Checking Belt Wear (Manual Tensioner)

NOTE: While belt is loosened, inspect pulleys and bearings. Rotate and feel for hard turning or any unusual sounds. If pulleys or bearings need replacement, see your John Deere dealer.

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Check Belt Tension

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Tensioner Arm

A - Belt Guard

B - Mounting Cap Screws

C - Tensioner Arm

D - Notched Units

Inspect belt for cracks, fraying, or stretched-out areas. Replace if necessary. (See REPLACING BELT (MANUAL TENSIONER) in Service as Required Section.

NOTE: It is not necessary to remove belt guard (A) to check belt wear.

1. Loosen both belt tensioner mounting cap screws (B).

2. Swing tensioner arm (C) to remove all belt slack.

NOTE: Belt adjustment is measured using notched units (D) above the adjusting cap screw slot on the tensioner.

3. Using the notches on tensioner to count units, move the tensioner arm to stretch belt 1-1/2 units for appropriate tension on new belt. (Move arm one unit for used belt.)

4. Tighten tensioner mounting cap screws (B) to 70 N˙m (52 lb-ft).