MTD 608 Lawn Mower User Manual


 
22
It is extremely important that each cutting blade
edge be ground equally to maintain proper blade
balance. An unbalanced blade will cause excessive
vibration when rotating at high speeds, may cause
damage to the tractor and result in personal injury.
The blade can be tested by balancing it on a blade
balancer or round shaft screwdriver. Grind metal
from the heavy side until it balances evenly.
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.
IMPORTANT: Use a torque wrench to tighten the
blade spindle hex flange nut to between 70 foot-
pounds and 90 foot-pounds.
TIRES
The recommended operating tire pressure is
approximately 10 psi for the rear tires and 14 psi for
the front tires. Refer to the tire sidewall for exact tire
manufacturers recommended 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 the
terminals and over the positive terminal boot.
Always keep the boot positioned over the
positive terminal to prevent shorting.
IMPORTANT: If removing the battery for any
reason, disconnect the NEGATIVE (Black) wire from
its 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 cause
damage to your engines alternating system.
Charging
If the unit 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
explosive gas during and for some time
after charging. Charge battery in a well
ventilated area and do not allow a spark or
an open flame near the battery.
FUSE
A fuse is installed in your tractors wiring harness to
protect the tractors electrical system from damage
caused by excessive amperage. Always use the
same capacity fuse for replacement. 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 under the hood
mounted behind the top of dash panel on the
support bar. Pull the fuse out and compare it with
Figure 21 to determine if it is good or bad.
Figure 21
SECTION 11: LUBRICATION
WARNING: Always stop the engine and
disconnect the spark plug wire(s) and
ground against the engine before
performing any maintenance.
ENGINE
Lubricate the engine with motor oil as instructed in
the separate engine manual packed with your unit.
LINKAGE
Lubricate all the pivot points on the drive, brake and
lift linkage at least once a season with SAE 30
engine oil.
WHEELS
Both the front wheels and the rear wheels should be
removed from the axles once a season. Lubricate
the axles and the rims well with an all-purpose
automotive grease before re-installing them.
STEERING GEAR
Lubricate the teeth of the steering gear with an all-
purpose automotive grease every 25 hours of
operation or once a season.
PIVOT POINTS
Lubricate all pivot points (drive pedal, brake pedal,
etc.) at least once a season with light oil.
GOOD
BAD