7 Most Common Bad Boy Mower Belt Problems (solved)
Are you at a wit’s end due to the continuous Bad Boy mower belt problems? And you have no idea about how to resolve them, right?
Some of the most common Bad Boy mower belt problems include loose belts, pulley issues, insufficient tension, and debris or oil in the belt.
These problems can be frustrating. But you can solve them easily by adjusting, fixing tension, or replacing the belt.
In this article, I will explore the most common Bad Boy mower belt problems and how to fix them.
I’ll also share some tips that can assist you in avoiding these problems. So, let’s plunge into the article.
7 Common Bad Boy Mower Belt Problems (Fixed)
Various types of problems can occur with Bad Boy mower belts. So, to solve the issue, finding the actual problem is inevitable.
So, here I will discuss the most common problems and their effective solutions:
1. Loose Bad Boy Belt
Over time the mower deck belt can stretch and wear. So, it can cause the belt to come off.
So, if you notice signs like cracking, stretching, or a glazed shiny appearance, the belt is either loose or worn.
Solution
Once you have found all these signs in your Bad Boy belt, it is better to replace the belt.
Otherwise, it may cause even more complications.
2. Shredded Belt
A shredded belt is another Bad Boy mower belt problem that occurs when the belt wears out and starts to shred.
The most common cause of a shredding belt is incorrect installation, worn-out pulleys, or improper tension. This problem also appears when it rubs in a displaced bracket.
Solution
Firstly, check out that your belt is installed perfectly. Then inspect for the shiny wear spot on your mower’s bracket.
If you find a spot, then consider replacing the bracket.
And if the problem remains after fixing these issues, you must replace the belt.
3. Debris In Pulley Groove
The pulley groove can become clogged with debris, which can cause inefficiency. It also elevates the chances of wear and tear.
When debris, such as grass clippings or twigs, gets stuck, it can prevent the belt from engaging properly. It will also lead to slippage or dislodgement.
Solution
First, turn off the mower and disconnect the spark plug to fix this problem.
Then, use a wire brush or compressed air to remove debris from the pulley groove. Be sure to wear gloves and safety glasses when doing this.
Also Read: Bad Boy Mower Is Smoking (Possible Reasons And Fixes)
4. Grease Or Rust In Belt Deck
If the oil keeps dripping on the pulleys or the belt deck, it can dislodge the belt.
Moreover, if your pulleys or deck get rusty, they will dry. Resultantly, it will lead to the breaking of the belt.
Solution
The solution to this problem is to properly clean the oily and rusty parts.
Regularly lubricating the pulleys to prevent rust and ensure smooth belt operation is also a good idea.
If the problem persists, you should replace the belt.
5. Belt Tension Issue
Tension is imperative to prevent the belt from falling off. But if it exceeds a certain limit, it may decay parts of the deck.
On the other hand, if it is extremely low, it may cause the belt to pull off from the mower.
Solution
To avoid this, make sure to check the tension regularly. You can do this by pressing down on the belt with your fingers.
If it gives more than half an inch, it’s too loose. And if it doesn’t give at all, it’s too tight.
By using a belt tension gauge, you can conveniently adjust the tension. The range of tension for the belt of your Bad Boy mower is between 70-75 lbs.
You should also refer to your mower’s manual to find a suitable method for your particular model.
6. Poor Spindle Housing Bearings
The spindle housing is an important component of the mower’s cutting system. It holds the blade in place and ensures it rotates smoothly.
The spindle housing contains bearings that allow the blade to rotate. Over time, these bearings can become worn or damaged.
So, it can result in a loss of blade stability and reduced efficiency. If left unaddressed, this problem can lead to a complete failure of the spindle assembly.
Solution
To fix this issue, you should change the bearing of your mower. But some types of mowers don’t allow it.
So, you have to replace the complete cutter housing assembly.
7. Damaged Pulley Bearings
Damage pulley bearings are also another common belt problem. Each pulley needs to be flat on the Bad Boy mower deck.
Moreover, it should also be parallel to the deck of your mower. You should also ensure that there must not be too much movement.
Therefore, if the belt is operating on a pulley that is not leveled on the deck surface, it will come off after some time.
Solution
To solve this issue, you have to spin each pulley slowly with the help of your hand.
You must replace the pulley if you notice any resistance or noise from the bearing.
Tips To Maintain Your Bad Boy Mower Belt
If you take good care of your Bad Boy mower belt, you can avoid most problems.
So, here I’ll give some tips for maintaining your Bad Boy mower Belt and keeping it in good condition for as long as possible.
Also Read: How to Fix Lawn Mower Sputtering? (Reasons And Solutions)
1. Keep It Clean
A good way to maintain your Bad Boy mower Belt is by keeping it clean. Dirt and debris can build up on the belt, causing it to slip or break.
Use a stiff-bristled brush to remove any dirt or debris to prevent this.
You can also use a pressure washer to clean the belt, but avoid using too much pressure, which can damage the belt.
2. Use The Right Belt
Not all Bad Boy mower belts are created equal. There are different types of belts available for different types of mowers.
Using the wrong belt type can cause it to wear out faster or break down. Here is a 60-inch Belt you can try if it fits your mower’s model.
Make sure to use the right type of belt for your specific mower model. And check the owner’s manual for recommendations.
3. Keep It Lubricated
A dry belt can cause excessive friction and wear, leading to a shorter lifespan. Use a belt dressing or a silicone spray to keep your Bad Boy mower belt lubricated.
Apply the lubricant to both sides of the belt, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Store The Mower Properly
When you’re not using your Bad Boy mower, store it properly. This means keeping it dry, cool, and away from direct sunlight and moisture.
If the mower is exposed to moisture, it can cause the belt to rust or corrode, leading to premature wear and tear.
5. Hire A Professional
If you’re uncomfortable maintaining your Bad Boy mower Belt, consider hiring a professional.
An expert can inspect the belt and the mower and make necessary repairs or adjustments. This can help prevent future breakdowns and extend the life of your mower.
Also Read: Why My Bad Boy Mower Starts Then Dies? (Fixed)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I know if my mower belt is bad?
You should inspect the side wall of the belt. If it looks blazed or burned, your belt is bad and needs replacement.
Why does my riding mower keep burning belts?
Grass clipping on your mower deck excessively is a prime cause. So, ensure to clean the deck after every usage.
What is the most common failure mode of belts?
Mostly, the issue in a belt is caused due to insufficient tension. So, you must adjust it correctly for optimal performance.
Conclusion
Common Bad Boy mower belt problems can be disturbing, but they are common, and you can fix them easily with the right tools and skills.
Whether it’s a slipping belt, shredding belt, or debris stuck in the pulley groove, regular maintenance can address these problems.
