760 THRU 779 MTD lawn tractor User Manual

Safety • AssembJy • Operation • Adjustment • Maintenance • TroubJeshooting • Warranty

A OR'S MANUAL

Transmatic Lawn Tractor- Models 760=779

iMPORTANT

READ SAFETY RULES AND iNSTRUCTiONS CAREFULLY BEFORE OPERATION

Warning: This unitis equippedwithan internalcombustionengineandshouldnot beusedon or nearany unimprovedforest-covered,brush-

coveredor grass-coveredland unlessthe engine'sexhaustsystemis equippedwitha sparkarrestermeetingapplicablelocalor state laws (if any).

If a sparkarresteris used,it shouldbe maintainedin effectiveworkingorderby the operator.Inthe Stateof Californiathe aboveis requiredbylaw

(Section4442of the CaliforniaPublicResourcesCode). Otherstatesmayhavesimilarlaws.Federallawsapplyon federallands.A sparkarrester

for the muffleris availablethroughyournearestengineauthorizedservicedealeror contactthe servicedepartment,RO. Box361131Cleveland,

Ohio44136-0019.

FORMNO.769-01598A

PRINTEDIN U.S.A. MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHiO 44136=0019 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 ....................................................... 3

Safe Operation Practices ................................... 4

Setting Up Your 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 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

_ www.mtdproducts,com

Serial Number

MTD LLC

P.O. BOX 361131

CLEVELAND, OH 44136

330=220=4683

800=800=731 0

Customer Support

Please do NOTreturn the unit to the retailer from which it was

purchased, without first contacting Customer 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. Phonea Customer Support Representative at (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 more information.

Product Registration

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Sight and hold this level with a vertical tree...

_---- or a corner of a building...

_-- or a fence post

_ _ _rlts a 15°

15 °

WARNING: Engine Exhaust,some of its constituents, and certain vehicle compo-

) I Jill nents conta n or em t chem ca s knownto 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.

'WARNING

' This symbol points

out important safety

instructionswhich, if

i not followed, could

endangerthe personal

i safety and/or property

i of yourself and others.

i Read and follow all

I 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 bl

m o.

I HEED ITSWARNING

Your

Responsibility

i Restrictthe use

of this cower machine

i to persons who read,

understand

' and follow the warnings

and instructions

in this manual

Children

1. Tragicaccidentscan occurif the operatoris not

alert tothe presenceof children.Childrenareoften

attractedto the machineandthe mowingactivity.

Theydo not understandthe dangers.Neverassume

thatchildrenwill remainwhereyou last saw them.

a. Keepchildrenout of the mowingarea and in

watchfulcare of a responsibleadult otherthan

the operator.

b. Bealert andturn machineoff if a childenters

the area.

c. Beforeandwhile backing,lookbehindand

downfor smallchildren.

d. Nevercarrychildren,evenwiththe blade(s)

shutoff.They mayfalloffandbeseriously

injuredor interferewith safemachineoperation.

e. Useextremecarewhenapproachingblind

corners,doorways,shrubs,treesor other

objectsthat mayblock yourvisionof a child

who mayruninto the machine.

f. To avoid back-overaccidents, always

disengagethe cutting blade(s) before

shifting into Reverse.If equipped,the

"Reverse Caution Mode"should not be

used when children or othersare around.

g. Keepchildrenaway from hotor running

engines.Theycansufferburnsfroma hot

muffler.

h. Removekeywhen machineis unattendedto

preventunauthorizedoperation.

2. Neverallowchildrenunder 14years old to operate

the machine.Children14years old and overshould

readandunderstandthe operationinstructionsand

safetyrules inthis manualandshouldbe trainedand

supervisedbya parent.

Operation

Safe Handling of Gasoline:

1. Toavoid personalinjuryor propertydamage use

extremecare in handlinggasoline. Gasolineis

extremelyflammable and the vapors areexplo-

sive. Seriouspersonalinjurycanoccurwhengasoline

is spilledon yourselfor yourclotheswhichcan ignite.

Washyourskin and changeclothesimmediately.

a. Useonlyan approvedgasolinecontainer.

b. Neverfill containersinsidea vehicleor ona

truckor trailerbedwitha plasticliner.Always

placecontainerson the groundawayfrom

yourvehiclebeforefilling.

c. When practical,removegas-powered

equipmentfromthe truck ortrailerand refuelit

onthe ground.If this is notpossible,then

refuelsuch equipmenton a trailerwith a

portablecontainer,ratherthan from a gasoline

dispensernozzle.

d. Keepthe nozzlein contactwith the rimof

the fueltank or containeropeningat all

timesuntilfuelingis complete.Donot usea

nozzlelock-opendevice.

e. Extinguishall cigarettes,cigars,pipesand

othersourcesof ignition.

f. Neverfuel machineindoors.

g. Neverremovegas cap oraddfuel whilethe

engineis hot or running.Allowengineto cool

at leasttwominutesbeforerefueling.

h. Neveroverfill fuel tank.Fill tank to nomore

thanY2inchbelowbottomof filler neckto

allowspacefor fuel expansion.

i. Replacegasolinecapand tightensecurely.

j. If gasolineis spilled,wipe it off the engine

andequipment.Moveunitto anotherarea.

Wait5 minutesbeforestartingthe engine.

k. To reducefire hazards,keepmachinefreeof

grass,leaves,orother debrisbuild-up.Clean

upoil or fuel spillageand removeany fuel

soakeddebris.

I. Neverstorethe machineorfuel container

insidewherethere is anopenflame,spark

or pilotlightas on awaterheater,space

heater,furnace,clothesdryeror othergas

appliances.

m. Allowa machineto cool at least five minutes

beforestoring.

GeneralOperation: 14.Watchfor trafficwhenoperatingnearor crossing

1. Read,understand,andfollowall instructionsonthe

machineandinthe manual(s)beforeattemptingto

assembleand operate.Keepthis manualina safe

placefor future and regularreferenceand forordering

replacementparts.

2. Befamiliarwithall controlsandtheirproperoperation.

Knowhow to stopthe machineand disengagethem

quickly.

3. Neverallowchildrenunder14yearsold to operate

this machine.Children14yearsold and overshould

readandunderstandthe operationinstructionsand

safetyrulesin thismanualand shouldbetrainedand

supervisedby a parent.

4. Neverallowadults to operatethis machinewithout

properinstruction.

5. To helpavoid bladecontactora thrownobjectinjury,

keepbystanders,helpers,childrenand petsat least

75 feetfrom the machinewhileit is inoperation.Stop

machineif anyoneentersthe area.

6. Thoroughlyinspectthearea wherethe equipmentis to

beused.Removeallstones,sticks,wire,bones,toys,

andotherforeignobjectswhichcould be pickedup

andthrownbythe blade(s).Thrownobjectscancause

seriouspersonalinjury.

7. Planyourmowingpatternto avoiddischargeof

materialtowardroads,sidewalks,bystandersandthe

like.Also,avoiddischargingmaterialagainsta wall or

obstructionwhichmaycausedischargedmaterialto

ricochetback towardthe operator.

8. Alwayswearsafety glassesor safetygogglesduring

operationand while performingan adjustmentor

repairto protectyour eyes.Thrownobjectswhich

ricochetcan causeseriousinjuryto the eyes.

9. Wearsturdy,rough-soledworkshoesandclose-fitting

slacksandshirts.Loosefittingclothesand jewelry

can becaughtinmovableparts.Neveroperatethis

machinein barefeet or sandals.

10.Be awareof the mowerandattachmentdischarge

directionanddo notpoint it at anyone.Do notoperate

the mowerwithoutthe dischargecoveror entiregrass

catcherin itsproperplace.

11.Do notput handsor feetnearrotatingpartsor under

the cuttingdeck.Contactwiththe blade(s)can

amputatehandsandfeet.

12.Amissingor damageddischargecovercan cause

bladecontactor thrownobject injuries.

13.Stoptheblade(s)whencrossinggraveldrives,walks,

or roadsandwhilenot cuttinggrass.

roadways.Thismachineis not intendedfor useon

anypublic roadway.

15.Do notoperatethe machinewhileunderthe influ-

enceof alcoholordrugs.

16.Mowonly in daylightor good artificiallight.

17.Nevercarry passengers.

18.Disengageblade(s)beforeshiftinginto reverse.

Backupslowly.Alwayslookdownand behind before

andwhilebackingto avoida back-overaccident. 'r'_'----"a_'---_,,,_pe r_ | o r_

19.Slowdownbeforeturning.Operatethe machine

smoothly.Avoiderraticoperationandexcessive

speed. P actices

20.Disengageblade(s),set parkingbrake,stopengine r

andwaituntiltheblade(s)cometoacompletestop

beforeremovinggrasscatcher,emptyinggrass,

uncloggingchute,removingany grassor debris,or

makinganyadjustments.

21.Neverleavea runningmachineunattended.Always

turnoff blade(s),placetransmissionin neutral,set

parkingbrake,stop engineand removekeybefore

dismounting.

