
Operator's Manual
Hydrostatic Lawn Tractor
MODEL 615
IMPORTANT: Read safety rules and instructions carefully before operating equipment.
Warning: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush-
covered or grass-covered land unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if
any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator. In the State of California the above is required
by law (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark
arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest engine authorized service dealer or contact the service department, P.O. Box 361131
Cleveland, Ohio 44136-9722.
MTB LLC,P.O.BOX361131CLEVELAND,OHIO44136-9722
PRINTED IN U.S.A. FORM NO. 769-01628
(12/29/2004)

TABLEOFCONTENTS
Content
Customer Support
Important Safe Operation Practices
Tractor Set-Up
Know Your Lawn Tractor
Operating Your Lawn Tractor
Making Adjustments
Page Content Page
2 Maintaining Your Lawn Tractor 19
3 Service 20
8 Off-Season Storage 24
10 Attachments & Accessories 24
13 Troubleshooting 25
17 Illustrated Parts List 27
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:
YaRD,MaN}/(MToLLC
www.yardrnan.corn 330-220-4683
P. O. BOX 361131
CLEVELAND,OH 44136
800-800-7318
Copy the serial number here:
CUSTOMERSUPPORT
Please doNOTreturnthe unitto theretailerfromwhereit waspurchased,withoutfirst contactingCustomerSupport.
If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation or
maintenance of this unit, you can seek help from the experts. Choose from the options below:
Visit 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.
d_RSWeY h_ye
/ooking for could be just
a mouse crick aw_y!
To reach the Customer Support Line, please call 1-800-800-7310.
_YTswey you h]ye
/ook]ngfoFcouldbe just
a mouse crickaw_y!
The engine manufacturer is responsible for all engine-related issues with regards to
M nual
_]En ine
performance, power-rating, specifications, warranty and service. Please refer to the engine
manufacturer's Owner's/Operator's Manual, at the end of this manual, for more information.

SECTION1: IMPORTANTSAFEOPERATIONPRACTICES
WARNING: This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, could endanger
the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow all instructions in this manual
before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal
injury. When you see this symbol--heed its warning.
,_ WARNING: The Battery and Engine Exhaust contains chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. The battery and posts
contain lead; wash hands after handling.
DANGER: This machine was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this man-
ual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can result in
serious injury. This machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to
observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.
GENERAL OPERATION
1. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the
machine and in the manual(s) before attempting to
assemble and operate. Keep this manual in a safe
place for future and regular reference and for
ordering replacement parts.
2. Be familiar with all controls and their proper
operation. Know how to stop the machine and
disengage them quickly.
3. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate
this machine. Children 14 years old and over
should read and understand the operation
instructions and safety rules in this manual and
should be trained and supervised by a parent.
4. Never allow adults to operate this machine without
proper instruction.
5. To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object
injury, keep bystanders, helpers, children and pets
at least 75 feet from the machine while it is in
operation. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.
6. Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment
is to be used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire,
bones, toys, and other foreign objects which could
be picked up and thrown by the blade(s). Thrown
objects can cause serious personal injury.
7. Plan your mowing pattern to avoid discharge of
material toward roads, sidewalks, bystanders and
the like. Also, avoid discharging material against a
wall or obstruction which may cause discharged
material to ricochet back toward the operator.
8. Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles
during operation and while performing an
adjustment or repair to protect your eyes. Thrown
objects which ricochet can cause serious injury to
the eyes.
9. Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-
fitting slacks and shirts. Loose fitting clothes and
jewelry can be caught in movable parts. Never
operate this machine in bare feet or sandals.
10. Be aware of the mower and attachment discharge
direction and do not point it at anyone. Do not
operate the mower without the discharge cover or
entire grass catcher in its proper place.
11. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or
under the cutting deck. Contact with the blade(s)
can amputate hands and feet.
12. A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause
blade contact or thrown object injuries.
13. Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel drives,
walks, or roads and while not cutting grass.
14. Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing
roadways. This machine is not intended for use on
any public roadway.
15. Do not operate the machine while under the
influence of alcohol or drugs.
16. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
17. Never carry passengers.
18. Disengage blade(s) before shifting into reverse.
Back up slowly. Always look down and behind
before and while backing to avoid a back-over
accident.
19. Slow down before turning. Operate the machine
smoothly. Avoid erratic operation and excessive
speed.
20. Disengage blade(s), set parking brake, stop engine
and wait until the blade(s) come to a complete stop
before removing grass catcher, emptying grass,
unclogging chute, removing any grass or debris, or
making any adjustments.
21. Never leave a running machine unattended. Always
turn off blade(s), place transmission in neutral, set
parking brake, stop engine and remove key before
dismounting.
22. Use extra care when loading or unloading the
machine into a trailer or truck. This unit should not
be driven up or down ramp(s), because the unit
could tip over, causing serious personal injury. The
unit must be pushed manually on ramp(s) to load or
unload properly.

23.Mufflerandenginebecomehotandcancausea
burn.Donottouch.
24.Checkoverheadclearancescarefullybeforedriving
underlowhangingtreebranches,wires,door
openingsetc.,wheretheoperatormaybestruckor
pulledfromtheunit,whichcouldresultinserious
injury.
25.Disengageallattachmentclutches,depressthe
brakepedalcompletelyandshiftintoneutralbefore
attemptingtostartengine.
26.Yourmachineisdesignedtocutnormalresidential
grassofaheightnomorethan10".Donotattempt
tomowthroughunusuallytall,drygrass(e.g.,
pasture)orpilesofdryleaves.Drygrassorleaves
maycontacttheengineexhaustand/orbuildupon
themowerdeckpresentingapotentialfirehazard.
27.Useonlyaccessoriesandattachmentsapproved
forthismachinebythemachinemanufacturer.
Read,understandandfollowallinstructions
providedwiththeapprovedaccessoryor
attachment.
28.Dataindicatesthatoperators,age60yearsand
above,areinvolvedinalargepercentageofriding
mower-relatedinjuries.Theseoperatorsshould
evaluatetheirabilitytooperatetheridingmower
safelyenoughtoprotectthemselvesandothers
fromseriousinjury.
29.Ifsituationsoccurwhicharenotcoveredinthis
manual,usecareandgoodjudgment.Contactan
authorizedMTDservicedealerforassistance.
SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to loss of control and
tip-over accidents which can result in severe injury or
death. All slopes require extra caution. If you cannot
back up the slope or ifyou feel uneasy on it,do not mow
it.
For your safety, use the slope gauge included as part of
this manual to measure slopes before operating this
unit on a sloped or hilly area. If the slope is greater than
15 degrees as shown on the slope gauge, do not
operate this unit on that area or serious injury could
result.
DO:
1. Mow up and down slopes, not across. Exercise
extreme caution when changing direction on
slopes.
2. Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other
hidden objects. Uneven terrain could overturn the
machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
3. Use slow speed. Choose a low enough speed
setting so that you will not have to stop or shift while
on the slope. Tires may lose traction on slopes
even though the brakes are functioning properly.
Always keep machine in gear when going down
slopes to take advantage of engine braking action.
4. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for
wheel weights or counterweights to improve
stability.
5. Use extra care with grass catchers or other
attachments. These can change the stability of the
machine.
6. Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual.
Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction.
Rapid engagement or braking could cause the front
of the machine to lift and rapidly flip over backwards
which could cause serious injury.
7. Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose
traction, disengage the blade(s) and proceed
slowly straight down the slope.
DO NOT:
1. Do not turn on slopes unless necessary; then, turn
slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.
2. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or
embankments. The mower could suddenly turn
over if a wheel is over the edge of a cliff, ditch, or if
an edge caves in.
3. Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your
foot on the ground.
4. Do not use a grass catcher on steep slopes.
5. Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could
cause sliding.
6. Do not shift to neutral and coast downhill. Over-
speeding may cause the operator to lose control of
the machine resulting in serious injury or death.
7. Do not tow heavy pull behind attachments (e.g.
loaded dump cart, lawn roller, etc.) on slopes
greater than 5 degrees. When going down hill, the
extra weight tends to push the tractor and may
cause you to loose control. (e.g. tractor may speed
up, braking and steering ability are reduced,
attachment may jack-knife and cause tractor to
overturn).
CHILDREN
,
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not
alert to the presence of children. Children are often
attracted to the machine and the mowing activity.
They do not understand the dangers. Never
assume that children will remain where you last
saw them.
a. Keep children out of the mowing area and in
watchful care of a responsible adult other
than the operator.
b. Be alert and turn machine off if a child enters
the area.

