OutdoorKing Repair Forum Forums Restoring, Customising and Modifying Reel-Type Mowers SB 45 reel sprocket nut.....what torque?

Hi all,

I have replaced all my sprockets and chains on my old 14" SB 45. Now I'm having problems with the hex nut on the reel sprocket. If I tighten it tight it locks/restricts the reel from moving. If I loosen then the nut the reel rotates as it should. But after a few hours of running the reel become loose and begins to vibrate.

Can anyone advise how tight the nut should by? eg. The torque setting?

The two bearings and washers on the reel are new apart from the washer, spring washer and hex nut on the sprockets are the original. It's like something is missing causing the reel to lock when the nut it tightened.

I have checked the width of the bearings, bearing caps are on the right side.

Hi Corduroy,

I don't think the torque is your issue. I tighten that nut up with a rattle gun (so that I don't have to stick some wood in the reel). It should be tight and should not restrict the movement of the reel.

Check that you have the bearings and domed washers on the correct way and that you haven't mixed up the top bearing caps. Post some pictures if it still gives you grief

Thanks rolla. The domed washers go on first and I have assumed the outer diameter of the washer touches the bearing. That correct?

The LH Bearing cap has the groove or whatever it's called and the right cap doesn't have a groove. That correct?

Hi again Corduroy,

No mate, the domed side goes against the bearing so that there is a gap between the washer and the bearing...
The dished side goes towards the reel....See here


Re: the bearing caps, both should have the groove that secures the washers, but the pressure that the bearing cap would apply to the washer and the bearing, would secure it in place, if there is no groove present
The right hand one has the round piece of sponge behind the bearing. See Part Number 30 HERE
The nut that secures the cutter sprocket should be done up firmly, but be careful you do not over-tighten it.

If you have those washers on back to front, it'll make the bearings sit further out. That must be why your reel is binding up when you do the nut up. Sounds like a nice easy fix

Hi Michael,
I don't think there would be a Scotty 45 owner out there that has not put the washers on the wrong way round, then having to pull the whole thing out again to fix it.

Ah! Thanks Rolla, Deejay. Something so basic can cause grief!

Re bearing caps, only the left hand side has a grove. My chassis is pre 1980 and the caps have grease nipples! Every time I see them I have to remind myself that they are sealed bearings and don't need to oil them!. Either way, I'll swap the washers around and see if it fixes the problem.

Thanks again.