Troybilt 609, 13BZ609H063, 13BX609G063, 13BU609H063, 13BD609G063 Owner’s Manual
...
OTRO_ BILT
OPERATOR'S MANUAL
Pedal Drive Lawn Tractor
Model 609
Model Z609H Shown
IMPORTANT: READ SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY
Warning: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-cov-
ered, brush-covered or grass-covered land unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped with a spark attester 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 368022 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-9722.
MTD PRODUCTS INC. P.O. BOX 368022 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-9722
TROY-BILT® is a registered trademark owned by Garden Way Incorporated of Troy, New York.
PRINTED IN U.S.A. FORM NO. 770-10250A
(10/99)
SECTION 1: TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
FINDING YOURMODEL NUMBER ....................................................... 2
CALLING CUSTOMER SUPPORT........................................................ 2
IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES.............................................. 3
SAFETY LABLES FOUNDON YOUR UNIT................................................. 5
SLOPE GAUGE ...................................................................... 6
ATTACHMENTS & ACCESSORIES ....................................................... 7
TRACTOR SET-UP.................................................................... 7
CONTROLS ......................................................................... 8
OPERATION ........................................................................ 11
ADJUSTMENTS ..................................................................... 14
MAINTENANCE ..................................................................... 17
LUBRICATION ...................................................................... 24
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE .......................................................... 25
PARTS LIST ........................................................................ 26
WARRANY INFORMATION..................................................... Back Cover
SECTION 2: FINDING YOUR MODEL NUMBER
This Operator's Manual isan important part of your new rider. It will help you assemble, prepare and maintain
your rider. Please read and understand what it says.
Before you start to prepare your tractor for its first use, please locate the model plate and copy the information
from it in this Operator's Manual. The information on the model plate is very important if you need help from
your dealer or the MTD customer support department.
• Every tractor has a model plate. You can locate it by lifting the seat and looking at the seat bracket.
• An example of what the model plate will look like is shown below.
I
XXX-X-XXX-X-XXX XXXXXXXXXXX
I IJRI_'I'_E MTD PRODUCTS INC
• _=IIV |H H P.O. BOX 368022
__H_J_ CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136
Copy the model number here:
Copy the serial number here:
This is where your model number will be.
This is where your serial number wilt be.
SECTION 3: CALLING CUSTOMER SUPPORT
• LOCATE YOUR MODEL NUMBER AND SERIAL NUMBER -- Record this information in the space
provided. To find your unit's specific model number and serial number, see SECTION 2: FINDING
YOUR MODEL NUMBER.
• If you are having difficulty assembling this product or if you have any questions regarding the controls,
operation or maintenance of this unit, please call the Customer Support Department.
• Customer Support can be reached by dialing: 1- (330) 220-4MTD
(4683)
or
1- (800)-800-7310
• Please have your model number and serial number ready when you call.
• Although both numbers are important, you will be asked to enter only your serial number before your
call can be processed.
SECTION 4: IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES
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 YOUR LAWN MOWER. FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH
THESE INSTRUCTIONS MAY RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY. WHEN YOU SEE THIS SYMBOL,
HEED ITS WARNING.
WARNING: The Engine Exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to
the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.
DANGER: Your lawn mower was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in
this manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator
can result in serious injury. This lawn mower is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing
objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.
1. GENERAL OPERATION
• Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the
operator's manual and on the machine before
starting. Keep this manual in a safe place for future
and regular reference and for ordering replacement
parts.
• Only allow responsible individuals familiar with the
instructions to operate the machine. Know controls
and how to stop the machine quickly.
• Do not put hands or feet under cutting deck or near
rotating parts.
• Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire,
etc., which could be picked up and thrown by the
blade. A small object may have been overlooked
and could be accidentally thrown by the mower in
any direction and cause injury to you or a
bystander. To help avoid a thrown objects injury,
keep children, bystanders and helpers at least 75
feet from the mower while it is in operation. Always
wear safety glasses or safety goggles during
operation or while performing an adjustment or
repair, to protect eyes from foreign objects. Stop
the blade(s) when crossing gravel drives, walks or
roads.
• Be sure the area is clear of other people before
mowing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.
