Replacing The Blades - Cub Cadet Z-Force 44 User Manual

4. Remove the blade drive belt from all the pulleys.
5. Reverse the process to install the belt. See Fig. 7-5 for
proper belt routing.
Figure 7-5
NOTE: When replacing belts do not overtighten. Adjust
the idler pulley so that a ten-pound pull with a spring scale
between two pulleys deflects the belt about 1⁄2".

Replacing the Blades

WARNING!
Before performing any maintenance,
place the PTO switch in the "OFF" position, engage
the parking brake lever, turn the ignition key to the
"OFF" position and remove the key from the switch.
Protect your hands by using heavy gloves when
handling the blades. When servicing the mower
deck, be careful not to cut yourself on the
sharpened blades.
1. Remove the key from the ignition and disconnect the spark
plugs.
2. Jack up the front of the mowing deck about one foot and
block it in that position.
3. Wrap a rag around one end of the blade and grasp it to
prevent it from turning, or secure the blade by placing a
block of wood between the blade and the deck housing.
See Fig. 7-6.
Figure 7-6
4. Use a 1- 1⁄8" socket wrench on the pulley side of the spindle
bolt.
5. Remove the hex nut at the blade using a 1-
6. Remove the blade.
7. To replace the blade reverse the above process and tighten
nut to 100-120 lb ft.
NOTE: Add a small amount of multi-purpose grease to the
bolt threads to avoid corrosion and galvenic action.
WARNING!
Never mow with dull blades. Blades
that are bent should be replaced. The cutting blades
are sharp and can cause severe injury. Wrap the
cutting surface of the blade with a rag to avoid
injury.
1⁄8" wrench.
s 7 — s 31
ectiOn ervice