We have a 42 in riding mower. After we manually engage the blades, slide the lever up for the belts to turn, we then push the speed lever forward. We normally have to push this lever almost all the way to the stop before it moves and when it does move, it is a big jerk.
Last summer I had the gas filter, air filter and all the belts and blades replaced.
Anyone with any ideas would be helpful. I am not much of a DIY person. :(

Hi,
Got a model number so I can give an educated guess. Sounds like a drive system problem, but I have little to go on, yet.
Peace,
Clarke

Hi,
Got a model number so I can give an educated guess. Sounds like a drive system problem, but I have little to go on, yet.
Peace,
Clarke

Sorry, for not giving more information. Ok, here go.
Craftsman Lawn Tractor, 17HP, 42" , Electric Start, Auto Transmission, model number 917.271660.

Once again, thanks for the help

Hi,
Done I bit of research to verify my thoughts. In general there are two things that cause this other than problems within the transaxle itself (unless they have been used to pull too heavy a load, that rarely occurs and is noticeable when it happens.)
The first would be the bearings in the center on one or both idlers seizing or going to pieces. The first would usually yield a smell of burning rubber, unless the idler is plastic in which case it probably melted allowing more slack in the belt. The second would often also be accompanied by a "scuffing" sound. The problem there is the noise from the engine could mask the sounds to an untrained ear (one that hears the different sounds that should be there and those that should not.)
The other area of interest would be the torque rod (mount) that prevents the transaxle from moving when placed under a load. The transaxle is bolted into place with four bolts (two on each side) that flank the axles and pass through the axle housings. These hold it in place with respect to the chassis. There is necessarily another component that keeps the transaxle from twisting when the belt engages and applies power. This would be #71 in one drawing and bolts to the frame forward of the transaxle. The transaxle fastens to it and it to the frame. This is a common place to have come loose and cause a jerking in both directions. It could be loose at the frame or at the trasaxle. I am sorry I cannot be more specific but I have seen better parts drawings
Two pictures attached.
Peace,
Clarke

Hi,
Done I bit of research to verify my thoughts. In general there are two things that cause this other than problems within the transaxle itself (unless they have been used to pull too heavy a load, that rarely occurs and is noticeable when it happens.)
The first would be the bearings in the center on one or both idlers seizing or going to pieces. The first would usually yield a smell of burning rubber, unless the idler is plastic in which case it probably melted allowing more slack in the belt. The second would often also be accompanied by a "scuffing" sound. The problem there is the noise from the engine could mask the sounds to an untrained ear (one that hears the different sounds that should be there and those that should not.)
The other area of interest would be the torque rod (mount) that prevents the transaxle from moving when placed under a load. The transaxle is bolted into place with four bolts (two on each side) that flank the axles and pass through the axle housings. These hold it in place with respect to the chassis. There is necessarily another component that keeps the transaxle from twisting when the belt engages and applies power. This would be #71 in one drawing and bolts to the frame forward of the transaxle. The transaxle fastens to it and it to the frame. This is a common place to have come loose and cause a jerking in both directions. It could be loose at the frame or at the trasaxle. I am sorry I cannot be more specific but I have seen better parts drawings
Two pictures attached.
Peace,
Clarke



Clarke,
Thanks for all the help. I will take a look at these items when I get home tonight. I have a feeling it may be that bar (#71) since I didn't see anything wrong with the pulleys when we changed the belts.

Texasowl

Hi,
Three things can happen; could be loose at one or both ends, could break at one or both ends, or could not be fastened to transaxle (some have one or two bolts fastening them, while others fit within a casting feature and are placed in that feature during assembly.)
Peace,
Clarke