I have replaced the Primary (from the motor/clutch to the deck) belt on my Sears garden tractor (1996 model, 19HP Kohler, 42, Green) deck many many times for being too long, i.e. stretched. Nothing mechanical on the deck or clutch to indicate a problem, everything looks like the manual, nothing worn or our of alignment. Here are some of my theories, please advise.
- Cheep belt: Get a better belt, maybe from on-line source, any suggestions where? (i.e. not sears parts department)
- The grass that accumulates on the deck is causing the belt to not shed its heat, (like a blanket) and I should just keep the deck top clean, this option would require stopping and cleaning the deck maybe 3-4 times during a mow job.
- Go slower and allow the belt to be at FULL speed during the entire mow job. I sometimes go moving too fast and have had to reach-in and clear the blades.
- Mow more often, similar to number 3.
- Sell this piece of crap and get the JD 300 series I always wanted?