MTD 640, Operator'S Manual

7

SECTION 3:  KNOW YOUR SNOW THROWER

WARNING: 

Be familiar with all controls and 

their proper operation. Know how to stop the 
machine and disengage them quickly.

Operating Controls 

Figure 6

Shift Lever

The shift lever is located in the center of the handle 
panel. The shift lever may be moved into one of eight 
positions. Run engine with throttle in the fast position. 
Use the shift lever to determine ground speed.

Forward: 

There are six speeds. Position one (1) is the 

slowest. Position six (6) is the fastest.

Reverse: 

There are two reverse (R) speeds R1 and 

R2. The “R2” closest to the operator (all the way back) 
is the faster of the two.

Auger Control 

The auger control is located on the left handle. 
Squeeze the control to engage the augers; release to 
stop the augers. Remember that traction control must 
also be released. 

Traction / Auger Control Lock

The traction control is located on the right handle. 
Squeeze the control to engage the wheel drive. 
Release to stop.

This same control also locks the auger control so you 
can turn the chute directional control without 
interrupting the snow throwing process. If the auger 
control is engaged with the traction control engaged, 
the operator can release the auger control (on the left 
handle) and the augers will remain engaged. Release 
the traction control to stop both the augers and wheel 
drive (auger control must also be released).

Chute Directional Control 

The chute directional control is located on left hand 
side of the snow thrower.To change the direction in 
which snow is thrown, turn chute directional control as 
follows:

•

Crank clockwise to discharge to the left.

•

Crank counterclockwise to discharge to the right.

Throttle Control

The throttle control is located on the engine. It 
regulates the speed of the engine. See Figure 7.

Ignition Key 

The ignition key must be inserted in the switch before 
the unit will start. Remove the ignition key when snow 
thrower is not in use.

Fuel Shut-off Valve 

(If equipped)

The fuel shut-off valve, located under fuel tank, 
controls fuel flow from tank. See Figure 7. 

Figure 7

Shift

Lever

Discharge 

Chute

Chute 
Directional

Auger

Control

Traction/Auger
Control Lock

Auger
Control

Choke

Primer

Ignition

Key

Throttle

Control 

Closed

Open

Spark Plug

Recoil Starter 

Handle

Fuel Shut-Off Valve