• Never carry passengers.
• Disengage blade(s) before shifting into reverse and
backing up. Always look down and behind before
and while backing.
• Be aware of the mower and attachment discharge
direction and do not point it at anyone. Do not
operate the mower without either the entire grass
catcher or the chute guard in place.
• Slow down before turning. Operate the machine
smoothly. Avoid erratic operation and excessive
speed.
• Never leave a running machine unattended. Always
turn off blade(s), place transmission in neutral, set
park brake, stop engine and remove key before
dismounting.
•Tum off blade(s) when not mowing.
• Stop engine and wait until blade(s) comes to a
complete stop before (a) removing grass catcher or
unclogging chute, or (b) making any repairs,
adjusting or removing any grass or debris.
• Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
• Do not operate the machine while under the
influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing
roadways.
• Use extra care when loading or unloading the
machine into a trailer or truck. This unit should not
be driven up or down a ramp onto a trailer or truck
under power, because the unit could tip over,
causing serious personal injury. The unit must be
pushed manually on a ramp to load or unload
properly.
• Never make a cutting height adjustment while
engine is running if operator must dismount to do
SO.
• Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-
fitting slacks and shirts. Do not wear loose fitting
clothes or jewelry. They can be caught in moving
parts. Never operate a unit in bare feet, sandals, or
sneakers.
• Check overhead clearance carefully before driving
under power lines, wires, bridges or low hanging
tree branches, before entering or leaving buildings,
or in any other situation where the operator may be
struck or pulled from the unit, which could result in
serious injury.
• Disengageall attachmentclutches,thoroughly
depressthebrakepedal,andshiftintoneutral
beforeattemptingtostartengine.
• Yourmowerisdesignedtocutnormalresidential
grassofaheightnomorethan10".Donotattempt
to mowthroughunusuallytall,drygrass(e.g.,
pasture)orpilesofdryleaves.Debrismaybuildup
onthemowerdeckorcontacttheengineexhaust
presentingapotentialfirehazard.
2. 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° as
shown on the slope gauge, do not operate this unit on that
area or serious injury could result.
DO:
• Mow up and down slopes, not across.
• Remove obstacles such as rocks, limbs, etc.
• Watch for holes, ruts or bumps. Uneven terrain
could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide
obstacles.
• Use slow speed. Always keep machine in gear
when going down slopes to take advantage of
engine braking action.
• Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for
wheel weights or counterweights to improve
stability.
• Use extra care with grass catchers or other
attachments. These can change the stability of the
machine.
• 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.
• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose
traction, disengage the blade(s) and proceed slowly
straight down the slope.
DO NOT:
• Do not turn on slopes unless necessary; then, turn
slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.
• 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 or ditch, or
if an edge caves in.
• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could
cause sliding.
• Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your
foot on the ground.
• Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.
3. 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. Never assume that chil-
dren will remain where you last saw them.
• Keep children out of the mowing area and in
watchful care of an adult other than the operator.
• Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the
area.
• Before and when backing, look behind and down
for small children.
• Never carry children, even with the blades off. They
may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with
the safe machine operation.
Never allow children under 14 years old to operate
the machine. Children 14 years and over should
only operate machine under close parental
supervision and proper instruction.
• Remove key when machine is unattended to
prevent unauthorized operation.
• Use extra care when approaching blind corners,
shrubs, trees or other objects that may obscure
your vision of a child or other hazard.
4. SERVICE
Use extreme care in handling gasoline and other
fuels. They are extremely flammable and the
vapors are explosive.
Use only an approved container.
Never remove fuel cap or add fuel with the engine
running. Allow engine to cool at least two minutes
before refueling.
Replace fuel cap securely and wipe off any spilled
fuel before starting the engine as it may cause a
fire or explosion.
Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other
sources of ignition.
Never refuel the machine indoors because fuel
vapors will accumulate in the area.
Never store the fuel container or machine inside
where there is an open flame or spark, such as a
gas hot water heater, space heater or furnace.
Never run a machine inside a closed area.
To reduce fire hazard, keep the machine free of
grass, leaves or other debris build-up. Clean up oil
or fuel spillage. Allow machine to cool at least 5
minutes before storing.
