770-10250A

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770-10250A

OPERATOR'S MANUAL
Pedal Drive Lawn Tractor Model 609

Model Z609H Shown

IMPORTANT: READ SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY
Warning: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-cov-
ered, 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 368022 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-9722.
MTD PRODUCTS INC. P.O. BOX 368022 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-9722
TROY-BILT® is a registered trademark owned by Garden Way Incorporated of Troy, New York.

PRINTED IN U.S.A.

FORM NO. 770-10250A (10/99)

SECTION 1: TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE FINDING YOUR MODEL NUMBER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 CALLING CUSTOMER SUPPORT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 SAFETY LABLES FOUND ON YOUR UNIT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 SLOPE GAUGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 ATTACHMENTS & ACCESSORIES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 TRACTOR SET-UP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 CONTROLS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 OPERATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 ADJUSTMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 MAINTENANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 LUBRICATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 PARTS LIST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 WARRANY INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Back Cover

SECTION 2: FINDING YOUR MODEL NUMBER
This Operator's Manual is an important part of your new rider. It will help you assemble, prepare and maintain your rider. Please read and understand what it says. Before you start to prepare your tractor for its first use, please locate the model plate and copy the information from it in this Operator's Manual. The information on the model plate is very important if you need help from your dealer or the MTD customer support department.
· Every tractor has a model plate. You can locate it by lifting the seat and looking at the seat bracket.
· An example of what the model plate will look like is shown below.

XXX-X-XXX-X-XXX XXXXXXXXXXX

This is where your model number will be. This is where your serial number will be.

Copy the model number here:

MTD PRODUCTS INC

P.O. BOX 368022

Copy the serial number here:

CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136

SECTION 3: CALLING CUSTOMER SUPPORT
· LOCATE YOUR MODEL NUMBER AND SERIAL NUMBER -- Record this information in the space provided. To find your unit's specific model number and serial number, see SECTION 2: FINDING YOUR MODEL NUMBER.
· If you are having difficulty assembling this product or if you have any questions regarding the controls, operation or maintenance of this unit, please call the Customer Support Department.
· Customer Support can be reached by dialing: 1- (330) 220-4MTD (4683)
or 1- (800)-800-7310
· Please have your model number and serial number ready when you call. · Although both numbers are important, you will be asked to enter only your serial number before your
call can be processed.

SECTION 4: IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES
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 YOUR LAWN MOWER. FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THESE INSTRUCTIONS MAY RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY. WHEN YOU SEE THIS SYMBOL, HEED ITS WARNING.
WARNING: The Engine Exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to
the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.

DANGER: Your lawn mower was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in
this manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can result in serious injury. This lawn mower is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

1. GENERAL OPERATION
· Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the operator's manual and on the machine before starting. Keep this manual in a safe place for future and regular reference and for ordering replacement parts.
· Only allow responsible individuals familiar with the instructions to operate the machine. Know controls and how to stop the machine quickly.
· Do not put hands or feet under cutting deck or near rotating parts.
· Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc., which could be picked up and thrown by the blade. A small object may have been overlooked and could be accidentally thrown by the mower in any direction and cause injury to you or a bystander. To help avoid a thrown objects injury, keep children, bystanders and helpers at least 75 feet from the mower while it is in operation. Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during operation or while performing an adjustment or repair, to protect eyes from foreign objects. Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel drives, walks or roads.
· Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.
· Never carry passengers.
· Disengage blade(s) before shifting into reverse and backing up. Always look down and behind before and while backing.
· Be aware of the mower and attachment discharge direction and do not point it at anyone. Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass catcher or the chute guard in place.
· Slow down before turning. Operate the machine smoothly. Avoid erratic operation and excessive speed.

· Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn off blade(s), place transmission in neutral, set park brake, stop engine and remove key before dismounting.
· Turn off blade(s) when not mowing.
· Stop engine and wait until blade(s) comes to a complete stop before (a) removing grass catcher or unclogging chute, or (b) making any repairs, adjusting or removing any grass or debris.
· Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
· Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
· Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways.
· Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into a trailer or truck. This unit should not be driven up or down a ramp onto a trailer or truck under power, because the unit could tip over, causing serious personal injury. The unit must be pushed manually on a ramp to load or unload properly.
· Never make a cutting height adjustment while engine is running if operator must dismount to do so.
· Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and closefitting slacks and shirts. Do not wear loose fitting clothes or jewelry. They can be caught in moving parts. Never operate a unit in bare feet, sandals, or sneakers.
· Check overhead clearance carefully before driving under power lines, wires, bridges or low hanging tree branches, before entering or leaving buildings, or in any other situation where the operator may be struck or pulled from the unit, which could result in serious injury.

· Disengage all attachment clutches, thoroughly depress the brake pedal, and shift into neutral before attempting to start engine.
· Your mower is designed to cut normal residential grass of a height no more than 10". Do not attempt to mow through unusually tall, dry grass (e.g., pasture) or piles of dry leaves. Debris may build up on the mower deck or contact the engine exhaust presenting a potential fire hazard.
2. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to loss of control and tipover accidents which can result in severe injury or death. All slopes require extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you 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° as shown on the slope gauge, do not operate this unit on that area or serious injury could result.
DO:
· Mow up and down slopes, not across.
· Remove obstacles such as rocks, limbs, etc.
· Watch for holes, ruts or bumps. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
· Use slow speed. Always keep machine in gear when going down slopes to take advantage of engine braking action.
· Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for wheel weights or counterweights to improve stability.
· Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments. These can change the stability of the machine.
· 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.
· Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction, disengage the blade(s) and proceed slowly straight down the slope.
DO NOT:
· Do not turn on slopes unless necessary; then, turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.
· 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 or ditch, or if an edge caves in.
· Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could cause sliding.
· Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on the ground.
· Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.

3. 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. Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them.
· Keep children out of the mowing area and in watchful care of an adult other than the operator.
· Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area.
· Before and when backing, look behind and down for small children.
· Never carry children, even with the blades off. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with the safe machine operation.
· Never allow children under 14 years old to operate the machine. Children 14 years and over should only operate machine under close parental supervision and proper instruction.
· Remove key when machine is unattended to prevent unauthorized operation.
· Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees or other objects that may obscure your vision of a child or other hazard.
4. SERVICE
· Use extreme care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They are extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive.
· Use only an approved container.
· Never remove fuel cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow engine to cool at least two minutes before refueling.
· Replace fuel cap securely and wipe off any spilled fuel before starting the engine as it may cause a fire or explosion.
· Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources of ignition.
· Never refuel the machine indoors because fuel vapors will accumulate in the area.
· Never store the fuel container or machine inside where there is an open flame or spark, such as a gas hot water heater, space heater or furnace.
· Never run a machine inside a closed area.
· To reduce fire hazard, keep the machine free of grass, leaves or other debris build-up. Clean up oil or fuel spillage. Allow machine to cool at least 5 minutes before storing.
· Before cleaning, repairing or inspecting, make certain the blade and all moving parts have stopped. Disconnect the spark plug wire, and keep the wire away from the spark plug to prevent accidental starting.
· Check the blade and engine mounting bolts at frequent intervals for proper tightness. Also, visually inspect blade for damage (e.g., excessive wear, bent, cracked). Replace with blade which meets original equipment specifications.

· Keep all nuts, bolts and screws tight to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition.
· Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly. Use all guards as instructed in this manual.
· After striking a foreign object, stop the engine, remove the wire from the spark plug and thoroughly inspect the mower for any damage. Repair the damage before restarting and operating the mower.
· Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage and deterioration, which could expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. For your safety protection, frequently check components and replace with manufacturer's recommended parts when necessary.
· Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves and use extra caution when servicing blade(s).
· Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service as required.
· Muffler, engine and belt guards become hot during operation and can cause a burn. Allow to cool down before touching.

· Do not change the engine governor settings or overspeed the engine. Excessive engine speeds are dangerous.
· Observe proper disposal laws and regulations. Improper disposal of fluids and materials can harm the environment and the ecology.
· Prior to disposal, determine the proper method to dispose of waste from your local Environmental Protection Agency. Recycling centers are established to properly dispose of materials in an environmentally safe fashion.
· Use proper containers when draining fluids. Do not use food or beverage containers that may mislead someone into drinking from them. Properly dispose of the containers immediately following the draining of fluids.
· DO NOT pour oil or other fluids into the ground, down a drain or into a stream, pond, lake or other body of water. Observe Environmental Protection Agency regulations when disposing of oil, fuel, coolant, brake fluid, filters, batteries, tires and other harmful waste.

WARNING - YOUR RESPONSIBILITY: Restrict the use of this power machine to persons
who read, understand and follow the warnings and instructions in this manual and on the machine.

WARNING
TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH
· 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. · LOOK DOWN & BEHIND BEFORE AND WHILE
BACKING. · KEEP SAFETY DEVICES (GUARDS, SHIELDS,
AND SWITCHES, ETC.) 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 PLACING HANDS OR FEET NEAR BLADE(S). · BEFORE LEAVING OPERATOR'S POSITION,
DISENGAGE BLADE(S), PLACE THE SHIFT LEVER IN NEUTRAL, ENGAGE PARKING BRAKE, SHUT OFF AND REMOVE KEY.
READ OPERATOR'S MANUAL
Figure 1 Safety Labels found on your unit
5

Slope Gauge 6

USE THIS PAGE AS A GUIDE TO DETERMINE SLOPES WHERE YOU MAY NOT OPERATE SAFELY.
SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH A VERTICAL TREE A POWER POLE A CORNER OF A BUILDING OR A FENCE POST
FOLD ON DOTTED LINE, REPRESENTING A 15° SLOPE
15°
WARNING
Do not mow on inclines with a slope in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10 feet). A riding mower could overturn and cause serious injury. If operating a walk-behind mower on such a slope, it is extremely difficult to maintain your footing and you could slip, resulting in serious injury. Operate RIDING mowers up and down slopes, never across the face of slopes.

SECTION 5: ATTACHMENTS & ACCESSORIES

MODEL NUMBER OEM-190-601 OEM-190-602 OEM-190-112 OEM-190-118 OEM-190-603 OEM-190-604 OEM-190-822 OEM-190-823

DESCRIPTION FastAttachTM Twin Bagger Grass Collector (For 42-inch Decks Only) FastAttachTM Twin Bagger Grass Collector (For 46-inch Decks Only) Mulch Kit (For 42-inch Decks Only) Mulch Kit (For 46-inch Decks Only) FastAttachTM Grille Guard (mounts on front of tractor) TracPacTM Storage Container (mounts on rear of tractor) FastAttachTM 46-inch Front Dozer Blade 42-inch Two-stage Snow Thrower

SECTION 6: TRACTOR SET-UP

ATTACHING THE BATTERY CABLES

NOTE: The positive battery terminal is marked
Pos. (+). The negative battery terminal is marked Neg. ().

