MTD 13A1762F700 User Manual LAWN TRACTOR Manuals And Guides 1108147L

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User Manual: MTD 13A1762F700 13A1762F700 MTD LAWN TRACTOR - Manuals and Guides View the owners manual for your MTD LAWN TRACTOR #13A1762F700. Home:Lawn & Garden Parts:MTD Parts:MTD LAWN TRACTOR Manual

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Safety Assembly • Operation • Adjustment • Maintenance Troubleshooting Warranty
AOAL
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Transmatic Lawn Tractor- Models 760=779
iMPORTANT
READ SAFETY RULES AND iNSTRUCTiONS CAREFULLY BEFORE OPERATION
Warning: Thisunit is equippedwithaninternalcombustionengineandshouldnot beusedon or nearany unimprovedforest-covered,brush-
coveredor grass-coveredlandunlesstheengine'sexhaustsystemis equippedwitha sparkarrestermeetingapplicablelocalor statelaws(if any).
If a sparkarresteris used,it shouldbemaintainedineffectiveworkingorderby the operator.In theStateof Californiathe aboveis requiredbylaw
(Section4442of the CaliforniaPublicResourcesCode).Otherstatesmayhavesimilarlaws.Federallawsapplyonfederallands.A sparkarrester
for the muffleris availablethroughyour nearestengineauthorizedservicedealeror contactthe servicedepartment,RO.Box361131Cleveland,
Ohio44136-0019.
PRINTEDIN U.S.A. MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019
FORMNO.769-01598B
01/06/2006
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 ....................................................... 3
Safe Operation Practices ................................... 4
Setting UpYour Lawn Tractor ............................ 8
Operating Your Lawn Tractor ........................... 12
Adjusting Your Lawn Tractor ............................ 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
BEFOREYOU STARTASSEMBLING
YOUR NEW EQUIPMENT,
please locatethe model plate on the equipmentand copy the
information to the sample model plate provided to the right.
Youcan 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 authorizedservice dealer.
Model Number
www.mtdproducts.com
Serial Number
MTD LLC
P.O= BOX 361131
CLEVELAND, OH 44136
330-220-4683
800-800-7310
Customer Support
Please do NOTretum the unit to the retailer from which it was
purchased, without first contacting Customer Support.
Ifyou have difficulty assemblingthis product or have any questions regardingthe controls, operation,or maintenanceof this
unit, you can seek help from the experts.Choosefrom the options below:
1. Visit mtdproducts.com. Click on the Service & Support menu option.
2. Phonea Customer Support Representative at 1 (800) 800-7310.
3. The engine manufacturer is responsiblefor all engine-relatedissues with regardsto performance, power-rating,specifica-
tions, warranty and service. Please refer to the engine manufacturer'sOwner's/Operator's Manual,packed separatelywith
your unit, for moreinformation.
MTD/n_er_@_i®a_ Award Wi_n i_g ?rd_s_ts O_r Com?_ay
Product Menu
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15°
Practices
WARNING
This symbol points
out importantsafety
instructionswhich, if
notfollowed, could
endangerthe personal
safetyand/or property
ofyourself and others.
Readand follow all
I instructions inthis man-
ual before attemptingto
operatethis machine.
tFailureto complywith
hese instructionsmay
result in personal injury.
When you see this
symbol.
HEED iTS WARNING
Your
Responsibility
Restrictthe use
of this power machine
to personswho read,
understand
andfollow the warnings
and instructions
in this manual
WARNING: Engine Exhaust,some of its constituents, andcertain vehicle compo-
nentscontain or emit chemicals knownto State of Californiato cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductiveharm.
DANGER: This machinewas built to be operated according to the rulesfor safe operationin 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 andfeet andthrowing objects.
Failureto observethe followingsafety instructions could resultin serious injury or death.
Children
1. Tragicaccidentscanoccurif the operatoris not
alertto the presenceof children.Childrenareoften
attractedto themachineandthe mowingactivity.
Theydo not understandthe dangers.Neverassume
thatchildrenwill remainwhereyou lastsawthem.
a. Keepchildrenout of the mowingareaandin
watchfulcare of a responsibleadultother than
the operator.
b. Bealert andturnmachineoff ifa childenters
the area.
c. Beforeandwhile backing,lookbehindand
downfor smallchildren.
d. Nevercarrychildren,evenwiththe blade(s)
shutoff.Theymayfalloffandbeseriously
injuredor interferewithsafemachineoperation.
e. Useextremecarewhenapproachingblind
corners,doorways,shrubs,treesorother
objectsthat mayblockyourvisionof achild
whomayrunintothe machine.
f. To avoid back-over accidents, always
disengagethe cuttingblade(s) before
shiftinginto Reverse.if equipped,the
"Reverse CautionMode"shouldnotbe
used whenchildrenor others are around.
g. Keepchildrenawayfromhotor running
engines.Theycan sufferburnsfroma hot
muffler.
h. Removekeywhenmachineis unattendedto
preventunauthorizedoperation.
2. Neverallowchildrenunder14yearsoldto operate
the machine.Children14yearsoldandovershould
readand understandthe operationinstructionsand
safetyrulesinthis manualandshouldbetrainedand
supervisedbya parent.
Operation
Safe Handlingof Gasoline:
1. Toavoid personalinjuryor propertydamageuse
extremecare inhandlinggasoline.Gasolineis
extremely flammableand the vapors areexplo-
sive. Seriouspersonalinjurycan occurwhengasoline
isspilledonyourselfor yourclotheswhichcan ignite.
Washyourskinandchangeclothesimmediately.
a. Useonlyanapprovedgasolinecontainer.
b. Neverfill containersinsideavehicleor ona
truckor trailerbedwitha plasticliner.Always
placecontainerson the groundawayfrom
yourvehiclebeforefilling.
c. Whenpractical,removegas-powered
equipmentfromthe truckor trailerand refuelit
onthe ground.Ifthis isnotpossible,then
refuelsuchequipmenton a trailerwitha
portablecontainer,ratherthan froma gasoline
dispensernozzle.
d. Keepthe nozzlein contactwiththe rimof
the fueltankor containeropeningat all
timesuntilfuelingiscomplete.Donot usea
nozzlelock-opendevice.
e. Extinguishallcigarettes,cigars,pipesand
othersourcesof ignition.
f. Neverfuel machineindoors.
g. Neverremovegas cap oraddfuel whilethe
engineishot or running.Allowengineto cool
at leasttwominutesbeforerefueling.
h. Neveroverfill fuel tank.Fill tankto nomore
than1/2inchbelowbottomof filler neckto
allowspacefor fuel expansion.
i. Replacegasolinecapandtightensecurely.
j. If gasolineis spilled,wipe it off theengine
andequipment.Moveunit to anotherarea.
Wait5 minutesbeforestartingtheengine.
k. Toreducefirehazards,keepmachinefreeof
grass,leaves,orotherdebris build-up.Clean
upoil orfuel spillageand removeanyfuel
soakeddebris.
I. Neverstorethe machineorfuel container
insidewherethere is anopenflame,spark
orpilot lightas on a waterheater,space
heater,furnace,clothesdryerorother gas
appliances.
m. Allowa machineto cool at leastfiveminutes
beforestoring.
4
GeneralOperation:
1. Read,understand,andfollowall instructionsonthe
machineandin the manual(s)beforeattemptingto
assembleandoperate.Keepthismanualina safe
placefor futureandregularreferenceandfor ordering
replacementparts.
2. Befamiliarwith allcontrolsandtheir properoperation.
Knowhow to stopthe machineanddisengagethem
quickly.
3, Neverallowchildrenunder14yearsold to operate
this machine.Children14yearsoldandovershould
readandunderstandthe operationinstructionsand
safetyrulesinthis manualandshouldbetrainedand
supervisedby a parent.
4. Neverallowadultsto operatethis machinewithout
properinstruction.
5. To helpavoidbladecontactora thrownobjectinjury,
keep bystanders,helpers,childrenand petsat least
75feet fromthe machinewhileit is inoperation.Stop
machineif anyoneentersthearea.
6. Thoroughlyinspecttheareawheretheequipmentis to
be used.Removeall stones,sticks,wire,bones,toys,
andotherforeignobjectswhichcouldbe pickedup
andthrownbythe blade(s).Thrownobjectscancause
seriouspersonalinjury.
7. Planyourmowingpatternto avoiddischargeof
materialtowardroads,sidewalks,bystandersandthe
like.Also,avoiddischargingmaterialagainstawall or
obstructionwhichmaycausedischargedmaterialto
ricochetbacktowardthe operator.
8. Alwayswear safetyglassesor safetygogglesduring
operationandwhile performingan adjustmentor
repairto protectyoureyes.Thrownobjectswhich
ricochetcancauseseriousinjuryto the eyes.
9. Wearsturdy,rough-soledworkshoesandclose-fitting
slacksandshirts.Loosefittingclothesandjewelry
can becaughtinmovableparts.Neveroperatethis
machinein barefeetor sandals.
10.Beawareof the mowerandattachmentdischarge
directionanddo not pointit at anyone.Donot operate
the mowerwithoutthe dischargecoverorentiregrass
catcherin itsproperplace.
11.Donot put handsor feetnearrotatingpartsor under
the cuttingdeck. Contactwiththe blade(s)can
amputatehandsandfeet.
12.A missingor damageddischargecovercan cause
bladecontactorthrownobjectinjuries.
13.Stop the blade(s)whencrossinggraveldrives,walks,
or roadsandwhilenot cuttinggrass.
14.Watchfor trafficwhenoperatingnearor crossing
roadways.Thismachineis not intendedfor useon
anypublic roadway.
15.Do notoperatethe machinewhileunderthe influ-
enceof alcoholordrugs.
16.Mowonly in daylightor goodartificiallight.
17.Nevercarrypassengers.
18.Disengageblade(s)beforeshiftinginto reverse.
Backupslowly.Alwayslookdownandbehindbefore
andwhilebackingto avoida back-overaccident.
19.Slowdownbeforeturning.Operatethe machine
smoothly.Avoiderraticoperationandexcessive
speed.
20.Disengageblade(s),setparkingbrake,stopengine
andwaituntilthe blade(s)cometo a completestop
beforeremovinggrasscatcher,emptyinggrass,
uncloggingchute,removingany grassor debris,or
makinganyadjustments.
21.Neverleavea runningmachineunattended.Always
turnoff blade(s),placetransmissionin neutral,set
parkingbrake,stopengineand removekeybefore
dismounting.
22.Useextracare whenloadingorunloadingthe
machineintoa trailerortruck.This unit shouldnot
bedrivenupor downramp(s),becausethe unit
couldtip over,causingseriouspersonalinjury.The
unit mustbepushedmanuallyon ramp(s)to loador
unloadproperly.
23.Mufflerandenginebecomehotandcan causea
burn.Do nottouch.
24.Checkoverheadclearancescarefullybeforedriving
underlowhangingtreebranches,wires,dooropen-
ingsetc.,wheretheoperatormaybe struckor pulled
fromthe unit,whichcouldresultinseriousinjury.
