
Safety • Assembly • Operation • Adjustment • Maintenance • Troubleshooting • Warranty
-ro AL
Transmatic Lawn Tractor- Model 771
iMPORTANT
READ SAFETY RULES AND iNSTRUCTiONS CAREFULLY BEFORE OPERATION
Warning: Thisunit is equippedwithaninternalcombustionengineandshouldnot beusedon or nearany unimprovedforest-covered,brush-
coveredor grass-coveredland unlesstheengine'sexhaustsystemis equippedwitha sparkarrestermeetingapplicablelocalor statelaws(if any).
If a sparkarresteris used,it shouldbemaintainedineffectiveworkingorderby the operator.In theStateof Californiathe aboveis requiredbylaw
(Section4442of the CaliforniaPublicResourcesCode).Otherstatesmayhavesimilarlaws.Federallaws applyon federallands.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.769-02171A
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 IVlodel Number
BEFOREYOU START ASSEMBLING
YOUR NEW EQUIPMENT,
please locatethe model plate on the equipment and copy the
information to the sample model plate provided to 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.
P. O. BOX 361131
o CLEVELAND,OH 44136
www.yardman.com 330-220-4683
800-800-731 O
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 yardman.com. Click on the Service & Support
menu option.
2. Phone a Customer Support Representative at 1 (800)
800-7310.
3. The engine manufacturer is responsible for all engine-
related issues with regards to performance,power-rating,
specifications, warranty and service. Please refer to the
engine manufacturer'sOwner's/Operator's Manual, packed
separatelywith your unit, for more information.
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15°

Practices
WARNING
This symbol points
out important safety
instructionswhich, if
notfollowed, could
endangerthe personal
safety and/or property
ofyourself and others.
Readand follow all
I instructions in this man-
ual before attempting to
operatethis machine.
tFailureto comply with
hese 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,
understand
and follow the warnings
and instructions
in this manual
WARNING: Engine Exhaust,some of its constituents, and certain vehicle compo-
nents contain or emit chemicals knownto State of Californiato 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 instructionscould result in 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 last sawthem.
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,evenwith the blade(s)
shutoff.Theymayfalloffandbeseriously
injuredor interferewith safemachineoperation.
e. Useextremecarewhenapproachingblind
corners,doorways,shrubs,trees or other
objectsthat may blockyourvision of a child
whomayrunintothe machine.
f. To avoid back-over accidents, always
disengagethe cuttingblade(s) before
shiftinginto Reverse.if equipped,the
"Reverse CautionMode"shouldnot be
used whenchildrenor others are around.
g. Keepchildrenawayfromhotor running
engines.Theycan sufferburnsfroma hot
muffler.
h. Removekeywhenmachineis unattendedto
preventunauthorizedoperation.
2. Neverallowchildrenunder14yearsoldto operate
the machine.Children14years old and overshould
readand understandthe operationinstructionsand
safetyrulesinthis manualand shouldbetrainedand
supervisedbya parent.
Operation
Safe Handling of Gasoline:
1. Toavoid personalinjuryor propertydamageuse
extremecare inhandlinggasoline.Gasolineis
extremely flammableand the vapors are explo-
sive. Seriouspersonalinjurycan occurwhengasoline
isspilledonyourselfor yourclotheswhichcan ignite.
Washyourskinandchangeclothesimmediately.
a. Useonlyanapprovedgasolinecontainer.
b. Neverfill containersinsidea vehicleor on a
truckor trailerbed with a 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 contactwith the 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 neck to
allowspacefor fuel expansion.
i. Replacegasolinecapandtightensecurely.
j. If gasolineis spilled,wipe it off theengine
andequipment.Moveunit to anotherarea.
Wait5 minutesbeforestartingtheengine.
k. Toreducefirehazards,keepmachinefreeof
grass,leaves,or otherdebris build-up.Clean
upoil or fuel spillageand removeanyfuel
soakeddebris.
I. Neverstorethe machineor fuel container
insidewherethere is an open flame,spark
orpilot lightas on a waterheater,space
heater,furnace,clothesdryeror other 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.Children14years old and overshould
readandunderstandthe operationinstructionsand
safetyrulesinthis manualand shouldbetrainedand
supervisedby a parent.
4. Neverallowadultsto operatethis machinewithout
properinstruction.
5. To helpavoidbladecontactora thrownobject injury,
keep bystanders,helpers,childrenand petsat least
75feet fromthe machinewhileit is in operation.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
ricochetcancause seriousinjuryto the eyes.
9. Wearsturdy,rough-soledworkshoesandclose-fitting
slacksandshirts.Loosefittingclothesandjewelry
can becaughtinmovableparts.Neveroperatethis
machinein barefeet or sandals.
10.Beawareof the mowerand attachmentdischarge
directionanddo not pointit at anyone.Donot operate
the mowerwithoutthe dischargecoverorentiregrass
catcherin its properplace.
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 roadsand whilenot cuttinggrass.
14.Watchfor traffic whenoperatingnearor 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.Alwayslookdownand behindbefore
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 removekey before
dismounting.
22.Useextracare whenloadingorunloadingthe
machineintoa traileror truck. This unit shouldnot
bedrivenupor downramp(s),becausethe unit
couldtip over,causingseriouspersonalinjury.The
unit mustbepushedmanuallyon ramp(s)to load or
unloadproperly.
23.Mufflerand enginebecomehotandcan 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 cut normalresidential
grassof a heightno morethan 10".Do notattemptto
mowthroughunusuallytall,dry grass(e.g.,pasture)
or pilesof dry leaves.Drygrass or leavesmay
contactthe engineexhaustand/orbuildup on the
mowerdeckpresentinga potentialfire hazard.
27.Useonlyaccessoriesand attachmentsapprovedfor
thismachinebythe machinemanufacturer.Read,
understandandfollowall instructionsprovidedwith
the approvedaccessoryor attachment.
28.Dataindicatesthat operators,age 60 yearsand
above,are involvedin a largepercentageof riding
mower-relatedinjuries.Theseoperatorsshould
evaluatetheirabilityto operatethe ridingmower
safelyenoughto protectthemselvesandothersfrom
seriousinjury.
29.If situationsoccurwhich are not coveredin this
manual,usecareandgoodjudgment.Contactyour
customerservicerepresentativefor assistance.
........................................................................................
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 inthis man-
ual before attempting to
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 persons who read,
understand
and follow the warnings
and instructions
in this manual
5

