Troy-Bilt Bilt 0 Manual

							11
Lower Deck Discharge Chute Deflector
WARNING! Never operate the mower deck 
without the chute deflector installed and in the 
down position. 
The discharge chute deflector must be installed before operating 
the mower. 
1. Remove the keys that are attached with a zip tie to the chute bracket.
2. Remove the flange lock nuts from the deck. Do not remove the push nuts or carriage bolts, leaving them in place will aid in installing the chute. See Figure 3-5.
50” Deck
Shown
Flange Lock Nuts
Push NutsCarriage Bolts
Figure 3-5
3.  Install the discharge chute deflector using the carriage 
bolts, push nuts and flange lock nuts as shown in Figure 
3-6 and securely tighten the hardware.
Discharge
Chute
Deflector
50” Deck
Shown
Flange Lock Nuts
Push Nuts
Carriage Bolts
Figure 3-6
Adjusting the Seat 
To adjust the position of the seat, rotate the seat forward and 
locate the clamp knob on the front left of the seat pan. Refer to 
Figure 3 -2 .
Rotate the clamp knob to the left and remove it, slide the seat 
forward or backward and re-insert the clamp knob into one of the 
four available positions on the seat pan and into the seat, then 
tighten securely. Make sure the seat is locked into position before 
operating the tractor. See Figure 3-7.
ClampKnob
Seat
Adjustment Positions
Figure 3-7 
SECTION 2 
						

							12
Deck HeightIndex
Deck LiftHandle
RH Drive
Control LeverLH Drive
Control Lever Hour Meter/
Indicator Panel
Fuel Tank Cap Ignition Switch
PTO Switch
Throttle/Choke 
ControlCup Holder
Storage Tray
Fuel Level Window
RH Transmission Bypass Rod
LH Transmission Bypass Rod
NOTE: This Operator’s Manual covers several models. Tractor 
features may vary by model. Not all features in this manual are 
applicable to all tractor models and the tractor depicted may 
differ from yours.
NOTE: References to LEFT, RIGHT, FRONT, and REAR indicate that 
position on the tractor when facing forward while seated in the 
operator’s seat. 
RH and LH Drive Control Levers
The RH and LH control levers are located on each side of the 
operator’s seat. These hinged levers pivot outward to open 
space to permit the operator to either  sit in the tractor seat, or to 
dismount the tractor. The levers must be fully opened out and in 
the neutral position to start the tractor engine. When the levers 
are fully outward, the parking brake is also engaged.
Each lever controls the respective RH or LH transmission. 
Consequently, these levers control all of the movements of the 
tractor. Driving and steering utilizing these control levers is 
quite different from conventional tractors, and will take some 
practice to master. Refer to Operation for instructions on using 
the control levers.
Deck Height Index
The deck height index consists of eight 
index notches located on the front/right 
of the console. Each notch corresponds to 
a 1⁄2” change in the deck height position 
ranging from 1-1⁄2” at the lowest  notch to 
4” at the highest notch.
Deck Lift Handle
The deck lift handle is located on the front/
right of the console, and is used to raise and 
lower the mower deck.
Pull the handle to the left out of the index 
notch and push downward to lower the 
deck, or pull upward to raise the deck. When 
the desired height is attained, move the lift 
handle to the right until fully in the index notch.
Controls & Features4  
						

							13
Fuel Tank Cap
The fuel tank cap is located near the middle of the LH console. 
Turn the fill cap approximately 1⁄4 turn and pull upward to 
remove. The fuel cap is tethered to the tractor to prevent its loss. 
Do not attempt to remove the cap from the tractor. Fill tank to 
the bottom of the filler neck, allowing some space in the tank for 
fuel expansion. Do not overfill the tank.
Push the cap downward on the fuel tank fill neck and turn 
approximately 1⁄4 turn clockwise to tighten. Always re-install the 
fuel cap tightly onto the fuel tank after removing.
