Not all the same. Every Ariens and many later model Toro need to be split to properly change the belts. You have an MTD rebadge and most of those do not have to be split however there are some tricks. Basically tip the machine up on its front (drain fuel first/run dry obviously) and remove the bottom cover. Be mindful that MTDs are made of foil and tipping it up can fold the corners of the auger housing in.
You'll need a long screwdriver to maneuver the belts but essentially engage the drive handle and tie it down to get enough space to squeeze the auger belt passed, open the brake to put the belt on the pulley and once that's done release the drive and for the drive belt squeeze it between the friction disc and drive plate (rotate wheels to help "pull" it through) and feed it up between the frame and disc.
Get the auger belt started on the lower pulley and rotate it onto the engine pulley. For the drive belt do the opposite, start it on the engine pulley and rotate it onto the drive pulley. While you're in there spray the springs with a penetrant and put some never seize on the hex shaft that the drive disc carrier moves across. Keep the drive disc surface clean and dry. Also recommend removing the wheels and cleaning/lubricating the axles before the wheels permanently freeze on.
