Safety • Assembly • Operation • Adjustment • Maintenance • Troubleshooting • Warranty A O AL ii ii _i_i_i_ii _ iiii ii_i_i!i_!i i!II_ Transmatic Lawn Tractor- Models 760=779 iMPORTANT READ SAFETY RULES AND iNSTRUCTiONS CAREFULLY BEFORE OPERATION Warning: This unit is equippedwith an internal combustionengineandshouldnot beusedon or nearany unimprovedforest-covered, brush- coveredor grass-covered land unlesstheengine'sexhaustsystemis equippedwith a sparkarrestermeetingapplicablelocalor statelaws(if any). If a sparkarresteris used,it shouldbemaintainedineffectiveworkingorderby the operator.In theStateof Californiathe aboveis requiredbylaw (Section4442 of the CaliforniaPublicResourcesCode). Otherstatesmay havesimilarlaws.Federallaws applyon federallands.A sparkarrester for the muffleris availablethroughyour nearestengineauthorizedservicedealeror contactthe servicedepartment,RO.Box361131Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019. PRINTEDIN U.S.A. MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019 FORMNO.769-01598B 01/06/2006
36
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Transmatic Lawn Tractor- Models 760=779managemylife.com/mmh/lis_pdf/OWNM/1108147L.pdf · Phonea Customer Support Representative at 1 (800) 800-7310. 3. The engine manufacturer is
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Trouble Shooting .............................................. 30Warranty .............................................. Back Page
Finding and Recording Model Number
BEFOREYOU STARTASSEMBLING
YOUR NEW EQUIPMENT,
please locate the model plate on the equipmentand copy theinformation to the sample model plate provided to the right.Youcan locate the model plate by looking beneathe the seat.
This information will be necessary to use the manufacturer'sweb site and/or obtain assistance from the Customer SupportDepartment or an authorizedservice dealer.
Customer SupportPlease do NOTretum the unit to the retailer from which it was
purchased, without first contacting Customer Support.
If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regardingthe controls, operation,or maintenanceof this
unit, you can seek help from the experts. Choose from the options below:
1. Visit mtdproducts.com. Click on the Service & Support menu option.
2. Phonea Customer Support Representative at 1 (800) 800-7310.
3. The engine manufacturer is responsiblefor all engine-relatedissues with regardsto performance, power-rating,specifica-tions, warranty and service. Please refer to the engine manufacturer'sOwner's/Operator's Manual, packed separatelywithyour unit, for more information.
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Practices
WARNING
This symbol pointsout importantsafetyinstructionswhich, ifnot followed, could
endangerthe personal
safetyand/or propertyofyourself and others.Readand follow all
I instructions in this man-
ual before attempting to
operatethis machine.tFailureto complywithhese instructions may
result in personal injury.When you see this
symbol.
HEED iTS WARNING
Your
ResponsibilityRestrict the use
of this power machineto persons who read,
understand
and follow the warningsand instructionsin this manual
WARNING: Engine Exhaust,some of its constituents, andcertain vehicle compo-nents contain or emit chemicals knownto State of Californiato cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductiveharm.
DANGER: This machinewas built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this
manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator canresult 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.
Children1. Tragicaccidentscanoccur if the operatoris not
alertto the presenceof children.Childrenareoftenattractedto themachineandthe mowingactivity.Theydo not understandthe dangers.Neverassumethatchildrenwill remainwhereyou lastsawthem.
a. Keepchildrenout of the mowingareaandinwatchfulcare of a responsibleadultother thanthe operator.
b. Bealert andturnmachineoff ifa childentersthe area.
c. Beforeandwhile backing,lookbehindanddownfor smallchildren.
d. Nevercarrychildren,evenwith the blade(s)shutoff.Theymayfalloffandbeseriouslyinjuredor interferewithsafemachineoperation.
e. Useextremecarewhenapproachingblindcorners,doorways,shrubs,treesorotherobjectsthat mayblockyourvisionof achildwhomayrun intothe machine.
f. To avoid back-over accidents, alwaysdisengagethe cuttingblade(s) beforeshiftinginto Reverse.if equipped,the"Reverse CautionMode"shouldnotbeused whenchildrenor others are around.
g. Keepchildrenawayfromhotor runningengines.Theycan sufferburnsfroma hotmuffler.
h. Removekeywhenmachineis unattendedtopreventunauthorizedoperation.
OperationSafe Handling of Gasoline:1. Toavoid personalinjuryor propertydamageuse
extremecare inhandlinggasoline.Gasolineisextremely flammableand the vapors areexplo-sive. Seriouspersonalinjurycan occurwhengasolineisspilledonyourselfor yourclotheswhichcan ignite.Washyourskinandchangeclothesimmediately.
a. Useonlyanapprovedgasolinecontainer.b. Neverfill containersinsideavehicleor ona
truckor trailerbedwitha plasticliner.Alwaysplacecontainerson the groundawayfromyourvehiclebeforefilling.
c. Whenpractical,removegas-poweredequipmentfromthe truckor trailerand refuelitonthe ground.If this isnotpossible,thenrefuelsuchequipmenton a trailerwithaportablecontainer,ratherthan froma gasolinedispensernozzle.
d. Keepthe nozzlein contactwith the rimofthe fueltankor containeropeningat alltimesuntilfuelingiscomplete.Donot useanozzlelock-opendevice.
e. Extinguishallcigarettes,cigars,pipesandothersourcesof ignition.
f. Neverfuel machineindoors.g. Neverremovegas cap oraddfuel whilethe
engineishot or running.Allowengineto coolat least twominutesbeforerefueling.
h. Neveroverfill fuel tank.Fill tankto nomorethan1/2inchbelowbottomof filler necktoallowspacefor fuel expansion.
i. Replacegasolinecapandtightensecurely.j. If gasolineis spilled,wipe it off theengine
andequipment.Moveunit to anotherarea.Wait5 minutesbeforestartingtheengine.
k. Toreducefirehazards,keepmachinefreeofgrass,leaves,orotherdebris build-up.Cleanupoil or fuel spillageand removeanyfuelsoakeddebris.