WARNING! Never fill the fuel tank when the engine 
is running. If the engine is hot from recently running, 
allow to cool for several minutes before refueling. 
Highly flammable gasoline could splash onto the 
engine and cause a fire. 
Fuel Level Window
The Fuel Level Window is located on the outer left side of  
the LH console and shows the level of fuel in the gas tank.
Throttle/Choke Control
The throttle/choke control is located on the RH console 
to the left of the hour meter/indicator panel. When 
set in a given position, a uniform engine speed will be 
maintained.
• Push the throttle/choke control handle forward to 
increase the engine speed. The tractor is designed 
to operate with the throttle/choke control in the 
fast position (full throttle) when the tractor is being 
driven and the mower deck is engaged.
• Pull the throttle/choke control handle rearward to 
decrease the engine speed.
• When starting the engine, push the control handle fully 
forward into the “CHOKE” position. 
• After starting and warming the engine, move the control 
handle rearward until you feel it move past the choke 
detent.
FA ST
SL OW
Ignition Switch
The ignition switch is located on the RH console 
to the rear of the PTO switch. The ignition switch 
has three positions as follows:
STOP  — The engine and electrical system is 
turned off.
RUN  — The tractor electrical system is energized.
S TA R T   — The starter motor will turn over the engine. Release 
the key immediately when the engine starts
NOTE: To prevent accidental starting and/or battery discharge, 
remove the key from the ignition switch when the tractor is not 
in use.
Power Take-Off (PTO) Switch
The PTO switch is located on the RH console to 
the left of the hour meter/indicator panel. 
The PTO switch operates the electric PTO 
clutch mounted on the bottom of the engine 
crankshaft. Pull the switch knob upward to 
engage the PTO clutch, or push the knob 
downward to disengage the clutch.
The PTO switch must be in the “disengaged” 
position when starting the engine.
Transmission Bypass Rods
The transmission bypass rods (one for each the RH and LH 
transmission) are located on the rear of the tractor, just inside 
each rear wheel.
When engaged, the two rods open a bypass within the  
hydrostatic transmissions, which allows the tractor to be pushed 
short distances by hand. Refer to the Assembly & Set-Up section 
for instructions on using the bypass feature.
CAUTION:  Never tow your tractor. Towing the 
tractor with the rear wheels on the ground may 
cause severe damage to the transmissions.
Cup Holder
The cup holder is located toward the middle of the RH console. 
Storage Tray
The storage tray is located at the rear of the RH console.
Seat Clamp Knob (Not Seen)
The seat clamp knob is located below the front/left of the seat. 
The knob allows for adjustment forward or backward of the 
operator’s seat. Refer to the Assembly & Set-Up section for 
instructions on adjusting the seat position. 
SECTION 4 
						

							14
Hour Meter/Indicator Panel
The hour meter/indicator panel is 
located on the RH console to the right 
of the throttle or throttle/choke control.
Hour Meter Features
The hour meter records the hours that 
the tractor has been operated in the 
digital display (tenths of an hour - right 
most digit).
NOTE: The hour meter is activated whenever the ignition switch 
is turned to the “ON” position. Keep a record of the actual hours 
of operation to assure all maintenance procedures are completed 
according to the instructions in this manual and the engine manual.
When key is turned to the “ON” position, the battery indicator 
light briefly illuminates and the battery voltage is briefly 
displayed. The display then changes to the accumulated hours.
The Indicator Monitor will also remind the operator of maintenance 
intervals for changing the engine oil. The LCD will alternately flash, 
“CHG” ; “OIL” and the recorded hours for five minutes after every 
50 hours of recorded operation. The maintenance interval lasts for 
two hours (from 50-52, 100-102, 150-152, etc.). The LCD will flash as 
described for five minutes every time the tractor’s engine is started 
during this maintenance interval. Follow the oil change intervals 
provided in the engine manual.
HOURS 1/10PTO
 
/
B LA D E P
A R K
B R AKE
O
I
L
B ATT .
