Mountfield MTF 98M SD Lawn Tractor

Introduction

Thank you for choosing the Mountfield MTF 98M SD Lawn Tractor. This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your new equipment. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the machine and keep it for future reference.

This lawn tractor is designed for maintaining large lawn areas with its powerful 352cc single-cylinder engine and 98 cm twin-blade cutting deck. It features a side discharge system and can be adapted for mulching with an optional kit.

Safety is paramount. Always follow all safety instructions and warnings provided in this manual to prevent injury or damage.

Product Overview

The Mountfield MTF 98M SD is a robust ride-on lawn tractor built for efficiency and ease of use. Key features include:

• Powerful Stiga ST350 352cc single-cylinder engine.
• 98 cm wide twin-blade cutting deck.
• 7 cutting height positions (25-80 mm).
• Manual transmission with 5 forward and 1 reverse gear.
• Side discharge functionality.
• Option for mulching with a separately available kit.
• Headlights for improved visibility.

Setup

Unpacking and Initial Inspection

Carefully remove the lawn tractor from its packaging. Inspect for any signs of damage during transit. Ensure all components listed in the packing list (refer to your product's specific packing list) are present.

Fuel and Oil

• Fill the fuel tank with unleaded gasoline. Refer to the engine manual for specific fuel requirements.
• Check the engine oil level and fill with the recommended oil type if necessary. Do not overfill.

Battery Connection

Ensure the 12V battery is securely connected. Check battery terminals for corrosion and ensure they are tight.

Seat Adjustment

Adjust the operator's seat for comfortable and safe operation. Ensure you can easily reach all controls.

Attaching Optional Accessories

If using the optional mulching kit or tow hitch, follow the specific instructions provided with those accessories for proper installation.

Operating

Starting the Engine

1. Ensure the parking brake is engaged.
2. Place the transmission in neutral.
3. Insert the key into the ignition switch (see Figure 3) and turn it to the START position. Release the key once the engine starts.

Transmission and Driving

The tractor features a manual transmission with 5 forward gears and 1 reverse gear. Select the appropriate gear for your mowing conditions. Familiarize yourself with the gear shift lever and pedal operation before mowing.

Cutting Height Adjustment

The cutting deck offers 7 height positions, adjustable between 25 mm and 80 mm. Use the cutting height lever to select the desired height. Adjusting the cutting height allows for optimal grass cutting based on grass type and length.

Side Discharge Operation

The MTF 98M SD is designed for side discharge. Grass clippings are expelled from the side chute (see Figure 4). Ensure the area to the side of the mower is clear of people and obstacles during operation.

Mulching (Optional)

If you have installed the optional mulching kit, the tractor will finely cut grass clippings and return them to the lawn as natural fertilizer. Follow the mulching kit's instructions for proper use.

Headlights

The integrated headlights provide illumination for operation in low-light conditions. Consult the control panel diagram for headlight activation.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and optimal performance of your Mountfield lawn tractor. Always ensure the engine is off and cool, and the spark plug wire is disconnected before performing any maintenance.

Cleaning the Cutting Deck

Cleaning the cutting deck after each use is simple. Connect a garden hose to the deck nozzle, turn on the water, and engage the blades briefly to clean the underside of the deck. This prevents grass buildup and maintains cutting efficiency.

General Cleaning

Wipe down the exterior of the tractor with a damp cloth. Avoid using high-pressure washers directly on electrical components or engine parts.

Engine Maintenance

• Check engine oil level before each use. Change oil according to the engine manual's schedule.
• Clean or replace the air filter regularly, especially in dusty conditions.
• Inspect the spark plug and replace if necessary.

Blade Maintenance

Regularly inspect the cutting blades for sharpness and damage. Dull or damaged blades should be sharpened or replaced by a qualified service technician.

Battery Care

Keep battery terminals clean and free of corrosion. If the tractor is stored for extended periods, consider using a battery maintainer to prevent discharge.

Troubleshooting

This section provides solutions to common issues you might encounter. For problems not listed here or if solutions do not resolve the issue, please contact a qualified service technician.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For information regarding warranty coverage, service, or technical support, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or contact your authorized STIGA dealer. You can also visit the official STIGA website for further assistance.