Ariens 96046000400, A25K54YT (96046000400), 936040 Owner’s Manual

YDRO TRACTO

Operator Manual

Models

936040 54" Precision Hydro Tractor

__ _ ENGL,SH

423939 Rev. 2 12.09.08

Printed in USA

Safe Operation Practices for Ride=On Mowers

SAFETY RULES

DANGER: THiS CUTTING MACHINE iS CAPABLE OFAMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OBJECTS. FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY iNSTRUCTiONS COULD RESULTiN SERIOUS iNJURY OR DEATH.

• Do not operate machine without the entire grass catcher,

WARNING: in order to prevent ac=

cidental starting when setting up, transporting, adjusting or making re= pairs, always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark plug.

in neutral, you may lose control of the

WARNING: Do not coast down a hill

tractor.

WARNING: Tow only the attachments that are recommended by and com- ply with specifications of the manu- facturer 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.

WARNING

Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and cer=

tain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals

known to the State ofCalifornia to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

WARNING

Battery 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.

I. GENERAL OPERATION

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

Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the machine. Keep clear of the discharge opening at

all times. Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with

the instructions,to operate the machine. Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc.,

which could be picked up and thrown by the blades. Be sure the area isclear of bystanders before operat-

ing. Stop machine ifanyone enters the area.

• Never carry passengers.

• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before andwhile backing.

• Never direct discharged material toward anyone. Avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction.

Material may ricochet back toward the operator. Stop the blades when crossing gravel surfaces.

discharge guard, or other safety devices in place and working.

• Slow down before turning.

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

• Disengage blades when not mowing. Shut off engine and wait for all parts to come to a complete stop before cleaning the machine, removing the grass catcher, or unclogging the discharge guard.

• Operate machine only indaylight orgood 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 unloading the machine into a trailer or truck.

• Always wear eye protection when operating machine.

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

• Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for wheel weights or counterweights.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves or other debris build-up which can touch hot exhaust / engine parts and burn. 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.

II. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to loss of control and tip-over accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. Operation on all slopes requires extra caution. If

you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not mow it.

• Mow up and down slopes, not across.

• Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden objects. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.

• Choose a low ground speed so that you will not have to stop or shift while on the slope.

• Do not mow on wet grass. Tires may lose traction. Always keep the machine in gear when going down slopes. Do not shift to neutral and coast downhill.

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

• Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual.

Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction,

which could cause the machine to roll over.

• Use extra care while operating machine with grass catchers or other attachments; they can affect the stability of the machine. Do no use on steep slopes.

• Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on the ground.

• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. The machine could suddenly roll over if a wheel isover the edge or if the edge caves in.

SAFETY RULES

Safe Operation Practices for Ride=On Mowers

ill. 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.

• Keepchildrenoutofthemowingareaandinthewatchful care of a responsible adult other than the operator.

• Be alert and turn machine off if a child enters the area.

• Before and while backing, look behind and down for

small children.

• Never carry children, even with the blades shut off. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with

safe machine operation. Children who have been given rides in the past may suddenly appear in the mowing

area for another ride and be run over or backed over by the machine.

• Never allow children to operate the machine.

• Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs,

trees, or other objects that may block your view of a child.

IV. TOWING

• Tow only with a machine that has a hitch designed for towing. Do not attach towed equipment except at the

hitch point.

• Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for weight limits for towed equipment and towing on slopes.

• Never allow children or others inor on towed equipment.

• On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment may

cause loss of traction and loss of control.

• Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop.

V. SERVICE

SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE To avoid personal injury or property damage, use extreme

care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive.

• Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other sources of ignition.

• Use only approved gasoline container.

• Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine

running. Allow engine to cool before refueling.

• Never fuel the machine indoors.

• Never store the machine or fuel container where there

is an open flame, spark, or pilot light such as on a water heater or other appliances.

• Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer bed with plastic liner. Always place containers

on the ground away from your vehicle when filling.

• Remove gas-powered equipment from the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible, then refuel such equipment with a portable container,

rather than from a gasoline dispenser nozzle.

• Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or container opening at all times until fueling is complete.

Do not use a nozzle lock-open device.

• If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing immedi- ately.

• Never overfill fuel tank. Replace gas cap and tighten securely.

GENERAL SERVICE

• Never operate machine in a closed area.

• Keep all nuts and bolts tight to be sure the equipment

is in safe working condition.

• Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel spillage and remove any fuel- soaked debris. Allow machine to cool before storing.

• If you strike a foreign object, stop and inspect the machine. Repair, if necessary, before restarting.

• Never make any adjustments or repairs with the engine running.

• Check grass catcher components and the discharge guard frequently and replace with manufacturer's rec- ommended parts, when necessary.

• Mower blades are sharp. Wrap the blade or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.

• Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service as required.

• Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as necessary.

Be sure the area is clear of bystanders before operat- ing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

Never carry passengers.

Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before andwhile backing.

Never carry children, even with the blades shut off. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine operation. Children who have been given rides in the past may suddenly appear in the mowing

area for another ride and be run over or backed over by the machine.

Keep children out ofthe mowing area and in thewatchful care of a responsible adult other than the operator.

Be alert and turn machine off if a child enters the area.

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

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

Choose a low ground speed so that you will not have to stop or shift while on the slope.

Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a slope. If the 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 necessary, and then, turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.

PRODUCT SPECiFiCATiONS

Gasoline Capacity 3 Gallons and type: Unleaded Regular

Oil Type (API-SG-SL): SAE 30 (above32°F)

SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F)

Oil Capacity: w/Filter: 64 oz.

Spark Plug: Champion RC12YC

Gap .030"

Ground Speed (MPH): Forward: 0 - 5.5

Reverse: 0 - 2.4

Charging System: 15 AMPS @ 3600 RPM Battery: AMP/HR: 28

MIN. CCA: 230 Case Size: U1R

Blade Bolt Torque: 45-55 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 rem-

edy, please contact your nearest authorized servicecenter/ department We have competent, well-trained technicians 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".

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and observe the safety rules.

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

• Follow the instructions under "Maintenance" and "Stor- age" sections of this owner's manual.

WARNING: This tractor is equipped with an internal com- bustion engine and should not be used on or near any

unimproved forest-covered, brush-covered orgrass-covered land unless the engine's exhaust system isequipped with

a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, itshould 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 authorized service center/department.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SAFETY RULES ......................................................... 2=3

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS ....................................... 4

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ................................. 4

ASSEMBLY ................................................................. 6=9

OPERATION ........................................................... 10-16

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ...................................... 17

MAINTENANCE ..................................................... 17=19

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS ............................ 21=26

STORAGE .................................................................... 27

TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................ 28=29

WARRANTY ............................................................ 32-33

UNASSEMBLED PARTS

(5) Large Retainer

Springs - 7/16

(2) Smaller Retainer

Springs - 5/16

(1) Anti-Sway Bar

(2) Rear__

Mower

(1) 3/40.D. Washers

(3) 1-3/16 O.D. Washers

Mower Front Wheel

(1) Wheel

(1) Shoulder Bolt

(1) Oil Drain Tube For Future Use

Keys

(1) 1-1/40.D. Washer

(1) Locknut

3/8-16

Slope Sheet

Assemblies _

(2) Keys

ASSEMBLY

Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping

puposes.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

A socket wrench set will make assembly easier. Standard wrench sizes are listed.

(2) 7/16" wrenches Utility knife (1) 1/2" wrench Tire pressure gauge (1) 3/4" wrench Pliers (1) 3/4" socket w/drive ratchet

When right or lefthand ismentioned inthis manual, itmeans when you are in the operating position (seated behind the

steering wheel).

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

• Remove all accessible loose parts and parts cartons from carton.

• Cut along dotted lines on all four panels of carton. Remove end panels and lay side panels flat.

• Check for any additional loose parts or cartons and

remove,

BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR FROM SKiD

ADJUST SEAT (See Fig. 2)

• Sit in seat.

• Lift up adjustment lever (A) and slide seat until a com-

fortable position is reached which allows you to press clutch/brake pedal all the way down.

