Download MTD 13AH762F752 Operator`s manual

Safety • AssembJy • Operation • Adjustment • Maintenance
A
Transmatic
OR'S
• TroubJeshooting
• Warranty
MANUAL
Lawn Tractor-
Models 760=779
iMPORTANT
READ SAFETY
RULES AND iNSTRUCTiONS
CAREFULLY
BEFORE
OPERATION
Warning: This unitis equippedwith an internalcombustionengineand shouldnot be usedon or nearany unimprovedforest-covered,brushcoveredor grass-coveredland unlessthe engine'sexhaustsystemis equippedwith a sparkarrestermeetingapplicablelocalor state laws (if any).
If a sparkarresteris used, it shouldbe maintainedin effectiveworkingorder by the operator.Inthe Stateof Californiathe aboveis requiredbylaw
(Section4442 of the CaliforniaPublicResourcesCode). Otherstates mayhavesimilarlaws.Federallaws applyon federallands.A sparkarrester
for the muffleris availablethroughyournearestengineauthorizedservicedealeror contactthe servicedepartment,RO. Box361131Cleveland,
Ohio 44136-0019.
PRINTEDIN U.S.A.
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND,
OHiO 44136=0019
FORMNO.769-01598A
10/11/2005
This Operator's Manual is an important part of your new lawn tractor, it will help you assemble,
prepare and maintain the unit for best performance.
Please read and understand what it says.
Table of Contents
Slope Gauge .......................................................
Safe Operation Practices ...................................
Setting Up Your Lawn Tractor ............................
Operating Your Lawn Tractor ...........................
Adjusting Your Lawn Tractor ............................
3
4
8
12
20
Maintaining Your Lawn Tractor ........................ 22
Off-Season Storage / Attachments
................. 28
Safety Labels ....................................................
29
Trouble Shooting ..............................................
30
Warranty ..............................................
Back Page
Finding and Recording Model Number
F
BEFOREYOU START ASSEMBLING
YOUR NEW EQUIPMENT,
please locate the model plate on the equipment and copy the
information to the sample model plate providedto the right.
You can locate the model plate by looking beneathe the seat.
This information will be necessary to use the manufacturer's
web site and/or obtain assistance from the Customer Support
Department or an authorized service dealer.
Model Number
Serial Number
MTD LLC
P.O. BOX
361131
CLEVELAND, OH 44136
330=220=4683
800=800=731
0
®
_ www.mtdproducts,com
Customer
Please do NOTreturn
purchased,
without
Support
the unit to the retailer
first contacting
from
Customer
which
it was
Support.
If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regardingthe controls, operation, or maintenanceof this
unit, you can seek help from the experts. Choose from the options below:
1. Visit mtdproducts.com.
Click on the Service & Support menu option.
2. Phone a Customer Support Representative at
(800) 800-7310.
3. The engine manufacturer is responsiblefor all engine-related issues with regards to performance, power-rating,specifications, warranty and service. Please refer to the engine manufacturer'sOwner's/Operator's Manual, packed separatelywith
your unit, for more information.
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Product
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WARNING: Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components conta n or em t chem ca s known to State of Ca forn a to cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductiveharm.
DANGER: This machine was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this
manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can
result in serious injury. This machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects.
Failureto observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.
Children
'WARNING
' This symbol points
out important safety
instructionswhich, if
i not followed, could
endangerthe personal
i
i
i
I
safety and/or property
of yourself and others.
Read and follow all
instructions in this man-
i ual before attempting to
i operate this machine.
Failureto comply with
these instructions may
I result in personal injury.
i When you see this
_sy m blo.
I HEED ITSWARNING
Your
Responsibility
i
Restrict the use
of this cower machine
i to persons who read,
understand
' and follow the warnings
and instructions
in this manual
Operation
1. Tragicaccidentscan occurif the operatoris not
alert tothe presenceof children.Childrenare often
attractedto the machineand the mowingactivity.
Theydo not understandthe dangers.Neverassume
that childrenwill remainwhereyou last saw them.
a. Keepchildrenout of the mowingarea and in
watchfulcare of a responsibleadult otherthan
the operator.
b. Be alert and turn machineoff if a childenters
the area.
Safe Handling of Gasoline:
1. Toavoid personalinjuryor propertydamage use
extremecare in handlinggasoline. Gasolineis
extremelyflammable and the vapors are explosive. Seriouspersonalinjurycanoccur whengasoline
is spilledon yourselfor yourclotheswhichcan ignite.
Washyourskin and changeclothesimmediately.
a. Use onlyan approvedgasolinecontainer.
b. Neverfill containersinsidea vehicleor on a
truckor trailerbed with a plasticliner.Always
c. Beforeand while backing,lookbehindand
placecontainerson the groundawayfrom
downfor smallchildren.
yourvehiclebeforefilling.
d. Nevercarrychildren,evenwiththe blade(s)
c. When practical,removegas-powered
shutoff.They mayfalloff and be seriously
equipmentfromthe truck or trailerand refuelit
injuredor interferewith safemachineoperation.
on the ground.If this is notpossible,then
e. Use extremecarewhenapproachingblind
refuelsuch equipmenton a trailerwith a
corners,doorways,shrubs,trees or other
portablecontainer,ratherthan from a gasoline
objectsthat mayblock yourvision of a child
dispensernozzle.
who mayrun into the machine.
d. Keepthe nozzlein contactwith the rimof
f. To avoid back-overaccidents, always
the fueltank or containeropeningat all
disengagethe cutting blade(s) before
timesuntilfuelingis complete.Donot usea
shifting into Reverse. If equipped,the
nozzlelock-opendevice.
"Reverse Caution Mode"should not be
e. Extinguishall cigarettes,cigars,pipesand
used when children or othersare around.
othersourcesof ignition.
g. Keepchildrenaway from hotor running
f. Neverfuel machineindoors.
engines.They cansufferburnsfrom a hot
g. Neverremovegas cap or add fuel whilethe
muffler.
engineis hot or running.Allowengineto cool
h. Removekeywhen machineis unattendedto
at least two minutesbeforerefueling.
preventunauthorizedoperation.
h. Neveroverfill fuel tank.Fill tank to no more
2. Neverallowchildrenunder 14years old to operate
thanY2inchbelowbottomof filler neck to
the machine.Children14years old and overshould
allowspacefor fuel expansion.
read and understandthe operationinstructionsand
i. Replacegasolinecapand tightensecurely.
safetyrules in this manualand shouldbe trainedand
j. If gasolineis spilled,wipe it off the engine
supervisedbya parent.
and equipment.Move unitto anotherarea.
Wait 5 minutesbeforestartingthe engine.
k. To reducefire hazards,keepmachinefreeof
grass,leaves,or other debrisbuild-up.Clean
up oil or fuel spillageand removeany fuel
soakeddebris.
I. Neverstorethe machineor fuel container
insidewherethere is an open flame,spark
or pilotlightas on a water heater,space
heater,furnace,clothesdryeror othergas
appliances.
m. Allowa machineto cool at least five minutes
beforestoring.
4
GeneralOperation:
14.Watchfor traffic whenoperatingnearor crossing
roadways.This machineis not intendedfor useon
anypublic roadway.
15.Do notoperatethe machinewhileunderthe influenceof alcoholor drugs.
16.Mowonly in daylightor good artificiallight.
17.Nevercarry passengers.
18.Disengageblade(s)beforeshiftinginto reverse.
Back up slowly.Alwayslookdownand behind before
1. Read,understand,and followall instructionson the
machineand in the manual(s)beforeattemptingto
assembleand operate.Keepthis manualin a safe
placefor future and regularreferenceand forordering
replacementparts.
2. Be familiarwith all controlsand theirproperoperation.
Knowhow to stopthe machineand disengagethem
quickly.
3. Neverallowchildrenunder 14yearsold to operate
this machine.Children14yearsold and overshould
readand understandthe operationinstructionsand
safety rulesin this manualand shouldbe trainedand
supervisedby a parent.
4. Neverallowadults to operatethis machinewithout
properinstruction.
5. To helpavoid bladecontactor a thrownobject injury,
keepbystanders,helpers,childrenand petsat least
75 feetfrom the machinewhileit is in operation.Stop
machineif anyoneentersthe area.
6. Thoroughlyinspectthearea wherethe equipmentis to
be used. Removeall stones,sticks, wire,bones, toys,
and otherforeignobjectswhichcould be pickedup
and thrown bythe blade(s).Thrownobjectscancause
serious personalinjury.
7. Planyourmowingpatternto avoiddischargeof
materialtowardroads,sidewalks,bystandersand the
like.Also,avoiddischargingmaterialagainsta wall or
obstructionwhich may causedischargedmaterialto
ricochetback towardthe operator.
8. Alwayswearsafety glassesor safetygogglesduring
operationand while performingan adjustmentor
repairto protectyour eyes.Thrownobjectswhich
ricochetcan causeseriousinjuryto the eyes.
9. Wearsturdy,rough-soledworkshoes and close-fitting
slacks and shirts. Loosefittingclothesand jewelry
can be caught in movableparts.Neveroperatethis
machinein barefeet or sandals.
and whilebackingto avoida back-overaccident.
19.Slowdownbeforeturning.Operatethe
machine
smoothly.Avoiderraticoperationand excessive
speed.
'r'_'----"a_'---_,,,_
pe
r_
r
uncloggingchute,removingany grassor debris,or
makinganyadjustments.
21.Neverleavea runningmachineunattended.Always
turnoff blade(s), placetransmissionin neutral,set
parkingbrake,stop engineand removekey before
dismounting.
22.Useextracare whenloadingor unloadingthe
machineintoa traileror truck. This unitshould not
be drivenup or downramp(s),becausethe unit
couldtip over,causingseriouspersonalinjury.The
unit mustbe pushedmanuallyon ramp(s) to load or
unloadproperly.
23.Mufflerand enginebecomehotand can causea
burn.Do nottouch.
WARNING
This symbol points
out important safety
instructions which, if
not followed, could
24.Checkoverheadclearancescarefullybeforedriving
under lowhangingtreebranches,wires,door openingsetc., wheretheoperatormaybe struckor pulled
from the unit,which couldresult in seriousinjury.
25.Disengageall attachmentclutches,depressthe
brakepedalcompletelyand shift into neutralbefore
attemptingto startengine.
26.Yourmachineis designedto cut normalresidential
grassof a heightno morethan 10".Do notattemptto
mowthroughunusuallytall, dry grass (e.g.,pasture)
or pilesof dry leaves.Dry grass or leavesmay
contactthe engineexhaustand/orbuild up on the
mowerdeck presentinga potentialfire hazard.
27.Use onlyaccessoriesand attachmentsapprovedfor
this machineby the machinemanufacturer.Read,
understandand followall instructionsprovidedwith
the approvedaccessoryor attachment.
28.Dataindicatesthat operators,age 60 yearsand
above,are involvedin a largepercentageof riding
mower-relatedinjuries.Theseoperatorsshould
evaluatetheirability to operatetheriding mower
safelyenoughto protectthemselvesand others from
seriousinjury.
