My 2-YO Sears LX 1500 (17.5 HP, 42" blades) won't move when placed in forward or reverse gears. When I start the engine, release the clutch while in gear nothing happens. Last week when I mowed the lawn nothing seemed to be wrong. After mowing the lawn I disengaged the blades, backed it into the garage and turned off the engine. Everything seemed to be working OK at that time. Then, this week I started the engine, put it in gear and released the clutch and nothing happened. I tried several more times to get the lawn tractor to move while in gear to no avail. The gear shifting mechanism feels normal and seems to be moving properly from gear to gear. But, when I release the clutch nothing happens. Thinking that I may have an safety interlock switch problem on the seat, I moved my butt around to re-seat any interlock that might no be engaging for safety reasons. I still can't get the mower to move while in gear. Does anyone have any idea what might be wrong? I appreciate your help very much.

Gary

This does not sound like a safety switch issue to me. A switch issue kills the engine, that's about it. Check your belts and also the tensioner pulley. The belt reaching the transmission must be totally tight when the clutch is released in gear.

I checked the drive belt and you are right. It was very loose when the clutch was engaged. I adjusted the tensioner as you suggested and it works fine now. Thanks very much for your help. I really appreciate it.