13
3328-277
Replacing the Blade
Important: You will need a torque wrench to
install the blade properly. If you do not have a
torque wrench or are uncomfortable performing this
procedure, contact an Authorized Service Dealer.
Examine the blade whenever you run out of gasoline.
If the blade is damaged or cracked, replace it
immediately. If the blade edge is dull or nicked, have
it sharpened or replace it.
Warning
The blade is sharp; contacting the blade can
result in serious personal injury.
Wear cloth or leather gloves when servicing the
blade.
Warning
To prevent the blade from coming off the lawn
mower and causing serious injury to you or to
bystanders, do the following:
Ensure that the cup of the curved washer is
upward against the blade as shown in the
figure (if applicable).
Use a torque wrench to tighten the blade bolt
properly (refer to step 5).
1. Tip the mower onto the right side.
2. Use a block of wood to hold the blade steady.
3. Remove the blade, saving all mounting hardware.
4. Install the new blade and all mounting hardware.
Ensure that the cup of the curved washer is
upward against the blade (if applicable).
Important: Position the curved ends of the blade to
point toward the mower.
5. Use a torque wrench to tighten the blade bolt.
Refer to the Curved or Captive Washer or the Split
Lock Washer section depending upon the blade
hardware on your mower.
Important: A bolt torqued to either value listed
above is
very
tight. While holding the blade with
a block of wood, put your weight behind the
ratchet or wrench and tighten the bolt securely.
This bolt will be very difficult to over-tighten.
Curved or Captive Washer
For the curved or captive washer (A), torque the
blade bolt to 60 ft-lb (82 N⋅m).
m-6216
or
A
Split Lock Washer
For the split lock washer (B), torque the blade bolt to
50 ft-lb (68 N⋅m).
Note: If the split lock washer is worn or has begun to
spread open, replace it.
m-5591
B