29.If situationsoccur whichare not coveredin this
manual,usecareand good judgment.Contactyour
customerservicerepresentativefor assistance,
10.Be awareof the mowerand attachmentdischarge
directionand do notpoint it at anyone.Do notoperate
the mowerwithoutthe dischargecoveror entiregrass
catcherin its properplace.
11.Do notput handsor feet near rotatingpartsor under
the cuttingdeck.Contactwith the blade(s)can
amputatehandsand feet.
12.Amissingor damageddischargecovercan cause
bladecontactor thrownobject injuries.
13.Stoptheblade(s)whencrossinggraveldrives,walks,
or roadsand whilenot cuttinggrass.
r_
actices
P
20.Disengageblade(s),set
parkingbrake,stop
engine
andwait
until
theblade(s)
cometoacomplete
stop
beforeremovinggrasscatcher,emptyinggrass,
| o
endanger the personal
safety and/or property
of yourself and others.
Read and follow all
instructions in this manual before attempting to
operate this machine.
Failureto comply with
these instructions may
'esult in personal injury.
When you see this
symbol.
HEED ITS WARNING
Your
Responsibil
ity
Restrictthe use
of this power machine
to persons who read.
understand
and follow the warnings
and instructions
in this manual
\
5
S ope Operat on
DoNor
Slopesare a majorfactorrelatedto loss of controland
tip-overaccidentswhich can resultin severeinjury or
death.All slopesrequireextracaution.If you cannot
back up the slopeor if youfeel uneasyon it, do notmow
it.
1. Do notturn on slopes unlessnecessary;then,turn
slowlyand graduallydownhill,if possible.
2. Do not mownear drop-offs,ditchesor embankments.
The mowercouldsuddenlyturnoverif a wheel is over
the edgeof a cliff, ditch,or if an edge cavesin.
3. Do nottry to stabilizethe machineby puttingyourfoot
on the ground.
4. Do not usea grasscatcheron steep slopes.
5. Do not mowon wet grass.Reducedtractioncould
causesliding.
6. Do notshift to neutraland coastdownhill.Over-speeding may causethe operatorto lose controlof the
machineresultingin seriousinjuryor death.
7. Do nottow heavypull behindattachments(e.g.loaded
dumpcart, lawnroller,etc.)on slopesgreaterthan
5 degrees.Whengoingdown hill,the extra weight
tendsto pushthetractorand maycauseyou to loose
control.(e.g. tractormayspeedup, brakingand steering ability are reduced,attachmentmayjack-knifeand
causetractorto overturn).
Foryour safety,usethe slopegauge includedas partof
this manualto measureslopesbeforeoperatingthis unit
on a slopedor hillyarea.If the slopeis greaterthan 15
degreesas shownon the slopegauge,do notoperate
this unit on that area or serious injurycouldresult.
Do:
1. Mow up and downslopes,notacross.Exercise
extremecautionwhenchangingdirectionon slopes.
2. Watchfor holes, ruts,bumps,rocks,or other hidden
objects.Uneventerraincouldoverturnthe machine.
Tallgrasscan hide obstacles.
3. Use slow speed.Choosea low enoughspeed
settingso that youwill not haveto stop or shift while
on the slope.Tires may losetractionon slopeseven
thoughthe brakesare functioningproperly.Always
keepmachinein gear whengoingdownslopes to
take advantageof engine brakingaction.
4. Followthe manufacturer'srecommendationsfor
wheelweightsor counterweightsto improvestability.
5. Use extra carewith grasscatchersor otherattachments.These canchangethe stabilityof the
machine.
6. Keepall movementon theslopes slow and gradual.
Do not makesuddenchangesin speedor direction.
Rapidengagementor brakingcouldcausethe front
of the machineto lift and rapidlyflip overbackwards
whichcouldcause seriousinjury.
7. Avoidstartingor stoppingon a slope.If tires lose
traction,disengagethe blade(s)and proceedslowly
straightdownthe slope.
out mportant safety
instruct!onswhich, !f
not followed, could
endanger the personal
safety and!or property
I
of yourself and others,
Read and follow all
_nstruct!ons_nth_sman-
Towing:
1. Towonlywith a machinethat hasa hitchdesignedfor
towing.Do not attachtowedequipmentexceptat the
hitch point.
2. Followthe manufacturersrecommendationfor weight
limitsfor towedequipmentand towingon slopes.
3. Neverallowchildrenor othersin or on towedequipment.
4. On slopes,theweight of thetowed equipmentmay
causeloss of tractionand loss of control.
5. Travelslowlyand allowextra distanceto stop.
6. Do notshift to neutraland coastdownhill.
ual before attempting to
operate this machine
Fa ure to compy wth
these instructions may
result in persona injury.
l
When you see this
symbol
l
i
l
l
!
HEED ITS WARNING
l
l
Your
Responslbdaty
Restnct the use
of this powermachine
to persons wno reae,
andfollow
thewarn,ngs
in
instructions
this manual
6
Service
10.Neverattemptto makeadjustmentsor repairsto the
machinewhile theengine is running.
1. Neverrun an engineindoorsor in a poorlyventilated
11.Grasscatchercomponentsand the discharge
area. Engineexhaustcontainscarbonmonoxide,an
coverare subjectto wearand damagewhichcould
odorless,and deadlygas.
exposemovingparts or allowobjectsto be thrown.
2. Beforecleaning,repairing,or inspecting,makecertain
Forsafety protection,frequentlycheckcomponents
the blade(s)and all movingparts havestopped.
and replaceimmediatelywith originalequipment
Disconnectthe sparkplug wireand groundagainstthe
manufacturer's(O.E.M.)parts only,listed in this
engineto preventunintendedstarting.
manual."Useof partswhich do notmeet theoriginal
3. Periodicallycheckto make surethe bladescome to
equipmentspecificationsmay lead to improper
completestop withinapproximately(5) five seconds
performanceand compromisesafety!"
after operatingthe bladedisengagementcontrol.If the
12.Do notchangethe enginegovernorsettingsor
bladesdo notstop within thethis time frame,your unit
over-speedthe engine.The governorcontrolsthe
shouldbe servicedprofessionallyby an authorized
maximumsafe operatingspeedof theengine.
MTDServiceDealer.
13.Maintainor replacesafety and instructionlabels,as
4. Checkbrakeoperationfrequentlyas it is subjectedto
necessary.
wearduring normaloperation.Adjustand serviceas
14.Observeproperdisposallawsand regulationsfor
required.
gas, oil,etc. to protecttheenvironment.
5. Checkthe blade(s)and enginemountingbolts at
frequentintervalsfor propertightness.Also,visually
inspectblade(s)for damage(e.g.,excessivewear,
bent,cracked). Replacethe blade(s)with theoriginal
equipmentmanufacturer's(O.E.M.)blade(s)only,
listedin this manual."Useof parts which do not meet
the originalequipmentspecificationsmaylead to
improperperformanceand compromisesafety!"
6. Mowerbladesare sharp.Wrapthe bladeor wear
gloves,and useextra cautionwhenservicingthem.
7. Keepall nuts,bolts,and screwstight tobe surethe
equipmentis in safe workingcondition.
8. Nevertamperwith the safety interlocksystemor other
safety devices.Checktheir properoperationregularly.
9. After strikinga foreignobject,stop the engine,
disconnectthe spark plug wire(s)and groundagainst
the engine.Thoroughlyinspectthe machinefor any
damage.Repairthe damagebeforestartingand
operating.
This symbol points
out important safety
instructions which• if
not followed, could
endanger the personal
safety and/or property
of yourself and others,
Read and follow all
instructions in this manual before attempting to
operate this machine.
Failureto comply with
these instructions may
result in personal injury.
When you see this
symbol.
HEED ITS WARNING
Your
Responsibility
Restrictthe use
of this power machine
to persons who read
unaerstand
and follow the warnings
and instructions
in this manual
\
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NOTE
Ths OperatorsManua coversa rangeof product
......
j
specifications for various models. Characteristics and fea-
i I
turesdlscussedand/orlllustratedln ths manualmay not
be applicableto all models.MTDLLC reservesthe right
to changeproduct specifications,designsand equipment
.......
w,thoutnot,ceand w,thout,ncurr,ng obl,gat,on.
i
i
Attaching
Your Law
Tractor
the Battery
Cables
NOTE:Somemodelsare shippedwith the batterycables
a readyconnected
NOTE:The positivebatteryterminalis markedPos. (+).
The negativebatteryterminalis markedNeg. (-).
WARNING
Figure 1
i
Use extreme care
when handl!ng
gasoline. Gasoline is
l
•
Thepositivecable(heavyred wire) is securedto the
positivebatteryterminal(+)with a hexbolt and hex
nut at thefactory.Makecertainthat the rubberboot
coversthe terminalto help protectit from corrosion.
•
Removethehex bolt and hexnut from the negative
cable.
•
Removetheblack plasticcover,if present,from the
negativebatteryterminaland attachthe negative
cable(heavyblack wire)to the negativebattery
terminal(-) with the bolt and nut.
•
Makecertain thehold-downstrap is in positionover
the battery,securingit in place.See Figure1.
extremely flammable
and the vapors are
explosive:
Never fuel
machine indoors
,
,
or while the engine
is hot or running,
Extinguish cigarettes,
cigars pipes and
other sources Of
NOTE:If the batteryis putinto serviceafterthe date
shownon top of battery,chargethe batteryas instructed
on page24 of this manualpriorto operatingthe tractor.
Gas and Oil Fill-up
The gasolinetankislocatedunderthehood and hasa
capacityof 1-1/2gallons. Do notoverfill.
WARNING: Use extreme care
when handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and
the vapors are explosive. Never
fuel machine indoors or while the
NOTE: This Qperators
Manual Coversa range
of product specifications
for var ous mode s
engine is hot or running. Extinguish cigarettes, cigars, pipes,
and other sources of ignition.
Characteristics
" an d
featuresdiscussed
_
and/or ustrated n
i
this manual maTnot be
Servicethe enginewith gasolineand oil as instructedin
the separateEngineOperator/OwnerManualpackedwith
yourtractor.Readinstructionscarefully.
applicable to al! models,
MTD LLC reservesthe
right to change product
specifications designs
and equipment without
IMPORTANT:Yourtractoris shippedwith motoroil in the
engine.However,you MUSTcheckthe oil levelbefore
operating.Be careful notto overfill.
notice and w_thoutrecur8
Shipping
Brace
Removal
WARNING: Make sure the riding
mower's engine is off, remove the
ignition key, and set the parking
brake before removingthe shipping brace.
= Locatethe shippingbrace,if present,and accompanying warningtagfoundon the rightside of the mower,
betweenthe dischargechuteand the cuttingdeck.
See Figure2.
li
,, While holdingthe dischargechutewith yourleft hand,
removetheshippingbracewith yourright handby
graspingit betweenyourthumb and indexfingerand
rotatingit clockwise.
