6 General Repair
6A Steering & Front Wheel Repair
6 - 2
DANGER
PREVENT SERIOUS INJURY OR
DEATH FROM FALLING UNIT
Always use a properly working lifting device with
a capacity suitable for the weight of the unit
being serviced.
Always use a jack stand to support the unit while
performing service, and chock remaining wheels
to prevent the unit from rolling off the supports.
Never work under or around an elevated unit that
is not properly supported and secured in posi-
tion with wheel chocks.
Figure A–1. Elevate Front End Of Unit
GENERAL
Servicing the lower steering mechanism and front wheel
spindles should be performed with the front end of the
unit elevated and supported evenly on both sides with
jackstands.
Although service can be performed with the mowing
deck and hood assembly on the unit, removing the deck
and hood assembly provides clear access to all lower
steering mechanism components and helps simplify the
job.
REQUIRED TOOLS & EQUIPMENT
Tools required for performing disassembly and assembly
in these areas include:
• socket wrench set
• open end wrench set
• Flat blade screwdriver
• Metal striking hammer
• Claw hammer, or pry bar
• Center punch or carbide scribe
• Torque wrench (0 - 75 ft. lbs.)
Specialized equipment required for servicing these areas
include:
• Jackstands (2)
• Scissor jack or hydraulic jack
• Wheel blocks (2)
• Grease gun w/Lithium-base automotive grease
• Oil can (use SAE 30 weight oil)
ELEVATING FRONT OF UNIT FOR
SAFE SERVICE
1. Remove the ignition key, and disconnect the spark
plug wire to prevent accidental starting while working
on unit.
2. Remove mowing deck. See Operator’s Manual.
3. Remove the hood assembly as described in Section
6D. Hood, Grille & Dash Repair.
4. Engage parking brake, block the rear wheels, and
using a hydraulic or scissors jack positioned at the
center of the front axle assembly, carefully jack the
unit up until the front tires are approximately 1" - 2"
off the ground (Figure A–1).
NOTE: For overall unit stability during service, do not
jack front end higher than required for adequate access
to steering and spindle components. Excessive eleva-
tion may result in fuel leakage from gas tank or elec-
trolyte leakage from battery vents.
5. Position jackstands at each end of front axle assem-
bly and lower the unit slowly until jack stands fully
support unit. Make sure the jackstands engage the
bottom of the front axle assembly so that weight is
evenly distributed on each of the jackstands.
6. Check the rear wheel blocks and make sure that they
are tight against the rear wheels to prevent rolling.
DANGER
Do not begin work on the unit unless it is stable
and you are sure wheels are chock to prevent
rolling.
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