Craftsman 18 hp Lawn Tractor Problem

I started my lawn tractor a short while ago everything was as usual. I had trimmed a few brambles in front of the shed and went over it with the lawn tractor and suddenly it won't move. The clutch feels funny and will not move either forward or backward although it tries to move.. I can smell something as if a belt has broken or something when I try to move the gear lever into forward or reverse. It sounds like something metallic is rattling. Unfortunately the lawn tractor is too heavy for me to lift up to see if something is caught underneath. Just wondering what might be the problem. I posted in the wrong category so I apologize as I'm new to this!

 

It certainly sounds as though you picked up a stick/branch and it is now lodged in the drive-belt-train somehow. You'll have to stand on your head and take a close look for anything in the upper most belt area, particularly in the idler pulley area of such. The smell you had likely was the belt burning and now may need to be replaced. Take a look and post back.

 

Thanks for replying! I have someone locally who fixes these machines coming over to have a look. I did try looking underneath (not on my head mind you!) and can't see anything. The belt does not seem to be loose but without propping it up to have a look I can't really tell. I'll re-post after my repairman comes over and let you know if he has determined the problem. It's times like these I wish I was mechanically inclined so I could fix the problem myself! I hope it is just a matter of replacing a belt. If I don't get back to you tonight, I'll post again tomorrow to let you know the outcome. Thanks again!

 

Just wanted to let you know that my lawn tractor repairman came over and discovered that a belt had come off the pulley and had a bit of a challenge getting it back on but with my next door neighbour's help the problem was fixed. I'm so relieved! I was afraid it was going to be something expensive! Thanks for the advice! I think this forum is really helpful and I do appreciate that people do read it and try to help when there is a problem. If I can ever help someone else out with a problem, I'll gladly return the favour! I'll be happily mowing my lawn tomorrow! Thanks again everybody!

 

We certainly wish you could have done it yourself, but are happy, nonetheless, that it is repaired. Don't give up on yourself or us for future problems. Keep us on your favorites list.

 

I already have you bookmarked! I really appreciate that you steered me in the right direction! I'm about to go out and mow my lawn. Silly as it sounds, I can't wait to get started. I actually enjoy mowing and when something happens I panic. Thanks again and I will keep checking the forums in the future!