BEWARE of those "universal" blades

[JDgreen227]

Despite reading the experiences of others who have had negative results with the 173cc Chinese Kohlers, mine has been very reliable and economical with fuel, easy starting and strong running. The adapter on mine cannot really be called an engine issue because it is a separate part. For what it is worth, I was unable to find an adapter for my model in any online parts catalogs as typing in the model number produced a blank. Then I recalled Sears sold this same mower, although a different color, two years ago and found their model number.

 

[pacerron]

I hope this method doesn't upset the balance much...but it's worth a try.

I doubt if the balance will be effected by what your doing on such a short blade. You must have a filler washer in your parts to reduce the big hole in the center of the blade to the center bolt size. After you center the blade on the flange and hold it in place with your pin bolts, just balance the assembly as a unit. I would level a rod or bolt in a vice that is a little smaller than the center hole in the flange. Then slide the assembly over the rod/bolt to see if you have a heavy end. If so, grind a little off the heavy end.
You might want to use "nylock" nuts instead of locktite. In either case, after the nuts are on tight, saw off any thread sticking out beyond the nuts. That way you won't get a bunch of grass wound up around the unit if you are mowing high grass or weeds.