The idler pulley gave up the ghost and while I had the deck off I noticed there was a good bit of movement in the blade shafts, fair enough since the mower is either 20 or 21 years old. I got the old bearings out and was surprised to see that they were sealed bearings on the inside, with the outside being shielded. I have always kept it greased and having this ability is one of the main reasons I bought this mower in the first place. Would it not make sense to pull the seal out so the grease can actually get into the bearing? Or am I just over thinking this? Thanks guys.

22" push mower with B&S 4.0 HP - at least 13 years old. Model: 10A902 Type: 2189B3 Code 02030455 The engine has developed a loud knocking or clacking noise - the rate of "knock" is tied to engine speed. The noise occurs at all times the engine is running. Given the age and symptom, do we just end the conversation here and say it's trash? Or is there a possibility that it may be worth further diagnosis?