JD X120 Deck

[Diwali]

Removed the deck to find the cause of belt slip. What a palaver! There are 4 shields/panels surrounding the deck that had to be removed before I could access the deck. What is the purpose of these? My previous mower had none at all.

 

[Auto Doc's]

The shields are there to keep clutter and buildup out of the components. Aside from that, they protect idiots from getting caught up in the moving components.

Your previous mower likely had them removed, because belt safety guards have been mandatory since at least the late 50's

"Palaver"? That is a $2 word not many people use.

Your belt slip problem is likely just a stretched belt due to heat and use.

 

[Diwali]

Thanks. I suspected the shields were there because of a legal requirement. I'm guessing it didn't apply to the UK in 2008 when I bought a new Craftsman LT2000 (US made).
However, I was disappointed to find so much debris had accumulated behind the shields. I now realise the regular hosing down wasn't reaching behind the shields. Something for me to think about in future.
BTW, the slipping belt was due to one of the pulley brakes being stuck and not releasing due to corrosion. Fixed with a bit of lubrication and luckily the belt is still good.
PS. "Palaver" - $2!! You've been robbed!! It's free in the UK.

 

[ILENGINE]

Thanks. I suspected the shields were there because of a legal requirement. I'm guessing it didn't apply to the UK in 2008 when I bought a new Craftsman LT2000 (US made).
However, I was disappointed to find so much debris had accumulated behind the shields. I now realise the regular hosing down wasn't reaching behind the shields. Something for me to think about in future.
BTW, the slipping belt was due to one of the pulley brakes being stuck and not releasing due to corrosion. Fixed with a bit of lubrication and luckily the belt is still good.
PS. "Palaver" - $2!! You've been robbed!! It's free in the UK.

That deck is clean compared to some of the decks and mowers that come through my shop every year.