Replacing MX5 rotary cutter blades

[sros990]

I need to replace the blades on my JD MX5 rotary cutter. The manual indicates that the blade hardware torque is 728 lb-ft and that I should use a torque multiplier to remove the blade. I don’t own a torque multiplier and don’t want to spend around $300-500 to purchase one.

Can I use a 1/2 socket wrench or other tool to get the blade off and back on?

Thanks,

Steve

 

[chrisjbell]

I just did the blades on my Rhino cutter. They torque to (only) 350 lb/ft. '

I tried using my 1/2" breaker bar with an adaptor to a 3/4" socket (couldn't find a large enough socket in 1/2" size). I used a nice long cheater bar and promptly broke my breaker bar. It was a Craftsman, so I have a new one now...

I was able to get the nuts off with a (nice new) 3/4" breaker bar. Long cheater bar, again, this time nothing broken.

To put the nuts back on I tightened them as far down as I could, but I'm having an issue with one of the blades (I have another post about it, but no replies ).

 

[heymack]

I find an impact wrench to be very handy if not mandatory.

 

[1bush2hog]

I use a 3/4" drive with a 4' cheater bar to loosen/tighten the blade bolts on mine. I did not have a 1/2" socket big enough to fit the bolt anyway so ended up purchasing a 3/4" drive set

I think the torque specs on mine are only 450ft/lb so you may need to get a longer cheater bar

 

[RalphVa]

I just put a 6' piece of pipe over my 3/4" bar affixed to the 1 1/2" socket on the nut, but my LX4 bolts are only torqued to 450 ft lb. At your 728 ft lb torque, you'll have to push harder than I did or use a longer piece of pipe. At 450 ft lb, it was easy, only about 75-80# on the end of the 6' pipe. Have taken the bolts off and back on twice now, once/yr.

I used a couple of quick clamps to clamp a nut and stump jumper back in place to put each bolt in place. Your MX5 is probably similar. Be sure and prop up your cutter; don't rely on your 3ph to keep it in place.

Ralph