LX188 Deck lift won't latch at the top setting.

[PTmowerMech]

Hey fella's. Hope everyone's spring is going good.

I'm having a deck height problem and hoping someone knows about this issue.

I press the button, pull the lever all the way back, release the button and the deck goes back to what ever setting the dial is on. It doesn't feel like it's restricted when I pull the deck all the way up. It's not spongy, as if it was clogged with dirt or grass.

 

[StarTech]

Ever thought that the latching system might be worn out?

The John Deere LX188 was manufactured between 1992 and 1998. These machines are generally 28 to 34 years old.

 

[PTmowerMech]

Ever thought that the latching system might be worn out?

The John Deere LX188 was manufactured between 1992 and 1998. These machines are generally 28 to 34 years old.

I should've added more to my questioning as to what to look for. Yes, I'm aware it could be worn out.
I don't have a helper to raise and lower it to see what's moving. What's not clicking into place.

It locks into it's settings. Except for all the way up.

 

[StarTech]

then probably it simply being stopped before it can be latched up. a little grinding is all it might need or it might just be trash.

You want a fun one. try a LA115 that won't in the top three places. JD apparently bent the lift lever in the wrong place. now to get the lever off it takes completely disassembling the whole top section of the mower body. Not going to happen.