Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): John Deere 180 Tranny, small block chevy, disc brake pads

Question
Hi,
My JD 180 won't stay in gear very well.  I slips out when under small load and then I have to rock it back and forth to get it into gear again.  Also makes a grinding noise when under moderate amount of load.
Thanks
Cory

Answer
You're shift keys are fried.
I don't know how mechanical you are so you have 3 options
Ability level 1. Very mechanical, I can fix anything with a manual, I put a timing gear in my "small block Chevy' etc...

Ability level 2. I can do my own disc brake pads, I can change my own oil, I have a Chilton's manual but don't use it, I know a "small block Chevy has a timing gear but didn't know it was plastic...

Ability level 3. I can change a light bulb, with a manual

skill level 1
Go to your Deere dealer and ask for 4 shift keys. Remove transaxle, it will be obvious, split the case and replace the shift keys.
skill level 2
Remove transaxle, go for it, 6 bolts 1 nut and a couple of cotter pins. and take it to any Deere dealer, tell him your symptoms, he'll tear apart the trans and replace the shift keys.
A reputable dealer will charge 1 hour labor plus parts.About 105.00 in the Kansas City area, GO ROYALS!!!!
Level 3
Take the tractor to the Deere dealer, 3 hrs plus parts, 250.00.
What ever you do don't scrap the 180 because of the trans, this is an awesome tractor, the Kawasaki engine is indestructible. If you have to buy a complete transaxle it will be well worth it. 590.00 dollars list, part number MIA10320.
Available online go to reynoldsll.com