MTD 609 Lubrication, Tires, Battery, Fuse, Linkage, Wheels, Steering Gear, Pivot Points, Charging

It is extremely important that each cutting blade edge be ground equally to maintain proper blade balance. An unbalanced blade will cause excessive vibration when rotating at high speeds, may cause damage to the tractor and result in personal injury. The blade can be tested by balancing it on a blade balancer or round shaft screwdriver. Grind metal from the heavy side until it balances evenly.

When replacing the blade, be sure to install the blade with the side of the blade marked ‘‘Bottom’’ (or with a part number stamped in it) facing the ground when the mower is in the operating position.

IMPORTANT: Use a torque wrench to tighten the blade spindle hex flange nut to between 70 foot- pounds and 90 foot-pounds.

TIRES

The recommended operating tire pressure is approximately 10 psi for the rear tires and 14 psi for the front tires. Refer to the tire sidewall for exact tire manufacturer’s recommended psi. Do not overinflate. Uneven tire pressure could cause the cutting deck to mow unevenly.

BATTERY

The battery is sealed and is maintenance-free. Acid levels cannot be checked.

•Always keep the battery cables and terminals clean and free of corrosive build-up.

•After cleaning the battery and terminals, apply a light coat of petroleum jelly or grease to the terminals and over the positive terminal boot.

•Always keep the boot positioned over the positive terminal to prevent shorting.

IMPORTANT: If removing the battery for any reason, disconnect the NEGATIVE (Black) wire from it’s terminal first, followed by the POSITIVE (Red) wire. When re-installing the battery, always connect the POSITIVE (Red) wire its terminal first, followed by the NEGATIVE (Black) wire. Be certain that the wires are connected to the correct terminals, reversing them could change the polarity and cause damage to your engine’s alternating system.

Charging

If the unit has not been put into use for an extended period of time, charge the battery with an automotive-type 12-volt charger for a minimum of one hour at six amps.

WARNING: Batteries give off an explosive gas during and for some time after charging. Charge battery in a well ventilated area and do not allow a spark or an open flame near the battery.

FUSE

A fuse is installed in your tractor’s wiring harness to protect the tractor’s electrical system from damage caused by excessive amperage. Always use the same capacity fuse for replacement. If the electrical system does not function, or your tractor’s engine will not crank, first check to be certain that the fuse has not blown. It can be found under the hood mounted behind the top of dash panel on the support bar. Pull the fuse out and compare it with Figure 21 to determine if it is good or bad.

GOOD BAD

Figure 21

SECTION 11: LUBRICATION

WARNING: Always stop the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire(s) and ground against the engine before performing any maintenance.

ENGINE

Lubricate the engine with motor oil as instructed in the separate engine manual packed with your unit.

LINKAGE

Lubricate all the pivot points on the drive, brake and lift linkage at least once a season with SAE 30 engine oil.

WHEELS

Both the front wheels and the rear wheels should be removed from the axles once a season. Lubricate the axles and the rims well with an all-purpose automotive grease before re-installing them.

STEERING GEAR

Lubricate the teeth of the steering gear with an all- purpose automotive grease every 25 hours of operation or once a season.

PIVOT POINTS

Lubricate all pivot points (drive pedal, brake pedal, etc.) at least once a season with light oil.

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