· The positive cable (heavy red wire) is secured to the positive battery terminal (+) with a hex bolt and hex nut at the factory. Make certain that the rubber boot covers the terminal to help protect it from corrosion.

· Remove the hex bolt and wing nut from the negative cable. Attach the negative cable (heavy black wire) to the negative battery terminal () with the bolt and wing nut.

· Place the hold-down strap in position over the

battery to secure it in place. See Figure 2.

Positive Terminal

Rubber Boot

Battery

GAS AND OIL FILL-UP
Service the engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in the separate engine manual packed with your tractor. Read instructions carefully.
IMPORTANT: Your tractor is shipped with oil;
however, you MUST check the oil level before operating. Be careful not to overfill. Overfilling with oil may cause the engine to smoke. This will result in poor engine performance and could cause permanent engine damage.
The gasoline tank is located under the hood and has a capacity of approximately two gallons. Do not overfill.
WARNING: Gasoline produces noxious
fumes. Never fill fuel tank indoors. Always fill the fuel tank in a well ventilated area to avoid inhalation of gasoline fumes.
WARNING: Never smoke while fueling
your tractor or fill the fuel tank while engine is running or while engine is hot.

Wing Nut

Tray

Negative Terminal

Hold-down Strap Bolt

Figure 2
NOTE: If battery is put into service after date
shown on top of battery, charge for minimum of one hour at 6-10 amps. Refer to the MAINTENANCE section of this manual for more detailed instructions regarding proper battery charging procedure.

WARNING: Do not fill closer than 1/2
inch from the top of the fuel tank to prevent spills and to allow for fuel expansion. If gasoline is accidently spilled, move tractor away from area of spill. Avoid creating any source of ignition until gasoline vapors have disappeared.
INSTALLING THE MULCH KIT
On units equipped with a 42-inch deck, the mulch kit is installed at the factory. To remove it, unfasten the wing knob found on the top of the cutting deck and carefully pull the mulch plug out from the discharge area of the deck. On units equipped with a 46-inch deck, the mulch kit is packaged separately within the crate.

SECTION 7: CONTROLS
D

+ 1/10 P

Figure 3

NOTE: Steering Wheel not shown for clarity.

A Ignition Switch B Throttle Control Lever C Choke Control (if so equipped)

H Brake Pedal I Parking Brake Button J Shift Lever

D Systems Indicator Monitor E Lift Lever F PTO (Power Take-Off) Lever* G Drive Pedal

K Seat Adjustment Lever L Cup Holder M Cruise Control Button N PTO (Power Take-Off) Knob*

*Tractors vary by model and are equipped with either a PTO lever or a PTO knob, NEVER both.

NOTE: Any reference in this manual to the RIGHT or LEFT side of the tractor is observed from operator's position.

IGNITION SWITCH
To start the engine, insert key into the ignition switch and turn clockwise to the START position. Release key to the ON position once engine has fired. See Figure 4. Refer to STARTING THE ENGINE in the OPERATION section of this manual for detailed starting instructions. The ignition switch is also used to operate the headlights. Refer to OPERATING THE HEADLIGHTS in the OPERATION section of this manual for detailed instructions
WARNING: Remove the key from the
tractor when the tractor is not in use to prevent accidental starting.
Off
On/Lights
On

Start

Figure 4

THROTTLE CONTROL LEVER
The throttle lever is located on the right side of the tractor's dash panel. This lever controls the speed of the engine, and on some units the choke control also. When set in a given position, the throttle will maintain a uniform engine speed. See Figure 5.

Throttle Symbol
Choke Position
Fast Position

Throttle Symbol
Fast Position

Slow Position

Figure 5
IMPORTANT: When using PTO operated
equipment such as the cutting deck or other attachments, always operate the tractor with the throttle lever in the FAST (rabbit) position.

CHOKE CONTROL
On some units, moving the throttle lever all the way forward activates the engine's choke control. On all other units, 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 aids in starting the engine. Refer to STARTING THE ENGINE in the OPERATION section for detailed starting instructions.

SYSTEMS INDICATOR MONITOR

Your tractor is equipped with either an hour meter or an ammeter as part of two available systems indicator monitors. Locate the monitor on the left side of your tractor's dash panel and compare it to both shown in Figure 6.

Battery
+

Oil AMPS

Hour Meter
PTO

1/10 P
Brake

Brake PTO Ammeter

Figure 6

If the Brake light or PTO light illuminates when

attempting to start the unit, proceed as follows:

BRAKE -- Depress the brake pedal.

PTO --

Move PTO lever, or PTO knob into the

disengaged (OFF) position.

It is normal for the Oil light and the Battery light, if so

equipped, to illuminate while the engine is cranking,

but if either illuminate's while the engine is

running, proceed as follows:

OIL--

Stop the tractor immediately and check the

crankcase oil level as instructed in the

engine manual. Add oil as required.

BATTERY-- The battery is in need of a charge, or the

engine's charging system is not generating

sufficient amperage. Refer to the

MAINTENANCE section of this manual for

the proper battery charging procedure or

have the charging system checked by an

authorized engine dealer.

The ammeter, on units so equipped, measures the

the electrical output of the engine's charging system.

Under normal operating conditions, with the engine

at full throttle, the ammeter's needle should measure

a positive charge.

The hour meter, on units so equipped, operates

whenever the ignition key is in the On or On/Lights

position and records the actual hours of tractor

operation.

ELECTRIC PTO (POWER TAKE-OFF) KNOB
To engage the power to the cutting deck or other attachments, pull outward on the PTO knob. Push the PTO knob inward to disengage the power to the attachments.
NOTE: The PTO knob must be in the disengaged
(OFF) position when starting the engine, when shifting into reverse and if the operator leaves the seat.
PTO (POWER TAKE-OFF) LEVER

BRAKE PEDAL
BRAKE
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.

LIFT LEVER

The PTO lever is located on the left side of the dashboard next to the steering wheel. Move the PTO lever forward to engage the power to the cutting deck or other attachments; move the PTO lever backward (toward the rear of the tractor) to disengage the power to the attachments.
NOTE: The PTO lever must be in the disengaged
(OFF) position when starting the engine, when shifting into reverse and if the operator leaves the seat.
DRIVE PEDAL
The drive pedal is located below the brake pedal on the right front side of the tractor along the running board. Depress the drive pedal with your right foot when the tractor shift lever is in either forward or reverse to cause the tractor to move. Ground speed is also controlled with the drive pedal. The further down the pedal is depressed, the faster the tractor will travel. The pedal will return to its original position when it's not depressed.
IMPORTANT: Always set the parking brake
when leaving the tractor unattended.

The lift lever is used to change the operating position (height) of the cutting deck. To operate, move the lever to the left, then place in the notch best suited for your application.

PARKING BRAKE BUTTON

To set the parking brake, fully depress the brake pedal and push the parking

brake button in. Hold the button in

while taking your foot off the brake

pedal. Both the parking button and

the brake pedal will then stay

depressed. To release the parking

brake, depress the brake pedal

slightly. The parking brake button will

then return to its original position.

NOTE: The parking brake must be set if the
operator leaves the seat with the engine running or the engine will automatically shut off.

IMPORTANT: Always set the parking brake
when leaving the tractor unattended.

SHIFT LEVER
The shift lever is located on the left side of the fender and has three positions, FORWARD, NEUTRAL and REVERSE. The brake pedal must be depressed and the tractor must not be in motion when the moving shift lever.
IMPORTANT: Never
force the shift lever. Doing so may result in serious damage to the tractor's transmission.

F
N
Shift Knob
R

CRUISE CONTROL BUTTON
The cruise control button is located 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 the OPERATION section of this manual for detailed instructions regarding the cruise control feature.

SECTION 8: OPERATION

SAFETY INTERLOCK SWITCHES
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 in your area. The safety interlock system prevents the engine from cranking or starting unless the brake pedal is fully depressed, and the PTO lever, or PTO knob is in the disengaged (OFF) position.
· The safety interlock system will automatically shut off the engine if the operator leaves the seat before engaging the brake lock.
· The safety interlock system will automatically shut off the engine if the operator leaves the seat with the PTO lever, or PTO knob in the engaged (ON) position, regardless of whether the brake lock is engaged. The PTO lever, or PTO knob must be in the disengaged (OFF) position to restart the engine.
· On units equipped with an electric PTO, the safety interlock system will automatically shut off the PTO if the PTO knob is moved into the engaged (ON) position with the shift lever in the REVERSE position.
· On units equipped with a manual PTO, the safety interlock system will automatically shut off the tractor's engine if the PTO lever is moved into the engaged (ON) position with the shift lever in the REVERSE position.

WARNING: Do NOT attempt to bypass
or disconnect the tractor's safety interlock. Doing so could result in serious personal injury or death.
IMPORTANT: Tampering with or attempting to
bypass the tractors Safety Interlock Switches in any way WILL void your warranty.
WARNING
AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH · 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. · 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.
READ OPERATOR'S MANUAL

SETTING THE CUTTING HEIGHT
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 at least 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch above the ground when the tractor is on a smooth, flat surface such as a driveway.
WARNING: Keep hands and feet away
from the discharge chute opening of the cutting deck.
NOTE: The deck wheels are an anti-scalp feature
of the deck and are not designed to support the weight of the cutting deck. Refer to the ADJUSTMENTS section of this manual for more detailed instructions regarding various deck adjustments.
STARTING THE ENGINE
NOTE: Refer to the TRACTOR SET-UP section of
this manual for Gasoline and Oil fill-up instructions.
· Insert the tractor key into the ignition switch.
· Place the PTO lever, or PTO knob in the disengaged (OFF) position.
· Depress the brake pedal and set the parking brake.
· Place the shift lever in the NEUTRAL position.
· Move the throttle control lever into the FAST (or CHOKE, if so equipped) position.
· Pull out the choke control knob, if so equipped (a warm engine may not require choking).
· 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 in the START
position for longer than ten seconds at a time. Doing so may cause damage to your engine's starter.
NOTE: If starting problems are encountered, refer
to the TROUBLESHOOTING section of this manual.
After the engine starts, slowly release the brake pedal. As the engine warms up, gradually push the choke control knob inward (or move the throttle control lever out of the CHOKE position into the FAST position) to open up the choke plate on the engine's carburetor.
NOTE: Do NOT leave the choke control out while
operating the tractor. Doing so will result in a "rich" fuel mixture and cause the engine to run poorly.

