I have a Craftsman walk behind that Is called an EZ WALK. It has a variable speed drive where the belt slips to get slower speeds. A pretty common feature on walk behinds. Speed wise I am only getting all or nothing right now. It clutches and then grabs to give full speed. The belt seems ok. It is the original v belt. Part number 183688 (5/16 x 34 5/8). I measured it to be 5/16 x 34 1/8. A bit shorter than the spec on the OEM. I had to drill a new hole to connect the cable end to the pivot mechanism to create enough tension for the belt to grab enough to engage. It seems it is slipping too much or grabs and goes at full speed. The slipping all seems to happen on the PTO pulley. The pulley is very smooth and clean. Is this solved with a new OEM belt? I do see some vendors x-ref this belt number to a 3/8 x 34 or 3/8 x 34.5. I have observed that variable speed drives that are designed to slip use a specific material and the length is critical. Not just a conventional rubber material that you would get in a common utility belt from the auto parts store.
I am not sure if a new OEM belt will solve this. Or is it some thing else and maybe inherent flaw in the design. It is an older machine. model 917.377844. Pretty sure an AYP/Husqvarna. It uses 2 idler pulleys that pivot to create the belt tension. The pullys and bearings appear to be in very good condition. Ideas?
I am not sure if a new OEM belt will solve this. Or is it some thing else and maybe inherent flaw in the design. It is an older machine. model 917.377844. Pretty sure an AYP/Husqvarna. It uses 2 idler pulleys that pivot to create the belt tension. The pullys and bearings appear to be in very good condition. Ideas?
