1. 3/8" drive ratchet with a 10mm socket
2. 3/8" drive ratchet with a 13mm socket
3. 1/2" drive ratchet with a 7/16" socket
4. 1/2" drive ratchet with a 1/2" socket
5. 7/16" open-end wrench
6. 1/2" open-end wrench
7. Flat-blade screwdriver
8. New drive belt
Step 1: Engage parking brake
Engage the parking brake lever to secure your John Deere LX188 lawn tractor.
Step 2: Raise the mower deck
Raise the mower deck to the highest position. This provides clearance to access the drive belt.
Step 3: Remove rear seat
Slide the rear seat backward to remove it and set aside. This allows access to the engine compartment and the drive belt.
Step 4: Disconnect battery
Disconnect the negative battery terminal using the 10mm socket. This prevents accidental electrical sparks during the repair.
Step 5: Remove idler pulley cover
Remove the two 13mm bolts securing the idler pulley cover. Lift and detach the cover to expose the drive belt.
Step 6: Loosen idler pulley bolt
Use the 7/16" socket and open-end wrench to loosen the bolt on the idler pulley. This releases tension on the drive belt.
Step 7: Remove drive belt
With the tension released, grasp the drive belt and remove it from the pulleys. It may require a bit of maneuvering around the various components.
Step 8: Install the new drive belt
Align the new drive belt with the pulleys. Start with placing it around the engine drive pulley. Wrap it around the idler pulley and then the forward transmission pulley.
Step 9: Tighten idler pulley bolt
While applying slight tension to the drive belt, tighten the idler pulley bolt with the 7/16" socket and open-end wrench. This tension ensures proper operation.
Step 10: Replace idler pulley cover
Reattach the idler pulley cover using the two 13mm bolts you removed earlier.
Step 11: Reconnect battery
Reconnect the negative battery terminal using the 10mm socket.
Step 12: Replace the rear seat
Slide the rear seat back onto its rails until it locks into place.
Step 13: Lower the mower deck
Lower the mower deck to its original position.
Your John Deere LX188 lawn tractor should now have a new drive belt installed and ready to go.
Note: Refer to your John Deere LX188 operator's manual for specific details and instructions related to your model.
