or underpowered. I don't see how
the belt, pulleys, or gearbox could be at fault. The left-front
wheel never loses power. I could run the mower with the wheel
components removed, but watching the axle spin won't help
much. I need an expert opinion.

 

[reynoldston]

what would help here is the sears model numbers to get a parts diagram?

 

[wheelpower]

I apologize reynoldston. I didn't think the model number was needed
because most of these AYP mowers with powered front wheels are
incredibly similar. I've helped friends and relatives repair many AYP
mowers. A torsion spring for one model fits a dozen others, etc.

I've got the original owner's manual. The model number on the cover
is 917.378492. The engine is a Briggs 6.75 hp Quantum.

The manual has several pages of exploded parts diagrams. Very unusual
for a basic owner's manual! I know there are sites that collect many
thousands of owner's and repair manuals. A Google search should find
what you need. I could also scan the diagrams and upload them as
attachments.

I'm very happy that a "mower addict" replied to my post. I tried posting on
another very popular forum. AYP mowers are like the Mercury Taurus or
Sable. There are millions of them. Despite the abundance of AYP mowers,
no one replied.