c. Beforeandwhilebacking,lookbehindand
downforsmallchildren.
d. Nevercarrychildren,evenwiththeblade(s)
shutoff.Theymayfalloffandbeseriously
injuredorinterferewithsafemachine
operation.
e. Useextremecarewhenapproachingblind
corners,doorways,shrubs,treesorother
objectsthatmayblockyourvisionofachild
whomayrunintothemachine.
f. Toavoidback-overaccidents,always
disengagethecuttingblade(s)before
shiftingintoreverse.The"Reverse
CautionMode" should not be used when
children or others are around.
g. Keep children away from hot or running
engines. They can suffer burns from a hot
muffler.
h. Remove key when machine is unattended to
prevent unauthorized operation.
,
Never allow children under 14 years old to operate
the machine. Children 14 years old and over should
read and understand the operation instructions and
safety rules in this manual and should be trained
and supervised by a parent.
TOWING
1. Tow only with a machine that has a hitch designed
for towing. Do not attach towed equipment except
at the hitch point.
2. Follow the manufacturers recommendation for
weight limits for towed equipment and towing on
slopes.
3. Never allow children or others in or on towed
equipment.
4. On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment may
cause loss of traction and loss of control.
5. Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop.
6. Do not shift to neutral and coast downhill.
SERVICE
SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE:
,
To avoid personal injury or property damage
use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is
extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive.
Serious personal injury can occur when gasoline is
spilled on yourself or your clothes which can ignite.
Wash your skin and change clothes immediately.
a. Use only an approved gasoline container.
b. Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a
truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always
place containers on the ground away from
your vehicle before filling.
c. When practical, remove gas-powered
equipment from the truck or trailer and refuel
it on the ground. If this is not possible, then
refuel such equipment on a trailer with a
portable container, rather than from a
gasoline dispenser nozzle.
d. Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the
fuel tank or container opening at all times
until fueling is complete. Do not use a nozzle
lock-open device.
e. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and
other sources of ignition.
f. Neverfuel machine indoors.
g. Never remove gas cap or add fuel while the
engine is hot or running. Allow engine to cool
at least two minutes before refueling.
h. Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tankto no more
than _/2inch below bottom of filler neck to
allow space for fuel expansion.
i. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.
j. Ifgasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine
and equipment. Move unit to another area.
Wait 5 minutes before starting the engine.
k. To reduce fire hazards, keep machine free of
grass, leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean
up oil or fuel spillage and remove any fuel
soaked debris.
I. Never store the machine or fuel container
inside where there is an open flame, spark or
pilot light as on a water heater, space heater,
furnace, clothes dryer or other gas
appliances.
m. Allow a machine to cool at least 5 minutes
before storing.
GENERAL SERVICE:
1. Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly
ventilated area. Engine exhaust contains carbon
monoxide, an odorless, and deadly gas.
2. Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make
certain the blade(s) and all moving parts have
stopped. Disconnect the spark plug wire and
ground against the engine to prevent unintended
starting.
3. Periodically check to make sure the blades come to
complete stop within approximately (5) five
seconds after operating the blade disengagement
control. If the blades do not stop within the this time
frame, your unit should be serviced professionally
by an authorized MTD Service dealer.
4. Check brake operation frequently as it is subjected
to wear during normal operation. Adjust and service
as required.
5. Check the blade(s) and engine mounting bolts at
frequent intervals for proper tightness. Also,
visually inspect blade(s) for damage (e.g.,
excessive wear, bent, cracked).

6. Replacetheblade(s)withtheoriginalequipment
manufacturer's(O.E.M.)blade(s)only,listedinthis
manual."Useofpartswhichdonotmeetthe
originalequipmentspecificationsmayleadto
improperperformanceandcompromisesafety!"
7. Mowerbladesaresharp.Wrapthebladeorwear
gloves,anduseextracautionwhenservicingthem.
8. Keepallnuts,bolts,andscrewstighttobesurethe
equipmentisinsafeworkingcondition.
9. Nevertamperwiththesafetyinterlocksystemor
othersafetydevices.Checktheirproperoperation
regularly.
10.Afterstrikingaforeignobject,stoptheengine,
disconnectthesparkplugwire(s)andground
againsttheengine.Thoroughlyinspectthe
machineforanydamage.Repairthedamage
beforestartingandoperating.
11.Neverattemptto makeadjustmentsorrepairsto
themachinewhiletheengineisrunning.
12.Grasscatchercomponentsandthedischarge
coveraresubjecttowearanddamagewhichcould
exposemovingpartsorallowobjectstobethrown.
Forsafetyprotection,frequentlycheckcomponents
andreplaceimmediatelywithoriginalequipment
manufacturer's(O.E.M.)partsonly,listedinthis
manual."Useofpartswhichdonotmeetthe
originalequipmentspecificationsmayleadto
improperperformanceandcompromisesafety!"
13.Donotchangetheenginegovernorsettingsor
over-speedtheengine.Thegovernorcontrolsthe
maximumsafeoperatingspeedoftheengine.
14.Maintainorreplacesafetyandinstructionlabels,as
necessary.
15.Observeproperdisposallawsandregulationsfor
gas,oil,etc.toprotecttheenvironment.
_, ARNING: YOURRESPONSIBILITYRestricttheuseofthispowermachinetopersonswhoread,
understandandfollowthewarningsandinstructionsinthismanualandonthemachine.
®
ROTAT|NG5LADES CAUSE
SERIOUS iNJURY OR DEATH
• DONOTMOWWHENCHILDRENDROTHERSAHE
AROUND
• MEVERCARRYCHILDRENEVENWiTHBLADE(S)OFF.
• LOONDOWNANDBEHINDBEFOREANDWHILE
BACKING.
• MOWINGiNREVERSEiSNOTRECOMMENDED.

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

SECTION3: TRACTORSET-UP
AttachingtheBatteryCables
NOTE: The positive battery terminal is marked Pos.
(+). The negative battery terminal is marked Neg. (-).
• The positive cable (heavy red wire) is secured to
the positive battery terminal (+) with a hex bolt and
hex nut at the factory. Make certain that the rubber
boot covers the terminal to help protect itfrom
corrosion.
• Remove the hex bolt and wing nut from the
negative cable.
• Remove the black plastic cover, if present, from the
negative battery terminal and attach the negative
cable (heavy black wire) to the negative battery
terminal (-) with the bolt and wing nut.
• Make certain the hold-down strap is in position over
the battery, securing it in place. See Figure 1.
,bberL _ _ IL /
",,oot 2
• 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
&Washer
Steering
Shaft
Figure I
NOTE: If the battery is put into service after the date
shown on top of battery, charge the battery as
instructed on page 22 of this manual prior to operating
the tractor.
AttachingTheSteeringWheel
• Ifthe steering wheel for your tractor did not come
attached, the hardware for attaching it has been
packed within the steering wheel, beneath the
steering wheel cap. Carefully pry off the steering
wheel cap and remove the hardware.
NOTE: There are two different styles of steering
wheel cap. See Figure 2. Styles vary by model
Figure 2
AttachingTheSeat
If the seat for your tractor did not come attached, refer
to WARNING: 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. 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 3.
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 3.
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.

Seat Stop
Tab--
\
Pivot Bracket
Figure 3
GasandOilFill-up
The gasoline tank islocated 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 engine is
hot or running. Extinguish cigarettes, cigars,
pipes, and other sources of ignition.
Service the engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in
the separate Briggs & Stratton Operator/Owner Manual
(or Kohlerengine's Owner's Manual) packed with your
tractor. Read instructions carefully.
IMPORTANT:Your tractor is shipped with motor oil in the
engine. However, you MUST check the oil level before
operating. Be careful not to overfill.
TirePressure
_, WARNING: Maximum tire pressure under
The tires on your unit may be over-inflated for shipping
purposes. Reduce the tire pressure before operating
the tractor. Recommended operating tire pressure is
approximately 10 p.s.i for the rear tires & 14 p.s.i, for
the front tires. Check sidewall of tire for maximum p.s.i.
any circumstances is 30 psi. Equal tire
pressure should be maintained at all times.
Shipping Brace Warning
Tag
Figure 4
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 riding
mower without the discharge cover in proper
operating position could result in serious
personal injury and/or property damage.
IdentifyingtheMulchPlug
The mulch plug can be found withinthe cutting deck's
discharge opening.
NOTE: Refer to Mulchingon page 16 for more detailed
information and how to reinstafl mulch plug.
If you'd prefer to operate the cutting deck without
mulching, carefully remove the mulch plug and lower
the discharge chute slowly. This will allow the clippings
to discharge out of the discharge opening during
operation. See Figure 5.
Raise discharge
chute this way
ShippingBraceRemoval
_, WARNING: Make sure the riding mower's
• Locate the shipping brace and warning tag found
engine is off, set the parking brake and
remove the ignition key before removing the
shipping brace.
on the right side of the cutting deck. See Figure 4.
Deck Opening
Figure 5

SECTION4: KNOWYOURLAWNTRACTOR
E
F
G
H
J
K
L
I
D
I
I
A PTO (Power Take-off) Knob G Cruise Control Button
B Choke Control H Ignition Switch Module
C Parking Brake Button I Brake Pedal
D Cup Holder J Drive Pedal
E Hour Meter K Deck Lift Lever
F Throttle Control Lever L Seat Adjustment Lever
NOTE: Any reference in this manual to the RIGHT or LEFT side of the tractor is observed from operator's position.
I
I
NOTE: Steering Wheel not shown for clarity,
10

ThrottleControl
Lever
The throttle control lever is
located on the right side of
the tractor's dash panel.
This lever controls the
speed of the engine. When
set in a given position, the
throttle will maintain a
uniform engine speed.
IMPORTANT:When
operating the tractor with
the cutting deck engaged,
be certain that the throttle
lever is always in the FAST
(rabbit) position.
Position
Position
ChokeControl
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
StartingThe Engineon page 14 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.
Fast
Slow
(o)
Normal
MowingMode
Stop
Position
Start
Position
Figure 6
Prior to operating the tractor, refer to both SafetyInterlock
Switcheson page 13 and StartingTheEngineon page 14 of
this manual for detailed instructions regarding the
Ignition Switch Module and operating the tractor in
REVERSE CAUTION MODE
DrivePedal
The drive pedal is located below
the brake pedal on the right front
side of the tractor along the
running board. Depress the
upper portion of the drive pedal
forward to cause the tractor to
travel forward. Depress the lower
portion of the drive pedal with the
ball of your right foot (NOT your
heel) to cause the tractor to travel
in reverse. Ground speed is also controlled with the
drive pedal. The further forward or rearward that the
pedal is pivoted, the faster the tractor will travel. The
pedal will return to its original position when it's not
depressed.
IMPORTANT:Always set the parking brake when
leaving the tractor unattended.
IgnitionSwitchModule
WARNING: Never leave a running machine
unattended. Always disengage PTO, set
parking brake, stop engine and remove key to
prevent unintended starting.
To start the engine, insert the key into the ignition
switch and turn clockwise to the START position.
Release the key into the NORMAL MOWING MODE
position once the engine has fired.
To stop the engine, turn the ignition key
counterclockwise to the STOP position. See Figure 6.
SystemsIndicatorMonitor
Your tractor is equipped with an hour meter as part of
the available systems indicator monitor. Locate the
monitor on the left side of your dash panel and compare
it to both shown in Figure 7.
Battery
Hour Meter
PTO--
11
*o
1/lO
---
Figure 7
Oil
Brake