25.Disengageallattachmentclutches,depressthe
brakepedalcompletelyandshift into neutralbefore
attemptingto startengine.
26.Yourmachineisdesignedto cutnormalresidential
grassof a heightno morethan 10".Do notattemptto
mowthroughunusuallytall,dry grass(e.g.,pasture)
or pilesof dry leaves.Drygrassor leavesmay
contactthe engineexhaustand/orbuildup onthe
mowerdeckpresentinga potentialfire hazard.
27.Useonlyaccessoriesandattachmentsapprovedfor
thismachinebythe machinemanufacturer.Read,
understandandfollowall instructionsprovidedwith
the approvedaccessoryor attachment.
28.Dataindicatesthat operators,age60 yearsand
above,are involvedin a largepercentageof riding
mower-relatedinjuries.Theseoperatorsshould
evaluatetheirabilityto operatethe ridingmower
safelyenoughto protectthemselvesandothersfrom
seriousinjury.
29.If situationsoccurwhicharenot coveredinthis
manual,usecareandgoodjudgment.Contactyour
customerservicerepresentativefor assistance.
........................................................................................
WARNING
This symbol points
out importantsafety
instructionswhich, if
not followed,could
endanger the personal
safety and/or property
of yourself and others.
Readand follow all
instructions inthis man-
ual before attemptingto
operate this machine.
Failureto comply with
these instructionsmay
result in personal injury.
When you see this
symbol.
HEED ITS WARNING
Your
Responsibility
Restrictthe use
of this power machine
to personswho read,
understand
and follow the warnings
and instructions
inthis manual
5
Thissymbolpoints
outimportantsafety
instructionswhich,if
notfollowed,could
endangerthepersonal
i safetyand/orproperty
ofyourselfandothers.
Readandfollowall
instructionsinthisman-
ualbeforeattemptingto
Ioperatethismachine.
I Failuretocomplywith
theseinstructionsmay
i resultinpersonalinjury.
Whenyouseethis
symbol.
i HEED ITSWARNING
Your
i Responsibility
Restrictthe use
of this power machine
to personswho read,
understand
and follow the warnings
and instructions
in this manual
Slope Operation:
Slopesare a majorfactor relatedto lossof controland
tip-overaccidentswhichcan resultin severeinjuryor
death.All slopesrequireextracaution.If youcannot
backupthe slopeor if youfeel uneasyonit, do notmow
it.
Foryour safety,usethe slopegaugeincludedas partof
thismanualto measureslopesbeforeoperatingthisunit
ona slopedor hillyarea. Ifthe slopeis greaterthan 15
degreesas shownon theslopegauge,do notoperate
thisunit onthatareaor seriousinjurycouldresult.
DO:
1. Mowupanddownslopes,notacross.Exercise
extremecautionwhenchangingdirectiononslopes.
2. Watchfor holes,ruts,bumps,rocks,orother hidden
objects.Uneventerraincouldoverturnthe machine.
Tallgrasscan hideobstacles.
3. Useslowspeed.Choosea low enoughspeed
settingso thatyouwill not haveto stopor shift while
onthe slope.Tiresmaylosetractiononslopeseven
thoughthe brakesarefunctioningproperly.Always
keepmachineingearwhengoingdown slopesto
takeadvantageof enginebrakingaction.
4. Followthe manufacturer'srecommendationsfor
wheelweightsorcounterweightsto improvestability.
5. Useextracare withgrasscatchersorotherat-
tachments.Thesecanchangethe stabilityof the
machine.
6. Keepall movementon the slopesslowand gradual.
Do not makesuddenchangesin speedor direction.
Rapidengagementor brakingcouldcausethe front
of the machineto liftand rapidlyflip overbackwards
whichcouldcauseseriousinjury.
7. Avoidstartingor stoppingon a slope.If tireslose
traction,disengagethe blade(s)andproceedslowly
straightdownthe slope.
Do Not:
1. Do notturn on slopesunlessnecessary;then,turn
slowlyandgraduallydownhill,if possible.
2. Do not mowneardrop-offs,ditchesor embankments.
Themowercouldsuddenlyturnoverif awheel is over
the edgeof a cliff,ditch,or if an edgecavesin.
3. Do nottry to stabilizethe machineby puttingyourfoot
onthe ground.
4. Do not usea grasscatcheronsteepslopes.
5. Do not mowonwetgrass. Reducedtractioncould
causesliding.
6. Do not shiftto neutralandcoastdownhill.Over-speed-
ingmaycausethe operatorto losecontrolof the
machineresultingin seriousinjuryordeath.
7. Do nottowheavypullbehindattachments(e.g.loaded
dumpcart, lawnroller,etc.)on slopesgreaterthan
5 degrees.Whengoingdown hill,the extraweight
tendsto pushthe tractorandmaycauseyou to loose
control.(e.g.tractormayspeedup, brakingandsteer-
ingabilityarereduced,attachmentmayjack-knifeand
causetractorto overturn).
Towing:
1. Towonlywitha machinethathasa hitchdesignedfor
towing.Donot attachtowedequipmentexceptat the
hitchpoint.
2. Followthe manufacturersrecommendationfor weight
limitsfor towedequipmentandtowingon slopes.
3. Neverallowchildrenor othersin oron towedequip-
ment.
4. Onslopes,the weightof the towedequipmentmay
causelossof tractionandlossof control.
5. Travelslowlyandallowextradistanceto stop.
6. Do not shiftto neutralandcoastdownhill.
6
Service
1. Neverrunanengineindoorsorina poorlyventilated
area. Engineexhaustcontainscarbonmonoxide,an
odorless,anddeadlygas.
2. Beforecleaning,repairing,or inspecting,makecertain
the blade(s)andall movingpartshavestopped.
Disconnectthe sparkplugwireandgroundagainstthe
engineto preventunintendedstarting.
3. Periodicallycheckto makesurethe bladescometo
completestopwithinapproximately(5) fiveseconds
afteroperatingthe bladedisengagementcontrol.Ifthe
bladesdo notstopwithinthethis timeframe,yourunit
shouldbe servicedprofessionallyby anauthorized
MTDServiceDealer.
4. Checkbrakeoperationfrequentlyas it is subjectedto
wearduringnormaloperation.Adjustand serviceas
required.
5. Checkthe blade(s)andenginemountingboltsat
frequentintervalsfor propertightness.Also,visually
inspectblade(s)for damage(e.g.,excessivewear,
bent,cracked). Replacethe blade(s)withtheoriginal
equipmentmanufacturer's(O.E.M.)blade(s)only,
listedinthis manual."Useof partswhichdonot meet
the originalequipmentspecificationsmayleadto
improperperformanceandcompromisesafety!"
6. Mowerbladesaresharp.Wrapthe bladeor wear
gloves,anduseextracautionwhenservicingthem.
7. Keepallnuts, bolts,andscrewstightto besurethe
equipmentis insafeworkingcondition.
8. Nevertamperwiththe safetyinterlocksystemor other
safetydevices.Checktheir properoperationregularly.
9. Afterstrikingaforeignobject,stopthe engine,
disconnectthe sparkplugwire(s)andgroundagainst
the engine.Thoroughlyinspectthe machinefor any
damage.Repairthe damagebeforestartingand
operating.
10.Neverattemptto makeadjustmentsor repairsto the
machinewhilethe engineisrunning.
11.Grasscatchercomponentsandthe discharge
coveraresubjectto wearanddamagewhichcould
exposemovingpartsor allowobjectsto bethrown.
Forsafetyprotection,frequentlycheckcomponents
andreplaceimmediatelywithoriginalequipment
manufacturer's(O.E.M.)partsonly,listedinthis
manual."Useof partswhichdonot meetthe original
equipmentspecificationsmayleadto improper
performanceandcompromisesafety!"
12.Do notchangethe enginegovernorsettingsor
over-speedthe engine.Thegovernorcontrolsthe
maximumsafeoperatingspeedof the engine.
13.Maintainor replacesafetyandinstructionlabels,as
necessary.
14.Observeproperdisposallawsand regulationsfor
gas,oil,etc. to protecttheenvironment.
7
This symbol points
out importantsafety
instructionswhich, if
not followed,could
endangerthe personal
safetyand/or property
of yourselfand others.
Read andfollow all
instructionsin this man-
ual before attemptingto
operatethis machine.
Failureto complywith
these instructionsmay
result in personal injury.
When you see this
symbol.
HEED iTS WARNING
Your
Responsibility
Restrictthe use
of this power machine
to personswho read.
understand
and followthe warnings
and instructions
in this manual
Tractor
Use extreme care
whenhandling
gaso nelGasoline
extremely flammable
and the vapors are
explosive: Never fuel
machine indoors
or while the engine
is hotor running,
Extinguish cigarettes,
cigars, pipes, and
othersourcesof
ignitionl
NOTE: This Operators
Manual Coversa range
of produCtspecifications
for VariousmodelS:
Characteristics and
ifeaturesdiscussed
and/or illustratedin
s manualmay not
applicable toall models:
MTD LLC reservesthe
right to change product
specifications,(Jesigns
andequipment without
notice andwithout incur-
i[ing obligatiOnl
RubberBoot
Figure 1
NOTE:ThisOperatorsManualcoversa rangeof product
specificationsfor variousmodels.Characteristicsandfea-
turesdiscussedand/orillustratedinthis manualmaynot
beapplicableto all models.MTDLLCreservesthe right
to changeproductspecifications,designsandequipment
withoutnoticeandwithoutincurringobligation.
Attaching the Battery Cables
NOTE:Somemodelsareshippedwiththe batterycables
alreadyconnected.
NOTE:Thepositivebatteryterminalis markedPos.(+).
Thenegativebatteryterminalis markedNeg.(-).
Thepositivecable(heavyredwire) is securedto the
positivebatteryterminal(+)witha hexbolt andhex
nut at thefactory.Makecertainthatthe rubberboot
coversthe terminalto helpprotectit fromcorrosion.
Removethehex boltand hexnut fromthe negative
cable.
Removetheblackplasticcover,if present,fromthe
negativebatteryterminalandattachthe negative
cable(heavyblackwire)to the negativebattery
terminal(-) withthe bolt andnut.
Makecertainthehold-downstrapis in positionover
the battery,securingit in place.SeeFigure1.
NOTE:Ifthe batteryis putinto serviceafterthe date
shownontop of battery,chargethe batteryas instructed
onpage24of this manualpriorto operatingthe tractor.
Gas and Oil Fill-up
Thegasolinetank is locatedunderthe hoodandhasa
capacityof 1-1/2gallons.Donot overfill.
WARNING: Use extreme care
when handling gasoline. Gaso-
line is extremely flammable and
the vapors are explosive. Never
fuel machine indoors or while the
engine is hot or running. Extin-
guish cigarettes, cigars, pipes,
and other sources of ignition.
Servicethe enginewithgasolineandoil as instructedin
the separateEngineOperator/OwnerManualpackedwith
yourtractor.Readinstructionscarefully.
IMPORTANT:Yourtractoris shippedwith motoroil inthe
engine.However,you MUSTcheckthe oil levelbefore
operating.Becarefulnotto overfill.
