Troy-Bilt LTX-1842 Operator's Manual page 21

Figure 11
Worn Blade Edge
Sharpen Edge Evenly
Figure 12
Hex Flange Nut
Spindle Assembly
Figure 13
Support Pin
Blade Separation
Wind Wing
Wood Block
To properly sharpen the cutting blades, remove equal
amounts of metal from both ends of the blades along
the cutting edges, parallel to the trailing edge, at a 25°
to 30° angle. See Figure 12.
If the cutting edge of the blade has already
IMPORTANT:
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 12.
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'' (or with a
part number stamped in it) facing the ground when the
mower is in the operating position.
Use a torque wrench to tighten the blade
IMPORTANT:
spindle hex flange nut to between 70 foot-pounds and
90 foot-pounds.
Changing the Deck Belt & PTO Belt
WARNING:
remove ignition key, disconnect the spark
plug wire(s) and ground against the engine to
prevent unintended starting before removing
the belt(s).
All belts on your tractor are subject to wear and should
be replaced if any signs of wear are present.
The V-belts found on your tractor are
IMPORTANT:
specially designed to engage and disengage safely. A
substitute (non-OEM) V-belt can be dangerous by not
disengaging completely. For a proper working machine,
use factory approved belts.
To change or replace the deck belt and PTO belt on
your tractor, proceed as follows:
• Lower the deck by moving the deck lift lever into the
bottom notch on the right fender.
• Remove the belt guards by removing the self-
tapping screws that fasten them to the deck.
• Grasp the rearmost portion of the PTO idler bracket
and pivot it toward the discharge chute to relieve
tension on the PTO belt.
• Remove the PTO belt from around the engine
pulley (and from around the PTO idler pulley(s).
• Grasp the deck idler pulley and pivot it toward the
left to relieve tension on the deck belt.
• Remove the deck belt from around all pulleys,
including the deck idler pulley.
21
Be sure to shut the engine off,