Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): riding lawnmower, pulley system, rubber belts

Question
John,
My riding lawnmower starts but won't move forward or backwards.  It worked fine last week.  I need to fix it or take it to a shop, but I don't want to be taken advantage of.  Like many others right now, money is tight.  When I last tried to move it, it started to smell hot like rubber belts burning.  HELP.....I am a 58 year old handicapped woman who absolutely needs a riding mower.  Can't afford to buy another one.

Answer
Hello Debbie:

>>From your Description it Sounds like an Idler Pulley has Frozen and Requires Replacing or a Belt Jumped Off the Pulley System (Usually Due to a Bent Belt Guard) and either cause will Require a New Belt as well as a Pulley.
>>Belt Guards are Usually a Bolt or an Off Set Rod Bolted to the Frame Designed to Keep the Belt from Jumping Off the Pulleys when the Unit is Operating.
>>If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem, I Hope to be Here if You Require More
Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please.
>>Have a Happy Holiday Weekend and May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Happy. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 5 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Comments and Ratings are
Greatly Appreciated. Thanks.

Respectfully

John