22.Useextracare whenloadingor unloadingthe

machineintoa traileror truck. This unitshould not

bedrivenup or downramp(s),becausethe unit

couldtip over,causingseriouspersonalinjury.The

unit mustbe pushedmanuallyonramp(s)to loador

unloadproperly.

23.Mufflerandenginebecomehotand can causea

burn.Do nottouch.

24.Checkoverheadclearancescarefullybeforedriving

underlowhangingtreebranches,wires,dooropen-

ingsetc., wheretheoperatormaybe struckor pulled

fromthe unit,whichcouldresult in seriousinjury.

25.Disengageallattachmentclutches,depressthe

brakepedalcompletelyand shift into neutralbefore

attemptingto startengine.

26.Yourmachineis designedto cutnormalresidential

grassof aheightno morethan 10".Do notattemptto

mowthroughunusuallytall, dry grass (e.g.,pasture)

or pilesof dry leaves.Dry grass or leavesmay

contactthe engineexhaustand/orbuildup onthe

mowerdeckpresentinga potentialfire hazard.

27.Use onlyaccessoriesandattachmentsapprovedfor

thismachineby the machinemanufacturer.Read,

understandandfollowall instructionsprovidedwith

the approvedaccessoryor attachment.

28.Dataindicatesthat operators,age60 yearsand

above,areinvolvedin a largepercentageof riding

mower-relatedinjuries.Theseoperatorsshould

evaluatetheirability to operatetheriding mower

safelyenoughto protectthemselvesandothersfrom

seriousinjury.

29.If situationsoccurwhicharenot coveredinthis

manual,usecareandgoodjudgment.Contactyour

customerservicerepresentativefor assistance, of this power machine

to persons who read.

understand

and follow the warnings

and instructions

in this manual

WARNING

This symbol points

out important safety

instructions which, if

not followed, could

endanger the personal

safety and/or property

of yourself and others.

Readand follow all

instructions in this man-

ual before attempting to

operatethis machine.

Failureto comply with

these instructionsmay

'esult in personal injury.

When you see this

symbol.

HEED ITS WARNING

Your

Responsibil ity

Restrictthe use

S ope Operat on DoNor

Slopesare a majorfactorrelatedto loss of controland 1. Do notturn on slopes unlessnecessary;then,turn

out mportant safety

instruct!ons which, !f

not followed, could

endanger the personal

safety and!or property

of yourself and others,

Readand follow all

_nstruct!ons_nth_sman-

ual before attempting to

operate this machine

l l

Fa ure to compy wth

these instructions may

result

in persona injury.

When you see this

i l

tip-overaccidentswhichcan resultin severeinjury or

death.All slopesrequireextracaution.Ifyou cannot

backupthe slopeor if youfeel uneasyon it, do notmow

it.

Foryour safety,usethe slopegaugeincludedas partof

thismanualto measureslopesbeforeoperatingthis unit

ona slopedor hillyarea.If the slopeis greaterthan 15

degreesas shownon the slopegauge,do notoperate

thisunit onthatareaorseriousinjurycouldresult.

Do:

1. Mowup and downslopes,notacross.Exercise

extremecautionwhenchangingdirectionon slopes.

2. Watchfor holes,ruts,bumps,rocks,or other hidden

objects.Uneventerraincouldoverturnthe machine.

Tallgrasscan hide obstacles.

3. Useslow speed.Choosea low enoughspeed

settingso that youwill not haveto stop or shift while

onthe slope.Tiresmaylosetractiononslopeseven

thoughthe brakesare functioningproperly.Always

keepmachinein gear whengoingdownslopes to

takeadvantageof enginebrakingaction.

4. Followthe manufacturer'srecommendationsfor

wheelweightsorcounterweightsto improvestability.

5. Useextra carewithgrasscatchersor otherat-

tachments.Thesecanchangethe stabilityof the

machine.

6. Keepall movementon theslopesslowandgradual.

Do not makesuddenchangesin speedor direction.

Rapidengagementor brakingcouldcausethe front

of the machineto liftand rapidlyflip overbackwards

whichcouldcause seriousinjury.

7. Avoidstartingor stoppingon a slope.If tires lose

traction,disengagethe blade(s)andproceedslowly

straightdownthe slope.

slowlyand graduallydownhill,if possible.

2. Do not mowneardrop-offs,ditchesor embankments.

The mowercouldsuddenlyturnoverif awheel is over

the edgeof acliff,ditch,or if anedgecavesin.

3. Do nottry to stabilizethe machineby puttingyourfoot

onthe ground.

4. Do not usea grasscatcheronsteepslopes.

5. Do not mowonwet grass.Reducedtractioncould

causesliding.

6. Do notshift to neutraland coastdownhill.Over-speed-

ingmaycausethe operatorto lose controlof the

machineresultingin seriousinjuryordeath.

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, brakingandsteer-

ingabilityarereduced,attachmentmayjack-knifeand

causetractorto overturn).

Towing:

1. Towonlywitha machinethat hasa hitchdesignedfor

towing.Do not attachtowedequipmentexceptat the

hitchpoint.

2. Followthe manufacturersrecommendationfor weight

limitsfor towedequipmentand towingon slopes.

3. Neverallowchildrenor othersin or on towedequip-

ment.

4. Onslopes,theweight of thetowedequipmentmay

causelossof tractionand loss of control.

5. Travelslowlyandallowextradistanceto stop.

6. Do notshift to neutraland coastdownhill.

symbol

l !

HEED ITS WARNING

Your

Responslbdaty

Restnctthe use

of this powermachine

to persons wno reae,

andfollowthewarn,ngs

instructions

in this manual

Service

1. Neverrun anengineindoorsor ina poorlyventilated

area. Engineexhaustcontainscarbonmonoxide,an

odorless,and deadlygas.

2. Beforecleaning,repairing,or inspecting,makecertain

the blade(s)and all movingpartshavestopped.

Disconnectthe sparkplugwireand groundagainstthe

engineto preventunintendedstarting.

3. Periodicallycheckto make surethe bladescome to

completestop withinapproximately(5) fiveseconds

afteroperatingthe bladedisengagementcontrol.Ifthe

bladesdo notstop within thethis time frame,your unit

shouldbe servicedprofessionallyby anauthorized

MTDServiceDealer.

4. Checkbrakeoperationfrequentlyas it is subjectedto

wearduring normaloperation.Adjustandserviceas

required.

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 partswhichdonot meet

the originalequipmentspecificationsmayleadto

improperperformanceandcompromisesafety!"

6. Mowerbladesare sharp.Wrapthe bladeor wear

gloves,and useextracautionwhenservicingthem.

7. Keepall nuts,bolts,and screwstight tobe surethe

equipmentis insafeworkingcondition.

8. Nevertamperwiththe safetyinterlocksystemor other

safetydevices.Checktheir properoperationregularly.

9. Afterstrikinga foreignobject,stop the engine,

disconnectthe sparkplugwire(s)and groundagainst

the engine.Thoroughlyinspectthe machinefor any

damage.Repairthe damagebeforestartingand

operating.

10.Neverattemptto makeadjustmentsor repairsto the

machinewhile theengine is running.

11.Grasscatchercomponentsandthe discharge

coveraresubjectto wearanddamagewhichcould

exposemovingpartsor allowobjectsto be thrown.

Forsafety protection,frequentlycheckcomponents

andreplaceimmediatelywith originalequipment

manufacturer's(O.E.M.)partsonly,listed in this

manual."Useof partswhich do notmeet theoriginal

equipmentspecificationsmayleadto improper

performanceandcompromisesafety!"

12.Do notchangethe enginegovernorsettingsor

over-speedthe engine.The governorcontrolsthe

maximumsafeoperatingspeedof theengine.

13.Maintainor replacesafety and instructionlabels,as

necessary.

14.Observeproperdisposallawsand regulationsfor

gas,oil,etc. to protecttheenvironment.

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 man-

ual before attempting to

operatethis 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

f" "-, NOTE Ths OperatorsManua coversa rangeof product

( ......

f _"'_ "_ _uhh_r Rnnt j specifications for various models. Characteristics and fea-

i i |uu_/ LJUUk

--r J _ i i I turesdlscussedand/orlllustratedlnths manualmaynot

r-q"-_ I ._ _ i beapplicableto all models.MTDLLC reservesthe right

k,. _ j _/ to changeproduct specifications,designsand equipment

/ .......

''" "" _ _ i w,thoutnot,ceand w,thout,ncurr,ng obl,gat,on.

Attaching the Battery Cables

Your Law

NOTE:Somemodelsareshippedwith the batterycables

a readyconnected

Tractor

NOTE:The positivebatteryterminalis markedPos. (+).

WARNING

Use extreme care

when handl!ng

gasoline. Gasoline is

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: This Qperators

Manual Coversa range

of product specifications

for var ous mode s

" d

Characteristics an

featuresdiscussed _

and/or ustrated n

this manual maTnot be

applicable to al! models,

MTD LLC reservesthe

right to change product

specifications designs

and equipment without

notice and w_thoutrecur-

The negativebatteryterminalis markedNeg. (-).

