Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): getting tractor into gear, speed transaxle, transaxle

Question
I have a Craftsman 17.5 hp 42" lawn tractor with 6 speed transaxle. Model # 917.272670. All of a sudden, it became very hard to get into gear. You have to really slam the gear shift to get it into forward and it will not go into reverse at all. I have it torn down to the frame, but can't seem to find anything bent or broken.Any advice ??

Answer
Hello Roy:

>>Whenever the Transaxle will Not Go into Reverse or is Very Hard to Shift and the Clutch Idler is Releasing Correctly, then this Problem is Due to Worn Shift/Clutch (#22 in the Sears Breakdown for the Transaxle) Keys Inside the Transaxle.
>>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 917.272670 and Click Search. From this Page you can View Diagrams and Parts Lists for you Equipment Using the "View Sub Components" Section Near the Bottom Left.
>>The Transaxle in this Unit is a Dana/Foote Model D3640-140.
>>Please, Do Not Hesitate, If you Hit a Snag, if I Missed Something 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. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

>>PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 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