how to replace ground drive belt on craftsman lawn tractor

Craftsman Lawn Tractors are great machines that help keep your lawn looking neat and tidy. However, sometimes after heavy use, the ground drive belt that powers the tractor starts to wear out and will need replacing. In this article, we will go through the steps on how to replace the ground drive belt on a Craftsman lawn tractor.

Gather all necessary tools and materials

Before you start the process of replacing the ground drive belt, you will need to gather all the right tools and materials. Ensure that you have a socket wrench, a plier, a screwdriver, a new ground drive belt, and a socket set. It’s also essential that you have the tractor manual with you before you start the process. The manual will give you the right specifications and procedures of the tractor.

Remove the Deck

The first step in replacing the ground drive belt is to remove the mower deck. The mower deck is what connects the tractor to the blades allowing it to cut the grass. Using a socket wrench, disconnect the deck from the tractor by loosening the bolts on the brackets. Remember to disconnect the drive belt from the transmission pulley. It’s advisable to use a marker pen to make notes or take photos of the deck and belt arrangement to help you remember how to reassemble it later.

Remove the Old Belt

Once you have removed the mower deck, the next step is to remove the old belt. Using a plier, loosen the brake arm and disengage the rod to free the idler pulley. Next, release the tension on the belt by pulling it towards the center of the deck. Using a screwdriver, loosen the belt from the pulley system, and you can now remove the old belt. It’s important to note how the belt is routed around the pulleys and the direction of the belt.

Install the New Belt

The next crucial step is to install the new belt. It’s essential to ensure that you install the belt in the right direction as indicated on the belt. Begin by routing the belt on the pulley according to the manual's specifications. Ensure that you route the belt back to its original position and make sure to re-install the handle, rod, and brake arm in their respective positions. Use a socket to tighten the adjustment bolt until you reach the right tension on the belt.

Re-install the Mower Deck

The final step is to re-install the mower deck. Ensure that you reattach all bolts on the deck brackets. Make sure that you connect the deck drive belt to the engine pulley. Use the manual to guide you on the deck blade engagement lever. The lever should be in the disconnect position before attaching the drive belt to the engine pulley. Once you are confident you have reattached everything in the right place, you can lower the deck back to the right mowing height.

Conclusion

In summary, replacing the ground drive belt on a Craftsman lawn tractor is a process that requires proper tooling, materials, and a keen eye for detail. It’s vital to follow the correct procedures and guidelines outlined in the manual. Some steps can be technical, and it’s advisable to seek a professional if you are not confident enough to do it by yourself. As a final reminder, safety is always vital, and you should follow all the necessary safety precautions while working on your lawn tractor.