Danny - I misunderstood - I thought you said the previous owner (2 owners ago) kept over-seeding it. I guess it doesn't matter why it's like it is.
If we can determine the size of the belt, it should be no problem finding one 1/2" shorter of the same cross-section. The mower manufacturers often make it difficult to determine the size - like it's some big secret, but we can measure it, or an aftermarket manufacturer may cross to it and state the actual size. I'm thinking too that the aftermarket world has a blade that will fit the Cub Cadet - perhaps in the Gator Blade brand - they're good, high lift blades.
I'm also thinking that these guys here are of the opinion that you should do what you can to intentionally damage the roots - like cut it too short on purpose - to thin it out.
If we can determine the size of the belt, it should be no problem finding one 1/2" shorter of the same cross-section. The mower manufacturers often make it difficult to determine the size - like it's some big secret, but we can measure it, or an aftermarket manufacturer may cross to it and state the actual size. I'm thinking too that the aftermarket world has a blade that will fit the Cub Cadet - perhaps in the Gator Blade brand - they're good, high lift blades.
I'm also thinking that these guys here are of the opinion that you should do what you can to intentionally damage the roots - like cut it too short on purpose - to thin it out.