there isnt a tensioner on the belt, what happens is when you engage the system a horizontal wheel moves to engage the belt (parasitic load) and then the wheels will turn.
Another issue I notice sometimes is that the gears/teeth on the inner side of the deck wheels gets worn and therefore they won't spin.
So check: 1 cable moving freely 2 belt wear 3 deck wheels
#5
SONOFADOCKER
Take the two drive wheels off . You might see that the plastic teeth have worn away .
I need to change my drive wheels every few years ( bumpy lawn )
You can get wheels on eBay less than sears parts center .
Wheels come off in a few seconds with 9/16 socket.