Before cleaning, repairing or inspecting, make
certain the blade and all moving parts have
stopped. Disconnect the spark plug wire, and keep
the wire away from the spark plug to prevent
accidental starting.
Check the blade and engine mounting bolts at
frequent intervals for proper tightness. Also,
visually inspect blade for damage (e.g., excessive
wear, bent, cracked). Replace with blade which
meets odgina] equipment specifications.
• Keepallnuts,boltsandscrewstighttobesurethe
equipmentisinsafeworkingcondition.
• Nevertamperwithsafetydevices.Checktheir
properoperationregularly.Useall guardsas
instructedinthismanual.
• Afterstrikinga foreignobject,stoptheengine,
removethewirefromthesparkplugandthoroughly
inspectthemowerfor anydamage.Repairthe
damagebeforerestartingandoperatingthemower.
• Grasscatchercomponentsaresubjectto wear,
damageanddeterioration,whichcouldexpose
movingpartsorallowobjectsto bethrown.For
your safety protection,frequentlycheck
componentsand replacewith manufacturer's
recommendedpartswhennecessary.
• Mowerbladesaresharpandcancut.Wrapthe
blade(s)or wearglovesanduseextracaution
whenservicingblade(s).
• Checkbrakeoperationfrequently.Adjustand
serviceasrequired.
• Muffler,engineandbeltguardsbecomehotduring
operationandcancausea bum.Allowto cool
downbeforetouching.
Donotchangethe enginegovernorsettingsor
overspeedtheengine.Excessiveenginespeeds
aredangerous.
Observeproperdisposallawsand regulations.
Improperdisposaloffluidsandmaterialscanharm
theenvironmentandtheecology.
Priortodisposal,determinethepropermethodto
disposeof wastefromyourlocalEnvironmental
ProtectionAgency. Recyclingcentersare
establishedtoproperlydisposeofmaterialsin an
environmentallysafefashion.
Usepropercontainerswhendrainingfluids.Donot
usefoodorbeveragecontainersthatmaymislead
someoneintodrinkingfromthem.Properlydispose
ofthecontainersimmediatelyfollowingthedraining
offluids.
DONOTpouroilorotherfluidsintotheground,
downadrainorintoastream,pond,lakeorother
bodyofwater.ObserveEnvironmentalProtection
Agencyregulationswhendisposingof oil,fuel,
coolant,brakefluid,filters,batteries,tiresandother
harmfulwaste.
,_ WARNING - YOUR RESPONSIBILITY: Restrict the use of this power machine to persons
who read, understand and follow the warnings and instructions in this manual and on the machine.
DANGER
Figure 1 Safety Labels found on your unit
USE THIS PAGE AS A GUIDE TO DETERMINE SLOPES WHERE YOU MAY NOT OPERATE SAFELY.
SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH A VERTICAL TREE
,11 A POWER POLE
_ _ _ _ _! i !_ OR A FENCE POST
m4 A CORNER OF A BUILDING
"'"" oo.-',
Lo
0
m
15°
_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.
SECTION 5: ATTACHMENTS & ACCESSORIES
MODEL NUMBER
OEM-190-601
OEM-190-602
OEM-190-112
OEM-190-118
OEM-190-603
OEM-190-604
OEM-190-822
OEM-190-823
FastAttach" Twin Bagger Grass Collector (For 42-inch Decks Only)
FastAttach" Twin Bagger Grass Collector (For 46-inch Decks Only)
Mulch Kit (For 42-inch Decks Only)
Mulch Kit (For 46-inch Decks Only)
FastAttach" Grille Guard (mounts on front of tractor)
TracPac" Storage Container (mounts on rear of tractor)
FastAttach" 46-inch Front Dozer Blade
42-inch Two-stage Snow Thrower
DESCRIPTION
SECTION 6: TRACTOR SET-UP
ATTACHING THE BATTERY CABLES GAS AND OIL FILL-UP
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 it from corrosion.
• Remove the hex bolt and wing nut from the
negative cable. Attach the negative cable
(heavy black wire) to the negative battery
terminal (-) with the bolt and wing nut.
