Foote Transaxle Repair and Parts Guide

Troubleshooting and Finding Parts for Your Foote/Dana Transaxle

The Foote/Dana transaxle is a robust unit found in many popular garden tractors and other equipment. When it starts to show signs of wear or develops a fault, knowing how to identify the correct replacement parts and diagnose common problems can save you significant time and money. This guide aims to provide comprehensive information to help you keep your Foote/Dana transaxle running smoothly, covering everything from locating specific components to fixing common issues like a stuck brake pad.

Identifying Your Foote/Dana Transaxle Model

The first crucial step in any repair or maintenance is correctly identifying your transaxle model. Foote and Dana often used integrated model numbering systems. To find your specific model number, you will typically need to locate the identification tag or stamp on the transaxle housing itself. Look for markings that clearly state the model number. Once you have this, you can often use it to find a specific parts diagram. Many manufacturers and parts suppliers provide online resources where you can input your model number to view a printable parts diagram. This diagram is invaluable as it will list the specific part numbers for every component within the transaxle, from the smallest seal to the main gear sets.

How to Find Your Dana/Foote/Spicer Transmission Parts:

1. Locate Your Model Number: As mentioned, find the identification tag on your transaxle.
2. Consult a Parts Diagram: Once you have your model number, click on the corresponding link from the manufacturer's or supplier's list. This will usually open a PDF file in a new browser window.
3. Identify Required Parts: Use the exploded view in the parts diagram to pinpoint the exact components you need. Each part will have a corresponding Dana/Foote part number listed.
4. Order Your Parts: With the correct part numbers in hand, you can then order them from reputable suppliers.

Common Foote/Dana Transaxle Problems and Solutions

Foote/Dana transaxles, like any mechanical component, can develop issues over time due to wear and tear or improper usage. Here are some of the most common problems and how to address them:

Transmission Surges or Lurche While in Motion

If your transaxle surges or lurches while you're operating the equipment, this often indicates that the shift keys are worn. These keys are responsible for locking gears into place. When they lose their 'spring' or become excessively worn, they can allow the mating gear to slip, causing the jarring motion you experience. The solution here is to disassemble the transaxle and replace the worn shift keys. It's often advisable to inspect other related components, such as the gear teeth and shift forks, during the disassembly process.

Extremely Hard to Change Gears

Difficulty in shifting gears can stem from several issues:

• Worn Bushings: Worn input and output shaft bushings are a common culprit. These bushings provide smooth rotation for the shafts. When they wear out, the shafts can become misaligned, making gear engagement difficult. Replacing these bushings with new ones is the standard repair.
• Rust on the Input Shaft: Moisture ingress into the transaxle case can lead to rust forming on the input shaft. This rust creates friction and impedes smooth movement. To fix this, the transmission needs to be disassembled, thoroughly cleaned to remove all rust and any hardened grease, and then reassembled with fresh lubricant. Inspecting seals for damage that allowed the moisture in is also recommended.
• Shift Detent Balls Over-Adjusted: Some Foote transaxles have adjustable set screws near the shift lever that control the pressure on the shift detent balls. If these screws are tightened too much, they can create excessive resistance against the shift mechanism. The solution is to back these screws off slightly until they are just snug, allowing for easier gear selection.

Transmission Won't Move in Certain Gears

If your transaxle fails to engage in specific gears, it usually points to a problem with the gears themselves:

• Worn Gear Teeth: Teeth on the input or output gears can become completely worn off. This often happens from aggressive clutch use, such as 'dumping' the clutch, or from shifting gears without fully disengaging the clutch. Damaged gears require replacement. This is a more involved repair that necessitates a full teardown of the transaxle.

Transmission Won't Move at All

A complete lack of movement can be attributed to:

• Worn Input Shaft and/or Bearings: If the input shaft or its supporting bearings are worn, the input pinion gear may not align correctly with its mating bevel gear. This misalignment prevents the transfer of rotational motion to the rest of the transmission's gears. This wear can be due to normal use or excessive belt tension. Replacing the worn input shaft and bearings is necessary.

