Bush Hog Zero Turn Professional Series Operator's Manual

©2010 Alamo Group Inc.

$0.00

Published 04/11 Part No. 50045565

OPERATOR’S MANUAL

BUSH HOG

®

2501 Griffin Ave.
Selma, AL 36703
334-874-2700
www.bushhog.com

Zero Turn Riding Mower

This Operator's Manual is an integral part of the safe operation of this machine and must
be maintained with the unit at all times. READ,

UNDERSTAND, and FOLLOW the Safety

and Operation Instructions contained in this manual before operating the equipment. C01-

Cover

PROFESSIONAL

SERIES

CONGRATULATIONS!

You have invested in the best mower of its type on the market today.

The care you give your Bush Hog mower will greatly determine your satisfaction

with its performance and its service life. We urge a careful study of this manual to provide
you with a thorough understanding of your new mower before operating, as well as
suggestions for operation and maintenance.

If your manual should become lost or destroyed, Bush Hog will be glad to provide you with
a new copy. Order from Bush Hog, P. O. Box 1039, Selma, Alabama 36702-1039. Most of
our manuals can also be downloaded from our website at www.bushhog.com.

As an authorized Bush Hog dealer, we stock genuine Bush Hog parts which are
manufactured with the same precision and skill as our original equipment. Our trained
service personnel are well informed on methods required to service Bush Hog equipment,
and are ready and able to help you.

Should you require additional information or assistance, please contact us.

YOUR AUTHORIZED

BUSH HOG DEALER

BECAUSE BUSH HOG MAINTAINS AN ONGOING
PROGRAM OF PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT, WE
RESERVE THE RIGHT TO MAKE IMPROVEMENTS IN
DESIGN OR CHANGES IN SPECIFICATIONS WITH­OUT INCURRING ANY OBLIGATION TO INSTALL
THEM ON UNITS PREVIOUSLY SOLD.

BECAUSE OF THE POSSIBILITY THAT SOME
PHOTOGRAPHS IN THIS MANUAL WERE TAKEN OF
PROTOTYPE MODELS, PRODUCTION MODELS MAY
VARY IN SOME DETAIL. IN ADDITION, SOME
PHOTOGRAPHS MAY SHOW SHIELDS REMOVED
FOR PURPOSES OF CLARITY. NEVER OPERATE
THIS IMPLEMENT WITHOUT ALL SHIELDS IN PLACE.

PROFESSIONAL SERIES

ZERO TURN RIDING MOWER

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION PAGE

Warranty. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Dealer Preparation Check List . . . . . . . . . 3

Safety Alert Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Safety Precautions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Federal Laws and Regulations. . . . . . . . . 8

I INTRODUCTION AND DESCRIPTION . . 9

Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

II OPERATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

General Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Pre-Operation Checklist. . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Mowing Recommendations . . . . . . . . . . 14

III MAINTENANCE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Maintenance Schedule. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

SECTION PAGE

Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

Mower Blades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

Motion Control Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . .17

Drive Adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Test Drive Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Leveling The Deck . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Counterbalance Spring . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Deck Belt Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Deck Belt Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Start Up Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

IV ASSEMBLY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

Wiring Schematics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

Safety Decals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

Torque Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

Optional Equipment List . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

Slope Angle Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

RETAIL CUSTOMER’S RESPONSIBILITY

UNDER THE BUSH HOG WARRANTY

It is the Retail Customer and/or Operator’s responsibility to read the Operator’s Manual, to op­erate, lubricate, maintain and store the product in accordance with all instructions and safety
procedures.Failureof theoperatorto read theOperator’s Manual is a misuseof this equipment.

It is the RetailCustomer and/or Operator’sresponsibilityto inspectthe productand to have any
part(s)repaired orreplaced whencontinued operation would cause damage or excessive wear
to other parts or cause a safety hazard.

It is the Retail Customer’s responsibility to deliver the product to the authorized Bush Hog
Dealer,fromwhom hepurchasedit, for serviceor replacementof defective parts whichare cov­ered by warranty. Repairs to be submitted for warranty consideration must be made within
forty-five (45) days of failure.

It is the Retail Customer’s responsibility for any cost incurred by the Dealer for traveling to or
hauling of the product for the purpose of performing a warranty obligation or inspection.

1

PROFESSIONAL SERIES (PZ) ZERO TURN RIDING MOWER LIMITED WARRANTY

●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●

Bush Hog warrants to the original purchaser of this new Zero Turn Riding Mower, purchased from an authorized Bush Hog
dealer, that the equipment be free from defects in material and workmanship as follows (see dealer for complete details):

• for a period of three (3) years from the date of the retail sale to the original purchaser (the “Three Year Warranty”),

but only as to the drive train, electromagnetic clutch, deck and cutter spindles; and

• for the entire length of ownership by the original purchaser (“Limited Lifetime Warranty”), but only as to the

deck weldment which results in the deck not performing its function, in the sole opinion of Bush Hog. Malfunctions
caused by corrosion are not covered by the Limited Lifetime Warranty.

For the Three Year Warranty and the Limited Lifetime Warranty, the obligation of Bush Hog to the purchaser is lim­ited to the repair or replacement of defective parts, at the sole option of Bush Hog. NOTE: The Three Year Warranty
covers parts and labor for the first two years and parts only during the third year.

The ThreeYear Warrantyand theLimited Lifetime Warranty arereferred to collectively in this document as the “limited warranty”.

Replacement or repair parts installed in the equipment covered by this limited warranty are warranted for ninety (90) days from
the date of purchase of such part or to the expiration of the applicable new equipment warranty period, whichever occurs later.
Warranted parts shall be provided at no cost to the user at an authorized Bush Hog dealer during regular working hours. Bush
Hog reserves the right to inspect any equipment or parts which are claimed to have been defective in material or workman­ship.

DISCLAIMER OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES & CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES

expressed, INCLUDING IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE
and any liability for incidental and consequential damages with respect to the sale or use of the items warranted. Such inci­dental and consequential damages shall include but not be limited to: transportation charges other than normal freight charges;
cost of installation other than cost approved by Bush Hog; duty; taxes; charges for normal service or adjustment; loss of crops
or any other loss of income; rental of substitute equipment, expenses due to loss, damage, detention or delay in the delivery
of equipment or parts resulting from acts beyond the control of Bush Hog.

Bush Hog’s obligation under this limited warranty, to the extent allowed by law, is in lieu of all warranties, implied or

THIS LIMITED WARRANTY SHALL NOT APPLY:

1. To transportationto and from dealershipor servicecalls made by dealers, ie, driving time,towing, pickup anddelivery.

2. To vendor items which carry their own warranties, such as engines, batteries, tires, and tubes.

3. If the unit has been subjected to misapplication, abuse, misuse, negligence, fire or other accident.

4. If parts not made or supplied by Bush Hog have been used in connection with the unit, if, in the sole judgement of Bush
Hog such use affects its performance, stability or reliability.

5. If the unit has been altered or repaired outside of an authorized Bush Hog dealership in a manner which, in the sole
judgement of Bush Hog, affects its performance, stability or reliability.

6. To normal maintenance service and normal replacement items such as gearbox lubricant, hydraulic fluid, worn blades,
or to normal deterioration of such things as belts and exterior finish due to use or exposure.

7. To expendable or wear items such as blades, chains, sprockets, belts, springs and any other items that in the company’s
sole judgement is a wear item.

NO EMPLOYEE OR REPRESENTATIVE OF BUSH HOG IS AUTHORIZED TO CHANGE THIS LIMITED WARRANTY IN
ANY WAY OR GRANT ANY OTHER WARRANTY UNLESS SUCH CHANGE IS MADE IN WRITING AND SIGNED BY BUSH
HOG’S SERVICE MANAGER, 2501 GRIFFIN AVE., SELMA, AL. 36703

●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●

Record the model number, serial number and date
purchased. This information will be helpful to your
dealer if parts or service are required.

MAKE CERTAIN THE WARRANTY REGISTRATION
CARD HAS BEEN FILED WITH BUSH HOG

2501 GRIFFIN AVE., SELMA, AL. 36703

MODEL NUMBER
SERIAL NUMBER
DATE OF RETAIL SALE

2

DEALER PREPARATION CHECK LIST

PROFESSIONAL ZERO TURN RIDING MOWER

BEFORE DELIVERING MACHINE — The following check list should be completed.

Use the Operator’s Manual as a guide.

r 1. Engine has been serviced.
r 2. Battery fluid level is checked.
r 3. Low oil pressure warning buzzer checked for operation.
r 4. Operator interlock switches checked for operation.
r 5. Assembly completed.
r 6. All fittings lubricated.
r 7. Hydraulic Reservoir filled with oil.
r 8. All shields in place and in good condition.
r 9. Roll-over protective structure is installed and retractable seat belt functions

properly.

r 10. All fasteners torqued to specifications given in Torque Chart.
r 11. All decals in place and readable. (See decal page.)

r 12. Overall condition good. (i.e. paint, welds)
r 13. Parking brake checked and adjusted, if necessary.

r 14. Steering checked and adjusted, if necessary.
r 15. Check tire pressure.

r 16. Operators manual has been delivered to owner and he has been instructed

on the safe and proper use of the cutter.