IftheBrakelightorPTOlightilluminateswhen
attemptingtostarttheunit,proceedasfollows:
BRAKE-- Depressthebrakepedal.
PTO-- MovePTOknobintothe
disengaged(OFF)position.
ItisnormalfortheOillightandtheBatterylight,ifso
equipped,toilluminatewhiletheengineiscranking,
butifeitherilluminate'swhiletheengineisrunning,
proceedasfollows:
OIL-- Stopthetractorimmediatelyandcheck
thecrankcaseoillevelasinstructedin
theBriggs& Stratton Operator/Owner
Manual (or Kohlerengine's Owner's
Manual) included with your tractor.
BATTERY-- The battery is in need of a charge, or the
engine's charging system is not
generating sufficient amperage. Refer to
the MAINTENANCEsection of this manual
for the proper battery charging procedure
or have the charging system checked by
a Briggs & Stratton or Kohlerengine's
dealer.
The hour meter operates whenever the engine is
running and records the actual hours of tractor
operation.
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.
NOTE: The PTO knob must be in the disengaged
(OFF) position when starting the engine, when traveling
in reverse and ff the operator leaves the seat.
SeatAdjustmentLever
To adjust the seat forward or backward, 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 18 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 is located on the fender to the
leftof the seat, just tothe rear of the shift lever.
To set the parking brake, fully
ParkingBrakeButton (Q)
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
models so equipped, is located
The cruise control button, on ;i_
on the tractor dash panel to the
left of the ignition switch. Push
the cruise control button while
traveling forward at a desired
speed. While holding the button
in, release pressure from the
drive pedal. This will engage the
cruise control and allow the tractor to remain at that
speed without applying pressure to the drive pedal.
Depress the brake pedal or the drive pedal to
deactivate cruise control. Refer to SettingtheCruise
Controlon page 15 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.
12

SECTION5: OPERATINGYOURLAWNTRACTOR
2. Turn the key from the NORMAL MOWING
_, WARNING: Read, understand, and follow
all instructions and warnings on the machine
and in this manual before operating.
SafetyInterlockSwitches
This tractor is equipped with a safety interlock system
for the protection of the operator. If the interlock system
should ever malfunction, do not operate the tractor.
Contact an authorized MTD service dealer.
• The safety interlock system prevents the engine
from cranking or starting unless the parking brake is
engaged, and the PTO (Blade Engage) knob 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
engages the PTO with the parking brake ON.
• The electric PTO (Blade Engage) clutch will
automatically shut off if the operator leaves the
tractor's seat with the PTO (Blade Engage) knob in
the engaged (ON) position, regardless of whether
the parking brake is engaged.
• With the ignition key in the NORMAL MOWING
position, the electric PTO (Blade Engage) clutch
will automatically shut off if the PTO (Blade
Engage) knob is moved into the engaged (ON)
position with the shift lever in Reverse.
(Green) position to the REVERSE CAUTION
MODE (Yellow) position of the key switch module.
See Figure 8.
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 8.
4. Once activated (indicator light ON), the tractor can
be driven in reverse with the cutting blades (PTO)
engaged.
5. Always look down and behind before and while
backing to make sure no children are around.
6. After resuming forward motion, return the key to the
NORMAL MOWING position.
IMPORTANT:The REVERSE CAUTION MODE will
remain activated until:
a. The key is placed in either the NORMAL
MOWING position or STOP position.
b. The operator leaves the seat.
Indicat0r
Light
Stop
Position
BUTTON
REVERSEPUSH
Reverse
PushButton
Reverse
- CautionMode
Position
interlock system is malfunctioning. This
WARNING: Do not operate the tractor ifthe
system was designed for your safety and
protection.
ReverseCautionMode
WARNING: Use extreme caution while
operating the tractor in the REVERSE
CAUTION MODE. Always look down and
behind before and while backing. Do not
operate the tractor when children or others
are around. Stop the tractor immediately if
someone enters the area.
The REVERSE CAUTION MODE position of the key
switch module allows the tractor to be operated in
reverse with the blades (PTO) engaged.
IMPORTANT: Mowing in reverse is not recommended.
To use the REVERSE CAUTION MODE:
IMPORTANT:The operator MUST be seated in the
tractor seat.
1. Start the engine as previously instructed in this
Operator's Manual.
Start
Position
Figure 8
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 Y2-
inch above the ground when the tractor is on 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.
13

WARNING
AVOIDSERIOUSINJURYORDEATH
• GO UP AND DOWN SLOPES, NOT ACROSS.
• AVOID SUDDEN TURNS.
• DO NOT OPERATE THE UNIT WHERE IT COULD SLIP OR TIP.
• IF MACHINE STOPS GOING UPHILL, STOP BLADE(S) AND BACK
DOWNHILL SLOWLY.
• DO NOT MOW WHEN CHILDREN OR OTHERS ARE AROUND.
• NEVER CARRY CHILDREN, EVEN WITH BLADES OFR
• LOOK DOWN AND BEHIND BEFORE AND WHILE BACKING.
• KEEP SAFETY DEVICES (GUARDS, SHIELDS, AND SWITCHES) IN
PLACE AND WORKING.
• REMOVE OBJECTS THAT COULD BE THROWN BY THE BLADE(S).
• KNOW LOCATION AND FUNCTION OF ALL CONTROLS.
• BE SURE BLADE(S) AND ENGINE ARE STOPPED BEFORE PLAC-
ING HANDS OR FEET NEAR BLADE(S).
• BEFORE LEAVING OPERATOR'S POSITION, DISENGAGE
BLADE(S), PLACE THE SHIFT LEVER IN NEUTRAL, ENGAGE
BRAKE LOCK, SHUT ENGINE OFF AND REMOVE KEY.
READOPERATOR'SMANUAL
Heter to Levelingtheueckon page 1/ ot th_smanual tor
more detailed instructions regarding various deck
adjustments.
Startingthe Engine
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 till-up instructions.
Refer to the TRACTORSET-UPon page 8 of this
• If the blades are engaged, place the PTO knob in
the disengaged (OFF) position.
• Turn the ignition key counterclockwise to the STOP
position.
• Remove the key from the ignition switch to prevent
unintended starting.
DrivingTheTractor
WARNING: Avoid sudden starts, ex-
cessive speed and sudden stops.
WARNING: Do not leave the seat of the
tractor without first placing the PTO knob 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 9.
Reverse Forward
• Insert the tractor key into the ignition switch.
• Place the PTO knob in the disengaged (OFF)
position.
• Engage the tractor's parking brake.
• Pull the choke control outward.
• Turn the ignition key clockwise to the START
position. After the engine starts, release the key. It
will return to the ON position.
IMPORTANT: Do NOT hold the key 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
and place the throttle control in the FAST position.
NOTE: Do NOT leave the choke control on while
operating the tractor. Doing so will result in a "rich" fuel
mixture and cause the engine to run poorly.
StoppingtheEngine
,_ WARNING: If you strike a foreign object,
stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug
wire(s) and ground against the engine.
Thoroughly inspect the machine for any
damage. Repair the damage before restarting
and operating
Brake Pedal
Drive Pedal
Fender /
"---Running Board
Figure 9
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 9.
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.
EngagingtheParkingBrake
To engage the parking brake:
• Fully depress the brake pedal and hold itthere
while gently pushing the parking brake button
inward.
• Hold the parking brake button in while removing
your foot from the brake pedal.
• Once engaged, the parking brake button and the
brake pedal will lock in the "down" position.
14

To disengage the parking brake:
• Slightly depress the brake pedal.
NOTE: The parking brake must be engaged if the
operator leaves the seat with the engine running or the
engine will automatically shut off.
To change the direction of travel to reverse when
operating with cruise control, depress the brake pedal
to disengage the cruise control and bring the tractor to a
complete stop. Then depress the lower portion of the
drive pedal with the ball of your foot to travel in reverse.
DrivingOnSlopes
Refer to the SLOPEGAUGEon page 7 to help determine
slopes where you may operate the tractor safely.
_, ARNING: Do not mow on inclines with a
• Mow up and down slopes, NEVER across.
• Exercise extreme caution when changing direction
• Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other
• Avoid turns when driving on a slope. Ifa turn must
• Avoid stopping when driving up a slope. If it is
slope in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of
approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10 feet). The
tractor could overturn and cause serious
injury.
on slopes.
hidden objects. Uneven terrain could overturn the
machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
be made, turn down the slope. Turning up a slope
greatly increases the chance of a roll over.
necessary to stop while driving up a slope, start up
smoothly and carefully to reduce the possibility of
flipping the tractor over backward.
SettingTheCruiseControl
• Slowly depress the upper portion of the drive pedal
until the desired speed is achieved.
• Lightly depress the cruise control button.
• While continuing to hold the cruise button in, lift
your foot from the drive pedal (you should feel the
cruise latch engage).
• Once engaged, the cruise control button and the
drive pedal will lock inthe "down" position, and the
tractor will maintain the same forward speed.
NOTE: Cruise control can not be engaged at the
tractor's fastest ground speed. If the operator should
attempt to do so, the tractor will automatically
decelerate to the fastest optimal mowing ground speed.
Disengage the cruise control using one of the following
methods:
• Depress the brake pedal to disengage the cruise
control and stop the tractor.
• Lightly depress the drive pedal.
MovingTheTractorManually
Your tractor's transmission is equipped with a
hydrostatic relief valve for occasions when it is
necessary to move the tractor manually. Activating this
valve allows the rear tires to "freewheel." To engage the
hydrostatic relief valve, proceed as follows:
• Locate the hydrostatic bypass rod inthe rear of the
tractor. See Figure 10.
Hydrostatic
Bypass Rod
Figure 10
• Pull the hydrostatic bypass rod outward, then
down, to lock it in place.
NOTE: The transmission will NOT engage when the
hydrostatic bypass rod is pulled out. Return the rod to
its normal position prior to operating the tractor.
IMPORTANT:Never attempt to move the tractor
manually without first engaging the hydrostatic relief
valve. Doing so will result in serious damage to the
tractor's transmission.
EngagingthePTO
Engaging the PTO transfers power to the cutting deck
or other (separately available) attachments. To engage
the PTO, proceed as follows:
• Move the throttle control lever to the FAST (rabbit)
position.
15

