1. Introduction
This instruction manual provides detailed guidance for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your MTD Genuine Parts Mulch Kit, model OEM-190-116. This kit is designed to convert your tractor's cutting deck to a mulching system, allowing grass clippings to be finely cut and returned to the lawn as natural fertilizer. This kit is compatible with select 38-inch and 42-inch tractor decks.
2. Safety Information
Always prioritize safety when working with lawn care equipment. Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury.
- Read Your Tractor Manual: Always refer to your tractor's owner's manual for specific safety precautions and instructions related to your equipment.
- Disconnect Power: Before performing any installation, maintenance, or adjustments, ensure the engine is off, the ignition key is removed, and the spark plug wire is disconnected to prevent accidental starting.
- Wear Protective Gear: Always wear heavy gloves, eye protection, and sturdy footwear when handling mower blades or working under the deck.
- Sharp Blades: Mower blades are extremely sharp. Handle them with extreme caution.
- Stable Surface: Perform all work on a flat, stable surface. Use appropriate jacks or stands to secure the tractor if lifting is required.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all components are present in your mulch kit package:
- Mulching Blades (2)
- Mulching Plug / Baffle (1)
- Mounting Hardware (bolts, washers, nuts)
Image: One of the two mulching blades included in the kit. These blades are designed to create multiple cuts for finer grass clippings.
Image: The mulching plug or baffle, which seals the discharge opening of the mower deck to keep clippings under the deck for mulching.
Image: The various bolts, washers, and nuts provided for securing the mulching blades and plug to the mower deck.
4. Setup and Installation
Follow these steps to install the mulch kit on your tractor's cutting deck:
- Prepare the Tractor:
- Park the tractor on a flat, level surface.
- Engage the parking brake.
- Turn off the engine and remove the ignition key.
- Disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug to prevent accidental starting.
- Access the Mower Deck:
- Raise the mower deck to its highest position.
- If necessary, remove the mower deck from the tractor for easier access. Refer to your tractor's owner's manual for deck removal instructions.
- Carefully tilt the deck to expose the underside.
- Remove Existing Blades:
- Using a wrench, remove the bolts securing the existing mower blades. You may need to brace the blade with a block of wood to prevent it from turning.
- Remove the old blades and any associated washers or spacers. Note their orientation for reference.
- Install Mulching Blades:
- Position the new mulching blades onto the blade spindles. Ensure the cutting edge of the blade is facing the correct direction (typically upwards towards the deck).
- Secure each blade with the provided mounting hardware (bolts and washers). Tighten the bolts to the torque specifications recommended in your tractor's owner's manual.
- Install Mulching Plug / Baffle:
- Locate the discharge opening on your mower deck.
- Insert the mulching plug/baffle into the discharge opening, ensuring it fits snugly and seals the opening.
- Secure the plug/baffle using the provided hardware, if applicable. Some designs may snap into place.
- Reassemble and Test:
- Reattach the mower deck to the tractor if it was removed.
- Lower the mower deck.
- Reconnect the spark plug wire.
- Start the tractor and engage the blades briefly to ensure smooth operation and no unusual vibrations. If vibrations occur, turn off the engine immediately and recheck blade installation.
5. Operating Instructions
To achieve optimal mulching performance, consider the following:
- Cut Dry Grass: Mulch dry grass whenever possible. Wet grass tends to clump and does not mulch as effectively.
- Cut Less Height: Avoid removing more than one-third of the grass blade length at a time. If the grass is very tall, make two passes, lowering the deck for the second pass.
- Maintain Engine Speed: Operate the tractor at full throttle to ensure maximum blade tip speed for effective mulching.
- Reduce Ground Speed: Mow at a slightly slower ground speed than you would when side-discharging. This allows the blades more time to cut the grass clippings into finer pieces.
- Overlap Passes: Overlap your mowing passes slightly to ensure even distribution of clippings and a uniform cut.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your mulch kit components will ensure longevity and optimal performance.
- Blade Sharpening: Mulching blades should be sharpened regularly, typically after every 25 hours of operation or at the start of each mowing season. Dull blades tear grass, leading to an unhealthy lawn and poor mulching.
- Blade Balancing: After sharpening, ensure blades are properly balanced to prevent excessive vibration, which can damage the mower deck and spindle bearings.
- Blade Inspection: Periodically inspect blades for bends, cracks, or excessive wear. Replace damaged blades immediately.
- Clean Deck: After each use, clean the underside of the mower deck to remove accumulated grass clippings. This prevents rust and ensures proper airflow for mulching.
- Inspect Mulching Plug: Check the mulching plug/baffle for damage or wear. Ensure it forms a tight seal to keep clippings contained under the deck.
7. Troubleshooting
Refer to this section for common issues and their potential solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Poor mulching, large clippings | Dull blades, wet grass, grass too tall, mowing too fast | Sharpen blades, wait for grass to dry, cut less height, reduce ground speed |
| Excessive vibration from deck | Unbalanced blades, bent blades, loose blade bolts | Balance or replace blades, check for bends, tighten blade bolts to specifications |
| Grass clumping under deck | Wet grass, dirty deck, mulching plug not sealed | Wait for grass to dry, clean deck, ensure mulching plug is properly installed and sealed |
8. Specifications
- Model Number: OEM-190-116
- Compatibility: Tractors with 38-inch and 42-inch cutting decks
- Product Dimensions: 27.99 x 8.74 x 6.5 inches (approximate package dimensions)
- Item Weight: 2.3 pounds (approximate package weight)
- Manufacturer: Arnold Corporation (for MTD Genuine Parts)
9. Warranty Information
This MTD Genuine Parts Mulch Kit is covered by the manufacturer's warranty. For specific details regarding warranty coverage, duration, and claims process, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official MTD Genuine Parts website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty purposes.
10. Support and Contact
For technical assistance, replacement parts, or further inquiries regarding your MTD Genuine Parts Mulch Kit, please contact MTD Genuine Parts customer support.
- Online Support: Visit the official MTD Genuine Parts Store for product information and support resources.
- Manufacturer: Arnold Corporation