STOPPING THE ENGINE
· Place the PTO lever, or PTO knob in the disengaged (OFF) position
· Move the throttle control into the SLOW (turtle) position and allow the engine to "idle down" for ten seconds. Failure to do so may result in an engine afterfire.
· Turn the ignition key counterclockwise to the OFF position.
· Remove the key from the ignition switch to prevent accidental starting.
IMPORTANT: If you think you've struck a foreign
object, stop the engine immediately. Remove the wire(s) from the spark plug(s), thoroughly inspect the unit for any damage, and repair the damage before restarting and operating the tractor.
DRIVING THE TRACTOR
WARNING: Avoid sudden starts,
excessive speed and sudden stops.
WARNING: Do not leave the seat of the
tractor without first placing the PTO lever, or 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.
· Depress the brake pedal to release the parking brake and let the pedal up. Move the throttle lever into the FAST (rabbit) position.
IMPORTANT: Do NOT use the shift lever to
change the direction of travel when the tractor is in motion. Always use the brake pedal to bring the tractor to a complete stop before shifting.
· To move forward, place the shift lever in the FORWARD position, then slowly depress the drive pedal until the desired speed is achieved.
· To move in reverse, place the shift lever in the REVERSE position, check that the area behind is clear then slowly depress the drive pedal.
SETTING THE CRUISE CONTROL
NOTE: The cruise control feature should only be
utilized in the forward direction.
· Place the shift lever in the FORWARD position, then slowly depress 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).
· If properly engaged, the cruise control button and the drive pedal should lock in the down position, and the tractor will maintain the same forward 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. To change to the reverse direction when operating with cruise control, depress the brake pedal to disengage the cruise control and bring the tractor to a complete stop. Then place the shift lever in the REVERSE position and depress the drive pedal.
DRIVING ON SLOPES
Refer to the SLOPE GAUGE on page 6 to help determine slopes where you may not operate safely.
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). The tractor could overturn and cause serious injury. Operate the tractor up and down slopes, never across slopes. Do not drive so that the tractor may tip over sideways. Before operating the tractor on any slope, walk the slope to look for possible hazards such as rocks. mounds, ruts, stumps or other surface irregularities which could cause the tractor to be upset. Avoid turns when driving on a slope. If a turn must be made, turn down the slope. Turning up a slope greatly increases the chance of a roll over. Avoid stopping when driving up a slope. If it is necessary to stop while driving up a slope, start up smoothly and carefully to reduce the possibility of flipping the tractor over backward.
OPERATING THE HEADLIGHTS
To turn the tractor's headlights on:
· Start the engine following the instructions earlier in this section.
· Turn the key one notch counterclockwise into the On/Lights position of the ignition switch. Refer to Figure 4.

To turn the tractor's headlights off:
· Turn the key either into the On position (to leave the engine running) or the Off position (to shut the engine off). Refer to Figure 4.
IMPORTANT: Never move the key into the Start
position while the engine is running. Doing so may cause damage to your engine's starter.
STOPPING THE ENGINE
· Place the PTO lever, or PTO knob in the disengaged (OFF) position.
· Move the throttle control into the SLOW position and allow the engine to "idle down" for ten seconds, then turn the ignition key counterclockwise to the OFF position.
· Remove the key from the ignition switch to prevent accidental starting.
IMPORTANT: If you think you've struck a foreign
object, stop the engine immediately. Remove the wire(s) from the spark plug(s), thoroughly inspect the unit for any damage, and repair the damage before restarting and operating the mower.
USING THE LIFT LEVER
To raise the cutting deck, move the lift lever to the left, then place it in the notch best suited for your application. Refer to SETTING THE CUTTING HEIGHT earlier in this section.
ENGAGING THE ELECTRIC PTO (POWER TAKE-OFF) KNOB (if so equipped)

Front View Pull Out

Push In

OFF ON

Figure 7
· Move the throttle control lever to the FAST (rabbit) position.
· Pull the PTO knob outward into the engaged (ON) position. See Figure 7.
· Keep the throttle lever in the FAST (rabbit) position for the most efficient use of the cutting deck and other attachments.

· The operator must remain in the tractor seat at all times. If the operator should leave the seat without pushing the PTO knob inward into the disengaged (OFF) position, the tractor's engine will shut off.
IMPORTANT: The PTO knob cannot be in the
engaged (ON) position when the tractor is driving in the reverse direction. The PTO knob must be in the disengaged (OFF) position when the shift lever is in REVERSE or the PTO will automatically shut off. Refer to SAFETY INTERLOCK SWITCHES in this section.
ENGAGING THE PTO (POWER TAKE-OFF) LEVER (if so equipped)
· Move the throttle control lever to the FAST (rabbit) position.
· Move the PTO lever forward into the engaged (ON) position.
· Keep the throttle lever in the FAST (rabbit) position for the most efficient use of the cutting deck and other attachments.
· The operator must remain in the tractor seat at all times. If the operator should leave the seat without moving the PTO lever into the disengaged (OFF) position and setting the parking brake, the engine will shut off.
IMPORTANT: The PTO lever cannot be in the
engaged (ON) position when the tractor is driving in the reverse direction. The safety interlock system will automatically shut off the engine if the PTO lever is moved into the engaged (ON) position with the shift lever in the REVERSE position. Refer to SAFETY INTERLOCK SWITCHES earlier in this section.

MOWING
This tractor is equipped with one of MTD's high quality cutting decks. The following information will be helpful when using the cutting deck with your tractor.
WARNING: To avoid possible injury, do
not allow anyone in the area of the tractor while mowing. Even if the area to be mowed has been cleared of foreign objects, small objects may be picked up and discharged by the mower.
WARNING: Never direct the discharge
of material toward bystanders or allow anyone near the machine while in operation.
· 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.
· 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.
· Do not mow at high ground speed, especially if a mulch kit or grass collector is installed.
· 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 the MAINTENANCE section of this manual for proper blade sharpening instructions.

SECTION 9: ADJUSTMENTS

LEVELING THE DECK
WARNING: Cutting blades are sharp.
Always protect hands by wearing heavy leather work gloves to grasp blades.
NOTE: Check the tractor's tire pressure before
performing any deck leveling adjustments. Refer to TIRES in the maintenance section of this manual for further information regarding tire pressure.

Front to Rear
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 1/4" to 3/8" lower than the rear of the deck. Adjust if necessary as follows:
WARNING: Turn the tractor's engine
off, remove the key from the ignition switch and apply the tractor's parking brake before making any adjustments to the deck.

· With the tractor parked on a firm, level surface, place the lift lever in the top notch (highest position) and rotate the blade nearest the discharge chute so that it is parallel with the tractor.
· Measure the distance from the front of the blade tip to the ground and the rear of the blade tip to the ground. The first measurement taken should be between 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 on the rear side of the deck stabilizer bracket. See Figure 8A.
· Locate the two lock nuts on the opposite side of the stabilizer bracket. See Figure 8A. Tighten the lock nuts to raise the front of the deck; loosen the lock nuts to lower the front of the deck.
· Retighten the two jam nuts loosened earlier when proper adjustment is achieved.

Side to Side
If the cutting deck appears to be mowing unevenly, a side to side adjustment can be performed. Adjust if necessary as follows:
WARNING: Turn the tractor's engine off, remove the key from the ignition switch and apply the
tractor's parking brake before making any adjustments.

· With the tractor parked on a firm, level surface, place the lift lever in the top notch (highest position) and rotate the 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 8B.
· Balance the deck so that both blade tip measurements taken earlier are equal.
· Retighten the hex cap screw on the left deck hanger bracket when proper adjustment is achieved.

Lock Nuts

Deck Stabilizer Bracket

Deck Front to Rear

Jam Nuts

Side to Side Figure 8

Hex Cap Screw Deck Hanger Bracket

CARBURETOR ADJUSTMENT
WARNING: If any adjustments are
made to the engine while the engine is running (e.g. carburetor), disengage all clutches and blades. Keep clear of all moving parts. Be careful of heated surfaces and muffler.

NOTE: A dirty air cleaner will cause an engine to
run rough. Be certain it is clean and properly attached before adjusting carburetor. Refer to separate engine manual packed with your unit for information regarding air cleaner maintenance. Refer to separate engine manual packed with your unit for carburetor adjustment information or see an authorized engine service dealer.

SEAT ADJUSTMENT
To adjust the position of the seat, move the seat adjustment lever (located under the seat) to the left and slide the seat forward or backwards. See Figure 9. Make sure seat is locked into one of the six adjustment positions before operating the tractor.

· 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 links will cause the front tires to "toe-in" too far. Proper toe-in is between 1/16" and 5/16".

Seat

Front tire toe-in can be measured as follows:

· Place the steering wheel in position for

straight ahead travel. Insert a 1/4" dowel up

through aligning holes in both the steering

gear and support plate. See Figure 11.

Seat Adjustment Lever

Drag Links

Figure 9

STEERING ADJUSTMENT

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.

Hex Nut and Lock Washer

Grease Fittting (if so equipped)

Pivot Bar

Axle

Ball Joint

Drag Link Jam Nut

Figure 10
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 10.
· Remove the hex nut and lock washer on the top of ball joint. See Figure 10.
· 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.

Insert Dowel Here

Steering Gear

Support Plate

NOTE: View shown from beneath tractor.

Steering Shaft

Figure 11

· 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.

· Remove the dowel inserted earlier before attempting to operate the tractor.

BRAKE ADJUSTMENT
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:
· Looking at the transmission from the right side of the tractor, locate the compression spring and brake disc. See Figure 12.

· Loosen, but do NOT remove, the hex nut found on the right side of the brake assembly. See Figure 12.
· Using a feeler gauge, set the gap between the brake disc and the brake puck at .011".
· Re-tighten the hex nut loosened earlier.

Hex Nut

Set Gap at .011"
Brake Disc Compression Spring
NOTE: View shown from beneath tractor. Transmission Figure 12

SECTION 10: MAINTENANCE
WARNING: Disconnect the spark plug
wire(s) and ground against the engine before performing any maintenance.

ENGINE

Refer to the separate engine manual for engine maintenance instructions.

