13AX615H730 MTD tractor User Manual

Safety • Assembly • Operation • Tips & Techniques • Maintenance • Troubleshooling • Parts Lists • Warranty

A O AL

Hydrostatic Lawn Tractor- Model Series 610

iMPORTANT

READ SAFETY RULES AND iNSTRUCTiONS CAREFULLY BEFORE OPERATION

Warning: This unit is equippedwithan internalcombustionengineandshouldnot be usedon or nearany uniiprovedforest-covered,brush-

coveredor grassicoveredlandunlesstheengine'sexhaustsystemis equippedwith a sparkarrestermeetingapplicablelocalor statelaws(if any).

If a sparkarresteris used,it shouldbemaintainedineffectiveworkingorderby the operator.In theState of Californiathe aboveis requiredbylaw

(Section4442of the CaliforniaPublicResourcesCode).Otherstatesmay havesimilarlaws.Federallawsapplyonfederallands.A sparkarrester

for the muffleris availablethroughyour nearestengineauthorizedservicedealeror contactthe servicedepartment,RO.Box361131Cleveland,

Ohio44136-0019.

PRINTEDIN U.S.A

MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019

FORMNO.769101628A

12/1/2005

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 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

Troubleshooting ................................................ 30

Replacement Parts ........................................... 32

Finding and Recording Model Number

BEFOREASSEMBLINGYOUR NEW EQUIPMENT,please

locate the 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 under the seat. This

information will be necessary to use the manufacturer's web

site, to obtain assistancefrom the Customer Support Depart-

ment, or when contacting an authorizedservice dealer.

Model Number

www.mtdproducts,com

Serial Number

MTD LLC

P.O= BOX 361131

CLEVELAND, OH 44136

330-220-4683

800-800-7310

Customer Support

Please do 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 www.mtdproducts.com.

2. Phone a Customer Support Representative at 1 (800) 800-7310.

3. The engine manufacturer is responsiblefor all engine-relatedissueswith regards to 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.

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Operation

WARNING

This symbol points

out important safety

instructionswhich, if

notfollowed, could

i endangerthe personal

safety and/or property

ofyourself and others.

I Readand follow all

i instructions in this man-

i ual before attempting to

i operatethis machine.

Failureto comply with

these instructions may

result in personal injury.

i Whenyou see this

symbol.

i HEED ITS WARNING

Your

i Responsibility

Restrictthe use

of this power machine

I to persons who read,

understand

and follow the warnings

and instructions

in this manual

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

nents contain or emit chemicals known to 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 followingsafety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

Children

1. Tragicaccidentscanoccurif the operatoris not

alertto the presenceof children.Childrenare often

attractedto themachineandthe mowingactivity.

Theydo not understandthe dangers.Neverassume

thatchildrenwill remainwhereyou lastsawthem.

a. Keepchildrenout of the mowingarea andin

watchfulcare of a responsibleadultother than

the operator.

b. Bealert and turnmachineoff ifa childenters

the area.

c. Beforeandwhile backing,lookbehindand

downfor smallchildren.

d. Nevercarrychildren,evenwiththe blade(s)

shutoff.Theymayfalloff andbe seriously

injuredorinterferewith safemachineoperation.

e. Useextremecarewhenapproachingblind

corners,doorways,shrubs,treesorother

objectsthat mayblockyourvision of a child

whomayrun intothe 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. Keepchildrenaway fromhotor running

engines.Theycan sufferburnsfroma hot

muffler.

h. Removekeywhenmachineis unattendedto

preventunauthorizedoperation.

2. Neverallowchildrenunder 14yearsold to operate

the machine.Children14years oldandovershould

readand understandthe operationinstructionsand

safetyrulesinthis manualand shouldbetrainedand

supervisedbya parent.

Operation

Safe Handling of Gasoline:

1. Toavoid personalinjuryor propertydamageuse

extremecare in handlinggasoline.Gasolineis

extremely flammableand the vapors are explo-

sive. Seriouspersonalinjurycan occurwhengasoline

isspilledonyourselfor yourclotheswhichcan ignite.

Washyourskinand changeclothesimmediately.

a. Useonlyan approvedgasolinecontainer.

b. Neverfill containersinsideavehicleor ona

truckor trailerbedwith a plasticliner.Always

placecontainerson the groundawayfrom

yourvehiclebeforefilling.

c. Whenpractical,removegas-powered

equipmentfromthe truckor trailerand refuelit

onthe ground.If this isnotpossible,then

refuelsuchequipmenton a trailerwith a

portablecontainer,ratherthan froma gasoline

dispensernozzle.

d. Keepthe nozzlein contactwiththe rimof

the fueltankor containeropeningat all

timesuntilfuelingiscomplete.Donot usea

nozzlelock-opendevice.

e. Extinguishall cigarettes,cigars,pipesand

othersourcesof ignition.

f. Neverfuel machineindoors.

g. Neverremovegas cap oradd fuel whilethe

engineishot or running.Allowengineto cool

at leasttwo minutesbeforerefueling.

h. Neveroverfill fuel tank.Fill tankto no more

than1/2inchbelowbottomof filler neck to

allowspacefor fuel expansion.

i. Replacegasolinecapand tightensecurely.

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 openflame,spark

orpilot lightas on a waterheater,space

heater,furnace,clothesdryeror other gas

appliances.

m. Allowa machineto cool at least fiveminutes

beforestoring.

GeneralOperation:

1. Read,understand,andfollowall instructionsonthe

machineandin the manual(s)beforeattemptingto

assembleand operate.Keepthismanualin a safe

placefor futureand regularreferenceandfor ordering

replacementparts.

2. Befamiliarwith all controlsandtheir properoperation.

Knowhow to stopthe machineand disengagethem

quickly.

3, Neverallowchildrenunder14yearsold to operate

this machine.Children14yearsold andovershould

readandunderstandthe operationinstructionsand

safetyrulesin this manualand shouldbetrainedand

supervisedby a parent.

4. Neverallowadultsto operatethis machinewithout

properinstruction.

5. To helpavoidbladecontactor a thrownobjectinjury,

keep bystanders,helpers,childrenand petsat least

75feet fromthe machinewhileit is in operation.Stop

machineif anyoneenters thearea.

6. Thoroughlyinspecttheareawheretheequipmentis to

be used.Removeall stones,sticks,wire,bones,toys,

andotherforeignobjectswhichcouldbe pickedup

andthrown bythe blade(s).Thrownobjectscancause

seriouspersonalinjury.

7. Planyourmowingpatternto avoiddischargeof

materialtowardroads,sidewalks,bystandersandthe

like.Also,avoiddischargingmaterialagainsta wall or

obstructionwhichmaycause dischargedmaterialto

ricochetback towardthe operator.

8. Alwayswear safetyglassesor safetygogglesduring

operationand while performingan adjustmentor

repairto protectyoureyes.Thrownobjectswhich

ricochetcancause seriousinjuryto the eyes.

9. Wearsturdy,rough-soledworkshoesandclose-fitting

slacksand shirts.Loosefittingclothesandjewelry

can becaught inmovableparts.Neveroperatethis

machinein barefeetor sandals.

10.Be awareof the mowerand attachmentdischarge

directionanddo not pointit at anyone.Donot operate

the mowerwithoutthe dischargecoveror entiregrass

catcherin itsproperplace.

11.Donot put handsor feet nearrotatingpartsor under

the cuttingdeck. Contactwiththe blade(s)can

amputatehandsand feet.

12.A missingor damageddischargecovercan cause

bladecontactor thrownobjectinjuries.

13.Stop the blade(s)whencrossinggraveldrives,walks,

or roadsandwhilenot cuttinggrass.

14.Watchfor traffic whenoperatingnearor crossing

roadways.This machineis not intendedfor useon

anypublic roadway.

15.Do notoperatethe machinewhileunderthe influ-

enceof alcoholordrugs.

16.Mowonly in daylightor goodartificiallight.

17.Nevercarry passengers.

18.Disengageblade(s)beforeshiftinginto reverse.

Backup slowly.Alwayslookdownand behindbefore

andwhilebackingto avoida back-overaccident.

19.Slowdownbeforeturning.Operatethe machine

smoothly.Avoiderraticoperationand excessive

speed.

20.Disengageblade(s),set parkingbrake,stopengine

andwait untilthe blade(s)cometo a completestop

beforeremovinggrass catcher,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 trailerortruck. Thisunit shouldnot

bedrivenup or 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,whichcouldresult inseriousinjury.

25.Disengageall attachmentclutches,depressthe

brakepedalcompletelyandshift into neutralbefore

attemptingto startengine.

26.Yourmachineisdesignedto cutnormalresidential

grassof a heightno morethan 10".Do notattemptto

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

or pilesof dry leaves.Dry grassor leavesmay

contactthe engineexhaustand/orbuild up onthe

mowerdeckpresentinga potentialfire hazard.

27.Use onlyaccessoriesandattachmentsapprovedfor

thismachinebythe machinemanufacturer.Read,

understandandfollowall instructionsprovidedwith

the approvedaccessoryor attachment.

28.Data indicatesthat operators,age60 yearsand

above,are involvedin a largepercentageof riding

mower-relatedinjuries.Theseoperatorsshould

evaluatetheirabilityto operatethe ridingmower

safelyenoughto protectthemselvesand othersfrom

seriousinjury.

29.If situationsoccurwhich arenot coveredin this

manual,usecareandgood judgment.Contactyour

customerservicerepresentativefor assistance.

!i!i ¸¸¸:¸/: :!i¸ ¸¸¸ : :

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

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

Operation

This symbol points

out important safety

instructions which, if

notfollowed, could

endangerthe personal

i safety and/or property

of yourself and others.

Read and follow all

=nstructionsin this man-

ual before attempting to

I operate this machine.

I Failureto comply with

i these instructions may

i 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 warn=ngs

and instructions

in this manual

Slopesare a majorfactor relatedto lossof controland

tip-overaccidentswhichcan resultin severeinjuryor

death.All slopesrequireextracaution.If youcannot

backup the 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 theslopegauge,do notoperate

thisunit on thatarea or seriousinjurycouldresult.

DO:

1. Mowup anddownslopes,notacross.Exercise

extremecautionwhenchangingdirectiononslopes.

2. Watchfor holes, ruts,bumps,rocks,orother hidden

objects.Uneventerraincouldoverturnthe machine.

Tallgrasscan hideobstacles.

3. Useslow speed.Choosea low enoughspeed

settingso thatyouwill not haveto stopor shift while

onthe slope.Tires maylosetractionon slopeseven

thoughthe brakesare functioningproperly.Always

keepmachineingear whengoingdown slopesto

takeadvantageof enginebrakingaction.

4. Followthe manufacturer'srecommendationsfor

wheelweightsor counterweightsto improvestability.

5. Useextracare with grasscatchersorotherat-

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)and proceedslowly

straightdownthe slope.

Do Not:

1. Do notturn on slopesunlessnecessary;then,turn

slowlyandgraduallydownhill,if possible.

2. Do not mowneardrop-offs,ditchesor embankments.

Themowercouldsuddenlyturnoverif awheel is over

the edgeof a cliff,ditch,or if an edgecavesin.

3. Do nottry to stabilizethe machineby puttingyourfoot

onthe ground.

