Operator's Manual
Mulch Kit
For Lawn Tractors & Garden Tractors with a 46-inch Deck
Model
190-118-000
MTD PRODUCTS INC. RO. BOX 368022 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-9722
PRINTED IN U.S.A. FORM NO. 770-10259
(4/99)
SECTION 1: TO THE OWNER
The Model 118 mulch kit is designed for use with 46-inch cutting decks on Lawn Tractors and Garden
Tractors manufactured after 1996 ONLY. It will NOT fit on tractors with decks made in 1996 or prior. If you
should own such a tractor and would like to convert the deck to a mulcher, purchase kit 190-117-000. If you
are unsure of the exact manufacturing date of your tractor, you can contact the Customer Support department
by dialing 1(800) 800-7310. Have your model number and serial number ready for prompt service.
NOTE: References to LEFT and RIGHT indicate the left and right sides of the tractor when facing forward in
the operator's position. Reference to the FRONT indicates the grille end; to the REAR the drawbar end.
SECTION 2: CONTENTS OF CARTON
Before beginning installation, remove all parts from the carton to make sure everything is present. Carton
contents are listed below. Part numbers are shown in parentheses.
One Mulch Plug (731-1636)
Two 16.28" Mulching Blades (742-0611 )
One 14.88" Mulching Blade (742-0612)
One 14.88" Mulching Blade
Hex Flange Nuts
SECTION 3: INSTALLATION
One 1/4" Machine Screw (710-0578)
One 1/4" Lock Nut (712-0291)
One 1/4" Plastic Wing Nut (712-3087)
Two 16.28" Mulching Blades
Figure 1
WARNING: Before beginning installation, place the tractor on a firm and level surface. Place the
A
A
MOUNTING THE MULCHING BLADES
1. Remove the cutting deck from beneath the tractor as instructed in your tractor's Operator's Manual, then
2. Place a block of wood between the deck housing baffle and the cutting blade to act as a stabilizer, then
PTO in the disengaged (OFF) position, stop the tractor engine and set the parking brake.
WARNING: Cutting blades are sharp. Always protect hands by wearing heavy leather work
gloves to grasp blades.
gently flip the deck over to expose its underside,
use a 15/16" wrench to remove the hex flange nut that secures each blade to its spindle assembly. Refer
to Figure 1. Your tractor's deck style may differ slightly from the one pictured in Figure 1.
NOTE: The hex flange nuts have a right-handed (normal) thread pattern. Do NOT attempt to force the nuts
in the incorrect direction. Doing so may damage the nut and create a safety hazard.
2