MTD YARD-MAN X614G User manual

Operator’s Manual
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
FORM NO.
769-00581.fm
(11/2002)
IMPORTANT: Read safety rules and instructions carefully before operating equipment.
Warning: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-
covered, brush-covered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting
applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.
In the State ofCalifornia the above is required by law(Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may have
similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest engine authorized
service dealer or contact the service department, P.O. Box 361131 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019.
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019
Hydrostatic Lawn
Tractor
Model X614G

2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Content Page
Important Safe Operation Practices...................................................................3
Slope Gauge......................................................................................................7
Tractor Set-up....................................................................................................8
Know Your Lawn Tractor ...................................................................................9
Operating Your Lawn Tractor ............................................................................12
Making Adjustments..........................................................................................16
Maintaining Your Lawn Tractor..........................................................................18
Service ..............................................................................................................19
Off-Season Storage...........................................................................................23
Attachments & Accessories...............................................................................23
Troubleshooting.................................................................................................24
Parts List............................................................................................................25
FINDING MODEL NUMBER
This Operator’s Manual is an important part of your new lawn tractor. It will help you assemble, prepare and
maintain the unit for best performance. Please read and understand what it says.
Before you start assembling your new equipment, please locate the model plate on the
equipment and copy the information from it in the space provided below. The information on the
model plate is very important if you need help from our Customer Support Department or an
authorized dealer.
• You can locate the model number by looking beneath the seat. A sample model plate is explained
below. For future reference, please copy model number and serial number of the equipment in the
space below.
ENGINE INFORMATION
The engine manufacturer is responsible for all engine-related issues with regards to performance, power-
rating, specifications, warranty and service. Please refer to the engine manufacturer’s Owner’s/Operator’s
Manual packed separately with your unit for more information.
CALLING CUSTOMER SUPPORT
If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation or
maintenance of this unit, please call the Customer Support Department.
Call 1- (330) 220-4MTD (4683) or 1- (800)-800-7310 to reach a Customer Support representative.
Please have your unit’s model number and serial number ready when you call. See previous
section to locate this information. You will be asked to enter the serial number in order to process
your call.
www.yardman.com
MTD LLC
P. O. BOX 361131
CLEVELAND,OH 44136
330-220-4683
800-800-7310
Copy the model number here:
Copy the serial number here:
(Model Number) (Serial Number)
For more details about your unit, visit our website at www.yardman.com

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

4
23. Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a
burn. Do not touch.
24. Checkoverheadclearances carefully beforedriving
under low tree branches, wires, door openings etc.,
where the operator may be struck or pulled from the
unit, which could result in serious injury.
25. Disengage all attachment clutches, depress the
brake pedal completely and shift into neutral before
attempting to start engine.
26. Your machine 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. Dry grass or leaves
may contact the engine exhaust and/or build up on
the mower deck presenting a potential fire hazard.
27. Use only accessories and attachments approved
for this machine by the machine manufacturer.
Read, understand and follow all instructions
provided with the accessory or attachment.
28. Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and
above, are involved in a large percentage of tractor-
related injuries. These operators should evaluate
their ability to operate the tractor safely enough to
protect themselves and others from serious injury.
29. If situations occur which are not covered in this
manual, use care and good judgment. Contact your
Yard-Man dealer for assistance.
Slope Operation
Slopes are a major factor related to loss of control and
tip-over accidents which can result in severe injury or
death. All slopes require extra caution. If you cannot
back up the slope or if you feel uneasy, do not mow it.
For your safety, use the slope gauge included as part of
this manual to measure slopes before operating this
unit on a sloped or hilly area. If the slope is greater than
15 degrees as shown on the slope gauge, do not
operate this unit on that area.
Do:
1. Mow up and down slopes, not across. Exercise
extreme caution when changing direction on
slopes.
2. Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other
hidden objects. Uneven terrain could overturn the
machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
3. Use slow speed. Choose a low enough speed
setting so that you will not have to stop or shift while
on the slope. Tires may lose traction on slopes
even though the brakes are functioning properly.
Always keep machine in gear when going down
slopes to take advantage of engine braking action.
4. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for
wheel weights or counterweights to improve
stability of the machine. Use extra care with grass
catchers or other attachments. These can change
stability of the machine.
5. Keep allmovement on theslopesslowand 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.
6. Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose
traction, disengage the blade(s) and proceed
slowly straight down the slope.
Do Not:
1. Do not turn on slopes unless necessary; then, turn
slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.
2. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or
embankments. The mower could suddenly turn
over if a wheel is over the edge of a cliff, ditch, or if
an edge caves in.
3. Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your
foot on the ground.
4. Do not use a grass catcher on steep slopes.
5. Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could
cause sliding.
6. Do not shift to neutral and coast downhill. Over-
speeding may cause the operator to lose control of
the machine resulting in serious injury or death.
7. Do not tow heavy pull behind attachments (e.g.
loaded dump cart, lawn roller, etc.) on slopes
greater than 5 degrees. When going down hill, the
extra weight tends to push the tractor and may
cause you to loose control. (e.g. tractor may speed
up, braking and steering ability are reduced,
attachment may jack-knife and cause tractor to
overturn).
Children
1. Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not
alert to the presence of children. Children are often
attracted to the machine and the mowing activity.
They do not understand the dangers. Never
assume that children will remain where you last
saw them.
a. Keep children out of the mowing area and in
watchful care of a responsible adult other
than the operator.
b. Be alert and turn machine off if a child enters
the area.
c. Before and while backing, look behind and
down for small children.
d. Never carry children, even with the blade(s)
shut off. They may fall off and be seriously
injured or interfere with safe machine
operation.
e. Use extreme care when approaching blind
corners, doorways, shrubs, trees or other
objects that may block your vision of a child
who may run into the machine.
f. Disengage the cutting blade(s) before
shifting in reverse. The “No-Cut-In Reverse”

