Craftsman 502.255020 User Manual

®

10

30"

HP° ELECTRIC START

MOWER / MULCHE

5

CAUTION:

Read And Follow

All Safety Rules

And Instructions Before
Operating This

Equipment.

F-92533 11-22-91 Sears, Roebuck and Co,, Chicago, tL. 60684 U,SA, PrintedinUSA

REAR

o Assembly

• Operation

• Customer Responsibilities
= Maintenance

• Service and Adjustment
= Repair Parts

ENGU E IDER

SAFETY RULES

Safe Operation Practices for Riding Vehicles

As Recommended by American National Standards Institute

This cutting 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 to the operator or bystanders°

GENERAL OPERATION:

1 Read, understand and follow all instructions in the Instruction Book. on the machine tbe engine and with any attachments

before starting

2 Only allow responsible adults familiar with the instructions to operate the machine
3 Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc which could be picked up and thrown by the blade

4 Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing Stop the machine if anyone enters the area
5 Never carry passengers.

6 Disengage power to the mower or any attachments before backing up Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary Always

look down and behind before and while backing

7 Be aware of the direction the mower discharges Do not point discharge from the mower at anyone or at places where people may be

Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass bagger or the mower guard in place
8 Slow down before turning
9 Never leave a machine unattended with the engine running Always disengage the blade(s), set the parking brake, stop the engine and

remove the key before dismounting,

10 Disengage power to attachment(s) when transporting or not in use Disengage the blade(s) when not mowing
1 1 Stop the engine before removing the grass bagger or unclogging the chute

12. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light
13 Do not operate the machine whl]e under the influence of alcohol or drugs or when very tired
14 Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways
1 6 Use extra caution when loading or unloading the machine when using a trailer or truck for transporting
1 6 Disengage all attachment clutches and shift into Neutral before attempting to start the engine
1 7 Always wear safety glasses or an eye shield when you operate the unit to protect your eyes from foreign objects that can be thrown

from the unit Always wear eye protection when you make an adjustment or repair to the machine

18 Use care when pulling loads or using heavy equipment

a Use only approved drawbar hitch points

b Limit loads to those you can safely control
c Do not turn sharply, Use care when backing
d Use counterweights or wheel weights when suggested in the Instruction Book

SLOPE OPERATION:

Slopes and rough terrain are major factors related to loss of control and tip over accidents which ca n result in seve re injury or death,
ALL slopes require extra caution If you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on the slope, do not mow it. See the "Slope

Guide" in the back of this book to check for safe operation.

DO

1 Mow up and down slopes not across,
2 Remove obstacles such as rocks, limbs, etc
3 Watch for holes, ruts or bumps. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine Tall grass can hide obstacles.
4 Use slow speed Choose a low enough gear so that you will not have to stop or shift while on the slope
5 Follow the manufacturers recommendations for wheel weights or counterweights to improve stability
6 Use extra care with grass baggers or other attachments, they can change the stability of the machine

7 Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual. Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction
8 Avoid starting or stopping on a slope if tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowty straight down the slope

DO NOT

1

Do riot turn on slopes unless absolutely necessary, then only turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible

2

Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or embankments Awheel over the edge or an edge caving in could cause a sudden overturn and
an injury or death,

3

Do not mow on wet grass Reduced traction could cause sliding

4.

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

5

Do not use a grass bagger or other rear mounted accessories on steep slopes (greater than 10 °)

F-92533

2

SAFETY RULES - continued

CHILDREN:

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of chiJdren_ Children are often attracted to the machine and the

mowing activity NEVER assume that children will remain where you last sew them

1 Keep children out of the mowing area and in the watchful care of an adub other than the operator
2 Be alert and turn the engine off if children enter the area
3 Before and when backing, took behind and down for small children
4 Never carry children or any passengers_ They may faIt off and be seriously injured or interfere with the safe operation of the

macMne

5 Never allow children to operate the machine instruct children in the dangers of the machine
6 Use extra care when approaching bl_nd corners, shrubs, trees or other objects that may obscure vision

SERVICE:

1 Use extra care when handllng gasollne and other fuels Fuels are flammable and the vapors are explosive

a Use only an approved container

b Never remove the gas cap or add fuei with the engine running Allow the engine to cool for several minutes before refueling Do

not smoke

c Never refuel the machine indoors
d Never store the machine with fuel in the tank or fuel container inside where there is an open flame, such as a water

heater

2 Never start or run the engine inside a closed area
3 Keep a[f nuts and bo{ts, especially the blade attachment nuts tight Frequently check the blade(s} for wear or damage such as cracks

and nicks A blade that is bent or damaged must be immediately replaced with an original equipment blade from an authorized service
dealer For safety, replace the blade every two years Keep the equipment _n good condition

4 Never tamper with the safety devices Check their proper operation regularly

5 To reduce fire hazards keep the machine free of grass, leaves or other debris build-up Clean up oil or fue_ sp_llage Allow the machine to

cool before storing

Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object Repair, if necessary, before re-starting
Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine running The carburetor can be adiusted with the engine running Do not change
the engine governor settings or overspeed the engine

B Grass bagger components are subject to wear. damage and deterioration, which could expose moving parts or allow objects to be

thrown For storage, always make sure the grass bag is empty Frequently check components and replace with manufacturers recommended
parts when necessary

9 Mower blade(s) are sharp and can cut Wrap the blade(a) or wear gloves and use extra caution when servicing them or the blade

housing area

! 0 Check the brake operation frequently Adjust and service as required
11 Wait for all movement to stop before servicing any part of the unit

A Look for this symbol to indicate important safety

F_92533 3

precautions This symbol indicates: "Attention!

Become Alert! Your Safety Is At Risk."

Congratulations on your purchase of a Sears Rider It has been
designed, engineered and manufactured to give you the best

possible dependability and performance

If you experience any problems you cannot easily remedy, please
see your nearest Sears Service Department We have competent,
wet! trained technicians and the proper tools to service or repair this

unit

Please read and retain this manual The instructions will enable you
to assemble and maintain your unit properly Always observe the

"Safety Rules"

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

e Carefully read and follow the rules for safe operation Inspect

the unit

• Follow all the assembly instructions Carefully adjust the unit
e Know how to operate all standard and aceessary equipment on

the unit Make sure the operator can correctly operate the unit

e Operate the unit only with guards, shields and other safety

items in place and working correctly

e Complete all maintenance on the unit Service the unit only with

authorized or approved replacement parts

e See the Customer Responsibility / Maintenance Chart

NOTE: This unit is equipped with an inter nalcombustion engine and
must not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered,
brush-covered orgrass-covered land unless the engine's exhaust

system is equippedwith aspark attester meeting applicable local or
state laws (if any) tf a spark attester is used, it must be maintained

in effective working order by the operator
Inthe State of California, the above is required by law (Section 4442

of the California Public Resources Code) Other states may have

simiiar laws Federal laws apply on federal lands. See an Authorized

Service Center for a spark attester for the muffler

MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT

A Sears Maintenance Agreement is available on this unit See the

nearest Sears Store for information

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Craftsman Engine 10 HR

Charging System 3 amperes at 3600 rpm
Fuel TankSIze 3 quarts
Type of Fuel Unleaded Regular

Oil Capacity 32 ounces
Oil Type Above 32 degrees SAE 30 or 10W30

Below 32 degrees SAE 5W30

Spark Plug (Gap &030") Champion J-8C

Tire Air Pressure Front 24 psi

All Gear Transaxle Five forward speeds and one reverse
Ground Speed Range Forward 0-43 mph

Tilt Seat The seat tilts forward for easy access to the battery
Side Panels Easily removed for access to the engine
Mower Housing The full-floating suspension and single blade
give an even cut A removable mulcher plate that lets you mulch the
grass and leaves The lift lever has eight positions from 1-1/2 to 4

inches
Blade Nut Torque 30 foot-pounds (ft-lbs)

RIDING LAWN MOWER

Record in the space below the serial number and the date
of purchase of this unit

The model number and serial number are found under the
seat on a decal attached to the seat support

Model Number: 502,255020

Serial Number:

Date of Purchase:

Keep these numbers for future reference.