• Pull the PTO knob outward into the engaged (ON)
position. See Figure 11.
Front View Pull Out Push In
Figure 11
Keep the throttle lever inthe FAST (rabbit) position
for the most efficient use of the cutting deck or other
(separately available) attachments.
IMPORTANT:The electric PTO clutch will automatically
shut off if the PTO is engaged with the shift lever in
position for reverse travel with the ignition key in the
NORMAL MOWING position. Refer to SafetyInterlock
Switcheson page 13.
UsingtheDeckLift Lever
To raise the cutting deck, move the deck lift lever to the
left, then place it in the notch best suited for your
application. Refer to SettingTheCuttingHeightearlier in
this section.
Mowing
WARNING: 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.
The following information will be helpful when using the
cutting deck with your tractor.
WARNING: Plan your mowing pattern to
avoid discharge of materials 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.
• 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.
• 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 CuttingBladeson page 21 of this
manual for proper blade sharpening instructions.
Mulching
This tractor comes equipped with a mulch kit which
incorporates special blades, already standard on your
tractor, ina process of recirculating grass clippings
repeatedly beneath the cutting deck. The ultra-fine
clippings are then forced back intothe lawn where they
act as a natural fertilizer. Observe the following points
for the best results when mulching.
• Never attempt to mulch ifthe lawn isdamp. Wet
grass tends to stick tothe underside of the cutting
deck preventing proper mulching of the clippings.
• Do NOT attempt to mulch more than 1/3 the total
height of the grass or approximately 1-1/2 inches.
Doing so will cause the clippings to clump up
beneath the deck and not be mulched effectively.
• Maintain a slow ground speed to allow the grass
clippings more time to effectively be mulched.
• Always position the throttle control lever inthe
FAST (rabbit) position and allow itto remain there
while mowing. Failing to keep the engine at full
throttle places strain on the tractor's engine and
does not allow the blades to properly mulch grass.
NOTE: It is not necessary to remove the discharge
chute to operate the mower with the mulch kit installed,
To operate the cutting deck without mulching, simply
remove the mulch plug and lower the discharge chute
slowly. This will allow clippings to discharge from the
side.
To reinstall the mulch plug, proceed as follows:
• Locate two rectangular holes on the cutting deck
surface.
Do not mow at high ground speed, especially if a
mulch kit or grass collector is installed.
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 will give a better
appearance to the lawn.
16

Pivot the discharge chute up to access the deck
opening. See Figure 12.
Raise discharge
chute this way
Inse_t mulch Opening
plug this way
Figure 12
Insert the mulch plug in the deck opening, aligning
the edge of the plug with the deck as shown in the
figure. Make sure the notches on the plug are in the
slots on the deck opening.
• Lightly tab on the plug with your hand so that the
notches fit properly under the chute tabs and the
plug is secure.
OperatingTheHeadlights
On some models, the lamps are ON whenever the
tractor's engine is running. On other models, the lamps
are ON whenever the ignition key is moved out of the
STOP position.
On all models, the lamps turn OFF when the ignition
key is moved to the STOP position.
NOTE: Never move the key into the Start position
while the engine is running. Doing so may cause
damage to your engine's electric starter.
SECTION6: MAKINGADJUSTMENTS
_, WARNING: Never attempt to make any
LevelingtheDeck
NOTE: Check the tractor's tire pressure before
performing any deck leveling adjustments. Refer to
Tires on page 21 for information regarding tire pressure.
FrontToRear
The front of the cutting deck is supported by a stabilizer
bar that can adjusted to level the deck from front to rear.
The front of the deck should be between 1/4-inch and
3/8-inch lower than the rear of the deck. Adjust if
necessary as follows:
• With the tractor parked on a firm, level surface,
• Measure the distance from the front of the blade tip
• The first measurement taken should be between
adjustments while the engine is running,
except where specified in the operator's
manual.
place the deck lift lever in the top notch (highest
position) and rotate the blade nearest the discharge
chute so that it is parallel with the tractor.
to the ground and the rear of the blade tip to the
ground.
1/4" and 3/8" less than the second measurement.
Determine the approximate distance necessary for
proper adjustment and proceed, if necessary, to the
next step.
Loosen the two jam nuts, if present, on the rear side
of the deck stabilizer bracket.
Locate the two lock nuts on the front side of the
stabilizer bracket. See Figure 13. Tighten the lock
nuts to raise the front of the deck; loosen the lock
nuts to lower the front of the deck.
jT_ ..............................
/
Loosen Tighten
\ .............................................../
Figure 13
Sideto Side
If the cutting deck appears to be mowing unevenly, a
side to side adjustment can be performed. Adjust if
necessary as follows:
17

• With the tractor parked on a firm, level surface,
place the deck lift lever in the top notch (highest
position) and rotate both blades so that they are
perpendicular with the tractor.
• Measure the distance from the outside of the left
blade tip to the ground and the distance from the
outside of the right blade tip to the ground. Both
measurements taken should be equal. If they're
not, proceed to the next step.
• Loosen, but do NOT remove, the hex cap screw on
the left deck hanger bracket. See Figure 14.
Looking at the transmission from the right side of
the tractor, locate the compression spring and
brake disc. See Figure 15.
Crown Nut
Figure 14
• Balance the deck by using a wrench to turn the
adjustment gear (found immediately behind the hex
cap screw just loosened) clockwise/up or
counterclockwise/down.
• The deck is properly balanced when both blade tip
measurements taken earlier are equal.
• Retighten the hex cap screw on the left deck
hanger bracket when proper adjustment is
achieved.
ParkingBrakeAdjustment
WARNING: Never attempt to adjust the
brakes while the engine is running. Always
disengage PTO, stop engine and remove key
to prevent unintended starting.
If the tractor does not come to a complete stop when
the brake pedal is completely depressed, or if the
tractor's rear wheels can roll with the parking brake
applied, the brake is in need of adjustment. The brake
disc can be found on the right side of the transmission
in the rear of the tractor. Adjust if necessary as
follows:
NOTE: View shown from
beneath tractor,
• Carefully remove the cotter pin from the crown nut
on the right side of the brake assembly.
• Using a feeler gauge, check the gap between the
brake disc and the brake puck. Proper gap is.011"
• Tighten the crown nut until the proper gap is
achieved.
• Insert a replacement cotter pin (part number 714-
0111) into the crown nut.
\ Hydrostatic
Transmission
Figure 15
SeatAdjustment
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.
To adjust the position of the seat, move the lever to the
left and slide the seat forward or rearward. Make sure
seat is locked into position before operating the tractor.
SteeringAdjustment
If the tractor turns tighter in one direction than the other,
or if the ball joints are being replaced due to damage or
wear, the steering drag links may need to be adjusted.
Adjust the drag links so that equal lengths are threaded
into the ball joint on the left side and the ball joint on the
right side:
• Loosen the jam nut found on the drag link at the
rear of the ball joint. See Figure 16.
• Remove the hex nut and lock washer on the top of
ball joint. See Figure 16.
18

Thread the ball joint toward the jam nut to shorten
the drag link. Thread the ball joint away from the
jam nut to lengthen the drag link.
Hex Nut and Pivot Bar
Lock Washer
D_g Link
Jam Nut
BallJoint
Figure 16
• Replace hex nut and lock washer and retighten the
jam nut after proper adjustment is achieved.
NOTE: Threading the ball joints too far onto the drag
finks will cause the front tires to "toe-in" too far. Proper
toe-in is between 1/16" and 5/16".
Front tire toe-in can be measured as follows:
• Place the steering wheel in position for straight
ahead travel.
• In front of the axle, measure the distance
horizontally from the inside of the left rim to the
inside of the right rim. Note the distance.
• Behind the axle, measure the distance horizontally
from the inside of the left rim to the inside of the
right rim. Note the distance.
• The measurement taken in front of the axle should
be between 1/16" and 5/16" less than the
measurement taken behind the axle.
• Adjust if necessary.
SECTION7: MAINTAININGYOURLAWNTRACTOR
WARNING: Before performing any
maintenance or repairs, disengage PTO, set
parking brake, stop engine and remove key to
prevent unintended starting.
Engine
Refer to the Briggs & Stratton Operator/Owner
Manual (or Kohlerengine's Owner's Manual) for
engine maintenance instructions.
Check engine oil level before each use as instructed in
the Briggs & Stratton Operator/Owner Manual (or
Kohlerengine's Owner's Manual) packed with your
unit. Follow the instructions carefully.
Changing EngineOil
NOTE: Depending on the engine model found on your
tractor, it may be necessary to remove the tractor's side
panel in order to replace the oil filter (if so equipped).
• Unscrew oil fill cap and remove dipstick from the oil
fill tube. See Figure 17.
• Pop open the protective cap on the end of the oil
drain valve to expose the drain port. See Figure 17.
• Push the oil drain hose (packed with this manual)
onto the oil drain port. Route the opposite end of
the hose into an appropriate oil collection container
with a capacity of no less than 64 oz.
• Push the oil drain valve in slightly, then rotate
counterclockwise and pull outward to begin
draining oil. See Figure 17.
Oil Fill Cap Protective Cap
Oil Fill Tube Oil Drain Valve
• Service the oil filter (if so equipped) as instructed
in the separate Briggs & Stratton Operator/Owner
Manual (or Kohlerengine's Owner's Manual)
packed with your unit.
Perform the above steps in the opposite order after oil
has finished draining.
• Refill the engine with new motor oil.
IMPORTANT:Refer to the Briggs & Stratton Operator/
Owner Manual (or Kohlerengine's Owner's Manual)
packed with your unit for information regarding the
quantity and proper weight of motor oil.
Oil Drain Hose
Drain Port
Figure 17
19

