XT2 GX54 lose of power with PTO engaged

[DonC77]

Hoping someone can point me in the right direction. No issues starting, the machine starts right up, runs perfectly fine without the PTO engaged. Ran for hours the other day with no issues. Once I engage the PTO I get about maybe 50' or so and there is a serious lose of power, almost like it is about to stall. I disengage the PTO and let it idle for a few minutes and the engines runs fine. Engage the PTO and it goes maybe 10-15 feet and it starts to lose power again. The machine has under 50 hours, I have replaced the oil twice, replaced spark plug, air and fuel filter. Pretty much at a lose at this point.
Any help and or direction would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

 

[Bob_Bainbridge]

Check the blades to make sure they turn freely. If there is a bind, remove the belt and check the individual spindles and the PTO pulley for any binding.

Bob B.

 

[DonC77]

Thanks Bob, First time with a riding mower, the blades do spin but sounds like rubbing as they are turning is this normal? I checked both front and side deck height and everything is level.

 

[rcbe]

Machine still under warranty? if so, time to get dealer involved.

 

[DonC77]

Yes it I, purchased under 2 months ago, I am calling them tomorrow. That doesn't sound good, what is it you are thinking?

 

[rcbe]

from here, hard to say. could be an engine power loss due to fuel starvation or loss of ignition... or could be a driven deck pulley/spindle heating up quickly then seizing or a malfunction deck spindle brake mechanism if so equipped. your machine is a new design.

will most likely take a few functional tests to isolate/diagnose problem cause/fix.