Troy-Bilt Bilt 0 Manual

							21
Checking the Safety Interlock Circuits
Periodically check the safety interlock circuits to ensure they are 
working properly. If a safety circuit is not working as designed, 
contact you Cub Cadet dealer to have the tractor inspected. DO 
NOT operate the tractor if any safety circuit is not functioning 
properly. To check the safety circuits, proceed as follows:
1. Pull the PTO switch upward to the engaged position. 
Momentarily turn the ignition switch to the start position; 
the engine should not crank.
2. Move both control levers fully inward in the neutral 
position; then lift upward from the operator’s seat. The 
engine should stop.
3.  With both control levers fully outward in the neutral/
parking brake engaged position, engage the PTO. Lift 
upward from the operator’s seat; the engine should stop.
4. Start the tractor and move the control levers inward to the 
neutral operating position. Engage the PTO and move both 
control lever slowly into the slow reverse position; the PTO 
should disengage and the mower deck should stop.
SECTION 5 
						

							22
Maintenance Schedule
Before 
Each use
Every 
10 Hours
Every 
25 Hours
Every  
50 Hours
Every 
100 Hours
Prior 
to Storing
Check Engine Intake Screen/CoverP
Clean Battery TerminalsPP
Lube Front WheelsPP
Clean Engine Cooling FinsPP
Lube Front Deck WheelsPP
NOTE: This Operator’s Manual covers several models. Tractor 
features may vary by model. Not all features in this manual are 
applicable to all tractor models and the tractor depicted may 
differ from yours.
Maintenance
WARNING! Before performing any maintenance or 
repairs, disengage the PTO, move the drive control 
levers fully outward in the neutral position, engage 
the parking brake, stop the engine and remove the 
key to prevent unintended starting.
Engine
Refer to the Engine Manual for all engine maintenance intervals, 
procedures, specifications and instructions.
Lubrication
• Using a pressure lubricating gun, lubricate the front castor 
wheel axles with Cub Cadet 251H EP grease after every 10 
hours of service.
• Periodically lubricate all other pivot points with a quality 
lubricating oil.
Cleaning the Spindle Pulleys
Once a month remove the belt covers to remove any 
accumulation of grass clippings from around the spindle pulleys 
and V-belt. Clean more often when mowing tall, dry grass.
Using the Deck Wash System
WARNING! When using the deck wash system, never 
engage the deck from any position other than the 
operator’s seat of the tractor. Do not use an assistant or 
engage deck in the presence of any bystanders. 
1. Attach the nozzle adapter to a standard garden hose 
connected to a water supply. 
2. Move the tractor to an area within reach of the hose where the dispersal of wet grass clippings is acceptable to you. Disengage the PTO, engage the parking brake and stop the engine.
3.  Pull back the lock collar of the nozzle adapter and push the adapter onto one of the deck wash nozzles at either end of the mower deck. Release the lock collar to lock the adapter on the nozzle. See Figure 6-1.
Nozzle
Adapter
Adapter
Lock Collar
Deck Wash Nozzle
Pull Lock
Collar Back
Figure 6-1
4. Turn on the water supply. 
5.  From the tractor operator’s seat, start the engine and engage the PTO. Allow to run as needed. Disengage the PTO and stop the engine.
6. Turn off the water supply. 
7. Pull back the lock collar of the nozzle adapter to disconnect the adapter from the nozzle. 
8. Repeat the previous steps to clean the deck using the nozzle at the other end of the deck.
Maintenance & Adjustments6  
						

							23
Tires
Check the tire air pressure after every 50 hours of operation or 
weekly. Keep the tires inflated to the recommended pressures. 
Improper inflation will shorten the tire service life. See the tire side 
wall for proper inflation pressures. Observe the following guidelines:
• Do not inflate a tire above the maximum pressure shown on the sidewall of the tire.
• Do not reinflate a tire that has been run flat or seriously under inflated. Have it inspected and serviced by a  qualified tire 
mechanic.
General Battery Information
WARNING!