Dealer’s Signature

Purchaser’s Signature

THIS CHECKLIST TO REMAIN IN OWNER’S MANUAL

It is the responsibility of the dealer to complete the procedures listed

above before delivery of this implement to the customer.

WARRANTY REGISTRATION AND DELIVERY REPORT

It is the responsibility of the Dealer to do the following:

• Complete the Warranty Registration and Delivery Report Online

3

Safety Alert Symbol

This Safety Alert Symbol means: “ATTENTION! BECOME ALERT!
YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED!”

This symbol is used to call attention to safety
precautions that should be followed by the oper­ator to avoid accidents. When you see this sym­bol, carefully read the message that follows and
heed its advice.Failure to comply withsafetypre­cautions could result in death or serious bodily
injury.

Safety Signs Signal Words

The signal words DANGER, WARNING, AND CAUTION are used on the equipment safety signs. These words
are intended to alert the viewer to the existence and the degree of hazard seriousness.

White letters on Red

Black letters on ORANGE

Black letters on YELLOW

Thissignalwordindicates a potentiallyhazardoussituationwhich,
if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

This signal word indicates a potentially hazardous situation which,
if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury

It may also be used to alert against unsafe practices.

This signal word indicates a potentially hazardous situation exist
which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.

It may also be used to alert against unsafe practices.

4

IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

This symbol is used to call attention to safe­ty precautions that should be followed by
the operator to avoid accidents. When you
see this symbol, carefully read the message
that follows and heed its advice. Failure to
comply with safety precautions could result
in serious bodily injury.

In addition to the design and configuration of equipment, hazard control and accident prevention are
dependent upon the awareness, concern, prudence and proper training of personnel in the operation,
transport, maintenance and storage of equipment. Lack of attention to safety can result in accident, person
al injury, reduction of efficiency and worst of all—loss of life. Watch for safety hazards and correct deficien­cies promptly. Use the following safety precautions as a general guide to safe operations when using this
machine. Additional safety precautions are used throughout this manual for specific operating and mainte
nance procedures. Read this manual and review the safety precautions often until you know the limitations.

ACCIDENT PATTERNS TO AVOID

1. CONTACT WITH THE ROTATING BLADE - This accident usually happens when the operator is clear­ing the discharge chute of grass, (especially when the grass is wet), or when the operator adjusts the
machine without turning it off and waiting for the blades to completely stop.

2. PROPELLED OBJECTS - Sticks, rocks, wires, and other objects can be propelled out through the dis­charge chute or from under the mower housing. Bystanders are particularly vulnerable.

3. GRASS DISCHARGE CHUTE - The mower shall not be operated without the grass discharge chute

in its lowered position.

4. OVERTURNING - This happens when riding mowers are used on steep slopes, embankments or hills.
The operator in these cases can come in contact with blades or sustain injuries during a fall.

5. MOWER RUNNING OVER THE VICTIM - This usually happens when a riding mower is driven in
reverse. The accident victims are most often young children whom, unseen by the operator of the
mower, were in the area being mowed.

WE SHARE YOUR DESIRE TO PROTECT YOURSELF, YOUR FAMILY, YOUR FRIENDS AND YOUR
NEIGHBORS FROM ACCIDENTAL INJURY. OBSERVING AND ENFORCING THE FOLLOWING GUIDE
LINES WILL HELP TO INSURE THE SAFETY OF EVERYONE.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

1. PEOPLE WHO OPERATE, SERVICE, OR ARE OTHERWISE ASSOCIATED with the Zero Turn Riding Mower
should be trained in its proper use and warned of its dangers. Before operating, adjusting,
or servicing the Zero Turn Riding Mower they should read and understand this entire manual and the
engine manual.

2. AVOID CONTACT WITH MOVING PARTS. Keep hands and feet from under mowing deck and away
from blades at all times. Turn engine (motor) off if you must unclog the discharge chute.

3. AVOID HILLS AND SLOPES. Use EXTREME caution when mowing and/or turning on slopes as loss of traction
and/or tip-over could occur. Drive slower on slopes. DO NOT mow slopes greater than 15 degrees. Watch for
ditches, holes, rocks, dips and rises, which change the operating angle. Keep away from drop-offs and steep
banks. Avoid sudden starts when mowing uphill - mower may tip backwards. Loss of traction may occur going
downhill - weight transfer to the front wheels may cause drive wheels to slip and cause loss of braking. DO NOT
mow slopes when grass is wet - slippery conditions affect steering and reduce traction and braking. The operator
is responsible for safe operation on slopes.

4. DISENGAGE POWER TO MOWER BEFORE BACKING UP. Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely
necessary and then only after turning around and observing the entire area behind the mower. Go slowly.
Most “running over victim” accidents occur in reverse.

5. BEGINNING OPERATORS SHOULD LEARN HOW TO STEER the Zero Turn Riding Mower before
attempting to mow. Start with slow engine speed and drive without the blades engaged in open area until

comfortable with the machine.

5

SAFETY CONTINUED

6. KNOW HOW TO STOP QUICKLY. Know the location and operation of every control, especially how to brake and

7. DO NOT MOVE THE CONTROL LEVERS from forward position to reverse position rapidly. The speed
and/or direction of travel is affected instantly by movement of the Control Levers.

8. DO NOT ALLOW CHILDREN TO OPERATE MOWER. Do not allow others who have not had instruc­tions to operate mower. Do not operate the mower when children or others are in the area.

9. ALWAYS TURN ENGINE OFF AND REMOVE KEY before leaving mower to prevent children and
inexperienced operators from starting the engine. Never leave the mower unattended with engine run­ning. Always wait for all moving parts and all sounds to stop before leaving operator’s seat. Always set
the parking brake on an unattended mower.

10. WEAR STURDY, ROUGH-SOLED WORK SHOES AND CLOSE-FITTING TROUSERS AND SHIRTS.
Never operate mower in bare feet, sandals or sneakers.

11. WEAR PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT such as, but not limitied to, protection for eyes, ears, feet, hands
and head when operating or repairing equipment. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry that may catch on equip­ment moving parts.

12. NEVER CARRY PASSENGERS.

13. KNOW THE AREA YOU ARE TO MOW. Watch for hidden dangers such as rocks, roots, sticks, holes,
bumps, and drop-offs, etc. Before mowing, pick up all debris in area to be mowed. Sharp and hard
objects can be propelled at a high speed and can act like shrapnel. Walk through tall grass BEFORE
MOWING to make sure there are no hidden dangers. Mow higher than desired in tall grass to expose
any hidden objects and/or obstacles, clean the area, and then mow to the desired height.

14. BE SURE THE AREA IS CLEAR of other people before mowing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

15. NEVER REFUEL A MOWER INDOORS. Allow the engine time to cool before refueling. Unseen vapors may be
ignited by a spark. Always clean up spilled gasoline. Never run the engine indoors in a garage
or any other closed building. Allow engine to cool before storing in any enclosure. The engine exhaust
and gasoline fumes are dangerous.

how to disengage the mower blades.

16. NEVER REMOVE THE FUEL CAP or add gasoline to a running or hot engine or an
engine that has not been allowed to cool for several minutes after running. Always make sure the gas
cap is in place.

17. DO NOT SMOKE AROUND THE MOWER or the gasoline storage container. Gasoline fumes can easi­ly ignite.

18. KEEP GASOLINE IN A WELL-VENTILATED AREA away from your living quarters and in tightly
capped safety cans. Never store mower with gasoline in the tank inside a building where fumes may
reach open flame or spark.

19. DISENGAGE BLADES, STOP ENGINE, ENGAGE PARKING BRAKE AND REMOVE IGNITION KEY before any
servicing. Be sure all moving parts and all sounds have stopped. Let engine cool and disconnect the spark plugs so
the engine cannot startbyaccident.

20. KEEP ALL NUTS, BOLTS, AND SCREWS TIGHT to be sure equipment is in safe working condition, espe­cially blade bolts.

21. VEHICLE SHOULD BE STOPPED AND INSPECTED FOR DAMAGE after striking a foreign object and
the damage should be repaired before restarting and operating the equipment. Stop immediately and
checkfor damageorloose partsifmower should startvibrating.

22. DISENGAGEBLADESBEFORE DRIVING ACROSSWALKS or projectingobjectsortransporting.

23. KEEP SAFETY DEVICES AND GUARDS IN PLACE. If any of the safety switches become inoperable,
havethem repaired immediately.

