MTD 13AN771G729 Owner’s Manual

Operator's Manual

Transmatic Lawn Tractor

MODELS 760,770

761,771 762,772

IMPORTANT: Read safety rules and instructions carefully before operating equipment.

Warning: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush-

covered or grass-covered land unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator. In the State of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest engine authorized service dealer or contact the service department, P.O. Box 361131

Cleveland, Ohio 44136-9722.

MTB LLC,P.O.BOX361131CLEVELAND,OHIO44136-9722

PRINTED IN U.S.A. FORM NO. 769-01603.

(12/9/2004)

TABLEOFCONTENTS

Content Customer Support

Important Safe Operation Practices

Tractor Set-up Controls

Operation

Page Content Page

2 Maintenance 20

3 Service 22 8 Off-season Storage 26

11 Attachments & Accessories 26 14 Warranty Back Cover

FINDINGMODELNUMBER

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.

Before you start assembling your new equipment, please locate the model plate on the equipment and copy the information from it in the space provided below. A sample model plate is also given below. You can locate the model plate by looking at the underside of the seat. This information will be necessary

to use the manufacturer's web site and/or help from the Customer Support Department or an authorized

service dealer.

Copy the model number here:

P. O. BOX 361131

CLEVELAND,OH 44136

www, mtdproducts.corn 800-800-7310

330-220-4883

Copy the serial number here:

CUSTOMERSUPPORT

Please doNOTreturn the unRto theretailer wRhoutfirstcontactingCustomerSupport.

If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation or maintenance of this unit, you can seek help from the experts. Choose from the options below:

Visit mtdproducts.com for many useful suggestions. Click on Customer Support button and you will get the four options reproduced here. Click on the appropriate button and help is

immediately available.

TrendAo_we_

fooking for could be just a mouse-dick aw_,_y!

If you prefer to reach a Customer Support Representative, please call (330) 220-4MTD or 1(800) 800-7310.

Ma ual

_En ine

The engine manufacturer is responsible for all engine-related issues with regard to

performance, power-rating, specifications, warranty and service. Please refer to the engine manufacturer's Owner's/Operator's Manual, packed separately with your unit, for more

information.

SECTION1: IMPORTANTSAFEOPERATIONPRACTICES

WARNING: This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, could endanger

the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow all instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal injury. When you see this symbol--heed its warning.

DANGER: This machine was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this man-

ual. 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. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

California Proposition 65 Warning:

,_ WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain

GENERAL OPERATION

1. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the

2. Be familiar with all controls and their proper

3. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate

4. Never allow adults to operate this machine without

5. To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object

6. Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment

7. Plan your mowing pattern to avoid discharge of

8. Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles

9. Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-

or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

10. Be aware of the mower and attachment discharge direction and do not point it at anyone. Do not

machine and in the manual(s) before attempting to assemble and operate. Keep this manual in a safe place for future and regular reference and for ordering replacement parts.

operation. Know how to stop the machine and disengage them quickly.

this machine. Children 14 years old and over

should read and understand the operation instructions and safety rules in this manual and should be trained and supervised by a parent.

proper instruction.

injury, keep bystanders, helpers, children and pets at least 75 feet from the machine while it is in

operation. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

is to be used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire, bones, toys, and other foreign objects which could

be picked up and thrown by the blade(s). Thrown objects can cause serious personal injury.

material toward roads, sidewalks, bystanders and

the like. Also, avoid discharging material against a

wall or obstruction which may cause discharged material to ricochet back toward the operator.

during operation and while performing an adjustment or repair to protect your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can cause serious injury to

the eyes.

fitting slacks and shirts. Loose fitting clothes and jewelry can be caught in movable parts. Never

operate this machine in bare feet or sandals.

operate the mower without the discharge cover or entire grass catcher in its proper place.

11. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or

under the cutting deck. Contact with the blade(s)

can amputate hands and feet.

12. A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause blade contact or thrown object injuries.

13. Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads and while not cutting grass.

14. Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing

roadways. This machine is not intended for use on

any public roadway.

15. Do not operate the machine while under the

influence of alcohol or drugs.

16. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.

17. Never carry passengers.

18. Disengage blade(s) before shifting into reverse.

Back up slowly. Always look down and behind

before and while backing to avoid a back-over accident.

19. Slow down before turning. Operate the machine smoothly. Avoid erratic operation and excessive speed.

20. Disengage blade(s), set parking brake, stop engine and wait until the blade(s) come to a complete stop before removing grass catcher, emptying grass,

unclogging chute, removing any grass or debris, or making any adjustments.

21. Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn off blade(s), place transmission in

neutral, set parking brake, stop engine and remove key before dismounting.

22. Use extra care when loading or unloading the

machine into a trailer or truck. This unit should not

be driven up or down ramp(s), because the unit could tip over, causing serious personal injury. The

unit must be pushed manually on ramp(s) to load or unload properly.

23.Mufflerandenginebecomehotandcancausea burn.Donottouch.

24.Checkoverheadclearancescarefullybeforedriving underlowhangingtreebranches,wires,door openingsetc.,wheretheoperatormaybestruckor pulledfromtheunit,whichcouldresultinserious injury.

25.Disengageallattachmentclutches,depressthe brakepedalcompletelyandshiftintoneutralbefore attemptingto startengine.

26.Yourmachineisdesignedtocutnormalresidential grassofaheightnomorethan10".Donotattempt

tomowthroughunusuallytall,drygrass(e.g.,

pasture)orpilesofdryleaves.Drygrassorleaves maycontacttheengineexhaustand/orbuildupon

themowerdeckpresentingapotentialfirehazard.

27.Useonlyaccessoriesandattachmentsapproved

forthismachinebythemachinemanufacturer.

Read,understandandfollowallinstructions providedwiththeapprovedaccessoryor

attachment.

28.Dataindicatesthatoperators,age60yearsand above,areinvolvedinalargepercentageofriding mower-relatedinjuries.Theseoperatorsshould evaluatetheirabilitytooperatetheridingmower safelyenoughtoprotectthemselvesandothers

fromseriousinjury.

29.Ifsituationsoccurwhicharenotcoveredinthis manual,usecareandgoodjudgment.Contactan

authorizedMTDServiceDealerforassistance.

SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to loss of control and tip-over accidents which can result in severe injury or death. All slopes require extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not mow

it. For your safety, use the slope gauge included as part of

this manual to measure slopes before operating this unit on a sloped or hilly area. If the slope is greater than 15 degrees as shown on the slope gauge, do not operate this unit on that area or serious injury could

result.

DO:

1. Mow up and down slopes, not across. Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on slopes.

2. Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden objects. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.

3. Use slow speed. Choose a low enough speed setting so that you will not have to stop or shift while on the slope. Tires may lose traction on slopes even though the brakes are functioning properly. Always keep machine in gear when going down slopes to take advantage of engine braking action.

4. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for wheel weights or counterweights to improve

stability.

5. Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments. These can change the stability of the

machine.

6. Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual.

Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction.

Rapid engagement or braking could cause the front of the machine to lift and rapidly flip over backwards which could cause serious injury.

7. Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction, disengage the blade(s) and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

DO NOT:

1. Do not turn on slopes unless necessary; then, turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.

2. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or embankments. The mower could suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the edge of a cliff, ditch, or if an edge caves in.

3. Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on the ground.

4. Do not use a grass catcher on steep slopes.

5. Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could cause sliding.

6. Do not shift to neutral and coast downhill. Over- speeding may cause the operator to lose control of

the machine resulting in serious injury or death.

7. Do not tow heavy pull behind attachments (e.g. loaded dump cart, lawn roller, etc.) on slopes

greater than 5 degrees. When going down hill, the extra weight tends to push the tractor and may cause you to loose control. (e.g. tractor may speed

up, braking and steering ability are reduced,

attachment may jack-knife and cause tractor to overturn).

CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to the machine and the mowing activity. They do not understand the dangers. Never assume that children will remain where you last

saw them.

a. Keep children out of the mowing area and in

watchful care of a responsible adult other than the operator.

b. Be alert and turn machine off if a child enters

the area.

c. Before and while backing, look behind and

down for small children.

d. Never carry children, even with the blade(s)

shut off. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine operation.

e. Useextremecarewhenapproachingblind

corners,doorways,shrubs,treesorother objectsthatmayblockyourvisionofachild whomayrunintothemachine.

f. Toavoidback-overaccidents,always

disengagethecuttingblade(s)before shiftingintoreverse.The"Reverse

CautionMode" should not be used when

children or others are around.

g. Keep children away from hot or running

engines. They can suffer burns from a hot

muffler.

h. Remove key when machine is unattended to

prevent unauthorized operation.

