I have a john deere gt 262 lawn mower and am looking for a manual that shows the belt routing and how to replace. Is it free or do I have to pay for it.

Start your search here. john deere belt diagram - Google Image Search (http://images.google.com/images?hl=en&q=john+deere+belt+diagram&um=1&ie=UTF-8&ei=DV49SpTdKYywNILghbgO&sa=X&oi=image_result_group&resnum=1&ct=title) Try this for a complete manual download. Operator's Manuals for John Deere Equipment (http://www.deere.com/en_US/homeowners/services_support/manuals.html)

Hi,
The manual is available for purchase from Deere, the fate of older machines. You can get the to the parts breakdown at JDParts, however.
I will add the link; if you want to "bookmark" you must do it on that first page. It will assume you are a dealer if you don't. Need a User Name and Password.
Link:
Operator's Manuals for John Deere Equipment (http://www.deere.com/en_US/homeowners/services_support/manuals.html)
And picture:
Peace,
Clarke