MTD 1438, 1842 Cleaning the Engine And Deck, Cleaning Battery, Battery Failures, Deck Wash System

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Cleaning Battery

Clean the battery by removing it from the tractor and washing with a baking soda and water solution. If necessary, scrape the battery terminals with a wire brush to remove deposits. Coat terminals and exposed wiring with grease or petroleum jelly to prevent corrosion.

Battery Failures

Some common causes for battery failure are:

•Incorrect initial activation

•Overcharging

•Freezing

•Undercharging

•Corroded connections

These failures are NOT covered by your tractor’s warranty.

Cleaning the Engine And Deck

Any fuel or oil spilled on the machine should be wiped off promptly. Do NOT allow debris to accumulate around the cooling fins of the engine or on any other part of the machine.

IMPORTANT: The use of a pressure washer to clean your tractor is NOT recommended. It may cause damage to electrical components, spindles, pulleys, bearings or the engine.

On some decks, a hex plug can be found on your tractor’s deck surface as seen in Fig. 6-2. Or on some units there could be a 1/4” screw holding in a plug. On either configuration, this plug can be replaced with a water port to be used as part of a separately- available deck wash system.

Deck Wash System™

If your tractor’s deck is equipped with a water port on its surface as part of its Deck Wash System™, follow these instructions to utilize this feature.

Use the Deck Wash System™ to rinse grass clippings from the deck’s underside and prevent the buildup of corrosive chemicals. Complete the following steps AFTER EACH MOWING:

1.Drive the tractor to a level, clear spot on your lawn, near enough for your garden hose to reach.

Caution: Make certain the tractor’s discharge chute is directed AWAY from your house, garage, parked cars, etc.

2.Disengage the PTO (Blade Engage), set the parking brake and stop the engine.

3.Thread the hose coupler (packaged with your tractor’s Operator’s Manual) onto the end of your garden hose.

4.Attach the hose coupler to the water port on the deck’s surface. See Fig. 6-3.

Hex Plug

Figure 6-2

The Deck Wash System™ is used to rinse grass clippings from the deck’s underside and prevent the buildup of corrosive chemicals.

NOTE: Refer to the Attachments & Accessories section of this manual for information regarding this and other separately- available attachments & accessories for your tractor.

Figure 6-3

5.Turn the water on.

6.While sitting in the operator’s position on the tractor, start the engine and place the throttle lever in the FAST (rabbit) position.

7.Move the tractor’s PTO (Blade Engage) into the ON position.

8.Remain in the operator’s position with the cutting deck engaged for a minimum of two minutes, allowing the underside of the cutting deck to thoroughly rinse.

9.Move the tractor’s PTO (Blade Engage) into the OFF position.

10.Turn the ignition key to the STOP position to turn the tractor’s engine off.

11.Turn the water off and detach the hose coupler from the water port on your deck’s surface.

12.On 46” decks, repeat steps 4 through 11 on the opposite side of the cutting deck.

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Section 6— Maintenance & Adjustments

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Contents Operator’s Manual Table of Contents To The OwnerThank You Record Product InformationImportant Safe Operation Practices California Proposition General OperationSlope Operation Do NotService General ServiceChildren TowingDo not modify engine Spark ArrestorSafety Symbols SymbolImportant Safe Operation Practices Shipping Brace Removal Assembly & Set-UpTractor Set-Up Connecting the Battery Cables Attaching The Seat Attaching The Steering WheelAttaching The Dash Collar Setting the Deck Gauge Wheels if so equipped Tire PressureGas and Oil Fill-up For California ModelsControls and Features On some modelsIgnition Switch Position Ignition SwitchThrottle Control Lever Choke ControlClutch-Brake Pedal Parking BrakeShift Lever Speed Control LeverOperation Safety Interlock SwitchesReverse Caution Mode Setting the Cutting Height Engaging the Parking BrakeStarting the Engine Stopping the EngineUsing the Deck Lift Lever Driving The TractorDriving On Slopes Engaging the BladesHeadlights MowingMulching Lubrication Maintenance & AdjustmentsMaintenance Cleaning the Engine And Deck Cleaning BatteryBattery Failures Deck Wash SystemAdjustments Seat AdjustmentParking Brake Adjustment Leveling the Deck Front To RearMaintenance Schedule Clean Hood/Dash Louvers Check Engine Oil LevelService Cutting Deck RemovalBattery TiresCharging FuseCutting Blades Jump StartingChanging the Deck Belt Changing the Transmission Drive BeltFor 38 Decks For 42 & 46 DecksInch Deck 42 & 46-Inch DeckTroubleshooting Problem Cause RemedyReplacement Parts DescriptionAttachments & Accessories Model Number Description

1842, 1438 specifications

MTD 1438 and MTD 1842 are part of the MTD product line, which is known for, providing reliable and efficient solutions in the agricultural and gardening sectors. These models stand out due to their performance features, technology integrations, and user-friendly characteristics, making them suitable for both professionals and enthusiasts.

The MTD 1438 is a compact, versatile lawn tractor designed for small to medium-sized lawns. It is powered by a robust 14.5 HP engine that delivers reliable performance. One of its main features is the 38-inch cutting deck, which allows for a clean and efficient cut. The deck height can be easily adjusted to achieve the desired grass length, catering to various mowing conditions. The tractor also features a durable steel frame, which enhances stability and extends the lifespan of the machine.

In terms of technology, the MTD 1438 is equipped with an automatic transmission that simplifies operation, allowing users to focus on mowing rather than shifting gears. The user-friendly dashboard provides essential information at a glance, ensuring that users can monitor their machine’s performance without any hassle.

On the other hand, the MTD 1842 offers additional power and capabilities, making it suitable for larger lawns or more rugged landscapes. With a 18 HP engine, this model features a wider 42-inch cutting deck, allowing for increased efficiency by covering more ground in less time. It also maintains an adjustable cutting height, giving users flexibility in managing grass lengths across different terrains.

One of the standout characteristics of the MTD 1842 is its hydrostatic transmission. This technology offers seamless speed control, enabling smoother acceleration and easier navigation around obstacles. The tractor also features a comfortable seat and an ergonomic steering wheel, enhancing the overall user experience during longer mowing sessions.

Both models prioritize durability and ease of maintenance. They come with easy-access maintenance points, making it simple for users to keep their machines in top condition. Additionally, the design of both tractors allows for simple attachment of various accessories, such as baggers or mulching kits, increasing their versatility.

In summary, MTD 1438 and MTD 1842 are excellent choices for those seeking robust, efficient lawn care solutions. With their powerful engines, user-friendly technologies, and durable designs, these models offer reliability and performance that can meet a variety of landscaping needs. Whether tackling small yards or larger properties, these tractors provide the tools necessary for achieving a pristine lawn.
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