how to repair my MTD riding mower lower deck belt?

Question

I've replaced new blades. the belt is good on the lower deck. When I engage the handle to cut, the front engine pulley produces smoke. it spins as it should, and the 2 rear idler pulleys spin also. Why is the engine pulley not engaging the belt correctly? Is it that the Belt keeper pins are out of alignment?
I have searched the web with no success. I know there is a simple answer to this problem.

Answer 1

The belt guides keep the belt on when the deck is disengaged. Are you sure that the blades turn freely? They have to spin smoothly and freely. The spindles have bearings which could be worn and binding.