MTD ZT 42, ZT 50 manual Using the Mower Deck, Checking the Safety Interlock Circuits

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USING THE MOWER DECK

WARNING: Make certain the area to be mowed is free of debris, sticks, stones, wire or other objects that can be thrown by the rotating blades.

IMPORTANT: Do not engage the mower deck when lowered in grass. Premature wear and possible failure of the ‘V” belt and PTO clutch will result. Fully raise the deck or move to a non grassy area before engaging the mower deck.

•Mow across slopes, not up and down. If mowing a slope, start at bottom and work upward to ensure turns are made uphill.

•On the first pass pick a point on the opposite side of the area to be mowed.

•Engage the PTO clutch using the PTO switch and move the throttle control to the fast position.

•Lower the mower deck to the desired height setting using the lift handle.

•Slowly and evenly push the RH and LH drive control levers forward to move the tractor forward, and keep the tractor headed directly toward the alignment point.

NOTE: The speed of the tractor will affect the quality of the mower cut. Mowing at full speed will adversely affect the cut quality. Control the ground speed with the control levers.

•When approaching the other end of the strip, slow down or stop before turning. A U-turn is recommended unless a pivot or zero turn is required.

•Align the mower with an edge of the mowed strip and overlap approximately 3 inches.

•Direct the tractor on each subsequent strip to align with a previously cut strip.

•To prevent rutting or grooving of the turf, if possible, change the direction that the strips are mowed by approximately 45° for the next and each subsequent mowing.

WARNING: Be careful when crossing gravel paths or driveways. Disengage the PTO and raise the deck to the highest position before crossing.

IMPORTANT: When stopping the tractor for any reason while on a grass surface, always:

•Place the shift lever in neutral,

•Engage the parking brake,

•Shut engine off and remove the key.

Doing so will minimize the possibility of having your lawn ‘‘browned’’ by hot exhaust from your tractor’s running engine.

CHECKING THE SAFETY INTERLOCK CIRCUITS

Periodically check the safety interlock circuits to ensure they are working properly. If a safety circuit is not working as designed, contact you White Outdoor dealer to have the tractor inspected. DO NOT operate the tractor if any safety circuit is not functioning properly. To check the safety circuits, proceed as follows:

•Sitting in the tractor seat with both drive control levers opened fully outward, disengage the parking brake and momentarily turn the ignition switch to the start position. The engine should not crank.

•Engage the parking brake and pull the PTO switch upward to the engaged position. Momentarily turn the ignition switch to the start position; the engine should not crank.

•Push the PTO switch downward to the disen- gaged position and engage the parking brake. Start the engine and move one of the drive con- trol levers from the fully outward neutral position. The engine should stop running. Repeat the pro- cedure with the opposite control lever.

•Move both control levers fully outward in the neu- tral position and disengage the parking brake; then lift upward from the operator’s seat. The engine should stop.

•With both control levers fully outward in the neu- tral position and the parking brake engaged, engage the PTO. Lift upward from the operator’s seat; the engine should stop.

•Start the tractor, disengage the parking brake, and move the control levers inward to the neutral operating position. Engage the PTO and move both control lever slowly into the slow reverse position; the PTO should disengage and the mower deck should stop until one or both of the control levers are moved to the neutral or for- ward position.

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Contents OPERATOR’S Manual Important Read Safety Rules and Instructions CarefullyTractor Preparation Table of ContentsPosition Drive Control Levers Connect the BatteryModel ZT42 only Model ZT50 onlyGeneral Operation Safe Operation PracticesII. Slope Operation Do notIII. Children IV. Service Deck Height Indicator Park Brake Safety Decals and LabelsHands and Feet Safety Graphic ZT42 ZT50ZT42 ZT50 Customer Support To the Owner Recording Model and Serial NumberEngine Information Copy the model number here Copy the serial number hereSlope Gauge Controls and Features Power Take-Off PTO Switch Ignition SwitchSeat Adjustment Lever Not Seen Deck Height IndexHour Meter Feature Hour Meter/Indicator PanelIndicator Panel Feature Fuel Tank CapThrottle Control Choke Control Model ZT50 onlyParking Brake Engagement Lever Safety Interlock System General SafetyOperation Before Operating Your TractorStarting the Engine Model ZT42 onlyModel ZT50 only Cold Weather Starting Using Jumper Cables to Start EngineStopping the Engine Practice Operation Initial USETurning the Tractor While Driving Forward Driving the Tractor ForwardTurning While Driving Rearward Driving the Tractor In ReverseStopping the Tractor Executing a Zero TurnDriving on Slopes Operating the PTOChecking the Safety Interlock Circuits Using the Mower DeckAdjustments Adjusting the Operators SeatAdjusting RH & LH Drive Control Levers Engine Maintenance MaintenanceBattery Removal Hydrostatic Transmission MaintenanceBattery Maintenance Charging the BatteryBattery Storage Tire MaintenanceTractor Creeping Using the Transmission Bypass RodsTransmission Drive Belt Tractor High Speed TrackingTractor Storage Using a fuel stabilizerIf storing the tractor for 30 days or more Emptying the fuel systemDeck Removal Mower DeckReleasing belt tension with the idler pulley Inch Deck ShownDeck Installation Using the idler pulley to tension the beltRolling the belt into the PTO pulley Side to Side Leveling Leveling the Mower DeckZT42 42 Inch Deck only ZT50 50 Inch Deck onlyAdjusting the Gauge Wheels Deck MaintenanceUsing the Deck Wash System Mower Blade Care Cleaning the Spindle PulleysReplacing the Deck Drive Belt Deck Lubrication

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.
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