How To Change The Blade On A Craftsman LT1000

The Craftsman LT1000 is a large lawn tractor used for mowing grass. The single double-edged blade used in the tractor is razor sharp, and it wears out over time. Replacing the blade will ensure a consistent grass height every time you mow your lawn. Contact your local Sears store and check if it carries replacement blades for the Craftsman LT1000. You can also resharpen the blade, but Sears does not recommend that you do so.

Step 1

Open the battery box door under the seat pan. Disconnect the black cable with a wrench, followed by the red cable. Remove the battery from the tractor. Adjust the mower height to its highest setting. Make sure there is an adequate amount of space between the mower and the ground before going under the mower. If you need more space, use a car jack to raise the mower higher.

Step 2

Put on the heavy work gloves and slide under the mower. Unscrew the hexagonal bolt holding the blade, using a wrench. Remove the lock washer and the flat washer. Remove the blade from the mandrel assembly, being careful when doing so.

Step 3

Clean any dirt, grass or other debris from the mandrel assembly with a moist rag. In particular, clean the bolt that attaches the blade.

Step 4

Attach the replacement blade to the mandrel assembly. Fasten the flat washer, the lock washer and the hex bolt, in that order, to the mandrel assembly. Tighten the bolt to between 30 and 35 ft.-lbs. of torque, using a torque wrench.

Step 5

Lower the mower to its regular height. Replace the battery in the battery compartment under the seat. Reconnect the red battery cable, followed by the black cable.

Unplug the saw and move the cord well away from the outlet so someone doesn't accidentally plug it back in while you're working. Push the blade guard back and out of the way, then pry out the table insert with a flat-head screwdriver. Unscrew it and remove the blade flange and the blade. Clean the blade flange and arbor with a clean cloth. Holding the blade steady with the open-ended wrench, tighten the nut with the box wrench by pushing the handle toward the back of the saw table. Lower the blade to its minimum height, then replace the table insert. It usually snaps into place.