MTD Craftsman LT2000 drive belt replacement

[goosemasterkl]

Can someone give me some advice on how to put a drive belt on a MTD Craftsman LT2000 46" cut mower? The variable speed pulley is sitting right back against the back frame of the body of the mower and there's no way to get the old belt off to even try to put a new one on. I've changed many drive belts in the past on several different brands of mowers but I've never come across one like this. Can someone please advise me on the procedure I need to do? Thanks in advance on any replies. The model# is 247.288852

 

[StarTech]

You must remove three screws [Items 11] and then the you should be able to tilt the variable speed pulley. Note the bearing cap [item 12] may come off as well.

Also check the bearings while you at it and if they need replacing they are 6203-2RS bearings. Mtd want nearly 17 usd a piece but aftermarket bearings are a lot cheaper.

 

[goosemasterkl]

You must remove three screws [Items 11] and then the you should be able to tilt the variable speed pulley. Note the bearing cap [item 12] may come off as well.
View attachment 59854
Also check the bearings while you at it and if they need replacing they are 6203-2RS bearings. Mtd want nearly 17 usd a piece but aftermarket bearings are a lot cheaper.

Thanks so much on your reply. I was thinking about taking those screws out but didn't. I haven't come up with many ideas. But again thanks for your response.

 

[goosemasterkl]

Thanks so much on your reply. I was thinking about taking those screws out but didn't. I haven't come up with many ideas. But again thanks for your response.

Do you also have to remove #10 in the diagram. The bolt that holds the pulley to the bracket?

 

[jmu]

I am fighting with this issue. The bearing cup is 'free' because the 3 bolts (3/8" heads, not 10mm ) are free but the variable speed pulley will not release from the top and force on the shaft is not feasible or wise. The diagram shown by Star Tech is consistent with what I have. If my dad were here he would say something like: "Those bearings are PRESSED in" and we would probably just give it up for parts. The bearings look ok but I would really enjoy knowing that all the drive system is in prisitine shape.