• Should battery acid accidentally splatter into the eyes or onto the skin, rinse the affected area immediately with clean cold water. If there is any further discomfort, seek prompt medical attention.
• If acid spills on clothing, first dilute it with clean water, then neutralize with a solution of ammonia/water or baking soda/water.
• NEVER connect (or disconnect) battery charger clips to the battery while the charger is turned on, as it can cause sparks.
• Keep all sources of ignition (cigarettes, matches, lighters) away from the battery. The gas generated during charging can be combustible.
• As a further precaution, only charge the battery in a well ventilated area.
• Always shield eyes and protect skin and clothing when working near batteries.
• Batteries contain sulfuric acid and may emit explosive gases. Use extreme caution when handling 
batteries. Keep batteries out of the reach of children.
Battery Maintenance
• The battery is filled with battery acid and then sealed at the factory. However, even a “maintenance free” battery requires some maintenance to ensure its proper life cycle.
• Spray the terminals and exposed wire with a battery terminal sealer, or coat the terminals with a thin coat of grease or petroleum jelly, to protect against corrosion.
• Always keep the battery cables and terminals clean and free of corrosion.
• Avoid tipping. Even a sealed battery will leak electrolyte 
when tipped.
WARNING! Batteries contain sulfuric acid and may 
emit explosive gases. Use extreme caution when 
handling batteries. Keep batteries out of the reach 
of children.
Battery Storage
1. When storing the tractor for extended periods, disconnect 
the negative battery cable. It is not necessary to remove 
the bat ter y.
2. All batteries discharge during storage. Keep the exterior 
of the battery clean, especially the top. A dirty battery will 
discharge more rapidly.
3. The battery must be stored with a full charge. A discharged 
battery can freeze sooner than a charged battery. A fully 
charged battery will store longer in cold temperatures than hot.
4. Recharge the battery before returning to service. Although 
the tractor may start, the engine charging system may not 
fully recharge the battery.
Using the Transmission Bypass Rods
If for any reason the tractor will not drive or you wish to move the 
tractor, the two hydrostatic transmissions are equipped with a bypass 
rod that will allow you to manually move the tractor short distances. 
WARNING! Do not tow the tractor, even with the 
bypass rod engaged. Serious transmission damage 
will result from doing so.
1.  From the rear of the tractor, just inside the two rear tires, 
locate the transmission bypass rods. Refer to Figure 6-2.
ab
Figure 6-2
2. Engage the transmission bypass rods, one on each side of 
the tractor, to move the tractor manually without starting 
it. The transmission bypass rods are located on the rear of 
the tractor, just inside each rear wheel. Engage the bypass 
rods by pulling each one out (a) and to the right (b) to lock 
it into place. See Figure 6-2.
NOTE: The tractor will not drive with the bypass rods in the 
engage position.
3.  Disengage the bypass rods by reversing steps a & b after 
moving the tractor. See Figure 6-2.
Hydrostatic Transmission
The hydrostatic transmission is sealed at the factory and is 
maintenance-free. The fluid level cannot be checked and the 
fluid cannot be changed.
SECTION 6 
						

							24
Tractor Storage
If your tractor is not going to be operated for an extended period 
of time (thirty days to approximately six months), the tractor should 
be prepared for storage. Store the tractor in a dry and protected 
location. If stored outside, cover the tractor (including the tires) to 
protect it from the elements. The procedures outlined below should 
be performed whenever the tractor is placed in storage.
1. Change the engine oil and filter following the instructions 
provided in the engine manual packed with this manual.
WARNING! Never store the tractor with fuel in the 
tank indoors or in poorly ventilated enclosures, where 
fuel fumes may reach an open flame, spark or pilot 
light as on a furnace, water heater, clothes dryer, etc.
2. If storing the tractor for 30 days or more:
a. To prevent gum deposits from forming inside 
the engine’s carburetor and causing possible 
malfunction of the engine, the fuel system must be 
either completely emptied, or the gasoline must be 
treated with a stabilizer to prevent deterioration.
WARNING! Fuel left in the fuel tank deteriorates 
and will cause serious starting problems.
b.  Using a fuel stabilizer such as STA-BIL® for storage 
between 30 and 90 days:
• Read the product manufacturer’s instructions 
and recommendations.
