Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Gravely MA210 play in worm drive shaft, gear shaft, worm drive

Question
HI.  I have a Gravely MA210 that's been working wonderfully for years.  This morning under load (heavy snow# the front stage stopped working.  It's not the usual clutch disengage because of obstruction.  Once I dried everything out I notice that the front drive coupling slides back and forth over the splines on what I believe to be the worm gear shaft.  This is the linkage between the auger drive and the fan drive.  The fan has no issue.  This movement disengages the first stage and creates an awful noise, damage I suspect as well.  At first I thought it might be because the flange bearings had slid forward #away from the rear of machine) so I pushed the front assy back and tightened.  This worked for a couple of minutes, then under heaviest load same issue.  Any Ideas?
thanks in advance,
Bob W.

Answer
Hello Bob:

>>You can View a Breakdown of this Unit at this Site Addy; http://www.gravely.com/ and Select "Parts Radar" Under the "Links" Section. In the New Window, Select the OEM (Gravely). Now Enter the Model Numbers and Click Search. Now Double Click on your Model in the Results Area. No Select Sectional View. Now Select the Section of the Unit you wish to View.
>>Send me the Model Numbers Off the Unit, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. Example: 902163
>>From your Description it Sounds like either the Worm Gear is Worn and Requires Replacing or the Bearings/Bushings have too much Play and are Allowing the Worm Gear to Slip as you Described.
>>Thanks.

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