24. DO NOT STEP OR STANDONTHE MOWERHOUSING.Step or stand onlyonthe treadareas on the deck.

25. WATCH OUT FORTRAFFIC nearroadwaysand when crossing roads.

26. THIS MACHINE IS NOT MEANT FOR HIGHWAY OR STREET USE. It is not a recreational vehicle and it should not
be operated as such.

27. WHEN FEASIBLE, DO NOT USEMOWER WHENGRASS IS WET OR SLIPPERY.

28. MOW ONLY IN DAYLIGHT OR GOODARTIFICIAL LIGHT.

6

SAFETY CONTINUED

29. ALWAYS DISENGAGE THE MOWER BLADE CLUTCH when transporting.

30. Do not operate the mower under influence of drugs or alcohol.

31. Do not change the engine governor settings or overspeed the engine. Operating an engine at excessive speed may
increase the hazard of personal injury.

1. Use for towing only if equipped with a Bush Hog hitch kit. Do not attach towed equipment except at the hitch point.

2. Never allow children or others in or on towed equipment.

3. On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment may cause loss of traction and loss of control.

4. Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop.

SLOPE OPERATION

DANGER

TOWING

POTENTIAL HAZARD
Mowing on wet grass or steep slopes can cause slid­ing and loss of control.

WHAT CAN HAPPEN
Wheels droppingover edges, ditches,steep banks, or
water can cause injury, or death by drowning.

Safe

Zone

Danger

HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
Do not mow slopes when grass is wet.
Do not mow near drop-offs or near water.
Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees.
Reduce speed and use extreme caution on slopes.
Avoid sudden turns or rapid speed changes.
Do not ride or operate the ZTR if th mower head has
been removed.

Water

Zone

1. Use EXTREME caution when mowing and/or turning on slopes as loss of traction and/or tip-over could occur. The
operator is responsible for safe operation.

2. See inside of the back cover to determine the approximate slope angle of the area to be mowed.

3. Usea walkbehind mower and/ora handtrimmer near drop-offs, ditches,steep banks or water.This area can be dangerous.

4. Progressively greater care is needed as the slope increases.

5. Always avoidsudden starting or stopping on a slope. If tireslose traction, disengage theblades and proceed slowly down the
slope.

6. Avoid sudden starts when mowing uphill. Mower may tip backwards.

7. Be aware that loss of traction may occur going downhill. Weight transfer to the front wheels may cause drive wheels to
slip and cause loss of braking and steering.

8. Watchforditches, holes, rocks,dips, and rises that changethe operating angle, as rough terrain could overturnthemachine.
Tall grass can hide obstacles.

9. Remove or mark obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc. from the ,mowing area. Tall grass can hide obstacles.

10. Use extreme carewithgrasscatchesorattachments. These canchangethe stabilityof themachineand cause lossof control.

11. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for counterweights to improve stability.

12.. Check carefully for overhead clearances (ie. branches, doorways, and electrical wires) before driving under objects and
do not contact them.

SLOPE ANGLE GUIDE LOCATED INSIDE REAR COVER

7

IMPORTANT FEDERAL LAWS AND REGULATIONS* CONCERNING

EMPLOYERS, EMPLOYEES AND OPERATIONS.

*(This section is intended to explain in broad terms the concept and effect of the following federal laws and

regulations. It is not intended as a legal interpretation of the laws and should not be considered as such).

U.S. Public Law 91-596 (The Williams-Steiger Occupational and Health Act of 1970) OSHA

This Act Seeks:

“...to assure so far as possible every working man and woman in the nation safe and healthful working

conditions and to preserve our human resources...”

DUTIES

Sec. 5 (a) Each employer—

(1) shall furnish to each of his employees employment and a place of employment

which are free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause
death or serious physical harm to his employees;

(2) shall comply with occupational safety and health standards promulgated under

this Act.

(b) Each employee shall comply with occupational safety and health standards

and all rules, regulations and orders issued pursuant to this Act which are
applicable to his own actions and conduct.

OSHA Regulations

Current OSHA regulations state in part: “At the time of initial assignment and at least annually thereafter, the
employer shall instruct every employee in the safe operation and servicing of all equipment with which the
employee is, or will be involved.” These will include (but are not limited to) instructions to:

Keep all guards in place when the machine is in operation;

Permit no riders on equipment;

Stop engine, disconnect the power source, and wait for all machine movement to stop before
servicing, adjusting, cleaning or unclogging the equipment, except where the machine must be

running to be properly serviced or maintained, in which case the employer shall instruct employees
as to all steps and procedures which are necessary to safely service or maintain the equipment.

Make sure everyone is clear of machinery before starting the engine, engaging power, or operating
the machine.

Child Labor Under 16 Years Old

Some regulations specify that no one under the age of 16 may operate power machinery. It is your

responsibility to know what these regulations are in your own area or situation. (Refer to U.S. Dept. of
Labor, Employment Standard Administration, Wage & Home Division, Child Labor Bulletin #102.)

8

SECTION I

INTRODUCTION AND DESCRIPTION

INTRODUCTION

We are pleasedtohaveyouasa Bush Hog customer.
Your Bush Hog Zero Turn Riding Mower has been
carefully designed to give maximum servicewith min­imum down time. This manual is provided to give you
the necessary operating and maintenance instruc­tions for keeping your mower in top operating condi­tion. Please read this manualthoroughly. Understand
what each control is for and how to use it. Observe all
safetyprecautionsdecaledonthemachineandnoted
throughout the manual for safe operation of the im­plement. If any assistance or additional information is
needed, contact your authorized Bush Hog dealer.

NOTE:
All references made to right, left, front, rear, top or bot­tom is as viewed facing the direction of forward travel.

DESCRIPTION

The Zero Turn Riding Mower is intended for use on
lawns and other frequently maintained areas where a

smooth, even cut is desired and superior maneuver­ability is needed. The tractor unit consists of either a
25 hp Kawasaki, 26 hp Kawasaki,27 hp Kohler, 28 hp
EFI Kohler or 30 hp Kohler twin cylinder engine. The
engine has a pressurized oil lubrication system with
spin-on typefilter,fused electronic ignition, electricstart
anda 15.5gallonfuel systemwith 61” and73”decks or
a 12.5gallonfuelsystemwith 55” decks.

Two hydrostatic pumps and two wheel motors are
used for propelling and steering. The pumps are belt
driven by the engine output shaft. One lever for each
drive controls both speed and direction. This inde­pendent control of each drivewheel coupled with con­tinuously variablespeedselectiongivestheZero Turn
mower exceptional maneuverability.

The mower attachment is available in 55”, 61” or 73”
cutting widths. The mower has three cutting blades
driven by an electromagnetic clutch through a single
V-belt

9

CONTROLS

OPERATOR INTERLOCK SYSTEM

Your Bush Hog Zero Turn Riding Mower is equipped
with an Operator Interlock System that is designed to
help prevent possible serious injuries. Understanding
and maintaining this system is vital for safe operation.

To Start Engine:

1. Blades (PTO) must be disengaged.

2. Control levers in neutral (swung out).

3. Parking brake set.

The Engine Will Stop If:

1. The operator leaves the seat with:
a. The control levers out of neutral (swung

in).
b. The blades are engaged.
c. The parking brake is off.
d. All of the above.

2. The park brake is on before the control levers
are swung in.

DO NOT OPERATE MOWER IF SAFETY
SWITCHES ARE NOT OPERATING PROPERLY.

OPERATOR CONTROLS

WARNING

DO NOT OPERATE MACHINE UNLESS IN­TERLOCK SYSTEM FUNCTIONS PROP­ERLY. FAILURE TO HEED THIS WARNING
MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY, DEATH
OR EQUIPMENT DAMAGE.

1 Ignition Key - Starts and stops engine.
2 Engine Throttle - Controls engine speed.
3 Two Steering/Speed Control Levers - In front of

seat at side. (See page 21)

4 PTO Switch - Engages electric clutch which

engages mower blades.

5 Parking Brake Lever- Engages parking brake.

(See page 14)

6 Cutting Height Adjust Pin - Sets cutting height to

desired position. (See page 12)

7 Choke Location- Aids in starting engine.

(Not Used On EFI Models)

8 Light Switch (Optional)
9 Hour Meter / Tachometer (see Instruction,

page16)

10

Warning Lights / Audible Alert for high engine
temperature (Kohler models only) and oil pres­sure.

11

Deck Lift Switch (Optional) - For raising and low­ering deck.

