MTD 616 Stopping the Engine, Driving The Tractor, Driving On Slopes, Drive Pedal, Reverse Forward

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NOTE: Refer to the TRACTOR SET-UPon page 8 of this manual for Gasoline and Oil fill-up instructions.

1.Insert the tractor key into the ignition switch.

2.Place the PTO (Blade Engage) knob (or lever) in the disengaged (OFF) position.

3.Engage the tractor’s parking brake.

4.Activate the choke control.

5.Turn the ignition key clockwise to the START position. After the engine starts, release the key. It will return to the ON position.

IMPORTANT: Do NOT hold the key in the START posi- tion for longer than ten seconds at a time. Doing so may cause damage to your engine’s electric starter.

6.After the engine starts, deactivate the choke control and place the throttle control in the FAST position.

NOTE: Do NOT leave the choke control on while operat- ing the tractor. Doing so will result in a “rich” fuel mixture and cause the engine to run poorly.

Stopping the Engine

WARNING: If you strike a foreign object, stop the engine, discon- nect the spark plug wire(s) and ground against the engine. Thoroughly inspect the machine for any damage. Repair the damage before restarting and operating.

1.If the blades are engaged, place the PTO (Blade Engage) knob (or lever) in the disengaged (OFF) position.

2.Turn the ignition key counterclockwise to the STOP position.

3.Remove the key from the ignition switch to prevent unintended starting.

Driving The Tractor

WARNING: Avoid sudden starts, excessive speed and sudden stops.

WARNING: Do not leave the seat of the tractor without first placing the PTO (Blade Engage) knob (or lever) in the disengaged (OFF) position, depressing the brake pedal and engaging the parking brake. If leaving the tractor unattended, also turn the ignition key off and remove the key.

Drive Pedal

Brake Pedal

Reverse Forward

Figure 4-6

1.Depress the brake pedal to release the parking brake and let the pedal up.

2.Move the throttle lever into the FAST (rabbit) position.

IMPORTANT: Do NOT use the drive pedal to change the direction of travel when the tractor is in motion. Always bring the tractor to a complete stop before pivoting the drive pedal from forward to reverse or vice versa.

3.To travel FORWARD, slowly depress the upper por- tion of the drive pedal forward until the desired speed is achieved. See Figure 4-6.

4.To travel in REVERSE, check that the area behind is clear then slowly depress the lower portion of the drive pedal with the ball of your foot (NOT your heel) until the desired speed is achieved. See Figure 4-6.

Driving On Slopes

Refer to the SLOPE GAUGE on page 3 to help determine slopes where you may operate the tractor safely.

WARNING: Do not mow on inclines with a slope in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of approxi- mately 2-1/2 feet every 10 feet). The tractor could overturn and cause serious injury.

Mow up and down slopes, NEVER across.

Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on slopes.

Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden objects. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.

Avoid turns when driving on a slope. If a turn must be made, turn down the slope. Turning up a slope greatly increases the chance of a roll over.

Avoid stopping when driving up a slope. If it is necessary to stop while driving up a slope, start up smoothly and carefully to reduce the possibility of flipping the tractor over backward.

4

Operating

Your Lawn

Tractor

WARNING

If you strike a foreign object, stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug wire(s) and ground against the engine. Thoroughly inspect the machine for any damage. Repair the damage before restarting and operating.

Avoid sudden starts, excessive speed and sudden stops.

Do not leave the seat of the tractor without first placing the PTO (Blade Engage) knob (or lever) in the disengaged (OFF) position, depressing the brake pedal and engaging the parking brake. If leaving the tractor unattended, also turn the ignition key off and remove the key.