Indicator Panel Features
Battery Indicator
Illuminates and the battery voltage is displayed briefly when the 
ignition switch it turned to the “ON” position.
Illuminates to indicate the battery voltage has dropped below 
11.5 (+0.5/-1.0) volts. The battery voltage is also displayed on 
the hour meter. If this indicator and display come on during 
operation, check the battery and charging system for possible 
causes and/or contact your Cub Cadet dealer.
Oil Pressure Indicator (If Engine So Equipped)
This warning lamp indicates low engine oil pressure. If the 
indicator comes on while the engine is running, stop the engine 
immediately and check for possible causes. Do not run the 
engine while this indicator is illuminated. Contact your Cub 
Cadet dealer to have the tractor and engine inspected.
NOTE: The oil pressure indicator may illuminate when the 
ignition switch is in the ON position, but should turn off when 
the engine is started.
PTO Engaged Indicator
This indicator illuminates when the PTO switch is pulled upward 
in the “ENGAGED” position and the ignition switch is turned 
to the “START” position. Check this indicator if the engine will 
not crank with the ignition switch in the “START” position. If 
necessary, move the PTO switch to the “DISENGAGED” position.
Parking Brake Engaged Indicator
This indicator illuminates when the parking brake is in the 
DISENGAGED position and the ignition switch is turned to the 
“START” position. Check this indicator if the engine will not crank 
with the ignition switch in the “START” position. If necessary, 
move the parking brake to the ENGAGED position. 
This indicator also illuminates when the ignition switch is turned 
to the “START” position and the RH and/or LH drive control levers 
are in a position other than the fully out in neutral position. Move 
the control levers fully outward. 
SECTION 4
						

							15
General Safety
• RECEIVE INSTRUCTION — Entirely read this operator’s 
manual. Learn to operate this machine SAFELY. Do not risk 
INJURY or DEATH. Allow only those who have become 
competent in its usage to operate this tractor.
• Before starting the engine or beginning operation, be familiar 
with the controls. The operator should be in the operator’s 
seat. The PTO switch must be in the disengaged position and 
the  RH and LH drive control levers moved fully outward in the 
neutral position.
• Keep all shields in place. Keep away from moving parts.
• NO RIDERS! Keep all people and pets a safe distance away. 
Look behind and down to both sides of the tractor before 
and while backing up.
• DO NOT direct the mower discharge at people.
• Avoid slopes where possible. Never operate on slopes 
greater than 15°. Slopes with a greater incline present 
dangerous operating conditions. Tractors can be rolled over.
• Before leaving the operator’s seat: Shut off the PTO, move 
the  RH and LH drive control levers fully outward in the 
neutral position, shut off the engine and remove the 
ignition key. Wait for all movement to stop before servicing 
or cleaning.
• Operate the drive control levers smoothly and avoid 
any sudden movements of the levers when starting and 
stopping. Keep a firm grip on the control levers.
• Be careful when operating near roadways. Stop the tractor 
motion and wait for vehicles to pass before operating 
along the road.
• Do not operate the tractor with the mower deck removed. 
Removal of the deck will change the balance of the tractor, 
and could contribute to a tractor rollover.
• Avoid operation on traction surfaces that are unstable; use 
extreme caution if the surface is slippery.
• Slow down before turning and come to a complete stop 
before any zero turn maneuver.
• Do not stop the tractor or park the tractor over 
combustible materials such as dry grass, leaves, debris, etc.
• Do not fill the fuel tank when the engine is running or 
while the engine is hot. Allow the engine several minutes 
to cool before refueling. Tighten the fuel cap securely.
Before Operating Your Tractor
• Before you operate the tractor, study this manual carefully 
to familiarize yourself with the operation of all the 
instruments and controls. It has been prepared to help you 
operate and maintain your tractor efficiently.
• This engine is certified to operate only on clean, fresh, 
unleaded regular gasoline. For best results, fill the fuel 
tank with only clean, fresh, unleaded gasoline with a pump 
sticker octane rating of 87 or higher. 
