Craftsman 247270220 Owner’s Manual
Owner's Manual
Riding Mower
Model No.
247.27022
CAUTION: Before
using this product,
read this manual and
follow all safety rules
and operating
instructions.
For answers to your questions about this product, call:
1-800-659-5917
Sears Craftsman Help Line
(5 am. - 5 pm., Mon. - Sat.)
• Safety
• Operation
• Maintenance
• Storage
• EspaSol, Page 47
Sears, Roebuck And Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.
Visit our website: www.sears.com/craftsman FORM NO. 769-00704A
Printed inU.S.A. (5/2003)
Content Page
Warranty Information ................................ 2
Safe Operation Practices .......................... 3
Assembly ................................................. 6
Operation ................................................. 8
Maintenance ............................................. 13
Service & Adjustment ............................... 16
LIMITED WARRANTY ON RIDING MOWER: For two (2) years from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Riding Equipment is
maintained, lubricated and tuned up according to the instructions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair or replace free of
charge any parts that are found to be defective in material or workmanship according to the guidelines of coverage listed below.
Sears will also provide free labor for these applicable warranted parts for the two full years. During first 30 clays of purchase,
there will be no charges to service the product at your home for issues covered by this warranty. (See exclusions below).
For your convenience, IN HOME warranty service will still be available after the first 30 days of purchase, but a trip charge will
apply. This charge will be waived ifthe product isdropped off at an authorized Sears location. For the nearest authorized Sears
location, please call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®. This warranty applies only while this product is within the United States.
EXCLUSIONS
This Warranty does not cover:
Expendable items which become worn during normal use, including but not limited to blades, spark plugs, air cleaners,
belts, and oil filters.
Standard Maintenance Servicing, oil changes or tune-ups
Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails, thorns, stumps, or glass.
Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, including but not limited to, damage caused by towing objects beyond the
capability of the riding equipment, impacting objects that bend the frame or crankshaft, or over-speeding the engine.
Repairs necessary because of operator negligence, including but not limited to, electrical and mechanical damage caused
by improper storage, failure to use the proper grade and amount of engine oil, failure to keep the deck clear of flammable
debris, or failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions contained inthe owner's manual.
Engine (fuel system) cleaning or repairs caused by fuel determined to be contaminated or oxidized (stale). In general, fuel
should be used within 30 days of its purchase date.
Normal deterioration and wear of the exterior finishes, or product label replacement.
Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.
LIMITED WARRANTY ON BATTERY
For ninety (90) clays from date of purchase, if any battery included with this riding equipment proves defective in material or
workmanship and our testing determines the battery will not hold charge, Sears will replace the battery at no charge. During the
first 30 days of purchase, there will be no charges to replace the battery at your home. After the first 30 days, for your
convenience, IN-HOME warranty service will still be available but a trip charge will apply. This charge will be waived if the
Craftsman product is dropped of at an authorized Sears location. For the nearest authorized Sears location, please call 1-800-4-
MY-HOME®. This battery warranty applies only while this product is within the United States. This warranty gives you specific
legal rights, and you may also have other rights, which vary, from state to state.
Sears, Roebuck and Co.,Dept.817WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
Content Page
Off-Season Storage ................................... 23
Trouble-Shooting ....................................... 23
Parts List ................................................... 25
Slope Guide .............................................. 45
EspaSol ..................................................... 47
Service Phone Numbers ............................ Back Cover
Horsepower: ............................... 10.0
Engine Oil ................................... 48 oz. or 1.4 liters
Fuel ............................................ Unleaded Regular
Spark Plug: ................................. P/N 491055
Engine: ........................................ 212907-0272
Ignition Key (Std.) ........................ P/N 725-0201
Model Number ........................... 247.27022
Serial Number ...........................................................
Date of Purchase ......................................................
Record both sedal number and date of purchase and keep
in a safe place for future reference.
Congratulationsonmakingasmartpurchase.Yournew
Craftsman_productisdesignedandmanufacturedforyears
ofdependableoperation.Butlikeallproducts,itmayrequire
repairfromtimetotime.That'swhenhavingaRepair
ProtectionAgreementcansaveyoumoneyandaggravation.
Here'swhat'sincludedintheAgreement:
Expert service by our 12,000 professional repair
specialists
Unlimited service and no charge for parts and
labor on all covered repairs
Product replacement if your covered product can't
be fixed
Discount of 10% from regular price of service and
,t
service-related parts not covered by the agreement;
also, 10% off regular price of preventive maintenance
check
4
Fast help by phone - phone support from a Sears
technician on products requiring in-home repair, plus
convenient repair scheduling
Purchase a Repair Protection Agreement now and protect
yourself from unexpected hassle and expense.
Once you purchase the Agreement, a simple phone call is all
that it takes for you to schedule service. You can call anytime
day or nighL or schedule a service appointment online. Sears
has over 12,000 professional repair specialists, who have
access to over 4.5 million quality parts and accessories.
That's the kind of professionalism you can count on to help
prolong the life of your new purchase for years to come.
Purchase your Repair Protection Agreement today!
Some limitations and exclusions apply. For prices and
additional information call 1-800-827-6655. Sears Installation
Service
For Sears professional installation of home appliances,
garage door openers, water heaters, and other major home
items, in the U.S.A. call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®
,i_ WARNING: This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, could endanger
the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow all instructions in this manual
before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal
injury. When you see this symbol--heed its warning.
WARNING: The Battery and Engine Exhaust contains chemicals known to the State of California
to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. The battery and posts contain lead;
wash hands after handling.
_lb WARNING: This machine was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this
manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can result in
serious injury. This machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to
observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.
General Operation
1. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the
machine and in the manual(s) before attempting to
assemble and operate. Save this manual for future and
regular reference and for ordering replacement parts.
2. Be familiar with all controls and their proper operation.
Know how to stop machine and disengage them quickly.
3. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate this
machine. Children 14 years old and over should read and
understand operation instructions and safety rules in this
manual and should be trained and supervised by parent.
4. Never allow adults to operate this machine without
proper instruction.
5. To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object injury,
keep bystanders, helpers, children and pets at least 75
feet from the machine while it is in operation. Stop
machine if anyone enters the area.
6. Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to
be used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire, bones, toys,
and other foreign objects which could be picked up and
thrown by the blade(s). Thrown objects can cause
serious personal injury.
7. Plan your mowing pattern to avoid discharge of material
toward roads, sidewalks, bystanders and the like. Also,
avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction
which may cause discharged material to ricochet back
toward the operator.
8. Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during
operation and while performing an adjustment or repair to
protect your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can
cause serious injury to the eyes.
9. Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-fitting
slacks and shirts. Loose fitting clothes and jewelry can be
caught in movable parts. Never operate this machine in
bare feet or sandals.
10.Beawareofthemowerandattachmentdischarge
directionanddonotpointitatanyone.Donotoperatethe
mowerwithoutthedischargecoverorentiregrass
catcherinitsproperplace.
11.Donotputhandsorfeetnearrotatingpartsorunderthe
cuttingdeck.Contactwiththeblade(s)canamputate
handsandfeet.
12.Amissingordamageddischargecovercancauseblade
contactorthrownobjectinjuries.
13.Stoptheblade(s)whencrossinggravelddves,walks,or
roadsandwhilenotcuttinggrass.
14.Watchfortrafficwhenoperatingnearorcrossing
roadways.Thismachineisnotforuseonpublicroadway.
15.Donotoperatethemachinewhileundertheinfluenceof
alcoholordrugs.
