Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Replace transmission ASM on Toro Mower, rear wheel assembly, pinion gears

Question
QUESTION: Hi Eric,
 I have a Toro Personal Pace mower model 20031. I'm getting a grinding noise in the rear wheel assembly and the self propel seems to be slipping.  I replaced the pinion gear on one side that was worn down but it is still not working correctly.  I think the gear inside the transmission assembly may be worn as well.  How do I replace that.

Thanks,  Paul

ANSWER: Checked the parts lists...no internal trasmission parts are available...you have to replace the assembly, part number 106-3956.

Have you checked both rear wheels and pinion gears?  Have not had any issues with the gear boxes but it is bound to happen.

Parts lists is available on the Toro website:

https://homeownersolutions.toro.com/portal/server.pt?space=CommunityPage&cached=true&parentname=CommunityPage&parentid=1&in_hi_userid=19462&control=SetCommunity&CommunityID=214&PageID=238#drawingDiagramPage

If both wheels and pinion are alright, then I would crack open the transmission and see if there is any damage before buying a new one.

Eric

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

QUESTION: Hi Eric,
  Thanks for your response.  I did open up the transmission and I can see that there is some fairly significant wear on one side of the gear bevel (part# 104-8671) that is on the axle. Can I just replace this part?  And if so, what is the best way to do it.  Thanks in advance for your help.

Paul

ANSWER: Googled your part number and came across this link:

http://www.partstree.com/parts/?lc=toro_consumer&mn=20013%2C+22%22+Recycler+Lawn(SN+230000001-230999999)&dn=3350_221-369171-0001

Remove the axle assembly, clean the short axle shaft with plumbers sandpaper, remove the retaining pin and slide off the bevel gear on the short side of the axle.  Install new bevel gear in reverse order.

Is the pinion gear wore?

Eric

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

QUESTION: Hi Eric,
  The pinion gear looks good, however, I can not remove the retaining pin to get the bevel gear off.  Any suggestions for getting it out?

Thanks,  Paul

Answer
Place the axle/bevel gear on top of a vice.  Open the vice jaws just enough to all the pin easily slide through the vice jaws.

With the vice open slightly but still closed enough to keep the axle from falling through the jaws, use a hammer and a flat bunch to drive out the roll pin.

Alternate, smoother method, is to use a smaller diameter but longer roll pin and press it out using a vice.  

Do you have a vice?
Eric