MTD 13AX611G705 Owner’s Manual

Operator's Manual

Hydrostatic Lawn Tractor

MODEL 611

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. 770-10317E

(12/29/2004)

TABLEOFCONTENTS

Content Customer Support

Important Safe Operation Practices

Tractor Set-Up Know Your Lawn Tractor

Operating Your Lawn Tractor Making Adjustments

Page Content Page

2 Maintaining Your Lawn Tractor 21

3 Service 22 8 Off-Season Storage 26

11 Attachments & Accessories 27 14 Troubleshooting 28

19 Illustrated Parts List 30

FINDINGMODELNUMBER

This Operator's Manual is an important part of your new lawn tractor. Itwill 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 under the seat of the

tractor and copy the information in the space provided below. A sample model plate is also given below.

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.com 800-800-7310 ._

330-220-4683

Copy the serial number here:

CUSTOMERSUPPORT

Please doNOTreturntheunitto theretailer fromwhereit waspurchased,withoutfirst contactingCustomerSupport.

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.

gW_SWeF f:_Fe

looking for could be just a mouse crick aw_y!

To reach the Customer Support Line, please call 1-800-800-7310.

_wTswey you _:]ye

/ook]Ggroycouldbe just

a mouse crickaw_y!

M nual

_]En ine

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

performance, power-rating, specifications, warranty and service. Please refer to the engine manufacturer's Owner's/Operator's Manual, at the end of this manual, 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.

,_ WARNING: The Battery and Engine Exhaust contains chemicals known to the State of

California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. The battery and posts contain lead; wash hands after handling.

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.

GENERAL OPERATION

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

2. Be familiar with all controls and their proper operation. Know how to stop the machine and disengage them quickly.

3. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate

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.

4. Never allow adults to operate this machine without proper instruction.

5. 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.

6. Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment 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.

7. Plan your mowing pattern to avoid discharge of 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.

8. Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during operation and while performing an adjustment or repair to protect your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can cause serious injury to

the eyes.

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

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

operate this machine in bare feet or sandals.

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

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 ifyou 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. Beforeandwhilebacking,lookbehindand

downforsmallchildren.

d. Nevercarrychildren,evenwiththeblade(s)

shutoff.Theymayfalloffandbeseriously

injuredorinterferewithsafemachine

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. If this 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. Ifgasoline 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).

6. Replacetheblade(s)withtheoriginalequipment manufacturer's(O.E.M.)blade(s)only,listedinthis manual."Useofpartswhichdonotmeetthe originalequipmentspecificationsmayleadto improperperformanceandcompromisesafety!"

7. Mowerbladesaresharp.Wrapthebladeorwear gloves,anduseextracautionwhenservicingthem.

8. Keepallnuts,bolts,andscrewstighttobesurethe equipmentisinsafeworkingcondition.

9. Nevertamperwiththesafetyinterlocksystemor othersafetydevices.Checktheirproperoperation regularly.

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

11.Neverattempttomakeadjustmentsorrepairsto

themachinewhiletheengineisrunning.

12.Grasscatchercomponentsandthedischarge coveraresubjecttowearanddamagewhichcould exposemovingpartsorallowobjectstobethrown.

Forsafetyprotection,frequentlycheckcomponents

andreplaceimmediatelywithoriginalequipment

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

originalequipmentspecificationsmayleadto

improperperformanceandcompromisesafety!"

13.Donotchangetheenginegovernorsettingsor over-speedtheengine.Thegovernorcontrolsthe

maximumsafeoperatingspeedoftheengine.

14.Maintainorreplacesafetyandinstructionlabels,as

necessary.

15.Observeproperdisposallawsandregulationsfor gas,oil,etc.toprotecttheenvironment.

_, ARNING: YOURRESPONSIBILITYRestricttheuseofthispowermachinetopersonswhoread,

understandandfollowthewarningsandinstructionsinthismanualandonthemachine.

ROTAT|NG5LADES CAUSE

SERIOUS iNJURY OR DEATH

• DONOTMOWWHENCHILDRENDROTHERSAHE

AROUND

• MEVERCARRYCHILDRENEVENWiTHBLADE(S)OFF.

• LOONDOWNANDBEHINDBEFOREANDWHILE

BACKING.

• MOWINGiNREVERSEiSNOTRECOMMENDED.

1'91

SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH A VERTICAL TREE

A POWER POLE

Z I--

WARNING

Do not mow on inclines with a slope in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10 feet). A riding mower could overturn and cause serious injury. If operating a walk-behind mower on such a slope, it is extremely difficult to maintain your footing and you could slip, resulting in serious injury. Operate RIDING mowers up and down slopes, never across the face of slopes.

