Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): MTD/Tecumseh snowblower drive problem, friction wheel, tension spring

Question
Hi John,

I have an older MTD 8/26 snowblower with a Tecumseh 8 hp engine.  The model number is 318-586-027/J267B.  My question is regarding the drive mechanism.  First time out this season was today and blower did not want to self propel upon engaging drive clutch.  It finally did hook up and start moving and while the blower does self-propel, it only does so with no snow or light snow conditions.  

When it hits any heavy snow (over 5-6 inches or so), it does not want to move through it nearly as well as it used to. Sometimes it stops and if I manually wiggle the blower around a bit, I can get through the drift but there definitely is something wrong with the drive mechanism.

Auger always works fine, engine works great, this problem is just with the drive mechanism.  I can see through the hole in the lower sheet metal that it has a chain drive.  Is there any adjustment I can make to this unit to regain the old self-propelled power?  There isn't anything real obvious on the linkage that I can see but I'm wondering if there isn't something below it near the drive clutch/chain that I can adjust.  I don't have a manual for it.  I was going to dig in but thought I would bend your ear first before doing so.

Thanks in advance John for your help!

Answer
Hi Tom:

Either the Tension Spring, Belt or the Friction Wheel Assembly May Require Replacing. However, Make Sure the Drive Clutch Idler Bracket is Moving Freely and the Tension Spring is Good and is Pulling Properly on the Bracket. You can View a Breakdown/IPL of this Mower 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 (318-586-027). Then Double Click on the Model in the Results Area. Now you can Select the Section of the Mower 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. Have 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. Thanks.

Respectfully

John