Husqvarna LT Series Questions & Answers

Hey Jonathon. I cheated and googled a result that sums up the once over. If your LT series mower is not reversing, several potential causes should be investigated. The issue may stem from the hydrostatic transmission system, which relies on hydraulic fluid to operate and is controlled by foot pedals rather than a gear shift. First, ensure the parking brake is fully released, as a stuck brake can prevent movement in any direction. Check the drive pedals and their linkage for obstructions or damage, as a stuck pedal can inhibit reverse function. Inspect the drive belts, including the traction belt connecting the engine to the hydrostatic pump and the belts driving the transaxle, for wear, looseness, or damage. A loose or broken belt can prevent power transfer, especially under load or when the system heats up. Also, verify that the hydrostatic transmission is properly engaged and that the hydrostatic relief valve is correctly set, as improper settings can prevent the transmission from engaging. If the mower has a filter, check and service the hydraulic fluid, as old or contaminated fluid can lose its viscosity and fail to generate sufficient pressure, particularly in older models. Air trapped in the system can also cause performance issues, so purging the air may be necessary. Additionally, ensure the mower is not on a slope exceeding 15 degrees, as a low deck pitch can cause the mower to get stuck on the ground, preventing reverse movement. For models with a mechanical transmission, check the shift linkage and internal components, such as the shifter rod and fork, for wear or rust, which can prevent proper gear engagement. In some cases, the axle key may have sheared, allowing the wheel to spin independently of the axle, which can result in movement in one direction but not the other. If all mechanical and fluid checks are clear, the hydrostatic transmission itself may be failing, especially if the system makes loud whining noises or loses function when hot. In such cases, repair or replacement of the transmission may be required.

If none of that works, check that there are no clumps that prevent the reverse foot pedal from moving. Let your eyes do the walking, look under as the pedal is depressed...follow the linkage all the way and then see if there is anything fouling the action. If the Linkage run is clear...Could be the Trans Fluid. Also check the key...there is a reverse setting after starting. Make sure the key is in this position for reverse. Good Luck Mate. Hope it works out

Try the Key 1st. Once started you can turn the Key left 1 click before OFF. That allows you reverse.

Hi Vicki I have been able to do it by myself with deck on. It's a bit tricky and I used car ramps to get the front end of the ride on about 350-400mm above the ground just for better access. Not absolutely necessary though.Make sure bricks are chocking up the back wheels and brakes on too. It's then a matter of working on the pulleys to getting the belt on. Get assistance to make it easier. There should be a diagram on the side of ride on showing the belt configuration. Otherwise google it. Good luck! Cheers Dave

Hi Vicki, Whilst it is possible to try the method suggested by Dave, the recommendations from the factory as shown in the owner’s manual (page 24) is to remove the cutting deck because in practice it makes the process easier and reduces the risks associated with jacking the whole tractor. Additionally, the belt can be routed correctly around the deck pulleys so that it only needs to be fed around the engine pulley when the deck is re-installed.

I think I've answered my own ?? I need drive and cutter belts!!

Machine or rider?

I wouldn’t know sorry