My troy built 17.5 hp riding mower with 502cc 42 inch cut won't start it has given me trouble since I bought it used please help me with ideas how to start it

I had a similar problem with my TroyBilt 50 inch zero turn mower. Was cutting grass when it stopped going either forward or backward even though it would start and the PTO would move the cutting blades. Turned out the tensioner spring for the belt that drives the motors near the rear wheels had gone missing. Searched the yard where I had cut and moved the machine but couldn't find it. A new one cost me about $7.50. Put the new one on and it worked fine.

sounds like you missed a pulley or belt guide and the belt fell off

i would look at the safety switches that being the most common cause

You need adjust your shift linkage. Your manual should tell you how.

http://manuals.mtdproducts.com/mtd/Safety.do?pid=219561&model_num=13AN779G766&serial_num=&filename=769-01543.pdf
If you search on the MTD products website for any other manuals for this model, use 13AN779G766 as the model number and don't enter a serial number. Their online owners manual system is touch and go.

Hi,

You will find the diagram on the left side of the deck as you sit on tractor by left foot. It will be located under the foot pedal that has the routing diagram specifically for your Troy-Bilt mower model. Note that owner's manuals may not have the most current schematic.

Also you can check this link to download the diagram:-

http://www.seapyramid.net/rt/belt-diagram-troy-bilt-riding-lawnmower/

Please get back to us if you have further query else please accept the suggestion.
Thank you for contacting fixya.com

the electric petcock should unscrew. the one on my 15.5 hp briggs just unscrews. hope that helps.

how do you install a drive belt on a 46 inch garden way troy bilt riding mower

yes they have a charging system, not like a car but a charging system one the less. as i said before either under or around the flywheel. some newer mowers also have an electronic regulator.