I. Neverstorethe machineor fuel containerinsidewherethere is anopenflame,sparkorpilot lightas on a waterheater,spaceheater,furnace,clothesdryerorother gasappliances.
m. Allowa machineto cool at least fiveminutesbeforestoring.
machineandin the manual(s)beforeattemptingtoassembleandoperate.Keepthismanualina safeplacefor futureandregularreferenceandfor orderingreplacementparts.
2. Befamiliarwith allcontrolsandtheir properoperation.Knowhow to stopthe machineanddisengagethemquickly.
3, Neverallowchildrenunder14yearsold to operatethis machine.Children14yearsoldandovershouldreadandunderstandthe operationinstructionsandsafetyrulesin this manualandshouldbetrainedandsupervisedby a parent.
4. Neverallowadults to operatethis machinewithoutproper instruction.
5. To helpavoidbladecontactora thrownobject injury,keep bystanders,helpers,childrenand petsat least75feet fromthe machinewhileit is inoperation.Stopmachineif anyoneentersthearea.
10.Beawareof the mowerandattachmentdischargedirectionanddo not pointit at anyone.Donot operatethe mowerwithoutthe dischargecoverorentiregrasscatcherin itsproperplace.
11.Donot put handsor feetnearrotatingpartsor underthe cuttingdeck. Contactwith the blade(s)canamputatehandsandfeet.
NOTE:ThisOperatorsManualcoversa rangeof productspecificationsfor variousmodels.Characteristicsandfea-turesdiscussedand/orillustratedin this manualmaynotbeapplicableto all models.MTDLLCreservesthe rightto changeproductspecifications,designsandequipmentwithoutnoticeandwithoutincurringobligation.
Attaching the Battery Cables
NOTE:Somemodelsareshippedwith the batterycablesalreadyconnected.
• Thepositivecable(heavyredwire) is securedto thepositivebatteryterminal(+)witha hexbolt andhexnut at thefactory.Makecertainthat the rubberbootcoversthe terminalto helpprotectit fromcorrosion.
• Removetheblackplasticcover,if present,fromthenegativebatteryterminalandattachthe negativecable(heavyblackwire)to the negativebatteryterminal(-) withthe bolt andnut.
• Makecertain thehold-downstrap is in positionoverthe battery,securingit in place.SeeFigure1.
NOTE:If the batteryis putinto serviceafter the dateshownontop of battery,chargethe batteryas instructedonpage24of this manualprior to operatingthe tractor.
Gas and Oil Fill-upThegasolinetank is locatedunderthe hoodandhasacapacityof 1-1/2gallons.Donot overfill.
WARNING: Use extreme care
when handling gasoline. Gaso-line is extremely flammable and
the vapors are explosive. Neverfuel machine indoors or while the
engine is hot or running. Extin-guish cigarettes, cigars, pipes,and other sources of ignition.
Servicethe enginewithgasolineandoil as instructedinthe separateEngineOperator/OwnerManualpackedwithyourtractor.Readinstructionscarefully.
IMPORTANT:Yourtractoris shippedwith motoroil in theengine.However,you MUSTcheckthe oil levelbeforeoperating.Becarefulnotto overfill.
8
Shipping Brace Removal f
WARNING: Make sure the riding
mower's engine is off, remove theignition 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.
WARNING: The shipping brace,used for packaging purposesonly, must be removedand dis-
carded before operating yourriding mower.
WARNING: The mowing deck iscapable of throwing objects. Fail-ure to operate the ridingmower
without the discharge cover in theproper operating position could
result inserious personal injuryand/or property damage.
Attaching The Steering WheelIf the steeringwheelforyour tractordid notcomeattached,the hardwarefor attachingit hasbeenpackedwithin the steeringwheel,beneaththe steeringwheelcap.Carefullypry off the steeringwheelcapand removethe hardware.
NOTE:Therearetwodifferentstylesof steeringwheelcap.SeeFigure3. Styles vary by model.
1. With the wheels of the tractor pointingstraightforward, placethe steeringwheeloverthe steeringshaft.
2. Placethe washer(with thecuppedsidedown)overthe steeringshaftandsecurewith the hex bolt.SeeFigure3.
tion key, and set theparking brake beforeremoving the shippingbrace.
The shipping brace,used for packagingpurposes only, mustbe removedanddiscarded before
operating your ridingmower.
The mowing deck iscapable of throwingobjects. Failure to
operate the ridingmower without the
discharge cover inthe properoperatingposition could result
in serious personalinjury and/or propertydamage.
9
WARNING
Before operatingthismachine,makesurethe seat is engaged inthe seat stop; stand
behindthemachineandpu,backonseat
fu,yengagedintostop:
NOTE: Forsh pping rea:s0nsl Seatsareeither
fastenedto the tractorseat's pivot braCketWitta plastiCtie, or mounted
backward to the pivotbracket. In either case;free the seat form itsshipping p0sition andremove the two Box
screws (or knobsion
models so equipped)from thebottom of seat
before proceedingwithapplicable instructions:
Attaching The SeatSeatstylesvarybytractormodelandtherearethreedifferentstylesavailable:• StandardAdjustment
• QuickAdjustment&
• KnobAdjustment
If the seatfor yourtractordid notcomeattached,refertoFigure4, Figure5, and Figure6 to identifyyourtractor'sseatstyleandfollowthe applicableinstructionsbelowtoattachit.
Figure 4
NOTE:Forshippingreasons,seatsareeitherfastenedto the tractorseat'spivotbracketwitha plastictie,ormountedbackwardto the pivotbracket.Ineithercase,freethe seat formitsshippingpositionand removethetwohex screws(or knobs,onmodelsso equipped)fromthe bottomof seatbeforeproceedingwithapplicableinstructionsbelow.
