25
Cutting Blades
WARNING:
Be sure to shut the engine off,
remove ignition key, disconnect the spark
plug wire(s) and ground against the engine
before removing the cutting blade(s) for
sharpening or replacement. Protect your
hands by using heavy gloves or a rag to grasp
the cutting blade.
WARNING:
Periodically inspect the blade
adapter and/or spindle for cracks or damage,
especially if you strike a foreign object.
Replace immediately if damaged
.
The blades may be removed as follows.
•
Remove the deck from beneath the tractor, (refer to
Cutting Deck Removal
on page 22 for detailed
instructions) then gently flip the deck over to
expose its underside.
•
Place a block of wood between the center deck
housing baffle and the cutting blade to act as a
stabilizer. See Figure 25.
•
Use a 15/16" wrench to remove the hex flange nut
that secures the blade to the spindle assembly. See
Figure 25.
Figure 25
To properly sharpen the cutting blades, remove equal
amounts of metal from both ends of the blades along
the cutting edges, parallel to the trailing edge, at a 25°
to 30° angle. See Figure 26.
IMPORTANT:
If the cutting edge of the blade has already
been sharpened to within 5/8" of the wind wing radius,
or if any metal separation is present, replace the blades
with new ones. See Figure 26.
It is important that each cutting blade edge be ground
equally to maintain proper blade balance.
A poorly balanced blade will cause excessive vibration
and may cause damage to the tractor and result in
personal injury.
Figure 26
The blade can be tested by balancing it on a round
shaft screwdriver. Grind metal from the heavy side until
it balances evenly.
When replacing the blade, be sure to install the blade
with the side of the blade marked ‘‘Bottom’’ (or with a
part number stamped in it) facing the ground when the
mower is in the operating position.
IMPORTANT:
Use a torque wrench to tighten the blade
spindle hex flange nut to between 70 foot-pounds and
90 foot-pounds.
Fuses
Two fuses are installed in your tractor’s wiring harness
to protect the tractor’s electrical system from damage
caused by excessive amperage.
Always use a fuse with the same amperage capacity for
replacement. If the electrical system does not function,
or your tractor’s engine will not crank, first check to be
certain that the fuse has not blown. One can be found
under the seat, mounted to the left of the battery tray on
the underside of the fender. The other is clipped to the
metal heat shield near the fuel tank under the hood.
Pull the fuse out and examine it to determine if it is good
or blown.
Battery
WARNING:
Battery posts, terminals, and
related accessories contain lead and lead
components. Wash hands after handling.
The battery is sealed and is maintenance-free. Acid
levels cannot be checked.
Spindle Assembly
Hex Flange Nut
Wood Block
Blade Separation
Worn Blade Edge
Wind Wing
Sharpen Edge Evenly
5/8"
minimum