Cub Cadet LT 1042 has no cutting power

[msayer]

Howdy -

I have a 2008 Cub Cadet LT 1042 Model #13AX11CG330.

I have replaced the worn deck belts about 3 times in the last year. They end up shiny and clearly worn on the inside and often end up twisted.

When cutting, the deck doesn't seem to have much power. When the grass is only a couple of inches long, the deck seems to really struggle and I can hear it slow down to almost a stop. The mower engine doesn't seem to be struggling though - which makes me think it's either a problem with the clutch slipping, or the belt slipping. I can sometimes hear a ceramic grinding sound when the deck slows.

I can cut the same grass to the same height with my parent's MTD which is only 15 hp without any problem. My Cub Cadet should be able to do it easily without even working up a sweat.

I have serviced the deck - all pulleys are spinning freely and the belt is installed correctly. I can't see how it could be a problem with the deck or belt so I'm leaning towards the clutch.

I can spin the PTO with my hand with some resistance when the mower is powered off.

Just wanted to see if anyone had any other thoughts before I go and shell out a bunch of cash for a replacement clutch.

Regards,

Mark.

 

[OldMachinist]

From your description of the belt it sounds like it's slipping and getting hot which makes me think doesn't have enough tension on it. Does the spring loaded idler arm move freely on its shaft? Does the spring look streched? Are you using the right length belt? OEM or aftermarket belt?

 

[msayer]

I think from memory it's an OEM belt. I don't recall the CubCadet logo on the package. I just asked my dealer where I bought the unit from for a replacement. It seems to fit okay length wise.

When the deck is going, the tenstion arm does jump around a lot - maybe that is a sign that the spring is stretched? I might take the deck off and send in a photo since I have nothing to compare it with to see if it looks right.

Thanks for the info - I'll send an update.

Regards,

Mark.

 

[msayer]

Okay - I checked the tensioners and the springs feel pretty firm - no stretchy-give in them - a good solid amount of tenson applied at all times.



One thing I thought of now though - now that you've drawn my attention back to the deck - is originally, I tried replacing the deck belt without removing the deck and ended up with the belt on the outside of the guide for the tension pully. This resulted in a short lifespan for the belt but also caused some wear on the outside of the guide. It's quite close to the pully wheel and on the tension pulley, the belt faces outwards. I'm wondering if maybe this is bent and a little too close to the pulley and is catching on the belt? I've attached a photo (hard for me to judge because I never saw it before I put the belt on the wrong way so don't know if it's even bent at all).



I've also attached a photo of the whole deck so you can see the belt is configured the right way.



Cheers,

Mark.

 

[rcbe]

I had a lt1042 2005 model for several years and had no deck belt problems.
But - in looking at the pix of your deck - and then looking at the parts list diagram from my 2005 model - there seems to be a difference in where/how the tension idler pulleys are located.
Could you please post the full model number of your tractor from the ID decal located in the cavity under the tilting seat.
We can then at least compare parts list diagrams to see if your deck is incorrectly assembled or just a different design.
right now, appears you would have the belt rubbing in at least one or two spots when installed and under tension...
Whups! just spotted the needed model # in your original post. Will check out and repost.

 

[rcbe]

well, was not able to get a parts list for your machine, but did find a decent illustration of the deck and deck belt in the owner's manual for your model.
and it appears that your deck's configuration is OK.

The belt type can be important. CCC (MTD) uses Kevlar belts in many of their apps - aftermarket substitutes don''t hold up well.

Also verify that the tensioning idler pulley bracket is not sticking but pivots freely and that when deck is fully installed, belt tension should be such that you will need to use a tool to relieve belt tension in order to remove it. if you can do such by hand, belt is not tight enuff and probably stretched.
Belt routing looked OK on your pix - just verify that belt V's fit down into both spindle pulleys and PTO pulley - and that belt back (flat) side contacts both idler pulleys.
Also make sure both deck cutting blades are NOT installed upside down (easy to do).
If replacing that belt, make sure you get an OEM belt that carries the correct p/n for your machine. That p/n should be on a label on the underside of your engine's hood or in your manual.
If still concerned about the PTO slipping, have someone sit in the seat, turn ignition to run (DO NOT start engine) and activate PTO switch. Should hear a sharp click from the PTO - then try to turn one of the deck mower blades by hand - should not move.
BE CAREFUL.

good luck