Craftsman 486.24504 User Manual

Operators Manual

1.1 n

5

li-K

SOFT TOP SYSTEM AND CART

Model No. 486.24504

CAUTION:

Before using this product, read

this manual and follow all

Safety Rules and
Operating Instructions.

IMPORTANT - READ THIS FIRST!!!

For Missing Parts or Assembly Questions
Please Call 217-728-8388
Mon.-Fri. 7 am - 5 pm CST.
FAX [phone] or e-mail ¡[e-mail]
Missing parts will be sent UPS in 24 hours directly to your home.

^ m

M

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Parts

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

www.sears.com/craftsman

PRINTED IN U.S.A.

FORM NO. 48796 (2/03)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

WARRANTY

SAFETY RULES................................................3

ACCESSORIES AND ATTACHMENTS

FULL SIZE HARDWARE CHART......................6

CARTON CONTENTS

ASSEMBLY........................................................9

operation........................................................18

......................................................

............

.......................................

2

MAINTENANCE...............................................20

STORAGE.......................................................21

5
8

TROUBLESHOOTING

..................................

REPAIR PARTS ILLUSTRATIONS
REPAIR PARTS LISTS

.........................

.......

..21
22,23,24
22,23,25

SLOPE GUIDE.................................................27

PARTS ORDERING/SERVICE

...........

Rear Cover

WARRANTY

LIMITED WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWERED TRACTOR ATTACHMENTS

For one (1) year from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Equipment is maintained, lubricated and tuned up
according to the instructions in the owner's manuai. Sears will repair or replace free of charge any parts found to be
defective in material or workmanship. Warranty service is available free of charge by returning your Craftsman
equipment to your nearest Sears Service Center. In-home warranty service is available but a trip charge will apply.
This Warranty applies only while this product is in the United States.

This Warranty does not cover;

• Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as spark plugs, air cleaners, belts, and oil filters.

• 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 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, or failure to
maintain the equipment according to the instructions contained in the owner's manuai.

• 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.

• Equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.

LIMITED WARRANTY ON BATTERY

For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery included with the equipment proves defective in material
or workmanship and our testing determines the battery will not hold a charge. Sears will replace the battery at no
charge. Warranty service is available free of charge by returning your Craftsman equipment to your nearest Sears
Service Center. In-home warranty service is available but a trip charge will apply. This Warranty applies only while
this product is in the United States.

TO LOCATE THE NEAREST SEARS SERVICE CENTER OR TO SCHEDULE SERVICE,
SIMPLY CONTACT SEARS AT 1-800-4-MY-HOME.

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

SAFETY

Any power equipment can cause injury if operated improperly or if the user does not understand how to operate the
equipment. Exercise caution at all times, when using power equipment.

Read and foliow ali instructions in this manual before
attempting to assemble or operate this equipment. Failure
to comply with these instructions may result in personal
injury. Keep this manual in a safe place for future reference
and for ordering replacement parts.

Read this operating and service instruction manual carefully.
Be thoroughly familiar with the controls and proper use of
this power vacuum.

Read the vehicle owners manual and vehicle safe operation
rules before using this equipment.

Never allow children under 16 to operate this Vac System.
Children 16 years and older should only operate under
close parental supervision.

Do not allow anyone to operate this equipment without
proper instructions.

Do not allow passengers to ride on this equipment or on the
towing vehicle.

Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, particularly
small children. Also keep area clear of pets.

Check fuel before starting engine. Do not fill fuel tank
indoors, or when engine is running, or while engine is hot.
Wipe off any spilled fuel before starting engine.
Engine and muffler get hot. Do not touch! To avoid fire
hazard, keep clean of debris and other accumulations.

Never store Vac System with fuel in tank. Allow engine to
coo! before storing in any enclosure.

Do not change engine governor settings.
Do not operate engine if air cleaner or cover is removed,

except for adjustment. Removal of these parts could create
a fire hazard.

Keep hands, feet, face, long hair and clothing out of inlet
and discharge area. There are ROTATING BLADES inside
these openings.
Before cleaning, repairing or inspecting, make certain all
moving parts come to a complete stop. Disconnect spark
plug wire and keep wire away from plug to prevent acciden
tal starting. Keep throttle control lever in stop position.

If the Vac System should become blocked with debris at any
point, shut engine off and wait until the impeller comes to a
complete stop before attempting to remove the obstruction.

Disconnect spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting.

If the cutting mechanism strikes a foreign object, or if your
Vac System should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the
engine immediately, disconnect the spark plug wire and
move the wire away from the spark plug. Allow the machine
to stop and take the following steps.

a. Inspect for damage.
b. Repair or replace any damaged parts.
c. Check for loose parts and tighten to assure

continued safe operation.
Check all bolts for tightness at frequent intervals to help
insure safe operation.
Check top cover frequently for wear. Replace if worn or
damaged.

