790 Belly Mower - belt replacement

[Phil_VA]

Hi there, working on a friends 790 that has a 60" belly mower. Other than the serial number, the only model information I can find (from the serial number plate) is - John Deere 60" Gear Mower -

It needs a new belt, but looking at the routing, I think the only way to replace it is to remove the plate that the gearbox sits on. Is that right? Without removing it, I don't see how to get clearance to get the belt over the front/center spindle. Not that difficult, only a few (rusted) bolts, but wanted to check I wasn't missing something obvious.

While I'm here - is there any way to adjust the alignment of the deck when it's raised - the left side is much lower than the right. Probably doesn't sound like a big issue, but I had to drive it on the road to bring it home and whenever I hit a bump the front left caster wheel hit the ground with a bang. If there's no adjustment I'll just make sure I tie it up a little more level for the ride home.

 

[JD755]

You need to remove the gearbox. Place the belt in the pulleys as you replace the box. That is the only way to get clearance at that tight point.

As to height, check the adjustment on left side rear hanger. It is there to set the deck level.

 

[beenthere]

And while you are at it, just as well adjust the mower deck for your friend (sounds like he might not be able to do it). The manual will give specifics, but in general:
* pick a flat surface
* check air in tires so they are equal side to side.
* set deck wheels up so they don't touch the ground
* set the height adjustment (pick 3" or 2 1/2")
* check (and set) right and left side at the blade tips to the height adjustment selected
* check (and set) the center blade forward tip 1/8" to 1/4" lower than the height.
* finally, set the mower deck at mowing height desired and lower the deck wheels so they are 1/4" to 1/2 " above the flat surface.

That should give a good mowing surface (given that the blades are sharp and not bent).