Snapper SPE1250K, SPE1250KW, SPE140KW, SPE150KH, SPE361 User Manual

Safety Instructions and Operator’s Manual for

PRO GEAR EXPRESS

WALK BEHIND MOWERS

MID-SIZE

SERIES 0

POWER UNIT

MODEL

SPE1250KW

SPE140KW

SPE150KH

MOWER UNIT

MODEL

SPE360

SPE480

MODEL NUMBER EXPLANATION

S

P

E

125

0

KW

MODEL DESIGNATION

ENGINE TYPE

MODEL TYPE

SERIES DESIGNATION

MODEL OPTION

ENGINE HP

S – Snapper Commercial Model

ENGINE HORSE POWER

CUTTING DECK WIDTH

0 - Series Designation

KW – Kawasaki Engine

P – Pro Mid Size Model

125 – 12.5 Engine HP

360 – 36” Cutting Deck

KH – Kohler Engine

E – Express Model

140 – 14.0 Engine HP

480 – 48” Cutting Deck

150 – 15.0 Engine HP

Thank you for buying a SNAPPER Product! Before operating your PRO GEAR WALK BEHIND, read this manual carefully and pay particular attention to the “IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS” on Pages 2 & 3. Remember that all power equipment can be dangerous if used improperly. Also keep in mind that SAFETY requires careful use in accordance with the operating instructions and common sense!

COPYRIGHT © 1999

SNAPPER INC.

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

MANUAL No. 4-5192 (REV. 2, 8/20/99)

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING: This powerful cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and can throw objects that can cause injury and damage! Failure to comply with the following SAFETY instructions could result in serious injury or death to the operator or other persons. The owner of the machine must understand these instructions and must allow only persons who understand these instructions to operate machine. Each person operating the machine must be of sound mind and body and must not be under the influence of any substance, which might impair vision, dexterity or judgment. If you have any questions pertaining to your machine which your dealer cannot answer to your satisfaction, call or write the Customer Service Department at SNAPPER, McDonough, Georgia 30253. Phone: [phone]).

PROTECTION FOR CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to the machine and the mowing activity. Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them.

1.KEEP children out of the mowing area and under the watchful care of a responsible adult.

2.DO NOT allow children in yard when machine is operated (even with the blades OFF).

3.DO NOT allow children or others to ride on machine or on attachments (even with the blades OFF). They may fall and be seriously injured.

4.DO NOT allow pre-teenage children to operate machine.

5.ALLOW only adults or responsible teenagers with mature judgment under close adult supervision to operate machine.

6.DO NOT operate blades in reverse. STOP BLADES. LOOK and SEE behind and down for children, pets and hazards before and while backing.

7.USE EXTRA CARE when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.

SLOPE OPERATION

1.Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents, which can result in severe injury. All slopes require extra caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, DO NOT mow it.

2.Mow across slopes, never up and down. Exercise extreme CAUTION when changing directions on slopes. Practice operation of machine on slopes with blades off.

3.Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments: these affect the handling and the stability of the machine.

4.DO NOT use tow behind attachments on slopes.

5.AVOID uphill starts.

6.DO NOT operate machine under any condition where traction, steering or stability is doubtful.

PREPARATION

1.Read, understand and follow instructions and warnings in this manual and on the machine, engine, and attachments. Know the controls and the proper use of the machine before starting.

2.Only mature, responsible persons shall operate the machine and only after proper instruction.

3.Data indicates that operators age 60 and above, are involved in a large percentage of mowerrelated injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from serious injury.

4.Handle fuel with extra care. Fuels are flammable and vapors are explosive. Use only an approved fuel container. DO NOT remove fuel cap or add fuel with engine running. Add fuel outdoors only with engine stopped and cool. Clean spilled fuel from machine. DO NOT smoke.

5.Practice operation of machine with BLADES OFF to learn controls and develop skills.

6.Check the area to be mowed and remove all objects such as toys, wire, rocks, limbs and other objects that could cause injury if thrown by blade or interfere with mowing.

7.Keep people and pets out of mowing area. Immediately, STOP blades, STOP engine, and Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

8.Check shields, deflectors, switches, blade controls and other safety devices frequently for proper operation and location.

9.Make sure all safety decals are clearly legible. Replace if damaged.

10.Protect yourself when mowing and wear safety glasses, long pants and substantial footwear.

11.Know how to STOP blades and engine quickly in preparation for emergencies.

12.Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into a trailer or truck.

13.Check grass catcher components frequently for signs of wear or deterioration and replace as needed to prevent injury from thrown objects going through weak or worn spots.

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IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

OPERATION

1.DO NOT put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep clear of the discharge area while the engine is running.

2.Stop Blades when crossing gravel drive, walks, and under any conditions where thrown objects might be a hazard.

3.Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.

4.DO NOT operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

5.After striking a foreign object or if the mower vibrates abnormally, STOP the blades and engine. Remove the key. Disconnect and secure the spark plug wire. Inspect the mower for any damage and repair the damage.

6.DO NOT operate machine near drop offs, ditches, or embankments. Operator could lose footing or balance.

7.STAY ALERT for holes and other hidden hazards. Tall grass can hide obstacles. Keep away from ditches, washouts, culverts, fences and protruding objects.

8.DO NOT operate machine on wet grass. Always be sure of your footing: keep a firm grip on the handle and walk: never run. Slipping could cause injury.

9.DO NOT leave the machine with the engine running. STOP BLADES, STOP ENGINE and REMOVE KEY before leaving the operator position for any reason.

10.Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting make certain blades, engine and all moving parts have STOPPED. Remove key and secure spark plug wire away from spark plug key to prevent accidental starting.

11.STOP BLADES and ENGINE and make sure blades have stopped before removing grass catcher or unclogging mower to prevent loss of fingers or hand.

12.Blades must be OFF except when cutting grass. Set blades in highest position when mowing over rough ground.

13.Keep hands and feet away from rotating blades underneath deck.

14.DO NOT operate machine without entire grass catcher or guards in place. DO NOT point discharge at people, passing cars, windows or doors.

15.Slow down before turning.

16.Watch out for traffic when near or crossing roadways.

17.Move motion control levers SLOWLY to maintain control during speed and directional changes.

18.DO NOT operate engine in enclosed areas. Engine exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, a deadly poison.

MAINTENANCE

1.DO NOT store machine or fuel container inside where fumes may reach an open flame, spark or pilot light such as in a water heater, furnace, clothes dryer or other gas appliance. Allow engine to cool before storing machine in an enclosure. Store fuel container out of the reach of children in a well ventilated, unoccupied building.

2.Keep engine free of grass, leaves or excess grease to reduce fire hazard and engine overheating.

3.When draining fuel tank, drain fuel into an approved container outdoors and away from open flame.

4.Check brakes frequently (if equipped); adjust, repair or replace as needed.

5.Keep all bolts, nuts and screws properly tight. Check that all cotter pins are in proper position.

6.Always provide adequate ventilation when running engine. Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly poison.

7.Disconnect negative (black) cable from battery (if equipped) before performing maintenance or service. Cranking engine could cause injury.

8.DO NOT work under machine without safety blocks.

9.Service engine and make adjustments only when engine is stopped. Remove key. Remove spark plug wire(s) from spark plug(s) and secure wire(s) away from spark plug(s).

10.DO NOT change engine governor speed settings or overspeed engine.

11.Lubricate machine at intervals specified in manual to prevent controls from binding.

12.Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blades or wear heavy leather gloves and use CAUTION when handling them.

13.DO NOT test for spark by grounding spark plug next to spark plug hole; spark plug could ignite gas exiting engine.

14.Have machine serviced by an authorized SNAPPER dealer at least once a year and have the dealer install any new safety devices.

15.Use only genuine SNAPPER replacement parts to assure that original standards are maintained.

3

TABLE OF CONTENTS
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS...................................................................................	2-3
TABLE OF CONTENTS................................................................................................................	4
SECTION 1 - FAMILIARIZATION .................................................................................................	5
SECTION 2 - Safety Messages & Decals ...................................................................................	6
Controls .................................................................................................................	7
SECTION 3 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS..........................................................................	8-14
Before Operating ............................................................................................................	8
Emergency Stop – Pistol Grip .......................................................................................	8
Normal Operating Stop – Pistol Grip............................................................................	8
Pre-Start Checklist .........................................................................................................	9
Starting and Operating .............................................................................................	9-11
Reverse Operation........................................................................................................	11
Traction Lock Operation – Pistol Grip........................................................................	12
Turning Mower..............................................................................................................	12
Mowing and Turning on Hillsides...............................................................................	12
Cutting Height Adjustment (Fixed Decks) .................................................................	13
Adjusting Caster Wheels .............................................................................................	13
Adjusting Blade on Cutter Spindle ........................................................................	13-14
Adjusting Fixed Deck Attachment ..............................................................................	14
SECTION 4 - TROUBLESHOOTING.....................................................................................	15-16
Engine Troubleshooting ..............................................................................................	15
Mower Troubleshooting .........................................................................................	15-16
Transmission Troubleshooting...................................................................................	16
Service & Lubrication...................................................................................................	16
SECTION 5 - ADJUSTMENTS ..............................................................................................	17-18
Steering and Brakes.....................................................................................................	17
Traction Levers & Rods ...............................................................................................	17
Handle Height ...............................................................................................................	18
Ground Speed Control Lever Adjustment .................................................................	18
SECTION 6 - POWER UNIT SERVICE ......................................................................................	19
Replacement Parts .......................................................................................................	19
Transmission Parts & Service.....................................................................................	19
General Transmission Servicing ................................................................................	19
Transmission/Lube ......................................................................................................	19
SECTION 7 - MOWER ATTACHMENT SERVICE .....................................................................	20
Transmission Belt Removal/Installation ....................................................................	20
Traction Belt Removal/Installation .............................................................................	20
Cutter Deck Belt Removal/Installation .......................................................................	20
Cutting Blade Service: Removal, Sharpening, Balancing & Replacement.............	21
Mower Spindles (Field Serviceable Spindles) Bearing Replacement .....................	22
ELECTRICAL .........................................................................................................................	23-24
WARRANTY................................................................................................................................	25
PRIMARY MAINTENANCE....................................................................................................	26-29

4

SECTION 1 - FAMILIARIZATION

TRANSMISSION SHIFT

LEVER

TRACTION OPERATOR’S LOCK LEVER PRESENCE

CONTROL (OPC)

R.H. TRACTION

LEVER

FUEL

CAP

BELT

COVER

COVER

RETAINING

KNOBS

REAR TIRES

DISCHARGE

DEFLECTOR

CASTER

WHEEL

ASSEMBLY

KEY SWITCH

OPERATOR’S

PRESENCE

CONTROL (OPC)

L.H. TRACTION

LEVER

ENGINE SPEED

CONTROL

STARTER ROPE

AIR FILTER

MUFFLER

DECK COVER

DECK

(36” SHOWN)

DECK HEIGHT

ADJUSTMENT SPACERS

FRONT TIRES

FIGURE 1.1

1.1 INTRODUCTION

This manual has been prepared for the operator’s of the SNAPPER PRO GEAR WALK BEHIND MOWER. Its purpose, aside from recommending standard operating procedures and routine service requirements, is to promote SAFETY through the use of accepted operating practices. Read, Understand and Follow the IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS on Pages 2 & 3 of this manual and All SAFETY messages on the PRO GEAR WALK BEHIND MOWER and its attachments before operating. SNAPPER recommends returning the MACHINE to an authorized SNAPPER dealer annually for inspection and addition of any new devices which might upgrade the safety of the mower.

1.2 NOMENCLATURE

It is recommended that all operator’s of this equipment become thoroughly familiar with the controls, components, and operation of this machine before operating. Specific details involving the engine are found in the separate engine owner’s manual. Study these manuals before operating and keep both handy for future reference. For the nearest SNAPPER dealer in your area, check the yellow pages under the heading LAWN MOWERS. For engine parts and service, look for the engine manufacturer’s dealers under the heading, ENGINES - gasoline.

5

SECTION 2 - SAFETY MESSAGES AND DECALS

						ENGINE
CHOKE						“OFF”
		KEYSWITCH
SYMBOL
RABBIT		POSITIONS
“FAST”
SPEED
TURTLE
				ENGINE
“SLOW”				“RUN”
SPEED

REVERSE

NEUTRAL

LOWEST SPEED

TRANSMISSION SHIFT

LEVER POSITIONS

HIGHEST SPEED

6

SECTION 2 - CONTROLS

BLADE CLUTCH

SWITCH

KEY SWITCH

OPERATOR’S PRESENCE CONTROL (OPC)

RIGHT HAND

TRACTION LEVER

TRACTION

LOCK LEVER

FIGURE 2.1

ENGINE SPEED

CONTROL

TRANSMISSION

SHIFT LEVER

7

SECTION 3 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

3.1 BEFORE OPERATING

Be Thoroughly familiar with all controls and how to use them before operating the machine. Know beforehand how to STOP the Traction Wheel Drives, Mower Blades and Engine in preparation for possible emergencies.

3.2 EMERGENCY STOP - PISTOL GRIP

1.Firmly squeeze both Traction Levers towards the handle to STOP forward or reverse motion. Using your index finger, pull Traction Lock Lever until it locks in Brake Locked position. See Figure 3.1.

2.Pull Blade Clutch Switch backward to the OFF position. See Figure 3.1.

3.Move Engine Speed Control Lever to SLOW (turtle) position. See Figure 3.1.

STOP ENGINE by turning Key Switch to OFF position. See Figure 3.1.

ENGINE

SPEED

	BLADE CLUTCH	CONTROL
RIGHT HAND	SWITCH
	SHOWN IN OFF
TRACTION
	POSITION
LEVER

TRACTION LOCK

LEVER SHOWN IN

BRAKE LOCKED

FIGURE 3.1

3.3 NORMAL OPERATING STOP - PISTOL GRIP

1.Pull both Traction Levers towards the handle to stop forward or reverse motion while pulling the Traction Lock Lever rearward until it locks the Traction Lever in Brake Locked position. See Figure 3.1.

2.Pull the Blade Clutch Switch backward to the OFF position. See Figure 3.1.

3.Place Transmission Shift Lever in NEUTRAL(N) position. See Figure 3.2.

4.Move Engine Speed Control Lever to SLOW (turtle) position. See Figure 3.1.

STOP ENGINE by turning Key Switch to OFF.

NOTE: Close Fuel Shut-Off Valve at the end of each mowing operation.

ENGINE

		SPEED
	BLADE CLUTCH	CONTROL
RIGHT HAND
	SWITCH SHOWN
TRACTION
	IN OFF POSITION
LEVER

TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER

TRACTION LOCK

LEVER SHOWN IN

BRAKE LOCKED POSITION

FIGURE 3.2

WARNING

When the Operator’s Presence Control (OPC) is released, the machine will continue to operate a few feet. DO NOT use this Operator’s Presence Control (OPC) to routinely stop the machine.

8

SECTION 3 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

3.4 PRE-START CHECK LIST

Make the following checks and perform the services as required before each start-up:

1.If required, make cutting height adjustments. Refer to Section “CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT”..

2.Check tires and add air as needed to bring pressure to 25 psi in front and 12-15 psi in rear tires.

3.Check Guards, Deflector, and Belt Covers to make sure all are in place and secure.

4.Check Condition of Cutter Deck Belt(s). If damaged, replace with original part. Refer to Section “CUTTER DECK BELT REMOVAL”.

5.Clean Interior and Exterior Surfaces of cutting deck and clean Engine of any accumulation of dirt, grass, oil, etc. Keep Engine air intake screens and cooling fins clear at all times.

6.Check Engine Oil and add oil as needed to bring level up to (but not over) the FULL mark. (Refer to Engine manual for oil specifications).

7.Add Fuel to tank after pushing the Mower outside where fumes can be dissipated. Make sure Fuel Tank Cap is tightened after refueling. (Refer to Engine manual for fuel specifications).

NOTE: DO NOT add fuel while engine is running. Use fresh, clean, lead-free gasoline. DO NOT use gasoline that has been stored for long periods. Leaded gasoline or gasohol is NOT recommended.

3.5 STARTING & OPERATING

3.5.1. ENGINE: START ENGINE AS FOLLOWS:

1.Turn Fuel Shut-Off Valve ON. See Figure 3.3.

2.Pull both Traction Levers toward the Handle while pulling Traction Lock Levers rearward until BOTH traction levers are LOCKED in the Brake Locked position. See Figure 3.3.

RIGHT HAND

TRACTION

LEVER

TRACTION LOCK

LEVER SHOWN IN

BRAKE LOCKED

POSITION

FUEL SHUT OFF VALVE SHOWN IN CLOSED POSITION (ROTATE HANDLE 90 DEGREES TO OPEN)

FIGURE 3.3

3. Place Transmission Shift Lever in NEUTRAL(N) position. See Figure 3.4.

TRANSMISSION

SHIFT LEVER

FIGURE 3.4

4.PISTOL GRIP - Pull Blade Clutch Switch backward to the OFF position. See Figure 3.5.

BLADE CLUTCH

SWITCH

SHOWN IN OFF

POSITION

FIGURE 3.5

(Continued on next page)

9

SECTION 3 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

3.5 STARTING & OPERATING -

PISTOL GRIP (Continued from previous page)

5.Move Engine Speed Control Lever to the CHOKE position. See Figure 3.6.

6.Turn Key Switch to RUN position.

MOVE ENGINE SPEED

CONTROL TO CHOKE LEFT POSITION

SIDE

SWITCH SHOWN IN “OFF” POSITION

FIGURE 3.6

IMPORTANT: DO NOT jerk the engine recoil starter handle or allow it to snap back.

NOTE: Engine will not start unless the transmission is in NEUTRAL position and Blade Clutch Switch is in OFF position.

7.Pull Engine Recoil Starter Handle until you hear the first firing sound. Move Engine Speed Control Lever to the FAST (rabbit) position. Pull Recoil Starter Handle and Engine should start.

8.PISTOL GRIP - Depress Operator’s Presence Control (OPC) against handle. See Figure 3.7.

OPERATOR’S PRESENCE

CONTROL (OPC)

TRACTION LOCK

LEVER SHOWN IN

BRAKE LOCKED

POSITION

9.Place Transmission Shift Lever in No. 1 position (first gear). See Figure 3.4.

10.PISTOL GRIP - Push Blade Clutch Switch to ON position. See Figure 3.5.

NOTE: Releasing the Operator’s Presence Control (OPC) while Transmission is in GEAR and/or Blades ON, will Ground the Ignition Circuit and cause the Engine to STOP, allowing the Machine to travel only a few feet before coming to a complete STOP.

WARNING

Start mowing with a slow ground speed and gradually increase speed to determine the most comfortable travel speed.

11.To START MACHINE MOVEMENT, squeeze both Traction Levers firmly against the handlebar allowing the Traction Lock Lever to release. Simultaneously move both Traction Levers forward slowly, allowing machine to start forward movement.

IMPORTANT: Always STOP machine movement and engage both traction lock levers before changing to a different ground speed. Transmission damage could result if ground speed is changed when machine is moving.

WARNING

During initial training time with machine, it is advised that the operator(s) practice all mower movements while operating the mower with the transmission shift lever in no. 1 (first gear) travel speed position and blade clutch switch in off position! DO NOT make sharp turns at high speeds!

12.The machine is TURNED by declutching wheel drive belts while engaging wheel brakes - turn left by squeezing the left hand traction lever or turn right by squeezing the right hand traction lever. See Figure 3.11 pistol grip. The more pressure applied while squeezing the traction lever, the sharper the mower will turn.

FIGURE 3.7

(Continued on next page)

10