Thissymbolpoints
outimportantsafety
instructionswhich,if
notfollowed,could
endangerthepersonal
i safetyand/orproperty
ofyourselfandothers.
Readandfollowall
instructionsinthisman-
ualbeforeattemptingto
I operatethismachine.
I Failuretocomplywith
theseinstructionsmay
i resultin personalinjury.
Whenyouseethis
symbol.
i HEED ITSWARNING
Your
i Responsibility
Restrictthe use
of this power machine
to persons who read,
understand
and follow the warnings
and instructions
in this manual
Slope Operation:
Slopesare a majorfactor relatedto loss of controland
tip-overaccidentswhichcan resultin severeinjuryor
death.All slopesrequireextracaution.If youcannot
backupthe slopeor if youfeel uneasyon it, do notmow
it.
Foryour safety,usethe slopegaugeincludedas partof
thismanualto measureslopesbeforeoperatingthis unit
ona slopedor hillyarea. Ifthe slopeis greaterthan 15
degreesas shownon theslopegauge,do notoperate
thisunit onthatareaor seriousinjurycouldresult.
DO:
1. Mowupanddownslopes,notacross. Exercise
extremecautionwhenchangingdirectionon slopes.
2. Watchfor holes,ruts,bumps,rocks,or other 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
wheelweightsor counterweightsto 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 a wheel is over
the edgeof a cliff, ditch,or if an edge cavesin.
3. Do nottry to stabilizethe machineby puttingyourfoot
onthe ground.
4. Do not usea grasscatcheron steep slopes.
5. Do not mowonwetgrass. Reducedtractioncould
causesliding.
6. Do not shiftto neutralandcoastdownhill.Over-speed-
ingmaycausethe operatorto losecontrol of the
machineresultingin seriousinjuryor death.
7. Do nottowheavypullbehindattachments(e.g.loaded
dumpcart, lawnroller,etc.)on slopesgreaterthan
5 degrees.Whengoingdown hill,the extra weight
tendsto pushthe tractorandmaycauseyou to loose
control.(e.g.tractormayspeedup, brakingand steer-
ingabilityarereduced,attachmentmayjack-knifeand
causetractorto overturn).
Towing:
1. Towonlywith a machinethat hasa 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 movingparts havestopped.
Disconnectthe sparkplugwireandgroundagainstthe
engineto preventunintendedstarting.
3. Periodicallycheckto makesurethe bladescometo
completestopwithinapproximately(5) five seconds
afteroperatingthe bladedisengagementcontrol.Ifthe
bladesdo notstop within thethis timeframe,yourunit
shouldbe servicedprofessionallyby an authorized
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 partswhich do not meet
the originalequipmentspecificationsmayleadto
improperperformanceandcompromisesafety!"
6. Mowerbladesaresharp.Wrapthe bladeor wear
gloves,anduseextracautionwhenservicingthem.
7. Keepallnuts, bolts,and screwstight to be surethe
equipmentis insafeworkingcondition.
8. Nevertamperwiththe safety interlocksystemor 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 wearanddamagewhich could
exposemovingpartsor allowobjectsto be thrown.
Forsafetyprotection,frequentlycheckcomponents
andreplaceimmediatelywithoriginalequipment
manufacturer's(O.E.M.)partsonly,listedinthis
manual."Useof parts which do not 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 important safety
instructions which, if
not followed, could
endangerthe personal
safety and/or property
of yourselfand 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 personswho read.
understand
and follow the 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 hot or running,
Extinguish cigarettes,
cigars, pipes, and
othersourcesof
ignitionl
NOTE: This Operators
Manual Coversa range
of produCtspecifications
for VariousmodelS:
Characteristics and
i
featuresdiscussed
and/or illustratedin
s manualmay not
applicable toall models:
MTD LLC reservesthe
right to change product
specifications, (Jesigns
and equipment without
notice and without 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:Somemodelsareshippedwith the batterycables
alreadyconnected.
NOTE:Thepositivebatteryterminalis markedPos. (+).
Thenegativebatteryterminalis markedNeg.(-).
• Thepositivecable(heavyredwire) is securedto the
positivebatteryterminal(+)with a hexbolt andhex
nut at thefactory.Makecertainthatthe rubberboot
coversthe terminalto helpprotectit fromcorrosion.
• Removethehex boltand hexnut fromthe negative
cable.
• Removetheblackplasticcover,if present,from the
negativebatteryterminalandattachthe negative
cable(heavyblackwire)to the negativebattery
terminal(-) withthe bolt and nut.
• Makecertainthehold-downstrap is in positionover
the battery,securingit in place. See Figure1.
NOTE:Ifthe batteryis putinto serviceafter the date
shownontop of battery,chargethe batteryas instructed
onpage24of this manualprior to operatingthe tractor.
Gas and Oil Fill-up
Thegasolinetank is locatedunderthe hood and hasa
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 in the
engine.However,you MUSTcheckthe oil levelbefore
operating.Becarefulnotto overfill.
8