5
feature emphasises not to cut in reverse and
to avoid back-over accidents; do not defeat it.
g. Keep children away from hot or running
engines. They can suffer burns from a hot
muffler.
h. Remove key when machine is unattended to
prevent unauthorized operation.
9. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate
the machine. Children 14 years old and over should
read and understand the operation instructions and
safety rules in this manual and should be trained
and supervised by a parent.
Towing
1. Tow only with a machine that has a hitch designed
for towing. Do not attach towed equipment except
at the hitch point.
2. Follow the manufacturers recommendation for
weight limits for towed equipment and towing on
slopes.
3. Never allow children or others in or on towed
equipment.
4. On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment may
cause loss of traction and loss of control.
5. Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop.
6. Do not shift to neutral and coast downhill.
Service
Safe Handling Of Gasoline
1. To avoid personal injury or property damage use
extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is
extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive.
Serious personal injury can occur when gasoline is
spilled on yourself or your clothes which can ignite.
Wash your skin and change clothes immediately.
a. Use only an approved gasoline container.
b. Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a
truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always
place containers on the ground away from
your vehicle before filling.
c. When practical, remove gas-powered
equipment from the truck or trailer and refuel
it on the ground. If this is not possible, then
refuel such equipment on a trailer with a
portable container, rather than from a
gasoline dispenser nozzle.
d. Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the
fuel tank or container opening at all times
until fueling is complete. Do not use a nozzle
lock-open device.
e. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and
other sources of ignition.
f. Never fuel machine indoors.
g. Never remove gas cap or add fuel while the
engine is hot or running. Allow engine to cool
at least two minutes before refueling.
h. Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no more
than ½inch below bottom of filler neck to
allow space for fuel expansion.
i. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.
j. If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine
and equipment. Move unit to another area.
Wait 5 minutes before starting the engine.
k. To reduce fire hazards, keep machine free of
grass, leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean
up oil or fuel spillage and remove any fuel
soaked debris.
l. Never store the machine or fuel container
inside where there is an open flame, spark or
pilot light as on a water heater, space heater,
furnace, clothes dryer or other gas
appliances.
m. Allow a machine to cool at least 5 minutes
before storing.
General Service
1. Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly
ventilated area. Engine exhaust contains carbon
monoxide, an odorless, and deadly gas.
2. Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make
certain the blade(s) and all moving parts have
stopped. Disconnect the spark plug wire and
ground against the engine to prevent unintended
starting.
3. Periodically check to make sure the blades come to
complete stop within approximately (5) five
seconds after operating the blade disengagement
control. If the blades do not stop within the this time
frame, your unit should be serviced professionally
by an authorized dealer.
4. Check brake operation frequently as it is subjected
to wear during normal operation. Adjust and service
as required.
5. Check the blade(s) and engine mounting bolts at
frequent intervals for proper tightness. Also,
visually inspect blade(s) for damage (e.g.,
excessive wear, bent, cracked).
Replace the blade(s) with the original equipment
manufacturer’s (O.E.M.) blade(s) only, listed in this
manual. “Use of parts which do not meet the
original equipment specifications may lead to
improper performance and compromise safety!”
6. Mower blades are sharp. Wrap the blade or wear
gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.
7. Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the
equipment is in safe working condition.
8. Never tamper with the safety interlock system or
other safety devices. Check their proper operation
regularly.
9. After striking a foreign object, stop the engine,
disconnect the spark plug wire(s) and ground
against the engine. Thoroughly inspect the
machine forany damage. Repair the damage
before starting and operating.

6
10. Never attempt to make adjustments or repairs to
the machine while the engine is running.
11. Grass catcher components and the discharge
cover are subject to wear and damage which could
expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown.
For safety protection, frequently check components
and replace immediately with original equipment
manufacturer’s (O.E.M.) parts only, listed in this
manual. “Use of parts which do not meet the
original equipment specifications may lead to
improper performance and compromise safety!”
12. Do not change the engine governor settings or
over-speed the engine. The governor controls the
maximum safe operating speed of the engine.
13. Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as
necessary.
14. Observe proper disposal laws and regulations for
gas, oil, etc. to protect the environment.
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.
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF INJURY, DO NOT
OPERATE UNLESS DISCHARGE COVER OR
GRASS CATCHER IS IN ITS PROPER PLACE.
IF DAMAGED, REPLACE IMMEDIATELY.
KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY FROM ROTATING PARTS.
REMOVE OBJECTS THAT CAN BE THROWN BY THE
BLADE IN ANY DIRECTION. WEAR SAFETY GLASSES.
DO NOT MOW WHEN CHILDREN OR OTHERS ARE AROUND.
NEVER CARRY CHILDREN EVEN WITH BLADES OFF.
USE EXTRA CAUTION ON SLOPES. DO NOT MOW SLOPES
GREATER THAN 10° MOW UP AND DOWN, NOT ACROSS.
AVOID SUDDEN TURNS, USE LOW GEAR.
MAX10°
READ OPERATOR'S MANUAL. KEEP SAFETY DEVICES IN PLACE AND WORKING.
AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH
S30536
Label shape may vary by tractor model. Label contents do not vary.
X
• GO UP AND DOWN SLOPES, NOT ACROSS.
• AVOID SUDDEN TURNS.
• DO NOT OPERATE THE UNIT WHERE IT
COULD SLIP OR TIP.
• IF MACHINE STOPS GOING UPHILL, STOP
BLADE(S) AND BACK DOWNHILL SLOWLY.
• DO NOT MOW WHEN CHILDREN OR OTHERS
ARE AROUND.
• NEVER CARRY CHILDREN EVEN WITH.
BLADES OFF.
• 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,
WARNING
TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH
READ OPERATOR'S MANUAL
SHUT OFF AND REMOVE KEY.

7
SECTION 2: SLOPE GAUGE
15°
SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH A VERTICAL TREE
A POWER POLE
A CORNER OF A BUILDING
OR A FENCE POST
FOLDONDOTTEDLINE,REPRESENTINGA15°SLOPE
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.
WARNING

8
SECTION 3: SETTING UP YOUR TRACTOR
NOTE: Reference to RIGHT or LEFT side of the tractor
in this manual is observed from operator’s position.
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 carriage
screw and hex nut at the factory. Make certain that
therubberboot coverstheterminal to helpprotectit
from corrosion.
•Remove the shoulder bolt and wing nut from the
negative cable.
•Remove the black plastic cover, if present, from the
negative battery terminal and attach the negative
cable (heavy black wire) to the negative battery
terminal (–) with the bolt and the wing nut.
•Make certain the hold-down strap is in position over
the battery, securing it in place. See Figure 1.
Figure 1
NOTE: If the battery is put into service after the date
shown on top of battery, charge the battery as
instructed on page 22 of this manual prior to operating
the tractor.
Gas and Oil Fill-Up
•The gasoline tank is located under the hood and
has a capacity of either two or three gallons
according to the respective model. Do not overfill.
•Service the engine with gasoline and oil as
instructed in theseparate engine operator/owner
manual packed with your tractor. Read instructions
carefully.
•Your tractor is shipped with motor oil in the engine.
However, you must check the oil level before
operating. Be careful not to overfill.
Removing Shipping Brace
IMPORTANT: The shipping brace, used for packaging
purposes only, must be removed and discarded before
operating your lawn tractor.
•Locate the shipping brace and accompanying
warning tag on the right side of the tractor, between
the discharge chute and the cutting deck. See
Figure 2.
Figure 2
•While holding the discharge chute with your left
hand, remove the shipping brace with your right
hand by grasping it between your thumb and index
finger and rotating it clockwise.Do not discard the
mulch plug, if already installed on the unit.
Shoulder Bolt
Wing
Nut
Rubber
Boot
WARNING: Use extreme care when
handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely
flammable and the vapors are explosive. Never
fuel machine indoors or while the engine is hot
or running. Extinguish cigarettes, cigars, pipes,
and other sources of ignition.
WARNING: Make sure the tractor’s engine
is off, ignition key removed, and parking brake
set before removing the shipping brace
.
WARNING: The mowing deck is capable of
throwing objects. Failure to operate the tractor
without the discharge cover in the proper
operating position could result in serious
personal injury and/or property damage.
Warning
Shipping Brace
Mulch Plug
(If equipped)
Tag

9
SECTION 4: KNOW YOUR LAWN TRACTOR
Compare the illustration in Figure 3 with the controls on your tractor; get familiar with these features before you start
to operate the tractor. This manual covers two models. So follow the descriptions and instructions pertaining to your
tractor model only.
Figure 3
ASystems Indicator Monitor/Hour Meter GCruise Control Button
BPTO (Power Take-off)Lever HIgnition Switch
CChoke Control (If equipped) IBrake Pedal
DSeat Adjustment Lever JDrive Pedal
EThrottle Control Lever KDeck Lift Lever
FParking Brake Button
H
E
A
B
G
F
C
K
J
I
D
NOTE: Steering Wheel not shown for clarity.
P
1/10
P
+

