Yard-Man 13AX614G701 Owner’s Manual
Operator's Manual
Hydrostatic Lawn Tractor
MODEL 614
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.
MTD LLC,P.O.BOX361131CLEVELAND,OHIO44136-9722
PRINTED IN U.S.A. FORM NO. 770-10589C
(11/18/2003)
TABLEOFCONTENTS
Content
Customer Support
Important Safe Operation Practices
Tractor Set-u p
Controls
Operation
Page Content Page
2 Maintenance 21
3 Service 22
8 Off-season Storage 27
11 Attachments & Accessories 27
14 Warranty Back Cover
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 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
#o.oLLO
CLEVELAND,OH 44136
www mtdproducts.com 800-800-7310
330-220-4683
Copy the serial number here:
CUSTOMERSUPPORT
Please doNOTreturntheunitto the retailer withoutfirstcontactingCustomerSupport.
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.
_nd Answers
aRswey are
L_gia_ to check 1_he stat_ of yeIH _l_esiiel s, :
a mouse c/tc£ away]
,r f
medif_ yotal ir_ql_i_ies, el IIpd _'_÷ ye_H pe_sel_al
I leHle.
e Locato_
N÷el [,_eal as islal_e _ Clik [ieNe i_ f_l_l
Manuals Online
Nee[ a I_:_ll_al alld ( _ la#ts ist? D_>wDI_ _
lit÷_a_!_ f_e4_ lecel# mo(le[ yea_s,
i
If you prefer to reach a Customer Support Representative, please call (330) 220-4MTD or
1(800) 800-7310.
answer you are
looking for could be just
a mouse c1_c£ away_
" f
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.
,_ 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. Ifyou 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. Disengagethecuttingblade(s)before
shiftinginreverse.The"No-Cut-InReverse"
featureisaremindernottocutinreverseand
tohelpavoidbackoveraccidents.Donot
defeatit.
g. Keepchildrenawayfromhotorrunning
engines.Theycansufferburnsfromahot
muffler.
h. Removekeywhenmachineisunattendedto
preventunauthorizedoperation.
,
Neverallowchildrenunder14yearsoldtooperate
themachine.Children14yearsoldandovershould
readandunderstandtheoperationinstructionsand
safetyrulesinthismanualandshouldbetrained
andsupervisedbyaparent.
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 tank to no more
than ½ inch 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).
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.
,_ 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.
1'91
SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH A VERTICAL TREE
A POWER POLE
I'--.
lULl
lULl
a.
64
Z
I--
lULl
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.
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 it from
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.
,bberIh _ _ k /
¢ing
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.
AttachingTheSteeringWheel
• 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.
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
Wheel Cap _
Hex Bolt
Figure 1
&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
Refer to Figure 3, Figure 4 and Figure 5 to identify
which 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 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 Adjustment
Hex Screws
Shoulder
Screws
Opening
in Slot
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 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
NOTE: If your seat was shipped mounted backwards
on the seat pivot bracket, pull out the tab found on the
seat stop and hold it 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.
Figure 3
QuickAdjustment
Seat Stop
\
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 Kohler engine's Owner's Manual) packed with your
tractor. Read instructions carefully.
IMPORTANT:Your tractor is shipped with motor oil in the
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
any circumstances is 30 psi. Equal tire
WARNING: Maximum tire pressure under
pressure should be maintained at all times.
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.
IdentifyingtheMulchPlug(ifsoequipped)
On tractor models with a 42-inch deck so equipped, a
mulch plug can be found within the cutting deck's
discharge opening.
NOTE: Refer to Mulchingon page 17 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.
10
Plastic Wing Nut
Mulch Plug
Figure 7
SECTION4: KNOWYOURLAWNTRACTOR
E
F
G
H
C
K
L
NOTE: Steering Wheel not shown for clarity.
1-Style varies by model
:1:Ifso equipped
A Systems Indicator Monitor1- G Cruise Control ButtonS
B PTO (Power Take-off) Levers H Ignition Switch
PTO (Power Take-off) Knobs I Brake Pedal
C Choke Controls J Drive Pedal
D Cup Holders K Deck Lift Lever
E Throttle Control Lever L Seat Adjustment Levers
F Parking Brake Button
NOTE: Any reference in this manual to the RIGHT or LEFT side of the tractor is observed from operator's position.
11
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
IgnitionSwitch
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 ON position once engine has
fired. See Figure 9.
On/Lights
Off
On
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
Figure 9
Refer to StartingTheEngineon page 15 of this manual for
detailed starting instructions
The ignition switch is also used to operate the tractor's
headlights. Refer to OperatingTheHeadlightson page 18
of this manual for detailed instructions.
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.
12
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.
AMPS
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 m Depress the brake pedal.
PTO m 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 Kohler engine'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 Kohler engine'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'6q
1/10
(@.-_
Figure 10
PTO
Oil
Brake
NOTE: The PTO knob must be in the disengaged
(OFF) position when starting the engine, when traveling
in reverse and if the operator leaves the seat.
PTO(PowerTake-off)Lever
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 traveling
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 19 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 left of the seat, just to the rear of the
shift lever.
13
ParkingBrakeButton
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 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.
CruiseControlButton
The cruise control button, on
on the tractor dash panel to the
models so equipped, is located ;I_l
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
SettingtheCruiseControlon 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.
AVOIDSERIOUSINJURYORDEATH
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 prevents the engine from cranking or starting
unless the parking brake is engaged, and the PTO 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.
• The engine will automatically shut off if the operator
leaves the tractor's seat with the PTO knob (or
lever) in the engaged (ON) position, regardless of
whether the parking brake is engaged.
• The engine will automatically shut off if the PTO
lever is moved into the engaged (ON) position with
the drive pedal in position for reverse travel.
• The electric PTO clutch, if so equipped, will
automatically shut off if the PTO knob is moved into
the engaged (ON) position with the drive pedal in
position for reverse travel.
• 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 six different cutting height
notches on the right side of the fender. Then adjust the
deck wheels so that they are between 1/4-inchand ½-
inch above the ground when the tractor is on a smooth,
flat surface such as a driveway.
WARNING
interlock system is malfunctioning. This
WARNING: Do not operate the tractor if the
system was designed for your safety and
protection.
14
from the discharge opening of the cutting
WARNING: Keep hands and feet away
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 18 of this manual for
more detailed instructions regarding various deck
adjustments.
Startingthe Engine
,i_ WARNING: Do not operate the tractor ifthe
NOTE: Refer to the TRACTORSET-UPon page 8 of this
manual for Gasoline and Oil till-up instructions.
• Insert the tractor key into the ignition switch.
• Place the PTO knob (or lever) in the disengaged
• Engage the tractor's parking brake.
• Pull the choke control outward.
• Turn the ignition key clockwise to the START
IMPORTANT: Do NOT hold the key inthe 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
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.
interlock system is malfunctioning. This
system was designed for your safety and
protection.
(OFF) position.
position. After the engine starts, release the key. It
will return to the ON position.
and place the throttle control in the FAST position.
StoppingtheEngine
,_ WARNING: If you strike a foreign object,
• Ifthe blades are engaged, place the PTO knob (or
• Turn the ignition key counterclockwise to the OFF
• Remove the key from the ignition switch to prevent
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
lever) in the disengaged (OFF) position.
position.
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 11.
Reverse Forward
Brake Pedal
Drive Pedal
Fender /
Running Board
Figure 11
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 11.
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.
Engagingthe ParkingBrake
To engage the parking brake:
• Fully depress the brake pedal and hold it there
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.
15
Loading...