MTD ZT 50 Charging the Battery, Battery Maintenance, Battery Storage, Servicing Electrical System

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CHARGING THE BATTERY

Test and, if necessary, recharge the battery after the tractor has been stored for a period of time.

A voltmeter or load tester should read 12.6 volts (DC) or higher across the battery terminals.

Charge the battery with a 12-volt battery charger at a MAXIMUM rate of 10 amps.

Voltmeter

State of

Charging

Reading

Charge

Time

12.7

100%

Full Charge

12.4

75%

90 Min.

12.2

50%

180 Min.

12.0

25%

280 Min.

 

 

 

BATTERY MAINTENANCE

The battery is filled with battery acid and then sealed at the factory. However, even a “maintenance free” battery requires some maintenance to ensure its proper life cycle.

Spray the terminals and exposed wire with a battery terminal sealer, or coat the terminals with a thin coat of grease or petroleum jelly, to protect against corrosion.

Always keep the battery cables and terminals clean and free of corrosion.

Avoid tipping. Even a sealed battery will leak electrolyte when tipped.

BATTERY STORAGE

When storing the tractor for extended periods, disconnect the negative battery cable. It is not necessary to remove the battery.

All batteries discharge during storage. Keep the exterior of the battery clean, especially the top. A dirty battery will discharge more rapidly.

The battery must be stored with a full charge. A discharged battery can freeze sooner than a charged battery. A fully charged battery will store longer in cold temperatures than hot.

Recharge the battery before returning to service. Although the tractor may start, the engine charging system may not fully recharge the battery.

SERVICING ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

A fuse is installed to protect the tractor’s electrical system from damage caused by excessive amper- age. Always use the same capacity fuse for replacement. If the electrical system does not func- tion, check for a blown fuse. See Figure 22

If you have a recurring problem with blown fuses, have the tractor’s electrical system checked by your White Outdoor dealer.

GOOD BAD

Figure 22

Relays and Switches

There are several safety switches in the electrical system. If a function of the safety interlock system described earlier is not functioning properly, have the electrical system checked by your White Outdoor dealer.

LUBRICATION

Using a pressure lubricating gun, lubricate the front castor axles and pivot axle with a No. 2 multi-purpose grease after every 10 hours of service.

Refer to the "MOWER DECK" section later in this manual for deck lubrication procedures.

Periodically lubricate all other pivot points with a quality lubricating oil.

TIRE MAINTENANCE

Check the tire air pressure after every 50 hours of operation or weekly. Keep the tires inflated to the recommended pressures. Improper inflation will shorten the service life of a tire. See the tire side wall for proper inflation pressures. Observe the following guidelines:

Do not inflate a tire above the maximum pressure shown on the sidewall of the tire.

Do not reinflate a tire that has been run flat or seriously under inflated. Have a qualified tire mechanic inspect and service the tire.

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Contents Important Read Safety Rules and Instructions Carefully OPERATOR’S ManualTable of Contents Tractor PreparationConnect the Battery Position Drive Control LeversModel ZT42 only Model ZT50 onlySafe Operation Practices General OperationII. Slope Operation Do notIII. Children IV. Service Safety Decals and Labels Deck Height Indicator Park BrakeHands and Feet Safety Graphic ZT42 ZT50ZT42 ZT50 Recording Model and Serial Number Customer Support To the OwnerEngine Information Copy the model number here Copy the serial number hereSlope Gauge Controls and Features Ignition Switch Power Take-Off PTO SwitchSeat Adjustment Lever Not Seen Deck Height IndexHour Meter/Indicator Panel Hour Meter FeatureIndicator Panel Feature Fuel Tank CapThrottle Control Choke Control Model ZT50 onlyParking Brake Engagement Lever General Safety Safety Interlock SystemOperation Before Operating Your TractorStarting the Engine Model ZT42 onlyModel ZT50 only Using Jumper Cables to Start Engine Cold Weather StartingStopping the Engine Practice Operation Initial USEDriving the Tractor Forward Turning the Tractor While Driving ForwardDriving the Tractor In Reverse Turning While Driving RearwardExecuting a Zero Turn Stopping the TractorDriving on Slopes Operating the PTOUsing the Mower Deck Checking the Safety Interlock CircuitsAdjustments Adjusting the Operators SeatAdjusting RH & LH Drive Control Levers Maintenance Engine MaintenanceBattery Removal Hydrostatic Transmission MaintenanceCharging the Battery Battery MaintenanceBattery Storage Tire MaintenanceUsing the Transmission Bypass Rods Tractor CreepingTractor High Speed Tracking Transmission Drive BeltUsing a fuel stabilizer Tractor StorageIf storing the tractor for 30 days or more Emptying the fuel systemMower Deck Deck RemovalReleasing belt tension with the idler pulley Inch Deck ShownDeck Installation Using the idler pulley to tension the beltRolling the belt into the PTO pulley Leveling the Mower Deck Side to Side LevelingZT42 42 Inch Deck only 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.