Safe Operation Practices • Set-Up • Operation • Maintenance • Service • Troubleshooting • Warranty Operator’s Manual Model Series 610 Hydrostatic Lawn Tractor 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. MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019 Printed In USA Form No.
1 To The Owner Thank You Thank you for purchasing a lawn tractor manufactured by MTD LLC. It was carefully engineered to provide excellent performance when properly operated and maintained. Please read this entire manual prior to operating the equipment. It instructs you how to safely and easily set up, operate and maintain your machine. Please be sure that you, and any other persons who will operate the machine, carefully follow the recommended safety practices at all times.
Important Safe Operation Practices 2 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.
12. A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause blade contact or thrown object injuries. 13. Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads and while not cutting grass. 14. Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways. This machine is not intended for use on any public roadway. 15. Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. 16. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light. 17. Never carry passengers. 18.
Children a. Use only an approved gasoline container. 1. b. Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place containers on the ground away from your vehicle before filling. c. When practical, remove gas-powered equipment from the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible, then refuel such equipment on a trailer with a portable container, rather than from a gasoline dispenser nozzle. d.
5. 6. Check the blade(s) and engine mounting bolts at frequent intervals for proper tightness. Also, visually inspect blade(s) for damage (e.g., excessive wear, bent, cracked). Replace the blade(s) with the original equipment manufacturer’s (O.E.M.) blade(s) only, listed in this manual. “Use of parts which do not meet the original equipment specifications may lead to improper performance and compromise safety!” Mower blades are sharp.
or a corner of a building... a 1 5 ° slop or a fence post ine (r ep r e s e nts dl o n g d otte l Fold a Sight and hold this level with a vertical tree... 15° Use this page as a guide to determine slopes where you may not operate safely. e) WARNING: Do not operate your lawn mower on such slopes. Do not mow on inclines with a slope in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10 feet). A riding mower could overturn and cause serious injury.
3 Assembly & Set-Up Tractor Set-Up Shipping Brace Removal 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 Seat Seat styles vary by tractor model and there are three different styles available: • Standard Adjustment • Quick Adjustment • Knob Adjustment If the seat for your tractor was not attached at the factory, refer to Fig. 3-5, Fig. 3-6, and Fig. 3-7 to identify your tractor’s seat style and follow the applicable instructions below to attach it.
3. Select desired position for the seat, and secure with the two knobs removed earlier. See Fig. 3-6. 4. To adjust the position of the seat on models so equipped, loosen the two knobs on the bottom of the seat. Slide the seat forward or backward as desired. Retighten the two knobs. 4. To adjust the position of the seat on models equipped with a seat adjustment lever, move the seat adjustment lever (located under the seat) to the left and slide the seat forward or rearward. See Fig. 3-8.
Tire Pressure 2. WARNING: Maximum tire pressure under any circumstances is 30 psi. Equal tire pressure should be maintained at all times. The tires on your unit may be over-inflated for shipping purposes. Reduce the tire pressure before operating the tractor. Recommended operating tire pressure is approximately 10 p.s.i for the rear tires & 14 p.s.i. for the front tires. Check sidewall of tire for maximum p.s.i.
4 Controls and Features Parking Brake PTO (Blade Engage) Lever Ammeter Cruise Control Hydrostatic Drive Pedal Ignition Switch Module Throttle/Choke Lever Seat Adjustment Lever (if equipped) Cup Holder Deck Lift Lever Figure 4-1 Lawn Tractor controls and features are illustrated in Fig 4-1 and described on the following pages. WARNING! Read and follow all safety rules and instructions in this manual, including the entire Operation section, before attempting to operate this machine.
Throttle Control Lever Ignition Switch The throttle control lever is located on the right side of the tractor’s dash panel. This lever controls the speed of the engine and, on some models, when pushed all the way forward, the choke control also. When set in a given position, the throttle will maintain a uniform engine speed. See Fig. 4-2. The ignition switch is activated to start the engine. Insert key into the ignition switch and turn clockwise to the START position.
Deck Lift Lever Drive Pedal Found on your tractor’s right fender, the deck lift lever is used to change the height of the cutting deck. To use, move the lever to the left, then place in the notch best suited for your application. The drive pedal is located on the right side of the tractor, along the running board. Depress the upper portion of the drive pedal forward to cause the tractor to travel forward.
PTO (Blade Engage) PTO (Blade Engage) Lever If the PTO light illuminates when attempting to start the tractor’s engine, move PTO lever into the disengaged (OFF) position. The PTO (Blade Engage) lever is located on the left side of the dashboard next to the steering wheel. Move the PTO (Blade Engage) lever forward to engage the power to the cutting deck or other (separately available) attachments; move the PTO (Blade Engage) lever rearward to disengage the power to the attachments.
5 Operation Models with Electric PTO (Blade Engage) • The electric PTO (Blade Engage) clutch will automatically shut off if the operator leaves the tractor’s seat with the PTO (Blade Engage) knob in the engaged (ON) position, regardless of whether the parking brake is engaged.
3. Depress the REVERSE PUSH BUTTON (Orange, Triangular Button) at the top, right corner of the key switch module. The red indicator light at the top, left corner of the key switch module will be ON while activated. See Fig. 4-5. Starting the Engine WARNING: Do not operate the tractor if the interlock system is malfunctioning. This system was designed for your safety and protection. 4. Once activated (indicator light ON), the tractor can be driven in reverse with the cutting blades (PTO) engaged. 5.
