Lubrication; Maintenance - MTD 450 Series Operator's Manual

SECTION 7: ADJUSTMENTS
WARNING:
adjustments while the engine is running,
except where specified in operator's
manual.
HANDLE ADJUSTMENT
The handle height may be adjusted. Refer to the
Control section for details of handle adjustment.
BELT TENSION ADJUSTMENT
Periodic adjustment of the belt tension may be
required due to normal stretch and wear on the belt.
Adjustment is needed if the tines or wheels seem to
hesitate while turning, but the engine maintains the
same speed.
To adjust the tension on the belt, refer to clutch
adjustment information in "Checking the Clutch
Adjustment" section of the Assembly Instructions.
After belt tension has been adjusted, if the belt is
excessively stretched, you may need to adjust the idler
pulley rod. This can easily be checked.
With the engine off and the clutch control bail
disengaged, shift the gear selection handle to each
forward mode. If the indicator bracket touches the idler
pulley rod, (with the clutch control bail disengaged),
then an adjustment is necessary.
SECTION 8: LUBRICATION
Transmission—The transmission is pre-lubricated
and sealed at the factory. It requires no checking
unless the transmission is disassembled. To fill with
grease, lay the right half of the transmission on its
side. Add 30 ounces of Benalene 920 grease. Apply a
bead of RTV or silicone sealant to the right half of the
transmission, all the
compartment. Assemble the left half to it. This grease
can be obtained at your nearest authorized dealer.
Order part number 737-0300.
SECTION 9: MAINTENANCE
WARNING:
wire and ground it against the engine
before performing

maintenance.

ENGINE
Refer to the separate engine manual for engine
maintenance instructions.
Maintain engine oil as instructed in the separate
engine manual packed with your unit. Read and follow
instructions carefully.
Never attempt to make any
way around the
Disconnect the spark plug
any repairs
1. Disconnect and ground out spark plug wire against
the engine.
2. Remove the belt cover as described in the belt
replacement section on page 12.
3. Remove the hairpin clip and flat washer from the
idler pulley rod. See Figure 9.
4. Move the idler pulley rod to the lower hole in the
idler bracket. See Figure 9.
5. Replace the wave washer and hairpin clip.
6. Check clearance of the idler pulley rod to the
indicator bracket by shifting to each forward mode,
as before.
CARBURETOR ADJUSTMENT
WARNING:
to the engine while the engine is running,
(e.g. carburetor), disengage all clutches
and tines. Keep clear of all moving parts.
Be careful of heated surfaces and muffler.
Never make unnecessary adjustments. The factory
settings are
adjustments are needed, refer to the separate engine
manual packed with your tiller.
Clutch Bail—Lubricate the pivot point on the clutch
bail and the cable at least once a season with light oil.
The control must operate freely in both directions.
Pivot Points—Lubricate all pivot points and linkages
at least once a season with light oil.
Tine Shaft—Remove tines at least once a season and
gear lubricate with oil.
Wheel Axle—Remove the wheel assemblies at least
once a season and lubricate with oil.
Service air cleaner every ten hours under normal
conditions. Clean every hour under extremely dusty
conditions. Poor engine performance and flooding
or
usually indicates that the air cleaner should be
serviced. To service the air cleaner, refer to the
separate engine manual packed with your unit.
IMPORTANT:
cleaner completely assembled.
11
If any adjustments are made
correct for most applications.
Never run your engine without air
If