OutdoorKing Repair Forum Forums Restoring, Customising and Modifying Reel-Type Mowers Solid Deck SB 45 20"

Hi Darryl,

Has anyone ever reported any issues with chassis alignment of these solid deck machines?

I had to completely rebuild my mower last night as one side was cutting much lower than the other. I think I have it sorted now, but I am concerned that it may go out of alignment again with time.

Thoughts?

Hi SimRice, there has been discussion on the forum about chassis alignment before, but I think in your case I know the answer.
On the right hand side of the rear roller (looking from the rear of the machine) there is an adjustment that can be made on the bearing cap and chassis where it bolts to the frame, so as the rear roller can be aligned perfectly to ensure a level cut. This is always set at the factory and normally would not be touched again unless the rear roller had to be removed for whatever reason.

This happened in your case during the restoration and is an easy fix, which is probably what you found; as you said you have got it sorted. Once locked in position, it will not go out of alignment again unless the nuts loosen due to vibration.It is a good thing to go over the whole machine with a spanner every now and again, after a complete rebuild.

Hi Darryl. One whole side plate was on an angle causing not just mid-alignment with the rollers and bedknife, but also the reel could not be adjusted to cut cleanly.

So I rebuilt the whole mower around the casting plate and checked as I tightened all the bolts up. I think my error may be that when initially built it up the casting and reel were the last parts to go in as they were being machined.

Must say that since I rebuilt this I am in love! Before I was a little disappointed but I am very satisfied now.

Hi again SimRice,
Yes mate, that is a trap for the unwary. The sole plate is one of the first to go back in, after the rear roller.
Thanks for reporting back mate.