Perator S Anual: Model Series 780 Lawn Tractor
Perator S Anual: Model Series 780 Lawn Tractor
Perator S Anual: Model Series 780 Lawn Tractor
Operators Manual
WARNING
READ AND FOLLOW ALL SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS MANUAL
BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE THIS MACHINE.
FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THESE INSTRUCTIONS MAY RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY.
Printed In USA
To The Owner
Thank You
Thank you for purchasing a lawn tractor manufactured by MTD.
It was carefully engineered to provide excellent performance
when properly operated and maintained.
Throughout this manual, all references to right and left side of the
machine are observed from the operating position
The engine manufacturer is responsible for all engine-related
issues with regards to performance, power-rating, specifications,
warranty and service. Please refer to the engine manufacturers
Owners/Operators Manual, packed separately with your
machine, for more information.
Table of Contents
Safe Operation Practices......................................... 3
Assembly & Set-Up................................................... 9
Controls & Features.................................................12
Operation.................................................................15
Maintenance & Adjustment..................................18
Service..................................................................... 22
Troubleshooting..................................................... 26
Replacement Parts................................................. 27
Attachments & Accessories................................... 28
Emission Control Statement.................................. 30
Warranty................................................................. 32
Model Number
Serial Number
Customer Support
Please do NOT return the machine to the retailer or dealer without first contacting our Customer Support Department.
If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation, or maintenance of
this machine, you can seek help from the experts. Choose from the options below:
WARNING! This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed,
could endanger the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow
all instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply
with these instructions may result in personal injury.
When you see this symbol. HEED ITS WARNING!
CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65
WARNING! Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components
contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and birth defects
or other reproductive harm.
WARNING! Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead
compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive
harm. Wash hands after handling
DANGER! This machine was built to be operated according to the safe operation practices in
this manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the
operator can result in serious injury. This machine is capable of amputating hands and feet
and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in
serious injury or death.
General Operation
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
20.
21.
22. Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into
a trailer or truck. This machine should not be driven up or
down ramp(s), because the machine could tip over, causing
serious personal injury. The machine must be pushed
manually on ramp(s) to load or unload properly.
Slope Operation
Slopes are a major factor related to loss of control and tip-over
accidents which can result in severe injury or death. All slopes
require extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you
feel uneasy on it, do not mow it.
For your safety, use the slope gauge included as part of this
manual to measure slopes before operating this machine on
a sloped or hilly area. If the slope is greater than 15 degrees as
shown on the slope gauge, do not operate this machine on that
area or serious injury could result.
Do:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
23. Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do
not touch.
24. Check overhead clearances carefully before driving under
low hanging tree branches, wires, door openings etc.,
where the operator may be struck or pulled from the
machine, which could result in serious injury.
25. Disengage all attachment clutches, depress the brake
pedal completely and shift into neutral before attempting
to start engine.
26. Your machine is designed to cut normal residential grass of
a height no more than 10. Do not attempt to mow through
unusually tall, dry grass (e.g., pasture) or piles of dry leaves.
Dry grass or leaves may contact the engine exhaust and/
or build up on the mower deck presenting a potential fire
hazard.
27.
28. Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above, are
involved in a large percentage of riding mower-related
injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability
to operate the riding mower safely enough to protect
themselves and others from serious injury.
29.
Do Not:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Children
Service
1.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
2.
1.
g.
h.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
j.
Towing
1.
k.
2.
l.
3.
4.
5.
General Service
6.
1.
7.
2.
4.
5.
3.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
Spark Arrestor
WARNING! This machine is equipped with an
internal combustion engine and should not be used
on or near any unimproved forest-covered,
brushcovered or grass-covered land unless the
engines exhaust system is equipped with a spark
arrestor meeting applicable local or state laws (if
any).
If a spark arrestor is used, it should be maintained in effective
working order by the operator. In the State of California the
above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California Public
Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws
apply on federal lands.
A spark arrestor for the muffler is available through your
nearest engine authorized service dealer or contact the service
department, P.O. Box 361131 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019.
14. Observe proper disposal laws and regulations for gas, oil,
etc. to protect the environment.
15.
WARNING! Your ResponsibilityRestrict the use of this power machine to persons who read, understand and
follow the warnings and instructions in this manual and on the machine.
Safety Symbols
This page depicts and describes safety symbols that may appear on this product. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the
machine before attempting to assemble and operate.
Symbol
Description
READ THE OPERATORS MANUAL(S)
Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual(s) before attempting to
assemble and operate
WARNINGTHROWN OBJECTS
This machine may pick up and throw and objects which can cause serious personal injury.
