Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): burning drive belts., double pulley, variable speed pulley

Question
I have a 2005 troy bilt pony riding mower.  I keep burning up drive belts, the small one not the one that goes from the crank to the rear of the tractor.  The variable speed pulley, I can slide the bottom pulley up is that normal.  Is there supposed to be play in that double pulley?

Answer
You should be able to slide the varialbe pulley up and down but it should not have very much play on/around the pulley mounting hole/shaft.

What is the mower model number found on the Troy Bilt sticker?  The sticker is usually located under the seat or rear fenders.

Are you using OEM belts?

Eric