Sears 71-33312
STD361458

Rear 14 psi

Reverse 0-2 1 mph

......................i.¸ii/: :.:...:: L........................_::::_ _L_i:M:I¸TE:D:TW IO_:_:_Y_:A_R[_:a _R¸AN:_ ¸_[¸:_i:i¸_:_IEi¸¸_¸:_;_:::_:_:L::::::::_i___:i__:__::__:_,:;_:+:_;::_:__::i_:_:_:_

ON ELECTRIC START RIDING EQUIPMENT H

For two 2 years from the date,of purchase, if this riding equipment is manta ned, ubricated and tuned up acco d g I I

to the instructions in the owners manual Sears will repair or rep ace free of charge, any parts oundto be de ec ve I::l

in materia, or workmanship ft

This warranty does not cover: I_1

e Expendable items which becorne worn during normal use, such as blades spark plugs, air cleaners and belts I: I
e Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails, thorns, stumps or glass I I
e Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, negligence improper storage or accident or the failure o ma a n | I

the equipment according to the instructions contained in the owner's manual I I

e Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes I. I

LIMITED 90 DAY WARRANTY ON BATTERY [iI

For 90 days from the date of purchase, if any battery included with this riding equipment proves defect ve ma eral I I

or workmanship and our testing determines the battery will not hold a charge, Sears will replace the battery at no I 1
charge II

WARRANTY SERVICE IS AVAILABLE BY RETURNING THE RIDING EQUIPMENT TO THE NEAREST SEARS | I

SERVICE CENTER/DEPARTMENT IN THE UNITED STATES. ILI

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

., Sears, Roebuck and Co. Di731CR-W, Sears Tower, Chicago, Illinois 60684_ /i:...jll

F_92533 4

II

II

I t

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SAFETY RULES .................................................... 2-3

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

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

WARRANTY .......................................................... 4

TABLE OF CONTENTS ............................................ 5

INDEX ..................................................................... 5

RIDER ATTACHMENTS ......................................... 6

ASSEMBLY ........................................................... 7-11

OPERATION ................................................ 12-17

A

Adjustments:

glade Engagement Control ...... 20

grake. Drive ...................... 21

Carburetor ........................ 25

Mower Housing. Level ......... 28

Throttle Control Cable ........... 25

Air Screen ........................ 23

Assembly ........................................... 7 - 11

Attachments ...................................... 6

Starting ................................... 15

Stopping ....... 13

Storage ................................ 30

Throttle Control ........................... 12 25

Trouble Shooting Chart ................ 31

Filter. Air ................................... 24

Fuel ............................. 15

Fuel System Storage ......................... 30

Fuse ............................. 29.31 42

B

Bagging Tips ................. 16

Batter/:

Charge .................. 9

Clean and Check ....................... 22

Emergency Start ....... 29

install ................... 10

Storage ...................... 30

Belt:

Motion Drive. Replace ............... 27

Mower Drive, Adjust ............ 20

Mower Drive, Replace ..................... 27

Routing Check ........................ 9

Blade, Remove and install .............. 19

glade, Sharpen ........................... 19

glade Engagement Control:

Adjust .......................... 20

Operation ....................................... 14

Brake, Check and Adjust Drive 21
Brake Check and Adjust Transaxle 21

Brake Pedal Operation .......... 12

C

Carburetor Adjust .................. 25

Charge Batter/ .............................. 8

Charge Mower Housing To Mulcher ........ 17

Clutch/Brake Pedal ................... 12

Controls ................................. 12

Cutting Height .................... 14, 29

E

Electrical Schematic ....................... 50

Engine:

Carburetor ............................ 25

Oil. Change .......................... 23

Oil Level Check .................... 23

Oil. Type ............................. 23

Operation Speed Chart ...................... 13

Lift Lever ................... 12

Lubdca tion ............................. 17

Maintenance ........................... 18 - 24

Air Filter ..................................... 24

Air Screen ............................. 23

Batter/ .................................... 22

Blade ......................................................... 19

Blade Engagement Control ............. 20

Brake ............................................ 21

Clutch .......................... 21

Engine Oil ........................................... 23

Lubrication .................. !8

Muffler, Check ........... 24

Spark Arrestor ........... 4 24

Spark Plug ...................................... 24

Tires ........................ 22

Transaxfe Brake ............................. 21

Maintenance Schedule ........................ 18

Mower Housing:

Clean ........................ 29

Level .................................................. 28

Remove and install ............... 26

Mowing and Bagging Tips .......... 16

Oil:

Check ................................... 23

Change ............................. 23

Operating Tips ............................. 16

Operation ..................... 12- 17

Lift Lever ............................ 12

Mower Housing ..................... !4

Mulcher ................................... 16

Operate On Hills .................... 14

INDEX

F

L

M

O

MAINTENANCE .............................................. 18-24

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENT ...................... 25-29

STORAGE ........................................................... 30

TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART ................................ 31

REPAIR PARTS, MOWER ........................................32-43

REPAIR PARTS, TRANSAXLE ......................... 44-45

REPAIR PARTS, ENGINE ............................. 46-49

ELECTRICAL SCHEMATIC ................................... 50

PARTS ORDERING/SERVICE ................. Back Page

Parking Brake .............. 12, 13

Shift Lever .................. 12 13

Start Engine ......................... 15

Stop The Unit .................. 13

P

Parking Brake ............................ 12 13

Parts Bag Riding Mower ....................... 7

R

Replace Motion Drive Belt ........... 27

Replace Mower Drive Belt ............... 27

s

Safety Rules ...................... 2 - 3

Seat, Install ..................................... 11

Service and Adjustment ...... 25 - 29

Batter/ Emergency Start ............ 29

Mower Drive Belt ................... 27

Carburetor ................................. 25

Height 0fCut .................................. 29

Level Mower Housing ........ 28

Motion Drive Belt .......... 27

Mower Housing, Install ............. 26

Mower Housing Remove ................ 26

Sharpen. Blade ................................. 19

Shift Lever ................... 12 13

Side Panel Remove ............. 22

Slope Guide ................................... 51

Spark Plug ............................................ 24

Specifications Product ............... 4

Speed Control Chart ........................... 13

Start Engine .......................... 15

Steering Wheel ................................... 9

Stop, Riding Mower ............................... 13

Storage ........................................... 30

T

Throttle Control ............................ 14

Throttle Control Cable. Adjust ........ 25

Tire Pressure ................................. 22

Trouble Shooting Chart ............. 31

Transaxle Brake ....................... 21

Transport ............................................... 14

w

Warranty ..................................... 4

Wheel, Align Front ................. 29

Wiring Schematic .................... 50

F-92533 5

ACCESSORIES AND ATTACHMENTS

These accessories arrd attachments were available when the unit was purchased. They are also available at most Sears retail outlets, catalog
arrd service centers. Most Sears stores can order these items for you when you provide the model number of your riding mower

ENGINE

MAINTENANCE

SPARK PLUG MUFFLER AIR FILTER GAS CAN ENGINE OIL STABILIZER

BLADES BELTS

PERFORMANCE

Sears offers a wide variety of attachments that fit your riding mower Many of these are listed below with brief explanations of flow they can
help you This list was current at the time of publication; however, it may change in future years- more attachments may be added, changes

may be mode in these attachments, or some may no longer be available or fit your model Contact your nearest Sears store for the
accessories and attachments that are available for your unit.