Figure 2
WARNING: The shipping brace,
used for packaging purposes
only, must be removed and discarded before operating your
riding mower.
WARNING
Make sure the riding
mower's engine is
off, remove the ignition key, and set the
parking brake before
removing the shipping
brace.
WARNING: The mowing deck is
capable of throwing objects. Failure to operate the riding mower
without the discharge cover in the
proper operating position could
result in serious personal injury
and/or property damage.
The shipping brace,
used for packaging
purposes only, must
be removed and
discarded before
operating your riding
Attaching
The Steering
Wheel
If the steeringwheelfor yourtractordid notcome
attached,the hardwarefor attachingit hasbeen packed
within the steeringwheel, beneaththe steeringwheel
cap. Carefullypry off thesteeringwheelcapand remove
the hardware.
Figure 3
mower,
The mowing deck is
capable of throwing
objects. Failure to
operate the riding
mower without the
discharge cover in
the proper operating
position could result
in serious personal
injury andlor property
'damage.
NOTE:Thereare two differentstylesof steeringwheel
cap. See Figure3. Styles vary by model,
1. With the wheelsof the tractor pointing straight
forward, placethe steeringwheeloverthe steering
shaft.
2. Placethe washer(with thecuppedside down)over
the steeringshaftand securewith the hex bolt. See
Figure3.
3. Placethe steeringwheelcap overthe centerof the
steeringwheeland pushdownwarduntilit "clicks"into
place.
9
f
_,
Attaching
The Seat
Seatstyles vary bytractormodeland thereare three
--_
_
,---_-h _
differentstyles available.
• StandardAdjustment
QuickAdjustment&
__d_'l'tlllntll
E
||1_
,' KnobAdjustment
""
If theseat for yourtractordid notcome attached,referto
Figure4, Figure5, and Figure6 to identifyyourtractor's
seat styleand followthe applicableinstructionsbelowto
attachit.
Your Lawn
Tractor
NOTE:Forshippingreasons,seatsare eitherfastened
to the tractorseat'spivot bracketwith a plastictie, or
mountedbackwardto the pivotbracket.In eithercase,
freethe seat form its shippingpositionand removethe
two hex screws(or knobs,on modelsso equipped)from
the bottomof seat beforeproceedingwith applicable
instructionsbelow.
J
Figure 4
WARNING
Standard Adjustment Seat
1. Positionthe shoulderscrews (foundon the baseof the
seat) insidethe slot openingsin the seat pivotbracket.
Figure4.
Before operating this
machine, make sure
2. Slide theseat slightlyrearwardin the seat pivot
bracket,lining up the rear slots in the pivot bracket
with the remainingtwo holesin the seat'sbase.
theseat s engaged n
the seat stop stand
behind the machine
3. Selectdesiredpositionforthe seat,and securewith
the two hexscrewsremovedearlier.SeeFigure4.
and pu back on seat
until fully engaged
into Stopl
Quick Adjustment Seat
NOTE:If yourseat wasshippedmountedbackwardson
the seatpivot bracket,pull outthe tab foundon the seat
stop and hold it open whileslidingthe seat off the seat
pivotbracket.See Figure5.
/
1. Line up the plasticseatspacerswith the slotsin seat
pivotbracket.
Figure 5
i
NOTE Forsh pp ng reasons, seats are e_ther
fastened to the tractor
seat s p vot bracket w th
2. Slide seat in until frontseat spacerengagesthe seat
stop.See Figure5.
a plastic tMe,or mounted
backward tothe pwot
machine,
make
sureoperating
the seat this
is
ARNING:
Before
engaged in the seat stop, stand
behind the machine and pull back
_IL
bracket.In either case,
free the seat form ts
shipping position and
removethe two hex
screws (or knobs, on
models so equipped)
from the bottom of seat
before proceed!ngw!th
annlicable instructions
FF
'
on seat until fully engaged into
stop.
Knob Adjustment
1. Positionthe shoulderscrews (foundon the baseof the
seat) insidethe slot openingsin the seat pivotbracket.
Figure6
...............
.
...........
.....
........
_..
_
Figure 6
_
Seat
2. Slide theseat slightlyrearwardin the seat pivot
....
bracket
lining up the rear slots in the pivotbracket
....
,
w th the reman ng two hoes n the seats base
3. Selectdesiredpositionforthe seat,and securewith
the two knobs removedearlier.See Figure6.
10
Identifying
the Mulch
Plug (if so
•
equipped)
,
,
On tractormodelsso equ=ppeda mulch plugcan e=ther
be foundwithinthe cuttingdeck'sdischargeopeningor
packed separately with your unit.
f
_
|
/
,
\\
\
_
/ ..... ,....
'
X
/
......',,
/
.
\_
_,
"X
Z
}
|
L_J
I
/
_,
!
........
NOTE:Refer to Mulchingon page 19for moredetailed
information.
Ii
If you'dpreferto operatethe cuttingdeck withoutmulching, simplyremovethe mulch plugby unthreadingthe
plasticwing nutwhich fastensit to the cuttingdeck.This
will allowthe clippingsto dischargeout of the discharge
openingduringoperation.See Figure7.
Setting Up
Your Lawn
Tractor
Tire Pressure
Figure 7
_
WARNING
sure
under any
circumstancesis
ARNING:
Maximum
tire pres30 psi. Equal tire pressure should
be maintained at all times.
Maximum tire pressure under any
circumstances is 30
The tires on your unitmay be over-inflatedfor shipping
purposes.Reducethe tirepressurebeforeoperating
the tractor.Recommendedoperatingtire pressureis
approximately10 p.s.ifor the rear tires & 14p.s.i,for the
front tires.Checksidewallof tirefor maximump.s.i.
psi," Equal tire pressure
should be maintained
at all times.
li
\
11
\
\
NOTE:Anyreference
inthismanualtothe
RIGHTor LEFTsideof
thetractorisobserved
fromoperator's
position.
\\\\
\
NOTE:Steeringwheelnot shownforclarity,/
Figure 8
1 If so equipped
A
SpeedControlLever/ParkingBrake
E
ThrottleControlLever
B
Clutch-BrakePedal
F
IgnitionSwitchModule
C
ShiftLever
G
DeckLift Lever
D
ChokeControl1"
H
PTO(Blade Engage)Lever
NOTE:Anyreferencein this manualto the RIGHTor LEFTside of the tractoris observedfrom operator'sposition.
12
Throttle
Control
Lever
f
Thethrottlecontrolleveris locatedon the rightside of
the tractors dash panel.This levercontrolsthe speed
of the engineand,on somemodels,when pushedall
the wayforward,the chokecontrol also.Whenset in a
givenposition,the throttlewill maintaina uniformengine
speed.See Figure9.
"_
FAST
_
IMPORTANT:Whenoperatingthetractorwith the cutting
deck engaged,be certainthat the throttleleveris always
in the FAST(rabbit)position.
==_==
Choke
Control
On some models,movingthe
throttleleverall the wayforward
activatestheengine'schoke
control.On all othermodels,the
chokecontrolcan be foundon
the left side of thedash panel
and is activatedby pullingthe
knoboutward.Activatingthe
chokecontrolclosesthe choke
SLOW =_
SLOW
_.
J
lk
Figure 9
F
A
-,,,
Off
On/Lights
WARNING
plateon the carburetorand aids in startingthe engine.
Referto Starting The Engine on page 16of this manual
for detailedstartinginstructions.
Never leave a running
ignition
machine unattended.
Switch
Aways
dsengage
Theignitionswitchis activatedto startthe engine.Insert
key intothe ignitionswitchand turnclockwisetothe
STARTposition.Releasethe key intothe ON position
onceengine hasfired. See FigureIOA.
PTO, move sh'ft ever
intoneutral
position;
Start
ignition Switch Module (if Equipped)
Tostartthe engine,insertthe keyintothe ignitionswitch
and turnclockwiseto theSTARTposition.Releasethe
key intothe NORMALMOWINGMODEpositiononce
the enginehasfired.
Tostop the engine,turnthe ignitionkey counterclockwise
to the OFF position.See Figure10B.
}et parking brake, stop
;ngine and remove key
to prevent unintended
©
)sition
Start
Position
WARNING: Never leave a running
machine unattended. Always
disengage PTO, move shift lever
into neutral position, set parking
brake, stop engine and remove
key to prevent unintended
starting.
IMPORTANT:Prior to operatingthe tractor,referto both
Safety Interlock Switches on page 14and Starting
The Engine on page16 of this manualfordetailed
instructionsregardingthe IgnitionSwitchModuleand
operatingthetractorin REVERSECAUTIONMODE.
Normal
Mode
iMPORTANT
Prior to operating the
Figure 10
tractorl refer to both
Safety Interlock
,0ion
Deck Lift Lever
,
Starting The
Foundon yourtractors rightfender,the deck lift leveris
usedto changethe heightof thecuttingdeck.To use,
Engine on page 16
.
of this manual for
movethe leverto the left, thenplace in the notch best
suitedfor yourapplication,
detailed instructions
regarding the Ignition
13
Speed
Control
Lever
Thespeedcontrol lever,locatedon the
left side of the tractor'sdashconsole,
allowsyouto regulatethegroundspeed
of the lawntractor.To use,depressthe
clutch-brakepedaland movethe leverou
of the parkingbrakenotchand forward
to increasethe tractor'sgroundspeed.
Whena desiredspeedhas beenreached
releasethe leverintoan appropriate
notchto maintainthat speed.
Toslow the tractor'sgroundspeed,
depressthe clutch-brakepedal and mow
the speedcontrol leverrearwardand
releaseit intoa notch.
FORWARD
erating
RUETEAL
REVERSE
Figure 11
NOTE: The parking
brake must be Setif the
operator leaVeSthe seat
with the engine rum
ning orthe enginevvil!
automatically shut off,
NOTE: The PTO(Blade
Engage) lever must
in the disengaged (PT(
OFF) positionwhen
IMPORTANT
Never force the shift
!ever, Doing SOmay
result in serious
damage to the tractor's
transmission.
_ ii
i
_iI
i
Parking Brake
Toset the parkingbrake,fully depressthe clutch-brake
pedal.Movethe speedcontrol leverall the way down
and intothe parkingbrakeposition.Releasethe clutchbrakepedalto allowthe parkingbraketo engage.
Toreleasethe parkingbrake,depressthe clutch-brake
pedaland movethe speedcontrol leverout of the
notchesto the desiredposition.Releasethe speed
controlleverand the clutch-brakepedal.
NOTE:The parkingbrakemustbe set if theoperator
leavestheseat with the enginerunningor theengine
willautomaticallyshut off.
Clutch=Brake
NOTE:Lawntractorsvary by modeland
are availablewith eithera 6- or 7-speed
controllever.
PTO (Blade Engage) Lever
Foundon thetractor'sright fender,the
PTO(bladeengage)leveris usedto
engagepowerto the cuttingdeck or
other(separatelyavailable)attachments.