Never allow children under 14 years old to operate

the machine. Children 14 years old and over should

read and understand the operation instructions and safety rules in this manual and should be trained and supervised by a parent.

TOWING

1. Tow only with a machine that has a hitch designed for towing. Do not attach towed equipment except

at the hitch point.

2. Follow the manufacturers recommendation for

weight limits for towed equipment and towing on slopes.

3. Never allow children or others in or on towed

equipment.

4. On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment may

cause loss of traction and loss of control.

5. Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop.

6. Do not shift to neutral and coast downhill.

SERVICE

SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE:

To avoid personal injury or property damage use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive. Serious personal injury can occur when gasoline is spilled on yourself or your clothes which can ignite. Wash your skin and change clothes immediately.

a. Use only an approved gasoline container.

b. Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a

truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place containers on the ground away from your vehicle before filling.

c. When practical, remove gas-powered

equipment from the truck or trailer and refuel

it on the ground. Ifthis is not possible, then

refuel such equipment on a trailer with a portable container, rather than from a gasoline dispenser nozzle.

d. Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the

fuel tank or container opening at all times

until fueling is complete. Do not use a nozzle

lock-open device.

e. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and

other sources of ignition.

f. Neverfuel machine indoors. g. Never remove gas cap or add fuel while the

engine is hot or running. Allow engine to cool at least two minutes before refueling.

h. Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tankto no more

than _/2inch below bottom of filler neck to

allow space for fuel expansion. i. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely. j. If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine

and equipment. Move unit to another area.

Wait 5 minutes before starting the engine. k. To reduce fire hazards, keep machine free of

grass, leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean

up oil or fuel spillage and remove any fuel

soaked debris. I. Never store the machine or fuel container

inside where there is an open flame, spark or

pilot light as on a water heater, space heater,

furnace, clothes dryer or other gas

appliances. m. Allow a machine to cool at least 5 minutes

before storing.

GENERAL SERVICE:

1. Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area. Engine exhaust contains carbon

monoxide, an odorless, and deadly gas.

2. Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make certain the blade(s) and all moving parts have stopped. Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground against the engine to prevent unintended starting.

3. Periodically check to make sure the blades come to complete stop within approximately (5) five seconds after operating the blade disengagement control. If the blades do not stop within the this time frame, your unit should be serviced professionally by an authorized MTD Service Dealer.

4. Check brake operation frequently as it is subjected to wear during normal operation. Adjust and service as required.

5. Check the blade(s) and engine mounting bolts at frequent intervals for proper tightness. Also, visually inspect blade(s) for damage (e.g., excessive wear, bent, cracked).

Replace the blade(s) with the original equipment manufacturer's (O.E.M.) blade(s) only, listed in this manual. "Use of parts which do not meet the

original equipment specifications may lead to

improper performance and compromise safety!"

6. Mower blades are sharp. Wrap the blade or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.

7. Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition.

8. Nevertamperwiththesafetyinterlocksystemor othersafetydevices.Checktheirproperoperation regularly.

9. Afterstrikingaforeignobject,stoptheengine, disconnectthesparkplugwire(s)andground againsttheengine.Thoroughlyinspectthe machineforanydamage.Repairthedamage beforestartingandoperating.

10.Neverattempttomakeadjustmentsorrepairsto

themachinewhiletheengineisrunning.

11.Grasscatchercomponentsandthedischarge coveraresubjecttowearanddamagewhichcould exposemovingpartsorallowobjectstobethrown.

Forsafetyprotection,frequentlycheckcomponents

andreplaceimmediatelywithoriginalequipment

manufacturer's(O.E.M.)partsonly,listedinthis manual."Useofpartswhichdonotmeetthe

originalequipmentspecificationsmayleadto

improperperformanceandcompromisesafety!"

12.

Donotchangetheenginegovernorsettingsor

over-speedtheengine.Thegovernorcontrolsthe

maximumsafeoperatingspeedoftheengine.

13.

Maintainorreplacesafetyandinstructionlabels,as necessary.

14.

Observeproperdisposallawsandregulationsfor gas,oil,etc.toprotecttheenvironment.

_, ARNING: YOURRESPONSIBILITYRestricttheuseofthispowermachinetopersonswhoread,

understandandfollowthewarningsandinstructionsinthismanualandonthemachine.

ROTATING BLADES CAUSE

SERIOUS iNJURY OR DEATH

• DOHOTMOWWHENCHILBREHOROTHERSARE

AROUHD

• HEVERCAP_YCH&DREHEVEHWITHBLADE(S)OFF.