12

Fuel Tank Site Lines - Monitor amount of fuel in
tank. (See page 14

13 DC Power Outlet (See page 14)

TRACTOR SPECIFICATIONS

Tread Width - 55” Deck models - Outside Tires. . . . . . 52”

61” Deck models - Outside Tires . . . . . 55”

73” Deck models - Outside Tires . . . . . 59”

Height - To top of seat back . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51”

Fuel Tank - 61” & 73” Deck models. . . . . . . . 15.5 gallons

- 55” Deck models. . . . . . . . . . . . . 12.5 gallons

Hydrostatic Fluid Reservoir . . . . . . . . . . Approx. 1 gallon

Hydrostatic Pumps- All Models . . (2) Hydro-Gear pumps
Engines- 25 h.p. Kawasaki

26 h.p. Kawasaki
27 h.p. Kohler Command Pro
28 h.p. Kohler Command Pro Fuel Injected
30 h.p. Kohler Command Pro

Tires - Front (All models) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 x 6.5 - 6

Drive - 61” & 73” decks . . . . . . . . . . . 24 x 12.0 -12

55” deck . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 x 9.5 - 12

10

9

8

2

7

DECK SPECIFICATIONS

ITEM
Cutting width 55” 61” 73”

Cutting Height--------------- 1-1/2”to5”in1/4” increments
Blades 19” 21” 25”

Overall width
including chute 67” 73” 85”

Material thickness - Deck -------------7 GA.----------------­Spindle bearings ----------------------25 mm------------------

10

11

1

4

SECTION II

OPERATION

GENERAL SAFETY

Only qualified people familiar with this operator’s man­ual should operate this machine. Operator should
wearhardhat,safetyglasses, and safety shoes. Avoid
loose fitting clothing or jewelry. The operator should
read, understand and practice all safety messages
shown on the caution, warning and danger decals af­fixed to the machine to avoid serious injury or death.
Beforebeginningoperation, clear work area of any ob­jects that may be picked up and thrown by mower.
Check for ditches, stumps, holes or other obstacles
that could upset power unit or damage mower. Tall
grass can hide obstacles. Always push steering levers
apart, set parking brake, disengage PTO, turn off en­gine, and allow blades to come to a complete stop be­fore leaving operator’s seat. Do not operate without all
shields in place and in good condition.

PRE-OPERATION CHECKLIST

1. Make sure fuel tank is full. Use regular unleaded
gasoline. See engine manual for more details.

WARNING

AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH:
GASOLINE IS EXTREMELYFLAMMABLEANDEX­PLOSIVE UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS.

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REFUEL IN
ENGINE STOPPED.

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DO NO
SPARKS IN THE REFUELING AREA OR
WHERE GASOLINE IS BEING STORED.

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DO NOT OVERFI
REFUELING, MAKE CERTAIN THE TANK CAP
IS CLOSED PROPERLY AND SECURELY.

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BE C
REFUELING. FUEL VAPOR OR SPILLED FUEL
MAY IGNITE. IF ANY FUEL IS SPILLED, MAKE
SURE THE AREA IS DRY BEFORE STARTING
THE ENGINE.

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KEEP

2. Make sure dirt and foreign matter are kept out of
fuel tank. Use a clean funnel and fuel can.

3. Do not mix oil with gasoline.

4. Do not use white, high test or premium gasoline.
Do not use de-icers, carburetor cleaners or other
such additives.

A WELL VENTILATED AREA WITH

T SMOKE OR ALLOW FLAMES OR

LL FUEL TANK. AFTER

AREFUL NOT TO SPILL FUEL WHEN

OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN

8. Inspect V-belts

9. Check tire pressure (Use low pressure gauge):

Front Tires - 15 psi, Drive Tires - 15 psi

10.Make sure underside of mower deck is free of
grass.

11.Make sure mower blades are sharp and secured
tightly.

12.Clean the air intake screen on the engine if
necessary.

13.Perform any other maintenance as it becomes
necessary. (See “Maintenance” section)

14.Check low oil pressure warning buzzer for opera­tion. (It should “sound-off” whenever ignition key
is in the “on” position, but engine is not running.)

15.Check parking brake operation by disengaging
hydrostatic pumps (freewheeling position), and
placing the brake lever in the “on” position.
Attempt to rock tractor by hand. Both drive wheels
should be locked. When the brake handle is in the
“off” position, both drive wheels should turn freely.
If there is a problem in either position, refer to
adjustment procedure in the maintenance section.

16.Seat Adjustments: The high-back full suspension
seat has a variable rate suspension system,
adjustable lumbar support and sliding seat to
accomodate different operators.

Operator Weight Adjustment Knob - Turn the knob
until the indicator position closely matches your
weight to give the most comfortable ride.

Adjustable Lumbar Knob (Under left arm rest) ­Turn knob clockwise or counter-clockwise to
achieve desired support.

Back Angle Adjustment Knob (Under right arm
rest) -Turn knob clockwise or counter-clockwise to
achieve desired support.

Lever Release Seat Slides - Pull the lever outward
to release the latch. Slide the seat forward or rear­ward to your most comfortable position and release
the lever.

5. Check the crankcase oil level. Make sure the
engine is off. The mower should be parked on a
level area. Do not overfill. (See your engine man­ual for more detailed instructions.)

6. Check the hydrostatic transmission oil level. (See

“Maintenance” section of this manual.)

7. Check battery fluid level.

11

WARNING

ENGINE EXHAUST GASES CONTAIN

POISONOUS CARBON MONOXIDE.

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NE

VER RUN ENGINE IN A CLOSED BUILDING

OR CONFINED AREA.

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AVOID INHALING E

XHAUST GASES.

OPERATION

1. OPEN FUEL TANK SELECTOR VALVE left or
right tank.

2. MOVE CONTROL LEVERS TO neutral “OUT”
position by pushing each one straight sideways.

3. SET PARKING BRAKE. Pull rearward to set.

WARNING

AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH:
DO NOT MOVE STEERING LEVERS FROM FOR
WARD TO REVERSE OR REVERSE TO FORWARD
POSITION RAPIDLY. A SUDDEN CHANGE IN DIREC
TION MAY CAUSE LOSS OF CONTROL AND/OR
DAMAGE TO EQUIPMENT. FOR SMOOTH, SAFE OP
ERATION, MOVE THE CONTROL LEVERS IN A GEN
TLE, SLOW MOTION, ESPECIALLY ON GRADES.

4. DISENGAGE MOWER BLADE CLUTCH by
moving clutch switch to “OFF” (down) position.

5. SET ENGINE CHOKE CONTROL for cold starts

to full position.

6. SET ENGINE THROTTLE TO 1/2 throttle.

7. TURN IGNITION KEY to “START” position and

release to “RUN” as soon as engine starts.
NOTE: Prolonged cranking will damage starter
motor and shorten the battery life.

8. ADJUST ENGINE THROTTLE AND CHOKE for

desired engine smoothness and speed. NOTE:
When mowing, always run engine at full throttle.

9. RELEASE PARKING BRAKE. Push brake lever

forward to release.

CAUTION

If the operator is inexperienced with the zero turn

mower lever steering/speed control, he/she
should follow these recommendations: Disengage
the mower blades. Go very slowly until thoroughly
familiar with the machine. Keep away from fences,
buildings, and other obstructions. While becom
ing familiar with the machine, move the Control
Levers smoothly and slowly. Practice until opera
tion is smooth and efficient.

12.BRAKING: To brake mower, gently move
Control Levers in the direction opposite to travel.
If the parking brake is engaged with the Control
Levers in the “IN” position the engine will stop.

13.CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT:

1. Stop engine and move the control levers to

the neutral position and engage the parking brake.

2. Disengage the blades.

3. Depress the deck lift foot pedal raising the

deck to the transport position and place the pedal in
the locked position.

4. Insert height adjustment pin into the hole cor-

responding to the desired cutting height. See
decal on the side of the deck lift plate.

5. Depress the deck lift pedal and lower the deck to

the selected mowing height.

6. To transport, depress the lift foot pedal and lock in

position, then move the height adjustment pin to the 5”
position.

7. The cutting height adjustment is only a recom-

mended guide. During normal mowing cut only 1/3 of the
grass blade. Set cutting height to achieve your desired re­sults.

10.A roll-over protection system (ROPS) is installed
on your machine. Operate unit with the ROPS in
the raised and locked position and use seat belt.
There is no roll-over protection when the ROPS
is down. If it is necessary to lower the ROPS, do
not wear seat belt. Raise the ROPS as soon as
clearance permits.

WARNING

MAKE SURE SEAT FRAME RETENTION
CLICK-PINS ARE IN PLACE AFTER LIFTING
SEAT PAN FOR SERVICE.

11.TO DRIVE: Adjust seat forward or backward for
operator comfort. Move the Control Levers to the
“IN” position. Move Control Levers forward to
move forward. Move levers slowly forward to
increase speed. To reverse direction, move the
Control Lever on the side to which you want to
turn slightly rearward of the other Control Lever.
To turn on a zero radius axis, go slowly and pull
one Control Lever back and push the other
Control Lever forward, depending on which
direction you wish to turn.

CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT DECAL

12

ANTI-SCALP ROLLER OR CASTER ADJUSTMENT:

1. Stop engine and move the control levers to the

neutral position and engage the parking brake.

2. Disengage the blades.

3. The Anti-Scalp deck rollers are adjustable up and
down to provide improved deck flotation and scalping pro­tection at various cutting heights. They are not intended
to ride continously on the ground. Rollers should maintain
.375” minimum clearance to ground. DO NOT adjust rollers
to support deck. (Refer to photographs)

14.ENGAGE MOWER BLADES by pulling

up on the PTO clutch switch. The engine will not
start if the PTO switch is engaged. If the engine
is running while the PTO clutch is engaged and
the operator leaves the seat, the engine will stop.

15. TO STOP:
A. Slow engine speed with throttle to slowest

position

B. Disengage the mower blade clutch by mov-

ing the PTO clutch switch to the “OFF” position.

C. Move Control Levers to neutral position and

then to the “OUT” position.

D. Set the parking brake.
E. Turn ignition key to “OFF” position.

WARNING

Use EXTREME caution when mowing and/or
turning on slopes as loss of traction and/or
tip-over could occur. Drive slower on slopes.
DO NOT mow slopes greater than 15 degrees.
Watch for ditches, holes, rocks, dips and
rises, which change the operating angle.
Keep away from drop-offs and steep banks.
Avoid sudden starts when mowing uphill ­mower may tip backwards. Loss of traction
may occur going downhill - weight transfer to
the front wheels may cause drive wheels to
slip and cause loss of braking. DO NOT mow
slopes when grass is wet - slippery condi­tions affect steering and reduce traction and
braking. The operator is responsible for safe
OPERATION ON SLOPES.

F. Remove the key and wait for all movement

and sound to cease before dismounting.

ANTI-SCALP ROLLER

CASTER ASSEMBLY

(Standard on 73” decks, optional on 61” decks)

Roller Height Adjustment Holes

Spacers may be positioned above and/or below the
caster arm to adjust position.

13

WARNING

AVOID SERIOUS INJURIES TO OTHERS:
ALWAYS REMOVE THE KEY FROM THE IGNI­TION SWITCH WHENEVER THE MOWER IS UN­ATTENDED TO PREVENT CHILDREN OR
UNAUTHORIZED PERSONS FROM STARTING
THE ENGINE.

16.PUMP BYPASS-TO MOVE THE TRACTOR
WITHOUT POWER: The pump bypass valves
are located on the forward sides of each pump.
Turn the control clockwise two complete
turns to release the pump for free wheeling; turn
them counter-clockwise to resume operation.

Pumps as seen from above. Use a rod through the hex
head, or a 5/8” wrench to open or close the valve.

MOWING RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Keep mower blades sharp.

2. Make sure deck and discharge chute are clean.

3. Pivoting Front Axle Settings - The Professional
Series pivoting front axle increases operator
comfort, traction, mower life and improves quality
of cut. In some conditions stopping the front axle
from pivoting will improve the evenness of the
cut. It can also reduce scuffing of the anti-scalp
rollers when mowing on uneven terrain.To set
the front axle in a fixed position, move the lock­ing pins to the outer positions. (See page 21)

DANGER

TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY FROM BLADE CON­TACT, POWER MUST BE OFF TO CLEAN DIS­CHARGE CHUTE. KEEP HANDS AND FEET
AWAY FROM UNDERNEATH MOWER TO AVOID
SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

WARNING

ROTARY MOWERS CAN DISCHARGE OBJECTS
AT HIGH SPEEDS. TO AVOID SERIOUS IN­JURIES OR DEATH:

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OPERATE ONLY WITH SIDE BANDS
GOOD REPAIR AND CHUTE OR GRASS
CATCHER ATTACHMENT INSTALLED.

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KEEP C
AWAY FROM THE WORK AREA.

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DO NOT
ITY OF OTHER PERSONS.

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DISCHARG
WALLS OR OTHER STRUCTURES.

HILDREN, PETS, AND BYSTANDERS

OPERATE MOWER IN THE VICIN-

E AWAY FROM BUILDINGS,

IN

Engine Oil

Filler Cap

Hydrostatic Fluid

Reservoir

Electrical

Fuses

NOTE: To move the tractor without power, the pumps
must be unlocked and in the free wheel position. Fail­ure to do so could possibly damage the hydraulic mo­tors. Never pull at more than 2 MPH.

17. FUEL TANK SELECTOR VALVE: Located on
the front panel below the operator is the fuel
directional valve. This valve has three positions
for operations and each position is made in 1/4
turn increments. This directional valve has a shut
off position and can be used when the machine
will not be used for a few days or when the unit is
transported to and from a work site.

Fuel Flow Valve Position EFI Valve Position
Off Down Right
Right Tank Right Down

Left Tank Left Left

Fuel Tank
Site Lines

Cutting Height

Adjustment Pin

14

Operator Weight
Adjustment Knob

DC Power Outlet

Fuel Tank

Selector Valve

Seat Slide

Release Lever

Parking Brake Lever

SECTION III

MAINTENANCE

CAUTION

BEFORE PERFORMING ANY MAINTENANCE, TURN OFF ENGINE, REMOVE KEY AND DISCONNECT SPARK
PLUGS. USE EXTREME CARE WHEN WORKING ON MACHINERY. DO NOT WEAR WATCH OR JEWELRY. DO
NOT WEAR LOOSE FITTING CLOTHES, AND OBSERVE ALL COMMON SAFETY PRACTICES WITH TOOLS.

BEFORE PERFORMING ANY SERVICE, MAINTENANCE OR REPAIR ON THE ENGINE, REFER TO THE RE­SPECTIVE ENGINE MANUFACTURERS’ MANUAL FOR SPECIFIC INFORMATION CONCERNING YOUR PAR­TICULAR BRAND OF ENGINE.

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

SERVICE WHEN

Check crankcase oil level before each use
Check air intake screen after each use

Clean grass from under deck after each use

Check tire pressure every 10 hours

Sharpen mower blades every 10 hours

Clean air filter element every 8 hours

IMPORTANT:

Check 20W50 motor oil
in hydrostatic system every 10 hours

Check drive belts every 50 hours

(20 hr break-in)

Grease blade spindles every 50 hours
Grease front wheels every 50 hours
Grease caster wheel pivots every 50 hours
Grease pusher bar pivots every 50 hours
Change engine every 50 hours
crankcase oil and filter (5 hrs break-in)

Change hydrostatic oil and filter (See your Bush Hog Dealer)

Important: Substitution of an improper filter will cause every 500 hours
hydrostatic failure which will not be covered under warranty (50 hrs break-in)

Replace air
filter element annually or 500 hours

Check spark plugs annually or 100 hours

Service battery annually or 500 hours

Perform these maintenance procedures more frequently under extremely dusty, dirty conditions.

Replace decals when illegible. Write parts dept. for free replacement.

WARNING: Make sure seat frame retention click-pins are in place after lifting seat pan for service.

15

1. ENGINE:
For complete maintenance and operating infor­mation for your engine, please refer to your
engine operating and maintenance instructions
furnished by the engine manufacturer and
included in your Zero Turn mower information packet.

Air intake screen must be kept clean. If

NOTE

plugged, engine may be seriously dam­aged by over heating.

4. TIRES:

Correct tire pressure is essential for efficient
operation of the mower. Check tire air pres-
sure periodically. Inflate front and rear tires to 15 psi.

Lug bolts should be checked regularly for tight­ness. Torque lug bolts to 50 ft./lbs. The center hub
nut should be torqued to 175 - 200 ft./lbs. and cot­ter key installed.

2. TACHOMETER / HOURMETER
The tachometer / hourmeter includes a
FlashAlert feature to remind you to change
engine oil and filter at recommended inter­vals. The tachometer displays engine rpm
when the engine is running and elapsed time
in hours when the engine is turned off.

Oil Change Flash Alert - Break-in interval at 5
hours with 1 hour before and after flash. Normal
interval at 50 hours with 2 hour before and
after flash.

3. BATTERY:
When taking the battery out of the mower for

servicing, make sure to reconnect the cables to
the battery exactly as they were prior to removal.

Keep the battery clean. Remove the corrosion
around the battery terminals by applying a solu­tion of one part baking soda to four parts water.
Coat all exposed terminal surfaces with a light
layer of grease or petroleum jelly to prevent corrosion.

NOTE
At temperatures below 32 degrees F (0 deg
C) the full charge state must be maintained to
prevent cell electrolyte from freezing and
causing permanent battery damage.

