A functioning drive belt is the unsung hero of your Scotts S1742 lawn mower, essential for transferring power from the engine to the blades or wheels, depending on the belt type. Over time, these belts can stretch, crack, or even snap due to wear, tear, and exposure to the elements, leading to a noticeable drop in performance or complete operational failure. When your mower starts showing signs of a worn belt—such as slipping, unusual noises, or a failure to engage the blades or drive—it’s a clear signal that a replacement is due. Fortunately, replacing a belt on your Scotts S1742 is a manageable DIY task that can save you a trip to the repair shop and extend the life of your valuable outdoor equipment. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring a smooth and successful belt replacement.
Safety first and necessary tools
Before beginning any maintenance on your Scotts S1742 lawn mower, prioritizing safety is paramount. Always ensure the mower is completely turned off, the ignition key is removed, and crucially, disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting. Engaging the parking brake, if applicable, also adds an extra layer of security. Wearing sturdy work gloves is advisable to protect your hands from sharp edges and grease. Having the right tools on hand will make the job much smoother and more efficient. It’s a good idea to consult your owner’s manual for the exact belt part number for your Scotts S1742, as there might be a deck belt and a drive belt.
Below is a list of essential tools you’ll likely need:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Socket wrench set | Removing bolts, releasing tension on pulleys |
| Pry bar or large screwdriver | Leverage to move tensioner pulleys |
| Floor jack or sturdy ramps | Lifting the mower for under-deck access |
| New replacement belt | The essential component for replacement |
| Digital camera or smartphone | Documenting old belt routing for easy reference |
| Wire brush or shop rags | Cleaning pulleys and surrounding areas |
| Safety glasses | Protecting eyes from debris |
Accessing the old belt
With safety measures in place and tools at the ready, the next step involves gaining access to the worn belt. If you’re replacing the deck belt, you’ll need to remove the mower deck. Start by positioning your mower on a flat, level surface, and then carefully lift the front of the mower using a floor jack or drive it onto sturdy ramps to provide ample working space underneath. Locate the deck lifting rods and the PTO (Power Take-Off) cable that connects the engine to the deck. Disconnect these linkages. Many Scotts S1742 models also have anti-scalp wheels; these may need to be removed or adjusted to allow the deck to slide out from under the mower chassis. Carefully slide the entire deck assembly out from under the mower.
Once the deck is accessible, or if you’re replacing a drive belt, locate the old belt and the idler pulley system. This system includes tensioner pulleys that apply pressure to the belt. Use your pry bar or an appropriately sized socket wrench to apply pressure to the idler pulley arm, releasing the tension on the old belt. Before completely removing the old belt, take several clear photos of its routing around all the pulleys, including the engine pulley, blade pulleys, and idler pulleys. This visual reference is invaluable for correctly installing the new belt. With the tension released, carefully unthread the old belt from around all the pulleys and remove it.
Installing the new belt
Before installing the new belt, take a moment to inspect all the pulleys. Check for any signs of wear, damage, or excessive build-up of grass clippings and debris. Clean the pulley grooves with a wire brush or shop rag to ensure the new belt has a clean, smooth surface to operate on. This also helps prevent premature wear on your new belt. Once the pulleys are clean, retrieve your new belt and refer to the photos you took of the old belt’s routing. Carefully thread the new belt around all the pulleys, following the exact path of the old one.
It is crucial that the belt sits correctly and snugly within all the pulley grooves. Any misplacement can lead to the belt jumping off or suffering damage. Once the belt is routed, you’ll need to re-engage the tension. Using your pry bar or socket wrench, move the idler pulley arm back into its original position, allowing the tensioner spring to apply proper tension to the new belt. Double-check that the belt is seated correctly on every single pulley, including the engine pulley, blade pulleys, and all idlers. The belt should feel taut but still have a slight give. Incorrect tension—either too loose or too tight—can cause problems, so ensure it feels right.
Final checks and testing
With the new belt successfully installed and tensioned, the final phase involves reassembling your mower and conducting thorough checks to ensure everything is in working order. If you removed the mower deck, carefully slide it back under the mower chassis. Reconnect the deck lifting rods and the PTO cable, ensuring all linkages are secure. Reinstall any anti-scalp wheels or components you might have removed. Once the deck is properly reattached and secured, lower the mower back down to the ground. Before attempting to start the mower, remember to reconnect the spark plug wire—a critical step you deliberately reversed for safety at the outset of this task.
Perform a final visual inspection. Scan the entire area where you were working to ensure no tools or loose parts have been left behind. Double-check that the new belt is still correctly seated on all pulleys and that there are no twists or kinks in its path. Once you’re confident everything is in place, start your Scotts S1742. Engage the blades cautiously, listening for any unusual noises, vibrations, or signs of the belt slipping. Allow the blades to run for a short period, then disengage them and turn off the mower. If everything sounds and feels normal, you’ve successfully replaced your mower’s belt and are ready to get back to tackling your lawn.
Replacing a belt on your Scotts S1742 lawn mower, while seemingly daunting, is a highly manageable maintenance task that offers significant benefits. By following the detailed steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently undertake this repair yourself, saving both time and money on professional services. We’ve covered everything from essential safety precautions and gathering the necessary tools to the precise method of accessing, removing, and installing the new belt, culminating in the crucial final checks. Remember that proper belt routing and tension are key to ensuring your mower operates efficiently and reliably. Regular inspection of your belts can help you catch wear early, preventing unexpected breakdowns. A well-maintained mower not only performs better but also lasts longer, and mastering simple repairs like belt replacement empowers you to keep your Scotts S1742 in top condition for many seasons to come.
Image by: Declan Sun