How to Replace the Drive Belt on a Rear-Drive Lawnmower

Replacing the drive belt on a rear-drive lawnmower can save you some money if you do it yourself. With patience, a bit of mechanical aptitude, some tools and the owner's manual, you'll have that mower back in action in no time.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• towel
• owner's manual
• new drive belt
• pliers
• rear-drive lawnmower
• wrenches

1. Consult the owner's manual. Most often, the manual will have tips and steps that will be very helpful. If you cannot locate the manual, check the manufacturer's Web site.

2. Remove the mower assembly. This will allow you much more room to fix the problem.

3. Locate and remove the old drive belt and the belt guides. The belt guides are pieces of metal that hold the belt in place when the mower is not in gear.

4. Install the new belt. Follow the routing instructions outlined in the manual. Many mowers also have the routing guide printed on the mower assembly.

5. Reinstall the belt guides. As you tighten the bolts, be sure that the guides fit properly into the notches.

6. Start the mower. While the motor is idling and the parking brake is engaged, inspect the belt to be sure that the pathing is correct.

7. Put the assembly back on the mower in the reverse order in which you removed it.

Tips & Warnings

• As long as the mower assembly is unattached, you might as well have the blades sharpened. It only takes a moment to remove the blades and it may be a while before you get a better opportunity.
• Have a friend depress the clutch when reinstalling the belt. This will move the clutch drive pulley and give you more belt slack to work with.
• Note the number of the drive belt before you buy a new one. Write down the number and find the exact match. Do not settle for "close enough."
• When you reinstall the mower assembly, make sure that it is balanced. If the balance is even a little off, the mower will cut your lawn unevenly.