Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): murray riding mower, friction materials, automatic tranny

Question
I have a murray 17 hp twin cyl with the hydro transmission.  Model # 42571x8D, manuf 01233.     I have two problems, the engine will not start, I think it is not firing, could this be the coil?  Second, the mower travels at a very slow speed even with the pedal pushed all the way forward.  Does this mower use a pump for pressure just as a automatic tranny in a car does?

Thanks for your input
Ralph

Answer
If the ignition system is working properly, it should be able to produce a strong enough spark to jump a 1/8" gap.  If you have no spark, remove all of the shut-off leads at the engine (so the key and all safety switches aren't in the shut-off circuit).  If you now have spark, you'll have to find the faulty or misadjusted safety switch responsible (blades, seat).  

As for you motion issue, first check the drive belt from the engine to the transmission.  If this is slipping, the pump in the transmission won't produce sufficient flow or pressure to allow the hydraulic motor inside the transmission to produce decent output.  If the belt is OK, the problem may be related to a fluid and filter (if equipped) requiring replacement.  If that doesn't correct the issue, I recommend you take it into a good shop that can give you a read on hydraulic pressures at the checkpoints (if equipped) on the outside of the transmission.    

These transmissions are hydraulic, yes, but they are quite different than an automobile transmission.  There are no friction materials.  You can probably search the net to find a diagram of one to get an idea of how it works.  Hope this helps.