20 Most Recent Poulan 42-Inch Steel Deck 17.5 HP Briggs & Stratton I/C Engine With 6 Speed - Page 4 Questions & Answers

The drive belt probably needs replacing.
Thank you for asking and I hope this helps you.Please leave me a 4 thumbs up.

Call poulan for size with model No.

Your hydro transmission is low/out of oil or it need to be rebuilt or a new one.

you have to give more info

If its a manual engage the lever tightens up the belt by sliding a pully against the belt

If its an electric pto it has an engadge button and that powers up the eltric pto wich inturn runs the belt

Have you tryed using lock tight on the bolts?

Try spraying carb cleaner into the air intake. I have had to do that a few times with mine over the years. Especially in dusty conditions

Go to yur owner's manual.