I have a Craftsman 42in cut, 19.5 HP lawn tractor that cuts uneven. The right (discharge) side cuts 1/4 to 1/2 in higher than the left side. I have leveled the deck according to the instructions in the manual. I have checked the tire pressure and changed from mulching blades to regular ones. I replaced the mandrel on the left side due to worn bearings, and installed a new pulley on the back side of the deck. (not the main pulley). The model # is 917.270810.

Don, July 2005

I'm having the exact problem with my craftman rider. I bought the new front adjusting rods and continue to have problems with it cutting uneven. I friend suggested I buy two turn buckles and place them above the front adjusting rods. There are other holes already drilled and the turnbuckle can be fastned to the main body of the rider. This is the only way I can have some control on adjusting the deck. I also thought about placing an adjusting wheel in between both front deck brackets.

dan, July 2005

The rods on the front of your deck may be badly worn and causing the front of your deck to sag. So the problem really is your side to side adjustment, it's you front adjustment. you really have two ways to fix it: (1) Buy new parts and repair it right. (2) Take a strap, or an old belt that you don't wear anymore, and pull up that side of your deck wraping the belt/strap around your height adjustment lever. Adjust the belt/strap as necessary untill the mower is mowing evenly. I have a Craftsman myself with the same problem and this worked perfectly! FYI: I also work as a small engine mechanic.

Matt, July 2005