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SECTION V. MOWER DECK
This section contains adjustment, removal, installation,
and maintenance information for the 42-inch mower
deck. Instructions for installation and removal of the
optional mulching plug are located at the end of this
section.
A. DECK LEVELING ADJUSTMENTS
In order to achieve even cutting, the mower deck must
be properly leveled. This leveling procedure will result
in the left and right blades having corresponding front
cutting-edge-to ground measurements within 1/16 inch
of each other. Also, the right and the left blades will
each have a 1/8 to 1/4 inch downward tilt toward the
front of the tractor. To level the mower deck, proceed
as follows:
WARNING
Before making any adjustments, place the PTO
switch in the “OFF” position, engage the brake
pedal lock, turn the ignition key to the “OFF”
position, remove the key from the switch and
remove the spark plug wire to avoid accidental
starting and injury.
WARNING
When adjusting the mower deck, be careful not
to cut yourself on the sharp blades.
NOTE
If the mower deck is not level, the mower will not
cut your lawn evenly.
NOTE
Check the tires for proper inflation before
making a leveling adjustment. To level the deck,
the tractor and deck MUST be placed on a hard,
level surface during adjustment.
SIDE-TO-SIDE LEVELING ADJUSTMENT
1. Position the tractor and mower deck on a hard,
level surface.
2. Open the tractor hood and disconnect the spark
plug wire.
3. The mower deck front and rear gauge wheels
should be installed in their uppermost position in
the deck brackets to prevent contact with the hard,
level surface below. Refer to GAUGE WHEEL
ADJUSTMENT.
4. Raise the tractor implement lift handle to its
highest setting.
5. Position the mower blades so that the ends of each
blade face the right and left sides of the tractor
(Refer to Figure 28).
Figure 28
6. Referring to Figure 29, measure and record the
distance from the hard, level surface to the outer-
most cutting edge of the right blade. Repeat this
step for the left blade. If the two blade heights are
not within 1/16 inch, proceed to steps 7, 8 and 9. If
the two blade heights are within 1/16 inch, proceed
to FRONT TO BACK LEVELING ADJUSTMENT.
DECK
INSTALLED
MOWER
BLADES