Advice on potential hydrostatic problem

[sw18x]

I am looking at a used craftsman lt2000, 22hp riding mower. It's selling for a good price $375 and seems to be in nice shape except the reverse pedal seems real stiff, takes a lot of pressure to get it to move in reverse, and reverse speed seems quite slow compared to forward. Owner says reverse has always been stiff, but I'm wondering if this is a hydro issue and the tranny is failing. Any advice would be appreciated, it's not a big investment but I'd hate to have it fail right after purchase. Thanks.

 

[kthompson]

I would expect reverse to be slower but not always true. I would look very carefully at the linkage and try oiling it with good spray lube (if looking at it ask the owner if he minds). If that does not solve the stiff issue or you do not find bent linkage or linkage binding on something you can correct might pass on it. kt Oh the linkage may not have been adjusted correct and is not getting the travel for reverse it should.. may have been set up wrong when built even.

 

[sw18x]

I passed on it and am going to buy new, thanks. See my post on cub cadet versus husquvarna