Tooperate,movethe leverall the way
forward.Movingthe leverall the way
rearwardintothe PTOOFF position
disengagespowerto the cuttingdeck/
attachment.
NOTE:The PTO(blade engage)lever
mustbe in the disengaged(PTOOFF)
positionwhenstartingthe engine.
'tl
f
o
p
_3
r_
i'
_5
0
Pedal
Theclutch-brakepedal is locatedon the left side of
the lawntractor,along the runningboard.Depressthe
clutch-brakepedal part waydownwhenslowingthe
tractorby changingspeeds (Referto SpeedControl
Lever).Depressthe pedalall theway downto engage
thedisc brakeand bringthe tractorto a completestop.
NOTE:The pedal mustbe depressedto startthe
engine.Referto SafetyInterlockSwitcheson page 14.
Shift Lever
Theshift leveris locatedon the left sideof thefender
and hasthree positions,FORWARD,NEUTRALand
REVERSE.The brakepedal mustbe depressedand
thetractor mustnotbe in motionwhenthe movingshift
lever.See Figure11.
IMPORTANT:Neverforce theshift lever.Doingso may
result in seriousdamageto the tractor'stransmission.
Safety
Interlock
Switches
This tractoris equippedwith a safety interlocksystem
for theprotectionof the operator.If the interlocksystem
shouldevermalfunction,do not operatethe tractor.
Contactan authorizedMTDservicedealer.
• Thesafety interlocksystempreventstheengine
from crankingor startingunlessthe parkingbrakeis
engaged,and the PTO(BladeEngage)leveris in the
disengaged(OFF)position.
• Theenginewill automaticallyshut off if theoperator
leavestheseat beforeengagingthe parkingbrake.
• Theenginewill automaticallyshut off if theoperator
leavesthetractor'sseat with the PTO(Blade Engage)
leverin the engaged(ON) position,regardlessof
whetherthe parkingbrakeis engaged.
• Theenginewill automaticallyshut off if theoperator
engagesthe PTOwith the parkingbrakeON.
14
(Blade Engage)leveris movedintothe engaged(ON)
positionwith the shift leverin Reverse.
Models with Reverse Caution Mode
, With the ignitionkeyin the NORMALMOWING
position,the enginewill automaticallyshut off if the
PTO(Blade Engage)leveris movedintothe engaged
(ON) positionwith the shift leverin Reverse.
Caution
Mode
Light
Reverse
Stop
Position
Caution Mode
Position
©
WARNING: Do not operate the
tractor if the interlock system
is malfunctioning. This system
was designed for your safety and
protection.
Reverse
Reverse
Push Button
Indicator
Start
Position
Your Lawn
Figure 12
(if Equipped)
WARNING: Use extreme caution
while operating the tractor in
the REVERSE CAUTION MODE.
Always look down and behind
before and while backing. Do not
operate the tractor when children
or others are around. Stop the
tractor immediately if someone
enters the area.
4. Onceactivated(indicatorlightON), the tractorcan
be drivenin reversewith thecutting blades(PTO)
engaged.
5. Alwayslookdownand behindbeforeand while
backingto makesure no childrenare around.
6. After resumingforwardmotion,returnthe key to the
NORMALMOWINGposition.
IMPORTANT:The REVERSECAUTIONMODEwill
remainactivateduntil:
a. The key is placedin eitherthe NORMALMOWING
positionor STOPposition.
b. The operatorengagesthe parkingbrakeby fully
depressingthe clutch-brakepedaland holdingit
downwhile movingthe speedcontrolleverintothe
PARKBRAKEposition.
TheREVERSECAUTIONMODEpositionof the key
switchmoduleallowsthetractorto be operatedin
reversewith the blades(PTO)engaged.
IMPORTANT:Mowingin reverseis notrecommended.
IMPORTANT:TheoperatorMUSTbe seated in the
tractorseat.
Engaging the Parking Brake
Toengagethe parkingbrake:
1. Fully depressthe clutch-brakepedaland hold it down
with yourfoot.
1. Start the engineas instructedon page 16under
Starting The Engine.
2. Move thespeedcontrolleverall the waydownand
into the parkingbrakeposition.
2. Turnthe key from the NORMALMOWING(Green)
positionto the REVERSECAUTIONMODE(Yellow)
positionof the keyswitch module. See Figure12.
3. Releasetheclutch-brakepedal to allowthe parking
braketo engage.
Touse the REVERSECAUTIONMODE:
3. Depressthe REVERSEPUSHBUTTON(Orange,
TriangularButton)at the top, rightcornerof the key
switchmodule.The red indicatorlightat thetop, left
cornerof the keyswitch modulewill be ON while
activated.See Figure12.
To releasethe parkingbrake:
1. Depressthe clutch-brakepedaland movethe speed
control leverout of the parkingbrakepositionand into
a desiredspeed.
15
WARNING
i Do not operate the
l
Itractor if the interlock
isystem is malfunctionI rig. Th s system was
idesigned for your
safety and protection.
Use extreme caution
while operating the
tractor in the REVERSE
CAUTION MODE.
Always look down and
behind before and
while backing. Do not
operate the tractor
Whenchildren or others are around. Stop
the tractor immediately
if someone enters the
area.
Setting the Cutting
Height
1. Selectthe heightpositionof the cuttingdeckby
placingthe deck lift leverin any of the six different
cuttingheightnotcheson the rightside of the fender.
I:ing
AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH
2. Adjustthe deck wheels,if equipped,so that they are
between1A-inch
and Y2-inchabovethe groundwhen
the tractoris on a smooth,flat surfacesuch as a
driveway.
GO UPAND DOWN SLOPES,NOT ACROSS.
AVOIDSUDDENTURNS.
DO NOT OPERATETHE UNITWHERE IT COULDSLIP ORTIE
IF MACHINE STOPSGOINGUPHILL,STOP BLADE(S) AND
BACK DOWNHILLSLOWLY.
otor
_
DO NOT MOWWHEN CHILDRENOR OTHERS AREAROUND.
away
from the
discharge
openARNING:
Keep
hands and
feet
ing of the cutting deck.
NEVER CARRYCHILDREN,EVENWITH BLADES OFE
LOOK DOWNAND BEHINDBEFOREAND WHILE BACKING.
NOTE:On modelsso equipped,the deckwheelsare an
anti-scalpfeatureof thedeck and are notdesignedto
supportthe weightof the cuttingdeck.
KEEP SAFETY DEVICES(GUARDS,SHIELDS,AND SWlTCHE_
IN PLACEAND WORKING.
REMOVEOBJECTSTHAT COULDBE THROWNBYTHE
Referto Levelingthe Deckon page20 of this manual
for moredetailedinstructionsregardingvariousdeck
adjustments.
WARNING
BLADE(S).
KNOW LOCATIONAND FUNCTIONOF ALL CONTROLS.
BE SUREBLADE(S) AND ENGINEARESTOPPEDBEFORE
Starting
PLACINGHANDSORFEET NEAR BLADE(S).
the Engine
BEFORE LEAVINGOPERATOR'SPOSITION,DISENGAGE
Keep hands and feet
away from the discharge opening of the
cutting deck.
Do not operate the
tractor if the interlock
system is malfunctioning. This system was
designed for your
safety and protection.
WARNING: Do not operate the
tractor if the interlock system is
malfunctioning. This system was
designed for your safety and
protection.
BLADE(S), PLACETHE SHIFT LEVERIN NEUTRAL,ENGAGE
BRAKE LOCK, SHUT ENGINEOFF AND REMOVEKEY.
READ OPERATOR'S
Stopping
NOTE:Referto the TRACTORSET-UPon page8 of
this manualfor Gasolineand Oil fill-upinstructions.
_
1. Insertthe tractorkeyinto the ignitionswitch.
2. Placethe PTO(BladeEngage)leverin the disengaged(OFF) position.
3. Engagethetractor'sparkingbrake.
MANUAL
the Engine
object, stop the engine, disconARNING: if you strike a foreign
nect the spark plug wire(s) and
ground against the engine. Thoroughly inspect the machine for
any damage. Repair the damage
before restarting and operating
4. Activatethe chokecontrol.
If you strike a foreign
object, stop the
engine, disconnect
the spark plug wire(s)
and ground against
the engine.Thoroughly
inspectthe machine
for any damage. Repair
the damage before
restarting and operating.
5. Turnthe ignitionkeyclockwiseto the STARTposition. Afterthe enginestarts, releasethe key.It will
returnto theON position.
1. If the bladesare engaged,placethe PTO(Blade
Engage)leverin the disengaged(OFF) position.
2. Turnthe ignitionkey counterclockwiseto the STOP
position.
iMPORTANT:Do NOT holdthe key in the START
positionfor longerthanten secondsat a time. Doingso
maycause damageto yourengine'selectricstarter.
3. Removethe key fromthe ignitionswitchto prevent
unintendedstarting.
6. After theenginestarts, deactivatethechoke control
and placethe throttlecontrolin theFASTposition.
NOTE:Do NOTleavethe chokecontrolon while operating the tractor.Doingso will result in a "rich" fuelmixture
and causethe engineto run poorly.
16
NOTE:Whenoperatingthe unit initially,therewill be little
differencebetweenthe highesttwo speedsuntilafter the
belts haveseatedthemselvesinto the pulleysduring the
break-inperiod.
Driving The Tractor
_
ex-cessive
and sudden
ARNING: speed
Avoid sudden
starts,
stops.
WARNING: Do not leave the seat
_
of the tractor without first placing the PTO (Blade Engage) lever
in the disengaged (OFF) position, depressing the brake pedal
and engaging the parking brake.
If leaving the tractor unattended,
also turn the ignition key off and
remove the key.
operator's position for any
ARNING: Before leaving the
reason, disengage the blades,
place the shift lever in neutral,
engage the parking brake, shut
engine off and remove the key.
I_ I
_
i
i
i _'
Operatinq
Your Lawn
l
/
IMPORTANT:Whenstoppingthe tractorforany reason
whileon a grasssurface,always:
1. Placethe shift leverin neutral,
2. Engagethe parkingbrake,
3. Shutengineoff and removethe key.
1. Depressthe brakepedalto releasethe parkingbrake
and let the pedal up.
Doingso will minimizethe possibilityof havingyourlawn
"browned"by hot exhaustfromyourtractor'srunning
engine.
If unit stalls with speedcontrolin high speed,or if unit
will notoperatewith speedcontrol leverin a lowspeed
position,proceedas follows:
1. Placeshift leverin NEUTRAL.
2. Movethe throttleleverintothe FAST(rabbit)position.
2. Restartengine.
3. Placetheshift leverin eitherthe FORWARDor
3. Placespeedcontrol leverin highestspeedposition.
Always look down and behind
before and while backing up to
avoid a back-over accident.
REVERSEposition.
WARNING
iAvoJdsudden starts,
i ex-cesslve speed and
I sudden stops.
4. Releaseclutch-brakepedalfully.
5. Depressclutch-brakepedal.
IMPORTANT:Do NOT usethe shift leverto changethe
directionof travelwhenthe tractoris in motion.Always
usethe brakepedalto bringthe tractorto a complete
stop beforeshifting.
