Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Garden Tractor Speed, hex jam nuts, tractor mower

Question
QUESTION: John/All, I just want to start off by saying thanks for your expertise, time and help! You and this site are really invaluable to us do-it-yourselfers!
I have a 1998 Yardman model 835 hydrostatic garden tractor/mower.
The problem I'm having is the speed has slowed down considerably since new and now when I put it in neutral, it slightly goes in reverse slowly moving the tractor backwards. I'm guessing an adjustment on the hydro trans?
Thanks Eric
ANSWER: Hello Eric:

Thanks for the Good Words. I/We Strive to Make your Visit Here Worth your Time. If the Belt is Squealing, I Suggest  you  Replace the Belt. Then Adjust the Linkage So the Mower Will Not Move when in Neutral. Be Carefull when Adjusting the Transaxle. I Swing the Mowers and Block them Before Working Under the Mower. I Also Remove the Deck. The Engine Will Usually be Started and Stopped Several Times During the Adjustment Process. With the Deck Removed, You Don't have the Blades to Worry About and you have More Room to Work. The Loss Of Speed May be Due to a Combination of the Belt and the Linkage Adjustment (MTD 17.5 Tecumseh w/ Hydro). I Just Completed this Repair on My Mower Just Today. Talk About a Coincidence. You can View a Breakdown/IPL of the Mower at this Site Addy, http://www.buymtdonline.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Home_YardMan_10101_19502_- and Select Use Our Detailed Parts Finder. Then Enter the Model Numbers. Then Double Click on your Model in the Results Area. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let Me Know What Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully  

John

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

QUESTION: John, Thanks for the info!  Two more questions: All I have to do to adjust the speed adjustment rod is to turn the hex jam nuts? It says the trans is sealed and doesn't require any lubrication. I believe there's 20w50 inside and being you can't change it can't be good? Am I missing something?
Thanks Eric

Answer
Hello Again Eric:

The Design of the Hydro is Such that During the Life of the Hydro a Fluid Change is Not Necessary. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let Me Know What Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully  

John