• LOOKDOWNAHDBEHINDBEFOREANDWHILE

BACKING.

o MOWINGiNREVERSEJSHOTRECOMMEHDED.

I.LI

_ Sight and hold this levelwith avertical tree...

I.LI

15°

SECTION3: TRACTORSET-UP

IMPORTANT:Your tractor is shipped with motor oil in the engine. However, you MUST check the oil level before

starting the engine and operating the tractor. Refer to the separate engine manufacturer's Operator/Owner Manual packed w th your tractor. Read nstruct ons carefu y.

LooseParts Figure 1

Packaged with this Operator's Manual you'll find:

• One Small Clamp (726-0354)

• One 1/4-20 x 1/2-inch Screw (710-0599)

• One Oil Drain Sleeve (731-1682A)

Store the clamp and screw in a convenient place. Both will be necessary to properly secure your tractor's wire harness should you choose to purchase a front-end attachment for your lawn tractor. Refer to page 26 for a

table of available attachments and accessories. Refer to page20 for information regarding the oil drain

sleeve and changing your engine oil.

AttachingTheSteeringWheel

ToolsRequiredForAssembly

(1) 1/2" socket wrench

1. The hardware for attaching the steering wheel has been packed within the steering wheel, beneath steering wheel cap. Carefully pry off the steering wheel cap and remove the hardware.

2. With the wheels of the tractor pointing straight forward, place the steering wheel over the steering

shaft.

3. Place the washer (with the cupped side down) over

the steering shaft and secure with the hex bolt. See

Figure 1.

4. Place the steering wheel cap over the center of the steering wheel and push downward until it "clicks" into place.

ShippingBraceRemoval

_, WARNING: Make sure the riding mower's

engine is off, remove the ignition key, and set the parking brake before removing the shipping brace.

Locate the shipping brace and accompanying

warning tag found on the right side of the mower,

between the discharge chute and the cutting deck. See Figure 2.

Warning Tag

Figure 2

While holding the discharge chute with your left hand, remove the shipping brace with your right hand by grasping it between your thumb and index

finger and rotating it clockwise.

WARNING: The shipping brace, used for

packaging purposes only, must be removed and discarded before operating your riding

mower.

WARNING: The mowing deck is capable of

throwing objects. Failure to operate the riding mower without the discharge cover in the proper operating position could result in serious personal injury and/or property damage.

AttachingtheBatteryCables

NOTE: Some models are shipped with the battery

cables already connected.

NOTE: The positive battery terminal is marked Pos.

(+). The negative battery terminal is marked Neg. (-).

• The positive cable (heavy red wire) is secured to

the positive battery terminal (+) with a hex bolt and

hex nut at the factory. Make certain that the rubber boot covers the terminal to help protect itfrom

corrosion.

• Remove the hex bolt and hex nut from the negative cable.

• Remove the black plastic cover, if present, from the negative battery terminal and attach the negative cable (heavy black wire) to the negative battery

terminal (-) with the bolt and hex nut.

• Make certain the hold-down rod is in position over

the battery, securing it in place. See Figure 3.

GasandOilFill-up

The gasoline tank is located under the hood and has a capacity of 1-1/2 gallons. Do not overfill.

WARNING: Use extreme care when

handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely

flammable and the vapors are explosive.

Never fuel machine indoors or while the engine is hot or running. Extinguish

cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other sources of

ignition.

Service the engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in

the separate engine manufacturer's Operator/Owner

Manual packed with your tractor. Read instructions

carefully.

TirePressure

_. WARNING: Maximum tire pressure under

The tires on your unit may be over-inflated for shipping

purposes. Reduce the tire pressure before operating the tractor. Recommended operating tire pressure is approximately 10 p.s.i for the rear tires & 14 p.s.i, for the front tires. Check sidewall of tire for maximum p.s.i.

any circumstances is 30 psi. Equal tire pressure should be maintained at all times.

HoldDownRod

HexNut

HexBolt

Figure 3

NOTE: If the battery is put into service after the date

shown on top of battery, charge the battery as instructed on page 23 of this manual prior to operating

the tractor.

AttachingTheSeat

Seat styles vary by tractor model and there are three different styles available:

• Standard Adjustment

• Quick Adjustment &

• Knob Adjustment Refer to Figure 4, Figure 5 and Figure 6 to identify your

tractor's seat style and follow applicable instructions below.

