QuestionModel #917255561 12HP lawn tractor. Very little clutch left, when cold
virtually no clutch. Tried to adjust, little success. Slight slipping. Otherwise
mechanically sound. What do you suspect is the problem, what parts to
replace, what to look for when taking apart. Is the repair worth the effort.
AnswerI would start by checking the belt and ilder pulley. If my memory is correct, that is a pretty old tractor. I would recommend replacing the belt if it is more than 4-5 years old.
Next is the idler arm and idler pulley. These parts actually are "the clutch" of the system. When you push the clutch pedel, you will see the ilder arm move. There is a spring connected to the idler arm...you will have to dis-connect the spring to perform an work on the idler arm. I would remove the idler are and check the shoulder bolt and ildler arm pivot for wear...these parts just wear with use along with the idler pulley. Those are the main "clutch" parts to check.
The transmission has very little to do with the clutch. The trasmission either works or doesn't work. There is a brake on the transmission that requires adjustment. If the brake is binding you could get an initial jerking action when releasing the clutch.
Have you visited the Sears website to view your illustrated parts lists?
Other than the normal wear parts the LT4000 was a pretty good mower.
Let me know if this helps.
Eric
