G4200 G5200 G6200 / RC44-G Mower Deck Tensioner

[haanzel]

Does anyone know how to adjust the tensioner on this deck? Or have a manual on how to adjust? Kubotabooks has one with a lot of missing pages.

I broke a belt as it jumped, put a new one on and it did the same thing. This time around, I tightened the tensioner and at first, the blades would not move. With some adjustment I got it usable but it still bogs down in thicker grass.

I am looking to find the sweet spot on where it won’t jump but will allow the blades to turn optimally.

 

[Caden]

I tightened the tensioner and at first, the blades would not move.

Maybe I'm on the wrong track, but it doesn't seem right to me that you'd be able to tighten the belt to the point that the blades are unable to turn...

Is it possible that you have a failed bearing in an idler or spindle that is seizing?

As in, when the belt is on the looser side it can slip a little and when it's tight it can't - and locked up everything?

I'm not really sure. @Russell King would be a a better source here than me.

 

[haanzel]

Thanks for the reply. I didn't see a connection either with engagement. I checked the spindles in the spring and everything was ok, I will check the idler to see if it spins.

 

[Russell King]

I don’t know if this is what you’re asking but there should be a spring attached to a threaded rod. Tighten the nut and spring stretches. How much tension should you apply is the real question that you want an answer to. I imagine that the manual has some instructions on the pages you are missing. Try to look at other mower manuals to see if they provide some guidance.

I would look at the longest section of straight belt and get it tight enough to limit the deflection at the center to 1/2 inch (if I couldn’t find any other information).

 

[whitetiger]

Here are the belt tension instructions.

With the belt off, spin each of the outer spindles to see that they are smooth.

Take hold of each of the blades and try to rock them side to side making sure none are loose.

Hold the input shaft on the gear box with large pliers while you try to turn the blade back and forth. There should just be detectable play in the gear box only.

 

[haanzel]

Thanks for the replies. Yes I was referring to the spring tensioner. Thanks @whitetiger for the page of the FSM for this!! I will check it this weekend.