Anyone with a similar mower, or more mechanically-minded than me who could help?
I have the 655.2, blade-brake clutch and variable drive. Since new it's had an issue with the drive seeming to "pause", or lose power.
On a downhill slope, or flat hard surface, it's so fast you are almost running to keep up. That's the appeal, along with great wet collection. But, as soon as you hit the slightest uphill, uneven surface, or even dry lawn after flat paving, it seems to start hesitating. It's not the roller slipping on the grass, it just slows it's turning speed.
The engine speed is fine, and the rear roller is a simple chain, cog and shaft. If this was broken it wouldn't move at all.
It's been in and had the variable drive unit replaced under warranty, but it's not right. I'm happy to let them repair it any number of times for free, but would rather get to the cause of the problem! It's not something that's affected other machines they've sold, apparently.
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i had same issue with a secondhand one i bought from ebay at xmas !
worked fine twice.. ?
then click ,click ,click hmmmmmmmmmm ?? great - got it checked straight away as i felt 'something is wrong' really annoyed..
my mechanic showed me the 'bits' cog down to nothing, needs 2 bearing and shaft totally worn out and dry chain / worn :) all needs replacing.
£160 estimated cost and my rear ribbed? roller is still smooth as thats extra, i said no rush so not got it back yet- ouch so £220 plus £160/ = £380 and a headache/collection Not such a bargain after all.
good luck
I'll look at the chain, but it doesn't feel "mechanical", if that makes sense? There's no feel of grating, jumping or anything, just a smooth transition from flat-out to something less?
It's literally as subtle as driving along a smooth path it's fine, but once on a fine, flat lawn there's a slight hesitation in the drive. Get on an uphill slope, and it's really slowing down. No drop in engine speed, and the lawns are so short and dry there's no real load on it.
Gardens4u.co.uk said:
Hi
I have MB650 VR & MB655 VR. I am not exactly sure which mower you have but as you have mentioned a roller then assume its one of these.
The roller assembly for both these mowers are the same despite one being a 19" and the other a 21".
Assuming you indeed have one of the above then I can advise that you can purchase a kit from Stihl which includes a roller assembly complete made up with shaft, chain, 2 sprockets, key, 2 bearings, role pin, circlips and the 2 plastic covers that are on each end of the roller. The kit containers every part to completely change the roller assy. Price £50 something plus vat. Time to remove and refit approx one hour.
If you require info on how to do the job and Stihl part numbers then get in touch and I will talk you through it.
Cheers
Had a similar problem with a 650vm twice in the last year, keep having to replace the variator pulley at considerable expense. Not sure I'll buy another viking with variable speed, its a constant pain in the arse and expense I dont need.
Check your cables are in good condition, if you've worn them to the point that theres only a few strands of wire left you'll experience similar drive problems.
please do message or text me on mobile (on my profile page)
sounds cheaper than £160 !! sounds like £100inc from my man with your parts :)
thanks ill try get his order stopped..
GORDON said: