Craftsman 917.271554 User Manual

Owner’s Manual

LAWN TRACTOR

15.5 HP, 42” Mower

Electric Start

6 Speed Transaxle

Model No.

917.271554

This product has a low emission engine which operates differently from previously built engines. Before you start the engine, read and understand this Owner’s Manual.

CAUTION;

Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions before operating this equipment.

For answers to your questions

about this product, Call:

1-800-659-5917

Sears Craftsman Help Line 5 am - 5 pm, Мол - Sat

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, II 60179 U.S.A.

Visit our Craftsman website:www.sears.com/craftsman

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Warranty...................................	........... 2	Maintenance.....................	................17
Safety Rules............................. ...........	3	Service and Adjustments.................	21
Product Specifications........... ...........	6	Storage.............................. ................	27
Assembly/Pre-Operation........ ...........	8	Troubleshooting............... ................	28
Operation................................. ..........	11	Repair Parts...................... ................	32
Maintenance Schedule........... ..........	17	Sears Service.................... ..	Back Cover

WARRANTY

LIMITED WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT

For two (2) years from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Riding Equipment is maintained, lubricated and tuned up according to the instructions in the owner's manual. Sears will repair or replace free of charge any parts that are found to be defective in material or workmanship according to the guidelines of coverage listed below. Sears will also provide free labor for these applicable warranted parts for the two full years. During the first 30 days of purchase, there will be no charges to service the product at your home for issues covered by this warranty. (See exclusions below), For your convenience, IN HOME warranty service will still be available after the first 30 days of purchase, but a trip charge will apply. This charge will be waived if the Crafts­ man product is dropped off at an authorized Sears location. For the nearest authorized Sears location, please call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®. This warranty applies only while this product is within the United States.

This Warranty does not cover:

•Expendable items which become worn during normal use, including but not limited to blades, spark plugs, air cleaners, belts, and oil filters.

•Standard Maintenance Servicing, oil changes, or tune-ups

•Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails, thorns, stumps, or glass.

•Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, including but not limited to, damage caused by towing objects beyond the capability of the riding equipment, impacting objects that bend the frame or crankshaft, or over-speeding the engine.

•Repairs necessary because of operator negligence, including but not limited to, electrical and mechanical damage caused by improper storage, failure to use the proper grade and amount of engine oil, failure to keep the deck clear of flammable debris, or failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions contained in the owner's manual.

•Engine (fuel system) cleaning or repairs caused by fuel determined to be contami­ nated or oxidized (stale). In general, fuel should be used within 30 days of its purchase date.

•Normal deterioration and wear of the exterior finishes, or product label replacement.

•Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.

LIMITED WARRANTY ON BATTERY

For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery included with this riding equipment proves defective in material or workmanship and our testing determines the battery wilt not hold a charge. Sears will replace the battery at no charge. During the first 30 days of purchase, there will be no charges to replace the battery at your HOME. After the first 30 days, for your convenience, IN-HOME warranty service will still be available but a trip charge will apply. This charge will be waived if the Craftsman product is dropped of at an authorized Sears location. For the nearest authorized Sears location, please call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®.

This battery warranty applies only while this product is within the United States.

This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights, which vary, from state to state.

Sears, Roebuck and Co.,Dept.817WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

SAFETY RULES

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

^ALook for this symbol to point out important safety precautions. It means CAUTION!!! BECOMEALERTM! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

CAUTION: In order to prevent accidental starting when setting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs, always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark plug.

A.CAUTION: Do not coast down a hill in neutral, you may lose control of the tractor.

A. CAUTION: Tow only the attachments that are recommended by and comply with specifications of the manufacturer of your tractor. Use common sense when towing. Operate only at the lowest possible speed when on a slope. Too heavy of a load, while on a slope, is dangerous. Tires can lose traction with the ground and cause you to lose control of your tractor.

AWARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals

known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other repro­ ductive harm..

AWARNING: Batteiy posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.

1.GENERAL OPERATION

•Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual and on the machine before starting.

•Do not mow in reverse uniess absoiutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing.

•Be aware of the mower discharge direction and do not point it at anyone. Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass catcher or the guard in place.

•Slow down before turning.

•Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn off blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and remove keys before dismounting.

•Turn off blades when not mowing.

•Stop engine before removing grass catcher or unclogging chute.

•Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.

•Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

•Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways.

•Use extra care when loading or unload­ ing the machine into a trailer or truck.

•Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above, are involved in a targe percentage of riding mower-related injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the riding mower safely enough to protect them­ selves and others from serious injury.

•Keep machine free of grass , leaves or other debris build-up which can touch hot exhaust / engine parts and bum . Do not allow the mower deck to plow leaves or other debris which can cause build­ up to occur. Clean any oil or fuel spillage before operating or storing the machine . Allow machine to cool before storage.

n. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-

•Only allow responsible adults, who are control and tipover accidents, which can re­ familiar with the instructions, to operatesult in severe injury or death. All slopes

the machine. require extra caution. If you cannot back up

• Clear the area of objects such as rocks, the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not toys, wire, etc., which could be picked mow it.

up and thrown by the blade.

•Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

•Never carry passengers.

SAFETY RULES

	DO:	•	Never carry children. They may fall off
	• Mow up and down slopes, not across.		and be seriously injured or interfere
	• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree	•	with safe machine operation.
	limbs, etc.		Never allow children to operate the
	• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven		machine.
	terrain could overturn the machine. Tall	•	Use extra care when approaching blind
	grass can hide obstacles.		corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects
	• Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so		that may obscure vision.
	that you will not have to stop or shift	IV. SERVICE
	while on the slope.
		•	Use extra care in handling gasoline
	• Follow the manufacturer’s recommenda­		and other fuels. They are flammable
	tions for wheel weights or counter­		and vapors are explosive.
	weights to improve stability.
			- Use only an approved container.
	• Use extra care with grass catchers or
			- Never remove gas cap or add fuel
	other attachments. These can change
			with the engine running. Allow
	the stability of the machine.
	• Keep all movement on the slopes slow		engine to cool before refueling. Do
	and gradual. Do not make sudden		not smoke.
			- Never refuel the machine indoors.
	changes in speed or direction.
	• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If		- Never store the machine or fuel
	tires lose traction, disengage the blades		container inside where there is an
	and proceed slowly straight down the	•	open flame, such as a water heater.
	slope.		Never run a machine inside a closed
	DO NOT:		area.
		•	Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade
	• Do not turn on slopes unless necessary,
	and then, turn slowly and gradually		attachment bolts, tight and keep
			equipment in good condition.
	downhill, if possible.
		• Never tamper with safety devices.
	• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or
			Check their proper operation regularly.
	embankments. The mower could
		•	Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or
	suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the
	edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge		other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel
			spillage. Allow machine to cool before
	caves in.
			storing.
	• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced
		• Stop and inspect the equipment if you
	traction could cause sliding.
			strike an object. Repair, if necessary,
	• Do not try to stabilize the machine by
			before restarting.
	putting your foot on the ground.
		• Never make adjustments or repairs
	• Do not use grass catcher on steep
			with the engine running.
	slopes.
		•	Grass catcher components are subject
	III. CHILDREN
			to wear, damage, and deterioration,
	Tragic accidents can occur if the operator		which could expose moving parts or
	is not alert to the presence of children.		allow objects to be thrown. Frequently
	Children are often attracted to the		check components and replace with
	machine and the mowing activity. Never		manufacturer’s recommended parts,
	assume that children will remain where	•	when necessary.
	you last saw them.		Mower blades are sharp and can cut.
	• Keep children out of the mowing area		Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and
	and under the watchful care of another	•	use extra caution when servicing them.
	responsible adult.		Check brake operation frequently.
	• Be alert and turn machine off if children		Adjust and service as required.

enter the area.

• Before and when backing, look behind and down for small children.

SAFETY RULES

Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

Never carry passengers or children even with the blades off.

Do not mow in reverse unless abso­ lutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing. Never carry children. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine operation.

Keep children out of the mowing area and under the watchful care of another responsible adult.

Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area.

Before and when backing, look behind and down for small children.

Mow up and down slopes (15“ Max), not across.

Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.

Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles. Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so that you will not have to stop or shift while on the slope.

Avoid starting or stopping on a slope, if tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

If machine stops while going uphill, disengage blades, shift into reverse and back down slowly.

Do not turn on slopes unless neces­ sary, and then, turn slowly and gradu­ ally downhill, if possible.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Gasoline	1.25 Gallons
Capacity	Unleaded
and Type:	Regular
Oil Type:	SAE30 (above 32°F)
(API-SF-SJ):	SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F)
Oil Capacity:	3.0 Pints
Spark Plug:	Champion RC12YC
(Gap: .030")
Ground Speed	Forward:
(MPH):	1st	1.1
	2nd	1.4
	3rd	2.2
	4th	3.4
	5th	4.3
	6th	5.5
	Reverse:	1.7
Tire Pressure:	Front:	14 PSI
	Rear:	12 PSI
Charging	3 Amps Battery
System:	5 Amps Headlights
Battery:	Amp/Hr:	28
	Min. CCA:	230
	Case Size: U1R

Blade Bolt Torque: 27-35 Ft. Lbs.

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new tractor. It has been designed, engineered and manufactured to give you the best possible dependability and performance.

Should you experience any problem you cannot easily remedy, please contact a Sears or other qualified service center. We have competent, well-trained techni­ cians and the proper tools to service or repair this tractor.

Please read and retain this manual. The instructions will enable you to assemble and maintain your tractor properly.

Always observe the “SAFETY RULES".

REPAIR AGREEMENT

A Repair Agreement is available on this product. Contact your nearest Sears store for details.

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

•Read and observe the safety rules.

•Follow a regular schedule in maintain­ ing, caring for and using your tractor.

•Follow the instructions under “Mainte­ nance” and “Storage” sections of this owner’s manual.

^WARNING: This tractor is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brushcovered 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 Sears service center (See REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).

UNASSEMBLED PARTS

Steering Wheel

Steering

Wheel

Adapter

B

\j Steering

Extension Shaft

(1) Large Flat	Steering
Washer	Wheel
	Insert

	(1) Locknut 1/4-28
(1) Hex Bolt 1/4-28x1-1/4	(1) Locknut 1/2-20

cgj (1) Washer

17/32 X 1-3/16 X 12 Gauge

(1) Knob

Keys	Video Cassette

(2) Keys

ASSEMBLY/PRE-OPERATION

Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your tractor all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct toots as necessary to insure proper tightness. Review the video cassette before you begin.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

A socket wrench set wiil make assembly easier. Standard wrench sizes you need

are listed below.		(1)	Pliers
(1)	9/16" wrench
(1)	1/2" wrench	(1)	Utility knife
(1)	Tire pressure gauge

When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, it means, from your point of view, when you are in the operating position (seated behind the steering wheel).

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM

CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

1.Remove all accessible loose parts and parts boxes from carton.

2.Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on ail four corners of carton, and lay panels flat.

3.Check for any additional loose parts or cartons and remove.

BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR FROM SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND BOOT

1.Slide extension shaft onto lower steering shaft. Align mounting holes in extension and lower shafts and install 1/4 hex bolt and locknut. Tighten securely.

IMPORTANT: Tighten bolt and nut securely to 10-12 ft. lbs torque.

2.Place tabs of steering boot over tab slots in dash and push down to secure.

INSTALL STEERING WHEEL

3. Position front wheels of the tractor so they are pointing straight forward.

4. Remove steering wheel adapter from steering wheel and slide adapter onto steering shaft extension.

5. Position steering wheel so cross bars are horizontal (left to right) and slide

inside boot and onto adapter.

8

Insert

6. Assemble large fiat washer, 1/2 hex nut and tighten securely.

7.Snap steering wheel insert into center of steering wheel.

8. Remove protective materials from tractor hood and grill.

IMPORTANT: Check for and remove any staples in skid that may puncture tires where tractor is to roll off skid.

CHECK BATTERY

1. Lift seat pan to raised position. NOTE: If this battery is put into service after month and year indicated on label (label located between terminals) charge battery for minimum of one hour at 6-10 amps. (See "BATTERY" in Maintenance section of this manual for charging instructions).

	Seat Pan		NOTE; You may now roll or drive your
			tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate
			instruction below to remove the tractor
		Label	from the skid.
			TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See
	Terminal—. ^	Terminal	Operation section for location and
			function of controls)
			1. Press lift lever plunger and raise
			attachment lift lever to its highest
			position.
	INSTALL SEAT		2. Release parking brake by depressing
	Adjust seat before tightening adjustment		clutch/brake pedal.
			3. Place gearshift lever in neutral (N)
	knob.		position.
	1. Remove adjustment knob and flat
			4. Roll tractor fonward off skid.
	washer securing seat to cardboard
			5. Remove banding holding deflector
	packing and set aside for assembly of
	seat to tractor.		shield up against tractor.
	2. Pivot seat upward and remove from		TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See
	the cardboard packing. Remove the		Operation section for location and
	cardboard packing and discard.		function of controls)
	3. Place seat on seat pan so head of		^WARNING: Before starting, read,
	shoulder bolt is positioned over large
	slotted hole in pan.		understand and follow all instructions in
			the Operation section of this manual. Be
	4. Push down on seat to engage
			sure tractor is in a well-ventilated area. Be
	shoulder bolt in slot and puli seat
			sure the area in front of tractor is clear of
	towards rear of tractor.
			other people and objects.
	5. Pivot seat and pan forward and
			1. Be sure all the above assembly steps
	assemble adjustment knob and flat
			have been completed.
	washer loosely. Do not tighten.
			2. Check engine oil level and fill fuel tank
	6. Lower seat into operating position and
	sit in seat.		with gasoline.
			3. Sit on seat in operating position,
	7. Slide seat until a comfortable position
	is reached which allows you to press		depress clutch/brake pedal and set

	clutch/brake pedal all the way down.		the parking brake.
		4.	Place gear shift lever in neutral (N)
	8. Get off seat without moving its
			position.
	adjusted position.
		5.	Press lift lever plunger and raise
	9. Raise seafand tighten adjustment
			attachment lift lever to its highest
	knob securely.
			position.
		6.
			Start the engine. After engine has
			started, move throttle control to idle
		7.	position.
			Depress clutch/brake pedal into full
			"BRAKE" position and hold. Move
		8.	gearshift lever to 1 st gear.
			Slowly release clutch/brake pedal and
		9.	slowly drive tractor off skid.
			Apply brake to stop tractor, set parking
			brake and place gearshift lever in

neutral position.

10. Turn ignition key to "STOP" position. Continue with the instructions that follow.

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE ^CHECKLIST

The tires on your tractor were overinflated Before you operate your new tractor, we at the factory for shipping purposes. wish to assure that you receive the best Correct tire pressure is important for best performance and satisfaction from this

	cutting performance.	Quality Product.
	• Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in	Please review the following checklist:
	“PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS” section	/ All assembly instructions have been
	of this manual.	completed.
	CHECK DECK LEVELNESS	/ No remaining loose parts in carton.
	For best cutting results, mower housing	/ Battery is properly prepared and
	should be properly leveled. See ‘TO	charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps).
	LEVEL MOWER HOUSING” in the	/ Seat is adjusted comfortably and
	Service and Adjustments section of this	tightened securely.
	manual.	/ All tires are properly inflated. (For
	CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF	shipping purposes, the tires were
		overinflated at the factory).
	ALL BELTS
		/ Be sure mower deck is properly leveled
	See the figures that are shown for
		side-to-side/front'to-rear for best cutting
	replacing motion and mower blade drive
		results. (Tires must be properly inflated
	belts in the Service and Adjustments
		for leveling).
	section of this manual. Verify that the
		/ Check mower and drive belts. Be sure
	belts are routed correctly.
		they are routed properly around pulleys
	CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM
		and inside all belt keepers.
	After you learn how to operate your	/ Check wiring. See that all connections
	tractor, check to see that the brake is	are still secure and wires are properly
	properly adjusted. See “TO ADJUST	clamped.
	BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments	While learning how to use your tractor,
	section of this manual.	pay extra attention to the foilowing
		important items;
		/ Engine oil is at proper level.
		/ Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean,
		regular unleaded gasoline.
		/ Become familiar with all controls - their
		location and function. Operate them
		before you start the engine.
		/ Be sure brake system is in safe
		operating condition.

10

OPERATION

These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand their meaning.

Q A

♦

X

f

BATTERY	CAUTION OR REVERSE	FORWARD	FAST	SLOW
	WARNING

©	STOP	Ô1	IW
ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON		OVER TEMP	1
		LIGHT
fl l\l © C©
FUEL	CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED		MOWER LIFT

LOCKED

i* R N H L ®SI

ATTACHMENT REVERSE NEUTRAL	HIGH	LOW	PARKING BRAKE
CLUTCH ENGAGED

	ATTACHMENT	KEEP AREA CLEAR	SLOPE HAZARDS
		(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)
IGNITION	CLUTCH DISENGAGED
				c4

	DANGER. KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY	FREEWHEEL
		(Automatic Models only)

11

KNOW YOUR TRACTOR

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR TRACTOR

Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

Attachment

Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the

American National Standards Institute.

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER - Used to engage the mower blades, or other attachments mounted to your tractor. ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER - Used to raise, lower, and adjust the mower deck or other attachments mounted to your tractor.

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL - Used for declutching and braking the tractor and starting the engine.

GEARSHIFT LEVER - Selects the speed and direction of tractor.

IGNITION SWITCH - Used for starting and stopping the engine.

LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to release attachment lift lever when changing its position.

LIGHT SWITCH POSITION - Turns the headlights on and off.

PARKING BRAKE LEVER - Locks clutch/ brake pedal into the brake position. THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL - Used

for starting and controlling engine speed. AMMETER - Indicates battery charging

(+) or discharging (-).

12

Attachment Clutch Lever “Engaged” Position

Ignition Key

The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recommend standard safety glasses or a wide vision safety mask worn over spectacles.

	HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR	• Turn ignition key to “STOP” position
	TO SET PARKING BRAKE	and remove key. Always remove key
	Your tractor is equipped with an operator	when leaving tractor to prevent
		unauthorized use.
	presence sensing switch. When engine
		• Never use choke to stop engine.
	is running, any attempt by the operator to
	ieave the seat without first setting the	IMPORTANT: Leaving the ignition switch
		in any position other than “STOP” will
	parking brake will shut off the engine.
		cause the battery to discharge and go
	1. Depress clutch/brake pedal all the
		dead.
	way down and hold.
		NOTE: Under certain conditions when
	2. Pull parking brake lever up and
		tractor is standing idle with the engine
	release pressure from clutch/brake
		running, hot engine exhaust gases may
	pedal. Pedal should remain in brake
		cause “browning" of grass. To eliminate
	position. Make sure parking brake will
	hold tractor secure.	this possibility, always stop engine when
		stopping tractor on grass areas.

Throttle/Choke

Control

	“Disengaged”
	Position
	Parking
	Brake
	“Engaged”
	Position
	Gearshift
"Brake”	/ '7 Lever
	^
Position	“Disengaged” ^
	Position

STOPPING

MOWER BLADES

•To stop mower blades, move attach­ ment clutch lever to disengaged position.

GROUND DRIVE -

•To stop ground drive, depress clutch/ brake pedal all the way down.

•Move gearshift lever to neutral (N) position.

ENGINE-

• Move throttle control to slow position. NOTE: Failure to move throttle control to slow position and allowing engine to idle before stopping may cause engine to “backfire”.

^CAUTION: Always stop tractor completely, as described above, before

leaving the operator's position. TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL

Always operate engine at full throttle.

•Operating engine at less than full throttle reduces the battery charging rate.

•Full throttle offers the best bagging and mower performance.

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD

The direction and speed of movement is controlled by the gearshift lever.

1.Start tractor with clutch/brake pedal depressed and gearshift lever in neutral (N) position.

2.Move gearshift lever to desired position.

3.Slowly release clutch/brake pedal to start movement.

IMPORTANT: Bring tractor to a complete stop before shifting or changing gears. Failure to do so will shorten the useful life of your transaxle.

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT

The position of the attachment lift lever determines the cutting height.

•Grasp lift lever.

•Press plunger with thumb and move lever to desired position.

The cutting height range is approxi­ mately 1-1/2 to 4". The heights are measured from the ground to the blade tip with the engine not running.

13

	These heights are approximate and may	• If slowing is necessary, move throttle
	vaty depending upon soil conditions,	control lever to slower position.
	height of grass and types of grass being	• If stopping is absolutely necessary,
	mowed.	push clutch/brake pedal quickly to
	• The average lawn should be cut to	brake position and engage parking
	approximately 2-1/2 inches during the	brake.
	cool season and to over 3 inches	• Move gearshift lever to 1st gear. Be
	during hot months. For healthier and	sure you have allowed room for tractor
	better looking lawns, mow often and	to roll slightly as you restart movement.
	after moderate growth.	• To restart movement, slowly release
	• For best cutting performance, grass	parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.
	over 6 inches in height should be	• Make ail turns slowly.
	mowed twice. Make the first cut	TO TRANSPORT
	relatively high; the second to desired
		• Raise attachment lift to highest position
	height.
	TO OPERATE MOWER	with attachment lift control.
		• When pushing or towing your tractor,
	Your tractor is equipped with an operator
		be sure gearshift lever is in neutral (N)
	presence sensing switch. Any attempt by	position.
	the operator to leave the seat with the	• Do not push or tow tractor at more than
	engine running and the attachment clutch	five (5) MPH.
	engaged will shut off the engine.	NOTE: To protect hood from damage
	1. Select desired height of cut.	when transporting your tractor on a truck
	2. Start mower blades by engaging	or a trailer, be sure hood is closed and
	attachment clutch control.	secured to tractor. Use an appropriate
	To stop mower blades -	means of tying hood to tractor (rope, cord,
	(^sengage attachment clutch control.	etc.).
	ACAUTION: Do not operate the mower
	without either the entire grass catcher, on TOWING CARTS AND OTHER ATTACH­
	mowers so equipped, or the deflector	MENTS
	shield in place.	Tow only the attachments that are
		recommended by and comply with

specifications of the manufacturer of your tractor. Use common sense when towing. Too heavy of a load, while on a slope, is dangerous. Tires can lose traction with the ground and cause you to lose control of your tractor.

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE

CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL

The engine in your tractor has been

shipped, from the factory, already filled
with summer weight oil.
1. Check engine oil with tractor on level
	ground.
2. Remove oil fill cap/dipstick and wipe
	clean, reinsert the dipstick and screw
TO OPERATE ON HILLS	cap tight, wait for a few seconds,
	remove and read oil level. If neces­
^CAUTION: Do not drive up or down	sary, add oil until “FULL" mark on
hills with slopes greater than 15° and do	dipstick is reached. Do not overfill.
not drive across any slope. Use the slope •	For cold weather operation you should
guide at the back of this manual.	change oil for easier starting (See “OIL
• Choose the slowest speed before	VISCOSITY CHART’ in the Mainte­
starting up or down hills.	nance section of this manual).
• Avoid stopping or changing speed on •	To change engine oil, see the Mainte­
hills.	nance section in this manual.

14

ADD GASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank to bottom of tank filler neck. Do not overfill. Use fresh, clean, regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane. (Use of leaded gasoline will increase carbon and lead oxide deposits and reduce valve life). Do not mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in quantities that can be used within 30 days to assure fuel freshness.

A CAUTION; Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open flame.

