How can I fix my Craftsman Riding Mower Model#917255820?

got same problem with my 42" deck Bryan sounds like he has a good idea Im goig to try it

charlie
March 2012

Bryan - as an addendum - to completely tighten assembly there is a 3/8 nut connecting assembly to steering shaft - difficult access from directly underneath - this is the part mounted "on a bracket on the frame" that you referred to. There may be a special tool for this but I have only been able to get 3/8 socket head on this - no room for drive - and turn with my fingers. Mine seems to be stripped and it doesn't seem to be tightening things up very much. Also - there are a few other washers inside this assembly which could be worn, causing the play/wobble. I think the nut mentioned above must be removed to get all of this detatched to replace these worn parts. Hope you have better luck than I if you attempt that!.

John Fortier
August 2007

Bryan - Same problem with my Craftsman 12 hp 38 inch deck. If you take cover off & peek behind gas tank & work steering, you can see pinion gear on steering shaft pull away from other gear when you turn it to the right, causing slippage. When turned to the left, pinion is moved towards/into other gear and they remain engaged, so problem is right turn only. Wear has caused assembly to have some slack/wobble so that gears are not kept tightly together. I replaced washers which tightened assembly up - still not perfect but am able to turn right now....

John Fortier
August 2007