• Unleaded gasoline is recommended because it leaves less 
combustion chamber deposits and reduces harmful exhaust 
emissions. Leaded gasoline is not recommended and must 
not be used where exhaust emissions are regulated.
NOTE: Purchase gasoline in small quantities. Do not use 
gasoline left over from the previous season, to minimize 
gum deposits in the fuel system.
• Gasohol (up to 10% ethyl alcohol, 90% unleaded gasoline 
by volume) is an approved fuel. Other gasoline/alcohol 
blends are not approved.
• Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether (MTBE) and unleaded gasoline 
blends (up to a maximum of 15% MTBE by volume) are 
approved fuels. Other gasoline/ether blends are not approved.
• Check the engine oil level.
• Clean the air cleaner element if necessary.
• Check the tire inflation pressures.
• Adjust the seat for operator’s maximum comfort, visibility 
and for maintaining complete control of the tractor.
Safety Interlock System
This tractor is equipped with a safety interlock system for the 
protection of the operator. If the interlock system should ever 
malfunction, do not operate the tractor. Contact your authorized 
Cub Cadet Dealer.
• The safety interlock system prevents the engine from 
cranking or starting unless the  RH and LH drive control 
levers are moved fully outward in the neutral position and 
the PTO is disengaged.
• The safety interlock system will shut off the engine if the 
operator leaves the seat with the PTO engaged.
NOTE: The PTO switch must be moved to the “STOP” 
position to restart the engine.
• The safety interlock system will shut off the PTO and the 
mower blades will stop if both drive control levers are 
moved into the reverse position. To re-engage the PTO, the 
levers must be in the neutral or forward drive position and 
the PTO switch must be placed in the OFF (disengaged) 
position and then returned to the ON (engaged) position.
Operation5  
						

							16
Starting the Engine
WARNING! This tractor is equipped with a safety 
interlock system designed for the protection of the 
operator. Do not operate the tractor if any part of 
the interlock system is malfunctioning. Periodically 
check the functions of the interlock system for 
proper operation.
WARNING! For personal safety, the operator must 
be sitting in the tractor seat when starting the 
engine.
1. Operator must be sitting in the tractor seat with the control 
levers fully outward in neutral (parking brake on).
2. Make certain the PTO switch is in the disengaged (down) 
position. Refer to Figure 5-1.
LH Control Lever
Out in NeutralRH Control Lever  Out in Neutral
Throttle/Choke 
Control to Full Choke
PTO Switch in Down 
(Disengaged) Position
Ignition Switch
Figure 5-1
3.  Move the throttle/choke  control into the full choke position. 
Refer to Figure 5-1.
NOTE: If the engine is warmed up, it may not be necessary 
to place the throttle/choke control in the choke position.
4. Insert the key into the ignition switch and turn the key 
clockwise to the start  position and release it as soon 
as the engine starts; however, do not crank the engine 
continuously for more than 5 seconds at a time. If the 
engine does not start within this time, turn the key to the 
stop  position and wait at least 15 seconds to allow the 
engine’s starter motor to cool. Try again after waiting. If 
after a few attempts the engine fails to start, do not keep 
trying to start it with the choke closed as this will cause 
flooding and make starting more difficult.
5.  As the engine warms up, gradually pull the throttle/choke 
control lever rearward past the choke detent position or 
slowly disengage the choke on models with a separate 
choke. Do not use the choke position to enrich the fuel 
mixture, except as necessary to start the engine.
6. Allow the engine to run for a few minutes at mid-throttle 
before putting the engine under load.
7. Observe the hour meter/indicator panel. If the battery 
indicator light or oil pressure light come on, immediately 
stop the engine. Have the tractor inspected by your Cub 
Cadet dealer.
Cold Weather Starting
When starting the engine at temperatures near or below freezing, 
ensure the correct viscosity motor oil is used in the engine and the 
battery is fully charged. Start the engine as follows:
1.  Be sure the battery is in good condition. A warm battery 
has much more starting capacity than a cold battery.