10
Throttle Control Lever
The throttle control lever is
located on the right side of
the tractor’s dash panel.
This lever controls the
speed of the engine. When
set in a given position, the
throttle will maintain a
uniform engine speed.
IMPORTANT: When
operating the tractor with
the cutting deck engaged,
make sure that the throttle
lever is always in the fast (rabbit) position.
Choke Control
The choke control can be
found on the left side of the
dash panel and is activated
by pulling the knob
outward. Activating the
choke control closes the
choke plate on the
carburetor and aids in
starting the engine. Refer to Starting The Engine on
page 12 of this manual for detailed instructions.
Brake Pedal
The brake pedal is located
on the right front side of the
tractor above the drive
pedalandalongtherunning
board. This pedal can be
used for sudden stops or
setting the parking brake.
NOTE: Brake pedal must be fully depressed to activate
the safety interlock switch when starting the tractor
.
Ignition Switch
To start the engine, insert
the key into the ignition
switch and turn clockwise
to the start position. Once
the engine starts, turn the
key to on position.
Refer to Starting The
Engine on page 12 of this
manual for more details.
The ignition switch is also
used to operate the tractor’s headlights. Refer to
Operating The Headlights on page 15 for details.
Drive Pedal
The drive pedal is located
below the brake pedal on
the right side and along the
running board. Depress the
upper portion of the drive
pedal forward to cause the
tractor to travel forward.
Depress the lower portion
of the drive pedal with the
ball of your right foot (not
your heel) to cause the
tractor to travel in reverse. Ground speed is also
controlled with the drive pedal. The further forward or
rearward that the pedal is pivoted, the faster the tractor
will travel. The pedal will return to its original position
when it is not depressed.
Systems Indicator Monitor / Hour Meter
Your tractor is equipped
with four indicator lights
and an hour meter located
on the left side of the dash
panel. These indicators
are shown here.
The hour meter runs
whenever the engine is
running and records the
actual hours of operation.
It is normal for the oil light
and the battery light to be
illuminated while the
engine is cranking, but if
either lights up while the
engine is running, follow
the steps given below.
Brake Light Engage the parking brake.
PTO Light Move the PTO lever into the off
(disengaged) position.
Oil Light Stop the tractor immediately and
check the crankcase oil level as
instructed in the engine manual. Add
oil as required.
Battery Light Indicates that the battery needs to be
charged or that the engine’s charging
system is not generating sufficient
amperage. Refer to Battery charging
procedure on page 22 or have the
engine’s charging system checked by
an authorized dealer.
Slow
Fast
Choke
Off On/Lights
On
Start
WARNING: Never leave a running machine
unattended. Always disengage PTO, move
shift lever into neutral position, set parking
brake, stop engine and remove key to prevent
unintended starting.
Battery Light
PTO Light
Oil Light
Brake Light
+
1/10
P
Hour Meter

11
PTO (Power Take-off) 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 power to the cutting deck
or other (separately available) attachments; move the
PTO lever backward (toward the rear of the tractor) to
disengage power to the attachments.
NOTE: The PTO lever must be in the off position when
(i) starting the engine, (ii) travelling in reverse or (iii) if
the operator leaves the seat.
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.
Deck Lift Lever
Located on your tractor’s right fender, the deck lift lever
is used to change the height of the cutting deck. To use,
move the lever to the left, then place in the notch best
suited for your application.
Cruise Control Button
The cruise control button is
located on the dash panel
of the tractor to the left of
the ignition switch. Push
the cruise control button
while the tractor is traveling
forward at a desired speed.
Holding the button in,
release pressure from the
drive pedal. This will
engage cruise control and
allowthetractor tomaintain
thatspeed withoutapplying
pressure to the drive pedal. Depress the brake pedal or
the drive pedal to deactivate cruise control. Refer to
OPERATING YOUR LAWN TRACTOR section on
page 12 for detailed instructions.
NOTE: Cruise control cannot be engaged at the
tractor’s fastest ground speed. If the operator should
attempt to do so, the tractor will automatically
decelerate to the fastest optimal mowing ground speed.
Seat Adjustment Lever
To adjust the seat forward or backward, slide the seat
adjustment lever to the left and reposition the seat to
the desired position. Once a comfortable position is
found, release the seat adjustment lever to lock the
seat in place. Refer to Seat Adjustment on page 17 for
more detailed instructions.
P