• Add to clean, fresh gasoline the correct 
amount of stabilizer for the capacity 
(approximately 3 gallons) of the fuel system.
• Fill the fuel tank with treated fuel and run the 
engine for 2-3 minutes to get stabilized fuel 
into the carburetor.
c. Emptying the fuel system for storage of more than 
90 days:
• Prior to putting the tractor in storage, monitor 
fuel consumption with the goal of running 
the fuel tank empty.
• Run the engine until it begins to stall. Use the 
choke to keep the engine running until all fuel 
in the carburetor has been exhausted.
• Referring to the engine manual, drain the fuel 
from the carburetor bowl. 
3. Clean the engine and the entire tractor thoroughly.
4. Fully charge the battery, then disconnect the negative 
cable at the battery to prevent possible discharge. 
Recharge the battery periodically when in storage. 
NOTE: Remove the battery if exposed to prolonged periods 
of sub-freezing temperatures. Store in a cool, dry location 
where temperatures are above freezing. 
5. Lubricate all lubrication points.
NOTE: Using a pressure washer or garden hose is not 
recommended for cleaning your tractor. It may cause 
damage to electrical components, spindles, pulleys, 
bearings or the engine. The use of water will result in 
shortened life and reduce serviceability.
Removing The Tractor From Storage
1. Check the engine oil.
2. Fully charge the battery and inflate the tires to the 
recommended pressure.
3.  Fill the fuel tank with clean, fresh gasoline.
4. Start the engine and allow to idle for a few minutes to 
ensure engine is operating properly.
5.  Drive the tractor without a load to make certain all the 
tractor systems are functioning properly.
Adjustments
WARNING! Shut the engine off, remove the 
ignition key and engage the parking brake before 
making adjustments. Protect your hands by using 
heavy gloves when handling the blades.
Adjusting RH & LH Drive Control Levers
The RH and LH drive control levers can be adjusted up or down and forward or backward for the comfort of the operator. The drive control levers can be placed in either of two height positions, and/or can be moved forward or rearward within the 
range of the slot in each lower arm.. 
To adjust the drive control lever height, proceed as follows:
1. Remove the upper hex screw and flat washer securing the lever to the pivot bracket.
2. While supporting the control lever to keep it from falling, remove the hex screw and flat washer from the bottom of the control lever and lower arm. Refer to Figure 6-3.
Flat Washer
Hex Screw
Lower Arm
Control Lever
Height
Adjustment Holes
Figure 6-3
3. Reposition the control lever to align with the other set of holes in the lower arm and insert the hex screw through the flat washer and into the lower arm. Tighten the hex screw until 
snug.
4. Insert the hex screw through the flat washer and through the control lever slot and the lower arm. Do not tighten now.
5. If you are going to adjust the control levers forward or rearward, proceed to the next step. If not, fully tighten the hex screw.
SECTION 6
						

							25
To adjust the drive control levers forward/rearward, proceed as follows:
1. If not already loose, loosen the hex screw and rotate the control lever either forward or rearward to the desired position. See Figure 6-3.
NOTE: If the control lever is too tight to move, slightly loosen the hex crew at the bottom of the control lever.
2. Tighten the hex screw to fix the control lever in the adjusted position
3.  Repeat the above procedure to adjust the other control lever into the same position. Adjust so that both levers are even with each other when in the neutral position.
Adjustments
NOTE: Check the tractor’s tire pressure before performing 
any deck leveling adjustments. Refer to Tires for information 
regarding tire pressure.
WARNING! Shut the engine off, remove the 
ignition key and engage the parking brake before 
making adjustments. Protect your hands by using 
heavy gloves when handling the blades.
Leveling the Deck (Side to Side)
NOTE: Check the tractor’s tire pressure before performing any 
deck leveling adjustments. Refer to Tires for information regarding 
tire pressure. Always level the deck side to side before front to rear.