Most of these attachments do not require additional hitches or corrversion kits (those that do are indicated) and are designed for easy attaching
and detaching

GRASS BAGGER lets you collect grass clippings and leaves far a
healthier, nearer looking lawn. Two Grass containers hold 33-gallon
disposable plastic bags and offers 7 bushel capacity

LAWN SWEEPERS let you collect grass clippings and leaves
CARTS make hauling easy Variety of sizes available
ROLLER for smoother lawn surface. 36-inch wide, 18-inch

diameter water-tight drum holds up to 390-tbs of weight Rounded
edges prevent harmtoturf Adjustable scrape rautomatically cleans

drum
SPREADER/SEEDERS make seeding, fertilizing and weed killing

easy. Bioadcast spreaders are also useful for granular deicers and

sand

CORING AERATOR takes small plugs out of soil to allow moisture
and nutrients to reach grass roots 36-inch swath 24 hardened

2 5-inch steel coring tips 150-1b weight tray

AERATOR promotes deep root growth for a healthy lawn. Tapered
2_5-inch steel spikes mounted on 10-inch diameter disc puncture

holes in soil at close intervals to let moisture soak in Steel weight

tray for increased penetration.

MULCH RAKE/DETHATCHER loosens soil and flips thatch and
matted leaves to lawn surface for easy pickup. Twenty spring tine

teeth Useful to prepare bare areas for seeding Available for rear

mounting only.
SPRAYERS use 12-volt DC electric motor that connects to the

tractor battery or other 12-volt source Includes booms for

automatic spraying when pulling, and hand held wand for spot
spraying Wand has adjustable spray pattern For applying

herbicides, insecticides, fungicides and liquid fertilizers

MULCHER CONVERSION KIT turns your ridel into a mulching
mower

NOTE: Do not use pull-behind attachments on slopes that are greater than lO-degrees_

F-92533 6

ASSEMBLY

PREPARATION

Before being put in the carton, the u nit was carefully inspected The
carton was made to protect the unit dudng shipment

The unit !s completely assembled except for the items shown on

this page These items are in the carton with a parts bag which
contains the fasteners to assemble the unit Find and remove

these items

HOW TO REMOVE FROM THE CARTON

To remove the unit from the carton, follow the instructions below

1 Open the top of the ca_on

2 Remove the wood frame at the top of the carton
3 Remove the boxes labeled (A) and (B) from the carton

Remove the seat and containers from the carton NOTE: the
seat and containers are each covered with a protective
sleeve

4 The items shown at the right are in a small unmarked box

Remove and check each item Remove the small box

5 Cut each corner of the carton from the top to the bottom with

a knife

NOTE: See the Operation section for the location of

the controls.

6 Move the shift lever to the NEUTRAL position
7 Move the lift lever to the HiGH position

CAUTION: Check the bottom of the carton for staples
Remove any staples that are in the path of the tires

8 From the back of the unit, carefully pull the unit backwards

off the wood frame

TOOLS YOU NEED TO ASSEMBLE THE UNIT

1 Adjustable wrench 5 Phillips screwdriver

2 Open end wrench 1/2" - 9/16" 6 Low Tire pressure gauge
3 Open end wrench 7/1 6" - 1/2" 7 Knife

4 Blade type screwdriver 8 Socket Set (OpdonaI)

8artery

SteedngWh_

PARTS BAG- contents for Riding Mower

The fasteners and loose parts are shown below, The fasteners are shown full size with the quantities in brackets (),

:'i?i'!?i?!?i?i?!'i'i?i'_?;"

.......... i.i ......... i.

(1) Cover, Battery Cable

For Positive Terminal

54148

(1) Clamp

91565

Not'lhow_ full

(1) Clamp, Battery

5/16"-18 15x66

15x88

12) Hex Bolt

For Battery Terminals (3) Carriage Bolt

1/4"-20 x 5/8" For Seat Bracket

lx38 5/16"-1 B x 3/4"

2x53

(2) Ignition Key

F-92533 91275

(2) Hex Bolt

For Seat

5/16"-18 x 5/8"

1x45

Not Ihown full =izo

(4) Hub Cap

For Wheels

7

,iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii!i!i

For Battery Drain

_ap

For Battery Drain

!f.r%%

(2) Lockwasher

For Seat

I,D, 5/16"

18x16

56205Z

ASS EM BLY

HOW TO PREPARE AND
CHARGE THE BATTERY

NOTE: Before you install the battery, add the battery acid
(Electrolyte) and charge the battery Battery acid will damage

paint and parts,

WARNING: Read the instructions included with

the battery acid container. Protect your hands

and eyes from the battery acid. Use clothing that
will protect you.

1 If the vent caps are not installed on the battery remove the

vent caps from the plastic bag Read the instructions
included with the vent caps Your unit will have one or the
other types of batteries as shown

2 If metal tape covers the vents, remove the metal tape from

the vents Discard the metal tape

3 Pour battery acid into each battery cell until the battery acid

touches the bottom of the vent as shown Do not add the
battery acid above the bottom of the vent tf you add too

much battery acid the excessive battery acid wilt flow from
the battery when you charge the battery

4 Wait 20 to 30 minutes before you put the vent caps on the

battery White you wait for the battery, you can continue with
the assembly of the unit

5 The level of the battery acid can drop below the vent

described in step 3 Add more battery acid until tile correct
battery acid level is reached Install the vent caps Wash the

top of the battery with water to remove any battery acid

6 D_sca{d the battery acld container and any battery acid that

was not used as follows Fill the container half full with water
Add baking soda and mix together using a p_ece of wood

Add more baking soda until the solution does not foam
Discard the solution and wash the container with water

Destroy the container

WARNING: When you charge the battery, do not
smoke Keep the battery away from any sparks.
The fumes from the battery acid can cause an
explosion.