Check engine oil level before each use as instructed in the separate engine manual packed with your unit. Read and follow instructions carefully.

Changing Engine Oil

· Unscrew oil fill cap and remove dipstick from the oil fill tube. See Figure 13.

Oil Fill Cap Oil Drain Hose

Protective Cap

· Pop open the protective cap on the end of the oil drain valve to expose the oil drain port. See Figure 13.
· Push oil drain hose (packed with unit) onto the oil drain port. Route the opposite end of the hose into an appropriate oil collection container with a capacity great enough to collect the used oil.
· Push the oil drain valve in slightly, then rotate counterclockwise and pull outward to begin draining oil. See Figure 13.
· Service the oil filter (if so equipped) as instructed in the separate engine 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: Refill the engine with the proper
capacity and weight of motor oil as instructed in the separate engine manual.

Oil Fill Tube

Oil Drain Valve

Oil Drain Port
NOTE: Single-cylinder engine shown.
Valve location will vary with engine style.

Figure 13

Service air cleaner every 25 hours under normal conditions. Clean every few hours under extremely dusty condition. To service the air cleaner, refer to the separate engine manual packed with your unit.
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; check engine manual for correct plug type and gap specifications.

CLEANING THE ENGINE AND DECK
Any fuel or oil spilled on the machine should be wiped off promptly. Do NOT allow grass, leaves, and dirt to accumulate around the cooling fins of the engine or on any other part of the machine, especially the pulleys and other moving parts. Clean the underside of the deck with a wisk broom, putty knife or forced air after each mowing.
IMPORTANT: The use 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.
CUTTING DECK REMOVAL
WARNING: Before performing any
maintenance, move the PTO lever, or PTO knob into the disengaged (OFF) position, engage the parking brake, turn the ignition key to the OFF position and remove the
key from the switch.
Several attachments are available for your tractor. To mount some of these attachments and in order to perform certain maintenance procedures, the deck must be removed from the tractor. To properly remove the cutting deck, proceed as follows:
WARNING: Do NOT remove deck
immediately after operating the tractor. Allow the engine and other moving parts ample time to cool down.
· Move the PTO lever, or PTO knob into the disengaged (OFF) position and engage the parking brake.

Deck Support Pins

To Lift Assembly

PTO Idler Pulley Bracket
(PTO engagement plate will be located here on units equipped w/ a manual PTO)

· Lower the deck by moving the lift lever into the bottom notch on the right fender.
· Grasp the PTO idler pulley bracket (PTO engagement plate on manual PTO units) and pivot it toward the discharge chute to relieve tension on the belt.
· Remove the deck belt from around the electric PTO clutch (the bottom portion of the engine pulley on manual PTO units) and from around the PTO idler pulley(s).
NOTE: On units equipped with a 46-inch deck, the
bottommost belt on the deck does NOT need to be removed in order to remove the deck.
· Looking at the cutting deck from the right side of the tractor, locate the deck support pin on the rear right side of the deck.
· Pull the deck support pin outward to release the deck from the deck lift arm. See Figure 14.
· Rotate the pin slightly toward the rear of the tractor and release the pin into the hole provided.
· Repeat the above steps on the left side of the tractor.
· Move the lift lever into the top notch on the right fender to raise the deck lift arms 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. Do NOT let the deck fall to the ground.
· Gently slide the cutting deck (from the right side) out from underneath the tractor.

Deck Lift Arms
PTO Idler Pulley
PTO Belt Electric PTO Clutch
(Engine Pulley will be located here on units equipped w/ a manual PTO)

Hooks

Deck Stabilizer Bracket

Deck Stabilizer Rod NOTE: Belt covers and other tractor components not shown for clarity. 42-inch deck shown
Figure 14
18

Front of Tractor

CHANGING THE DECK BELT(S)
All belts on your tractor are subject to wear and should be replaced if any signs of cracking, shredding or rotting 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 belt(s) on your tractor, proceed as follows:
NOTE: Removing the deck from the tractor as instructed earlier in this section will ease the following steps.
Decks w/ Electric PTO · Lower the deck by moving the lift lever into the bottom notch on the right fender. · Remove the belt guards by removing the self-tapping screws that fasten them to the deck surface. · Grasp the PTO idler pulley bracket and pivot it toward the discharge chute to relieve tension on the belt. · Remove the PTO belt from the electric PTO clutch and from around the PTO idler pulley. · Grasp the deck idler pulley and pivot it toward the left side of the deck to relieve tension on the deck belt. Remove the belt from around all three spindle pulleys and the deck idler pulley. · Route the new belts as shown in Figure 15. OEM belt part numbers are listed in the table on the following page.
NOTE: 42-inch decks engaged with an electric PTO do NOT have a bottom belt or a center pulley.
Disregard these items in Figure 15 when routing a replacement PTO belt on tractor's so equipped. · Remount the belt guards removed earlier.

Electric PTO Clutch Deck Idler Pulley

PTO Idler Pulley (mounted on tractor)

Deck belt (Bottom)
PTO belt (Top)
Right Hand Double Pulley (beneath belt guard)

Left Hand Double Pulley

Center Pulley

NOTE: Left hand belt cover not shown for clarity. 46-inch deck shown.

Self-Tapping Screws

Figure 15

42-inch decks w/ manual PTO

· Lower the deck by moving the lift lever into the bottom notch on the right fender.

· Remove the belt guards by removing the self-tapping screws that fasten them to the deck surface.

· Move the PTO lever into the disengaged (OFF) position to relieve tension on the belt.

· Remove the PTO belt from around the bottom portion of the engine pulley and from around the two idler pulleys found on the PTO engagement plate. See Figure 16.

· Route the new belt as shown in Figure 16, around the deck pulleys, idler pulleys and engine pulley. OEM belt part numbers are listed in the table on the following page

· Remount the belt guards removed earlier.

Engine Pulley Belt Guard Idler Pulleys

Deck Stop

PTO belt

(mounted on tractor)

PTO Engagement Plate (mounted on tractor)

Right Hand Pulley

Left Hand Pulley NOTE: Belt covers not shown for clarity.

Figure 16

PTO (Top) Belt Deck (Bottom) Belt

42-Inch Deck (Electric PTO)
754-0472 N/A

42-Inch Deck (Manual PTO)
742-0485 N/A

46-Inch Deck (Electric PTO)
754-0474 754-0349

CHANGING THE TRANSMISSION DRIVE BELT(S)
All belts on your tractor are subject to wear and should be replaced if any signs of cracking, shredding or rotting 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 drive belt(s) on your tractor, proceed as follows:
NOTE: It's recommended that both drive belts be replaced at the same time.
· Remove the cutting deck as instructed earlier in this section. · After disconnecting the battery cables, remove the battery and battery tray from beneath the seat.

IMPORTANT: When removing the battery, disconnect the NEGATIVE (Black) wire from it's terminal first,
followed by the POSITIVE (Red) wire. Re-install in reverse order. Upper Drive Belt
· Locate the transmission idler pulley on the upper drive belt by looking through the battery tray opening. See Figure 17.
· Grasp the bracket and pivot the transmission idler pulley toward the rear of the tractor to release tension on the upper drive belt.
· Remove the belt from around the transmission idler pulley. · Remove the upper drive belt from around the transmission pulley and the variable-speed pulley.
NOTE: Slowly rotate the pulley counterclockwise to roll the belt off of it.
· Remove the upper drive belt by pulling it up through the battery tray opening. · Reroute the new upper drive belt as shown in Figure 17.

Variable-speed Pulley

Battery Tray Opening

Shift Lever Rear Idler Pulley

Drive belt (Lower) Drive belt (Upper)

Belt Keeper Front Idler Pulley

Idler Bracket

Keeper Pins

Electric PTO Clutch (if so equipped)

to drive pedal

Double-Idler Bracket Transmission Idler Pulley

Engine Pulley (Upper Portion)

Single-speed Transmission

Transmission Pulley

NOTE: View shown from above tractor.

Front of Tractor

Figure 17

Lower Drive Belt
NOTE: Proper removal of the lower drive belt
requires the removal of several tractor components. Read through the following procedure prior to attempting it to determine if you feel you could successfully complete it. If you don't, see an authorized MTD service dealer to have the belt changed.

· Remove the rear idler pulley from the doubleidler bracket while unrouting the belt from around both the rear and the front idler pulley. Refer to Figure 16.
· On units equipped with an electric PTO, carefully unplug the tractor's wire harness from the connector on the electric PTO clutch. See Figure 17.

IMPORTANT: Note the routing of the lower drive
belt around both the pulleys and the belt keepers BEFORE performing the following steps.
· Locate the variable-speed pulley through the battery tray opening. See Figure 16.

Hex Bolt
Electric PTO Clutch
(if so equipped)

· Remove the variable-speed pulley by loosening the hex bolt that affixes it to the transmission. Use a second wrench to hold the hex nut on the bottom side of the pulley.

· Slide the belt off of the variable-speed pulley as you lift the pulley up and out through the battery tray opening.
NOTE: Jacking the rear of the tractor up off the
ground and securing it with jackstands at this point in the procedure will ease the following steps, but is not necessary.

Connector
NOTE: View shown from beneath tractor. Figure 18

· Remove the hex bolt from the center of the engine pulley (or the electric PTO clutch on units so equipped) and gently lower it off of the engine crankshaft. Be careful not to lose any washers or spacers which may be found on top of the engine pulley or the electric PTO clutch. See Figure 18.
· On units equipped with an electric PTO, the engine pulley is located directly above the electric PTO clutch. Lower the engine pulley far enough to be able to remove the upper drive belt from around it.
IMPORTANT: When remounting the engine
pulley or electric PTO clutch, torque the center hex bolt to between 38 foot-pounds and 50 foot-pounds.
· Remove the drive belt by feeding it from both ends toward the front idler pulley on the double-idler bracket. See Figure 16.
· Reassemble by following the above steps in reverse order.
· Reroute the new belt around the pulleys, belt keepers and keeper pins EXACTLY as the old one was routed. Refer to Figure 16.
The drive pedal is properly adjusted when the hole found in the double-idler bracket has approximately 1-3/8" of travel with ten pounds of pressure applied to the drive pedal. See Figure 19.
Double-idler Bracket

Hole

Idler Adj. Rod

Front of Tractor
NOTE: View shown from above tractor.
Figure 19 Adjust the drive pedal after replacing the drive belts on your tractor, if necessary, as follows:
· Locate the speed control assembly on the underside of the steering support bracket. See Figure 20.
· Remove both hairpin clips from the pin which is fastened to the speed control assembly (be careful not to lose the small flat washers found on the pin). See Figure 20.
· Remove the drive pedal return spring.