WARNINGTHROWN OBJECTS
This machine may pick up and throw and objects which can cause serious personal injury.
BYSTANDERS
Keep bystanders, helpers, children and pets at least 75 feet from the machine while it is in
operation.
WARNING TOWING
Avoid jack-knifing when towing, go slow and make wide turns.
Figure 1
line
Figure 2
(TOO STEEP)
15 Slope
WARNING! Slopes are a major factor related to tip-over and roll-over accidents which can result in severe injury or death.
Do not operate machine on slopes in excess of 15 degrees. All slopes require extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope
or if you feel uneasy on it, do not mow it. Always mow up and down slopes, never across the face of slopes.
ashed
15 d
(OK)
15 Slope
Slope Gauge
NOTE: If the battery is put into service after the date shown
on top/side of battery, charge the battery as instructed in the
Maintenance section your Operators Manual prior to operating
the tractor.
2.
3.
Positiontheredrubberbootoverthepositivebatteryterminalto
help protect it from corrosion.
Figure 3-1
Figure 3-2
2.
Place the washer (with the cupped side down) over the
steering wheel 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.
b
Figure 3-4
5.
Figure 3-3
Asalreadyinstructed,removetheseatadjustmentboltinstalled
by the factory in the bottom of the seat. See a in Figure
3-4.
2.
Align the seat over the seat pivot bracket as shown in Figure 3-4
and fit the seat onto the pivot bracket inserting the two
tabs on the seat bottom into the slots on the pivot bracket.
3.
4.
10
Figure 3-5
Tire Pressure
WARNING! Maximum tire pressure under any
circumstances is 30 psi. Equal tire pressure should be
maintained at all times. Never exceed the maximum
inflation pressure shown on the sidewall of the tire.
Slide the seat rearward in the seat pivot bracket (c), lining up the
center rear slot in the pivot bracket with the remaining hole
in the seats base. See Figure 3-5.
Select desired position for the seat, and secure with the
adjustment bolt removed earlier (d in Figure 3-5).
1.
2.
b.
c.
d.
Figure 3-6
Figure 3-7
11
Ignition Switch
Throttle/Choke Lever
Brake Pedal
Shift Lever
Deck Lift Lever
Cup Holder
WARNING! Read and follow all safety rules and instructions in this manual, including the entire Operation section,
before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with all safety rules and instructions may result in personal
injury.
12
Shift Lever
The shift lever is located on the left side of the fender and has
three positions, FORWARD, NEUTRAL and REVERSE. The tractor
must not be in motion when the moving shift lever. See Figure
4-3.
IMPORTANT: Never force the shift lever. Doing so may result in
serious damage to the tractors transmission.
Ignition Switch
The ignition switch is activated to start the engine.
Insert key into the ignition switch and turn clockwise to the
START position. Release the key into the ON position once engine
has fired. See Figure 4-2.
Brake Pedal
The brake pedal is located on the left side of the lawn tractor,
along the running board. Depress the pedal all the way down to
engage the disc brake and bring the tractor to a complete stop.
On/Lights
Start
Parking Brake
To set the parking brake: Fully depress the
brake pedal. Move the parking brake lever into the
parking brake position. Release the brake pedal to
allow the parking brake to engage.
To release the parking brake: Depress the brake
pedal and the parking brake lever will move out of
the parking brake position on its own. The parking
brake will then be released. Release the brake
pedal.
RUN
PARK
BRAKE
OFF
PARK
BRAKE
ON
13
Drive Pedal
14
Operation
Engaging the Parking Brake
To engage the parking brake:
1.
Fully depress the brake pedal and hold it down with your
foot.
2.
Move the parking brake lever down into the parking brake
position.
3.
Depress the brake pedal and the parking brake lever will
automatically move out of the parking brake position.
15
NOTE: Refer to the Assembly & Set-Up section of this manual for
gasoline and oil fill-up instructions.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
2.
3.
Driving On Slopes
Refer to the SLOPE GAUGE in the Important Safe Operation
Practices section in the front of this manual to help determine
slopes where you may operate the tractor safely.
2.
3.
5.
2.
3.
16
Section 5 Operation
2.
Grasp the PTO (Blade Engage) lever and pivot it all the way
forward into the engaged (ON) position.
3.
Keep the throttle lever in the FAST (rabbit) position for the
most efficient use of the cutting deck.
Headlights
To raise the cutting deck, move the deck lift lever to the left, then
place it in the notch best suited for your application. Refer to
Setting The Cutting Height earlier in this section.
The lamps turn OFF when the ignition key is moved to the
STOP position.
