Troubleshooting Your Mower: 3 Main Reasons for Broken Belts and How to Fix Them

Persistent mower belt breakages can turn lawn care into a daunting task. Unfortunately, this problem is far too common and can stem from various sources.

In this blog post, we’ll explore three primary causes of mower belt breakage and share ways to mitigate these issues, potentially saving you time and money.
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Bad Bearings on the Spindle or Pulley

The first potential culprit of your mower belt repeatedly breaking could be faulty bearings on your spindle or pulley. These components rotate at high speeds during operation, leading to intense heat that can potentially damage the bearings if not properly maintained.

To prevent this issue, regular lubrication of the mower spindles and idlers is crucial. This maintenance will ensure they function efficiently and prevent them from wearing out prematurely.

To check for bearing damage, remove your belt and grab hold of the pulley on the spindle. If you notice any looseness in it, this could indicate a bad bearing. Similarly, for the idlers, remove them and give them a spin. If you hear any unusual sound, it's a sign that the bearing is going out and needs replacement.

Damage on the Pulley or Idler

The second common reason for repeated belt breakage pertains to damage on the pulley or idler. This problem typically arises after an incident where the belt has come off or if the mower has run over debris causing nicks or cuts in the idler.

One way to identify this issue is by looking for black, stringy material coming off the pulley or idler. These strands indicate that the pulley or idler is cutting into the belt. If you notice these types of signs, it's essential to inspect each component individually to identify the faulty part and get it replaced.

Deck Material Build-Up

The last, and perhaps most common reason for repeated belt breakage on your mower, is the build-up of debris on the deck of your mower. Over time, dirt, grass clippings, and even trash can accumulate on the deck. This build-up can create added friction and pressure on the belt system, leading to wear and eventual breakage.

Moreover, if the build-up includes organic matter like grass clippings and soil, moisture can seep into the spindle housing and, consequently, the bearings, leading to further damage.

To avoid this issue, it is critical to clean the deck after each mowing session. We recommend using a leaf blower for this task. If a leaf blower is not available, a water hose can do the job as well. If opting for the hose, make sure to dry off the deck afterward to prevent moisture accumulation.

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Regular maintenance is key to a smooth-running mower. The routine maintenance check-points outlined above can save you considerable time, effort, and money in the long run. 

If you have questions about any of the products outlined above or are just more of a visual learner, head over to our YouTube channel and watch the video (also linked below)! Leave a comment or question and receive a personal reply from Brent himself, our resident John Deere expert. Be sure to subscribe!