AirCleaner
Service the pre-cleaner, if so equipped, and cartridge/
air cleaner element as instructed in the Briggs &
Stratton Operator/Owner Manual (or Kohlerengine's
Owner's Manual) packed with your unit.
SparkPlug(s)
The spark plug(s) should be cleaned and the gap reset
once a season. Spark plug replacement is
recommended at the start of each mowing season.
Refer to the Briggs & Stratton Operator/Owner Manual
(or Kohlerengine's Owner's Manual) for correct plug
type and gap specifications.
RearWheels
The rear wheels should be removed from the axles
once a season. Lubricate the axles and the rims well
with an all-purpose grease before re-installing them.
FrontAxles
Each end of the tractor's front pivot bar may be
equipped with a grease fitting. Lubricate with a grease
gun after every 25 hours of tractor operation.
Transmission
The hydrostatic transmission is maintenance-free and
sealed at the factory. The oil level cannot be checked
nor can the oil be changed.
Lubrication
WARNING: Before lubricating, repairing, or
inspecting, always disengage PTO, set
parking brake, stop engine and remove key to
prevent unintended starting.
Engine
Lubricate the engine with motor oil as instructed in the
Briggs & Stratton Operator/Owner Manual (or Kohler
engine's Owner's Manual) packed with your unit.
Pivot Points & Linkage
Lubricate all the pivot points on the drive system,
parking brake, and lift linkage at least once a season
with light oil.
SECTION8: SERVICE
CuttingDeckRemoval
To remove the cutting deck, proceed as follows:
• Place the PTO (Blade Engage) knob in the
disengaged (OFF) position and engage the parking
brake.
• Lower the deck by moving the deck lift lever into the
bottom notch on the right fender.
• Remove the deck/PTO belt from around the
tractor's electric PTO clutch and idler pulleys. Refer
to Changing The Deck/PTO Belt and Figure 22.
• Looking at the cutting deck from the left side of the
tractor, locate the deck support pin on the rear left
side of deck. See Figure 18.
CleaningtheEngineAndDeck
Any fuel or oil spilled on the machine should be wiped
off promptly.
Do NOT allow debris to accumulate around the cooling
fins of the engine or on any other part of the machine,
especially the belts and pulleys.
IMPORTANT:The use of a pressure washer or garden
hose to clean your tractor is NOT recommended. It may
cause damage to electrical components, spindles,
pulleys, bearings or the engine. The use of water will
result in a shortened life of the tractor and reduce its
serviceability.
Figure 18
• Pull the deck support pin outward to release the
deck from the deck lift arm.
20

• Rotate the pin slightly toward the rear of the tractor
and release the pin into the hole provided.
• Repeat the above steps on the tractor's right side.
• Move the deck lift lever into the top notch on the
right fender to raise the deck lift arms up and out of
the way.
• Gently slide the cutting deck toward the front of the
tractor allowing the hooks on the deck to release
themselves from the deck stabilizer rod.
• Gently slide the cutting deck (from the right side)
out from underneath the tractor.
To properly sharpen the cutting blades, remove equal
amounts of metal from both ends of the blades along
the cutting edges, parallel to the trailing edge, at a 25 °
to 30° angle. See Figure 20.
Blade Separation
/
Worn Blade Edge
CuttingBlades
WARNING: Be sure to shut the engine off,
remove ignition key, disconnect the spark plug
wire(s) and ground against the engine to
prevent unintended starting before removing
the cutting blade(s) for sharpening or
replacement. Protect your hands by using
heavy gloves or a rag to grasp the cutting
blade.
WARNING: Periodically inspect the bladeadapter and/or spindle for cracks or damage,
especially if you strike a foreign object.
Replace immediately if damaged.
The blades may be removed as follows.
• Remove the deck from beneath the tractor, (refer to
CuttingDeckRemovalabove) then gently flip the deck
over to expose its underside.
• Place a block of wood between the center deck
housing baffle and the cutting blade to act as a
stabilizer. See Figure 19.
Hex Flange Nut
Wind Wing
Sharpen Edge Evenly
Figure 20
IMPORTANT:Ifthe cutting edge of the blade has already
been sharpened to within 5/8" of the wind wing radius,
or if any metal separation is present, replace the blades
with new ones. See Figure 20.
It is important that each cutting blade edge be ground
equally to maintain proper blade balance.
A poorly balanced blade will cause excessive vibration
and may cause damage to the tractor and result in
personal injury.
The blade can be tested by balancing it on a round
shaft screwdriver. Grind metal from the heavy side until
it balances evenly.
When replacing the blade, be sure to install the blade
with the side of the blade marked "Bottom" (or with a
part number stamped in it) facing the ground when the
mower is in the operating position.
IMPORTANT:Use a torque wrench to tighten the blade
spindle hex flange nut to between 70 foot-pounds and
90 foot-po unds.
Spindle Assembly
Figure 19
Use a 15/16" wrench to remove the hex flange nut
that secures the blade to the spindle assembly. See
Figure 19.
Tires
_, WARNING: Never exceed the maximum
The recommended operating tire pressure is 10 psi for
the rear tires and 14 psi for the front tires. Refer to the
tire sidewall for exact tire manufacturer's recommended
or maximum psi. Do not overinflate. Uneven tire
pressure may cause the cutting deck to mow unevenly.
21
inflation pressure shown on the sidewall of the
tire.

Battery
The battery is sealed and is maintenance-free. Acid
levels cannot be checked.
• Always keep the battery cables and terminals clean
and free of corrosive build-up.
• After cleaning the battery and terminals, apply a
light coat of petroleum jelly or grease to both
terminals.
• Always keep the rubber boot positioned over the
positive terminal to prevent shorting.
IMPORTANT:If removing the battery for any reason,
disconnect the NEGATIVE (Black) wire from it's
terminal first, followed by the POSITIVE (Red) wire.
When re-installing the battery, always connect the
POSITIVE (Red) wire its terminal first, followed by the
NEGATIVE (Black) wire. Be certain that the wires are
connected to the correct terminals; reversing them
could change the polarity and cause damage to your
engine's alternating system.
Charging
If the unit has not been put into use for an extended
period of time, charge the battery with an automotive-
type 12-volt charger for a minimum of one hour at six
amps.
WARNING: Batteries give off an explosive
gas while charging. Charge battery in a well
ventilated area and keep away from an open
flame or pilot light as on a water heater, space
heater, furnace, clothes dryer or other gas
appliances.
JumpStarting
Cleaning
Clean the battery by removing it from the tractor and
washing with a baking soda and water solution. If
necessary, scrape the battery terminals with a wire
brush to remove deposits. Coat terminals and exposed
wiring with grease or petroleum jelly to prevent
corrosion.
BatteryFailures
Some common causes for battery failure are:
• incorrect initial activation • undercharging
• overcharging • corroded connections
• freezing
These failures are NOT covered by your tractor's
warranty.
Fuses
Two fuses are installed in your tractor's wiring harness
to protect the tractor's electrical system from damage
caused by excessive amperage.
If the electrical system does not function, or your
tractor's engine will not crank, first check to be certain
that the fuse has not blown.
One can be found under the hood mounted behind the
top of the dash panel on the support bar. The other can
be found under the seat mounted to the inside of the
tractor frame next to the battery tray. Pull the fuse out
and inspect it to determine if it is good or blown.
_, ARNING: Always use a fuse with the
same amperage capacity for replacement.
Changingthe Deck/PTOBelt
,_ WARNING: When removing or installing
IMPORTANT: Never jump your tractor's dead battery
with the battery of a running vehicle.
• Connect end of one jumper cable to the positive
• Connect the other jumper cable to the negative
_, WARNING: Failure to use this procedure
the battery, follow these instructions to
prevent the screwdriver from shorting against
the frame.
terminal of the good battery, then the other end to
the positive terminal of the dead battery.
terminal of the good battery, then to the frame of
the unit with the dead battery.
could cause sparking, and the gas in either
battery could explode.
WARNING: Be sure to shut the engine off,
remove ignition key, disconnect the spark
plug wire(s) and ground against the engine to
prevent unintended starting before removing
the belt(s).
All belts on your tractor are subject to wear and should
be replaced if any signs of wear are present.
IMPORTANT:The V-belts found on your tractor are
specially designed to engage and disengage safely. A
substitute (non-OEM) V-belt can be dangerous by not
disengaging completely. For a proper working machine,
use factory approved belts.
To change or replace the deck/PTO belt on you r tractor,
proceed as follows:
• Lower the deck by moving the deck lift lever into the
bottom notch on the right fender.
22

