Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Snapper Rider, snapper rear engine riding mower, snapper rider

Question
Hi.  I have a Snapper rear engine riding mower, hydro drive series 0, Model 381450HBVE.  I purchased it new about 7 or 8 years ago and it's been a great mower until recently, acts like it just can't pull a hill & actually comes to a complete stop.  It used to be akin to mowing with a race car.  Had my auto mechanic replace the engine to hydro belt (p/n47117) twice (the first one blew, as he missed a guide). He thought this belt was the problem, but it's doing the same with the new belt.  I changed the fuel filter, oil, engine air cleaner, and cleaned it up before this guy looked at it.  Obviously, neither one of us are mower mechanics.  Can you please help me? I really miss my zippy Snapper!

Answer
Hello Linda:

Has Anyone Added Oil to This Transaxle/Transmission? If Not, then Remove the Oil Fill Plug (#85 in the Breakdown at Outdoor Distributors Site) and Add 1/2 Quart of 10W30 Engine Oil to the Transaxle (Up to 1 1/2 Quarts) and See if it Helps. If Not, then Unfortunately Peerless Does Not Offer Any Parts for this Transaxle/Transmission. This is a Hydro Transaxle and Requires Special Tools and Gauges to Make Internal Repairs. You can View a Breakdown/IPL of the Mower at this Site Addy, http://www.emerichsales.com/parts-browse.asp and Select Shop Online Parts Look Up. Now Select the Model Tab. Then Select the OEM (Snapper). Then Enter the Model Numbers. Now Double Click on your Model. You can View a Breakdown/IPL of this Transaxle/Transmission at this Site Addy, http://www.outdoordistributors.com/ and Select the P. Then Select Peerless. Then Select To View Parts List Click Here in the Upper Right of the Page. Then Select the Series Transaxle (205). Then Select the Transaxle File (205-205-043D) for your Transaxle. The Transaxle Part Number is 794713 and Cost $558.26 Plus Shipping from Outdoor Distributors @ 1-877-707-2787. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 9pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John