JD Hydro 345 - Noise

[AuCivil]

I have a JD 345 Hydro w/ Kaw 18hp engine. The unit has 303hrs and is about 9 years old. The next to last time I mowed it started making a knocking/whine noise around the lower part of the engine. The last time I mowed it was fine for about 30 min. then I noticed the noise again. Originally thought something got caught up in the deck belt - but determined noise is not in the deck.

Any suggestions? Hydro - engine?

Greg

 

[riches139]

You'll have to locate the noise first.

Not enough info.

 

[AuCivil]

Checked noise further - It seems to be coming from what appears to be a clutch mechanism attached to the motor shaft and drives the belts.

Can this be repaired or is a replacement required?

If a replacement is required - should I drive it until the unit craps out?

 

[tomnky]

If it is an electromagnetic clutch, then it has pressed in bearings at the top and bottom of the clutch that the crankshaft runs through.

These are sealed bearings , I had to replace the clutch assembly to the tune of $125.00 when mine burned out. Installed it myself.

Good Luck

 

[yellowsocks93]

Yep if it is the PTO clutch then it has to be replaced as a complete unit. You could drive it until it fully wears out it will just create a lot of heat and noise but you could.

 

[bontai_Joe]

You should closely visually check the clutch to see if a twig, or some other type of crud has gotten inside the clutch and is rubbing against the clutch surfaces when spinning. It might be as simple as blowing it out with compressed air.