Need help fixing up RP21600 Big Six Ninja

[shacky]

I'm looking at schematic and it looks like it should be spring activated. But when I tried to move that idler pulley it wasn't budging. will have to dig into it a bit. Perhaps it's jammed or rusted, or broken spring.

 

[shacky]

Yep that idler pulley bracket is frozen and not doing it's job. I think I need to do partial disassembly anyway to change belt. Can anyone tell me best way to take it apart!

Also here's my Ninja blade. Couple of dings.

 

[Snapperfreak]

The best way I know how to replace that belt is as follows:
1) remove the spring that holds the rubber drive wheel down to the flat drive disc. That will relieve tension on the disc.
2) remove blade and remove bolts holding engine to deck.
3) remove 9/16" nut under the deck that attaches the flat disc to the deck. Remove that and u can remove the disc and the idler pulley.

From there u can disassemble the idler pulley from the flat disc and lube or replace, and replace the belt.

It's been awhile since I've done it but I think that's it. It's not exactly fun but that's how it comes apart if memory serves me. Hope that helps.

 

[shacky]

Idler bracket was rusted to the deck!

 

[Snapperfreak]

If it were me I'd take your mower model # and order a new one, along with the belt of course.

 

[shacky]

Good advice! The bearing on drive plate is also shot. Now I know why it was making so much noise:

 

[shacky]

Are the Stens replacement parts good to use? Looks like I can save quite a bit on items like this drive disck versus Snapper product on Repairclinic.com

Drive Plate / Snapper 7073528yp

 

[Snapperfreak]

Yes, I actually bought a stens replacement for my 21350PS last year. That was the last time I worked on this issue. Mine had the same issue, bearing was shot. I bought the mower in that condition from its original owner who bought it in 1982. Since the bearing was frozen up he couldn't pull the recoil, everything was locked up. Got the mower for $30 (plus an extra bag and blade). Replaced that whole thing down there with a stens unit and it's perfect.

 

[shacky]

Awesome! Thank you so much Snapperfreak! For a while I didn't think I was getting much help on this forum.

My wheels a due for replacement - not because of cutting height but not enough traction and front wheels wobble. It looks like there's not that much difference between price of steel vs plastic. Is that what you've found? I saw an old thread with your post about sourcing on eBay or Casto Mower online. My model has grey wheels. But I wonder if white would make it look more retro ; )

 

[Snapperfreak]

No problem sir, I like to help where I think I have knowledge. Engine mechanics isn't my string point but I'm glad I could help on the other stuff. Yes bday and casto are great for wheels, casto is where I bought my new set. Yes for the price difference steel is definitely the way to go. I totally prefer white, even on the newer decks like yours, it does add a vintage feel to it. Looking foreword to more pics when all your work is done!