How to Change the Blade on Kohler Courage XT7 Mower

Walk-behind lawnmowers, with engine power, provide easy operation when cutting a large grassy area. Many lawnmower manufacturers use different engine makers to enhance the overall power of the product. Kohler offers an engine, called the Courage XT7, that is installed on a number of different mowers. The Kohler engine controls the mower's blade motion during operation. However, the mower's blade will become dull over time, requiring a replacement blade assembly.

Things You'll Need

• Wood block
• Wrench
• Torque wrench

Instructions

1. Make sure the Kohler engine is off. Detach the spark plug wire to ensure that all power is removed from the engine's components.

2. Place a wood block against the blade. Confirm that the blade cannot move or rotate with the block in place.

3. Detach and remove the bolt holding the blade to the Kohler engine's shaft with a wrench. Carefully slide the lock and flat washers from the blade as well. Detach and remove the blade.

4. Place a new blade on the engine's shaft. Slide a flat washer and lock washer onto the shaft.

5. Place a bolt onto the shaft. Tighten the bolt to a maximum of 50 foot-pounds with a torque wrench. Visually verify that the lock washer is flush between the bolt and flat washer.

6. Remove the wood block. Reattach the spark plug wire. Turn the engine back on, then test the lawnmower's cutting action.

Tips & Warnings

• Verify that the new blade is properly balanced before installing on the Kohler engine shaft. Place a non-threaded rod through the blade's bolt opening. The blade should remain balanced on the shaft in a horizontal position. This proper balancing will ensure a smooth cut during lawn mower operation.

• Do not attempt to service the blade without removing the powered spark plug wire. Accidental activation of the blade can easily injure or kill a person. Take note of the new blade's sharp side. Keep fingers away from the sharp side to prevent cuts. Keep all children away from the machine while changing the blade.

References

• Kohler: Courage XT-6, XT-7, XTR-7 Vertical Crankshaft Owner's Manual
• Ariens: Walk Behind Lawn Mower Owner/Operator Manual