Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Riding mower is extremely slow, peerless model, riding mower

Question
I have a Poulan HD145H42F riding mower, about 11 years old,  that moves very slowly in forward, but runs fine in reverse. It started doing this at the end of last season so I waited till this year to fix it. It sounded like the belt was slipping so I replaced the drive belt. Unfortunately, when I tried it after installing the new belt it is still doing the same thing. The new belt appeared to be in good condition so I don't think that is it. Also, when going uphill it slows to almost stopping. However, when going downhill it picks up some speed until it gets to a certain speed, at which point it feels like something catches, causing the mower to jerk and slow down. If I keep going downhill it will continue to do this (increase to certain speed, something catches causing it to jerk and slow down, increase speed, jerk and slow down).

I am now wondering if it might be something wrong with the transmission, which the owners manual lists as Transaxle Peerless - Model Number 205-035B.

I appreciate any help you can give me. Thanks.

Answer
Hello Kenith:

This is a Peerless Hydro Transaxle. 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 (205-205-035B) for your Transaxle. From your Description I Suggest you Check the Linkage First. If the Linkage is Correct and Minor Adjustment Do Not Help the Problem, then the Internal Control Valve is Worn and is Allowing the Fluid Pressure to Bypass. If this is the Case, then a New or Used Transaxle is Required. 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