16.Mowonlyindaylightorgoodartificiallight.Nevercarry
passengers.
17.Disengageblade(s)beforeshiftingintoreverse.Backup
slowly.Alwayslookdownandbehindbeforeandwhile
backingtoavoidaback-overaccident.
18.Slowdownbeforeturning.Operatethemachine
smoothly.Avoiderraticoperationandexcessivespeed.
19.Disengageblade(s),setparkingbrake,stopengineand
waituntiltheblade(s)cometoacompletestopbefore
removinggrasscatcher,emptyinggrass,unclogging
chute,removinganygrassordebris,ormakingany
adjustments.
20.Neverleavearunningmachineunattended.Alwaysturn
offblade(s),placetransmissioninneutral,setparking
brake,stopengineandremovekeybeforedismounting.
21.Useextracarewhenloadingorunloadingthemachine
intoatrailerortruck.Thisunitshouldnotbedrivenupor
downramp(s),becausetheunitcouldtipover,causing
seriouspersonalinjury.Theunitmustbepushed
manuallyonramp(s)toloadorunloadproperly.
22.Mufflerandenginebecomehotandcancauseaburn.Do
nottouch.
23.Checkoverheadclearancescarefullybeforedriving
underlowtreebranches,wires,dooropeningsetc.,
wheretheoperatormaybestruckorpulledfromtheunit,
whichcouldresultinseriousinjury.
24.Disengageallattachmentclutches,depressthebrake
pedalcompletelyandshiftintoneutralbeforeattempting
tostartengine.
25.Yourmachineisdesignedtocutnormalresidentialgrass
ofaheightnomorethan10".Donotattempttomow
throughunusuallytall,drygrass(e.g.,pasture)orpilesof
dryleaves.Drygrassorleavesmaycontacttheengine
exhaustand/orbuilduponthemowerdeckpresentinga
potentialfirehazard.
26.Useonlyaccessoriesandattachmentsapprovedforthis
machinebythemachinemanufacturer.Read,
understandandfollowallinstructionsprovidedwiththe
accessoryorattachment.
27.Dataindicatesthatoperators,age60yearsandabove,
areinvolvedinalargepercentageoftractor-related
injuries.Theseoperatorsshouldevaluatetheirabilityto
operatethetractorsafelyenoughtoprotectthemselves
andothersfromseriousinjury.
28.Ifsituationsoccurwhicharenotcoveredinthismanual,
usecareandgoodjudgment.ContactSearsservice
centerforassistance.
Slope Operation
Slopes are a major factor related to loss of control and tip-
over accidents which can result in severe injury or death. All
slopes require extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope
or if you feel uneasy, do not mow it.
For safety, use the slope guide on page 45 to measure
slopes before operating this unit on a sloped or hilly area. If
the slope is greater than 15 degrees as shown on the slope
gauge, do not operate this unit there.
Do:
1. Mow up and down slopes, not across. Exercise extreme
caution when changing direction on slopes.
2. Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden
objects. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall
grass can hide obstacles.
3. Use slow speed. Choose a low enough speed setting so
that you will not have to stop or shift while on the slope.
Tires may lose traction on slopes even though the brakes
are functioning properly. Always keep machine in gear
when going down slopes to take advantage of engine
braking action.
4. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for wheel
weights or counterweights to improve stability of the
machine. Use extra care with grass catchers or other
attachments. These can change stability of the machine.
5. Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual. Do
not make sudden changes in speed or direction. Rapid
engagement or braking could cause the front of the
machine to lift and rapidly flip over backwards which
could cause serious injury.
6. Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction,
disengage the blade(s) and proceed slowly straight down
the slope.
Do Not:
1. Do not turn on slopes unless necessary; then, turn slowly
and gradually downhill, if possible.
2. Do not mow near drop-off sites, ditches or embankments.
The mower could suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the
edge of a cliff, ditch, or if an edge caves in.
3. Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on
the ground.
4. Do not use a grass catcher on steep slopes.
5. Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could cause
sliding.
6. Do not shift to neutral and coast downhill. Over-speeding
may cause the operator to lose control of the machine
resulting in serious injury or death.
Children
1,
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. They do not
understand the dangers. Never assume that children will
remain where you last saw them.
a. Keep children out of the mowing area and in
watchful care of a responsible adult other than the
operator.
b. Be alert and turn machine off if a child enters the
area.
c. Before and while backing, look behind and down
for small children.
d. Never carry children, even with the blade(s) shut
off. They may fall off and be sedously injured or
interfere with safe machine operation.
e. Use extreme carewhen approaching blind
corners, doorways, shrubs, trees or other objects
that may block your vision of a child who may run
into the machine.
f. Disengage the cutting blade(s) before shifting in
reverse. The "No-Cut-In Reverse" feature
emphasizes not to cut in reverse and to avoid
back-over accidents; do not defeat it.
g. Keep children away from hot or running engines.
They can suffer burns from a hot muffler.
h. Remove key when machine is unattended to
prevent unauthorized operation.
2.
Never allow children under 14 years old to operate the
machine. Children 14 years old and over should read and
understand the operation instructions and safety rules in
this manual and should be trained and supervised by a
parent.
Safe Handling Of Gasoline
1. To avoid personal injury or property damage use extreme
care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely
flammable and the vapors are explosive. Serious
personal injury can occur when gasoline is spilled on
yourself or your clothes which can ignite. Wash your skin
and change clothes immediately.
a. Use only an approved gasoline container.
b. Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on atruck
or trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place
containers away from your vehicle before filling.
c. When practical, remove gas-powered equipment
from the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground.
Ifthis is not possible, then refuel such equipment
on a trailer with a portable container, rather than
from a gasoline dispenser nozzle.
d. 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.
e. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other
sources of ignition.
f. Neverfuelmachineindoors.
g. Never remove gas cap or add fuel while the
engine is hot or running. Allow engine to cool at
least two minutes before refueling.
h. Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no more than
Y_inch below bottom of filler neck to allow space
for fuel expansion.
i. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.
j. Ifgasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and
equipment. Move unit to another area. Wait 5
minutes before starting the engine.
k. To reduce fire hazards, keep machine free of
grass, leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean up
oil or fuel spillage and remove any fuel soaked
debris.
L Never store the machine or fuel container inside
where there is an open flame, spark or pilot light
as on a water heater, space heater, furnace,
clothes dryer or other gas appliances.
m. Allow a machine to cool at least 5 minutes before
storing.
General Service
1. Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated
area. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an
odorless, and deadly gas.
2. Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make certain
the blade(s) and all moving parts have stopped.
Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground against the
engine to prevent unintended starting.
3. Periodically check to make sure the blades come to
complete stop within approximately (5) five seconds after
operating the blade disengagement control. If the blades
do not stop within the this time frame, your unit should be
serviced professionally by an authorized dealer.
4. Check brake operation frequently as it is subjected to
wear during normal operation. Adjust/service as required.
5. Check the blade(s) and engine mounting bolts at
frequent intervals for proper tightness. Also, visually
inspect blade(s) for damage (e.g., excessive wear, bent,
cracked).
Replace the blade(s) with the original equipment
manufacturer's (O.E.M.) blade(s) only, listed in this
manual. "Use of parts which do not meet the original
equipment specifications may lead to improper
performance and compromise safety!"
6. Mower blades are sharp. Wrap the blade or wear gloves,
and use extra caution when servicing them.
7. Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the
equipment is in safe working condition.
8. Never tamper with the safety interlock system or other
safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly.
