Mowing OK how do I lower the MMM mower deck??? :(

[carrerascott]

Just learning the machine and have read both manuals 3X. Wondering if something was installed wrong as I can't get it to raise/lower. The rear PTO's don't appear to be attached to anything -- isnt that what is used for raised and lowering the MMM? Or is there something else? I am stumped and the manual stinks!

 

[art]

Check the knob between your legs that shuts the hydraulic flow off to the three point hitch.

 

[Bob_Skurka]

Its a secret and we won't tell you! /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif


I'm just going to guess, but I strongly suspect the deck has been "pinned up" to prevent it from being lowered. Most MMM have the ability to be raised, and then held in place with a couple pins; the purpose is to prevent damage when working with rear implements, the rear implements will raise and lower at the same time that the deck does, so if you are working with rear implements, the deck needs to be pinned up.

Look for locking pins, should be at least one on each side of the tractor under the operators platform. I suspect your MMM owner's manual will point you to the proper location.

 

[carrerascott]

I guess I have to remove the backhoe to lower the MMM? That's what the dealer just told me -- said have to remove the backhoe and connect the mower to the 3pt hitch. I had thought you could mow with the backhoe on (not that I want to).

I think you're right re the pins, too. Thanks /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

 

[ronjhall]

If you have backhoe on your tractor, make sure that 3PH control lever is in the down position when the backhoe is on tractor. Otherwise tractor hydraulics can overheat.

 

[Spudgunner]

I just went through this with my BX23. Somebody please add more details if I forgot something. I put a summary at the bottom of this post.

First, take off the hoe. Dump it someplace that'll make it easy to reinstall. Taking off the hoe is a snap.

>>Note in the instructions where it says to reconnect the hydraulic lines on the tractor after the hoe's hydraulic lines have been disconnected. Tilt the seat forward for easier access. Also, on the hoe, install the hydraulic coupler protectors on both the male and female hose ends.

Now try to lower the MMM rear links that are under the tractor by manipulating the approprate control lever. If the links drop sufficiently attach them to your MMM. If they don't drop on their own (they may not if everything is new), stick you foot under the floorboard and press down moderately with your foot on one of the links while leaving the hyd. control in the lower (forward) position. Alternatively, I think you can press down on the one of the two upper links that are easily accessible when you raise the seat. (?)

I presume you installed the MMM driveline first. Don't connect the links until you do. Several people on this board have noted that raising the front end of the tractor with the FEL will help you get the MMM rolled under the tractor. That will indeed save some effort but I didn't find it absolutely necessary. It's a good idea, though, IMO.

Summary:
1. Remove Hoe.
2. Connect tractor's hyd. lines together (the hyd. lines that went to the hoe) after hoe removal.
3. Get MMM in-place under tractor.
4. Connect MMM drive shaft to mid-PTO.
5. Adjust "drop rate control" to mid position. (The knob between your ankles.)
6. Adjust deck height (the other knob between your ankles to "Top")
5. Drop MMM rear links. Leave hyd. control lever forward in lower position.
6. Connect MMM rear links to MMM.
7. Raise/lower MMM with control lever.
8. Raise MMM.
9. Set mowing height to desired setting.
10. go out and mow after engaging blades via the mid-pto.
11. Finish mowing and enjoy a tasty, cold beverage.

I don't think the BX23 has the mentioned "clips" or whatnot to hold the links up...but maybe I just missed those. Hope this helps.

 

[Stef]

I discovered that I have to remove the backhoe each time I want to raise or lower the mower (because the mower is raised and lowered by the 3PH). My dealer didn't told me that when I bought it. I was a bit disappointed about that.

So... to move the mower:

1- be sure the mower is not pinned (one on each side)
2- be sure the 3PH is mounted (backhoe removed with no other rear implement)
3- be sure the 3PH hydraulic flow valve is opened

If all of these points are OK... then it should move.

BTW, you should mark your mid-PTO and the drive-shaft of the mower with a marker. That way it'll be easier for you to re-connect the shaft and the mid-PTO (only one position possible).

Have fun

BTW, don't forget to tell us if you have abnormal vibrations with your B3030... there's a thread about that subject.

Thanks

 

[Mike_C]

On which model tractor? I do NOT have to remove the backhoe to raise and lower the 60" MMM on my BX-22. There is plenty of clearance for the 3PH.

 

[carrerascott]

It's a B3030 with the 75 BH. Anyway I got everything working, finally. Mowed the yard and it looks great -- now to put the loader and BH back on (and take the mower off...!)