7 Use a 12 volt battery charger to charge the battery Charge at

a rate of 6 amperes for 1 hour

8 After the battery is charged check the level of the battery

acid If the levet of the battery acid falls add water Do not
add battery acid to a charged battery or the result can be
an expiosion

9 The engine has a 3 amperes charging system. If you frequently

start the engine or frequently use the headlight (if equipped),

the battery will not stay fully charged For longer life of the

battery charge the battery every three months

Remove and discard

D-4701-1

CUT AWAY VIEW

W W

Vent Well

_'_ Liquid

j Level

DANGER

BATTERY ACID WILL

CAUSE SEVERE BURNS

Contains sulphudc acid

Do not tot the battery acid come in contact with Ihe skin [he eyes or the

clothing

To prevent accidents neutralize the battery acid that was not used To
neutralize fill the container half fu!l with water Add baking soda and

mix using a piece of wood undt the solution does not foam Discard the
solution and wash the container with water Destroy the container

ANTIDOTE:

External - Wash the area with waler then wash with a solution of
water and sodium bicarbonate

Internal - Drink large amounts of water, milk, ot milk of magnesia
Drink water mixed with the whites of eggs Call e Doctor immediately
Eyes - Flush with water for 15 mlnutes and then get immediate
medical help

POISlON

- KEEP AWAY FROM CHILDREN -

_" ',%

% /

Cap

O-5213

F-g2533 8

ASSEMBLY

HOW TO ASSEMBLE

THE STEERING WHEEL

Use the fasteners shown below to install the steering wheel The
fasteners are shown at full slze

,,,u i

Steeling Wheel

©

A

1x102

1 Make sure the front wheels point forward Slide the bellows

over the steering post Make sure the collar of the bellows is
on top Push on the top of the bellows

2 Attach the steering wheel to the steering post with the fas-

teners as shown Tighten the fasteners

HOW TO ATTACH THE HUB CAPS

Push each hub cap onto the center hub of each wheel Make sure
the washer holds the hub cap in place

Bottom

View

B Top

15x88 View

A

B

Beaows

D 5699

CHECK THE BELTS

Check the routing of the belts Make sure the belts are not twisted

Make sure the belts are inside all the belt guides

i r,i ,,111

Motion Drive

Belt Guide Belt

Guide

CHECK THE TIRES

Check the alr pressure in the tires Tires with too much air pressure

will cause the unit to ride rough Also, the wrong air pressure will

keep the mower houslng from cutting level The correct air
pressure (PSI) for each Rear Wheel is 14 PSI (10 kg/cm2) and for

each Front Wheel the air pressure is 24 PSI (16 kg/cm2) Models
that have seml-pneumet_c front wheels will not have a PSI

F_92533

Mower Drive

Transaxle Pul{ey

Belt Guide" /

0-4825

Belt

CHECK THE DRIVE BRAKE

The drive brake can be easily checked as follows Set the parking

brake Move the shift lever to the neutral (N) posltlon_ Push the unit
If the rear wheels rotate, adjust the drive brake See "How To Check
And Adjust The Ddve Brake"

9

Belt Guide

Pulley

ASSEMBLY

HOW TO INSTALL THE BAI-rERY

Use the fasteners shown below to install the battery, The fasteners
are shown full size

A

91565 B

Q

C

15x66 D

lx38

Battery Tray

Drain Tube

Drain Tube

Clamp

A

1 Check the level of the acid If the acid has fallen below the

correct level, add water to the correct level

2 Attach the drain tube to the bottom of the battery tray

Fasten the drain tube with clamp (A) as shown Push the
drain tube through the hole in the frame as shown Pull the
drain tube along the frame to the rear of the unit. Make sure

the drain tube is above the clutch idler spring Fasten the
drain tube to the side of the frame with tie strap (S) as
shown

3 Set the battery in the battery tray Make sure the battery

terminals are towards the center of the frame The correct
position of the battery terminals are shown in the illustration

Make sure there are not any wires under the battery tray or
the battery

4 Fasten the battery with the battery clamp as shown, Make

sure there are net any wires between the battery and the
battery clamp.

5 Slide the cover for the positive (+) terminal onto the red

battery cable as shown

WARNING: To prevent sparks, fasten the red

cable to the positive (+) terminal before you
connect the black cable to the negative (-}
terminal.

6 Fasten the red battery cable to the positive (+) terminal with

the nut and bolt as shown
7 Slide the cover over the positive (+) terminal
8 Fasten the black battery cable to the negative (-) terminal

with the nut and bolt as shown
9 To prevent corToslon, apply grease to the battery terminals

O Tie Strap

i

C

BLACK

Covet

F-92533 10

0-4627.3

ASSEMBLY

HOW TO INSTALL THE SEAT

Use the fasteners shown below to instalt the seat The fasteners are
shown at full size

(A) (B)

lx45 18xlB

Seat

Seal Bfackel

D

(C} BoIlom (D) Top

2x53 View tSx88 V_ew

1 With the seat hinge towards the front of the unit. align the

holes in the seat bracket with the holes in the seat support
Pull the wire harness between the seat hinge and the seat
bracket as shown Fasten the seat bracket to the seat support

with the fasteners as shown Do not tighten the fasteners

2 Carefully remove the protective sleeve and the plastic bag

from around the seat Do not damage the wire under the seat
Align the holes in the seat hinge to the holes in the seat

Fasten the seat to the seat hinge with the fasteners as

shown

3 Check the operating posltlon of the seat If the seat needs to

be adjusted slide the seat forward or backward along the
adjusting holes as shown To keep the seat bracket straight.

first tighten the rear nut and then tighten the two front
nuts

4 Connect the wire from the seat switch sensor to the wire

harness Make sure the tab part of the connector from the
seat switch sensor locks into the latch of the wire harness

connector

C

Seat

Wire From Seat

Switch Sensor

Seat Bracket

Sea_

Holes

/

/

unit, connect the wire from the seat switch
WARNING: For correct and safe operation of the

sensor to the wire harness

CHECK THE LEVEL OF
THE MOWER HOUSING

The lever of cut was set at the factory After the unit is fully assemble.

completely read the Operation Section
Make sure the level of cut is set at the height you llke for your lawn
Check the operation of the mower housing Mow a short distance
and look at the area that was cut If the mower housing does not cut
level, see the instructfons on "How To Level The Mower Housing"

F-92533 1 1

D #BO:

SPECIAL MULCHER FEATURE

The mower housing has a special cover that lets you mulch the

lawn for a clean, fine cut To operate the mower housing as a
standard discharge unit or if used with a grass bagger the mu!eher

cotter must be removed

IMPORTANT: There are several different types of grass
Because of the different textures of grass, some grass is
mere difficult to cut., If you remove the mulcher cover and
the performance of the mower discharge or grass bagger
accessory is not acceptable you need to replace the mulcher

blade with a standard blade A standard blade, part number
56212, is available from your nearest Sears Service

Department

OPERATION

KNOW THE PRODUCT

Before you operate the unit, read this instruction book If you understand the unit and how the unit operates you will get the best
performance When you read this instruction book compare the illustrations to the unit Learn the location of the controls To help prevent an
accident followthe operating instructions and the safety rules Keep this instruction book for future reference

C]ulch, Bfake

Peda_

Throttle Control

Blade Engag

Igrlilion SwiIch

Lever

ParMng Brake

Lever

MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

Sears Mowers conform to the safety standards of the American National Standards Institute and the US Consumer Product Safety
Commission

BLADE ENGAGEMENT CONTROL LEVER: Use the control

lever to start and stop the rotation of the blade

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL: The pedal has two functions The first
function is a clutch The second function is a brake

IGNITION SWITCH: Use the ignition switch to start and stop the
engine

LIFT LEVER: Use the Hft lever to change the height of cut

PARKING BRAKE LEVER: Use the parking brake lever to
engage the brake when you leave the unit

SHIFT LEVER: Use the shift lever to change the speed of the
unit

THROTTLE CONTROL LEVER: Use the throttle control to
increase or decrease the speed of the engine

F-92533 12

The operation of any lawn mower can result in
foreign objects thrown in the eyes, which can

result in severe eye damage Always wear safety

glasses or eye shields before starting your lawn
mower and while mowing We recommend the

Wide Vision Safety Mask for over the spectacles
or standard safety glasses, available at Sears
Retail or Catalog Stores

