I set my deck wheels to a mowing height of about 3 inches and then lower the hydraulics as far as they will go. This allows the deck to "float" so no matter what kind of humps and bumps you encounter with the tractor tires, your always getting a nice even cut from the deck. I don't have any issues with the deck wheels leaving marks in the grass. Just keep them greased so the bushings don't wholler out the shoulder bolts and they will always spin and work like they were intended. If you don't set your deck on the ground, the deck will travel up and down with the tractor as you ride over bumps and such. I guess if you have a perfectly smooth lawn, that's fine.

Bass Blaster, thanks for the reply.

I have lots of free time, tractor maintenance is daily. Grease gun at port arms.

I'm going to try the deck out today with the wheels just tappin' the grass tips. This'll be a lot nicer than pushin' wet, cold, white stuff. :beerchug:

Just make sure you have the deck leveled side/side on the deck hanger adjustment links.

Ran the deck, lawn didn't need much of a cut.

Wheels left no rail trails.
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Was able to live with a few wheel scrapes. None today.

Now need some rain.

I'm gettin' attached to the 1641. So are the grandsons, they love the hydro. ��

Fine tuned my left/right level. Too rainy out can't wait to give it a shot.