- Lawnmower drive belts are used to transfer power from the engine to the wheels when the transmission is in a forward or reverse gear. When in a forward gear, the drive belt moves the wheels in a forward motion. When in a reverse gear, the drive belt moves the wheels in reverse and when in neutral gear, there is no tension on the drive belt so the wheels do not turn.
- Lawnmower drive belts are usually made of rubber and woven fabric. However, some are made with neoprene or other heavy-duty material to lengthen the life of the belt and reduce fraying and stretching. Drive belts can be flat, v-shaped or round depending on the pulley system. When replacing a lawnmower drive belt, use the drive belt that is stated in the owner's manual. If you do not have an owner's manual for your lawnmower, search online for the make and model of your lawnmower to be sure to choose the correct belt for your mower.
- The drive belt can be identified by looking under the lawnmower, above the mowing deck but below the engine. It will be the belt that is attached to the main drive gear and connected to a pulley that is attached to the clutch. When the transmission is engaged in a forward or reverse gear, the belt will tighten. When the transmission is in neutral, the belt will be slack.
- Replacing lawnmower drive belts is time-consuming and difficult. However, it is a chore that you can do yourself with the information in the owner's manual that came with your machine. Inspect all of the belts in your lawnmower throughout the season and watch for signs of wear so you can order new belts before the old ones need to be replaced. Signs of wear include fraying, slippage during operation and cracks in the rubber or coating material. In addition, watch for burrs or wear on the pulley system that can damage a belt.
- Old belts can tear and be thrown from the mower during operation. This is only one of the reasons to wear safety glasses while mowing your lawn.
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