MTD 500 - Maintenance

To adjust the deck, loosen the two hex nuts at the
left rear deck link assembly. Thread the hex nuts
up or down the deck adjustment rod as necessary.
Retighten the hex nuts.
FIGURE 20.
CARBURETOR ADJUSTMENT
Ac warnTng^
If any adjustments are made to the
engine while the engine is running
(e.g. carburetor), disengage all
clutches and blades. Keep clear of
all moving parts. Be careful of
heated surfaces and muffler.
Minor carburetor adjustment may be required to
compensate for differences in fuel, temperature,
altitude and load.
To adjust the carburetor, refer to the separate
engine manual packed with your unit.
LUBRICATION
IMPORTANT
Always stop engine and disconnect
spark plug wire before cleaning,
lubricating or doing any kind of
work on riding mower.
1. Engine. Maintain the engine oil according to
the engine manual.
2. Front Wheels. The front wheels are provided
with grease fittings. Lubicate at least once a
season with automotive multi-purpose
grease.
3. Linkage. Oil all deck linkage and height ad¬
justment linkage.
4. Transaxle. It is lubricated at the factory and
does not require checking. Lubricate with 10
oz. of grease (Part No. 737-0148) if disas¬
sembled.
MAINTENANCE
AC WARNING \
Disconnect spark plug wire and
ground it against the engine before
performing any repairs or mainte¬
nance.
CUTTING BLADE
A. Removal for Sharpening or Replacement
AC WARNING \
Be sure to disconnect and ground
the spark plug wire before working
on the cutting blade to prevent
accidental engine starting.
1. Remove the large bolt and lock washer which
holds the blade and adapter to the blade spin¬
dle. See figure 21.
2. Remove the blade and adapter from the spin¬
dle.
3. If the blade or blade adapter needs replacing,
remove the two small bolts, lock washers and
nuts which hold the blade to the adapter. See
figure 21.
B. Sharpening
Remove the cutting blade by following the direc¬
tions of the preceding section.
When sharpening the blade, follow the original
angle of grind as a guide. It is extremely important
that each cutting edge receives an equal amount
of grinding to prevent an unbalanced blade. An un¬
balanced blade will cause excessive vibration
when rotating at high speeds, may cause damage
to the mower and could break, causing personal
injury.
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.
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