Trouble with my trusty Lawn Boy Medallion

Hi all,



My 17-year old Medallion started having some trouble. I was about to buy a new mower but couldn't bring myself to do it without "exhausting my options" ;)



Three main issues; both started after I sharpened the blade:



1) Sudden, rapid grass buildup around the rear left wheel.



2) Drive wheels started jamming.



3) Sudden shutdown.



I turned it over and found lots of "stuff" (a few strings and some long-ish thin vines/debris) wrapped around the axle; I removed them, thinking this was related, but alas... same issues.



I'm not sure where to start other than turning to people who actually know what they're doing ;)



Any suggestions greatly appreciated.



thanks,

Andrew