Craftsman 917.270621 15.5 hp B&S 42" deck. Bought new 1998. Peerless 205039C hydro transaxle.
I have a Craftsman 15.5 HP 42" lawn tractor with Peerless 205039C Hydro Transaxle which has been slipping up even moderate slopes for the past 4 years. I believe the trans was overheated several times in the past from clippings accumulating on the top of the trans under the seat - don't ask how - and fouling the cooling fins...). Slipping is worst once warmed up. I've lived with this thing a while so I know it's not slipping belts. The trans is a "sealed" unit but I have drained it (removed rubber plugs on top and sucked out oil with syringe and fuel line) and replaced the oil twice (Mobil1 15W50). That seemed to work for a little while but no longer.
Replacement trans is no longer available from Sears (even though they list it as available for ~$450) and other places are selling it for ~$650 online. Can't find it new or used locally (Easton PA area). Although the motor and deck are in great shape, this is a 13 year old tractor and I don't think it's worth $650 for a new trans.
Question: Repair or replace? I figure I can get maybe $150 to $200 for the thing "as is" from someone with a flat lawn or who needs parts. Opinions?
TIA
Stu
I have a Craftsman 15.5 HP 42" lawn tractor with Peerless 205039C Hydro Transaxle which has been slipping up even moderate slopes for the past 4 years. I believe the trans was overheated several times in the past from clippings accumulating on the top of the trans under the seat - don't ask how - and fouling the cooling fins...). Slipping is worst once warmed up. I've lived with this thing a while so I know it's not slipping belts. The trans is a "sealed" unit but I have drained it (removed rubber plugs on top and sucked out oil with syringe and fuel line) and replaced the oil twice (Mobil1 15W50). That seemed to work for a little while but no longer.
Replacement trans is no longer available from Sears (even though they list it as available for ~$450) and other places are selling it for ~$650 online. Can't find it new or used locally (Easton PA area). Although the motor and deck are in great shape, this is a 13 year old tractor and I don't think it's worth $650 for a new trans.
Question: Repair or replace? I figure I can get maybe $150 to $200 for the thing "as is" from someone with a flat lawn or who needs parts. Opinions?
TIA
Stu