HOW TO USE THE MOWER

HOW TO SET THE PARKING BRAKE

1

Completely push the clutch/brake pedal forward

2

Lift the parking brake lever

3

Remove your foot from the clutch/brake pedal and then
release the parking brake lever Make sure the parking brake

will hold the unit
To release the parking brake, completely push the

clutch/brake pedal forward The parking brake will

automatically release

WARNING: Before you leave the operator's

OPERATION

Shift Gate

J

J

i

Z _

position Set the parking brake Move the blade
position, move the shift lever to the neutral (N)

engagement control to the DISENGAGE posffion
Stop the engine and remove the ignition key

HOW TO STOP THE UNIT

1 Push the pedal completely forward to stop the unit Keep

your foot on the pedal

2 Move the blade engagement control to the DISENGAGE

position

3 Move the shift lever to the NEUTRAL position
4 Set the parking brake
5 Move the throttie control to the SLOW position
6 To stop the engine turn the ignition key to the OFF position

Remove the key

HOW TO USE THE SHIFT LEVER

CAUTION: Before you move the shift lever, completely push
the clutch/brake pedal forward to stop the unit If the unit is not

stopped, the transaxle can be damaged

1 Completely push the clutch,brake pedal forward to stop the

unit Keep your foot on the pedal
2 Move the throttle control lever to the SLOW position
3 To move the shift lever to NEUTRAL from a forward gear. pull

the shift lever back and then to the left until the lever goes

past the tab
4 To move the shift lever to a forward gear from NEUTRAL pull

the lever to theleh Then push the lever forward

5 Slowly release the clutch, brake pedal Do not keep your foot

on the pedal
6 Move the throttle comrol ;o the FAST position

7 To move the shift lever to REVERSE stop the unit Move the

shift lever to the NEUTRAL position First move the shift lever

to the right until the shift lever stop clears the shift gate. and

then move back to REVERSE
NOTE: Belt noise can occur when the clutch is engaged. This

noise is normal and does not affect the operation of the unit

F-92533 I3

,-2

m

Tab

THROTTLE

FAST

OPERATION

HOW TO USE THE THROTTLE CONTROL

Use the throttle control to increase or decrease the speed of the
engine

1 To start a cold engine move the lever to the START or

CHOKE position

2 The FAST position is marked with a detent For normal

operations and when using a grass bagger move the lever to
the FAST position For maximum charging of the battery and

also for a cooler running engine, operate the engine in the

FAST position

3 For transport and to tow pull behind attachments move the

throttle control to the needed speed

4 The engine governor is set at the factory for maximum

performance Do not adjust the governor to increase the

speed of the engine

HOW TO CHANGE THE CUTTING HEIGHT

To change the curing height, raise or lower the lift lever The

cutting height can be set from 1 V2 to 4 inches When you ride on a
sidewalk or a road. move the lift lever to the HI position and move

the btade engagement control to the DISENGAGE position

HOW TO USE

THE BLADE ENGAGEMENT CONTROL

See the location of the blade engagement contro_ Jn the illustration
Use the biade engagement control to start and stop the rotation of
the blade

1 Before you start the engine make sure the control leve+ is in

the DISENGAGE position

2 Move the centre{ lever to the ENGAGE position to rotate

the blade
Note : If the engine stops when you engage the blade(s)+

the seat switch is not activated Make sure you sit in the

middle of the seat Also. make sure the wire is connected
to the seat switch

3 Move the centre{ lever to the DISENGAGE position to stop

the rotary btade Before you leave the operators position
make sure the blade has stopped rotating

4 Before you ride the unit on a sidewalk or a road move the

control lever to the DISENGAGE position

awayfromtheblade+deflectoropening and the
WARNING: Always keep your hands and feet

mower housing when the engine runs

HOW TO TRANSPORT THE UNIT

To transport the unit. follow the steps below

1 Move the btade engagement contro_ to the DISENGAGE

position
2 Raise the lift lever to the HI position
3 Move the thrortle centre+ to a position between SLOW

and FAST
4 To go faster move the shift lever to a faster speed

HOW TO OPERATE WITH

THE MOWER HOUSING

WARNING: "['he deflector is a safety device Do

not remove the deflector, The deflector forces

the discharged material toward the ground
Always keep the deflector in the down position
If the deflector is damaged+ replace it with a
factory replacement part

1 Start the engine

2 Move the lift lever to a height of cut position in high or thick

grass cut the grass in the high position first and then lower
the mower housing to a lower position

3 Move the throttle control to the SLOW position
4 Move the blade engagement control to the ENGAGE

position

5 Push the clutch/brake pedal completely forward
6 Move the shift lever to one of the speed settings

NOTE: When you mow in heavy grass or mow with a

bagger, put the shift lever in the slowest speed

7 Slowly release the clutch/brake pedal

8 Move the throttle control to the FAST position If you need to

go faster or slower stop the unit and move the shiftiever to
another speed setting

9 Make sure the level of cut set at the factory is still correct

After you mowa short distance Iookat the area that was cut

If the mower housing does not cut level see the instructions

on "How To Level The Mower Housing" in the maintenance
section

WARNING: Forbettercontroloftheunit, always

select a safe speed

HOW TO OPERATE THE UNIT ON HILLS

WARNING: Do not ride up or down slopes that
are too steep to back straight up Never ride the
unit across a slope See the "Slope Guide" in the

back of this book for information on how to
check slopes

1 Before you ride up or down a hill move the shift lever to the

slowest speed

2 Do not stop or change speed settings on a hill If you must

stop quickly push the clutch/brake pedal forward and set the

parking blake

3 To start again make sure the shift {ever is the slowest speed

Move the throttle control to the SLOW position S{ow+y
release the pedal

4 If you mast stopor start on a hilI always have enough space

for the unit to roll when you release the brake and engage
the clutch

5 Be very careful when you change directions on a hill When

onastopeorina turn onahill move the throttle control to the

SLOW position to help prevent an accident

F_92533 1 4

OPERATION

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE

CHECK OIL - Add as needed

NOTE: Do not check the level of the oil while the engine
runs

1 Make sure the unit is tevel

2 Clean the area around the dipstick Remove the dipstick

Wipe the oil from the dipstick

3 Insert the dipstick into the oil fill tube Turn the dipstick clockwise

untiI it is tight Remove the dipstick Check the oil level on the
dipstick The oll level must reach the FULL mark on the

dipstick

4 If necessary, add oil until the oil reaches the FULL mark on

the dipstick The quantity of oiI needed from ADD to FULL is
shown on the dipstick Do not add too much oil

ADD GASOLINE

Fill the fuel tank with regular unleaded gasoline Make sure the
gasoline is fresh and clean Leaded gasoline will _ncrease deposits
and shorten the life of the valves Do not use premium unIeaded

gasoline

CAUTION: A mixture of alcohol (ethanol or methanol) and

gasoline (called gasohol)_ will attract moisture and cause acid
deposits during storage While the unit is in storage, the acids
in the fuel can damage the fuel system

To prevent engine problems with the fuel system, empty the

fuel system before storage of 30 days or longer Drain the fuel
tank, Start the engine Let the engine run until the fuel lines and
the carburetor are empty, After storage, make sure you use
,flesh fuel, See the storage instructions for additional information
Never use engine cleaner or carburetor cleaner in the fuel tank

or permanent damage can occur,

HOW TO START THE ENGINE

WARNING: The electrical system has an

operator presence system that includes a sensor
switch mounted in the seat These components
tell the electrical system if the operator is sitting
on the seat For your protection, always make
sure this system operates correctly This system

will stop the engine when the operator leaves
the seat if the blade engagement control is

engaged

NOTE: The engine will not start unless you depress the
clutch/brake pedal, move the shift lever to the NEUTRAL
position, and move the blade engagement control to the
DISENGAGED position