4. Do not usea grasscatcheronsteep slopes.

5. Do not mowonwet grass. Reducedtractioncould

causesliding.

6. Do not shiftto neutralandcoastdownhill.Over-speed-

ingmay causethe operatorto losecontrol of the

machineresultingin seriousinjuryordeath.

7. Do nottow heavypullbehindattachments(e.g.loaded

dumpcart, lawnroller,etc.)on slopesgreaterthan

5 degrees.Whengoingdown hill,the extraweight

tendsto pushthe tractorand maycauseyou to loose

control.(e.g. tractormayspeedup, brakingand steer-

ingability arereduced,attachmentmayjack-knifeand

causetractorto overturn).

Towing:

1. Towonlywitha 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 tractionand lossof control.

5. Travelslowlyandallowextra distanceto stop.

6. Do not shiftto neutralandcoastdownhill.

Service

1. Neverrunan engineindoorsorin a poorlyventilated

area. Engineexhaustcontainscarbonmonoxide,an

odorless,and deadlygas.

2. Beforecleaning,repairing,or inspecting,makecertain

the blade(s)andall movingparts havestopped.

Disconnectthe sparkplug wireandgroundagainstthe

engineto preventunintendedstarting.

3. Periodicallycheckto make surethe bladescome to

completestop withinapproximately(5) five seconds

afteroperatingthe bladedisengagementcontrol.Ifthe

bladesdo notstopwithin thethis timeframe,yourunit

shouldbe servicedprofessionallyby anauthorized

MTDServiceDealer.

4. Checkbrakeoperationfrequentlyas it is subjectedto

wearduringnormaloperation.Adjustand serviceas

required.

5. Checkthe blade(s)andenginemountingbolts 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,

listedinthis manual."Useof partswhich donot meet

the originalequipmentspecificationsmayleadto

improperperformanceandcompromisesafety!"

6. Mowerbladesaresharp.Wrapthe bladeor wear

gloves,anduseextra cautionwhenservicingthem.

7. Keepallnuts, bolts,and screwstightto besurethe

equipmentis insafeworkingcondition.

8. Nevertamperwiththe safety interlocksystemor other

safetydevices.Checktheir properoperationregularly.

9. Afterstrikinga foreignobject,stopthe engine,

disconnectthe sparkplug wire(s)andgroundagainst

the engine.Thoroughlyinspectthe machinefor any

damage.Repairthe damagebeforestartingand

operating.

10.Neverattemptto makeadjustmentsor repairsto the

machinewhilethe engineisrunning.

11.Grasscatchercomponentsandthe discharge

coveraresubjectto wearand damagewhich could

exposemovingpartsor allowobjectsto bethrown.

Forsafetyprotection,frequentlycheckcomponents

andreplaceimmediatelywithoriginalequipment

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

manual."Useof partswhich donot meetthe original

equipmentspecificationsmay leadto improper

performanceandcompromisesafety!"

12.Do notchangethe enginegovernorsettingsor

over-speedthe engine.Thegovernorcontrolsthe

maximumsafeoperatingspeedof the engine.

13.Maintainor replacesafety andinstructionlabels,as

necessary.

14.Observeproperdisposallawsand regulationsfor

gas,oil,etc. to protecttheenvironment.

This symbol points

out important safety

instructions which, if

not followed, could

endangerthe 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 personswho read,

understand

and follow the warn=ngs

and instructions

in this manual

Use extreme care

henhandling

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

other sOurceS of

ignition:

NOTE: This Operators

Manual Coversa range

of prOduCtSpecifications

for various models.

Characteristicsand

features disCussed

and/or illustrated

this manual may not be

applicable to all modelsl

MTD LLC reservesthe

right tOchange product

specifiCationsldesigns

and equipment without

notice and without incur-

ting oblieation ,,

NOTE:This OperatorsManualcoversa rangeof prod-

uctspecificationsfor variousmodels.Characteristics

andfeaturesdiscussedand/or illustratedin thismanual

maynot be applicableto allmodels.MTDLLCreserves

the rightto changeproductspecifications,designs

andequipmentwithoutnoticeand withoutincurring

obligation.

Attaching the Battery Cables

NOTE: If thesecablesarealreadyattached,ignore

thesestepsand proceedto "Gas& Oil Fill-Up."

NOTE: Thepositivebatteryterminalis markedPos. (+).

Thenegativebatteryterminalis markedNeg.(-).

Thepositivecable(heavyredwire) is securedto the

positivebatteryterminal(+)with a hexbolt and hex

nut at thefactory.Makecertainthatthe rubberboot

coversthe terminalto help protectit fromcorrosion.

Removethehex boltand wing nut (or hex nut)from

the negativecable.See Fig.3-1.

Removetheblack plasticcover,ifpresent,fromthe

negativebatteryterminalandattachthe negative

cable(heavyblackwire)to the negativebattery

terminal(-) withthe bolt and wing nut(or hexnut).

4. Makecertainthehold-downstrapis in positionover

the battery,securingit in place.

NOTE: If the batteryis putinto serviceafterthe

dateshownon topof battery,chargethe batteryas

instructedin the maintenancesectionof thismanual

priorto operatingthe tractor.

Gas and Oil Fill-up

Thegasolinetank is locatedunderthe hood andhasa

capacityof 2 gallons.Do notoverfill.

_ WARNING:Use extreme care when

handling gasoline. Gasolineis extremely

flammable and the vapors are explosive.

Neverfuel machine indoors or while

the engine is hot or running. Extinguish

cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other

sources of ignition.

IMPORTANT:Yourtractoris shippedwith motoroil

in theengine.However,you MUSTcheckthe oil level

beforeoperating.Be carefulnotto overfill.

Servicethe enginewithgasolineandoil as instructed

in theseparateEngineOperator/OwnerManualpacked

withyourtractor.Readinstructionscarefully.

Rubber Boot

Figure 3=1

f _ Shipping Brace Removal

WARNING:Makesure the riding mower's

engine is off, removethe ignition key,and

set the parking brake before removing the

shipping brace.

Locatethe shippingbrace,if present,andaccom-

panyingwarningtag foundonthe right sideof the

mower,betweenthe dischargechute andthecutting

deck.SeeFig. 3-2.

Whileholdingthe dischargechutewithyour left

hand,removethe shippingbracewith your right

handbygraspingit betweenyour thumband index

fingerandrotatingit clockwise.

\ j

Figure 3=2

Figure 3-3

WARNING:Theshipping brace, used

for packaging purposes only, must be

removedand discarded before operating

your riding mower.

WARNING:Themowing 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.

Attaching The Steering Wheel

If the steeringwheelfor yourtractordidnot come

attached,the hardwareforattachingithas beenpacked

withinthe steeringwheel,beneaththe steeringwheel

cap.Carefullypryoff the steeringwheelcap and

removethe hardware.

NOTE:Thereare differentstylesof steeringwheelcaps

available.Styles vary by model.

With the wheels of the tractor pointingstraight

forward, placethe steeringwheeloverthe steering

shaft.

2. Placethewasheroverthe steeringshaftand secure

withthe hexbolt. See Fig.3-3.

3. Placethe steeringwheelcap overthecenter of the

steeringwheeland pushdownwarduntilit "clicks"

into place.

Setting Up

WARNING

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

positioncould result

in serious personal

injury and/or property

damage.

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.

Attaching The Seat

Seatstylesvary bytractormodelandthereare three

differentstyles available:

• StandardAdjustment

QuickAdjustment&

• KnobAdjustment

If the seatfor yourtractordid notcomeattached,

referto Fig.3-4, Fig. 3-5, and Fig.3-6 to identifyyour

tractor'sseatstyle andfollowthe applicableinstructions

belowto attachit.

NOTE:Forshippingreasons,seatsareeitherfastened

to the tractorseat'spivot bracketwith a plastictie,or

mountedbackwardto the pivot bracket.Ineithercase,

freethe seatfrom itsshippingpositionand removethe

twohex screws(or knobs,on modelsso equipped)from

the bottomof seatbeforeproceedingwithapplicable

instructionsbelow.

Figure 3-4

x.............................................................................

Standard Adjustment Seat

1. Positionthe shoulderscrews(foundon the baseof

the seat)insidethe slot openingsin the seat pivot

bracket.SeeFig.3-4.

2. Slidethe seatslightlyrearwardinthe seatpivot

bracket,liningupthe rearslots inthe pivot bracket

withthe remainingtwo holesinthe seat'sbase.

3. Selectdesiredpositionforthe seat,and securewith

the twohex screwsremovedearlier.SeeFig.3-4.

Quick Adjustment Seat

NOTE:If your seatwas shippedmountedbackwardson

the seatpivotbracket,pull outthe tab foundon the seat

stopand holditopen whileslidingthe seatoff the seat

pivotbracket.See Fig.3-5.

1. Lineup the plasticseat spacerswith the slotsin seat .................,

pivotbracket.

2. Slideseat inuntilfrontseat spacerengagesthe seat

stop.SeeFig. 3-5.

_ ARNING: Before operating this ma-chine, makesure the seat is engaged in

the seat stop, stand behind the machine

and pull back on seat until fully engaged

into stop.

Knob Adjustment Seat

1. Positionthe shoulderscrews(foundon the baseof

the seat)insidethe slot openingsin the seat pivot

bracket.Fig.3-6.

2. Slidethe seatslightlyrearwardinthe seatpivot

bracket,liningupthe rearslots inthe pivot bracket

withthe remainingtwo holesinthe seat'sbase.

3. Selectdesiredpositionforthe seat,and securewith

the twoknobs removedearlier.See Fig.3-6.

Figure 3=5

x............................_................................................

Figure 3=6

Figure 3-7

identifying the Mulch Plug

(if so equipped)

Ontractormodelsso equipped,a mulchplug can be

foundwithinthe cuttingdeck'sdischargeopening.

NOTE:Referto Mulching inthe "OperatingYour

LawnTractor"sectionof this manualfor moredetailed

information.

If you'dpreferto operatethe cuttingdeck withoutmulch-

ing, simplyremovethe mulchplugby unthreadingthe

plasticwingnut whichfastensit to the cuttingdeck. This

willallow theclippingsto dischargeoutof the discharge

openingduringoperation.See Fig.3-7.

Tire Pressure

,_ WARNING:Maximum tire pressure under

any circumstances is 30psi. Equal tire

pressure should be maintained at all

times.

Thetireson yourunit maybe over-inflatedfor shipping

purposes.Reducethe tire pressurebeforeoperating

the tractor.Recommendedoperatingtire pressureis

approximately10 p.s.iforthe reartires& 14 p.s.i,for the

fronttires. Checksidewallof tire for maximump.s.i.

Your LaWn

Tractor

WARNING

Ma,, mumt repres'

sure under any

circumstances is 30

psi: Equal tire pressure

should be maintained

atalltimesl

NOTE:Any reference

in this manual to the

RIGHTor LEFT side of

the tractor is observed

from operator's position.

Know the Controls

Readthisowner'smanualand safetyrulesbeforeoperatingyourlawnmower.Comparefigurebelowwith yourlawn

tractorto learnaboutthe Ioctionand purposeof variouscontrolsandadjustments.Savethis manualfor futurerefer-

ence.It is veryimportantto followthe instructionsandoperatethe controlsproperly.

