Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Drive Belt, steering wheel, model numbers

Question
I have gotten a Craftsmen 42" model #917.255430, SN 022493S 009895. The engine ran fine but the drive belt was around the steering wheel. I put it on and it felt tight. I started the mower, and the drive belt was making a flapping noise. When I put it in gear, even pushing the clutch all the way down would not take it out of gear. Also, the clutch would not come all the way up. Eventually after a minute or two the drive belt popped back off.

Do you have any suggestions?

Answer
Hello Tucker:

Frpm your Description it Sounds like the Belt is Routed on the Clutch Idler Pulley Wrong and the Belt Guard is Not Keeping the Belt on the Pulleys as Designed. Check the Belt Routing. Make Sure you have All the Belt Guards Set Approximately 1/4" from the Idlers and Pulleys. To View a Breakdown of this Unit Go to this Site Addy, http://www.searspartsdirect.com/partsdirect/index.action and Enter the Model Numbers and Click Search. From this Page you can View Diagrams and Parts Lists for you Equipment Using the "View Sub Components" Section Near the Bottom Left.  Select the "Drive" Sub Component. If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John