Lastec Articulator, Owner'S Manual, Page: 34 / 54

Initial Set-Up
Deck Belts and Alignment
3
3-12 XR700 062419 Initial Set-Up
To access each belt, remove the belt cover hardware, and lift the belt cover from the
mower deck. Follow the procedures below in order to properly tension the deck belts:
1. Remove all belt covers.
2. Deflect the sides of each deck belt inward at its center point between the pulleys. Apply-
ing light pressure (approximately 10 lbs), you should be able to deflect the belt approxi-
mately 1/2' to 3/4" inward.
3. If you cannot deflect the belt at least 1/2" inward with 10lbs of pressure, loosen the belt
slightly. If you can deflect the belt more than 3/4" inward, tighten the belt slightly. To adjust
the slide bar, loosen the jam nut and adjust the bolt in or out of the slide bar. DO NOT
TIGHTEN THE BOLT HEAD AND NYLOCK NUT AGAINST THE ADJUSTMENT PLATE
ON THE DECK. MAINTAIN 1/32” GAP BETWEEN PLATE AND WASHERS TO ALLOW
THE DECK TO FLOAT PROPERLY WITHOUT PLACING EXCESS STRESS ON THE
SLIDE BAR.
4. Align the front three decks (decks 1, 2, and 3). Adjust the pivot slide bars located on the
main deck common legs. Adjusting the slide bar in swings the outer front deck outward
away from the main deck. Adjusting the slide bar out swings the outer front deck inward
toward the main deck. Align the decks so that the wheels are parallel to one another and
aligned with the tractor tires. Wheel misalignment causes premature wear and wheel fail-
ure.
5. Align the outside two decks (decks 6 and 7). Adjust the tie rod located under the hydraulic
cylinder on each deck. Adjusting the tie rod out swings the deck back, adjusting it in
swings the deck forward. Adjust the tie rods so that the slide bars are centered within the
belts.
6. Tighten all slide bar jam nuts.
7. Clean each entire deck area (under the belt covers) of all excess grease, oil, fuel, grass,
or debris before operating the Articulator. This will help prevent damage to the equipment,
fire hazard, and projectile hazards.
8. Ensure to replace all belt covers and hardware.