Love the smell of burnin rubber

[StWeiler 6]

Just got the '73 10-Auto up and running...not very well but it is running. Having some cable issues with the choke.

Anyhow, decided to test out the hydro and see if it even works. Upon it's maiden voyage around the yard the effervescent smell of burning rubber was quite potent. Upon exploration I notice that the majority of the belt on the back side is well worn and in need of replacement. To track that down next.

I've never messed with a hydro WH and am curious is there any preventative maintenance or things I can do to "loosen" or help "free" things up while I tear into replacing that belt? I know it has sat for a very LONNNNGGG time and is likely just seized up from lack of use, but I'd like to do some preventative maintenance while in there if possible. Lube points, grease points...greasable zirks....any suggestions welcome and invited!

TIA

[smoreau 658]

Sounds like your idler pulley is locked up. Or a belt guard of the engine os rubbing on the belt.

[SousaKerry 500]

Change the oil and give it a new filter probably the best advice, give the linkage a shot of oil here and there also never hurts

[rmaynard 14,934]

As Scott said in his post, I'd suspect the idler being seized. Item 6-29 in the picture below. Toro P.N. 112426. They are cheap to replace. Generic ones cost about $9.00.

[Old Dave 0]

I agree with Smoreau and bet the belt guard is not installed properly. I ruined a new $30 green Gates belt a few years ago because it wasn't installed correctly (my stupidity). I know that smell pretty well... :thumbs2: