Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.)/blade turns but will not cut

Advertisement

Expert: Eric A. Jones - 7/1/2007


Question
QUESTION: I have a small craftsman riding mower, when I engage the blade it turns, however it does not cut the grass, I am guessing that it is not turning fast enough.  How can I remedy this?

thank you

ANSWER: What is the model number of the mower?  The model number format similar to 143.xxxxx.  

Has the belt been replaced, adjusted or has the blade been replaced?
Let me know.
Eric

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Model number is 247.270250.  Blade or belt has not been replaced, however they have been adjusted.  Belt is tight now (I believe it is aligned correctly), and when I manually turn blade the belts move and vice versa.  

thank you

Answer
The first item I would replace is the belt, part number 754-0495.  You can purchase the belt from Sears.com or MTDproducts.com.

With the belt removed from the pulley, the engine off and spark plug removed, engage the blade as if you were cutting grass.  Rotate the blade by hand and see if it turns easy and smooth.
Also, check the engine pulley bolt and engine mounting bolts to ensure they are tight.
Let me know what you find.
Eric

Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.)

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Eric A. Jones

Expertise

Lawnmower Repair . Certified Master Service Technician from B&S. Have 13 years experience on B&S, Lawn Chief, Weed Eater, Echo, Peerless, Wheel Horse, Snapper, Atlas, MTD, McCulloch, Homelite and many other numerous brands. Specialize in electrical repair.

Experience

Born and raised in the midwest. Started tinkering with engines when I was about 14 on my Suzuki RM-80. I began lawn mower repair at a small hardware store. I knew absolutely nothing. I read lots of repair manuals and met an older fellow who taught me many lessons. I continued working on small engines through high school and paid my way through college working on mowers at the same hardware store. Decided to get away from the midwest and mower repair so I joined the Air Force. I repaired air traffic control electronic equipment and ended up in Hawaii where I got a part time job at Small Engine Clinic. I gained a lot of experience from the Small Engine Clinic and had a blast repairing small engines. I then took the Briggs and Stratton Master Service Technician test and earned my MST. I then traveled to Wisconsin where I attended the factory update training seminar and received formal training. I received a scholarship from the Air Force and am currently pursuing another degree.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.