MTD Series 54M Maintenance, Rear Flap Replacement, Off-Season Storage, Blade Mounting Torque

Figure 5-2

NOTE: Improper blade balance will result in excessive vibration causing eventual damage to the engine and mower. Be sure to carefully balance blade after sharpen- ing. Possible damage resulting from blade unbalance condition is not the responsibility of the manufacturer.

NOTE: Always remove blade from the adapter for testing balance.

7.The blade can be tested for balance by balancing it on a round shaft screwdriver. Remove metal from the heavy side until it balances evenly.

8.Before reassembling the blade and the blade adapter to the unit, lubricate the engine crankshaft and the inner surface of the blade adapter with light oil.

9.Install the blade adapter on the crankshaft with the “star” away from the engine. See Figure 5-2. Place the blade with the side marked “bottom” (or with part number) facing away from the adapter. .Align the blade bell support over the blade with the tabs in the holes of the blade and insert the hex bolt.

10.Tighten the hex bolt to the torque listed below:

Blade Mounting Torque

Center Bolt 450 in. lb. min., 600 in.lb. max.

To insure safe operation of your unit, ALL nuts and bolts must be checked periodically for correct tightness.

Figure 5-3

Rear Flap Replacement

The rear flap is attached to the back of the mower deck, and is designed to minimize the possibility that objects will be thrown from the rear of the mower toward the operator. If the rear flap becomes damaged, replace as follows.

1.To remove the old rear flap, lift rear door, and press flap in on either side to remove from hole. See Figure 5-3.

2.Remove flap from opposite hole and replace with new flap following these steps in reverse order.

Off-Season Storage

The following steps should be taken to prepare your lawn mower for storage.

1.Clean and lubricate mower thoroughly as described in the lubrication instructions.

2.We do not recommend the use of a pressure washer or garden hose to clean your unit.

3.Refer to engine manual for correct engine storage instructions.

4.Coat mower’s cutting blade with chassis grease to prevent rusting.

5.Store mower in a dry, clean area. Do not store next to corrosive materials, such as fertilizer.

NOTE: When storing any type of power equipment in a poorly ventilated or metal storage shed, care should be taken to rust-proof the equipment. Using a light oil or silicone, coat the equipment, especially cables and all moving parts of your lawn mower before storage.

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Maintenance

WARNING

When removing the cutting blade for sharpening or replacement, protect your hands with a pair of heavy gloves or use a heavy rag to hold the blade.

An unbalanced blade will cause excessive vibration when rotat- ing at high speeds. It may cause damage to mower, and could break causing per- sonal injury.

Cutting grass in sandy soil condition causes abrasive wear to the blade.

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