HRX476CQXE gearbox change

[dave59]

I have been struggling with this for a while (5 week wait at Honda dealer). I just joined the forum and saw Mick's post in an old thread that three rivets have to be removed! That explains it after countless session on AI which doesn't know because there's nothing on the internet detailing the procedure. I got the frame bolts out then thought it might drop out. No chance. if anyone direct me to more detailed instructions or YouTube or elsewhere? Or I just drill out the rivets and get new bits from DIY spare parts. I have a new gearbox ready to fit.

[Mick]

Hi Dave, and welcome to TGMForum.

The gearbox removal is basically.
1: Disconnect clutch cable at the handle end. That will let you pull the cable through with the gearbox. 
2: Slip chain off gearbox sprocket
3: Remove roller frame pivot bolts and pull out of the way of the following steps.
4: Remove gearbox sprocket buy removing pin.
5: remove push on fix holding the HOC conrod and slip that off.
6: Drill out the three rivets and slide that plate off. Each rivet has a washer underneath which you'll need when fittng the new rivets.
7: Wriggle gearbox out.(making sure you keep all the washers to put back on the new box).

Fit gearbox in reverse order.

[dave59]

Mick, Thank you for that. Saved me a lot of searching. I thought there might be a Youtube video on this but cant find one. Had a struggle with the frame bolts - one is very difficult to get to - but now hopefully able to remove/swap.

[Mick]

Dave, I must admit it's a bit fiddley, loads of washers, spacers etc, but just take your time and note down where everything goes.  Oh, and I think I forgot the art about unbolting and removing the height of cut lever, but I'm sure you found that out. Also some have a assist spring under the right hand cover, so you might notice you have a spring dangling.

Good luck with the repair. 

[dave59]

Dead right Mick it was fiddly especially the tensioner mech and all those washers etc. I have not tested because I have a spring and an odd star lock washer which I haven't found a home for. Its not the tensioner or balancer spring on the left of the roller (stood behind the mower) as I fitted those. Its very strong, about 6 inches long and one inch diameter. I looked everywhere and cant find photos. It dropped out from somewhere when the mower was on its side.

EDIT: It IS the assist spring under the right cover (which I never removed). Just re-reading your post above took me to it. I couldn't fathom where it appeared from. Part 13 on the diagrams.

I wasted a whole load of time on this job before I joined your forum because I'd wrongly assumed the gearbox frame had to be removed from the deck to remove the transmission box, but of course all that needed to be done was to drill out the rivets and thanks to you I found that out.

[Mick]

Glad you got there in the end.  I'd also forgotten about that spring.  I would usually hook that back on before putting the push on fix back on the roller frame for the levelling mechanism, it allows the roller frame to be swung down so you can hook it on easier.