Lastec Articulator, Owner'S Manual, Page: 33 / 54

Initial Set-Up
Deck Belts and Alignment
Initial Set-Up XR700 062419 3-11
3
The spring-loaded idler automatically tensions the belts.
Check the belts for visible wear or damage. If either belt appears excessively worn, dam-
aged, cracked, weathered, or otherwise appears to pose an unsuitable or unsafe operat-
ing condition, replace the belt.
Check the belts for proper tension. If the idler arm pivots to its maximum stroke without
adequately tightening the belts, you need to replace the belts. If the belts you are check-
ing are new, and the idler tensioner goes to its maximum or maximum stroke without ade-
quately tightening the belts, it is likely you are have installed the wrong size belts. Contact
your Lastec distributor for the proper belt lengths for your Articulator.
Ensure that the idler tensioning spring is properly installed and in good condition. If for
some reason this spring becomes loose, detached, or fatigued, the idler will not properly
tension the belts.
Clean entire deck area (under the belt cover) of all excess grease, oil, fuel, grass, or
debris before operating the Articulator. This will help prevent damage to the equipment,
fire hazard, and projectile hazards.
Ensure to replace the belt cover and hardware.
3.9 Deck Belts and Alignment
WARNING!

NEVER inspect, adjust, or change the deck drive belts while the tractor is running.

Always clean the entire deck (including under the belt covers) of all grease, oil, fuel,
grass or debris to prevent fire or projectile hazards.
CAUTION!

When cutting with new belts, do not over-power the Articulator within the first few
hours of operation. Listen for excessive belt slippage. Check belt tension after 2
hours of operation. Check all belt tension adjustment hardware after the first 8 hours
of operation.
Again, the overall life of the Articulator drive and deck belts is more greatly affected by the
attention given them within their initial 8 hours of use than at any other time. Properly
adjusted, the belts can perform over 1000 hours of service. Improperly adjusted, they can
fail within a few hours. Be aware that over 50% of the total belt stretch will occur within the
first few hours of use.