I was starting to mow and the machine stopped. When you press the hydro forward or reverse pedal a clinging noise comes from the transmission but the machine will not move. When you press the brake pedal the noise stops. I would appreciate any ideas or help.

thanks,
Rob

Is the transmission belt driven? Possibly an idler pulley has gone bad making the clinking sound.

Haven't been under an LX 176, but the late models are very similar in design. Take the deck off and check the belt from the engine to the tranny. May find a chunk missing. There is a set of idlers mounted on a pivot that is activated by the brake pedal to loosen the belt. There may be plastic bushings in the pivot shaft that are worn out. Should be a spring attached to tension the belt when the pedal is not depressed. May also have an idler near the engine.
If you find an idler that has lost it's bearings, you may have found the problem. Those little trannys are tough, and hopefully, it is still OK. Let us know what you find.

tommyhawk