Mowing
WARNING! To help avoid blade contact or a
thrown object injury, keep bystanders, helpers,
children and pets at least 75 feet from the machine
while it is in operation. Stop machine if anyone
enters the area.
The following information will be helpful when using the cutting
deck with your tractor:
Do not cut the grass too short. Short grass invites weed
growth and yellows quickly in dry weather.
Keep the blades sharp and replace the blades when worn.
Refer to Cutting Blades in the Service section of this manual
for proper blade sharpening instructions.
Section 5 Operation
17
Engine
Refer to the Engine Operator/Owner Manual for engine
maintenance instructions.
Check engine oil level before each use as instructed in the Engine
Operator/Owner Manual packed with your unit. Follow the
instructions carefully.
2.
Run the engine for a few minutes to allow the oil in the
crankcase to warm up. Warm oil will flow more freely and
carry away more of the engine sediment which may have
settled at the bottom of the crankcase. Use care to avoid
burns from hot oil.
7.
4.
Air Cleaner
Service the pre-cleaner and cartridge/air cleaner element as
instructed in the Engine Operator/Owner Manual packed with
your unit.
Spark Plug
The spark plug should be cleaned and the gap reset once a
season. Spark plug replacement is recommended at the start
of each mowing season. Refer to the Engine Operator/Owner
Manual for correct plug type and gap specifications.
Lubrication
WARNING: Before lubricating, repairing, or
inspecting, always disengage PTO, move shift lever
into neutral position, set parking brake, stop engine
and remove key to prevent unintended starting.
Open the tractors hood and locate the oil drain port on the
right side of the engine and the oil fill cap on the topside of
the engine.
Engine
3.
Unscrew the oil fill cap and remove the dipstick from the oil
fill tube.
4.
Snap the small end of oil drain sleeve onto the space
provide around the oil drain plug. See Figure 6-1.
5.
Lubricate all the pivot points on the drive system, parking brake
and lift linkage at least once a season with light oil.
Rear Wheels
The rear wheels should be removed from the axles once a
season. Lubricate the axles and the rims well with an all-purpose
grease before re-installing them.
Figure 6-1
6.
18
Charging
A hex bolt and washer can be found on your tractors deck surface.
See Figure 6-2.
Jump Starting
Deck Wash Plug
Figure 6-2
This bolt and washer can be replaced with a water port to be
used as part of a separately-available deck wash system.
The Deck Wash System is used to rinse grass clippings from the
decks underside and prevent the buildup of corrosive chemicals.
1.
2.
3.
Battery
The battery is sealed and is maintenance-free. Acid levels cannot
be checked.
Cleaning Battery
Clean the battery by removing it from the tractor and washing
with a baking soda and water solution. If necessary, 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:
Overcharging
Freezing
Undercharging
Corroded connections
19
Adjustments
Side to Side
2.
3.
Loosen, but do NOT remove, the hex cap screw on the left
deck hanger bracket. See Figure 6-4.
Front To Rear
The front of the cutting deck is supported by a stabilizer bar that
can be adjusted to level the deck from front to rear. The front of
the deck should be between -inch and 38-inch lower than the
rear of the deck. Adjust if necessary as follows:
1.
2.
3.
Locate the flange lock nut on the front side of the stabilizer
bracket. See Figure 6-3.
Figure 6-4
4.
5.
Seat Adjustment
Refer to the Set-Up and Assembly section of this manual for seat
adjustment instructions.
20
Maintenance Schedule
Before
Each use
Clean Hood/Dash Louvers
Check Engine Oil Level
Check Air Filter for Dirty, Loose or Damaged Parts
P
P
Every
10 Hours
Every
25 Hours
Every
50 Hours
P
P
P
P
P
Prior
to Storing
Every
100 Hours
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
IMPORTANT: It is important to consult the specific engine operators manual included with this machine for detailed engine
maintenance procedures and intervals.
21
Service
Cutting Deck Removal
42 Deck
2.
Lower the deck by moving the deck lift lever into the
bottom notch on the right fender.
3.
Note: Make a mental note what hole the other end of the beltkeeper rod is inserted in for reinstallation purposes.
Bow-Tie Pin
46 Deck
A
C
Figure 7-2
7.
Move the deck lift lever into the top notch on the right
fender to raise the deck lift arms up and out of the way.
8.
Figure 7-1
4.
5.
6.
Figure 7-3
22
9.
Carefully remove the PTO cable from the rear of the cutting
deck by removing the bow-tie clip which secures it. Remove
the spring from the deck idler bracket. See Figure 7-4.
1.
2.
3.
4.
6.
Charging
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 appliances.
