Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Craftsman 42 Lawn tractor deck adjustment., belt tension, lawn tractor

Question
Hi John,

I have acquired a Craftsmen 42" model #917.255430, SN 022493S 009895 lawn tractor with a 12.5hp motor.

Can you tell me how to adjust the deck. It seems to be lower on the right side than on the left. Also, the left side seems to be further forward, as the left tire jams into the deck when making a tight left turn.

Too, when the deck is raised to its highest point(#6 on the lever), the bottom of the deck is only about 3" off of the ground.

This seems to low for it's highest point, as in spots it is scalping the grass. Also, the grass cuts higher on the left side than on the right.

Any help you can give me will be appreciated, as I've searched the internet with no luck.

Answer
Hello Craig:

1- On this Model there is Not an Adjustment for the Lift or to Level the Deck. The Deck Lift is Designed to Lift the Deck so the Blades are Approximately 6" Off the Ground. The Deck Can Not be Lifted Any Higher Due to the Pulleys and Linkage Under the Mower, that the Deck Pulleys would Grind Against if it were to be Lifted Higher to the Frame. 2- For the Uneven Cut, you Need to Check for a Bent Blade, Bad Mandral/Quill/Blade Spindle, or Bent/Broken Deck Lift Linkage. Go to this Site Addy, http://www3.sears.com/ and Enter the Model Numbers in the Upper Left Search Box and Click Go. Then Visually Verify the Equipment and Click Continue. From this Page you can View Diagrams or Parts Lists for you Equipment. 3- The Front 2 Deck Adjusters (diagram #15 in the Lift File) are Out of Adjustment and have the Deck Offset. These Also Set the Engine to Deck Belt Tension. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 9pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John