Cub Cadet Z-Force S Series - Manual (Page 38)

Z-Force-S
32
Drive belt adjustment
The drive belt is tensioned by a spring loaded idler pulley. When the brakes are applied, the drive belt is de-
clutched. An adjustable linkage connects the tensioning pulley to the brake shaft. A brake link that is out of adjust-
ment will prevent the moveable idler from correctly tensioning and de-tensioning the belt.
As the belt wears and stretches, the moveable idler needs to push the belt in further to keep proper belt tension.
To do this, the ferrule at the end of the brake link needs to be at the middle of the slot in the idler pulley bracket. To
adjust this brake link:
NOTE: The brake link is properly adjusted when the
belt is fully de-clutched as the brake is
applied and fully tensioned when the brake
is released.
NOTE: The belt must be on when performing this
adjustment.
1. Release the parking brake.
2. Remove the deck as described in chapter 8 Cutting
Decks and Lift Shaft.
3. Remove the cotter pin and washer from the ferrule
on the end of the brake link. See Figure 5.7.
4. Slide the ferrule out of the idler bracket.
5. Adjust the ferrule so that it lines up with the middle
of the slot and slides in without pulling on the spring.
See Figure 5.8.
6. Install the washer and a new cotter pin.
7. Test drive the mower before returning to service.
8. Re-attach the deck.
Figure 5.7
Ferrule
Cotter pin
Tensioning spring
Brake link
Figure 5.8
Ferrule