MTD ZT 50 Mower Deck, Deck Removal, Releasing belt tension with the idler pulley, Inch Deck Shown

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SECTION 5: MOWER DECK

This section contains removal, installation, adjust- ment, and maintenance information for the 42-inch (ZT42) and 50-inch (ZT50) mower decks.

DECK REMOVAL

Remove the mower deck from the tractor as follows:

1.Move the tractor to a level surface, disengage the PTO, stop the engine, and set the parking brake.

2.Move the deck gauge wheels to their highest setting (lowest deck setting).

3.Remove the ‘V’ belt from the PTO pulley, located on the bottom of the engine, using one of the following two methods.

Releasing belt tension with the idler pulley.

•Using the deck lift handle, raise the deck to the upper position that allows for the most horizontal run of the belt between the deck idler pulleys and the PTO pulley on the bottom of the engine.

•Working from the middle of the tractor, pivot the idler bracket and movable idler pulley rearward away from the backside of the ‘V" belt just far enough to lift the belt up and over the idler pulley. See Figure 27.

42 INCH DECK SHOWN

Pull

Idler Pulley

 

 

Movable Idler

Rearward

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pulley

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fixed Idler

Idler

 

Bracket

Pulley

 

 

 

 

‘V’ Belt

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Figure 27

WARNING: The muffler at the rear of the tractor may be extremely hot, and could cause serious burns. Use extreme caution when near the muffler, or allow the muffler to fully cool before removing the belt.

•From beneath the rear of the tractor, slide the belt off of the PTO pulley on the bottom of the engine.

Rolling the belt off the PTO pulley.

•Using the deck lift handle, raise the deck to the upper position that allows for the most horizontal run of the belt between the deck idler pulleys and the PTO pulley on the bottom of the engine.

WARNING: The muffler at the rear of the tractor may be extremely hot, and could cause serious burns. Use extreme caution when near the muffler, or allow the muffler to fully cool before removing the belt.

•Sitting behind the tractor facing forward, reach beneath the tractor to grasp the belt at the front of the PTO pulley.

WARNING: Use caution to prevent pinching your fingers when rolling the belt off the PTO pulley.

•Pull the left side of the belt rearward and down- ward while manually turning the PTO pulley to the right until the belt rides out onto the edge of the lower sheave of the pulley. NOTE: If pulling the right side of the belt, turn the pulley to the left.

•While still holding the belt downward, continue turning the PTO pulley until the belt is rolled off the pulley.

4.Lower the deck to the ground using the deck lift handle.

•Locate the LH and RH deck support pins on each side of the deck. Pull the deck support pins outward and lock in the disengaged position to release the deck from the tractor’s LH and RH deck lift arms. See Figure 28.

Rear Deck

Deck Lift Arm

Hanger Bracket

 

Deck

 

Support

Rear Hanger

Pin

Bracket Slot

Figure 28

•Raise the deck lift arms out of the rear hanger bracket slots by raising the deck lift handle on the tractor to its highest position.

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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 OperationDo not II. Slope OperationIII. 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 CapChoke Control Model ZT50 only Throttle ControlParking Brake Engagement Lever General Safety Safety Interlock SystemOperation Before Operating Your TractorModel ZT42 only Starting the EngineModel 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 CircuitsAdjusting the Operators Seat AdjustmentsAdjusting 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 ShownUsing the idler pulley to tension the belt Deck InstallationRolling the belt into the PTO pulley Leveling the Mower Deck Side to Side LevelingZT42 42 Inch Deck only ZT50 50 Inch Deck onlyDeck Maintenance Adjusting the Gauge WheelsUsing 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.
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