Never operate Vac System unless deck adapter, hose,
hose adapter (nozzle), discharge chute (elbow), and top
cover are properly attached in their place.

Do not remove top cover or attempt to empty contents of
cart while engine is running.

Never attempt to change hose adapter (nozzle) or to install
remote hose attachment when engine is running.

Keep ail shields and guards (e.g. discharge chute (elbow)
and hose adapter (nozzle) in place and securely attached.

Always wear safety glasses or other suitable eye protection
when operating or maintaining this equipment.

Do not stand behind cart in exhaust discharge area while
engine is running.

Do not operate this equipment while intoxicated or while
taking drugs or medication that impairs the senses and
reactions.

When using this equipment, start with the vehicle transmis
sion in first (low) gear and then gradually increase speed
only as conditions permit.
Operate this equipment at reduced speed on rough terrain,
along creeks and ditches and on slopes to prevent tipping
or loss of control. Do not drive too close to a creek or ditch.

Vehicle braking and stability are affected by the addition of
this equipment. Do not fill the Vac System to its full capacity
without checking the capability of the towing vehicle to
safely pull and stop with the Vac System attached.

Before operating on any grade (hill) refer to the safety rules
in the vehicle owner's manual concerning safe operation on
slopes. Also refer to the SLOPE GLMDE on page 27 of this
owner's manual. Do not operate on slopes In excess of 10
degrees.

Follow the maintenance instructions outlined in this manual.

STAY OFF STEEP SLOPES.

A

A

Look for this symbol to point out important safety precautions. It means-Attention!! Become alert!!

Your safety is involved.

DANGER: This Vac System 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 opera
tor can result in serious injury. This unit is capable of amputating fingers and hands and throwing
objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY

Read Owner's Manual and all safety labels on machine before starting and using machine.
Do Not remove top cover or attempt to empty contents of cart while engine is running.
Do Not stand behind cart in exhaust discharge area while engine is running.
Keep hands, feet, face, long hair and clothing out of chipper inlet, vac inlet, and discharge

area. There are ROTATING BLADES inside these openings.
Wear approved safety glasses and gloves. Avoid loose fitting clothes.

Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, particularly small children and pets.
Keep all shields and guards (e.g. upper chipper chute extension, discharge chute, nozzle

assembly) in place and securely attached.
Check discharge boot frequently for wear. Replace if worn or damaged.

If unit becomes clogged or jammed, shut off engine right away. Do Not attempt to clear

clog or jam with engine running.

Muffler and engine get hot and can cause burns. Do Not Touch. To avoid a fire hazard,
keep leaves, grass and other combustible debris off hot muffler and engine.
Do Not attempt to remove or attach vac nozzle or optional Hose Kit with engine running.
Do Not operate unit unless nozzle or optional Hose Kit is secured in place.
Do Not fill gas tank while engine is running. Allow engine to cool at least 2 minutes
before refueling.

A WARNING

MUFFLER & ADJACENT AREAS
MAY EXCEED 150° F

A DANGER

HAZARDOUS ROTATING BLADES INSIDE. KEEP HANDS AWAY FROM
ALL OPENINGS. DO NOT REMOVE OR ATTACH HOSE, HOSE ADAPTER,
ELBOW OR OPTIONAL HOSE KIT WHEN ENGINE IS RUNNINGI

A WARNING

This unit is equipped with an internai combustion engine and should not be used on or near unimproved forest-covered,
or grass-covered land uniess the engine's exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or
state laws {if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.

In the State of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the Caiifornia Public Resources Code). Other
states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester muffler is available at your nearest
engine authorized service center.

ACCESSORIES AND ATTACHMENTS

These accessories were available when the unit was purchased. They are also available at most Sears retail
outlets and service centers. Most Sears stores can order repair parts for you when you provide the modei
numbers of your tractor and Vac System.

The modei and sériai numbers will be found on a decai
attached to the engine base.

You should record both the serial number and the date of
purchase and keep in a safe place for future reference.

MODEL NUMBER:
SERIAL NUMBER:
DATE OF PURCHASE:

486.24504

HARDWARE PACKAGE CONTENTS

SHOWN FULL SIZE

cc

NOT SHOWN FULL SIZE

DD

ATTENTION! Keep contents of each hardware package separate for easier assembly.

CONTENTS OF LARGE VAC HARDWARE PACKAGE

Ref. Qty.

A
B 2

c

Description

Boit, Hex 3/8” X 3”

3

Shoulder Bolt

1 Hex Bolt, 1/2" X 1-1/4"

D 2 Boit, Hex 1/4" X 1-3/4"

4

E

H

J

K 12

L 2

Hex Bolt, 1/4" X 1-1/4"

25 Boit, Hex 1/4" X 5/8"

4

Hex Bolt, 5/16" X 3/4" Thread Forming V 12
Boit, Truss Head 5/16" x 3/4" X 4
Boit, Curved Head 1/4" x 1" Y

Ref. Qty.

