Ready to mow but your Craftsman lawn mower just won’t move—no matter how hard you push or engage the drive? Whether you own a self-propelled walk-behind or a Craftsman riding mower, a no-move problem is common and usually has a simple fix. Here’s your step-by-step guide to getting your mower rolling again fast.
Quick Picks: Most Common Reasons a Craftsman Mower Won’t Move
- Broken or Loose Drive Cable: The self-propelled handle cable may be disconnected, stretched, or broken.
- Worn or Broken Drive Belt: The belt under the mower (walk-behind) or inside the chassis (riding) transmits power from the engine to the wheels.
- Worn or Stripped Drive Wheels/Gears: The gears inside the wheels or transmission can wear out and stop engaging.
- Transmission or Transaxle Problems: Especially in riding mowers, the transmission may need adjustment, fluid, or repair.
- Engagement Lever/Clutch Not Working: The control handle or pedal must be fully engaged for the drive to activate.
- Obstructions or Debris: Sticks, grass, or mud can jam the wheels, axle, or pulleys.
- Parking Brake On (Riding Models): Double-check the parking brake isn’t set.
- Low Transmission Fluid (Hydrostatic Riding Mowers): Low or old fluid can prevent movement.
Buyer’s Guide: What You’ll Need to Troubleshoot & Repair
- Socket set and screwdrivers
- Replacement drive cable or belt (matched to your model)
- Work gloves
- Pliers
- Flashlight (to inspect pulleys, wheels, and undercarriage)
- Owner’s manual (for parts diagrams and troubleshooting steps)
Step-by-Step: How to Fix a Craftsman Mower That Won’t Move
1. For Self-Propelled Walk-Behind Models:
- Check the drive cable from the handle to the transmission. If loose, adjust the tensioner or replace the cable if broken.
- Inspect the drive belt under the deck—if frayed, loose, or broken, replace with the right size for your model.
- Remove the drive wheels and check the plastic gears inside for wear or damage. Replace as needed.
- Clear any built-up grass, mud, or debris around the wheels, axles, or pulleys.
- Ensure the self-propelled lever or bar is being fully squeezed—if it feels loose, the cable may need adjustment.
2. For Riding Mowers:
- Confirm the parking brake is off and the mower is in gear or “drive.”
- Check the main drive belt from the engine to the transaxle. Replace if it’s worn, stretched, or broken.
- Inspect the transaxle or transmission for leaks or low fluid (for hydrostatic models). Top off or change fluid as specified in your manual.
- Test the motion drive pedal, clutch, or lever for proper engagement—adjust or repair if it feels loose or fails to engage the drive.
- Look for debris or damage around the wheels and axle shafts.
- If the mower makes a grinding sound, internal transmission repairs may be needed (consult a pro if so).
Comparison Table: Craftsman Mower Movement Problems & Solutions
| Problem | Solution | Difficulty | Parts Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loose/Broken Drive Cable | Adjust or replace cable | Easy | Drive cable |
| Worn/Broken Drive Belt | Replace belt | Easy-Medium | Drive belt |
| Worn Drive Wheels/Gears | Replace wheels/gears | Easy | Drive wheels/gears |
| Transmission Issue | Repair, refill fluid, or replace transmission | Medium-Hard | Transmission/fluid |
| Obstruction/Debris | Clear debris, clean wheels/axle | Easy | — |
| Parking Brake On | Release parking brake | Easy | — |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my drive cable is broken or just loose?
If squeezing the self-propel lever doesn’t move the cable or there’s no tension, the cable may be broken or disconnected. Try adjusting first; if it still won’t engage, replace the cable.
Can I replace the drive belt myself?
Yes! Most belts are easy to access. Just follow your owner’s manual for routing and tension instructions.
Why does my riding mower not move but the engine runs?
The problem is usually with the drive belt, transmission, or parking brake. Check all three before calling a repair shop.
What if my mower makes a grinding or clunking sound?
This often means stripped gears or internal transmission problems. If the noise continues after replacing belts or cables, professional repair may be needed.
Conclusion
If your Craftsman lawn mower isn’t moving, start with the basics—check the drive cable, belt, wheels, and clear any obstructions. Most problems are quick fixes. A bit of routine maintenance and quick troubleshooting will keep your mower rolling strong all season long!