Patent ID: 7540135
Filing Date: 2009-06-02
Classification: A01D

Abstract:
1. In a riding mower having an operator seating area and a height adjustable mowing deck supported beneath a frame of the mower by a deck lifting system comprising a plurality of lift arms pivotally mounted to the mower frame and actuatable by an operator seated in the operator seating area to raise and lower the mowing deck, a deck height adjusting apparatus comprising: a secondary arm spaced from and pivotally connected to one of the plurality of lift arms for common pivotal movement therewith; a cam wheel having a central spindle, the cam wheel rotationally mounted to the frame adjacent to the operator seating area, the cam having first and second side surfaces and an edge surface, the edge surface being oriented in a common plane with the secondary arm; and a rod having a first end pivotally attached to the secondary arm and a second end opposite the first end, wherein the second end of the rod contacts the edge surface of the cam when the secondary arm is in a first position, and wherein the second end of the rod is spaced from the edge of the cam when the secondary arm is in a second position; and wherein the one of the plurality of lift arms comprises a bell crank having a first portion connected to the mowing deck and a second portion extending at an angle relative to the first portion, the second portion having a length greater than the first portion, a terminal end of the second portion comprising a foot pad.