I need to replace the drive belt on my 42'' 93-96 model Murray riding lawn mower I have brought 2 belts thinking the first was too small. However the second one is the same length, but they are both too short do I stretch the belt to make it fit?

If you still have the old belt, even if it is broken. Taje it to your local lawn and garden center that sells parts and service on riding mowers. Have them measure the belt length and width. If the belt is missing, have them look up belt for the model number of the mower you have.

maybe this can help.. NOTE: unsure if it is the exact same model as yours.

This has a couple of diagrams with belts. Hopefully it has what you need. If not let me know and I'll keep looking for you.

http://www.outdoordistributors.com/pdf/Murray/MURRAY-MODEL-46573X92A-LAWN-TRACTOR-(1998)-PARTS-LIST.pdf

Hopefully this is for your deck not 100% sure.

Please find attached a "amateur" drawing of the belt routing for the 37x89MA primary deck drive belt. Hope this helps.

http://www.ereplacementparts.com/ type in model number of your mower ie 40560x50c All parts and diags ypu need ,Yours Henry

http://www.ereplacementparts.com/ type in your model number all the diags you need, yours Henry

Get the model number off the tractor, go to:

www.murray.com

enter the model number and you will find a manual with pictures of how to route the belts along with a lot of other good information

Hi, service manual and parts can be found on amazon, here:
manual: Amazon com lawn general riding mower manual
parts: Amazon com lawn general riding mower parts
after reading manual you can be able to detect your problem and see if you need new part or just small fix. I hope this helped you. Have a nice day

Your drive belt is worn/slipping