I just bought a YTH22V22 from a dealer--not Lowes--and I mowed my lawn for the first time yesterday. I have the same problem. Even on setting 6 the blade height is only about 3 inches when measured on level pavement. I too mow tall fescue and need a cutting height of at least 3-1/2 inches or it kills the lawn. Preferably, setting 6 should be about 4-1/2 inches. I have no idea what setting 1 could be good for.