Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): craftsman self-propelled lawnmower not pulling well, gear case, hello bill

Question

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Followup To

Question -
My craftsman 5.5hp self-propelled lawnmower is not pulling well.It has the drive belt coming horizontally to the pulley from the bottom of the mower to the front gear case.I recently replaced the drive belt so do you think the gear case might be the culprit.The pulley goes around pretty fast but the wheels don't move very fast and hardly at all when under load.Bill.

Answer -
 Hello Bill:

 If you will send me the Model Numbers Off the Mower I can Assist you Better. I need to Look at the Type of Transmission your Mower has.  Thanks.

 Respectfully

 John


The model number is 917.373981.It has a Tecumseh engine and is about 11 years old.

Answer
 Hello Bill:

 I have Looked at your Mowers Gear Case Assembly. You will have to Disassemble the Gear Box and Inspect it.  The Worm Gear May be Worn; the Axle Gear may be Worn or the Key that Locks the Axle Gear to the Shaft May be Sheared. There is an Online Diagram if you need to see the Gear Case Assembly. Go to http://www3.sears.com/ and follow the Directions to View the Gear Case Assembly. If you have trouble finding it Let me know. Hope this Helps. Let me know what Happens, Please.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John