2001 Troy Bilt 17.5 hp 42" cut stops moving forward and reverse

I just replaced all four belts thinking this would solve my problem. The belts were worn and cracked, so it definitely needed new belts. I mowed for about 20 feet and the mower stopped abruptly, so I let off the pedal. When I tried pressing the pedal again, the drive belt started smoking at the engine pulley so I let off the pedal. I turned the mower off and checked the belts; I'm pretty sure I have them on correctly. With the mower off I placed it in neutral and was able to move it forwards and backwards. When I placed it in forward and reverse it would not allow me to push it in the those directions. I then started it again and the same results, belt started smoking at the engine pulley. It seems it is binding or locking up when in gear. Is there something simple I am overlooking or something more severe? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

 

I'd bet the bearings in the variator pulley are bad. Can you turn the variator by hand? These mowers have really bad transmissions. Hopefully that's not your problem.

 

Cheese - thanks! I'll check it out when I get home this evening!!!

 

I pulled the variable speed pulley off and found the center piece not able to freely move up and down. I sanded the pulley surfaces to remove some rust, and sprayed the center shaft with silicone spray. Wahlaa! the center pulley portion moved freely. The shaft was still nice and shiney so I guess it needed a little lube. I actually got to mow the lawn on my Troy Bilt!!! This has been a great riding mower and have gotten my money's worth over the last ten years.
Cheese - thanks again for pointing me in the right direction! I figure I may need to keep an eye on it and may replace this variable speed pulley at the end of the season. I have found the OEM replacement part on-line for $150 - really??? Any suggestions to find an aftermarket part?

Peace!

 

Check for a good used one at your local small engine shop.

 

Thank again for all your help!