Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): mtd snowflite snow blower, chipper shredders, reverse gears

Question
Hi John, I've broken a rear axle in half where the cotter key resides and I need to see if I can find a new one.  I've looked on the mtd website(s) with the following model and serial number 319 800A, k068B (that I have found on the undercarriage shroud) but nothing like this is listed as a model number.  This tag even stated that when ordering parts please refer to this model and serial number.  Go figure.  The unit is a 1980's model I believe 8 hp Tech. engine, 5 forward, 2 reverse gears and neutral, pull start only.  Can you help/suggest anything that might help me.  I've looked for other model/serial/spec numbers on the machine but to no avail.  No owners manual either - been handed down in our family.

thank you in advance

terry


Answer
Hello Terry:

Generally the identification tag is on a part of the unit that, even after years of use, rarely needs replacement. For most of MTD power equipment, these tags are approximately 2" by 3" in size. They also have the MTD Products name, address and customer service phone number listed across the bottom. For hand held product, the tag is normally white and approximately 1" by 1/2" in size. Hand held i.d. tags are normally on an aluminum portion of the engine, somewhat set into the unit to protect the label from wear. (A bar code will also be on this tag.) Riding mower tags are located on the underside of the seat. For walk behind mowers this tag is found either on the deck or on the rear door of rear discharge units. Tiller model and serial tags are generally on the tine housing. **The model and serial tags for two-stage snow throwers are located on the bottom of the main gear housing which is often called the belly pan, while single stage snow thrower tags are next to the key and primer. For other products like log splitters, chipper shredders and edgers, tags can be found on the frame or main housing.** I Located a Model 319-800-000 1989 Model that you can View Inline. You can View a Breakdown/IPL of this Unit at this Site Addy, http://www.smallenginepartswarehouse.com/parts.asp and Select the Shop Online Parts Look Up. Then Select the Model Tab. Then Select the OEM (MTD)and Enter the Model Numbers 319-800-000. Then Double Click on the Model in the Results Area. Now you can Select the Section of the Unit you Wish to View. 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. I Hope you Had a Happy Holiday Season and May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Happy. 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