Stens 750-656 Metal Deck Leveling Gauge Instruction Manual

1. Product Overview

The Stens 750-656 Metal Deck Leveling Gauge is designed for accurately leveling and measuring mower decks on both riding and walk-behind mowers. This tool assists in achieving an even cut by ensuring the mower deck is properly aligned.

An image showing the Stens 750-656 Metal Deck Leveling Gauge, a black metal tool with a hinged arm and a measurement scale from 1.5 to 3.5 inches.

2. Safety Precautions

• Always wear appropriate safety gloves when working with mower blades to prevent injury.
• Ensure the mower engine is turned off and the spark plug wire is disconnected before performing any adjustments or measurements.
• Never attempt to level a hot engine or blades. Allow the mower to cool down completely.
• Work on a flat, level surface to ensure accurate measurements.

3. Setup

1. Prepare the Mower: Park the mower on a flat, level surface. Engage the parking brake. Turn off the engine and remove the ignition key or disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting.
2. Position Blades: Rotate the mower blades so they are parallel to the sides of the mower deck for side-to-side measurement, or front-to-back for front-to-back measurement.
3. Adjust Deck Height: Set the mower deck to your desired cutting height or a mid-range setting for initial leveling.

4. Operating Instructions

Follow these steps to accurately measure and level your mower deck:

4.1 Side-to-Side Leveling

1. Measure First Side: Carefully slide the Stens 750-656 gauge under one side of the mower deck until the gauge's arm touches the tip of the blade. Ensure the gauge is perpendicular to the blade.
2. Read Measurement: Gently remove the gauge, taking care not to disturb the arm's position. Read the height indicated on the gauge's scale. Note this measurement.
3. Measure Second Side: Repeat the process for the blade tip on the opposite side of the mower deck.
4. Compare and Adjust: Compare the two measurements. If they are not identical, adjust the mower deck's side-to-side leveling mechanism according to your mower's instruction manual until both sides measure the same height.

4.2 Front-to-Back Leveling

For optimal cutting performance, the front of the mower deck should typically be slightly lower than the rear (usually 1/8 to 1/4 inch). Consult your mower's manual for specific recommendations.

1. Measure Front Blade: Position one blade so its tip points directly forward. Slide the gauge under the front tip of this blade and record the measurement.
2. Measure Rear Blade: Rotate the same blade (or an adjacent one) so its tip points directly backward. Slide the gauge under the rear tip of this blade and record the measurement.
3. Compare and Adjust: Compare the front and rear measurements. Adjust the mower deck's front-to-back leveling mechanism as per your mower's manual to achieve the recommended height difference.

Important: Always refer to your specific mower's owner's manual for detailed deck adjustment procedures and recommended height settings.

5. Maintenance

• Cleaning: After each use, wipe the gauge clean with a dry cloth to remove any grass clippings, dirt, or moisture.
• Storage: Store the gauge in a dry place, away from extreme temperatures and corrosive materials, to prevent rust or damage.
• Inspection: Periodically inspect the gauge for any signs of damage, such as a bent arm or loose components. Ensure the measurement scales are clear and legible.

6. Troubleshooting

• Inaccurate Readings / Misaligned Scales: If the measurement scales appear misaligned or provide inconsistent readings, carefully inspect the adhesive labels. If you suspect a manufacturing defect, contact Stens customer support.
• Bent Pointer/Arm: A bent pointer or arm will lead to inaccurate measurements. Do not attempt to forcefully bend it back as this may cause further damage. Contact Stens customer support for assistance or replacement.
• Difficulty Holding Position: The gauge's arm is designed to retain its position once set. If it moves too easily, ensure the pivot screw is adequately tightened (without overtightening, which could restrict movement).
• Gauge Does Not Reach Blade: If the gauge cannot reach the blade tip due to a very high deck setting, you may place a small, stable block (e.g., a piece of 2x4 wood) under the gauge to elevate it. Ensure the block is level and stable.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

For information regarding product warranty, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official Stens website. If you encounter any issues or require technical assistance, please contact Stens customer support through their official channels. When contacting support, please have your product model number (750-656) and purchase details available.

You can find more information and contact details on the Stens Brand Store.