Cub Cadet 18M Operator's Manual page 13

Figure 5-1
Lubrication
1. Lubricate the pivot points on the blade control handle
at least once a season with light oil. The blade control
must operate freely in both directions. See Figure 5-1.
2. If your mower is equipped with ball bearing wheels,
lubricate at least once a season with a light oil, all
other types require no lubrication. However, if the
wheels are removed for any reason, lubricate the
surface of the axle bolt and the inner surface of the
wheel with light automotive oil.
3. Lubricate the torsion spring and pivot points periodi-
cally with light oil to prevent rust. See Figure 5-1.
4. The transmission is pre-lubricated and sealed at the
factory and does not require lubrication.
5. Follow the Engine Maintenance section for lubrication
schedule and instruction for engine lubrication.
Engine
Refer to the separate engine manual for engine mainte-
nance instructions.
Deck
The underside of the mower deck should be cleaned
after each use to prevent a buildup of grass clippings,
leaves, dirt or other matter. If this debris is allowed to
accumulate, it will invite rust and corrosion, and may
prevent proper mulching.
The deck may be cleaned by tilting the mower and
scraping clean with a suitable tool (make certain the
spark plug wire is disconnected).
Rear Flap Replacement
The rear flap is attached to the back of the mower deck,
and is designed to minimize the possibility that objects will
be thrown from the rear of the mower toward the operator.
If the rear flap becomes damaged, replace as follows.
1. To remove the old rear flap, lift rear door, and press
flap in on either side to remove from hole.
2. Remove flap from opposite hole and replace with new
flap following these steps in reverse order.
Blade Care
WARNING: When removing the cutting
blade for sharpening or replacement,
protect your hands with a pair of heavy
gloves or use a heavy rag to hold the
blade.
Periodically inspect the blade adapter for cracks,
especially if you strike a foreign object. Replace when
necessary. Follow the steps below for blade service:
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug.
2. Tip mower on its side making sure that the air filter
and the carburetor are up.
3. Remove the bolt and the blade bell support which
hold the blade and the blade adapter to the engine
crankshaft. See Figure 5-2.
Blade Adapter
Figure 5-2
4. Remove blade and adapter from the crankshaft.
5. The blade may be resharpened by removing it and
either grinding or filing the cutting edge keeping as
close to the original bevel as possible. Do not attempt
to sharpen the blade while it is still on the mower.
6. It is extremely important that each cutting edge
receives an equal amount of grinding to prevent an
unbalanced blade.
NOTE: Improper blade balance will result in excessive
vibration causing eventual damage to the engine and
mower. Be sure to carefully balance blade after sharpen-
ing. Possible damage resulting from blade unbalance
condition is not the responsibility of the manufacturer.
NOTE: Always remove blade from the adapter for testing
balance.
7. The blade can be tested for balance by balancing it
on a round shaft screwdriver. Remove metal from the
heavy side until it balances evenly.
8. Before reassembling the blade and the blade adapter
to the unit, lubricate the engine crankshaft and the
inner surface of the blade adapter with light oil.
13
5
Maintenance
WARNING
Always stop engine,
disconnect spark
plug, and ground
against engine before
cleaning, lubricating
or doing any kind of
maintenance on your
machine.
We do not recommend
the use of pressure
washers or garden
hose to clean your
unit. These may cause
damage to electrical
components, spindles,
pulleys, bearings, or
the engine. The use
of water will result in
shortened life and
reduce serviceability.