Shipping Brace Removal f
WARNING: Make sure the riding
mower's engine is off, remove the
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 dischargechute with yourleft hand,
removethe shippingbracewith your righthandby
graspingitbetweenyour thumbandindexfingerand
rotatingitclockwise.
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 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, remove the igni-
tion key, and set the
parking brake before
removingthe 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 and/or property
damage.
9

WARNING
Before operatingthis
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
backward to the pivot
bracket. In either case;
free the seat form 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
Seatstylesvarybytractormodeland thereare three
differentstylesavailable:
• StandardAdjustment
• QuickAdjustment&
• KnobAdjustment
If the seatfor yourtractordid notcomeattached,referto
Figure4, Figure5, and Figure6 to identifyyourtractor's
seatstyleandfollowthe applicableinstructionsbelowto
attachit.
Figure 4
NOTE:Forshippingreasons,seatsare eitherfastened
to the tractorseat'spivotbracketwith a plastictie,or
mountedbackwardto the pivotbracket.Ineithercase,
freethe seatformitsshippingpositionand removethe
twohex screws(or knobs,on modelsso 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 holesin the 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 plasticseatspacerswith the 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 holesin the 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 cuttingdeck withoutmulch-
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 under any circumstances is
30 psi. Equal tire pressure should
be maintained at 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
should be maintained
at all times,

Know Your Lawn Tractor
NOTE: Any reference
in this manual to 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(Blade Engage)Lever
NOTE:Anyreferencein this manualto the RIGHTor LEFTside of the tractoris observedfrom operator'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:Whenoperatingthetractorwith the 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 Engine on page16of this manual
for detailedstartinginstructions.
Ignition Switch
The ignitionswitchisactivatedto startthe engine.Insert
keyintothe ignitionswitchandturnclockwiseto the
STARTposition.Releasethe key intothe ON position
onceenginehasfired.SeeFigure10A.
ignition Switch Module (if Equipped)
Tostart theengine,insertthe keyintothe ignitionswitch
andturnclockwiseto the STARTposition.Releasethe
keyintothe NORMALMOWINGMODEpositiononce
theenginehasfired.
Tostopthe engine,turn theignitionkey counterclockwise
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 page 14and Starting
The Engine on page 16 of this manualfordetailed
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 decklift leveris
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,
Always disengage
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 Module and
operating the tractor in
REVERIE CAUTION
MODEi
13

NOTE:Theparking
brakemustbesetifthe
operatorleavestheseat
withthe enginerun-
ningortheenginewill
automaticallyshutoff.
NOTE:ThePTO(Blade
Engage)levermustbe
inthe disengaged(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 regulatetheground speed
of the lawntractor.To use,depressthe
clutch-brakepedalandmovethe leveroul
of the parkingbrakenotchandforward
to increasethe tractor'sgroundspeed.
Whenadesiredspeedhasbeen reached
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 speedcontrolleverall the way down
andintothe parkingbrakeposition.Releasethe clutch-
brakepedalto allowthe parkingbraketo engage.
Toreleasethe parkingbrake,depressthe clutch-brake
pedaland movethe speedcontrol leverout of the
notchesto the desiredposition.Releasethe speed
controlleverandthe clutch-brakepedal.
NOTE:Theparkingbrakemustbe set if 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 page 14.
Shift Lever
The shiftleverislocatedon the left sideof thefender
andhasthree positions,FORWARD,NEUTRALand
REVERSE.The brakepedalmustbedepressedand
thetractor mustnotbe in motionwhenthe 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 PTOOFF position
disengagespowerto the cuttingdeck/
attachment.
NOTE:The PTO(bladeengage)lever
mustbe in the 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 automaticallyshutoff if the operator
leavesthe seatbeforeengagingthe parkingbrake.
* Theenginewill automaticallyshutoff if the operator
leavesthe tractor'sseatwith the PTO(Blade Engage)
leverinthe engaged(ON) position,regardlessof
whetherthe parkingbrakeis engaged.
* Theenginewill automaticallyshutoff if the operator
engagesthe PTOwith the parkingbrakeON.
14

Models without Reverse Caution Mode
• Theenginewill automaticallyshut off if the PTO
(BladeEngage)leveris movedintothe engaged(ON)
positionwiththe shiftleverin Reverse.
Models with Reverse Caution Mode
• Withthe ignitionkeyin the NORMALMOWING
position,the enginewill automaticallyshutoff ifthe
PTO(BladeEngage)leveris movedintothe engaged
(ON) positionwiththe shiftleverin 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.
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 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 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-brakepedalandhold it down
withyourfoot.
2. Movethe speedcontrolleverall the waydownand
intothe parkingbrakeposition.
3. Releasethe clutch-brakepedal to allowthe parking
braketo engage.
To releasethe parkingbrake:
1. Depressthe clutch-brakepedalandmovethe speed
controlleverout of the parkingbrakepositionand into
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 in the REVERSE
CAUTION MODE.
Always look down and
behind before and
while backing. Do not
operate the tractor
when children or oth-
ers are around. Stop
the tractor immediately
f someone enters the
area.

