Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): MTD rider mower with variable speed pulley, variable speed pulleys, variable speed pulley

Question
Dear Sir, I saw in one of the questions & answers posted on this site that the variable speed pulleys on MTD rider mowers can wear out. I was surprised to hear that. But it made me wonder if that's the reason that my mower fails to do well in the "middle speeds". It does real well in the first four speeds, poorly in the fith and sixth. and fine in 7th speed. I do follow the book's directions to adjust the speed control, but it never seems to make much differance! We mow allot of lawn and it seems to take a toll on mowers. If I were to look for wear or damage, what would I look for?
Thank you kindly in advance.

Sincerely,

Jerry  

Answer
Most of the time the belts are wore causing the poor performance on upper and lower speed.

Along with the wore belts the variable pulley needle bearings dry up...a little grease usually fixes the problem.

The pulley is located on mid 80's riding tractors under below the forward/reverse shifting lever.
Let me know if this helps.
Eric