NOTE: For shipping reasons, seats are either

fastened to the tractor seat's pivot bracket with a plastic tie, or mounted backward to the pivot bracket. In either case, free the seat from its shipping position and remove the two hex screws (or knobs, on models so equipped) from the bottom of seat before proceeding

with applicable instructions below.

Standard Adjustment

HexScrews

Shoulder

Screws

Opening

in SI0t

Pivot Bracket

Standard AdjustmentSeat

1. Position the shoulder screws (found on the base of the seat) inside the slot openings in the seat pivot

bracket. Figure 4.

2. Slide the seat slightly rearward in the seat pivot

bracket, lining up the rear slots in the pivot bracket with the remaining two holes in the seat's base.

3. Select desired position for the seat, and secure with the two hex screws removed earlier. See Figure 4.

QuickAdjustmentSeat

NOTE: Ifyour seat was shipped mounted backwards

on the seat pivot bracket, pull out the tab found on the seat stop and hold # open while sliding the seat off the seat pivot bracket. See Figure 5.

1. Line up the plastic seat spacers with the slots in

seat pivot bracket.

2. Slide seat in until front seat spacer engages the

seat stop. See Figure 5.

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.

KnobAdjustmentSeat

1. Position the shoulder screws (found on the base of the seat) inside the slot openings in the seat pivot

bracket. Figure 6.

2. Slide the seat slightly rearward in the seat pivot

bracket, lining up the rear slots in the pivot bracket with the remaining two holes in the seat's base.

3. Select desired position for the seat, and secure with the two knobs removed earlier. See Figure 6.

Figure 4

QuickAdjustment

SeatStop

Tab --

Pivot Bracket --

Figure 5

KnobAdjustment

Knobs

Shoulder

Screws

Opening

inSlot

Figure 6

SECTION4: KNOWYOURLAWNTRACTOR

/ii

Figure 7

A Speed Control Lever/Parking Brake E

B Clutch-brake Pedal F C Shift Lever G

D Choke Control (on models so equipped) H

Throttle Control Lever Ignition Switch Module

Deck Lift Lever PTO (Blade Engage) Lever

NOTE: Any reference in this manual to the RIGHT or LEFT side of the tractor is observed from operator's position.

ThrottleControlLever

The throttle control lever is located on the right side of the tractor's dash panel. This lever controls the speed of the engine and, on most models, when pushed all the way forward, the choke control also. When set in a given position, the throttle will maintain a uniform engine speed. See Figure 8.

CHOKE

FAST

- EE

SLOW

Figure 8

IMPORTANT:When operating the tractor with the cutting

deck engaged, be certain that the throttle lever is always in the FAST (rabbit) position.

SLOW _'_

SpeedControlLever

The speed control lever, located on the left side of the tractor's dash

console, allows you to regulate the

ground speed of the lawn tractor. To use, depress the clutch-brake pedal

and move the lever out of the parking

brake notch and forward to increase

the tractor's ground speed. When a desired speed has been reached,

release the lever into an appropriate

notch to maintain that speed. To slow the tractor's ground speed, depress the clutch-brake pedal and

move the speed control lever

rearward and release it intoa notch.

NOTE: Lawn tractors vary by model and are available

with either a 6- or 7-speed control lever.

PARK

BRAKE

DeckLiftLever

Found on your tractor's right fender, the deck lift lever is used to change the height of the cutting deck. To use,

move the lever to the left, then place

inthe notch best suited for your

application.

_lwf . :

ChokeControl

On most models, moving the throttle lever all the way forward activates the engine's choke control. On other models, the

choke control can be found on the left side of the dash panel and

is activated by pulling the knob outward. Activating the choke control closes the choke plate on the carburetor and aids instarting the engine. Refer to StartingTheEngineon page 15 of this manual for detailed starting instructions.

ParkingBrake

To set the parking brake, fully depress the clutch-brake pedal. Move the speed control lever all the way down and into the parking brake position. Release the clutch- brake pedal to allow the parking brake to engage.

To release the parking brake, depress the clutch-brake pedal and move the speed control lever out of the notches to the desired position. Release the speed control lever and the clutch-brake pedal.

NOTE: The parking brake must be set if the operator

leaves the seat with the engine running or the engine

will automatically shut off.

PTO(BladeEngage)Lever

Found on the tractor's right fender, the PTO (blade engage) lever is used to engage power to the cutting deck or other (separately available) attachments. To operate, move the

lever all the way forward. Moving the

lever all the way rearward into the

PTO OFF position disengages power to the cutting deck/attachment.

