Bull 34 #1 Posted November 4, 2021 Hello Everyone, I am going to replace my idler pulley (noisy) and drive belt on my 417A and have the following questions: Where is the tension setting adjustment for the belt? Can I remove the cooling fan without removing the rear wheel? I made a mistake when I ordered the pulley. I received a 3.75" (Stens 280-578) pulley where I actually need a 3.25" (Stens 280-586) one. After a little digging I ordered the correct size and will start the replacement process when it arrives. Is there anything else I should do while I am replacing these parts? As always thanks for your help. Bull Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
gwest_ca-(File Mod) 11,482 #2 Posted November 4, 2021 In 1986 they came out with a bit of a service manual. 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
peter lena 9,272 #3 Posted November 4, 2021 @Bull is that the same size tiny bearing in your new pulley ? bull , would go after a lubrication detailing on every related movement spot , you can use an aerosol lubricant initially to get the rust to run out , then what i do is use a spray grease into the same movement spot , I use CRC, RED GREASE aerosol with spray extension , into tight spots , makes linkage work without effort . while that belt guard is off , verify entire function of what is going on , eliminate any related rusty areas . firm up sloppy linkage ends with washers and grease , if you want to . even lubricate spring end points . pete 3 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
johnnymag3 2,568 #4 Posted November 4, 2021 (edited) Bull...there isn't a belt tensioner for the belt per say...its done with the spring that runs to the bottom of the Frame plate, which connects to the Idler. If the spring is weak, or stretched...replace it. You can also tell if it is weak because the idler is bouncing all over the map when running at any given throttle range... Use an OEM belt or a quality belt for replacement. peter lena and myself are true believers in OIL ….. GREASE and overall maintenance. Good Luck, You will have no issues doing your small task...Remember, don't buy cheap. my .02 cents Edited November 4, 2021 by johnnymag3 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
johnnymag3 2,568 #5 Posted November 4, 2021 Bull....the cooling fan does not have to be removed when doing the belt...But yes it comes off without wheel removal. Simple job 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Handy Don 14,062 #6 Posted November 4, 2021 52 minutes ago, johnnymag3 said: Bull....the cooling fan does not have to be removed when doing the belt...But yes it comes off without wheel removal. Simple job Right hand thread. 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Bull 34 #7 Posted November 8, 2021 Hello Everyone, The Stens 280-586 installed with no clearance issues. I used the 417A yesterday and the idler was quiet and smooth. Thanks everyone for your advice. Bull 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