Standard Adjustment Seat1. Positionthe shoulderscrews(foundonthe baseof the
seat) insidetheslotopeningsin the seatpivotbracket.Figure4.
2. Slidethe seatslightlyrearwardin the seatpivotbracket,liningupthe rearslots in the pivotbracketwith the remainingtwo holesin the seat'sbase.
identifying the Mulch Plug (if so /,fequipped) |On tractormodelssoequipped,a mulchplugcan either
be foundwithinthe cuttingdeck'sdischargeopeningorpackedseparatelywithyour unit.
NOTE: Referto Mulching on page19for moredetailedinformation.
Ifyou'dpreferto operatethe cuttingdeckwithoutmulch-ing, simplyremovethe mulchplugby unthreadingtheplasticwing nutwhichfastensit to the cuttingdeck.Thiswill allowthe clippingsto dischargeout of the dischargeopeningduringoperation.SeeFigure7.
Tire Pressure
,_ WARNING: Maximum tire pres-sure underany circumstances is
30 psi. Equal tire pressure shouldbe maintainedat all times.
Figure 7
The tiresonyour unitmaybeover-inflatedfor shippingpurposes.Reducethetire pressurebeforeoperatingthe tractor.Recommendedoperatingtire pressureisapproximately10p.s.ifor the rear tires& 14p.s.i,for thefront tires.Checksidewallof tirefor maximump.s.i.
11
WARNING
Maximumtirepres,sure under any
circumstances is 30
psi, Equal tire pressureshouldbe maintainedat all times,
Know Your Lawn Tractor
NOTE: Any referencein this manual to the
RIGHTor LEFT side ofthe tractor is observed
from operator's position.
A
Figure 8
NOTE:Steeringwheelnot shownfor clarity
1-If soequipped
A SpeedControlLever/ParkingBrake E ThrottleControlLever
B Clutch-BrakePedal F IgnitionSwitchModule
C ShiftLever G DeckLiftLever
D ChokeControl1- H PTO(BladeEngage)Lever
NOTE:Anyreferencein thismanualto the RIGHTor LEFTside of the tractoris observedfromoperator'sposition.
12
Throttle Control LeverThethrottlecontrol leveris locatedon the rightside ofthetractor'sdash panel.This levercontrolsthe speedof the engineand,on somemodels,when pushedallthewayforward,the chokecontrolalso.Whenset inagivenposition,the throttlewill maintaina uniformenginespeed.SeeFigure9.
IMPORTANT:Whenoperatingthetractorwith the cuttingdeckengaged,becertainthat the throttleleverisalwaysinthe FAST(rabbit)position.
Choke ControlOnsomemodels,movingthethrottleleverall the wayforwardactivatestheengine'schoke _L._control.Onall othermodels,thechokecontrolcan befoundonthe leftside of thedash paneland isactivatedby pullingtheknoboutward.Activatingthechokecontrolclosesthe chokeplateonthe carburetorandaids instartingthe engine.Referto Starting The Engineon page16of this manualfor detailedstartinginstructions.
IMPORTANT:Neverforcethe shiftlever.Doingso mayresult inseriousdamageto the tractor'stransmission.
PTO (Blade Engage) LeverFoundon the tractor'srightfender,thePTO(bladeengage)leveris usedtoengagepowerto the cuttingdeckorother(separatelyavailable)attachments.Tooperate,movethe leverall the wayforward.Movingthe leverall the wayrearwardintothe PTOOFFpositiondisengagespowerto the cuttingdeck/attachment.
Safety Interlock SwitchesThis tractorisequippedwitha safetyinterlocksystemfor the protectionof the operator.If the interlocksystemshouldever malfunction,donot operatethe tractor.ContactanauthorizedMTDservicedealer.* Thesafety interlocksystempreventstheengine
fromcrankingor startingunlessthe parkingbrakeisengaged,andthe PTO(BladeEngage)leveris in thedisengaged(OFF)position.
* Theenginewill automaticallyshutoff if the operatorleavesthe seatbeforeengagingthe parkingbrake.
* Theenginewill automaticallyshutoff if the operatorleavesthe tractor'sseatwith the PTO(BladeEngage)leverin the engaged(ON) position,regardlessofwhetherthe parkingbrakeis engaged.
* Theenginewill automaticallyshutoff if the operatorengagesthe PTOwiththe parkingbrakeON.
14
Models without Reverse Caution Mode
• Theenginewill automaticallyshutoff if the PTO(BladeEngage)leveris movedintothe engaged(ON)positionwith the shiftleverin Reverse.
1. Start the engineas instructedon page16underStarting The Engine.
2. Turnthe keyfromthe NORMALMOWING(Green)positionto the REVERSECAUTIONMODE(Yellow)positionof the keyswitchmodule. SeeFigure12.
3. Depressthe REVERSEPUSHBUTTON(Orange,TriangularButton)at the top, rightcornerof the keyswitchmodule.The redindicatorlightat thetop, leftcornerof the keyswitchmodulewill be ONwhileactivated.SeeFigure12.
a. The keyis placedineitherthe NORMALMOWINGpositionor STOPposition.
b. The operatorengagesthe parkingbrakebyfullydepressingthe clutch-brakepedalandholdingitdownwhile movingthe speedcontrolleverintothePARKBRAKEposition.
Engaging the Parking BrakeToengagethe parkingbrake:1. Fullydepressthe clutch-brakepedalandhold it down
withyourfoot.
2. Movethe speedcontrolleverall the waydownandintothe parkingbrakeposition.
3. Releasethe clutch-brakepedal to allowthe parkingbraketo engage.
To releasethe parkingbrake:1. Depressthe clutch-brakepedalandmovethe speed
control leverout of the parkingbrakepositionandintoa desiredspeed.
15
_ _ii ii_i i_iii_ii_ i?_i_i_i_ii_ ii__
WARNING
Do not operate thetractor if the interlocksystem is malfunction-
ing. This system wasdesigned for yoursafety and protection.