9. After striking a foreign object, stop the engine, disconnect
the spark plug wire(s) and ground against the engine.
Thoroughly inspect the machine for any damage. Repair
the damage before starting and operating.
10. Never attempt to make adjustments or repairs to the
machine while the engine is running.
11. Grass catcher components and the discharge cover are
subject to wear and damage which could expose moving
parts or allow objects to be thrown. For safety protection,
frequently check components and replace immediately
with original equipment manufacturer's (O.E.M.) parts
only, listed in this manual. "Use of parts which do not
meet the original equipment specifications may lead to
improper performance and compromise safety!"
12. Do not change the engine governor settings or over-
speed the engine. The governor controls the maximum
safe operating speed of the engine.
13. Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as
necessary.
14. Observe proper disposal laws and regulations for gas,
oil, etc. to protect the environment.
Your Responsibility
Restrict the use of this powermachine to persons who
read, understand and follow the warnings and instructions
in this manual and on the machine.
Unpacking
1. Remove all screws and staples from the crate.
2. Holding sides of the crate firmly, lift top of the crate
up and set it aside. Avoid tire punctures.
3. Remove and discard plastic bag covering the unit.
4. Lift the rear of the mower past the bottom of the
crate. Repeat for the front.
5. Be sure the parking brake is disengaged. See
Figure 4 for location of the parking brake.
6. Roll unit out of the crate.
Vent
Loose Parts
Remove loose parts from the grass catcher and/or the
crate very carefully. Compare with list below.
• Mulching plug & side-discharge chute
• Oil drain hose
• Ignition keys
• Operator's manual
NOTE: Reference to RIGHT or LEFT side of the tractor
in this manual is observed from operator's position.
• Your riding mower is shipped with motor oil in the
engine. However, you must check the oil level
before operating. Be careful not to overfill.
Attaching Side-Discharge Chute
Your riding mower is shipped to you with the grass
catcher fully assembled on the unit. A side-discharge
chute and a mulching plug are included as loose parts.
Follow the instructionsbelow to attach the side-
discharge chute.
j_ WARNING: Do not operate the mower if the
grass catcher, discharge chute or mulching
plug is not firmly installed on the mower.
1.
Lower the cutting height adjustment lever to the
lowest position.
2.
To access the grass catcher, lift the hood assembly
from the left side of the hood only. Stand on the
right side of the unit and pivot the hood assembly
towards you until fully opened. See Figure 1.
NOTE: Do not lift the hood assembly by the two vent
openings located behind the seat.
Assembly
Figure 1
3. Remove the two wing nuts (A and B in Figure 2 )
from two ends of the grasscatcher chute.
4. Loosen the wing nut (C in Figure 2 ) in the middle of
the chute. Do not remove.
5. Slide the grasscatcher chute to the right and out of
the deck frame. Slide the side-discharge chute in
and place iton the deck so that the three wing nut
positions align with those on the deck.
6. Reinsert wing nuts A and B. Tighten all three.
GrassCatcher
Chute
Win
Nut_l
Nut
Figure 2
Attaching Mulch Plug
While operating your riding mower, you have three
options: (i) to collect grass clippings inthe grass
catcher, (ii) to discharge grass clippings on the side, or
(iii) to mulch grass and recirculate clippings back to the
lawn. For the third option, attach the mulching plug to
the side-discharge chute and then to the deck.
1. Put two hex bolts through the mulching plug at the
respective openings. See Figure 3.
2. Place nuts over the hex bolts.
Wing Nut
A
Figure 3
Side Discharge Chute
ulchin
Plug
3. Insert the plug into the side-discharge chute
aligning the two slots on two sides of the side-
discharge chute with those on the mulching plug.
4. To attach the mulching plug now to the unit, follow
earlier instructions to attach side-discharge chute
to the deck.
5. Place wing nut on each of the hex bolts and thread
a few turns. See Figure 3. Check that the mulch
plug is aligned correctly within the discharge chute.
6. Tighten both wing nuts.
Know Your Riding Mower
Compare the illustrations in Figure 4 with your riding mower to familiarize yourself with the location of various
controls and adjustments.
,_ WARNING: The operation of any riding mower can result in foreign objects being thrown into the
operator's eyes, causing severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses before operating the mower, or
while performing any adjustments or repairs on it.
Indicator
Ignition
Switch
Side Discharge
Chute
Throttle/Choke
Control
Cutting
Deck
Steering Wheel
Shift Lever
Pedal
g Height
Adjustment Lever
Blade Engagement
Pedal
Brake
Pedal
Blade
Pedal
Throttle/Choke Control: Use to regulate the engine
speed and to start the engine.
"Go" Pedal: Use to regulate the ground speed of the
riding mower.
Ignition Switch: Use to turn the engine ON or OFF.
Shift Lever: Use to change direction of the mower.
Grass Fill Level Indicator: Use to determine the level
Parking
Lock
NOTE: Gas tank is not shown here
Figure 4
of grass clipping in the bag and when to empty it.
Parking Brake: Use to stop the mower from moving
while parked.
Blade Engagement Pedal: Use to engage or
disengage the blade.
Blade Lock: Use to lock blade at the engaged position.
Cutting Height Adjustment Lever: Use to raise and
lowercuttingdeckwhichdeterminesthecuttingheight.
BrakePedal:Usetostopthemower'sforwardor
reversemotion.
For Your Safety
• Know location and function of all controls.
• Be sure blades and engine are stopped before
placing hands or feet near blades.
• Before leaving operator's position, disengage
blade(s), place the shift lever in neutral, engage
parking brake, shut engine off and remove key.
Stopping the Riding Mower
1. Release blade engagement pedal all the way.
2. Release "Go" Pedal and depress the brake pedal.
3. When the mower comes to a complete stop, place
the shift lever in neutral.
4. Engage the parking brake by pulling up on the
parking brake knob.
5. Turn the ignition key to OFF position and remove
the key.
Safety Interlock
This unit is equipped with a safety interlock system for
your protection. The interlock safety switches are
connected to the brake pedal, the blade engagement
pedal, the shift lever, and the seat.
The purpose of the safety interlock system is threefold:
• To prevent the engine from starting unless the
brake pedal is depressed and the blade
engagement pedal is disengaged;
• To shut off the engine if the blade pedal is not
disengaged when the shift lever is put into reverse;
and
• To shut the engine off when the operator leaves the
seat without engaging the parking brake.
,_ WARNING: TOavoid the risk of serious
injury, do not operate the riding mower ifthe
interlock system is malfunctioning.
Using Shift Lever
This lever is used to regulate direction of the riding
mower. Itcan be set at forward, neutral, or reverse
settings. These settings are marked F, N, and R
respectively on the unit. This unit is designed not to
mow when the shift lever is in B position. (If the
blade is engaged while shift lever is at the R position,
the unit wilt shut off. To restart the unit, disengage the
blade.)
1. Before you move the shift lever to any of the
positions, depress the brake pedal and stop the
unit. Keep your foot on the brake pedal.
2. The shift lever is locked at
the N position. Move the
lever outwards (left) and
slide the lever upward to F
or downward to R position
as desired.
NOTE: Look to the rear and
make sure the path is free of
obstacles before positioning the
shift/ever to the reverse.
3. Do not force the shift lever. If it does not shift,
release the brake pedal slightly to line up the
shifting collar in the transmission, then try to move
the shift lever.
4. Slowly release the brake pedal and take your foot
off the pedal. Always make sure that there is no one
in the way when you run the mower.
