Craftsman Rear Engine Riding Mowers are manufactured by MTD Products Inc., a company known for producing outdoor power equipment. MTD has a long-standing partnership with Craftsman, which is a brand owned by Stanley Black & Decker. The mowers are designed for residential use, offering a compact option for homeowners with smaller yards.
MTD
MTD
I'm not positive, but I think it is Craftsman.
transmission or transaxle
The same as any riding mower. The following is a site which explains how the work: http://www.ehow.com/how-does_4689999_rideon-lawn-mower-work.html
Toro Titan
MTD
You probably have a bad bearing.
Check the belt.
John Deere all the way. Either John Deere, or Craftsman. They're the best.
The engine, I think
John Deere. History of reliable products second to none in the industry!