Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): troy built 17.5hp 42mower, belt tension, drive belts

Question
how do i adjust drive belts ? have new factory belts  and the mower will not shift or stop when the drive pedal is r.
released,unless it is jacked up without any wheel contact. model 13cd609g063  serial 1ao51410059, year 2002?

Answer
 Hello John:

 1- Remove the Deck. 2- Remove Spark Plug. 3- Inspect ALL COMPONENTS Under the Mower. Lubricate all Moving Joints with WD-40 or Liquid Wrench. Pay Close Attention to the Clutch Rods. Follow the Linkeage and Inspect for Excessive Wear or Broken Springs. You will see the Adjustment Point when doing this. There are Specific Setting that are used for setting the Adjustment. I have found that due to Wear it is better to Adjust as Required to Work Properly.  Also if the Belts are Routed Wrong on the Pulleys the Clutch wont Work Properly. Set the Belt Tension to WHERE THE MOWER STOPS AND YOU ARE ABLE TO SHIFT WITHOUT THE TRANSMISSION BINDING.
Setting the Belt Tension this way Allows for Stretch in the Belt. If you are Concerned about Belt Grab, then loosen the Belt to your Satisfaction. As long as the Belt is not Slipping when the Mower is Under a Load. It will be fine. But you will have to Adjust it More Often Due to Belt Stretch.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John