Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Cub Cadet LT 1046 Transmission Problem, tension spring, cub cadet

Question
Thanks, John, for the quick response.  I decided to take the deck off and investigate further.   I noticed the problem right away.  Underneath the seat there 3 pulley's that guide the drive belt for the transmission.  The belt was inside (off) one of the pulleys.  I was easily able to pull the belt to the proper side of the pulley and the mower runs fine.   My concern is how did this happen and why was it so easy to pull the belt back into position.  Makes me think the belt is stretched or something else is out of place.  Anyway, I will see how it goes and probably replace the belt if it happens again.  Thanks. -Brian
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-----Question-----
While mowing with my 6 month old Cub Cadet, I hit a bump and the transmission went in to neutral.  I had to turn off engine, push the mower a few feet and restart for the transmission to engage again.   Since then the transmission seems to be slipping and is not at full power.  The forward speed is around 50% and cannot climb a small incline.  The service dealer suggested changing the drive belt as he is unaware of any transmission problems.  Does this make sense?  Any suggestions?  Thanks.
-----Answer-----
 Hello Brian:

 It Sounds like the Tension Spring for the Drive has Broken or Jumped Off. Go to this Addy http://www.emerichsales.com/home.asp and Click the Online Parts Catalog. Then Select the OEM(Cub Cadet) and Enter the Model Numbers LT1046 and Click Search. Then Double Click on the Model in the Search Results Area. Now Select Drive System. The Spring is Diagram # 31. Check the Belt and Pulleys for being Bent also. Hope this Helps. I am here if you Require more Assistance. Let me know what Happens, Please. Thanks.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John

Answer
 Hello Brian:

 The Spring I was Talking about Hooked to that Bracket. LOL Great!!! I'm Glad you got it Going. The Belt is Good as Long as it is Allowing the Mower to Perform as Designed. The Ease of Removal and Replacement of the Belt is Caused by the Spring. When the Belt has Stretched to the Point it is No Good, you will Notice a Lack of Ground Speed. Hope this Helps. Thanks for the E-Mail Update. May all your Mechanical Problems be SMALL ONES and May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Till Next Time.

 Best Wishes and Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John