• Place the hold-down strap in position over the
I pbo_i_ievl_ to secuR:tb_erPlace. See Figure 2. ,_
Service the engine with gasoline and oil as
instructed in the separate engine manual packed
with your tractor. Read instructions carefully.
IMPORTANT: Your tractor is shipped with oil;
however, you MUST check the oil level before operat-
ing. Be careful not to overfill. Overfilling with oil may
cause the engine to smoke. This will result in poor
engine performance and could cause permanent
engine damage.
The gasoline tank is located under the hood and has
a capacity of approximately two gallons. Do not
overfill.
WARNING: Gasoline produces noxious
fumes. Never fill fuel tank indoors. Always
fill the fuel tank in a well ventilated area to
avoid inhalation of gasoline fumes.
Negative Hold-down Stra/_
_7_rminal Bolt j
Figure 2
NOTE: If battery is put into service after date
shown on top of battery, charge for minimum of one
hour at 6-10 amps. Refer to the MAINTENANCE
section of this manual for more detailed instructions
regarding proper battery charging procedure.
WARNING: Never smoke while fueling
your tractor or fill the fuel tank while engine
is running or while engine is hot.
WARNING: Do not fill closer than 1/2
inch from the top of the fuel tank to prevent
spills and to allow for fuel expansion. If
gasoline is accidently spilled, move tractor
away from area of spill. Avoid creating any
source of ignition until gasoline vapors
have disappeared.
INSTALLING THE MULCH KIT
On units equipped with a 42-inch deck, the mulch kit
is installed at the factory. To remove it, unfasten the
wing knob found on the top of the cutting deck and
carefully pull the mulch plug out from the discharge
area of the deck.
On units equipped with a 46-inch deck, the mulch kit
is packaged separately within the crate.
SECTION 7: CONTROLS
D
B
M
C
A
G
J
K
L
NOTE: Steering Wheel not shown for clarity.
Figure 3
A Ignition Switch
B Throttle Control Lever
C Choke Control (if so equipped)
D Systems Indicator Monitor
E Uft Lever
F PTO (Power Take-Off) Lever*
G Drive Pedal
* Tractors vary by model and are equipped with either a PTO lever or a PTO knob, NEVER both.
H Brake Pedal
I Parking Brake Button
J Shift Lever
K Seat Adjustment Lever
L Cup Holder
M Cruise Control Button
N PTO (Power Take-Off) Knob*
NOTE: Any reference in this manual to the RIGHT or LEFT side of the tractor is observed from operator's position.
IGNITION SWITCH
CHOKE CONTROL
To start the engine, insert key into the ignition switch
and turn clockwise to the START position. Release
key to the ON position once engine has fired. See
Figure 4. Refer to STARTING THE ENGINE in the
OPERATION section of this manual for detailed
starting instructions. The ignition switch is also used
to operate the headlights. Refer to OPERATING
THE HEADLIGHTS in the OPERATION section of
this manual for detailed instructions
,_ WARNING: Remove the key from the
tractor when the tractor is not in use to
prevent accidental starting.
On
Start
Figure 4
THROTTLE CONTROL LEVER
The throttle lever is located on the right side of the
tractor's dash panel. This lever controls the speed of
the engine, and on some units the choke control
also. When set in a given position, the throttle will
maintain a uniform engine speed. See Figure 5.
Throttle
Symbol
Choke
Position _
Fast
Position
Slow
Posttlon
Throttle
Symbol
Fast
Position
Slow
Position _
Figure 5
IMPORTANT: When using PTO operated
equipment such as the cutting deck or other
attachments, always operate the tractor with the
throttle lever in the FAST (rabbit)position.
On some units, moving the
throttle lever all the way
forward activates the engine's
choke control. On all other
units, 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 aids in starting the engine. Refer to
STARTING THE ENGINE in the OPERATION
section for detailed starting instructions.
SYSTEMS INDICATOR MONITOR
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 tractor's dash panel and compare it to
both shown in Figure 6.
Battery = _.J
He°tUr_ _
\
Brake _ Ammeter
Figure 6
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
engine manual. Add oil as required.
