Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Craftsman 917.270722, crankshaft pulley, craftsman 917

Question
QUESTION: I have a Craftsman riding mower model #917.270722 that is grinding and squealing when the blade is engaged.  The engine appears to run fine and it's okay when the blade is engaged at first, but under any load, it slows and sputters and makes a grinding sound.  The engine will then start smoking.  The problem started after mowing over a garbage bag.  I thought it was a bearing, but took the mandrel case in to have it looked at and was told they didn't think that was the problem.  Any ideas?
ANSWER: Hello Tim:

Is the Engine Smoking or is it the Belt Smoking while Slipping on the Crankshaft Pulley? What Color is the Smoke and Where Does it Appear to Come from Around the Engine? You May have to Check the Mandrels when the Problem Occurs. The Mandrels May Appear Good When Cool and When the Bearings Start to Heat Up they Start Sticking and Binding. Also Check the Idlers. If the Idlers have a Bad Bearing you will Have this Problem Also. The Grinding you Hear is Most Likely the Bearing of One of the Idlers Being Ground Up. You can View a Breakdown/IPL at this Site Addy, http://www3.sears.com/ and Enter the Model Numbers in the Search Box at the Upper Left. Then Visually Verify the Mower and Click Continue. Then Select the View Diagram of the Mower Deck. 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.  I replaced the shaft assembly on the mandrel today.  I do think it had a bad bearing, it was grinding a little when I spun it.  It is still not engaging the blade right.  I will replace the belt next.  I think it may have been stretched out during all this.  Thought the smoke was from the belt, but it seems to be coming from the front of the engine and is white.  Different problem?  I will look into it some more and let you know how it goes.  Thanks for your help.

Tim

Answer
Hello Again Tim:

Thanks for the Update. It he Smoke was White, then Check the Crankcase Oil for Gas. If the Oil has Gas in it, then Change the Oil and Install a Cut Off Valve in the Gas Line. If the Engine Starts Running Poorly, then You will Need to Remove the Carburetor and Replace the Needle and Seat in the Carburetor Bowl. Hope this Helps. I am here if you Require more  Assistance. Till Next Time. May All Your Mechanical Problems be SMALL ONES and May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Thanks Again.

Best Wishes and Good Luck

Respectfully

John