Figure 7-4
10.
Gently slide the cutting deck (from the left side) out from
underneath the tractor.
Tires
WARNING! Never exceed the maximum inflation
pressure shown on the sidewall of the tire.
The recommended operating tire pressure is:
Battery
CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING!
Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories
contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known
to the State of California to cause cancer and
reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.
Jump Starting
WARNING! Never jump start a damaged or frozen
battery. Be certain the vehicles do not touch, and
ignitions are off. Do not allow cable clamps to touch.
If your tractor has not been put into use for an extended period
of time, charge the battery as follows:
1.
Fuse
One 20 AMP fuse is installed in your tractors wiring harness to
protect the tractors electrical system from damage caused by
excessive amperage.
If the electrical system does not function, or your tractors engine
will not crank, first check to be certain that the fuse has not
blown. It can be found at the rear of the unit, underneath the
fender located by the battery.
Cutting Blades
WARNING! Shut the engine off and remove
ignition key before removing the cutting blade(s) for
sharpening or replacement. Protect your hands by
using heavy gloves when grasping the blade.
WARNING! Periodically inspect the blade spindles
for cracks or damage, especially if you strike a
foreign object. Replace immediately if damaged.
Section 7 Service
23
NOTE: 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.
Figure 7-5
To properly sharpen the cutting blades, remove equal amounts
of metal from both ends of the blades along the cutting edges,
parallel to the trailing edge, at a 25 to 30 angle.
2.
1-5
/8
inch
( mi
n.)
Figure 7-6
24
Section 7 Service
Figure 7-7
3.
4.
10.
Pull the right side of the belt, and place the narrow V side of
the belt into the PTO pulley.
5.
To place the new belt, begin by routing the belt around the
two outer spindle pulleys as shown in Figure 7-7.
11.
6.
Then route the belt around the two deck idler pulleys as
shown in Figure 7-7.
7.
8.
9.
Figure 7-8
Section 7 Service
25
Troubleshooting
Problem
Engine fails to start
Remedy
1. Place PTO lever the in disengaged (OFF)
position.
7. Engine flooded.
2. Replace blade.
2. Wet grass.
4. Dull blade.
2. Dull blade.
Engine overheats
Excessive vibration
Mower will not mulch grass
Uneven cut
26
Cause
1. PTO/Blade engaged.
Replacement Parts
Component
918-04822A
918-04865A
942-04308
942-04308-X
942-04290
942-04361
925-1707D
Battery
951-12179A
625-05002
734-1731
734-1730
746-04367
Throttle Control/Cable
631-04288
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 reserves the right to change product specifications, designs and
equipment without notice and without incurring obligation.
NOTE: Download a complete Parts Manual free of charge at www.mtdproducts.com or phone (800) 800-7310 to purchase a Parts
Manual. Be sure to have your model number and serial number ready. These can be found on the model plate located under the seat.
Refer to page 2 for more information regarding locating your model and serial numbers.
27
10
The following attachments and accessories are compatible for these models of Lawn Tractors. See the retailer from which you purchased
your tractor, an authorized MTD Service Dealer or phone (800) 800-7310 for information regarding price and availability.
CAUTION: These models of Lawn Tractors are NOT designed for use with any type of ground-engaging attachments (e.g.
tiller or plow). Use of this type of equipment WILL void the tractors warranty.
Model Number
Description
OEM-190-116
19A30006OEM
19A30005OEM
490-850-0005
OEM-190-607
OEM-190-679
Bumper
OEM-190-183
OEM-190-180
19A30003OEM
490-900-0025
490-850-0008
Oil Siphon
490-290-0013
490-900-0045
SPW-134
490-325-L021
490-325-L019
490-850-L013
490-850-L014
490-328-L014
490-328-L017
490-328-L016
22216
32 oz. STA-BIL
28
Notes
11
29
Any warranted part that is not scheduled for replacement as required maintenance in the written instructions supplied, is warranted for
the warranty period stated above. If the part fails during the period of warranty coverage, the part will be repaired or replaced by MTD
Consumer Group Inc according to subsection (4) below. Any such part repaired or replaced under warranty will be warranted for the
remainder of the period.
2.
Any warranted part that is scheduled only for regular inspection in the written instructions supplied is warranted for the warranty period
stated above. Any such part repaired or replaced under warranty will be warranted for the remaining warranty period.
3.
Any warranted part that is scheduled for replacement as required maintenance in the written instructions supplied is warranted for the
period of time before the first scheduled replacement date for that part. If the part fails before the first scheduled replacement, the part
will be repaired or replaced by MTD Consumer Group Inc according to subsection (4) below. Any such part repaired or replaced under
warranty will be warranted for the remainder of the period prior to the first scheduled replacement point for the part.
