Replacing the Blade
Service Interval:
Yearly
Important:
You will need a torque wrench to install the
blade properly. If you do not have a torque wrench or
are uncomfortable performing this procedure, contact
an Authorized Service Dealer.
Examine the blade whenever you run out of gasoline. If the
blade is damaged or cracked, replace it immediately. If the
blade edge is dull or nicked, have it sharpened and balanced,
or replace it.
WARNING
The blade is sharp; contacting the blade can result
in serious personal injury.
Wear gloves when servicing the blade.
1.
Refer to
Preparing for Maintenance (page 14)
.
2.
Tip the machine either onto its side with the dipstick
down.
3.
Use a block of wood to hold the blade steady (
Figure 25
4.
Remove the blade by turning the blade bolt
counterclockwise, saving all mounting hardware to
install the new blade (
).
5.
Install the new blade by turning the blade bolt
clockwise (
Figure 26
Important:
Position the curved ends of the blade
to point toward the machine housing.
6.
Use a torque wrench to tighten the blade bolt to
82 N-m (60 ft-lb).
Important:
A bolt torqued to 82 N-m (60 ft-lb) is
very tight. While holding the blade with a block
of wood, put your weight behind the ratchet or
wrench and tighten the bolt securely. This bolt is
very difficult to overtighten.
16
