re: Wide push mower?

Ok, so I've poked around a bit more and can definitely see a few problems. Is it wrong that I'm enjoying figuring this stuff out way too much? Never had this much fun with a mower before.

Ok the little copper collar is definitely non-standard and I'm guessing that's probably the issue with the blade engagement lever. It appears the little metal band he's put on there is doing the job keeping the jackshaft from 'walking' so I don't think there's a point to the copper ring at this point so I'm going to try to remove it.

Also, I assume thats the bearing seal screwed into the metal frame on the left you posted a couple pages back (second pic). How difficult is it to replace that?




Now on to the left brake issue. I think I see the problem



The brake shoe is WAY off and appears to be bent or something is causing it to only catch about 15% of the rotor/metal wheel, the rest is hanging in space.



Not a great image but you can see how its not flush on the metal pulley.

I'm guessing if this is not properly pressing up against the wheel, thats part of my slipping issue..in particular when going uphill and i attempt to brake to slow things down or turn. This is probably why I got pinned against that telephone pole.

I need to figure out if something is loose or what is causing it to be off like that. The mower is on a level surface right now in my garage so it should be ideal conditions to lock the brakes in the proper positions.