How to Repair a Riding Lawnmower
Fixing a riding lawnmower does not have to mean hours of troubleshooting and time in repairs. There are many simple reasons why your mower may be performing poorly. Before taking the lawnmower to the repair shop, complete a troubleshooting checklist to make sure the problem isn't something that can be easily solved. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Perform a side-to-side deck adjustment if the mower is mowing unevenly. Park the tractor on a firm, level surface and place the deck lift lever in the highest position. Turn off the mower and remove the ignition key. Position the blades so both are perpendicular with the lawnmower. Measure the distance from the outside of the right and left blade tip to the ground. If the measurements are not even with one another, loosen the hex cap screw on the left deck hanger bracket. Behind the hex cap screw is an adjustment gear. Tighten the adjustment gear with a wrench to adjust the measurement. To adjust up, turn clockwise and to adjust down, turn counterclockwise. Tighten the hex cap screw back up.
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Check the spark plug if your mower is running poorly. If it's faulty, replace it.
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Check the oil level in the engine if your mower is overheating. If the oil level is too low, simply add more. Check your owner's manual for the capacity and weight of the oil to use.
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Shut off the engine, remove the key from the ignition, disconnect the spark plug wire, and check the cutting blade if your mower is vibrating. The cutting blade may be loose. If so, use a tongue wrench and tighten the blade spindle hex flange (the nut connects the blade to the spindle assembly). It should be tightened between 70 ft-lbs and 90 ft-lbs.
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Tips & Warnings
Reference your owner's manual for addition troubleshooting guides.
Always make sure the mower is shut off, the key out of the ignition, and the spark plug removed when working on the blades. Removing the spark plug will ensure that the mower will not accidentally start when you are adjusting the blades.
Keep tools and equipment out of the reach of children.