Transmission Won't Stop (Brake Issues)

Problems with the transaxle's braking system are relatively common and can often be fixed:

• Brake Out of Adjustment: Many MTD transaxles, which often utilize Foote components, have an external brake adjustment mechanism. This typically involves a castle nut secured by a cotter pin. To adjust, you'll need to remove the cotter pin, then use a wrench (often a 1/2 inch combination wrench) to tighten the castle nut. The goal is to tighten it until you can barely push the tractor, then back it off slightly until there's just a little resistance when pushing. This ensures the brake is engaged when not applied but doesn't drag when it is.
• Stuck Brake Pins: This is a frequent cause of a brake that doesn't release properly, or a brake that feels 'sticky'. To address this:
  1. Remove the securing nut and loosen the bolt holding the brake assembly.
  2. Remove the metal retaining piece and the brake lever.
  3. Remove the other bolt that secures the pad housing.
  4. Carefully remove the brake pad and its metal protector.
  5. If the pins are stuck within their bores, use a pin punch to carefully drive them out.
  6. Once removed, clean the pins thoroughly. A wire wheel on a bench grinder is ideal, but a hand wire brush can also work. Clean the housing where the pins sit with carburetor cleaner.
  7. Apply a good quality anti-seize compound to the cleaned pins before reassembly. This will prevent them from sticking in the future.
  8. Reassemble everything in reverse order and re-adjust the brake mechanism.
• Grease on Pads or Disc: If grease or oil contaminates the brake pads or the brake disc, braking performance will be severely compromised. Follow the steps above to remove the brake pads. If the grease is leaking from the transaxle case itself, you'll need to identify and repair the source of the leak (e.g., a damaged seal). Clean the brake disc thoroughly with a good quality carburetor cleaner. If the pads are heavily contaminated, they may need to be replaced.
• Broken Brake Disc: In some Foote transaxles, an internal brake disc can break. This is a more serious issue that requires a complete disassembly of the transaxle to access and replace the broken component.

Preventative Maintenance for Your Foote/Dana Transaxle

Regular maintenance is key to prolonging the life of your Foote/Dana transaxle and preventing costly repairs. Here are some essential preventative measures:

• Regular Lubrication: Ensure the transaxle is filled with the correct type and amount of lubricant. Check the lubricant level periodically and top it up or change it according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Using the wrong type of lubricant can lead to premature wear.
• Keep it Clean: Regularly clean the exterior of the transaxle to prevent dirt and debris from entering seals or interfering with moving parts.
• Inspect for Leaks: Periodically check for any signs of lubricant leaks. Leaks can indicate worn seals or damaged gaskets, which should be addressed promptly to prevent internal damage and contamination.
• Listen for Unusual Noises: Pay attention to any new or unusual sounds coming from the transaxle, such as grinding, whining, or clunking. These can be early indicators of developing problems.
• Proper Operation: Avoid aggressive operation, such as rapid acceleration or harsh braking, especially when the transaxle is cold. Allow the unit to warm up gradually.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Where can I find a parts diagram for my specific Foote/Dana transaxle?
A1: You can usually find parts diagrams on the website of the equipment manufacturer that uses the transaxle, or through specialized aftermarket parts suppliers. You'll need your transaxle model number.

Q2: Can I use a general lubricant in my Foote/Dana transaxle?
A2: It is crucial to use the lubricant specified by the transaxle manufacturer. Using the wrong type can cause damage. Refer to your equipment's manual or the transaxle parts diagram for the correct specification.

Q3: My transaxle is making a whining noise. What could it be?
A3: A whining noise can often indicate worn gears or bearings. It's best to have this inspected by a qualified mechanic, as it may require a partial or full disassembly of the transaxle.

Q4: How often should I change the transaxle fluid?
A4: This depends on the usage and manufacturer's recommendations. Check your equipment's manual. As a general guideline, changing it every few years or after a certain number of operating hours is advisable.

Q5: Does Transaxle offer DPD next-day delivery?
A5: The provided information indicates that the company specialises in commercial remanufactured brake calipers and other braking components. For specific delivery options like DPD next-day, it's best to contact them directly via phone at 01922 471 300 or through their enquiry form.

By understanding how to identify your transaxle, diagnose common faults, and perform regular maintenance, you can ensure your Foote/Dana transaxle provides reliable service for years to come. Always prioritize safety and consult a professional if you are unsure about any repair procedure.

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