8
Shipping Brace Removal f
WARNING: Make sure the riding
mower's engine is off, removethe
ignition key, and set the parking
brake before removing the ship-
ping brace.
Locatethe shippingbrace,ifpresent,andaccompany-
ingwarningtag foundon the rightside of the mower,
betweenthe dischargechuteand thecuttingdeck.
See Figure2.
Whileholdingthe dischargechutewithyourleft hand,
removethe shippingbracewithyour righthandby
graspingitbetweenyour thumbandindexfingerand
rotatingitclockwise.
WARNING: The shipping brace,
used for packagingpurposes
only, must be removedand dis-
carded before operating your
riding mower.
WARNING: The mowing deck is
capable of throwing objects. Fail-
ure to operate the ridingmower
without the discharge cover in the
proper operating position could
result inserious personal injury
and/or property damage.
Attaching The Steering Wheel
Ifthe steeringwheelforyour tractordid notcome
attached,the hardwarefor attachingit hasbeenpacked
withinthe steeringwheel,beneaththe steeringwheel
cap.Carefullypry offthe steeringwheelcapand remove
the hardware.
NOTE:Therearetwodifferentstylesof steeringwheel
cap.SeeFigure3. Styles vary by model.
1. With the wheels of the tractor pointingstraight
forward, placethe steeringwheeloverthe steering
shaft.
2. Placethe washer(withthecuppedsidedown)over
the steeringshaftandsecurewiththe hex bolt.See
Figure3.
3. Placethe steeringwheelcap overthe centerof the
steeringwheelandpushdownwarduntilit"clicks"into
place.
Figure 2
Figure 3
TractOr
WARNING
Make sure the riding
mower's engine is
off, removethe igni-
tion key, and set the
parking brake before
removingthe shipping
brace.
The shipping brace,
used for packaging
purposes only, must
be removedand
discarded before
operatingyour riding
mower.
The mowing deck is
capable of throwing
objects. Failureto
operate the riding
mower withoutthe
discharge cover in
the properoperating
position could result
in serious personal
injury and/or property
damage.
9
WARNING
Beforeoperatingthis
machine,makesure
the seat is engaged in
the seat stop;stand
behindthemachine
andpu,backonseat
fu,yengaged
intostop:
NOTE: Forsh pping rea:
s0nsl Seatsareeither
fastenedto the tractor
seat's pivot braCketWitt
a plastiCtie, or mounted
backwardto the pivot
bracket. In either case;
free the seatform its
shipping p0sition and
remove the two Box
screws (or knobsion
models so equipped)
from thebottom of seat
before proceedingwith
applicable instructions:
Attaching The Seat
Seatstylesvarybytractormodelandtherearethree
differentstylesavailable:
StandardAdjustment
QuickAdjustment&
KnobAdjustment
If the seatfor yourtractordid notcomeattached,referto
Figure4, Figure5, and Figure6 to identifyyourtractor's
seatstyleandfollowthe applicableinstructionsbelowto
attachit.
Figure 4
NOTE:Forshippingreasons,seatsareeitherfastened
to the tractorseat'spivotbracketwitha plastictie,or
mountedbackwardto the pivotbracket.Ineithercase,
freethe seatformitsshippingpositionand removethe
twohex screws(or knobs,onmodelsso equipped)from
the bottomof seatbeforeproceedingwithapplicable
instructionsbelow.
Standard Adjustment Seat
1. Positionthe shoulderscrews(foundonthe baseof the
seat)insidetheslotopeningsinthe seatpivotbracket.
Figure4.
2. Slidethe seatslightlyrearwardinthe seatpivot
bracket,liningupthe rearslots inthe pivotbracket
withthe remainingtwo holesinthe seat'sbase.
3. Selectdesiredpositionforthe seat,andsecurewith
the twohex screwsremovedearlier.SeeFigure4.
Quick Adjustment Seat
NOTE:Ifyour seatwasshippedmountedbackwardson
the seatpivotbracket,pulloutthe tab foundonthe seat
stopandholdit openwhileslidingthe seatoff the seat
pivotbracket.SeeFigure5.
Figure 5 1. Lineupthe plasticseatspacerswiththe slotsin seat
pivotbracket.
2. Slideseatinuntilfrontseatspacerengagesthe seat
stop.SeeFigure5.
WARNING" Before operating this
machine, make sure the seat is
engaged inthe seat stop, stand
behind the machine and pull back
on seat until fully engaged into
stop.
Figure 6
Knob Adjustment Seat
1. Positionthe shoulderscrews(foundonthe baseof the
seat)insidetheslotopeningsinthe seatpivotbracket.
Figure6.
2. Slidethe seatslightlyrearwardinthe seatpivot
bracket,liningupthe rearslots inthe pivotbracket
withthe remainingtwo holesinthe seat'sbase.
3. Selectdesiredpositionforthe seat,andsecurewith
the twoknobsremovedearlier.SeeFigure6.
10
identifying the Mulch Plug (if so /,f
equipped) |
On tractormodelssoequipped,a mulchplugcan either
be foundwithinthe cuttingdeck'sdischargeopeningor
packedseparatelywithyour unit.
NOTE: Referto Mulching on page19for moredetailed
information.
Ifyou'dpreferto operatethe cuttingdeckwithoutmulch-
ing, simplyremovethe mulchplugby unthreadingthe
plasticwing nutwhichfastensit to the cuttingdeck.This
will allowthe clippingsto dischargeout of the discharge
openingduringoperation.SeeFigure7.
Tire Pressure
,_ WARNING: Maximum tire pres-
sure underany circumstances is
30 psi. Equal tire pressure should
be maintainedat all times.
Figure 7
The tiresonyour unitmaybeover-inflatedfor shipping
purposes.Reducethetire pressurebeforeoperating
the tractor.Recommendedoperatingtire pressureis
approximately10p.s.ifor the reartires& 14p.s.i,for the
fronttires.Checksidewallof tirefor maximump.s.i.
11
WARNING
Maximumtirepres,
sure under any
circumstances is 30
psi, Equal tire pressure
shouldbe maintained
at all times,
Know Your Lawn Tractor
NOTE:Any reference
in this manualto the
RIGHTor LEFT side of
the tractor is observed
from operator's position.
A
Figure 8
NOTE:Steeringwheelnot shownfor clarity
1-If soequipped
A SpeedControlLever/ParkingBrake E ThrottleControlLever
B Clutch-BrakePedal F IgnitionSwitchModule
C ShiftLever G DeckLiftLever
D ChokeControl1- H PTO(BladeEngage)Lever
NOTE:Anyreferencein thismanualto the RIGHTor LEFTside of the tractoris observedfromoperator'sposition.
12
Throttle Control Lever
Thethrottlecontrolleveris locatedon the rightside of
thetractor'sdash panel.Thislevercontrolsthe speed
of the engineand,on somemodels,when pushedall
thewayforward,the chokecontrolalso.Whenset ina
givenposition,the throttlewill maintaina uniformengine
speed.SeeFigure9.
IMPORTANT:Whenoperatingthetractorwiththe cutting
deckengaged,becertainthatthe throttleleverisalways
inthe FAST(rabbit)position.
Choke Control
Onsomemodels,movingthe
throttleleverallthe wayforward
activatestheengine'schoke _L._
control.Onall othermodels,the
chokecontrolcan befoundon
the leftside of thedash panel
andisactivatedby pullingthe
knoboutward.Activatingthe
chokecontrolclosesthe choke
plateonthe carburetorandaids instartingthe engine.
Referto Starting The Engineon page16of this manual
for detailedstartinginstructions.
Ignition Switch
The ignitionswitchisactivatedto startthe engine.Insert
keyintothe ignitionswitchandturnclockwiseto the
STARTposition.Releasethe keyintothe ON position
onceenginehasfired.SeeFigure10A.
ignition Switch Module (if Equipped)
Tostart theengine,insertthe keyintothe ignitionswitch
andturnclockwiseto the STARTposition.Releasethe
keyintothe NORMALMOWINGMODEpositiononce
theenginehasfired.
Tostopthe engine,turn theignitionkeycounterclockwise
to the OFFposition.SeeFigurelOB.
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:Priorto operatingthetractor,referto both
Safety Interlock Switches on page14and Starting
The Engine onpage16of thismanualfordetailed
instructionsregardingthe IgnitionSwitchModuleand
operatingthe tractorin REVERSECAUTIONMODE.
FAST--4pm
|l
SLOW __ .,-.--. SLOW
Figure 9
Off n/Lights
Start
Position ©
Normal
Mode
Start
Position
Figure 10
Deck Lift Lever
Foundonyourtractor'srightfender,the deckliftleveris
usedto changethe heightof the cuttingdeck. Touse,
movethe leverto the left, then placeinthe notchbest
suitedforyour application.
i _ i : iii ii I ii i_/I
WARNING
lever leave a running
machine unattended,
Alwaysdisengage
PTO, move shift lever
nto neutral position,
set parking ake, stop
engine and remove key
to preventunintended
startingl
IMPORTANT
Priortooperatingthe
tractor, refer to both
Safety Interlock
Switchesonpag
14and
Engine 0n page i6
ofthismanualior
regardingthe Ignition
Switch Moduleand
operating the tractor in
REVERIE CAUTION
MODEi
13
NOTE:Theparking
brakemustbesetifthe
operatorleavestheseat
withtheenginerun-
ningortheenginewill
automaticallyshutoff.
NOTE:ThePTO(Blade
Engage)levermustbe
inthedisengaged(PTO
:3FF)positionwhen
startingtheengine.
iMPORTANT
Neverforce the shift
lever.Doing so may
result in senous
damage to the tractor's
transmission.
FORWARD
HUETRAL
REVERSE_
Figure 11
Speed Control Lever
Thespeedcontrollever,locatedonthe
left sideof the tractor'sdash console,
allowsyouto regulatethegroundspeed
of the lawntractor.To use,depressthe
clutch-brakepedalandmovethe leveroul
of the parkingbrakenotchandforward
to increasethe tractor'sgroundspeed.
Whenadesiredspeedhasbeenreached
releasethe leverintoan appropriate
notchto maintainthatspeed.
Toslowthe tractor'sgroundspeed,
depresstheclutch-brakepedaland move
the speedcontrolleverrearwardand
releaseit intoa notch.
NOTE:Lawntractorsvaryby modeland
areavailablewitheithera 6- or 7-speed
controllever.
Parking Brake
Tosetthe parkingbrake,fullydepressthe clutch-brake
pedal.Movethe speedcontrolleverallthe waydown
andintothe parkingbrakeposition.Releasethe clutch-
brakepedalto allowthe parkingbraketo engage.
Toreleasethe parkingbrake,depressthe clutch-brake
pedaland movethe speedcontrolleverout of the
notchesto the desiredposition.Releasethe speed
controlleverandthe clutch-brakepedal.
NOTE:Theparkingbrakemustbesetif theoperator
leavesthe seatwiththe enginerunningor the engine
willautomaticallyshutoff.