Use extreme caution
while operating thetractor in the REVERSECAUTION MODE.
Always look down andbehind before and
while backing. Do notoperate the tractorwhen children or oth-
ers are around. Stopthe tractor immediatelyf someone enters the
area.
YoUr LaWni
Tractor
WARNING
Keep hands and feetaway from the dis-charge opening of thecutting deck.
Do not operate thetractor if the interlocksystem is malfunction-
ing.This system wasdesigned for yoursafety and protection.
if you strike a foreignobject, stop theengine, disconnectthe spark plug wire(s)and ground againstthe engine. Thoroughlyinspect the machinefor any damage. Repair
the damage beforerestarting and operat-ing.
Setting the Cutting Height1. Selectthe heightpositionof the cuttingdeckby
placingthe deck liftleverinany of the sixdifferentcuttingheightnotchesonthe rightsideof the fender.
2. Adjustthe deckwheels,if equipped,so that theyarebetweenl_-inchandY2-inchabovethe groundwhenthetractor is ona smooth,flat surfacesuchas adriveway.
WARNING: Keep hands and feetaway from the discharge open-
ing of the cutting deck.
NOTE:Onmodelsso equipped,thedeckwheelsare ananti-scalpfeatureof thedeckandare notdesignedtosupportthe weightof the cuttingdeck.
Referto Levelingthe Deckonpage20of this manualfor moredetailedinstructionsregardingvariousdeckadjustments.
Starting the Engine
,,__ WARNING" Do not operate thetractor if the interlocksystem is
malfunctioning. This system wasdesigned for your safety andprotection.
I G
AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATHGO UPAND DOWNSLOPES,NOT ACROSS.
AVOIDSUDDENTURNS.
DO NOT OPERATETHE UNITWHEREIT COULDSLIPOR TIE
IF MACHINESTOPSGOINGUPHILL,STOPBLADE(S)ANDBACKDOWNHILLSLOWLY.
DO NOT MOWWHEN CHILDRENOROTHERSAREAROUND.
NEVERCARRYCHILDREN,EVENWITH BLADESOFR
LOOK DOWNAND BEHIND BEFOREAND WHILEBACKING.
KEEP SAFETYDEVICES(GUARDS,SHIELDS,AND SWITCHES)
IN PLACEAND WORKING.
REMOVEOBJECTSTHATCOULDBE THROWNBYTHE
BLADE(S).
KNOW LOCATIONAND FUNCTIONOF ALL CONTROLS.
BE SURE BLADE(S)AND ENGINEARE STOPPEDBEFORE
PLACING HANDSOR FEETNEAR BLADE(S).
BEFORE LEAVINGOPERATOR'SPOSITION,DISENGAGE
BLADE(S), PLACETHE SHIFTLEVERIN NEUTRAL,ENGAGE
BRAKE LOCK, SHUTENGINEOFF AND REMOVEKEY.
READ OPERATOR'S MANUAL
Stopping the Engine
NOTE:Referto the TRACTORSET-UPon page8 ofthismanualfor GasolineandOil fill-upinstructions.
1. Insertthe tractorkey intothe ignitionswitch.
2. Placethe PTO(BladeEngage)leverin the disen-gaged(OFF)position.
3. Engagethetractor'sparkingbrake.
4. Activatethe chokecontrol.
5. Turnthe ignitionkeyclockwiseto the STARTposi-tion.Afterthe enginestarts,releasethe key.Itwillreturnto the ONposition.
IMPORTANT:DoNOTholdthe key in the STARTpositionfor longerthanten secondsat a time. Doingsomaycausedamageto yourengine'selectricstarter.
6. Afterthe enginestarts,deactivatethe chokecontrolandplacethe throttlecontrol in the FASTposition.
__ ARNING: if you strike a foreignobject, stop the engine, discon-
nect the spark plug wire(s) andground against the engine. Thor-oughly inspect the machine for
any damage. Repair the damagebefore restarting and operating
1. If the bladesare engaged,placethe PTO(BladeEngage)leverin the disengaged(OFF)position.
2. Turnthe ignitionkeycounterclockwiseto the STOPposition.
IMPORTANT:DoNOTuse the shift leverto changethedirectionof travelwhenthe tractoris in motion.Alwaysusethe brakepedalto bringthe tractorto a completestopbeforeshifting.
NOTE:Whenoperatingthe unit initially,there willbe littledifferencebetweenthe highesttwospeedsuntilafter thebeltshaveseatedthemselvesinto the pulleysduringthebreak-inperiod.
_ ARNING: Before leaving theoperator's position for anyreason, disengage the blades,
place the shift lever in neutral,engage the parking brake, shutengine off and remove the key.
Doingsowill minimizethe possibilityof havingyourlawn"browned"by hot exhaustfromyourtractor's runningengine.If unit stalls withspeedcontrolin highspeed,or if unitwillnot operatewithspeedcontrolleverin a lowspeedposition,proceedas follows:1. Placeshiftleverin NEUTRAL.
the disengaged (OFF)position,depressingthe brake pedal andengaging the parkingbrake, if leaving thetractor unattended,also turn the ignitionkey off and remove thekey.
Always look downand behind before
and while backing upto avoid a back-over_ccident.
17
WARNING
Do not mow on inclines
with a slope in excessof 15 degrees (a riseof approximately 2-1/2feet every 10 feet). Thetractor could overturnand cause serious
injury.
Tohelp avoid blade;ontact or a thrown
object injury, keepbystanders, helpers,;hildren and pets atleast75 feet from themachine while it is in
operation. Stop ma-;hine if anyoneentersthe area.
Driving On SlopesReferto the SLOPEGAUGEon page3 to helpdeter-mineslopeswhereyou mayoperatethe tractorsafely.
