run against the bottom of the groove. Replace the pulley when this is the case, otherwise belt will lose power and slip excessively.
Never pry a belt to get it on a pulley as this will cut or damage the fibers of the belt covering.
Keep oil and grease away from belts, and never use belt dressings. Any of these will destroy the belt composition in a very short time.
MOWER BLADE MAINTENANCE
Check the mower blades daily, they are the key to power efficiency and well groomed turf. Keep them sharp, a dull blade will tear rather than cut the grass, leaving a brown ragged top on the grass within a few hours. A dull blade also requires more power from the engine.
Replace any blade which is bent, cracked or broken.
WARNING: Never attempt to straighten a bent blade by heating, or weld a cracked or broken blade as the blade may break and cause serious injury.
DANGER: Never work with blades while engine is running or deck clutch switch is engaged (on). Always place deck clutch switch in the disengaged position, place control levers in the park brake position and turn engine off and disconnect negative battery cable. Block up mower when you must work under it. Wear gloves when handling blades. Always check for blade damage if mower strikes rock, branch or other foreign object during mowing!
WARNING: Always wear adequate eye protection when grinding mower blades.
MOWER BLADE REMOVAL
Use a 15/16" wrench to remove the 5/8" cap screw holding the blade to the spindle shaft from underneath.
Sharpen the blades on a grinder following pattern as shown "FIG. 18".
Check the blades for balance following grinding. A commercial balancing tool is available through most hardware supply stores, or balancing can be done by placing the blade on an inverted line punch or 1/2" bolt. Blade should not lean or tilt. Spin the blade slowly, blade should not wobble. If blade is out of balance, true it up before reinstalling.
Lay the blade on a flat surface and check for distortion "FIG. 19" and "FIG. 20". Replace any distorted blade.
Do not
WARNING: When mounting blades, rotate them after installation to ensure blade tips do not touch each other or sides of the mower.
WARNING: Failure to correctly torque the bolt may result in the loss of the blade which can cause seri- ous injury.
WARNING: Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves and use extra caution when servicing them.
108604 10/08 |