SECTION3: TRACTORSET-UP

AttachingtheBatteryCables

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 wing 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 wing nut.

• Make certain the hold-down strap is in position over the battery, securing it in place. See Figure 1.

,bberL _ _ IL /

",,oot 2

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

shown on top of battery, charge the battery as instructed on page 24 of this manual prior to operating

the tractor.

AttachingTheSteeringWheel

• If the steering wheel for your tractor did not come attached, the hardware for attaching it has been packed within the steering wheel, beneath the steering wheel cap. Carefully pry off the steering wheel cap and remove the hardware.

NOTE: There are two different styles of steering

wheel cap. See Figure 2. Styles vary by modeL

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

shaft.

• Place the washer (with the cupped side down) over the steering shaft and secure with the hex bolt. See

Figure 2.

• Place the steering wheel cap over the center of the steering wheel and push downward until it "clicks"

into place. Steering

Figure I

Wheel Cap _

Hex Bolt

&Washer

Steering

Shaft

Figure 2

AttachingTheSeat

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

• Standard Adjustment

• Quick Adjustment &

• Knob Adjustment If the seat for your tractor did not come attached, refer

to Figure 3, Figure 4, and Figure 5 to identify your tractor's seat style and follow the applicable instructions

below to attach it.

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 form 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 AdjustmentSeat

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

bracket. Figure 3.

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 3.

QuickAdjustmentSeat

Standard Adjustment

Hex Screws

Shoulder

Screws

Opening

in Slot

Pivot Bracket

Figure 3

QuickAdjustment

Seat Stop

NOTE: If your 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 4.

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 4.

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 5.

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 5.

Tab--

Pivot Bracket

Figure 4

KnobAdjustment

Knobs

Shoulder

Screws

Opening

in Slot_

Figure 5

GasandOilFill-up

The gasoline tank is located under the hood and has a capacity of either two or three 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.

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.

Service the engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in the separate Briggs & Stratton Operator/Owner Manual (or Kohlerengine's Owner's Manual) packed with your tractor. Read instructions carefully.

IMPORTANT:Your tractor is shipped with motor oil inthe engine. However, you MUST check the oil level before operating. Be careful not to overfill.

ShippingBraceRemoval

engine is off, set the parking brake and

WARNING: Make sure the riding mower's remove the ignition key before removing the

shipping brace.

• Locate the shipping brace and warning tag found

on the right side of the cutting deck. See Figure 6.

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.

IdentifyingtheMulchPlug(if soequipped)

On tractor models so equipped, a mulch plug can be found within the cutting deck's discharge opening.

NOTE: Refer to Mulchingon page 18 for more detailed

information.

If you'd prefer to operate the cutting deck without

mulching, simply remove the mulch plug by

unthreading the plastic wing nut which fastens it to the cutting deck. This will allow the clippings to discharge out of the discharge opening during operation. See

Figure 7.

Warning Tag

Figure 6

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.

Plastic Wing Nut

Figure 7

Mulch Plug

SECTION4: KNOWYOURLAWNTRACTOR

I I

A PTO (Power Take-off) Lever:l: G Cruise Control Button

PTO (Power Take-off) Knob:l: H Ignition Switch Module B Choke Control:l: I Brake Pedal C Parking Brake Button J Drive Pedal D Cup Holder K Deck Lift Lever E Systems Indicator Monitor/Hour Meter L Seat Adjustment Lever:l:

F Throttle Control Lever

I I

NOTE: Steering Wheel not shown for clarity,

t Style varies by model $ Ifso equipped

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 some 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

Position

Fast

Position

Fast

Position

IgnitionSwitchModule

WARNING: Never leave a running machine

unattended. Always disengage PTO, 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 STOP position. See Figure 9.

JND

BUTTON

REVERSE PUSH

Stop

Position

Normal

MowingMode

Slow

Position

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

Position

ChokeControl

On some models, moving the throttle lever all the way forward

activates the engine's choke

control. On all other models, the I_1_ Ichoke 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 in starting the engine. Refer to StartingTheEngineon page 15 of this manual for detailed starting instructions.

BrakePedal

The brake pedal is located on the right front side of the tractor above the drive pedal along the running board. The brake pedal can be used for sudden stops or setting the parking brake.

NOTE: The brake pedal must

be fully depressed to activate the safety interlock switch when

starting the tractor.