YoUr LaWn
i
Tractor
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 deckliftleverinany of the sixdifferent
cuttingheightnotcheson the 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 of the cutting deck.
NOTE:Onmodelsso equipped,thedeck wheelsare 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 interlock system 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 OPERATETHEUNITWHERE IT COULDSLIP OR TIE
IF MACHINESTOPSGOINGUPHILL,STOP BLADE(S)AND
BACK DOWNHILLSLOWLY.
DO NOT MOWWHEN CHILDRENOROTHERS AREAROUND.
NEVER CARRYCHILDREN,EVENWITH BLADESOFR
LOOK DOWNAND BEHIND BEFOREAND WHILE BACKING.
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,SHUT ENGINEOFF AND REMOVEKEY.
READ OPERATOR'S MANUAL
Stopping the Engine
NOTE:Referto the TRACTORSET-UPon page8 of
thismanualfor Gasolineand Oil fill-upinstructions.
1. Insertthe tractorkey intothe 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.It will
returnto the ONposition.
IMPORTANT:DoNOTholdthe keyin the START
positionfor longerthanten secondsat a time. Doingso
maycausedamageto yourengine'selectricstarter.
6. Afterthe enginestarts,deactivatethe chokecontrol
andplacethe throttlecontrolin the 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 keyfromthe ignitionswitchto prevent
unintendedstarting.
NOTE:Do NOTleavethe chokecontrolonwhile operat-
ingthe tractor.Doingsowill resultina "rich" fuelmixture
andcausethe engineto runpoorly.
16

Driving The Tractor
WARNING: Avoid sudden 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 highesttwospeedsuntilafter the
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 grass surface,always:
1. Placethe shift leverin neutral,
2. Engagethe parkingbrake,
3. Shutengineoff and removethe key.
Doingsowill minimizethe possibilityof havingyourlawn
"browned"by hot exhaustfromyourtractor's running
engine.
If unit stalls with speedcontrolin highspeed,orif unit
willnot operatewith speedcontrolleverin a lowspeed
position,proceedas follows:
1. Placeshiftleverin NEUTRAL.
2. Restartengine.
3. Placespeedcontrolleverin highestspeedposition.
4. Releaseclutch-brakepedalfully.
5. Depressclutch-brakepedal.
6. Placespeedcontrolleverin desiredposition.
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 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
_ccident.
17

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.
To help avoid blade
;ontact or a thrown
object injury, keep
bystanders, helpers,
;hildren and pets at
least 75 feet from the
machine while it is in
operation. Stop ma-
;hine if anyoneenters
the area.
Driving On Slopes
Referto the SLOPEGAUGEon page3 to help deter-
mineslopeswhereyou mayoperatethe tractorsafely.
,_ WARNING: Do not mow on
inclineswith a slope in excess
of 15 degrees (a rise of approxi-
mately 2-1/2 feet every 10feet).
The tractor could overturn and
cause serious injury.
• Mow up anddownslopes,NEVERacross.
• Exerciseextremecautionwhenchangingdirection
on slopes.
• Watchfor holes, ruts,bumps,rocks,or otherhidden
objects.Uneventerraincouldoverturnthe machine.
Tallgrasscan hideobstacles.
• Avoidturns whendrivingon a slope.Ifa turn must
be made,turn downthe slope.Turningup a slope
greatlyincreasesthechanceof a roll over.
• Avoidstoppingwhendrivingup a slope.If it is
necessaryto stopwhiledrivingup a slope, 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 with Reverse 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 page 14.
Using the Deck Lift Lever
Toraisethe cuttingdeck,movethe deck lift 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 pets at 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 or grass collectoris installed.
• For bestresultsit is recommendedthat the firsttwo
lapsbe cut with the dischargethrowntowardsthe
center.Afterthe first twolaps, reversethedirectionto
throwthe dischargeto the outsidefor the balanceof
cutting.Thiswill givea betterappearanceto the lawn.
• Do notcut thegrasstoo short.Shortgrass invites
weedgrowthandyellowsquicklyindry weather.
• Mowingshouldalwaysbedone with theengineat full
throttle.
Underheavierconditionsit may be necessaryto go
backoverthecut areaa secondtimeto get a clean
cut.
18