If the cutting deck appears to be mowing unevenly, a side to side 
adjustment can be performed. Adjust if necessary as follows:
1. With the tractor parked on a firm, level surface, place the 
deck lift handle in a middle mowing position and rotate both 
outside blades so that they are perpendicular with the tractor.
2. Measure the distance from the outside of the left blade 
tip to the ground and the distance from the outside of the 
right blade tip to the ground. Both measurements taken 
should be equal. If they’re not, proceed to the next step.
3.  Loosen, but do NOT remove, the hex bolt on the rear left 
deck hanger link. See Figure 6-4.
Adjustment
Gear
Hex Bolt
Figure 6-4
NOTE: The rear right deck hanger link is not adjustable and 
is used to help adjust the other hanger links.
4. Using a wrench, raise or lower the left side of the deck by 
turning the adjustment gear. See Figure 6-4.
The deck is properly leveled when both blade tip measurements 
are equal. Retighten the hex bolt on the front left deck hanger 
bracket when proper adjustment is achieved.
Leveling the Deck (Front To Rear)
NOTE: Check the tractor’s tire pressure before performing 
any deck leveling adjustments. Refer to Tires on page 22 for 
information regarding tire pressure. Always level the deck side to 
side before front to rear.
The front of the deck should be between 1⁄4-3⁄8” lower than the 
rear of the deck. Adjust if necessary as follows:
1. Park the tractor on a firm, level surface and place the deck 
lift handle in a middle position.
2. Rotate the blade nearest the discharge chute so that it is 
parallel with the tractor.
3.  Measure the distance from the front of the blade tip to the 
ground and the rear of the blade tip to the ground. The 
first measurement taken should be between 1⁄4” and 3⁄8” less 
than the second measurement.
4. Determine the approximate distance necessary for proper 
adjustment and proceed, if necessary.
5. Using a wrench, raise or lower the front of deck by turning 
lock nut on the front deck lift rod. See Figure 6-5.
Lock Nut
Front Deck Lift Rod
Figure 6-5
6. The deck is properly leveled when the front tip of the blade is 
1⁄4” lower than the rear tip. Retighten the hex bolt on the left 
rear deck hanger links when proper adjustment is achieved.
Adjusting the Front Gauge Wheels
WARNING!: Keep hands and feet away from the discharge opening of the cutting deck.
 
The front gauge wheels on the mower deck are an anti-scalp feature, and should not ride on the ground. The front gauge wheels should be approximately 1⁄4-1⁄2” above the ground when the deck is set in the desired height setting.
SECTION 6 
						

							26
3. Engines stored between 30 and 90 days need to be treated 
with a gasoline stabilizer such as STA-BIL® and engines stored 
over 90 days need to be drained of fuel to prevent deterioration 
and gum from forming in fuel system or on essential carburetor 
parts. If the gasoline in your engine deteriorates during storage, 
you may need to have the carburetor, and other fuel system 
components, serviced or replaced.
WARNING! Drain fuel only into anapproved 
container outdoors, away from an open flame. Allow 
engine to cool. Extinguish cigarettes, cigars, pipes, 
and other sources of ignition prior to draining fuel.
3.  Remove the spark plugs and pour approximately one 
ounce of oil into each cylinder. Crank the engine one or 
two turns to spread the oil evenly on the cylinder walls. 
Replace the spark plugs.
4. Clean the engine and the entire riding mower thoroughly.
NOTE: Use of a pressure washer or garden hose is not 
recommended to clean your riding mower. They may 
cause damage to electrical components, spindles, pulleys, 
bearings or the engine. The use of water will result in 
shortened life and reduce serviceability.
5. Sharpen the blades so that the mower will be ready to use 
when needed.
6. Protect the metal surfaces. Repair scratches with the 
appropriate touch-up spray paint. Brush a rust preventive 
oil on any unpainted surfaces including the pulleys and 
blades. (Be careful not to get any oil on the drive belts.)
7. Clean and fully charge the battery, then disconnect the 
negative cable at the battery to prevent possible discharge. 
Recharge the battery periodically when in storage. 
NOTE: Remove the battery if exposed to prolonged periods 
of sub-freezing temperatures. Store in a cool, dry location 
where temperatures are above freezing. 
