MTD 611 Operator's Manual page 23

Repeat the above steps on the tractor's right side.
Move the deck lift lever into the top notch on the
right fender to raise the deck lift arms up and out of
the way.
NOTE: Models with a 46-inch deck are equipped with a
short cable which controls the deck spindle brake. It is
necessary to unhook this cable in order to fully remove
the cutting deck from the tractor. Be certain to reattach
the cable when re-mounting the cutting deck.
• Gently slide the cutting deck toward the front of the
tractor allowing the hooks on the deck to release
themselves from the deck stabilizer rod.
• Gently slide the cutting deck (from the right side)
out from underneath the tractor.
Cutting Blades
WARNING: Be sure to shut the engine off,
remove ignition key, disconnect the spark plug
wire(s) and ground against the engine to
prevent unintended starting before removing
the cutting blade(s) for sharpening or
replacement. Protect your hands by using
heavy gloves or a rag to grasp the cutting
blade.
_, ARNING:
Periodically inspect the blade adapter and/or spindle for cracks or damage,
especially if you strike a foreign object.
Replace immediately if damaged.
The blades may be removed as follows.
• Remove the deck from beneath the tractor, (refer to
Cutting DeckRemoval above) then gently flip the deck
over to expose its underside.
• Place a block of wood between the center deck
housing baffle and the cutting blade to act as a
stabilizer. See Figure 24.
Hex Flange Nut
Spindle Assembly
Figure 24
• Use a 15/16" wrench to remove the hex flange nut
that secures the blade to the spindle assembly. See
Figure 24.
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 25.
Blade Separation
/
Worn Blade Edge
Wind Wing
Sharpen Edge Evenly
Figure 25
IMPORTANT:Ifthe cutting edge of the blade has already
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 25.
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.
IMPORTANT: Use a torque wrench to tighten the blade
spindle hex flange nut to between 70 foot-pounds and
90 foot-po unds.
Tires
_, WARNING: Never exceed the maximum
inflation pressure shown on the sidewall of the
tire.
The recommended operating tire pressure is 10 psi for
the rear tires and 14 psi for the front tires. Refer to the
tire sidewall for exact tire manufacturer's recommended
or maximum psi. Do not overinflate. Uneven tire
pressure may cause the cutting deck to mow unevenly.
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