2. Use fresh winter grade fuel. Winter grade gasoline has 
higher volatility to improve starting. Do not use gasoline 
left over from summer.
3.  Follow the previous instruction for Starting the Engine.
Using Jumper Cables To Start Engine
WARNING! Batteries contain sulfuric acid and 
produce explosive gasses. Make certain the area is 
well ventilated, wear gloves and eye protection, and 
avoid sparks or flames near the battery.
If the battery charge is not sufficient to crank the engine, 
recharge the battery. If a battery charger is  unavailable and 
the tractor must be started, the aid of a booster battery will be 
necessary. Connect the booster battery as follows:
1. Connect the end of one cable to the disabled tractor 
battery’s positive terminal; then connect the other end of 
that cable to the booster battery’s positive terminal.
2. Connect one end of the other cable to the booster 
battery’s negative terminal; then connect the other end of 
that cable to the  frame of the disabled tractor, as far from 
the battery as possible.
3.  Start the disabled tractor following the normal starting 
instructions previously provided; then disconnect the 
jumper cables in the exact reverse order of their connection.
4. Have the tractor’s electrical system checked and repaired 
as soon as possible to eliminate the need for jump starting.
Stopping the Engine
1. Disengage the PTO.
2. Move the  RH and LH drive control levers fully outward in 
the neutral position. 
3.  Move the throttle control to midway between the slow  
and fast  positions. 
4. Turn the ignition key to the stop  position and remove 
the key from the ignition switch.
NOTE: Always remove the key from the ignition switch to prevent 
accidental starting or battery discharge if the equipment is left 
unattended.
SECTION 5
						

							17
Practice Operation (Initial Use)
Operating a zero-turn tractor is not like operating a conventional 
type riding tractor. Although and because a zero turn tractor is 
more maneuverable, getting used to operating the control levers 
takes some practice.
It is strongly recommended that you locate a reasonably large, 
level and open “practice area” where there are no obstructions, 
pedestrians, or animals. You should practice operating the 
tractor for a minimum of 30 minutes.
Carefully move (or have moved) the tractor to the practice area. 
When performing the practice session, the PTO should not be 
engaged. While practicing, operate the tractor at approximately 
1⁄2-3⁄4 throttle and at less than full speed in both forward and 
reverse.
Carefully practice maneuvering the tractor using the instructions 
in the following section “Driving the Tractor.” Practice until you 
are confident that you can safely operate the tractor. 
Driving the Tractor
WARNING! Avoid sudden starts, excessive speed 
and sudden stops.
1. Adjust the operator’s seat to the most comfortable 
position that allows you to operate the controls. See seat 
adjustment in the Assembly & Set-Up section.
2. Move the RH and LH drive control levers inward in the 
neutral position which also disengages the parking brake. 
Refer to Figure 5-2.
Control Lever Moved
Inward and in Neutral
Figure 5-2
NOTE: Lap bars must be moved fully inward before pushing 
forward or backward to ensure brakes are fully disengaged. 
Parking the tractor on uneven terrain or a hill may cause the 
brakes to bind and not release fully. In this case the tractor 
will not drive when the lap bars are moved. If this happens, 
move the lap bar in the opposite direction slightly to take 
the load off the brakes and allow them to release fully.
NOTE: If the control levers are not even in the neutral 
position, refer to Maintenance & Adjustments for 
instructions to adjust the levers so that they are even.
3.  Move the throttle control lever forward to the full throttle 
position.
NOTE: Although the tractor’s engine is designed to run at 
full throttle, when performing a practice session the tractor 
must be operated at less than full throttle. This only applies 
to practice.
WARNING! Always maintain a firm grip on the 
control levers. DO NOT release the control levers to 
slow or stop the tractor; move levers to neutral 
position using your hands.
4. To drive the tractor, firmly grasp the respective drive 
control levers with your right and left hands and continue 
with Driving the Tractor Forward on the following page.