1. Depress the brake pedal to release the parking brake and let the pedal up. 1. Depress the brake pedal to disengage the cruise control and stop the tractor. 2. Move the throttle lever into the FAST (rabbit) position. 2. Lightly depress the drive pedal. IMPORTANT: Do NOT use the drive pedal to change the direction of travel when the tractor is in motion. Always bring the tractor to a complete stop before pivoting the drive pedal from forward to reverse or vice versa. 3.
first two laps, reverse the direction to throw the discharge to the outside for the balance of cutting. This will give a better appearance to the lawn. • Do not cut the grass too short. Short grass invites weed growth and yellows quickly in dry weather. • Mowing should always be done with the engine at full throttle. • Under heavier conditions it may be necessary to go back over the cut area a second time to get a clean cut. • Do NOT attempt to mow heavy brush and weeds and extremely tall grass.
6 Maintenance & Adjustments Maintenance 5. Push the oil drain hose (packed with this manual) onto the oil drain port. Route the opposite end of the hose into an appropriate oil collection container with at least a 2.5 quart capacity, to collect the used oil. 6. Pinch the tabs on the oil drain valve, then pull outward to begin draining oil. See Fig 6-1. 7. After the oil has finished draining, push the end of the oil drain valve back in, until the tabs click into place.
Cleaning the Engine And Deck Any fuel or oil spilled on the machine should be wiped off promptly. Do NOT allow debris to accumulate around the cooling fins of the engine or on any other part of the machine. IMPORTANT: The use of a pressure washer to clean your tractor is NOT recommended. It may cause damage to electrical components, spindles, pulleys, bearings or the engine. Battery The battery is sealed and is maintenance-free. Acid levels cannot be checked.
6. While sitting in the operator’s position on the tractor, start the engine and place the throttle lever in the FAST (rabbit) position. 7. Move the tractor’s PTO (Blade Engage) into the ON position. 8. Remain in the operator’s position with the cutting deck engaged for a minimum of two minutes, allowing the underside of the cutting deck to thoroughly rinse. 9. Move the tractor’s PTO (Blade Engage) into the OFF position. 10.
5. Retighten the hex cap screw on the left deck hanger bracket when proper adjustment is achieved. Parking Brake Adjustment WARNING: Never attempt to adjust the brakes Seat Adjustment while the engine is running. Always disengage PTO, move shift lever into neutral position, stop engine and remove key to prevent unintended starting. Refer to the Assembly & Set-Up section of this manual for seat adjustment instructions.
7 Service Cutting Deck Removal NOTE: Models equipped with a 38-inch deck have one deck idler pulley. Models equipped with a 42- and 46-inch deck have two deck idler pulleys. To remove the cutting deck, proceed as follows: 1. Place the PTO (Blade Engage) lever in the disengaged (OFF) position and engage the parking brake. 2. Lower the deck by moving the deck lift lever into the bottom notch on the right fender. 3.
Tires Charging WARNING! Batteries give off an explosive gas WARNING! Never exceed the maximum inflation The recommended operating tire pressure is: 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.
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 and/or spindle for cracks or damage, especially after you’ve struck a foreign object. Do not operate the machine until damaged components are replaced. To remove the blades, proceed as follows. 1.
Changing the Deck Belt 6. Route the new belt as shown in Fig. 7-6, 7-7 or 7-8 depending on your tractor’s deck, and retighten the deck idler pulleys. 7. Reinstall the belt guards removed earlier and remount the deck to the tractor. 8. Route the belt around the engine pulley and reinstall the belt keeper rod(s). WARNING! Be sure to shut the engine off, remove ignition key, disconnect the spark plug wire(s) and ground against the engine to prevent unintended starting before removing the belt.
46-Inch Deck Engine Pulley Belt Cover Idler Pulleys Figure 7-7 46-inch Deck (Electric PTO) Electric PTO Clutch Idler Pulleys Belt Guard Figure 7-8 28 Section 7— Service
8 Troubleshooting Problem Engine fails to start Cause Remedy 1. PTO/Blade engaged. 1. Place knob (or lever) in disengaged (OFF) position. 2. Spark plug wire disconnected. 2. Connect wire to spark plug. 3. Fuel tank empty, or stale fuel. 3. Fill tank with clean, fresh (less than 30 dayold) gas. 4. Choke not activated. 4. Place the throttle control in CHOKE position. 5. Faulty spark plug. 5. Clean, adjust gap or replace plug. 6. Blocked fuel line. 6. Clean fuel line and replace fuel filter. 7.
9 Replacement Parts Hydrostatic Lawn Tractor Drive Belt (Transmission) 954-04165 Drive Belt (Mowing Deck) 42” Deck 954-04045 Upper Drive Belt (Mowing Deck) 46” Deck 954-04142 Lower Drive Belt (Mowing Deck) 46” Deck 954-0349 Drive Belt (Mowing Deck) 46” Deck - Electric PTO 754-04153 Deck Blade (42” Deck) 942-0616A Deck Blade (46” Deck) Center Blade 942-0612A Deck Blade (46” Deck) Outer Blade 942-0611A Deck Spindle (42” Deck) 918-04456 Deck Spindle (46” Deck) Double Pulley - Manual PTO 91
10 Attachments & Accessories The following attachments and accessories are compatible for Model Series 610 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: Model Series 610 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 tractor’s warranty.
Notes 32 11
Section 11 — Notes 33
Section 11— Notes
MTD LLC (MTD), The United States Environment Protection Agency (U. S. EPA) Emission Control System Warranty Statement (Owner’s Defect Warranty Rights and Obligations) The U. S. EPA and MTD are pleased to explain the emissions control system warranty on your model year 2005 and later small off-road engine. New small off-road engines must be designed, built and equipped to meet the stringent anti-smog standards.
(7) The engine manufacturer is liable for damages to other engine components proximately caused by a failure under warranty of any warranted part. (8) Throughout the engine’s warranty period defined in Subsection (a)(2), MTD 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.
MANUFACTURER’S LIMITED WARRANTY FOR 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”).