6. Placespeedcontrol leverin desiredposition.
7. Placeshift leverin eitherFORWARDor REVERSE,
and follow normaloperatingprocedures.
4. Releasethe parkingbrakebydepressingthe clutchbrakepedaland positioningthe speedcontrolleverin
desiredposition.
IMPORTANT:First-timeoperatorsshouldusespeed
positions1 or 2. Becomecompletelyfamiliarwith the
tractor'soperationand controlsbeforeoperatingthe
tractorin higherspeed positions.
5. Releaseclutch-brakepedalslowlyto put unitinto
motion.
6. The lawntractor isbroughtto a stop bydepressing
the clutch-brakepedal.
Do not leave the seat
of the tractor without
first placingthe PTO
(Blade Engage) lever in
the disengaged (OFF)
position, depressing
the brake pedal and
engaging the parking
brake, if leaving the
tractor unattended,
also turn the ignition
key off and remove the
key.
Always look down
and behind before
and while backi ng up
to avoid a back-over
accident.
17
Driving
On Slopes
Referto the SLOPEGAUGEon page3 to helpdetermineslopeswhereyou mayoperatethe tractorsafely.
_.
__
inclines with a slope in excess
WARNING: Do not mow on
of 15 degrees (a rise of approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10 feet).
The tractor could overturn and
cause serious injury.
Using
Mowing
contact
or aTo
thrown
objectblade
injury,
ARNING:
help avoid
keep bystanders, helpers, children
and pets at least 75 feet from the
machine while it is in operation.
Stop machine if anyone enters the
area.
_
__
Mow up and downslopes,NEVERacross.
Exerciseextremecautionwhenchangingdirection
on slopes.
• Watchfor holes, ruts,bumps,rocks, or otherhidden
objects.Uneventerraincouldoverturnthe machine.
Tall grasscan hide obstacles.
WARNING
Do not mow on inclines
with a slope in excess
of 15 degrees (a rise
of approximately 2-1/2
feet every 10 feet). The
tractor could overturn
and cause serious
injury.
1"ohelp avoid blade
:ontact or a thrown
object injury, keep
bystanders, helpers,
:hildren and pets at
east75 feet from the
_achine while it is in
)peration. Stop ma:hine if anyone enters
:he area.
• Avoidturns whendrivingon a slope. If a turn must
be made,turn downthe slope.Turningup a slope
greatlyincreasesthechanceof a roll over.
,, Avoidstoppingwhendrivingup a slope. If it is
necessaryto stop whiledrivingup a slope, start up
smoothlyand carefullyto reducethe possibilityof
flippingthetractoroverbackward.
Engaging the Blades
Engagingthe PTO(Blade Engage)transferspowerto
thecutting deckor other(separatelyavailable)attachments.To engagethe blades,proceedas follows:
1. Movethe throttlecontrolleverto the FAST(rabbit)
position.
2. Graspthe PTO(BladeEngage)leverand pivotit all
the wayforwardinto theengaged(ON) position.
Thefollowinginformationwill be helpfulwhenusingthe
cuttingdeckwith yourtractor:
l_.
--
Theenginewill automaticallyshut off if the PTOis
engagedwith the shift leverin positionfor reversetravel
with the ignitionkey in the NORMALMOWINGposition.
Models without ReverseCaution Mode:
The PTO(BladeEngage)levermustbe in the disengaged(OFF)position whenstartingthe engine,when
travelingin reverse,and if the operatorleavesthe seat.
Referto SafetyInterlockSwitcheson page 14.
pattern
to avoid
of
ARNING:
Plandischarge
your mowing
materials toward roads, sidewalks,
bystanders and the like. Also,
avoid discharging material against
a wall or obstruction which may
cause discharged material to
ricochet back toward the operator.
,, Do not mowat high groundspeed,especiallyif a
mulchkit or grasscollectoris installed.
,, Forbest resultsit is recommendedthat the firsttwo
lapsbe cut with the dischargethrowntowardsthe
center.After thefirst two laps, reversethe directionto
throwthe dischargeto the outsidefor the balanceof
cutting.This will givea betterappearanceto the lawn.
3. Keepthe throttleleverin the FAST(rabbit)position
for the mostefficientuseof the cuttingdeck or other
(separatelyavailable)attachments
IMPORTANT:Modelswith ReverseCaution Mode:
the Deck Lift Lever
Toraisethe cuttingdeck, movethe deck lift leverto the
left, thenplace it in the notch bestsuited for yourapplication. Referto SettingThe CuttingHeightearlierin this
section.
,, Do notcut thegrass too short.Shortgrass invites
weedgrowthand yellowsquicklyin dryweather.
,, Mowingshouldalwaysbe done with theengineat full
throttle.
,, Underheavierconditionsit may be necessarytogo
backover thecut areaa secondtime to get a clean
cut.
18
,, Do NOTattemptto mow heavybrushand weedsand
extremelytall grass.Yourtractoris designedto mow
lawns,NOTclearbrush.
,, Keepthe bladessharpand replacethe bladeswhen
worn.Refer toCutting Blades on page25 of this
manualfor properblade sharpeninginstructions.
Mulching
(If Equipped)
Selectmodelscome equippedwith a mulch kit which
incorporatesspecialblades,alreadystandardon the
tractor,in a processof recirculatinggrass clippings
repeatedlybeneaththecutting deck.The ultra-fine
clippingsare thenforced backinto thelawnwherethey
act as a naturalfertilizer.
Observethe followingpointsfor the best resultswhen
mulching:
,, Neverattemptto mulchif the lawnis damp.Wet grass
tendsto stick to the undersideof the cuttingdeck
preventingpropermulchingof the clippings.
Figure 13
,, Do NOTattemptto mulch morethan 1/3the total
heightof thegrass or approximately1-1/2inches.
Doingso will causethe clippingsto clump up beneath
the deck and notbe mulchedeffectively.
,, Maintaina slow groundspeedto allowthe grass
clippingsmoretime to effectivelybe mulched.
i Plan your mowing pat_tern to avoid discharge
i of materials toward
i roads, sidewalks, byI standers and the like.
,, Alwayspositionthe throttlecontrol leverin the FAST
(rabbit)positionand allowit to remaintherewhile
mowing.Failingto keepthe engineat full throttle
placesstrain on the tractor'sengineand does not
allowthe bladesto properlymulchgrass.
'Also, avoid discharging
NOTE:It is not necessaryto removethe dischargechute
to operatethe mowerwith the mulchkit installed.
Tooperatethe cuttingdeck withoutmulching,simply
removethe mulchplug by unthreadingthe plasticwing
nut whichfastensit to thecuttingdeck.This will allowthe
clippingsto dischargeout the side.See Figure13.
Headlights
,, On some models,the lampsare ON wheneverthe
tractor'sengine is running.On other models,the
lampsare ON wheneverthe ignitionkeyis movedout
of the STOPposition.
,, On all models,the lampsturn OFFwhenthe ignition
key is movedto the STOPposition.
19
material against a wall
or obstructionwhich
may cause discharged
material to ricochet
back toward the
operator.
1. With thetractorparkedon a firm,levelsurface,place
the deck lift leverin the top notch(highestposition)
and rotatethe blade nearestthe dischargechute so
that it is parallelwith the tractor.
l
R
2. Measurethe distancefrom the front of theblade tip to
the groundand the rearof the bladetip to the ground.
Thefirst measurementtaken shouldbe between
1/4" and3/8" less thanthe second measurement.
Determinethe approximatedistancenecessaryfor
properadjustmentand proceed,if necessary,to the
next step.
E
Adjust=ha
Your Lawn
Tractor
3. Locatethejam nutand lock nut on the front sideof the
stabilizerbracket.See Figure14.After looseningthe
jam nut:
i
Tighten the lock nutto raisethe frontof the deck;
Loosenthe lock nut to lowerthe frontof the deck.
4. Retightenthe jam nut loosenedearlier whenproper
adjustmentis achieved.
Figure 14
, WARNING
I
Side to Side
If thecutting deckappearsto be mowingunevenly,a side
to sideadjustmentcan be performed.Adjustif necessary
as follows:
i Never attempt to
i ....
i make any aajusimerits while the
engine is running,
1. With thetractorparkedon a firm,levelsurface,place
the deck lift leverin the top notch(highestposition)
and rotateboth bladesso that they are perpendicular
with the tractor.
i
i except where spec=f ed n the operator s
i manual.
2. Measurethe distancefrom the outsideof the left blade
tip to the groundand the distancefrom theoutsideof
the rightblade tipto the ground.Bothmeasurements
takenshouldbe equal.If they'renot, proceedto the
next step.
i Never attempt to
!adjust the brakes
_while the engine
i is running. Always
idisengage PTO, move
ishift lever into neutral
i position, stop engine
land remove key to
i preventunintended
starting.
3. Loosen,butdo NOTremove,the hexcap screwon
the left deck hangerbracket.See Figure15.
4. Balancethe deck by usinga wrenchto turnthe
adjustmentgear (foundimmediatelybehindthe hex
capscrewjust loosened)clockwise/upor counterclockwise/down.Thedeck is properlybalancedwhen
both bladetip measurementstakenearlierare equal.
Figure 15
5. Retightenthe hex capscrewon the left deck hanger
_
--
make
any adjustments
while
ARNING:
Never attempt
to
bracketwhenproperadjustmentis achieved.
the engine is running, except
where specified in the operator's Parking Brake Adjustment
manual.
Leveling
the Deck
,_
NOTE:Checkthe tractor'stire pressurebeforeperforming any deck levelingadjustments.Referto Tires on
page24 for informationregardingtire pressure.
Front To Rear
The front of the cuttingdeck is supportedbya stabilizer
bar that can adjustedto levelthe deck from front to rear.
The front of the deck shouldbe between1/4-inchand
3/8-inch lowerthanthe rear of thedeck. Adjustif
necessaryas follows:
20
just
the brakes
while
the engine
WARNING:
Never
attempt
to ad- is
running. Always disengage PTO,
move shift lever into neutral position, stop engine and remove key
to prevent unintended starting.
If thetractordoes notcome to a completestop whenthe
brakepedal iscompletelydepressed,or if thetractor's
rear wheelscanroll with the parkingbrakeapplied,the
S,,y,-
brakeis in need of adjustment.Thebrakedisc can be
foundon the rightsideof the transmissionin the rearof
the tractor.Adjustif necessaryas follows:
1. Lookingat thetransmissionfrom the rightside of the
tractor,locatethe compressionspringand brakedisc•
See Figure16.
2. Loosen,but do NOTremove,the hex nutfoundon the
rightsideof the brakeassembly•See Figure16.
3. Usinga feelergauge,set the gap betweenthe brake
disc and the brakepuck at .011".
4. Re-tightenthe hexnut loosenedearlier•
Seat Adjustment
_1=
machine,
make
sure
the seat is
ARNING:
Before
operating
this
engaged in the seat stop, stand
behind the machine and pull back
on seat until fully engaged into
stop.
