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Operating Your Lawn

Moving the Tractor Manually

Your tractor’s transmission is equipped with a hydro- static relief valve for occasions when it is necessary to move the tractor manually. Activating this valve forces the fluid in the transmission to bypass its normal route, allowing the rear tires to “freewheel.” To engage the hydrostatic relief valve, proceed as follows:

Locate the hydrostatic bypass rod in the rear of the tractor. See Figure 4-7.

NOTE: Cruise control cannot be engaged at the tractor’s fastest ground speed. If the operator should attempt to do so, the tractor will automatically decelerate to the fastest optimal mowing ground speed.

Disengage the cruise control using one of the following methods:

Depress the brake pedal to disengage the cruise control and stop the tractor.

Lightly depress the drive pedal.

Tractor

WARNING

NOTE: Do not mow on inclines with a slope in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of approxi- mately 2-1/2 feet every

10feet). The tractor could overturn and cause serious injury.

NOTE: To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object injury, keep bystanders, help- ers, children and pets at least 75 feet from the machine while it is in operation. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

Hydrostatic Bypass Rod

Figure 4-7

Pull the hydrostatic bypass rod outward, then down, to lock it in place.

NOTE: The transmission will NOT engage when the hydrostatic bypass rod is pulled out. Return the rod to its normal position prior to operating the tractor.

IMPORTANT: Never attempt to move the tractor manu- ally without first engaging the hydrostatic relief valve. Doing so will result in serious damage to the tractor’s transmission.

Setting The Cruise Control

NOTE: The cruise control feature should only be utilized while traveling in the forward direction.

Slowly depress the upper portion of the drive pedal until the desired speed is achieved.

Lightly depress the cruise control button.

While continuing to hold the cruise button in, lift your foot from the drive pedal (you should feel the cruise latch engage).

Once engaged, the cruise control button and the drive pedal will lock in the “down” position, and the tractor will maintain the same forward speed.

Engaging the Blades

Engaging the PTO (Blade Engage) transfers power to the cutting deck or other (separately available) attachments. To engage the blades, proceed as follows:

1.Move the throttle control lever to the FAST (rabbit) position.

Models with Manual PTO

2.a. Grasp the PTO (Blade Engage) lever and pivot it all the way forward into the engaged (ON) position.

Models with Electric PTO

b.Pull the PTO (Blade Engage) knob outward into the engaged (ON) position.

3.Keep the throttle lever in the FAST (rabbit) position for the most efficient use of the cutting deck or other (separately available) attachments

IMPORTANT: The engine (on models with a manual PTO) or electric PTO clutch (on models with an electric PTO) will automatically shut off if the PTO is engaged with the shift lever in position for reverse travel with the ignition key in the NORMAL MOWING position. Refer to Safety Interlock Switches earlier in this section.

Using the Deck Lift Lever

To raise the cutting deck, move the deck lift lever to the left, then place it in the notch best suited for your applica- tion. Refer to Setting The Cutting Height earlier in this section.

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MTD 616 warranty Moving the Tractor Manually, Setting The Cruise Control, Engaging the Blades, Using the Deck Lift Lever

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.