144959 Kevlar Mower Deck Belt 1/2" X 95" for Craftsman LT1000 LT2000 LT3000 42'' Riding Mower, Repalces 138255 130801 532138255 160855 24690 144959D Poulan AYP

What It Is

This is a 1/2" wide by 95" long Kevlar-reinforced mower deck belt designed for 42-inch cutting decks on Craftsman LT1000, LT2000, and LT3000 series riding mowers, as well as compatible Poulan and AYP models. It drives the blade spindles from the engine pulley.

Fitment & Compatibility

• Check your deck size: This belt fits only 42-inch decks (not 46", 48", etc.). Measure your deck width or look for “42” in the model number.
• Model series: Fits Craftsman LT1000, LT2000, LT3000, and many Poulan/AYP models with 42" decks. Verify your mower’s model number (e.g., 917.xxxxx) against OEM part numbers: 138255, 130801, 532138255, 160855, 24690, 144959D.
• Measure your old belt: Lay it flat and measure length (end-to-end, not looped). Must be 95 inches. Width must be 1/2 inch. If yours is 1/2" x 93" or 96", this belt won’t fit.
• OEM vs aftermarket: This is an aftermarket replacement. It works for the listed OEM numbers but may differ slightly in Kevlar content vs genuine Craftsman.

Key Things to Know

• Kevlar reinforcement helps durability compared to standard rubber belts, especially under heavy grass or debris loads.
• Installation is moderate difficulty – you’ll need to remove the deck (usually 4 pins/clips) and route the belt around idler pulleys. Take a photo of the old belt path first.
• Common gotcha: The belt is directional on some decks – check the arrow on the belt (if present) or the diagram under the mower seat/deck for correct rotation.
• Break-in period: New belts may stretch slightly; check tension after the first 2-3 hours of use and adjust if needed.

Should You Buy It

Buy this if you need a budget-friendly replacement for a 42" Craftsman LT1000/LT2000/LT3000 deck belt and want added Kevlar strength over a standard rubber belt. It’s a solid value for the price, but if your original belt lasted only one season, consider a genuine OEM belt for potentially longer life.