@ @

NOTE:Steeringwheelnot shownfor clarityj

Figure 4=1

A PTO(Blade Engage)Levert F Throttle/ChokeControlLever

PTO(BladeEngage)Knobt G CruiseControlButtont

B SystemsIndicatorMonitor H IgnitionSwitchModule

Ammeter1-(NotShown) I BrakePedal

C ChokeKnobt J DrivePedal

D ParkingBrakeButton K SeatAdjustmentLevert

E Cup Holder L DeckLift Lever

1-Ifso equipped

NOTE: Any referenceinthis manualto the RIGHTor LEFTsideof the tractoris observedfromoperator'sposition.

Throttle Control Lever

Thethrottlecontrolleveris locatedon the rightside of

thetractor'sdash panel.This levercontrolsthe speed

of the engineand,on somemodels,when pushedall

thewayforward,the chokecontrolalso.Whenset ina

givenposition,the throttlewill maintaina uniformengine

speed.SeeFig. 4-2.

IMPORTANT:Whenoperatingthetractorwith the cutting

deckengaged,becertainthat the throttleleverisalways

inthe FAST(rabbit)position.

Choke Control

Onsome models,moving

thethrottle leverall the

wayforwardactivatesthe

engine'schoke control.On

allother models,the choke

controlcan befoundon the

leftside of the dashpanel

andis activatedby pullingthe knob outward.Activating

thechokecontrolclosesthe chokeplateon the carbure-

tor andaidsin startingtheengine.Referto Starting

The Engine inthis section of the manualfor detailed

startinginstructions.

Brake Pedal

The brakepedal islocated

onthe rightfront side of the

tractorabovethe drivepedal

alongthe runningboard.The

brakepedalcan beusedfor

suddenstopsor settingthe

parkingbrake.

NOTE:Thebrakepedal mustbefully depressedto

activatethe safetyinterlockswitchwhenstartingthe

tractor.

ignition Switch Module

_ ARNING:Neverleave a running machine

unattended. Always disengage PTO,set

parking brake,stop engine and remove

key to prevent unintended starting.

Tostart theengine,insertthe keyintothe ignitionswitch

andturnclockwiseto the STARTposition.Releasethe

keyintothe NORMALMOWINGMODEpositiononce

theenginehasfired.

Tostopthe engine,turn theignitionkeycounterclockwise

to the OFFposition.SeeFig. 4-3.

IMPORTANT:Priorto operatingthetractor,referto both

Safety Interlock Switches and Starting The Engine

inthis sectionof the manualfordetailedinstructions

regardingthe IgnitionSwitchModuleand operatingthe

tractorinREVERSECAUTIONMODE.

Fast

Position

Slow

Position

Choke

Position

Fast

Position

Slow

Position

Figure 4=2

Normal

Mode

Start

Position

Figure 4=3

Drive Pedal

The drivepedalis locatedon the right

sideof the tractor,alongthe running

board.Depressthe upper portionof

the drivepedalforwardto causethe

tractorto travelforward.Depressthe

lowerportionof the drivepedalwith the

ballof yourrightfoot(NOT yourheel)

to causethetractorto travel in reverse.

Groundspeedis alsocontrolledwith

the drivepedal.Thefurtherforwardor

rearwardthatthe pedal is pivoted,the

fasterthe tractorwill travel.Thepedal

,ib

will returnto itsoriginal positionwhen it's notdepressed.

IMPORTANT:Alwayssetthe parkingbrakewhen

leavingthetractorunattended.

WAn.I.G

Never leave a running

machine unattended.

Always disengage

PTO,set parking

brake, stop engine and

remove keyto prevent

unintended starting;

iMPORTANT

Prioriooperatingthe

tractorl referto both

Safety Interlock

Switches and Starting

The Engine inthis

section ofthe manual

for detailed instructions

regarding the Ignition

Switch Moduleand

operating the tractor ir

NOTE:ThePTO(Blade

Engage)knobmustbe

inthedisengaged(OFF)

positionwhenstarting

theengine,when

travelingin reverseand

iftheoperatorleaves

theseat.

NOTE:ThePTO(Blade

Engage)levermustbe

inthedisengaged(OFF)

positionwhenstarting

theengine,when

travelinginreverseand

iftheoperatorleaves

theseat.

\-_ BATT, OIL zZ

I 42.0

/// HOURS 1/1 0 \\\

PTO/ BLADE PARKING

Figure 4-4

Systems Indicator Monitor (If so Equipped)

LCD

Locatedinthe centerof the tractor'sconsole,the

systemsindicatormonitorrecords,and displays on its

LCD,hoursof tractoroperationwheneverthe ignition

keyis rotatedout of the STOPposition.

The IndicatorMonitorwill also remindthe operatorof

maintenanceintervalsfor changingthe engineoil. The

LCDwill alternatelyflashthe recordedhours,"CHG"and

"OIL"for five minutes,afterevery50 hoursof recorded

operationelapse.The maintenanceintervallastsfor

twohours(from 50-52,100-102,150-152,etc.). The

LCDwill alsoflashas describedabovefor fiveminutes

everytimethe tractor'sengine hasbeenstartedduring

thismaintenanceinterval.Beforethe intervalexpires,

changethe crankcaseoil levelas instructedin this

Operator'sManual.

Brake

If the Brakelight illuminateswhenattemptingto start the

tractor'sengine,depressthe brakepedal.

PTO (Blade Engage)

If the PTOlightilluminateswhenattemptingto start the

tractor'sengine,movePTOleverintothe disengaged

(OFF)position.

Oil

It is normalforthe Oil lightto illuminatewhilethe engine

is crankingduringstart-up,but if it illuminate'sduring

operation,while the engine is running,stopthe

tractorimmediatelyand checkthe crankcaseoillevelas

instructedin thisOwner'sManual.

Battery

It is normalfor the Batterylightto illuminatewhile the

engineis crankingduring start-up,but if it illuminate's

duringoperation,while the engine is running, the

batteryis in needof a chargeorthe engine'scharging

systemis not generatingsufficientamperage.Referto

the MAINTENANCEsectionof this manualfor the proper

batterychargingprocedureor havethechargingsystem

checkedby yourservicedealer.

Ammeter (If so Equipped)

Onmodelswithouta SystemsIndicatorMonitor,an

ammeterwill exist. Theammetermeasuresthe electrical

outputof the engine'schargingsystem.Undernormal

operatingconditions,with engineat full throttle,the

ammetershouldindicatepositivecharge.

Electric PTO (Blade Engage) Knob

(If So Equipped)

Toengagethe powerto

the cuttingdeck or other

(separatelyavailable) II

attachmentson models

equippedwithan electric I_

PTO,pulloutwardon the

PTO(BladeEngage)knob.

Pushthe PTO(Blade

Engage)knobinwardto

disengagethe powerto the

cuttingdeck.

NOTE:The PTO(Blade Engage)knobmust bein the

disengaged(OFF)positionwhen startingthe engine,

whentravelingin reverseand if the operatorleavesthe

seat.

PTO (Blade Engage) Lever

Onmodelsequippedwith a manualPTO(Blade Engage),

the PTO(BladeEngage)leveris locatedon the left sideof

the dashboardnextto the steeringwheel.Movethe PTO

(BladeEngage)leverforwardto engagethe powerto the

cuttingdeckor other(separatelyavailable)attachments;

movethe PTO(BladeEngage)leverrearwardto disen-

ON1 z

OFF, PTO

PTO /BLADE ENGAGE

gagethepowerto the attachments.

NOTE:The PTO(Blade Engage)levermust be in the

disengaged(OFF)positionwhen startingthe engine,

whentravelingin reverseand if the operatorleavesthe

seat.

Seat Adjustment Lever (If so Equipped)

Toadjustthe seatforwardor backwardon unitsequipped

witha quick-adjustseat,slidethe seatadjustmentlever

to the leftand repositionthe seatto the desiredposition.

Oncea comfortablepositionis found,releasethe seat

adjustmentleverto lock the seatin place.Referto the

AdjustingYourLawnTractorsectionof this manualfor

moredetailedinstructionson all seatadjustments.

Deck Lift Lever

Foundon yourtractor'srightfender,the decklift leveris

usedto changetheheightof the cuttingdeck.To use,

movethe leverto the left,then placein the notchbest

suitedfor yourapplication.

Parking Brake Button

Tosetthe parkingbrake,fully

depressthe brakepedal and

pushthe parkingbrakebutton

in.Holdthe buttoninwhile

takingyourfootoff the brake

pedal.Boththe parkingbutton

andthe brakepedalwill then

staydepressed.To release

the parkingbrake,depressthe

brakepedalslightly.Theparking

brakebuttonwill then returnto

itsoriginal position.

NOTE:Theparkingbrakemustbeset if theoperator

leavesthe seatwiththe engine runningor theenginewill

automaticallyshutoff.

iMPORTANT:Alwaysset the parkingbrakewhen leaving

thetractor unattended.

Cruise Control Button

Thecruisecontrolbutton is

locatedonthe tractordashpanel

to the leftof the ignitionswitch.

Pushthe cruisecontrolbutton

whiletravelingforwardat a

desiredspeed.Whileholdingthe

buttonin, releasepressurefrom

thedrive pedal.Thiswill engage

thecruisecontroland allowthe

tractorto remainat that speed

withoutapplyingpressureto the

drivepedal.Depressthe brake

pedalor the drivepedalto deactivatecruisecontrol.

Referto Setting the Cruise Control laterinthis section

the manualfor detailedinstructionsregardingthecruise

controlfeature.

Safety Interlock Switches

Thistractoris equippedwith a safetyinterlocksystem

for the protectionof the operator.Ifthe interlocksystem

shouldevermalfunction,do notoperatethe tractor.

Contactan authorizedMTDservicedealer.

• The safetyinterlocksystempreventsthe engine

fromcrankingor startingunlessthe parkingbrake

isengaged,and the PTO(Blade Engage)knob (or

lever)isin the disengaged(OFF)position.

• The enginewill automaticallyshutoff if the operator

leavesthe seatbeforeengagingtheparkingbrake.

Models with Manual PTO (Blade Engage)

• The enginewill automaticallyshutoff if the operator

leavesthe tractor'sseatwiththe PTO(Blade Engage)

leverin the engaged(ON) position,regardlessof

whetherthe parkingbrakeisengaged.

• With the ignitionkeyinthe NORMALMOWING

position,the enginewill automaticallyshut off if the

PTO(Blade Engage)leveris movedinto theengaged

(ON)positionwiththe drivepedal in Reverse.

Models with Electric PTO (Blade Engage)

• The electricPTO(BladeEngage)clutchwillautomati-

callyshut off if the operatorleavesthetractor'sseat

withthe PTO(Blade Engage)knob in the engaged

(ON)position,regardlessof whetherthe parking

brakeis engaged.

• With the ignitionkey inthe NORMALMOWING

position,the electricPTO(Blade Engage)clutchwill

automaticallyshutoff if the PTO(Blade Engage)knob

is movedintothe engaged(ON) positionwiththe

drivepedalleverin Reverse.

,_ WARNING:Do not operate the tractor if the

interlock system is malfunctioning. This

system was designed for your safety and

protection.

NOTE:Cruisecontrolcan NOTbe engagedat the

tractor'sfastestgroundspeed.If the operatorshould

attemptto doso, the tractorwill automaticallydecelerate

to the fastestoptimalmowinggroundspeed.