Driving the Tractor Forward 
WARNING! Keep all movement of the drive control 
levers slow and smooth. Abrupt movement of the 
control levers can affect the stability of the tractor 
and could cause the tractor to flip over, which may 
result in serious injury or death to the operator.
1. Slowly and evenly move both drive control levers forward. 
The tractor will start to move forward. See Figure 5-3.
Driving Forward
Neutral
Position
Faster
Slower
Figure 5-3
2. As the control levers are pushed farther forward the speed 
of the tractor will increase.
3.  To slow the tractor move the controls lever rearward to 
attain the desired speed, or move the levers to the neutral 
position to stop the tractor.
WARNING! Always maintain your grasp on the 
drive control levers. Do not release the levers to slow 
the tractor or to return to neutral.
SECTION 5 
						

							18
4. To execute a “pivot turn,” move the turn side drive control 
lever to the neutral position, while moving the other 
control lever forward.
NOTE: Making a “pivot turn” on grass will greatly increase 
the potential for defacement of the turf.
 Driving the Tractor In Reverse
WARNING! Always look behind and down on both 
sides of the tractor before backing up. Always look 
behind while traveling in the reverse direction.
1. Slowly and evenly move both drive control levers rearward. The 
tractor will start to move in the reverse direction. See Figure 5-6.
Neutral
Position
Slower
Faster
Figure 5-6
2. As the control levers are pushed farther rearward the speed 
of the tractor will increase.
3.  To slow the tractor move the controls lever forward to 
attain the desired speed, or move the levers to the neutral 
position to stop the tractor.
Turning the Tractor While Driving Forward
WARNING! When reversing the direction of travel, 
we recommend performing gradual ‘U’ turns where 
possible. Sharper turns increase the possibility of turf 
defacement, and could affect control of the tractor. 
ALWAYS slow the tractor before making sharp turns.
To turn the tractor while driving forward, move the control 
levers as necessary so that one lever is rearward of the other. The 
tractor will turn in the direction of the rearward control lever.
1. To turn to the left, move the left drive control lever 
rearward of the right lever. See Figure 5-4.
Forward Left Turn
Figure 5-4
2. To turn to the right, move the right drive control lever 
rearward of the left lever. See Figure 5-5.
Forward Right Turn
Figure 5-5
3.  The greater the distance between the two levers, the 
sharper the tractor will turn.
SECTION 5
						

							19
Turning While Driving Rearward
To turn the tractor while driving rearward, move the control 
levers as necessary so that one lever is forward of the other. The 
tractor will turn in the direction of the forward control lever. 
1. To turn to the left while traveling in reverse, move the left 
drive control lever forward of the right lever. See Figure 5-7.
Rearward Left Turn
Figure 5-7
2. To turn to the right while traveling in reverse, move the right 
drive control lever forward of the left lever. See Figure 5-8.
Rearward Right Turn
Figure 5-8
3.  The greater the distance between the two levers, the 
sharper the tractor will turn.
4. To execute a “pivot turn,” move the turn side drive control 
lever to the neutral position, while moving the other 
control lever rearward. 
NOTE: Making a “pivot turn” on grass will greatly increase 
the potential for defacement of the turf.
Executing a Zero Turn
WARNING! When executing a zero turn, the tractor 
MUST BE STOPPED.  Executing a zero turn while the 
tractor is moving can significantly reduce your control of 
the tractor and will cause severe turf defacement.
1. Stop the forward or reverse motion of the tractor by 
moving the two drive control levers to neutral.
2. To turn clockwise, move the left control lever forward while 
simultaneously moving the right control lever rearward. See 
Figure 5-9.
Clockwise Zero Turn
Figure 5-9
3.  To turn counterclockwise, move the right control lever 
forward while simultaneously moving the left control lever 
rearward. See Figure 5-10-.
Counterclockwise Zero Turn
Figure 5-10
SECTION 5 
						

							20
Stopping the Tractor
1. Move both drive control levers to the neutral position to 
stop the motion of the tractor.
