Question about Reel Mower

I got a used Scotts reel mower and it was cutting fine, but I wanted to adjust the 4 screws to see if I can make it easier to push. I tinkered some with it and then ended up totally loosening the screws and it seems impossible to get them back in the right position. I understand how the 4-screw mechanism works, but I already spent maybe 2 hours messing with it, tightening, loosening, etc... Should I just give up or is there a specific way to make sure these screws are in the right position when starting from scratch (all completely loosened)?

I would examine the screws. I'm fairly certain you'll find a difference in the rust, or perhaps see where the screw was inside the threaded female side of the mating surfaces. I'd just screw the screws until the different finishes disappear. The worse this mower was maintained the easier this may be. I hope I'm getting my point  across. I'd gures the portion of the screw that was threaded in and therefore out of the weather will have a cleaner/newer appearance.

Good luck!

Scotts Shop Manual

The above link is to a download of the Shop Manual, it will show you how to do repairs to your reel mower.

Redhawk