• Release lever to lock seat in position.

Fig. 2

CHECK BATTERY (See Fig. 1)

• Lift hood to raised position.

NOTE: Ifthis battery isput intoservice after month and year indicated on label (L) (label is 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.)

Fig. 1

ASSEMBLY

NOTE: You may now roll tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate instruction below to remove the tractor from

the skid.

A(_WARNING: Before starting, read, understand and follow

all instructions inthe Operation section of this manual. Be sure tractor is in a well-ventilated area. Be sure the area in

front of tractor is clear of other people and objects.

TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKiD (See Op= eration section for location and function of

controls)

• Raise attachment lift lever to its highest position.

• Release parking brake by depressing brake pedal.

• Place freewheel control in disengaged position to dis-

engage transmission (See "TO TRANSPORT" in the Operation section of this manual).

• Roll tractor forward off skid. Continue with the instructionsthat follow.

ASSEMBLE FRONT WHEEL TO MOWER

(See Fig. 3)

• Using shoulder bolt, washer and Iocknut from parts

bag, assemble front wheel to mower as shown. Tighten securely.

TO iNSTALL MOWER (See Figs. 4=12)

Be sure tractor is on level surface and engage parking brake.

• Lower attachment lift lever to it's lowest position.

Have a tight grip on lift lever, lower it

CAUTION: Lift lever is spring loaded.

slowly and engage in lowest position.

• Turn steering wheel to the left as far as it will go and

position mower on right side of tractor with deflector shield to the right.

Fig. 5

NOTE:Besure mower side suspension arms (A) are pointing forward before sliding mower under tractor.

• Slide mower under tractor until it is centered under tractor.

Fig. 3

Fig. 4

Fig. 6

ASSEMBLY

• FIRST INSTALL ANTI-SWAY BAR (S).

• From right side of mower, insert anti-sway bar into hole in transmission bracket (T).

Fig. 7

• Pivot bar towards you and insert other end of bar into hole in rear mower bracket (D). Move mower

as needed to insert bar.

• Secure with washer and retainer spring as shown

Fig. 10

• ATTACH FRONT LINK (E)-Work from left side oftractor. Insert rod end of link assembly through front hole in trac-

torfront suspension bracket (F)and secure with retainer spring (G) through hole inlink located behindthe bracket.

• Insert other end oflink (E) into hole in front mower bracket (H) and secure with washer and retainer spring (J).

• Disengage belt tension rod (K) from locking bracket (L).

Fig. 7

• ATTACH MOWER SIDE SUSPENSION ARMS (A) TO CHASSIS - Position hole in arm over pin (B) on outside

of tractor chassis and secure with retainer spring.

• Repeat on opposite side of tractor.

Fig. 9

• ATTACH REAR LIFT LINKS (C) - Lift rear corner of mower and position slot in link assembly over pin on

rear mower bracket (D) and secure with washer and retainer spring.

• Repeat on opposite side of tractor.

• Turnsteering wheel to position wheels straightforward.

Fig. 11

Install belt onto engine clutch pulley (M).

Fig. 12

IMPORTANT: Check belt for proper routing in all mower pulley grooves.

• Engagebelt tension rod (K) on locking bracket (L).

loaded. Have a tight grip on rod and

CAUTION: Belt tension rod is spring

engage slowly.

• Raise attachment lift lever to highest position.

• If necessary, adjust gauge wheels before operating mower as shown inthe Operation section of this manual.

MOWER DRIVE BELT INSTALLATION

Follow procedure described in "TO REPLACE MOWER

BLADE DRIVE BELT " in the "Service and Adjustments" section of this manual.

ASSEMBLY

"V/CHECKLIST

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

The tires on your tractor were overinflated at the factory for shipping purposes. Correct tire pressure is important

for best cutting performance.

• Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown on tires.

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS

For best cutting results, mower housing should be prop-

erly leveled. See "TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF ALL

BELTS

See the figures that are shown for replacing motion and mower blade drive belts in the Service and Adjustments

section of this manual. Verify that the belts are routed correctly.

