Expert: Ronald B Persaud - 10/10/2009

Question
How level front to back should a mower blade be kept ?? A new factory mower set is 3/4" higher in the front. (measured on concrete) wheels set in "like" notches..should the blade be kept level front to back or higher by design..?? This is a top line 7hp craftsman ($400) Whats the right set...Your thoughts are appreciated...Jd

Answer
John,
         Thanks for pointing out something I had never thought of. It seems that the manufacturers of riding mowers incorporate a 'tilt' in the design; so all we need to ensure is that the height adjustment is the same on all the wheels. Here is a quote and source in case you want to read further.
             " Deck Wheel Adjustment
The deck wheels on all lawn and garden tractors should be adjusted so that they will be 1/2" to 1" off the ground at all times. All cutting decks are floating so that they can cut evenly over the ground. The angle from front to rear is built into the assembly on lawn tractors. Check to be certain the distance from the bottom edge of the deck to the ground is the same on both sides of the deck. If it is not, adjust the links on the left side of the unit."
http://www.messicks.com/Articles/MowerDeckPerformance.aspx