Craftsman Riding Mower - Uneven cut
#1
07-25-12, 10:04 PM
Craftsman Riding Mower - Uneven cut
I have a Craftsman riding mower (917.276412) that doesn't cut evenly. Looking at the mowed grass, it looks like the left blade is 1/2" lower than the right. I've measured and adjusted the mowing deck numerous times following the instructions in the manual. With the deck upside down both blades appear level with each other but I replaced the blades and mandrels just to be sure there was no movement in the mandrel. The tires are properly inflated.
Obviously I'm missing something. Does anyone have any ideas?
Thanks in advance,
Jim
Obviously I'm missing something. Does anyone have any ideas?
Thanks in advance,
Jim
#2
07-25-12, 10:31 PM
Forum Topic Moderator
Is the front of the deck tilted down? The left blade is placed more forward of the right, so if the deck was lower in the front, the left side would cut a bit lower. Also, check the mandrel for cracks around the areas where it attaches to the deck, and check the spindle for play due to bad bearings that could allow it to tilt under belt pressure.
#3
07-26-12, 04:48 AM
Seeing that you have replaced both mandrels and blades, there are adjustments in the front of the deck, loosen jam nut and adjust left side till deck is level. you may have to make slight adjustments under the machine once you get it level. Make small adjustments up front first to pick up (tighten) front if deck slopes down in front. Good Luck and have a nice day.
#5
07-29-12, 09:48 AM
I appreciate the feedback guys. The front was about 3/8" lower than the back so I raised it and it's now level with the back. The left blade still cuts 1/2" lower than the right. Looks really bad! Any other ideas?
Thanks,
Jim
Thanks,
Jim
#7
07-29-12, 01:45 PM
Did you ever bend a blade or break a spindle housing on that left side?? The area where that spindle housing mounts may be bent. As cheese said if the blades are not even near each point one side or the other deck spindle mounting area's is bent. Good luck,,I have ran into this with my customers a time or two,,sometimes the deck is even broken.
#8
08-20-12, 11:37 AM
Riding Mower cutting uneven
If your riding mower is like 8 to 10 or older there are two things it could be. One is the bearings in the spindles (the blades are attached to these). I believe you are right that the Pulley need to be made a different size to increase the speed of the blades so you can mow the yard at a faster rate of speed. I am still looking into this for mine. Good luck
Paul
Paul
#9
08-20-12, 11:42 AM
Riding Mower cutting uneven
I am new at this. Missed some things you said. Do you have the plastic wheels that are of the deck to hold it even. Just a guess, but maybe this could help.
Paul
Paul
