Maintaining Your Garden Tractor - MTD 14BI845H129 Operator's Manual

SECTION 8:
_ ARNING"
Disconnect the spark plug wire(s) and ground against the engine before
performing any adjustments, repairs or
maintenance.
MAINTAINING YOUR GARDEN TRACTOR
Cutting Blades
WARNING: Protect hands by using heavy gloves or a rag to grasp the cutting blades.
Lubrication
SteeringGears
Lubricate teeth of steering gears with automotive multi-
purpose grease after every 25 hours of operation or
once a season. Refer to Figure 23.
SteeringShaft
Lubricate steering shaft at least once a season with
light oil.
Transaxle
The transaxle is lubricated and sealed at the factory
and does not require checking. If disassembled for any
reason, lubricate with 32 oz. of Shell Darina grease,
part number 737-0148 (10 oz. tube).
Linkage
Once a season lubricate all the pivot points on the
clutch, brake and lift linkage with SAE 30 engine oil.
Wheels
Some models have front wheels with grease fittings.
Lubricate at least once a season with automotive multi-
purpose grease.
Pivot Points
Lubricate all pivot points with light oil at least once a
season.
Ball Joints
The ball joints and drag link ends are permanently
lubricated and do not need any further lubrication.
BladeSpindles
The blade spindles on the cutting deck are permanently
lubricated and do not need any further lubrication.
EngineMaintenance
Refer to engine manual for maintenance instructions. A
list of general recommendations is given below.
• Maintain engine oil as instructed in the engine
manual. Read and follow instructions carefully.
• Service air cleaner every 25 hours under normal
conditions. Clean every few hours under extremely
dusty condition. To service air cleaner, refer to the
engine manual.
• The spark plugs should be cleaned and the gap
reset once a season. Spark plug replacement is
recommended at the start of each mowing season;
check engine manual for correct plug type and gap
specifications.
The blades may be removed for sharpening or
replacement as follows:
• Remove the hex flange nut that holds the blade to
the blade spindle. See Figure 27.
Hex Flange
Figure 27
• When sharpening the blades, follow the original
angle of grind as a guide. It is extremely important
that each cutting edge be ground equally to prevent
an unbalanced blade. An unbalanced blade will
cause excessive vibration when rotating at high
speeds, may cause damage to the tractor and
could break, causing personal injury.
• The blade can be tested for balance by balancing it
on a round shaft screwdriver. Remove metal from
the heavy side until it balances evenly.
• When replacing the blade, be sure to install the
blade with the side of the blade marked "Bottom"
(or with part number) facing the ground when the
tractor is in the operating position.
Torque Specifications
Blade: Hex FI. Nut 840 in. lb. min., 1080 in. lb. max.
Blade Spindle Screws: If disassembled for any reason,
tighten the blade spindle screws to between 200 and
275 inch pounds.
BatteryCare
Type "A" Battery
Type "A" batteries are sealed and maintenance-free.
Type "B" Battery
• Check fluid level inside each cell of the battery
every two weeks and before and after charging.
Always maintain level just below the split rings.
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