DR Brush Mower transmission problems

[abodude]

I bought a 2013 DR mower, 18hp kawasaki, with snowblower and blade attachments, as well as tire chains, and though nice when it works, I have had a lot of problems with it.

At first it wouldn't start when it's cold out. Not very helpful for using the snow blower. I had to cut the battery cable and put a quick release coupling on it so that I could bring the battery inside each time before using it in order to warm it up.

Then the transmission started going. The drive shaft broke inside the gear box. DR sent me a new transmission ($800 retail they told me) for free and paid for the repair.

Then the drive shaft broke outside the gear box. Same fix.

Then the internal gears broke. Same fix. This time I decided to never use the tire chains again, thinking this 18hp beast with huge tires was too much for what is probably a standard transmission size used on their smaller machines too. Worked for a few times.

Now on my fourth new transmission and it is sounding like the gears are going inside. Still works, but when engaging the drive lever (even in neutral) you can hear something inside that sounds like when sharpening a tool on an electric grinding wheel.

Though I was 2 days outside of my 2 year warranty DR sent me ANOTHER transmission. But now I have to start paying for the repairs. Has anyone else had this problem?

 

[Sheldon Hamblin]

I've had my Dr. Mower since 2005 with no problems at all. I replaced the battery 2 years ago but I think it was reasonable. I don't use it for snow blowing but my land is all hilly, uneven, loaded with rocks, and I probably put 60 hours a season on it. I think it's great. I also have a Dr power wagon that operates similar. While I have not had any problems with it, to us it in the snow I do need chains, and I filled e tires with windshield washer fluid, now that works great in snow. That I use for at least an hour every day and I would never hesitate to purchase another Dr product.

 

[PeterK]

I've had clutch and belt drive problems with mine. New clutch and a few other small parts and I have the problem of the belt slipping off and getting wedged between the tensioner and the deck. Even with the belt loose, the DR still "walks" in neutral. Of course pulling into neutral clicks past and then goes into reverse "walk" towards my toes! I used to use it all the time and now it sits mostly. I've had other DR stuff and it's great quality but I can't seem to fix this. Good luck. I bought a brush hog.