Abby’s Guide > Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) > Discussions > Need to modify the shifing linkage on an old Ariens, anyone done it?
Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) Discussions
Need to modify the shifing linkage on an old Ariens, anyone done it? Original Message Dec 14, 2007 10:32 am
Have an old 1970's 7hp Ariens with a newer engine that's going to be with us many more years.
The shifting linkage needs to be adjusted. It goes really fast in 4, and doesn't readily engage in reverse. When it does go into reverse, a tortoise can move faster. I don't trust neutral, and won't leave the machine running unattended.
Can't lengthen the rod adjustment - it's seized and I've tried every trick I know. I've been meaning to replace that part for years with something from the dump, but haven't found it. In the meantime is there a fix to lengthen the rod a bit without using the adjusting screw (locknut, shaft threads, rod... I'm not sure what to call that type of adjustment).
Re: Need to modify the shifing linkage on an old Ariens, anyone done it? Reply #1 Dec 14, 2007 1:42 pm
What shape is the friction wheel in? If the rubber is worn down too much, that can cause problems. Also, contaminants on the friction can cause problems. Have you inspected those two components?
Re: Need to modify the shifing linkage on an old Ariens, anyone done it? Reply #2 Dec 14, 2007 1:52 pm
I once undid the linkage just under the shifter to see what would happen if the lever was slightly shifted. The machine ran perfectly in reverse; the procedure was too awkward to try taking it forward.
The internals remain to be in good condition. Having had one of the drive gears break many years ago, I still open the bottom seasonally for inspection.
