Help With MTD Deck Belt

[akurtz8]

I have a 1999 MTD Yard Machine that keeps burning up my deck belt. I've been through 2 belts already and I have no idea whats causing it. Please help

 

[akurtz8]

Forgot to put its a 42" deck.

 

[ILENGINE]

Possible causes could be the belt is rubbing a belt guide, or a idler pulley that is seized up. Where the belt is rubbed are clues to what is causing the problem. A belt guide that is rubbing can also cut a belt in two .

 

[akurtz8]

The pto engages when the deck is lowered. Could it be the bottom pulley underneath the engine the deck belt is on that could be sieized?