BATTERY-- The battery is in need of a charge, or the
engine's charging system is not generating
sufficient amperage. Refer to the
MAINTENANCE section of this manual for
the proper battery charging procedure or
have the charging system checked by an
authorized enginedealer.
The ammeter, on units so equipped, measures the
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 ignition key is in the On or On/Lights
position and records the actual hours of tractor
operation.
ELECTRIC PTO
(POWER TAKE-OFF) KNOB
To engage the power to the cutting
deck or other attachments, pull
outward on the PTO knob. Push the
PTO knob inward to disengage the
power to the attachments.
NOTE: The PTO knob must be in the disengaged
(OFF) position when starting the engine, when
shifting into reverse and if the operator leaves the
seat.
PTO (POWER TAKE-OFF) LEVER
@_
@_=
BRAKE PEDAL
k BRAKE _ II1
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.
LIFT LEVER
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 attachments; move the PTO lever
backward (toward the rear of the tractor) to
disengage the power to the attachments.
NOTE: The PTO lever must be in the disengaged
(OFF) position when starting the engine, when
shifting into reverse and if the operator leaves the
seat.
DRIVE PEDAL
The drive pedal is located below the brake pedal on
the right front side of the tractor along the running
board. Depress the drive pedal with your right foot
when the tractor shift lever is in either forward or
reverse to cause the tractor to move. Ground speed
is also controlled with the drive pedal. The further
down the pedal is depressed, the faster the tractor
will travel. The pedal will return to its original position
when it's not depressed.
, unnnnq
The lift lever is used to change the operating position
(height) of the cutting deck. To operate, move the
lever to the left, then place in the notch best suited
for your application.
PARKING BRAKE BUTTON
To set the parking brake, fully 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 wilt 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.
IMPORTANT: Always set the parking brake
when leaving the tractor unattended.
10
SHIFT LEVER
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.
IMPORTANT: Never
force the shift lever. Doing
so may result in serious
damage to the tractor's
transmission.
SECTION 8: OPERATION
SAFETY INTERLOCK SWITCHES
Shift
Knob
CRUISE CONTROL BUTTON
The cruise control button is located on
ignitionswitch. Push the cruise control
het ctod s 0anetot e;r,
button while traveling forward at a
desired speed. While holding the
button in, release pressure from the Jl_
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 the
OPERATION section of this manual for detailed
instructions regarding the cruise control feature.
6
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 in your area. The safety interlock
system prevents the engine from cranking or starting
unless the brake pedal is fully depressed, and the
PTO lever, or PTO knob is in the disengaged (OFF)
position.
• The safety interlock system will automatically
shut off the engine if the operator leaves the
seat before engaging the brake lock.
• The safety interlock system will automatically
shut off the engine if the operator leaves the
seat with the PTO lever, or PTO knob in the
engaged (ON) position, regardless of whether
the brake lock is engaged. The PTO lever, or
PTO knob must be in the disengaged (OFF)
position to restart the engine.
• On units equipped with an electric PTO, the
safety interlock system wilt automatically shut
off the PTO if the PTO knob is moved into the
engaged (ON) position with the shift lever in
the REVERSE position.
• On units equipped with a manual PTO, the
safety interlock system wilt automatically shut
off the tractor's engine if the PTO lever is
moved into the engaged (ON) position with
the shift lever in the REVERSE position.
WARNING: Do NOT attempt to bypass
or disconnect the tractor's safety interlock.
Doing so could result in serious personal
injury or death.
IMPORTANT: Tampering with or attempting to
bypass the tractors Safety Interlock Switches in any
way WILL void your warranty.
WARNING
• 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.
• 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.
AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH
READ OPERATOR'S MANUAL
11
SETTING THE CUTTING HEIGHT
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 at least
1/4 inch to 1/2 inch above the ground when the
tractor is on a smooth, flat surface such as a
driveway.
from the discharge chute opening of the
WARNING: Keep hands and feet away
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 the ADJUSTMENTS section of this manual
for more detailed instructions regarding various deck
adjustments.
STOPPING THE ENGINE
IMPORTANT: If you think you've struck a foreign
object, stop the engine immediately Remove the
wire(s) from the spark plug(s), thoroughly inspect the
unit for any damage, and repair the damage before
restarting and operating the tractor.
