How to Change the Blades on a Zero-Turn Mower: A Step-by-Step Guide

Your Guide for Jacking Up a Bobcat Zero-Turn Mower & Changing the Blades

Did you know that dull mower blades use up more fuel? 

Clean cuts are important, but they’re not the only reason to change your blades. When you wait on blade replacement, your equipment suffers. And your lawn is more likely to have problems with disease. Let’s walk through the process together—starting with how to safely lift your mower. 

1. Equipment & Set-Up

For an easy blade replacement process, you’re going to need a couple of things. 

The Tools You’ll Need 

• 27mm socket and ratchet set (for Bobcat ZT2000 models) 

• Socket wrench 

• Torque wrench (capable of 35-65 ft-lbs) 

• Block of wood 

• Scraper tool 

• Impact wrench (optional but recommended) 

How to Jack Up Your Zero-Turn Mower 

Safely getting your mower up is the first step. Here are your jack options: 

• Mower Jack: This is the safest and most efficient option. These jacks are designed for zero-turn mowers and give easy access to the deck. 

• Sturdy Floor Jack*: Place the jack under the front cross member of the mower. Make sure it’s on a level surface. 

• Car Ramps: Drive one of the front wheels onto the ramp. Keep the others grounded to create clearance. 

• Trailer Ramp: Position one front wheel up on the ramp while the rest of the mower stays stable. 

Tip: Choose a flat, level surface with plenty of working space around you. Remove the ignition key to prevent accidental startups. Engage the parking brake, and make sure that all controls are in the neutral position. 

*We advise having a jack stand to support the mower once it has been raised up. This will help prevent it from falling. 

2. Remove the Old Blades

Now that your mower’s lifted, it’s time for the tricky part. Carefully follow these steps to access and remove the blades on a Bobcat zero-turn mower. 

Accessing the Deck 

With your mower jacked up, remove the belt covers. Bobcat zero-turn mowers use plastic covers that pop up and slide back. After you’ve done that, lift the access panel until you can see the idler pulleys. This will create a clear path to the blades. 

Removing the Blade 

Here are a few safety tips: 

• Stabilize the blade before applying force to the bolts. 

• Use a wooden block to prevent rotation. 

• Keep your hands away from cutting edges (even if the blade is dull). 

• Mark the bottom side of the blade if needed to track orientation. 

• Work on one blade at a time. 

3. Install the New Blades

It’s time to put the new blades in. Here’s everything you need to know about installing a zero-turn blade. 

Checking the Balance 

Before you install the new blades, check their balance. Even new blades can be slightly off-balance when they leave the factory. An unbalanced mower blade will create extra vibration, damage the bearings, and reduce your comfort. 

Here’s three reliable ways to check blade balance: 

Nail Method: Hang the blade on a nail. If one end dips, it’s heavier. 

Basic Balancer Tool: A cheap cone-style balancer available at hardware stores. 

Professional Balancer: The most accurate method. These are typically found at repair shops. 

Pro Tip: If the blade is unbalanced, carefully grind small amounts of metal from the heavy side. Recheck the balance as you go. 

Blade Orientation Guide 

• The sharp edge should face the direction of rotation (typically clockwise from above). 

• The curved or winged portion should point upward toward the deck. 

• Most Bobcat blades have “THIS SIDE DOWN” stamped for clarity. 

Installing the Blade 

• Make sure the correct blade orientation. 
• Align the center hole with the spindle shaft. 
• Start threading the bolt by hand. 
• Double-check that the wings point upward. 
• Tighten the bolts to the correct torque specification (check your operator’s manual). 

Important: Don’t overtighten the bolts. Over-tightening can damage threads, stretch bolts, or make future blade removal difficult. 

4. Test Your New Blades

Every time you install new blades, test that everything is working like it should. 

Initial Operation Checks 

• Clear the area of tools and debris 
• Check all bolts and connections 
• Ensure belt covers are secured 
• Lower the deck to the normal cutting position 
• Reconnect the spark plug wire 
• Start the engine in an open area 
• Engage the PTO clutch 

Checking Cut Quality 

Here’s what you’re looking for: 

• Even cut height across the deck width 

• Clean grass tips (not torn or ragged) 

• Smooth clipping discharge without clumping 

• No missed strips between passes 

Test a small area of your lawn. If you notice uneven cuts or missed patches, try making a minor deck adjustment first. 

Maintenance Best Practices

Take care of your mower, and it will take care of your lawn. If you run into any issues not covered here, call your local Bobcat of Indy Service team. We’re here to keep your mower running like it should!