How to Replace a Belt on a Craftsman Lawn Mower

Craftsman rotary mowers are precision-engineered power tools that provide excellent service when properly maintained. Drive belts are designed to absorb the shock of cutting-blade obstructions to reduce damage to the engine and transmission components. Users can easily learn to replace the drive belt in a few easy steps. Craftsman recommends belt replace annually for optimum performance as a routine maintenance procedure.

Things You'll Need

• Work gloves
• SAE socket set
• Machine oil

Instructions

1. Disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug. Attach the spark plug wire to the metal grounding post located 6 inches to the rear of the spark plug. This will prevent accidental engine starting.

2. Place the speed adjustment lever in third gear. This will provide drive belt slack for later ease of belt removal. Remove the gas cap, and place a piece of plastic over the gas filler opening. Replace the gas cap tightly (this will prevent gas seepage during repairs).

3. Remove the five self-tapping hex screws that secure the transmission belt cover to the mower deck. This cover is located to the rear of the engine. Tilt the mower onto its side and support it so that it cannot fall over.

4. Remove the SAE bolt which attaches the mower blade to the crankshaft. It is located at the very center of the mower blade. Remove both the blade and blade adapter, and set them aside.

5. Remove the secondary belt cover which is revealed after the blade adapter has been removed. There are 3 self-tapping hex screws holding it in place. Pull the belt free from the crankshaft (located near the center of the mower).

6. Remove the belt completely from the mower by taking it from between the idler pulley and the belt guard, then pushing it away from the idler pulley bracket. Install a new belt using the complete reverse instructions for belt removal (steps listed above).

7. Set the mower in an upright position and remove the plastic from beneath the gas cap. Reattach the spark plug wire. Test the mower for normal operation.

Tips & Warnings

• Lightly lubricate all idler pulleys with machine oil before reinstalling the blade.

References

• Sears Owner's Manual: Craftsman Mulching Rotary Mower