Good point, I always did the same with the older tractors. My 07 cub cadet is electric so nothing you can do about it, but at least it doesn't squeal. Belts are potentially original but at least like 7 years old.On my mechanical blade engagement machines, I ease the lever into engagement, so blades spin up slower, not just slam it in. Belts last twice as long. Had a neighbor with a Cub that had the electric clutch, the belt squealing every time it engaged made me wince.