,_ WARNING: Do not mow oninclineswith a slope in excess
of 15 degrees (a rise of approxi-mately 2-1/2 feet every 10feet).The tractor could overturn and
3. Keepthe throttleleverinthe FAST(rabbit)positionfor the mostefficientuseof the cuttingdeckorother(separatelyavailable)attachments
iMPORTANT:Models withReverse Caution Mode:
Theenginewill automaticallyshutoff ifthe PTOisengagedwith the shift leverin positionfor reversetravelwith the ignitionkeyin the NORMALMOWINGposition.Models withoutReverseCautionMode:
The PTO(BladeEngage)levermust bein thedisen-gaged(OFF)positionwhen startingthe engine,whentravelingin reverse,and if the operatorleavesthe seat.Referto SafetyinterlockSwitcheson page14.
Using the Deck Lift LeverToraisethe cuttingdeck,movethe deck lift leverto theleft,thenplaceit inthe notchbestsuitedfor yourapplica-tion.Referto SettingThe CuttingHeightearlierin thissection.
Mowing
WARNING: To help avoid blade
contact or a thrown object injury,keep bystanders, helpers, children
and pets at least 75 feet from themachine while it is in operation.Stop machine if anyone enters thearea.
WARNING: Plan your mowingpattern to avoid discharge ofmaterials toward roads, sidewalks,
bystanders and the like. Also,avoid discharging material against
a wall or obstruction which maycause discharged material to
ricochet back toward the operator.
• Do not mowat highgroundspeed,especiallyifamulchkit orgrasscollectoris installed.
• For best resultsit is recommendedthat the firsttwo
lapsbe cutwith the dischargethrowntowardsthecenter.Afterthe first twolaps, reversethedirectiontothrowthe dischargeto the outsidefor the balanceofcutting.Thiswill givea betterappearanceto the lawn.
• Do notcut thegrasstoo short.Shortgrass invitesweedgrowthandyellowsquicklyindry weather.
• Alwayspositionthe throttlecontrol leverin the FAST(rabbit)positionandallowit to remaintherewhilemowing.Failingto keepthe engineat full throttleplacesstrainon the tractor'sengineand doesnotallowthe bladesto properlymulchgrass.
Figure 13
NOTE:It is not necessaryto removethe dischargechuteto operatethe mowerwith the mulchkit installed.
Tooperatethe cuttingdeckwithoutmulching,simplyremovethe mulchplugbyunthreadingthe plasticwingnutwhichfastensit to the cuttingdeck.Thiswill allowtheclippingsto dischargeout the side.See Figure13.
tractor'sengine isrunning.Onothermodels,thelampsareON wheneverthe ignitionkey is movedoutof the STOPposition.
• Onall models,the lampsturn OFFwhenthe ignitionkey ismovedto the STOPposition.
19
Operating
WARNING
Planyour mowing pat-tern to avoid dischargeof materials toward
roads, sidewalks, by-standers and the like.
Also, avoid discharging_aterial against a wall_r obstruction which
may cause dischargedaterial to ricochet
back toward the
operator.
WARNING
Neverattempttomake any adjust-ments while the
engine is running,exceptwhere speci-
i fied in the operator'smanual.
i Never attempt toiadjust the brakes
_wh ie the engine
i is running. Alwaysidisengage PTO, move::shift lever into neutral
position, stop engine
and remove key toiprevent unintendedistarting.
Figure 14
1. With the tractorparkedona firm,levelsurface,placethe deck lift leverin the top notch(highestposition)androtatethe bladenearestthe dischargechutesothat itis parallelwith the tractor.
2. Measurethe distancefromthe frontofthe bladetip tothe groundandthe rearof the bladetip to the ground.Thefirst measurementtakenshouldbebetween1/4"and 3/8" lessthan thesecondmeasurement.
4. Retightenthe jam nut loosenedearlierwhen properadjustmentis achieved.
Figure 15
,_ WARNING: Never attempt tomake any adjustments whilethe engine is running, except
where specified in the operator'smanual.
Leveling the Deck
NOTE:Checkthe tractor'stire pressurebeforeperform-inganydeck levelingadjustments.Referto Tires onpage24 for informationregardingtire pressure.
Front To RearThefrontof the cuttingdeck is supportedbya stabilizerbar thatcanadjustedto levelthe deckfromfrontto rear.Thefrontof the deckshouldbebetween1/4-inchand3/8-inchlowerthanthe rearof the deck.Adjustifnecessaryas follows:
Side to Side
If the cuttingdeckappearsto bemowingunevenly,a sideto side adjustmentcan beperformed.Adjustif necessaryas follows:
1. With the tractorparkedona firm,levelsurface,placethe deck lift leverin the top notch(highestposition)androtateboth bladesso that theyareperpendicularwith the tractor.
2. Measurethe distancefromthe outsideof the leftbladetip to the groundandthe distancefromtheoutsideofthe rightbladetip to theground.Bothmeasurementstakenshouldbeequal. If they'renot,proceedto thenextstep.
5. Retightenthe hex capscrewonthe left deckhangerbracketwhenproperadjustmentis achieved.
Parking Brake Adjustment
_ ARNING" Never attempt to ad-just the brakes while the engine isrunning. Always disengage PTO,move shift lever into neutral posi-
tion, stop engine and remove keyto prevent unintended starting.
If the tractordoes notcometo a completestopwhenthebrakepedalis completelydepressed,or if the tractor'srearwheelscan rollwith the parkingbrakeapplied,the
2O
brakeis in needof adjustment.Thebrakedisccan befoundon the rightsideof thetransmissionin the rearofthe tractor.Adjustif necessaryas follows:1. Lookingat thetransmissionfromthe right sideof the
2. Loosen,but do NOTremove,the hex nutfoundon therightsideof the brakeassembly.SeeFigure16.
3. Usingafeelergauge,set the gapbetweenthe brakediscandthe brakepuckat .011".
4. Re-tightenthe hexnut loosenedearlier.
Seat Adjustment
_ ARNING: Before operating thismachine, make sure the seat is
engaged in the seat stop, standbehind the machine and pull back
on seat until fully engaged intostop.
