Embodiments include a mechanism for leveling or providing pad assistance to surface maintenance machines. The surface maintenance machine can include a frame, a plurality of wheels, a head assembly, and a head adjustment mechanism. The head adjustment mechanism can be positioned in line with and operatively coupled to a first portion of the head assembly, such that the first portion of the head assembly can be moved towards or away from the surface by adjusting the position of a fastener in a slot. Such embodiments are useful for leveling the head assembly to maintain an even degree of burnishing or providing pad assistance. Embodiments include methods of using such mechanisms for leveling or providing pad assist to surface maintenance machines.