Clutch-Brake Pedal
Theclutch-brakepedalis locatedonthe left sideof
the lawntractor,alongthe runningboard.Depressthe
clutch-brakepedalpartwaydownwhenslowingthe
tractorbychangingspeeds(Referto SpeedControl
Lever).Depressthe pedalall theway downto engage
thedisc brakeand bringthe tractorto a completestop.
NOTE:Thepedalmustbedepressedto startthe
engine.Referto SafetyInterlockSwitcheson page14.
Shift Lever
The shiftleverislocatedon the leftsideof thefender
andhasthree positions,FORWARD,NEUTRALand
REVERSE.The brakepedalmustbedepressedand
thetractor mustnotbe inmotionwhenthe movingshift
lever.SeeFigure11.
IMPORTANT:Neverforcethe shiftlever.Doingso may
resultinseriousdamageto the tractor'stransmission.
PTO (Blade Engage) Lever
Foundon the tractor'srightfender,the
PTO(bladeengage)leveris usedto
engagepowerto the cuttingdeckor
other(separatelyavailable)attachments.
Tooperate,movethe leverall the way
forward.Movingthe leverall the way
rearwardintothe PTOOFFposition
disengagespowerto the cuttingdeck/
attachment.
NOTE:The PTO(bladeengage)lever
mustbe inthe disengaged(PTOOFF)
positionwhenstartingthe engine.
z
!2
,t
_3
_4
!
_5
o
"#
Safety Interlock Switches
Thistractorisequippedwitha safetyinterlocksystem
for the protectionof the operator.If the interlocksystem
shouldever malfunction,donot operatethe tractor.
ContactanauthorizedMTDservicedealer.
* Thesafetyinterlocksystempreventstheengine
fromcrankingor startingunlessthe parkingbrakeis
engaged,andthe PTO(BladeEngage)leveris inthe
disengaged(OFF)position.
* Theenginewill automaticallyshutoffif the operator
leavesthe seatbeforeengagingthe parkingbrake.
* Theenginewill automaticallyshutoffif the operator
leavesthe tractor'sseatwiththe PTO(BladeEngage)
leverinthe engaged(ON) position,regardlessof
whetherthe parkingbrakeis engaged.
* Theenginewill automaticallyshutoffif the operator
engagesthe PTOwiththe parkingbrakeON.
14
Models without Reverse Caution Mode
Theenginewill automaticallyshutoff if the PTO
(BladeEngage)leveris movedintothe engaged(ON)
positionwiththe shiftleverin Reverse.
Models with Reverse Caution Mode
Withthe ignitionkeyinthe NORMALMOWING
position,the enginewill automaticallyshutoff ifthe
PTO(BladeEngage)leveris movedintothe engaged
(ON) positionwiththe shiftleverin Reverse.
,_ WARNING: Do not operate the
tractor if the interlocksystem
is malfunctioning. This system
was designed for your safety and
protection.
Reverse Caution Mode (if Equipped)
WARNING: Use extreme caution
while operating the tractor in
the REVERSE CAUTIONMODE.
Always look down and behind
before and while backing. Do not
operate the tractor when children
or others are around, Stop the
tractor immediatelyif someone
enters the area.
The REVERSECAUTIONMODEpositionof the key
switchmoduleallowsthetractorto be operatedin
reversewiththe blades(PTO)engaged.
IMPORTANT:Mowinginreverseis notrecommended.
Tousethe REVERSECAUTIONMODE:
IMPORTANT:The operatorMUSTbe seatedinthe
tractorseat.
1. Startthe engineas instructedon page16under
Starting The Engine.
2. Turnthe keyfromthe NORMALMOWING(Green)
positionto the REVERSECAUTIONMODE(Yellow)
positionof the keyswitchmodule. SeeFigure12.
3. Depressthe REVERSEPUSHBUTTON(Orange,
TriangularButton)at the top,rightcornerof the key
switchmodule.The redindicatorlightat thetop,left
cornerof the keyswitchmodulewill be ONwhile
activated.SeeFigure12.
F
Indicator
Light
Stop
Position ©
Reverse
.PushButton
Reverse
CautionMode
Position
Start
Position
Figure 12
4. Onceactivated(indicatorlight ON),the tractorcan
bedriveninreversewiththecutting blades(PTO)
engaged.
5. Alwayslookdownandbehindbeforeandwhile
backingto makesurenochildrenare around.
6. Afterresumingforwardmotion,returnthe keyto the
NORMALMOWINGposition.
IMPORTANT:The REVERSECAUTIONMODEwill
remainactivateduntil:
a. The keyis placedineitherthe NORMALMOWING
positionor STOPposition.
b. The operatorengagesthe parkingbrakebyfully
depressingthe clutch-brakepedalandholdingit
downwhile movingthe speedcontrolleverintothe
PARKBRAKEposition.
Engaging the Parking Brake
Toengagethe parkingbrake:
1. Fullydepressthe clutch-brakepedalandholdit down
withyourfoot.
2. Movethe speedcontrolleverall the waydownand
intothe parkingbrakeposition.
3. Releasethe clutch-brakepedalto allowthe parking
braketo engage.
To releasethe parkingbrake:
1. Depressthe clutch-brakepedalandmovethe speed
controlleverout of the parkingbrakepositionandinto
a desiredspeed.
15
_ _ii ii_i i_iii_ii_ i?_i_i_i_ii_ ii__
WARNING
Do not operate the
tractor if the interlock
system is malfunction-
ing. This system was
designed for your
safety and protection.
Use extreme caution
while operating the
tractor inthe REVERSE
CAUTION MODE.
Always look down and
behind beforeand
while backing. Do not
operate the tractor
when children or oth-
ers are around. Stop
the tractor immediately
f someone enters the
area.
YoUr LaWni
Tractor
WARNING
Keephandsand feet
awayfrom the dis-
charge opening of the
cutting deck.
Do not operate the
tractor if the interlock
system is malfunction-
ing.This system was
designed for your
safety and protection.
if you strike aforeign
object, stop the
engine, disconnect
the spark plug wire(s)
and groundagainst
the engine. Thoroughly
inspectthe machine
for any damage. Repair
the damage before
restarting and operat-
ing.
Setting the Cutting Height
1. Selectthe heightpositionof the cuttingdeckby
placingthe deckliftleverinany of the sixdifferent
cuttingheightnotchesonthe rightsideof the fender.
2. Adjustthe deckwheels,if equipped,so thattheyare
betweenl_-inchandY2-inchabovethe groundwhen
thetractor is ona smooth,flat surfacesuchas a
driveway.
WARNING: Keep hands and feet
away from the discharge open-
ing ofthe cutting deck.
NOTE:Onmodelsso equipped,thedeckwheelsare an
anti-scalpfeatureof thedeckandare notdesignedto
supportthe weightof the cuttingdeck.
Referto Levelingthe Deckonpage20of this manual
for moredetailedinstructionsregardingvariousdeck
adjustments.
Starting the Engine
,,__ WARNING" Do not operate the
tractor if the interlocksystem is
malfunctioning. This system was
designed for your safety and
protection.
I G
AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH
GO UPAND DOWNSLOPES,NOT ACROSS.
AVOIDSUDDENTURNS.
DO NOT OPERATETHEUNITWHEREIT COULDSLIPOR TIE
IF MACHINESTOPSGOINGUPHILL,STOP BLADE(S)AND
BACKDOWNHILLSLOWLY.
DO NOT MOWWHEN CHILDRENOROTHERSAREAROUND.
NEVER CARRYCHILDREN,EVENWITH BLADESOFR
LOOK DOWNAND BEHIND BEFOREAND WHILEBACKING.
KEEP SAFETYDEVICES(GUARDS,SHIELDS,AND SWITCHES)
IN PLACEAND WORKING.
REMOVEOBJECTSTHATCOULDBE THROWNBYTHE
BLADE(S).
KNOW LOCATIONAND FUNCTIONOF ALL CONTROLS.
BE SURE BLADE(S)AND ENGINEARE STOPPEDBEFORE
PLACING HANDSOR FEETNEAR BLADE(S).
BEFORE LEAVINGOPERATOR'SPOSITION,DISENGAGE
BLADE(S), PLACETHE SHIFTLEVERIN NEUTRAL,ENGAGE
BRAKE LOCK, SHUTENGINEOFF AND REMOVEKEY.
READ OPERATOR'S MANUAL
Stopping the Engine
NOTE:Referto the TRACTORSET-UPon page8 of
thismanualfor GasolineandOil fill-upinstructions.
1. Insertthe tractorkeyintothe ignitionswitch.
2. Placethe PTO(BladeEngage)leverinthe disen-
gaged(OFF)position.
3. Engagethetractor'sparkingbrake.
4. Activatethe chokecontrol.
5. Turnthe ignitionkeyclockwiseto the STARTposi-
tion.Afterthe enginestarts,releasethe key.Itwill
returnto the ONposition.
IMPORTANT:DoNOTholdthe keyin the START
positionfor longerthanten secondsat a time. Doingso
maycausedamageto yourengine'selectricstarter.
6. Afterthe enginestarts,deactivatethe chokecontrol
andplacethe throttlecontrolinthe FASTposition.
__ ARNING: if you strike a foreign
object, stop the engine, discon-
nect the spark plug wire(s) and
ground against the engine. Thor-
oughly inspectthe machine for
any damage. Repair the damage
before restarting and operating
1. If the bladesare engaged,placethe PTO(Blade
Engage)leverinthe disengaged(OFF)position.
2. Turnthe ignitionkeycounterclockwiseto the STOP
position.
3. Removethe keyfrom the ignitionswitchto prevent
unintendedstarting.
NOTE:Do NOTleavethe chokecontrolonwhile operat-
ingthe tractor.Doingsowill resultina "rich"fuelmixture
andcausethe engineto runpoorly.
16
Driving The Tractor
WARNING: Avoidsudden starts,
e×-cessivespeed and sudden
stops.
WARNING: Do not leave the seat
of the tractor without first plac-
ingthe PTO(Blade Engage) lever
inthe disengaged (OFF) posi-
tion, 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 backing up to
avoid a back-over accident.
1. Depressthe brakepedalto releasetheparkingbrake
andlet the pedalup.
2. Movethe throttleleverintothe FAST(rabbit)position.
3. Placethe shiftleverin eitherthe FORWARDor
REVERSEposition.
IMPORTANT:DoNOTuse the shift leverto changethe
directionof travelwhenthe tractoris in motion.Always
usethe brakepedalto bringthe tractorto a complete
stopbeforeshifting.
4. Releasethe parkingbrakebydepressingthe clutch-
brakepedalandpositioningthe speedcontrolleverin
desiredposition.
NOTE:Whenoperatingthe unit initially,there willbe little
differencebetweenthe highesttwospeedsuntilafterthe
beltshaveseatedthemselvesinto the pulleysduringthe
break-inperiod.
_ARNING: Before leaving the
operator's positionfor any
reason, disengage the blades,
place the shift lever in neutral,
engage the parking brake, shut
engine off and remove the key.
IMPORTANT:Whenstoppingthe tractorfor anyreason
whileona grasssurface,always:
1. Placethe shift leverin neutral,
2. Engagethe parkingbrake,
3. Shutengineoff andremovethe key.
Doingsowill minimizethe possibilityof havingyourlawn
"browned"by hot exhaustfromyourtractor's running
engine.
