Check those mower deck bolts

[armylifer]

So I was mowing my lawn this weekend and when I raised the mower deck at the end of the row to turn around (while the bleades were spinning) I heard a racket that sounded like I was hitting rocks. The first pass or two I actually thought that some rocks or gravel got caught in the mower somewhere and that they would vibrate out in a few minutes. After mowing two more rows and still hearing the noise I decided that something was definitely wrong with the mower. So, I took the mower to the garage to check out the noise. I found that one of the bolts that hold the gearbox to the deck had come out. I decided to take the mower off the tractor and check the whole thing out. I found two other bolts that had disappeared and literally every other bolt and nut on the mower deck was loose. I thought that this was rather odd for a tractor and mower that I just bought brand new in March. Anyway, the moral of this story is that one would be wise to check all bolts for tightness often. I certainly will from now on.

 

[Toyboy]

Thanks for the "heads up".

 

[Paulemar]

I've had that happen with my tiller. It was fine at first but after an hour or so something was making the same type of noise you described. I found a couple of tines that had loose bolts. I check everything that I buy now because it's usually easier to do when off the tractor and not yet all covered with dirt or grass. So, with any new implement or accessory-"check em' when you get em"

 

[olthumpa]

one word: Loctite

Quality fluids, quality filters, anti-Seize and Loctite are equipments best friends.