Set gap
.011"
Hex Nut
WARNING
Figure 16
f
Before operating this
machine, make sure
the seat is engaged in
the seat stop, stand
behind the machine
Standard Seat
Toadjust the positionof the seat,loosenthe two hex
screwson the bottomof the seat.Slide the seatforward
or backwardas desired.Retightenthe two screws.See
Figure17.
and pull back on seat
until fully engaged into
stop.
Knob Adjustment Seat (if so equipped)
Toadjust the positionof the seaton modelsso equipped,
loosenthe two knobs on the bottomof the seat. See
Figure18. Slidethe seat forwardor backwardas desired.
Retightenthe two knobs.
Quick Adjust Seat (if so equipped)
Toadjust the positionof the seaton modelsequipped
with a seat adjustmentlever,movetheseat adjustment
lever(locatedunder theseat) to the left and slidethe seat
forwardor rearward.See Figure19.Makesureseat is
locked intopositionbeforeoperatingthe tractor•
Figure 17
Figure 19
Figure 18
21
,,J
Performthe abovestepsin theoppositeorderafter oil has
finisheddraining.
5. Refillthe enginewith newmotoroil as instructedin the
EngineOperator/OwnerManualpackedwith your unit.
iMPORTANT:Referto the EngineOperator/Owner
Manualpackedwith yourunit for informationregardingthe
quantityand properweightof motoroil.
Air Cleaner
Servicethe pre-cleaner,if so equipped,and cartridge/air
cleanerelementas instructedin the EngineOperator/
OwnerManualpackedwith your unit.
Spark Plug(s)
Thespark plug(s)shouldbe cleanedand thegap reset
oncea season.Sparkplug replacementisrecommended
at the startof each mowingseason.Referto the Engine
Operator/OwnerManualfor correctplug type and gap
specifications.
Figure 20
_i=
WARNING
Beforeperforming
any maintenance or
repairs; disengage
PTO, move shift lever
into neutral position,
set parking brake, stop
engineand remove key
to prevent unintended
any
maintenance
repairs,
ARNING:
Beforeorperforming
disengage PTO, move shift lever
into neutral position, set parking
brake, stop engine and remove
key to prevent unintended
starting.
Lubrication
WARNING: Before lubricating,
repairing, or inspecting, always
disengage PTO, move shift lever
into neutral position, set parking
brake, stop engine and remove
key to prevent unintended starting.
Engine
Refer to the Engine Operator/Owner Manualfor
engine maintenance instructions.
Checkengineoil level beforeeachuseas instructed
in the EngineOperator/OwnerManualpackedwith your
unit. Follow the instructionscarefully.
Before
!ubr
oaring
Changing
repairing, or inspect,
ing, always disengage
PTO,move shift lever
into neutral position,
set parking brake, stop
engine and remove key
to preventunintended
NOTE:Dependingon the engine modelfoundon your
tractor,it may be necessaryto removethe tractor'sside
panel in order to replacethe oil filter (if so equipped).
Engine
Lubricatethe enginewith motoroil as instructedin the
EngineOwnerManualpackedwith your unit.
Engine Oil
Pivot Points & Linkage
Lubricateall the pivotpointson the drivesystem,parking
brakeand lift linkageat least oncea seasonwith lightoil.
Rear Wheels
The rearwheelsshouldbe removedfrom the axles once
a season.Lubricatethe axles and the rimswell with an
Fordrainingoil from the engine'scrankcaseof select
modeltractors,a plasticoil drain sleeveis packedwith
this Operator'sManual.Todrain the oil, proceedas
follows:
1. Unscrewthe oil fill capand removethe dipstickfrom
the oil fill tube.
all-purposegreasebeforere-installingthem.
Front Axles
Eachend of the tractor'sfront pivot bar may be equipped
with a greasefitting. Lubricatewith a greasegun after
every25 hoursof tractoroperation.
2. Snapthe small end of oil drain sleeveontothe oil
sump.See Figure20.
Cleaning
3. Removedrain plugand drain oil intoa suitable
containerwith a capacityof no lessthan 64 oz.
NOTEIDependingon
theenginemodelfound
on your tractor,itmay
benecessaryto remove
the tractor'sside panel
in order to replace the
4. Servicethe oil filter (if soequipped)as instructedin
the separateEngineOperator/OwnerManualpacked
with yourunit.
the Engine And Deck
Anyfuel or oil spilledon the machineshouldbe wiped
off promptly.DoNOT allowdebristo accumulatearound
the coolingfins of the engine or on anyotherpart of the
machine.
iMPORTANT:The useof a pressurewasherto cleanyour
tractoris NOT recommended.It maycause damageto
electricalcomponents,spindles,pulleys,bearingsor the
engine.
oi! fi!te! (if so equipped);
y
22
Deck Wash System TM
A hexplug can be foundon yourtractor'sdeck surface.
See Figure21.
This plug can be replacedwith a waterport to be used as
partof a separately-availabledeck washsystem.
Use the DeckWash SystemTM to rinsegrassclippings
from thedeck'sundersideand preventthe buildupof
corrosivechemicals.
NOTE:Referto page 28 for informationregardingthis
and otherseparately-available
attachments& accessoriesfor yourtractor.
Cutting
Deck Removal
NOTE:Modelsequippedwith a 38-inchdeck haveone
deck idler pulley.Modelsequippedwith a 42-inchdeck
havetwo deck idler pulleys.
Figure 21
Toremovethe cuttingdeck, proceedas follows:
1. Placethe PTO(BladeEngage)leverin the disengaged (OFF)positionand engagetheparkingbrake.
NOTE: Models
2. Lowerthe deck by movingthedeck lift leverinto the
bottomnotchon the rightfender.
equippedwith a 38-inch
deck have one deck
3. Removethe beltfrom aroundthe tractor'sengine
pulleyand idlerpulley(s).Refer toChangingthe Deck
Belton page 26 for detailedinstructions.
idler pulley. Models
equippedwith a 42-inch
deck have two deck
4. Lookingat the cuttingdeck fromthe left sideof the
tractor,locatethe hair pin clip that securesthe deck
supportrod on the rear left sideof thedeck. See
Figure22.
idler pulleys.
5. Removethe hairpin clipthat securesthedeck
supportrod, and carefullyremovethe deck support
from thedeck lift arm.
6. Repeatthe abovestepson the tractor'srightside.
7. Movethe deck lift leverintothe top notchon the right
fenderto raisethedeck lift arms up and out of the
way.
Figure 22
8. Carefullyremovethe PTOcablefrom the rearof
the cuttingdeck by removingthe hair pin clipwhich
securesit. Removethe springfrom the deck idler
bracket.See Figure23.
/ •
/!
9. Gentlyslidethe cuttingdeck towardthefront of the
tractorallowingthe hookson the deck to release
themselvesfrom thedeck stabilizerrod.
10.Gentlyslidethe cuttingdeck (from the rightside)out
from underneaththetractor.
Figure 23
23
Jump Starting
,_
WARNING: When removing or
installing the battery, follow
these instructions to prevent the
screwdriver from shorting against
the frame.
maximum inflation
pressure
WARNING:
Never exceed
the
shown on the sidewall of tire.
The recommendedoperatingtire pressureis:
,, Approximately10psi for the rear tires
iMPORTANT:Neverjumpyourtractor'sdead batterywith
the batteryof a runningvehicle.
,, Approximately14psi for the fronttires
iMPORTANT:Referto the tire sidewallforexacttire
manufacturer'srecommendedor maximumpsi. Do not
overinflate.Uneventire pressurecouldcausethe cutting
deck to mow unevenly.
1. Connectend of one jumpercableto the positive
terminalof thegood battery,thenthe otherend to the
positiveterminalof the dead battery.
Battery
2. Connectthe otherjumpercableto the negative
terminalof thegood battery,thento the frame of the
unit with the dead battery.
The batteryis sealedand is maintenance-free.
Acid
levelscannotbe checked.
• Alwayskeepthe batterycablesand terminalsclean
and freeof corrosivebuild-up.
,,_
• After cleaningthe batteryand terminals,apply a light
coat of petroleumjelly or greasetoboth terminals.
procedure could
cause
sparking,
WARNING:
Failure
to use
this
and the gas in either battery could
explode.
• Alwayskeepthe rubberbootpositionedoverthe
positiveterminalto preventshorting.
3atteries give off an
_:xplosive gas while
;barging Charge battery in a well ventilated
area and keep away
from an open flame
or pilot light as on a
water heater, space
tleater, furnace, clothes
dryeror other gas
ippliances
Always use a fuse with
the same amperage
capacity for replacement
IMPORTANT:If removingthe batteryforany reason,
disconnectthe NEGATIVE(Black)wire from it's terminal
first, followedbythe POSITIVE(Red)wire.When
re-installingthe battery,alwaysconnectthe POSITIVE
(Red)wire its terminalfirst, followedbythe NEGATIVE
(Black)wire. Be certainthat thewires are connectedto
thecorrectterminals;reversingthemcould changethe
polarityand result in damageto your engine'salternating system.
Cleaning
Cleanthe batteryby removingit fromthe tractorand
washingwith a bakingsodaand watersolution.If necessary,scrapethe batteryterminalswith a wire brushto
removedeposits.Coatterminalsand exposedwiringwith
greaseor petroleumjelly topreventcorrosion.
Battery Failures
Somecommoncausesfor batteryfailureare:
,,incorrectinitialactivation ,,undercharging
,,overcharging
,,corrodedconnections
,,freezing
Charging
If thetractor hasnotbeen put into usefor an extended
periodof time,chargethe batterywith an automotivetype 12-voltchargerfor a minimumof one hour at six
amps.
These failures are NOT coveredby yourtractor's
warranty.
Fuse
One 20 AMPfuse is installedin yourtractor'swiringharness to protectthe tractor'selectricalsystemfrom damage
causedby excessiveamperage.
If the electricalsystemdoes notfunction,or your tractor's
enginewill not crank,first checkto be certain that the fuse
has notblown.It can be foundunderthe hoodmounted
WARNING: Batteries give off an
explosive gas while charging.
Charge battery in a well ventilated area and keep away from
an open flame or pilot light as
on a water heater, space heater,
furnace, clothes dryer or other
gas appliances.
behindthe dashpanelon the rightside.
_
24
theARNING:
same amperage
capacity
Always use
a fusefor
with
replacement.
Cutting
Blades
f
WARNING: Be sure to shut
the engine off, remove ignition
key, disconnect the spark plug
wire(s) and ground against the
engine to prevent unintended
starting before removing the cutting blade(s) for sharpening or
replacement. Protect your hands
by using heavy gloves or a rag to
grasp the cutting blade.
Your
i
, ,',g
Lawn
j
Tractor
l
WARNING: Periodically inspect
the blade spindles for cracks or
damage, especially if you strike a
foreign object. Replace immediately if damaged.
