Belt Transmission With the direct connection of lifting machines to power source still a distant dream, the simple, lowly leather belt became as important a link in the overall system as the metal ropes supporting the car. Initially, the lift was located far from the main source of steam power in the mill, merely linked, via belt, from the long drive shaft as "one of the machines." As the elevator assumed more importance, the belt between the power source and the reduction drive became shorter and shorter until the individual power source was within eyeshot, then within the same machine room, then next to the bedplate, and finally -- on a common bedplate.