• Do NOTattemptto mowheavybrushand weedsand _ _ " --
extremelytall grass.Yourtractoris designedto mow /A I
awns,NOTdearbrush //I
• Keepthe bladessharpand replacethebladeswhen "i.: ....",,, [J
worn.Referto Cutting Blades on page 25 of this / '
manualfor properbladesharpeninginstructions.
Mulching (If Equipped)
Selectmodelscomeequippedwitha mulch kit which
incorporatesspecialblades,alreadystandardonthe
tractor,ina processof recirculatinggrass clippings
repeatedlybeneaththe cuttingdeck.Theultra-fine
clippingsarethen forcedbackintothe lawnwherethey
actas a naturalfertilizer.
Observethe followingpointsfor the bestresultswhen
mulching:
• Neverattemptto mulchif the lawnis damp.Wet grass
tendsto stickto theundersideof the cuttingdeck
preventingpropermulchingof the clippings.
• Do NOTattemptto mulchmorethan 1/3the total
heightof the grassor approximately1-1/2inches.
Doingso willcausetheclippingsto clump up beneath
thedeckand notbe mulchedeffectively.
• Maintaina slow groundspeedto allowthe grass
clippingsmoretimeto effectivelybemulched.
• Alwayspositionthe throttlecontrol leverin the 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 cuttingdeck withoutmulching,simply
removethe mulchplugbyunthreadingthe plasticwing
nutwhichfastensit to the cuttingdeck.Thiswill allowthe
clippingsto dischargeout the side.See Figure13.
Headlights
• Onsomemodels,the lampsare ON wheneverthe
tractor'sengineisrunning.On othermodels,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,
except where speci-
i fied in the operator's
manual.
i Never attempt to
iadjust the brakes
_wh ie the engine
i is running. Always
idisengage PTO, move
::shift lever into neutral
position, stop engine
and remove key to
iprevent unintended
istarting.
Figure 14
1. Withthe tractorparkedon a 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 thesecond measurement.
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 lowerthefront of 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 cuttingdeck appearsto bemowingunevenly,a side
to side adjustmentcan beperformed.Adjustif necessary
as follows:
1. Withthe tractorparkedon a 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 NOT remove,the hexcap screwon
the leftdeckhangerbracket.SeeFigure15.
4. Balancethe deckby usingawrenchto turn the
adjustmentgear (foundimmediatelybehindthe hex
cap screwjust loosened)clockwise/upor counter-
clockwise/down.Thedeckis properlybalancedwhen
bothbladetip measurementstakenearlierareequal.
5. Retightenthe hex capscrewonthe left deck hanger
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 notcome to a completestopwhenthe
brakepedalis completelydepressed,or if the tractor's
rearwheelscan rollwiththe parkingbrakeapplied,the
2O

brakeis in need of adjustment.Thebrakedisc can 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. Usinga feelergauge,set the gap betweenthe 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 two hex
screwson the bottomof the seat.Slide the seatforward
or backwardas desired.Retightenthe two screws.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 seat adjustmentlever,movethe seatadjustment
lever(locatedundertheseat)to the leftand slidethe seat
forwardor rearward.See Figure19.Makesureseat is
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 it may
be necessary to remove
the tractor!s side panel
in OrdertO replace the
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 order to replacethe oil filter (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/
OwnerManualpackedwith your unit.
Spark Plug(s)
Thesparkplug(s)shouldbecleanedand thegap reset
oncea season.Sparkplugreplacementis recommended
at the startof each mowingseason.Referto the Engine
Operator/OwnerManualfor correctplug type and gap
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
EngineOwnerManualpackedwith yourunit.
Pivot Points & Linkage
Lubricateall the pivotpoints on the drivesystem,parking
brakeand lift linkageat least oncea seasonwithlightoil.
Rear Wheels
The rearwheelsshouldbe removedfrom the axles once
a season.Lubricatethe axles and the rimswell with an
all-purposegreasebeforere-installingthem.
Front Axles
Eachendof the tractor'sfrontpivot bar may be equipped
witha greasefitting. Lubricatewith a greasegun after
every25 hoursof tractoroperation.
Cleaning the Engine And Deck
Anyfuel oroil spilledon the machineshouldbe wiped
off promptly.Do NOTallowdebristo accumulatearound
the coolingfinsof the engineor on any otherpart of the
machine.
IMPORTANT:The useof a pressurewasherto cleanyour
tractoris NOTrecommended.It maycause damageto
electricalcomponents,spindles,pulleys,bearingsor the
engine.
22

Deck Wash System TM
A hexplug can be foundon yourtractor'sdecksurface.
SeeFigure21.
Thisplugcanbe replacedwith a waterport to beusedas
part of a separately-availabledeck wash system.
Usethe DeckWashSystemTM to rinsegrassclippings
fromthe deck'sundersideand preventthe buildupof
corrosivechemicals.
NOTE:Referto page28for informationregardingthis
andotherseparately-availableattachments& acces-
soriesfor yourtractor.
Cutting Deck Removal
NOTE:Modelsequippedwitha 38-inchdeck haveone
deckidlerpulley.Modelsequippedwitha 42-inchdeck
havetwodeckidlerpulleys.
To removethecuttingdeck, proceedas follows:
1. Placethe PTO(BladeEngage)leverinthe disen-
gaged(OFF)positionandengagethe parkingbrake.
2. Lowerthe deckby movingthedeck lift leverinto 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 rear left sideof the deck. See
Figure22.
5. Removethe hairpin clipthat securesthedeck
supportrod, andcarefullyremovethe decksupport
fromthe decklift arm.
6. Repeattheabovestepson thetractor'srightside.
7. Movethe decklift leverintothe top notchon the right
fenderto raisethe decklift arms up and out of the
way.
8. Carefullyremovethe PTOcablefrom the rearof
the cuttingdeckby removingthe hair pinclip which
securesit. Removethe springfromthe deckidler
bracket.SeeFigure23.
9. Gentlyslidethe cuttingdecktowardthe frontof the
tractorallowingthe hooksonthe deckto release
themselvesfromthedeckstabilizerrod.
10.Gentlyslidethe cuttingdeck (from the 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 have two deck
idler pulleys.

