I have a craftsman lt 1000 riding lawn mower but when I release the clutch pedal you almost docs wheelie. It is way to touchy. Is this a brake problem or is the clutch grabbing to late.
I would check the idler pulley on the drive belt and the drive belt itself. Either the belt is worn and/or the idler pulley is worn. The pulley should move smoothly with no wobble.
That may help. Umm but I did hear that shifting while in motion isn't good for the mower. I do also know newer riders are equipped with the shift on the go option, unlike this one.