QuestionWell, I'm baffled. The belt and extension spring look good, although I suppose it's possible the spring is weak. The control rod is connected at both ends but does seem to catch on misc. bolts. However, the pivoting (Is this the same as the traction pivot bracket?) bracket does not hardly move unless the control rod is pulled down (mower tipped up) by me. But I cannot tell why it's not moving freely (Is it a weak spring or the pivot point you mentioned?) (What is a pivot point anyway?). I do not see a return spring on this bracket(except the earlier mentioned extension spring), nor does my parts book show one.
It’s hard to recall proper operation, but it does seem like the clutch pushes down too easily-i.e. little resistance.
By the way, the traction pivot bracket is connected to a traction support bracket that is in turn connected the frame and engine by a bolt. Should this bolt be tight or loose? The support bracket seems to rotate around the bolt. I've tried it tight and loose and it doesn't seem to impact travel of the pivot bracket.
Wayne
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Couple things to look for.
1-verify that the belt is ON the pulleys.
2- a big long extension spring to 'return' this bracket assembly when you let pressure off the pedal. A) check the return spring for connection and tension, or if its a compression spring, make sure it isn't broken in the middle.
3-go to the control rod, it should be held in bracket holes at each end and captured with clips.
4-look at the pivoting bracket that tensions the belt, make sure it travels freely and isn't sticking (rust) or hanging up (loose pivot point from wear). Also check the return spring on this bracket as well at this time.
One of the above steps just about HAS to be your problem, lemme know what you find ok?
AnswerThe pivot point I referred to is the part of the moving traction bracket that pivots about the shaft or bolt that is mounted through it. These shaft/bolt-holes develop play over time, and in some cases severe wear can make their mounting so sloppy they lose enough meaningful movement to operate effectively.
The mounting bracket you mentioned that the moving traction bracket is mounted to, could this piece possibly have become loose (it should be tight) and turned, so that the moving bracket mounted to it has lost its ability to control tension on the belt? Look at this closely. So sorry about my delay Wayne, I went out of town for a day (business trip) but am home again- so responce will be fast.
