Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Tractor brake pad change?, brake pad change, peerless transaxle

Question
I have a sears model 917.258524 tractor and I need to change the brake pads and most likely the brake disk. Can I get to the side of the trans-axle without removing the trans axle from the tractor? I know I need to pull a wheel but can't seem to find axcess the brake assembly.  Your help please.

Answer
Hello Rich:

>>You can Remove the Deck.
>>Raise and Block the Mower.
>>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 917.258524 and Click Search. From this Page you can View Diagrams and Parts Lists. Select the Peerless Transaxle.
>>The Brake Assy is Shown as Breakdown #'s 36 thru 46 and #79. You can Use the Breakdown to Show you Where the Brake Assy is Located on the Transaxle Housing.
>>Loosen #'s 40 and 43.
>>Remove #'s 42 and 42A and the Brake Assy can be Removed from the Housing.
>>Be Sure to Lightly Sand the End of the Shaft that the Top Hat Attaches to the Transaxle.
Usually the Top Hat does Not Require Replacing. Just the Pads (#38) and maybe the Pad Backing Plate (#37).
>>Lightly Oil the Insides of of the Holder (#44) when you Re-Assemble the Brake Assy.
The Following is a General Instruction File I Made for this Problem.
>>Return/Adjust the Brake Rods to the Original Positions.
>>Now to Adjust the Brake Pads.
>>Tighten the Center Adjusting Nut Until SNUG.
>>Loosen the Adjuster Nut 1/8 Turn and Try the Brakes.
>>If Braking is Not to your Satisfaction, then Adjust the Center Adjusting Nut on the Disc Brake Assembly Slightly (1/8" at a time) Until the Proper Braking is Achieved.
>>If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I am 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 5 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. Comments and Ratings are Greatly Appreciated. Thanks.

Respectfully

John