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JP Maxees cutter unit help needed please

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Harvey Sun, 06/06/2021

I would like some advice about removing the drive coupling wheel from the cutter unit. I intend to make a bar with lugs to fit in the holes.

What is the best way to lock the cutting cylinder? I do not want to  bend or damage a blade.

Is this coupling likely to be very tight from experience?  ( left hand thread I think but will check)

Another thing: the cutting cylinder bearing that is visible is packed with a 'moly' type grease.

Should I clean this out and use oil as the instructions are for oiling or is grease better?

Grease does stay where it is put!

Thanks for any opinions.

Harvey

Forums

Wiltshireworm Mon, 07/06/2021

Hi Harvey, I hope this helps you.

The Coupling will be a left hand thread, because it will be self tightening as the mower runs. Most machines work like that otherwise the fittings would come undone as it works.

The best way to hold the cutting cylinder is by placing a block of hardwood or a hammer handle in between the cutters, wedging the wood against the frame, (not the bed-knife), as you apply the turning force. it should come undone easily unless someone has put lock-tight fluid on the threads, a knock with a hammer will help to shock it free.  If you need to apply heat then use a handy gas blowtorch, readily available at your local DIY store. I often use one to remove stubborn paint when restoring mowers. The cutting cylinder steel is quite hard so unless you overdo the force applied it will not bend easily, just be careful. Holding the cutter cassette in a vice will keep it still, safe too & save you chasing it around the workshop.

Grease or oil, it is up to you, grease stays in place whereas oil has to be replenished frequently & excess will run out on the floor if overdone. Use a low melting point grease, also put a few drops of engine oil between the front wooden rollers, on the shaft, it stops them squeaking & helps easy movement.

The JP Maxees is a light & easy mower to use & will give a good finish when set-up well.

Good luck with it, it will serve you well.

Peter Hampton 

Harvey Wed, 09/06/2021

Thank you Peter.

I have 'done' several mowers; mostly Ransomes Ajaxes and Qualcast.

I have had this Maxees for a few years but it was put aside when the handle broke and now I am getting it back in use.

It does cut well even though it could do with a sharpen. I think that I favour grease for this type of ball bearing and will re-apply after cleaning.

I just need to decide the exact form for the tool to undo the coupling disc.

I'll post a picture when it is back together.

Harvey