Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): poor mowing quality, belt tension, minimal results

Question
I have an old (but in good shape) Creftsman rear engine single blade riding mower with a 30" cut and I get poor cut quality. I tried sharpening the blade but with minimal results. Do I need a new blade that mulches or do I need a new belt? And if it is a belt problem, how does one adjust it properly? Any help would be appreciated.

Answer
Hiya Jimmie,
When you say poor mowing quality, I'm assuming you mean it dosen't cut all the grass?  These small riders typically have 5-8hp max, and as a result, their best cutting speeds are slow to say the least.  A mulcher blade will actually REDUCE your cutting performance by further loading the engine.
1.-Cut only when grass is dry (not early morning)
2.-Reduce cutting speed
3.-Belt tension is set on the end of the belt engagement rod.  Remove the clip, then disconnect the rod from the threaded pinion (the part that turns on the rod).  Spin the pinion & make it travel in the direction that engaging the blade moves the arm in (no more than 1/4 inch), reattach and try it again (remember, if you install a new belt, this will have to be moved back, or engagement will be VERY difficult).
Lemme know!!