24
CLEAN DECK &
CHECK / REPLACE MOWER BLADES
Service Interval: 25 hours or as required.
1. Remove mower deck (see MOWER DECK
REMOVAL in the Operation section).
2. Remove blade to inspect it or to safely access the
underside of the mower deck (see Figure 22). Use a
block of wood to prevent blade rotation while loosen-
ing the capscrew by turning it counterclockwise.
3. Remove the capscrew (A, Figure 23), spring washer
(B), and blade.
4. Clean the underside of the mower deck.
5. Inspect the blades for nicks or dull edges. Use a file
to sharpen blade to a fine edge. If the blade is dam-
aged, it must be replaced.
6. Balance the blade as shown in Figure 24. Center the
blade’s hole on a nail lubricated with a drop of oil. A
balanced blade will remain level. If the blade is not
balanced, continue to sharpen the heavy side until it
balances.
7. Reinstall the blade with the lift wings (C, Figure 23)
pointing up toward the mower deck as shown.
8. Reinstall the spring washer (B) and capscrew (A).
Use a wooden block (B) to prevent blade rotation
while tightening the capscrew (A) to 45-55 ft-lbs (61-
75 Nm). Turn capscrew clockwise to tighten.
WARNING
For your personal safety, do not handle the sharp
mower blades with bare hands. Careless or
improper handling of blades may result in serious
injury.
WARNING
For your personal safety, blade mounting
capscrews must each be installed with a spring
washer, then securely tightened. Torque blade
mounting capscrew to 45-55 ft-lbs (61-75 Nm).
Figure 24. Balancing the Blade
Workbench
Nail
LOOSEN
Figure 22. Blade Removal
D
C
C
B
A
Figure 23. Blade Installation
A. Blade Capscrew
B. Spring Washer
C. Lift Wings
D. 4x4 Wood Block
Not for
Reproduction