Snapper 3317523BVE Mower Blade Replacement, Blade Wear Limits, Removing the mower blade

Maintenance (Continued)

!	WARNING	!	4.	Remove the bolts (B, Figure 43), washers (C) and nuts
				(D) securing the mower blade (A) to the spindle.
DO NOT attempt any adjustments, maintenance, service or			5.	Inspect the condition of the blade (Figure 42).
repairs with the engine running. STOP engine. STOP blade.			6.	If the blade is in good condition, sharpen at 22 to 28
Engage parking brake. Remove key. Remove spark plug				degrees (B, Figure 44). DO NOT sharpen beyond exist-
wire from spark plug and secure away from plug. Engine				ing cutting edge (A).
and components are HOT. Avoid serious burns, allow all			7.	Check blade balance after sharpening. If necessary, cor-
parts to cool before working on machine. Fuel Filler Cap				rect blade balance by grinding the heavy end of the
and vent must be closed securely to prevent fuel spillage.				blade.
			8.	Reinstall the blade. Torque the blade mounting bolts to
				the recommended range of 30 to 40 ft. lbs.

Mower Blade Replacement

Blade Wear Limits
1. Inspect the blade frequently for signs of excessive wear	D
or damage (Figure 42):	C
(A) New blade;
(B) Wear limit (notch starts);
(C) Dangerous condition - do not use on mower!
Replace with new blade.
A
	B

A

B

Figure 43: Removing the mower blade

			C
				B
	Figure 42: Mower blade wear limits
!		WARNING	!
Wear heavy leather gloves when handling or working
around cutting blades. Blades are extremely sharp and can				A
cause severe injury. DO NOT use a cutting blade that shows
signs of excessive wear or damage.
Blade Sharpening				Figure 44: Sharpening the mower blade

1.Follow the WARNING statement found on this page.

2.Check the fuel level in the tank. If over 3/4 full, remove the tank. Refer to the section entitled “REMOVING FUEL TANK”. If 3/4 or less, proceed to the next step.

3.Carefully stand the Rear Engine Rider on its rear bumper.

Maintenance

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