I have a mtd snowblower model #316-611d000, 5hp 2stage. While blowing snow the other day the blower stopped moving on its own (in either direction). Took into my garage set it up on the bucket ( after draining oil &amp; fuel), removed bottom access cover, found that the drive plate had separated from the two bearings that are attached to drive plate assembly. Inside place where the bearings normally are there is numerous grooves around the interior of the hub (not sure if that's the proper nomenclature) like the grooves evolved over time (no indication of this taking place). The outer casings are smooth and the bearing's turn freely.<br>My question is , can I just replace the drive disc using the existing bearing's ( the disc without the bearings is $45.00 and about $65.00 w/bearings)? The machine is around 18 years old, used extensively, replaced just a shear bolt the first year without any problems after that. It still runs fairly well and would like to get through this winter and then maybe buy a new machine. So I would appreciate an answer conerning the above Question. Thank You for your time and expertize!<br><br>Sincerely,<br><br>Randy Steinberg (toad1)

Hard to envision what you describe but it sounds like the bearings have frozen up in the past and turned inside the seats or housing. For $20 difference in price I would replace.

Thanks Harold! I never looked at it that way. Probably the best to get the drive plate with the bearings, comes either way. They are the original ones. Thanks again.