MTD 760-779 Lawn Mower User Manual


 
22
6
Maintaining
Your Lawn
Tractor
NOTE: Depending on
the engine model found
on your tractor, it may
be necessary to remove
the tractor’s side panel
in order to replace the
oil filter (if so equipped).
Figure 20
WARNING
Before performing
any maintenance or
repairs, disengage
PTO, move shift lever
into neutral position,
set parking brake, stop
engine and remove key
to prevent unintended
starting.
WARNING: Before performing
any maintenance or repairs,
disengage PTO, move shift lever
into neutral position, set parking
brake, stop engine and remove
key to prevent unintended
starting.
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.
Changing Engine Oil
NOTE: Depending on the engine model found on your
tractor, it may be necessary to remove the tractor’s side
panel in order to replace the oil filter (if so equipped).
For draining oil from the engine’s crankcase of select
model tractors, a plastic oil drain sleeve is packed with
this Operator’s Manual. To drain the oil, proceed as
follows:
1. Unscrew the oil fill cap and remove the dipstick from
the oil fill tube.
2. Snap the small end of oil drain sleeve onto the oil
sump. See Figure 20.
3. Remove drain plug and drain oil into a suitable
container with a capacity of no less than 64 oz.
4. Service the oil filter (if so equipped) as instructed in
the separate Engine Operator/Owner Manual packed
with your unit.
Perform the above steps in the opposite order after oil has
finished draining.
5. Refill the engine with new motor oil as instructed in the
Engine Operator/Owner Manual packed with your unit.
IMPORTANT: Refer to the Engine Operator/Owner
Manual packed with your unit for information regarding the
quantity and proper weight of motor oil.
Air Cleaner
Service the pre-cleaner, if so equipped, and cartridge/air
cleaner element as instructed in the Engine Operator/
Owner Manual packed with your unit.
Spark Plug(s)
The spark plug(s) 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 start-
ing.
Engine
Lubricate the engine with motor oil as instructed in the
Engine Owner Manual packed with your unit.
Pivot Points & Linkage
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.
Front Axles
Each end of the tractor’s front pivot bar may be equipped
with a grease fitting. Lubricate with a grease gun after
every 25 hours of tractor operation.
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.
Before lubricating,
repairing, or inspect-
ing, always disengage
PTO, move shift lever
into neutral position,
set parking brake, stop
engine and remove key
to prevent unintended
starting.