Leveling the Mower Deck, Side to Side Leveling

LEVELING THE MOWER DECK

When leveled correctly the mower deck should be level side to side, and should be approximately a 1/8 to 1/4 inch lower in the front of the deck.

Side to Side Leveling

If the cutting deck appears to be mowing unevenly, a side to side adjustment can be performed. Adjust if necessary as follows:

•With the tractor parked on a firm, level surface, place the deck lift handle in the top notch (highest position) and rotate both blades so that they are perpendicular to the tractor frame.

•Measure the distance from the outside left blade tip to the ground and the distance from the outside right blade tip to the ground. The measurements should be equal. If they’re not, proceed to the next step.

•Compare the two measurements as follows:

-Model ZT42—determine whether the right side of the deck must be raised or lowered.

-Model ZT50—determine whether the left side of the deck must be raised or lowered.

•ZT42 - 42 Inch Deck ONLY

-Loosen, but do not remove, the hex cap screw on the right deck hanger bracket. Refer to Figure 30.

-Level the deck by using a wrench to turn the adjustment gear (found immediately behind the hex cap screw just loosened) clockwise to lower the right side of the deck, or counterclockwise to raise the right side of the deck. Refer to Figure 30.

-The deck is properly leveled when both blade tip measurements taken earlier are equal.


Raise	RT.	Lower RT.
Side of	Deck	Side of Deck
Adjustment		Hex Cap
Adjustment		Screw
Gear		Screw
Gear

Figure 30

-Retighten the hex cap screw on the right deck hanger bracket when proper adjustment is achieved.

•ZT50 - 50 Inch Deck ONLY

-Loosen, but do not remove, the hex cap screw on the left deck hanger bracket. Refer to Figure 31.

-Level the deck by using a wrench to turn the adjustment gear (found immediately behind the hex cap screw just loosened) clockwise to raise the left side of the deck, or counterclockwise to lower the left side of the deck.

Lower LT.				Raise LT.
Side of Deck				Side of Deck
Adjustment				Hex Cap
				Screw
Gear

Figure 31

-The deck is properly leveled when both blade tip measurements taken earlier are equal.

-Retighten the hex cap screw on the left deck hanger bracket when proper adjustment is achieved.

Front to Back Leveling.

The front of the deck should be approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch lower than the rear of the deck. Adjust if nec- essary as follows:

•With the deck raised off of the ground, rotate the blades so that they are parallel to the frame of the tractor.

•If the side to side leveling was done correctly, measuring just the right blade should be acceptable to attain the correct back to front pitch of the deck.

•Measure the distance from the front tip of the blade to the ground and the distance from the rear tip to the ground. The front distance should be 1/8 to 1/4 inch less than the rear. If it is not, proceed to the next step.

ZT 42, ZT 50 specifications

The MTD ZT 42 and ZT 50 are part of MTD's impressive line of zero-turn lawn mowers, crafted to provide efficient and effective mowing solutions for both residential and commercial applications. With their robust design and advanced features, they cater to users seeking performance, comfort, and reliability.

The MTD ZT 42 features a 42-inch cutting deck, while the ZT 50 boasts a larger 50-inch cutting deck. This difference in size allows users to choose the model that best fits their mowing needs, whether they are managing a small residential yard or larger commercial properties. Both models are designed with efficiency in mind, enabling users to navigate tight spaces and maneuver around obstacles with ease, thanks to their zero-turn radius capabilities.

One of the standout features of both mowers is their powerful engine. The ZT 42 is equipped with a reliable 18 HP engine, while the ZT 50 features a more robust 24 HP engine. These engines provide ample power, ensuring that the mowers can tackle thick grass and uneven terrain without compromising performance.

In terms of comfort, both models come with ergonomic seating and user-friendly controls. The plush, high-back seats offer superior support during extended mowing sessions, reducing fatigue. The intuitive controls are designed for ease of use, allowing operators of all experience levels to handle the machines effortlessly.

The cutting technology in the MTD ZT series is another highlight. Both models include a fabricated steel deck that is designed for durability and longevity. The cutting height can be easily adjusted, offering users the flexibility to achieve the desired grass length. The precision cutting blades ensure a clean cut, promoting a healthy lawn.

Furthermore, both mowers are equipped with enhanced safety features. The automatic braking system engages whenever the operator leaves the seat, preventing unintended movement. This feature, combined with responsive steering and fast speeds, ensures that the mowers are not only efficient but also safe to use.

Overall, the MTD ZT 42 and ZT 50 embody a combination of power, precision, and comfort. With their advanced technologies and robust features, they serve as excellent choices for anyone looking to maintain a pristine lawn with minimal effort. Their reliability and performance make them appealing options in the zero-turn mower market, attracting homeowners and landscape professionals alike.

MTD ZT 50, ZT 42 manual Leveling the Mower Deck, Side to Side Leveling, ZT42 42 Inch Deck only

Models: ZT 42 ZT 50