IMPORTANT: When operating in temperatures below 32®F(0“C), use fresh, clean winter grade gasoline to help insure good cold weather starting.

^ CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels (called gasohot or using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be emptied before storage of 30 days or longer. Drain the gas tank, start the engine and let it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See Storage Instructions for additional information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.

TO START ENGINE

5. Insert key into ignition and turn key clockwise to start position and release key as soon as engine starts. Do not run starter continuously for more than fifteen seconds per minute. If the engine does not start after several attempts, move throttle control to fast position, wait a few minutes and try again. If engine still does not start, move the throttle control back to the choke position and retry.

WARM WEATHER STARTING (50° F and above)

6. When engine starts, move the throttle control to the fast position.

• The attachments and ground drive can now be used. If the engine does not accept the load, restart the engine and allow it to warm up for one minute using the choke as described above.

COLD WEATHER STARTING ( 50° F and below)

6. When engine starts, allow engine to run with the throttle control in the choke position until the engine runs roughly, then move throttle control to fast position. This may require an engine warm-up period from several seconds to several minutes, depend­ ing on the temperature.

• The attachments can also be used during the engine warm-up period.

NOTE: If at a high altitude (above 3000 feet) or in cold temperatures (below 32 F)

When starting the engine for the first time the carburetor fuel mixture may need to or if the engine has run out of fuel, it will be adjusted for best engine performance.

(See ‘TO ADJUST CARBURETOR” in the

	take extra cranking time to move fuel from
	the tank to the engine.	Service and Adjustments section of this
		manual).
	1. Sit on seat in operating position,
	depress clutch/brake pedal and set
	parking brake.

2.Place gear shift lever in neutral (N) position.

3.Move attachment clutch to disen­ gaged position.

4.Move throttle control to choke position. NOTE: Before starting, read the warm

and cold starting procedures below.

15

MOWING TIPS

•Mower should be properly leveled for best mowing performance. See “TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING” in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

•The left hand side of mower should be used for trimming.

•Drive so that clippings are discharged onto the area that has already been cut. Have the cut area to the right of the tractor. This will result in a more even distribution of clippings and more uniform cutting.

•When mowing large areas, start by turning to the right so that clippings will discharge away from shrubs, fences, driveways, etc. After one or two rounds, mow in the opposite direction making left hand turns until finished.

•If grass is extremely tall, it should be mowed twice to reduce load and possible fire hazard from dried clip­ pings. Make first cut relatively high; the second to the desired height.

•Do not mow grass when it is wet. Wet grass will plug mower and leave undesirable clumps. Allow grass to dry before mowing.

■Always operate engine at full throttle when mowing to assure better mowing performance and proper discharge of material. Regulate ground speed by selecting a low enough gear to give the mower cutting performance as well as

the quality of cut desired.

•When operating attachments, select a ground speed that will suit the terrain and give best performance of the attachment being used.

r

c	■
K	_ 3	^
	_____
c _ __

16

MAINTENANCE

Check Brake Operation

Check TtfB Pressure

Check Operator Presence and

Interlock Systems

Check for Loose Fasteners

SharperVReplace Mower Blades

Lubrication Chart

Check Battery Level

%/A

Clean Battery and Terminals

Check Transaxle Cooling

Check V-Belts

Check Engine Oil Level

Change Engine Oil (with oH filter)

,,a

Change Engine Oil (without oil fitter)

Clean Air Filter

Clean Air Screen

a

Inspect Muffler/Spark Arrester

Replace Oil Filter (If equipped)

Clean Engine Coolirrg Fins

a

Replace Spark Plug

Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge

a

Replace Fuel Filter

1 - Change more ofien when operate under a heavy load or

3 • Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil.

in high ambient temperatures.

4 - Not required if equipped with maintenance-free battery.

2' Service more often when operating in dirty or dusty conditions.

5 - Tighten front axle pivot bolt to 35 tt.-lbs, maximum.

Do not overtighten.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

LUBRICATION CHART

The warranty on this tractor does not

cover items that have been subjected to

operator abuse or negligence. To

receive full value from the warranty,

operator must maintain tractor as

instructed in this manual.