Using two 9/16" wrenches, remove the pin from the speed control assembly. See Figure 20.

Idler Adj. Rod

Place Wrenches Here

Neutral Return Bracket
Pin Hairpin Clips

Drive Pedal Return Spring

Speed Control Assembly

Figure 20
Thread the idler adjustment rod inward or outward to lengthen or shorten the travel of the double-idler bracket until proper adjustment is achieved.
· Reassemble by following the above steps in reverse order.

CUTTING BLADES
WARNING: Cutting blades are sharp.
Always protect hands by wearing heavy leather work gloves to grasp blades. The blades may be removed for sharpening or replacement as follows.
· Remove the deck from beneath the tractor, (refer to DECK REMOVAL earlier in this section for detailed instructions) 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 21.

Hex Flange Nut

Block of Wood

Spindle Assembly

Cutting Blade

Figure 21
· Use a 15/16" wrench to remove the hex flange nut that secures the blade to the spindle assembly. See Figure 21.

NOTE: The hex flange nut has a right-handed
(normal) thread pattern. Do NOT attempt to force the nut in the incorrect direction. Doing so may damage the nut and create a safety hazard.
To properly sharpen the cutting blades, remove equal amounts of metal from both ends of the blades along the cutting edges. See Figure 22. Sharpen the cutting edge straight across, parallel to the trailing edge, at a 25° to 30° angle. See Figure 22.
IMPORTANT: If the 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 22.

Worn Blade Edge Blade Separation

Wind Wing

Sharpen Edge Evenly

5/8" minimum

Figure 22
It is extremely important that each cutting blade edge be ground equally to maintain proper blade balance. An unbalanced blade will cause excessive vibration when rotating at high speeds, 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 footpounds and 90 foot-pounds.
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 the terminals and over the positive terminal boot.
· Always keep the 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 during and for some time after charging. Charge battery in a well ventilated area and do not allow a spark or an open flame near the battery.
TIRES
The recommended operating tire pressure is approximately 10 psi for the rear tires and 14 psi for the front tires. Refer to the tire sidewall for exact tire manufacturer's recommended psi. Do not overinflate. Uneven tire pressure could cause the cutting deck to mow unevenly.
FUSE
A fuse is installed in your tractor's wiring harness to protect the tractor's electrical system from damage caused by excessive amperage. Always use the same capacity fuse for replacement. 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. It can be found under the hood mounted behind the top of dash panel on the support bar. Pull the fuse out and compare it with Figure 23 to determine if it is good or bad.

GOOD

BAD

Figure 23

SECTION 11: LUBRICATION
WARNING: Always stop the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire(s) and ground against the
engine before performing any maintenance.
ENGINE
Lubricate the engine with motor oil as instructed in the separate engine manual packed with your unit.
PIVOT POINTS
Lubricate all pivot points (drive pedal, brake pedal, etc.) at least once a season with light oil.
LINKAGE
Lubricate all the pivot points on the drive, brake and lift linkage at least once a season with SAE 30 engine oil.
STEERING GEAR
Lubricate the teeth of the steering gear with an all-purpose automotive grease every 25 hours of operation or once a season.
WHEELS
Both the front wheels and the rear wheels should be removed from the axles once a season. Lubricate the axles and the rims well with an all-purpose automotive grease before re-installing them.
FRONT AXLES
Your tractor may be equipped with grease fittings on the ends of the front pivot bar. Refer Figure 10. Lubricate both the left and the right front axles with a grease gun at least once a season.
24

SECTION 12: TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE

Trouble

Possible Cause(s)

Corrective Action

Engine will Safety switch There are three safety switches in the starting circuit of your unit: the brake pedal

not crank button not

switch, the seat switch and the PTO switch. Make certain the actuator found on the

depressed.

brake control assembly is fully depressing the button on the brake switch. The PTO

must be in the disengaged (OFF) position and the operator must be seated on the

tractor in order to start the engine, also.

Battery installed The battery must be installed with negative terminal attached to black ground wire.

incorrectly.

Negative terminal is identified at the post by "NEG", "N" or "-". The positive terminal,

identified by "POS", "P" or "+", must be attached to the thick red wire which goes to the

solenoid.

Battery is dead Charge at six amps with a 12-volt automotive-type battery charger for one hour or until

or weak.

fully charged.

Blown fuse

Refer to operator's manual for fuse location. Replace fuse with automotive type fuse of

the proper amperage. Fuses seldom fail without a reason. The problem must be

corrected. Check for loose connections in the fuse holder. Replace fuse holder if nec-

essary. A dead short may be in the cranking or charging circuit where the insulation

may have rubbed through and exposed the bare wire. Replace the wire or repair with

electrician's tape if the wire strands have not been damaged.

Note: Look for a wire pinched between body panels, burned by the exhaust pipe or

muffler or rubbed against a moving part.

Engine

Throttle or choke Refer to the OPERATION section of this manual for the correct position of the throttle

cranks but not in starting control and choke for starting.

will not start position.

No fuel to the Gasoline tank empty. Fill.

carburetor.

Fuel line or in-line fuel filter plugged. Remove and clean fuel line. Replace fuel filter

(if so equipped) if necessary.

No spark to

Spark plug lead disconnected. Connect lead. Using a spark tester, check for spark. If

spark plug(s). no spark is present, have engine's magneto serviced by an authorized engine dealer.

Dirty aircleaner. If the air cleaner is dirty, the engine may not start. Refer to the engine manual packed

with your unit.

Engine

Engine oil has Check oil level.

smokes been overfilled.

Engine loses Dipstick not seated or broken. Replace defective part.

crankcase

Engine breather defective. Replace.

vacuum.

Excessive Bent blade or Stop engine immediately. Check all pulleys, blade adapters, keys and bolts for

vibration damaged pulley. tightness and spindle damage. Tighten or replace any loose or damaged parts.

Always replace damaged blade. Only use original equipment blades.

Mower

Engine speed Throttle must be set at full throttle.

won't

low.

discharge Speed selection. Use lower ground speed. The slower your ground speed, the better the quality of cut.

grass or Cutting height Raise deck.

leaves

set too low.

uncut strips Blades dull.

Sharpen or replace blades (uncut strip problem only).

Model 609
6 4
16 20
11 14 20 1 15
1
8
18
27 18

9 7 32

33 31

2 17

3 24

8 28

29
21 15 1 20

22 21

Tractor Body

REF. PART

NO.

1 710-0604A

2 710-0788

3 710-0895

4 710-1017

5 710-1238

6 710-3217

7 712-0142

8 731-0511-5

9 731-1857

10 731-2122

11 731-2228

12 731-2227

13 736-0119

14 736-0142

15 736-3078

16 747-1196

17 749-1087

18 710-0924

19 710-3008

20 712-0292

21 712-3004A

22 731-2118

23 731-2119

24 736-0211

25 747-1162

26 783-0783

27 783-0784

28 783-0785

29 751-0659

751-0658A

30 751-0603

31 746-1085

746-1088

32 731-2269 731-2270
33 712-3027

DESCRIPTION Self-tapping Screw, 5/16-18 x .625 Self-tapping Screw, 1/4-20 x 1.0 Self-tapping Screw, 1/4-15 x .75 Torx Self-tapping Screw, 5/16-18 x .625 Screw, 5/16-18 x .875 (Grade 5) Torx Screw, #8-32 x .375 Hex Nut, 8-32 Five-inch Trim Strip Throttle Control Lever Dash Panel Plastic Plug Parking Brake Button Lock Washer, 5/16 Flat Washer, .281 x .5 x .063 Flat Washer, .349 x 1.0 x .063 Pivot Rod Dash Support Tube Pan Phillips Screw, 1/4-20 x .75 Hex Cap Screw, 5/16-18 x .75 U-type Speed Nut, 1/4-20 Flange Lock Nut, 5/16-18 Lens, 9-style Grille, 9-style Flat Washer, .285 x 1.25 x .08 Hood Hinge Rod Hood, 9-style RH Side Pane, 9-style LH Side Panel, 9-style Two-gallon Fuel Tank (shown) Three-gallon Fuel Tank Fuel Cap (Fits Either Tank) Choke Knob/Cable Assembly (Units w/ B&S Intek Twin) Choke Knob/Cable Assembly (Units w/ Kohler Single) Hood Plenum (Units w/ Kohler Single) Hood Plenum (Units w/ B&S Intek Twin) Hex Flange Lock Nut, 1/4-20

Units with B&S Intek Single engines have NO choke knob/cable. The choke is activated with the throttle control. Units with B&S Intek Single engines have NO hood plenum.

NOTE: For painted parts, please refer to the list of color codes below. Please add the applicable color code, wherever needed, to the part number to order a replacement part. For instance, if a part numbered 700-xxxx is painted Powder Black, the part number to order would be 700-xxxx-0637.
MTD Red: 0638 Oyster Gray: 0662 Powder Black: 0637

Model 609

43 42
45 41 37 48 44 30
28
11 33 29

49
39 46 6 40 36 47 16 38 28 35 32
31
34 27

50 51

12
23 17 21

6 8 14
5 19
6

24 6

14 8

25 19

1 26

15 17

Lift Assembly

REF. PART

NO.

1 747-1130

2 683-0197

3 711-0332

4 712-0206

5 712-0431

6 712-3004A

7 712-3083

8 714-0104

9 714-0145

10 716-0106

11 720-0311

12 732-0874

13 732-0934

14 736-0275 15 736-0921 16 736-3019 17 736-3084 18 738-0138 19 738-0143 20 741-0225 21 741-0715 22 746-0968 23 747-1111 24 756-1154 25 783-0678 26 783-0720A 27 710-0260

DESCRIPTION Deck Stabilizer Rod Lift Shaft Assembly Clevis Pin, .5 x .78 Hex Nut, 1/2-13 Flange Lock Nut, 3/8-16 Flange Lock Nut, 5/16-18 Hex Nut, 1/2-13 Internal Cotter Pin Internal Cotter Pin E-ring Handle Grip Torsion Spring Lift-assist Spring, 1.15 x 5.99 (Found on Units w/ 46-inch Decks Only) Flat Washer, 5/16 Lock Washer, 1/2 Flat Washer, .31 x 1.062 x .134 Flat Washer, .51 x 1.12 x .06 Hex Cap Screw, 5/16-18 x .62 Shoulder Screw, 3/8-16 Hex Flange Bearing Snap Flange Bearing Lift Cable, 16.16 Lift Handle Roller Pulley Arm Lift Deck Stabilizer Bracket Carriage Bolt, 5/16 x .62

REF. PART

NO.

