How to Change Blades on Kubota Mower Deck

Those who like to keep their lawn tidy understand the struggle of uneven cutting and shaved remnants in the grass. But did you know all this is a result of inefficient mower blades? That’s why we’ll show you how to change blades on Kubota mower deck and ensure precise cuts. 

After you’ve changed your blades, you’ll have to confirm they’re secured in place and won’t come loose while mowing. For this reason, we’ve also included blade replacement tips that’ll come in handy the next time you’re working on your Kubota.

Read below for the detailed guide and learn how to switch out mower blades like a pro!

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How to Change Blades on Kubota Mower Deck

So, you’ve blunted your blades, and now it’s time to switch them out. When it comes to changing the blades on your Kubota mower, you can do it by yourself or take your mower to a Kubota dealer in Colorado.

To change the blades, flip the deck to access the blades, securing it on a wall or with support blocks. Next, use a torque wrench matching the nut size to loosen and remove the old blades. Then, slide the old blades off the spindle, ensuring the area is debris-free. Install the new ones onto the spindle and use the torque wrench to tighten them.

Below, we walk you through the process of changing your Kubota blades step-by-step:

1. Get the necessary tools

What tools are required to change the blades on a Kubota mower deck? First, you’ll need something to secure the mower deck so it doesn’t fall over. 

Then, you’ll have to get a torque wrench or a hex bit to loosen the nuts on the blades. Additionally, you can get gloves if you don’t like to get dirty.

2. Take precautionary measures

Working with the moving elements of a mower is dangerous without putting safety first. Turn off your mower and remove the key to prevent the mower from starting without you. Even better, ensure your safety switches are on in order to prevent an accidental start.

3. Change the blades step-by-step

Switching out the blades is simple once you list the steps involved in the process. Use our handy guide to learn how to change blades on Kubota mower deck: 

1. Flip the mower deck to locate the blades underneath. You can prop it up on a wall so it doesn’t move. You can further secure it using support blocks.
2. Get a torque wrench whose size matches the nuts securing the blades and loosen them. Then, remove them with your hands. Alternatively, you can use a hex bit.
3. Slide the blades of the shaft, also referred to as the spindle.
4. Before screwing in the new ones, clean any dirt or debris off the spindle and the surrounding area.
5. Slide in the new blades.
6. Use the torque wrench to tighten the blades.

Note: This is a general overview of removing the blades from your Kubota mower. For instructions tailored to your specific model, always address your Kubota manual.

Signs Your Kubota Blades Need Changing

Some of the signs that your Kubota blades need to be switched out may be:

• The blades are dull.
• The edges are uneven and cracked.
• Parts of the blades are broken off.
• The mower leaves uncut patches of grass behind even though you’re sure you went over them.
• The grass isn’t cut cleanly but looks torn off. You may see chunks of glass being left behind instead of even grass dispersion.
• The blades appear to work harder to get the job done. You may notice extra vibrations or unusual noises.

How often should you change your blades?

There’s no fixed rule you should follow when deciding when to change the blades. Generally, you should do it after 20-30 hours of use or once a year. In addition, make sure to check their condition after hitting rocks and other hard objects, as this might require immediate replacement.

How to Sharpen Blades on Kubota Mower Deck

How do you sharpen the blades on a Kubota mower deck? Follow the steps below:

1. Lift the mower deck using a jack to be able to get under it.
2. Add safety blocks to secure the mower deck.
3. Unbolt the blades using an electric screwdriver.
4. Use an angle grinder to remove the rough edges on both sides. Always wear eye protection during this step to shield yourself from the flying sparks.
5. Install the sharpened blades.

Kubota Maintenance Tips: How to Align Blades Properly

The Kubota mower deck blade alignment is a vital factor affecting the functionality of your blades. Here are some tips to do it correctly:

• Get identical blades – Different blades come in different shapes and sizes. Your replacement blades should be exactly like the ones you already have to prevent uneven cutting and reduce stress on the spindle. 
• Ensure correct blade orientation – Blades typically have a top and bottom side, and placing them upside down might cause issues. Consult the Kubota dealer on proper orientation.
• Install all blades at the same height level – All blades should be at the same height for even cuts. Check for a height adjustment mechanism in your Kubota to get it right. 
• Ensure the blade nuts are tight – You don't want your blades getting loose and causing damage or hurting someone. Inspect your blade nuts before each use and tighten them accordingly.
• Do regular maintenance checks – You don’t have to double-check everything before every use. However, try to set aside time on a biweekly basis to inspect all elements under your mower deck for safety. Pay special attention to the deck belt, as it’s the mechanism responsible for the cutting motion. A worn-out deck belt may result in poor cutting.

Types of Kubota Mower Blades

Changing the blades can be more or less difficult depending on the type of blades you’re dealing with:

• Standard blades – These are general-purpose mower blades designed for cutting grass. They’re the perfect option for homeowners looking for a simple grass mower to keep their backyard tidy.
• Mulching blades – These blades differ from the standard ones in one thing – they collect the clipped grass in a separate compartment and cut it into tiny pieces. You can then disperse the clippings over your lawn and let them act as natural fertilizers. 
• High-lift blades – These blades use high-lift airflow to force the grass to stand upright for a sharp cut. They also collect the grass clippings.
• Finish cut blades – Provide an even cleaner look than the high-lift blades. They’re mainly used on turfgrass to maintain the neat appearance of landscaped backyards and sports fields. The multiple gage wheels and rollers allow for an extra low cutting height, so you cannot use them on tall, untamed grass.

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Conclusion

You can easily swap out the blades on your Kubota mower by unscrewing them and adding new ones. However, you can also sharpen the existing blades and save on expenses. Before working on your Kubota, take precautionary measures and verify that the engine is off and that the mower deck is raised and supported by safety blocks. 

Learning how to change blades on Kubota mower deck is all about practice. Since this must be done regularly, it’ll only take a couple of tries to get the hang of it. Until then, feel free to refer to our step-by-step guide, which includes all the tools you need and tips on proper blade replacement.