2. Push the PTO switch downward to the disengaged position.
3. Use the deck lift handle to raise the deck to its highest position.
4. If dismounting the tractor, move the drive control handles 
fully outward in the neutral position which also engages 
the parking brake, move the throttle control lever to the 
fast  position, turn the ignition switch to stop  and 
remove the key from the switch. 
WARNING! Do not leave the seat of the tractor 
without disengaging the PTO and moving drive 
control levers fully outward in the neutral/parking 
brake engaged position. If leaving the tractor 
unattended, turn the ignition key off and remove key.
Driving On Slopes
Refer to the slope gauge in the Safe Operation Section to help 
determine slopes where you may not operate safely.
WARNING! Do not operate on inclines with a slope 
in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of approximately 2-1⁄2 
feet every 10 feet). The tractor could overturn and 
cause serious injury.
1.  Always drive across slopes, never up and down. Control 
the speed and direction of the tractor using primarily the 
control lever on the downhill side of the tractor, with the 
uphill control lever remaining essentially in a fixed position.
2. Avoid turning downhill if possible. Start at the bottom of a 
slope and work upward. Always slow down before turning.
3.  Use extra care and go slowly when turning downhill.
Operating The PTO 
Operate the PTO clutch as follows:
1. Move the throttle control lever to approximately the mid 
throttle position.
2. Pull the PTO switch upward to the “ENGAGED” position. 
3.  Advance the throttle lever to the operating speed (full 
engine speed).
4. The operator must remain in the tractor seat at all times. If 
the operator should leave the seat without turning off the 
power take-off switch, the tractor’s engine will shut off.
5. The PTO clutch cannot be operated when the tractor is 
driving in the reverse direction. The PTO will disengage 
when both drive control levers are moved to the reverse 
position. To re-engage the PTO, the levers must be in 
the neutral or froward drive position and the PTO switch 
must be placed in the OFF (disengaged) position and then 
returned to the ON (engaged) position.
Using the Mower Deck
WARNING! Make certain the area to be mowed is 
free of debris, sticks, stones, wire or other objects 
that can be thrown by the rotating blades.
NOTE: Do not engage the mower deck when lowered in grass. 
Premature wear and possible failure of the ‘V” belt and PTO 
clutch will result. Fully raise the deck or move to a non grassy 
area before engaging the mower deck.
1. Mow across slopes, not up and down. If mowing a slope, start 
at bottom and work upward to ensure turns are made uphill.
2. On the first pass pick a point on the opposite side of the 
area to be mowed.
3.  Engage the PTO clutch using the PTO switch and move the 
throttle/choke control to the fast  position. 
4. Lower the mower deck to the desired height setting using 
the lift handle.
5. Slowly and evenly push the RH and LH drive control levers 
forward to move the tractor forward, and keep the tractor 
headed directly toward the alignment point.
NOTE: The speed of the tractor will affect the quality of the 
mower cut. Mowing at full speed will adversely affect the cut 
quality. Control the ground speed with the control levers.
6. When approaching the other end of the strip, slow down 
or stop before turning. A U-turn is recommended unless a 
pivot or zero turn is required.
7. Align the mower with an edge of the mowed strip and 
overlap approximately 3”.
8. Direct the tractor on each subsequent strip to align with a 
previously cut strip.
9.  To prevent rutting or grooving of the turf, if possible, change 
the direction that the strips are mowed by approximately 45° 
for the next and each subsequent mowing.
WARNING! Be careful when crossing gravel paths 
or driveways. Disengage the PTO and raise the deck 
to the highest position before crossing. 
NOTE: When stopping the tractor for any reason while on a grass 
surface, always:
• Place the control levers in the neutral/parking brake 
engaged position, 
• Shut engine off and remove the key. 
• Doing so will minimize the possibility of having your lawn 
‘‘browned’’ by hot exhaust from your tractor’s running engine.
SECTION 5