NOTE: The PTO (blade engage)

lever must be in the disengaged

(PTO OFF) position when starting the

engine.

,,g

L_O

Clutch-BrakePedal

The clutch-brake pedal is located on the left side of the lawn tractor, along the running board. Depress the clutch-brake pedal part way down when slowing the tractor by changing speeds (Refer to SpeedControlLever). Depress the pedal all the way down to engage the disc brake and bring the tractor to a complete stop.

NOTE: The pedal must be depressed to start the

engine. Refer to SafetyInterlockSwitcheson page 14.

ShiftLever

The shift lever is located on the left side of the fender and has three positions, FORWARD, NEUTRAL and

REVERSE. The brake pedal must be depressed and the tractor must not be in motion when the moving shift lever. See Figure 9.

:8RWARD

IgnitionSwitch Module

WARNING: Never leave a running machine

unattended. Always disengage PTO, move shift lever into neutral position, set parking brake, stop engine and remove key to prevent unintended starting.

To start the engine, insert the key into the ignition

switch and turn clockwise to the START position.

Release the key into the NORMAL MOWING MODE

position once the engine has fired. To stop the engine, turn the ignition key

counterclockwise to the OFF position. See Figure 10.

NO CHILDREN AROUND

BUTTON"_

REVERSEPUSH

Stop

Position

Normal

MowingMode

Start

Position

MUETRAL

Shift Knob

REVERSE

Figure 9

IMPORTANT:Never force the shift lever. Doing so may result in serious damage to the tractor's transmission.

Figure 10

IMPORTANT:Prior to operating the tractor, refer to both SafetyInterlockSwitcheson page 14 and StartingTheEngine on page 15 of this manual for detailed instructions

regarding the Ignition Switch Module and operating the tractor in REVERSE CAUTION MODE.

SECTION5: OPERATINGYOURLAWNTRACTOR

SafetyInterlockSwitches

This tractor is equipped with a safety interlock system for the protection of the operator. If the interlock system should ever malfunction, do not operate the tractor.

Contact an authorized MTD service dealer.

• The safety interlock system prevents the engine from cranking or starting unless the parking brake is

engaged, and the PTO (Blade Engage) lever is in

the disengaged (OFF) position.

• The engine will automatically shut off if the operator

leaves the seat before engaging the parking brake.

• The engine will automatically shut off if the operator

leaves the tractor's seat with the PTO (Blade Engage) lever in the engaged (ON) position, regardless of whether the parking brake is engaged.

• The engine will automatically shut off if the operator

engages the PTO with the parking brake ON.

• With the ignition key in the NORMAL MOWING

position, the engine will automatically shut off ifthe PTO (Blade Engage) lever is moved into the engaged (ON) position with the shift lever in

Reverse.

interlock system is malfunctioning. This

WARNING: Do not operate the tractor ifthe system was designed for your safety and

protection.

ReverseCautionMode

WARNING: Use extreme caution while operating the tractor in the REVERSE

CAUTION MODE. Always look down and behind before and while backing. Do not operate the tractor when children or others are around. Stop the tractor immediately if

someone enters the area.

The REVERSE CAUTION MODE position of the key switch module allows the tractor to be operated in reverse with the blades (PTO) engaged.

IMPORTANT: Mowing in reverse is not recommended. To use the REVERSE CAUTION MODE:

IMPORTANT:The operator MUST be seated in the tractor seat.

Start the engine (Refer to StartingtheEnginepage 15 of this Operator's Manual for detailed instructions).

Turn the key from the NORMAL MOWING (Green) position to the REVERSE CAUTION MODE (Yellow) position of the key switch module. See Figure 11.

3. Depress the REVERSE PUSH BUTTON (Orange, Triangular Button) at the top, right corner of the key switch module. The red indicator light at the top, left corner of the key switch module will be ON while activated. See Figure 11.

4. Once activated (indicator light ON), the tractor can be driven in reverse with the cutting blades (PTO) engaged.

5. Always look down and behind before and while backing to make sure no children are around.

6. After resuming forward motion, return the key to the

NORMAL MOWING position.

IMPORTANT:The REVERSE CAUTION MODE will remain activated until:

The key is placed in either the NORMAL MOWING position or STOP position.

The operator engages the parking brake by fully depressing the brake pedal and holding it down while gently pushing the parking

brake button inward.