(o)

Start

Position

Figure 9

Prior to operating the tractor, refer to both SafetyInterlock

Switcheson page 14 and StartingTheEngineon page 15 of

this manual for detailed instructions regarding the

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

DrivePedal

The drive pedal is located below the brake pedal on the right front

side of the tractor along the running board. Depress the upper portion of the drive pedal

forward to cause the tractor to (_) travel forward. Depress the lower

portion of the drive pedal with the ball of your right foot (NOT your heel) to cause the tractor to travel in reverse. Ground speed is also controlled with the

drive pedal. The further forward or rearward that the

pedal is pivoted, the faster the tractor will travel. The pedal will return to its original position when it's not

depressed.

IMPORTANT:Always set the parking brake when leaving the tractor unattended.

SystemsIndicatorMonitor

Your tractor is equipped with either an hour meter or an ammeter as part of two available systems indicator monitors. Locate the monitor on the left side of your dash panel and compare it to both shown in Figure 10.

DPSV _ =

Oil

Brake

ElectricPTO

(PowerTake-off)Knob

To engage the power to the cutting deck or other (separately available) attachments on

models equipped with an electric PTO, pull outward on the PTO knob. Push the PTO knob inward to disengage the power to the cutting deck.

Ammeter

Battery

Hour Meter

PTO

If the Brake light or PTO light illuminates when attempting to start the unit, proceed as follows:

BRAKE -- Depress the brake pedal. PTO -- Move PTO lever, or PTO knob into the

disengaged (OFF) position.

It is normal for the Oil light and the Battery light, if so equipped, to illuminate while the engine is cranking, but if either illuminate's while the engine is running, proceed as follows:

OIL-- Stop the tractor immediately and check

the crankcase oil level as instructed in the Briggs & Stratton Operator/Owner

Manual (or Kohlerengine's Owner's Manual) included with your tractor.

BATTERY-- The battery is in need of a charge, or the

engine's charging system is not generating sufficient amperage. Refer to

the MAINTENANCEsection of this manual for the proper battery charging procedure

or have the charging system checked by a Briggs & Stratton or Kohlerengine's

dealer.

On units so equipped, the ammeter measures the electrical output of the engine's charging system. Under normal operating conditions, with the engine at full

throttle, the ammeter's needle should measure a positive charge.

The hour meter, on units so equipped, operates whenever the engine is running and records the actual hours of tractor operation.

= @ r=Oq

1/10

(@o-_

Figure 10

PTO

Oil

Brake

NOTE: The PTO knob must be in the disengaged

(OFF) position when starting the engine, when travefing in reverse and if the operator leaves the seat.

PTO(PowerTake-off)Lever

IO !

OFF, PTO

PTO / BLADE ENGAGE

On models equipped with a manual PTO, the PTO lever is located on the left side of the dashboard next to the

steering wheel. Move the PTO lever forward to engage the power to the cutting deck or other (separately available) attachments; move the PTO lever rearward to disengage the power to the attachments.

NOTE: The PTO lever must be in the disengaged

(OFF) position when starting the engine, when travefing

in reverse and if the operator leaves the seat.

SeatAdjustmentLever

To adjust the seat forward or backward on units

equipped with a quick-adjust seat, slide the seat adjustment lever to the left and reposition the seat to the desired position. Once a comfortable position is found, release the seat adjustment lever to lock the

seat in place. Refer to SeatAdjustmenton page 20 of this

manual for more detailed instructions.

DeckLift Lever

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 in the notch best

suited for your application.

CupHolder

The tractor's cup holder, if so equipped, is located on the fender to the leftof the seat, just tothe rear of the

shift lever.

CruiseControlButton

To set the parking brake, fully

ParkingBrakeButton

depress the brake pedal and push the parking brake button in.

Hold the button in while taking your foot off the brake pedal.

Both the parking button and the brake pedal will then stay depressed. To release the parking brake, depress the brake pedal slightly. The parking brake button will then return to its original position.

NOTE: The parking brake must be set if the operator

leaves the seat with the engine running or the engine

will automatically shut off.

IMPORTANT:Always set the parking brake when leaving the tractor unattended.

models so equipped, is located The cruise control button, on ;i_

on the tractor dash panel to the

left of the ignition switch. Push the cruise control button while

traveling forward at a desired

speed. While holding the button

in, release pressure from the drive pedal. This will engage the

cruise control and allow the tractor to remain at that

speed without applying pressure to the drive pedal.

Depress the brake pedal or the drive pedal to deactivate cruise control. Refer to SettingtheCruise

Centralon page 16 this manual for detailed instructions

regarding the cruise control feature.

NOTE: Cruise control can NOT be engaged at the

tractor's fastest ground speed. If the operator should

attempt to do so, the tractor will automatically

decelerate to the fastest optimal mowing ground speed.

SECTION5: OPERATINGYOURLAWNTRACTOR

all instructions and warnings on the machine

WARNING: Read, understand, and follow and in this manual before operating.

