http://apache.ariens.com/manuals/00460000.pdf
http://apache.ariens.com/manuals/00189700A.pdf see pages 20 & 21 idler pulleys, item 7 quantity 2, item 10 quantity 1 , inspect idler pulley bearings for being worn out. Also check idler arm item 8 & spring item 31 for excessive wear. These parts are commonly overlooked when working on mower deck.
http://apache.ariens.com/manuals/00296000C_ENG.pdf also see page 26, poor cutting quality.
You're quite welcome!