Tractol

WARNING

Do not operate the

tractor if the interlock

system is malfunction-

ing. This system was

designed for your

safety and protection.

WARNING

Use extreme caution

while operating

the tractor in the

REVERSE CAUTION

MODE. Always look

down and behind

before and while

backing. Do not oper-

ate the tractor when

children or others

are around. Stop the

tractor immediately if

someone enters the

area.

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.

indicator

Light

Stop

Position

Reverse

.Push Button

Reverse

Caution Mode

Position

Start

Position

Figure 4=5

Reverse Caution Mode

_ ARNING:Useextreme caution while

operating the tractor in the REVERSE

CAUTIONMODE.Always look down and

behind before and while backing. Do

not operate the tractor when children

or others are around. Stop the tractor

immediately if someone enters the area.

The REVERSECAUTIONMODEpositionof the key

switchmoduleallowsthe tractorto be operatedin

reversewiththe blades(PTO)engaged.

IMPORTANT:Mowingin reverseis not recommended.

Tousethe REVERSECAUTIONMODE:

IMPORTANT:TheoperatorMUSTbe seatedin the

tractorseat.

1. Startthe engineas previouslyinstructedinthis

Operator'sManual.

2. Turnthe key fromthe NORMALMOWING(Green)

positionto the REVERSECAUTIONMODE(Yellow)

positionof the keyswitchmodule. See Fig.4-5.

3. Depressthe REVERSEPUSHBUTTON(Orange,

TriangularButton)at the top, rightcornerof the key

switchmodule.The redindicatorlight at thetop, left

cornerof the keyswitch modulewill be ON while

activated.See Fig.4-5.

4. Onceactivated(indicatorlightON), thetractorcan

bedrivenin reversewith the cuttingblades(PTO)

engaged.

5. Alwayslookdownand behindbeforeand while

backingto makesureno childrenare around.

6. Afterresumingforwardmotion,returnthe keyto the

NORMALMOWINGposition.

, WA

AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH

• GO UP AND DOWNSLOPES,NOT ACROSS.

• AVOID SUDDENTURNS.

• DO NOT OPERATETHE UNIT WHERE IT COULDSLIP OR TIR

• IF MACHINESTOPSGOINGUPHILL,STOP BLADE(S) AND

BACK DOWNHILLSLOWLY.

• DO NOT MOWWHEN CHILDRENOR OTHERSARE AROUND.

• NEVER CARRYCHILDREN,EVENWITH BLADESOFR

• LOOK DOWNAND BEHINDBEFOREAND WHILEBACKING.

• KEEP SAFETY DEVICES(GUARDS,SHIELDS,AND

SWITCHES)IN PLACE ANDWORKING.

• REMOVEOBJECTSTHATCOULD BETHROWNBYTHE

BLADE(S).

• KNOW LOCATIONAND FUNCTIONOF ALL CONTROLS.

• BE SUREBLADE(S) AND ENGINEARE STOPPEDBEFORE

PLACING HANDSOR FEET NEAR BLADE(S).

• BEFORE LEAVINGOPERATOR'SPOSITION,DISENGAGE

BLADE(S), ENGAGEBRAKE LOCK, SHUTENGINE OFF AND

REMOVEKEY.

READ OPERATOR'S MANUAL

IMPORTANT:The REVERSECAUTIONMODEwill

remainactivateduntil:

a. The keyis placedin eitherthe NORMALMOWING

positionor STOPposition.

b. Theoperatorleavesthe seat (ModelswithElectric

PTOONLY).

c. Theoperatorengagesthe parkingbrakebyfully

depressingthe brakepedal andholdingit down

whilegentlypushingthe parkingbrakebutton

inward(Modelswith ManualPTOONLY).

Engaging the Parking Brake

Toengagethe parkingbrake:

1. Fullydepressthe brakepedalandhold it downwith

yourfootwhilegently pushingthe parkingbrakebutton

inward.

2. Holdthe parkingbrakebutton inwhile removingyour

footfromthe brakepedal.

3. Onceengaged,the parkingbrakebuttonandthe brake

pedalwill lockin the "down"position.

Todisengagetheparkingbrake:

1. Slightlydepressthe brakepedal.

NOTE:Theparkingbrakemustbe engagedif the operator

leavesthe seatwiththe engine runningor theenginewill

automaticallyshutoff.

Setting the Cutting Height 2. Turnthe ignitionkey counterclockwiseto the STOP

1 Seecttheheghtpostonofthecuttngdeckby _ position. ............ //I I

' . .... _ Hemovetne KeyTromtnegn t on swtch to prevent

placingthe deck hftleverin any of the six different ' . . /Z_ h

.... unntendedstart ng

cuttingheightnotcheson the nght sideof the fender.

2. Adjustthe deckwheelsso that theyarebetween Driving The Tractor

_A-inchand_/2-inchabovethegroundwhenthetractor

is ona smooth,flat surfacesuchas a driveway.

,_ WARNING:Keephands and feetawayfrom

the discharge opening of the cutting deck.

NOTE:Thedeck wheelsarean anti-scalpfeatureof the

deckand arenot designedto supportthe weightof the

cuttingdeck.

RefertoLevelingtheDeckonpage20ofthismanualformore

detailedinstructionsregardingvariousdeckadjustments.

,_ WARNING:Avoid sudden starts, ex-ces-

sive speed and sudden stops.

WARNING:Do not leave the seat of the

tractor without first placing the PTO(Blade

Engage)knob (or lever) in the disengaged

(OFF)position, depressing the brake pedal

and engaging the parking brake./f leaving

the tractor unattended, also turn the

ignition key off and remove the key.

Starting the Engine

_ ARNING:Do not operate the tractor if

the interlock system is malfunctioning.

Thissystem was designed for your safety

andprotection.

NOTE:Referto SettingUpYour LawnTractoron page8of

thismanualforGasolineandOilfill-upinstructions.

IMPORTANT:Yourtractoris shippedwith motoroil in the

engine.However,you MUSTcheckthe oil levelbefore

operating.Becarefulnot to overfill.Referto the separate

EngineOperator/OwnerManualpackedwithyourtractor.

Readinstructionscarefully.

Insertthe tractorkeyintothe ignitionswitch.

Placethe PTO(BladeEngage)knob(or lever)in the

disengaged(OFF)position.

Engagethe tractor'sparkingbrake.

Activatethe chokecontrol.

Turnthe ignitionkey clockwiseto the STARTposition.

Afterthe enginestarts,releasethe key.Itwill returnto

the ON position.

IMPORTANT:DoNOTholdthe key in the STARTposi-

tionfor longerthanten secondsat a time.Doingso may

causedamageto your engine'selectricstarter.

6. Afterthe enginestarts,deactivatethechokecontrol

andplacethe throttlecontrolin the FASTposition.

NOTE:Do NOTleavethe chokecontrolon while operat-

ingthe tractor.Doingso will resultina "rich"fuel mixture

andcausethe engineto run poorly.

Stopping the Engine

,_ WARNING:If you strike a foreign object,

stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug

wire(s) and ground against the engine.

Thoroughly inspect the machine for

any damage.Repair the damage before

restarting and operating.

1. Ifthebladesare engaged,placethePTO(Blade

Engage)knob(or lever)inthedisengaged(OFF)

position.

1. Depressthe brakepedalto releasethe parkingbrake

andlet the pedal up.

2. Movethe throttleleverintothe FAST(rabbit)position.

IMPORTANT:Do NOTusethe drivepedalto changethe

directionof travelwhenthe tractoris in motion.Always

bringthe tractortoa completestop beforepivotingthe

drivepedalfrom forwardto reverseor viceversa.

3. TotravelFORWARD,slowlydepressthe upperpor-

tion of the drivepedalforwarduntilthe desiredspeed

isachieved.

4. Totravelin REVERSE,checkthat the areabehind

isclear thenslowlydepressthe lowerportionof the

drivepedalwith the ball of yourfoot(NOT yourheel)

untilthedesiredspeedis achieved.

Driving On Slopes

Referto the SLOPEGAUGEon page3 to helpdetermine

slopeswhereyou mayoperatethetractorsafely.

_ WARNING:Do not mow on inclines with

a slope in excess of 15degrees (a rise of

approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10feet). The

tractor could overturn and cause serious

injury.

• Mowupand down slopes,NEVERacross.

• Exerciseextremecautionwhenchangingdirectionon

slopes.

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

objects.Uneventerraincouldoverturnthe machine.

Tallgrasscan hideobstacles.

• Avoidturnswhen drivingon a slope.If a turnmustbe

made,turn downthe slope.Turningup a slopegreatly

increasesthe chanceof a roll over.

Avoidstoppingwhen drivingup a slope.If itis

necessaryto stopwhile drivingupa slope,start up

smoothlyandcarefullyto reducethe possibilityof

flippingthe tractorover backward.

WARNING

If you strike a foreign

object, stop the engine,

disconnect the spark

plugwire(s) and

groundagainst the

engine. Thoroughly

inspectthe machine for

any damage. Repair the

damage before restart-

ing and operating.

Avoid sudden starts,

ex-cessive speed and

sudden stops.

Do not leave the seat

of the tractor without

first placingthe PTO

(Blade Engage) knob

(or lever) in the disen-

gaged (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.

Do not mow on inclines

with a slope in excess

of 15 degrees (a rise of

approximately 2-1/2feet

every 10 feet). The trac-

tor could overturn and

:ause serious injury.

You r LaWn

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 ma-

chine if anyone enters

the area.

Plan your mowing pat-

tern to avoid discharge

of materials toward

roads, sidewalks, by=

standers and the like.

Also, avoid discharging

material against a wall

or obstruction which

may cause discharged

material to ricochet

back toward the

operator.

Moving the Tractor Manually

Yourtractor'stransmissionisequippedwitha reliefvalve

foroccasionswhenitisnecessaryto movethetractor

manually.Activatingthis valveforcesthetransmission

fluidto bypassitsnormalroute,allowingthe reartires

to "freewheel."Toengagethe reliefvalve,proceedas

follows:

• Locatethe hydrostaticbypassrodin the rear of

the tractor.See Fig.4-5

Hydrostatic Bypass

Figure 4=5

Pullthe hydrostaticbypassrodoutward,then

down,to lockit in place.

NOTE: Thetransmissionwill NOTengagewhenthe

hydrostaticbypassrodis pulledout. Returnthe rodto its

normalpositionpriorto operatingthetractor.

IMPORTANT:Neverattemptto movethetractormanu-

allywithoutfirstengagingthe reliefvalve.Doingso may

damagethe tractor'stransmission.

Setting The Cruise Control

NOTE:The cruisecontrol featureshouldonly be utilized

whiletravelinginthe forwarddirection.

• Slowlypressthe upper portionof thedrive pedaluntil

thedesiredspeedis achieved.

• Lightlypress thecruisecontrollever.

• Whilecontinuingto hold the cruiseleverdown,lift

yourfootfrom the drivepedal(you shouldfeel the

cruiselatchengage).

• Onceengaged,the cruisecontrolleverandthe drive

pedalwill lock inthe "down"position,and the tractor

will maintainthe sameforwardspeed.