Tires Jump Starting
WARNING
Never exceed the
maximum inflation
pressure shown on the
sidewall of the tire.
Batteries give off an
explosive gas while
charging. Charge bat=
tery ina well ventilated
area and keep away
from an open flame
or pilot light as on a
water heater, space
heater, furnace, clothes
dryer or other gas
appliances.
Always use a fuse with
the same amperage
capacity for replace=
merit.
,_ WARNING: Never exceedthe ,_
maximum inflation pressure
shown on the sidewall of tire.
The recommendedoperatingtire pressureis:
• Approximately10 psifor the rear tires
• Approximately14psi for the fronttires
IMPORTANT:Referto the tire sidewallforexacttire
manufacturer'srecommendedormaximumpsi.Do not
overinflate.Uneventirepressurecouldcausethe cutting
deckto mowunevenly.
Battery
The batteryis sealedand is maintenance-free.Acid
levelscannotbechecked.
• Alwayskeepthe batterycablesand terminalsclean
andfreeof corrosivebuild-up.
• Aftercleaningthe batteryand terminals,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 an extended
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 bakingsodaand water solution.If neces-
sary,scrapethe batteryterminalswith a 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 certainthat the 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 ground against the
engine to prevent unintended
starting before removing the cut-
ring 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.
The bladesmayberemovedas follows.
1. Removethe deck from beneaththe tractor,(referto
CuttingDeckRemovalon page23) thengentlyflip
thedeckoverto exposeitsunderside.
2. Placea blockof wood betweenthe centerdeck hous-
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 within 1 5/8" fromtheedge,or if any
metalseparationis present,replacethe bladeswith new
ones,SeeFigure25,
It isimportantthat eachcuttingbladeedgebeground
equallyto maintainproperbladebalance.
A poorlybalancedbladewill causeexcessive
vibrationand maycausedamageto thetractorand
resultinpersonalinjury,The bladecan betestedby
balancingit ona roundshaftscrewdriver.Grind metal
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 numberstampedin it) facing the groundwhen
themoweris in the operatingposition.
IMPORTANT:Useatorquewrenchto tightenthe blade
spindlehexflange nutto between70 foot-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 gloves or 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 ground against
the engine to prevent
unintendedstarting
before removingthe
belt(s).
Avoid the possibility of
a pinching injury.Do
not place your fingers
on the idler spring or
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 ground against the
engine to prevent unintended
starting before removingthe
belt(s).
All beltson yourtractorare subjectto wearand should
be replacedif anysigns of weararepresent.
IMPORTANT:TheV-beltsfoundon yourtractorare
speciallydesignedto engageand disengagesafely.A
substitute(non-OEM)V-beltcan bedangerousby not
disengagingcompletely.Fora properworkingmachine,
usefactoryapprovedbelts.
Tochangeor replacethe deck belt and PTObelton your
tractor,proceedasfollows:
1. Lowerthe deckby movingthe decklift leverinto the
bottomnotchonthe rightfender.
2. Removethebelt guardsby removingthe self-tapping
screwsthatfastenthemto the deck.
3. Removethebelt keeperrod fromaroundthe engine
pulley.
4. Inserta 3/8"-driveratchetwrench(setto loosen)into
the squareholefoundin the idler bracketonthe left
sideof the deck'ssurface.SeeFigure26.
5. Graspthe ratchet'shandleandpivot it 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 pinching injury. 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 deck idler pulley.
8. Routethe newbeltsas shownin and Figure27 and28.
9. Remountthe beltguardsremovedearlier.
Changing the Transmission Drive
Belts
NOTE:Severalcomponentsmustbe removedand
specialtools(i.e.air/impactwrench)in order to change
the tractor'sdrivebelts. Seean authorizedMTDService
Dealerto haveyour drivebelts replacedor phone
CustomerSupportas instructedon page 2 for information
onorderinga Service Manual.
26

IdlerBracket
EnginePu_
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
Drain fuel only into an
approvedcontainer
outdoors,away from
an open flame. Al-
low engine to cool
Extinguishcigarettes,
cigars, pipes, and
other sources of igni-
tion prior to draining
fuel.
Never store the ma-
chine or fuel container
indoors where there is
an open flame, spark
or pilot lightsuch
as on water heater,
furnace, clothes dryer
or other gas appliance.
Cleanandlubricatethe tractoras instructedin Section
6: MAiNTAiNiNGYOURLAWNTRACTORon page19
of thismanualbeforestoringfor an extendedperiod.
_ ARNING" 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.
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 ModelSeries700 LawnTractors.Seethe retailer
fromwhichyou purchasedyourtractor,an authorizedMTDServiceDealeror phone(800) 800-7310for information
regardingpriceandavailability.
NOTE:ModelSeries700LawnTractorsare NOTdesignedfor usewith any type of ground-engagingattachments
(e.g.tiller or plow). Useof this type of equipmentWILL voidthe 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 "Deck WashKit
* Notcompatiblewithtractorsequippedwitha Grass Collector
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 DEFLECTOR TO THIS UNIT BEFOREOPERATING.
29
WARNING
This symbol points
out importantsafety
instructionswhich, if
not followed,could
endangerthe personal
safety and/or property
of yourselfand others.
Readand follow all
instructionsinthis
manual beforeat-
temptingto operate
this machine. Failure
to comply with these
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 e m Ca use Remedy
Enginefails to start I 1 PTOengaged. 1 PlacePTOknob(orlever)in
I disengaged(OFF)position.
I 2. Sparkplugw re(s)disconnected. 2. Connectwire(s)to sparkplug(s).
3 Fueltankem t or stalefuel 3 F tankwth c ean fresh gaso 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 Crank enginewith thrott 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 stale fuel,
4, Ventingas cap plugged,
5, Waterordirt infuel system,
6. Dirty aircleaner.
_ J _ =_
30
equipped)in,or movethe throttle
controlout of the CHOKEposition.
2. Connectandtighten spark
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. Replaceair cleanercartridge/ele-
mentor cleanpre-cleaner,if so
equipped.
_ i

