Re: Need Advice on Adjusting Deck Slope on Toro 16-38HXL
2020/07/12 22:02:55
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☄ Helpfulby TownsendsFJR1300 2020/07/13 07:43:54
Scott,
Thank you for your input. I had previously adjusted the front two link bars all the way they could go. That helped some, but not enough.
I decided to mess around with the two longer link rods that run from the main frame to the rear of the deck. The owner's manual says to set them at a specific length and that's all they tell you. They never say if or when those two rods would ever need adjusted to anything other than their specified length. With nothing to lose, I turned the adjusting bolts on those rods, which tried to push the rear of deck rearward. That provided a similar effect as when the front link bars try to pull the front of the deck forward.
I'm not sure if I am explaining that clearly, but the good news is that it worked! The deck is now set with the proper, very slight, slope. The results are clear when I cut the grass. It looks great and didn't require multiple passes.
I tried to think of reasons that this whole problem could even arise after 16 years when there are no visibly loose or bent parts. My only theory is that there may be some wear in the bushings where the front axle mounts to the main frame. See, the front deck hanger links are attached to brackets that mount to the front axle. If the axle bushings are worn, the axle could tip forward, making the front hanger bolts seem too short. I did not get way up in there to check that - maybe that's a task autumn.
Thanks again for the help. I'm calling this problem solved!