Yard-man 605 User Manual

Operator's Manual
Automatic
Models
Lawn Tractor
6O4 & 6O5
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-covered,
brush-covered or grass-covered land unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or
service department, P,O, Box 361131 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019,
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
FORM NO. 770-10448E
(1/3/2005)
TABLEOFCONTENTS
Content CustomerSupport
ImportantSafeOperationPractices SlopeGauge TractorSet-Up
KnowYourLawnTractor OperatingYourLawnTractor
MakingAdjustments
Page Content Page
2 Maintaining Your Lawn Tractor 22
3 Service 23 7 Off Season Storage 27
8 Attachments & Accessories 27
11 Troubleshooting 28 15 Parts List 29
19 Warranty 48
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:
Copy the serial number here:
YaRD-MaN)/(MToL-c
www.yardman.com 330-220-4683
P. O. BOX 361131
CLEVELAND,OH 44136
800-800-7310
CUSTOMERSUPPORT
Please doNOTretumtheunitto the retailerfromwhereit waspurchased,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 yardman.corn 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.
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a mouse crick aw_y!
To reach the Customer Support Line, please call 1-800-800-7310.
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Hee:l h)cal ass sl _ce_' Click here t_>fh_l
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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.
DANGER: This machine was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this man-
ual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can result in serious injury. This machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.
California Proposition 65 Warning:
,_ WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain
GENERAL OPERATION
1. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the
2. Be familiar with all controls and their proper
3. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate
4. Never allow adults to operate this machine without
5. To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object
6. Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment
7. Plan your mowing pattern to avoid discharge of
8. Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles
9. Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-
or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
10. Be aware of the mower and attachment discharge direction and do not point it at anyone. Do not
machine and in the manual(s) before attempting to assemble and operate. Keep this manual in a safe place for future and regular reference and for ordering replacement parts.
operation. Know how to stop the machine and disengage them quickly.
this machine. Children 14 years old and over
should read and understand the operation instructions and safety rules in this manual and should be trained and supervised by a parent.
proper instruction.
injury, keep bystanders, helpers, children and pets at least 75 feet from the machine while it is in
operation. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.
is to be used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire, bones, toys, and other foreign objects which could
be picked up and thrown by the blade(s). Thrown objects can cause serious personal injury.
material toward roads, sidewalks, bystanders and
the like. Also, avoid discharging material against a
wall or obstruction which may cause discharged material to ricochet back toward the operator.
during operation and while performing an adjustment or repair to protect your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can cause serious injury to
the eyes.
fitting slacks and shirts. Loose fitting clothes and jewelry can be caught in movable parts. Never
operate this machine in bare feet or sandals.
operate the mower without the discharge cover or entire grass catcher in its proper place.
11. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the cutting deck. Contact with the blade(s)
can amputate hands and feet.
12. A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause blade contact or thrown object injuries.
13. Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel drives,
walks, or roads and while not cutting grass.
14. Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways. This machine is not intended for use on
any public roadway.
15. Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
16. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
17. Never carry passengers.
18. Disengage blade(s) before shifting into reverse. Back up slowly. Always look down and behind before and while backing to avoid a back-over
accident.
19. Slow down before turning. Operate the machine smoothly. Avoid erratic operation and excessive speed.
20. Disengage blade(s), set parking brake, stop engine and wait until the blade(s) come to a complete stop
before removing grass catcher, emptying grass, unclogging chute, removing any grass or debris, or making any adjustments.
21. Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn off blade(s), place transmission in neutral, set
parking brake, stop engine and remove key before
dismounting.
22. Use extra care when loading or unloading the
machine into a trailer or truck. This unit should not be driven up or down ramp(s), because the unit
could tip over, causing serious personal injury. The
unit must be pushed manually on ramp(s) to load or unload properly.
23.Mufflerandenginebecomehotandcancausea burn.Donottouch.
24.Checkoverheadclearancescarefullybeforedriving underlowhangingtreebranches,wires,door openingsetc.,wheretheoperatormaybestruckor pulledfromtheunit,whichcouldresultinserious injury.
25.Disengageallattachmentclutches,depressthe brakepedalcompletelyandshiftintoneutralbefore 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 inspeed 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 ifthe operator is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to the machine and the mowing activity. They do not understand the dangers. Never assume that children will remain where you last
saw them.
a. Keep children out of the mowing area and in
watchful care of a responsible adult other than the operator.
b. Be alert and turn machine off if a child enters
the area.
c. Before and while backing, look behind and
down for small children.
d. Never carry children, even with the blade(s)
shut off. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine operation.
e. Useextremecarewhenapproachingblind
corners,doorways,shrubs,treesorother objectsthatmayblockyourvisionofachild whomayrunintothemachine.
f. Toavoidback-overaccidents,always
disengagethecuttingblade(s)before shiftingintoreverse.The"Reverse
CautionMode" should not be used when
children or others are around.
g. Keep children away from hot or running
engines. They can suffer burns from a hot
muffler.
h. Remove key when machine is unattended to
prevent unauthorized operation.
,
Never allow children under 14 years old to operate
the machine. Children 14 years old and over should
read and understand the operation instructions and safety rules in this manual and should be trained and supervised by a parent.
TOWING
1. Tow only with a machine that has a hitch designed for towing. Do not attach towed equipment except
at the hitch point.
2. Follow the manufacturers recommendation for
weight limits for towed equipment and towing on slopes.
3. Never allow children or others in or on towed
equipment.
4. On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment may
cause loss of traction and loss of control.
5. Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop.
6. Do not shift to neutral and coast downhill.
SERVICE
SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE:
,
To avoid personal injury or property damage use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive. Serious personal injury can occur when gasoline is spilled on yourself or your clothes which can ignite. Wash your skin and change clothes immediately.
a. Use only an approved gasoline container.
b. Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a
truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place containers on the ground away from your vehicle before filling.
c. When practical, remove gas-powered
equipment from the truck or trailer and refuel
it on the ground. 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. If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine
and equipment. Move unit to another area.
Wait 5 minutes before starting the engine. k. To reduce fire hazards, keep machine free of
grass, leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean
up oil or fuel spillage and remove any fuel
soaked debris. I. Never store the machine or fuel container
inside where there is an open flame, spark or
pilot light as on a water heater, space heater,
furnace, clothes dryer or other gas
appliances. m. Allow a machine to cool at least 5 minutes
before storing.
GENERAL SERVICE:
1. Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area. Engine exhaust contains carbon
monoxide, an odorless, and deadly gas.
2. Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make certain the blade(s) and all moving parts have stopped. Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground against the engine to prevent unintended starting.
3. Periodically check to make sure the blades come to complete stop within approximately (5) five seconds after operating the blade disengagement control. If the blades do not stop within the this time frame, your unit should be serviced professionally by an authorized MTD Service Dealer.
4. Check brake operation frequently as it is subjected to wear during normal operation. Adjust and service as required.
5. Check the blade(s) and engine mounting bolts at frequent intervals for proper tightness. Also, visually inspect blade(s) for damage (e.g., excessive wear, bent, cracked).
Replace the blade(s) with the original equipment manufacturer's (O.E.M.) blade(s) only, listed in this manual. "Use of parts which do not meet the
original equipment specifications may lead to
improper performance and compromise safety!"
6. Mower blades are sharp. Wrap the blade or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.
7. Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition.
8. Nevertamperwiththesafetyinterlocksystemor othersafetydevices.Checktheirproperoperation regularly.
9. Afterstrikingaforeignobject,stoptheengine, disconnectthesparkplugwire(s)andground againsttheengine.Thoroughlyinspectthe machineforanydamage.Repairthedamage beforestartingandoperating.
10.Neverattempttomakeadjustmentsorrepairsto
themachinewhiletheengineisrunning.
11.Grasscatchercomponentsandthedischarge coveraresubjecttowearanddamagewhichcould exposemovingpartsorallowobjectstobethrown.
Forsafetyprotection,frequentlycheckcomponents
andreplaceimmediatelywithoriginalequipment
manufacturer's(O.E.M.)partsonly,listedinthis manual."Useofpartswhichdonotmeetthe
originalequipmentspecificationsmayleadto
improperperformanceandcompromisesafety!"
12.
Donotchangetheenginegovernorsettingsor
over-speedtheengine.Thegovernorcontrolsthe
maximumsafeoperatingspeedoftheengine.
13.
Maintainorreplacesafetyandinstructionlabels,as necessary.
14.
Observeproperdisposallawsandregulationsfor gas,oil,etc.toprotecttheenvironment.
