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MTD 42� Yardman 7speed shift on the go transmission
Model No: 13A7771G670
Serial No: 1E156B70247000001
Tecumseh 20HP V Twin

Hi all, am helping an old friend out his 2006 (MTD 42� Yardman 7speed shift on the go transmission) had a problem with the cutter deck which I have fixed.

On testing it to make sure all was good, I was driving down a slope and noticed that the mower does this weird thing that is very hard to describe so bare with me.

It is like the wheels suddenly let go (freewheel) for a fraction of a second then grip and repeat until you get onto a flat surface, a bit like a stutter or kangaroo hopping.
The steeper the incline the worse it gets and is more prominent in lower gears.

After checking for possible causes I noticed the variable speed drive belt, was shot with large chunks out of it.
After replacing it (a bugger of a job I had to lower the trans-axle to fit it) I tested it again and it was a lot better but still doing the same, just not quite as harsh or frequent.

Am I on the right track in assuming/hoping the problem is related to the belt/variable drive setup somehow.
Is there any thing I can adjust or do to fix the problem as I am stumped at the moment.

Check the pulleys, specifically where the belt engages the fee of the pulley, may have flat spots....

The pulleys seem to be fine.

Buckets,

Below is an image of the transmission which shows item # 16 which could be causing you the issue that you have. It is on the online store HERE . Also it could be item # 15 which is also on the online store HERE . Note that you will not know till you pull down the gearbox as to which is worn.

Better off if any wear found to replace the whole drive shaft assembly which here in the US is cheaper a few of the individual parts.

Many thanks Bruce, I will talk to the owner and see what he wants to do.