Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): John Deere L111 unknown part, double pulley, rubber elbow

Question
QUESTION: Paul - I'm back...and I picked up an old C111J for $100 that ran flawlessly after putting in a new fuel line. However, there is a small rubber elbow that rotted out that I'm worried I will not be able to get a replacement for. It runs from the carb somewhere into the engine. About an inch and a half long. Gas started pouring out when I brushed against it. What is this for and can I jury rig something in place of it? I'm worried this thing is so old that the dealer won't have it anymore. Thanks.

BTTW - I added you to my Myspace page.

ANSWER: It's a breather tube.  Excellent availability.  Don't rig it.

The fuel is there because your carb is leaking over.  You know the drill, clean the carb and tank.

Watch for an excellent update on MYspace from my week at the NHRA drag races.  Soon as I figure out how.

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QUESTION: OK - last question - I promise!

The dual pulley that sits on the deck (top is primary belt from engine and lower is secondary to blades) keeps slipping off when I mow. I dropped the deck and the fact that this thing just slips on and off doesn't see right...like its missing a a top bearing or some method of securement (the "middle" bearing is present on the spindle and does turn although it looks worn). The pulleys' spindle is attached to an "L" shaped pivot arm that doesn't seem like it's going to be easy to take off (like its been pressed on at its pivot point). I was hoping to just order the pulley/spindle/arm and replace it but looks like a have to bring the whole deck in? Is this a do it yourselfer? Thanks again...

Answer
You have a blown double pulley bearing.   The ball bearings are all over the yard.  The post you keep sliding the double pulley onto is the inner race of the bearing.  See the 2 grooves on the post.  That's where the balls use to run.  The outer race is pressed into the double pulley.

When good, the stem of the bearing is pressed into the pulley arm (the "L" shaped thing.  The double pulley is pressed onto the bearing.

The arm is not pressed onto the deck. It pivots on nylon bushings that are seized.  Take the top idler arm off.  It will just fall off.  Sand the shaft until shiny.  Now pry the bearing arm off of the deck.

Unless you have a 20+ton press at home you will have to have your dealer repair it.  Take him the arm and the pulley.  He has done this 100 times. 15.00 parts, 35.00 labor.