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How to Repair a Ranch King Mower Deck

Ranch King is a lawn mower brand built and distributed by WCI Outdoor Products. Ranch King mowers, now discontinued, had some models recalled in 2002 due to fuel line problems. One less serious problem that can occur with Ranch Kings, and other mower brands, is a malfunction of the mower deck. The mower deck acts as a shield on a mower between the operator and the mower blades. The deck protects both the operator and the engine from lawn debris. If your Ranch King starts malfunctioning, check the mower deck to see if it's responsible.

Things You'll Need

  • Mower cleaning tool
  • Ruler
  • Wrench
  • Rubber mallet or small hammer
  • Sandpaper
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Instructions

    • 1

      Turn off the mower completely and clean out beneath the deck with a mower-cleaning tool to remove any built-up grass deposits. As debris collects inside the deck, the blades can't move freely and you'll have unusual patterns or unevenness forming in your lawn as a result. The mower-cleaning tool scrapes this debris off and restores the deck to proper function.

    • 2

      Measure the height of the mower deck with a ruler when the mower is on flat ground. The deck should be an equal distance from the ground on all sides to ensure an even grass cut. Adjust the leveling bolts on both sides of the deck as needed to readjust the height until it's even. If the mower hits something like a rock or a large stick while mowing, it may knock the deck off balance.

    • 3

      Inspect the deck for any dents or warping. Use a rubber mallet to carefully straighten any dents in the deck if the deck is metal. Plastic decks generally need replacement if they crack or warp.

    • 4

      Remove the deck for a more thorough inspection or cleaning as needed. Remove the grass catcher and take off the pins or mounting bolts holding the deck in place. Lower it to the ground and pull it out from under the mower. Unhook the cutting blade from the underside of the deck with a wrench and set it aside.

    • 5

      Sand off any rust with sandpaper and use the mallet or a hammer to eliminate any remaining dents or warps.

    • 6

      Reinstall the deck once any corrosion or dents are fixed.