Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Murray Rider Blade Belt Drive Not Working, ohv engines, select shop

Question
QUESTION: I have a Murray mid engine rider, model #309304x8E (2002). The blade belt appears to hang up on the engine pulley and won't let the engine start. I can remove the belt and the engine will start. The blade brake assembly is new, the idler pulley is new, the blade belt is new (Murray part #37-111). I assume that when the blade brake is on and the belt is loose the engine pulley should spin freely allowing the engine to start. What would cause the belt to be so tight that the engine won't start? Is there a different belt that would work better?

ANSWER: Hello Ron:

Usually this is Caused by Improper Belt Routing, Improper Belt, Low/Weak Battery, Starter Dragging/Binding or the Valves Require Adjustment (OHV engines).  Check the Battery (have a Load Test Performed) and the Starter First. These are the Most Common Causes for the Problem you Described. Send me the Model and Type Numbers Off the Engine, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. Go to this Site Addy, http://www.smallenginepartswarehouse.com/parts.asp and Select Shop Online Parts Look Up. Then Select the Model Tab. Then Select the OEM (Murray) and Enter the Model Numbers (309304X8E). Then Double Click on your Model in the Results Area. Then Select the Section of the Mower you Wish to View. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let me Know What Happens, Please. 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 9pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: John,  Main problem seems to be the blade belt.  It is new and  is gripping too tight on the motor pulley.  The belt has the correct Murray part # on it. This is causing the blade pulley to turn against the brake pad and is wearing it out in addition to keeping the motor from starting.  One comment I had is 'This is common with new belts assuming it is adjusted correctly. As the belt is used it will quickly loose the stickyness new belts have.' How long will this take?  Should I get a new belt or a longer one.  There are no adjustments that I can find.  Thank you, Ron

Answer
Hello Again Ron:

Is the Spring Pulling the Idler Off the Belt Completely? This is Unusal. I have Seen New Belts that Were Not the Length they were Supposed to be. It Usually Takes 1 or 2 Cuttings for the Belt to Lose the Sticky Appearance you Asked About. You can Try a Belt that is 1/2" to 1" Longer. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John