782 mower deck mounting

[HDM]

I have had this 782 with mower deck for 15 years and it has been a great machine. Put a new Kohler engine in 10 years ago. One problem that has bugged me for all 15 years is the difficultly of re-mounting the deck. Has anyone had any positive experience with mounting the deck? Could you give me any tips? It usually takes me several hours to re-mount the deck.

 

[marv barton]

My Dad always insisted I pull the deck on the 682 he bought new and scrape and wash the underside after each mowing~4 acres. From memory---First, on the mule drive push the notched belt tensioner in and held in a notch to get belt slack. Lift belt off the deck drive pulley. Pull the two rear pins(have the deck lowered) and slide the deck rearward out of the front mount points and it is on the ground. To reinstall: slide the deck underneath to an approximate mounting position. Check that the belts are not twisted or off of the mule drive pulleys. Slide the deck forward so the deck hangar "spears" slide into the eyelets on the deck bolts. Put the deck belt on the drive pulley. Position the deck side to side and front to back so you can get the rear pins to reseat-raising and lowering the deck handle helps. When all 4 mount points are in position and the belt is properly installed go to the front and release the belt tensioner. I always just used my foot to let it "fly" back out to take up all the slack and avoid injury. I still have the 682 and it is ready to run if my 2544 breaks-something to be said for maintenance. Good luck.

 

[Donsyl]

Marv, i could not have explained it any better.......that sounds correct and to the point.................HDM, once you get it down, it will be easy from then on...................Good luck........Don