I Sit in the middle of the seat Completely pusl_ the

clutch/brake pedal forward Keep your foot on the pedal
2 Move the shift lever to the NEUTRAL (N) position
3 Move the blade engagement control to the DISENGAGE

position
4 Move the throttle control to the CHOKE position

5 Turn the ignition key to the START position Release the key

when the engine starts

NOTE: If the engine does not start after four or five tries.

move the throttle control to the FAST position Again try

to start the engine If the engine will not start, see the

TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART

6 After the engine starts move the throttle control from

CHOKE to a needed speed

7 Before you begin .work, let a cold engine run for several

minutes To start a hot engine move the throttle control toa
position between FAST and SLOW

WARNING: Always use a safety gasoline
container, Do not smoke when adding gasoline

to the fuel tank, Do not add gasoline when you

are inside an enclosure Before you add
gasoline, stop the engine and let the engine cool

for several minutes

CARBURETOR

The factory settings for the carburetor are for most conditions If

the engine is operated under the following conditions you can
adjust the carburetor mixture See "How To Adjust The Carburetor"
in the maintenance section

1 The engine has a loss of power or does not run smooth

2 A change from summer to winter operation
3 A40 ° change in the operation temperature The carburetor

was adjusted at 80 ° at the factory

4 The engine is operated above 4 000 feet

F-92533 1 5

OPERATION

HOW TO OPERATE THE UNIT
AS A MULCHER

A Mutcher cuts the grass fine so that the grass can be easily
recycled Because the nutrients are returned to the soil, the lawn

will need less fertilizer'. To correctly muJch the lawn, follow the
tips below

a Operate the engine of the Riding Mower at the FULL

throttle setting

a The grass must be dry If the grass is wet, it will be difficult to

cut and cause clumps of grass

o The grass must not be too high Set the mower housing

height of cut so that only the top third of the grass is cut. If the
grass is too high. set the height of the mower housing to the

maximum height Then, lower the height of cut for the
second mowing

During the mowing season when the grass grows quick_y,
you need to mow more than once a week

Keep a sharp edge on the blade_ A blade that is not sharp will

cause the ends of the grass to become brown
Clean the underside of the mower housing Grass and other
debris can keep the mower from working correctly

If the quality of cut is marginal, try the following:

o Set the height of cut at a higher cutting height

Cut the grass more frequently
Operate the mower at a slower ground speed and at the

FAST throttle control position
Overlap the path of cut instead of using the full width of the

mower housing
Mow across the marginal areas a second time
Keep the blade sharpened See "How To Sharpen The Blade 't

in the maintenance section of the Owner's Manual for the
Riding Mower

a For a lawn to took better, check the cutting level of the

mower housing See "How To Level The Mower Housing" in

the maintenance section of the Owner's Manual for the

Riding Mower

MOWING AND BAGGING TIPS

7

Discharge the cut grass onto the mowed area The result is a
more even discharge of cut grass

8

When you mow large areas, start by turning to the right so
that the cut grass will discharge away from shrubs, fences,
driveways, etc After one or tame rounds, mow in the opposite
direction making left turns until finished

- ....

..i ,'J

9 If the grass is very high, cut two times to decrease the load on

the engine First cut with the mower housing in the HIGH
position and then lower the mower housing for the

second cut.

I0 For better engine performance and an even discharge of the

cut grass, always operate the engine with the throttle in

FAST position

11 When you use a bagger, operate the engine with the throttle

in FAST position and the shift lever in first or second gear.

12 For better cutting performance and a quality cut, mow with

the shift lever in one of the slower speed gears

13 After each use, clean the bottom and top of the mower housing

for better performance Also. a clean mower housing will
help prevent a fire

IMPORTANT: There are several different types of grass.
Because of the different textures of grass, some grass is
more difficult to cut. If you remove the mulcher plate and

the performance of the mower discharge or grass bagger

accessory is not acceptable you need to replace the mulcher
blade with a standard blade. A standard blade, part number
5621 2, is available from your nearest Sears Service

Department_

I For a lawn to look better, check the cutting level of the

mower housing See "How To Level The Mower Housing" in
the maintenance section

2 For the mower housing to cut level, make sure the tires have

the correct amount of sir pressure {PSI)

3 Ever,/time you use the unit, check the blade If the blade is

bent or damaged, immediately replace the blade AIso_ make
sure the nut for the blade is tight

4 Keep the blade(s) sharpened Worn blades will cause the

ends of the grass to turn brown

5 Do not cut or bag grass that is wet Wet grass will not

discharge correctly. Let the grass dry before cutting

6 Use the teft side of the mower housing to trim near an

object

F-92533 16

OPERATION

HOW TO CONVERT THE MOWER HOUSING

The mower housing has a speclat plate that lets you mulch the lawn
for a clean, fine cut The mulcher plate must be removed to convert
the mower housing to freely discharge or bag the cut grass

How to remove the mulcher plate,

WARNING: Disconnect the wire to the spark
ptug to prevent the engine from starting by
accident. Make sure the blade engagement
control lever is in the DISENGAGE position,

1 Remove the two wlng nots and carriage bolts as shown

2 Slide the mulcher plate to the front and lift the plate away

from the mower housing

3 Fasten the carriage bolts and wing nuts to the plate for

future use

D_4S33

Mulcher Cover

IMPORTANT: There are several different types of grass.
Because of the different textures of grass, some grass is

more difficult to out. If you remove the muloher plate and the
performance of the mower discharge or grass bagger
accessory is not acceptable you need to replace the mulcher
blade with a standard blade. A standard blade, part number
56212, is available from your nearest Sears Service

Department°

How to assemble the mulcher plate+

WARNING: Disconnect the wire to the spark

plug to prevent the engine from starting by
accident, Make sure the blade engagement
control lever is in the DISENGAGE position

1 Remove the wing nuts and carriage bolts from the mulcher

plate

2 Lift the discharge chute Slide the mulcher plate under the

discharge chute from the front to the rear Make sure the two

tabs on the plate are to the front of the nuts for the chute
bracket Also, make sure the side tab flts inside the discharge

opening, Push the plate to the rear so that the two tabs lock
around the nuts as shown

3+ Fasten the mulcher plate with two carriage bolts and wing

nuts as shown

Discharge Chute

Tabs

\

Side Tab

\

Carriage Bolts

PUSH

F+92533 1 7

0*4832

CUSTOMER RESPONS BIUTIES MAUNTENANCE CHART

PROCEDURE

Blade, Inspect & Sharpen

Blade Engagement Control, Check
Brake, Check

R

Clutch, Check

I

Tires, Check

R

Batter/, Check & Charge

Ba_er T, Clean
Lubrication

Oi!, Check

Air Screen, Check

MAINTENANCE CHART

FIRST EVERY

EACH 2 25

USE HOURS HOURS

X

X

X

X

X

X

x
x

EVERY

5O

HOURS

X
x

EVERY

100

HOURS

BEFORE STORAGE

STORAGE DATES

X
X
X
x

X

Oil, Change

G

Air Filter, Clean

I

Muff!er, Check

Spark P!ug, Check

Spark Plug, RepIace

MOWER

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

1 It is the owners responsibility to correctly maintain this

product which extends the life of the product and to maintain
warranty coverage

2 Once a year you must check the spark plug, drive brake

,ubrJc .... he unit, and clean the air filter

,_ rkC,,e-_.......he f_,_ne,=_*=,_ _nd= make sure the'r _re=tight

...... 4_n,en_nc_ SecJon ,o ke_p your unit _ngood

operating condition

adjustment {except carburetor), or repair,
WARNING: Before you make an inspection,

disconnect the wife from the spark plug

WHERE TO LUBRICATE

X

x
X

x

X
X
x

x

x

Lubricate the areas shown with engine oil

_'_'w#;- Apply grease with a brush to the areas shown

NOTE: If the unit is operated in dry areas that have sand. use a
dry graphite spray to lubricate the unit,