Remove the belt guards by removing the self-
tapping screws that fasten them to the deck.
To ease in removing the belt in later steps, loosen,
but do not remove, the bolt which secures the
pivoting idler pulley to the idler bracket.
See Figure 21.
Belt Guard
Pivoting Idler Pulley
3/8" Square Hole
pring _Joo_
Idler Bracket _-_
iiiiiiiiiiii!i::i!J_
Figure 21
• Insert a 3/8"-drive ratchet wrench (set to tighten)
into the square hole found in the idler bracket on
the left side of the deck's surface. See Figure 21.
• Grasp the ratchet's handle and pivot it toward the
tractor's right side to relieve tension on the belt.
• With belt tension relieved, carefully remove the
belt from around the left-hand spindle pulley.
WARNING: Avoid the possibility of a
pinching injury. Do not place your fingers on
the idler spring or between the belt and a
pulley while removing the belt.
IMPORTANT:Carefully allow the ratchet to pivot
rearward before removing it from the square hole.
• Remove the belt from around all pulleys, including
the deck idler pulley.
• Route the new belt as shown in and Figure 22.
• Remount the belt guards removed earlier.
Electric PTO Clutch
Pivoting Idler Pulley
Idler Bracket
Right Hand Pulley
(beneath belt guard)
Grease Fitting
ChangingtheTransmissionDriveBelts
Several components must be removed and special
tools (i.e. air/impact wrench) in order to change the
tractor's drive belts. See an authorized MTD Service
Dealer to have your drive belts replaced orphone
Customer Support as instructed on page 2 for
information on ordering an MTD Service Manual
Fixed Idler Pulley
Figure 22
HydrostaticTransmission
The hydrostatic transmission is sealed at the factory
and is maintenance free. The fluid level cannot be
checked nor can the oil be changed. Always keep the
area around the transmission cooling fan free of grass
and debris at all times.
50-inchDecks
Deck/ PTOBelt
_ing Screws
23

SECTION9: OFF-SEASONSTORAGE
Clean and lubricate the tractor as instructed in Section7:
MAINTAININGYOURLAWNTRACTORon page 19 of this
manual before storing for an extended period.
WARNING: Drain fuel only into an
approved container outdoors, away from an
open flame. Allow engine to cool. Extinguish
cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other sources of
ignition prior to draining fuel.
Follow the instructions in the Service, Storage &
Specifications section of the Briggs & Stratton
Operator/Owner Manual (or Kohlerengines Manual) for
proper engine care prior to storing your tractor.
WARNING: Never store the machine or
fuel container indoors where there is an open
flame, spark or pilot light such as on water
heater, furnace, clothes dryer or other gas
appliance.
SECTION10: ATTACHMENTS& ACCESSORIES
The following attachments and accessories are compatible for Lawn Tractor Model 615. See the retailer from
which you purchased your tractor, an authorized MTD Service Dealer or phone (800) 800-7310 for information
regarding price and availability.
NOTE: Lawn tractor model 615 is NOT designed for use with any type of ground-engaging attachments (e.g. tiller
or plow). Use of this type of equipment WILL void the tractor's warranty.
MODEL
0EM-190-192
0EM-190-218
0EM-190-604
0EM-190-607
0EM-190-658
0EM-190-672
0EM-190-032
0EM-190-833
Triple Bagger Grass Collector (for 50-inch Decks)
Rear Weight Kit
Yard-Mate TM Storage Container/Toolbox (mounts on rear of tractor)*
Deluxe Tractor Sunshade*
Tire Chains
Grille Guard Bumper Kit (mounts on front of tractor)
42-inch Two-stage Snow Thrower
42-inch Front Dozer Blade
DESCRIPTION
*Cannot be used with grass collector mounted.
24

SECTION11:TROUBLESHOOTING
Trouble
Engine fails to start
Engine runs erratic
Engine overheats Engine oil level low.
Engine hesitates at high RPM Spark plug gap too close. Remove spark plug and reset the gap.
Idles poorly Spark plug fouled, faulty or gap too Replace spark plug. Set plug gap.
Excessive vibration Cutting blade loose or unbalanced. Tighten blade and spindle. Balance blade.
Uneven cut Deck not balanced properly. Perform side-to-side deck adjustment.
Possible Cause(s)
PTO knob engaged.
Parking brake not engaged.
Spark plug wire(s) disconnected.
Throttle control lever not in correct
starting position.
Choke not activated.
Fuel tank empty, or stale fuel.
Blocked fuel line.
Faulty spark plug.
Engine flooded.
Unit running with CHOKE applied.
Spark plug wire(s) loose.
Blocked fuel line or stale fuel.
Vent in gas cap plugged.
Water or dirt in fuel system.
Dirty air cleaner.
Air flow restricted.
wide.
Dirty air cleaner. Replace air cleaner cartridge/element or clean pre-
Damaged or bent cutting blade. Replace blade.
Dull blade. Sharpen or replace blade.
Uneven tire pressure. Check tire pressure in all four tires.
Corrective Action
Disengage PTO.
Engage parking brake.
Connect wire(s) to spark plug.
Place throttle lever to FAST position.
Pull out the CHOKE control.
Fill tank with clean, fresh (less than 30 days old) gas.
Clean fuel line or replace fuel filter, if so equipped.
Clean, adjust gap or replace plug.
Crank engine with throttle in FAST position.
Deactivate CHOKE.
Connect and tighten spark plug wire(s).
Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean, fresh (less than 30
days old) gasoline. Replace fuel filter, ifso equipped.
Clear vent or replace cap if damaged.
Drain fuel tank. Refill with clean, fresh (less than 30
days old) gasoline.
Replace air cleaner cartridge/element or clean pre-
cleaner, if so equipped.
Fill crankcase with proper capacity and weight of oil.
Clean grass clippings and debris from around the
engine's cooling fins and blower housing.
cleaner, if so equipped.
25

NOTES
26

SECTION12: ILLUSTRATEDPARTSLIST
B&S OHVV-Twin
KohlerV-Twin
4 (for throttle)
21
Ref.
No.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
Part
No.
710-0227
710@599
710-0726
710-1237
710-1314A
710-1315
712-3005
721-0460
726-0205
725-0157
736-0300
751 B221535
751-0535
Description
Self-tapping Screw, #8-18 x.50
Self-tapping Screw, 1/4-20 x.50
Self-tapping Screw, 5/16-18 x.625
Screw, #10-32 x.625 (B&S OHV V-Twin)
Screw, 5/16-18 x.625 (B&S OHV V-Twin
Self-tapping Screw, 3/8-16 x 1.25
Flange Lock Nut, 3/8-16
Exhaust Gasket (B&S OHV V-Twin)
Hose Clamp
Cable Tie
Lock Washer,.406 x.875 x.059
Casing Clamp (B&S OHV V-Twin)
Fuel Line Hose
Ref. Part
No. No.
14 751-0564A
15 751-0616A
751-0805
16 751-0650B
751-0645A
17 751-0651B
751-0644B
18 751-3140
19 751-3141
20 751-3142
21 783-0615D
22 783-0625C
23 712-0271
(deflector must
face forward)
Description
Muffler Deflector
Muffler, Twin Inlet (B&S OHV V-Twin)
Muffler, Twin Inlet (Kohler V-Twin)
RH Exhaust Pipe (B&S OHV V-Twin)
RH Exhaust Pipe (Kohler V-Twin)
LH Exhaust Pipe (B&S OHV V-Twin)
LH Exhaust Pipe (Kohler V-Twin)
Oil Drain Valve
Oil Drain Hose
Oil Drain Cap
Muffler Heat Shield
Engine Heat Shield (B&S OHV V-Twin)
Hex Nut, 1/4-20 (B&S OHV V-Twin)
27

Model615
I
\
; i
; i
\\x\\\\\\\\\\\
\
\
28

Model615
Ref.
No.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
Part
No.
710-0726
710-0599
710-0751
746-1086
746-1085A
731-04949
738-04091
783-04551
783-04552
783-04578
783-04577
783-04621
712-04064
751-0658E
751-0603
710-1017
710-0895
710-3217
712-0142
731-1857
731-05005
731-04215
Description
Screw, 5/16-12 x.750
Self-tapping Screw, 1/4-20 x.5
Hex Cap Screw, 1/4-20 x.62
Throttle Cable
Choke Knob/Cable
Headlight Lens
Shoulder Screw,.43 x.29
Hood, 1 Style
Grill, 1 Style
Pivot Bracket - RH
Pivot Bracket - LH
Grill Pivot Bracket
Flange Lock Nut, 1/4-20
Fuel Tank, Three Gallon
Fuel Cap
Screw, 1/4-14 x.625
Self-tapping Screw, 1/4-15 x.75
Truss Phillips Screw, #8-32 x.375
Hex Nut, #8-32
Throttle Control Knob
Dash Panel (Models w/Electric PTO)
Cruise Control Button
Ref. Part
No. No.
22. 731-04217
23. 736-0142
24. 747-1196
25. 629-04083t
26. 731-05165
27. 725-1752t
28. 710-0642
29. 783-0462
30. 725-0963
31. 736-0270
32. 710-1611B
33. 725-1649
34. 710-1652
35. 731-05173
36. 725-1745
725-1744
37. 725-04227
38. 725-04036A
39. 783-04323B
40. 783-04285B
-- 629-04104t
-- 629-04137t
t Not Shown
Description
Parking Brake Button
Flat Washer, 9/32 x 1/2 x 1/16
Brake/Cruise Pivot Rod
Headlight Wire Harness
Hood Plenum
Electric PTO Switch
Self-tapping Screw, 1/4-20 x.75
Switch Brkt., Electric PTO
Lamp
Bell Washer,.265 x.75 x.062
Screw, 5/16-18 x.75
Headlight Socket
Hex Index Screw, 1/4-20 x.625
Hood Cover, 5 Style
Ignition Key w/plastic cover
Ignition Key w/o plastic cover
Ignition Switch
Systems Ind. Monitor w/Hour Meter
LH Dash Support Plate
RH Dash Support Plate
Wire Harness (B&S Intek Twin)
Wire Harness (Kohler Twin)
29

