MTD 618 Operator's Manual page 23

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.
Use a torque wrench to tighten the blade
IMPORTANT:
spindle hex flange nut to between 70 foot-pounds and
90 foot-pounds.
Tires
WARNING:
inflation pressure shown on the sidewall of the
tire.
The recommended operating tire pressure is 10 psi for
the rear tires and 14 psi for the front tires. Refer to the
tire sidewall for exact tire manufacturer's recommended
or maximum psi. Do not overinflate. Uneven tire
pressure may 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 both
terminals.
• Always keep the rubber boot positioned over the
positive terminal to prevent shorting.
If removing the battery for any reason,
IMPORTANT:
disconnect the NEGATIVE (Black) wire from it's
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
engine's 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:
gas while charging. Charge battery in a well
ventilated area and keep away from an open
flame or pilot light as on a water heater, space
heater, furnace, clothes dryer or other gas
appliances.
Never exceed the maximum
Batteries give off an explosive
Fuses
Two fuses are installed in your tractor's wiring harness
to protect the tractor's electrical system from damage
caused by excessive amperage.
If the electrical system does not function, or your
tractor's engine will not crank, first check to be certain
that the fuse has not blown.
One can be found under the hood mounted behind the
top of the dash panel on the support bar.
The other can be found under the seat mounted to the
inside of the tractor frame next to the battery tray. Pull
the fuse out and inspect it to determine if it is good or
blown.
Cutting Deck Removal
If removing the deck on a tractor with a
IMPORTANT:
manual PTO, have a replacement cotter pin (Part No.
714-0470) on hand before proceeding.
To remove the cutting deck, proceed as follows:
• Place the PTO knob (or lever) in the disengaged
(OFF) position and engage the parking brake.
• Lower the deck by moving the deck lift lever into the
bottom notch on the right fender.
• On models with a 42-inch deck, remove the PTO
belt from around the cutting deck's center pulley.
Refer to Figure 24 .
• On models with a 46-inch deck, remove the PTO
belt from around the tractor's engine pulley or
electric PTO clutch, if so equipped. Refer to Figure
24 .
• On all models equipped with a manual PTO, locate
and unhook the deck brake cable by removing the
cotter pin which secures it. See Figure 22.
Deck Brake Cable
Cotter Pin
23
Figure 22