I have a MTD lawnflite ride on mower, with a briggs 16 1/2 HP engine, 40 inch cut. The axle/gearbox does not engage drive as normal, but when put in to gear clonks and judders violently. I have replaced stub axle bearings as I know these can cause the chain wheel to snatch, the trouble is in the trans/box it seems as if it wants to tear its self to bits. Any ideas?:confused: M.T.D. is sold in the U.K. as lawnlite, the model no (mtd) is 618-0167B Ser A009217

There are a couple shifting forks that are in the drive shaft riding in grooves, as you change gears they slide into a different gear size and drive the gear. They have some spring tension. It sounds as if the forks are rounded and also may have lost spring tension.

This is a difficult job and should not be attempted by the novice... or at least have another transaxle waiting.

Good luck, don