Using Throttle/Choke Control
used to increase or decrease
the speed of the engine.The
FAST and the SLOW positions
are marked with illustrations of
a rabbit and a turtle
respectively.
The throttle/choke control is I___
• For normal operation and
when using a grass
catcher, move the throttle/
choke control to the FAST position.
• For maximum charging of the battery and also for a
cooler engine while running, move the throttle/
choke control to the FAST position.
• For transport and to tow pull-behind attachments,
move the throttle/choke control to the SLOW.
Grass Fill Level Indicator
This indicator was designed
to add convenience to your
riding mower. While the
mower is running, air will flow
through the discharge chute
and into the grass catcher. If
the grass catcher is empty,
air flows through easily
pushing the ball up. If the
grass catcher is full, air does
not flow through it allowing the ball to fall. So if you see
the ball in the grass catcher fill level indicator falling
down, you should stop the mower and empty the bag.
Grass FillLevel
Indicator
Engine Model
This is a single cylinder, air-cooled engine. It is a low
emissions engine.
Symbols Used
Message Symbol
Safety alert _,
On off
Read owner's manual
Oil
Fuel shut-off ]_
Choke I",l
Fuel ._
Using Parking Brake
To engage
1. Completely push the brake pedal down and stop
the unit.
2. With your right foot on the brake pedal, move the
shift lever to the neutral position.
3. Continuing to hold down the brake pedal with your
right foot, pull up the parking brake knob. Make
sure the parking brake holds the unit.
4. Release the brake pedal. Stop engine and remove
ignition key. Now your riding mower is parked.
To release
5. Depress the brake pedal. The parking brake will be
automatically disengaged.
Stop I_1
For hazard symbol meanings, refer to page 44.
NOTE: In the state of California, the 210000 series
engines covered in this manual are certified by the
California Air Resources Board to meet emissions
standards for250 hours. Such certification does not
grant the purchaser, owner or operator of this engine
any additional warranties with respect to the
performance or operational life of this engine. This
engine is warranted solely according to the product and
emissions warranties stated elsewhere in this manual
Bore 3-7/16 in. (87.31 mm)
Stroke 2-17/64 in. (77.78 mm)
Displacement 21.00 cu. in. (344.1 cc)
IMPORTANT:For practical operation, the horsepower
loading should not exceed 85% of rated horsepower.
Engine power will decrease 3-1/2% for each 1,000 feet
(300 meters) above sea level and 1% for each 10 F (5.6
C) above 77 F (25 C). Engine will operate satisfactorily
at an angle up to 15 degrees.
Engine Controls
_2
1. Oil drain*
2. Oil fill/Dipstick
3. Rotating Screen
4. Blower Housing
5. Muffler*
6. Electric Starter*
7. Air Cleaner
8. Fuel Filter
9. Carburetor
10. Spark plug wire
* Not shown
Figure 5
Before Starting
Filling Up Oil
NOTE: The riding lawn mower is shipped with oilin the
engine crankcase.
Check oil level in the engine oil sump before starting the
engine. (Oil sump capacity: 48 oz./1.4 liter)
1. Place the mower on level ground and flip the hood
assembly up to access the engine.
NOTE: Do not lift the hood assembly by the two vent
openings located behind the seat.
A
2. Remove dipstick and wipe it clean with cloth.
3. Replace and tighten the dipstick. Remove the
dipstick again and check the oil level mark on it.
The oil level should be at FULL line on the dipstick.
See Figure 6A. If the level is short of that, add oil to
the oil fill slowly. Recheck the oil level on the
dipstick. Ifneeded, add more oil. See Figure 6B. Do
not overfill.
4. Place the dipstick in position and tighten to secure.
See Figure 6C.
Dipstick
Fill up if
Read oil needed
Figure 6
10
Type of Oil
1. Refer to the chart below for proper grade of oil.
2. Use a high quality detergent oil classified "For
service SF, SG,SH, SJ" or higher.
3. Do not use special additives.
Synthetic oil meeting ILSAC GF-2, API certification and
API service symbol with "SJ/CF Energy Conserving" or
higher is an acceptable oil at all temperatures. Use of
synthetic oil does not alter required oil change intervals.
SAE Viscosity Grades
30
_5W-30, 10W-30
°F -20°' 0°' 20°' 40°' 60°' 80°' 100°'
Startingtemperature rangeanticipated before nextoilchange
* CAUTION: Air cooled engines run hotter than automotive
engines. The use of non-synthetic multi-viscosity oils (5W-
30, 10W-30 etc.) in temperatures above 40°F will result in
higher than normal oil consumption. When using a multi-
viscosity oil, check oil level more frequently.
** CAUTION: SAE 30 oil, if used below 40°F, will result in
hard starting and possible engine bore damage due to
inadequate lubrication.
L
Battery
Ordinarily the battery is charged and ready for use; so
you will not have to charge it before starting. However,
if the battery is put into service for the first time after the
date shown on the side of the battery, you will have to
charge it for a minimum of one hour at 4-6 amps. Refer
to Service & Adjustments section of this manual for
instructions on charging the battery.
The battery is located under the hood assembly above
the left rear wheel. Refer to Figure 20.
Filling Up Gasoline
,_ WARNING: Fill fuel tank outdoors or in well-
NOTE: On a riding mower which has already been
started and/or operated once immediately prior to this
gasoline fill-up, turn engine off and let cool at least two
minutes before removing gas cap.
1. Remove gas tank cap and fill tank to approximately
2. Replace cap on the gas tank and tighten to secure.
NOTE: If fuel spills on part of engine or vehicle, wait
until it evaporates before starting engine.
ventilated area, away from sparks, open
flames, pilot lights, heat and other ignition
SOUrCeS.
1.5 inches below top of neck to allow for fuel
expansion. Be careful not to overfill.
Type of Gasoline
• Use clean, fresh, regular unleaded gasoline with
minimum 85 octane rating.
• Do not use gasoline mixed with methanol, or
gasoline which has been stored for more than 30
days. Always purchase fuel in quantity that can be
used up within 30 days. Fresh fuel prevents gum
from forming in the fuel system or on carburetor.
• Do not mix gasoline with engine oil.
NOTE: Some fuels, called oxygenated or reformulated
gasoline, are blended with alcohol or ether. Using these
blends frequently can damage the fuel system or affect
performance. If engine performance is affected, use
gasoline with Iower percentage of alcohol or ether.
Starting Engine
1. Be sure the wire is attached to the spark plug.
2. Depress the brake pedal with your right foot.
3. Set throttle/choke control in the CHOKE position
(all the way forward).
4. Place the shift lever in the NEUTRAL position.
5. Turn ignition key to the START position. Once the
engine starts, let key return to ON position.
6. Move throttle/choke control out of CHOKE position
and into FAST throttle position.
NOTE: If engine floods, set choke to OPEN/RUN
position, place throttle in FAST and crank until engine
starts.
Operating the Riding Mower
1. Depress the brake pedal so that the parking brake
is disengaged.
2. Place the shift lever in either the FORWARD or the
REVERSE position as you desire. Look to the rear
and check before backing up.
3. Release the brake pedal.
4. Depress the "Go" Pedal.
5. To stop, release the "Go" Pedal and depress the
brake pedal.
6. Press the blade engagement pedal downward until
the blades are turning.The blades can be engaged
either while the mower is moving or standing.
,_ WARNING: When the blades are engaged,
keep hands and feet away from the discharge
opening, the blades or any part of the deck.
