Riding mower deck adjustment?

Question

I have a '98 Murray with a 46" cut, I adjust the deck as per the instructions (gauge wheels off, lift lever all the way down, etc.). When I first bought the mower I used setting #3, after my initial adjustment I had to use setting #4, I'm now at #6, but it does cut level. I decided to loosen the adjusting nuts then just lift up the deck and retighten the nuts. To an extent that worked, but that made the deck too low in the front. I could find no adjustment on the lift handle or for the front, only the linkage at the adjusting wing nuts. Is it possible I have damaged linkage (worn or bent) or what have I failed to do when leveling? My neighbor claimed he leveled with the gauge wheels on and the setting at #3 and was going to show me. Alas, he died on me.

Answer 1

You can do it with the wheels on, you just do not want them touching the ground or one may hold that side up more than the other. The Deck can actually be in any position except all the way up, maybe. On a level surface. Set it at #3 and if the wheels not touch adjust your leveling bolts and use a tape measure from the Frame to the Deck to level or use a small bubble level if you can. Once the two sides level there two rods run from the front of the deck to the front frame, Many say this just slightly higher in front than back (Owner Manual will tell), then recheck side to side again. I just adjust mine level all the way around.
Now some use the wheels (Lever at #3) and adjust until both wheels just barely touch the Ground/Concrete.
One more thing, the leveling bolts can screw up or down make sure you not keep screwing them out all the time.

Answer 2

Murray Mower Deck

Answer 3

Try and put the adjustments back in the original position. Check the deck for bent plates or linkage usually in the rear. Level your deck at the preferred height. Deck doesent have to be touching the ground.