Figure 1

• Thepositivecable(heavyredwire) is securedto the

positivebatteryterminal(+)with a hexbolt and hex

nut at thefactory.Makecertainthatthe rubberboot

coversthe terminalto help protectit fromcorrosion.

• Removethehex bolt and hexnut fromthe negative

cable.

• Removetheblack plasticcover,if present,fromthe

negativebatteryterminaland attachthe negative

cable(heavyblack wire)to the negativebattery

terminal(-) with the bolt and nut.

• Makecertain thehold-downstrap is in positionover

the battery,securingit inplace.SeeFigure1.

NOTE:If the batteryis putinto serviceafterthe date

shownontop of battery,chargethe batteryas instructed

on page24 of this manualpriorto operatingthe tractor.

Gas and Oil Fill-up

Thegasolinetankislocatedunderthehood and hasa

capacityof 1-1/2gallons. Do notoverfill.

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 enginewithgasolineand oil as instructedin

the separateEngineOperator/OwnerManualpackedwith

yourtractor.Readinstructionscarefully.

IMPORTANT:Yourtractoris shippedwith motoroil inthe

engine.However,you MUSTcheckthe oil levelbefore

operating.Becarefulnotto overfill.

Shipping Brace Removal

WARNING: Make sure the riding

mower's engine is off, remove the

ignition key, and set the parking

brake before removingthe ship-

ping brace.

= Locatethe shippingbrace,if present,and accompany-

ingwarningtagfoundon the rightside of the mower,

betweenthe dischargechuteandthe cuttingdeck.

SeeFigure2.

,, While holdingthe dischargechutewith yourleft hand,

removetheshippingbracewithyourright handby

graspingit betweenyourthumbandindexfingerand

rotatingit clockwise.

Figure 2

WARNING

WARNING: The shipping brace,

used for packaging purposes

only, must be removed and dis-

carded before operating your

riding mower.

WARNING: The mowing deck is

capable of throwing objects. Fail-

ure to operate the riding mower

without the discharge cover in the

proper operating position could

result in serious personal injury

and/or property damage.

Attaching The Steering Wheel

If the steeringwheelfor yourtractordid notcome

attached,the hardwarefor attachingit hasbeenpacked

withinthe steeringwheel,beneaththe steeringwheel

cap.Carefullypry off thesteeringwheelcapand remove

the hardware.

NOTE:Therearetwodifferentstylesof steeringwheel

cap.SeeFigure3. 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.

Figure 3

Make sure the riding

mower's engine is

off, remove the igni-

tion key, and set the

parking brake before

removing the shipping

brace.

The shipping brace,

used for packaging

purposes only, must

be removed and

discarded before

operating your riding

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.

Your Lawn

Tractor

f _, Attaching The Seat

Seatstyles vary bytractormodeland therearethree

--_ _ differentstyles available.

,---_-h _ • StandardAdjustment

QuickAdjustment&

__d_'l'tlllntll ||1_ ,' KnobAdjustment

"" If theseatfor yourtractordid notcomeattached,referto

Figure4, Figure5, and Figure6 to identifyyourtractor's

seatstyleand followthe applicableinstructionsbelowto

attachit.

WARNING

Before operating this

machine, make sure

theseat s engaged n

the seat stop stand

behind the machine

and pu back on seat

until fully engaged

into Stopl

Figure 4

/ i

NOTE For sh pp ng rea-

sons, seats are e_ther

fastened to the tractor

seat s p vot bracket w th

a plastictMe,or mounted

backwardtothe pwot

bracket.In either case,

free the seat form ts

NOTE:Forshippingreasons,seatsare eitherfastened

to the tractorseat'spivotbracketwitha plastictie,or

mountedbackwardto the pivotbracket.In eithercase,

freethe seat form its shippingpositionand removethe

twohex screws(or knobs,on modelsso equipped)from

the bottomof seat beforeproceedingwithapplicable

instructionsbelow.

Standard Adjustment Seat

1. Positionthe shoulderscrews(foundon the baseof the

seat)insidethe slot openingsin the seat pivotbracket.

Figure4.

2. Slidetheseatslightlyrearwardin the seatpivot

bracket,liningupthe rearslots inthe pivotbracket

withthe remainingtwo holesinthe seat'sbase.

3. Selectdesiredpositionforthe seat,andsecurewith

the twohexscrewsremovedearlier.SeeFigure4.

Quick Adjustment Seat

NOTE:If yourseatwasshippedmountedbackwardson

the seatpivotbracket,pulloutthe tab foundonthe seat

stopandholdit openwhileslidingthe seatoffthe seat

pivotbracket.SeeFigure5.

Figure 5

1. Lineup the plasticseatspacerswith the slotsin seat

pivotbracket.

2. Slideseat in until frontseat spacerengagesthe seat

stop.See Figure5.

_IL ARNING: Before operating this

machine, make sure the seat is

engaged in the seat stop, stand

behind the machine and pull back

shipping position and on seat until fully engaged into

removethe two hex stop.

screws (or knobs, on Knob Adjustment Seat

models so equipped) 1. Positionthe shoulderscrews (foundon the baseof the

from the bottom of seat seat)insidethe slot openingsin the seat pivotbracket.

Figure6

before proceed!ngw!th ............... .

annlicable instructions ........... 2. Slide theseatslightlyrearwardinthe seatpivot

FF ' ..... ....

........ bracket liningupthe rearslots inthe pivotbracket

_.. _ .... ,

w th the reman ng two hoes n the seats base

Figure 6

3. Selectdesiredpositionforthe seat,andsecurewith

_ the twoknobsremovedearlier.See Figure6.

Identifying the Mulch Plug (if so f , "X Z

• \\

equipped) _ \ / ..... ,.... . } L_J I

, , ' X \_

On tractormodelsso equ=ppeda mulchplugcan e=ther | _ / ......',, |

/ / _, /

be foundwithinthe cuttingdeck'sdischargeopeningor _,

packed separately withyour unit. ........

Setting Up

NOTE:Refer to Mulchingon page19for moredetailed

information.

If you'dpreferto operatethe cuttingdeckwithoutmulch-

ing, simplyremovethe mulch plugby unthreadingthe

plasticwing nutwhichfastensit to the cuttingdeck.This

will allowthe clippingsto dischargeout of the discharge

openingduringoperation.SeeFigure7.

Tire Pressure

Your Lawn

Tractor

_ ARNING: Maximum tire pres-

sure under any circumstancesis

30 psi. Equal tire pressure should

be maintained at all times.

The tiresonyour unitmay be over-inflatedfor shipping

purposes.Reducethe tirepressurebeforeoperating

the tractor.Recommendedoperatingtire pressureis

approximately10p.s.ifor the rear tires & 14p.s.i,for the

fronttires.Checksidewallof tirefor maximump.s.i.

Figure 7

WARNING

Maximum tire pres-

sure under any

circumstances is 30

psi," Equal tire pressure

should be maintained

at all times.

NOTE:Anyreference

inthismanualtothe

RIGHTorLEFTsideof

thetractorisobserved

fromoperator'sposition.

\ \

\\\\

Figure 8

NOTE:Steeringwheelnot shownforclarity,/

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 observedfromoperator'sposition.

Throttle Control Lever f "_

Thethrottlecontrolleveris locatedon the rightside of

the tractorsdash 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.SeeFigure9.

IMPORTANT:Whenoperatingthetractorwith the cutting

deckengaged,be certainthat the throttleleveris always

inthe FAST(rabbit)position.

Choke Control

Onsomemodels,movingthe

throttleleverallthe wayforward

activatestheengine'schoke _.

control.On all othermodels,the

chokecontrolcan befoundon

the leftside of thedash panel

andis activatedby pullingthe

knoboutward.Activatingthe

chokecontrolclosesthe choke

plateon the carburetorand aids in startingthe engine.

Referto Starting The Engine on page16of this manual

for detailedstartinginstructions.

ignition Switch

Theignitionswitchis activatedto startthe engine.Insert

keyintothe ignitionswitchandturnclockwisetothe

STARTposition.Releasethe keyintothe ON position

onceengine hasfired.SeeFigureIOA.

ignition Switch Module (if Equipped)

Tostartthe engine,insertthe keyintothe ignitionswitch

andturnclockwiseto theSTARTposition.Releasethe

keyintothe NORMALMOWINGMODEpositiononce

the enginehasfired.

Tostop the engine,turnthe ignitionkey counterclockwise

to the OFFposition.See Figure10B.

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 operatingthe tractor,referto both

Safety Interlock Switches on page 14andStarting

The Engine on page16of thismanualfordetailed

instructionsregardingthe IgnitionSwitchModuleand

operatingthetractorin REVERSECAUTIONMODE.

FAST _

==_==

SLOW =_ SLOW

Figure 9

Off On/Lights

Start

)sition

-,,,

Normal

Mode

Figure 10

Start

Position

WARNING

Never leave a running

machine unattended.