28 710-0604A

29 710-0895

30 731-1990

31 731-2104A

32 738-0155

33 783-0677

34 783-0685A

35 783-0715

36 710-1268

37 712-3027

38 720-0309A

39 731-1989

40 732-0499

41 736-0175

42 736-0204

43 738-0137A

44 738-1007

45 783-0611

46 783-0738

47 783-0739

48 783-0753

49 757-0365A

757-0372

50 735-0657

51 735-0656

726-3046

52 714-0111

53 783-0891A

DESCRIPTION Self-tapping Screw, 5/16-18 x .625 Self-tapping Screw, 1/4-15 x .75 Lift Lever Cover Shift Lever Cover w/ Cup Holder Shoulder Screw, .437 x 1.62 Lift Adjustment Bracket Fender Seat Mounting Bracket Screw, #10-16 x .375 Hex Flange Lock Nut, 1/4-20 Seat Adjuster Grip Spacer Compression Spring, .41 x 1.5 Spring Washer, .265 x .562 x .025 Flat Washer, .344 x .62 x .03 Shoulder Screw, .340 x .285,1/4-20 Shoulder Screw, .50 x .50, 3/8-16 Seat Stop Seat Pivot Bracket Seat Adjustment lever Seat Adjustment Selector Seat, Radiant Yellow, Medium Back Seat, Radiant Yellow, High Back w/ Holes LH Foot Pad RH Foot Pad Foot Pad Clips (Not Shown) Cotter Pin Deck Stop

Model 609

24
43 42
23

38 21

20 22 13

11 22

13
42 41
1

15 12
5
28 30
2

39
40 45

27
34 9 16

35 32

29 33 31
25

33 37

36 29

Steering Assembly

REF. PART

NO.

1 683-0304

2 710-0604A

3 783-0726A

4 783-0727

5 783-0728

6 710-0514

7 711-1409A

8 711-1408

9 712-0240

10 712-0241

11 712-0431

12 712-0459

13 712-3004A

14 717-1550A

15 717-1554

16 723-0448A

17 736-0169

18 736-3084

19 738-1001

20 741-0475

21 741-0656

22 738-0372

23 631-0027

24 731-0220

25 638-0019

638-0021

26 638-0020

638-0022

27 683-0128A

DESCRIPTION Lower Frame Assembly Self-tapping Screw, 16-18 x .625 RH Pivot Support Bracket LH Pivot Support Bracket Pivot Bar Bracket Hex Cap Screw, 3/8-16 x 1 (Grade 5) LH Drag Link RH Drag Link Jam Nut, 7/16-20 (Grade 2) Hex Nut, 3/8-24 (Grade 2) Flange Lock Nut, 3/8-16 Flange Lock Nut, 7/16-20 Flange Lock Nut, 5/16-18 Steering Gear, 11/90 Ratio Steering Pinion Gear Ball Joint, 7/16-20 Lock Washer, 3/8 Flat Washer, .51 x 1.12 x .06 Steering Shaft, .625 OD x 24.4 Plastic Bushing, .38 ID Hex Flange Bearing, 5/8 Shoulder Spacer, .38 ID Steering Wheel Steering Wheel Cap LH Axle Assembly, .625 Diameter LH Axle Assembly, .625 / .750 Diameter RH Axle Assembly, .625 Diameter RH Axle Assembly, .625 / .750 Diameter Pivot Bar

REF. PART

NO.

28 712-0431

29 714-0470

30 726-0214

726-0341

31 736-0162

32 736-0187

736-0316

33 736-0285

34 738-1011

35 741-0659

741-0660

36 634-0105A

634-0172

734-0255

734-1731

741-0487A

741-0706

37 734-2290

38 783-0653C

39 738-0143

40 736-0331

41 738-0140

42 736-0242

43 710-0643

44 731-1291A

45 719-0525B

46 737-3000

47 710-1260A

DESCRIPTION Flange Lock Nut, 3/8-16 Cotter Pin Push Cap, .625 Push Cap, .750 Flat Washer, .64 x 1.0 x .12 Flat Washer, .64 x 1.24 x .06 Flat Washer, .78 x 1.59 x .06 Flat Washer, .635 x 1.589 x .06 Shoulder Screw, .5 x 2.2, 3/8-16 Flange Bearing, .632 ID x .937 OD Flange Bearing, .760 ID x .937 OD Wheel Assembly Complete, 15 x 6 x 6 Rim Only Air Valve (Not Shown) Tire Only, Square Shoulder Plastic Flange (Not Shown) Plastic Flange w/ Fitting (Not Shown) Hub Cap Steering Support Bracket Shoulder Screw, 3/8-16 Bell Washer, .39 x 1.13 x .062 Shoulder Screw, .435 x .178, 5/16 x .56 Bell Washer, .34 x .872 Hex Bolt, 5/16-18 X 1 Pivot Bar End Cap Cast Iron Pivot Bar (if so equipped) Lube Fitting, 3/16 (if so equipped) Self-tapping Screw, 5/16-18 x .750

NOTE: Units equipped with a 42-inch deck have axles with a .625 diameter.
Units equipped with a 46-inch deck have axles with a .625 / .750 diameter.

Model 609

21 79

4 22 13 5 29
58 35
13 19

13
11 18 36 6 7
38
19 26 1
42 27
24 30 3 32 20
9

86 87
84

58 85 57
19

56
25 41
55 68 73

46 47 45 40
50

13 53

69 62

8 44

76 13

33 77 72
58 63
60 66 59

71 70

64 58
33

31 21

23 64 68 52 21

12 43
37

90 69

REF. PART

NO.

1 783-1015

2 17840

3 618-0307C

4 631-0009

5 647-0045

6 656-0048

7 656-0051A

8 683-0251

9 710-0189

10 710-0227

11 710-0347

12 736-0272

13 710-0604A

14 710-0642

15 710-3011

16 711-0677

17 712-0241

18 712-0378

19 712-0431

20 712-0798

21 712-3004A

22 712-3008

23 714-0111

24 714-0149B

25 723-3018

26 725-1644

27 726-0320

28 732-0384

29 732-0525

30 732-0716

31 732-0963

32 736-0105 33 736-0140 34 736-0169 35 736-0275 36 736-0407 37 736-3010 38 738-0322 39 747-1122 40 747-1123A 41 747-1127 42 747-1156 43 711-0736 44 748-0372 45 754-0467 46 754-0468 47 756-0981 48 783-0637

DESCRIPTION Shift Lever Support Transaxle Mounting Bracket Single-speed Transmission Assembly Shifter Knob Shift Lever Variable-speed Pulley Assembly Transmission Pulley, 8.5 x .5-36 Double-idler Bracket Hex Cap Screw, 5/16-18 x 3 Self-tapping Screw, #8-18 x .5 Hex Cap Screw, 3/8-16 x 1.75 Flat Washer, .51 x 1.0 x .060 Self-tapping Screw, 5/16-18 x .625 Self-tapping Screw, 1/4-20 x .75 Hex Cap Screw, 3/8-16 x 2.25 Ferrule, 5/16-18 Hex Nut, 3/8-24 Hex Nut, 7/16-20 Flange Lock Nut, 3/8-16 Hex Nut, 3/8-16 Flange Lock Nut, 5/16-18 Jam Nut, 3/8-16 Cotter Pin Internal Cotter Pin Ball Joint Short Spring Switch Insulator Nut Plate Extension Spring, .62 Dia. x 6.12 Compression Spring Clip Extension Spring, .59 OD x 4 Extension Spring, .50 Dia. x 6.37 (hooks to flange, 783-0650, in frame) Bell Washer, .401 x .87 x .063 Flat Washer, .385 x .62 x .063 Lock Washer, 3/8 Flat Washer, 5/16 Bell Washer, .45 x 1.0 x .602 Flat Washer, .407 x .812 x .135 Shoulder Screw, .625 x .217 Brake Rod Belt Guard Idler Adjustment Rod, 3/8 Shift Rod Adjustment Ferrule, 1/4-20 x 1.0 Shoulder Spacer, .38 ID Variable-speed Belt Drive Belt Flat Idler, 2.75 OD Shift Lever Support

Drive System

REF. PART

NO.

49 783-0667A

50 783-0669

51 783-0714

52 647-0031

53 647-0032

54 683-0266

55 712-0431

56 711-0736

57 711-1363

58 714-0104

59 732-0437

60 732-0955

61 735-0662

62 735-3049

63 736-0140

64 736-0187

65 736-0204

66 738-0155

67 738-0507B

68 741-0225

69 741-3065A

70 747-1137

71 747-1138

72 748-0413

73 748-0415A

74 783-0653B

75 783-0732

76 783-0773

77 783-0780

78 683-0304

79 783-1031

80 736-0242

81 710-0627

82 634-0177

634-0104

634-0077

734-0255

734-1873

734-1730

83 734-2290

84 710-0778

85 750-0556

86 710-1026

87 750-0768

88 710-1260A

89 710-1650

90 710-0859

91 736-0430

DESCRIPTION Transmission Torque Bracket Idler Bracket Adjustable Shift Bracket Brake Control Assembly Speed Control Assembly Drive Pedal Assembly Flange Lock Nut, 3/8-16 Ferrule, 1/4-20 Pin, 3/8-16 x 2.43 Cotter Pin Compression Spring, .34 OD x 1.0 Extension Spring, .50 OD x 1.41 Drive Pedal Pad Brake Pedal Pad Flat Washer, .281 x .5 x .0625 Flat Washer, .64 x 1.24 x .06 Flat Washer, .344 x .062 x .03 Shoulder Screw, .437 x 1.62 Shoulder Screw, .5 x .434 Hex Flange Bearing Split Hex Flange Bearing Cruise Control Rod Brake Lock Control Rod Cruise Latch Spacer, 5/16 x 1.54 Stearing Support Bracket Drive Lockout Bracket Brake Pedal Neutral Return Bracket Lower Frame Assembly Hitch Plate Bell Washer, .34 x .872 Hex Cap Screw, 5/16-24 x .75 Wheel Assembly Complete, 20 x 10 x 8 Wheel Assembly Complete, 20 x 8 x 8 Rim Only Air Valve (Not Shown) Tire Only, 20 x 10 x 8, Square Shoulder Tire Only, 20 x 8 x 8, Square Shoulder Hub Cap Self-tapping Screw, 1/4-20 x 1.5 Spacer Self-tapping Screw, 1/4-20 x 1.75 Spacer Self-tapping Screw, 5/16-18 x .75 Self-tapping Screw, 5/16-18 x .875 Hex Cap Screw, 3/8-16 x 2.5 Flat Washer, .350 x 1.59 x .062

Model 609

40 12*
31

21 20 22 25 19

27
18 21

38 39
1 7
16
14

Units with 618-0307C Transmission ONLY

37
12* 34 12*
14

13 36 32

6 14 12*
37

12c 4 10

26 31 30 28
13

15 12c
39 38

5 23
2

3 8
17 24 12c 9

Single-speed Transmission

REF. PART

NO.