NOTE:Cruisecontrolcan notbe engagedat the

tractor'sfastestgroundspeed.If the operatorshould

attemptto doso, the tractorwill automaticallydecelerate

to the fastestoptimal mowinggroundspeed.

Disengagethecruisecontrolusingone of the following

methods:

1. Depressthe brakepedalto disengagethecruise

controlandstop the tractor.

2. Lightlydepressthe drivepedal.

Tochangethe directionof travelto reversewhen

operatingwith cruisecontrol,depressthe brakepedal

to disengagethe cruise controlandbring thetractorto a

completestop.Thenslowlydepressthe rearportionof the

drivepedalwiththe ballof yourfoot to travelin reverse.

Engaging the Blades

Engagingthe PTO(BladeEngage)transferspowerto the

cuttingdeckor other(separatelyavailable)attachments.

Toengagethe blades,proceedas follows:

1. Movethe throttlecontrolleverto the FAST(rabbit)

position.

Models with Manual PTO

2. a. Graspthe PTO(BladeEngage)leverand pivotit all

the wayforwardinto theengaged(ON) position.

Models with Electric PTO

b. Pullthe PTO(Blade Engage)knoboutwardintothe

engaged(ON)position.

3. Keepthe throttleleverin the FAST(rabbit)position

for the mostefficientuseof the cuttingdeck or other

(separatelyavailable)attachments

IMPORTANT:The engine(onmodelswith a manualPTO)

orelectric PTOclutch(on modelswith an electricPTO)

will automaticallyshutoff if the PTOis engagedwith the

drivepedalin positionfor reversetravelwith the ignition

keyin the NORMALMOWINGposition.Referto Safety

InterlockSwitchesearlierin thissection.

Using the Deck Lift Lever

Toraisethe cuttingdeck,movethe deck lift leverto the

left, thenplaceit inthe notch bestsuitedforyour applica-

tion.Referto SettingThe CuttingHeightearlierin this

section.

Mowing

,_ WARNING:Tohelp avoid blade contact or

a thrown object injury,keep bystanders,

helpers, children and pets at least 75feet

from the machine while it is in operation.

Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

Thefollowinginformationwill be helpfulwhenusingthe

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 dis-

charged material to ricochet back toward

the operator.

• Do not mowat high groundspeed,especiallyif a

mulchkit orgrass collectoris installed.

• Forbest resultsit is recommendedthat the firsttwo

laps becut withthe dischargethrowntowardsthe

center.After thefirst two laps,reversethedirectionto

throwthe dischargeto the outsidefor the balanceof

cutting.Thiswill givea betterappearanceto the lawn.

• Do notcut the grasstoo short.Shortgrass invites

weedgrowthandyellowsquicklyin dryweather.

• Mowingshouldalwaysbe donewiththe engineat full

throttle.

Underheavierconditionsit may benecessaryto go

backoverthe cut areaa secondtimeto get a clean

cut.

Do NOTattemptto mowheavybrushand weedsand

extremelytall grass.Yourtractoris designedto mow

lawns,NOTclearbrush.

• Keepthe bladessharpand replacethe bladeswhen

worn.Referto Cutting Blades inthe Maintaining

Your LawnTractor sectionof thismanualfor proper

bladesharpeninginstructions.

Headlights

• The lampsare ONwheneverthe ignitionkey ismoved

outof the STOPposition.

• The lampsturnOFF whenthe ignitionkeyismovedto

the STOPposition.

Figure 4-6

Mulching (If so Equipped)

Selectmodelscomeequippedwith a mulchkit which

incorporatesspecialblades,alreadystandardon the

tractor,ina processof recirculatinggrass clippings

repeatedlybeneaththe cuttingdeck.The ultra-fine

clippingsarethen forcedback intothe lawnwherethey

actas a naturalfertilizer.

Observethe followingpointsfor the best resultswhen

mulching:

• Neverattemptto mulchifthe lawnisdamp.Wetgrass

tendsto stickto the undersideof the cuttingdeck

preventingpropermulchingof the clippings.

• Do NOTattemptto mulchmorethan 1/3 thetotal

heightof the grass orapproximately1-1/2inches.

Doingsowill causethe clippingsto clump upbeneath

thedeckand not be mulchedeffectively.

• Maintaina slow groundspeedto allow the grass

clippingsmoretimeto effectivelybe mulched.

• Alwayspositionthethrottlecontrolleverin the FAST

(rabbit)positionandallow it to remainthere while

mowing.Failingto keepthe engineat full throttle

placesstrainon thetractor'sengineanddoes not

allowthe bladesto properlymulch grass.

NOTE:It is notnecessaryto removethe dischargechute

to operatethe mowerwith the mulch kitinstalled.

Tooperatethe cuttingdeck withoutmulching,simply

removethe mulchplugby unthreadingthe plasticwing

nutwhichfastensit to the cuttingdeck.This will allowthe

clippingsto dischargeoutthe side.See Fig.4-6.

Operati

NOTE: It is not

necessary to remove

the discharge chute

to operatethe

mowerwith the

mulch kit installed.

WARNING

Never attemptto make

any adjustments

whilethe engine

is running, except

where specified inthe

operator'smanuaJ.

Never attempt to

adjust the brakes

while the engine

is running. Always

disengage PTO, move

shift lever into neutral

i position, stop engine

and remove key to

prevent unintended

starting.

46-inch deckshown Deck

Figure 5=1

Withthe tractorparkedona firm,levelsurface,place

the decklift leverin the top notch(highestposition)

androtatethe blade nearestthe dischargechute so

thatitis parallelwith the tractor.

Measurethe distancefromthe frontof thebladetip to

thegroundandthe rearof thebladetip tothe ground.

Thefirstmeasurementtakenshouldbe between1/4"

and3/8" lessthanthe secondmeasurement.Deter-

minethe approximatedistancenecessaryfor proper

adjustmentandproceed,if necessary,to thenext step.

Fromthe frontof thetractor,loosenthe hexlock nut

onthe deck hangerrod,andturn awayfromthe inner

hexnuts. SeeFig.5-1.

Tightenthe innerhex nutsfront againstthe front

hangerbracketto raisethe frontof the deck;loosen

the hexnutsto lowerthe frontof the deck.

Retightenthe two locknutsagainstthe innerhexnuts

whenproperadjustmentis achieved.

Side to Side

If the cuttingdeck appearsto be mowingunevenly,a side

to side adjustmentcan be performed.Adjustif necessary

as follows:

Withthe tractorparkedona firm,levelsurface,place

the decklift leverin the top notch(highestposition)

androtateboth bladesso thatthey areperpendicular

withthe tractor.

Figure 5=2

,_ WARNING:Never attempt to makeany

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 in the

MaintainingYour LawnTractorsectionof this manualfor

moreinformationregardingtire pressure.

Front To Rear

Thefrontof the cuttingdeck issupportedbya stabilizer

barthat canadjustedto levelthe deck fromfrontto

rear.The front of the deck shouldbe between1/4-inch

and 3/8-inch lowerthanthe rear of the deck.Adjust if

necessaryas follows:

2. Measurethedistancefromtheoutsideof theIdt blade

tipto thegroundandthe distancefromtheoutsideof the

rightbladetip totheground.Bothmeasurementstaken

shouldbeequal.Ifthey'renot,proceedto thenextstep.

3. Loosen,butdo NOTremove,the hexcap screwon

the leftdeck hangerbracket.SeeFig.5-2.

Balancethe deck by usinga wrenchto turn the

adjustmentgear(foundimmediatelybehindthe hex

cap screwjust loosened)clockwise/upor counter-

clockwise/down.Thedeck is properlybalancedwhen

bothbladetip measurementstakenearlierare equal.

5. Retightenthe hex capscrewon the left deckhanger

bracketwhenproperadjustmentis achieved.

Parking Brake Adjustment

_ ARNING:Neverattempt to adjust the

brakes while the engine is running. Always

disengage PTO,moveshift lever into

neutral position, stop engineand remove

key to prevent unintended starting.

If the tractordoes notcome to a completestopwhenthe

brakepedalis completelydepressed,or if the tractor's

rearwheelscan roll withthe parkingbrakeapplied,the

brakeis in needof adjustment.Seean authorizedMTD

ServiceDealerto haveyourbrakesproperlyadjusted.

Seat

Adjustment

Quick Adjust Seat (Ifso equipped)

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.

Toadjustthe positionof the seaton modelsequipped

witha seat adjustmentlever,movethe leverto the left

and slidethe seatforwardor rearward.Referto the

SettingUpYour LawnTractorsection.Makesure seat

is lockedintopositionbeforeoperatingthe tractor.

Knob Adjustment Seat (if so equipped)

Toadjustthe positionof the seaton modelsso equipped,

loosenthe twoknobson the bottomof theseat. See

Fig.5-3. Slidethe seatforwardor backwardas desired.

Retightenthe two knobs.

Standard Seat (if so equipped)

Toadjustthe positionof the seat,loosenthe twohex

screwson the bottomof the seat.Slide the seatforward

or backwardas desired.Retightenthe two screws.See

Fig.5-4.

Steering Adjustment

Ifthe tractorturnstighter inone directionthanthe other,

or if the balljoints arebeing replaceddue to damageor

wear,the steeringdraglinksmay needto beadjusted.

Adjustthe draglinks so that equallengthsare threaded

into the balljoint on the leftand rightside:

1. Loosenthejam nut foundon the drag linkat the rear

of the balljoint. See Fig.5-5.

2. Removehex nuton thetop of balljoint. See Fig.5-5.

3. Threadthe balljoint towardthejam nut to shortenthe

draglink. Threadtheballjoint awayfrom thejam nut

to lengthenthe drag link.

4. Replacehex nutand retightenthejam nut afterproper

adjustmentis achieved.

NOTE:Threadingthe balljoints too far ontothe drag links

will causethe fronttires to "toe-in"too far. Propertoe-in is

between1/16"and 5/16".

Fronttiretoe-in canbe measuredas follows:

1. Placethe steeringwheelin positionfor straightahead

travel.

2. Infrontof the axle, measurethe distancehorizontally

fromthe insideof the left rimto the insideof the right

rim.Notethe distance.

3. Behindthe axle,measurethe distancehorizontally

fromthe insideof the left rimto the insideof the right

rim.Notethe distance.

4. The measurementtakenin frontof the axle shouldbe

between1/16"and 5/16"less thanthe measurement

takenbehindthe axle.Adjust if necessary.

Figure 5-3

Figure 5-4

Figure 5-5

Adjusting

Before operating this

machine, make sure

the seat is engaged in

the seat stop; stand

behind the machine

and pull back on seat

stop:

NOTE: Threadingthe

ball joints too far onto

the drag linkSWill Cause

the front tires to 'ttoeqn'!

tOOfarl Proper t!eqn

is bt!ween i/i6 and

5ii61

WARNING

Before performing

anymaintenanceor

repairs,disengage

PTO, move shift lever

intoneutral position,

set parking brake,

stop engine and

remove key to prevent

unintendedstarting.

Before lubricating,

repairing, or inspect-

ing, always disengage

PTO, move shift lever

into neutral position,

set parking brake,

stop engine and

remove key to prevent

unintendedstarting.

Shown

Figure 6-1

_ ARNING:Before performing any

maintenanceor repairs,disengagePTO,

moveshift 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.

