Mower Blade Replacement - Snapper 3011523BV Safety Instructions & Operator's Manual

Maintenance (Continued)
!
WARNING
DO NOT attempt any adjustments, maintenance, service or
repairs with the engine running. STOP engine. STOP blade.
Engage parking brake. Remove key. Remove spark plug
wire from spark plug and secure away from plug. Engine
and components are HOT. Avoid serious burns, allow all
parts to cool before working on machine. Fuel Filler Cap
and vent must be closed securely to prevent fuel spillage.

Mower Blade Replacement

Blade Wear Limits
1. Inspect the blade frequently for signs of excessive wear
or damage (Figure 42):
(A) New blade;
(B) Wear limit (notch starts);
(C) Dangerous condition - do not use on mower!
Replace with new blade.
Figure 42: Mower blade wear limits
!
WARNING
Wear heavy leather gloves when handling or working
around cutting blades. Blades are extremely sharp and can
cause severe injury. DO NOT use a cutting blade that shows
signs of excessive wear or damage.
Blade Sharpening
1. Follow the WARNING statement found on this page.
2. Check the fuel level in the tank. If over 3/4 full, remove
the tank. Refer to the section entitled "REMOVING FUEL
TANK". If 3/4 or less, proceed to the next step.
3. Carefully stand the Rear Engine Rider on its rear
bumper.
!
A
B
C
!
4. Remove the bolts (B, Figure 43), washers (C) and nuts
(D) securing the mower blade (A) to the spindle.
5. Inspect the condition of the blade (Figure 42).
6. If the blade is in good condition, sharpen at 22 to 28
degrees (B, Figure 44). DO NOT sharpen beyond exist-
ing cutting edge (A).
7. Check blade balance after sharpening. If necessary, cor-
rect blade balance by grinding the heavy end of the
blade.
8. Reinstall the blade. Torque the blade mounting bolts to
the recommended range of 30 to 40 ft. lbs.
D
C
A
Figure 43: Removing the mower blade
A
Figure 44: Sharpening the mower blade
B
B
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