03-09-2016, 10:07 PM
cbelt3 wrote:
[quote=michaelb]
Are you going to do any of the routine maintenance? I am sure I will violate this myself, but I periodically vow that I am not going to buy a tractor again without really looking at and even trying to remove the mower deck, first. .....
FWIW, I just use a car jack and jack stands, put the keys in my pocket, and crawl under it to do maintenance including cleaning and blade sharpening with a dremel tool (or removal and balancing if it's bad). Most of them are not really designed for deck removal at ALL. Just wear eye protection because gunk will fall on your face.
Yeah, removing the deck has always been a big hassle for me, but I found a better way to get at the bottom for cleaning/maintenance/repairs. I just bought an inexpensive chain hoist that is permanently mounted in the barn. I have a heavy duty strap to hook up the tractor, then raise the tractor front to where it's almost standing straight up. I seen this done by friends working maintenance at a cemetery many years ago.
Oh, and I'm partial to Husqvarna equipment. My Pop bought one a few years ago and it's been top notch. When I replace my bulletproof 22 year old Yard Machine brand, I'll see what Husqvarna has available.