5. MOWER BLADES:
Check sharpness of mower blades after every 10
hours of operation. To sharpen blades proceed as
follows:

WARNING

WHEN IT IS NECESSARY TO RAISE THE DECK
OR MOWER FOR SERVICE OR MAINTENANCE,
TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH, STOP
ENGINE, SET PARKING BRAKE, REMOVE IGNI­TION KEY AND SPARK PLUG WIRES AND SE­CURELY SUPPORT THE DECK OR MOWER
BEFORE WORKING UNDERNEATH.

A. Lift deck and secure in raised position.

B. Remove bolt, cup washer, and blade from shaft.
C Blades should be discarded when worn exces­sively. See sketch.
D. Sharpen blade with a hand file, electric grinder

New Blade

25 Degrees

When Notch Starts
Discard Blade

Dangerous!

or blade sharpener. Wear gloves and eye protection
when sharpening. Grind blade at original bevel.

E. Check balance of blade by positioning the blade

on a nail or blade balance pedestal. Grind the blade on
the end that is heavier until both sides balance.

F. Install blades with the concave side of the cup

washer against blade. Be sure blades are installed with
uplifts and cutting edges in the proper directions.

Tighten retaining bolt to 76 ft./lbs.

WARNING

AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH:

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TH

E BATTERY CONTAINS SULFURIC ACID.
AVOID CONTACT WITH SKIN, EYES OR CLOTHING.
EYES - FLUSH WITH WATER AND GET PROMPT MED­ICAL ATTENTION.
ANTIDOTE: INTERNAL - DRINK LARGE QUANTITIES
OF WATER OR MILK. FOLLOW WITH MILK OF MAG­NESIA, BEATEN EGG OR VEGETABLE OIL. CALL A
PHYSICIAN IMMEDIATELY.

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BATTERIES PRODUCE E
KEEP SPARKS, FLAMES AND SMOKING MATERI­ALS AWAY. VENTILATE WHEN CHARGING IN AN
ENCLOSED SPACE. WEAR EYE PROTECTION
WHEN WORKING NEAR BATTERIES.

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KEEP

OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.

XPLOSIVE GASES.

WARNING

WHEN IT IS NECESSARY TO RAISE THE DECK
OR MOWER FOR SERVICE OR MAINTENANCE,
TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH, STOP
ENGINE, SET PARKING BRAKE, REMOVE IGNI­TION KEY AND SPARK PLUG WIRES AND SE­CURELY SUPPORT THE DECK OR MOWER
BEFORE WORKING UNDERNEATH.

6. CLEANING GRASS BUILD UP UNDER DECK
Depress the deck lift foot pedal and lock in position, then

move the height adjustment pin to the 5”
position.

Lift the front of the unit and support unit securely.
Clean out any grass build up from underside of deck and

in deck discharge chute.

16

MOTION CONTROL LEVER ADJUSTMENT

1. There are three lever height positions available.
Place the levers in the position that provides the
most confortable operating position for you.

2. Align the levers front/rear position. With the
levers in the neutral position, loosen the hard­ware and adjust the levers by tilting forward or
backward until properly aligned. tighten hardware.

6. Re-tighten the nuts at the end of the hex
turnbuckles and repeat the procedure for
the opposite side of the unit.

7. Shut the unit off. Remove the jumper wire from
the wiring harness and replace the connectors
into the seat switch. Never operate the mower
unless all safety switches are operating properly.

DRIVE ADJUSTMENTS

Steering and motion controls should be uniform in all
forward and reverse speeds. From the reverse posi­tion the levers should automatically return to neutral
when released.

CAUTION

STOP THE ENGINE BEFORE MAKING AD­JUSTMENTS.

TEST DRIVE OPERATIONS

Check air pressure in tires. Equal tire pressure is crit­ical for proper drive operation.

1. Raise drive wheels off ground. Safely block
the frame in this position.

Lever Position Adjustment Bolts

MOTION CONTROL STEERING ADJUSTMENT

1. Raise the drive wheels of the Zero Turn
off of the ground. Safely block the frame
in this position so it is secure. This
adjustment must be made with the drive
wheels turning.

2. Remove the electrical connection from
the seat switch and temporarily install a
jumper wire across the terminals of the
wiring harness.

3. Loosen the jamnuts on the hex turnbuckle,
which connects the lever control arm to
the pump control arm. Note: the nuts to
the front of the hex turnbuckle have left­handed threads.

4. Start the engine. Run the engine at full
throttle and release brake.

2. Put control levers in neutral lock position
(control levers swung outward).

3. Start engine. Wheels should not rotate. If one or
both drive wheels are turning, perform proce­dures under “Motion Controll Adjustment” for
side(s) that wheel turns.

Control Arm

Hex Turnbuckle

Jamnut

5. Position the control levers in the neutral
position. If the drive wheels creep
(rotate) in the neutral position then
lengthen or shorten the turnbuckle
assembly. Make the adjustment to stop
the wheel from rotating.

Control Arm Lever

Pump

Control Arm

17

LEVELING THE DECK

CAUTION

STOP THE ENGINE, SET PARKING BRAKE,
REMOVE IGNITION KEY AND SPARK PLUG
WIRES FOR SAFETY.

Height Adjustment Pin

Upper

Chain Fastener

Deck Lift Pedal

Anti-Scalp

Rollers

1. Set all tire pressures to the correct specifications.

2. Place machine on a level slab of concrete.

Deck

DECK BELT REPLACEMENT

Belt adjustment should be checked every 50 hours to
get maximum life and cutting performance from the
mower. Belt tension is adjusted by increasing or de­creasing the length of the spring on the movable idler.
For proper belt tension on the 55”, 61” and 73” mow­ers, the spring length should be set to 7-1/2” inside
hook to inside hook with the deck in 3” cutting height
position. To adjust the spring length, loosen or tighten
the 3/8” hex nuts on the eye bolt until the correct
spring length is reached.

DECK BELT REPLACEMENT

USE ONLY GENUINE BUSH HOG REPLACEMENT PARTS

A. Remove the deck shield assembly.
B. Relieve the spring tension by loosening the two

3/8” hex nuts on the eye bolt.
C. Remove old belt.
D. Install new belt. Be sure that the belt is properly

positioned in all sheave grooves.
E. Adjust tension on the belt by adjusting the length

of the spring on the moveable idler. The correct

spring length is 7-1/2” for the 55”, 61” and 73”

decks.
F. Replace the deck shield assembly.

3. Depress the deck lift pedal raising the deck to
the full lift height position and move the height
adjustment pin to the 5” position.

4. Place a level on the deck, from front to rear. If
the level is too short to reach all the way from
front to rear, lay a straight edge on the deck first,
then place the level on the straight edge.

5. Lay a .125” spacer beneath the front of the level.

6. Adjustment may be made by loosening the
upper chain fasteners and moving the fasteners
in the provided slot. Adjust fasteners until the lev­el’s bubble is centered. Repeat for the other side.

COUNTERBALANCE SPRING

Raise the cutter deck to the transport position. Adjust
the spring length with the nuts on the eye-bolt, located
under the seat, to the following lengths for 3” cutting
Heights:
55” Deck - Spring Length of 10-1/2”
61” Deck - Spring Length of 11”
73” Deck - Spring Length of 11”
For lower cutting height, loosen spring at 1/4” intervals
until stop hits adjusting pin in correct height location. If
deck floats, loosen spring at 1/4” interval until deck
stops floating. (Measure from inside of hook to inside of
hook)

DECK SPINDLE BELT ROUTING DIAGRAM

Front Of Deck

7-1/2”

Spring Loaded
Idler Assembly

Engine/Clutch Pulley

WARNING

TO AVOID SERIOUS BURN INJURIES:

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ALLOW
IDS TO COOL BEFORE SERVICING TRANSMIS­SION OR ENGINE SYSTEM

ENGINE, OIL AND HYDRAULIC FLU-

CAUTION

TO AVOID CLEANING SOLVENT FIRES:

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AVOID US

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AVOI
WHEN USING FLAMMABLE SOLVENTS.

ING FLAMMABLE SOLVENTS.

D AREAS WITH IGNITION SOURCES

18

(Measure from inside of
hook to inside of hook)

WARNING

HIGH PRESSURE HYDRAULIC FLUID LEAKS
CAN PENETRATE SKIN CAUSING SERIOUS IN­JURY AND GANGRENE.

INJECTED FLUID MUST BE SURGICALLY RE­MOVED WITHIN A FEW HOURS BY A DOCTOR
FAMILIAR WITH THIS TYPE OF INJURY.

the reservoir will drop and bubbles may appear in the
fluid. Refill the reservoir as necessary.

Place the steering levers in the neutral position and
open the bypass valve. Slowly move the steering
levers in both the forward and reverse directions to
purge the air from the closed circuit.

TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY FROM

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US

E CARDBOARD AND NOT HANDS TO

SEARCH FOR LEAKS.

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RE

LIEVE HYDRAULIC PRESSURE BEFORE

WORKING ON SYSTEM.

