Lastec The Articulator 3696H, Owner'S Manual, Page: 43 / 86

Initial Set-Up
Mower Deck Drive Belt
Initial Set-Up Lastec//021819 3-13
3
3.16 Mower Deck Drive Belt
Warning
WARNING!

NEVER inspect, adjust, or change the deck drive belt while the engine is running!

ALWAYS clean the entire deck area (under the operator seat pan) of all grease, oil,
fuel, grass, or debris to prevent fire and projectile hazards!
The mower deck drive belt is located under the operator seat pan, between the gearbox
(under the engine main drive pulley) and the center mower deck. The spring-loaded idler
system automatically tensions the belt to the proper level.
Check the belt for visible wear or damage. If the 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 belt for proper tension. If the idler tensioner pivots to its maximum stroke with-
out adequately tightening the belt, you need to replace the belt. If the belt you are check-
ing is new, and the idler tensioner goes to its maximum stroke without adequately
tightening the belt, it is likely you have installed the wrong size belt. Contact your Lastec
dealer for the proper belt lengths for your Articulator.
If you are unable to install a new belt with the idler system at its minimum stroke, it is likely
you are installing the wrong size belt. Contact your Lastec dealer for proper belt lengths
for your Articulator.
Be sure 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 belt.
Clean entire mower deck area (under the operator seat pan) 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.