_, ARNING: YOURRESPONSIBILITYRestricttheuseofthispowermachinetopersonswhoread,
understandandfollowthewarningsandinstructionsinthismanualandonthemachine.
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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
o
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.
Rubber Boot
Service the engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in
the separate Briggs & Stratton Operator/Owner 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, remove the ignition key, and set
WARNING: Make sure the riding mower's the parking brake before removing the
shipping brace.
Locate the shipping brace, if present, and accompanying warning tag found on the right side of the mower, between the discharge chute and the cutting deck. See Figure 2.
WingNut
HexBolt
Figure 1
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.
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.
WarningTag
Figure 2
While holding the discharge chute with your left
hand, remove the shipping brace with your right
hand by grasping it between your thumb and index finger and rotating it clockwise.
WARNING: The shipping brace, used for
packaging purposes only, must be removed
and discarded before operating your riding
mower.
WARNING: The mowing deck is capable of
throwing objects. Failure to operate the riding
mower without the discharge cover in the proper operating position could result in serious personal injury and/or property
damage.
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.
Pivot Bracket
Figure 4
KnobAdjustment
Knobs
Shoulder
Screws
Opening
in Slot
Figure 5
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 6. 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 6.
Place the steering wheel cap over the center of the
steering wheel and push downward until it "clicks" into place.
Steering
Wheel Cap I
IdentifyingtheMulchPlug(ifsoequipped)
On tractor models so equipped, a mulch plug can either be found within the cutting deck's discharge opening or packed separately with your unit.
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 itto the cutting deck. This will allow the clippings to discharge out of the discharge opening during operation. See
Figure 7.
Steering
Shaft
Figure 6
©
Plastic Wing Nut
Mulch Plug
Figure 7
10
SECTION4: KNOWYOURLAWNTRACTOR
A
H
B
\
J
G
C
K
D
E
L
M
- NOTE: Steering Wheel notshown for clarity, t Ifso equipped
Figure 8
A Systems Indicator Monitor H Cruise Control Button B PTO (Blade Engage) Lever I Ignition Switch Module
C Choke Knob J Brake Pedal D Parking Brake Button K Drive Pedal
E Shift Lever L Deck Lift Lever F Cup Holder M Seat Adjustment Levert
G Throttle Lever
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 9.
Choke
Position
Fast
Position
Slow
Position
Figure 9
IMPORTANT:When operating the tractor with the cutting
deck engaged, be certain that the throttle lever is always in the FAST (rabbit) position.
Fast
Position
Slow
Position
IgnitionSwitchModule
WARNING: Never leave a running machine
unattended. Always disengage PTO, move shift lever into neutral position, set parking brake, stop engine and remove key to prevent unintended starting.
To start the engine, insert the key into the ignition
switch and turn clockwise to the START position. Release the key into the NORMAL MOWING MODE position once the engine has fired.
To stop the engine, turn the ignition key counterclockwise to the OFF position. See Figure 10.
NO CI-{ILOREN AROUND
BUTTON
REVERSE PUSH
Stop
Position
Normal
MowingMode
Start
Position
ChokeControl
On some models, moving the throttle lever all the way forward activates the engine's choke control. On all other models, the
choke control can be found on the left side of the dash panel and
is activated by pulling the knob outward. Activating the choke control closes the choke plate on the carburetor and aids in starting the engine. Refer to StartingTheEngineon page 16 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)
Figure 10
IMPORTANT:Prior to operating the tractor, refer to both SafetyInterleckSwitcheson page 15 and StartingTheEngine on page 16 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 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.
IMPORTANT:Always set the parking brake when
leaving the tractor unattended.
12
SystemsIndicatorMonitor
Your tractor is equipped with a ammeter as part of its systems indicator monitor. Locate the monitor on the left side of your dash panel and compare itto Figure 11.
PTO(BladeEngage)Lever
PTO
DP SV
Oil
%
Brake
Ammeter-
PTO
Figure 11
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 (Blade Engage) lever into the
disengaged (OFF) position.
NOTE: It is normal for the Oil light and the Battery light
to ifluminate 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 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 engine's dealer.
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.
PTO / BLADE
The PTO (Blade Engage) lever is located on the left
side of the dashboard next to the steering wheel. Move the PTO (Blade Engage) lever forward to engage the
power to the cutting deck or other (separately available) attachments; move the PTO (Blade Engage) lever
rearward to disengage the power to the attachments.
ENGAGE
NOTE: The PTO (Blade Engage) 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 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.
