Using the Deck Lift Lever

Models with Manual PTO

•Grasp the PTO (Blade Engage) lever and pivot it all the way forward into the engaged (ON) position.

Models with Electric PTO

•Pull the PTO (Blade Engage) knob outward into the engaged (ON) position. See Figure 12.

Front View Pull Out

Push In

OFF

Figure 12

•Keep the throttle lever in the FAST (rabbit) position for the most efficient use of the cutting deck or other (separately available) attachments

IMPORTANT: The engine (on models with a manual PTO) or electric PTO clutch (on models with an electric PTO) will automatically shut off if the PTO is engaged with the shift lever in position for reverse travel with the ignition key in the NORMAL MOWING position. Refer to Safety Interlock Switches.

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.

Mowing

WARNING: To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object injury, keep bystanders, helpers, children and pets at least 75 feet from the machine while it is in operation. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

The following information will be helpful when using the cutting deck with your tractor.

WARNING: Plan your mowing pattern to avoid discharge of materials toward roads, sidewalks, bystanders and the like. Also, avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction which may cause discharged material to ricochet back toward the operator.

•Do not mow at high ground speed, especially if a mulch kit or grass collector is installed.

•For best results it is recommended that the first two laps be cut with the discharge thrown towards the center. After the first two laps, reverse the direction

to throw the discharge to the outside for the balance of cutting. This will give a better appearance to the lawn.

•Do not cut the grass too short. Short grass invites weed growth and yellows quickly in dry weather.

•Mowing should always be done with the engine at full throttle.

•Under heavier conditions it may be necessary to go back over the cut area a second time to get a clean cut.

•Do NOT attempt to mow heavy brush and weeds and extremely tall grass. Your tractor is designed to mow lawns, NOT clear brush.

•Keep the blades sharp and replace the blades when worn. Refer to Cutting Blades of this manual for proper blade sharpening instructions.

Mulching

Tractors come equipped with a mulch kit which incorporates special blades, already standard on your tractor, in a process of recirculating grass clippings repeatedly 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 recommendations for the best results when mulching.

•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.

NOTE: The mulch kit is installed on models equipped with a 42-inch deck. It is packed separately (with an instruction sheet) in the crate on models equipped with a 46-inch deck.

To operate the cutting deck without mulching, simply remove the mulch plug by unthreading the plastic wing nut and removing the cupped washer, which fastens it to the cutting deck. This will allow the clippings to discharge out the side.

Headlights

On some models, the lamps are ON whenever the tractor’s engine is running. On other models, the lamps are ON whenever the ignition key is moved out of the STOP position.

On all models, the lamps turn OFF when the ignition key is moved to the STOP position.

LT-542K, LT-942K, LT-946K specifications

The White Outdoor LT-542K, LT-942K, and LT-946K are robust riding lawn mowers known for their reliability and performance, making them popular choices among homeowners and landscapers alike. Each model is designed to tackle large yards with ease, providing an efficient and effective mowing experience.

The LT-542K model features a 42-inch cutting deck, allowing users to cover more ground in less time. It is powered by a reliable Kohler engine, which delivers ample power to handle various mowing conditions. The LT-542K also comes equipped with a hydrostatic transmission that offers smooth, effortless operation, allowing users to adjust their speed without the need for shifting gears. This feature is particularly useful for navigating tight spaces and uneven terrain.

Moving on to the LT-942K, this model takes performance a step further with a larger 48-inch cutting deck. This increased width allows for quicker mowing over larger areas, reducing overall mowing time. The LT-942K is also equipped with a powerful Briggs & Stratton engine, renowned for its durability and efficiency. The automatic transmission provides an easier driving experience, while the comfortable seating and ergonomic controls ensure that users can operate the mower for extended periods without discomfort.

The LT-946K model is the flagship of these series, boasting a 46-inch cutting deck that strikes a balance between maneuverability and cutting capacity. This model further enhances the mowing experience with its advanced features, including a mulching capability that allows users to finely chop grass clippings, returning nutrients back into the lawn. The LT-946K is designed with a heavy-duty steel frame to withstand rigorous usage, ensuring longevity and robustness.

All three models share essential characteristics such as easy cutting height adjustment, allowing users to customize their lawn’s finish. They also feature reliable, efficient engines that can easily tackle tough mowing conditions. In addition, their intuitive controls and user-friendly designs make them accessible for both seasoned operators and those new to riding mowers.

In summary, the White Outdoor LT-542K, LT-942K, and LT-946K offer a combination of power, durability, and ease of use. Whether for residential use or professional landscaping, these mowers deliver performance that meets the needs of various users, proving to be valuable assets in lawn care maintenance.