Mowing John Deere STX 46 drive belt

[jmbeaver]

Is there any way to adjust/tighten the drive belt on a John Deere STX 46? I replaced the belt and now I have lost speed/power. I can hardly get up the slight inclines in my yard in any gear higher than first. I think the belt needs tightened to grab the pulley better. Thanks

 

[beenthere]

:welcome:

Is it a Deere belt?

 

[jmbeaver]

yes. It is a Deere belt

 

[beenthere]

Good.
Then I'd check the idlers to see if they have good bearings and none are loose.
Then check the tension spring to be sure it is pulling good tension on the belt when engaged.

I asked about the belt, because a substitute usually doesn't work.

 

[jmbeaver]

I cant find any adjustment on the spring. It does need to be tightened. Do I need a new one, or could I cut some of this on off?
Thanks

 

[beenthere]

Choice would be yours. But they are tough to shorten.