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CH

ECK HYDRAULIC HOSES, LINES, AND
CONNECTIONS FOR TIGHTNESS AND
GOOD CONDITION BEFORE APPLYING
SYSTEM PRESSURE.

PRESSURE LEAKS:

START-UP MAINTENANCE

HYDROSTATIC FLUID

Bush Hog recommends the use of 20W50 motor oil in
the hydrostatic reservoir.

START-UP PROCEDURE

WARNING

TO AVOID INJURY FROM EQUIPMENT GROUND

TRAVEL AND MOVEMENT DURING

START-UP PROCEDURE:

DO NOT START OR JOG ENGINE UNTIL:

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MP IS IN NEUTRAL POSITION

PU

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DR

IVE WHEELS ARE RAISED OFF THE

GROUND.

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EQU

IPMENT IS SECURELY BLOCKED-UP TO

KEEP WHEELS FROM GROUND CONTACT.

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PTO AND OTHER WORK
DISCONNECTED.

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KE

EP HANDS, HAIR AND CLOTHING AWAY

FROM ROTATING BLADES.

FUNCTIONS ARE

Close the bypass valve and run the unit in both direc­tions for several minutes until any remaining air is
purged from the unit. Refill the reservoir as necessary.

Stop the engine, check for and correct any fluid leaks,
and check the reservoir level. Add fluid if necessary.
The transmission is now ready for operation.

HYDROSTATIC MAINTENANCE

Check the reservoir daily for proper fluid level. Oil level
should be to the bottom of the slot on the reservoir baf­fle.

The pump and motor units normally do not require reg­ular fluid changes. The system filter should be changed
after the first 50 hours of break-in, then every 500 hours
thereafter. The fluid and filter should be changed and
the system cleaned if the fluid becomes contaminated
with foreign matter (water, dirt, etc.).

PARKING BRAKE ADJUSTMENT

Check to make sure brake is adjusted properly.
Force on the brake handle to lock the brake in place
should be 30 pounds. To adjust the brake tension,
shorten or lengthen the horizontal brake linkage.

If further adjustment is needed at each individual wheel
brake:

1. Engage the brake lever (lever up).

2. Remove the wheel from the side needing adjusting.

The following start-up procedure should always be fol­lowed when starting a new installation or when restart­ing and installation in which the pump or motor has
been removed from the system.

Prior to starting the pump, make certain all system
components (reservoir, fittings, etc.) are clean prior to
filling with fluid.

Fill the reservoir with recommended fluid which should
be filtered prior to entering the reservoir.

Start the engine and idle at the lowest possible RPM.
With the bypass valve closed, slowly move the dis-

placement control in both the forward and reverse di­rections. As air is purged from the unit, the oil level in

3. With the brake engaged the spring length should be
3-1/2” (measured to the inside of the spring loops).

4. If the spring length is different, shorten or lengthen
the vertical brake linkage.

5. Reinstall the wheel and torque the lug nuts.

Pump Drive Belt Tension Adjustment

1. Stop engine and remove key.

2. The pump drive belt tension is adjusted through a
spring loaded idler pulley.

3. Adjust the eye bolt so the spring length is 6” (mea­sured to the inside of the spring loops).

19

TROUBLESHOOTING CHECK LIST

1. ENGINE IDLES POORLY:

Carburetor maladjustment readjust carburetor
Improper spark plug gap check and re-gap plug

2. ENGINE BACKFIRES:

Carburetor maladjustment readjust carburetor

3. ENGINE RUNS BUT POWER UNIT WON’T MOVE FORWARD

Drive belt loose or broken re-tension or replace
Pump shift arm disconnected reconnect
Hydrostatic reservoir oil low add oil
Pump bypass valve open put in closed position
Hydrostatic oil filter plugged replace filter
Bad pump or motor consult dealer

4. POWER UNIT LOSES POWER OR HYDROSTAT SYSTEM OVERHEATS

Hydrostatic oil reservoir too low add oil
Pump or motor damaged consult dealer
Hydrostatic oil reservoir blowing oil out cap overfilled or water contaminated

5. ENGINE STALLS WHEN BLADES ARE ENGAGED

Operator not on seat sit on seat
Faulty interlock system consult dealer
Bad blade spindle bearing consult dealer
Deck drive belt not properly routed reroute
Blades blocked by foreign material clean under deck

•See engine manual for engine adjustments

ENGINE ELECTRICAL TROUBLE

1. ENGINE WILL NOT TURN OVER:

Dead battery
Bad ground connection
Bad terminal connection at battery
Wiring harness plugs are not attached properly

at the key switch or the PTO switch
Bad parking brake switch
Bad PTO switch

2. ENGINE WILL TURN OVER,
BUT WILL NOT START:

A. If there is spark at the plug:

No fuel
Bad fuel solenoid in engine

B. If there is no spark at the plug:

Make sure safety interlock system is sequenced:

PTO switch is off
Control levers in neutral position
Parking brake is on
Operator in seat

Check safety interlock switches:

Seat switch
Neutral switch

Bad ignition module on engine

POOR CUTTING PERFORMANCE

* ENGINE SPEED IS TOO SLOW:

Always mow at full throttle.

* BELT SLIPPAGE:

Tighten deck adjusting spring to 7-1/2”.

* DECK IS PLUGGED WITH GRASS:

Clean underneath the mower.

* BLADES ARE NOT SHARP:

Sharpen the blades or replace.

* CUTTING HEIGHT:

Normal mowing - cut only 1/3 of the grass blade.

* FINISHED CUT IS UNEVEN:

Groundspeed is too fast.

* BLADES ARE WORN DOWN TOO FAR:

Replace your blades.

20

SECTION IV

ASSEMBLY

MOUNTING THE CONTROL LEVERS

Mount the control levers to the 3/4” x 3/4” square bars
positioning the control levers to the preferred height
and mount with 3/8” x 1” fasteners, lock washers, and
flat washers. Move the control levers forward or rear­ward for operator comfort.

ROPS

Mount the ROPS frame to the formed channels with
the 1/2” x 4-1/4” fasteners and locknuts. NOTE: If
mounting a canopy position the upper structure to fold
to the front. If a canopy will not be mounted position
the upper structure to fold toward the rear.

MOUNTING THE SEAT

Mount the seat and seat frame assembly to the main­frame using the capscrew and nut installed in the seat
hinge tubes. Attach the seat stop to the seat. Attach
seat safety wire to switch under the seat.

ROPS shown installed to fold
forward for use with a canopy.

Control

Levers

Seat and Seat Frame Assembly

Seat
Stop

Battery

BATTERY

Attach the positive lead to the battery.
Additional wire tie straps are shipped to secure the

wiring harness as needed.

PIVOTING FRONT AXLE SETTINGS

The Bush Hog pivoting front axle increases operator
comfort, traction, mower life and improves the quality
of cut. In conditions where the terrain is extremely un­even, better cutting performance may be achieved by
locking the axle in a fixed position. This is easily done
by moving the locking pins to the outer positions.

ITEMS TO CHECK:

Check oil level in the engine (see engine manual)
Check the fluid level in the hydrostatic oil reservoir.
Check tightness of all fasteners, including bolts, lug

nuts, and setscrews.

Seat Frame

Retaining Pins

Seat

Safety Wire

Front Axle Pivot

Locking Pins Set To

Allow Axle To Pivot

Seat

Belt

Check tire pressure.

21

*

KAWASAKI ENGINE WIRING HARNESS

* NOTE: Use a 30 Amp fuse with linear actuator.

22

25 HP & 30HP MODELS

KOHLER ENGINE WIRING HARNESS

*

* NOTE: Use a 30 Amp fuse with linear actuator.

23

28 HP EFI ENGINE

KOHLER ENGINE WIRING HARNESS

*

* NOTE: Use a 30 Amp fuse with linear actuator.

24

SAFETY DECALS

SERIOUS INJURY

OR DEATH MAY

RESULT FROM

MACHINE ROLLOVER

¥

Failure to follow these
instructions could result
in serious injury or death.

¥ Do not operate machine on

st eep slopes or near drop offs.

¥ Avoid sharp and/or quick turns.
¥ Do not exceed the machine

weight rating of the rops.

¥ Always use seat belt.
¥ Do not jump if machine tips.
¥ If ROPS is foldable

¡

Always keep the ROPS fully extended.

¡

WHEN ROPS MUST BE DOWN

¡

Do not use seat belt.

¡

Drive with extra care.

¥

If equipped with seat platform,

Do not operate machine without
seat platform pins in place.

50048632

To promote safe operation, Bush Hog supplies safety decals on all products manufactured. Because damage can
occur to safety decals either through shipment, use or reconditioning, Bush Hog will, upon request, provide safety
decals for any of our products in the field at no charge. Contact your authorized Bush Hog dealer for more infor­mation.

