L185 fan belt change

[ventiman]

I've had a ole L1501 for some years. I think L185 is almost a clone to it.
Anyway.. After many a yr the fan belt finally broke. And been looking
for a video or some kind of diagram on how to change or put on new belt.
Ive not had much luck. It looks pretty easy. But the belt I bought is
for the L185 part 15221-72530. I did try and put the belt on. But had no luck
getting it on even with the alternator adjusted all the way to so I
could put it on. SO I feel I'm missing some key info on how to do it.

 

[Russell King]

Can't really speak to that exactly since I have not replaced the belt on the L185 but will make a few suggestions:
1) Remove the bolt completely from the alternator adjustment so it will swing in as far as possible. Get the belt on if possible and see if you get the alternator to swing out far enough to put the bolt back in.

2) Take the belt to a auto parts store and ask them to sell you one that is a little longer (.5 inch to 1.0 inch). They can probably match the size of the belt (cross section) and provide a belt that will fit.

 

[MadMax31]

Mine was a tight dang fit. L175, should be same motor...after a few starts the tension is better, not a guitar string anymore.

 

[meanjean]

Where's the hang up here?
Do you feel that the belt is too small or is there another issue all together?
I remember having a bear of a time getting the belt around the fan.
I believe I partly removed the fan shroud to buy some wiggle room.

 

[ventiman]

Yes seems tad smaller than it should. I will try the bolt tip.
I didn't have a issue getting past the fan. Helps when the fan is plastic

Seems odd since this is the belt part# that matches my tractor.

 

[Daren Todd]

Sometimes the factory belt is a little tighter then an aftermarket belt from the auto parts store. I replaced the belt on mine last year. But I just took the belt to the local O'Reilly auto parts and had them match it up to a gates belt.

 

[ventiman]

I may do that. Its about maybe 1/4 inch short maybe less. But shot enough not to be able to slip over the belt grove on the alternator. So I'll see what the autostore can do.. My area kubota dealer isn't the grandest of service

PS. the original belt is lost in a field somewhere mine stated to whistle bout halfway to the house. I knew right way I need new belt

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

While the L185 and The L1501 are very similar they are "almost" the same there can be differences in the alternators and pulleys used.
So yes an auto parts store is the best option.