Problem Cause Remedy
Engineoverheats !i Engine Oi!levellow. !i Fi!!Ciankcasewith pr0pero!!,
21Air flow restricted. 2 c eangrassclippingsand debiis
fromaroundthe engines €00!ing
..... finsandblowerhousing.
Enginehesitates at 1. Sparkplug(s)gap tooclose, 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. Cuttingblade looseorunbalanced. 1. Tightenbladeandspindle. Balanc_
Vibration blade.
2. Damagedor bentcuttingblade. 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. Excessivelyhigh grassl ,,,
_. Mowonce a! a nigncuttingneight,
then mowagainat desiredheight
or makea narrowerCuttingpath,
Duiiblade &sharpen or repiacebiade:
Uneven cut 1. Decknotbalancedproperly. 1. Performside-to-sidedeck adjust-
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 ResourcesBoardandMTDConsumerGroup Inc are pleasedto explaintheevaporativeemissioncontrolsystemwarrantyon your 2006 lawn
mower.In California,new lawnmowermust be designed,builtand equippedto meet the State'sstringentanti-smogstandards.MTDConsumerGroupInc must
warrantthe EECSon yourlawn mowerfor the periodof time listedbelow providedthere has beenno abuse,neglector impropermaintenanceof your lawnmower.
Your EECSmayincludeparts such as the carburetor,fuel-injectionsystem,the ignitionsystem,catalyticconverter,fuel tanks,fuel lines,fuel caps,valves,
canisters,filters,vaporhoses,clamps,connectors,and other associatedemission-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 MTDConsumerGroup Inc.
OWNER'S WARRANTY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Asthe lawn mowerowner,you are responsiblefor performanceof the requiredmaintenancelistedin yourowner'smanual. MTDConsumerGroup Increcom-
mendsthat you retain all receiptscoveringmaintenanceon your lawnmower,but MTDConsumerGroup Inccannot denywarrantysolelyforthe lack of receipts.
Asthe lawn mowerowner,you shouldhoweverbeawarethat MTDConsumerGroupInc maydeny you warrantycoverageif your lawnmoweror a part has failed
dueto abuse,neglect, orimpropermaintenanceor unapprovedmodifications.
Youare responsiblefor presentingyourlawn mowerto MTDConsumerGroupInc'sdistributioncenteror servicecenteras soonas the problemexists.The
warrantyrepairsshouldbe completedin a reasonableamountof time, not to exceed30 days.If you havea questionregardingyour warrantycoverage,you should
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;andfree from defectsin materialsand workmanshipthat causethe failure of a warrantedpart to be identicalin all material
respectsto that part as describedin MTDConsumerGroupInc'sapplicationfor certification.
The warrantyperiodbeginson the date the lawnmoweris deliveredto an ultimatepurchaseror first placed into service.The warrantyperiodis two years.
Subjectto certain conditionsand exclusionsas statedbelow,the warrantyon emission-relatedparts is as follows:
1. Any warrantedpart that is not scheduledfor replacementas requiredmaintenancein the writteninstructionssupplied, is warrantedfor thewarrantyperiod
statedabove. Ifthe part fails duringthe periodof warrantycoverage,the part will be repairedor replacedby MTDConsumerGroupInc accordingto subsection
(4) below. Anysuch part repairedor replacedunderwarrantywillbe warrantedfor the remainderof the period.
2. Any warrantedpart that is scheduledonly for regularinspection inthe writteninstructionssupplied is warrantedfor thewarranty periodstated above.Any such
part repairedor replacedunderwarrantywill be warrantedfor the remainingwarrantyperiod.
3. Any warrantedpart that is scheduledfor replacementas requiredmaintenancein thewritten instructionssuppliedis warrantedforthe periodof time beforethe
first scheduledreplacementdatefor that part. If the partfails beforethe first scheduledreplacement,the part will be repairedor replacedby MTDConsumer
GroupInc accordingto subsection(4) below.Any such part repairedor replacedunderwarrantywillbe warrantedforthe remainderof the periodpriorto the
first scheduledreplacementpointfor the part.
4. Repairor replacementof any warrantedpart underthe warrantyprovisionshereinmustbe performedat a warrantystationat no chargeto theowner.
5. Notwithstandingthe provisionsherein,warrantyservicesor repairswill beprovidedat 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 otherengine or equipmentcomponentsproximatelycausedby a failure underwarrantyof any warranted
part.
8. Throughoutthe lawnmowerwarrantyperiod stated above,MTDConsumerGroupIncwill maintaina supplyof warrantedparts sufficientto meetthe expected
demandfor such parts.
9. Any replacementpart may be usedin the performanceof any warrantymaintenanceorrepairsand mustbe providedwithoutchargeto the owner.Suchuse will
notreducethe warrantyobligationsof MTDConsumerGroupInc.
10.Add-onor modifiedpartsthat are not exemptedbythe Air ResourcesBoardmaynot beused.The use of any non-exemptedadd-onor modifiedparts by the
ultimatepurchaserwillbe groundsfor disallowinga warrantyclaims. MTDConsumerGroup Incwill notbe liableto warrantfailuresof warrantedparts caused
bythe use of a non-exemptedadd-onor modifiedpart.
WARRANTED PARTS:
The repairor replacementof any warrantedpart otherwiseeligiblefor warrantycoveragemaybe excludedfrom such warrantycoverageif MTDConsumerGroup
Inc demonstratesthat the lawnmowerhas been abused,neglected,or improperlymaintained,andthat such abuse, neglect,or impropermaintenancewas the
directcauseof the needfor repairor replacementof the part.That notwithstanding,any adjustmentof a componentthathas a factory installed,and properly
operating,adjustmentlimiting deviceis still eligiblefor warrantycoverage.Thefollowing emissionwarrantyparts list arecovered: FuelLine,Fuel Line Clamps