Figure 24
l
l
l
WARNING
Thebladesmay be removedas follows.
1. Removethe deck from beneaththe tractor,(referto
CuttingDeckRemovalon page23) thengently flip
the deck overto exposeits underside.
2. Placea blockof wood betweenthe centerdeck housing baffle and the cuttingbladeto act asa stabilizer.
See Figure24.
3. Use a 15/16"wrenchto removethe hexflangenut
that securesthe bladeto thespindleassembly.See
Figure24.
4. Toproperlysharpenthe cutting blades,removeequal
amountsof metalfrom bothends of the bladesalong
the cuttingedges, parallelto the trailingedge,at a
25° to 30° angle.
1-5/8
Figure 25
IMPORTANT:If the cuttingedgeof the blade hasalready
been sharpenedto within 1 5/8' fromthe edge,or if any
metalseparationis present,replacethe bladeswith new
ones. See Figure25.
o
It is importantthat eachcuttingblade edge be ground
equallyto maintainproperblade balance.
o
A poorlybalancedbladewill causeexcessive
vibrationand maycausedamageto thetractorand
result in personalinjury.The bladecan be testedby
balancingit on a roundshaftscrewdriver.Grind metal
from the heavysideuntil it balancesevenly.
25
When replacingthe blade,be sure to installthe blade
with theside of the blade marked"Bottom" (or with
a part numberstampedin it) facing the groundwhen
the mower is in the operatingposition.
IMPORTANT:Use a torquewrenchto tightenthe blade
spindlehex flangenutto between70 foot-poundsand 90
foot-pounds.
I Be sure to shut the
lengine off, remove
iignition key, disconinect the spark plug
wire(s) and ground
against the engine to
_revent unintended
starting before removing the cutting blade(s)
for sharpening or
replacement. Protect
your hands by using
heavy gloves or a rag
to grasp the cutting
blade.
Periodicallyinspect
the blade spindles for
cracks or damage,
especially if you strike
a foreign object.
Replace immediately if
damaged.
3/8"
Tochangeor replacethedeck beltand PTObelt on your
tractor,proceedas follows:
1. Lowerthe deck by movingthedeck lift leverinto the
bottomnotchon the rightfender.
uareHole_
2. Removethe beltguardsby removingthe self-tapping
screwsthat fastenthem to the deck.
Maintaining
3. Removethe beltkeeperrod fromaroundthe engine
pulley.
Your Lawn
Tractor
4. Inserta 3/8"-driveratchetwrench(setto loosen)into
the squarehole foundin the idlerbracketon the left
sideof the deck'ssurface.See Figure26.
5. Graspthe ratchet'shandleand pivot it towardthe front
of the tractorto relievetensionon the belt.
6. With belttension relieved,carefullyremove the belt
from around the left-handspindlepulley.
Figure 26
Changing
WARNING
Be sure to shut the
engine off, remove ignifion key, disconnect
the spark plugwire(s)
and ground against
the engine to prevent
unintended starting
before removing the
elt(s).
Avoid the possibility of
a pinching injury. Do
not place your fingers
on the idler spring or
between the belt and a
pulley while removing
the belt.
_
--
IMPORTANT:Carefullyallowthe ratchetto pivotrearward
beforeremovingit from the squarehole.
the Deck Belt & PTO Belt
the
engine off,
ignition
WARNING:
Be remove
sure to shut
key, disconnect the spark plug
wire(s) and ground against the
engine to prevent unintended
starting before removing the
belt(s).
_
of
a pinching
injury.
not place
WARNING:
Avoid
theDo
possibility
your fingers on the idler spring
or between the belt and a pulley
while removingthe belt.
7. Removethe deck belt fromaroundall pulleys,including
the deck idler pulley.
All belts on yourtractorare subjectto wearand should
be replacedif anysigns of wearare present.
8. Routethe newbelts as shownin and Figure27 and 28.
9. Remountthe beltguardsremovedearlier.
iMPORTANT:The V-beltsfoundon yourtractorare
speciallydesignedto engageand disengagesafely.A
substitute(non-OEM)V-beltcan be dangerousby not
disengagingcompletely.Fora properworkingmachine,
usefactory approvedbelts.
Changing
Belts
the Transmission
Drive
NOTE:Severalcomponentsmustbe removedand
specialtools (i.e. air/impactwrench) in order to change
the tractor'sdrivebelts. Seean authorizedMTDService
Dealerto haveyour drivebelts replacedor phone
CustomerSupportas instructedon page 2 for information
on orderinga ServiceManual.
26
i
EnginePuny
42-Inch Deck
X
Idler Bracket
Deck Idler Pulleys
Figure 26
f
Engine
Idler Bracket
Puny
38=InchDeck
X
\
Deck Idler Pulleys
_., ....
J
Figure 27
27
Cleanand lubricatethe tractoras instructedin Section
6: MAINTAININGYOUR LAWNTRACTORon page 19
of this manualbeforestoringfor an extendedperiod.
Followthe instructionsin the Service, Storage &
Specifications sectionof the EngineOperator/Owner
Manualfor properenginecare prior to storingyourtractor.
WARNING: Never store the
,_1
Off-Season
Storag
Attachments
an
approvedDrain
containeroutdoors,
WARNING:
fuel only into
_
away from an open flame. Allow
engine to cool. Extinguish
-cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and
other sources of ignition prior to
draining fuel.
Attachments
l
achine
or fuel
container
indoors
where
there
is an
open flame,
spark or pilot light such as on
water heater, furnace, clothes
dryer or other gas appliance.
& Accessories
The followingattachmentsand accessoriesare compatiblefor ModelSeries700 LawnTractors.See the retailer
fromwhich you purchasedyour tractor,an authorizedMTDServiceDealeror phone(800) 800-7310for information
regardingpriceand availability.
NOTE:ModelSeries700 LawnTractorsare NOTdesignedfor usewith any type of ground-engagingattachments
(e.g.tiller or plow).Use of this type of equipmentWILL voidthe tractor'swarranty.
MODEL '
'WARNING
0EM-190-032
0EM-190-116
i Dra n fuel only into an
i
i approved container
i outdoors, away from
an open flame. AIi low engine to cool.
i Extinguish cigarettes,
_giclars, pples,and
other sources of Ignlition prior to draining
Ifuel.
0EM-190-180
DESCRiPTiON
42-inchTwo-stageSnowThrower
38/42-inchDeckMulch Kit
OEM-190q83
Twin BaggerGrass Collector(for38/42-inchDecks)
Deckwheel Kit
0EM-190-218
RearWheelWeightKit
0EM-190-607'
0EM-190-658
0EM-190-672
0EM-190-833
4.90-900-0025
DeluxeTractorSunshade
Tire Chains,20 x 8 Tires
Grille Guard (moUntson front oftractor)
42-inchFrontDozerBlade
DeckWash Kit
Not compatiblewith tractorsequippedwith a GrassCollector
Never store the realchine or fuel container
i indoors where there =s
,,an open flame, spark
ior pUotlightsuch
ias on water heater,
!furnace, clothes dryer
for other gas appliance.
28
NOTE:IHBOTH
MODE_
_I_EN
OpER_TOn
L_VESS_T, E_I_EWILL
STOP
UNLESS
P_KI_ _r_K_I_SLT_,D _L_E__R__S_,_ED.
IF UNnS_LLSwnHSr_EO
¢OH_ROL
INHIGHS_EO,ORIF UNn
WILLNOT
OPERATE
WnHSPEEn
CONTROL
LE_ IN_ LOW
SP_E_
WARNING
Th s symbo points
out importantsafety
instructionswhich, if
not followed,could
endangerthe personal
safety and/or pp
yroerr
of yourselfand others:
Read and follow all
instructions in this
manual beforeat
temptingto operate
th!s machine. Fa!lure
to comply with these
instructions may resu!t
in personal injurylwhen
you see this symbol.
HEED
ITS WARNING!
Ii
Your ResponslbJhty
Restrict the use
' of this power machine
' to persons who read ,
understand
and follow the warnings
and instructions
in this manual
and on the machine:
29
Problem
Enginefails to Start
Cause
1. PTOengaged.
Remedy
!. PlacePTOknob(or lever)in
aisengaged(OFF)position,
'Trouble
Shooting
2. spark plugwire(s)disconnected.
2: connect wire(s)to spa!k plug(s)i
3 FUeliankempy
t oistaiefuel .
4 Chokenotactiated
V
3, F tankwtheean freshgaso ne
.
4! Pu out the CHOKEcontro ( f so
equipped)or placethe throttle
€ontrolin CHOKEpositionl
5' Fau!tYsPa!kP!U
g'
5. Cleanl adjust gaPlerreplacel
&Blocke d fuel !ine•
7. Engineflooded,
6. clean iuel line Orreplacefueifilter,
if so equipped.
7, Ciank enginewiththrottlein FAsT
PoSition.
8. Parkng biake not engaged.
9• Throtlecontiolie;er,,,,_i,,,,,,r,e
t
v ,u_,uu,,_ .,;
startingposition,
Engine runs erratic
For repairs beyond
the minor adjusti merits listed here,
i contact an authorized
service dealer.
1. Unit runningwith CHOKEapplied.
2. Sparkplug wire(s) loose.
3. Blockedfuel lineor stale fuel.
&Engage
parkingbrake,
9: Placethrottleleverto FAST
position.
1. PushCHOKEcontrol(if so
equipped)in, or movethe throttle
controlout of the CHOKEposition.
2. Connectand tightenspark
plugwire(s).
3. Cleanfuel line;fill tank with clean,
fresh (less than30 daysold)
gasoline.Replacefuel filter,if so
equipped.
4. Ventin gas cap plugged.
4. Clearvent or replaceif damaged.
5. Wateror dirt in fuel system.
5. Drainfuel tank. Refillwith
fresh fuel.
6. Dirty air cleaner.
6. Replaceair cleanercartridge/elementor cleanpre-cleaner,if so
equipped.
3O
Problem
Cause
Engine oveiheats
Engine0il leve!
!ow
2. Air flow restricted.
Enginehesitates at
high RPM
1: Fi!I Crankcas
ewithproPer*0iL
Cleangrassclippingsand debris
fr0m aroundthe enginelscoo!ing
fns and b owerhousng.
1. Removespark plug(s)and reset
thegap.
!,
I
Excessive
Vibration
Uneven cut
" 2.
1. Sparkplug(s)gap tooclose.
Idles poorly
Mowerwill not
mulch grass (if
Equ pped)
Remedy
Sparkplug(s)fouled,!aulty O!gap
toowde
2. Dirtyair cleaner.
i
"
!. Rep acespark plug(s)i Set#!ug(s)
gap
2, Repiaceaircleanercartridge/elemeritor €leanpre-c!eaner,if so
equipped.
1. Cuttingblade looseor unbalanced.
1. Tightenbladeand spindle.Balance
2. Damagedor bentcutting blade.
2. Replaceblade.
i
Shooting
blade.
Enginespeedtoo !ow.
I
2. wet grass.