Reverse

indicator

Light

Stop

Position

Figure 11

PushButton

Reverse

- CautionMode Position

Start

Position

EngagingtheParkingBrake

To engage the parking brake:

• Fully depress the clutch-brake pedal and hold it down with your foot.

• Move the speed control lever all the way down and

into the parking brake position.

• Release the clutch-brake pedal to allow the parking brake to engage.

To release the parking brake:

• Depress the clutch-brake pedal and move the speed control lever out of the the parking brake position and into a desired speed.

WARNING

AVOIDSERIOUSINJURYORDEATH

• GO UP AND DOWN SLOPES, NOT ACROSS.

• AVOID SUDDEN TURNS.

• DO NOT OPERATE THE UNIT WHERE IT COULD SLIP OR TIR

• IF MACHINE STOPS GOING UPHILL, STOP BLADE(S) AND BACK DOWNHILL SLOWLY.

• DO NOT MOW WHEN CHILDREN OR OTHERS ARE AROUND.

• NEVER CARRY CHILDREN, EVEN WITH BLADES OFR

• LOOK DOWN AND BEHIND BEFORE AND WHILE BACKING.

• KEEP SAFETY DEVICES (GUARDS, SHIELDS, AND SWITCHES) IN PLACE AND WORKING.

• REMOVE OBJECTS THAT COULD BE THROWN BY THE BLADE(S).

• KNOW LOCATION AND FUNCTION OF ALL CONTROLS.

• BE SURE BLADE(S) AND ENGINE ARE STOPPED BEFORE PLAC-

ING HANDS OR FEET NEAR BLADE(S).

• BEFORE LEAVING OPERATOR'S POSITION, DISENGAGE BLADE(S), PLACE THE SHIFT LEVER IN NEUTRAL, ENGAGE

BRAKE LOCK, SHUT ENGINE OFF AND REMOVE KEY.

READOPERATOR'SMANUAL

SettingtheCuttingHeight

Select the height position of the cutting deck by placing the deck lift lever in any of the five different cutting height notches on the right side of the fender. Then adjust the deck wheels, if so equipped, so that they are between 1A-inch and _/2-inchabove the ground when the tractor is on a smooth, flat surface such as a driveway.

IMPORTANT:Do NOT hold the key in the START position for longer than ten seconds at a time. Doing so may cause damage to your engine's electric starter.

• After the engine starts, deactivate the choke control and place the throttle control in the FAST position.

NOTE: Do NOT leave the throttle control in the

CHOKE position while operating the tractor. Doing so will result in a "rich" fuel mixture and cause the engine to run poorly.

StoppingtheEngine

_. WARNING: If you strike a foreign object,

• If the blades are engaged, place the PTO (Blade

• Turn the ignition key counterclockwise to the OFF

• Remove the key from the ignition switch to prevent

DrivingTheTractor

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

Engage) lever in the disengaged (OFF) position.

position.

unintended starting.

_, ARNING: Keep hands and feet away

from the discharge opening of the cutting deck.

NOTE: On models so equipped, the deck wheels are

an anti-scalp feature of the deck and are not designed to support the weight of the cutting deck.

Refer to LevelingtheDeckon page 18 of this manual for more detailed instructions regarding various deck adjustments.

StartingtheEngine

interlock system is malfunctioning. This

WARNING: Do not operate the tractor ifthe system was designed for your safety and

protection.

NOTE:

manual for Gasoline and Oil till-up instructions.

• Insert the tractor key into the ignition switch.

• Place the PTO (Blade Engage) lever in the

• Engage the tractor's parking brake.

• Activate the choke control.

• Turn the ignition key clockwise to the START

Refer to the TRACTORSET-UPon page 8 of this

disengaged (OFF) position.

position. After the engine starts, release the key. It will return to the ON position.

WARNING: Avoid sudden starts, ex- cessive speed and sudden stops.

WARNING: Do not leave the seat of the tractor without first placing the PTO (Blade

Engage) lever in the disengaged (OFF)

position, depressing the brake pedal and

engaging the parking brake. If leaving the tractor unattended, also turn the ignition key off and remove the key.

WARNING: Always look down and behind

before and while backing up to avoid a back-

over accident.

• Depress the brake pedal to release the parking brake and let the pedal up.

• Move the throttle lever into the FAST (rabbit) position.

• Place the shift lever in either the FORWARD or

REVERSE position.

