Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Transmision Problem On A Craftsman Mower, proper manuals, plowing snow

Question
QUESTION: I am working on a Craftsman Tractor model 917.273020 which will move on flat ground but when you start to go up a slight incline it stops. Up until a few days ago the tractor was plowing snow fine. I would appreciate any help thank you.

ANSWER: Hello Tim:

>>The Biggest Problem with Moving Snow is the Ground Drive Belt Stretches and will Usually cause this Problem.
>>Make Sure the Ground Drive Belt has Not Stretched too Much and Replace it if the Tension Idler is Not Tightening the Drive Belt enough to Pull the Grades.
>>Check the Tension Idler Spring and make sure it is Pulling on the Ground Drive Tension Idler.
>>To View a Breakdown of this Unit Go to this Site Addy, http://www.searspartsdirect.com/partsdirect/index.action?sid=PSHx20080114x00001 and Enter the Model Numbers 917.273020 and Click Search. From this Page you can View Diagrams and Parts Lists.
>>If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I Hope to be Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Happy. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 3 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Follow Up Questions are Received Anytime. Comments and Ratings are Greatly Appreciated. Thanks.

Respectfully

John

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

QUESTION: Thanks John the belt is tight. How do you check the fluid level on that transmission? I can't find the access plug thank you

ANSWER: Hello Again Tim:

>>The Sears Breakdown for this Hydro Transaxle is Not Readable to me and the Sears Site does Not give me a Transaxle Model Number for me to Use my Manuals.
>>On the Transaxle is an OEM Identification Plate. Send me the Information Off of This Plate, Please. With this Information, I can Locate the Proper Manuals and Better Assist You.
>>Usually if there is No Dip Stick for Checking the Oil Level, then the Fill Plug is Located on the Right Side (when sitting on the unit) of the Transaxle Housing.
>>It should be a Little Above the Middle of the Housing.

>>Thanks

Respectfully

John



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

QUESTION: Hi John it is a hydro gear 163l 8252c1157

Answer
Hi Tim:

>>Sorry for the Delay.
>>I am Waiting for a Response from the OEM about this Transaxle.
>>I Can Not Locate it in my Manuals or Online and I Contacted the OEM for Information.
>>If there is Any More Information on the Transaxle Tag, can you Send it to me, Please?
>>As Soon as the OEM Contacts me, I will Follow Up to you.
>>Thanks.

>>Respectfully

John