1 618-0318

2 710-0788

3 711-1274

4 711-1280

5 713-0474

6 713-0478

7 717-1422

8 717-1565

9 717-1569

10 718-0652

11 719-0394

12a 736-0336

12b 736-0337

12c 736-0349

13 736-0519

14 741-0336

15 741-0337

16 750-1238

17 611-0112

611-0133

18 618-0369

618-0424

19 661-0006

20 710-1325

21 710-1206

22 717-0678

23 732-0863

24 741-0862

25 761-0202

26 711-1331

711-1430

27 716-0385

716-0108

28 717-1571

717-1464

29 719-0391A

30 736-0335

736-0723

31 741-0525

32 718-0228

33 711-1431

34 750-1234

35 717-1362

36 717-1363

37 736-0495

38 741-0340

39 721-0338

40 716-0231

DESCRIPTION Clutch Collar Self-tapping Screw, 1/4-20 x 1.0 Drive Shaft Counter Shaft 22-link Chain, #420 14-tooth Sprocket Sprocket Bevel Gear, 42/10 29-tooth Spur Gear 20-tooth Spur Gear Counter Shaft Coupling Lower Housing Flat Washer, 5/8 x 1.0 x .030* Flat Washer, 5/8 x 1.0 x .040* Flat Washer, 5/8 x 1.0 x .020* Flat Washer, .70 x 1.125 x .031 Flange Bearing, 5/8 x 3/4 x 3/4 Flange Bearing, 5/8 x 3/4 x 15/16 Spacer, .635 x 1.0 x .27 Detent Shaft Assembly Detent Shaft Assembly Differential Assembly Differential Assembly Brake Assembly Self-tapping Screw, 1/4-20 x 1.625 Self-tapping Screw, 1/4-20 x 2.375 Brake Pad Compression Spring Detent Ball Brake Disc Input Shaft Input Shaft Retaining Ring, .394 Retaining Ring, .437 12-tooth Bevel Pinion 14-tooth Bevel Pinion Upper Housing Thrust Washer, .63 x 1.24 x .062 Thrust Washer, .635 x 1.25 x .042 Needle Bearing, .625 x .875 Clutch Collar Drive Shaft Spacer, .633 x 1.0 x .513 42-tooth Bevel Gear 42-tooth Bevel Gear Thrust Washer, 1.0 x .632 x .0 Sleeve Bearing, .75 x .1.0 x 1.0 Seal, .75 x 1.0 x .125 E-ring, .75

*If rebuilding transmission for any reason, use applicable flat washer (12a, 12b, or 12c) in this application allowing proper end play as instructed in MTD 's Service Manual. IMPORTANT: One of two different transmissions may be found on your lawn tractor (618-0307B & 618-0307C). Refer to the model plate found on the rear right portion of the transmission's lower housing before ordering replacement service parts. Used on Single-speed transmission 618-0307B ONLY. Used on Single-speed transmission 618-0307C ONLY.
35

Model 609
57 2

23 24 25
1
29 30

37 40

1 50 42
16

3 4 13

18
19 60
38

Hook spring,

Ref. 58, here

72*

Units Equipped w/

Electric PTO 68

64 74

33 73* 34
71

53 54 55

43 56

48 28

36 65 64
69
64 67 37 70 (PTO belt for
42" deck shown) 49 27 47 46

35 36

Power Take-off System

REF. PART

NO.

1 712-0431

2 732-0996

3 783-0733

4 732-0997

5 710-0604A

6 710-0751

7 712-0271

8 712-3044

9 725-1706

10 738-1014

11 738-1020

12 736-0407

13 723-0444

14 783-1031

15 725-1747

16 736-0222

17 725-1426

18 710-0599

19 712-0459

20 683-0304

21 756-0639A

22 783-1003

23 712-3010

24 710-3180

25 732-0978

26 710-0642

27 736-0322

28 712-3004A

29 783-0653C

30 683-0301

683-0297

31 738-0982

32 717-1708

33 738-0785

34 736-0171

35 710-3157

36 710-3011

37 756-0627

38 783-0349

DESCRIPTION Flange Lock Nut, 3/8-16 Compression Spring, 1.31 x 3.0 Spacer Cup, 1.5 OD Compression Spring, .66 OD x 1.5 Self-tapping Screw, 5/16-18 x .625 Hex Cap Screw, 1/4-20 x .62 Hex Sems Nut, 1/4-20 Wing Nut, 1/4-20 12-volt Battery, 270 CCA Shoulder Screw, .5 x 1.25, 3/8-16 Shoulder Screw, .625 x .5, 7/16-20 Bell Washer, .45 x 1.0 x .062 Battery Strap Hitch Plate Safety Interlock Plunger Switch Lock Washer, 1/4 Solenoid, 12-Volt, 100 Amp Self-tapping Screw, 1/4-20 x .5 Flange Lock Nut, 7/16-20 Lower Frame Assembly Engine Pulley, 3.56 OD Electric Clutch Anti-rotation bracket Hex Nut, 5/16-18 Hex Cap Screw, 5/16-18 x 1.75 (Grade 5) Extension Spring, 1.2 OD x 3.638 Self-tapping Screw, 1/4-20 x .750 Flat Washer, .45 x 1.25 x .164 Flange Lock Nut, 5/16-18 Steering Support Bracket Idler Bracket Assembly (42-inch decks) Idler Bracket Assembly (46-inch decks) Shoulder Screw, .498 x 3.245, 3/8-16 Electric PTO Clutch Shoulder Spacer, 1.38 x .445 x .36 Lock Washer, 7/16 Hex Cap Screw, 7/16-20 x 3.25 (Grade 5) Hex Cap Screw, 3/8-16 x 2.25 (Grade 5) Flat Idler Pulley, 3.5 OD Battery Tray

REF. PART

NO.

39 754-0472

754-0474

40 710-3144

41 710-3025

42 736-0105

43 710-0376

44 712-3006

45 736-0119

46 710-3029

47 736-0171

48 750-0956

49 756-0982A

50 732-0735

51 647-0053

52 711-1044

53 731-2111A

54 736-0108

55 747-1112A

56 647-0046

57 710-0650

58 732-0995

59 712-0229

60 783-0744A

61 748-0415A

62 738-0372

63 683-0302

64 714-0470

65 736-0140

66 732-0991

67 732-0990

68 732-0944

69 736-0275

70 754-0485

754-0486

71 710-0831

72 736-0277

73 736-0322

74 736-3010

75 736-0280

DESCRIPTION PTO Belt (42-inch Decks w/ Electric PTO) PTO Belt (46-inch Decks w/ Electric PTO) Hex Cap Screw, 3/8-16 x 2.0 Hex Cap Screw, 5/16-18 x .625 Bell Washer, .401 x .870 x .063 Hex Cap Screw, 5/16-18 x 1.0 Hex Nut, 1/4-20 Lock Washer, 5/16 Hex Cap Screw, 7/16-20 x 1.25 Lock Washer, 7/16 Spacer Engine Pulley Extension Spring, 1.318 x 2.37 Belt Guard Keeper Pin PTO Knob Flat Washer, .510 x .750 x .033 PTO Handle PTO Lever Self-tapping Screw,15/16-18 x .875 Extension Spring, .5 x 6.0 Push Nut, 3/8 Engagement Stop Bracket Spacer, 3/8 x 1.54 Shoulder Spacer PTO Engagement Plate Cotter Pin, 1/8 x 1.25 Flat Washer, .385 x .62 x .063 Belt Guard Belt Guard Extension Spring, .75 x 5.39 Flat Washer, .344 x .688 x .065 PTO Belt (42-inch Decks w/ Manual PTO) PTO Belt (46-inch Decks w/ Manual PTO) Hex Cap Screw, 3/8-16 x 5.5 Flat Washer, 1.031 x 1.62 x .095* Flat Washer, .45 x 1.25 x .17* Flat Washer, .407 x .812 x .135 Falt Washer, .395 x 1.12 x .10

*Found on units equipped with a Kohler engine ONLY.

Model 609
46-inch Deck
16 See PTO breakdown

19 57
76 61 57 71

72 17

63 79 19

80 17

81/83

51 21

31 22

7 15

32 27 24

46-inch Deck Brake Assembly

29 30

38 4

19 62

A double-pulley spindle is found in this location on 46-inch decks

engaged by electric PTOs only. Use 618-0240 on manual PTO decks.

19 57
51 15

55 32 64
65

54 35

58
67 14

42-inch Deck
24 32 25

35 29

82/84

21 22

19
17 11 31
15

33
12 36 14

6
41 19
1 14 9

17 38

35 29

30 42

REF. PART

NO.

