There is an idler pulley near the drive pulley under the engine. It is made of plastic and is a common failure. It freezes up and doesn't want to let the belt move. Have you noticed the smell of hot/burning plastic? You can replace it with an original, but it is still plastic. Metal replacements can be had. I think I got some from mcmaster.com so try there. They are a great resource. Shipping is fast and inexpensive and they have everything a guy could want.
I still think you should check that idler pulley. With no belt tension on it, it should spin freely.
Considering how the problem started, I seriously doubt the answer involves adjusting belt tension. It is more likely to involve debris on top of the deck (under the cover), improper belt routing, stuck idler wheels (under the engine or under the cover on the deck), fried bearings on the blade spindles or something like that.
Well now. It gets more interesting all the time, eh?
You can get the parts at sears.com, then to change it, you need to remove the assembly from the deck, requiring a removal of the cover, then the belt, then probably 3 hex head bolts (liquid wrench is your friend). You can then remove the spindle assembly which will also require disassembly. You should also check the condition of the bearings (do they allow wobble?) and replace them if they are damaged or sloppy. Be sure to re-lube all bearings on the deck before re-assembly, and while you are using your grease gun, using the manual or your eyes, find and lube all points with grease fittings or wear points before you put the machine back in service.
You are certainly welcome. I will be glad to help you through the process.
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. Check and replace a worn belt.829 views
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Thank you for your answer about my Craftsman mower. I did NOT notice any smell at all, however I was moving thru some loose top soil prior to the belt actually coming off the drive system. I cleaned out the dirt and small limbs from under the deck and that is when it started making the noise and vibration. Is there an adjustment on the cable that connects the drive system to the shift handle on the dash?
Okay, thanks again. It sounds like I need someone who knows much more than I do to fix the beast. It still mows, but just makes a bunch of noise. I hope it is okay to continue using it for a while until I can get it into a service center. I live way up in the Montana Rocky Mtns and am about 75 miles from the nearest city.
THANKS AGAIN, Dwight
Well, I finally figured out the problem....
It seems that the blades must have loosened up on the shafts and stripped the star fitting on the end of the shaft. I think they are called "Mandrels". Both sides are clean and the blades are free turning on the shafts. How big a project is it to replace the Mandrels? I really can't afford to take it to a shop to have it done. Any help would be most appreciated. Dwight in Lincoln, MT
Thanks for all of your help. I am waiting for the parts to arrive. Considering where I live, it will take some time for them to get up here. I think the post office still using horse drawn wagons to bring mail up here. In any case, I might be checking back with you when I start replacing the worn out parts.
You have been a BIG HELP.......Thanks again!!!!!!
Dwight in Montana
How do I adjust the tension on the belt?
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