Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Cadet 1050 Riding Lawn Mower, mower deck, clevis

Question
Hey, I have a Cadet 1050 Riding Lawn Mower and have been having a bit of a problem with the mower engaging properly.  Now the thing won't engage at all.  I made sure it was clear of grass & debris at the belts, etc. Any ideas of what I could check?  We bought it new not even a year ago.  Thanks,Linda

Answer
Hiya Linda - what you've got is a belt tensioner thats been "barely" engaging and now the belts worn and its "not" engaging.  Under your mower frame if you follow the mower deck engaging lever you'll find a rod that connects a moving pulley arm.  The rod will have all these threads at one end.  You must remove a clip, then pop the bent part of the rod out of the clevis it goes in and turn it,  now if you can tell which way the pulleys move to engage the belt, turn the rod so that it moves farther in that direction.  You only need at most six turns.  Now, be aware that your belt may be completely worn out by now because it's been slipping alot, so check it also.  Lemme know how it goes!  :)