John,
Thanks for the reply. Since the problems with this machine are all behind now I'm sending this note just in case it helps someone else and to let all know what went on. As far as the belt.... We have many Yale and other machines. In most cases we are able to squeeze the belt through. Not on this one. For whatever reason there was no room no matter how hard we tried. I questioned the local Yale reps and they said the same.
As far as the throttle cable.... Once I installed a heavy ground directly to the engine from the battery the problem was solved. I did look at all the wiring and saw no evidence of anything hot rubbing the frame or engine. I don't know why all of a sudden this started, but I went thourgh 5 throttle cables. the cable would get hot enough to melt the housing only when cranking over the engine. So if the machine did not start within a couple of seconds, the cable fried. It's been months and it's OK.