IslandTractor said:
I also found the Gates B43 at RocklandAuto dot com for a $7.35 each (about $3 less than McMaster-Carr). They are described as "GATES Part # B43 {Hi-Power II Belt B 21/32" x 46"} Category: Classical Section Wrapped V-Belt" which sounds right.
Now, I need to find a bigger spring or a solid threaded link. A new threaded link would be nice but then I'd need to deal with an attachment point. Maybe using a small section of chain to replace the existing spring would be easiest. Is there any reason not to just reinforce the existing spring by wrapping wire tightly through it?
Here's a clue;
Find a global arborvitae about 4ft across, say 25 years old.
Back up over it with your mower lifted and running, lower the mower, just before it gets to the ground the chances are the 5 or 6 inch diameter trunk will rip right out of the ground and jam the mower.
Hear any belt slip (Squealing) just before the tractor stalled ?
How about when it was loading down while munching on the mid section ?
Right, didn't think you would.
Increasing the belt tension is only going to add side load to the shaft bearings and lead to OTHER problems.
Dunno why we're so ready to assume that Caroni don't know what they're doing here, that their designers are idiots, etc., but I for one ain't about to re-engineer this thang on a whim.
Belts slip, we know that much.
We know it is a GOOD thing that belts slip and absorb shock loads instead of passing forces back up to more expensive parts.