DANGER

KEEP AWAY!

SHIELD MISSING FROM THIS AREA
TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH, DO
NOT OPERATE WITHOUT THIS AND ALL
OTHER SHIELDS IN PLACE AND IN GOOD
CONDITION.

WARNING

823324

ROTATING DRIVE PARTS BENEATH

• ENTANGLEMENT WITH ROTATING DRIVE
PARTS CAN CAUSE INJURY OR DEATH.

• DO NOT OPERATE WITHOUT THIS AND
ALL OTHER SHIELDS IN PLACE AND IN

GOOD CONDITION. 50012615

25

WARNING

TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH

DO NOT OPERATE MOWER WITHOUT DISCHARGE SHIELD
OR DEFLECTOR IN PLACE AND GOOD REPAIR.

83056

TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH,

H READ OPERATOR’S MANUAL BEFORE

OPERATING & FOLLOW ALL PRECAUTIONS.
(CONTACT DEALER FOR MANUALS)

H

H

WER IMPLEMENT, STOP ENGINE AND

LO
REMOVE KEY BEFORE DISMOUNTING.

H

H

NO

RIDERS. DO NOT OPERATE MOWER IN

VICINITY OF OTHER PERSONS.

H

H

ALL

OW NO CHILDREN OR UNQUALIFIED

PERSONS TO OPERATE EQUIPMENT.

H

H

CLE

AR MOWING AREA OF DEBRIS.

WARNING

H KEEP SHIELDS AND GUARDS IN PLACE.

KEEP CLEAR OF DRIVES AND BELTS.

H

H

SECURELY SU
REMOVE KEY BEFORE WORKING
UNDERNEATH.

H

H

KNOW
EQUIPMENT QUICKLY IN AN
EMERGENCY.

H

H

BE

CAREFUL ON UNEVEN TERRAIN.

DECREASE SPEED WHEN TURNING.

26

PPORT MOWER &

HOW TO STOP TRACTOR AND

94134

Wrench
Size “A”

AMERICAN

Bolt Head Markings

SAE Grade 2

(No Dashes)

SAE Grade 5

(3 Dashes)

SAE Grade 8

(6 Dashes)

TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS

Proper toque for American fasteners used on Bush Hog equipment.

Recommended Torque in Foot Pounds (Newton Meters).*

BOLT DIAMETER

WRENCH (IN.) “B” AND SAE SAE SAE

SIZE (IN.) “A” THREAD SIZE GRADE 2 GRADE 5 GRADE 8

7/16 1/4 2O UNC 6 (7) 8 (11) 12 (16)
7/16 1/4 28 UNF 6 (8) 10 (13) 14 (18)

1/2 5/16 18 UNC 11 (15) 17 (23) 25 (33)

1/2 5/16 24 UNF 13 (17) 19 (26) 27 (37)
9/16 3/8 16 UNC 20 (27) 31 (42) 44 (60)
9/16 3/8 24 UNF 23 (31) 35 (47) 49 (66)

5/8 7/16 14 UNC 32 (43) 49 (66) 70 (95)

5/8 7/16 20 UNF 36 (49) 55 (75) 78 (106)

3/4 1/2 13 UNC 49 (66) 76 (103) 106 (144)

3/4 1/2 20 UNF 55 (75) 85 (115) 120 (163)

7/8 9/16 12 UNC 70 (95) 109 (148) 153 (207)

7/8 9/16 18 UNF 79 (107) 122 (165) 172 (233)

15/16 5/8 11 UNC 97 (131) 150 (203) 212 (287)
15/16 5/8 18 UNF 110 (149) 170 (230) 240 (325)

1 1/8 3/4 10 UNC 144 (195) 266 (360) 376 (509)
1 1/8 3/4 16 UNF 192 (260) 297 (402) 420 (569)

Bolt

Diameter “B”

1 5/16 7/8 9 UNC 166 (225) 430 (583) 606 (821)
1 5/16 7/8 14 UNF 184 (249) 474 (642) 668 (905)

1 1/2 1 8 UNC 250 (339) 644 (873) 909 (1232)
1 1/2 1 12 UNF 274 (371) 705 (955) 995 (1348)

1 1/2 1 14 UNF 280 (379) 721 (977) 1019 (1381)
1 11/16 1 1/8 7 UNC 354 (480) 795 (1077) 1288(1745)
1 11/16 1 1/8 12 UNF 397 (538) 890 (1206) 1444 (1957)

1 7/8 1 1/4 7 UNC 500 (678) 1120 (1518) 1817 (2462)

1 7/8 1 1/4 12 UNF 553 (749) 1241 (1682) 2013 (2728)

2 1/16 1 3/8 6 UNC 655 (887) 1470 (1992) 2382 (3228)
2 1/16 1 3/8 12 UNF 746 (1011) 1672 (2266) 2712 (3675)

2 1/4 1 1/2 6 UNC 870 (1179) 1950 (2642) 3161 (4283)

2 1/4 1 1/2 12 UNF 979 (1327) 2194 (2973) 3557 (4820)

METRIC

Bolt

Diameter “B”

Wrench
Size “A”

*Use 75% of the specified torque value for plated fas­teners. Use 85% of the specified torque values for lu­bricated fasteners.

8.8

Numbers appearing on bolt heads
indicate ASTM class.

Proper torque for metric fasteners used on Bush Hog equipment.

Recommended torque in foot pounds (newton Meters).*

WRENCH BOLT

SIZE DIA. ASTM ASTM ASTM ASTM

(mm) “A” (mm) “B” 4.6 8.8 9.8 10.9

851.8 (2.4) 5.1 (6.9) 6.5 (8.8)
10 6 3 (4) 8.7 (12) 11.1 (15)
13 8 7.3 (10) 21.1 (29) 27 (37)
16 10 14.5 (20) 42 (57) 53 (72)
18 12 25 (34) 74 (100) 73 (99) 93 (126)
21 14 40 (54) 118 (160) 116 (157) 148 (201)
24 16 62 (84) 167 (226) 181 (245) 230 (312)
30 20 122 (165) 325 (440) 449 (608)
33 22 443 (600) 611 (828)
36 24 211 (286) 563 (763) 778 (1054)
41 27 821 (1112) 1138 (1542)
46 30 418 (566) 1119 (1516) 1547 (2096)

27

PROFESSIONAL SERIES

ZERO TURN RIDING MOWERS

Optional Equipment:

Caster Bundle (Available for 61” deck only)

Canopy Kit

Light Kit

Electric Actuator Bundle

Rear Hitch Kit
Mulching Kit 61”
Mulching Kit 55”

Striping Kit

Grass Catcher 55” & 61”

28

SLOPE ANGLE GUIDE

ALIGN THIS EDGE WITH A VERTICAL SURFACE

(TREE. BUILDING, FENCE POST. POLE, ETC.)

THIS IS A 5° SLOPE

THIS IS A 10° SLOPE

THIS IS A 15° SLOPE

FOLD ALONG APPROPRIATE LINE

EXAMPLE: COMPARE

SLOPE WITH FOLDED

EDGE

29

TO THE OWNER/OPERATOR/DEALER

To keep your implement running efficiently and safely, read your manual thoroughly and follow these directions
and the Safety Messages in this Manual. The Table of Contents clearly identifies each section where you can
easily find the information you need.
The OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ACT (1928.51 Subpart C) makes these minimum safety
requirements of tractor operators:

REQUIRED OF THE OWNER:

1. Provide a Roll-Over-Protective Structure that meets the requirements of this Standard; and

2. Provide Seat belts that meet the requirements of this paragraph of this Standard and SAE J4C; and

3. Ensure that each employee uses such Seat belt while the tractor is moving; and

4. Ensure that each employee tightens the Seat belt sufficiently to confine the employee to the protected
area provided by the ROPS

REQUIRED OF THE OPERATOR:

1. Securely fasten seat belt if the tractor has a ROPS.

2. Where possible, avoid operating the tractor near ditches, embankments, and holes.

3. Reduce speed when turning, crossing slopes, and on rough, slick, or muddy surfaces.

4. Stay off slopes too steep for safe operation.

5. Watch where you are going - especially at row ends, on roads, and around trees.

6. Do not permit others to ride.

7. Operate the tractor smoothly - no jerky turns, starts, or stops.

8. Hitch only to the drawbar and hitch points recommended by the tractor manufacturer.

9. When the tractor is stopped, set brakes securely and use park lock, if available.

x Keep children away from danger all day, every day...
x Equip tractors with rollover protection (ROPS) and keep

all machinery guards in place...

x Please work, drive, play and live each day with care

and concern for your safety and that of your family and
fellow citizens.

PZ -SOM - 04/11 P/N 50045565
Printed U.S.A.

PROFESSIONAL SERIES

ZEROTURN RIDING MOWER