Standard SeatToadjust the positionof the seat,loosenthe twohexscrewson the bottomof the seat.Slidethe seatforwardor backwardas desired.Retightenthe twoscrews.SeeFigure17.
Knob Adjustment Seat (if so equipped)
Toadjust the positionof the seaton modelsso equipped,loosenthe twoknobson the bottomof theseat. SeeFigure18.Slidethe seat forwardor backwardas desired.Retightenthe twoknobs.
Quick Adjust Seat (if so equipped)
Toadjust the positionof the seaton modelsequippedwitha seatadjustmentlever,movethe seatadjustmentlever(locatedunder theseat) to the leftand slidethe seatforwardor rearward.SeeFigure19.Makesureseat islocked intopositionbeforeoperatingthe tractor.
Set gap
Figure 16
Hex Nut
Figure 17
.....J
\
Figure 19 Figure 18
21
AdjustingurLawn
WARNING
Before operating thismachine, make sure
the seat is engaged inthe seat stop, standbehind the machine
and pull back on seatuntil fully engaged into
stop.
WARNING
any maintenance orrepairs,disengagePTO, move shift leverintoneutral position,set parkingbrake, stopengine and remove keyo preventu nintended_tarting!
Before lubricatingirepairing, or inspect,ing,always disengagePTOImove shift lever
into neutral position,set parking brake, stopengineandremovekeyto prevent unintendedstartingl
NOTE:Dependingonthe engine model found
Onyour tractorl itmaybe necessary to remove
the tractor!s side panel
in OrdertO replace theoil filter (if so equipped):
Figure 20
,_ WARNING: Before performingany maintenance or repairs,disengage PTO, move shift lever
into neutral position, set parkingbrake, stop engine and remove
key to prevent unintendedstarting.
EngineRefer to the EngineOperator/Owner Manualforengine maintenance instructions.Checkengineoil levelbeforeeachuseas instructedinthe EngineOperator/OwnerManualpackedwithyourunit.Follow the instructionscarefully.
Changing Engine Oil
NOTE:Dependingonthe enginemodelfoundon yourtractor,it maybenecessaryto removethe tractor'ssidepanelin order to replacethe oil filter (if so equipped).
Fordrainingoil fromthe engine'scrankcaseof selectmodeltractors,a plasticoildrainsleeveis packedwiththisOperator'sManual.Todrain the oil, proceedasfollows:1. Unscrewthe oil fill capand removethe dipstickfrom
Performthe abovestepsin the oppositeorderafteroil hasfinisheddraining.5. Refillthe enginewith newmotoroil as instructedinthe
EngineOperator/OwnerManualpackedwithyour unit.
IMPORTANT:Referto the EngineOperator/OwnerManualpackedwithyourunit for informationregardingthequantityandproperweightof motoroil.
Air Cleaner
Servicethe pre-cleaner,if soequipped,andcartridge/aircleanerelementas instructedin the EngineOperator/OwnerManualpackedwithyour unit.
Spark Plug(s)Thesparkplug(s)shouldbecleanedand thegap resetoncea season.Sparkplugreplacementis recommendedat the startof each mowingseason.Referto the EngineOperator/OwnerManualfor correctplugtypeandgapspecifications.
Lubrication
WARNING: Before lubricating,repairing, or inspecting,alwaysdisengage PTO, move shift lever
into neutral position,set parkingbrake, stop engine and remove
key to prevent unintended start-ing.
EngineLubricatethe enginewithmotoroil as instructedintheEngineOwnerManualpackedwith yourunit.
Eachendof the tractor'sfrontpivotbarmaybeequippedwitha greasefitting.Lubricatewitha greasegunafterevery25 hoursof tractoroperation.
Cleaning the Engine And DeckAnyfuel oroil spilledonthe machineshouldbe wipedoff promptly.Do NOTallowdebristo accumulatearoundthe coolingfinsof the engineor onany otherpart of themachine.
IMPORTANT:The useof a pressurewasherto cleanyourtractoris NOTrecommended.It maycausedamagetoelectricalcomponents,spindles,pulleys,bearingsor theengine.
22
Deck Wash System TM
A hexplugcan befoundonyourtractor'sdecksurface.SeeFigure21.Thisplugcanbe replacedwitha waterport to beusedaspart of a separately-availabledeckwashsystem.Usethe DeckWashSystemTM to rinsegrassclippingsfromthe deck'sundersideandpreventthe buildupofcorrosivechemicals.
3. Removethe beltfromaroundthetractor'senginepulleyandidlerpulley(s).Referto Changingthe DeckBelton page26 for detailedinstructions.
4. Lookingat the cuttingdeckfromtheleft sideof thetractor,locatethe hairpinclip thatsecuresthe decksupportrodon the rear leftsideof the deck. SeeFigure22.
idler pulley.Modelseau_ppedwith a 42-inchdeck have two deck
idler pulleys.
Tires Jump Starting
WARNING
Never exceed themaximuminflationpressure shownon thesidewall of the tire.
Batteries give off anexplosive gas whilecharging. Charge bat=tery ina wellventilatedarea and keep awayfrom an open flameor pilot light as on awater heater,spaceheater, furnace, clothesdryer or other gasappliances.
Always use a fuse withthe same amperagecapacity for replace=merit.
,_ WARNING: Never exceed the ,_maximuminflation pressureshown on the sidewall of tire.
The recommendedoperatingtire pressureis:• Approximately10psifor the rear tires
IMPORTANT:Ifremovingthe batteryfor anyreason,disconnectthe NEGATIVE(Black)wire fromit'sterminalfirst, followedby the POSITIVE(Red)wire.Whenre-installingthe battery,alwaysconnectthe POSITIVE(Red)wire itsterminalfirst, followedby the NEGATIVE(Black)wire.Becertain that thewiresareconnectedtothecorrectterminals;reversingthemcouldchangethepolarityandresult indamageto your engine'salternat-ingsystem.