12
SECTION 5: OPERATING YOUR LAWN TRACTOR
Safety Interlock Switches
This tractor is equipped with a safety interlock system
for the protection of the operator. The safety interlock
system prevents the engine from cranking or starting
unless the parking brake is engaged and the PTO lever
is in the disengaged (off) position.
The safety interlock system will automatically shut off
the engine if:
1. the operator leaves the seat before engaging the
parking brake;
2. the operator leaves the tractor’s seat with the PTO
lever in the engaged (on) position, regardless of
whether the parking brake is engaged;
3. the PTO lever is moved to the engaged (on)
position with drive pedal placed for reverse travel.
IMPORTANT: Tampering with or attempting to bypass
the tractor’s safety interlock switches in any way will
void your tractor’s warranty.
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 fender.
•Adjust the deck wheels so that they are between ¼-
inch and ½-inch above the ground when the tractor
is on a smooth, flat surface such as a driveway.
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 Leveling the Deck on page 16 for more details
regarding various deck adjustments.
Starting the Engine
NOTE: Refer to page 8 of this manual for Gasoline and
Oil Fill-Up instructions.
•Insert the tractor key into the ignition switch.
•Place PTO lever in the disengaged (off) position.
•Engage the tractor’s parking brake.
•Pull the choke control outward or move the throttle
control lever into the choke position as the case
may be.
•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 electric starter.
•After the engine starts, de-activate choke control
and place throttle control in the FAST position.
NOTE: Do not leave the choke control on while
operating the tractor. Doing so will result in a "rich" fuel
mixture and cause the engine to run poorly.
Stopping the Engine
•If the blades are engaged, place the PTO lever in
the disengaged (off) position.
•Turn the ignition key counterclockwise to the off
position.
•Remove the key from the ignition switch to prevent
unintended starting.
WARNING: Read,understand,andfollowall
instructions and warnings on the machine and
in this manual before operating.
WARNING: This safety interlock system
was designed for your safety and protection. If
this system should ever malfunction, do not
operate the tractor; contact an authorized
service dealer.
WARNING: Keep hands and feet away from
the discharge opening of the cutting deck.
WARNING: If you strike a foreign object,
stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug
wire(s) and ground against the engine.
Thoroughly inspect the machine for any
damage. Repair the damage before restarting
and operating
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, EVEN WITH BLADES OFF.
•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
WARNING

13
Driving the Tractor
IMPORTANT: Avoid sudden starts, high speed and
sudden stops.
•Briefly depress the brake pedal to release the
parking brake and let the pedal up. Move the
throttle lever into the fast (rabbit) position.
•To travel forward, slowly depress the upper portion
of the drive pedal forward until the desired speed is
achieved. See Figure 4.
Figure 4
•To travel in reverse, check that the area behind is
clear then slowly depress the lower portion of the
drive pedal with the ball of your foot (not your heel)
until the desired speed is achieved. See Figure 4.
IMPORTANT: Do not attempt to change the direction of
travel when the tractor is in motion. Always bring the
tractor to a complete stop before pivoting the drive
pedal from forward to reverse or vice versa.
Engaging the Parking Brake
To engage parking brake:
•Fully depress brake pedal and hold it there while
gently pushing the parking brake button inward.
•Hold parking brake button in while removing your
foot from the brake pedal.
•Once engaged, the parking brake button and the
brake pedal will lock in the “down”position.
To disengage parking brake:
•Slightly depress the brake pedal.
NOTE: The parking brake must be engaged if the
operator leaves the seat with the engine running or the
engine will automatically shut off.
Driving on Slopes
Refer to the SLOPE GAUGE on page 7 to help
determine slopes where you may operate tractor safely.
•Mow up and down slopes, never across.
•Exercise extreme caution when changing direction
on slopes.
•Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other
hidden objects. Uneven terrain could overturn the
machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
•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.
Setting the Cruise Control
NOTE: The cruise control feature should only be
utilized while traveling in the forward direction.
To engage cruise control:
•Slowly depress the drive pedal until the desired
speed is achieved.
•Lightly depress the cruise control button.
•Holding the cruise control button in, lift your foot
from the drive pedal (you should feel the cruise
latch engage).
•Once engaged, the cruise control button and the
drive pedal will lock in the “down”position, and the
tractor will maintain the same forward speed.
NOTE: Cruise control cannot be engaged at the
tractor’s fastest ground speed. If the operator should
attempt to do so, the tractor will automatically
decelerate to the fastest optimal mowing ground speed.
To disengage cruise control: (Follow one of two
methods described below.)
1. Depress the brake pedal to disengage the cruise
control and stop the tractor.
2. Lightly depress the drive pedal.
To change direction to reverse when operating with
cruise control:
•Depress the brake pedal to disengage the cruise
control and bring the tractor to a complete stop.
•Depress the lower portion of the drive pedal with
the ball of your foot to travel in reverse.
WARNING: Do not leave the seat of the
tractor without first placing the PTO lever in the
disengaged (off) position, depressing the
brake pedal and engaging the parking brake. If
leaving the tractor unattended, also turn the
ignition key off and remove the key.
Reverse Forward
Drive Pedal Fender /
Brake Pedal
Running Board
WARNING: Do not mow on inclineswith 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.