Model615
J
y
J
/
/
/
./
1-
jJ
j-
.J
i
f
J
1.-
.J
J
\\\\\
Q
...............................' ..... ,,_iiii_iii!!ili_ii_i_i!_iii¸¸_¸¸¸_¸¸_,,
J
4
f_
-_.........._2j,"_......_,"_iiilJ¸¸_'¸¸¸'¸¸¸i,,_ ii:
30

Model615
REF.
NO.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
PART
NO.
710-1268
712-04063
712-3027
720-0309A
726-0201
731-04074
732-0499
732-1184
736-0275
736-3019
738-0137A
738-0296
738-0966
783-0209C
783-0611
783-0738B
783-0739A
783-0753
757-04012B
726-3046
735-0656
735-0657
710-0260A
710-0599
710-0726
710-0895
731-1990
731-1993A
736-3078
783-04333A
783-0677
783-1489A
710-0227
726-0279
725-1303
725-1439
726-0278
683-04079
712-04065
714-0104
714-0111
716-0106A
720-0311
732-0874
738-0138A
738-0380
741-0225
746-0968
747-04155
756-1154
783-0678A
736-0607
DESCRIPTION
Screw, #10-16 x.375
Nut, Flange Lock, 5/16-18, GrF, Nylon
Nut, Flange Lock, 1/4-20
Seat Adjuster Grip
Nut, Speed,.3125 ID
Spacer
Compression Spring,.41 x 1.5
Spring, Extension,.84 Dia. x 4.6
Wash, Flat,.344 x.688 x.065
Wash, Flat,.531x 1.062 x.134
Screw, Shoulder,.340 x.285,1/4-20
Screw, Shoulder,.437 x.268, 5/16-18
Screw, Shoulder,.50 x.925, 3/8-16
Seat Bracket, Lift
Seat Stop
Seat Pivot Bracket
Seat Adjustment Lever
Seat Adjustment Selector
High Back Seat, Yellow
Ratchet Clip
RH Foot Pad, Rubber
LH Foot Pad, Rubber
Bolt, Carriage, 5/16-18,.62, Grl
Screw, 1/4-20, 0.500
Screw, 5/16-12, 0.750
Screw, 1/4-15, 0.750
Cover, Lift Lever
Cover, w/Cup Holder
Washer, Flat,.344 x 1.0 x.063
Fender
Adjustment Bracket, Lift
Mounting Bracket, Seat
Screw, #8-18 x.50
Plate, Insulator
Spring Switch, Outer
Spring Switch, Inner
Plate, Insulator Boss
Shaft Assembly, Lift
Nut, Flange Lock, 3/8-16, GrF, Nylon
Pin, Cotter,.072 Dia. x 1.13
Pin, Cotter, 3/32, 1.0
Ring, EType,.625 Dia.
Grip, Handle, 1/2
Spring, Torsion
Screw, 5/16-18 x.620 Gr2
Screw, Shld,.50 x.27, 3/8-16
Bearing, Hex Flange
Cable, Lift, 16.16
Handle, Lift
Pulley, Roller
Arm, Lift
Lock Washer, 5/16
31

Model615
/ /
/
,,9................_ _
32

Model615
REF.
NO.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
PART
NO.
710-04095
710-0514
710-0643
711-1408
711-1409A
712-0214
712-04065
712-0459
712-3004A
712-0240
717-1550E
717-1554
723-0448A
736-3004
736-3084
710-0726
738-04154
738-1001A
741-0475
738-0143
783-0726D
783-0727C
783-0728
631-04008
731-04065
738-1011A
734-2290A
736-0316
714-04039
719-04105
726-0341
638-04003
638-04004
711-0332
714-04023
783-0720A
741-0656A
634-04087
734-04040
634-04081
DESCRIPTION
Hex Screw, 3/8-16, 1.00, Gr5
Hex Screw, 3/8-16, 1.00, Gr5
Hex Screw, 5/16-18, 1.00, Gr5
Link, Drag, RH
Link, Drag, LH
Nut, Hex Lock, 3/8-24
Nut, Flange Lock, 3/8-16, Grf, Nylon
Nut, Flange Lock, 7/16-20
Nut, Flange Lock, 5/16-18, Gr5
Nut, Jam, 7/16-20, Gr2
Gear, Steering, 11/90 Ratio
Gear, Pinion, Steering
Ball Joint, 7/16-20, Lock
Washer, Flat,.406 x.875 x.105
Washer, Flat,.51 x 1.12x.06
Screw, 5/16-12, 0.750
Spacer, Shoulder,.38 x 1.00 x.31
Shaft, Steering,.625 OD x 24.25 Lg
Plastic Bushing.380 ID
Screw, Shoulder,.498 x.340, 3/8-16
Pivot Bracket, Support RH
Pivot Bracket, Support LH
Pivot Bracket, Bar
Steering Wheel, 3 Spoke, Soft Grip
Steering Wheel Cover
Shlder Screw,.5 x 2.2, 3/8-16
Deluxe Hub Cap
Flat Washer,.78 x 1.589 x.06
Cotter Pin, 5/32 x 1.25
Cast Iron Pivot Bar
Push Cap
LH Axle Assembly,.750
RH Axle Assembly,.750
Pin, Clevis,.50 x.78
Cotter Pin, Inter,.080 x 1.5625
Front Adjustment Bracket
Hex Flange Bearing
Wheel Assembly Complete, 15 x 6
Tire Only 15 x 6 x 6
Rim Only w/Valve Stem
33

Model615
/
/
IMPORTANT:For a proper
working machine, use
Factory Approved Parts.
V-belts are designed to
engage and disengage
safely. A substitute (non
OEM) V-belt can be
dangerous by not
disengaging completely.
@
\\
34

Model615
Ref. Part
No. No.
1 17840
2 618-0319
3 710-0627
4 710-0227
5 710-0344
6 710-0599
7 710-0726
8 710-0502A
9 710-1266
10 710-3007
11 710-3011
12 710-0809
13 711-0832
14 736-0320
15 712-0291
16 712-3066
17 712-04063
18 712-0431
19 750-0566A
20 712-3017
21 714-0104
22 714-0111
23 725-0157
24 725-1644
25 726-0154
26 726-0320
27 731-04682
28 731-1449A
29 732-0209
30 732-0429A
31 732-0716
32 732-0729
33 732-0994
34 732-3118
35 736-0169
36 736-0866
37 736-0921
38 736-3010
39 738-0372B
40 747-04139
41 747-1149
42 747-1151
43 748-0334
44 731-2290A
Description
Transmission Mounting Bracket
Hydrostatic Transmission
Screw, 5/16-24 x.750
AB Screw #8-18 x 0.5
Hex Bolt 3/8-16 x 1.5
Screw 1/4-20 x 0.5
AB Screw 5/16-12 x 0.75
Sems Screw 3/8-16 x 1.250
Hex Bolt 5/16-18 x 3.5
Carriage Screw
Hex Bolt 3/8-16 x 2.25
Screw, 1/4-20 x 1.250
Ferrule
Flat Washer,.38 x 1.38 x.125
Hex Lock Nut 1/4-20
Hex Nut, 1/2-20
Flange Lock Nut, 5/16-18
Flanged Lock Nut 3/8-16
Spacer,.260 x.372 x 1.030 Lg
Hex Nut 3/8-16
Cotter Pin
Cotter Pin
Cable Tie (not shown)
Switch
Cable Tie (Not shown)
Insulator Nut Plate
Sieve, 0.758 x 0.821 x 1.5
Blade Fan
Extension Spring
Extension Spring
Extension Spring
Wire Ring
Extension Spring
Extension Spring
Lock Washer
Flat Washer
Lock Washer
Flat Washer
Shoulder Spacer
Brake Rod
Bypass Rod
Control Rod
Transaxle Spacer
Hub Cap
Ref. I Part
No. I No.
45 1754-0461
46 1756-0116A
47 1756-0981B
48 1756-04111
49 1783-04442
50 1783-0810B
51 1783-1019
52 1647-0031B
53 1647-0049A
54 1683-0267C
55 1710-0650
56 1736-0242
57 1710-1260A
58 1710-1611B
59 1711-04159B
60 1712-04065
61 1712-3004A
62 1750-0535
63 1736-0119
64 1732-0335
65 1732-0955
66 1732-0963
67 1735-0662
68 1735-3049
69 1736-3008
70 1738-0155
_" '738-0380
72 1741-0225
73 1741-3065B
74 1747-04093
75 1747-04096
76 1748-04039B
_ '783-04612
78 1683-04185
79 1783-0773A
80 1710-0224
81 117962
82 1725-04039
83 1710-1007
84 1736-0430
85 1736-0187
86 1634-0177
734-1873
634-0070
Description
V Belt, A x 78" Lg
Idler Pulley
Flat Idler Pulley
Input Pulley
Idler Bracket
Torq Bracket
Actuator Bracket
Brake Control Assembly
Hydrostatic Control Assembly
Pedal Assembly
TT Screw 5/16-18 x 0.875
Bell Washer,.340 x.872 x.060
LD Screw 5/16-18 x 0.75
TT Screw 5/16-18 x 0.75
Pin
Flange Lock Nut, 3/8-16
Flange Lock Nut, 5/16-18
Spacer,.3801D x.625OD x.21
Lock Washer, 5/16
Compression Spring
Extension Spring
Extension Spring
Control Pedal
Brake Control Pedal
Flat Washer
Shoulder Screw
Shoulder Screw
Hex Flange Bearing
Hex Flange Bearing
Brake Lock Control Rod
Cruise Control Rod
Cruise Latch
Steering Support Bracket
Lockout Bracket
Brake Pedal
Screw, #10-16 x.500
Switch Plate
Interlock Switch
Screw, 3/8-16 x 1.500
Flat Washer,.350 x 1.59 x.062
Flat Washer,.64 x 1.24 x.06
Wheel Complete, 20 x 10 x 8
Tire Only, 20 x 10 x 8
Rim Only
35

