Thanks very much for your response. I did what you suggested and it is the motor or gears (and bearing). I took off the cover behind the wheel and there was very little gear lube in there. there is one gear completely in view but I have never seen the strange nut that holds it on and can't figure out if it comes off so I can seperate the motor and drive gears.
A few questions for you. What gear lube and how much should be in there?
What hydraulic fluid should i use (since it apart and easy to get to)
It appears that I can take off the whole gear drive by removing three large bolts that attach it to the frame and 4 smaller bolt that hold it to the motor? Any thoughts? It seems like I get at it that way without dealing with the mast. Then I can take that piece to a shop to get it worked on if necessary.
I've had no luck getting a service person to come out since i am a little drive from Los Angeles. I've tried for six months. I cant find a service manual or much online info on the 30sctt since it is getting old but it works so well and has been really reliable. Thanks again,