_ WARNING: Do not tip the equipment at an
angle which causes the gasoline to spill.
NOTE: Your riding mower is equipped with a blade lock
to keep the blade engaged without the operator having
to depress the blade pedal continuously. See Figure 4.
7. To engage the blade lock: While pressing down
11
on the blade pedal, push the blade lock down with
your heel. It should click into the "blade engaged"
position. To disengage the blade lock, simply push
down on the blade pedal and release the lock.
Stopping the Riding Mower
See page 9 for detailed instruction.
NOTE: Do not leave the key in the ON position when
you are not operating the mower. Such action will drain
the battery dead.
NOTE: Do not choke carburetor to stop engine.
Using the Riding Mower
Observe safety rules listed on pages 3-5 of this manual
for safe operation of your riding mower. The
recommended mowing pattern is given below:
tTc. .'JJ
To Empty Grass Catcher
1. Stop the mower completely, pult up on the parking
brake knob and take the ignition key out. Get off the
operator's seat.
2. Pivot the hood assembly up. Pull up the
grasscatcher bag by the handle and take it to the
proper disposal site. See Figure 7.
3. Hold the bag away from your body. Push down on
the bag lever and let the bottom section of the bag
fall downwards. Grass clippings witl be disposed off
from the bottom. See Figure 7.
4. Tap the bag on the ground so that the three legs of
the bag press against the ground. The bag lever
should snap close while you push the bag
downwards.
5. Replace the bag on to the mower making sure the
bag is placed on the flange on top of the discharge
chute. Pivot the hood assembly down.
BakHandle
Grass Catcher
Bag
• Before mowing, make sure that the cutting deck is
leveled. For deck adjustment, refer to page 17.
• You can engage the blade by pressing on the blade
engagement pedal with your left foot while sitting at
the operator's position.
• When mowing an area for the first time, watch out
for objects lying on the grass. If you strike a foreign
object, stop the engine. Remove wire from spark
plug and thoroughly inspect the riding mower for
any damage. Repair the damage before operating
it again.
• Avoid scalping the lawn by adjusting the cutting
height upwards and/or sharpening the blades.
• Mow at full throttle. Learn the terrain on which you
are mowing. For best mowing results, mow only
when the grass is dry.
• Mow grass often and in regular intervals so that you
can cut only 1/3 of the grass blade in one mowing.
• To empty grass bag, stop the riding mower
completely, engage the parking brake, and turn
the ignition off. This will prevent the hot engine
exhaust gas from browning the grass.
• Many communities no longer haul grass clippings
to landfills. Composting the clippings from your
grass catcher is a viable solution. For this you witl
have to empty the grass catcher at the designated
composting site.
Figure 7
Assembly
Mulching
• Your riding mower isequipped with a mulching plug
to mulch the grass and recycle into the lawn instead
of collecting in the grasscatcher bag.
• Mulch only when the grass is dry. Mulching wet
grass may damage the underside of the deck
because wet grass tends to stick to it. Clean deck
thoroughly if you mulch wet grass.
• For effective mulching, overlap mowing paths so
that the clippings are distributed evenly.
12
General Recommendations
_lb WARNING: Always stop engine and disconnect spark plug wire before any maintenance or adjustments.
Always maintain safety and follow instructions given below closely for smooth completion of job.
The warranty on this riding mower does not cover items that have been subjected to operator abuse or
negligence. To receive full value from the warranty, operator must maintain the riding mower as instructed in
this manual. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule below.
We do not recommend the use of pressure washers or garden hose to clean your unit. These may cause
damage to electrical components, spindles, pulleys, bearings or the engine. The use of water may shorten life
of your riding mower and reduce its serviceability
To ensure safe operation, all nuts and bolts must be checked periodically for correct tightness.
Maintenance Schedule
First 5 hrs. 25 hours 50 hours 100 hrs. Season Reassembly
Check blade, sharpen or replace if needed _
Lube pivot points, steering shaft, gear
Lube deck linkage, front wheels
Change engine oil _
Service air cleaner in engine
Service spark plug ,_
Clean cooling system of the engine
Blade Care
Reassembly
_ WARNING: Protect your hands by wearing
heavy gloves or using a rag to grasp the cutting
blade. Avoid personal injury.
Removal
1. Remove the 5/8" hex flange nut which holds the
blade to the blade spindle.
2. Remove blade from the spindle. See Figure 8.
Sharpening
1. When sharpening the blade, follow original angle of
grind as a guide. It is extremely important to grind
each cutting edge equally to prevent an
unbalanced blade.
2. Test the blade by balancing it on a round shaft
screwdriver. Remove metal from the heavy side
until it balances evenly.
i_ WARNING: Unbalanced blade may cause
excessive vibration at high speeds, may damage
the riding mower and/or cause personal injury.
1. Before reassembling the blade to the unit, lubricate
2. Align "star" fitting on new blade with the "star" on
3. Install the blade with the side of the blade marked
4. Tighten the flange nut securely. See Figure 8.
Blade Mounting Torque: 70/90 ft.-tbs, maximum.
_Blade
the spindle with light oil (orengine oil).
the spindle.
"Bottom" (or with part number) facing the ground
when the riding mower is inthe operating position.
Spindle
I
Figure 8
13
Lubrication
See Figure 9 for an illustration of the lube points
described below.
Lube
Lube
ube
_ube
before
semby)
Viewed from the bottom
Figure 9: Lubrication Chart
• Blade Assembly: Lubricate blade assembly and
deck spindle only while reassembling the blade
either after sharpening or replacement.
• Pivot Points: Lubricate pivot points with light oil
once a season.
• Steering Shaft and Gear: Lubricate steering shaft
and spline at least once a season with light oil.
• Lubricate teeth of the external steering gears with
automotive multi-purpose grease every 25 hours of
operation or once a season.
• Linkage: Lubricate all deck linkage and height
adjustment linkage with a light oil.
• Front Wheels: Lubricate front wheels at least once
a season with automotive multi-purpose grease.
Engine
any
_1= WARNING: Before performing
• Change engine oil after first five to eight hours of
• Poor engine performance and flooding usually
• The spark plug should be cleaned and the gap
Cleaning Engine
1. Promptly wipe off any fuel or oilspilled on the
2. Clean the underside of the blade housing after
3. Using a brush or cloth, remove grass, chaff or
4. Keep the throttle linkage, springs and controls free
5. If engine muffler is equipped with spark arrester
Air Cleaner
Service the air cleaner every 25 hours of operation.
Service more frequently if operating under extremely
dusty conditions. Locate air cleaner on engine.
1. Remove clamp and pull air cleaner from intake
2. Replace with air cleaner (Sears part # 698-973).
3. Reassemble the air cleaner.
Spark Plug
1. Clean area around the spark plug base.
2. Remove and inspect the spark plug.
3. Replace the spark plug if electrodes are pitted,
maintenance on the engine, disconnect the
spark plug wire and the battery to prevent
unintentional starting or sparking.
use, then every 50 hours or every season,
whichever comes earlier. Change oil every 25
hours when operating the riding mower under
heavy load or in high temperatures.
indicate that air cleaner should be serviced. Service
pre-cleaner and the cartridge every 25 hours of use
or once every season, whichever comes earlier.
Clean more frequently under dusty conditions. Also
replace air cleaner parts if these are very dirty.
reset every 100 hours of use or once a season,
whichever comes earlier.
machine with clean cloth.
each mowing. Do not let clippings or debris
accumulate around the blade which may cause rust
on the deck.
debris from the finger guard on the engine daily to
prevent overheating of the engine. Do not clean
with a forceful spray of water since water
contaminates the fuel system.
of debris.
screen, remove and clean the screen regularly.