ChargingIf thetractorhas not beenput into usefor anextendedperiodof time,chargethe batterywithanautomotive-type 12-voltchargerfora minimumof one hour at sixamps.
WARNING: Batteries give off anexplosive gas while charging.Charge battery in a well venti-
lated area and keep away froman open flame or pilot light as
on a water heater, space heater,furnace, clothes dryer or othergas appliances.
WARNING:When removing or
installing the battery, followthese instructionsto prevent the
screwdriver from shorting againstthe frame.
IMPORTANT:Neverjump yourtractor'sdeadbatterywiththe batteryof a runningvehicle.
1. Connectendof onejumpercableto the positiveterminalof the goodbattery,thenthe otherendto thepositiveterminalof the deadbattery.
2. Connectthe otherjumpercable to the negativeterminalof the goodbattery,thento the frame of theunit with the dead battery.
_ WARNING" Failure to use thisprocedure could cause sparking,
2. Placea blockof wood betweenthe centerdeckhous-ingbaffleandthe cuttingbladeto act as a stabilizer,SeeFigure24,
3, Usea 15/16"wrenchto removethe hexflangenutthatsecuresthe bladeto the spindleassembly.SeeFigure24,
4. Toproperlysharpenthe cuttingblades,removeequalamountsof metalfrombothends of the bladesalongthecutting edges,parallelto the trailingedge,at a250to 300angle,
IMPORTANT:If the cuttingedgeof the bladehasalreadybeensharpenedto within15/8" fromtheedge,or if anymetalseparationis present,replacethe bladeswith newones,SeeFigure25,
It isimportantthateachcuttingbladeedgebegroundequallyto maintainproperbladebalance.
A poorlybalancedbladewill causeexcessivevibrationand maycausedamageto thetractorandresult inpersonalinjury,The bladecan betestedbybalancingit ona roundshaftscrewdriver.Grindmetalfromthe heavysideuntil it balancesevenly.
Figure 24
1-5/8 inch
Figure 25
Whenreplacingthe blade,besureto installthe bladewith theside of the blademarked"Bottom"(or withapart numberstampedin it) facingthe groundwhenthemoweris in the operatingposition.
engine off, removeignition key, discon-nect the spark plugwire(s) and groundagainst the engine to
prevent unintendedstarting before remov-ing the cutting blade(s)for sharpening orreplacement. Protectyour hands by usingheavy glovesor a ragto grasp the cuttingblacle,
Periodically inspectthe blade spindles forcracks or damage,especially if you strikea foreign object.Replace immediately ifdamaged.
Drain fuel only into anapprovedcontaineroutdoors,away froman open flame. Al-low engine to coolExtinguishcigarettes,cigars, pipes, andother sources of igni-tion prior to drainingfuel.
Never store the ma-chine or fuel containerindoorswhere there is
an open flame, sparkor pilot lightsuchas on water heater,furnace, clothes dryeror other gas appliance.
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 anyevaporativeemission-relatedpart on yourequipmentis defective,the partwill berepairedor replacedby MTDConsumerGroupInc.
OWNER'S WARRANTY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Asthe lawn mowerowner,youare responsiblefor performanceof the requiredmaintenancelistedin yourowner'smanual. MTDConsumerGroupIncrecom-mendsthat you retainall receiptscoveringmaintenanceonyour lawnmower,but MTDConsumerGroup Inccannotdenywarrantysolelyforthe lack of receipts.
Asthe lawn mowerowner,youshouldhoweverbeawarethat MTDConsumerGroupInc maydeny youwarrantycoverageif your lawnmoweror a part has faileddueto abuse,neglect,or impropermaintenanceor unapprovedmodifications.
Youare responsiblefor presentingyourlawn mowerto MTDConsumerGroupInc'sdistributioncenteror servicecenteras soonas the problemexists.Thewarrantyrepairsshouldbecompletedin a reasonableamountof time, not to exceed30 days. If youhavea questionregardingyour warrantycoverage,youshouldcontactthe MTDConsumerGroupIncService Departmentat 1-800-800-7310.
GENERAL EMISSIONS WARRANTY COVERAGE:
MTDConsumerGroupIncwarrantsto the ultimatepurchaserand eachsubsequentpurchaserthat the lawnmower is:Designed,built andequippedso as toconformwithall applicableregulations;andfree from defectsin materialsand workmanshipthat causethe failure of a warrantedpart to be identicalin allmaterialrespectsto that part as describedin MTDConsumerGroupInc'sapplicationfor certification.
The warrantyperiodbeginson thedate the lawnmoweris deliveredto an ultimatepurchaseror first placed intoservice.The warrantyperiodis two years.
Subjectto certainconditionsand exclusionsas statedbelow,the warrantyonemission-relatedparts is as follows:
1. Any warrantedpart that is notscheduledfor replacementas requiredmaintenanceinthe writteninstructionssupplied, is warrantedfor thewarrantyperiodstatedabove. Ifthe part fails duringthe periodof warrantycoverage,the part willbe repairedor replacedby MTDConsumerGroupInc accordingto subsection(4) below.Anysuchpart repairedor replacedunderwarrantywillbe warrantedfor the remainderof the period.
2. Any warrantedpart that is scheduledonly for regularinspection inthe writteninstructionssupplied is warrantedfor thewarranty periodstated above.Any suchpart repairedor replacedunderwarrantywill bewarrantedfor the remainingwarrantyperiod.
3. Any warrantedpart that is scheduledfor replacementas requiredmaintenancein thewritten instructionssuppliedis warrantedforthe periodof time beforethefirst scheduledreplacementdatefor that part. If the partfails beforethe first scheduledreplacement,the part willbe repairedor replacedby MTDConsumerGroupInc accordingto subsection(4) below.Any such part repairedor replacedunderwarrantywillbewarrantedforthe remainderof the periodpriorto thefirst scheduledreplacementpointfor the part.
4. Repairor replacementof anywarrantedpart underthe warrantyprovisionshereinmustbeperformedat a warrantystationat no chargeto theowner.