If unit stalls withspeedcontrolin highspeed,orif unit
willnot operatewithspeedcontrolleverin a lowspeed
position,proceedas follows:
1. Placeshiftleverin NEUTRAL.
2. Restartengine.
3. Placespeedcontrolleverinhighestspeedposition.
4. Releaseclutch-brakepedalfully.
5. Depressclutch-brakepedal.
6. Placespeedcontrolleverindesiredposition.
7. Placeshiftleverin eitherFORWARDor REVERSE,
andfollownormaloperatingprocedures.
IMPORTANT:First-timeoperatorsshouldusespeed
positions1or2. Becomecompletelyfamiliarwiththe
tractor'soperationandcontrolsbeforeoperatingthe
tractorinhigherspeedpositions.
.
6.
Releaseclutch-brakepedalslowlyto putunit into
motion.
The lawntractoris broughtto a stopbydepressing
theclutch-brakepedal.
WARNING
Avoid sudden starts,
ex-cessive speed and
sudden stops.
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 leavingthe
tractor unattended,
also turn the ignition
key off and remove the
key.
Always look down
and behind before
and while backing up
to avoid aback-over
_ccident.
17
WARNING
Do not mow on inclines
with aslope in excess
of 15 degrees (a rise
of approximately 2-1/2
feet every 10 feet). The
tractor could overturn
and cause serious
injury.
Tohelp avoid blade
;ontact or a thrown
object injury, keep
bystanders, helpers,
;hildren and pets at
least75 feet from the
machine while it is in
operation. Stop ma-
;hine if anyoneenters
the area.
Driving On Slopes
Referto the SLOPEGAUGEon page3 to helpdeter-
mineslopeswhereyou mayoperatethe tractorsafely.
,_ WARNING: Do not mow on
inclineswith aslope in excess
of 15 degrees (a rise of approxi-
mately 2-1/2 feet every 10feet).
The tractor could overturnand
cause serious injury.
• Mowupanddownslopes,NEVERacross.
• Exerciseextremecautionwhenchangingdirection
on slopes.
Watchfor holes,ruts,bumps,rocks,or otherhidden
objects.Uneventerraincouldoverturnthe machine.
Tallgrasscan hideobstacles.
Avoidturnswhendrivingona slope.Ifa turn must
be made,turn downthe slope.Turningupa slope
greatlyincreasesthechanceof a rollover.
Avoidstoppingwhendrivingupa slope.If it is
necessaryto stopwhiledrivingup aslope,startup
smoothlyandcarefullyto reducethe possibilityof
flippingthe tractoroverbackward.
Engaging the Blades
Engagingthe PTO(BladeEngage)transferspowerto
thecutting deckor other(separatelyavailable)attach-
ments.Toengagethe blades,proceedas follows:
1. Movethe throttlecontrolleverto the FAST(rabbit)
position.
2. Graspthe PTO(BladeEngage)leverand pivotit all
thewayforwardinto theengaged(ON) position.
3. Keepthe throttleleverinthe FAST(rabbit)position
for the mostefficientuseof the cuttingdeckorother
(separatelyavailable)attachments
iMPORTANT:Models withReverse Caution Mode:
Theenginewill automaticallyshutoff ifthe PTOis
engagedwiththe shift leverin positionfor reversetravel
withthe ignitionkeyinthe NORMALMOWINGposition.
Models withoutReverseCautionMode:
The PTO(BladeEngage)levermust bein thedisen-
gaged(OFF)positionwhen startingthe engine,when
travelingin reverse,and if the operatorleavesthe seat.
Referto SafetyinterlockSwitcheson page14.
Using the Deck Lift Lever
Toraisethe cuttingdeck,movethe decklift leverto the
left,thenplaceit inthe notchbestsuitedfor yourapplica-
tion.Referto SettingThe CuttingHeightearlierinthis
section.
Mowing
WARNING: To help avoid blade
contact or a thrown object injury,
keep bystanders, helpers, children
and petsat least 75 feet from the
machine while it is in operation.
Stop machine if anyone enters the
area.
Thefollowinginformationwill behelpfulwhenusingthe
cuttingdeckwith yourtractor:
WARNING: Plan your mowing
pattern to avoid discharge of
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 highgroundspeed,especiallyifa
mulchkit orgrasscollectoris installed.
For bestresultsit is recommendedthatthe firsttwo
lapsbe cutwiththe dischargethrowntowardsthe
center.Afterthe first twolaps, reversethedirectionto
throwthe dischargeto the outsidefor the balanceof
cutting.Thiswill givea betterappearanceto the lawn.
Do notcut thegrasstoo short.Shortgrassinvites
weedgrowthandyellowsquicklyindry weather.
Mowingshouldalwaysbedonewiththeengineat full
throttle.
Underheavierconditionsit maybenecessaryto go
backoverthecut areaa secondtimeto get a clean
cut.
18
Do NOTattemptto mowheavybrushandweedsand _ _ " --
extremelytall grass.Yourtractoris designedto mow /A I
awns,NOTdearbrush //I
Keepthe bladessharpand replacethebladeswhen "i.: ....",,, [J
worn.Referto Cutting Blades on page25of this / '
manualfor properbladesharpeninginstructions.
Mulching (If Equipped)
Selectmodelscomeequippedwitha mulchkitwhich
incorporatesspecialblades,alreadystandardonthe
tractor,ina processof recirculatinggrassclippings
repeatedlybeneaththe cuttingdeck.Theultra-fine
clippingsarethen forcedbackintothe lawnwherethey
actas a naturalfertilizer.
Observethe followingpointsfor the bestresultswhen
mulching:
Neverattemptto mulchif the lawnis damp.Wetgrass
tendsto stickto theundersideof the cuttingdeck
preventingpropermulchingof the clippings.
Do NOTattemptto mulchmorethan 1/3the total
heightof the grassor approximately1-1/2inches.
Doingso willcausetheclippingsto clumpup beneath
thedeckand notbe mulchedeffectively.
Maintaina slowgroundspeedto allowthe grass
clippingsmoretimeto effectivelybemulched.
Alwayspositionthe throttlecontrolleverinthe FAST
(rabbit)positionandallowit to remaintherewhile
mowing.Failingto keepthe engineat full throttle
placesstrainon the tractor'sengineand doesnot
allowthe bladesto properlymulchgrass.
Figure 13
NOTE:It is not necessaryto removethe dischargechute
to operatethe mowerwiththe mulchkit installed.
Tooperatethe cuttingdeckwithoutmulching,simply
removethe mulchplugbyunthreadingthe plasticwing
nutwhichfastensit to the cuttingdeck.Thiswill allowthe
clippingsto dischargeout the side.See Figure13.
Headlights
Onsomemodels,the lampsareON wheneverthe
tractor'sengineisrunning.Onothermodels,the
lampsareON wheneverthe ignitionkeyis movedout
of the STOPposition.
Onall models,the lampsturn OFFwhenthe ignition
keyismovedto the STOPposition.
19
Operating
WARNING
Planyour mowing pat-
tern to avoid discharge
of materials toward
roads, sidewalks, by-
standers and the like.
Also, avoid discharging
_aterial against a wall
_r obstruction which
may cause discharged
aterial to ricochet
back toward the
operator.
WARNING
Neverattemptto
make any adjust-
ments while the
engine is running,
exceptwhere speci-
i fied in the operator's
manual.
i Never attempt to
iadjust the brakes
_wh ie the engine
iis running. Always
idisengage PTO, move
::shift lever into neutral
position, stop engine
and remove key to
iprevent unintended
istarting.
Figure 14
1. Withthe tractorparkedona firm,levelsurface,place
the decklift leverin the top notch(highestposition)
androtatethe bladenearestthe dischargechuteso
thatitis parallelwiththe tractor.
2. Measurethe distancefromthe frontofthe bladetip to
the groundandthe rearof the bladetip to the ground.
Thefirst measurementtakenshouldbebetween
1/4"and 3/8" lessthan thesecondmeasurement.
Determinethe approximatedistancenecessaryfor
properadjustmentandproceed,if necessary,to the
nextstep.
3. Locatethejam nut andlocknut onthe frontsideof the
stabilizerbracket.See Figure14.Afterlooseningthe
jam nut:
Tightenthe locknutto raisethefrontof the deck;
Loosenthe locknut to lowerthefrontof the deck.
4. Retightenthe jam nut loosenedearlierwhen proper
adjustmentis achieved.
Figure 15
,_ WARNING: Never attempt to
make any adjustments while
the engine is running, except
where specified in the operator's
manual.
Leveling the Deck
NOTE:Checkthe tractor'stire pressurebeforeperform-
inganydeck levelingadjustments.Referto Tires on
page24 for informationregardingtire pressure.
Front To Rear
Thefrontof the cuttingdeckis supportedbya stabilizer
barthatcanadjustedto levelthe deckfromfrontto rear.
Thefrontof the deckshouldbebetween1/4-inchand
3/8-inchlowerthanthe rearof the deck.Adjustif
necessaryas follows:
Side to Side
If the cuttingdeckappearsto bemowingunevenly,a side
to side adjustmentcan beperformed.Adjustif necessary
as follows:
1. Withthe tractorparkedona firm,levelsurface,place
the decklift leverin the top notch(highestposition)
androtateboth bladesso thattheyareperpendicular
withthe tractor.
2. Measurethe distancefromthe outsideof the leftblade
tip to the groundandthe distancefromtheoutsideof
the rightbladetip to theground.Bothmeasurements
takenshouldbeequal. Ifthey'renot,proceedto the
nextstep.
3. Loosen,butdo NOTremove,the hexcap screwon
the leftdeckhangerbracket.SeeFigure15.
4. Balancethe deckby usingawrenchto turn the
adjustmentgear (foundimmediatelybehindthe hex
cap screwjust loosened)clockwise/uporcounter-
clockwise/down.Thedeckis properlybalancedwhen
bothbladetip measurementstakenearlierareequal.
5. Retightenthe hex capscrewonthe left deckhanger
bracketwhenproperadjustmentis achieved.
Parking Brake Adjustment
_ARNING" Never attempt to ad-
just the brakes while the engine is
running. Always disengage PTO,
move shift lever into neutral posi-
tion, stop engine and remove key
to prevent unintended starting.
If the tractordoes notcometo a completestopwhenthe
brakepedalis completelydepressed,or if the tractor's
rearwheelscan rollwiththe parkingbrakeapplied,the
2O
brakeis in needof adjustment.Thebrakedisccan be
foundon the rightsideof thetransmissionin the rearof
the tractor.Adjustif necessaryas follows:
1. Lookingat thetransmissionfromthe right sideof the
tractor,locatethe compressionspringandbrakedisc.
See Figure16.
2. Loosen,but do NOTremove,the hex nutfoundon the
rightsideof the brakeassembly.SeeFigure16.
3. Usingafeelergauge,setthe gapbetweenthe brake
discandthe brakepuckat .011".