8. Lubricate all lubrication points.
9.  Jack the mower up and store it on blocks to take the weight 
off of the tires.
Removing the Riding Mower from Storage
1. Check the engine oil.
2. Fully charge the battery, lower riding mower off blocks, 
and inflate the tires to the recommended pressure.
3.  Remove the spark plugs and wipe them off. Using the starter, 
crank the engine to pump the excess oil out of the spark 
plug holes. Replace the spark plugs and the ignition leads.
4. If drained before storing, fill the fuel tank with clean, fresh 
gasoline.
5.  Check the level of the engine oil in the crankcase and the 
hydraulic reservoir tank.
6. Start the engine and allow to idle for a few minutes to 
ensure engine is operating properly.
7. Drive the riding mower without a load to make certain all 
the riding mower systems are functioning properly.
Using the lift handle, set the deck in the desired height setting, then check the gauge wheel distance from the ground below. If necessary adjust the front gauge wheels as follows:
1.  Visually check the distance between the front gauge wheels and the ground. If the gauge wheels are near or touching the ground, they should be raised. If more than 1⁄2” above the ground, they should be lowered.
2. Remove the lock nut securing one of the front gauge wheel shoulder screws to the deck. Remove the gauge wheel and shoulder screw. See Figure 6-6. 
Lock
Nut
Front Gauge Wheel
ShoulderScrew
Gauge Wheel Bracket
Index Holes
Figure 6-6
3.  Insert the shoulder screw into the one of four index holes in the front gauge wheel bracket that will give the gauge wheel a 1⁄4-1⁄2” clearance with the ground. 
4. Note the index hole of the just adjusted wheel, and adjust the other front gauge wheel into the respective index hole of the other front gauge wheel bracket.
Off-Season Storage
Riding Mower Storage
If your riding mower is not going to be operated for an extended 
period of time (thirty days to approximately six months), the riding 
mower should be prepared for storage. Store the riding mower 
in a dry and protected location. If stored outside, cover the riding 
mower (including the tires) to protect it from the elements. The 
procedures outlined below should be performed whenever the 
riding mower is placed in storage.
1. Change the engine oil and filter following the instructions 
provided in the Engine Manual.
WARNING! Never store the riding mower with fuel 
in the tank indoors or in poorly ventilated 
enclosures, where fuel fumes may reach an open 
flame, spark or pilot light as on a furnace, water 
heater, clothes dryer, etc.
2. Service the engine as instructed in the seperate engine 
manual.
SECTION 6
						

							27
Battery Removal
WARNING! Battery posts, terminals and related 
accessories contain lead and lead compounds. Wash 
hands after handling.
The battery is located beneath the seat frame. To remove the battery:
1. Remove the hex washer screw securing the battery hold-
down bracket to the frame. Then flip the battery hold-
down bracket up to free the battery. See Figure 7-1.
Hex Washer Screw
Battery Hold-Down Bracket
Figure 7-1
2. Remove the hex cap screw and sems nut securing the black 
negative battery lead to the negative battery post (marked 
NEG). Move the cable away from the negative battery post.
3. Remove the hex cap screw and sems nut securing the red 
positive battery lead to the positive battery post (marked POS).
4. Carefully lift the battery out of the tractor.
5.  Install the battery by repeating the above steps in the 
reverse order. 
WARNING! Always connect the positive lead to 
the battery before connecting the negative lead. 
This will prevent sparking or possible injury from an 
electrical short caused by contacting the tractor 
body with tools being used to connect the cables.
Charging the Battery
Test and, if necessary, recharge the battery after the tractor has 
been stored for a period of time.
• A voltmeter or load tester should read 12.6 volts (DC) or 
higher across the battery terminals. See Figure 7-2.
Voltmeter  
Reading State of  
Charge Charging  
Time
12 . 7 10 0 %Full Charge
12 . 4 75%90 Min.
12 . 2 50%180 Min.
12 . 0 25%280 Min.
Figure 7-2
• Charge the battery with a 12-volt battery charger at a 
MAXIMUM rate of 10 amps.