Checkengine oil level beforeeachuseas instructed

inthe EngineOperator/OwnerManualpackedwith your

unit.Follow the instructionscarefully.

Changing Engine Oil

Popopenthe protectivecap on the end of the oil

drainvalveto exposethedrain port.See Fig.6-1.

Removethe oil fill cap/dipstick fromthe oil fill tube.

Pushthe oildrain hose(packedwiththis manual)

ontothe oil drainport. Routethe oppositeendof the

hoseinto anappropriateoil collectioncontainerwith

a capacitygreatenoughtocollect theusedoil.

Pushthe drainvalvein andturn counter-clockwiseto

releasevalveto drainoil.

Afterthe oil has finisheddraining,pushtheoil drain

valvebackin, rotateit clockwiseto lock the valve

closedand re-capthe end of the oil drainvalveto

keepdebrisfromenteringthedrainport.

Servicethe oilfilter (if so equipped)as instructedin

the separateEngineOperator/OwnerManualpacked

withyourunit.

Performthe abovestepsinthe oppositeorderafter oil

hasfinisheddraining.

7. Refillthe enginewith newmotoroilas instructedin

the EngineOperator/OwnerManualpackedwith your

unit.

IMPORTANT:Referto the EngineOperator/Owner

Manualpackedwith yourunit for informationregarding

thequantityandproperweightof motoroil.

Air Cleaner

Servicethe pre-cieaner,if soequipped,andcartridge/air

cleanerelementas instructedin the EngineOperator/

OwnerManualpackedwith your unit.

Spark Plug(s)

Thesparkplug(s)shouldbe cleanedand thegap reset

oncea season.Sparkplug replacementis recommended

at the startof each mowingseason.Referto the Engine

Operator/OwnerManualfor correctplug typeand gap

specifications.

Lubrication

_ ARNING:Before lubricating, repairing, or

inspecting, always disengage PTO,move

shift lever into neutral position, set parking

brake, stop engine and remove key to

prevent unintended starting.

Engine

Lubricatethe enginewithmotoroil as instructedin the

EngineOwnerManualpackedwith yourunit.

Pivot Points & Linkage

Lubricateall the pivotpointson the drivesystem,parking

brakeand lift linkageat leastoncea seasonwithlightoil.

Rear Wheels

The rearwheelsshouldbe removedfrom the axlesonce

a season.Lubricatethe axles andthe rimswell with an

all-purposegreasebeforere-installingthem.

Front Axles

Eachendof the tractor'sfront pivotbarmay beequipped

witha greasefitting. Lubricatewitha greasegunafter

every25 hoursof tractoroperation.

Cleaning the Engine And Deck

Anyfuel oroil spilledon the machineshouldbe wiped

off promptly.Do NOTallowdebristo accumulatearound

the coolingfins of the engineor onany otherpart of the

machine.

IMPORTANT:The useof a pressurewasherto cleanyour

tractoris NOTrecommended,it maycause damageto

electricalcomponents,spindles,pulleys,bearingsor the

engine.

Deck Wash System TM

Twowaterportsare availableon your mowerdeck to be

usedas part of the deckwashsystem.Usethe Deck

WashSystemTM to rinsegrassclippingsfrom the deck's

undersideand preventthe buildupof corrosivechemicals.

Toutilizethe DeckWash SystemTM, completethefollowing

stepsAFTEREACHMOWING:

1. Drivethe tractorto a level,clearspoton yourlawn,

nearenoughto awater sillcock(spigot)for yourgarden

hoseto reach.

iMPORTANT:Makecertainthetractor'sdischargechute

is directedAWAYfromyourhouse,garage,parkedcars,

etc.

Disengagethe PTO(BladeEngage),movethe shift

leverintothe neutralposition,set the parkingbrake,

andstop the engine.

Threadthe hosecoupler(packagedwith yourtractor's

Operator'sManual)ontothe end of yourgardenhose.

Attachthe hosecouplerto the waterport on your

deckssurface,SeeFig, 6-2,

5. Turnthe wateron.

Whilesittingin theoperator'spositiononthe tractor,

re-starttheengineand placethethrottle leverin the

FAST(rabbit)position.

Disengagethe parkingbrake.

Movethe tractor'sPTO(BladeEngage)intothe ON

position.

Remainin the operator's positionwith thecutting

deckengagedfor a minimumof two minutes,allowing

the undersideof the cuttingdeck to thoroughlyrinse.

10.Movethe tractor'sPTO(BladeEngage)intothe OFF

position.

11.Turnthe ignitionkey to the STOPpositionto turn the

tractor'sengineoff andengagethe parkingbrake.

12.Turnthe wateroff and detachthe hosecouplerfrom

thewaterport on yourdeckssurface.

13.Repeatsteps4-11on theoppositesideof the cutting

deck(on 46-inchdecksonly).

If yourtractoris notalreadyequippedwitha Deck

WashSystemTM then a hexplug can be foundonyour

tractor'sdecksurface.This plugcan bereplacedwith a

separately-availableDeckWash SystemTM.

NOTE:RefertotheAttachments&Accessoriessection

ofthismanualfor informationregardingthisandother

separately-availableattachments& accessoriesforyour

tractor.

Figure 6=2

Figure 6-3

Cutting Deck Removal

To removethecuttingdeck, proceedas follows:

1. PlacethePTO(BladeEngage)knob(orlever)inthe

disengaged(OFF)positionandengagetheparkingbrake.

2. Lowerthe deck by movingthedeck liftleverintothe

bottomnotchonthe rightfender.

3. Removethehairpinclipthatsecuresthe PTOcabletothe

rearofthecuttingdeck.SeeFig.6-3.RemovethePTO

cableandaccompanyingspringfromthecuttingdeck.

4. Removethe deck belt fromaroundthe tractor's

enginepulley(orelectricPTOclutch, if so equipped).

5. Lookingat the cuttingdeck fromtheleft sideof the

tractor,locatethe decksupportpin onthe rearleft

sideof the deck. SeeFig. 6-4.

Figure 6-4

IMPORTANT

Make certain the

tractor's discharge chute

is directed AWAYfrom

your house, garage,

parked cars. etc.

6. Pullthe decksupport pinoutwardto releasethe deck Charging

fromthedeck lift arm.

WARNING

Never exceed the

maximum inflation

pressure shown on

the sidewall of the

tire.

Batteries give off an

explosive gas while

charging. Charge

battery in a well

ventilated area and

keep away from an

open flame or pilot

light as on a water

heater, space heater,

furnace, clothes

dryer or other gas

appliances.

When removing or

installingthe battery,

follow these instruc-

tions to preventthe

screwdriver from

shorting against the

frame.

Rotatethe pin slightlytowardthe rear of the tractor

andreleasethe pin intothe holeprovided.

Repeatthe abovestepson the tractor'srightside.

Movethe decklift leverintothe top notchon the right

fenderto raisedeck liftarms upand out of the way.

10.Gentlyslidethe cuttingdeck towardthe frontof the

tractorallowingthe hookson the deck to release

themselvesfromthe deck stabilizerrod.

11.Gentlyslidethe cuttingdeck (fromthe rightside)out

fromunderneaththetractor.

Tires

,_ WARNING:Never exceed the maximum

inflation pressure shown on the sidewall

of tire.

The recommendedoperatingtire pressureis:

• Approximately10psifor the rear tires

IMPORTANT:Whenchargingyourtractor'sbattery,use

onlya chargerdesignedfor 12Vlead-acidbatteries.Read

yourbatterycharger'sOwner'sManualpriorto charging

yourtractor'sbattery.Alwaysfollow itsinstructionsand

heedits warnings.

If yourtractorhasnot beenputinto usefor an extended

periodof time,chargethe batteryas follows:

• Setyour batterychargerto delivera maximumof 10

amperes.If your batterychargerisautomatic,charge

the batteryuntilthe chargerindicatesthat chargingis

complete.

NOTE:Ifthe chargerisnotautomatic,chargefor no fewer

thaneight hours.

_hl ARNING:Batteries give off an explosive

gas while charging. Charge battery in a

well ventilated areaand keep away from

an open flame or pilot light as on a water

heater,space heater, furnace, clothes dryer

or other gas appliances.

• Approximately14psi for the fronttires

IMPORTANT:Referto the tire sidewallforexacttire

manufacturer'srecommendedormaximumpsi. Do not

overinflate.Uneventirepressurecouldcausethe cutting

deckto mow unevenly.

Jump Starting

_i/|ll ARNING:Whenremoving or installing the

battery, follow these instructions to prevent

the screwdriver from shorting against the

frame.

Battery

The batteryis sealedand is maintenance-free.Acid

levelscannotbechecked.

Alwayskeepthe batterycablesand terminalsclean

andfreeof corrosivebuild-up.

• Aftercleaningthe batteryandterminals,apply a light

coatof petroleumjelly or 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.Be certainthat thewiresareconnectedto

thecorrectterminals;reversingthemcouldchangethe

polarityandresult indamageto your engine'salternat-

ingsystem.

IMPORTANT:Neverjumpyourtractor'sdeadbatterywith

the batteryof a runningvehicle.

1. Connectend of one jumpercableto the positive

terminalof the goodbattery,thenthe otherend to the

positiveterminalof the dead battery.

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 thegas in either

battery could explode.

Cleaning

Cleanthe batteryby removingit fromthe tractorand

washingwitha bakingsodaand watersolution.If neces-

sary,scrapethe batteryterminalswith a wire brushto

removedeposits.Coatterminalsand exposedwiringwith

greaseor petroleumjelly to preventcorrosion.

Battery Failures

Somecommoncausesfor batteryfailureare:

incorrectinitialactivation • undercharging

• overcharging

• freezing

• corrodedconnections

NOTE:ThesefailuresareNOTcoveredbyyour tractor's

warranty.

Cutting Blades

_ ARNING: Besure to shut the engine

off, remove ignition key,disconnect the

spark plug wire(s) and ground against

the engine to prevent unintended starting

before removing the cutting blade(s) for

sharpening or replacement. Protect your

hands by using heavy gloves or a rag to

grasp the cutting blade.

WARNING: Periodically inspect the blade

spindles for cracks or damage, especially

if you strike a foreign object. Replace

immediately if damaged.

The bladesmay beremovedas follows.

1. Removethe deck frombeneaththe tractor,(referto

CuttingDeckRemovalon page23) thengentlyflip

thedeckoverto expose itsunderside.

2. Placea blockof wood betweenthe centerdeckhous-

ingbaffle andthe cuttingbladeto act as a stabilizer.

SeeFig. 6-5.

3. Usea 15/16"wrenchto removethe hexflangenut

thatsecuresthe bladeto the spindleassembly.See

Fig.6-5.

4. Toproperlysharpenthe cuttingblades,removeequal

amountsof metalfrom bothends of the bladesalong

thecutting edges,parallelto the trailingedge,at a

250to 300angle.

IMPORTANT:Ifthe cuttingedgeof the bladehasalready

beensharpenedto within15/8" fromtheedge,or if any

metalseparationis present,replacethe bladeswith new

ones.See Fig.6-6.

• It is importantthat eachcuttingbladeedgebe ground

equallyto maintainproperblade balance.

