1981 Troybilt Horse....

[jaken]

If the adjustment block and roller are not worn, and the bushings in the shift mechanism are all in good shape, the factory belt should work perfectly. If any of those parts are worn you'll never get things right. A shorter belt is not the answer.
Tim

Thanks everyone for all the replies to my question. I'm happy to say the problem is solved. The spring had been jury rigged somewhere in the past and had way too much tension effectively locking the tiller in "go get it". After replacing it with the correct spring the tiller is operating perfectly. This forum is wonderful....

 

[bigdaddie47]

I have a troybuilt horse from the late 79/early 8o's. My dad welded a square bar under the bottom of the handle to cure the bends. I have the original book that I use for reference. had the same problem played with the block and finally got it to work. Had to replace spring on the roller arm (broke/died of rust) did use a heavier one.