Yup, this is a 1960's Mobilco-assembled Ariens Emperor. They used a friction disc drive, like the 'tiller steer' Rover Ranger models. Hub reduction , too!

Great detail in this past resto thread: https://www.outdoorking-forum.com.au/forum/ubbthreads.php/topics/28528/1.html

As far as a resto proposition goes, the major barrier would be having to get the crankshaft PTO end machined and threaded [IIRC] to fit the driving disc...

The driven disc would doubtless need a new bonded rubber facing, too.

Cheers,
Gadge

"ODK Mods can explain it to you, but they can't understand it for you..."

"Crazy can be medicated, ignorance can be educated - but there is no cure for stupid..."