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Contents OPERATOR’S Manual Table of Contents Slope Gauge Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely Use only an approved gasoline containerGeneral Operation Never allow children or others in or on towed equip- ment This manual and on the machine Slope OperationService Attaching the Battery Cables Setting Up Your Lawn TractorGas and Oil Fill-up Remove the hex bolt and wing nut from the negative cableAttaching The Steering Wheel Shipping Brace RemovalQuick Adjustment Seat Standard Adjustment SeatKnob Adjustment Seat Attaching The SeatIf so equipped Identifying the Mulch PlugBrake Pedal Operating Your Lawn TractorThrottle Control Lever Ignition Switch ModuleChoke Control Brake PedalSeat Adjustment Lever If Equipped Systems Indicator Monitor If EquippedElectric PTO Blade Engage PTO Blade Engage LeverReverse Caution Mode Safety Interlock SwitchesDeck Lift Lever Parking Brake ButtonStarting the Engine Setting the Cutting HeightEngaging the Parking Brake Driving The Tractor Stopping the EngineDriving On Slopes Drive PedalUsing the Deck Lift Lever Setting The Cruise ControlMoving the Tractor Manually Engaging the BladesMulching If Equipped MowingHeadlights Leveling the Deck Adjusting Your Lawn TractorFront To Rear Side to SideSeat Adjustment Parking Brake AdjustmentSteering Adjustment Quick Adjust Seat If so equippedMaintaining Your Lawn Tractor Cleaning the Engine And DeckKohler Single Shown EngineDeck Wash System If equipped Cutting Deck RemovalMove the tractor’s PTO Blade Engage into the OFF position Repeat steps 4-11 on the opposite side of the cutting deckTires BatteryFuses Cutting BladesChanging the Lower Deck Belt 46 Decks Changing the Deck BeltChanging the Transmission Drive Belt Belt Cover For an extended period Storing your tractor Rear Wheel Weight KitInch Two-stage Snow Thrower Inch Deck Mulch KitYour Responsibility Clean pre-cleaner, if so equipped Spark plug wires looseHousing Wide Dirty air cleaner06.18.06 Warranty734-1731 Drive Belt Transmission

616 specifications

The MTD 616 is a versatile and powerful ride-on mower that stands out in the landscaping equipment market due to its robust design and innovative technologies. This machine is particularly well-suited for residential and light commercial users, offering an exceptional combination of performance, comfort, and efficiency.

One of the main features of the MTD 616 is its durable build quality. A strong steel frame ensures the mower can withstand demanding conditions, while a wide cutting deck allows for efficient mowing of larger areas. The mower typically features a 42-inch deck, which strikes a perfect balance between cutting width and maneuverability, making it ideal for both open lawns and more confined spaces.

The MTD 616 is powered by a reliable engine, usually a gas-powered unit, providing sufficient torque and power to handle various grass types and terrains. This ensures that users can tackle thick grass and uneven ground without issues. The mower's transmission system is designed for smooth operation, often featuring an automatic or hydrostatic transmission that enables seamless speed adjustments while mowing.

In terms of user comfort, the MTD 616 is equipped with an ergonomic seat and intuitive controls, making it easy for operators to navigate and operate the mower efficiently. The machine's adjustable cutting height allows users to customize their mowing experience, accommodating different grass lengths and varying seasonal growth patterns.

Additionally, the MTD 616 highlights advanced technologies aimed at enhancing functionality. Some models incorporate a mulching feature, which helps in returning cut grass to the lawn as nutrient-rich mulch, promoting healthier growth. Other models may offer bagging options for easy collection of clippings, keeping the lawn tidy.

Safety is an important consideration, and the MTD 616 typically includes features such as a blade brake that stops the mower blades when the operator leaves the seat, ensuring greater safety during operation. Furthermore, its compact design and tight turning radius enhance maneuverability, making it suitable for navigating around landscaping features and garden beds.

Overall, the MTD 616 stands out as a formidable choice for users seeking a reliable and efficient ride-on mower. Its combination of robust construction, advanced features, and user-friendly design positions it as an excellent investment for maintaining a beautiful and well-manicured lawn. Whether it’s for homeowners or light commercial use, the MTD 616 offers the performance and versatility needed for effective grass management.