CAUTION: Do not lubricate the nylon bearings for the front
wheels Oil or grease will damage the bearings

F-92533 1 8

O-€804

O_-367_

MAINTENANCE

iNSPECT BLADE

WARN!NG: Before you inspect or remove the

...... d_sc_nn_, t .... _._ ,o .... _.., plug

the b!adeh .... nobj_ct, stop the engine Che&k

the un.t for damage The blade has sharp edges
When you ho!d the blade, use g!oL, es or cloth

material to protect _o,,. h.n_

l, TO,- ,,eer, ,h...... e ..... _, _,,d ,n_. ...... b ....... d.... g_ e

........ _.,c...... e, _nd more safe to operate Frequently check

check the-.,., _'h_H" _, blade Keep the nut tight If,h_hlode

hits _n object. _,o_, ,he engine ..... nnec, J ...... _+_,o ,he spark

_'"_"h'_See if the bLd_ _ be,,t o, d_m_d _h_c. ,h......... _,,_r

for damage Before you operate .h .,_; . _1_ ,4_,4 _

or.g,._, e,_,J,_...ent _.Jt See the authonzed service dealer

in your area Ever/three years he,, _ _..h_ ;_._ _,; _=._
inspect the blade or replace the o!d blade ;vith an origins!

equipment part

HOW TO REMOVE AND INSTALL THE BLADE

! RetooLs the mower housing See the instructions on "How

To Remove The Mower Housing"
2 Use a piece of wood to keep the blade from rotating
3 Remove the nut that ho!ds the Made

4 Check the blade and the blade adapter according to the

instructions for "inspect B!ade" Replace a badly ,.*zorn or
damaged blade with an origins! equipment blade See an
authorized service dealer in your area

5 Cleanthetopandbottomofthemowerhous_ng RemoveaN

the grass and debris

B Mount the blade and blade adapter on the mandre! as shown
7 Mount the blade so that the hi-!ift edges ere up as shown !f

the blade is upside down the blade wi!! not cut correctly and
can cause an accident

B Fasten the blade with the odgina! washers and nut Make

sure the outside rim of the Be!!evN!e washer is against the
blade as shown

9 Tighten the nut that holds the blade to a torque of 30 foot

pounds (41 .SN-m)

!0 Install the mower housing See "How To Install The

Mower Housing"

,t t_r _ ,4e

B!_de Adapter

B!_de

D _66]

the blade A loose nut or blade can cause an
WARNING: Always keep the nut tlght that holds

accident

HOW TO SHARPEN THE BLADE

is not correctly balanced or if the blade is
damaged, A blade that is damaged with cracks

WARNING: Vibration can be caused if the blade

_- _ _ _.._ _ accidentc_.. br_k an_ c_,._e _n

Keep a sharp edge on the blade A blade that is not sharp wi!! cause
the tips of the grass to become brown

1 Sharpen the blade two times s year or e_:erl 25 hours

2 Remove the blade according to the Mstructions in "How To

Remove And Install The Blade"

3 Clean the blade with a brush, soap and water Check the

blade Look for cracks, nicks, or other damage Replace s
badly worn or damaged Made with an original equipment

blade See an authorized service dealer in your area

4 Sharpen the blade with a file Make sure you keep the original

bevel angle.

5 Make sure the blade is balanced Use a screwdriver and hold

the blade parallel to the ground as shown A blade that is

balanced will stay para!lel to the ground If the blade is not
balanced, the heaw end wi!t rotate toward the ground Sha_en

the heavy end until the blade is balanced

6 A new blade will cut better than a badly worn blade Ever/

three years, have an authori=ed seP41ce person inspect the
blade or replace the old blade with an original equipment
blade

7 Assemble the blade according to the instructions "How To

Remove And Install The Blade"

F-92533 19

D-3509-1

Screwdriver

Blade is balanced when

parallel to the ground

Ground

MAINTENANCE

HOW TO CHECK AND ADJUST
THE BLADE ENGAGEMENT CONTROL

engagement control must operate correctly

WARNING: To prevent an injury, the blade

1 Stop the engine Disconnect the wire from the spark plug.

2 Before you adjust the blade engagement control lever check

and tevet the mower housing See "How To Level The

Mower Housing"
3 Set the height of the mower housing in the lowest position
4 Move the blade engagement control to the DISENGAGE

position

5 Check the blade engagement control lever Before the blade

engagement control engages there must be 1/8" to 3/8"

(3ram to 9ram) of free movement

6 If an adjustment is needed disconnect the clevis from the

pivot rod and bracket assembl'r Turn the clevis clockwise to

decrease the free movement of the blade engagement

control Turn the clevis counterclockwise to increase the

free movement

7 Connect the clevis to the pivot rod and bracket assembly.

Move the blade engagement control to the DISENGAGE

position Check the free movement of the blade

engagement control

Blade Engagemenl

Control Lever

Position

D-4658 I

o

8 Check the operation of the blade brake Rotate the pulley

with your hand Make sure that the blade brake pad presses

tightly against the pulley

9 Move the blade engagement control to the ENGAGE

position Check the blade brake pad tf the blade brake pad is

excessively worn or damaged replace the blade brake pad

assembly Correct replacement paris and assistance are

available from an authorized service center

10 Connect the wire to the spark plug Mow for a short distance

and again check the operation of the blade engagement

control

1 1 When you move the blade engagement control to the

DISENGAGE position all movement will stop within five

seconds if the adjustment is correct If all movement does

not stop again adjust the blade engagement control
beginning with the first step If you need assistance take the
unit to an authorized service center,

12

If you replace the mower drive belt adjust the blade
engaqement control lever

F_92533

2G

Pad Against Pulley
With Blade Control

in DISENGAGE
position

e,5298

}

\

Brake Pad

"Away From Pulley

r_ With Blade Control

I | In ENGAGE position

,'1

i1.

p,

I

I

J

L.

I

J

I

I

I

MAINTENANCE

/ (To increase the operation of the

Washer _._ brake, turn counterclockwise )

Cotter

Pin

Adjustable Nut

/"\ /

Washer Cotter Pin

Ctutch Rod

HOW TO CHECK AND ADJUST THE DRIVE
BRAKE

t Before you adjust the broke, check the clutch adjustment See

the instructions on "How To Check And Adjust The Clutch "

2 Make sure the shift lever is in the NEUTRAL (N) position
3 Disconnect the adjustable nut from the brake arm as shown

4 Carefully push the brake arm forward and hold in position
5 With the brake arm forward, rotate the adjustable nut

counterclockwise on the brake rod until the adjustable nut is in

line with hoIe in the brake arm

NOTE: If the adjustable nut will not line up with the hole in
the brake arm, go to step 6. If the adiustable nut does line

up with the hole in the broke arm, go to step 12

6 Pull the brake arm to the rear of the unit
7 The brake adjustment of the transaxle is located on the

underside of the transaxle on the left side Use one wrench to
hold the adjuster rod while you loosen the hex nut

approximately 2 turns with another wrench

8 Turn the adjuster rod clockwise 1/2-turn Try to push the unit

If the unit roils, continue this step until you feel resistance from

the brake when you push the unit

9 Turn the adjuster rod counterclockwise one turn Then, holdthe

adjuster rod with one wrench while you tighten the hex nut with

another wrench

10 Carefully push the brake arm forward and hold in position
11 With the brake arm forward, rotate the adjustable nut clockwise

on the brake rod until the adjustable nut is in line with the hole
in the brake arm

12 Connect the adjustable nut to the brake arm with the washer

and cotter pin.

