Why would the rear end of my craftsman riding mower make a whinning noise?

SOURCE: Murray Lawn Mower won't go in gear

Hello:

>>From your Description it Sounds like the Clutch Idler Pulley Bearing have Seized and the Idler Pulley cannot/is not Turning and the Squeal is the Belt Dragging Across the Pulley.
>>Just because there is No Smoke Does Not mean the Belt is Not Slipping.
>>I Suggest you Remove the Deck and Check All the Pulleys and Especially the Clutch Idler and Idler Arm Bracket.
>>You can View a Breakdown of this Mower At this Site Addy; http://www.smallenginepartswarehouse.com/parts.asp and Select Shop Online Parts Lookup. Select the Model Tab. Select the OEM and Enter the Model Numbers (). Now Double Click on your Model in the Results Area. Now Select Sectional View. Now Select the Section of the Mower you Wish to View.
>>If the Above Site Does Not have your Unit Listed; Let me Know. I hae 2 Other Sites that have Older and Newer Units Listed.
Please, Do Not Hesitate, If I Missed Something or you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem, I am Here if You Require More Assistance.
Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Be Happy. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

jbridger (John)

SOURCE: MTD PRO RIDING MOWER/LAWN TRACTOR 18 HP ENGINE HYDROSTATIC DRIVE

In the back of the mower...probably under the seat, there should be a lever to release the transmission, or it is on the back plate. As far as the noise when trying to move drive the mower, the brake in the back, next to the transmission is jammed, use a 1/2 inch wrench to loosen it maybe 1/4 turn and this should unlock the brakes

SOURCE: Craftsman 42 inch riding lawn mower is not cutting evenly

The first thing to check is your blades. If one is bent, it will never cut even. It happens a lot hitting roots, antbeds, etc. Mulching blades will bend easier than a straight blade. It's best to take them off and lay one on top of the other to see if they're bent.

SOURCE: 13.5 hp Craftsman lawn mower 5-speed

Here is a picture to help you place it on right. There are two deck designs pick yours.

SOURCE: nothing happens when you turn on the lawn mower

Check your seat, drive safety switches. Can you turn the engine with jumper cables attached to the starter? It won't start, but should turn over, one of your safety switches is not working.