Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Transmission, weight oil, transaxle

Question
98 Murray 14.5HP/42" Hydrostatic. Model# 42560X92A, Serial# 7293703871x00495, Peerless/Tecumseh Tranny #205-024B(70330809) Mower sat for several years as an estate and w/quick tune and belts ran great first month.  Now when u start runs great for about 5-10 min and then won't pull on level ground much less a slope and groans.  Let cool for 20 min and same results.  Other forums say drain and purge for possible air and/or condensation. Some say its shot...local engine guy tells me its shot but he doesn't mess with transmissions. Mower has barely been used and would love to save it.  Thanks for any help.

Answer
Hello Michael:

You can View a Breakdown/IPL of this Engine at this Site Addy, http://www.outdoordistributors.com/ and Select the P. Then Select Peerless. Then Select To View Parts List Click Here in the Upper Right of the Page. Then Select the Series Transaxle (205). Then Select the Transaxle File (205-205-024B) for your Transaxle. I Suggest you Try an Oil Change and New Fluid. There is a 50/50% Chance the Transaxle May Operate Properly After the Oil Change. This Transaxle Uses 80W90 Gear Oil. I Suggest this to Anyone with this Model Hydro. This Weight Oil will become Thicker the Longer it Sets. I Usually Allow the Transaxle to Drain Overnight, before Refilling. 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. 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. Thanks.

Respectfully

John