4. Re-tightenthe hexnut loosenedearlier.
Seat Adjustment
_ARNING: Before operating this
machine, make sure the seat is
engaged in the seat stop, stand
behind the machine and pull back
on seat until fully engaged into
stop.
Standard Seat
Toadjustthe positionof the seat,loosenthe twohex
screwson the bottomof the seat.Slidethe seatforward
or backwardas desired.Retightenthe twoscrews.See
Figure17.
Knob Adjustment Seat (if so equipped)
Toadjustthe positionof the seaton modelsso equipped,
loosenthe twoknobson the bottomof theseat. See
Figure18.Slidethe seatforwardor backwardas desired.
Retightenthe twoknobs.
Quick Adjust Seat (if so equipped)
Toadjustthe positionof the seaton modelsequipped
witha seatadjustmentlever,movethe seatadjustment
lever(locatedundertheseat)to the leftand slidethe seat
forwardor rearward.SeeFigure19.Makesureseatis
lockedintopositionbeforeoperatingthe tractor.
Set gap
Figure 16
Hex Nut
Figure 17
.....J
\
Figure 19 Figure 18
21
Adjusting
urLawn
WARNING
Before operating this
machine, make sure
the seat is engaged in
the seat stop, stand
behind the machine
and pull back on seat
until fully engaged into
stop.
WARNING
any maintenance or
repairs,disengage
PTO, move shift lever
intoneutral position,
set parkingbrake, stop
engine and remove key
o preventu nintended
_tarting!
Before lubricatingi
repairing, or inspect,
ing,always disengage
PTOImove shift lever
into neutral position,
set parking brake, stop
engineandremovekey
to prevent unintended
startingl
NOTE:Dependingon
the engine model found
Onyour tractorl itmay
be necessary to remove
the tractor!s side panel
in OrdertOreplacethe
oil filter (if so equipped):
Figure 20
,_ WARNING: Before performing
any maintenance or repairs,
disengage PTO, move shift lever
into neutral position, set parking
brake, stop engine and remove
key to prevent unintended
starting.
Engine
Referto the EngineOperator/Owner Manualfor
engine maintenance instructions.
Checkengineoil levelbeforeeachuseas instructed
inthe EngineOperator/OwnerManualpackedwithyour
unit.Follow the instructionscarefully.
Changing Engine Oil
NOTE:Dependingonthe enginemodelfoundon your
tractor,it maybenecessaryto removethe tractor'sside
panelin orderto replacethe oilfilter(if so equipped).
Fordrainingoilfromthe engine'scrankcaseof select
modeltractors,a plasticoildrainsleeveis packedwith
thisOperator'sManual.Todrainthe oil, proceedas
follows:
1. Unscrewthe oilfill capand removethe dipstickfrom
theoil fill tube.
2. Snapthe smallendof oildrainsleeveontothe oil
sump.SeeFigure20.
3. Removedrainpluganddrainoil intoa suitable
containerwitha capacityof no lessthan64oz.
4. Servicethe oilfilter (if soequipped)as instructedin
the separateEngineOperator/OwnerManualpacked
withyourunit.
Performthe abovestepsinthe oppositeorderafteroil has
finisheddraining.
5. Refillthe enginewith newmotoroil as instructedinthe
EngineOperator/OwnerManualpackedwithyour unit.
IMPORTANT:Referto the EngineOperator/Owner
Manualpackedwithyourunit for informationregardingthe
quantityandproperweightof motoroil.
Air Cleaner
Servicethe pre-cleaner,if soequipped,andcartridge/air
cleanerelementas instructedin the EngineOperator/
OwnerManualpackedwithyour unit.
Spark Plug(s)
Thesparkplug(s)shouldbecleanedand thegap reset
oncea season.Sparkplugreplacementis recommended
at the startof each mowingseason.Referto the Engine
Operator/OwnerManualfor correctplugtypeandgap
specifications.
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 start-
ing.
Engine
Lubricatethe enginewithmotoroil as instructedinthe
EngineOwnerManualpackedwith yourunit.
Pivot Points & Linkage
Lubricateall the pivotpointsonthe drivesystem,parking
brakeand lift linkageat leastoncea seasonwithlightoil.
Rear Wheels
The rearwheelsshouldbe removedfromthe axlesonce
a season.Lubricatethe axlesandthe rimswell withan
all-purposegreasebeforere-installingthem.
Front Axles
Eachendof the tractor'sfrontpivotbarmaybeequipped
witha greasefitting.Lubricatewitha greasegunafter
every25 hoursof tractoroperation.
Cleaning the Engine And Deck
Anyfuel oroil spilledonthe machineshouldbe wiped
off promptly.Do NOTallowdebristo accumulatearound
the coolingfinsof the engineor onany otherpart of the
machine.
IMPORTANT:The useof a pressurewasherto cleanyour
tractoris NOTrecommended.It maycausedamageto
electricalcomponents,spindles,pulleys,bearingsor the
engine.
22
Deck Wash System TM
A hexplugcan befoundonyourtractor'sdecksurface.
SeeFigure21.
Thisplugcanbe replacedwitha waterport to beusedas
part of a separately-availabledeckwashsystem.
Usethe DeckWashSystemTM to rinsegrassclippings
fromthe deck'sundersideandpreventthe buildupof
corrosivechemicals.
NOTE:Referto page28for informationregardingthis
andotherseparately-availableattachments& acces-
soriesfor yourtractor.
Cutting Deck Removal
NOTE:Modelsequippedwitha 38-inchdeckhaveone
deckidlerpulley.Modelsequippedwitha 42-inchdeck
havetwodeckidlerpulleys.
To removethecuttingdeck, proceedas follows:
1. Placethe PTO(BladeEngage)leverinthe disen-
gaged(OFF)positionandengagethe parkingbrake.
2. Lowerthe deckby movingthedeck liftleverinto the
bottomnotchonthe rightfender.
3. Removethe beltfromaroundthetractor'sengine
pulleyandidlerpulley(s).Referto Changingthe Deck
Belton page26 for detailedinstructions.
4. Lookingat the cuttingdeckfromtheleft sideof the
tractor,locatethe hairpinclip thatsecuresthe deck
supportrodon the rearleftsideof the deck. See
Figure22.
5. Removethe hairpinclipthat securesthedeck
supportrod, andcarefullyremovethe decksupport
fromthe decklift arm.
6. Repeattheabovestepson thetractor'srightside.
7. Movethe decklift leverintothe top notchonthe right
fenderto raisethe deckliftarmsupandout of the
way.
8. Carefullyremovethe PTOcablefromthe rearof
the cuttingdeckby removingthe hair pinclip which
securesit. Removethe springfromthe deckidler
bracket.SeeFigure23.
9. Gentlyslidethe cuttingdeck towardthe frontof the
tractorallowingthe hooksonthe deckto release
themselvesfromthedeckstabilizerrod.
10.Gentlyslidethe cuttingdeck(fromthe rightside)out
fromunderneaththe tractor.
Figure 21
\
Figure 22
Figure 23
23
tOTE: Models
equipped with a 38-inch
deck have one deck
idler pulley.Models
eau_ppedwith a 42-inch
deck havetwo deck
idler pulleys.
Tires Jump Starting
WARNING
Never exceed the
maximuminflation
pressure shownon the
sidewall of the tire.
Batteries give off an
explosive gas while
charging. Charge bat=
tery inawellventilated
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.
Alwaysuse a fuse with
the same amperage
capacity for replace=
merit.
,_ WARNING: Never exceedthe ,_
maximuminflation pressure
shown on the sidewall of tire.
The recommendedoperatingtire pressureis:
Approximately10psifor the reartires
Approximately14psi for the fronttires
IMPORTANT:Referto the tire sidewallforexacttire
manufacturer'srecommendedormaximumpsi.Do not
overinflate.Uneventirepressurecouldcausethe cutting
deckto mowunevenly.
Battery
The batteryis sealedandis maintenance-free.Acid
levelscannotbechecked.
Alwayskeepthe batterycablesandterminalsclean
andfreeof corrosivebuild-up.
Aftercleaningthe batteryandterminals,apply a light
coatof petroleumjellyor greaseto bothterminals.
Alwayskeepthe rubberboot positionedoverthe
positiveterminalto preventshorting.
IMPORTANT:Ifremovingthe batteryfor anyreason,
disconnectthe NEGATIVE(Black)wire fromit'sterminal
first,followedby the POSITIVE(Red)wire.When
re-installingthe battery,alwaysconnectthe POSITIVE
(Red)wire itsterminalfirst,followedby the NEGATIVE
(Black)wire.Becertainthatthewiresareconnectedto
thecorrectterminals;reversingthemcouldchangethe
polarityandresultindamageto your engine'salternat-
ingsystem.
Charging
If thetractorhas not beenput into usefor anextended
periodof time,chargethe batterywithanautomotive-
type 12-voltchargerfora minimumof one hour at six
amps.
WARNING: Batteries give off an
explosive gas while charging.
Charge battery in a well venti-
lated 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.
WARNING:When removing or
installingthe battery, follow
these instructionsto prevent the
screwdriver from shorting against
the frame.
IMPORTANT:Neverjump yourtractor'sdeadbatterywith
the batteryof a runningvehicle.
1. Connectendof onejumpercableto the positive
terminalof the goodbattery,thenthe otherendto the
positiveterminalof the deadbattery.
2. Connectthe otherjumpercable to the negative
terminalof the goodbattery,thento the frame of the
unit with the dead battery.
_ WARNING" Failure to use this
procedure could cause sparking,
and the gas in either battery could
explode.
Cleaning
Cleanthe batteryby removingit fromthe tractorand
washingwitha bakingsodaandwatersolution.If neces-
sary,scrapethe batteryterminalswitha wire brushto
removedeposits.Coatterminalsandexposedwiringwith
greaseor petroleumjelly to preventcorrosion.
Battery Failures
Somecommoncausesfor batteryfailureare:
• incorrectinitialactivation • undercharging
• overcharging • corrodedconnections
• freezing
These failures are NOTcovered by your tractor's
warranty.
Fuse
One20AMPfuseis installedin yourtractor'swiring har-
nessto protectthe tractor'selectricalsystemfromdamage
causedby excessiveamperage.
If the electricalsystemdoesnot function,oryourtractor's
enginewill notcrank,first checkto be certainthatthe fuse
has notblown.Itcan befoundunderthehoodmounted
behindthe dashpanelon the rightside.
,_ WARNING: Always use a fuse with
the same amperage capacity for
replacement.
24
S
Cutting Blades f
WARNING: Be sure to shut
the engine off, remove ignition
key, disconnect the spark plug
wire(s) and groundagainst the
engine to prevent unintended
starting before removing the cut-
ring blade(s) for sharpening or
replacement. Protect your hands
by using heavy glovesor a rag to
grasp the cutting blade.
WARNING: Periodically inspect
the blade spindles for cracks or
damage, especially if you strike a
foreign object. Replace immedi-
ately if damaged.
The bladesmayberemovedas follows.
1. Removethe deckfrombeneaththe tractor,(referto
CuttingDeckRemovalon page23) thengentlyflip
thedeckoverto exposeitsunderside.