1
1. Placethrottle controlin FAST
(rabbit)position.
3. Excessivelyhigh grass.
For repairs beyond
the minor adjustments listed here,
3. MOWonce at a nign cuttingheight,
then rnowagainat desiredheight contact an authorized
4. Du bade.
1. Decknotbalancedproperly.
2. Dullblade.
°r makea nar!owerCUttingpath'
Sharpenor replaceblade.
1. Performside-to-sidedeck adjustment.
3. Uneventire pressure.
2. Sharpenor replaceblade.
2, Do not mowwhengrass iswet;
wat unt aterto cut
service
Ii
3. Checktire pressurein all fourtires.
I
31
dealer.
Useth_spagetomake
notes and write down
!mportant mformat_on.
•
l
l
32
Use this page to make
notes and write down
impo_.nt
in_orm.tio
33
notes and write down
important information.
l
0
34
CALIFORNIA EMISSION CONTROL WARRANTY STATEMENT
YOUR WARRANTY RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS
The CaliforniaAir ResourcesBoardandMTDLLC are pleasedto explainthe evaporativeemissioncontrolsystemwarrantyon your2006 lawnmower.In California,
new lawnmowermust be designed,built and equippedto meetthe State'sstringentanti-smogstandards.MTD LLCmustwarrantthe EECS onyour lawn mower
forthe periodof time listedbelow providedthere has beenno abuse,neglect or impropermaintenanceof your lawnmower.
YourEECSmay includeparts such as the carburetor,fuel-injectionsystem,the ignitionsystem,catalyticconverter,fuel tanks,fuel lines,fuel caps, valves,
canisters,filters,vapor hoses,clamps,connectors,and otherassociatedemission-relatedcomponents.
Whore a warrantable condition exists, MTDLLC will repair your lawn mower at no cost to you including diagnosis, parts and labor.
MANUFACTURER'S
WARRANTY
COVERAGE:
This evaporativeemissioncontrol systemis warrantedfor twoyears. If anyevaporativeemission-relatedpart onyour equipmentis defective,the partwill be
repairedor replacedby MTDLLC.
OWNER'S WARRANTY
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Asthe lawn mowerowner,you are responsiblefor performanceof the requiredmaintenancelistedin yourowner'smanual. MTDLLC recommendsthatyou retain
all receiptscoveringmaintenanceon your lawnmower,but MTDLLCcannot denywarrantysolelyfor the lackof receipts.
Asthe lawn mowerowner,you shouldhoweverbe awarethat MTDLLC may denyyou warrantycoverageif your lawnmoweror a part has failed dueto abuse,
neglect,or impropermaintenanceor unapprovedmodifications.
Youare responsiblefor presentingyourlawn mowerto MTD LLC'sdistributioncenteror servicecenteras soonas the problemexists.The warrantyrepairsshould
be completedin a reasonableamountof time, not to exceed30 days. If you havea questionregardingyourwarrantycoverage,you shouldcontactthe MTD
ServiceDepartmentat 1-800-800-7310.
GENERAL
EMISSIONS WARRANTY
COVERAGE:
MTDLLCwarrantsto the ultimate purchaserandeach subsequentpurchaserthatthe lawnmower is: Designed,built andequipped soas to conform withall
applicableregulations;andfree from defectsin materialsand workmanshipthat causethe failure of a warrantedpart to be identicalin all materialrespectsto that
part as describedin MTDLLC'sapplicationfor certification.
The warrantyperiodbeginson the datethe lawnmoweris deliveredto an ultimatepurchaseror first placedinto service.Thewarranty periodis twoyears.
Subjectto certain conditionsand exclusionsas statedbelow,the warrantyon emission-relatedparts is as follows:
1. Any warrantedpart that is not scheduledfor replacementas requiredmaintenanceinthe writteninstructionssupplied, is warrantedfor the warrantyperiod
statedabove. If the part fails duringthe periodof warrantycoverage,the partwill be repairedor replacedby MTDLLCaccordingto subsection(4) below.Any
such part repairedor replacedunderwarrantywill be warrantedfor the remainderof the period.
2. Any warrantedpart that is scheduledonly for regular inspectioninthe writteninstructionssuppliedis warrantedfor the warranty periodstated above.Any such
part repairedor replacedunderwarrantywill be warrantedfor the remainingwarrantyperiod.
3. Any warrantedpart that is scheduledfor replacementas requiredmaintenanceinthe written instructionssuppliedis warrantedfor the periodof time before
the first scheduledreplacementdate forthat part. If the part fails beforethe first scheduledreplacement,the part will be repairedor replacedby MTDLLC accordingto subsection(4) below.Any such part repairedor replacedunderwarrantywill bewarrantedforthe remainderof the periodpriorto the first scheduled
replacementpointfor the part.
4. Repairor replacementof any warrantedpart underthe warrantyprovisionshereinmustbe performedat a warrantystationat no chargeto the owner.
5. Notwithstandingthe provisionsherein,warrantyservicesor repairswill be providedat all of our distributioncentersthat arefranchisedto servicethe subject
enginesor equipment.
6. The lawnmowerowner will not be chargedfor diagnosticlaborthat is directlyassociatedwithdiagnosisof a defective,emission-relatedwarrantedpart,
providedthat such diagnosticwork is performedat a warrantystation.
7. MTDLLC is liablefor damagesto other engineor equipmentcomponentsproximatelycaused bya failure underwarrantyof any warrantedpart.
8. Throughoutthe lawnmowerwarrantyperiodstated above,MTDLLC will maintaina supplyof warrantedparts sufficientto meetthe expecteddemandfor such
parts.
9. Any replacementpart may be usedinthe performanceof any warrantymaintenanceor repairsand mustbe providedwithoutchargeto the owner.Suchuse will
not reducethe warrantyobligationsof MTD LLC.
10. Add-onor modifiedpartsthat are not exemptedbythe Air ResourcesBoardmay not be used.The use of any non-exemptedadd-onor modifiedparts by the
ultimatepurchaserwill be groundsfor disallowinga warrantyclaims. MTDLLCwill not be liableto warrantfailures of warrantedparts causedby the use of a
non-exemptedadd-onor modifiedpart.
WARRANTED
PARTS:
The repairor replacementof any warrantedpartotherwiseeligiblefor warrantycoveragemay be excludedfrom such warrantycoverageif MTDLLCdemonstrates
thatthe lawnmower has beenabused,neglected,or improperlymaintained,andthat suchabuse, neglect, or impropermaintenancewasthe directcauseof the
needfor repairor replacementofthe part. That notwithstanding,any adjustmentof a componentthat has a factory installed,and properlyoperating,adjustment
limitingdevice is still eligiblefor warrantycoverage.The following emissionwarrantyparts list arecovered:Fuel Line,Fuel LineClamps
MANUFACTURER'S
LiMiTED WARRANTY
Thelimitedwarrantyset forth belowis givenby MTDLLCwith respect
to new merchandisepurchasedand usedin the UnitedStates,its
possessionsand territories.
"MTD"warrantsthis productagainstdefectsin materialand workmanshipfor a periodof two (2) yearscommencingon thedate of original
purchaseand will, at its option,repairor replace,free of charge,any
partfound tobe defectivein materialsor workmanship.This limitedwarranty shallonlyapply if this producthas beenoperatedand maintained
in accordancewith theOperator'sManualfurnishedwith the product,
and has notbeen subjectto misuse,abuse,commercialuse, neglect,
accident,impropermaintenance,alteration,vandalism,theft, fire, water,
or damagebecauseof otherperil or naturaldisaster.Damageresulting
from the installationor useof any part, accessoryor attachmentnot
approvedby MTDfor use with the product(s)coveredbythis manual
will voidyourwarrantyas to any resultingdamage.
Normalwearpartsare warrantedto be free fromdefects in materialand
workmanshipfor a period of thirty (30) days fromthe date of purchase.
Normalwearparts include,butare notlimitedto itemssuch as: batteries, belts,blades,bladeadapters,grass bags, riderdeck wheels,seats,
snowthrowerskid shoes,shaveplates,auger spiralrubberand tires.
HOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE: Warranty service is available, WITH
PROOF OF PURCHASE,through your local authorized service
dealer. To locate the dealer in your area, check your Yellow Pages,
or contact MTD LLC at RO. Box 361131,Cleveland, Ohio 441360019, or call 1-800-800-7310 or 1-330-220-4683 or log on to our
Web site at www.mtdproducts.com.
This limitedwarrantydoesnot providecoveragein the followingcases:
a. Theengineor componentparts thereof.These itemsmaycarry a
separatemanufacturer'swarranty.Referto applicablemanufacturer's
warrantyfor termsand conditions.
b. Log splitterpumps,valves,and cylindershavea separateone year
warranty.
c. Routinemaintenanceitemssuch as lubricants,filters, blade
sharpening,tune-ups,brakeadjustments,clutchadjustments,deck
adjustments,and normaldeteriorationof the exteriorfinish due to
useor exposure.
FOR
e. MTDdoesnot extendanywarrantyfor productssold or exported
outsideof the UnitedStates,its possessionsandterritories,except
thosesold throughMTD'sauthorizedchannelsof export distribution.
f. Replacementparts that are not genuineMTDparts.
g. Transportationchargesand servicecalls.
No impliedwarranty, includingany impliedwarranty of merchantabilityof fitness for a particularpurpose,applies after the
applicable periodof expresswritten warranty above as to the
parts as identified.No other expresswarranty, whether written or
oral, exceptas mentioned above, givenby any personor entity,
includinga dealeror retailer,with respectto any product,shall
bind MTD.Duringthe periodof the warranty,the exclusiveremedy
is repair or replacementof the productas set forth above.
The provisionsas set forth in this warranty providethe sole and
exclusiveremedyarising from the sale. MTDshallnot be liable
for incidentalor consequentialloss or damageincluding,without
limitation,expensesincurredfor substituteor replacement lawn
careservicesor for rental expensesto temporarily replace a
warranted product.
Somestatesdo notallowthe exclusionor limitationof incidentalor
consequentialdamages,or limitationson how longan impliedwarranty
lasts,so the aboveexclusionsor limitationsmaynotapply to you.
In no event shallrecoveryof any kindbe greaterthanthe amountof the
purchasepriceof the productsold. Alterationof safety features of
the product shall void this warranty. Youassumethe risk and liability
for loss,damage,or injuryto you and yourpropertyand/orto othersand
theirpropertyarisingout of the misuseor inabilityto usethe product.
This limitedwarrantyshallnot extendto anyoneotherthan the original
purchaseror to the personfor whomit was purchasedas a gift.
HOWSTATELAW RELATESTO THISWARRANTY: This limited
warrantygivesyou specificlegal rights,and youmay also haveother
rightswhich vary from stateto state.
IMPORTANT:OwnermustpresentOriginal Proofof Purchaseto obtain
warrantycoverage.
d. Servicecompletedbysomeoneotherthanan authorizedservice
dealer.
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019;
Phone: 1-800-800-7310,
1-330-220-4683