This demonstration guide answers one field question about a tube that is bent and a shaft that is welded inside. Measurements come before parts, and the notes are not a generic equipment FAQ.
Diagnose before replacing parts
Start with tube straightness and shaft drag. That reading separates a tube that is bent and a shaft that is welded inside from adjacent faults that share the same complaint.
If the measurement is out of spec, treat the tube and shaft as the primary path. If it is in spec, do not replace the tube and shaft just to complete a parts list.
Repair the failed system
The usual correction is the tube and shaft, installed to the documented spec for this complaint.
A demonstration shop records the finding so the next technician is not repeating a guess about a tube that is bent and a shaft that is welded inside.
Stop before you make it worse
Do not lubricating a welded shaft until it snaps in the cut. That shortcut hides the original measurement and creates a second failure.
If the machine still fails after the tube and shaft is corrected, convert the visit to a broader diagnosis rather than stacking parts.
Written and published by Ridgeline Small Engine.