IMPORTANT:Do NOT use the shift lever to change the

direction of travel when the tractor is in motion. Always

use the brake pedal to bring the tractor to a complete stop before shifting.

• Release the parking brake by depressing the clutch-brake pedal and positioning the speed control lever in desired position.

IMPORTANT: First-time operators should use speed positions 1 or 2. Become completely familiar with the tractor's operation and controls before operating the tractor in higher speed positions.

• Release clutch-brake pedal slowly to put unit into motion.

• The lawn tractor is brought to a stop by depressing

the clutch-brake pedal.

NOTE: When operating the unit initially, there will be

little difference between the highest two speeds until after the belts have seated themselves into the pulleys during the break-in period.

,_ WARNING: Before leaving the operator's

IMPORTANT:When stopping the tractor for any reason while on a grass surface, always

Doing so will minimize the possibility of having your lawn "browned" by hot exhaust from your tractor's running engine.

If unit stalls with speed control in high speed, or if unit will not operate with speed control lever in a low speed position, proceed as follows.

• Place shift lever in NEUTRAL.

• Restart engine.

• Place speed control lever in highest speed position.

• Release clutch-brake pedal fully.

• Depress clutch-brake pedal.

• Place speed control lever in desired position.

• Place shift lever in either FORWARD or REVERSE,

position for any reason, disengage the blades, place the shift lever in neutral, engage the parking brake, shut engine off and remove the key.

Place the shift lever in neutral, Engage the parking brake,

Shut engine off and remove the key.

and follow normal operating procedures.

DrivingOnSlopes

Refer to the SLOPEGAUGEon page 7 to help determine slopes where you may operate the tractor safely.

_, ARNING: Do not mow on inclines with a

• Mow up and down slopes, NEVER across.

• Exercise extreme caution when changing direction

• Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other

• Avoid turns when driving on a slope. If a turn must

• Avoid stopping when driving up a slope. Ifit is

slope in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of

approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10 feet). The tractor could overturn and cause serious

injury.

on slopes.

hidden objects. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.

be made, turn down the slope. Turning up a slope greatly increases the chance of a roll over.

necessary to stop while driving up a slope, start up smoothly and carefully to reduce the possibility of flipping the tractor over backward.

Usingthe DeckLiftLever

To raise the cutting deck, move the deck lift lever to the

left, then place it inthe notch best suited for your

application. Refer to SettingTheCuttingHeightearlier in

this section.

EngagingtheBlades

Engaging the PTO (Blade Engage) transfers power to the cutting deck or other (separately available) attachments. To engage the blades, proceed as

follows:

• Move the throttle control lever to the FAST (rabbit)

position.

• G rasp the PTO (Blade Engage) lever and position it

all the way forward into the engaged (ON) position.

• Keep the throttle lever in the FAST (rabbit) position

for the most efficient use of the cutting deck or other

(separately available) attachments

IMPORTANT:The engine will automatically shut off if the

PTO is engaged with the shift lever in position for

reverse travel with the ignition key in the NORMAL

MOWING position. Refer to SafetyInterlockSwitcheson

page 14.

Mowing

WARNING: To help avoid blade contact or

a thrown object injury, keep bystanders, helpers, children and pets at least 75 feet from the machine while it is in operation. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

The following information will be helpful when using the cutting deck with your tractor.

WARNING: Plan your mowing pattern to avoid discharge of materials toward roads,

sidewalks, bystanders and the like. Also, avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction which may cause discharged material to ricochet back toward the operator.

Do not mow at high ground speed, especially if a mulch kit or grass collector is installed.

For best results it is recommended that the first two laps be cut with the discharge thrown towards the

center. After the first two laps, reverse the direction

to throw the discharge to the outside for the

balance of cutting. This will give a better appearance to the lawn.

• Do not cut the grass too short. Short grass invites

weed growth and yellows quickly in dry weather.

• Mowing should always be done with the engine at

full throttle.

• Under heavier conditions it may be necessary to go

back over the cut area a second time to get a clean cut.

• Do NOT attempt to mow heavy brush and weeds

and extremely tall grass. Your tractor is designed to

mow lawns, NOT clear brush.

• Keep the blades sharp and replace the blades

when worn. Refer to CuttingBladeson page 23 of this

manual for proper blade sharpening instructions.

Headlights

On some models, the lamps are ON whenever the tractor's engine is running. On other models, the lamps are ON whenever the ignition key is moved out of the

STOP position.

On all models, the lamps turn OFF when the ignition

key is moved to the STOP position.

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