Awaysdsengage

PTO, move sh'ft ever

intoneutralposition;

}et parking brake, stop

;ngine and remove key

to prevent unintended

iMPORTANT

Prior to operating the

tractorl refer to both

Safety Interlock

,0ion

Starting The

Deck Lift Lever

, Engine on page 16

Foundon yourtractors rightfender,the decklift leveris .

of this manual for

usedto changethe heightof thecuttingdeck.To use,

movethe leverto the left, thenplace inthe notchbest detailed instructions

suitedfor yourapplication, regarding the Ignition

erating

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

FORWARD

RUETEAL

REVERSE

Figure 11

Speed Control Lever

Thespeedcontrollever,locatedon the

leftside of the tractor'sdashconsole,

allowsyouto regulatethegroundspeed

of the lawntractor.To use,depressthe

clutch-brakepedalandmovethe leverou

of the parkingbrakenotchand forward

to increasethe tractor'sgroundspeed.

Whena desiredspeedhas beenreached

releasethe leverintoan appropriate

notchto maintainthatspeed.

Toslow the tractor'sgroundspeed,

depressthe clutch-brakepedalandmow

the speedcontrol leverrearwardand

releaseit intoa notch.

NOTE:Lawntractorsvaryby modeland

areavailablewith eithera6- or 7-speed

controllever.

Parking Brake

Toset the parkingbrake,fullydepressthe clutch-brake

pedal.Movethe speedcontrolleverall the way down

andintothe parkingbrakeposition.Releasethe clutch-

brakepedalto allowthe parkingbraketo engage.

Toreleasethe parkingbrake,depressthe clutch-brake

pedaland movethe speedcontrolleverout of the

notchesto the desiredposition.Releasethe speed

controlleverand the clutch-brakepedal.

NOTE:The parkingbrakemustbeset if theoperator

leavestheseat with the enginerunningor theengine

willautomaticallyshut off.

Clutch=Brake Pedal

Theclutch-brakepedal is locatedon the leftside of

the lawntractor,along the runningboard.Depressthe

clutch-brakepedalpart waydownwhenslowingthe

tractorby changingspeeds (Referto SpeedControl

Lever).Depressthe pedalall theway downto engage

thedisc brakeand bringthe tractorto a completestop.

NOTE:The pedal mustbedepressedto startthe

engine.Referto SafetyInterlockSwitcheson page 14.

Shift Lever

Theshift leveris locatedonthe leftsideof thefender

andhasthree positions,FORWARD,NEUTRALand

REVERSE.The brakepedal mustbe depressedand

thetractor mustnotbe in motionwhenthe movingshift

lever.SeeFigure11.

IMPORTANT:Neverforcetheshift lever.Doingso may

resultinseriousdamageto the tractor'stransmission.

PTO (Blade Engage) Lever

Foundon thetractor'sright fender,the

PTO(bladeengage)leveris usedto

engagepowerto the cuttingdeckor

other(separatelyavailable)attachments.

Tooperate,movethe leverall the way

forward.Movingthe leverallthe way

rearwardintothe PTOOFF position

disengagespowerto the cuttingdeck/

attachment.

NOTE:The PTO(bladeengage)lever

mustbe inthe disengaged(PTOOFF)

positionwhenstartingthe engine.

'tl f

Safety Interlock Switches

Thistractoris equippedwith a safetyinterlocksystem

for theprotectionof the operator.If the interlocksystem

shouldevermalfunction,donot operatethe tractor.

ContactanauthorizedMTDservicedealer.

• Thesafetyinterlocksystempreventstheengine

fromcrankingor startingunlessthe parkingbrakeis

engaged,and the PTO(BladeEngage)leveris in the

disengaged(OFF)position.

• Theenginewill automaticallyshutoff if theoperator

leavestheseat beforeengagingthe parkingbrake.

• Theenginewill automaticallyshutoff if theoperator

leavesthetractor'sseat with the PTO(BladeEngage)

leverin the engaged(ON) position,regardlessof

whetherthe parkingbrakeis engaged.

• Theenginewill automaticallyshutoff if theoperator

engagesthe PTOwiththe parkingbrakeON.

(BladeEngage)leveris movedintothe engaged(ON)

positionwiththe 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) positionwiththe shift leverin Reverse.

WARNING: Do not operate the

tractor if the interlock system

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 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.

TheREVERSECAUTIONMODEpositionof the key

switchmoduleallowsthetractorto be operatedin

reversewiththe blades(PTO)engaged.

IMPORTANT:Mowingin reverseis notrecommended.

Touse the REVERSECAUTIONMODE:

IMPORTANT:TheoperatorMUSTbe seated in the

tractorseat.

1. Start the engineas instructedon page 16under

Starting The Engine.

2. Turnthe keyfromthe NORMALMOWING(Green)

positionto the REVERSECAUTIONMODE(Yellow)

positionof the keyswitchmodule. See Figure12.

3. Depressthe REVERSEPUSHBUTTON(Orange,

TriangularButton)at the top,rightcornerof the key

switchmodule.The red indicatorlightat thetop, left

cornerof the keyswitch modulewill beON while

activated.See Figure12.

Reverse

Indicator Push Button

Light Reverse

Stop CautionMode

Position Position

Start

Position

Your Lawn

Figure 12

4. Onceactivated(indicatorlightON), the tractorcan

be driveninreversewiththecutting blades(PTO)

engaged.

5. Alwayslookdownandbehindbeforeand while

backingto makesure nochildrenare around.

6. After resumingforwardmotion,returnthe key to the

NORMALMOWINGposition.

IMPORTANT:The REVERSECAUTIONMODEwill

remainactivateduntil:

a. The keyis placedin eitherthe NORMALMOWING

positionor STOPposition.

b. The operatorengagesthe parkingbrakeby fully

depressingthe clutch-brakepedalandholdingit

downwhile movingthe speedcontrolleverintothe

PARKBRAKEposition.

Engaging the Parking Brake

Toengagethe parkingbrake:

1. Fullydepressthe clutch-brakepedaland hold it down

withyourfoot.

2. Move thespeedcontrolleverall the waydownand

into the parkingbrakeposition.

3. Releasetheclutch-brakepedalto allowthe parking

braketo engage.

To releasethe parkingbrake:

1. Depressthe clutch-brakepedaland movethe speed

controlleverout of the parkingbrakepositionand into

a desiredspeed.

WARNING

i Do not operate the

Itractor if the interlock

isystem is malfunction-

I 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 oth-

ers are around. Stop

the tractor immediately

if someone enters the

area.

I:ing

otor

WARNING

Keep hands and feet

away from 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 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 operat-

ing.

Setting the Cutting Height

1. Selectthe heightpositionof the cuttingdeckby

placingthe deck lift leverin any of the six different

cuttingheightnotcheson the rightside of the fender.

2. Adjustthe deckwheels,if equipped,so thattheyare

between1A-inchand Y2-inchabovethe groundwhen

the tractoris on a smooth,flatsurfacesuch as a

driveway.

_ ARNING: Keep hands and feet

away from the discharge open-

ing of the cutting deck.

NOTE:On modelsso equipped,the deckwheelsarean

anti-scalpfeatureof thedeckandare notdesignedto

supportthe weightof the cuttingdeck.

Referto Levelingthe Deckon page20of this manual

for moredetailedinstructionsregardingvariousdeck

adjustments.

Starting the Engine

WARNING: Do not operate the

tractor if the interlock system is

malfunctioning. This system was

designed for your safety and

protection.

AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH

GO UPAND DOWNSLOPES,NOT ACROSS.

AVOIDSUDDENTURNS.

DO NOT OPERATETHEUNITWHERE IT COULDSLIP ORTIE

IFMACHINE STOPSGOING UPHILL,STOP BLADE(S)AND

BACK DOWNHILLSLOWLY.

DO NOT MOWWHEN CHILDRENOR OTHERS ARE AROUND.

NEVER CARRYCHILDREN,EVENWITH BLADES OFE

LOOK DOWNAND BEHINDBEFOREAND WHILE BACKING.

KEEP SAFETYDEVICES(GUARDS,SHIELDS,AND SWlTCHE_

IN PLACEAND WORKING.

REMOVEOBJECTSTHATCOULDBE THROWNBYTHE

BLADE(S).

KNOW LOCATIONAND FUNCTIONOF ALL CONTROLS.

BE SUREBLADE(S) AND ENGINEARESTOPPEDBEFORE

PLACINGHANDSORFEET NEAR BLADE(S).

BEFORE LEAVINGOPERATOR'SPOSITION,DISENGAGE

BLADE(S), PLACETHE SHIFT LEVERIN NEUTRAL,ENGAGE

BRAKE LOCK,SHUT ENGINEOFF AND REMOVEKEY.

READ OPERATOR'S MANUAL

Stopping the Engine

NOTE:Referto the TRACTORSET-UPon page8 of

thismanualfor GasolineandOil fill-upinstructions.

