Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Snapper GT180H Series 4, hydrostatic transaxle, transaxle

Question
QUESTION: Hallo Eric
Wonder if you can advise please. My Snapper, although old, is in very good condition and had little use, but it will not travel forwards - in reverse it's fine. We've taken the transaxle apart and can't see anything amiss. I've been trying for over twelve months to get somebody to either advise what's wrong, or even fix it, but with absolutely zero response. Would be most grateful for your thoughts.
Very many thanks
Adrian Vine

ANSWER: Do you have an Eaton hydostatic transaxle?

http://eatonsite.com/HydPLL/pdfs/E-TRLD-MC002-E.pdf

The link below if to the service manual:

http://eatonsite.com/HydPLL/pdfs/E-TRLD-TS002-E.pdf

Let me know if you have the Eaton.

Eric

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hallo Eric
Yes, the Snapper is fitted with an Eaton hydrostatic transaxle.
Regards
Adrian

Answer
That's a good transaxle and a great tractor.  Is there any adjustments on the engagement lever connected to the transaxle?  I haven't had too many issues with the Eaton units.  I am assuming the pump is working as you have reverse but there maybe a forward circuit valve that is stuck.

How dirty was the oil when you dis-assembled the transaxle?  Was there any rust inside the transaxle?

Eric