1. Product Overview
The MaxPower 561544B 2-blade set is designed as a replacement part for various 46-inch cut lawn mowers, including models from MTD, Cub Cadet, and Troy-Bilt. This set also fits Craftsman CMXGZAM110131 and CMXGZAM110181. Each blade is engineered to meet or exceed OEM specifications, ensuring reliable performance for your mowing needs.
Key features of these blades include:
- Includes 2 blades specifically for 46-inch cut MTD, Cub Cadet, and Troy-Bilt mowers.
- Replaces OEM numbers: 942-04244, 942-04290, 94204244A, 742-04290, 742-04244, and CMXGZAM110131.
- Each blade measures 23-1/4 inches in length and 3 inches in width.
- Features a 6-point star center hole for secure mounting.
- Proudly manufactured in the USA, with a powder coating for protection that wears off during the first use to reveal a precision-sharpened edge.
Figure 1.1: The MaxPower 561544B 2-Blade Set, showing both blades.
2. Safety Information
Always prioritize safety when working with lawn mower blades. Improper handling or installation can lead to serious injury.
- Disconnect Power: Before performing any maintenance or installation, always disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug to prevent accidental engine starting. For electric mowers, remove the battery or unplug from the power source.
- Wear Protective Gear: Always wear heavy-duty gloves to protect your hands from sharp blade edges. Safety glasses are also recommended to protect your eyes from debris.
- Secure the Mower: Ensure the lawn mower is stable and cannot move or tip over during blade replacement. Use jack stands or a secure lift if necessary.
- Sharp Edges: Blades are sharp. Handle them with extreme care.
- Proposition 65 Warning: This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.
3. Installation
Replacing your lawn mower blades is a critical maintenance task. Follow these steps carefully to ensure proper and safe installation.
- Prepare the Mower: Ensure the mower engine is off and cool. Disconnect the spark plug wire (or remove battery/unplug electric mowers) to prevent accidental starting.
- Access the Blades: Tilt the mower onto its side with the carburetor and air filter facing upwards to prevent fuel or oil leaks. Secure the mower to prevent it from tipping.
- Remove Old Blades: Use a block of wood or a specialized blade removal tool to prevent the blade from turning. Use a wrench or socket to loosen and remove the blade bolt. Note the orientation of the old blade before removal.
- Clean Deck: Clean any accumulated grass clippings and debris from the underside of the mower deck.
- Install New Blades: Position the new MaxPower blade with the cutting edge facing the direction of rotation (usually upwards towards the deck). Ensure the 6-point star center hole aligns correctly with the spindle.
- Secure Blades: Reinstall the blade bolt and washer. Tighten the bolt securely using a torque wrench to the manufacturer's specified torque (refer to your mower's owner's manual for exact specifications). Ensure the blade is firmly seated and does not wobble.
- Verify OEM Number: To ensure proper fit and function, always verify that the OEM number of the blade you are replacing matches one of the OEM numbers listed for this MaxPower blade set (742-04244, 742-04290, 942-04244, 942-04290, CMXGZAM110131, CMXGZAM110181).
Figure 3.1: Understanding OEM numbers is crucial for correct blade replacement.
4. Operating Instructions
Once the new blades are securely installed, reconnect the spark plug wire. Before starting the mower, ensure all tools are removed from the mowing area and that no one is near the mower. Operate the mower according to its original manufacturer's instructions. The protective powder coating on the blades will wear off during the first use, revealing the precision-sharpened cutting edge.
5. Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your lawn mower blades ensures optimal cutting performance and extends their lifespan.
- Sharpening: Blades should be sharpened regularly, especially if you notice tearing of grass blades instead of clean cuts. Use a blade sharpener or file, maintaining the original cutting angle.
- Balancing: After sharpening, it is crucial to balance the blades. An unbalanced blade can cause excessive vibration, leading to premature wear on mower components and an uneven cut. Use a blade balancer to ensure even weight distribution.
- Cleaning: After each use, clean grass clippings and debris from the underside of the mower deck and the blades. This prevents rust and maintains efficiency.
- Inspection: Periodically inspect blades for bends, cracks, or excessive wear. Replace damaged blades immediately.
Figure 5.1: Inspecting the blade for wear and damage is part of routine maintenance.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues after installing your new MaxPower blades, consider the following common troubleshooting steps:
- Uneven Cut:
- Ensure blades are installed with the correct orientation (cutting edge facing up).
- Check if blades are bent or damaged.
- Verify blades are properly balanced after sharpening.
- Inspect the mower deck for levelness.
- Excessive Vibration:
- Blades may be unbalanced. Remove, sharpen, and re-balance them.
- Check if blades are securely tightened to the spindle.
- Inspect for bent or damaged blades.
- Blades Not Cutting Effectively:
- Blades may be dull and require sharpening.
- Ensure the correct blade type is used for your mower and cutting conditions.
- Blades Hitting Deck:
- Double-check that the correct OEM replacement blade was used for your specific mower model.
- Inspect the mower deck for any deformities or damage that might cause interference.
7. Specifications
Detailed specifications for the MaxPower 561544B 2-Blade Set:
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Model Number | 561544B |
| Blade Length | 23-1/4 inches |
| Blade Width | 3 inches |
| Center Hole Type | 6-point star |
| Compatible Mower Deck Size | 46-inch cut |
| Replaces OEM Numbers | 742-04244, 742-04290, 942-04244, 942-04290, 94204244A, CMXGZAM110131, CMXGZAM110181 |
| Manufacturer | MaxPower |
| Product Dimensions | 24.63 x 3 x 0.63 inches |
| Item Weight | 1 pound (per blade, total weight for set not specified but implied by product dimensions) |
| Country of Origin | USA |
Figure 7.1: Visual representation of blade dimensions and compatibility.
Figure 7.2: Detail of the 6-point star center hole design.
8. Warranty and Support
MaxPower blades are proudly manufactured in the USA to meet or exceed OEM specifications, reflecting a commitment to quality and durability. For specific warranty information or technical support regarding your MaxPower 561544B 2-Blade Set, please refer to the official MaxPower website or contact their customer service directly. Always ensure you have your product model number (561544B) and any relevant purchase details available when seeking support.
Figure 8.1: MaxPower products are proudly Made in USA.
