Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): SDX 38 Black Deck-, two different things, victory lap

Question
QUESTION: I am having a problem with my SDX 38 Black Deck. After finishing my lawn I was taking a victory lap around the yard in gear 5 and my Deere couldn't make it up the walkout hill.  I rolled back down the hill and went up in a lower gear.  I could smell burning rubber.  I thought it might have been the weight of a full load of grass I was carrying.  After dumping that I took another lap and same problem.  I went to pull it up to the garage and the brakes barely grabbed.  Thought I was going to take out the garage door.  It did stop though, but then wouldn't move in any gear but lots more burning rubber smell and some smoke.  I am guessing you are going to tell me its a belt, but  I really have no idea.  Can you also give me a ball park of what it might cost to have fixed at Deere shop?  

Second, unrelated, question; I miss reading Paul's responses. Where did he go?  I bet there is a good story there.

Josh Joyce

ANSWER: Hello Josh:

1- I Do not Usually Quote Prices Due to the Difference in Shop Labor and Parts Rates. However, If my Shop was Doing the Repair (Replace the Belt and Adjust the Brake Pads) it would Cost $45.00us Labor, Plus the Cost of the Belt, Tax and Accessories. It Takes 45 Minutes to 1 Hour to Peerform this Repair. 2- As for Paul; I Just Found out he was No Longer with us and I Really Do Not Know what Happened to Him. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let me Know What Happens, Please. 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 9pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: John, Thanks for your very quick response!  Thanks for letting me know the ball park cost.  I am a little confused about what happened though.  Replacing the belt and adjusting the brakes sounds like two different things.  Do they usually go out at the same time?  Thanks, Josh

Answer
Hello Josh:

The Clutch/Brake Rod Operates Both the Clutch and the Brakes. On the Hydro the Transaxle Actually Stops the Mower; the Brakes Operate very Little. The Pads May have Been Worn and Until the Belt Stretched you Can Not Really Tell if the Brakes are Working. This is Common on Most Hydro Transaxles. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John