MTD ZT 50, ZT 42 manual Driving the Tractor Forward, Turning the Tractor While Driving Forward

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Move the RH and LH drive control levers inward in the neutral position. See Figure 10.

Control Lever Moved

Inward and in Neutral

Figure 10

NOTE: If the control levers are not even in the neutral position, refer to Section 3 and adjust the levers so that they are even.

Move the throttle control lever forward to the full throttle position (3500-3600 RPM).

NOTE: The tractor and engine are designed to run at full throttle. If performing a practice session, it is preferable that the tractor is operated at less than full throttle (approximately 2500-3000 RPM), but this only applies to practice operation.

NOTE: For Model ZT42, make certain the throttle control has not been moved too far forward into the "Choke" position.

To drive the tractor, firmly grasp the respective drive control levers with your right and left hands and proceed as follows :

WARNING: Always maintain a firm grip on the control levers. DO NOT release the control levers to slow or stop the tractor; move the levers to the neutral position using your hands.

Driving the Tractor Forward

WARNING: Keep all movement of the drive control levers slow and smooth. Abrubt movement of the control levers can affect the stability of the tractor and could cause the tractor to flip over, which may result in serious injury or death to the operator.

Slowly and evenly move both drive control levers forward. The tractor will start to move forward. See Figure 11.

As the control levers are pushed farther forward the speed of the tractor will increase.

DRIVING FORWARD

Faster

Slower

Neutral

Position

Figure 11

To slow the tractor move the controls lever rearward to attain the desired speed, or move the levers to the neutral position to stop the tractor.

IMPORTANT: Always maintain your grasp on the drive control levers. Do not release the levers to slow the tractor or to return to neutral.

Turning the Tractor While Driving Forward

WARNING: When reversing the direction of travel, we recommend performing gradual ‘U’ turns where possible. Sharper turns increase the possibility of turf defacement, and could affect control of the tractor. ALWAYS slow the tractor before making sharp turns.

To turn the tractor while driving forward, move the control levers as necessary so that one lever is rearward of the other. The tractor will turn in the direction of the rearward control lever.

-To turn to the left, move the left drive control lever rearward of the right lever. See Figure 12.

FORWARD LEFT TURN

Figure 12

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Contents Important Read Safety Rules and Instructions Carefully OPERATOR’S ManualTable of Contents Tractor PreparationModel ZT42 only Connect the BatteryPosition Drive Control Levers Model ZT50 onlySafe Operation Practices General OperationII. Slope Operation Do notIII. Children IV. Service Hands and Feet Safety Graphic Safety Decals and LabelsDeck Height Indicator Park Brake ZT42 ZT50ZT42 ZT50 Engine Information Recording Model and Serial NumberCustomer Support To the Owner Copy the model number here Copy the serial number hereSlope Gauge Controls and Features Seat Adjustment Lever Not Seen Ignition SwitchPower Take-Off PTO Switch Deck Height IndexIndicator Panel Feature Hour Meter/Indicator PanelHour Meter Feature Fuel Tank CapThrottle Control Choke Control Model ZT50 onlyParking Brake Engagement Lever Operation General SafetySafety Interlock System Before Operating Your TractorStarting the Engine Model ZT42 onlyModel ZT50 only Stopping the Engine Using Jumper Cables to Start EngineCold Weather Starting Practice Operation Initial USEDriving the Tractor Forward Turning the Tractor While Driving ForwardDriving the Tractor In Reverse Turning While Driving RearwardDriving on Slopes Executing a Zero TurnStopping the Tractor Operating the PTOUsing the Mower Deck Checking the Safety Interlock CircuitsAdjustments Adjusting the Operators SeatAdjusting RH & LH Drive Control Levers Battery Removal MaintenanceEngine Maintenance Hydrostatic Transmission MaintenanceBattery Storage Charging the BatteryBattery Maintenance Tire MaintenanceUsing the Transmission Bypass Rods Tractor CreepingTractor High Speed Tracking Transmission Drive BeltIf storing the tractor for 30 days or more Using a fuel stabilizerTractor Storage Emptying the fuel systemReleasing belt tension with the idler pulley Mower DeckDeck Removal Inch Deck ShownDeck Installation Using the idler pulley to tension the beltRolling the belt into the PTO pulley ZT42 42 Inch Deck only Leveling the Mower DeckSide to Side Leveling ZT50 50 Inch Deck onlyAdjusting the Gauge Wheels Deck MaintenanceUsing the Deck Wash System Cleaning the Spindle Pulleys Mower Blade CareDeck Lubrication Replacing the Deck Drive Belt

ZT 42, ZT 50 specifications

The MTD ZT 42 and ZT 50 are part of MTD's impressive line of zero-turn lawn mowers, crafted to provide efficient and effective mowing solutions for both residential and commercial applications. With their robust design and advanced features, they cater to users seeking performance, comfort, and reliability.

The MTD ZT 42 features a 42-inch cutting deck, while the ZT 50 boasts a larger 50-inch cutting deck. This difference in size allows users to choose the model that best fits their mowing needs, whether they are managing a small residential yard or larger commercial properties. Both models are designed with efficiency in mind, enabling users to navigate tight spaces and maneuver around obstacles with ease, thanks to their zero-turn radius capabilities.

One of the standout features of both mowers is their powerful engine. The ZT 42 is equipped with a reliable 18 HP engine, while the ZT 50 features a more robust 24 HP engine. These engines provide ample power, ensuring that the mowers can tackle thick grass and uneven terrain without compromising performance.

In terms of comfort, both models come with ergonomic seating and user-friendly controls. The plush, high-back seats offer superior support during extended mowing sessions, reducing fatigue. The intuitive controls are designed for ease of use, allowing operators of all experience levels to handle the machines effortlessly.

The cutting technology in the MTD ZT series is another highlight. Both models include a fabricated steel deck that is designed for durability and longevity. The cutting height can be easily adjusted, offering users the flexibility to achieve the desired grass length. The precision cutting blades ensure a clean cut, promoting a healthy lawn.

Furthermore, both mowers are equipped with enhanced safety features. The automatic braking system engages whenever the operator leaves the seat, preventing unintended movement. This feature, combined with responsive steering and fast speeds, ensures that the mowers are not only efficient but also safe to use.

Overall, the MTD ZT 42 and ZT 50 embody a combination of power, precision, and comfort. With their advanced technologies and robust features, they serve as excellent choices for anyone looking to maintain a pristine lawn with minimal effort. Their reliability and performance make them appealing options in the zero-turn mower market, attracting homeowners and landscape professionals alike.