Zero turn Z242 mower belt way too tight

[Pawnee]

I finally got around to addressing this problem. It won't be as exciting as "Runswithscissors" but here goes.

The mower belt has a spring tensioner that is not adjustable.
With the mower off I took a picture of the original setup.

I decided to offset the spring boss 1-1/2" and see how that goes.
Made some parts from steel I had and used the original orange bolt as well as an M10x1.5 from my stash.

Painted and installed.

So far so good, the belt tension is a lot more reasonable and the mower runs the same as before.

 

[imnukensc]

Why did you think the belt was too tight?

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

The belt is probably too tight because from what i see you have the belt routed wrong.

 

[Runs With Scissors]

Thank you for the kind sentiment, and nice job on the write up and your solution.

Does that "secondary boss” get a nut on the backside, or is it held in place by tension?

 

[Pawnee]

Why did you think the belt was too tight?

It put too much radial force on the pulleys, specially the clutch output pulley which sticks out quite a bit under the engine.
The belt still has no slip on engagement so it could be even looser and still work well.

 

[Pawnee]

The belt is probably too tight because from what i see you have the belt routed wrong.

Thanks Wolfman but the belt is completely off in the pic, I don't think it's possible to route it incorrectly.
The diagram is very clear as well.

 

[Pawnee]

Thank you for the kind sentiment, and nice job on the write up and your solution.

Does that "secondary boss” get a nut on the backside, or is it held in place by tension?

No through bolt but I like that idea.
I wanted to be sure I could put it back to stock if necessary.
Also makes it easier to change the tension with a different length top plate if required.

 

[Russell King]

Are you sure you have the correct OEM spring?

 

[Pawnee]

Are you sure you have the correct OEM spring?

No.
The mower was new this Spring so I'm assuming it is right.