Replace if damaged or plugged with debris.Clean
muffler area and remove any grass or other debris
before operating the unit.
manifold.
burned, or the porcelain is cracked. See Figure 10.
14
4. Clean the spark plug and reset the gap to 0.020" at
least once a season or every 100 hours of
operation. See Figure 10. Replace if necessary.
Refer to parts list section for part number.
NOTE: Do not sandblast spark plug. Spark plug should
be cleaned by scraping or wire brushing and washing
with a commercial solvent.
_ .020, gap _
suitable container for collecting spent engine oil.
5. Grip oil drain valve, push in and turn counter-
clockwise until it stops. See Figure 11 inset. Pull out
the drain valve.
6. Wait till oil has drained into container completely.
7. Grip oil drain valve, push in, then turn clockwise
until it stops.
Figure 10
Changing Oil
Your riding mower has a plastic oil drain hose, packed
with the loose parts, for draining oil from the crankcase.
1. Run the mower engine for a few minutes, and turn
the ignition key off. Make sure that the riding mower
is completely stopped and parking brake engaged.
2. Lift the hood assembly to access the oil drain valve.
3. Remove yellow valve cover on the oil drain valve
and attach one end of the oil drain hose to this
opening. This valve is located at the end of a 90
degree fitting near the fuel tank mounting bracket.
See Figure 11.
4. Lead the other end of the oil drain hose into a
• Oil Drain
Valve
Valve \
Cover -_
Drain-_'J[f \ "
Oil
...... L
Hose _,_
Figure 11
8. Carefully disconnect the hose from the oil drain
valve to avoid spillage on the equipment and
replace the yellow cap. Remove container and
dispose off the spent oil appropriately.
9. Remove dipstick from the oil fill on the engine.
10. Fill up with fresh engine oil of appropriate grade.
Refer to the viscosity chart on page 11 for oil type.
11. Check oil level as instructed on page 10. Add more
oil if needed and tighten the dipstick securely.
12. Flip the hood assembly back.
15
Adjustments
Brake Pedal
The brake pedal needs to contact the PTO (power take
off) switch for the engine to start. During normal
operation of the riding mower, the brake is subject to
wear and tear. Periodically check the brake by carrying
out the following test:
1. Release the parking brake and place the riding
mower in neutral.
2. Depress the brake pedal and try to roll the riding
mower. The tractor should not move. If the tractor
moves, adjust the brake.
_ill ARNING: Do not adjust the brake while
Adjustment to the brake pedal is made at the cable end.
See Figure 12.
1. Set the parking brake and turn ignition key off.
2. Shift the cutting height lever to the lowest position.
3. Pivot the hood assembly up and remove the
4. Disconnect wire from the spark plug.
5. Locate the brake cable on the right side under the
6. Using a pair of 1/2' wrenches, loosen the jam nuts
7. Retighten the jam nuts when proper tension is
the engine is running. Be sure to block the
wheels of the riding mower before making any
adjustments on the brake cable.
grasscatcher bag and the side-discharge chute or
the mulching plug from the riding mower.
front housing. See Figure 12.
and back the cable out to tighten or thread inward
to loosen. See Figure 12 inset.
reached.
8. Unlock parking brake and repeat the test described
above. Readjust if necessary.
"Go" Pedal
Adjustment to the "Go" Pedal is made at the cable end.
See Figure 12.
1. Set the parking brake and turn ignition key off.
2. Shift the cutting height lever to the lowest position.
3. Pivot the hood assembly up and remove the
grasscatcher bag and the side-discharge chute or
the mulching plug from the riding mower.
4. Disconnect wire from the spark plug.
5. Locate the speed control cable under the front
housing. See Figure 12.
6. Loosen the jam nuts and back the cable out to
tighten or thread inward to loosen as shown.
7. Retighten the jam nuts when proper tension is
reached.
8. Reconnect the spark plug wire and pivot the hood
assembly down.
Cutting Height
The deck cutting height adjustment lever is located on
the hood assembly. For a representation of the cutting
height positions, refer to Figure 4.
1. Pull the lever out of the slot and slide it upward or
downward to the desired cutting height.
2. Lower the cutting height to mow close to the
ground.
3. Raise the deck height to the highest position when
you ride on a sidewalk or a road.
4. To mow tall or thick grass, first cut with height
adjustment lever at the highest position, then cut
again with the lever at a lower position.
Brake
Cable
;ontrol
asher
Cable* 1
_Tighten
Loosen
*Same type of adjustment on both cables
(only one shown here)
Figure 12
16
Seat Position
The seat position on the riding mower can be adjusted
to maximize the operator's convenience.
1. Stop the mower completely and engage the parking
brake. Turn ignition off.
2. Pivot the hood assembly up.
3. Loosen the four self-tapping screws on the bottom
of the seat.
4. Slide the seat forward or backward in the slot, and
position it as desired. Retighten the four screws.
Blade Engagement Pedal
The blade engagement pedal should be adjusted so
that if you depress it about 3/4" from the front of the
blade brake slot, it will contact the PTO switch and
cause it to engage the deck belt.
Under normal operation, the blade engagement pedal
should not require frequent adjustment. However,
perform the following test periodically and make sure
that it is in fine working condition.
1. Pivot the hood assembly up and check if there is
enough slack on the deck engagement cable.
2. Depress the blade engagement pedal (about 3/4
inch) and check if the belt is engaging.
3. If the cable is tight or too loose or the belt is not
engaging, adjust the deck engagement cable.
NOTE: The deck engagement cable will be correctly
adjusted when the cable moves approximately 1/2" off
center line in both directions.
2. If the belt is engaging sooner than when the blade
engagement pedal is 3/4" from the PTO switch,
tighten both hex nuts on the cable. See Figure 13.
3. Repeat the blade engagement test and readjust if
necessary.
4. Pivot the hood assembly back.
Wheel Alignment
The front wheels should toe-in 1/t 6-5/16 inch. To adjust
toe-in, follow these steps:
1. Remove the 3/8" hex nutand lock washer which
hold the ball joint to the steering segment. See
Figure 14.
2. Adjust the ball joint in or out untilthe wheels toe-in
approximately t/16-5/16" (Dimension "B" should
be approximately 1/16-5/16" less than dimension
"A'). See Figure 14.
3. Replace the ball joint into the steering segment,
and replace the 3/8" hex nut and the lock washer.
Hex Nut
Steerin_ Washer Rod
Segment Ball
Joint
Deck _/\ Hex
Engagement \\\ Nut
Figure 13
Adjustment to the blade brake will have to be made at
the cable end. See Figure 13.
1. If the belt is slipping when you depress the blade
engagement pedal about 3/4", loosen the two hex
nuts on the cable. See Figure 13.
1/16-5/16"
lessthan A
Figure 14
Adjusting the Deck
There are three tests for checking deck leveling on the
riding mower. The results of each test will determine
what kind of leveling, if at all, the equipment needs.
IMPORTANT: Perform adjustments to the deck on a flat,
level surface. Before continuing with deck adjustment,
check air pressure in all four tires. Recommended air
pressure is 12 psL Please note that the valve stems on
this riding mower are on the inside of the front wheels
and on the outside of the rear wheels.
Test 1: Checking Rear Deck Height Adjustment
1. Lift the hood assembly and remove grass catcher
from the riding mower. Place the deck in the
highest position.
