Outdoor Power Equipment and Small Engines - Troy Bilt Self Propelled Mower won't propel

I just bought this mower and it barely moves, in fact, doesn't unless I am pushing it. I lifted the mower and the back wheels turn while off the ground. I pulled the wheels and the gears are fine. While one of the gears was off, watched the gears move. This particular mower has a "tensioner" for the drive cable, I've loosened and tightened it, with no affect. It seems as when I squeeze the drive trigger that i is tight, almost not engaging. I have checked the belt, it is tight and appears to be in good condition. This is all I can think of, does anyone have any insight as to whatelse I should do? The model #834

Thanks.

Make sure the belt is actually in the pulley on the crankshaft and not dropped down below or above it.

Also make sure that the belt is wide enough to be riding on the sides of the "V" grooves of the pulley. If the belt is narrow enough to touch the flat bottom of either the drive pulley or the driven pulley, it will slip no matter how tight you tension it.

Post back with you full model number as well as the serial number. Both will be found on the rear of the chassis on a sticker.

Model #12AV834Q711 Serial #1E016K11302

Thanks for the suggestions so far. Haven't gotten to them just yet, tonight hopefully

Did you buy this new or used?

I bought it used at an auction.

I have a friend that has the same exact mower and just started having the same problem. He put a new belt on and also has tried all kinds of adjustments on the belt tension and it makes no difference. I sure would appreciate hearing what your solution turned out to be. Thanks in advance.

Look where the cable attaches to the top of the plastic tranny. The plastic tab where it mounts often cracks and flexes when you pull the cable instead of pulling the transaxle back to tighten the belt. This makes the belt slip. Plastic tranny. Real good idea MTD.