5. Notwithstandingthe provisionsherein,warrantyservicesorrepairswill beprovidedat all of our distributioncentersthat arefranchisedto servicethe subjectenginesor equipment.
6. The lawnmowerowner willnot bechargedfor diagnosticlaborthat is directlyassociatedwithdiagnosisof a defective,emission-relatedwarrantedpart,providedthat suchdiagnosticwork is performedat a warrantystation.
7. MTDConsumerGroupInc is liablefor damagesto otherengineor equipmentcomponentsproximatelycausedby a failure underwarrantyof anywarrantedpart.
9. Any replacementpart maybe usedinthe performanceof anywarrantymaintenanceorrepairsand mustbe providedwithoutchargeto the owner.Suchusewillnot reducethe warrantyobligationsof MTDConsumerGroupInc.
10.Add-onor modifiedpartsthat are notexemptedbythe Air ResourcesBoardmaynot beused.The useof any non-exemptedadd-onor modifiedparts by theultimatepurchaserwillbegroundsfor disallowinga warrantyclaims.MTDConsumerGroup Incwill notbe liableto warrantfailuresof warrantedparts causedbythe useof a non-exemptedadd-onor modifiedpart.
WARRANTED PARTS:
The repairor replacementof anywarrantedpart otherwiseeligiblefor warrantycoveragemaybeexcludedfromsuchwarrantycoverageifMTDConsumerGroupInc demonstratesthat the lawnmowerhasbeen abused,neglected,or improperlymaintained,andthat suchabuse,neglect,or impropermaintenancewasthedirectcauseof the needfor repairor replacementof the part.Thatnotwithstanding,anyadjustmentof a componentthathasa factory installed,and properlyoperating,adjustmentlimitingdevice is still eligiblefor warrantycoverage.Thefollowingemissionwarrantyparts list arecovered: FuelLine,Fuel LineClamps
MANUFACTURER'S LiMiTED WARRANTY FOR
The limitedwarrantyset forthbelowisgivenby MTDLLCwithrespectto newmerchandisepurchasedandusedin the UnitedStates,itspossessionsandterritories."MTD"warrantsthisproductagainstdefectsinmaterialandworkman-shipfor a periodof two (2)yearscommencingonthe date of originalpurchaseandwill,at itsoption,repairor replace,freeof charge,anypart foundto bedefectiveinmaterialsorworkmanship.This limitedwar-rantyshallonlyapply if thisproducthasbeenoperatedand maintainedinaccordancewith the Operator'sManualfurnishedwith the product,andhas notbeensubjectto misuse,abuse,commercialuse,neglect,accident,impropermaintenance,alteration,vandalism,theft, fire,water,ordamagebecauseof otherperilor naturaldisaster.Damageresultingfromthe installationor useof any part,accessoryor attachmentnotapprovedby MTDfor use with the product(s)coveredbythis manualwillvoid yourwarrantyas to any resultingdamage.Normalwearpartsarewarrantedto befree fromdefects inmaterialandworkmanshipfor a periodof thirty (30)daysfromthe dateof purchase.Normalwearparts include,butare notlimitedto itemssuchas: batter-ies,belts,blades,bladeadapters,grassbags,riderdeckwheels,seats,snowthrowerskidshoes,shaveplates,augerspiralrubberandtires.NOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE: Warranty service is available,WITHPROOFOF PURCHASE, through your local authorized servicedealer. 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 ourWeb site at www.mtdproducts.com.This limitedwarrantydoesnotprovidecoverageinthe followingcases:a. Theengineor componentparts thereof.Theseitemsmaycarrya
b. Logsplitterpumps,valves,andcylindershavea separateoneyearwarranty.
c. Routinemaintenanceitemssuchas lubricants,filters,bladesharpening,tune-ups,brakeadjustments,clutchadjustments,deckadjustments,andnormaldeteriorationof the exteriorfinishduetouseor exposure.
d. Servicecompletedby someoneotherthananauthorizedservicedealer.
e. MTDdoesnot extendanywarrantyfor productssoldor exportedoutsideof the UnitedStates,its possessionsandterritories,exceptthosesoldthroughMTD'sauthorizedchannelsof exportdistribution.
f. Replacementparts thatarenotgenuineMTDparts.
g. Transportationchargesandservicecalls.
No impliedwarranty,includingany impliedwarrantyof mer-chantabilityof fitness for a particular purpose,applies after theapplicable periodof express written warranty above as to thepartsas identified.No otherexpresswarranty, whetherwritten ororal, except as mentioned above,givenby any personor entity,includinga dealeror retailer, with respect to any product,shallbindMTD.Duringthe periodof the warranty,the exclusiveremedyis repairor replacementof the productas set forth above.Theprovisionsas set forth in this warrantyprovidethe soleandexclusiveremedy arising from the sale.MTDshallnot be liablefor incidentalor consequentiallossor damage including,withoutlimitation, expensesincurredfor substituteor replacementlawncareservicesor for rentalexpensesto temporarily replaceawarranted product.Somestatesdo notallowthe exclusionor limitationof incidentalorconsequentialdamages,or limitationsonhowlongan impliedwarrantylasts,sothe aboveexclusionsor limitationsmaynot applyto you.Innoeventshallrecoveryof any kindbegreaterthanthe amountof thepurchasepriceof the productsold.Alterationof safety features ofthe product shallvoid this warranty. Youassumethe riskand liabilityfor loss,damage,or injuryto you andyourpropertyand/orto othersandtheirpropertyarisingout of the misuseor inabilityto usethe product.This limitedwarrantyshallnot extendto anyoneotherthan theoriginalpurchaseror to the personfor whomitwas purchasedas a gift.HOWSTATELAWRELATESTOTHIS WARRANTY:This limitedwarrantygivesyou specificlegal rights,and youmayalsohaveotherrightswhichvaryfromstateto state.IMPORTANT:OwnermustpresentOriginalProofof Purchaseto obtainwarrantycoverage.