Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Craftsman mower deck, craftsman lawn tractor, model craftsman

Question
I replaced a drive belt on a Craftsman Lawn Tractor Model #917.270662 last year.  I noticed that the transmission seemed to be slipping.  When I took a look at the mower deck I noticed that the large retainer spring was no longer hooked up.  Can you tell me where the spring hooks to on the deck?

Thanks

Answer
Is the spring you are referring to for the transmission or mower deck?

http://www.searspartsdirect.com/partsdirect/part-model/Craftsman-Parts/Riding-mo...

Usually when I don't know where a spring connects to I start by looking for wear indicators.  If the spring connects to a pulley bracket or bolt you will usually see a wear mark where the spring has been rubbing/contacting the part.  This tells you the direction the spring goes.  Once you know the spring direction I look for wear marks in that general area.  Normally you will see a wear mark as either shiny metal or a groove wore in the metal part.  If there is rust or clean paint in the area then most likel nothing has been in contact with that area to disturb to paint or rust.

Also attached is a link for the parts diagram that may help.

Let me know which spring you are referring to.

Thanks.
Eric