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) knob (or lever) is in the disengaged (OFF) position.

• The engine will automatically shut off if the operator

leaves the seat before engaging the parking brake.

Modelswith ManualPT0 (BladeEngage)

• 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.

Modelswith ElectricPT0 (BladeEngage)

• The electric PTO (Blade Engage) clutch will automatically shut off if the operator leaves the tractor's seat with the PTO (Blade Engage) knob in the engaged (ON) position, regardless of whether the parking brake is engaged.

• With the ignition key in the NORMAL MOWING position, the electric PTO (Blade Engage) clutch will automatically shut off if the PTO (Blade

Engage) knob is moved into the engaged (ON)

position with the shift lever in Reverse.

interlock system is malfunctioning. This

WARNING: Do not operate the tractor if the

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.

1. Start the engine as previously instructed in this Operator's Manual.

2. 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:

a. The key is placed in either the NORMAL

MOWING position or STOP position.

b. The operator leaves the seat (Models with

Electric PTO ONLY).

c. The operator engages the parking brake by

fully depressing the brake pedal and holding

it down while gently pushing the parking

brake button inward (Models with Manual

PTO ONLY).

Reverse

Push Button

Reverse

- CautionMode Position

Start

Position

Indicator

Light

Stop

Position

NO CHILDREN AROUND

BUTTON

REVERSE PUSH

Figure 11

SettingtheCuttingHeight

Select the height position of the cutting deck by placing the deck lift lever in any of the six different cutting height notches on the right side of the fender. Then adjust the deck wheels so that they are between 1A-inchand V2- inch above the ground when the tractor ison a smooth, flat surface such as a driveway.

WARNING

AVOIDSERIOUSINJURYORDEATH

• GO UP AND DOWN SLOPES, NOT ACROSS.

• AVOID SUDDEN TURNS.

• DO NOT OPERATE THE UNIT WHERE IT COULD SLIP OR TIP.

• 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

_, WARNING: Keep hands and feet away

from the discharge opening of the cutting deck.

NOTE: 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 19 of thismanual for more detailed instructions regarding various deck

adjustments.

StartingtheEngine

interlock system is malfunctioning. This

WARNING: Do not operate the tractor if the

system was designed for your safety and protection.

NOTE: Refer to the TRACTORSET-UPon page 8 of this

manual for Gasoline and Oil fill-up instructions.

• Insert the tractor key into the ignition switch.

• Place the PTO knob (or lever) in the disengaged (OFF) position.

• Engage the tractor's parking brake.

• Pull the choke control outward.

• Turn the ignition key clockwise to the START

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

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 choke control on 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,

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

• Ifthe blades are engaged, place the PTO knob (or lever) in the disengaged (OFF) position.

• Turn the ignition key counterclockwise to the STOP position.

• Remove the key from the ignition switch to prevent unintended starting.

DrivingTheTractor

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

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

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.

• Briefly depress the brake pedal to release the parking brake. Move the throttle lever into the FAST (rabbit) position.

• To travel FORWARD, slowly depress the upper portion of the drive pedal forward until the desired speed is achieved. See Figure 12.

Reverse Forward

EngagingtheParkingBrake

To engage the parking brake:

• Fully depress the brake pedal and hold itthere while gently pushing the parking brake button

inward.

• Hold the parking brake button in while removing your foot from the brake pedal.

• Once engaged, the parking brake button and the brake pedal will lock in the "down" position.

To disengage the parking brake:

• Slightly depress the brake pedal.

NOTE: The parking brake must be engaged if the

operator leaves the seat with the engine running or the engine will automatically shut off.

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. If it 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.

Brake Pedal

Drive Pedal _

Fender /

"---Running Board

Figure 12

To travel in REVERSE, check that the area behind is clear then slowly depress the lower portion of the

drive pedal with the ball of your foot (NOT your heel) until the desired speed is achieved. See Figure 12.

IMPORTANT:Do NOT attempt to change the direction of travel when the tractor is in motion. Always bring the tractor to a complete stop before pivoting the drive pedal from forward to reverse or vice versa.

SettingTheCruiseControl

• Slowly depress the upper portion of the drive pedal

until the desired speed is achieved.

• Lightly depress the cruise control button.

• While continuing to hold the cruise button in, lift your foot from the drive pedal (you should feel the cruise latch engage).

• Once engaged, the cruise control button and the drive pedal will lock inthe "down" position, and the tractor will maintain the same forward speed.

NOTE: Cruise control can not be engaged at the

tractor's fastest ground speed. If the operator should attempt to do so, the tractor will automatically decelerate to the fastest optimal mowing ground speed.

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