Leak coming out of transmission plate unsure the reason,1997 425 john deere

If you mean the lever itself (2), see attachment, then no, it is held in place with a roll pin (3). So it should not require access inside the case.

Give these guys a call..

https://tractorzone.com/family/skidder/john-deere/440a

This is your transmission here and it says what models it will fit.

https://www.lawnmowerpartsworld.com/home-garden/complete-transmission-rt400-gt87140-john-deere-auc11077-auc10266-d105-x105-e100/

The LT155 looks similar, so if you have one, try it.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/144684745738?hash=item21afe2040a:g:inEAAOSwHr9iTEuy&

https://www.google.com/search?q=John+Deere+D105++transmission+VS+John+Deere+LT155

..

Check transmission bypass rod is fully pushed in. If there are signs of transmission fluid leaks it may be low on fluid. Leaks will need corrected. The transmission is considered "sealed" so there is no service information in the manual.

Search "tuff torq t40 problems" for service instruction videos and how to check and add fluid (requires removal of transaxle).

Likely a failed shaft seal.

From the lt155 manual;
The transmission is a sealed component. No maintenance is required on this transmission. If you suspect any transmission problems, please contact your John Deere dealer.

This should help.

http://wishylife.info/data-post/j/john-deere-r72-manual-114187.pdf

try and stretch the belt on to the wheels

filter change

The easiest to check would be to remove the wheel and check to make sure the key is in the shaft on the axle. The rear wheels are keyed to the axles from the transmission and they are possible to shear. Also when the wheels are removed there will be an e-clip holding the wheels on. If one has broke that could be a reason your wheel seems to be coming off. If all there checks ok, the transmission will have to be replaced as John Deere does not make replacement parts for most and if they are available it is cheaper to replace the transmission. Let me know how you come out and if you need any more assistance, Daniel.

You will have to first know what kind of transmission you have. You will have to consider if it is manual or hydrostatic drive. The transmission model number should be stamped usually on the top of the transmission. Yes transmissions are interchangeable, for example some John Deere, Craftsmans and Husqvarna all use the same transmission. Peerless is a manufacturer of these, the only one I know of. So don't let anyone tell you that you can ONLY use a John Deere product. To determine what transmission you can cross over with, get the model and serial number off of your John Deere's transmission. Call a small engine repair shop and ask them what all transmissions it will cross over with. Let them know you are aware that Peerless manufactures the same transmissions for most all riding mowers and that they will interchange. If they are uncoperative, contact me with the model and serial numbers off of your transmission and I will cross reference it for you. But try to get model and serial numbers for other brands from them, then check these against used ones. You will need to tell them if it is a hydrostatic transmission or manual and if so what speed manual.