Best Lawn Mower Belts
The lawn mower belt is an important component because it ensures the proper running of the mowing machine. It creates a medium that connects the crankshaft of the engine with a transaxle for driving.
There are several brands of lawn mower belts out there, but which one is the most suitable for your lawn mower?
We have researched and reviewed different brands of lawn mower belts, and we bring you the 7 top-rated lawn mower belts available on the market right now.
In a hurry? Check our top three picks:
Best Lawn Mower Belts: Top 3 Picks
- Kevlar cords provide strength for the mower’s high horsepower demands.
- Reduced belt rollover in pulleys helps ensure a longer belt life.
- Easy to install.
- Long-lasting and easy to install.
- Absorbs shocks caused by friction.
- Designed to offer optimal performance under some tough operating conditions.
- Polyester offers tensile strength for the deck drive belt.
- Ensures consistent transfer of radial torque to the mower’s transmission shaft.
- Enables the wheels and blades to move efficiently.
1. John Deere Original Equipment Flat Belt
The John Deere flat belt is compatible with both John Deere and 42-inch garden tractors and deck mowers.
Pros:
- The John Deere flat belt delivers a low risk of belt rollover in the Power Take-off pulleys.
- It is easy to install.
- The deck belt propels the blade to work efficiently.
- Its synthetic fiber design allows the belt to run smoothly with low noise.
Cons
- It is for 42-inches mower decks only.
- Some users complained that the belt may break after a short period of use.
Its reinforced ARAMID cords enhance improved strength during mowing operations.
The belt is designed with synthetic fiber to ensure that it runs smoothly with low noise. In addition, the flat belt propels the blades to work efficiently.
The belt’s high tensile strength and stability ensure a long-lasting belt life. It provides consistent power, stability and blade speed.
2. Craftsman 144959 Replacement Deck Belt
The Craftsman Replacement Deck belt is designed with top-quality materials. It has high anti-wear properties and is resistant to common sources of belt damage.
Pros:
- The deck belt enhances flexibility and smooth-running operation.
- The Craftsman replacement deck belt is compatible with a wide range of lawn mowers such as Sears, Husqvarna, Craftsman and Ariens mowers.
- The polyester ensures tensile strength for the deck drive belt.
- It is easy to install.
Cons
- The replacement deck belt is not that durable.
- Some users complained that the belt is too short.
The polyester feature offers tensile strength for the belt. Apart from that, it keeps the cord stretched around the engine pulley.
The deck belt enables the blades and wheels of your lawn mower to move efficiently. The Craftsman replacement deck belt is a perfect fit for Poulan, Ariens, Craftsman, Husqvarna, and Sears lawn mowers.
3. Maxpower 336351B Deck Drive Belt for 42” MTD/Cub Cadet/Troy-Bilt
The Maxpower 336351B drive belt is compatible with any 42-inch Troy Bilt, Cub Cadet and MTD riding lawn mowers.
Pros:
- The Maxpower 336351B deck drive belt is durable and easy to install.
- It has a double-clutching cover that bonds well with the tensile cords.
- The drive belt offers maximum resistance to frictional heat.
Cons
- The belt could be a bit shorter than older belts for the same riding lawn mower.
- Not easy to install.
- It creates uneven turns and makes noise.
It provides maximum resistance to wear and frictional heat. The 336351B model has a double-cover layer that bonds well with the tensile cords.
The belt is durable and easy to install. It can work well for a long period without generating a lot of heat within the deck.
4. Toro 91-2258 V-Belt 35” x 3/8 Inch
The Toro 91-2258 V-belt provides ultimate performance under tough operating conditions. The unique fabric aids its release and engagement during the clutching procedure.
Pros:
- The Toro V-Belt provides stability and proper speed control for the lawn mower’s pulleys.
- It is sturdy and flexible.
- The v-belt offers superb performance in tough operating conditions.
- It can absorb shocks caused by friction.
Cons
- The belt is too long.
- Not too easy to install.
The belt is compatible with Toro lawn mower models such as 20012, 20036, 20066, 20655, 20071, 20075 and 20784.
It is equipped with static conductive properties which minimize the risk of fire or sparks. The belt is sturdy, flexible, and can absorb shocks caused by friction.
5. Murray 42 Lawn Mower Blade Belt ’97 & Up 37X88MA
The Murray blade belt is built with sturdy synthetic materials that can prevent pulley slippages.
Pros:
- The Murray lawn mower blade belt is made of high-quality polyester cords for smooth engagement with the pulleys.
- The blade belt is equipped with strong synthetic materials to prevent slippages.
- It is knitted with built-in properties to prevent stretching.
- It offers outstanding value for your money.
Cons
- The belt may break after a short period.
- Its installation may depend on the mower’s specifications.
It is a perfect fit for 42-inch Murray riding lawn mower models (1997 till date). Its poly cord offers optimum engagement with the pulleys.
Depending on the model of the lawn mower, the belt is easy to install and uninstall. Its built-in properties also help to prevent stretching.
6. Honda Genuine OEM Harmony II Drive V-Belt
The Honda Genuine OEM V-belt has a high tensile strength for optimal performance. Furthermore, the V-belt is durable, sturdy and easy to install. It doesn’t roll over pulleys of lawn mowers.
Pros:
- The Honda Genuine OEM drive belt is sturdy and durable.
- It reduces the risk of sparks caused by static charges while operating the mower.
- It is long-lasting, wear-resistant and easy to install.
Cons
- It might be a bit difficult to install the thick belt.