1. Insertthe tractorkeyinto the 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 theON position.

iMPORTANT:Do NOTholdthe keyin the START

positionfor longerthanten secondsat a time. Doingso

maycausedamageto yourengine'selectricstarter.

6. After theenginestarts, deactivatethechoke control

andplacethe throttlecontrolin theFASTposition.

_ ARNING: if you strike a foreign

object, stop the engine, discon-

nect the spark plug wire(s) and

ground against the engine. Thor-

oughly inspect the machine for

any damage. Repair the damage

before restarting and operating

1. If the bladesare engaged,placethe PTO(Blade

Engage)leverin the disengaged(OFF) position.

2. Turnthe ignitionkey counterclockwiseto the STOP

position.

3. Removethe keyfromthe ignitionswitchto prevent

unintendedstarting.

NOTE:Do NOTleavethe chokecontrolonwhile operat-

ingthe tractor.Doingso will result in a "rich" fuelmixture

andcausethe engineto run poorly.

Driving The Tractor

_ ARNING: Avoid sudden starts,

ex-cessive speed and sudden

stops.

WARNING: Do not leave the seat

of the tractor without first plac-

ing the PTO (Blade Engage) lever

in the 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 releasethe parkingbrake

andlet the pedalup.

2. Movethe throttleleverintothe FAST(rabbit)position.

3. Placetheshift leverin eitherthe FORWARDor

REVERSEposition.

IMPORTANT:Do NOTusethe shift leverto changethe

directionof travelwhenthe tractoris in motion.Always

usethe brakepedalto bringthe tractorto a complete

stopbeforeshifting.

4. Releasethe parkingbrakebydepressingthe clutch-

brakepedaland positioningthe speedcontrolleverin

desiredposition.

IMPORTANT:First-timeoperatorsshouldusespeed

positions1 or 2. Becomecompletelyfamiliarwith the

tractor'soperationandcontrolsbeforeoperatingthe

tractorin higherspeed positions.

5. Releaseclutch-brakepedalslowlyto put unitinto

motion.

6. The lawntractor isbroughtto a stopbydepressing

the clutch-brakepedal.

NOTE:Whenoperatingthe unit initially,therewill be little

differencebetweenthe highesttwospeedsuntilafter the

beltshaveseatedthemselvesinto the pulleysduring the

break-inperiod.

_ ARNING: Before leaving the

operator's position for any

reason, disengage the blades,

place the shift lever in neutral,

engage the parking brake, shut

engine off and remove the key.

IMPORTANT:Whenstoppingthe tractorforany reason

whileon a grasssurface,always:

1. Placethe shift leverin neutral,

2. Engagethe parkingbrake,

3. Shutengineoff andremovethe key.

Doingso will minimizethe possibilityof havingyourlawn

"browned"by hot exhaustfromyourtractor'srunning

engine.

If unit stalls with speedcontrolin high speed,or if unit

will notoperatewithspeedcontrolleverin a lowspeed

position,proceedas follows:

1. Placeshift leverin NEUTRAL.

2. Restartengine.

3. Placespeedcontrol leverinhighestspeedposition.

4. Releaseclutch-brakepedalfully.

5. Depressclutch-brakepedal.

6. Placespeedcontrol leverindesiredposition.

7. Placeshift leverin eitherFORWARDor REVERSE,

andfollownormaloperatingprocedures.

I _ I _ i i i _'

Operatinq

Your Lawn

l /

WARNING

iAvoJdsudden starts,

i ex-cesslve speed and

I 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 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.

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

:hearea.

Driving On Slopes

Referto the SLOPEGAUGEon page3 to helpdeter-

mineslopeswhereyou mayoperatethe tractorsafely.

_. WARNING: Do not mow on

inclines with a slope in excess

__ of 15 degrees (a rise of approxi-

mately 2-1/2 feet every 10 feet).

The tractor could overturn and

cause serious injury.

Mowupanddownslopes,NEVERacross.

Exerciseextremecautionwhenchangingdirection

onslopes.

• Watchfor holes, ruts,bumps,rocks, or otherhidden

objects.Uneventerraincouldoverturnthe machine.

Tall grasscan hideobstacles.

• Avoidturnswhendrivingona slope. If a turn must

be made,turn downthe slope.Turningup a slope

greatlyincreasesthechanceof a roll over.

,, Avoidstoppingwhendrivingupa slope. If it is

necessaryto stopwhiledrivingupa slope, start up

smoothlyandcarefullyto reducethe possibilityof

flippingthetractoroverbackward.

Engaging the Blades

Engagingthe PTO(Blade Engage)transferspowerto

thecutting deckor other(separatelyavailable)attach-

ments.To engagethe blades,proceedas follows:

1. Movethe throttlecontrolleverto the FAST(rabbit)

position.

2. Graspthe PTO(BladeEngage)leverand pivotit all

the wayforwardinto theengaged(ON) position.

3. Keepthe throttleleverin the FAST(rabbit)position

for the mostefficientuseof the cuttingdeck or other

(separatelyavailable)attachments

IMPORTANT:ModelswithReverseCaution Mode:

Theenginewill automaticallyshut off if the PTOis

engagedwiththe shift leverin positionfor reversetravel

withthe ignitionkey in the NORMALMOWINGposition.

Models without ReverseCaution Mode:

The PTO(BladeEngage)levermustbe in the disen-

gaged(OFF)positionwhenstartingthe engine,when

travelingin reverse,andif the operatorleavesthe seat.

Referto SafetyInterlockSwitcheson page14.

Using the Deck Lift Lever

Toraisethe cuttingdeck, movethe decklift leverto the

left, thenplace it in the notch bestsuited for yourapplica-

tion.Referto SettingThe CuttingHeightearlierin this

section.

Mowing

_ ARNING: To help avoid blade

contact or a thrown object injury,

__ 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.

Thefollowinginformationwill be helpfulwhenusingthe

cuttingdeckwith yourtractor:

l_. ARNING: Plan your mowing

patternto 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 high groundspeed,especiallyif a

mulchkit or grasscollectoris installed.

,, Forbestresultsit is recommendedthat the firsttwo

lapsbe cutwiththe dischargethrowntowardsthe

center.After thefirst twolaps,reversethe directionto

throwthe dischargeto the outsidefor the balanceof

cutting.Thiswill givea betterappearanceto the lawn.

,, Do notcut thegrasstoo short.Shortgrassinvites

weedgrowthand yellowsquicklyin dryweather.

,, Mowingshouldalwaysbe done with theengineat full

throttle.

,, Underheavierconditionsit maybenecessarytogo

backover thecut areaa secondtime to get a clean

cut.

,, Do NOTattemptto mow heavybrushandweedsand

extremelytall grass.Yourtractoris designedto mow

lawns,NOTclearbrush.

,, Keepthe bladessharpand replacethe bladeswhen

worn.RefertoCutting Blades on page25 of this

manualfor properblade sharpeninginstructions.

Mulching (If Equipped)

Selectmodelscomeequippedwitha mulch kit which

incorporatesspecialblades,alreadystandardon the

tractor,ina processof recirculatinggrassclippings

repeatedlybeneaththecutting deck.The ultra-fine

clippingsarethenforced backinto thelawnwherethey

actas a naturalfertilizer.

Observethe followingpointsfor the bestresultswhen

mulching:

,, Neverattemptto mulchif the lawnis damp.Wetgrass

tendsto stickto the undersideof the cuttingdeck

preventingpropermulchingof the clippings.

,, Do NOTattemptto mulch morethan 1/3the total

heightof thegrassor approximately1-1/2inches.

Doingso will causethe clippingsto clump up beneath

the deckandnotbe mulchedeffectively.

,, Maintaina slowgroundspeedto allowthe grass

clippingsmoretime to effectivelybe mulched.

,, Alwayspositionthe throttlecontrol leverinthe FAST

(rabbit)positionand allowit to remaintherewhile

mowing.Failingto keepthe engineat full throttle

placesstrainonthe tractor'sengineanddoes not

allowthe bladesto properlymulchgrass.

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.SeeFigure13.

Headlights

,, On some models,the lampsareON wheneverthe

tractor'sengineis running.Onother models,the

lampsareON wheneverthe ignitionkeyis movedout

of the STOPposition.

,, On all models,the lampsturn OFFwhenthe ignition

keyis movedto the STOPposition.

Figure 13

i Plan your mowing pat-

_tern to avoid discharge

i of materials toward

i roads, sidewalks, by-

I standers and the like.

'Also, avoid discharging

material against a wall

or obstructionwhich

may cause discharged

material to ricochet

back toward the

operator.

l R E

Adjust=ha

Your Lawn

Tractor

, WARNING

i Never attempt to

i ....

i make any aajusi-

merits while the

engine is running,

i except where spec=-

f ed n the operator s

i manual.

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.

Figure 14

Figure 15

_ ARNING: 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-

ingany decklevelingadjustments.Referto Tires on

page24 for informationregardingtire pressure.

Front To Rear

The frontof the cuttingdeck is supportedbya stabilizer

barthatcan adjustedto levelthe deck from front to rear.

