Troy-bilt 16.5hp violent deck vibration

[jkotranza]

Hi,

I was recently given a troy-bilt 16.5hp lawn tractor. I mowed with it once with no problems. Now however the mower deck shakes violently whenever the blades are engaged. I've given it a pretty thorough inspection but nothing is obviously broken or missing. I elevated the tractor and checked underneath. The blades look ok but when I turn them manually there is a definite "tight" spot where they take more force to turn. It's at that point that the deck moves from side to side. I'm thinking maybe a bad bearing in one of the spindles? Any advise would be greatly appreciated.

 

[randy41]

check the blade drive belt for flat spots.

 

[devildog1]

Make sure ALL spindle mounting bolts are tight along with the idler and drive pulleys. Then I would take off the cutting blades and check for balance, make sure you look at them carefully to make sure one is not bent from striking an object. You should be good to go.
DevilDog

 

[jkotranza]

I pulled the blade drive belt off and sure enough there was a flat spot about 4 inches long. Thanks for the help guys. I really appreciate it.

 

[tugboat-2]

Jakotranza : ....Glad you got the problem ironed out. Nice it turned out to be something much less serious than it could've been. When sharpening the blades, try to balance 'em as you go. Vibration from "out-of-balance" blades can cause serious problems and it doesn't take much to do it.

I want to ad a warm WELCOME ABOARD to you!!

CHEERS!
. . tug