How to Install a Blade on a John Deere

Install a new blade on a John Deere mower with only a few steps

A variety of John Deere mowers are available for purchase from distributors, home stores and other retail outlets. From commercial zero turn riding mowers to smaller push mowers designed for small yards, a wide range of mower sizes are manufactured to meet the needs of professionals as well as homeowners. Regardless of the mower size, some of the required routine maintenance is very similar between the mowers, including the installation of blades.

Things You'll Need

• Short block of wood
• Gloves
• Socket and wrench

Instructions

1. Position the John Deere mower on a flat and level surface to help reduce the possibility of movement or rolling during work. Place a riding mower in gear and set the parking brake. Remove the spark plug wire from the spark plug so the mower cannot be accidentally started.

2. Put on a pair of leather work gloves. Insert the spindle bolt through a blade washer and then through the hole in the center of a blade. Choose a blade that is specified for the mower on which you are working.

3. Hand tighten the bolt into the hole in the spindle under the mower deck. Position a piece of wood under the deck of the mower so it rests against the side of the deck. Wedge the wood in place by turning the blade until it contacts the wood. Use a short length of 2-by-4 for example.

4. Choose a socket for the bolt and attach it to a socket wrench. Place the socket and wrench on the bolt securely.

5. Turn the wrench to tighten the bolt. Make sure the blade continues to be held in place by the wood wedge underneath the deck.

6. Check to make sure the bolt holding the blade in place is securely tightened. Place the spark plug wire back onto the spark plug.

References

• Mower FAQ: How to Install Mower Blades