MTD 690 through 699 User Manual

IMPORTANT: Read safety rules and instructions carefully before operating equipment.
MTD PRODUCTS INC. P.O. BOX 368022 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-9722
Hydrostatic Lawn
Tractor
Model Series
690 through 699
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
Warning:
This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-
covered, brush-covered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting
applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.
In the State of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may have
similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest engine authorized
service dealer or contact the service department, P.O. Box 368022 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-9722.
Operator’s Manual
FORM NO.
770-10129A.fm
(11/99)

MTD 690 through 699 Specifications

General

Category	Lawn Mower
Engine Type	Gasoline
Deck Material	Steel
Mulching Capability	Yes
Bagging Capability	Yes
Side Discharge	Yes
Transmission	Self-propelled, Vario speed

Summary

Important Safe Operation Practices

General Operation Safety

Safety guidelines for general tractor operation, including bystanders and stopping.

Safe Slope Operation

Precautions and techniques for safely operating the tractor on sloped terrain.

Child Safety Precautions

Safety measures to protect children during tractor operation and storage.

Service and Maintenance Safety

Safety procedures for handling fuel, fluids, and performing maintenance tasks.

Critical Safety Warnings and Decals

Important safety warnings, including danger and caution decals on the unit.

Lawn Tractor Assembly

Unpacking and Initial Setup

Procedures for unpacking the tractor and preparing it for assembly.

Battery Handling and Safety

Battery Activation and Charging

Chute Deflector Installation

Deck Leveling Procedure

Battery Installation (Type A & B)

Know Your Lawn Tractor Controls

Lawn Tractor Control Identification

Ignition Switch Operation

How to use the ignition switch to start, run, and stop the engine.

Hydrostatic Control Lever Operation

Using the hydrostatic control lever for speed and direction.

Clutch-Brake Pedal Operation

Function and operation of the clutch-brake pedal for starting and stopping.

Deck and Blade Lift Lever

Operation of the lift lever for deck height adjustment and blade engagement.

Operating Your Lawn Tractor

Slope Operation Warnings

Critical safety warnings and procedures for operating on slopes.

General Operating Rules

Key rules for safe operation, including safety devices and bystander protection.

Starting Engine

Step-by-step instructions for safely starting the tractor's engine.

Stopping Engine

Procedures for safely stopping the engine and securing the tractor.

Making Adjustments

Setting Cutting Height

Hydrostatic Neutral Control Adjustment

Cutting Deck and Brake Adjustments

Cutting Deck Engagement Adjustment

Brake Adjustment

Maintaining Your Lawn Tractor

Battery Care and Maintenance

Guidance on proper care, charging, and maintenance of the tractor battery.

Jump Starting Procedures

Safe procedures and warnings for jump-starting the tractor's battery.

Lubrication Points

Cutting Blades Maintenance

Belt Replacement Procedures

Deck Belt Replacement (38"/42" Decks)

Deck Belt Replacement (46" Deck)

Drive Belt Replacement

Off-Season Storage Preparation

Engine Storage Instructions

Troubleshooting Guide

Engine Will Not Crank Troubleshooting

Solutions for issues where the engine fails to crank.

Engine Cranks But Won't Start Troubleshooting

Solutions for issues where the engine cranks but does not start.