Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): John deere drive belt problem, old john deere, mulching blade


Question
QUESTION: I have recently aquired a older John Deere 48inch walk behind mower.  It worked great for a few mowings but after I got stuck in a hole that my dog dug it will not stop throwing off the drive belts.  I have bought new belts from John Deere and adjusted the linkages in every which way and it still throws the belt off occasionally.  All of the pulleys seem ok...Is there something I am missing?
Thanks for your help.
Eric

ANSWER: When you say "old John Deere" 48inch mower you have narrowed things down to about 15 models.  Reply with the serial number and I can help.

A general answer would be that you idler arm pivot bushing is worn out.

Don't blame the dog!  Unless it's like this damn Daucshound/Rat Terror, oops, I mean Rat Terrier, mix my wife has.  If it's like her dog, I recomend a good quality mulching blade to eliminate the dog issue.

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

QUESTION: The serial number is MO12PDX117122
I am not sure of the model number? Not anywhere on the machine that I can find.
A mulching blade would not do much for a saint bernard!!  I would need a brush hog I think!!
Should the bolt that holds the two rods for the idler pulleys be tight? They seem to move alot when I go over rough terrain.
Thanks
Eric

Answer
The model number is written in great big letters on the side of the hood.

The mower still has a freakin hood.  It's right between the handle bars.  If you have a yellow deck mower it sucks it will always be a problem,  If you an hd 30 or 45 it will be common sense.  Look again,, you will have a model number in BIG LETTERS somewhere.

The rods are supose to be tight at rest.

You might have gave me a 1 for knowledge but appearantly that's still more knowledge than you have.

Just so you know your ratings don't mean dick to me. I could care less.