So first of all your link dosent work.
And pretty obvious from my post this wasnt a simple case of "use the manual for troubleshooting" but thanks for the effort?
I pulled the transmission apart and the shift fork was bent. New one ordered. Mystery solved.
Just picked up a 2018 troy bilt pony
Model #13AN77BS011
Everything engages fine. All belts and pulleys are good. Main pulley on top of transmission spins. But tractor will not move.
I messed with the shift shaft a bit and I got it so it will engage in reverse. But if you select forward OR...