HELP MTD Riding Mower Belt

[ktandchris]

I have a Yard Machines 1998 600 series 42" riding mower that I just bought. The belt popped off the first time I used it. I had noticed that it seemed a little loose before using it (it is not the newest belt). Can you put it back on track and tighten it? The manual only gives directions for replacing. Also, I saw Grassmaster state in a 2004 thread that you should use the Genuine Manufacturer's belt instead a much cheaper automotive belt because it is Kevlar. Anyone have any knowledge/opinion about this???????

[renchbender93]

That is true you should not use an automotive belt for your lawn mower because the OEM or Direct replacement aftermarket belts have a kevlar wrap on them to both allow them to slip if to loose and not damage the belt and to bit down on the pulleys when ajusted properly. Hope this helps.

[CK-1]

I have a Yard Machines 1998 600 series 42" riding mower that I just bought. The belt popped off the first time I used it. I had noticed that it seemed a little loose before using it (it is not the newest belt). Can you put it back on track and tighten it? The manual only gives directions for replacing. Also, I saw Grassmaster state in a 2004 thread that you should use the Genuine Manufacturer's belt instead a much cheaper automotive belt because it is Kevlar. Anyone have any knowledge/opinion about this???????

I have a MTD Mower and I think its a '98 or '96. Anyway, I changed the belts on it last year which you can get from Lowes. There are a few belt adjustments that have to be made. With the brake, parking brake, tension.. etc. I took the deck off my MTD, cleaned it up and made it into a tow mower for mulch, dirt.... etc.