DRIVING THE TRACTOR
STARTING THE ENGINE
,£t
NOTE: Refer to the TRACTOR SET-UP section of A_.
this manual for Gasoline and Oil fill-up instructions.
• Insert the tractor key into the ignition switch.
• Place the PTO lever, or PTO knob in the
disengaged (OFF) position.
• Depress the brake pedal and set the parking
brake.
• Place the shift lever in the NEUTRAL position.
• Move the throttle control lever into the FAST
(or CHOKE, if so equipped) position.
• Pull out the choke control knob, if so equipped
(a warm engine may not require choking).
• Turn the ignition key clockwise to the START
position. After the engine starts, release the
key. It will return to the ON position.
41A
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.
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 starter.
NOTE: If starting problems are encountered, refer
to the TROUBLESHOOTING section of this manual
After the engine starts, slowly release the brake
pedal. As the engine warms up, gradually push the
choke control knob inward (or move the throttle
control lever out of the CHOKE position into the
FAST position) to open up the choke plate on the
engine's carburetor.
SETTING THE CRUISE CONTROL
NOTE: The cruise control feature should only be
utilized in the forward direction.
NOTE: Do NOT leave the choke control out while
operating the tractor. Doing so will result in a "rich"
fuel mixture and cause the engine to run poorly.
• Place the PTO lever, or PTO knob in the
disengaged (OFF) position
• Move the throttle control into the SLOW
(turtle) position and allow the engine to "idle
down" for ten seconds. Failure to do so may
result in an engine afterfire.
• Turn the ignition key counterclockwise to the
OFF position.
• Remove the key from the ignition switch to
prevent accidental starting.
WARNING: Avoid sudden starts,
excessive speed and sudden stops.
WARNING: Do not leave the seat of the
tractor without first placing the PTO lever,
or PTO knob 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.
• Depress the brake pedal to release the
parking brake and let the pedal up. Move the
throttle lever into the FAST (rabbit) position.
• To move forward, place the shift lever in the
FORWARD position, then slowly depress the
drive pedal until the desired speed is
achieved.
• To move in reverse, place the shift lever in the
REVERSE position, check that the area
behind is clear then slowly depress the drive
pedal.
• Place the shift lever in the FORWARD
position, then slowly depress the drive pedal
until the desired speed is achieved.
• Lightly depress the cruise control button.
12
• Whilecontinuingto holdthecruisebuttonin,
liftyourfootfromthedrivepedal(youshould
feetthecruiselatchengage).
• If properlyengaged,thecruisecontrolbutton
andthedrivepedalshouldlockinthedown
position,andthetractorwillmaintainthesame
forwardspeed.
• Disengagethecruisecontrolusingoneofthe
followingmethods:
Depressthebrakepedalto disengagethe
cruisecontrolandstopthetractor.
Lightlydepressthedrivepedal.
Tochangeto the reversedirectionwhenoperating
with cruise control,depressthe brake pedalto
disengagethecruisecontrolandbringthetractorto
a completestop.Thenplacetheshiftleverinthe
REVERSEpositionanddepressthedrivepedal.
DRIVING ON SLOPES
Refer to the SLOPE GAUGE on page 6 to help
determine slopes where you may not operate safely.
_, WARNING: DO not mow on inclines with
Operate the tractor up and down slopes, never
across slopes. Do not drive so that the tractor may
tip over sideways.
Before operating the tractor on any slope, walk the
slope to look for possible hazards such as rocks.
mounds, ruts, stumps or other surface irregularities
which could cause the tractor to be upset.
Avoid turns when driving on a slope. If a turn must
be made, turn down the slope. Turning up a slope
greatly increases the chance of a roll over.
Avoid stopping when driving up a slope. If it is
necessary to stop while driving up a slope, start up
smoothly and carefully to reduce the possibility of
flipping the tractor over backward.
a 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.
To turn the tractor's headlights off:
• Turn the key either into the On position (to
leave the engine running) or the Off position
(to shut the engine off). Refer to Figure 4.
IMPORTANT: Never move the key into the Start
position while the engine is running. Doing so may
cause damage to your engine's starter.
