How to Install a Variable Speed Belt on a Toro

If you own a Toro riding lawn mower, you will feel fortunate when it comes time to replace your worn out variable speed belt that runs the pulley system on the mower deck. Toro designed the mower so you can replace the belt without removing the deck. Not only does this eliminate time needed to remove the deck, it saves a lot of time by preventing the need to level the deck once reinstalled. Check the deck before the start of the mowing season for dry rotting or cracking. This is an indicator that you must replace the belt.

Screwdriver
Wrench set
3/8-inch ratchet driver

Instructions

- 1
  Lower the deck to its lowest position via the deck height adjustment lever. This gives you the ability to change the variable speed belt without removing the mower deck.
- 2
  Remove the pulley shrouds from the two large spindle pulleys on the mower deck with a screwdriver. Place the shrouds to the side.
- 3
  Loosen the bolts on the smaller idler pulley mounting bracket with a wrench. Do not remove the bolts. This adds slack to the variable speed belt and makes it easier to remove.
- 4
  Place a 3/8-inch ratchet drive into the square hole located on the idler pulley bracket and rotate the idler pulley away from the belt.
- 5
  Remove the belt from the left most spindle pulley and then slowly release the ratchet handle and let the idler pulley move back into place.
- 6
  Remove the belt from the mower deck and then install the belt onto every pulley except for the left most spindle pulley.
- 7
  Rotate the idler pulley again until you can place the belt over the remaining spindle pulley.
- 8
  Remove the ratchet handle from the idler pulley bracket and then tighten the bolts on the idler pulley bracket.
- 9
  Place the shrouds onto the mower deck and secure them with the screwdriver.

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Lawn Mowers