I have a John Deere JX85 walk behind mower and I need to replace the drive belt. I'm wondering if I can get some help with the basics of installing this belt.

Read this before investing too much in repairs. http://www.evfind.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=15&Itemid=2 Got a manual? Introduction (http://manuals.deere.com/cceomview/OMGC00133_B1/Output/Index.html?tM=)

I read this article before and it sounds like a bunch of sour grapes when I compare it with dozens of articles that say the JX 75 and JX 85 were the best mowers John Deere ever made. Commercial users love them and were very sad when JD stopped making them.
I have an owner's manual for the JX75 which is set up the same as the 85 with regards the belt but it does not show belt replacement only maintenance and cleaning around the drive system.

Take the belt off the tranny first,
Then take out three of the four bolts holding the engine on.
Then loosen the last one some.lean the engine and work the belt off.will have to remove blade and the belt guard.