200 Series, How Long Do Your Mower Drive Belts Last?

I installed my 39" 3 blade mower deck on my 1978 210 yesterday afternoon so I could mow. I had it and the JD M47766 drive belt removed as I had the 43C center blade on. When I was installing the belt I noticed a single crack on the backside of the belt. This belt is only 3 months old. Is this typical or should I be looking at something here? The belt has always been properly routed. I hope it will make it through the rest of mowing season. How long should I expect the mower drive belt to last?

Hec

Hector the cracks are kind of normal. I have replaced mower belts in the years since 1984 when I bought my 214. Probably 5 to 7 at most. Usually the reason was a bad idler pulley bearing freezing and burning the belt. Maybe twice from old age. If you use non JD belts expect to do replace them once a year. Roger

Roger,

Thanks for that. The belt is a JD belt. I better get another one for a spare.

Hec

I do keep a spare because every time I have broken one it seems like the dealer isn't open. The current spare has been on the shelf for about 4 years now. Roger

Roger,

Now it's a quest to see how long this belt will last. The one it replaced seemed to have cracks every 2" but never broke.

Hec

I used a mow 15-20 1/2 acre yards. I would replace them every spring, and only remember breaking one, while using it as a leaf blower in the fall.

And follow Rogers advice, a Napa belt might get you through,but you'll still be at the dealer Monday for the right belt, so keep a spare for any important jobs.