Hi Bob: yes there is another way to adjust the tension on the drive belt on the mower deck. you can remove the rod which is attached to the engageing lever which engages the cutting blades and turn the knuckle a few turns to lengthen the rod. But you must be careful not to over adjust the knuckle or the cutting blades will stay engaged all the time.
Hope this is of help to you:
Mickey-G
November 2008