Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Front Wheels Squealing on Craftsman Riding Mower, sears craftsman, craftsman model

Question
Hi John,

You always help with my mower problems.  I've had a Craftsman DYT 4000 riding mower for 3 years....with 203 hours on it.

For about a month now, the front wheels are squealing pretty loudly when I turn and sometimes when I just drive.  It seems to take a few minutes after I start the mower and am underway before it starts.  I've never serviced anything related to the wheels.

What do you think?  I'm not a mechanic, so I respectfully ask that you provide instructions on how to fix/service the problem in laymen terms...if at all possible.

Thanks again for the valuable service that you provide.  You're the greatest.  May God bless you and your family during this Christmas holiday!

Take care----Paul, Houston

Answer
Hello Paul:

Send me the Model Numbers Off the Mower, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. I See so Many Mowers that I Do Not Try to Remember the Series Numbers. The DYT 4000 is the Series Model. I Require the Sears/Craftsman Model Numbers (XXX.XXXXXX). They are Usually Located Under the Seat. I Usually Replace the Front Wheels on my Mowers with a Serviceable Wheel. These Wheels have a Grease Fitting that Puts Grease Between the Axle and the Wheel Bushings. It Sounds like the Axles Require New Bushings and Grease and you May have to Replace the Bushings. Usually they are Plastic. You can Purchase a Brass Wheel Bushing from an Aftermarket Supplier (Rotary is the Most Common Aftermarket Supplier and Outdoor Distributors is a Second Supplier). Go to this Site Addy, http://www3.sears.com/ and Enter the Model Numbers in the Upper Left Search Box and Click Go. Then Visually Verify the Equipment and Click Continue. From this Page you can View Diagrams or Parts Lists for you Equipment. 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