MTD 970 Lawn Mower User Manual


 
9
SECTION 4: KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
Read this operator’s manual and safety rules before
operating your lawn mower. Compare the illustration in
Figure 10 with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself
with the location of various controls and adjustments.
Save this manual for future reference.
Blade Control Handle
The blade control handle is located on the upper handle
of the mower. The blade control handle must be
depressed in order to operate the unit. Release blade
control handle to stop engine and blade.
Cutting Height Adjustment Levers
The cutting height adjustment lever is located above
the left rear wheel. To adjust the cutting height, refer to
the Adjustment Section in this manual.
Recoil Starter
The recoil starter is attached to the right upper handle.
Stand behind the unit and pull the recoil starter rope to
start the unit.
Drive Clutch Control
The drive clutch control is located on the upper handle.
Squeeze the drive control to engage the drive system.
Release the clutch control to disengage the drive
system. Release the clutch control to slow down when
approaching an obstacle, making a turn, or stopping. .
Shift Lever
The shift lever is located on the drive clutch control
housing on the upper handle. This lever is used to
select the forward speed of the mower. When changing
speed selection, release the drive clutch control.
NOTE: Move the shift lever only when the engine is
running. Changing the shift lever setting with the engine
off can damage the mower.
Mulching Plug
The mulching plug is used only for mulching purposes.
Instead of collecting grass clippings in a grass catcher,
this mower has the option of recirculating the clippings
back to the lawn.
Figure 10
WARNING: The operation of any lawn
mower can result in foreign objects being
thrown into the eyes, which can damage your
eyes severely. Always wear safety glasses
while operating the mower, or while performing
any adjustments or repairs on it.
WARNING: This blade control mechanism is
a safety device. Never attempt to bypass its
operations.
Mulch Plug
Side-Discharge
Chute
Height Adjustment
Lever
Blade Control Handle
Recoil Starter
Shift Lever
Drive Clutch