Some adjustments will need to be made

periodically to properly maintain your

tractor.

Alt adjustments in the Service and

Adjustments section of this manual

should be checked at least once each

season.

• Once a year you should replace the

spark plug, clean or replace air filter,

and check blades and belts for wear,

A new spark plug and clean air filter

assure proper air-fuel mixture and

©Referto Maintenance “ENGINE"

help your engine run better and last

Section

longer.

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease the pivot

BEFORE EACH USE

points which have special nylon bearings.

1.

Check engine oil level.

Viscous lubricants will attract dust and dirt

2.

Check brake operation.

that will shorten the life of the self-lubricat­

3.

Check tire pressure.

ing bearings. If you feel they must be

4. Check operator presence and

lubricated, use only a dry, powdered

interlock systems for proper operationgraphite.

type lubricant sparingly.

5. Check for loose fasteners.

17

	TRACTOR	IMPORTANT: To ensure proper assembly,
	Always observe safety rules when	center hole in blade must align with star
	performing any maintenance.	on mandrel assembly.
		4. Reassemble hex bolt, lock washer
	BRAKE OPERATION
		and flat washer in exact order as
	If tractor requires more than six (6) feet	shown.
	stopping distance at high speed in	5. Tighten bolt securely (27-35 Ft. Lbs.
	highest gear, then brake must be ad­	torque).
	justed. (See “TO ADJUST BRAKE” in the	IMPORTANT : Blade bolt is grade 8 heat
	Service and Adjustments section of this	treated.
	manual).	Trailing Edge Up	-	^
	TIRES
		Blade
	• Maintain proper air pressure in all tires	I r
	(See "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS”	Flat Washer
	section of this manual).
	• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect Lock Washer
	control chemicals which can harm
	rubber.	—Hex Bolt (Grade)*^
	• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp
		*A Grade 8 heat treated bolt can be identified
	objects and other hazards that may
	cause tire damage.	by six lines on the bolt head.
	NOTE; To seal tire punctures and prevent TO SHARPEN BLADE
	flat tires due to slow leaks, tire sealant	NOTE: We do not recommend sharpen­
	may be purchased from your local parts	ing blade - but if you do, be sure the
	dealer. Tire sealant also prevents tire dry	blade is balanced.
	rot and corrosion.	Care should be taken to keep the blade
	OPERATOR PRESENCE SYSTEM	balanced. An unbalanced blade will
	Be sure operator presence and interlock	cause excessive vibration and eventual
	systems are working properly. If your	damage to mower and engine.
	tractor does not function as described,	• The blade can be sharpened with a file
	repair the problem immediately.	or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt
	• The engine should not start unless the	to sharpen while on the mower.
	clutch/brake pedal is fully depressed	• To check blade balance, you will need
	and attachement clutch control is in the	a 5/8” diameter steel bolt, pin, or a cone
	disengaged position.	balancer. (When using a cone bal­
	• When the engine is running, any	ancer, follow the instructions supplied
	attempt by the operator to leave the	with balancer.)
	seat without first setting the parking	NOTE: Do not use a nail for balancing
	brake should shut off the engine.	blade. The lobes of the center hole may
	• When the engine is running and the	appear to be centered, but are not.
	attachment clutch is engaged, any	• Slide blade on to an unthreaded
	attempt by the operator to leave the	portion of the steel bolt or pin and hold
	seal should shut off the engine.	the bolt or pin parallel with the ground.
	• The attachment clutch should never	If blade is balanced, it should remain in
	operate unless the operator is in the	a horizontal position. If either end of
	seat.	the blade moves downward, sharpen
	BLADE CARE	the heavy end until the blade is

For best results mower blades must be kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged blades.

BLADE REMOVAL

1.Raise mower to highest position to allow access to blades.

2.Remove hex bolt, lock washer and flat

washer securing blade.		BATTERY
3. Install new or resharpened blade with		Your tractor has a battery charging system
trailing edge up towards deck as		which is sufficient for normal use.
shown.	18