RZT22 Idler Pulley Knocking

[neauva]

Greetings all,

I have an RZT22 (ca 2005). The Idler Pulley, particularly at lower RPMs, is apparently knocking against the underside of the chassis. The part is on page 3 of the parts manual and is most likely the hex cap screw (p# 710-0520) that holds the pulley onto the idler arm (p# 603-04147). The arm has a spring to apply tension and the pulley visibly vibrates laterally while mower is running but there appears (audibly) to be a vertical vibration as well, causing the bolt to knock. If I apply some pressure (e.g., with a screwdriver) to the idler arm to minimize the vibration, the knocking stops. I have lubed it so I don't expect that's the cause. Although it doesn't appear to be too critical, it is rather loud when idling at low RPM and probably isn't doing the various parts much good.

Any ideas on the cause? Design? Belt too loose (it is a bit worn)?

Thanks!

 

[GTSRider]

Sounds like bearing is bad.....
just replaced mine because of a similar problem as you are having.

 

[neauva]

Makes sense - same noise? Knocking/banging? What I can't quite figure out is which part is the offender. Pulley? Or the Shoulder Screw (which has the grease fitting)? or the Idler Arm? I would assume the SS has the bearings but would have thought the Pulley would, too.

 

[neauva]

That is, given the following diagram (close enough to my model). Is it part# 2, 10, or 11 that is the most likely offender?

Thanks!