Just bought replacement belt and even the original part looks too long, I've checked the instructions and followed the previous belt path and even return to the store for another belt in-case this was the wrong belt. What's normally missing during this replacements? It almost feels like I am missing a loop or something, but per the book and the actual path , I am not missing loop or pulley or anything. Any ideas what's normally overlooked?

If I have the original belt ti should be a bit tight to get tension, it's so long, when started doesn't even makes the loud noise of the blades (its' simply too big).

My mtd riding mower has a pulley in 2 pieces for the speed shift. Below that pulley is a one piece pulley for the drive belt from the motor. I hit e dead branch which lodged in the belts. I now have both belts wedged in the upper 2 part pulley. How do I release the tension or get the drive belt back on the proper pulley.