Why wont my Ariens zero turn mow as good as it use to

[billkater]

I have a Areins EZR1648 mower. I keep sharp blades on it and good belts. It seems like this year it doesnt mow as good as it use to. The mower is 18 yrs old or so.

It is leaving stripes where blades come together. Grass is knocked down but not cut. What should I check first?

Thanks

Bill

 

[possum]

The blades.

 

[billkater]

The blades.

Yes I have checked/changed the blades. I have used OEM blades, Gator blades. Both do the same thing.

Do the pulleys get bad to where the belts will slip?

 

[SCMCG]

If you have a spring-loaded tensioner for the deck belt it could be weak and letting the belt slip ever so slightly. This will compromise cut quality and you really won't have any symptoms.