MTD 070 Thru 088 - Manual (Page 9)

When sharpening the blade, follow the original angle
of grind as a guide. It is extremely important that
each cutting edge receives an equal amount of grind­
ing to prevent an unbalanced blade. An unbalanced
blade will cause excessive vibration when rotating at
high speeds, may cause damage to the mower and
could break, causing personal injury.
The blade can be tested by balancing it on a round
shaft screwdriver. Remove metal from the heavy side
until it balances evenly. It is recommended that the
blade always be removed from the adapter for the
best test of balance.
Before reassembling the blade and the blade adapter
to the unit, lubricate the engine crankshaft and the
inner surface of the blade adapter with light oil (or
engine oil). Lubricating the bolt holes, bolts and inner
surface of the nuts is also recommended.
When replacing the blade, be sure to install the blade
with the side of the blade marked “Bottom” (or with
part number) facing the ground when the mower is in
the operating position.
On units with the blade secured by one bolt only, be
certain the blade is aligned with and seated onto the
blade support. Then tighten the bolt securely.
Blade Mounting Torque
Center Bolt; 450 in. lbs. min., 600 in. lbs. max.
Blade Adapter Bolts (if applicable): 200 in. lbs. min.,
350 in. lbs. max.
To ensure safe operation of your unit, all nuts and
bolts must be checked periodically for correct tight­
ness.
DECK
The underside of the mower deck should be cleaned
after each use to prevent a buildup of grass clippings,
leaves, dirt or other matter. If this debris is allowed to
accumulate, it will invite rust and corrosion, and may
cause an uneven discharge of grass clippings at the
next cutting.
The deck may be cleaned by tilting the mower and
scraping clean with a suitable tool (make certain the
spark plug wire is disconnected).
ENGINE
Refer to the separate engine manual for engine
maintenance instructions.
Maintain engine oil as instructed in the separate
engine manual packed with your unit. Read and follow
instructions carefully.
Service air cleaner every 25 hours under normal con­
ditions. Clean every few hours under extremely dusty
conditions. Poor engine performance and flooding
usually indicates that the air cleaner should be ser­
viced. To service the air cleaner, refer to the separate
engine manual packed with your unit.
The spark plug should be cleaned and the gap reset
once a season. Spark plug replacement is recom­
mended at the start of each mowing season; check
engine manual for correct plug type and gap specifi­
cations.
Clean the engine regularly with a cloth or brush.
Keep the cooling system (blower housing area) clean
to permit proper air circulation which is essential to
engine performance and life. Be certain to remove all
grass, dirt and combustible debris from muffler area.
OFF-SEASON STORAGE
The following steps should be taken to prepare lawn
mower for storage.
1. Clean and lubricate mower thoroughly as
described in the lubrication instructions.
2. Refer to engine manual for correct engine storage
instructions.
3. Coat mower’s cutting blade with chassis grease
to prevent rusting.
4. Store mower in a dry, clean area. Do not store
next to corrosive materials, such as fertilizer.
NOTE: When storing any type of power equipment in
an unventilated or metal storage shed, care should be
taken to rust-proof the equipment. Using a light oil or
silicone, coat the equipment, especially cables and all
moving parts.
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