P 4 Nylon Washer

Q

R 1

W 4

T

29

U

Description

2

Flat Washer, 5/16"
Flat Washer, 7/16"
Flat Washer, 1"
Hex Nut, 1/4" (SEMS)

4

Hex Lock Nut, 1/4"
Hex Nut, 5/16" (SEMS)
Nylock Nut, 5/16"

5 Nut, Hex Lock 3/8"

M 4 Lock Washer, 5/16" z 1 Hex Lock Nut, 1/2"

N

0

Lock Washer, 3/8" AA 2 Pin, Cotter 1/8" X 1-1/2"

3
2 Flat Washer, 1/4" BB 1 Hair Cotter Pin, 1 /8"

CONTENTS OF SMALL DECK ADAPTER HARDWARE PACKAGE

Not all parts in this bag will be used.

Ref. Qty.

F 2

G 3

1 2

0 3

P

5

12

Q

4 Hex Lock Nut, 1/4"

U

W 4

CC

1

DD 1

EE

1

Description

Hex Bolt, 5/16" X 1"
Hex Bolt, 1/4" X 3/4"

Carriage Bolt, 5/16" x 3/4"

Flat Washer, 1/4"
Nylon Washer
Flat Washer, 5/16"

Hex Lock Nut, 5/16"
Mounting Strap

Angle Bracket

Mounting Bracket

CARTON CONTENTS

Ref. Qty.

Description

Ref. Qty.

1 1 Cover 17 1
2 2
3
4 2
5
6

7
8
9

10
11 2
12 1
13
14 2

15
16

Top Connecting Tube

2

Support Tube, R.H.
Support Tube, LH.

1

Eibow (Discharge Chute)

2 Deck Adapter

1

Hose

1

Hose Hanger Rod Assembly

1

Hose Adapter (Nozzle)

1

Engine
Hose Clamps
Taiigate

2

Cart Bodies
Wheels

1

Taiigate Reinforcement Bracket

1

Wheel Support

18

19
20
21 1
22 1 Hose Hanger Bracket
23

24 1 Hitch Pin
25
26
27 1
28
29
30
31
32 2
33

Description

Latch Stand Bracket

1

Front Pane!

1

Axle

1

Front Tongue
Rear Tongue

1

Hitch Plate

1 Rubber Strap

2

Tailgate Guide
Front Tube Support Bracket, R.H.

1

Front Tube Support Bracket, L.H.

1

Rear Tube Support Bracket, L.H.

1

Rear Tube Support Bracket, R.H.

1

Deck Adapter Bracket
Hub Caps

2

Wheel Spacers

ASSEMBLY

This unit is shipped WITHOUT GASOLINE or OIL. After
assembly, see separate engine manual for proper fuel
and engine oil recommendations.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

(1} Screwdriver
(1) Pliers
(1} 3/8" Wrench
(2) 7/16" Wrenches
(2) 1/2" Wrenches
(2) 9/16" Wrenches
(1} 3/4" Wrench - (2) if hitch plate in fig. 21 is used

REMOVAL OF PARTS FROM CARTONS

• Remove the hardware packs and ail loose parts from
the cartons.

• Lay out and identify parts shown in carton contents.

• Lay out and identify parts in the hardware packs.

Keep contents of each hardware package separate

for easier assembly.

ASSEMBLING THE VAC SYSTEM

• Place cart body halves upright on a smooth level

surface such as a garage floor or a paved driveway.
See figure 1.

Fit the tailgate reinforcement bracket around the end
of the cart body.
Fasten the tailgate reinforcement bracket to the
bottom of the cart body using four 5/16" x 3/4" truss
head bolts and 5/16" (SEMS) hex nuts as shown in
figure 2. Do not tighten yet.

CAUTION: Do not leave the cart unattended in

upright position during assembly. A failing cart

can cause personal injury! Pay close attention

A

• Assemble cart body halves together using three 1/4"

to the stability of the cart while it remains in an

upright position. For best stability, assemble on

a smooth level surface.

X 5/8" hex bolts and 1/4" (SEMS) hex nuts as shown

in figure 1. Do not tighten yet.

Assemble the L.H. Rear Tube Support Bracket to the
top flange of the cart using a 1/4" x 5/8" hex bolt and

1/4" SEMS hex nut. Do not tighten yet. See figure 3.
Fasten a Tailgate Guide to the Tube Support Bracket
and the side of the cart using three 1/4" x 5/8" hex
bolts, a 5/16" washer and three 1/4" SEMS hex nuts.

Place the washer on the bottom hole between the
Tailgate Guide and the side of the cart. Do not

tighten yet. See figure 3.

Repeat for other side of cart.