Throttle pedal pressure drops, and lose torque.

[ILENGINE]

Also look for a groove worn into the engine pulley. Because of the cut angle on the MTD belts will bottom out in the groove worn into the engine pulley which will allow slippage.

 

[mrkevelev]

I'll check for that too. I know for certain that the oil is leaking out. You can see the trail of spray as the engine is turning, and the oil level is dropping way too fast. I will replace the seal, and go from there. Let's assume there is oil residue on the belt and that was the cause of the throttle issue, how can I remove the residue from the belt? I might try dish detergent and if that doesn't work brake cleaner or engine degreaser. The last two probably aren't too great for rubber, but I think it's worth a try if the alternative is just replacing the belt anyway. What do you think?