Maintenance & Adjustment - MTD Mini-Rider Operator's Manual

Maintenance & Adjustments
Maintenance
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 Owner's Manual for engine maintenance
instructions.
Check engine oil level before each use as instructed in the Engine
Owner's Manual packed with your unit. Follow the instructions
carefully.
Note: An oil siphon is needed to drain the oil from the crankcase
See the Attachments & Accessories section for information on
purchasing an oil siphon kit (part no.
the
Engine Owner's Manual included with this unit for complete
engine maintenance instructions.
Air Cleaner
Service the air cleaner element as instructed in the Engine
Owner's Manual packed with your unit.
Spark Plug
The spark plug 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 Owner's
Manual packed with your unit 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 starting.
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
The front 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.
490-850-0008). Refer to
Steering Rack & Pinion
Once per season, or every 25 hours of operation, it will be
necessary to lubricate the steering rack and pinion gear located
under the front of the unit. Using standard automotive grease,
apply grease to the front side and rear side of the steering rack,
as indicated in Figure 6-1.
Figure 6-1
Cleaning the Engine And Deck
If the engine has been running, allow it to cool for at least half
an hour before cleaning. Periodically remove dirt build-up from
engine. Clean cooling fins every 25 hours. Clean with a brush or
compressed air.
IMPORTANT:
Do not spray engine with water to clean because
water could contaminate fuel. Using a garden hose or pressure
washing equipment can also force water into the air cleaner or
muffler opening. Water in the air cleaner will soak the paper
element, and water that passes through the element or muffler
can enter the cylinder, causing damage.
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.
WARNING!
Accumulation of debris around muffler
could cause a fire. Inspect and clean before every
use.
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