1 16606

2 618-0324

3 683-0198C

4 683-0254

5 683-0303

6 710-0520

7 710-0528

8 710-0604A

9 710-0751

10 710-0817

11 710-1122

12 710-1260A

13 711-0677

14 712-0417A

15 712-0431

16 712-3004A

17 712-3006

18 712-3009

19 712-3027

20 714-0104

21 714-0111

22 717-1553A

23 710-0578

24 726-0233

25 731-1032B

26 731-2231A

27 732-0306

28 732-0428A

29 734-0973

30 736-0105

31 736-0119

32 736-0270

33 736-0275

34 736-0416

35 738-0373

36 742-0616

37 746-0970

38 747-1116

39 747-1202

40 748-0324

41 783-1026

42 783-1027

43 731-1643A

44 712-3087

DESCRIPTION Retainer Hook Spindle Assembly, 5.75 Dia. 42-inch Deck Shell Deck Adjustment Bracket w/ Weld Nut Deck Brake Assembly, 42-inch Decks Hex Cap Screw, 3/8-16 x 1.5 Hex Cap Screw, 5/16-18 x 1.25 Self-tapping Screw, 5/16-18 x .625 Hex Cap Screw, 1/4-20 x .62 Self-tapping Screw, 5/16-18 x 1.25 Hex Cap Screw, 1/4-20 x 2.5 Self-tapping Screw, 5/16-18 x .75 Ferrule, 5/16-18 Hex Flange Nut, 5/8-18 Flange Lock Nut, 3/8-16 Flange Lock Nut, 5/16-18 Hex Nut, 1/4-20 Hex Lock Nut, 5/16-18 Hex Flange Lock Nut, 1/4-20 Internal Cotter Pin, .072 x 1.12 Cotter Pin, 3/32 x 1.0 Deck Adjustment Gear Screw, 1/4-20 x 1.5 Push Nut. .25 x .5 Side Discharge Chute Assembly Belt Cover Compression Spring, .406 x .531 x 1.75 Compression Spring, .50 x 4.35 Deck Wheel, 5 x 1.38 Bell Washer, .401 x .87 x .063 Lock Washer, 5/16 Bell Washer, .265 x .75 x .062 Flat Washer, .344 x .688 x .065 Flat Washer, .320 x 3.0 x .125 Shoulder Screw, .498 x 1.53 Three-in-one Blade, Star Center, 21.23" Bracket Cable, 5.35" Deck Release Pin Deck Brake Rod Shoulder Spacer RH Belt Guard Bracket LH Belt Guard Bracket Mulch Plug, 42-inch Decks Wing Nut, 1/4-20

Found on decks engaged by manual PTOs only.

Cutting Decks

REF. NO.

PART NO.

45 712-3006 46 710-0597

47 736-0173 48 17258A 49 17928

50 618-0240 51 618-0241

52 683-0265C 53 710-0167

54 710-0347 55 710-0501

56 710-0514 57 710-0599

58 710-0650 59 710-0703 60 710-0805

61 711-0993 62 712-0271

63 732-0429A 64 732-0594A

65 738-0347 66 738-0572

67 742-0611 68 742-0612 69 746-1107 70 750-0807 71 754-0349

72 756-0627 73 783-0139

74 783-0141 75 783-0142

76 783-0747 77 731-1636 78 712-0291 79 17116 80 783-0805A

81 753-0874

82 753-0873

83 753-0872

84 753-0871

DESCRIPTION Hex Nut, 1/4-20 Hex Cap Screw, 1/4-20 x 1.0 Flat Washer, .28 x .74 x .063 RH Belt Cover Bracket Reinforcement Spindle Plate Spindle Assembly, 5.0 Dia. Double Pulley Spindle Assembly 46-inch Deck Shell Carriage Screw, 1/4-20 x .50 Hex Cap Screw, 3/8-16 x 1.75 Hex Cap Screw, 1/4-20 x 2.0 Hex Cap Screw, 3/8-16 x 1.0 Self-tapping Screw,1/4-20 x .5 Self-tapping Screw,15/16-18 x .875 Hex Screw, 1/4-20 x .75 Hex Cap Screw, 5/16-18 x 1.5 Belt Keeper Pin Hex Sems Nut, 1/4-20 Extension Spring, .5 x 3.97 Extension Spring, .91 x 7.33 Shoulder Spacer, .625 x 1.16 Shoulder Screw, .374 x 1.16 Three-in-one Blade, Star Center, 16.28" Three-in-one Blade, Star Center, 14.88" Bracket Cable, 12" Spacer, .385 x .625 x .70 Deck Belt Flat Idler Pulley, 3.5 OD Idler Bracket Center Deck Skirt RH Deck Skirt LH Belt Cover Mulch Plug, 46-inch Decks Hex Lock Nut, 1/4-20 Deck Brake Assembly, 46-inch Decks RH Belt Cover 46-inch Deck Assembly Complete (Electric PTO activated, w/o mulch kit) 42-inch Deck Assembly Complete (Electric PTO activated, w/o mulch kit) 46-inch Deck Assembly Complete (Manual PTO activated, w/o mulch kit) 42-inch Deck Assembly Complete (Manual PTO activated, w/o mulch kit)

Model 609
37
Briggs & Stratton Intek Twin

35 (for throttle) 4
12
6

18 20 19

Kohler Single-cylinder

38 (for choke) 7 13 9

11 (for choke) 7

3
2 21

8 10 5
10 5 16
15

10 5 17
14 (deflector must
face forward)
1

20 18

2 21

21 25

28
14 (deflector must
face forward)
1

Briggs & Stratton Intek Single
37
29 18
20 19

Engine Accessories

9 13
9

34
4 32 31

3
2 21

6 33
28

(deflector must
14 face forward) 1

REF. PART

NO.

1 710-0148

2 710-0599

3 710-0604A

4 710-1237

5 710-1314

6 710-1315

7 712-3017

8 721-0460

9 726-0205

10 736-0119

11 736-0300

12 751B221535

13 751-0535

14 751-0564

15 751-0616

16 751-0650

17 751-0651

18 751-3140

19 751-3141

DESCRIPTION Self-tapping Screw, #8-32 x .375 Self-tapping Screw, 1/4-20 x .5 Self-tapping Screw, 5/16-18 x .625 Screw, #10-32 x .625 Socket Cap Screw, 5/16-18 x .625 Self-tapping Screw, 3/8-16 x 1.25 Hex Nut, 3/8-16 Exhaust Gasket (Intek Twin) Hose Clamp Lock Washer, 5/16 Flat Washer, .406 x ..875 x .059 Casing Clamp Fuel Line Hose Muffler Deflector Muffler, Twin Inlet RH Exhaust Pipe (Intek Twin) LH Exhaust Pipe (Intek Twin) Oil Drain Valve Oil Drain Hose

REF. PART

NO.

20 751-3142

21 783-0615

22 783-0625B

23 710-3206A

24 712-3086

25 721-0375

26 736-0607

27 751-0621

28 751-0617

29 712-0271

30 721-0208

31 732-0966

32 751B213146

33 751-0619

34 746-1084

35 746-1086

36 746-1087

37 722-0263

38 736-0300

DESCRIPTION Oil Drain Cap Muffler Heat Shield Engine Heat Shield Hex Cap Screw, M8-1.25 x 25 Flange Nut, M8-1.25 Exhaust Gasket (Kohler) External Lock Washer, 5/16 Exhaust Pipe (Kohler) Muffler, Single Inlet Hex Sems Nut, 1/4-20 (for starter cable) Exhaust Gasket (Intek Single) Extension Spring, .275 x 1.25 Casing Clamp Exhaust Pipe (Intek Single) Throttle/Choke Cable (Intek Single) Throttle Cable (Intek Twin) Throttle Cable (Kohler) Foam (fits over fuel line) Flat Washer, .406 x .875 x .059

Model 609

Electrical System

18/19 3

1
8 10
9 16 15
2

7 Electric PTO harness shown. Manual PTO harness will vary slightly

11 11

5 13 4
6 5 13 5

REF. PART

NO.

1 625-0051

2 629-0939

629-0944

3 629-0126

4 710-0599

5 712-3006

6 725-1426

7 725-1657A

8 725-1741

9 725-1743

725-1758

10 725-1745

11 725-1747

12 736-0222

13 736-0329

14 629-0309

15 725-1752

16 783-0462

17 725-3007A

18 729-0357

19 725-1381

20 629-0924

DESCRIPTION Bulb/Socket Headlight Assembly Wiring Harness w/o Ref. 14 (units w/ Electric PTO) Wiring Harness w/o Ref. 14 (units w/ Manual PTO) Harness Adapter, #18 x 5 Self Tapping Screw, 1/4-20 x .5 Hex Nut, 1/4-20 Solenoid, 12-volt, 100 Amp Snap Mount Safety Interlock Switch (Brake) Ignition Switch Systems Indicator Monitor w/ Hour Meter (shown) Systems Indicator Monitor w/ Ammeter Ignition Key Safety Plunger Switch (Seat) External Lock Washer, 1/4 Lock Washer, 1/4 Headlight Harness Electric PTO Switch Retainer Bracket Positive Terminal Cover (Boot) Fuse Holder 20-amp Fuse Harness Adapter (for Kohler Engines)

Found on tractors engaged by an electric PTO only.

Notes
43

MANUFACTURER'S LIMITED WARRANTY FOR:

The limited warranty set forth below is given by MTD PRODUCTS INC ("MTD") 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 material 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 accessory or attachment not approved by MTD Products Inc. for use with the product(s) covered by this manual will void your warranty as to any resulting damages.
Normal wear parts or components thereof are subject to separate terms as follows: All normal wear part or component failures will be covered on the product for a period of 90 days regardless of cause. After 90 days, but within the two year period, normal wear part failures will be covered ONLY IF caused by defects in material or workmanship of OTHER component parts. Normal wear parts and components include, but are not limited to, belts, blades, blade adapters, grass bags, rider deck wheels, seats, snow thrower skid shoes, shave plates and tires. Batteries are covered by a 90-day limited replacement warranty.
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, please check for a listing in the Yellow Pages or contact the Customer Service Department of MTD PRODUCTS INC by calling 1-800-800-7310 or writing to P.O. Box 368022, Cleveland, Ohio 44136-9722.
This limited warranty does not provide coverage in the following cases:
a. The engine or component parts thereof. These items carry a separate manufacturer's warranty. Please refer to the applicable manufacturer's warranty on these items.
b. Log splitter pumps, valves and cylinders have a separate one year warranty.

c. Routine maintenance items such as lubricants, filters, blade sharpening and tune-ups, or adjustments such as brake adjustments, clutch adjustments or deck adjustments; and normal deterioration of the exterior finish due to use or exposure.
d. MTD does not extend any warranty for products sold or exported outside of the United States of America, its possessions and territories, except those sold through MTD's authorized channels of export distribution.
No implied warranty, including any implied warranty of merchantability or 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 or guaranty, 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. (Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitation may not apply to you.)
The provisions as set forth in this Warranty provide the sole and exclusive remedy arising from the sales. MTD shall not be liable for incidental or consequential loss or damages including, without limitation, expenses incurred for substitute or replacement lawn care services, for transportation or for related expenses, or for rental expenses to temporarily replace a warranted product. (Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above exclusion or limitation 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 the 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 use or misuse or inability to use the product.
This limited warranty shall not extend to anyone other than the original purchaser, original lessee or 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.

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