[28thRanch]

The transmission has made a whining noise for as long as I can remember. Its not particularly bad, and all the fluids and everything seem fine, so I kinda ignore it because I've read that they all do that to some extent. However, I've noticed lately that when I'm driving around quite often it feels like the transmission "hitches" or catches, the mower jerks and the whining noise gets worse for just a second then everything will be fine for a bit, then it does it again, and on and on. Is this something they all do and I'm just now noticing, or is something wrong? Thanks for any help!

 

[x738]

Have you had a good look at the belt drive from the engine to the hydro?
Belt condition, idler tension (I'm assuming it's done similar to the LX176)
Pulley condition on engine and on transmission.
Fan and nut tight at transmission?
Splines on pulley and shaft at transmission ok?

 

[joneill4]

I agree with x738's suggestions 100%. This sounds like a slipping belt to me. I would also like to point out that trans fluid does not see combustion gasses, so it will look fine long after it is. I hope it is not 25 year old oil in there.

 

[joneill4]

Another possibility is a leaky crank seal dripping oil onto your drive pulley.