Troy-Bilt ZT50 Operator's Manual page 25

Using the Transmission Bypass Rods
If for any reason the tractor will not drive or you wish to move the
tractor, the two hydrostatic transmissions are equipped with a
bypass rod that will allow you to manually move the tractor short
distances.
WARNING!
Do not tow the tractor, even with the
bypass rod engaged. Serious transmission damage
will result from doing so.
1. From just in front of the two rear tires, locate the transmission
bypass rods. Refer to Fig. 6-3.
RH Transmission
Bypass Rod
Figure 6-3
2. Pull one rod toward the front of the tractor until the flange
on the rod is forward of the keyhole slot in the frame
assembly.
3. Lower the bypass rod into the keyhole slot and release so the rod
flange is against the front of the frame bracket.
4. Repeat the above procedure to engage the other bypass rod on
the other side of the tractor.
5. After moving the tractor, disengage both bypass rods. Lift the
rod and guide the flange of the rod back through the
larger circular opening of the keyhole, then release the rod.
NOTE: The tractor will not drive with the bypass rods in the
engage position.
Battery Storage
1. When storing the tractor for extended periods, disconnect the
negative battery cable. It is not necessary to remove the
battery.
2. All batteries discharge during storage. Keep the exterior of
the battery clean, especially the top. A dirty battery will
discharge more rapidly.
3. The battery must be stored with a full charge. A discharged
battery can freeze sooner than a charged battery. A fully
charged battery will store longer in cold temperatures than
hot.
Pull Out Bypass
Rod Then Lower
Into Slot
Keyhole Slot
4. Recharge the battery before returning to service. Although the
tractor may start, the engine charging system may not fully
recharge the battery.
Tractor Storage
If your tractor is not going to be operated for an extended period
of time (thirty days to approximately six months), the tractor
should be prepared for storage. Store the tractor in a dry and
protected location. If stored outside, cover the tractor (including
the tires) to protect it from the elements. The procedures
outlined below should be performed whenever the tractor is
placed in storage.
1. Change the engine oil and filter following the instructions
provided in the engine manual packed with this manual.
WARNING!
Never store the tractor with fuel in the
tank indoors or in poorly ventilated enclosures,
where fuel fumes may reach an open flame, spark or
pilot light as on a furnace, water heater, clothes
dryer, etc.
2. If storing the tractor for 30 days or more:
a. To prevent gum deposits from forming inside the
engine's carburetor and causing possible
malfunction of the engine, the fuel system must be
either completely emptied, or the gasoline must be
treated with a stabilizer to prevent deterioration.
WARNING!
Fuel left in the fuel tank deteriorates
and will cause serious starting problems.
b. Using a fuel stabilizer:
• Read the product manufacturer's instructions
and recommendations.
• Add to clean, fresh gasoline the correct
amount of stabilizer for the capacity
(approximately 3 gallons) of the fuel system.
• Fill the fuel tank with treated fuel and run the
engine for 2-3 minutes to get stabilized fuel
into the carburetor.
c. Emptying the fuel system:
• Prior to putting the tractor in storage, monitor
fuel consumption with the goal of running
the fuel tank empty.
• Run the engine until it begins to stall. Use the
choke to keep the engine running until all fuel
in the carburetor has been exhausted.
• Referring to the engine manual, drain the fuel
from the carburetor bowl.
3. Clean the engine and the entire tractor thoroughly.
4. Fully charge the battery, then disconnect the negative cable at
the battery to prevent possible discharge. Recharge the
battery periodically when in storage.
NOTE: Remove the battery if exposed to prolonged periods
of sub-freezing temperatures. Store in a cool, dry location
where temperatures are above freezing.
s 6 — M
ectiOn
& a
aintenance djustMents
25