This document is the Operator's Manual for a Mulch Kit, Model OEM-190-116, designed for MTD 600-series lawn tractors with either a 38-inch or 42-inch cutting deck. The manual, printed in August 2000, provides instructions for installing and using the mulch kit.
Function Description:
The mulch kit is designed to convert a standard lawn tractor cutting deck into a mulching system. Its primary function is to recirculate grass clippings repeatedly beneath the cutting deck, finely chopping them into ultra-fine particles. These fine clippings are then forced back into the lawn, where they decompose and act as a natural fertilizer. This eliminates the need to bag or rake clippings, returning valuable nutrients to the soil. The kit utilizes special blades, which are typically standard on the tractor's cutting deck, in conjunction with a mulch plug and deck skirts to create the mulching environment.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Model: OEM-190-116
- Compatibility: Specifically designed for MTD 600-series lawn tractors manufactured after 1996 ONLY. It will NOT fit tractors with decks made in 1996 or prior.
- Deck Sizes: Compatible with both 38-inch and 42-inch cutting decks.
- Kit Components (with part numbers):
- Mulch Plug (731-2363)
- LH Skirt for 38-inch Decks (783-1300)
- RH Skirt for 38-inch Decks (783-1299)
- LH Skirt for 42-inch Decks (783-1258A)
- RH Skirt for 42-inch Decks (783-1259A)
- Self-tapping Screws (Six 1/4-20 x .5) (710-0599)
- Carriage Screw (One 1/4-20 x .6) (710-0134)
- Hex Screw (One 1/4-20 x .6) (710-0751)
- Bell Washer (One) (736-0270)
- Plastic Wing Nut (One 1/4-20) (712-3087)
- Mulch Plug Drill Guide (One) (726-0211)
- Tools Required for Installation:
- Socket Wrench (Ratchet)
- 3/8" Socket
- 7/16" Socket (Necessary only for older-style decks)
- Hammer (Necessary only for older-style decks)
- Center Punch or Large Nail (Necessary only for older-style decks)
- C-clamps or Locking Pliers (Necessary only for older-style decks)
- Electric Drill
- 1/8-inch Metal Drill Bit (Necessary only for older-style decks)
- 7/32-inch Metal Drill Bit (Necessary only for older-style decks)
- 9/32-inch Metal Drill Bit (Necessary only for older-style decks)
- Manufacturing Date Distinction: Tractors manufactured in 2001 or later have pre-drilled holes for the mulch plug and deck skirts, simplifying installation. Tractors manufactured between 1997 and 2000 (older-style) require drilling these holes.
Usage Features:
- Mulching Process: The kit facilitates the recirculation and fine chopping of grass clippings, returning nutrients to the lawn.
- Discharge Chute: It is not necessary to remove the discharge chute to operate the mower with the mulch kit installed.
- Flexibility: The mulch plug can be easily removed if the user chooses to operate the mower without mulching, allowing clippings to discharge normally. The deck skirts do not need to be removed for this.
- Optimal Mulching Conditions:
- Dry Grass: Never attempt to mulch if the lawn is damp, as wet grass can stick to the deck and prevent proper mulching.
- Cutting Height: Do NOT attempt to mulch more than 1/3 of the total grass height or approximately 1-1/2 inches. Exceeding this can cause clippings to clump.
- Ground Speed: Maintain a slow ground speed to allow sufficient time for clippings to be mulched effectively.
- Engine Throttle: Position the throttle control in the FAST (rabbit) position and keep it there while mowing. Operating at full throttle is crucial for effective mulching and prevents strain on the engine.
Maintenance Features:
- Cleaning: Before installing the deck skirts, it is recommended to clean all debris from the underside of the cutting deck, especially near the front edge.
- Part Identification: The deck skirts are stamped with "38" or "42" to indicate their intended deck size. For 38-inch decks, the "38" stamp should face the operator when viewed in the operating position (or face you when the deck is flipped upside down for installation). For 42-inch decks, the "42" stamp should face away from the operator when viewed in the operating position (or face away from you when the deck is flipped upside down for installation).
- Warranty: MTD Products Inc. provides a limited warranty for two (2) years from the original purchase date, covering defects in material and workmanship. This warranty is valid only if the product is operated and maintained according to the Operator's Manual and has not been subjected to misuse, abuse, or other specified conditions. Normal wear parts are covered for 90 days, with coverage extending to two years only if failure is due to defects in other component parts. Batteries have a 90-day limited replacement warranty.
- Service: Warranty service is available through local authorized service dealers, requiring proof of purchase. Customer Support can be contacted for dealer location or assistance.
- Exclusions: The warranty does not cover routine maintenance items (lubricants, filters, blade sharpening, tune-ups, adjustments), normal deterioration of the exterior finish, or products sold/exported outside the U.S. through unauthorized channels. It also excludes engine and certain component parts which carry separate manufacturer's warranties, and log splitter pumps/valves/cylinders (one-year warranty).
- Safety: Always wear safety glasses when performing installation or maintenance. Before any work, ensure the machine is on flat, level ground, PTO disengaged, in neutral, parking brake set, engine stopped, and key removed to prevent unintended starting.
Need help?
General
To Next Page