2. Inspect rear of deck. If the deck iscontacting the
cable bracket infront of the transmission, you will
have to adjust the rear deck height.
17
Test 2: Checking Front to Rear Leveling
1. Place the deck in the highest position.
2. Wearing a pair of heavy work gloves to prevent
injury, rotate the cutting blade so that it is pointed
front to back and parallel to the rider. Depress and
lock the deck engagement pedal.
3. Measure the distance from the front and the rear
tips of the blade to the ground.The front should be
approximately 1/4_to 3/8" lower than the rear.
4. If the distance is higher, level the deck front to rear.
Test 3: Checking Side to Side Leveling
1. Place the deck in the highest position.
2. Wearing a pair of heavy work gloves to prevent
injury, rotate the cutting blade so that it is pointed
side to side and perpendicular to the rider. Depress
and lock the deck engagement pedal.
3. Measure the distance from the tips of the blade to
the ground.
4. If the two distances are unequal, level the deck
side to side.
Adjusting Rear Deck Height
1. Completely loosen, but do not remove, the top hex
nut out of the three hex nuts that hold the hex bolt
and the ferrule on the deck hanger link assembly.
See Figure 15.
IMPORTANT: Do not try to loosen/tighten bottom nut.
2. Thread the middle nut as far down as possible.
3. Locate the lower links at the rear of the deck.
Working on one side at a time, disconnect the
helper springs from them.
4. Remove each lower link by removing both hair pin
clip and washers.
5. Reattach lower links as shown in Figure 15 inset.
Front to Rear Leveling
1. Place the deck in the highest position.
2. Wearing a pair of heavy work gloves to prevent
injury, rotate the cutting blade so that it is pointed
front to back and parallel to the rider. Depress and
lock the deck engagement pedal.
3. Completely loosen, but do not remove, the top hex
nut out of the three hex nuts that hold the hex bolt
and the ferrule on the deck hanger link assembly.
See Figure 15.
IMPORTANT: Do not try to loosen/tighten bottom nut.
4. Thread the middle nut as far down as possible.
5. Keeping an equal number of threads above each of
the nuts, thread the upper nut down until the front
tip of the blade is 1/4" to 3/8" lower than the rear tip
of the blade. Note that threading this nut down will
raise the front of the deck.
6. Thread the middle nut up against the base of the
ferrule. See Figure 15.
7. Tighten the upper nut against the top of the ferrule
to lock adjustment.
Side to Side Leveling
1. Place the deck in the highest position.
2. Wearing heavy work gloves to prevent injury, rotate
the blade so that it is pointed side to side and
perpendicular to the rider. Depress and lock the
deck engagement pedal.
3. Loosen the middle hex nut.
4. Thread the top hex nut up or down in order to set
both tips of the blade at an equal height from the
ground. Remember to thread the nut down to raise
the deck, and thread up to lower the deck.
5. Once the deck is level, thread the middle hex nut to
tighten against the ferrule. Make sure the cut is
even and the lift lever moves to all cutting heights.
Deck "
Height
Lever
Loosen hex nuts
Helper
Spring
Remove Hairpin Clips
and Washers
Link
Figure 15
18
Adjusting the Carburetor
Differences in fuel, temperature, altitude or load may
require minor carburetor adjustments. The carburetor
on this engine is equipped with an idle mixture valve
with a limiter which allows some adjustment, and an
idle speed adjustment screw. Remember that the air
cleaner must be assembled to the carburetor before re-
starting the engine. Refer to page 14 for details.
NOTE: Engines, operated at approximately 3000 to
5000 feet above sea level, may require a high altitude
carburetor nozzle. If your riding mower performs
erratically, contact Sears service center for the nozzle.
To adjust the carburetor, follow the steps below:
1. Start the engine and run it for at least 5 minutes to
warm up.
2. With the engine running, place throttle control in
SLOW position.
3. Lift the hood assembly up as instructed on page 7.
4. Remove the black cap from the rider frame. See
Figure 16. Access the carburetor throttle lever and
idle speed screw from this opening.
IDLE MIXTURE
VALVE
WITH LIMITE R
the cranking or charging circuit where insulation
may have rubbed through and exposed bare wire.
2. Replace the wire or repair with electrician's tape if
the wire strands have not been damaged. Also look
for a wire pinched between body panels, burned by
the exhaust pipe or muffler, or rubbed against a
moving part.
3. Stop the riding mower and engage the parking
brake. Remove ignition key.
4. Pivot the hood assembly up. Disconnect the spark
plug wire and ground it.
5. Pull the fuse out of the lead wire.
6. Replace with new automotive fuse.
7. Make sure to reconnect the spark plug wire before
pivoting the hood assembly back.
Belt Replacement
There are two drive belts and one deck belt in this unit;
follow description below to identify the belts.
• Deck belt goes from the deck pulley to the lower
sheave in engine pulley.
• Lower drive belt goes from the variable speed
pulley to the transmission pulley.
• Upper drive belt goes from the variable speed
pulley to the upper sheave of engine pulley.
Periodically check ifthese belts are too loose or
damaged. If so, replace with new belt.
Carbureto/r
Throttle
Lever
Figure 16
5. Rotate carburetor throttle lever against the idle
speed screw and hold it. Turn idle speed screw to
obtain 1750 rpm, using a tachometer to measure.
6. Rotate idle mixture valve full travel clockwise and
then counter-clockwise. Do NOT remove limiter
caps. Do NOT force beyond limits.
7. Place idle mixture valve in middle of travel.
8. Move throttle control to FAST position. The engine
should accelerate smoothly. Ifit does not, adjust
idle mixture valve counter-clockwise 1/8 turn.
9. Replace the black cap on the riding mower frame
and put the hood assembly back.
Fuse Replacement
The fuse is located next to the spark plug under the rear
frame. Fuses seldom fail without a reason. If the fuse
blows, the source problem must be corrected or the
new fuse wilt blow again.
1. Check for loose connections in the fuse holder and
replace holder if necessary. A dead short may be in
Deck Belt
1. Engage the parking brake and turn the ignition off.
Pivot the hood assembly up and remove the grass
catcher. Remove the spark plug wire.
2. Put the deck at the lowest cutting height by
adjusting the cutting height adjustment lever to the
lowest position.
Imaginary
Belt Line Belt
Keeper "A"
ut
Pulley
Screw
Pulley
Figure 17
19
3. Usinga1/2"socketwrench,removetwoself-
tappingscrews,lockwasherandhexnutthathold
thedeckbeltcovertothedeck.SeeFigure17.For
this,youwillhavetoworkfromthetopleftsideof
theridingmower.Removethebeltcover.
4. Usinga9/16"wrench,loosenthehexnutonthe
idlerpulley.SeeFigure17.
5. Removebeltfromarounddeckpulley,idlerpulley,
andtheenginepulley.
6. Placethenewbeltaroundthedeckpulleyandthe
enginepulleymakingsurethatthebeltisrouted
insidethebeltkeepers.Therearetwobeltkeepers
underthegrasscatcher,oneontheidlerandthe
otherunderthedeckbeltcover.SeeFigure17.
7. Reinstalldeckbeltcoverandsecurewithtwoeach
ofself-tappingscrew,lockwasherandhexnut.
NOTE:Belt keeper "A" must be mounted on the outside
of the belt.
8. Make sure to align the belt keeper in line with the
frame. See Figure 17.
NOTE: An imaginary line between the belt keeper and
idler pulley should be parallel to frame. See Figure 17.
