Well, I just had a chance to investigate this - and thanks for the input. Certainly better than the manual.
I knew the belt was getting old because the inside ribs show cracking, and I've had a replacement on-hand for some time now. So its good to learn how to do this. Actually pretty easy relative to how it looks complicated at first glance.
I can't really find anything in bad shape. The pully runs smoothly, there is only the slightest looseness to it along the axis of the shaft its mounted on. The pivot operates smoothly and with no looseness. The shock absorber is a lot more tight on compression than extension, so I may go ahead and replace it. The spring looks to be possibly original equipment, so that will get replaced too.
All the other device pullies are smooth and easy to turn, except of course the crank.
So, I think I'll go with a new shock, spring and belt and see how it goes. Those are the easiest things to replace too.
Thanks,
Ken300D