old Lawn Machine transmisdion

[sliderule]

I have an old 1997, 20 hp Lawn Machine with manual trans, shift on the go 7 speeds. Always in garage and use weekly either to mow or haul firewood.
Very slow or not at all will it go forward. All pulleys stop, all belts stop between motor and rear trans, pulley on motor shaft marked with no apparent soldering key sheared. Trans not available at MDS and new hydrostatic do not get raving reviews. Any ideas as repairs?
Motor is Briggs and running well. Deck could use new spindles, all else serves serviceable.

 

[travlitt]

:welcome:
From Texas

 

[Dave M7040]

I have an old 1997, 20 hp Lawn Machine with manual trans, shift on the go 7 speeds. Always in garage and use weekly either to mow or haul firewood.
Very slow or not at all will it go forward. All pulleys stop, all belts stop between motor and rear trans, pulley on motor shaft marked with no apparent soldering key sheared. Trans not available at MDS and new hydrostatic do not get raving reviews. Any ideas as repairs?
Motor is Briggs and running well. Deck could use new spindles, all else serves serviceable.

I am making an educated guess but I think you have the vari-speed drive system made by MTD and used by many companies as an alternative to hydrostatic systems..
There are two special type v belts going to a special pulley system in the middle of the tractor.
The rear transmission only provides a low-high raange choice and all other speed selections are done within the var-drive system.
You tube has a wealth of info on how these systems work and how to troubleshoot and fix them.
Below is a link to one to get you started.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KFar2Ez10Wk
Pulling back on the brake pedal with the top of your foot may bring about an increase in speed just to confirm that all components are not completely broken.
Check further and post back.
The following forum also has some good tips on this drive system.
http://www.lawnsite.com/showthread.php?t=251920&page=2

Dave M7040

 

[sliderule]

Thank you. You are correct about the drive and clutch system. I will investigate the two links. Again thanks.