The frontof the deckshouldbe between1/4-inchand

3/8-inchlowerthanthe rearof thedeck. Adjustif

necessaryas follows:

1. With thetractorparkedona firm,levelsurface,place

the deckliftleverin the top notch(highestposition)

androtatethe bladenearestthe dischargechuteso

thatit is parallelwiththe tractor.

2. Measurethe distancefrom the front of thebladetip to

the groundandthe rearof the bladetip to the ground.

Thefirst measurementtaken shouldbebetween

1/4" and3/8" less thanthe secondmeasurement.

Determinethe approximatedistancenecessaryfor

properadjustmentandproceed,if necessary,to the

nextstep.

3. Locatethejam nutand lock nut on the frontsideof the

stabilizerbracket.See Figure14.After looseningthe

jam nut:

Tightenthe locknutto raisethe frontof the deck;

Loosenthe lock nut to lowerthe frontof the deck.

4. Retightenthe jam nut loosenedearlierwhenproper

adjustmentis achieved.

Side to Side

If thecutting deckappearsto be mowingunevenly,a side

to sideadjustmentcan be performed.Adjustif necessary

as follows:

1. With thetractorparkedona firm,levelsurface,place

the deckliftleverin the top notch(highestposition)

androtateboth bladesso that they are perpendicular

withthe tractor.

2. Measurethe distancefrom the outsideof the left blade

tip to the groundandthe distancefrom theoutsideof

the rightblade tipto the ground.Bothmeasurements

takenshouldbe equal.If they'renot, proceedto the

nextstep.

3. Loosen,butdo NOTremove,the hexcap screwon

the leftdeckhangerbracket.SeeFigure15.

4. Balancethe deck by usinga wrenchto turnthe

adjustmentgear(foundimmediatelybehindthe hex

capscrewjust loosened)clockwise/upor counter-

clockwise/down.Thedeck is properlybalancedwhen

both bladetip measurementstakenearlierareequal.

5. Retightenthe hex capscrewon the leftdeckhanger

bracketwhenproperadjustmentis achieved.

Parking Brake Adjustment

,_ WARNING: 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 thetractordoes notcometo a completestop whenthe

brakepedal iscompletelydepressed,orif thetractor's

rearwheelscanroll withthe 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 thetransmissionfromthe rightside of the

tractor,locatethe compressionspringand brakedisc•

SeeFigure16.

2. Loosen,but do NOTremove,the hex nutfoundon the

rightsideof the brakeassembly•See Figure16.

3. Usinga feelergauge,setthe gapbetweenthe brake

discandthe brakepuck at .011".

4. Re-tightenthe hexnut loosenedearlier•

Seat Adjustment

_1= 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

Toadjust the positionof the seat,loosenthe two hex

screwson the bottomof the seat.Slide the seatforward

or backwardas desired.Retightenthe twoscrews.See

Figure17.

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

witha seat adjustmentlever,movetheseatadjustment

lever(locatedunder theseat)to the leftand slidethe seat

forwardor rearward.See Figure19.Makesureseatis

lockedintopositionbeforeoperatingthe tractor•

Set gap .011"

Figure 16

Hex Nut

Figure 17

,,J

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.

Figure 19 Figure 18

WARNING

Beforeperforming

any maintenance or

repairs; disengage

PTO, move shift lever

into neutral position,

set parking brake, stop

engineand remove key

to prevent unintended

Before!ubroaring

repairing, or inspect,

ing, always disengage

PTO,move shift lever

into neutral position,

set parking brake, stop

engine and remove key

to preventunintended

NOTEIDependingon

theenginemodelfound

on your tractor,itmay

benecessaryto remove

the tractor'sside panel

in order to replace the

oi! fi!te! (if so equipped);

Figure 20

_i= ARNING: 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 Engine Operator/Owner Manualfor

engine maintenance instructions.

Checkengineoil level beforeeachuseas instructed

in the EngineOperator/OwnerManualpackedwithyour

unit.Follow the instructionscarefully.

Changing Engine Oil

NOTE:Dependingon the engine modelfoundon your

tractor,it maybenecessaryto removethe tractor'sside

panelinorderto replacethe oil filter (if so equipped).

Fordrainingoil from the engine'scrankcaseof select

modeltractors,a plasticoildrainsleeveis packedwith

thisOperator'sManual.Todrain the oil, proceedas

follows:

1. Unscrewthe oilfill capand removethe dipstickfrom

the oilfill tube.

2. Snapthe smallendof oildrainsleeveontothe oil

sump.See Figure20.

3. Removedrainpluganddrainoil intoa suitable

containerwitha capacityof no lessthan 64oz.

4. Servicethe oilfilter (if soequipped)as instructedin

the separateEngineOperator/OwnerManualpacked

withyourunit.

Performthe abovestepsin theoppositeorderafteroil has

finisheddraining.

5. Refillthe enginewith newmotoroilas instructedinthe

EngineOperator/OwnerManualpackedwith your unit.

iMPORTANT:Referto the EngineOperator/Owner

Manualpackedwith yourunit for informationregardingthe

quantityand properweightof motoroil.

Air Cleaner

Servicethe pre-cleaner,if so equipped,andcartridge/air

cleanerelementas instructedin the EngineOperator/

OwnerManualpackedwithyour unit.

Spark Plug(s)

Thespark plug(s)shouldbecleanedandthegapreset

oncea season.Sparkplugreplacementisrecommended

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 instructedin the

EngineOwnerManualpackedwithyour unit.

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 axlesandthe rimswell withan

all-purposegreasebeforere-installingthem.

Front Axles

Eachend of the tractor'sfront pivot bar may be equipped

witha greasefitting.Lubricatewitha greasegun after

every25 hoursof tractoroperation.

Cleaning the Engine And Deck

Anyfuel or oil spilledon the machineshouldbewiped

off promptly.DoNOTallowdebristo accumulatearound

the coolingfins of the engine or on anyotherpart of the

machine.

iMPORTANT:The useof a pressurewasherto cleanyour

tractoris NOT recommended.It maycausedamageto

electricalcomponents,spindles,pulleys,bearingsor the

engine.

Deck Wash System TM

A hexplugcan befoundon yourtractor'sdecksurface.

SeeFigure21.

Thisplugcan bereplacedwith a waterport to beused as

partof a separately-availabledeck washsystem.

Usethe DeckWash SystemTM to rinsegrassclippings

fromthedeck'sundersideand preventthe buildupof

corrosivechemicals.

NOTE:Referto page 28 for informationregardingthis

andotherseparately-availableattachments& acces-

soriesfor yourtractor.

Cutting Deck Removal

NOTE:Modelsequippedwith a 38-inchdeck haveone

deckidlerpulley.Modelsequippedwitha 42-inchdeck

havetwo deck idler pulleys.

Toremovethe cuttingdeck, proceedas follows:

1. Placethe PTO(BladeEngage)leverinthe disen-

gaged(OFF)positionandengagetheparkingbrake.

2. Lowerthe deckby movingthedeck liftleverinto the

bottomnotchon the rightfender.

3. Removethe beltfromaroundthe tractor'sengine

pulleyand idlerpulley(s).RefertoChangingthe Deck

Belton page26for detailedinstructions.

4. Lookingat the cuttingdeckfromthe leftsideof the

tractor,locatethe hairpinclip thatsecuresthe deck

supportrodon the rear left sideof thedeck. See

Figure22.

5. Removethe hairpin clipthatsecuresthedeck

supportrod, andcarefullyremovethe deck support

fromthedeck liftarm.

6. Repeatthe abovestepsonthe tractor'srightside.

7. Movethe decklift leverintothe top notchonthe right

fenderto raisethedeck lift arms up andout of the

way.

8. Carefullyremovethe PTOcablefromthe rearof

the cuttingdeck by removingthe hair pin clipwhich

securesit. Removethe springfrom the deck idler

bracket.SeeFigure23.

9. Gentlyslidethe cuttingdeck towardthefrontof the

tractorallowingthe hooksonthe deckto release

themselvesfromthedeck stabilizerrod.

10.Gentlyslidethe cuttingdeck (from the rightside)out

fromunderneaththetractor.

Figure 21

Figure 22

/ • /!

NOTE: Models

equippedwith a 38-inch

deck have one deck

idler pulley.Models

equippedwith a 42-inch

deck have two deck

idler pulleys.

Figure 23

3atteries give off an

_:xplosive gas while

;barging Charge bat-

tery 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 replace-

ment

Jump Starting

,_ WARNING: Never exceed the

maximum inflation pressure

shown on the sidewall of tire.

The recommendedoperatingtire pressureis:

,, Approximately10psi for the rear tires

,, Approximately14psi for the fronttires

iMPORTANT:Referto the tire sidewallforexacttire

manufacturer'srecommendedormaximumpsi. Do not

overinflate.Uneventire pressurecouldcausethe cutting

deckto mowunevenly.

Battery

The batteryis sealedandis maintenance-free.Acid

levelscannotbe checked.

• Alwayskeepthe batterycablesandterminalsclean

andfreeof corrosivebuild-up.