MANUFACTURER'S LiMiTED WARRANTY FOR
The limitedwarrantysetforthbelowisgivenby MTDLLCwith respectto
newmerchandisepurchasedandusedin the UnitedStates,its posses-
sionsandterritories.
"MTD"warrantsthis productagainstdefectsin materialandworkmanship
for a periodof two (2) yearscommencingonthe dateof originalpurchase
andwill,at its option,repairor replace,free of charge,anypart foundto
bedefectiveinmaterialsor workmanship.This limitedwarrantyshallonly
applyif this producthas beenoperatedand maintainedin accordance
withthe Operator'sManualfurnishedwiththe product,andhas not been
subjectto misuse,abuse,commercialuse,neglect,accident,improper
maintenance,alteration,vandalism,theft, fire,water,ordamagebecause
of otherperilor naturaldisaster.Damageresultingfrom the installationor
useof any part,accessoryor attachmentnotapprovedby MTDfor use
withthe product(s)coveredbythis manualwill voidyourwarrantyas to
any resultingdamage.
Normalwearpartsarewarrantedto befree fromdefectsinmaterialand
workmanshipfor a periodof thirty (30) days fromthe dateof purchase.
Normalwearpartsinclude,butare notlimitedto itemssuchas: batteries,
belts,blades,bladeadapters,grassbags,riderdeckwheels,seats, snow
throwerskidshoes,shaveplates,augerspiralrubberandtires.
HOWTO OBTAINSERVICE:Warrantyserviceis available,WITH
PROOFOF PURCHASE,throughyour localauthorizedservicedealer.To
locatethe dealerin yourarea,checkyourYellowPages,or contact MTD
LLCat RO.Box 361131,Cleveland,Ohio44136-0019,or call 1-800-800-
7310or logon to our Website at www.mtdproducts.com.
Thislimitedwarrantydoesnot providecoveragein the followingcases:
a. Theengineor componentparts thereof.These itemsmay
carrya separatemanufacturer'swarranty.Referto applicable
manufacturer'swarrantyfor termsand conditions.
b. Logsplitterpumps,valves,andcylindershavea separateone
yearwarranty.
c. Routinemaintenanceitemssuchas lubricants,filters,blade
sharpening,tune-ups,brakeadjustments,clutch adjustments,
deckadjustments,andnormaldeteriorationof the exteriorfinish
dueto use or exposure.
d. Servicecompletedby someoneotherthanan authorizedservice
dealer.
e.
f.
g.
MTDdoes notextendany warrantyfor productssoldor
exportedoutsideof the UnitedStates,its possessionsand
territories,exceptthosesoldthroughMTD'sauthorized
channelsof exportdistribution.
Replacementpartsthatarenot genuineMTDparts.
Transportationchargesand servicecalls.
No impliedwarranty, includingany impliedwarranty of merchant-
ability of fitness for a particularpurpose,applies after the applicable
periodof express written warranty above as to the partsas identi-
fied. No other express warranty, whether written or oral, except as
mentionedabove,given by any personor entity,includinga dealer
or retailer,with respect to any product,shallbind MTD. Duringthe
periodof the warranty, the exclusiveremedyis repairor replacement
of the productas setforth above.
The provisionsas setforth in this warrantyprovidethe sole and
exclusiveremedyarising from the sale.MTDshallnot be liable
for incidentalor consequentialloss or damage including,without
limitation, expensesincurredfor substituteor replacement lawn care
servicesor for rentalexpenses to temporarily replacea warranted
product.
Somestatesdo not allowtheexclusionor limitationof incidentalor
consequentialdamages,or limitationson howlong an impliedwarranty
lasts,so the aboveexclusionsor limitationsmay notapplyto you.
In noeventshall recoveryof any kind be greaterthan theamountof the
purchasepriceof the productsold.Alterationof safety features of the
productshall void this warranty. Youassumethe risk and liability for
loss, damage,or injuryto youand your propertyand/orto others and their
propertyarisingout of the misuseor inabilityto use theproduct.
Thislimitedwarrantyshall notextendto anyoneotherthanthe original
purchaseror to the personfor whom itwaspurchasedas a gift.
HOWSTATELAWRELATESTO THISWARRANTY: Thislimitedwar-
rantygivesyouspecificlegalrights,andyou mayalso haveother rights
whichvaryfromstateto state.
IMPORTANT: OwnermustpresentOriginalProofof Purchaseto obtain
warrantycoverage.
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136=0019; Phone: 1=800=800=7310
