Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Poulan Pro mower transmission stops working, technical service staff, metal debris

Question
I have a 2000 Poulan Pro 18.5 hp 42-inch deck riding mower with an automatic hydro transmission.  The transmission works fine for about 20 minutes of mowing, but I start to hear "winding" sound, it starts going slower, and then downright stops or can move backwards.  If I give it a rest for 15 minutes, it starts working again!  I don't smell any burning when it is not working, so I don't think the belt is slipping.  Any thoughts?

Answer
Drain the fluid form the transmission into a pan and inspect it.  Leave the oil set undisturbed for a while.  Is there a silver coating on top of the oil?  If so you have internal transmission problems and will have to repair or replace the transaxle.  The silver material is aluminum.  

If to take it apart do it very slowly.  There and spring loaded pistons that have to remain in the same location.  Once the top is off you should see a round steel cylinder with small bullet like pistons in it.  Take these out as an assembly.  More than likely the plate that spins against will need replacement.  Inspect the rest of the transaxle for wear and be sure to get all the metal debris out of it.  Reassemble it with new parts.

Most dealers will not carry replacement parts.  Identify the transaxle, usually a Hydro-Gear, Eaton or Kansaki.  Go to their web site and use their dealer locator to find a dealer.   Hydro-Gear has an excellent technical service staff to assist you too.  

Hope this helps.