As a Honda accessory, it meets high safety standards because its non-conductive fabric layer minimizes the risk of static electricity.
With this, you do not need to bother yourself about sparks caused by static charges when using the walk-behind lawn mower.
7. Craftsman Replacement Belt Made with Kevlar Poulan 405143
The Craftsman 405143 makes use of Kevlar inner coring for added strength. The replacement belt is backed by a one-year warranty.
Pros:
- The Craftsman 405143 offers a better grip for pulleys
- Its Kevlar reinforcement provides better performance and ensures longer life
- The replacement belt is easy to install.
Cons
- The outer sheath frays too easily.
- The belt stretched out too quickly.
Its Kevlar reinforcement offers longer life and better performance. The easy-to-install Craftsman replacement belt offers a better grip for your pulleys, enabling your lawn mower to work well. Learn more about top rated Craftsman mower belts.
Final Verdict
If you are looking for an efficient and reliable lawn mower belt for your lawn mower, the John Deere Original Equipment flat belt is our top pick.
The belt is compatible with both John Deere, and compatible 42-inch garden tractors and deck mowers.
The belt has synthetic fiber to ensure that it runs smoothly with low noise. It provides consistent power, stability, and blade speed.
- Kevlar cords provide strength for the mower’s high horsepower demands.
- Reduced belt rollover in pulleys helps ensure a longer belt life.
- Easy to install.
Factors to Consider Before Buying a Lawn Mower Belt
If you are in the market for a durable and efficient lawn mower belt, there are some factors to consider. Here are some of them:
Size
This is one of the important factors to consider before purchasing a lawn mower belt. Ensure that you check the one that will match the length of your pulley.
The belt might slip off if it is too large and it may not fit properly if it is too small.
A lawn mower belt with the perfect width, length and height will run your machine faster. In addition, it enables you to mow the grass smoothly without facing problems.
Quality
Check the quality of the belt before getting one for your mowing machine. A low-quality mower belt may not function well and may get damaged after a short time.
It is advisable to purchase long-lasting and high-quality ones to ensure maximum efficiency.
Strength of Cord
Be on the lookout for a sturdy cord to increase the core strength of the belt. Strong cords help to move mower blades for easy and smooth mowing operations.
For maximum efficiency, purchase cords with high tensile strength.
Good cords are easy to bond with other properties of the belt and also to improve their power.
Durability
High-quality belts are more expensive than regular ones. To choose a belt that will fit the pulley and serve you for an extended period without hassles, it is better to pick a durable lawn mower belt that will meet your demands.
Why Do My Mower Belts Keep Breaking?
Do you find yourself replacing your lawn mower belts every year? Here are three reasons for belt breakage:
1. Excessive Grass Clippings
Grass clippings can find their way under deck covers and pulleys to cause problems. Clean off the deck after using the mower and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
2. Missing Belt Guards
Belt guards play an important role in keeping the lawn mower belt in place. Missing guards may cause the belt to fly off.
3. Pulley Wear and Tear
A pulley rides on bearings and enables it to spin freely. When the pulley does not spin freely, it might be a result of friction between the belt and pulley, causing the belt to break.
Do Lawn Mower Belts Stretch?
Yes, the belts of your lawn mower can stretch. Continuous wear as a result of the regular operation can make the belts elongate over time.
Overstretched drive belts can lose grip on the pulley system, affecting the efficiency of the mowing machine.
For optimal belt performance, replace the belt with a new one.
How to Replace Your Lawn Mower Belts
Here are some steps to replace the belts of your lawn mower:
Step One: Park your Lawn Mower
Drive your machine to a flat place and park it. Ensure that the mower is safely parked before replacing the belts. Place a brick, stone or rock beneath the wheels to prevent it from moving.
Step Two: Take off the Spark Plug
Remove the spark plug to prevent accidental starting. Use duct tape to hold the plug against the mower’s body.
Step Three: Remove the Parts
Use a screwdriver or screw wrench to remove the pulley cover (depending on the mower).
Ensure that you remove the tension in the pulley by loosening the springs. After this, you can now take off the lawn mower belt.
In some cases, you can pull the spring-loaded arm that adds tension to the pulley system in the forward position.
Step Four: Install the belt and reassemble
You can now install the belt by pulling the spring tension pulley arm in a forward position.
As you unset the new belt into the rear pulley’s threads, make sure the flat side faces outwards.
Tighten the bolts and screws and fix the pulley cover that you removed. Connect the spark plug and start the mowing machine.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Will You Recognize If The Lawn Mower Belt Is Bad?
The edges of your belt should be even and smooth. If the belt is bad, the sidewalls will appear damaged and cracked. It will also cause problems when it is under operation.
What Is The Cause For Which The Belt Turn-Over In The Pulley In A Mower?
The deck may jump a little bit if the machine hits something. In this case, the belt might flip over the pulley and get damaged in the process.
In case of a turnover, make sure you get a new belt.
What Causes The Belt of The Lawn Mower To Break?
If you do not clean your deck from time to time, accumulated grass clippings may damage the belt. It is advisable to clean the deck after cutting the grass clippings.
What Is The Average Life Of A Mower Belt?
The belt of your lawn mower may serve you for 3-4 years, depending on the maintenance, heavy load or pressure that you create on it.
Are Kevlar Mower belts better?
Yes, Kevlar V-belts are sturdier and they stand out as the main choice for several applications such as lawn mowers, snow throwers, tillers and industrial shredders.
They offer high tensile strengths and great resistance to extreme temperatures.