Servicing Electrical System
A fuse is installed to protect the tractor’s electrical system from 
damage caused by excessive amperage. Always use the same 
capacity fuse for replacement. If the electrical system does not 
function, check for a blown fuse.
If you have a recurring problem with blown fuses, have the tractor’s 
electrical system checked by your Cub Cadet Service Dealer.
Relays and Switches 
There are several safety switches in the electrical system. If a 
function of the safety interlock system described earlier is not 
functioning properly, have the electrical system checked by your 
Cub Cadet Service Dealer.
Deck Removal
Remove the mower deck from the tractor as follows:
1. Move the tractor to a level surface, disengage the PTO, stop 
the engine, and set the parking brake.
2. Move the deck gauge wheels or rollers to their highest 
setting (lowest deck setting).
3. Remove the ‘V’ belt from the PTO pulley, located on the bottom 
of the engine, using one of the following two methods.
WARNING! The muffler at the rear of the tractor 
may be extremely hot, and could cause serious 
burns. Use extreme caution when near the muffler. 
Allow the muffler to fully cool before removing the 
belt from the PTO pulley.
Service7  
						

							28
Rolling the Belt off the PTO Pulley
1. Using the deck lift handle, raise the deck to the  position that 
provides the most horizontal run of the belt between the deck 
idler pulleys and the PTO pulley on the bottom of the engine.
2. Sitting behind the tractor facing forward, reach beneath 
the tractor to grasp the belt at the front of the PTO pulley.
WARNING! Use caution to avoid pinching your 
fingers when rolling the belt off the PTO pulley.
3.  Pull the left side of the belt rearward and downward while 
manually turning the PTO pulley to the right until the belt 
rides out onto the edge of the lower sheave of the pulley.
NOTE: If pulling the right side of the belt, turn the pulley left.
4. While still holding the belt downward, continue turning the 
PTO pulley until the belt is rolled off the pulley. Refer to Figure 
7-5.
PTO Pulley
PTO Belt
Transmission
Tu b e
Figure 7-5
5. Lower the deck into the lowest position using the deck lift 
handle. See Figure 7-3.
Releasing Belt Tension with the Idler Pulley
1.  Using the deck lift handle, raise the deck to the  position 
that provides the most horizontal run of the belt between 
the deck idler pulleys and the PTO pulley on the bottom of 
the engine. See Figure 7-3.
Lowest Mowing
Position
Highest Mowing PositionDeck Lift Handle
Figure 7-3
2. Working from the middle of the tractor, pivot the idler 
bracket and movable idler pulley rearward away from the 
backside of the ‘V” belt just far enough to lift the belt up 
and over the idler pulley. See Figure 7-4.
Moveable Idler Pulley
46/50/54” Decks
Fixed
Idler
Pulley
Idler Bracket
Moveable Idler Pulley
FixedIdler
Pulley
Idler Bracket
42” Decks
Figure 7-4
3.  From beneath the rear of the tractor, slide the belt off of 
the PTO pulley on the bottom of the engine.
SECTION 7
						

							29
6. Pull the cotter pin out of the front deck lift rod securing it 
to the deck. See Figure 7-6. Slide the deck lift rod out of the 
front hanger bracket.
Front Deck Lift Rod
Cotter Pin
Figure 7-6
7. Locate the LH and RH deck release pins on each side of the 
deck. Pull the release pins outward and release the deck 
from the LH and RH deck lift arms. See Figure 7-7.
Deck
Lift
Arm
Deck
Release Pin
Figure 7-7
8. Place the deck lift handle into the highest mowing position 
and slide the deck out from beneath the tractor.
Deck Installation
Install the deck on the tractor as follows:
1. Place the deck lift handle in the highest mowing position See 
Figure 7-3.
2. Slide the deck under the tractor on the right side of the 
tractor lining up the deck hanger brackets and the deck lift 
arms..
3.  Once the deck is under the tractor, move the deck lift 
handle to the lowest mowing position.
NOTE: To line the brackets up properly, it may be necessary to 
place a small block of wood under each side of the deck.
