Lawn mowers are certainly not the quietest devices around the home, even if they’re today’s newest Cub Cadet models. That being said, there are certain noises that are good, and others that should serve as a warning to homeowners that a repair might be in order. One such “bad” noise is the squeaking and grinding noise made by lawn mower spindle bearings that require prompt replacement. Without a timely replacement of these bearings, lawn mowers can experience damage that will require much more expensive parts, labor, and lost productivity.
How to Replace Lawn Mower Spindle Bearings Step-by-Step
The process of actually replacing lawn mower spindle pulleys is a pretty long one, complicated largely by the presence of many belts and pulleys that make up this complicated system. Homeowners will need tools that range from a digital camera to a hole punch in order to guarantee their best shot at success. Here’s how to get the repair done as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Step 1: Get the Mower Setup and Make Preparations
The first step toward a quick replacement of lawn mower spindle pulleys is to get the mower in position and prepare the bearings to be replaced. The mowing deck, which is where the bearings are actually located, should be placed onto wood blocks or cinderblocks to aid access. The deck should be disconnected from the mower, and the drive belt should be gradually slid off its pulleys so that the spindle bearings can be accessed.
Step 2: Document the Cub Cadet Pulley and Belt Setup
The mower’s deck contains a number of different belts, pulleys, and bearings that can be pretty hard to remember without a picture. Grab a digital camera and take a picture of the Cub Cadet setup as it exists before repair, so that it can be perfectly put back together afterward. Alternatively, draw a rough sketch of the setup for future use.
Step 3: Determine the Bearings that Need Replacement
There’s no need to universally replace every spindle bearing in the lawn mower, as most of them will probably still be in excellent condition. Just one bearing can lead to noise and other problems, and now is the time to check which bearings are causing the issue. Spin each pulley and listen for squeaking or grinding noises. Those that make such noises require replacement. Those that don’t can be left untouched.
Step 4: Enable Access to the Pulley and Bearing
In Cub Cadet mowers, a bolt secures each pulley to the spindle shaft where the bearing is located. This bolt must be removed so that the bearing can be replaced. In some cases, it might spin with the shaft, making it nearly impossible to remove. Lodge a piece of wood between the deck and the pulley, eliminating this motion, and then remove the bolt.
Step 5: Access and Replace the Problematic Spindle Bearings
Next, place a hole punch along the casing that keeps the bearing in place. Tap that hole punch with a hammer or mallet so that the bearing is driven out of the mower deck. This will reveal an upper and lower spindle bearing, and both should be replaced in problematic situations. Take this opportunity to clean up the shaft and remove all debris, dirt, and grime.
Step 6: Insert New Bearings and Return the Deck to Working Condition
Go ahead and put the new bearings into the spindle casing, but be aware that they will only partially go into this area. Tap them in using the mallet, but be sure to put something between the mallet and the new bearing to prevent damage. Then, follow the above five steps in reverse to return the mower to working condition. Remember to consult the photograph or sketch of the pulleys and belts during this process, in order to ensure that the Cub Cadet works perfectly.
OEM vs. Off-Brand Parts: The Best Option for Cub Cadet Owners
Spindle bearings for Cub Cadet lawn mowers are produced by Cub Cadet as well as a series of off-brand competitors. OEM parts are those produced by Cub Cadet itself, and they are the best bet for consumers. Their compatibility is assured, and their quality is higher than virtually every competing product thanks to Cub Cadet’s excellent quality control. For longevity and quality, look no further than Cub Cadet’s own OEM replacement parts.
CubParts.com Has the Right Selection and Tools for Buyers
With the broadest selection of OEM parts and an innovative parts lookup tool, CubParts.com should be every owner’s first stop. Using the Cub Cadet mower’s type, model number, and even the desired part number, consumers can find exactly what they need for a high-quality, speedy repair. CubParts.com also offers excellent customer service, years of experience, and unparalleled support, making it a destination for Cub Cadet owners of all kinds.