6

Maintaining Your Tractor

WARNING

Batteries give off an explosive gas while charging. Charge the battery in a well ventilated area and keep away from an open flame or pilot light as on a water heater, space heater, furnace, clothes dryer or other gas appli- ances.

Be sure to shut the engine off, remove ignition key, and disconnect the spark plug wire(s) to prevent unintended starting before removing the mower deck.

Tires

WARNING: Never exceed the maxi- mum inflation pressure shown on the sidewall of tire.

The recommended operating tire pressure is:

Approximately 10 psi for the rear tires

Approximately 14 psi for the front tires

IMPORTANT: Refer to the tire sidewall for exact tire manufacturer’s recommended or maximum 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 both terminals.

Always keep the rubber 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 result in damage to your engine’s alternating system.

Charging

If the tractor 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 ex- plosive gas while charging. Charge battery in a well ventilated area and keep away from an open flame or pilot light as on a water heater, space heat- er, furnace, clothes dryer or other gas

appliances.

Jump Starting

WARNING: When removing or installing the battery, follow these in- structions to prevent the screwdriver

from shorting against the frame.

IMPORTANT: Never jump your tractor’s dead battery with the battery of a running vehicle.

1.Connect end of one jumper cable to the positive terminal of the good battery, then the other end to the positive terminal of the dead battery.

2.Connect the other jumper cable to the negative terminal of the good battery, then to the frame of the unit with the dead battery.

WARNING: Failure to use this procedure could cause sparking, and the gas in ei- ther battery could explode.

Cleaning the Battery

Clean the battery by removing it from the tractor and washing with a baking soda and water solution. If neces- sary, scrape the battery terminals with a wire brush to remove deposits. Coat terminals and exposed wiring with grease or petroleum jelly to prevent corrosion.

Battery Failures

Some common causes for battery failure are:

• incorrect initial activation

• undercharging

• overcharging

• corroded connections

• freezing

 

These failures are NOT covered by your tractor’s warranty.

Cutting Deck Removal

To remove the cutting deck, proceed as follows:

1.Disengage the PTO (Blade Engage) and engage the parking brake.

2.Place the deck gauge wheels in their highest setting (lowest deck setting).

3.Lower the deck by moving the deck lift lever into the bottom notch on the right fender.

4.Looking at the cutting deck from the left side of the tractor, locate the deck support pin on the rear left side of the deck. See Figure 22.

50" Mower Deck Shown

Deck Support

Pin

Figure 22

5.Pull the deck support pin outward to release the deck from the deck lift arm.

6.Move to the right side of the tractor and pull the deck support pin outward to release the deck from the RH lift arm.

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MTD i1046, i1050 warranty Tires, Battery, Cutting Deck Removal

i1046, i1050 specifications

The MTD i1046 and i1050 are notable additions to the MTD lineup, designed specifically for efficiency and ease of use in various landscaping tasks. These versatile machines are engineered to handle a range of applications, making them ideal for both residential and commercial users.

The MTD i1046 is equipped with a robust 18 HP engine, providing ample power for tackling tough mowing jobs. Its 46-inch cutting deck is designed for enhanced maneuverability, allowing users to navigate tight spots and corners with ease. The deck also features a mulching capability, which helps to naturally fertilize lawns while reducing the need for bagging clippings. Additionally, the i1046 boasts an automatic transmission that adjusts speed seamlessly, providing an intuitive driving experience for operators of all skill levels.

On the other hand, the MTD i1050 takes things a step further with a more powerful 22 HP engine. Its expansive 50-inch cutting deck allows for greater acreage coverage, making it an excellent choice for larger lawns. The i1050 also incorporates a high-back seat, enhancing comfort during extended mowing sessions. This model is designed with a heavy-duty frame and durable chassis, ensuring long-lasting performance even in challenging conditions.

Both models feature advanced technologies that enhance their usability. The Easy Select Deck Height Adjustment system allows users to customize cutting heights with simple adjustments, ensuring optimal grass length for diverse lawn types. The ergonomic steering wheel design provides an improved grip and reduces operator fatigue, enhancing overall comfort during operation.

In terms of safety, MTD has integrated a range of features across both models. The Rollover Protection Structure (ROPS) keeps operators safe in the event of uneven terrain, while the automatic blade stop ensures that the blades cease operation whenever the rider leaves the seat, preventing accidental injuries.

Furthermore, the i1046 and i1050 are designed with easy maintenance in mind. The accessible engine compartment allows straightforward engine checks, and the deck design enables hassle-free cleaning, which is essential for maintaining optimal performance.

In summary, the MTD i1046 and i1050 deliver a powerful and efficient solution for landscaping needs. With their strong engines, user-friendly features, and safety technologies, these models are poised to satisfy both professional landscapers and homeowners alike. Their sturdy design ensures reliability and performance, making them valuable assets for keeping lawns looking pristine.