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I have a twenty year old craftsman lt1000 mower tractor which won't disengage the blades. It worked well until I caught a spring in the blades and burned the belt up. A new belt lasted a short week and disintegrated. It had been about 931/2 inches long. Don't know if it worked well or not. I think it didn't disengage. A replacement was next (craftsman #144959) supposed to be 1/2 x 95 inches, later proved to be only 94 inches long. It didn't disengage. Finally located a belt from another supplier which measured 95 3/8 inches long. All the parts on the deck were replaced (springs, brake arms, slide plate, blade engagement cable assembly) , still won't disengage. Dynamite has only reluctantly been ruled out.
The Briggs opposed twin engine has been replaced, but the original pulley retained. All the mounting brackets and attachment points are exactly in their original positions. Neither I nor the many shade tree experts in the vicinity can suggest the next move. Any ideas, anyone?

Sounds like getting the accurate belt measurement is needed. Also, make sure that your routing is correct as well. A trick that I have used is to find some 1/2" rope and route it around. Mark the rope, then measure that rope to the mark. This will give you a close idea. Be sure the rope is tight into the sheaves and idlers. Good luck.

I have a 2005-purchased LT1000, and I say to check that the idler pulley on the right side of the deck is able to slide back and forth to engage and disengage the belt. I've experienced the same condition a few times.

I use Kevlar A93K ½ inch x 95 inch belt for both the tractor drive and foe the mowing blade belts; the owner's manual actually lists slightly different belts for the two functions, but I've never found that of any importance.

Right is on your right as you sit in the driver seat.

I recommend this highly https://www.harborfreight.com/300-lb-atvlawn-mower-lift-61523.html