Over time, the blades on your Cub Cadet zero turn can become worn out or bent, reducing the effectiveness of your mower. Sharpen or replace the blades on your mower if you notice signs of wear but make a habit of checking your blades at least twice a year, at the beginning and middle of the mowing season. Check your blades more often if you mow more regularly.
Before performing any maintenance on your Cub Cadet, refer to your operator’s manual. It lists required maintenance, safety information, and instructions for your machine. Maintenance instructions vary by model, so depending on your model our instructions may vary slightly.
Tools you’ll need:
3/8-inch socket or wrench
1/2-inch socket
9/16-inch socket
15/16-inch socket
Block of wood
Remove the mower deck
Begin by parking your mower on a flat, level surface. Turn the engine off and allow it to cool, remove the ignition key, disconnect the spark plug ignition wire to prevent accidental starting, and engage the parking brake. Make sure the PTO lever is disengaged.
Put the mower deck height lever in its lowest position. Remove both belt covers from the deck. Use a 3/8-inch socket or wrench to remove the belt covers. Remove all screws.
Remove the access panel. Use a 1/2-inch socket, or the panel access tool included with some models, to remove the bolt from the panel.
Remove the belt from the spindle pulleys. Use a 9/16-inch socket or wrench to pull the idler pulley arm back to release the belt tension. Remove the belt from the idler pulleys and PTO clutch. Use a 9/16-inch socket and wrench to loosen the idler pulley bolts.
Remove the cotter pins and deck pins securing the deck, and then slide the deck out from under your mower.
Replace the blades
Flip the mower deck over to access the mower blades. Remove the blades. Always wear gloves when working with blades. Wedge your block of wood between the mowing deck and the blade itself, so you’re able to stop the blades from rotating. Use a 15/16-inch socket or wrench to loosen the blade nuts.
Replace the mower blades. Carefully replace the blades and tighten the nuts securely. Install the blades with the word “bottom” or the part number facing the ground.
Reinstall mower deck
Flip the deck over and carefully slide it back into place under your mower. Reattach the deck and slide the deck pins back into place. Then reconnect the cotter pins.
Reinstall the belt and route the belt around the PTO clutch. Route the belt through the idler pulleys. Use a 9/16-inch socket and wrench to tighten the idler pulley bolts. Route the belt around the spindle pulleys. Use a 9/16-inch socket or wrench to release the tension and route the belt.
Reinstall the belt covers. Reinstall the access panel and bolt. Lastly, reconnect the spark plug wires.
Use our illustrated parts diagrams to locate any replacement parts you may need for maintenance on your Cub Cadet zero turn rider.
You May Also Enjoy These Articles:
Buyer’s Guide to Cub Cadet Ultima Series Zero Turn Riders
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How to Change the Engine Oil in a Lawn Mower
Engine Maintenance Tips for Zero Turn Riders
How to Change the Deck Belt on a Riding Lawn Mower
Why Weingartz?
Weingartz, family owned and operated, began in 1945 as a farm supply store for local Michigan families. In the 1970s, we began to focus exclusively on outdoor power equipment. Over time, we morphed into the “power equipment superstore” that now defines all of our locations. The staff and experts at Weingartz work diligently to provide the best service possible and give honest and helpful advice to each and every customer.
Weingartz also sells parts for all outdoor power equipment at https://weingartz.com/parts-lookup.
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