STOPPING THE ENGINE
• Place the PTO lever, or PTO knob in the
disengaged (OFF) position.
• Move the throttle control into the SLOW
position and allow the engine to "idle down"
for ten seconds, then turn the ignition key
counterclockwise to the OFF position.
• Remove the key from the ignition switch to
prevent accidental starting.
IMPORTANT: If you think you've struck a foreign
object, stop the engine immediatelJz Remove the
wire(s) from the spark plug(s), thoroughly inspect the
unit for any damage, and repair the damage before
restarting and operating the mowe_
USING THE LIFT LEVER
To raise the cutting deck, move the lift lever to the
left, then place it in the notch best suited for your
application. Refer to SETTING THE CUTTING
HEIGHT earlier in this section.
ENGAGING THE ELECTRIC PTO
(POWER TAKE-OFF) KNOB (if so equipped)
Front View Pull Out Push In
OPERATING THE HEADLIGHTS
To turn the tractor's headlights on:
• Start the engine following the instructions
earlier in this section.
• Turn the key one notch counterclockwise into
the On/Lights position of the ignition switch.
Refer to Figure 4.
! t
Figure 7
• Move the throttle control lever to the FAST
(rabbit) position.
• Pull the PTO knob outward into the engaged
(ON) position. See Figure 7.
• Keep the throttle lever in the FAST (rabbit)
position for the most efficient use of the
cutting deck and other attachments.
13
• The operator must remain in the tractor seat
at all times. If the operator should leave the
seat without pushing the PTO knob inward
into the disengaged (OFF) position, the
tractor's engine will shut off.
IMPORTANT: The PTO knob cannot be in the
engaged (ON) position when the tractor is driving in
the reverse direction. The PTO knob must be in the
disengaged (OFF) position when the shift lever is in
REVERSE or the PTO will automatically shut off.
Refer to SAFETY INTERLOCK SWITCHES in this
section.
MOWING
This tractor is equipped with one of MTD's high
quality cutting decks. The following information wilt
be helpful when using the cutting deck with your
tractor.
_, WARNING: TO avoid possible injury, do
not allow anyone in the area of the tractor
while mowing. Even if the area to be
mowed has been cleared of foreign
objects, small objects may be picked up
and discharged by the mower.
ENGAGING THE PTO
(POWER TAKE-OFF) LEVER (if so equipped)
• Move the throttle control lever to the FAST
(rabbit) position.
• Move the PTO lever forward into the engaged
(ON) position.
• Keep the throttle lever in the FAST (rabbit)
position for the most efficient use of the
cutting deck and other attachments.
• The operator must remain in the tractor seat
at all times. If the operator should leave the
seat without moving the PTO lever into the
disengaged (OFF) position and setting the
parking brake, the engine wilt shut off.
IMPORTANT: The PTO lever cannot be in the
engaged (ON) position when the tractor is driving in
the reverse direction. The safety interlock system will
automatically shut off the engine if the PTO lever is
moved into the engaged (ON) position with the shift
lever in the REVERSE position. Refer to SAFETY
INTERLOCK SWITCHES earlier in this section.
_, WARNING: Never direct the discharge
of material toward bystanders or allow
anyone near the machine while in
operation.
• 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 wilt
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.
• Do not mow at high ground speed, especially
if a mulch kit or grass collector is installed.
• 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 the MAINTENANCE
section of this manual for proper blade
sharpening instructions.
SECTION 9: ADJUSTMENTS
LEVELING THE DECK
Always protect hands by wearing heavy
WARNING: Cutting blades are sharp.
leather work gloves to grasp blades.
NOTE: Check the tractor's tire pressure before
performing any deck leveling adjustments. Refer to
TIRES in the maintenance section of this manual for ,_
further information regarding tire pressure.
Front to Rear
The front of the cutting deck is supported by a stabi-
lizer bar that can adjusted to level the deck from front
to rear. The front of the deck should be 1/4" to 3/8"
lower than the rear of the deck. Adjust if necessary
as follows:
All
14
WARNING: Turn the tractor's engine
off, remove the key from the ignition switch
and apply the tractor's parking brake before
making any adjustments to the deck.
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