Older Craftsman rider mower. LT 1000. Purchased new in 2001. 42" mower deck.
Model No.

First, the cable that engages the mower blades to activate is not working. The blades began cutting at the start of the mower. The lever does not signal any stress when you move it up to engage the blade activity.

Now, the main problem:

The blades quit cutting when the cutting level is at 1, 2, and 3. The blades (esp. the right side) slow down to almost no action. As soon as the level is up to 4, 5, and 6 the cutting roars to life but it does me no good at those levels (too high and hardly any cut to the tall grass I have; BUT even when the grass is low, no cutting at levels 1-3). Also, the cut is very uneven.

I am thinking the mower blade drive belt? It has never been changed since purchased rider in yr 2001? But why would it drive the blades at the higher levels?

Also, maybe the spindles? Need bearings or grease? But why would they turn the blades at the higher levels and not the lower?

Help very much appreciated.

Please. w/b to [email protected] for guidance or consultation.