Isn't there a sliding bar that engages with the roller on the forward/reverse lever? It has a center bolt. Put the lever into the fully down position and the roller should cause a 1/4" gap between the bottom of the roller and the sliding bar. If not, loosen the bolt and mover the sliding bar downward until it does.

Yeah, I already had that adjusted all the way. I got the belts on, but now the "pawl" won't stay engaged in the detent to keep it in gear (nomenclature according to the manual if I remember correctly!). Works great long as I hold the lever down. Hoping to hear from htuckey with his experience on this issue.

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y46/baymee/troy-bilt-belt-tension.jpg

Then you might have to grind some of the iron away. It gets worn from use. I had to do this myself.