John Deere — Checking and Adjusting Mower Deck Level (Method One)
Adjustments
From a John Deere owner's manual — check it applies to your exact model before use.
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Before you start
- Disconnect spark plug wires or battery negative (-) cable before adjusting or servicing mower
- Always wear gloves when handling mower blades or working near blades
Procedure
- Make sure machine is on a flat, level surface.
- Park machine safely.
- Check that tires are inflated to correct tire pressure.
- Raise deck to highest position.
- Place three short 51 mm (2 in) blocks of wood under the edges of the mower deck.
- Lower mower deck to the 63 mm (2.5 in) cutting height position. For S130 models, lower deck to 57 mm (2-1/4 in) cutting height position.
- Check that the mower deck is level and lightly touching each of the three wooden blocks.
- Raise cutting height to the next highest position and remove the three wooden blocks.
- Turn the nut on the front draft arm counterclockwise 1-2 full turns so that the front of the deck is 3-6 mm (1/8-1/4 in) lower than the rear.
Tools required
- three 51 mm (2 in) wooden blocks Amazon
Tool links are Amazon searches (affiliate links); manufacturer special tools may only be available from a dealer.
Specs & values
- Mower Deck, Front-to-Back—Height 1/8-1/4 in (3-6 mm)
Source: John Deere owner's manual. Steps and values are as documented; always cross-check against the official manual and any later revisions for your exact serial number before servicing.