The blades may be removed as follows.

1.Remove the deck from beneath the tractor, (refer to Cutting Deck Removal earlier in this section) then gently flip the deck over to expose its underside.

2.Place a block of wood between the center deck housing baffle and the cutting blade to act as a stabilizer. See Fig. 7-5.

3.Remove the hex flange nut that secures the blade to the spindle assembly. See Fig. 7-5.

Figure 7-5

4.To properly sharpen the cutting blades, remove equal amounts of metal from both ends of the blades along the cutting edges, parallel to the trailing edge, at a 25° to 30° angle.

IMPORTANT: If the cutting edge of the blade has already been sharpened to within 1 5⁄8” from the edge, or if any metal separation is present, replace the blades with new ones. See Fig. 7-6.

warning! A poorly balanced blade will cause excessive vibration, may cause damage to the tractor and/or result in personal injury.

5.Test the blade’s balance using a blade balancer. Grind metal from the heavy side until it balances evenly.

NOTE: When replacing the blade, be sure to install the blade with the side of the blade marked ‘‘Bottom’’ (or with a part number stamped in it) facing the ground when the mower is in the operating position.

caution: Use a torque wrench to tighten the blade spindle hex flange nut to between 70 lbs-ft and 90 lbs-ft.

Changing the Deck Belt

WARNING! Be sure to shut the engine off, remove ignition key, disconnect the spark plug wire(s) and ground against the engine to prevent unintended starting before removing the belt.

WARNING! All belt on your tractor are subject to wear and should be replaced if any signs of wear are

present.

IMPORTANT: The V-belt found on your tractor are specially designed to engage and disengage safely. A substitute (non- OEM) V-belt can be dangerous by not disengaging completely. For a proper working machine, use factory approved belts.

To change or replace the deck belt on your tractor, proceed as follows:

1.Remove the deck as instructed earlier in this section.

2.Remove the belt covers by removing the hex washer screws that fasten them to the deck. See Fig. 7-7.

Figure 7-6

caution: If the cutting edge of the blade has previously been sharpened, or if any metal separation is present, replace the blades with new ones.

Hex Washer Screws

Spindle Pulley

Belt Cover

Belt Guard

Deck Idler Pulley

Figure 7-7

3.It may also be necessary to loosen the hex nut on the left idler pulley to get the belt off the pulley and around the belt guard.

4.Carefully remove the deck belt from around the two spindle pulleys and the two deck idler pulleys. See Fig. 7-7.

Section 7 — Service

 

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