Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): 1638HS Sabre 1997 Hydro transmission, proper manuals, belt dressing

Question
Hi John -
i have an aging '97 Sabre 1638HS.  Runs great but this year, it started
"slippiing" when trying to pull any type of grade or incline.  Reverse is fine,
but forward is not working very well.  on flat surface, it engages and will
eventually get up to full speed.  i put a new drive belt on a year ago - so i'm
not sure if it's slipping or the tranny.  called a john deere guy and he said it
was just failing and there was nothing to be done because you can't open
them.  that true?  if so, should i look for another transmission and swap it out
or just junk it?  i hate to do that because it runs and cuts fine.  

thanks!
gene


Answer
Hello Gene:

>>You can View a Breakdown/IPL of the Engine and Mower at this Site Addy, http://jdpc.deere.com/jdpc/servlet/com.deere.u90490.partscatalog.view.servlets.H... and Enter the Model Numbers (Sabre) and Click Find. Then Select your Model from the Search Results Area. Then Select the Sectional File. Then Select the Section of the Mower you Wish to View Online. *You can Drag the View Windows for Better Viewing.*
>>Make Sure the Belt is Not Slipping by Spraying it with Belt Dressing. This is a Tacky Spray for Belts and will make Sure the Belt is Sticking to the Pulley on the Transaxle. If After using the Belt Dressing you still have the Same Problem, then
>>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.
>>Some of these Transaxles are Not Serviceable and you Must Purchase a New or Used Transaxle. The Model Numbers will Tell us if you have a Serviceable Unit or Not.
>>Used Hydro Transaxles in my Area Cost Approximately $125.00 to $225.00us Depending on the Model.
>>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. All Follow up Questions are Accepted at Any Time. Comments and Ratings are Greatly Appreciated. Thanks.

Respectfully

John