Thanks for clarifying that Sparky. Putting graphite on clutch facings increases the required clamping pressure, but it does usually reduce the effects of high spots in the early stages of breaking in a new facing. I'd be reluctant to endorse it as an ongoing feature of your clutch, but for a break-in process, it makes sense to me.
Incidentally because you are pushing the tensioner pulley forward while standing behind the mower, the usual way to take up the belt tensioner ratchet is with a short lever applied to the pulley. I don't mean some six foot crowbar, which would damage the pulley, of course. One member reported some success with a size ten right foot, but he may be a rather meatier fellow than I am: I wouldn't expect much effect if I used my foot. Anyway, as long as you are pushing the pulley toward the front of the mower, with enough force to see the pulley move slightly along its slide and tend to stretch the belt, that is what is needed.
