Hi Folks,
I have a Craftsman GT 22.5HP V-Twin Kohler Command
Had some starting problems, but it seems to be starting and running fine now after 2 new spark plugs, new battery and new fuel filter.
It drives fine - I can put the transmission control all the way forward and it takes off and goes. No apparent power issue.
However, engaging the mower puts a huge load on the engine. Slows it down considerably and even with the transmission control low and on bare ground it just crawls and struggles and nearly stalls. It seems the mower is pulling way to much power.
I've pulled the drive belt off of the engine pulley. The blades turn with no binding/grinding/etc. Smooth, but stiff. I don't know how hard they should turn - seems with the belt off the engine they should almost freewheel, not?
I've put the front on ramps and looked under the deck - it's not loaded up to any significant extent that would interfere with the blades.
I've looked in the manual - didn't see anything about lubricating the mower spindles.
I've also run the mower with the belt off and engaged/disengaged the mower clutch. No apparent issues.
Any ideas?
Thanks!
I have a Craftsman GT 22.5HP V-Twin Kohler Command
Had some starting problems, but it seems to be starting and running fine now after 2 new spark plugs, new battery and new fuel filter.
It drives fine - I can put the transmission control all the way forward and it takes off and goes. No apparent power issue.
However, engaging the mower puts a huge load on the engine. Slows it down considerably and even with the transmission control low and on bare ground it just crawls and struggles and nearly stalls. It seems the mower is pulling way to much power.
I've pulled the drive belt off of the engine pulley. The blades turn with no binding/grinding/etc. Smooth, but stiff. I don't know how hard they should turn - seems with the belt off the engine they should almost freewheel, not?
I've put the front on ramps and looked under the deck - it's not loaded up to any significant extent that would interfere with the blades.
I've looked in the manual - didn't see anything about lubricating the mower spindles.
I've also run the mower with the belt off and engaged/disengaged the mower clutch. No apparent issues.
Any ideas?
Thanks!