I have the replacement belt, but the old one was shredded and thrown, so I'm not exactly sure the belt path with all the pulleys.

In addition, have no user manual, and would appreciate instrustions on dropping the mower deck. I'm sure I need to do this to mount the new belt, and the blades are way overdue for a sharpening.

Thanks

Hi,
Well you are in luck in that your manual is at Manage My Home at:
http://www.managemyhome.com/mmh/lis_pdf/OWNM/98080210.pdf
And I attach a picture, also.
Peace,
Clarke

Excellent. I'll save the entire pdf of the manual. Thanks so much.