• Aftercleaningthe batteryand terminals,apply a light

coatof petroleumjelly or greasetoboth terminals.

• Alwayskeepthe rubberbootpositionedoverthe

positiveterminalto preventshorting.

IMPORTANT:If removingthe batteryforany reason,

disconnectthe NEGATIVE(Black)wire fromit's terminal

first,followedbythe POSITIVE(Red)wire.When

re-installingthe battery,alwaysconnectthe POSITIVE

(Red)wire its terminalfirst, followedbythe NEGATIVE

(Black)wire.Becertainthat thewiresareconnectedto

thecorrectterminals;reversingthemcould changethe

polarityandresultindamageto your engine'salternat-

ingsystem.

Charging

If thetractor hasnotbeenput into usefor an extended

periodof time,chargethe batterywith anautomotive-

type 12-voltchargerfor a 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

installing the battery, follow

these instructions to prevent the

screwdriver from shorting against

the frame.

iMPORTANT:Neverjumpyourtractor'sdeadbatterywith

the batteryof a runningvehicle.

1. Connectend of one jumpercableto the positive

terminalof thegood battery,thenthe otherend to the

positiveterminalof the dead battery.

2. Connectthe otherjumpercableto the negative

terminalof thegood battery,thento the frame of the

unit withthe dead battery.

,,_ WARNING: Failure to use this

procedurecould cause sparking,

and the gas in either battery could

explode.

Cleaning

Cleanthe batteryby removingit fromthe tractorand

washingwitha bakingsodaand watersolution.If neces-

sary,scrapethe batteryterminalswitha wire brushto

removedeposits.Coatterminalsand exposedwiringwith

greaseor petroleumjelly topreventcorrosion.

Battery Failures

Somecommoncausesfor batteryfailureare:

,,incorrectinitialactivation ,,undercharging

,,overcharging ,,corrodedconnections

,,freezing

Thesefailures are NOTcoveredby yourtractor's

warranty.

Fuse

One20AMPfuse is installedin yourtractor'swiringhar-

nessto protectthe tractor'selectricalsystemfrom damage

causedby excessiveamperage.

If the electricalsystemdoes notfunction,oryour tractor's

enginewill not crank,first checkto becertainthatthe fuse

has notblown.It can befoundunderthe hoodmounted

behindthe dashpanelon the rightside.

_ ARNING: Always use a fuse with

the same amperage capacity for

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 cut-

ting blade(s) for sharpening or

replacement. Protect your hands

by using heavy gloves or 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.

Thebladesmayberemovedas follows.

1. Removethe deckfrombeneaththe tractor,(referto

CuttingDeckRemovalon page23) thengently flip

the deckoverto exposeits underside.

2. Placea blockof wood betweenthe centerdeckhous-

ingbaffleandthe cuttingbladeto act asa stabilizer.

SeeFigure24.

3. Use a 15/16"wrenchto removethe hexflangenut

thatsecuresthe 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.

IMPORTANT:If the cuttingedgeof the bladehasalready

beensharpenedto within15/8' fromthe edge,or if any

metalseparationis present,replacethe bladeswith new

ones.SeeFigure25.

It is importantthateachcuttingbladeedgebeground

equallyto maintainproperblade balance.

A poorlybalancedbladewill causeexcessive

vibrationand maycausedamageto thetractorand

resultinpersonalinjury.The bladecan be testedby

balancingit on a roundshaftscrewdriver.Grind metal

fromthe heavysideuntil it balancesevenly.

Figure 24

1-5/8

Figure 25

When replacingthe blade,be sure to installthe blade

with theside of the blademarked"Bottom"(or with

a part numberstampedin it) facing the groundwhen

the moweris inthe operatingposition.

IMPORTANT:Useatorquewrenchto tightenthe blade

spindlehex flangenutto between70 foot-poundsand 90

foot-pounds.

, ,',g

Your Lawn

Tractor

WARNING

I Be sure to shut the

lengine off, remove

iignition key, discon-

inect the spark plug

wire(s) and ground

against the engine to

_revent unintended

starting before remov-

ing 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.

Maintaining

Your Lawn

Tractor

WARNING

Be sure to shut the

engine off, remove ig-

nifion 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.

3/8" uareHole_

Figure 26

Changing the Deck Belt & PTO Belt

Tochangeor replacethedeck beltand PTObelt onyour

tractor,proceedas follows:

1. Lowerthe deckby movingthedeck liftleverinto the

bottomnotchon the rightfender.

2. Removethe beltguardsby removingthe self-tapping

screwsthatfastenthem to the deck.

3. Removethe beltkeeperrod fromaroundthe engine

pulley.

4. Inserta 3/8"-driveratchetwrench(setto loosen)into

the squarehole foundin the idlerbracketonthe left

sideof the deck'ssurface.SeeFigure26.

5. Graspthe ratchet'shandleand pivot it towardthe front

of the tractorto relievetensiononthe belt.

6. With belttensionrelieved,carefullyremovethe belt

from around the left-handspindlepulley.

IMPORTANT:Carefullyallowthe ratchetto pivotrearward

beforeremovingit from the squarehole.

_ 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

belt(s).

Allbeltson yourtractorare subjectto wearandshould

bereplacedif anysignsof wearare present.

iMPORTANT:The V-beltsfoundon yourtractorare

speciallydesignedto engageanddisengagesafely.A

substitute(non-OEM)V-beltcan bedangerousby not

disengagingcompletely.Fora properworkingmachine,

usefactory approvedbelts.

_ WARNING: 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.

7. Removethe deckbelt 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)inorderto change

the tractor'sdrivebelts. Seean authorizedMTDService

Dealerto haveyour drivebelts replacedorphone

CustomerSupportas instructedon page 2 for information

onorderinga ServiceManual.

EnginePuny 42-Inch Deck

Idler Bracket

Deck Idler Pulleys

Figure 26

Engine Puny 38=InchDeck

Idler Bracket

Deck Idler Pulleys

_., .... J

Figure 27

Off-Season

Storag

Attachments

'WARNING

i Dra n fuel only into an

i approved container

i outdoors, away from

an open flame. AI-

i low engine to cool.

i Extinguish cigarettes,

_giclars, pples,and

other sources of Ignl-

ition prior to draining

Ifuel.

Never store the rea-

lchine or fuel container

i indoors where there =s

,,an openflame, spark

ior pUotlightsuch

ias on water heater,

!furnace, clothes dryer

for other gas appliance.

Cleanand lubricatethe tractoras instructedin Section Followthe instructionsin the Service, Storage &

6: MAINTAININGYOURLAWNTRACTORon page19 Specifications sectionof the EngineOperator/Owner

of thismanualbeforestoringfor anextendedperiod. Manualfor properenginecare prior to storingyourtractor.

,_1 WARNING: Drain fuel 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

draining fuel.

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

The followingattachmentsandaccessoriesare compatiblefor ModelSeries700 LawnTractors.Seethe retailer

fromwhichyou purchasedyour tractor,an authorizedMTDServiceDealeror phone(800) 800-7310for information

regardingpriceand availability.

NOTE:ModelSeries700 LawnTractorsare NOTdesignedfor usewithany typeof ground-engagingattachments

(e.g.tiller or plow).Use of this type of equipmentWILLvoidthe tractor'swarranty.

MODEL ' DESCRiPTiON

0EM-190-032

0EM-190-116

0EM-190-180

OEM-190q83

0EM-190-218

0EM-190-607'

0EM-190-658

0EM-190-672

0EM-190-833

4.90-900-0025

42-inchTwo-stageSnowThrower

38/42-inchDeckMulch Kit

TwinBaggerGrassCollector(for38/42-inchDecks)

Deckwheel Kit

RearWheelWeightKit

DeluxeTractorSunshade

Tire Chains,20 x 8Tires

GrilleGuard(moUntsonfrontoftractor)

42-inchFrontDozerBlade

DeckWash Kit

Notcompatiblewith tractorsequippedwith a GrassCollector

NOTE:IHBOTHMODE__I_ENOpER_TOnL_VESS_T, E_I_EWILL

STOPUNLESSP_KI_ _r_K_I_SLT_,D _L_E__R__S_,_ED.

IFUNnS_LLSwnHSr_EO¢OH_ROLINHIGHS_EO,ORIF UNn

WILLNOTOPERATEWnHSPEEnCONTROLLE_ IN_ LOWSP_E_

WARNING

Th s symbo points

out importantsafety

instructionswhich, if

notfollowed,could

endangerthe personal

safety and/or ppyroerr

of yourselfand others:

Readand 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!

Your ResponslbJhty

Restrictthe use

' of this power machine

' h ad

to persons w o re ,

understand

and follow the warnings

and instructions

in this manual

and on the machine:

'Trouble

Shooting

For repairs beyond

the minor adjust-

i merits listed here,

i contact an authorized

service dealer.

