Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) Discussions

I'm working on a Craftsman track-drive model #536.884800 which is a 5 hp 23''. The belts have to be replaced. Can I go with a GATES "trueflex" and GATES "hi-power2" or must I get a true MURRAY belt which cost more? The parts on this machine are interchangeable with NOMA and MURRAY.

A loose belt will slip.  Also, as the belt wears it gets thinner.  There will be less material to bite on the pulleys.  As the belt gets smaller it will sit deeper in the pulley which will change the gear ratio to make it slower.