14
Moving The Tractor Manually
Your tractor’s transmission is equipped with a
hydrostatic relief valve for occasions when it is
necessary to move the tractor manually. Activating this
valve allows the rear tires to "freewheel." To engage the
hydrostatic relief valve, proceed as follows:
•Locate the hydrostatic bypass rod in the rear of the
tractor. See Figure 5.
Figure 5
•Pull the hydrostatic bypass rod outward, then
down, to lock it in place.
NOTE: The transmission will not engage when the
hydrostatic bypass rod is pulled out. Return the rod to
its normal position prior to operating the tractor.
IMPORTANT: Never attempt to move the tractor
manually without first engaging the hydrostatic relief
valve. Doing so will resultin serious damage to the
tractor’s transmission.
Using the Deck Lift Lever
•To raise the cutting deck, move the deck lift lever to
the left, then place it in the notch best suited for
your application. Refer to Setting The Cutting
Height earlier in this section.
Engaging the PTO
Engaging the PTO transfers power to the cutting deck
or other (separately available) attachments. To engage
the PTO, proceed as follows:
•Move the throttle control lever to the fast (rabbit)
position.
•Grasp the PTO lever and pivot it all the way forward
to the engaged (on) position.
IMPORTANT: The engine will automatically shut off if the
PTO lever is moved into the engaged (ON) position with
the drive pedal in position for reverse travel. Refer to
Safety Interlock Switches on page 12.
•Keep the throttle lever in the fast (rabbit) position
for the most efficient use of the cutting deck or other
(separately available) attachments.
NOTE: The operator must remain on the tractor seat at
all times of operation. If the operator leaves the seat
without moving the PTO lever into the disengaged
(OFF) position, the tractor’s engine will automatically
shut off, regardless of whether the parking brake is
engaged or not.
Operating the Headlights
To turn on the headlights:
•Start the engine .Turn the key one notch counter-
clockwise into the On/Lights position of the ignition
switch. Refer to figure on page 10.
To turn off the headlights:
•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 on page 10.
NOTE: Never move the key into the Start position while
the engine is running. Doing so may cause damage to
the tractor ‘s electric starter.
Mowing
This tractor is equipped with one of Yard-Man’s high
quality cutting decks. The following information will be
helpful when using the cutting deck with your tractor.
•Do not mow at high ground speed, especially if a
mulch kit or grass collector is installed.
•For best results it is recommended that the first two
laps be cut with the discharge thrown towards the
center. Then reverse the direction to throw rest of
the discharge to the outside . 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.
•Under heavier conditions it may be necessary to go
back over the cut area to get a clean cut.
Hydrostatic
Bypass Rod
WARNING: To help avoid blade contact or a
thrown object injury, keep by-standers,
helpers, children and pets at least 75 feet from
the tractor while it is in operation. Stop the
tractor if anyone enters the area.
WARNING: Plan your mowing pattern to
avoid discharge of materials toward roads,
sidewalks,by-standersandthelike.Also,avoid
discharging material against a wall or
obstruction which may cause discharged
material to ricochet back toward the operator.

15
•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 Cutting Blades on page 19 for
blade sharpening instructions.
Mulching
The mulch kit, already standard on your tractor,
includes special blades to recirculate grass clippings
beneath the cutting deck. The ultra-fine clippings are
then forced back into the lawn where they act as a
natural fertilizer. Observe the following points for best
results in mulching:
•Never attempt to mulch if the lawn is damp. Wet
grass tends to stick to the underside of the cutting
deck preventing proper mulching of the clippings.
•Do not attempt to mulch more than 1/3 the total
height of the grass or approximately 1-1/2 inches.
Doing so will cause the clippings to clump up
beneath the deck and not be mulched effectively.
•Maintain a slow ground speed to allow the grass
clippings more time to effectively be mulched.
•Always position the throttle control lever in the fast
(rabbit) position and allow it to remain there while
mowing. Failing to keep the engine at full throttle
places strain on the tractor’s engine and does not
allow the blades to properly mulch grass.
NOTE: It is not necessary to remove the discharge
chute to operate the mower with the mulch kit installed.
•To operate the cutting deck without mulching,
simply remove the mulch plug by unthreading the
plastic wing nut which fastens it to the cutting deck.
This will allow the clippings to discharge through
the side-discharge opening. See Figure 6 .
Figure 6
Carriage Screw
Plastic Wing Nut
Bell
Washer
Mulch Plug

16
SECTION 6: MAKING ADJUSTMENTS
Leveling the Deck
NOTE: Check the tractor’s tire pressure before
performing any deck leveling adjustments. Refer to
Tires on page 22 for information on tire pressure.
Front To Rear
The front of the cutting deck is supported by a stabilizer
bar that can be adjusted to level the deck from front to
rear. The front of the deck should be between 1/4-inch
and 3/8-inch lower than the rear of the deck. Adjust if
necessary as follows:
•With the tractor parked on a firm, level surface,
place the deck lift lever in the top notch (highest
position)and rotatethe blade nearestthedischarge
chute so that it is parallel with the tractor.
•Measure the distance from front of the blade tip to
the ground and 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 adjustmentandproceed,if necessary, to the
next step.
•Loosen the two jam nuts on the rear side of the
deck stabilizer bracket. See Figure 7A.
•Locate the two lock nuts on the opposite side of the
stabilizer bracket. See Figure 7A. 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:
•With the tractor parked on a firm, level surface,
place the deck lift lever in the top notch (highest
position) and rotate both blades so that they are
perpendicular with the tractor.
•Measure the distance from the outside of the left
blade tip to the ground and the distance from the
outside of the right blade tip to the ground. Both
measurements taken should be equal. If they’re
not, proceed to the next step.
•Loosen, but do not remove, the hex cap screw on
the left deck hanger bracket. See Figure 7B.
•Balance the deck by using a wrench to turn the
adjustment gear (found immediately behind the hex
cap screw just loosened) clockwise/up or
counterclockwise/down.
•The deck is properly balanced when both blade tip
measurements taken earlier are equal.
•Retighten the hex cap screw on the left deck
hanger bracket when proper adjustment is
achieved.
Figure 7
WARNING: Disconnect the spark plug
wire(s) and ground against the engine before
performing any adjustments, repairs or
maintenance.
WARNING: Do not make any adjustments
while the engine is running, except where
specified in this or the engine manual.
Jam
Deck
Stabilizer
Bracket
Nuts
Lock
Nuts
Deck
AB
FRONT TO REAR SIDE TO SIDE
Hex Cap Screw
Adjustment
Gear

