Assembly & Set-Up

3

 

 

 

Tractor Set-Up

NOTE: This Operators Manual covers a range of product specifications for various models. Characteristics and features discussed and/or illustrated in this manual may not be applicable to all models. MTD LLC reserves the right to change product specifications, designs and equipment without notice and without incurring obligation.

Attaching the Battery Cables

NOTE: Some models are shipped with the battery cables already connected.

Shipping Brace Removal

WARNING: Make sure the riding mower’s engine is off, remove the ignition key, and set the parking brake before removing the shipping brace.

•Locate the shipping brace, if present, and accompanying warning tag found on the right side of the mower, between the discharge chute and the cutting deck. See Fig. 3-2.

Figure 3-1

NOTE: The positive battery terminal is marked Pos. (+). The negative battery terminal is marked Neg. (–).

•The positive cable (heavy red wire) is secured to the positive battery terminal (+) with a hex bolt and hex nut at the factory. Make certain that the rubber boot covers the terminal to help protect it from corrosion.

•Remove the hex bolt and hex nut from the negative cable.

•Remove the black plastic cover, if present, from the negative battery terminal and attach the negative cable (heavy black wire) to the negative battery terminal (–) with the bolt and nut (or wing nut).

NOTE: If the battery is put into service after the date shown on top/side of battery, charge the battery as instructed in the Service section of this manual prior to operating the tractor.

Figure 3-2

•While holding the discharge chute with your left hand, remove the shipping brace with your right hand by grasping it between your thumb and index finger and rotating it clockwise.

WARNING: The shipping brace, used for packaging purposes only, must be removed and discarded before operating your riding mower.

WARNING: The mowing deck is capable of throwing objects. Failure to operate the riding mower without the discharge cover in the proper operating position could result in serious personal injury and/or property damage.

Attaching The Steering Wheel

If the steering wheel for your tractor did not come attached, the hardware for attaching it has been packed within the steering wheel, beneath the steering wheel cap. Carefully pry off the steering wheel cap and remove the hardware.

1.With the wheels of the tractor pointing straight forward, place the steering wheel over the steering shaft.

2.Place the washer (with the cupped side down) over the steering shaft and secure with the hex bolt. See Fig. 3-3.

3.Place the steering wheel cap over the center of the steering wheel and push downward until it “clicks” into place.