Cub Cadet WLT538 - Manual (Page 21)

21
WARNING: Always use a fuse with the
same amperage capacity for replacement.
Cutting Blades
WARNING: Be sure to shut the engine off,
remove ignition key, disconnect the spark plug
wire(s) and ground against the engine to
prevent unintended starting 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
spindles 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 19) 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 17.
• Use a 15/16" wrench to remove the hex flange nut
that secures the blade to the spindle assembly. See
Figure 17.
Figure 17
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 18.
Figure 18
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. 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’’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.
Changing the Transmission Drive Belts
NOTE: Several components must be removed and
special tools (i.e. air/impact wrench) in order to change
the tractor’s drive belts. See an authorized Troy-Bilt
Service Dealer to have your drive belts replaced or
phone Customer Support as instructed on page 2 for
information on ordering a Service Manual.
Changing the Deck Belt
WARNING: Be sure to shut the engine off,
remove ignition key, disconnect the spark
plug wire(s) and ground against the engine to
prevent unintended starting before removing
the belt(s).
WARNING: Avoid the possibility of a
pinching injury. Do not place your fingers on
the idler spring or between the belt and a
pulley while removing the belt.
Spindle Assembly
Hex Flange Nut
Wood Block
Blade Separation
Worn Blade Edge
Wind Wing
Sharpen Edge Evenly
5/8"
minimum