17
Seat Adjustment
•Move the seat adjustment lever to the left and slide
the seat forward or rearward. Make sure seat is
locked into position before operating the tractor.
Parking Brake Adjustment
Adjust the brake if (i) the tractor does not come to a
complete stop when the brake pedal is completely
depressed, or (ii) the tractor’s rear wheels roll even with
the parking brake applied. Locate the brake disc on the
right side of the transmission in the rear of the tractor.
Adjust as follows:
•From the right side of the tractor, locate the brake
rod and brake disc. See Figure 8 inset.
Figure 8
•Carefully remove the cotter pin from the crown nut
on theright side of the brake assembly.
•Using a feeler gauge, check the gap between the
brake disc and the brake puck. Proper gap is .011".
•Tighten crown nut until the proper gap is achieved.
•Insert a replacement cotter pin (part number 714-
0111) into the crown nut.
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.
Adjust the drag links so that equal lengths are threaded
into the ball joints on the left and the right:
•Loosen the jam nut found on the drag link at the
rear of the ball joint. See Figure 9 .
•Remove the hex nut and lock washer on the top of
ball joint. See Figure 9 .
•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.
•Replace hex nut and lock washer and retighten the
jam nut after proper adjustment is achieved.
Figure 9
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".
Front tire toe-in can be measured as follows:
•Place the steering wheel in position for straight
ahead travel.
•In front of the axle, measure the distance
horizontally from the inside of the left rim to the
inside of the right rim. Note the distance.
•Behind the axle, measure the distance horizontally
from the inside of the left rim to the inside of the
right rim. Note the distance.
•The measurement taken in front of the axle should
be between 1/16" and 5/16" less than the
measurement taken behind the axle.
•Adjust if necessary.
WARNING: Before operating this machine,
make sure the seat is engaged in the seat stop,
stand behind the machine and pull back on
seat until fully engaged into stop.
WARNING: Never attempt to adjust the
brakes while the engine is running. Always
disengage PTO, move shift lever into neutral
position, stop engine and remove key to
prevent unintended starting.
Brake Rod
NOTE: View shown from
beneath tractor.
Crown
Nut
Brake
Disc
Drag Link
Ball Joint
Axle
Pivot Bar
Hex Nut and
Jam Nut
Lock Washer Grease Fitting

18
SECTION 7: MAINTAINING YOUR LAWN TRACTOR
Cleaning Engine and Deck
•Promptly wipe off any fuel or oil spilled on the
machine. Do notallowdebris toaccumulatearound
the cooling fins of the engine or on any other part of
the machine, especially on the belts, pulleys and
other moving parts.
•Clean the underside of the deck with a wire broom,
scraper or forced air after each mowing.
NOTE: The use of a pressure washer or garden hose
to clean your tractor is not recommended. It may cause
damage to electrical components, spindles, pulleys,
bearings or the engine. The use of water will shorten life
of the tractor and reduce its serviceability.
Maintaining the Engine
Refer to the engine manual for maintenance
instructions. also follow these steps to maintain the
engine in good working order.
•Check engine oil level before each use as
instructed in the engine manual. Read and follow
instructions carefully.
Changing Engine Oil
•Unscrew oil fill cap and remove dipstick from the oil
fill tube. See Figure 10 .
•Pop open the protective cap on the end of the oil
drain valve to expose the drain port. See Figure 10 .
•Push the oil drain hose (packed with this manual)
onto the oil drain port. Route the opposite end of
the hose into an appropriate oil collection container
with a capacity great enough to collect the used oil.
•Push the oil drain valve in slightly, then rotate
counter-clockwise and pull outward to begin
draining oil. See Figure 10 .
•Service the oil filter (if so equipped) as instructed in
the engine manual.
•Perform the above steps in the opposite order after
oil has finished draining.
•Refill the engine with new motor oil.
IMPORTANT: Refer to the engine manual for the proper
weight of motor oil to be used.
Figure 10
Air Cleaner
•Service the pre-cleaner, if so equipped, and
cartridge/air cleaner element as instructed in the
engine manual.
Spark Plug
•The spark plug should be cleaned and the gap
reset once a season. Spark plug replacement is
recommended at the start of each mowing season.
Refer to the engine manual for correct plug type
and gap specifications.
Lubrication
Engine
Lubricate the engine with motor oil as instructed in the
engine manual.
Pivot Points & Linkage
Lubricate all the pivot points on the drive system,
parking brake and lift linkage at least once a season
with light oil.
Rear Wheels
The rear wheels should be removed from the axles
once a season. Lubricate the axles and the rims well
with an all-purpose grease before re-installing them.
Front Wheels
Each of the front wheel axles is equipped with a grease
fitting (Figure 9 ). Lubricate with a grease gun after
every 25 hours of tractor operation.
WARNING: Before performing any
maintenance or repairs, disengage PTO, move
shift lever into neutral position, set parking
brake, stop engine and remove key to prevent
unintended starting.
Protective Cap
Oil Drain
Drain Port
Oil Fill
Oil Fill Tube
Oil Drain Valve
Cap
Hose

