MTD ZT 50, ZT 42 manual Leveling the Mower Deck, Side to Side Leveling, ZT42 42 Inch Deck only

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LEVELING THE MOWER DECK

When leveled correctly the mower deck should be level side to side, and should be approximately a 1/8 to 1/4 inch lower in the front of the deck.

Side to Side Leveling

If the cutting deck appears to be mowing unevenly, a side to side adjustment can be performed. Adjust if necessary as follows:

•With the tractor parked on a firm, level surface, place the deck lift handle in the top notch (highest position) and rotate both blades so that they are perpendicular to the tractor frame.

•Measure the distance from the outside left blade tip to the ground and the distance from the outside right blade tip to the ground. The measurements should be equal. If they’re not, proceed to the next step.

•Compare the two measurements as follows:

-Model ZT42—determine whether the right side of the deck must be raised or lowered.

-Model ZT50—determine whether the left side of the deck must be raised or lowered.

•ZT42 - 42 Inch Deck ONLY

-Loosen, but do not remove, the hex cap screw on the right deck hanger bracket. Refer to Figure 30.

-Level the deck by using a wrench to turn the adjustment gear (found immediately behind the hex cap screw just loosened) clockwise to lower the right side of the deck, or counterclockwise to raise the right side of the deck. Refer to Figure 30.

-The deck is properly leveled when both blade tip measurements taken earlier are equal.

Raise

RT.

 

Lower RT.

Side of

Deck

 

Side of Deck

Adjustment

 

 

 

Hex Cap

 

Screw

Gear

 

 

 

Figure 30

-Retighten the hex cap screw on the right deck hanger bracket when proper adjustment is achieved.

•ZT50 - 50 Inch Deck ONLY

-Loosen, but do not remove, the hex cap screw on the left deck hanger bracket. Refer to Figure 31.

-Level the deck by using a wrench to turn the adjustment gear (found immediately behind the hex cap screw just loosened) clockwise to raise the left side of the deck, or counterclockwise to lower the left side of the deck.

Lower LT.

 

Raise LT.

Side of Deck

 

Side of Deck

Adjustment

 

 

 

Hex Cap

 

Screw

Gear

 

 

 

Figure 31

-The deck is properly leveled when both blade tip measurements taken earlier are equal.

-Retighten the hex cap screw on the left deck hanger bracket when proper adjustment is achieved.

Front to Back Leveling.

The front of the deck should be approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch lower than the rear of the deck. Adjust if nec- essary as follows:

•With the deck raised off of the ground, rotate the blades so that they are parallel to the frame of the tractor.

•If the side to side leveling was done correctly, measuring just the right blade should be acceptable to attain the correct back to front pitch of the deck.

•Measure the distance from the front tip of the blade to the ground and the distance from the rear tip to the ground. The front distance should be 1/8 to 1/4 inch less than the rear. If it is not, proceed to the next step.

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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.
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