Chosen Solution

followed manual, no spring drive tension. what am I missing?

@honestee double check these step. BELT INSTALLATION -

  1. Install new belt around engine pulley first, then around transaxle pulley and lastly into all the idler pulleys.
  2. Check to be sure belt is positioned correctly and is on proper side of all belt keepers.
  3. Engage the drive belt tension handle and replace the retainer spring. Make sure that you routed the belt properly and that the idler pulleys are engaged.