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM

After you learn how to operate your tractor, check to see that the brake is operating properly. See "TO CHECK BRAKE"

in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

BEFORE YOU OPERATE YOUR NEW TRACTOR, WE WtSH TO ENSURE THAT YOU RECEIVE THE BEST

PERFORMANCE AND SATISFACTION FROM THIS QUALITY PRODUCT.

PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING CHECKLIS_

All assembly instructions have been completed. No remaining loose parts in carton.

Battery is properly prepared and charged. _/ Seat is adjusted comfortably and tightened securely. _/ All tires are properly inflated. (For shipping purposes,

the tires were overinflated at the factory.)

Be sure mower deck is properly leveled side-to-side/

front-to-rear for best cutting results. (Tires must be

properly inflated for leveling.) V/ Check mower and drive belts. Be sure they are routed

properly around pulleys and inside all belt keepers.

Check wiring. See that all connections are still secure

and wires are properly clamped. v/ Before driving tractor, be sure freewheel control is in

"transmission engaged" position (see "TO TRANS-

PORT" in the Operation section of this manual). WHILE LEARNING HOWTO USEYOUR TRACTOR, PAY

EXTRA ATTENTION TO THE FOLLOWING 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.

v/ Be sure Operator Presence System and Reverse Op-

eration System (ROS) are working properly. (See the

Operation and Maintenance sections in this manual.) _// It is important to purge the transmission before operat-

ing your tractor for the first time. Follow proper start-

ing and transmission purging instructions (See "TO

START ENGINE" and "PURGE TRANSMISSION" in

the Operation section of this manual).

OPERATION

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

L I\1

LOW CHOKE FAST SLOWREVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH

IGNITION SWITCH

ENGINE OFF REVERSE ENGINE ON ENGINE START PARKING BRAKE MOWER HEIGHT

LIGHTS ON

ATTACH M ENT

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

(Automatic Models only)

Failure to follow instructions

could result in serious injury or death. The safety alert symbol

is used to identify safety inform- ation about hazards which can

result in death, serious injury

and/or property damage.

OPERATION

SYSTEM (ROS)

FUEL BATTERY

FREE WHEEL

ATTACH M ENT

CLUTCH ENGAGED

REVERSE FORWARD CRUISE CONTROL

DANGER, KEEP HANDS

AND FEET AWAY

& &

DANGER indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

WARNING indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

CAUTION indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, might result in minor or moderate injury.

CAUTION when used without the alert symbol, indicates a situation that could result in damage

to the tractor and/or engine.

HOT SURFACES indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, could result in death, serious injury

and/or property damage. FIRE indicates a hazard which, if not avoided,

could result in death, serious injury and/or property damage.

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

MOWER LIFT

CLUTCH/BRAKE

PEDAL

OPERATION

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.

Our tractors conform to the applicable safety standards of the American National Standards Institute.

(A) ATTACHMENT LiFT LEVER - Used to raise and lower the mower or other attachments mounted to your tractor.

(B) BRAKE PEDAL- Used for braking the tractor and starting the engine.

(D) THROTTLE CONTROL - Used for starting and controling engine speed.

(E) ATTACHMENT CLUTCH SWITCH - Used to engage the mower blades, or other attachments mounted to your tractor.

(F) iGNiTiON SWITCH - Used for starting and stopping the

engine.

(G) REVERSE OPERATION SYSTEM (ROS) "ON" POSiTiON

- Allows operation of mower or other powered attachment while in reverse.

03085

Fig, 13

(H) LIGHT SWITCH - Turns the headlights on and off. (J) CRUISE CONTROL LEVER - Used to set forward movement of tractor at desired speed without holding the

forward drive pedal.

(K) FORWARD DRIVE PEDAL- Used for forward movement of tractor.

(L) REVERSE DRIVE PEDAL- Used for reverse movement of tractor.

(M) FREEWHEEL CONTROL - Disengages transmission for pushing or slowly towing the tractor with the engine off. (N) CHOKE CONTROL - Used when starting a cold engine.

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