LH Deck Brake Assembly

[CoreyF]

The left hand brake assembly on the deck had a broken spring. I received the correct replacement spring but having an issue. I can see how the cap screw, spacer, brake assembly, and torsion spring should be installed but the only way I could see to install the spring was to put it around the spacer, insert the screw, then insert the end of the spring into the deck hole first. I then tightened the hex nut underneath the deck so the spacer is set properly before attaching the other end of the spring to the back of the assembly. However, this meant I had to pull this end of the spring with needle nose pliers up and over the brake pad in order to rest it on the back of the pad which put a small bend in the spring. My attachments show the spring. Attachment #2 shows the kink in the spring if you look close. Also, If I tighten the hex nut down the brake assembly will not move at all when I test it out and I had to loosen the hex nut. Why would the assembly not move after tightening it down? I don't see what's causing this. The spring is not pinched.

[darkminion_17]

You must have reassemble it wrong, you can download the parts manual here.

http://manuals.mtdproducts.com/mtd/Public.do

[ironman]

I'll take a WAG and say the spring should be between the two washers, NOT between the washer and the brake arm.
The attached photo is not your deck but for reference.

[darkminion_17]

I looked at the parts manual and could not find that spring on the model you supplied.
Under edit. found it.

[ironman]

According to the parts diagram, the spring leg is supposed to be hooked under the brake bracket, not trough a hole in the deck.

[CoreyF]

My model has the bottom portion of the spring clipped to the edge of the hole in the deck and then the cap screw has a lock nut to tighten it down underneath the deck. I had to remove the assembly this way by removing the nut and screw to get to the spring. You can also see this on the cadet website and look for my model and the file named 769-10043 for the 42-inch deck. Zoom in a lot. This would be clearer than my attached screen capture.

[darkminion_17]

Here is a pic from the online manual.

[CoreyF]

I found that the brake assembly has been replaced with a different part #753-09904A so I ordered it to replace my original assembly. I just hope the spring will not be difficult to install. I'm sure putting tension on the spring while installing it can be tough.