Drive Belt broke, Spring came off, where does it go?

[the jeep driver 29]

Hello... I have a 1985 Wheel Horse 417A with a 17 HP Kohler Engine, Model KT17QS, Spec No. 24350.

 

The drive belt broke yesterday.  I replaced it, but in the process noticed a spring hanging from the frame, as in the picture.  I cannot figure out where this is supposed to be. It doesn't seem that the spring should be connected where it's at; as though it came off and just (fortuity) happened to get caught there. 

One picture showing where I found the spring, the other of the drive, in case it helps.  

Also, I am able to shove the tractor forward and backwards with the drive engaged.  I don't remember that being possible before, so I'm thinking this spring has something to do with it.  ... ? 

Thank you!

[cleat 6,323]

I think that is spring #29 in the attached diagram

 

Wheel horse 520H parts and service manual.pdf

 

It's really just an anti rattle spring for the hydro belt release.

 

Edited May 14, 2022 by cleat

[daveoman1966 3,758]

Your big spring #37 looks right.  The smalle spring hanging from the frame is #29 in this schematic of the 417-A 

[peter lena 8,719]

@the jeep driver  in addition to that spring issue , notice the idler pulley opportunity ? wide rubber side shields, on bearing easily / carefully removed with small pocket screwdriver , wipe out existing " grease " , carb cleaner flush , lucas x-tra heavy duty , hi temp , anti sling , polyurea grease , makes those bearings live with out noise or failure . carefully reinstall seals  , lubricate related linkage areas , only a suggestion . but you are right there . greasy pete

[953 nut 55,744]

Here is a photo i pirated from another post that may be helpful. Of course your belt goes under the idler.

[peter lena 8,719]

@953 nut    yup those idler pulleys are a definite issue , with some tweaking and detailing upgrades they can live on . can start with a common size / flat type and LARGER  bearing , then change out that lubricant , for something thats made for hi temp usage . found that combo makes for  zero issues . only an idea. pete 

[the jeep driver 29]

You all are the best.  

This is where it looks like it goes then.  

And yessir, I'll clean it up before reassembly.