MTD 824 - Operating the Tractor; Operation

Power Take-Off (PTO) Lever
The PTO lever is located on the right side of the
dashboard. To engage the PTO, lift the lever slow¬
ly and lock it into the notch. See figure 9.
The PTO lever must be in the
disengaged position (down) when
starting the engine and when shift¬
ing into reverse.
FIGURES.
OPERATION
^CAUTION
Keep all shields In place.
Before leaving operator’s position:
a. Shift transmission to neutral
b. Set parking brake
c. Disengage attachment clutch
d. Shutoff engine
e. Remove ignition key
Wait for all movement to stop before
servicing machine.
Keep people and pets a safe distance
away from machine.
Look to the rear before backing up.
r
5
PREPARATION
When packaged for shipment, the
machine contains no oil or gasoline.
Before starting the engine, oil must
be added to the engine crankcase
and gasoline to the tank. DO NOT
mix oil with gasoline.
1. Put oil in engine crankcase, using a high
quality detergent oil classified “For Service
SC or SD or MS.” Nothing should be added to
the recommended oil.
Summer. (Above 40°F.) Use SAE 30. If not
available, use SAE 10W-30.
Winter. (Under 40° F.) Use SAE 5W-20 or SAE
5W-30. If not available, use SAE 10W or SAE
10W-30. Below 0°F., use SAE 10W or SAE
10W-30 diluted 10% with kerosene.
Place the engine level. Fill the oil sump to the
FULL mark on the dipstick. Pour slowly.
Crankcase Capacity—3 Pints.
2. Fill the gasoline tank with clean, fresh, regular
grade automotive gasoline.
OPERATING THE TRACTOR
This unit is equipped with a safety
interlock system for your pro¬
tection. The purpose of the safety
interlock system is to prevent the
engine from cranking or starting
unless the clutch-brake pedal is
depressed and the PTO lever is
in the disengaged position. In addi¬
tion, the PTO lever must be in the
disengaged position when the unit
is put into reverse or the engine
will shut off.
Do not operate the rider if the inter¬
lock system is malfunctioning be¬
cause it is a safety device, designed
for protection.
1. Place the PTO lever in the disengaged (down)
position.
2. Puli out the choke control. A warm engine re¬
quires less choking.
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