MTD 400 - Troubleshooting

Problem Cause Remedy
Engine does not start Spark plug wire disconnected.1.
Engine Throttle Control Lever incorrectly set.2.
Fuel tank empty.3.
Stale gasoline.4.
Dirty air filter. 5.
Defective or incorrectly gapped spark plug. 6.
Carburetor out of adjustment. 7.
Misadjusted throttle control. 8.
Dirt or water in fuel tank. 
Reconnect wire.1.
2.
Add fuel.3.
Drain fuel and add fresh fuel.4.
Clean or replace filter (see Engine 5.
Maintenance section).
Inspect spark plug (see Engine Maintenance 6.
section).
See Engine Service Dealer.7.
See Engine Service Dealer8.
See Engine Service Dealer.
Engine runs poorly Defective or incorrectly gapped spark plug.1.
Dirty air filter(s). 2.
Carburetor out of adjustment.3.
Stale gasoline.4.
Dirt or water in fuel tank.5.
Engine cooling system clogged.6.
Inspect spark plug (see Engine Maintenance).1.
Clean or replace (see Engine Maintenance).2.
See Engine Service Dealer.3.
Replace with fresh gasoline.4.
See Engine Service Dealer.5.
Clean air cooling system (see Engine Maint.).6.
Engine overheats Engine cooling system clogged.1.
Carburetor out of adjustment.2.
3.
Clean air cooling area (see Engine Maint.).1.
See Engine Service Dealer.2.
Check oil level (see Engine Maintenance).3.
Engine does not shut off Misadjusted throttle control or ignition 1.
switch.
See Engine Maintenance section or Service 1.
Dealer.
Wheels/Tines will not turn Improper use of controls.1.
Worn, broken, or misadjusted drive belt(s).2.
Internal transmission wear or damage.3.
4.
1.
Replace or adjust belts.2.
Contact local dealer or the factory.3.
Tighten bolt.4.
 1.
2.
Internal transmission wear or damage.3.
1.
Tighten bolt.2.
Contact local Dealer or the Factory.3.
 Tine holder mounting hardware missing.1.
2.
Internal transmission wear or damage.3.
Replace hardware.1.
Tighten bolt.2.
Contact local Dealer or the Factory.3.
 Worn tines.1.
Improper Depth Regulator setting.2.
Incorrect throttle setting.3.
4.
Replace Tines.1.
See “Tilling Tips & Techniques.”2.
See Maintenance & Adjustments Section.3.
See Maintenance & Adjustments Section.4.
Troubleshooting
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