Problem Cause Remedy

Enginefails to Start 1. PTOengaged. !. PlacePTOknob(or lever)in

aisengaged(OFF)position,

2. spark plugwire(s)disconnected. 2: connect wire(s)to spa!k plug(s)i

3 FUeliankem t oistaiefuel 3 F tankwtheean freshgaso ne

py . , .

4 Chokenotactiated 4 Pu out the CHOKEcontro ( f so

V !

equipped)orplacethe throttle

€ontrolin CHOKEpositionl

5' Fau!tYsPa!kP!Ug' 5. Cleanl adjustgaPlerreplacel

&Blocke d fuel !ine• 6. clean iuel line Orreplacefueifilter,

7. Engineflooded, if so equipped.

7, Ciank enginewiththrottleinFAsT

PoSition.

8. Parkngbiake not engaged. &Engage parkingbrake,

9 T rotlecontiolie;er,,,,_i,,,,,,r,e .,; 9 Placethrottleleverto FAST

• h t v ,u_,uu,,_ :

startingposition, position.

Engine runs erratic 1. Unit runningwith CHOKEapplied. 1. PushCHOKEcontrol(if so

3. Blockedfuel lineor stale fuel.

4. Ventingas cap plugged.

5. Wateror dirt in fuel system.

6. Dirty air cleaner.

equipped)in, or movethe throttle

controlout of the CHOKEposition.

2. Connectand tightenspark

plugwire(s).

3. Cleanfuel line;fill tank withclean,

fresh(lessthan30 daysold)

gasoline.Replacefuel filter,if so

equipped.

4. Clearventor replaceif damaged.

5. Drainfuel tank. Refillwith

freshfuel.

6. Replaceaircleanercartridge/ele-

mentor cleanpre-cleaner,if so

equipped.

2. Sparkplugwire(s)loose.

Problem Cause Remedy

Engine oveiheats Engine0il leve!!ow 1: Fi!I CrankcasewithproPer*0iL

2. Air flow restricted. " 2. Cleangrassclippingsanddebris

fr0maroundthe enginelscoo!ing

fns and b owerhousng.

Enginehesitates at 1. Sparkplug(s)gap tooclose. 1. Removespark plug(s)and reset

high RPM thegap.

Idles poorly !, Sparkplug(s)fouled,!aulty O!gap !. Rep acespark plug(s)i Set#!ug(s)

toowde i gap

2. Dirtyair cleaner. " 2, Repiaceaircleanercartridge/ele-

meritor €leanpre-c!eaner,if so

equipped.

Excessive 1. Cuttingblade looseor unbalanced. 1. Tightenbladeandspindle.Balance

Vibration blade.

2. Damagedor bentcutting blade. 2. Replaceblade.

Mowerwill not Enginespeedtoo !ow. 1. Placethrottle controlin FAST

mulch grass (if I 2. wet grass. (rabbit)position.

Equ pped) 2, Do not mowwhengrassiswet;

wat unt aterto cut

3. Excessivelyhighgrass.

3. MOWonce at a nign cuttingheight,

then rnowagainat desiredheight

°r makea nar!owerCUttingpath'

4. Du bade. Sharpenor replaceblade.

Uneven cut

1. Decknotbalancedproperly.

2. Dullblade.

3. Uneventire pressure.

1. Performside-to-sidedeckadjust-

ment.

2. Sharpenor replaceblade.

3. Checktire pressureinall fourtires.

Shooting

For repairs beyond

the minor adjust-

ments listed here,

contact an authorized

service dealer.

Useth_spagetomake

notes and write down •

!mportant mformat_on.

Use this page to make

notes and write down

impo_.ntin_orm.tion:

notes and write down

important information.

CALIFORNIA EMISSION CONTROL WARRANTY STATEMENT

YOUR WARRANTY RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS

The CaliforniaAir ResourcesBoardandMTDLLC are pleasedto explaintheevaporativeemissioncontrolsystemwarrantyon your2006 lawnmower.In California,

new lawnmowermust be designed,built and equippedto meetthe State'sstringentanti-smogstandards.MTD LLCmustwarranttheEECS onyour lawn mower

forthe periodof time listedbelow providedthere has beenno abuse,neglect or impropermaintenanceof your lawnmower.

YourEECSmayincludeparts such as thecarburetor,fuel-injectionsystem,the ignitionsystem,catalyticconverter,fuel tanks,fuel lines,fuel caps,valves,

canisters,filters,vapor hoses,clamps,connectors,and other associatedemission-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:

Thisevaporativeemissioncontrol 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 impropermaintenanceorunapprovedmodifications.

Youare responsiblefor presentingyourlawn mowerto MTD LLC'sdistributioncenterorservicecenter as 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 ultimatepurchaserandeach subsequentpurchaserthatthe lawnmoweris: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's applicationfor certification.

The warrantyperiodbeginson the datethe lawnmoweris deliveredto an ultimatepurchaserorfirst placedinto service.Thewarranty period is 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 thewarranty periodstated above.Any such

part repairedor replacedunderwarrantywill bewarrantedfor the remainingwarrantyperiod.

3. Any warrantedpart that is scheduledfor replacementas requiredmaintenanceinthe written instructionssuppliedis warrantedfor the periodof time before

thefirst scheduledreplacementdate forthat part. If the part fails beforethe first scheduledreplacement,the part will be repairedor replacedby MTDLLC ac-

cordingto subsection(4) below.Any such part repairedor replacedunderwarrantywill bewarrantedforthe remainderof the periodpriorto thefirst 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 maybe usedinthe performanceof any warrantymaintenanceor repairsand mustbe providedwithoutchargeto the owner.Suchuse will

not reducethe warrantyobligationsof MTD LLC.

10.Add-onor modifiedpartsthat are not exemptedbythe Air ResourcesBoardmaynot be used.The use of any non-exemptedadd-onor modifiedparts by the

ultimatepurchaserwill be groundsfor disallowinga warrantyclaims. MTDLLCwill notbe liableto warrantfailures of warrantedparts causedby the useof a

non-exemptedadd-onor modifiedpart.

WARRANTED PARTS:

The repairor replacementof any warrantedpartotherwise eligiblefor warrantycoveragemaybe excludedfrom such warrantycoverageif MTDLLCdemonstrates

thatthe lawnmowerhas beenabused,neglected,or improperlymaintained,andthat suchabuse, neglect, orimpropermaintenancewasthe 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 followingemissionwarrantyparts list arecovered:Fuel Line,Fuel LineClamps

MANUFACTURER'S LiMiTED WARRANTY FOR

Thelimitedwarrantyset forth belowis givenby MTDLLCwith respect

to new merchandisepurchasedand usedin the UnitedStates,its

possessionsandterritories.

"MTD"warrantsthisproductagainstdefectsin materialand workman-

shipfor a periodof two (2) yearscommencingon thedate of original

purchaseandwill,at itsoption,repairor replace,free of charge,any

partfound tobe defectivein materialsorworkmanship.This limitedwar-

rantyshallonlyapply if thisproducthas beenoperatedand maintained

inaccordancewith theOperator'sManualfurnishedwith the 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 with the product(s)coveredbythis manual

will voidyourwarrantyas to any resultingdamage.

Normalwearpartsare warrantedto befree fromdefectsinmaterialand

workmanshipfor aperiodof thirty (30) days fromthe date of purchase.

Normalwearparts include,butare notlimitedto itemssuch as: batter-

ies,belts,blades,bladeadapters,grassbags,riderdeckwheels,seats,

snowthrowerskidshoes,shaveplates,augerspiralrubberand tires.

HOW 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.

Thislimitedwarrantydoesnot providecoveragein the followingcases:

a. Theengineor componentpartsthereof.These itemsmaycarrya

separatemanufacturer'swarranty.Referto applicablemanufacturer's

warrantyfor termsand conditions.

b. Log splitterpumps,valves,andcylindershavea separateone year

warranty.

c. Routinemaintenanceitemssuch as lubricants,filters, blade

sharpening,tune-ups,brakeadjustments,clutchadjustments,deck

adjustments,andnormaldeteriorationof the exteriorfinish due to

useor exposure.

d. Servicecompletedbysomeoneotherthanan authorizedservice

dealer.

e. MTDdoesnot extendanywarrantyfor productssold or exported

outsideof the UnitedStates,its possessionsandterritories,except

thosesold throughMTD'sauthorizedchannelsof exportdistribution.

f. Replacementparts that are not genuineMTDparts.

g. Transportationchargesandservicecalls.

No impliedwarranty, includingany impliedwarranty of mer-

chantabilityof fitness for a particularpurpose,applies after the

applicable periodof expresswritten warranty above as to the

partsas 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.

Theprovisionsas set forth inthis 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 limitationsonhow longan impliedwarranty

lasts,so the aboveexclusionsor limitationsmaynotapply to you.

In no event shallrecoveryof any kindbegreaterthanthe 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

purchaserorto the personfor whomit was purchasedas a gift.

HOWSTATELAW RELATESTO THISWARRANTY:This limited

warrantygivesyou specificlegal rights,and youmayalso haveother

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

760 THRU 779 MTD lawn tractor

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