Quick Answer: How Does A Lawn Tractor Idle Pulley Work?

How does an idler pulley work?

The idler pulley is a common part that’s found on the majority of the vehicles on the road. Its primary function is to provide tension and guide the engine drive belt. The pulley spins against the belt wearing down both parts. This wear reduces tension which can lead to belt slippage.

How do I know if my lawn mower pulley is bad?

If a pulley is badly worn, it can cause a bad vibration from the cutting deck on your lawn tractor. To check all your pulleys, start by removing the mower deck. Next, remove the mandrel covers and belt, then check all the pulleys for play and roughness when spinning.

Does the idler pulley spin?

Idler pulleys spin in order to move belts to different places. Tensioner pulleys, which are spring-loaded, provide pressure to a belt that drives other pulleys while simultaneously easing the strain on that belt. When the engine is idling, a bad pulley may make a squealing sound.

What does the idler return spring do?

The idler return spring is compatible with many riding lawn mowers. The metal spring secures the idler pulley in the mower engine, keeping the pulley next to the belt. A wrench and a screwdriver are often necessary for the installation. The idler return spring is sold individually.

Can you drive with a bad idler pulley?

So, how long can you drive with a bad idler pulley? The safety recommendation is not to drive the car at all and take it to a mechanic immediately. You should be concerned if the vehicle makes squeaking or rattling noises. The car can still run for months or break after a few days.

How do I know if I need a new idler pulley?

Signs of a Bad Idler Pulley

1. Squealing. When the engine is idling, a bad pulley may make a squealing sound.
2. Frozen. The bearings in a pulley may cause the pulley to freeze or in some cases hard to spin.
3. Belt Travel. Watching the belt as it travels over the pulleys will also determine if a pulley has gone bad.
4. Pulley Mounting.

How much does it cost to replace the idler pulley?

The total price to replace the idler pulley typically ranges between $80 and $200, with the parts ranging between $40 and $90, and the total labor cost averaged between $40 and $110.

Why is my lawn mower squealing?

Squealing. First of all, one of the most common sounds that a mower makes is a squealing sound. This tends to happen when your mower needs oil or if the bearings need to be replaced. Be sure to lubricate your bearings on a regular basis in order to prevent squealing.

When should I replace idler pulley?

Here are a few of the things that you may notice when it is time to replace your idler pulley:

1. Screeching and squeaking noises coming from the engine.
2. There are engine warning lights on.
3. The power steering will not work.
4. The engine is starting to overheat on a regular basis.

What is the difference between idler pulley and tensioner pulley?

The primary distinction between tensioners and idler pulleys is the presence of an adjustable bolt. Tensioners are positioned on the bolt through mounting. Idler pulleys are not mounted to an adjustable bolt.

Should a new idler pulley spin freely?

The new idler pulley seems extremely tight when it’s bolted to the engine. It definitely will not spin freely.

How does a riding lawn mower deck work?

Instead of cutting grass like scissors cut paper as a reel mower does, the rotary mower spins a horizontal blade around fast enough to cut the grass as it hits it. The blade sits within a casing called a deck, which keeps the grass and other objects from flying in all directions when struck.