Mower slows down

rigoletto

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People,

MTD mower, 1998, 13 HP tecumseh engine. Mows well, except when mower travels up a slight hill, it slows down until the ground levels off again, after which it picks up velocity again. Engine rpm's do not seem to change. Is it a slipping belt? If so, know which one?

Thanks, people.
 

bertsmobile1

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Could be the belt but we need a little more information
Like the numbers from the tag under the seat.
When you find them search partstree using the model number .
 

MowLife

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I would think belts are slipping. Most if not all MTD’s use a variable drive system with 2 drive belts.
 

rigoletto

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Thanks. I will get back to yous asap on this.
 

rigoletto

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Sorry for delay in replying. Model # is 13A4667 F118. Havnt fixed it yet. Belts are not that old. 1 or 2 are less than 1 yr. But if they are slipping are they tightened by the levers/springs system down there?
 

SeniorCitizen

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When traveling up the incline and the ground speed slows, turn the ignition switch to off without touching anything else. Get off the tractor and check the slack in the 2 belts of the variable speed system. The slack should be equal or nearly equal. Report back and tell us which one is loose.
 

MowLife

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When traveling up the incline and the ground speed slows, turn the ignition switch to off without touching anything else. Get off the tractor and check the slack in the 2 belts of the variable speed system. The slack should be equal or nearly equal. Report back and tell us which one is loose.

That’s good advice, I never thought of that. I learn something new all the time here.
 

rigoletto

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Ok, will try that, Senior. Next mow, will be tomorrow if it doesnt rain.......
 

SeniorCitizen

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Also make certain it isn't just the wheels spinning some from loss of traction on the slope.
 

rigoletto

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I was prepared to do that while mowing, but just before mowing I noticed the deck was packed full of debris. I cleaned it all up. Then started mowing. It moved up those slopes easily. I think we figured it out, people. I never would have thought. But otherwise, that was a good tip to beware of. Thanks, people.
 
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