• Whenreplacingtheblade,be sureto installthe blade

withthe sideof the blade marked"Bottom" (orwith

a part numberstampedin it) facingthe groundwhen

the moweris inthe operatingposition.

IMPORTANT:Usea torquewrenchto tighten the blade

spindlehexflangenutto between70foot-poundsand90

foot-pounds.

Fuses

Afuse is installedin yourtractor'swiringharnessto

protectthe tractor'selectricalsystemfromdamage

causedby excessiveamperage.

If theelectricalsystemdoesnot function,or your

tractor'senginewill not crank,firstcheckto be certain

thatthe fuse hasnot blown.

• It caneither be foundunderthe hood mountedbehind

thetop of the dash panelon the supportbar,or under

the seatmountedto the insideof the tractorframe

nextto the batterytray.

IMPORTANT:Alwaysusea fuse withthe sameamper-

agecapacityfor replacement.

He× Flange Nut

Figure 6=5

Figure 6=6

Maintaining

WARNING

Be sure to shut

the engine off,

remove ignition key,

disconnect the spark

plug wire(s) and

ground against the

engine to prevent

unintended starting

before removing

the cutting blade(s)

for sharpening or

replacement. Protect

your hands by using

heavy gloves or a rag

to grasp the cutting

blade.

Periodically inspect

the blade spindles for

cracks or damage,

especially if you strike

a foreign object.

Replace immediately if

damaged.

Maintaining

WARNING

Be sure to shut

the engine off,

remove ignition key,

disconnect the spark

plugwire(s) and

ground againstthe

engine to prevent

unintendedstarting

before removingthe

belt(s).

Changing the Deck Belt

,_ WARNING:Besure to shut the engine

off, removeignition key,disconnectthe

sparkplug wire(s) and groundagainst

the engineto prevent unintendedstarting

beforeremoving the belt(s).

All beltson yourtractorare subjectto wearand should

be replacedifanysigns of weararepresent.

iMPORTANT:TheV-beltsfoundon yourtractorare

speciallydesignedto engageanddisengagesafely.A

substitute(non-OEM)V-beltcan be dangerousby not

disengagingcompletely.Fora properworkingmachine,

usefactoryapprovedbelts.

Tochangeor replacethe deck belt on yourtractor,

proceedas follows:

1. Removethe beltkeeperrod(s)fromaroundthe

enginepulley.

2. Removethe cuttingdeck as instructedearlierin this

section.

3. Removethe beltguardsby removingthe self-tapping

screwsthatfastenthemto the deck.

4. Carefullyloosen,butdo not remove,the deck idler

pulleys.

Removethedeck belt fromaroundall pulleys,including

the deckidler pulleysandthe electricPTOclutch(units

withelectricPTO).

Routethe newbelt as shownin Fig.6-7,6-8, and6-9

andretightenthe deck idlerpulleys.

Reinstallthe beltguardsremovedearlierand remount

the deckto thetractor.

8. Routethe beltaroundtheengine pulleyand reinstall

the beltkeeperrod(s).

Changing the Lower Deck Belt

(46" Decks with Manual PTO)

NOTE:Severalcomponentsmustbe removedin orderto

changethe tractor'slowerdeck belt. Seean authorized

MTDServiceDealerto haveyourlowerdrivebelt replaced

or phoneCustomerSupportas instructedon page2 for

informationonorderinga ServiceManual.

Changing the Transmission Drive Belt

NOTE:Severalcomponentsmustbe removedand special

tools(i.e.air/impactwrench)in orderto changethe

tractor'sdrive belt.Seean authorizedMTDServiceDealer

to haveyourdrivebelt replacedor phoneCustomerSup-

portas instructedonpage 2 for informationonorderinga

ServiceManual.

Left Hand

Spindle Pulley

ine Pulley

42-inch Deck

Right Hand

Spindle Pulley

Idler Pulleys

Figure 6=7

46-inch Deck

Belt Cover

Idler Pulleys

Figure 6=8

Electric PTO

Clutch

46-inch Deck

(Electric PTO)

o o

Figure 6=9

Maintaining

Your Lawn

Tractor

WARNING

i Drain fuel only into an

approvedcontainer

outdoors,away

ifrom anopenflame.

i Allowengineto cool.

i Extinguishcigarettes,

'cigars, pipes, and

other sources

of ignition prior to

, draining fuel.

i Never store the

i machine or fuel

container indoors

_where there is an

open flame, spark or

i pilot light such as on

water heater, furnace,

clothes dryer or other

gas appliance.

Cleanandlubricatethe tractoras instructedin the Followthe instructionsin the Service, Storage &

MAiNTAiNiNGYOUR LAWNTRACTORsectionof this Specifications sectionof the EngineOperator/Owner

manualbeforestoringfor an extendedperiod. Manualfor properenginecare priorto storingyourtractor.

_i= ARNING:Drainfuel only intoan approved

containeroutdoors,awayfrom anopen

flame.Allowengineto cool. Extinguish

cigarettes,cigars, pipes,andothersources

of ignitionpriorto drainingfuel.

,A_ WARNING:Neverstore the machineor fuel

container indoorswhere there is an open

flame, spark or pilotlightsuch as on water

heater,furnace, clothes dryer or othergas

appliance.

Attachments & Accessories

Thefollowingattachmentsand accessoriesarecompatiblefor ModelSeries610 LawnTractors.Seethe retailer

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

regardingpriceandavailability.

NOTE:ModelSeries610 LawnTractorsareNOTdesignedfor use withanytype of ground-engagingattachments

(e.g.tiller or plow).Useof this typeof equipmentWILLvoidthe tractor'swarranty.

MODEL DESCRiPTiON

OEM-190-032 42-inchTwo-stageSnowThrower

OEM-190-116 42-inchDeckMulch Kit

0EM-190-118 46-inch DeckMulchKit

0EM-190-180 TwinBaggerGrassCollector(for 42-inchDecks)

0EM-190-182 TwinBaggerGrassCollector(for 46-inchDecks)

0EM-190-218 RearWheelWeightKit

0EM-190-607" DeluxeTractorSunshade

0EM-190-658 Tire Chains,20 x 8 Tires

0EM-190-672 GrilleGuard(mountsonfrontof tractor)

0EM-190-833 46-inch FrontDozerBlade

790-900-0025 DeckWashKit

* Notcompatiblewith tractorsequippedwitha Grass Collector

ROTATING BLADES CAUSE

SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH

* DONOTMOWWHENCHILDRENOR

OTHERSAREAROUND

* NEVERCARRYCHILDRENEVENWiTH

BLADE(S)OFF,

* LOOKDOWNANDBEHINDBEFORE

ANDWHILEBACKING,

Labels

WARNING

The abovesymbol

points out important

safety instructionsin

this manual which, if

notfollowed,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.

For repairs beyond

the minor adjust-

ments listed here,

contact an authorized

service dealer.

Pro bl e m Ca use Remedy

Enginefails to start 1. PTOengaged• 1. PlacePTOknobindisengaged

(OFF)position•

2. Sparkplugwire(s)disconnected. 2. Connectwire(s) to spark plug(s)•

3 Fueltank em t or stalefuel 3 F tankwthc ean freshgaso ne

• py • •

4 Chokenot act vated 4. Pullout the CHOKEcontrol(if so

• equipped)orplacethe throttle

controlin CHOKEposition•

5. Faultysparkplug• 5. Clean,adjustgap,or replace•

6. Blockedfuel line• 6. Cleanfuel line or replacefuelfilter,

7. Engineflooded, if so equipped.

7. Crankenginewith throttle in FAST

position.

8. Parkingbrakenotengaged. 8. Engageparkingbrake.

' 9. Throttlecontrol levernotin correct 9. Placethrottleleverto FAST

- startingposition. . position.

Engineruns erratic 1. Unit runningwithCHOKEapplied. 1. PushCHOKEcontrolin.

2. Sparkplugwire(s) loose.

3. Blockedfuellineor stale fuel.

4. Ventingas cap plugged.

5. Waterordirt in fuel system.

6. Dirty aircleaner.

_ J _ =_

2. Connectandtighten spark

plugwire(s).

3. Cleanfuel line;fill tank with clean,

fresh(less than30 daysold)

gasoline.Replacefuel filter,if so

equipped.

4. Clearvent or replaceif damaged.

5. Drainfuel tank. Refillwith

freshfuel.

6. Replaceaircleanercartridge/ele-

mentor cleanpre-cleaner,if so

equipped.

_ i

Problem Cause Remedy

Engine overheats 1! Engine0il level!0wl i: FillCrankcasewith pi0peroi!,

2. Air flowrestricted. Clean grassClippingsand debis

fromaroundthe engne Scoo!ing

....... finsand blowerhousing.

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

high RPM the gap.

desp0or 1 Sparkpug(s)foued fautyorgap 1 Repacesparkpug(s) Setpug(s)

Y '

too wide. gap.

2 Dirtyair Cleaner. 2 Replaceaircleaner cartridgeielei

....... equipped.

Excessive 1. Cuttingblade looseorunbalanced. 1. Tightenbladeandspindle. Balanc_

blade.

Vibration

2. Damagedorbentcuttingblade. 2. Replaceblade.

Mower will not li EngineSpeedtoo low, 1: Placethrottle controlin FAST

mulch grasS(f Wetgra_ (rabbit)position:

E J 2 Do not mowwhengrass swet;

qu pped) .... •

wat unt aterto cut

3. Excessivey hgh grass:

3. Mowonce at a highcuttingheight,

then mowagainat desiredheight

or makea narrowerCuttingpathl

Duilblade 4. sharpenOrreplaceblade:

Uneven cut 1. Decknotbalancedproperly. 1. Performside4o-sidedeck adjust-

2. Dullblade, mont.

2. Sharpenor replaceblade.

3. Uneventire pressure.

3. Checktire pressureinall fourtires.

)¸¸¸lfasafetyfeature

is notfunctioning

properlyi do not use

the tractor.Contact

your authorizedMTD

service dealeror call

(800>8oo,73 o:

This Operators

ManUalcovers a range

of product specifications

for VariousmodelS:

CharacteriSticsand

features discUssed

and/or illustrated in

this manual may not be

appliCable tOal! roodels:

MTD LEOreserves the

right to changeprOduCt

specifications designs

and equipmentWitllout

notice and without

ncurring obligationl

The followingattachmentsandaccessoriesare compatiblefor ModelSeries610LawnTractors.Seethe retailerfrom

whichyou purchasedyour tractor,an authorizedMTDServiceDealeror phone(800)800-7310for informationregard-

ingpriceand availability.

NOTE:Downloada completePartsManualfreeof chargeat www.mtdproducts.comor phone(800) 800-7310to

purchasea PartsManual.Besureto haveyourmodelnumberandserialnumberready.These canbe foundonthe

modelplatelocatedunderthe seat.Referto page 2 for moreinformationregardinglocatingyourmodelandserial

numbers.

NOTE:ModelSeries610 LawnTractorsare NOTdesignedfor use with anytypeof ground-engagingattachments(e.g.

tiller or plow).Useof this typeof equipmentWILLvoidthe tractor'swarranty.

