Self Propelled Craftsman Issue

[TMajic]

I have an 8 year old self propelled (rear) Craftsman mower. This season, only the right wheel seems to be moving when engaged. What can or should I look for to fix the problem? And, how do I go about it? Thanks.

 

[twinfords]

take the wheel off and see if the gears are stripped.

 

[TMajic]

Thanks Twinfords. I will try that shortly. Are the gears hard to replace?

 

[twinfords]

the wheel has plastic teeth on it that ride on the metal gear.

 

[tyjoja]

had the same issue with my craftman and the plastic wheels were stripped. bought the cheapest I could find on ebay to replace and lasted about another season and same thing happened.

 

[TMajic]

:thumbsup:I took the wheels off and the gear was caked with debris. I cleaned the gears and it works. The plastic wheels have some wear but not enough where the gear won't turn it as of now, so thanks for the advice!!!

 

[Stracker]

I've had the same problem more than once on an otherwise strong mower. Right side still powered, left is free-wheeling, sometimes locked up. Bad design of plastic gear teeth on the inside of the wheel against the metal gear.

Also, the bushing/bearing that runs through the mower deck / chassis and into the wheel assembly housing is J-U-N-K. My left wheel broke almost off last week. I am meticulous with caring for this machine, and was surprised to see the bearing had come apart, and the drive axle had been misaligned for so long, it was worn almost through.

After replacing both front wheels, 2 e-clips, and now what appears to be an entire front drive assembly, it's probably time to move on. I'm only upset that the engine (190-cc) is so strong. Never any problems at all, and never more than 2 pulls to fire her up.

Anyone need a very strong engine from the (917-376160) model mower?

brian_strack@hotmail.com

Good luck!