Deck Belts – What is it and why do I need one?
A deck belt is a thick, flat belt with a series of evenly spaced metal teeth on either edge that mesh with the teeth of the pulley on which it is mounted. It is used as a tensioning device for the belt that drives the wheels of your mower.
If the belt becomes loose or stretches out, it will lose its ability to transmit power efficiently to the mower’s drive wheels.
This will result in a decrease in mowing speed and, eventually, the mower may become immobilized. In order to increase the life of your deck belt, you should replace it at least once every two years.
It is a good idea to replace it whenever it shows any signs of wear.
How do I replace a deck belt?
The first thing you need to do is remove the front of the mower. This will make it easier to access the deck belt.
Next, remove the four screws that hold the deck housing in place. Remove the deck housing by lifting it up off the deck.
Now, remove the two bolts that hold the deck belt tensioner in place. The deck belt tensioner is the black plastic or rubber part that looks like a thick washer with metal arms that go around the deck belt and hold it tight against the tensioner pulley.
Next, remove the two bolts that hold the tensioner pulley in place. The tensioner pulley is the big metal wheel with notches in its edge that mesh with the teeth on the belt.
When the tensioner pulley is removed, you will be able to see and access the deck belt. Loosen the nut that holds the deck belt to the tensioner pulley, remove the belt, and replace it with a new one.
Tighten the nut back down and replace the deck housing. That’s it – you have replaced your deck belt.