19
SECTION 8: SERVICE
Cutting Blades
•Periodically inspect the blade adapter and/or
spindle for cracks or damage, especially if you
strike a foreign object. Replace immediately if
damaged
.
To remove blade:
•Remove the deck from beneath the tractor, (refer to
Cutting Deck Removal on page 19). 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 11 .
Figure 11
•Use a 15/16" wrench to remove the hex flange nut
thatsecures blade to the spindle assembly. See
Figure 11 .
To sharpen blades:
•Remove equal amounts of metal from both ends of
the blades along the cutting edges, parallel to the
trailing edge, at a 25°to 30°angle. See Figure 12 .
•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 12 .
•Grind each blade edge equally to maintain proper
blade balance.
•Test the blade by balancing it on a round shaft
screwdriver. Grind metal from the heavy side until it
balances evenly.
IMPORTANT: A poorly balanced blade will cause
excessive vibration and may cause damage to the
tractor and/or personal injury.
To replace blade:
•When replacing the blade, be sure to install the
blade with the side marked ‘‘Bottom’’ (or with a part
number stamped in it) facing the ground when the
mower is in the operating position.
•Use a torque wrench to tighten the blade spindle
hex flange nut to between 70 foot-pounds and 90
foot-pounds.
Figure 12
Removing Cutting Deck
•Place the PTO lever in the disengaged (OFF)
position and engage the parking brake.
•Lower the deck by moving the deck lift lever into the
bottom notch on the right fender.
•Remove the PTO belt from around the cutting
deck’s center pulley.
•Looking at the cutting deck from the left side of the
tractor, locate the deck support pin on the rear left
side of the deck.
•Pull the deck support pin outward to release the
deck from the deck lift arm. See Figure 13.
•Rotate the pin slightly toward the rear of the tractor
and release the pin into the hole provided. Repeat
on the right side.
WARNING: Before performing any
maintenance or repairs, disengage PTO, move
shift lever into neutral position, set parking
brake, stop engine and remove key to prevent
unintended starting.
WARNING: Protect your hands by using
heavy gloves or a rag to grasp the blade.
Spindle Assembly
Hex Flange Nut Wood Block
Blade Separation
Worn Blade Edge
Wind Wing
Sharpen edge evenly
5/8"
minimum

20
Figure 13
•Move the deck lift lever into the top notch on the
right fender to raise the deck lift arms up and out of
the way.
•Gently slide the cutting deck toward the front of the
tractor allowing the hooks on the deck to release
themselves from the deck stabilizer rod.
•Gently slide the cutting deck (from the right side)
out from underneath the tractor.
Changing Deck Belts
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
disengagingcompletely.For a properworkingmachine,
use factory approved belts only.
All belts on your tractor are subject to wear and should
be replaced if any signs of cracking, shredding or
rotting are observed.
To change deck belts, see the relevant section of and
proceed as follows:
•Lower the deck by moving the deck 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.
•Grasp the PTO idler bracket and pivot it toward the
discharge chute to relieve tension on the PTO belt.
•Remove the PTO belt from the engine pulley and
from around the PTO idler pulleys.
•Grasp 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 pulleys, including
the deck idler pulley.
•Route the new belts as shown in .
•Remount the belt guards removed earlier.
Changing Transmission Drive Belt
WARNING: Be sure to shut the engine off,
remove ignition key, disconnect the spark
plug wire(s) and ground against the engine to
prevent unintended starting before removing
the belt(s)
All belts on your tractor are subject to wear and should
be replaced if any signs of cracking, shredding or
rotting are present.
Figure 14
WARNING: Be sure to shut engine off,
remove ignition key, disconnect spark plug
wire(s) and ground against engine before
starting this job.
Support Pin
Engine Pulley PTO Idler Bracket
Left Hand Pulley
Right Hand Pulley
(beneath belt guard)
Center Stack Pulley
Deck Idler Pulley
(mounted on tractor)