How to Replace the Drive Belt on a Craftsman GT3000

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Things You'll Need

  • Screwdriver

  • Wheel blocks

Keep your lawn mower running smoothly.

The Craftsman GT3000 lawn mower uses a drive belt to move the wheels. The drive belt transfers power from the engine pulley to the rear differential to engage the rear wheels. The drive belt can wear out over time and become stretched or cracked. If the drive belt is not operating properly, the mower may not operate as intended. Replacing the drive belt usually takes less than an hour and does not require any special tools.

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Step 1

Park the Craftsman GT3000 mower on a level surface. Turn off the mower and remove the key from the ignition. Depress the brake pedal and engage the parking brake. Place wheel blocks behind the wheels if necessary to keep the mower from moving.

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Step 2

Depress the lift lever plunger and lower the mowing deck to the lowest position using the attachment lift lever.

Step 3

Locate the left hand mandrel cover. It is the plastic that covers part of the belt and mandrel pulley. Remove the screws from the mandrel cover with a screwdriver.

Step 4

Roll the belt over the top of the mandrel pulley with your fingers. Remove the belt from the clutch pulley and idler pulleys with your fingers. Remove the belt from the Craftsman GT3000 mower.

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Step 5

Remove any dirt and debris from the mower deck. Check the idler pulleys to make sure they operate properly.

Step 6

Install the new belt around the two idler pulleys. Wrap the belt around the clutch pulley with your fingers. Roll the belt into the left hand mandrel pulley with your fingers.

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Step 7

Check the belt to make sure it is routed correctly on the Craftsman GT3000 mower. Install the left hand mandrel cover and screws. Tighten the screws with a screwdriver.

Warning

Allow the mower to cool down before performing this procedure.

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