9. Replace the grass catcher and pivot the hood
assembly back.
Lower Drive Belt
1. Remove the rear deck belt guard following first five
steps for deck belt removal. Remove belt from the
engine pulley. See Figure 18.
Variable Speed Pulley
Spring Spring
Loaded Loaded
Idler
4. Drop the pulley down and remove the belt.
5. Replace new belt and reassemble.
IMPORTANT:Make sure that the belt is routed inside of
belt keeper, and the belt keeper is reassembled in the
same location from where it was removed.
Upper Drive Belt
1. Remove the engine pulley using a 5/8" socket
wrench with a 6" extension. The engine pulley is
located in front of the transmission.See Figure 18.
2. Drop the engine pulley down and remove the belt
from around it.
3. Push the idler bracket to the right and remove the
belt. See Figure 18.
4. Replace belt and reassemble.
Battery Service
The battery is located under the hood assembly. The
positive battery terminal is marked (+); the negative
battery terminal is marked (-).
Safe Handling
• Shield eyes and protect skin and clothing when
handling battery acid (electrolyte) or a battery
containing acid.
• Keep sparks, flame, cigarettes and other sources of
ignition away. Remember that battery contains
explosive gases.
• Work in a well-ventilated area when filling
(activating), charging and using the battery.
_ WARNING: Do not short battery terminals
by making a connection between either two
battery posts or between the positive terminal,
marked + on the battery, and the riding mower
frame. Before installing battery, remove metal
bracelets, wristwatch bands, rings etc. from
your person.
Pulley
Figure 18
2.
Push the spring loaded idler, located on the left side
of the transmission, to the right. Remove belt from
around the idler and then the transmission pulley.
See Figure 18.
.
Using a 9/16" socket, remove bolt, spacer and the
flat washer from the variable speed pulley.
• Always keep the rubber boot positioned over the
positive terminal to prevent shorting.
• Connect positive terminal first to prevent sparks
from accidental grounding.
• Do not use the riding mower battery to start other
vehicles.
,l_ WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and
related accessories contain lead and lead
compounds. Wash hands after handling.
• Always keep battery cables and terminals clean
and free of corrosive build-up.
• After cleaning, apply a light coat of petroleum jelly
or grease to both terminals.
• If removing the battery for any reason, disconnect
the NEGATIVE (black) wire from its terminal first,
followed by the POSITIVE (red) wire.
2O
• Whenre-installingbattery,alwaysconnectthe
POSITIVE(red)wiretoitsterminalfirst,followedby
theNEGATIVE(black)wire.
IMPORTANT:Becertainthatwiresareconnectedtothe
correctterminals;reversingthemcouldchangepolarity
andcausedamagetotheengine'salternatingsystem.
9. Disconnect the positive (+) jumper cable from the
positive (+) post of the good battery.
10. Disconnect the other end of the positive (+) jumper
cable from the solenoid.
11. Replace boot over the forward most terminal from
where you removed it in Step 1. See Figure 19.
To jump-start the battery
NOTE: This riding moweris equipped with a remote
battery charging terminal on the solenoid on the right
side of the frame under the hood. Follow the
instructions below to use this terminal
• Do not jump-start directly at the battery.
• Do not allow positive and negative cable clamps to
touch each other.
• Do not jump-start a damaged or frozen battery.
1. Pull back the boot from the forward most terminal
connected to the solenoid. See Figure 19.
2. Connect the positive (+) lead of the jumper cable to
this terminal. See Figure 19.
Neg. Leadof
Jumper Cable
Throttle
Bracket
Pos. Lead of
Jumper Cable
\
Use this terminal
To charge the battery
If battery isnew or it the riding mower has been stored
for an extended period of time, charge the battery for
one hour with a battery charger (output 6 amps) before
using your riding mower. Read safe operating
instructions on battery charger before starting this job.
IMPORTANT:If a charger with 6 amps output is not
available, use a lower output charger for a longer
charging period. However, do not use a charger with
higher than 6 amps output.
If a charger is not available, but the battery is able to
start the riding mower, run the mower for a minimum of
one hour of mowing to charge the battery with the
engine's charging system.
NOTE: Use the remote terminal on the solenoid to
charge the battery. Do not charge at the battery.
1. Pull back the boot from the forward most terminal
connected to the solenoid. See Figure 19.
2. With the battery charger off, connect the positive
(+) lead of the charger cable to this terminal. See
Figure 19.
3. Connect negative (-) lead of the charger cable to
the throttle bracket.
4. Turn the battery charger on. Charge the battery
until the indicator on the charger shows full charge.
5. Turn battery charger off. Disconnect the negative
charger cable (marked -) from the throttle bracket.
6. Disconnect the positive charger cable (marked +)
from the solenoid terminal.
7. Replace boot over the forward most terminal (from
where you removed it in Step 1). See Figure 19.
Rig
Wheel
Figure 19
3. Connect the other end of the positive (+) jumper
cable to the positive (+) post of the good battery.
4. Connect one end of the negative (-)jumper cable to
the negative (-) post of the good battery.
5. Connect the other end of the negative (-) cable to
the throttle bracket. See Figure 19.
6. Start the tractor and leave it running to charge the
battery.
7. Disconnect the negative (-) jumper cable from the
tractor.
8. Disconnect the other end of the negative (-) jumper
cable from the negative (-) post of the good battery.
To Remove Battery
1. Make sure that the riding mower is stopped
completely. Lift the hood assembly up to access the
battery.
2. Remove the wing nuts securing the battery hold-
down rods to the battery cover.
3. Pull the battery cover up and keep it away.
4. Loosen the screw at the negative terminal and
remove the cable.Repeat at the other terminal.
5. Remove the battery.
Attaching Battery Cables
1. Remove wing nut on the battery hold-down rod at
each end of the battery cover. See Figure 20.
2. Remove the battery cover from the battery to
access the terminals.
21
3. Pull the boot up and remove screw from positive
terminal with a wrench.
4. Attach the red battery cable to this positive terminal
and tighten securely. See Figure 20.
5. Remove screw from negative terminal with a
wrench.
_ WARNING: Be careful not to contact any
adjacent metal part or short across posts.
.
Attach the black battery cable to this negative
terminal on the battery and tighten securely. See
Figure 20.
7.
Reposition the battery cover on top of the battery,
making sure it goes over the flange of the nearby
heat shield. See Inset A in Figure 20. Tuck away
the battery cables completely under the battery
cover. See Inset B in Figure 20. Check to ensure
that the cables pass easily through slots in the
battery cover.
Wing Nut -_b !_
Negative
Terminal _
Positive
Terminal
Screw
Cable
A
_ ARNING: Keep battery cables away from
the engine exhaust system.
8. Reinstall wing nuts on the battery hold-down rods
and tighten.
9. Place right hand on the left side of the seat and
slowly lower the hood assembly until fully closed.
,_ WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and
related accessories contain lead and lead
compounds. Wash hands after handling.
CAUTION: Do not place your hand around the bottom
edge of the hood assembly; it may get pinched between
the hood assembly and grass catcher or the frame rail.
Figure 20
Fuel Filter
,_ WARNING: Drain fuel tank or close fuel
Your unit isequipped with a replaceable in-line fuel
filter. Loosen the clamps and replace filter whenever
contamination or discoloration is noticed. See Figure
21. Order replacement filter from Sears service, center.
shut-off valve before replacing fuel filter.
Otherwise fuel can leak creating a fire/
explosion hazard.
2_Fuel Filter
Clam Clamp
Figure 21
22
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