2. Placea blockof wood betweenthe centerdeckhous-
ingbaffleandthe cuttingbladeto act as a stabilizer,
SeeFigure24,
3, Usea 15/16"wrenchto removethe hexflangenut
thatsecuresthe bladeto the spindleassembly.See
Figure24,
4. Toproperlysharpenthe cuttingblades,removeequal
amountsof metalfrombothends of the bladesalong
thecutting edges,parallelto the trailingedge,at a
250to 300angle,
IMPORTANT:Ifthe cuttingedgeof the bladehasalready
beensharpenedto within15/8" fromtheedge,or if any
metalseparationis present,replacethe bladeswith new
ones,SeeFigure25,
It isimportantthateachcuttingbladeedgebeground
equallyto maintainproperbladebalance.
A poorlybalancedbladewill causeexcessive
vibrationand maycausedamageto thetractorand
resultinpersonalinjury,The bladecan betestedby
balancingit ona roundshaftscrewdriver.Grindmetal
fromthe heavysideuntil it balancesevenly.
Figure 24
1-5/8 inch
Figure 25
Whenreplacingthe blade,besureto installthe blade
withtheside of the blademarked"Bottom"(or with
apart numberstampedinit) facingthe groundwhen
themoweris in the operatingposition.
IMPORTANT:Useatorquewrenchto tightenthe blade
spindlehexflange nutto between70foot-poundsand90
foot-pounds.
WARNING
Be sure to shut the
engine off, remove
ignition key, discon-
nect the spark plug
wire(s) and ground
against the engine to
prevent unintended
starting before remov-
ing the cutting blade(s)
for sharpening or
replacement. Protect
your hands by using
heavy glovesor a rag
to grasp the cutting
blacle,
Periodically inspect
the blade spindles for
cracks or damage,
especially if you strike
a foreign object.
Replace immediately if
damaged.
25
i ioto°i°g
WARNING
Be sure to shutthe
engine off, remove ig-
nition key, disconnect
the spark plug wire(s)
and groundagainst
the engine to prevent
unintendedstarting
before removingthe
belt(s).
Avoidthe possibility of
apinching injury.Do
not placeyour fingers
on the idler springor
between the belt and a
pulleywhile removing
the belt.
Figure 26
Changing the Deck Belt & PTO Belt
_ WARNING" Be sure to shut
the engine off, remove ignition
key,disconnect the spark plug
wire(s) and groundagainst the
engine to prevent unintended
starting before removingthe
belt(s).
All beltson yourtractorare subjectto wearand should
be replacedif anysignsof weararepresent.
IMPORTANT:TheV-beltsfoundon yourtractorare
speciallydesignedto engageanddisengagesafely.A
substitute(non-OEM)V-beltcan bedangerousby not
disengagingcompletely.Fora properworkingmachine,
usefactoryapprovedbelts.
Tochangeor replacethe deckbelt andPTObelton your
tractor,proceedasfollows:
1. Lowerthe deck by movingthe decklift leverinto the
bottomnotchonthe rightfender.
2. Removethebelt guardsby removingthe self-tapping
screwsthatfastenthemto the deck.
3. Removethebelt keeperrodfromaroundthe engine
pulley.
4. Inserta 3/8"-driveratchetwrench(setto loosen)into
the squareholefoundin the idler bracketonthe left
sideof the deck'ssurface.SeeFigure26.
5. Graspthe ratchet'shandleandpivotit towardthe front
of the tractorto relievetensiononthe belt.
6. Withbelttensionrelieved,carefullyremovethe belt
from around the left-hand spindlepulley.
IMPORTANT:Carefullyallowthe ratchetto pivotrearward
beforeremovingit fromthe squarehole.
_ WARNING" Avoidthe possibility
of a pinchinginjury. Do not place
your fingers on the idler spring
or between the belt and a pulley
while removing the belt.
7. Removethedeckbelt fromaroundall pulleys,including
the deckidlerpulley.
8. Routethe newbeltsas shownin andFigure27 and28.
9. Remountthe beltguardsremovedearlier.
Changing the Transmission Drive
Belts
NOTE:Severalcomponentsmustbe removedand
specialtools(i.e.air/impactwrench)in orderto change
the tractor'sdrivebelts. Seean authorizedMTDService
Dealerto haveyour drivebeltsreplacedorphone
CustomerSupportas instructedon page2 for information
onorderinga ServiceManual.
26
IdlerBracketEnginePu_
42-Inch Deck_
©
Deck Idler Pulleys
.. j
Figure 26
f
Engine Pulley 38-Inch Deck_
Idler Bracket
©
Deck Idler Pulleys
Figure 27
Maintaining
Your Lawn
Tractor
27
WARNING
Drainfuel only into an
approvedcontainer
outdoors,away from
an open flame. Al-
low engine to cool
Extinguishcigarettes,
cigars, pipes, and
other sources of igni-
tion priorto draining
fuel.
Never store the ma-
chine or fuel container
indoorswhere there is
an open flame, spark
or pilot lightsuch
as on water heater,
furnace, clothes dryer
or other gas appliance.
Cleanandlubricatethe tractoras instructedinSection
6: MAiNTAiNiNGYOURLAWNTRACTORon page19
of thismanualbeforestoringfor anextendedperiod.
_ARNING" Drainfuel only into
an approved containeroutdoors,
away from an open flame. Allow
engine to cool. Extinguish
cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and
other sources of ignition prior to
drainingfuel.
Followthe instructionsinthe Service, Storage &
Specifications sectionof the EngineOperator/Owner
Manualfor properenginecare priorto storingyourtractor.
WARNING: Never store the
__ 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.
Attachments &Accessories
Thefollowingattachmentsandaccessoriesarecompatiblefor ModelSeries700LawnTractors.Seethe retailer
fromwhichyou purchasedyourtractor,an authorizedMTDServiceDealeror phone(800) 800-7310for information
regardingpriceandavailability.
NOTE:ModelSeries700LawnTractorsare NOTdesignedfor usewithany typeof ground-engagingattachments
(e.g.tiller or plow).Useof thistypeof equipmentWILLvoidthe tractor'swarranty.
MODEL I DESCRiPTiON
0EM-190-032 42-inchTwo-stageSnowThrower
OEM-190416 ....38/42-inchDeckMulchKit
0EM-190-180 TwinBaggerGrassCollector(for 38/42-inchDecks)
0EM-190-183' DeckWheelKit
0EM-190-218 RearWheelWeightKit
OEM-190-607' DeluxeTract0rsUnshade
OEM-190-658 Tire Chains,20x 8 Tires
OEM-190:672 GrilleGUard(mountsonfrontoftractor)
OEM-190-833 42-inchFrontDozerBlade
490_900-0025 "DeckWashKit
* Notcompatiblewithtractorsequippedwitha GrassCollector
28
NOTE:i. eOTHMODES,WHENOP_e_TO_LeavesSEAT,e_GINeWlL_
STOP_NLES__R_I_QeP_KEISSETANDe_ossme_ISEN_ED.
IF UNIT STALLS W]TH SPEED CONTROL IN HIGH SPEED, OR IF UNIT
WILL NOT OPERATE WITH SPEED CONTROL LEVER IN _LOW SPEED
POSITION, PROCEED _S FOLLOWS:
ASSEMBLE CHUTE DEFLECTORTO THIS UNIT BEFOREOPERATING.
29
WARNING
This symbolpoints
out importantsafety
instructionswhich, if
not followed,could
endangerthe personal
safetyand/or property
of yourselfandothers.
Readandfollow all
instructionsinthis
manualbeforeat-
temptingto operate
this machine.Failure
to complywiththese
instructionsmay result
in personalinjury.When
you see this symbol.
HEED ITS WARNING!
Your Responsibility
Restrictthe use
of this power machine
to persons who read,
understand
and follow the warnings
and instructions
in this manual
and onthe machine.
Trou
Shootin
e
For repairs beyond
the minor adjust-
ments listed here,
contact an authorized
service dealer.
Pro bl em Ca use Remedy
Enginefails to start I 1 PTOengaged. 1 PlacePTOknob(orlever)in
Idisengaged(OFF)position.
I 2. Sparkplugw re(s)disconnected. 2. Connectwire(s)to sparkplug(s).
3 Fueltankem t or stalefuel 3 F tankwth c ean freshgaso ne
py .
I 4 Chokenot actvated 4. Pullout the CHOKEcontrol(if so
I " 'equipped)orplacethe throttle
I controlinCHOKEposition.
I 5. Faultysparkplug, 5. Clean,adjustgap,or replace
I 6. Blockedfuel line. 6. Cleanfuel lineor replacefuelfilter,
I 7. Engineflooded, if so equipped.
I I 7 Crankenginewiththrott e n FAST
I position.
I 8 Parkngbrakenotengaged I 8. Engageparkingbrake.
I 9. Throttlecontro levernotin correct , 9. Placethrottleleverto FAST
I startingposition. _ position.
Engineruns erratic 1, UnitrunningwithCHOKEapplied, 1, PushCHOKEcontrol(if so
2, Sparkplugwire(s)loose,
3, Blockedfuellineor stalefuel,
4, Ventingas cap plugged,
5, Waterordirt infuel system,
6. Dirty aircleaner.
_ J _ =_
30
equipped)in,or movethe throttle
controlout of the CHOKEposition.
2. Connectandtightenspark
plugwire(s).
3. Cleanfuel line;fill tankwith clean,
fresh(lessthan30 daysold)
gasoline.Replacefuel filter,ifso
equipped.
4. Clearventor replaceif damaged.
5. Drainfuel tank. Refillwith
freshfuel.
6. Replaceaircleanercartridge/ele-
mentor cleanpre-cleaner,if so
equipped.
_ i
Problem Cause Remedy
Engineoverheats !i Engine Oi!levellow. !i Fi!!Ciankcasewith pr0pero!!,
21Air flowrestricted. 2 c eangrassclippingsanddebiis
fromaroundthe engines €00!ing
..... finsandblowerhousing.
Enginehesitates at 1. Sparkplug(s)gaptooclose, 1, Removesparkplug(s)and reset
high RPM the gap,
Idles poorl 1 Sparkpug(s)foued fautyorgap 1 Repacesparkpug(s)Setpug(s)
y ' ' t
too wide_ gap:
2 Dirtyair €eaner Replaceair cleanercaitr dgdele:
mentor cleanpre:cleaner if So
equipped.
Excessive 1. Cuttingbladelooseorunbalanced. 1. Tightenbladeandspindle.Balanc_
Vibration blade.
2. Damagedorbentcuttingblade. 2. Replaceblade.
Mower will not 11 Enginespeedtoo iowl 1; P!acethrott!e€ontrolin FAST
ohgrass (If wet grass (rabbit)p0siti°n.
