ZD21 freewheeling blade, seeking advice for removal

jbernal

New member

Equipment
M7060
May 1, 2024
3
0
1
32060
I have a ZD21 where the center blade is not tight enough and it freewheels on the axle but the bolt is super tight. Washer must be worn down and need replacement. Problem is that I can't get any leverage to hold the axle still so the tool I use on the bolt is irrelevant. I can get it out if I can get that axle fixed down somehow. Tried jamming some things in the belt to hold it still but it's no use. Anyone have an idea that will work? Thanks!
 

Flintknapper

Well-known member
Premium Member

Equipment
L2350DT
May 3, 2022
1,815
2,288
113
Deep East Texas
Clamp a 'vice grip' on the belt and it will jam against the pulley. Use an impact wrench to loosen nut/bolt. Check to see that the nut/bolt is not a 'left hand thread'.
 

lugbolt

Well-known member

Equipment
ZG127S-54
Oct 15, 2015
5,325
2,001
113
Mid, South, USA
they are not left hand thread. all RH.

use an impact wrench aka assault wrench. It's very hard to get them out with a hand wrench or ratchet/socket and even worse if the spindle shaft turns. If it's only the center one, run a screwdriver or prys through the u-joint and let it jam against the deck or frame, and that should hold it unless the gearbox is junk.