How to Adjust a Craftsman Garden Tractor Belt

If you have a Craftsman garden tractor, there may come a time when you will need to adjust the belt on the tractor. Over time, the belt on a tractor can become worn and may also become loose. Tightening the belt on your tractor will keep the tractor working properly and allow you to get more use out of the belt.

Supplies needed:

• 
  

  Screwdriver

  
  

1. 
   

   Make sure that the tractor is
   located on a level surface and is turned off. Working on a tractor
   that is running can be dangerous.

   
   


2. 
   

   Use the lever that is located on
   the side of the tractor to lower the mower deck to the floor. The
   lever has to be pushed toward the front of the tractor.

   
   


3. 
   

   Remove the belt tension rod. It is
   located in a locking bracket on the right side of the mower deck.
   The belt tension rod easily snaps in and out of place.

   
   


4. 
   

   Use the screwdriver to remove the
   covers that you see on the mower deck. The covers are used to protect the pulleys.

   
   


5. 
   

   Tighten the belt around the
   electric clutch pulley. Make sure that the belt or any of the
   components are not too worn. If the belt or any of the components are
   too worn, then you will have to replace them.

   
   


6. 
   

   Replace the cover and use the
   screwdriver to secure the screws.

   
   


7. 
   

   Set the belt tension rod back into
   place in the locking bracket. Return the mower deck back to its
   original place by using the lever located on the side of the
   tractor.

   
   


8. 
   

   Test out the tractor. The belt
   issue should now be resolved.