Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Tractor Transaxle Replacement, Transaxle, Replacement

Question
I own a Craftsman model 917.272246 lawn tractor for which the repair tech says I need a new transaxle.  He offered to repair for $1000, but I see that I can buy a new transaxle from Sears online for $600.  My question is whether there are additional parts that need to be purchased in addition to the transaxle assembly to perform a straight replacement, and whether there are any specific areas to watch out for if I attempt to do on my own?

Thanks for the assistance, and God bless for your willingness to help.

Answer
Hello Doug:

Your Best Approach to this is to Purchase the Transaxle from Sears and Install it Yourself. $1000.00 is a Bit Much for a Transaxle and the Labor to Replace it. From what you are Saying the Repair Tech is Saying the Transaxle is Going to Cost between $80 - $850 Dollars  and the Rest is Labor and Accessories. Switching a Transaxle Takes 4 Hours from Start to Finish. Using a Breakdown of the Mower and a Few Hand Tools you should be Able to Save yourself about $200 - $300 Dollars Depending on the Shipping Charges. I Suggest you Spray All the Connection Points with Penetrating Oil so the Connections will Loosen Easier when you Start the Replacement Process. There are No Specific Areas to be Watchful of if the Replacement Transaxle is the Call for Replacement. It Usually Consists of Unbolting and Disconnecting the Linkage and Mounting Bolts for Removal and then Installing the New Transaxle. To View a Breakdown of this Unit Go to this Site Addy, http://www.searspartsdirect.com/partsdirect/index.action and Enter the Model Numbers and Click Search. From this Page you can View Diagrams and Parts Lists for you Equipment Using the "View Sub Components" Section. 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