Steiner MD448, Operator Manual & Illustrated Parts List

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14
ROTARY
MOWER
SERVICE
ADJUSTMENTS
Sharpening blades
Be careful while sharpening blades that the corners of the blade do not become rounded at the tips. This
reduces the blades overlap and will cause skipping. While sharpening, it is essential to ensure the balance
of the blades is maintained to prevent vibration. Blade bolt torque should be 75-85 ft. lbs. Rotate blades
after re-installing to check for bent or bowed blades and blade alignment.
Blade alignment
When installing sharpened blades or new blades be sure the mating surfaces are clean and the retaining
washer is not bent. Check for bent blades by rotating blades until tips are near each other. (It is easier to
do this with main drive belt idler spring unhooked.)
Leveling mower deck
The front to rear leveling adjustment is provided by two slots in the linkage which supports the front of the
deck. This allows each side to be adjusted independently. Check the blade level with mower resting on a
level floor and the cutting height set at about 2-1/2" setting. Measure to the tip of the left blade at the rear,
then rotate the blade 180 degrees and measure again to the tip of the blade at the front. The cutting height
should be equal or 1/16" lower at the front. Change adjustment in the left slot as required and measure
again until proper setting is reached. Repeat procedure for blade at right end of the deck and adjust right
slot.