Model615
/
/
i\ !/)
\4j _
36

Model615
REF.
NO.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
PART
NO.
710-0726
710-0859
710-3157A
712-04065
717-04174
736-0277
748-0415B
756-0639A
783-04419A
783-04467
710-0703
712-0271
712-3087
725-1750A
738-1132
683-04173
710-0607
710-0642
710-3005
712-04064
712-3006
732-04035
736-0222
736-0329
738-04058
747-04121A
783-0349
783-04329A
783-04375A
710-0599
725-1426A
738-1132
710-0703
712-3087
783-04612
DESCRIPTION
Screw, 5/16-12, 0.75
Screw, 3/8-16, 2.50, Gr5
Screw, 7/16-20, 3.25, Gr5, Lock
Nut, Flange Lock, 3/8-16, GrF, Nylon
PTO Clutch, Electric
Washer, Flat, 1.031 x 1.620 x.095
Spacer,.385 ID x.635 OD x 1.54
Pulley, Engine, 3.56 Diameter
Clutch Bracket
Deck Bracket, Up-Stop
Screw, Carriage, 1/4-20,.75, Gr5
Nut, Sems, 1/4-20
Nut, Wing, 1/4-20
Battery, 235 CCA
Screw, Shoulder,.250 x.150, 1/4-20
Frame Assembly, Lower
Screw, 5/16-18, 0.500
Screw, 1/4-20, 0.750
Screw, 3/8-16, 1.25, Gr5
Nut, Flange Lock, 1/4-20, GrF, Nylon
Nut, Hex, 1/4-20, Gr5 (B&S IntekTwin)
Spring, Compression, 1.28 OD x 3.125
Washer, Lock, 1/4, External
Washer, Lock, 1/4
Spacer, Shoulder,.38 x 1.0x.70
Hold Rod, Battery
Battery Tray
Seat Bracket, Frame
Frame, Upper
Screw, 1/4-20, 0.50 (B&S Intek Twin)
Solenoid, 12V, 100 Amp (B&S Intek Twin)
Screw, Shoulder,.250 x.15, 1/4-20
Screw, Carriage, 1/4-20,.75
Nut, Wing, 1/4-20
Support Bracket, Steering
37

Model615
@
/'
@@
/
/ // "
/
/ Attach to RH Lift
,'2_,_ Arm
Deck Lift Spring
/'
/'
//
38

Model615
RER PART
NO. NO.
1 16606
2 618-04125
3 683-0254B
4 683-04098
5 683-04075
6 703-3279
7 710-0347
8 710-3103
9 710-0528
10 710-0599
11 710-0607
12 710-1260A
13 710-3168
14 710-3178
15 736-0300
16 712-04065
17 712-0417A
18 712-04063
19 712-0431
20 712-3010
21 712-3019
22 731-04651
23 714-0470
24 732-0934
25 717-04074
26 712-3083
27 732-0306A
28 732-0459B
DESCRIPTION
Hook, Retainer
Spindle Assembly
Hanger Bracket Assembly
Idler Bracket
Weldment, 50-inch Deck
Chute Stop
Screw, 3/8-16, 1.75
Screw, 5/16-18 x 2.00
Screw, 5/16-18, 1.25, Gr5
Screw, 1/4-20 x 0.5
Screw, 5/16-18 x.500
Screw, 5/16-18 x.75
Screw, Carriage, 3/8-16 x 1.0
Screw, Carriage, 3/8-16 x.75
Washer, Flat,.406 x.875 x.059
Nut, Nylon Lock, 3/8-16
Nut, Hex, Flange, 5/8-18
Nut, Nylon Lock, 5/16-18
Nut, Flange Lock, 3/8-16
Nut, Hex, 5/16-18, Gr5
Nut, 7/16-14
Mulch Plug
Pin, Cotter, 1/8 x 1.25
Extension Spring, 1.15 Dia. x 5.99 Lg.
Deck Adjustment Gear
Lock Nut, Hex, 1/2-13, Nylon
Spring, Compression,.531 x 1.75
Spring, Extension,.94 x 6.74
REF.
NO.
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
PART
NO.
734-04039
734-0973
736-0119
736-0407
736-0406
737-3000
738-0373
738-3005A
742-04053A
747-1116
738-04146
754-04048
756-04129
747-1324
783-04399
783-04400
783-04414
783-04415
712-0206
712-0229
712-0641
736-0225
736-3084
732-3070
783-04470
711-1762
731-3131A
631-04070
DESCRIPTION
Deck Wheel, 5.0
Deck Wheel, 5.0
Washer, Lock, 5/16, Regular Duty
Washer, Bell,.45 x 1.0 x.062
Washer, Flat,.442 x 1.38 x.060
Fitting, Lube, 3/16
Shoulder Screw
Screw, Shoulder,.68 x 1.59
Blade
Rod, Handle, Deck Release.375 Dia
Screw Plug, M16x 1.5
Belt, V-Type, Aramid
Pulley, Idler, 3.5"
Rod, Deck Adjustment
LH Belt Cover
RH Belt Cover
Deck Skirt, Center
Deck Skirt, RH
Hex Nut, 1/2-13
Push Nut, 3/8
Hex Nut, M16-1.5
Lock Washer, 5/8
Flat Washer,.51 x 1.12x.06
Torsion Spring,.441D x 2.10
Chute Bracket
Hinge Pin
Chute Deflector
Chute Assembly (Includes Ref.# 52-55)
IMPORTANT:For a proper
working machine, use
Factory Approved Parts.
V-belts are designed to
engage and disengage
safely. A substitute (non
OEM) V-belt can be
dangerous by not
disengaging completely.
39

MANUFACTURER'S LIMITED WARRANTY FOR:
YaRD.MaNTM
®
The limited warranty set forth below is given by MTD LLC with
respect to new merchandise purchased and used in the
United States, its possessions and territories.
"MTD" warrants this product against defects in material and
workmanship for a period of two (2) years commencing on the
date of original purchase and will, at its option, repair or
replace, free of charge, any part found to be defective in
materials or workmanship. This limited warranty shall only
apply if this product has been operated and maintained in
accordance with the Operator's Manual furnished with the
product, and has not been subject to misuse, abuse,
commercial use, neglect, accident, improper maintenance,
alteration, vandalism, theft, fire, water, or damage because of
other peril or natural disaster. Damage resulting from the
installation or use of any part, accessory or attachment not
approved by MTD for use with the product(s) covered by this
manual will void your warranty as to any resulting damage.
Normal wear parts are warranted to be free from defects in
material and workmanship for a period of thirty (30) days from
the date of purchase. Normal wear parts include, but are not
limited to items such as: batteries, belts, blades, blade
adapters, grass bags, rider deck wheels, seats, snow thrower
skid shoes, shave plates, auger spiral rubber and tires.
HOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE: Warranty service is available,
WITH PROOF OF PURCHASE, through your local authorized
service dealer. To locate the dealer in your area, check your
Yellow Pages, or contact MTD LLC at P.O. Box 361131,
Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019, or call 1-800-800-7310 or log
on to our Web site at www.mtdproducts.com.
This limited warranty does not provide coverage inthe
following cases:
a,
The engine or component parts thereof. These items
may carry a separate manufacturer's warranty. Refer
to applicable manufacturer's warranty for terms and
conditions.
b,
Log splitter pumps, valves, and cylinders have a
separate one year warranty.
C.
Routine maintenance items such as lubricants, filters,
blade sharpening, tune-ups, brake adjustments, clutch
adjustments, deck adjustments, and normal
deterioration of the exterior finish due to use or
exposure.
d,
Service completed by someone other than an
authorized service dealer.
e,
MTD does not extend any warranty for products sold or
exported outside of the United States, its possessions
and territories, except those sold through MTD's
authorized channels of export distribution.
f,
Replacement parts that are not genuine MTD parts.
Transportation charges and service calls.
g.
No implied warranty, including any implied warranty of
merchantability of fitness for a particular purpose,
applies after the applicable period of express written
warranty above as to the parts as identified. No other
express warranty, whether written or oral, except as
mentioned above, given by any person or entity,
including a dealer or retailer, with respect to any product,
shall bind MTD. During the period of the warranty, the
exclusive remedy is repair or replacement of the product
as set forth above.
The provisions as set forth in this warranty provide the
sole and exclusive remedy arising from the sale. MTD
shall not be liable for incidental or consequential loss or
damage including, without limitation, expenses incurred
for substitute or replacement lawn care services or for
rental expenses to temporarily replace a warranted
product.
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of
incidental or consequential damages, or limitations on how
long an implied warranty lasts, so the above exclusions or
limitations may not apply to you.
In no event shall recovery of any kind be greater than the
amount of the purchase price of the product sold. Alteration
of safety features of the product shall void this warranty.
You assume the risk and liability for loss, damage, or injury to
you and your property and/or to others and their property
arising out of the misuse or inability to use the product.
This limited warranty shall not extend to anyone other than the
original purchaser orto the person for whom it was purchased
as a gift.
HOW STATE LAW RELATES TO THIS WARRANTY: This
limited warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may
also have other rights which vary from state to state.
IMPORTANT:Owner must present Original Proof of
Purchase to obtain warranty coverage.
MTD LLC, P.O.BOX361131CLEVELAND,OHIO44136-0019; Phone:1-800-800-7310