LT1000 mowing deck pulley brakes

[Cusser]

I have a Sears lawn tractor LT1000, Model 917.275371 serial number 013105A002361. I would just like to confirm/further my understanding. Question: when one moves the mowing belt engagement lever even with the engine off, should the pulley brakes move away from the pulleys? Thanks.

 

[StarTech]

Of course, They are brakes.

 

[Cusser]

Thanks. I should be getting this lawn tractor up on the tractor jack next week.

 

[Cusser]

OK, I took a look. The pulley brakes work properly. The intermittent noise seems to have been from a hitch pin on the end of the engagement cable that had slipped and was moving and getting caught; plus the mower deck belt is soon in need of replacement.