RZT belt replacement

[ice]

Well, this is my third season of mowing with a CC RZT 50.
I have had no problems and have been pleased with the mower.
My question is: How often should the belts be replaced for good performance and dependability, and how hard is it to replace them.
I have replaced belts on tractor type mowers but, not on a zero turn.
I know some can be a pain in the butt.
Thanks ice.

 

[OldMachinist]

Here's a link to the service manual for the RZT.

http://http//manuals.mtdproducts.com/mtd/DocGetter?doc=769-01636.pdf

 

[JTKub]

..How often should the belts be replaced for good performance and dependability, and how hard is it to replace them.

Ice, usually you just run belts until failure. My experience is they either work or they don't. There shouldn't be a performance gain from a new belt if your pulleys, idlers and tensioners are doing what they should. Your 'dual' drive RZT will probably take you some time and knuckle-busting to change the drive belts. It's the same with any belt drive IMO.

Joel

 

[OldMachinist]

I tried the link I provided above and it looks like MTD has cut off access to the service manual so here's the part of the manual on the drive belt replacement. It a pretty simple job but I prefer to take the spring off with brake spring pliers on my Z-Force so I'm not tring to hold the tension off while fishing the belt around the pulley. I just put the belt around the pulleys and reconnect the spring.

 

[ice]

Thank you all very much.

 

[JTKub]

Yep, good info as usual OM! Heck, that RZT drive belt replacement looks easier than your typical belt drive LT/GT. Some of those can be a royal pain where you need to remove the PTO clutch, etc..

Joel