SEARS GT 16HP 6 Speed about 1976 (model#917257050)

Hi, my name is David and im new to this discussion forum and hoping someone can help!!! Ive got a sears GT 16HP 6 Speed lawntractor I think its about a 1976 but im not sure and I need to figure out how the belt that drives the mower deck goes on! Please help.

I have 1976 ss 16 with an onan motor. i'm not sure if mine attatches the same.
There is a pulley on the right (facing forward) side of the motor. The belt wraps around this pulley and goes to another pulley mounted on the front. This front pulley is mounted on a steel bracket that is removable. It is usually removed with the mower deck. There is a steel bar that attatches to this plate on one end and to the blade engagement lever on the other. When installed, the lever is pushed forward sliding the steel plate forward and puts tension on the belt causing the blades to engage. There is a second steel bar (longer) that attatches to the front plate. This goes back to the deck and operates a brake that stops the blade when lever is disengaged.
Hope this helps.
Tim

PS As I mentioned mine is a 76 also. My father is the original owner. Everything on this tractor is original including the belt described above. You cannot buy a machine for any amount of money today that is built as well.

Here's a picture showing the belt routing. It's from a model # 917.251030 deck, which is the earlier Suburban type, but it should give you an idea.

All the later Suburban 42" and 48" decks are the same as far as the belt routing....from the 1970 SS12's to the last GT 19.9's of the 80's, if I recall correctly.

Use Tim's excellent written instructions and the picture and you should have no problems!

hi david i have looked at my manuel which is for a 1966 suburban 12 hp the belt layout is the same as the drawing you have been sent you should have no problems fitting best rgds carlo uk