DriveBelt (Transmission) 754-0461

DriveBelt (MowingDeck)42" Deck 754-04045

DriveBelt (MowingDeck)46" Deck 754-04122

DeckBlade(42" Deck)twoeach 742-0616A

DeckBlade(46" Deck)CenterBlade(one ca.) 742-0612A

DeckBlade(46" Deck)OuterBlades(twoca.) 742-0611A

DeckSpindle(42"Deck)twoeach 618-04456

DeckSpindle(46"Deck)(threeca.) 618-0625

DeckWheel5.0 x 1.38(two each) 734-0973

Battery 925-1707D

Tire (Front)15"x 6" x 6" SquareShoulder 734-1731

Tire (Rear)20"x 8"x 8" SquareShoulder 734-1730

HubCap 731-2290A

FuelTankCap 951-3111

Throttle/ChokeControlCable(SingleCylinderEngine) 746-1084

ChokeControlCable(KohlerTwinCylinder) 746-1085A

ThrottleControlCable(KohlerTwinCylinder) 746-1086

DischargeChuteAssembly 931-1032B

_ ARNING:If a safety feature is not functioning properly, do not use the tractor. Contact

your authorized MTDservice dealer or call (800) 800-7310.

NOTES

Use this page to make notes and write down important information.

NOTES

Use this page to make notes and write down important information.

CALIFORNIA EMISSION CONTROL WARRANTY STATEMENT

YOUR WARRANTY RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS

The CaliforniaAir ResourcesBoardand MTDConsumerGroupIncare pleasedto explainthe evaporativeemissioncontrol systemwarrantyon your2007 lawn

mower.In California,newlawn mowermustbe designed,built and equippedto meetthe State'sstringentanti-smogstandards.MTDConsumerGroupInc must

warrantthe EECSon your lawnmowerfor the periodof time listed belowprovidedtherehas been no abuse,neglector impropermaintenanceof yourlawn mower.

Your EECSmay includeparts suchas the carburetor,fuel-injectionsystem,the ignitionsystem,catalytic converter,fuel tanks,fuel lines,fuel caps,valves,

canisters,filters,vapor hoses,clamps,connectors,and otherassociatedemission-relatedcomponents.

Where a warrantable condition exists, MTDConsumer Group Inc will repair your lawn mower at no cost to you includingdiagnosis, partsand labor.

MANUFACTURER'S WARRANTY COVERAGE:

This evaporativeemissioncontrol systemis warrantedfor two years. If any evaporativeemission-relatedpart on your equipmentis defective,the part will be

repairedor replacedbyMTDConsumerGroupInc.

OWNER'S WARRANTY RESPONSIBILITIES:

As the lawnmowerowner,you are responsiblefor performanceof the requiredmaintenancelisted inyour owner'smanual. MTDConsumerGroupInc recom-

mendsthat you retainall receiptscoveringmaintenanceon yourlawn mower,butMTDConsumerGroupInc cannotdenywarrantysolelyfor the lackof receipts.

As the lawnmowerowner,you shouldhoweverbe awarethatMTDConsumerGroupInc may denyyou warrantycoverageifyour lawnmoweror a part hasfailed

due to abuse, neglect,or impropermaintenanceor unapprovedmodifications.

Youare responsiblefor presentingyour lawnmowerto MTDConsumerGroupInc'sdistributioncenteror servicecenteras soon asthe problemexists. The

warrantyrepairsshould be completedina reasonableamountof time,not to exceed30 days. Ifyouhavea questionregardingyourwarrantycoverage,youshould

contactthe MTDConsumerGroupInc ServiceDepartmentat 1-800-800-7310.

GENERAL EMISSIONS WARRANTY COVERAGE:

MTDConsumerGroupInc warrantsto the ultimatepurchaserand eachsubsequentpurchaserthat the lawnmoweris: Designed,builtand equippedso asto

conformwith allapplicable regulations;andfree from defects in materialsandworkmanshipthat causethe failure of a warrantedpart to be identicalinall material

respectsto that part as describedin MTDConsumerGroupInc'sapplicationfor certification.

The warrantyperiodbeginson the datethe lawn moweris deliveredto an ultimate purchaseror first placedinto service.The warrantyperiodis two years.

Subjectto certainconditionsandexclusionsas stated below,the warrantyon emission-relatedparts is as follows:

1. Any warrantedpartthat is notscheduledfor replacementas requiredmaintenanceinthe written instructionssupplied,is warrantedfor the warrantyperiod

stated above. Ifthe part failsduringthe periodof warrantycoverage,the part will be repairedor replacedby MTDConsumerGroupIncaccordingto subsection

(4) below.Any such part repairedorreplacedunderwarrantywill be warrantedfor the remainderof the period.

2. Any warrantedpartthat is scheduledonlyfor regularinspectionin thewritten instructionssuppliedis warrantedforthe warrantyperiodstatedabove.Any such

part repairedor replacedunderwarrantywill be warrantedfor the remainingwarrantyperiod.

3. Any warrantedpartthat is scheduledfor replacementas requiredmaintenancein the writteninstructionssuppliedis warrantedfor the periodoftime beforethe

first scheduledreplacementdate forthat part. Ifthe part fails beforethefirst scheduledreplacement,the part will berepairedor replacedby MTDConsumer

Group Incaccordingto subsection(4) below.Any such part repairedor replacedunderwarrantywill be warrantedfor the remainderof the periodprior to the

first scheduledreplacementpointfor the part.

4. Repairor replacementof any warrantedpart underthe warrantyprovisionshereinmust be performedat a warrantystation at no chargeto the owner.

5. Notwithstandingthe provisionsherein,warrantyservicesor repairswill be providedat all of ourdistributioncentersthat are franchisedto servicethe subject

engines or equipment.

6. The lawn mowerownerwill notbe chargedfor diagnostic laborthat is directlyassociatedwith diagnosisof a defective,emission-relatedwarrantedpart,

providedthat such diagnosticwork is performedat a warrantystation.

7. MTDConsumerGroupInc is liablefor damagesto otherengine or equipmentcomponentsproximatelycausedby a failureunderwarrantyof anywarranted

part.

8. Throughoutthe lawnmowerwarrantyperiod statedabove,MTDConsumerGroupInc will maintaina supplyof warrantedpartssufficientto meetthe expected

demandfor suchparts.

9. Any replacementpart may be usedin the performanceof any warrantymaintenanceor repairsand mustbe providedwithoutchargeto theowner.Such use will

not reducethe warrantyobligationsof MTDConsumerGroupInc.

10.Add-on or modifiedparts thatare notexemptedbythe Air ResourcesBoardmaynotbe used.The use of any non-exemptedadd-onor modifiedparts bythe

ultimate purchaserwill be groundsfor disallowinga warrantyclaims.MTDConsumerGroupInc will not be liableto warrantfailuresof warrantedpartscaused

by the use of a non-exemptedadd-on or modifiedpart.

WARRANTED PARTS:

The repairor replacementof any warrantedpart otherwiseeligible for warrantycoveragemay be excludedfrom such warrantycoverageif MTDConsumerGroup

Incdemonstratesthatthe lawnmowerhas beenabused,neglected,or improperlymaintained,and that suchabuse, neglect,orimpropermaintenancewasthe

direct causeof the needfor repairor replacementof the part.That notwithstanding,any adjustmentof a componentthat has a factory installed,andproperly

operating,adjustmentlimitingdeviceis still eligible for warrantycoverage.The followingemissionwarrantyparts list are covered:FuelLine, FuelLineClamps

MANUFACTURER'S LiMiTED WARRANTY FOR

The limitedwarrantysetforth belowisgivenby MTDLLCwith respect

to newmerchandisepurchasedandusedin the UnitedStates,its

possessionsandterritories.

"MTD"warrantsthisproductagainstdefectsin materialandworkman-

shipfor a periodof two (2)years commencingon the date of original

purchaseandwill, at itsoption,repairor replace,freeof charge,any

part foundto be defectiveinmaterialsor workmanship.Thislimitedwar-

rantyshallonlyapply if this producthasbeen operatedand maintained

inaccordancewith the Operator'sManualfurnishedwith the product,

andhas notbeen subjectto misuse,abuse,commercialuse, neglect,

accident,impropermaintenance,alteration,vandalism,theft,fire, water,

ordamagebecauseof otherperil or naturaldisaster.Damageresulting

fromthe installationor useof any part, accessoryor attachmentnot

approvedby MTDfor use with the product(s)coveredbythis manual

willvoid yourwarrantyas to any resultingdamage.

Normalwearpartsare warrantedto be free fromdefects inmaterialand

workmanshipfor a periodof thirty (30) daysfromthe dateof purchase.

Normalwearpartsinclude,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 providecoverageinthe followingcases:

a. Theengineor componentpartsthereof.Theseitemsmaycarry a

separatemanufacturer'swarranty.Referto applicablemanufacturer's

warrantyfor termsand conditions.

b. Logsplitterpumps,valves,andcylindershavea separateone year

warranty.

c. Routinemaintenanceitemssuchas lubricants,filters, blade

sharpening,tune-ups,brakeadjustments,clutchadjustments,deck

adjustments,and normaldeteriorationof the exteriorfinish dueto

useor exposure.

d. Servicecompletedby someoneotherthanan authorizedservice

dealer.

e. MTDdoesnot extendanywarrantyfor productssoldor exported

outsideof the UnitedStates,its possessionsandterritories,except

thosesoldthroughMTD'sauthorizedchannelsof export distribution.

f. Replacementparts thatarenotgenuine MTDparts.

g. Transportationchargesandservicecalls.

No impliedwarranty,includingany impliedwarranty of mer-

chantabilityof fitness for a particular purpose,applies after the

applicable periodof express written warranty above as to the

partsas identified.No otherexpresswarranty, whetherwrittenor

oral, except as mentioned above,givenby any personor entity,

includinga dealeror retailer, with respect to any product,shall

bindMTD.Duringthe periodof the warranty,the exclusiveremedy

is repairor replacementof the productas set forth above.

Theprovisionsas set forth inthis warrantyprovidethe sole and

exclusiveremedy arising from the sale.MTDshallnot be liable

for incidentalor consequentialloss or damage including,without

limitation, expensesincurredfor substituteor replacementlawn

careservicesor for rentalexpensesto temporarily replacea

warranted product.

Somestatesdo notallowthe exclusionor limitationof incidentalor

consequentialdamages,or limitationson howlongan impliedwarranty

lasts,sothe aboveexclusionsor limitationsmaynot applyto you.

In noevent shallrecoveryof any kindbe greaterthanthe amountof the

purchasepriceof the productsold.Alterationof safetyfeatures of

the productshallvoid this warranty. Youassumethe riskand liability

for loss,damage,or injuryto you andyourpropertyand/orto others and

theirpropertyarisingout of the misuseor inabilityto usethe product.

Thislimitedwarrantyshallnot extendto anyoneotherthan theoriginal

purchaserorto the personfor whomitwas purchasedas a gift.

HOWSTATELAWRELATESTOTHIS WARRANTY: This limited

warrantygivesyou specificlegal rights,and youmay alsohaveother

rightswhichvary fromstateto state.

IMPORTANT:OwnermustpresentOriginalProofof Purchaseto obtain

warrantycoverage.

IVITDLLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHiO 44136-0019; Phone: 1=800=800-7310, 1-330=220-4683

GDOO-lO0015 REV.A

13AX615H730 MTD tractor

Product's Documents

User Manual

Specifications

MTD 13AX615H730 Questions and Answers

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