Equipped) 2.Donot m0wwhengrass s wet
wat unt aterto cut
3. Excessivelyhighgrassl ,,,
_. Mowonce a! a nigncuttingneight,
then mowagainat desiredheight
or makea narrowerCuttingpath,
Duiiblade &sharpen or repiacebiade:
Unevencut 1. Decknotbalancedproperly. 1. Performside-to-sidedeckadjust-
2. Dullblade, ment.
2. Sharpenor replaceblade.
3. Uneventire pressure.
3. Checktire pressureinall fourtires.
rou
31
Use this page to make
notes and write down
important information:
32
33
U_e_¸pagetoma_
notesandwritedown
important information:
i
i_il i_i i i _II _i _ i _ i i ii
,i!_ii_i_i!i_ii_ii_!_i_i_ii_i_i_i_i_i_i_i_i_i_i_i_i_i_i_i_i_I
34
CALIFORNIA EMISSION CONTROL WARRANTY STATEMENT
YOUR WARRANTY RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS
The CaliforniaAir ResourcesBoardandMTDConsumerGroupInc are pleasedto explaintheevaporativeemissioncontrolsystemwarrantyonyour 2006 lawn
mower.In California,new lawnmowermust be designed,builtand equippedto meet theState'sstringentanti-smogstandards.MTDConsumerGroupInc must
warrantthe EECSon yourlawn mowerfor the periodof time listedbelow providedthere has beenno abuse,neglector impropermaintenanceof your lawnmower.
YourEECSmayincludeparts suchas thecarburetor,fuel-injectionsystem,the ignitionsystem,catalyticconverter,fueltanks,fuel lines,fuelcaps,valves,
canisters,filters,vaporhoses,clamps,connectors,and otherassociatedemission-relatedcomponents.
Where a warrantable condition exists, MTDConsumer Group Inc will repair your lawn mower at no cost to you includingdiagnosis, parts and labor.
MANUFACTURER'S WARRANTY COVERAGE:
Thisevaporativeemissioncontrolsystemis warrantedfor two years.If any evaporativeemission-relatedpart on yourequipmentis defective,the partwill be
repairedor replacedby MTDConsumerGroupInc.
OWNER'S WARRANTY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Asthe lawn mowerowner,youare responsiblefor performanceof the requiredmaintenancelistedin yourowner'smanual. MTDConsumerGroupIncrecom-
mendsthat youretainall receiptscoveringmaintenanceonyour lawnmower,but MTDConsumerGroup Inccannotdenywarrantysolelyforthe lack of receipts.
Asthe lawn mowerowner,you shouldhoweverbeawarethat MTDConsumerGroupInc maydeny youwarrantycoverageif your lawnmoweror a part hasfailed
dueto abuse,neglect,orimpropermaintenanceor unapprovedmodifications.
Youare responsiblefor presentingyourlawn mowerto MTDConsumerGroupInc'sdistributioncenteror servicecenteras soonas the problemexists.The
warrantyrepairsshouldbecompletedin a reasonableamountof time, notto exceed30 days.If you havea questionregardingyour warrantycoverage,youshould
contactthe MTDConsumerGroupIncService Departmentat 1-800-800-7310.
GENERAL EMISSIONS WARRANTY COVERAGE:
MTDConsumerGroupIncwarrantsto the ultimatepurchaserand eachsubsequentpurchaserthat the lawnmower is:Designed,built andequippedso as to
conformwithall applicableregulations;andfreefrom defectsin materialsand workmanshipthat causethe failure of a warrantedpartto beidenticalin allmaterial
respectsto that part as describedin MTDConsumerGroupInc'sapplicationfor certification.
The warrantyperiodbeginson thedate the lawnmoweris deliveredto an ultimatepurchaseror firstplaced into service.Thewarrantyperiodis two years.
Subjecttocertainconditionsand exclusionsas statedbelow,the warrantyonemission-relatedparts isas follows:
1. Anywarrantedpartthat is notscheduledfor replacementas requiredmaintenanceinthe writteninstructionssupplied,is warrantedfor thewarrantyperiod
statedabove.Ifthe part fails duringthe periodof warrantycoverage,the partwillbe repairedor replacedby MTDConsumerGroupInc accordingto subsection
(4)below.Anysuchpart repairedor replacedunderwarrantywillbe warrantedfor the remainderof the period.
2. Any warrantedpart that is scheduledonly for regularinspectioninthe writteninstructionssupplied is warrantedfor thewarranty periodstated above.Anysuch
partrepairedor replacedunderwarrantywill be warrantedfor the remainingwarrantyperiod.
3. Any warrantedpart that is scheduledfor replacementas requiredmaintenancein the written instructionssuppliedis warrantedforthe periodof time beforethe
firstscheduledreplacementdatefor that part.If the partfails beforethe firstscheduledreplacement,the partwillbe repairedor replacedby MTDConsumer
GroupInc accordingto subsection(4) below.Anysuch partrepairedor replacedunderwarrantywillbe warrantedforthe remainderof the periodpriorto the
firstscheduledreplacementpointfor the part.
4. Repairor replacementof any warrantedpart underthe warrantyprovisionshereinmustbe performedat a warrantystationat no chargeto theowner.
5. Notwithstandingthe provisionsherein,warrantyservicesorrepairswill be providedat all of our distributioncentersthat arefranchisedto servicethe subject
enginesor equipment.
6. The lawnmowerowner willnot be chargedfor diagnosticlaborthat is directlyassociatedwithdiagnosisof a defective,emission-relatedwarrantedpart,
providedthat such diagnosticwork is performedat a warrantystation.
7. MTDConsumerGroupInc is liablefor damagesto otherengineor equipmentcomponentsproximatelycausedby a failure underwarrantyof any warranted
part.
8. Throughoutthe lawnmowerwarrantyperiodstated above,MTDConsumerGroupIncwill maintaina supplyof warrantedpartssufficientto meetthe expected
demandfor suchparts.
9. Anyreplacementpart maybe usedinthe performanceof any warrantymaintenanceorrepairsand mustbe providedwithoutchargeto the owner.Suchusewill
notreducethe warrantyobligationsof MTDConsumerGroupInc.
10.Add-onor modifiedpartsthat are notexemptedbythe Air ResourcesBoardmaynot beused.The useof any non-exemptedadd-onor modifiedpartsby the
ultimatepurchaserwillbe groundsfor disallowinga warrantyclaims.MTDConsumerGroup Incwill not be liableto warrantfailuresof warrantedparts caused
bythe use of a non-exemptedadd-onor modifiedpart.
WARRANTED PARTS:
The repairor replacementof any warrantedpart otherwiseeligiblefor warrantycoveragemaybe excludedfromsuch warrantycoverageif MTDConsumerGroup
Inc demonstratesthat the lawnmowerhas beenabused,neglected,or improperlymaintained,andthat suchabuse,neglect,or impropermaintenancewasthe
directcauseof the needfor repairor replacementof the part. Thatnotwithstanding,any adjustmentof a componentthathas a factory installed,and properly
operating,adjustmentlimitingdeviceis still eligiblefor warrantycoverage.Thefollowingemissionwarrantyparts listarecovered: FuelLine,Fuel LineClamps
MANUFACTURER'S LiMiTED WARRANTY FOR
The limitedwarrantysetforthbelowisgivenby MTDLLCwithrespect
to newmerchandisepurchasedandusedin the UnitedStates,its
possessionsandterritories.
"MTD"warrantsthisproductagainstdefectsinmaterialandworkman-
shipfor a periodof two (2)yearscommencingonthe date of original
purchaseandwill,at itsoption,repairor replace,freeof charge,any
part foundto bedefectiveinmaterialsorworkmanship.Thislimitedwar-
rantyshallonlyapply if thisproducthasbeenoperatedand maintained
inaccordancewiththe Operator'sManualfurnishedwiththe product,
andhas notbeensubjectto misuse,abuse,commercialuse,neglect,
accident,impropermaintenance,alteration,vandalism,theft,fire,water,
ordamagebecauseof otherperilor naturaldisaster.Damageresulting
fromthe installationor useof any part,accessoryor attachmentnot
approvedby MTDfor use withthe product(s)coveredbythis manual
willvoid yourwarrantyas to any resultingdamage.
Normalwearpartsarewarrantedto befree fromdefectsinmaterialand
workmanshipfor a periodof thirty (30)daysfromthe dateof purchase.
Normalwearpartsinclude,butare notlimitedto itemssuchas: batter-
ies,belts,blades,bladeadapters,grassbags,riderdeckwheels,seats,
snowthrowerskidshoes,shaveplates,augerspiralrubberandtires.
NOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE: Warranty service is available,WITH
PROOFOF 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 44136-
0019, or call 1-800-800-7310or 1-330-220-4683 or log on to our
Web site at www.mtdproducts.com.
Thislimitedwarrantydoesnotprovidecoverageinthe followingcases:
a. Theengineor componentpartsthereof.Theseitemsmaycarrya
separatemanufacturer'swarranty.Referto applicablemanufacturer's
warrantyfor termsandconditions.
b. Logsplitterpumps,valves,andcylindershavea separateoneyear
warranty.
c. Routinemaintenanceitemssuchas lubricants,filters,blade
sharpening,tune-ups,brakeadjustments,clutchadjustments,deck
adjustments,andnormaldeteriorationof the exteriorfinishdueto
useor exposure.
d. Servicecompletedby someoneotherthananauthorizedservice
dealer.
e. MTDdoesnot extendanywarrantyfor productssoldor exported
outsideof the UnitedStates,its possessionsandterritories,except
thosesoldthroughMTD'sauthorizedchannelsof exportdistribution.
f. ReplacementpartsthatarenotgenuineMTDparts.
g. Transportationchargesandservicecalls.
No impliedwarranty,includingany impliedwarrantyof mer-
chantabilityof fitness for a particular purpose,applies after the
applicable periodof express written warranty above as to the
partsas identified.No otherexpresswarranty, whetherwritten or
oral, except as mentioned above,givenby any personor entity,
includingadealeror retailer, withrespect to any product,shall
bindMTD.Duringthe periodof the warranty,the exclusiveremedy
is repairor replacementof the productas setforth above.
Theprovisionsas set forth inthis warrantyprovidethe soleand
exclusiveremedy arising from the sale.MTDshallnot be liable
for incidentalor consequentiallossor damage including,without
limitation, expensesincurredfor substituteor replacementlawn
careservicesor for rentalexpensesto temporarily replacea
warranted product.
Somestatesdo notallowthe exclusionor limitationof incidentalor
consequentialdamages,or limitationsonhowlongan impliedwarranty
lasts,sothe aboveexclusionsor limitationsmaynot applyto you.
Innoeventshallrecoveryof any kindbegreaterthanthe amountof the
purchasepriceof the productsold.Alterationof safetyfeatures of
the product shallvoid this warranty. Youassumethe riskand liability
for loss,damage,or injuryto you andyourpropertyand/orto othersand
theirpropertyarisingout of the misuseor inabilityto usethe product.
Thislimitedwarrantyshallnot extendto anyoneotherthan theoriginal
purchaserorto the personfor whomitwas purchasedas a gift.
HOWSTATELAWRELATESTOTHIS WARRANTY:This limited
warrantygivesyou specificlegalrights,and youmayalsohaveother
rightswhichvaryfromstateto state.
IMPORTANT:OwnermustpresentOriginalProofof Purchaseto obtain
warrantycoverage.
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136=0019; Phone: 1=800=800=7310, 1=330=220=4683

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