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How to adjust 46 mower deck idler strap

2853 Views 9 Replies 5 Participants Last post by  ianieto, 
I
I have been rebuilding my 46 mower deck so I removed all components off the deck including the idler strap. I don’t totally understand its purpose but it seems to limit the travel of the idler arm so it does not go too loose. However, with the spring pulling the opposite direction to keep the belt taught, it still isn’t clear to me why it is needed. I have not found any mention anywhere about this part when people have worked on their decks. So, what is the proper adjustment for the strap? See the attached photo. Thanks
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J
On the 50 deck the spacing between the strap and idler arm is 1/16".
Harold
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The 50" mower deck manual describes the gap setting. The 46" deck manual (sn > 525,001) does not mention the strap. The belt is in place and tensioned when the strap is tightened down, with a 1/16" gap between the end of the strap and the side of the idler arm.

Harold
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