MTD built tractors with deck belt tightener and double pulleys.

[Duner Wi]

I have a MTD built Yardman from 1996 834 series.
The pulley/sheave grooves for 5/8 inch B or 4L belt are worn so belt rides to bottom and slips when under load.
This double pulley also has belt to drive to trans-axle.
Pulley is no longer available from MTD or aftermarket that I can find. Has anyone come up with a work around. Part Number is 756-0636.

 

[buzz saw]

I ran one of those MTD built mowers for close to 40 years and fought the same issue, only my problem was the transaxle drive belt slipping. What I finally came up with was the belt "side" profile was a little different on an off the shelf belt as opposed to the MTD belts. I was able to find an MTD OEM belt for it and it worked fine after that. There was just enough difference in the angle of the V of the belts or maybe the OEM belt wasn't as deep, I don't remember, that a standard belt would bottom out in the pulley. It was several years ago, hopefully MTD still makes belts for it, they are good mowers and I like the variator pulley for the transaxle, like a poor mans hydro.

 

[Duner Wi]

I had one like you describe and MTD belts for Vari Drive is definitely the way to go. I gave mine to grandson and got this upgrade from the twp iron bin.
I pull an Agri Fab mow behind. Kohler M20 engine and I hydro gear transaxle. I like them both. My drive for the deck is quite worn. New pulleys or wider belt should help.

 

[T.R.K.]

You can check Ebay.
If there are any people parting out old mowers in your area, you could check with them.
I would also suggest comparing your pulley to the engine pulley from a later TroyBilt. I think for a few years they used a similar pulley, but you may have to come up with that extended spacer at the top of the pulley.
The problem is that used parts will probably come in two categories: 1. As badly worn as yours is. or 2. Really really rusty. Which shortens your belt life.

 

[Jim.ME]

Contact Norman He might have what you need or places to find the parts