RM44 deck blade belt question

Firewire · Apr 27, 2014

I have a RM44 RH discharge w/ mulch plate that has a very worn belt. Upon measuring the belt I estimate it is 77". This corresponds with a replacement being the C23949 belt.

My question is 1) I was able to take this belt off by hand with only minor effort of rolling it off one pulley while pulling the belt. Are these belts that loose or is my old worn belt possibly a smaller belt that has stretch over the years (no markings left on it)? 2) does any RH rm44 take any other belt size and I am just missing it? I see where Brian from Salem has suggested the C23538 sno caster belt as a tighter alternative for some belts but not specifically the rm44.

I have probably answered my own question since I couldn't find it using the search function indicating yes the 77" belt IS correct (albeit not the tightest belt).

just looking for reassurance 'cause a 76" belt or a 76 1/2" belt seems like it would be a better fit.

Rockdog · Apr 28, 2014

The belt sizes/lenghts are listed in teh tech library somewhere (I used that info to pick up my belts). Go in and look for it and you'll find it.

Firewire · Apr 28, 2014

Thanks Rockdog, I used the library here: http://casecoltingersoll.com/threads/11121-Rotary-Mowers

And then the pdf here to come up with the numbers above: http://www.manuals.casecoltingersol...8, 42G 60 plus Mulching Kits MK 44, 48,48-2 Parts Manual 8-3073_watermarked.pdf

Just still seems that C23949 77" is just 1/2" to 1" too big. There is barely any tension on the tensioner. Mulching kit (which I have) diagram doesn't show any difference on the belt and pulleys.

Ray_Wilson_KC · Apr 28, 2014

Firewire said:
Thanks Rockdog, I used the library here: http://casecoltingersoll.com/threads/11121-Rotary-Mowers

And then the pdf here to come up with the numbers above: http://www.manuals.casecoltingersol...8, 42G 60 plus Mulching Kits MK 44, 48,48-2 Parts Manual 8-3073_watermarked.pdf

Just still seems that C23949 77" is just 1/2" to 1" too big. There is barely any tension on the tensioner. Mulching kit (which I have) diagram doesn't show any difference on the belt and pulleys.

IMHO, based on what you described, are you sure it has the correct idler pulley with the correct spring? I'm thinking this tractor has not been in your hands it's entire life...? A quarter to half inch diameter change in pulley could cause a problem and so could an incorrect spring. Even on the worst of decks I've worked on, the spring always seemed to retain near correct tension. IMPO I've never had a correct belt roll off easily either.

Ray W

Rockdog · Apr 28, 2014

Is the correct spring in place? Provide the approximate gap between adjacent coils. Bart and others have provided 'rule of thumb' coil wire spacing for the pto belt tensioner springs. Maybe they have similar for the deck belt tensioner springs.

Firewire · Apr 28, 2014

Ah! Good suggestion, I will check the spring out.

Firewire · Apr 28, 2014

I guess it's the simplest things that mess us up right? The spring seems to be what is in question. Looks ok visually, but I bent (pounded) the ends just a 1/4"-1/2" each and that has tightened it up significantly.

I probably should just order a new spring.

Kenc · Apr 29, 2014

Firewire said:
I probably should just order a new spring.

You don't need us for advice! You know what to do.

bhildret · Apr 29, 2014

The C23949 is the only internal deck belt for the RM44. The C31606 spring is the only spring in the deck and the C12251 idler (which also wears out) is standard too.

The combination of all to ensure it is set up properly is under $50 ...

Brian

Firewire · May 6, 2014

bhildret said:
The C23949 is the only internal deck belt for the RM44. The C31606 spring is the only spring in the deck and the C12251 idler (which also wears out) is standard too.

The combination of all to ensure it is set up properly is under $50 ...

Brian

Thank you Brian,

Ordered placed with you!

bhildret · May 7, 2014

Thanks for the order and follow up DR ... shipped today.

Brian

Ray_Wilson_KC · May 7, 2014

Always GREAT service to the forum members!

Ray W

Firewire · May 13, 2014

In case anyone doubts an Idler Plate can't wear out, here is proof they do, lol. I was quite surprised once put side by side. Belt fits tight as it should again (bought a new spring from Brian as well).

RM44 deck blade belt question

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