Well, if it works well in reverse--install a big rear-view mirror, and get to the mowing! ;0)

Mowie: Thank you, wish I could buy you a beer. I think I'm just going to order all those parts and replace them, except for the differential (the way that gizmo works is confusing to me) I really can't tell how worn they are without a new part. I'm somewhat obsessed with this project because I think It's a conspiracy to make these machines disposable. I just can't see throwing this thing away. I'm a marine biologist, let me know if you have a question about fish...least I can do. Just kidding.
Rusty: Can't engage blades in reverse or I would.

Hi Danny,

After you changed the parts inside the differential, did that fix the grinding noise? I have the same model ride mower and I cannot find anything wrong with the gear parts either.

Thanks for your help

What was your solution? What did you do to get your mower working? Please respond, I need my mower back!

ace

I watched a video on line where the person had the same complaint. He said he reversed the two bevel gears and that took care of it. May or may not work for you

Forward gear is stripped out , synchro ring probably damaged also on the cluster shaft . Reverse bevel gear is not reversible in this application .

My detent assembly was badly worn in the forks area, I didn't notice this at first and replaced various gears and shims without success. Now looks good.

Not an experienced mechanic but are the axles keyed? Does the forward gear drive one axle and the reverse gear drive the other or is it a clutch dog assembly like a boat has? Was thinking a blown key on one of the axles.

rustyj14 is a Knucklehead