How do I fix a 1999 MTD Lawn Tractor Deck model “F” that is uneven and shreds belts?

The deck lift handle no longer smoothly raises and lowers. It seems to be hitting something. The deck on the deck left hand side does not lower all the way. On the opposite side it goes down nearly touching the ground. Ergo, the deck is imbalanced on by about 20 degrees or, when down, positioned at about 160 degrees.

This novice is on fixed income and must fix myself. I have the MTD parts manual, but no clues on the defect.

Thank you for any advice or direction.
Joe

I had an experience similar with a deck that had a cable lift system and the nut had worked lose on th ened of the cable. Not sure if your is cable or not, but would be easy to check.

Morrowrj

Thank you. Tried it. My nut is OK.
Thanks.

Joe, glad your nut is OK. We were worried. Your deck hangs from several points and MTD decks use levers, not cables. I think a cotter pin came out of the right side so look for a round shaft bent at a 90 degree angle with a cotter pin hole through the wear spot. This hanger rod may be laying flat on the top of the deck or it could be dangling from the tractor frame, all depends which pin came out. Obviously lower you deck all the way to get a good look.

Ballengerb 1 has the right answer, just fixed a lawn chief. Pin popped and rod slid out pain in the butt to fix by yourself, block and tackle works so you can get under it. Good luck