Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Craftsman Self-Propel, craftsman 917, clutch disc

Question
John-  I have a Craftsman 917.377070 6.5 Horse mower which is slow on one side (the power drive pulls hard on the right, and it takes a few seconds for the left side to "engage").  I took the wheel off (the left side) and lubricated the LH pinion assembly, hoping it would work.  (It didn't)  The transmission (193394) looks like a solid axle, and would not turn just one side, so I don't believe that's the problem.  Any ideas?

Answer
Hello Troy:

The Axle is Solid, so the Problem is in the Wheel Assembly. Make Sure Both Pinion Assemblies are Working Properly. If the Pawl is Sticking on One Side the Other Side has to Spin a Small Amount to Catch and While the Sticking Side Stays Engaged. Check the Pinion Assembly (this includes the Pawl and Clutch Disc) on Both Sides. It May be a Problem with the Side that Engages Immediately and Not the Side that Seems to be the Problem. From your Description, it Sounds Like the Pinion needs to be Disassembled, Cleaned and Lubricated with Spray Lube. Go to this Site Addy, http://www3.sears.com/ and Enter the Model Numbers in the Upper Left Search Box and Click Go. Then Visually Verify the Equipment and CLick Continue. From this Page you can View Diagrams or Parts Lists for you Equipment. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting you Question at or Just After 9pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John