Craftsman 247.25000 Operator's Manual page 28

4. 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. Always grind
each cutting blade edge equally to maintain proper blade balance.
See Fig. 38.
CAUTION
If the cutting edge of the blade has previously been sharpened, or if
any metal separation is present, replace the blades with new ones.
WARNING
A poorly balanced blade will cause excessive vibration, may cause
damage to the tractor and/or result in personal injury.
5. Test the blade's balance using a blade balancer. Grind metal
from the heavy side until it balances evenly.
NOTE: 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.
CAUTION
Use a torque wrench to tighten the blade spindle hex flange nut to
between 70 lbs-ft and 90 lbs-ft.
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
Figure 37
Figure 38
ADJUSTMENTS
Never attempt to make any adjustments while the engine is running,
except where specified in the operator's manual.
Leveling the Deck
NOTE: Check the tractor's tire pressure before performing any deck
leveling adjustments. Refer to Tires, in this Service And Maintenance
section for more information regarding tire pressure.
Front To Rear
It is possible to adjust the pitch of the cutting deck. The front of the
deck should be between 0" (level) and ¼" lower than the rear of the
deck. Adjust if necessary as follows:
1. With the tractor parked on a firm, level surface, place the lever for
lifting the cutting deck into the middle position (3) and rotate the
blade so that it is aligned with the front and rear of the tractor.
2. Measure the distance from the front of the blade tip to the ground
and the rear of the blade tip to the ground. The first measurement
taken should be between 0" (level) and ¼" less than the second
measurement. Determine the approximate distance necessary for
proper adjustment and proceed, if necessary, to the next step.
3. Locate the flange lock nut on the front end of the PTO Lift Rod.
See Fig. 39.
• Tighten the flange lock nut to raise the front of the deck;
• Loosen the flange lock nut to lower the front of the deck.
Steering Adjustment
If the tractor turns tighter in one direction than the other, or if the front
tie rod is being replaced due to damage or wear, the steering needs to
be adjusted.
To Adjust the toe in/out of the front wheels:
1. Remove the bow-tie clip securing the tie-rod ferrule to the right
front axle assembly, and drop the tie-rod down to adjust. See Fig.
40.
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WARNING
Figure 39