Driving The Tractor - MTD RZT SERIES TRACTOR Operator's Manual

Using Jumper Cables To Start Engine
WARNING!
Batteries contain sulfuric acid and
produce explosive gasses. Make certain the area is
well ventilated, wear gloves and eye protection, and
avoid sparks or flames near the battery.
If the battery charge is not sufficient to crank the engine,
recharge the battery. If a battery charger is unavailable and
the tractor must be started, the aid of a booster battery will be
necessary. Connect the booster battery as follows:
1. Connect the end of one cable to the disabled tractor
battery's positive terminal; then connect the other end of
that cable to the booster battery's positive terminal.
2. Connect one end of the other cable to the booster
battery's negative terminal; then connect the other end of
that cable to the frame of the disabled tractor, as far from
the battery as possible.
3. Start the disabled tractor following the normal starting
instructions previously provided; then disconnect
the jumper cables in the exact reverse order of their
connection.
4. Have the tractor's electrical system checked and repaired
as soon as possible to eliminate the need for jump starting.
Stopping the Engine
1. Place the PTO switch in the "OFF" position.
2. Move the RH and LH drive control levers fully outward in
the neutral position.
3. Engage the parking brake.
4. Move the throttle control to the SLOW position and allow
the engine to idle for about one minute.
5. Turn the ignition key to the "OFF" position and remove the
key from the ignition switch.
NOTE: Always remove the key from the ignition switch to prevent
accidental starting or battery discharge if the equipment is left
unattended.
Practice Operation (Initial Use)
Operating a zero-turn tractor is not like operating a conventional
type riding tractor. Although and because a zero turn tractor is
more maneuverable, getting used to operating the control levers
takes some practice.
We strongly recommend that you locate a reasonably large,
level and open "practice area" where there are no obstructions,
pedestrians, or animals. You should practice operating the
tractor for a minimum of 30 minutes.
Carefully move (or have moved) the tractor to the practice area.
When performing the practice session, the PTO should not be
engaged. While practicing, operate the tractor at approximately
1⁄2-3⁄4 throttle and at less than full speed in both forward and
reverse.
Carefully practice maneuvering the tractor using the instructions
in the following section "Driving the Tractor." Practice until you
are confident that you can safely operate the tractor.

Driving the Tractor

WARNING!
Avoid sudden starts, excessive speed
and sudden stops.
1. Adjust the operator's seat to the most comfortable
position that allows you to operate the controls. See seat
adjustment in the Maintenance & Adjustments section.
2. Release the parking brake.
3. Move the RH and LH drive control levers inward in the
neutral position. Refer to Figure 5-2.
Control Lever Moved
Inward and in Neutral
Figure 5-2
NOTE: If the control levers are not even in the neutral position,
refer to Maintenance & Adjustments for instructions to adjust the
levers so that they are even.
4. Move the throttle control lever forward to the full throttle
position (3300-3500 RPM).
NOTE: Although the tractor's engine is designed to run at
full throttle, when performing a practice session the tractor
must be operated at less than full throttle (approximately
2500-3000 RPM). This only applies to practice.
WARNING!
Always maintain a firm grip on the
control levers. DO NOT release the control levers to
slow or stop the tractor; move levers to neutral
position using your hands.
5. To drive the tractor, firmly grasp the respective drive
control levers with your right and left hands and continue
with Driving the Tractor Forward on the following page.
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