4.
Repair or replacement of any warranted part under the warranty provisions herein must be performed at a warranty station at no charge
to the owner.
5.
Notwithstanding the provisions herein, warranty services or repairs will be provided at all of our distribution centers that are franchised to
service the subject engines or equipment.
6.
The outdoor equipment engine owner will not be charged for diagnostic labor that is directly associated with diagnosis of a defective,
emission-related warranted part, provided that such diagnostic work is performed at a warranty station.
7.
MTD Consumer Group Inc is liable for damages to other engine or equipment components proximately caused by a failure under
warranty of any warranted part.
8.
Throughout the off-road engine and equipment warranty period stated above, MTD Consumer Group Inc will maintain a supply of
warranted parts sufficient to meet the expected demand for such parts.
9.
Any replacement part may be used in the performance of any warranty maintenance or repairs and must be provided without charge to
the owner. Such use will not reduce the warranty obligations of MTD Consumer Group Inc.
10.
Add-on or modified parts that are not exempted by the Air Resources Board may not be used. The use of any non-exempted add-on or
modified parts by the ultimate purchaser will be grounds for disallowing a warranty claims. MTD Consumer Group Inc will not be liable to
warrant failures of warranted parts caused by the use of a non-exempted add-on or modified part.
WARRANTED PARTS:
The repair or replacement of any warranted part otherwise eligible for warranty coverage may be excluded from such warranty coverage if
MTD Consumer Group Inc demonstrates that the outdoor equipment engine has been abused, neglected, or improperly maintained, and that
such abuse, neglect, or improper maintenance was the direct cause of the need for repair or replacement of the part. That notwithstanding,
any adjustment of a component that has a factory installed, and properly operating, adjustment limiting device is still eligible for warranty
coverage. Further, the coverage under this warranty extends only to parts that were present on the off-road engine and equipment purchased.
The following emission warranty parts are covered (if applicable):
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Fuel pump
Fuel tank
Air cleaner
Intake manifold
Ignition System
Spark plug(s)
Exhaust System
Catalytic converter
Evaporative Control
Fuel hose
Carbon canister
Vapor lines
GDOC-100223 Rev. A
The limited warranty set forth below is given by MTD LLC with
respect to new merchandise purchased and used in the United
States and/or its territories and possessions, and by MTD Products
Limited with respect to new merchandise purchased and used
in Canada and/or its territories and possessions (either entity
respectively, MTD).
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
MTD warrants this product (excluding its Normal Wear Parts and
Attachments as described below) against defects in material and
workmanship for a period of two (2) years commencing on the date
of original purchase and will, at its option, repair or replace, free of
charge, any part found to be defective in materials or workmanship.
This limited warranty shall only apply if this product has been
operated and maintained in accordance with the Operators Manual
furnished with the product, and has not been subject to misuse,
abuse, commercial use, neglect, accident, improper maintenance,
alteration, vandalism, theft, fire, water, or damage because of other
peril or natural disaster. Damage resulting from the installation or
use of any part, accessory or attachment not approved by MTD
for use with the product(s) covered by this manual will void your
warranty as to any resulting damage.
Normal Wear Parts are warranted to be free from defects in material
and workmanship for a period of thirty (30) days from the date of
purchase. Normal wear parts include, but are not limited to items
such as: batteries, belts, blades, blade adapters, tines, grass bags,
wheels, rider deck wheels, seats, snow thrower skid shoes, friction
wheels, shave plates, auger spiral rubber and tires.
Attachments MTD warrants attachments for this product against
defects in material and workmanship for a period of one (1) year,
commencing on the date of the attachments original purchase or
lease. Attachments include, but are not limited to items such as:
grass collectors and mulch kits.
HOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE: Warranty service is available, WITH
PROOF OF PURCHASE, through your local authorized service dealer.
To locate the dealer in your area:
In the U.S.A.
Check your Yellow Pages, or contact MTD LLC at P.O. Box 361131,
Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019, or call 1-800-800-7310, 1-330-2204683 or log on to our Web site at www.mtdproducts.com.
In Canada
Contact MTD Products Limited, Kitchener, ON N2G 4J1, or call
1-800-668-1238 or log on to our Web site at www.mtdcanada.com.
This limited warranty does not provide coverage in the following
cases:
a.
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019; Phone: 1-800-800-7310, 1-330-220-4683
MTD Canada Limited - KITCHENER, ON N2G 4J1; Phone 1-800-668-1238
GDOC-100015 REV. B