Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): lawn mower leaving a strip, inch strip, lawn mower

Question
I have an older Gravely 11/38 riding lawn mower.  This has been a great lawn mower except that I did't take good care of the deck and I have had to replace all the bearings and pulleys.  I have also had to weld new metal over rusted places.  My problem is since all the repair work, it leaves about a 3 inch strip of grass in the middle of the two blades uncut.  It also pushes over some of the taller grass in the path of both blades.  I tried to buy a new deck but it is not manufactured anymore and I have been unable to locate a used one.  Any ideas on the problem with the uncut grass?
Thanks
Danny

Answer
Hi Danny,

An uncut strip is usually caused by blades that are too short.  Check to see that they are overlapping. Another possibility might be slipping pulleys which could explain the grass being pushed over.  I'm sure you checked to see that the blades are sharp and facing towards the direction of rotation.

Let me know what you find.
Michael