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.
13
WARNING
AVOIDSERIOUSINJURYORDEATH
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.
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
CruiseControlButton
The cruise control button is
to the left of the ignition switch.
located on the tractor dash panel ;I_
Push the cruise control button while traveling forward at a
desired speed. While holding the II_l 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 17 this manual for detailed instructions regarding the cruise
control feature.
Shift Lever
The shift lever is located on the leftside of the fender and has three positions, FORWARD, NEUTRAL and
REVERSE. The brake pedal must be depressed and
the tractor must not be in motion when the moving shift
lever. See Figure 12.
"F
;r,
N
\,
ShiftKnob
Figure 12
IMPORTANT:Never force the shift lever. Doing so may result in serious damage to the tractor's transmission.
14
SECTION5: OPERATINGYOURLAWNTRACTOR
SafetyInterlockSwitches
This tractor is equipped with a safety interlock system for the protection of the operator. If the interlock system should ever malfunction, do not operate the tractor.
Contact an authorized MTD service dealer.
The safety interlock system prevents the engine from cranking or starting unless the parking brake is
engaged, and the PTO (Blade Engage) lever is in
the disengaged (OFF) position.
The engine will automatically shut off if the operator
leaves the seat before engaging the parking brake.
The engine will automatically shut off if the operator
leaves the tractor's seat with the PTO (Blade Engage) lever in the engaged (ON) position, regardless of whether the parking brake is engaged.
The engine will automatically shut off if the operator
engages the PTO with the parking brake ON.
With the ignition key in the NORMAL MOWING
position, the engine will automatically shut off ifthe PTO (Blade Engage) lever is moved into the engaged (ON) position with the shift lever in
Reverse.
interlock system is malfunctioning. This
WARNING: Do not operate the tractor ifthe system was designed for your safety and
protection.
ReverseCautionMode
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 13.
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 engages the parking brake by
fully depressing the brake pedal and holding it down while gently pushing the parking
brake button inward.
-_ Reverse
Indicator PushButton
Light Reverse
Stop Position
Position
BUTTON ===_
REVERSE PUSH
- CautionMode
Start
Position
WARNING: Use extreme caution while operating the tractor in the REVERSE
CAUTION MODE. Always look down and behind before and while backing. Do not operate the tractor when children or others are around. Stop the tractor immediately if
someone enters the area.
The REVERSE CAUTION MODE position of the key switch module allows the tractor to be operated in reverse with the blades (PTO) engaged.
IMPORTANT: Mowing in reverse is not recommended. To use the REVERSE CAUTION MODE:
IMPORTANT:The operator MUST be seated in the tractor seat.
,
Start the engine 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 13.
Figure 13
EngagingtheParkingBrake
To engage the parking brake:
Fully depress the brake pedal and hold it down with your foot 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 inthe "down" position.
To disengage the parking brake:
Slightly depress the brake pedal.
NOTE: The parking brake must be engaged ff the
operator leaves the seat with the engine running or the engine will automatically shut off.
15
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 _/2- inch above the ground when the tractor ison a smooth, flat surface such as a driveway.
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 LevelingtheBeckon page 19 of this manual for more detailed instructions regarding various deck adjustments.
Startingthe Engine
damage. Repair the damage before restarting and operating
If the blades are engaged, place the PTO (Blade
Engage) 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 (Blade
Engage) lever in the disengaged (OFF) position, depressing the brake pedal and
engaging the parking brake. If leaving the tractor unattended, also turn the ignition key off and remove the key.
interlock system is malfunctioning. This
WARNING: Do not operate the tractor ifthe system was designed for your safety and
protection.
NOTE:
manual for Gasoline and Oil fill-up instructions.
Insert the tractor key into the ignition switch.
Place the PTO (Blade Engage) lever inthe
Engage the tractor's parking brake.
Activate the choke control.
Turn the ignition key clockwise to the START
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
Refer to the TRACTORSET-UPon page 8 of this
disengaged (OFF) position.
position. After the engine starts, release the key. It will return to the ON position.
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
Depress the brake pedal to release the parking brake and let the pedal up.
Move the throttle lever into the FAST (rabbit) position.
IMPORTANT:Do NOT use the shift lever to change the
direction of travel when the tractor is in motion. Always
use the brake pedal to bring the tractor to a complete stop before shifting.
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.
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
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.
16
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