4. Pull the deck release pins outward and maneuver the deck 
as necessary to align the holes in the deck lift arms with the 
pins. Refer to Figure 7-7.
5. When aligned, push each pin fully inward through the lift 
arms to secure the arms in the rear hanger bracket slots.
6. Reinstall the front deck lift rod and secure in place with the 
cotter pin. Refer to Figure 7-6.
7. Make certain the ‘V’ belt is in the spindle pulleys on the 
deck; then route the belt rearward beneath the tractor 
frame, above the transmission tube(s), to the PTO pulley on 
the bottom of the engine.
8. Using the deck lift handle, raise the deck to the  position 
that provides the most horizontal run of the belt between 
the deck idler pulleys and the PTO pulley on the bottom of 
the engine.
9.  Make certain the belt is in the spindle pulleys of the deck, 
and that the backside of the belt is against both the fixed 
and movable idler pulleys. 
10. Sitting behind the tractor, facing forward, make certain the 
belt is not twisted; then reach beneath the tractor to grasp 
the belt and pull it toward the PTO pulley.
WARNING! Use caution to avoid pinching your 
fingers when rolling the belt onto the PTO pulley.  
 
11 .  Pull the right side of the belt rearward and place the 
narrow V side of the belt into the  PTO pulley. See Figure 
7-5.
12 .  While holding the belt and pulley together, rotate the pulley 
to the left (See Figure 7-5). Continue holding and rotating the 
pulley and belt until the belt is fully rolled into the PTO pulley.
NOTE: Before using the tractor double-check the belt 
routing to make sure that the belt has been routed properly.
SECTION 7 
						

							30
6. Place the belt around the idler pulleys removed in step 3 
with the “V” side facing in. Once in place, reinstall all the 
hardware and tighten the flange lock nut to secure the 
assembly. See Figure 7-9.
7. Route the belt as shown in Figure 7-8 and then reinstall the 
deck (refer to Deck Installation on page 29).
46” Deck
1.  Remove the deck from beneath the tractor, (refer to Deck 
Removal on page 27).
2. Remove the hex washer screws securing the belt covers to 
the deck. See Figure 7-10.
PTO Pulley
Idler Pulley
Idler Pulley
Belt CoverHex Washer
Screws
Belt Guard
Spindle Pulley
Spindle Pulley
Idler Arm
Figure 7-10
3. Remove the two idler pulleys by removing the hex screws 
and flange lock nuts that secure them to the deck and the 
idler arm. See Figure 7-11. Do not lose any of the hardware 
when removing the hex screw and flange lock nut.
Pulley Cap
Washer Flange Lock Nut
Flange Lock Nut
Pulley Cap
Idler PulleyIdler Pulley
Belt Guard Spacer
Shoulder Spacer
Idler Arm
Hex Screw
Flat WasherHex Screw
Figure 7-11
NOTE: Take note of the position of the belt guard  to ensure 
they are properly re-installed.
Replacing the Belt
42” Deck
1.  Remove the deck from beneath the tractor, (refer to Deck 
Removal on page 27).
2. Remove the hex washer screws securing the belt covers to 
the deck. See Figure 7-8.
Hex Washer
Screws Belt Cover
Belt Guards
Idler Pulley
Idler Pulley
PTO Pulley
Spindle Pulley
Spindle Pulley
Idler Arm
Figure 7-8
3.
 Remove the two idler pulleys by removing the hex screws 
and flange lock nuts that secure them to the deck and the 
idler arm. See Figure 7-9. Do not lose any of the hardware 
when removing the hex screw and flange lock nut.
Hex Screw
Hex Screw
Pulley Cap
Pulley Cap
Washer Belt Guard
Belt Guard Washer
Idler Arm
Flange Lock Nut
Flange Lock Nut Idler Pulleys
Figure 7-9
NOTE: Take note of the position of the belt guards to 
ensure they are properly re-installed.
4. Remove the belt from the spindle pulleys.
5.
 Install the new belt around the spindle pulleys as shown  
and reinstall the belt covers. See Figure 7-8.
SECTION 7