John Deere LT 166 Mower Belt Slipping

[JimmyTheFingers]

Hello, I've got an LT 166 mower that starts to get pto belt slippage when i get into thicker/taller grass. It should definitely be able to handle it though just wondering if there is a way I can tighten the pto belt up. If I push through too thick of grass I can hear the blades slow down and start to get whiffs of the belt starting to smoke, If I lift the deck the blades take off again. Can I snug it up by adjusting something, or do I need a new spring or something under there?

Thanks

 

[Rivets]

Are you taking off more than one third the height of the grass? If the grass is six inches long and you are trying to remove more than two inches, the problem which you list will result. How old is your drive belt. Cutting constantly the way you describe will quickly shorten belt life, resulting in your problem. Are your blades sharp? Trying to shorten or change your tensioner spring will shorten belt life also.

 

[mechanic mark]

Troubleshooting see troubleshooting.

Service Mower see important notice in box by scrolling down page, engagement rod adjustment procedure to avoid belt damage.

 

[JimmyTheFingers]

I looked in that troubleshooting guide and one of the things to check if your belt was slipping was to check if the mower blade engagement rod needs adjustment. Just wondering how to go about adjusting this rod. I don't think I'm trying to cut too much off, this mower should be able to handle it no problem. The belt is brand new and the blades are also new, and sharp. I cut the grass the same length I was trying for with the deere with my old 1995 yard machines mower with no issues and the blades are dull on that thing and the blade bearings squeal like a pig. Definitely either needs a new spring or adjustment, just not sure how didn't know if there might be a walkthru somewhere.

Thanks

 

[bertsmobile1]

The springs dig little trenches through the mounting holes.
I weld up a dozen or more each season.

If it is an old mower ( lots of hours) then you can go down a belt size.
Downside is you will be buying an odd sized ( expensive ) belt.
A lot of the mowers serviced here go out with a slightly shorter belt.
Note I said slightly shorter , i.e. 1/2", 1/4" etc etc.
Going down a full inch without a lot of care can cost big money in flogged out bearings & bushes.

 

[JimmyTheFingers]

Okay I'll have to dig back in. I'll check out the grooves and weld if need be. I'll also look into rod adjustment. Definitely not going to go with a smaller belt, just got raped for $60 for this one at the implement so don't want to buy another. Also would much rather correct the problem than treat the symptom. Thanks for the input.