2008 LT1045 leaving grass clipping behind

[MikeHutchison]

I have a 2008 LT1045 46" mower that has needed some TLC since I bought it used 2 years ago.

When cutting the grass, it's leaving behind 2 rows of (cut) grass clippings between blades 1 & 2 and blades 2 & 3. Here's my troubleshooting steps so far:

• Cleaned under deck
• Leveled deck
• Replaced deck and drive belts
• Replaced deck pulleys
• Replaced blades and verified blades are installed correctly (grass side writing on blade is touching grass)
• Replaced all 3 spindles
• Noticed RPM's were not high enough at full throttle and increased throttle to just under max
• I have not replaced the tensioner but the felt feels tight enough.

The engine does not drop in RPM's nor does it sound like the blades are slowing down. Cutting grass with deck low or high does not make a difference. Cutting long or short grass does not matter. Chute up or down does not change the outcome. If I go reverse with blades engaged over the grass clippings they are gone.

In re reading the manual, I did see that the rear of the deck needs to be about a 1/2' higher than the front. I will adjust that to see if that will help. Any other thoughts or suggestions?