13 Apply the parking brake Try to push the unit Ifthe rear wheels

do not turn, the brake is correctly adjusted Release the parking
brake Push the unit to see if the wheels will freely roll

Brake Rod

/

1/2" to 5/8

(13ram to 16turn)

Clearance

Pedal
Lever

HOW TO CHECK AND ADJUST THE CLUTCH

Ifthe unit will not move when the clutch is engaged or if the belt slips

when going uphill or when pulling a load, the motion drive belt is
loose Check the clearance between the rear of the pedal lever and

the back of the hole as shown If there is more or less than the
clearance shown in the illustration, adjust the pedal as follows:

1 Disconnect the adjustable nut from the idler bracket as shown

2 Turn the adjustable nut clock,vise to increase the length of the

clutch rod There must be 1/2-to-5i8-inch clearance at the
back of the clutchJbrake pedal as shown This adjustment will

increase the clearance at the pedal

3 Assemble the adjustable nut to the idler bracket Check the

clearance at the pedal

4 After making an adjustment to the pedal, check the brake rod

as described in the instructions, "How To CheckAnd Adjust The
Drive Brake"

Adjuster_

Rod (Turn

Clockwise)

,_ WARNING: If you cannot correctly adjust the drive brake,

F-92533 21

take the unit to an Authorized Service Center.

VIEW FROM UNDERSIDE

D-,4802

MAINTENANCE

HOW TO REMOVE THE SIDE PANEL

To help service and clean the engine or the battery the rear s_de
panels can be easity removed

1 Remove the large screws that hold the front of the side

panel

2 Slide the side panel back approximately one inch Remove

the side panet

BATTERY

To charge or clean the battery remove the battery from the unit

as follows

WARNING: To prevent sparks, disconnect the
black battery cable from the negative (--)
terminal before you disconnect the red cable

WARNING: The battery contains sulphuric acid
which is harmful to the skin, eyes and clothing. If

the acid gets on your body or clothing, wash
with water immediately

1 Remove the black cable from the negative (+) terminal

2 Remove the red cable from the positive (+) terminal

3 Remove the battery clamp from the battery
4 Remove the battery from the unit

HOW TO CHECK AND CHARGE THE BATTERY

BLACK

/

WARNING: When you charge the battery, do not
smoke, Keep the battery away from any sparks+
The fumes from the battery acid can cause an

explosion.

1 The battery witl be damaged if the battery acld is not kept at

the correct level Check the level of the battery acid The

battery acid must touch the bottom of the vent If the battery
acid has fallen below the correct level add water to the

correct level Do not add battery acid to a charged battery or
the result can be an explosion

2 The engine has a 3 amperes charging system If you frequently

start the engine or frequently use the headlight, the battery
wilt not stay fully charged For longer llfe of the battery

charge the battery every three months

3 Before you charge the battery, remove the battery

4 Use a 12 volt battery charger to charge the battery Charge at

a rate of 3 amperes for 2 to 3 hours After the battery is

charged check the level of the battery acid ]f the level of the

battery acid falls add water Do not add battery acid to a

charged battery or the result can be an explosion

5 Install the battery See "How To Install The Battery" in the

assembly section

HOW TO CLEAN THE BATTERY

Remove the battery from the unit
Wash the battery with a sotution of one gallon of water and
four tabtespoons of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) Make
sure the solution does not get _nto the battery cells

3

Clean the terminals and the ends of the cables with a

wire brush

4

Install the battery See "How To Install The Battery" in the

assembly section

5

To prevent corrosion apply grease to the battery terminals

F-92533

e+4627-3

CUT AWAY VIEW

CHECK THE TIRES

Check the air pressure in the tires Tires with too much air pressure

will cause the unit to ride rough Also, the wrong air pressure will

keep the mower housing from cutting level The correct air
pressure (PSI) for each Rear Wheel is 14 PSI (10 kg/cm2) and fol
each Front Wheet the air pressure is 24 PSI (16 kg/cm2) Models
that have semi-pneumatic front wheels will not have a PSI

22

Bar_ery Clarn_

ENGINE

MAINTENANCE

HOW TO CHECK THE OIL

NOTE: Do not check the level of the oil while the engine
runs,

1 Make sure the unit is level

2 Clean the area around the dipstick Remove the dipstick

Wipe the oil from the dipstick

3 Insert the dipstick into the ell fill tube Turn the dipstick c!ock-

wise until it is tight Remove the dipstick Check the oil level
on the dipstick The oi! level must teach the FULL mark on

the dipstick

4 If necessary add oil until the oil reaches the FULL mark on

the dipstick The quantity of oil needed from ADD to FULL is
shown on the dipstick Do not add too much ell

HOW TO CHANGE THE OIL

NOTE: Do not drain the oil fromacoidengine Before you drain
the oil, let the engine run for several minutes Makesureyoudo
not get oil on the belts

1 Remove the oil drain cap Drain the oil completely from the

engine Install and tighten the oil drain cap

2 UseaSD SEorSFdetergentgradeoii Detergent oil helps to

clean the engine Nothing must be added to theoil

3 Before you change the oil use the temperature chart below

to select tile viscosity grade of the oil to use

Dipstick

Oil Drain Cap

Air Street:

Clean grass and debris
from bottom edge of shroud

HOW TO CLEAN

THE ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM

Temperature range before the next oil change Oil must be a

SD. SE or SF grade oil

Required SAE viscosity grades

-1 I I

15!3o

II11--

-20 °

C_4682,1

CAUTION: To protect the starting system, use SAE 5W30 oil
when the temperature is lees than 32 °F

4 Clean the area around the dipstick Remove the dipstick

5 Insert the dipstick into the oil extension tube Turn the

0_ 32 ° 40 = 60 ° 80 ° 100 °

Slowly pour approximately 32 ounces (0 9 liters) of oil into
the oil extension tube

dipstick in a clockwise direction until it is tight Remove the
dipstick Check the ell level on the dipstick The oil tevet must

reach the FULL mark on the dipstick

jj3 3i

The engine on this unit is air cooled The air that cools the
engine enters through the air screen on top of the engine

1 Remove any grass dirt or debris from the air screen with a

cloth or brush

2 Inspect the edge of the engine shroud for grass or debris

Remove any grass or debris visible at the bottom edge of the
engine shroud

F-92533 23

MAINTENANCE

HOW TO CLEAN THE AIR FILTERS

Some engines have two filters, an outer foaro filter around an inner
paper filter Clean the air filters every 50 hours If you operate in

dirty conditions service more often

NOTE: Never run the engine with the air filters removed The air

filters will help protect the engine against wear For the correct

replacement filter, see the parts list for the engine.

1 Remove the two wingnuts from the cover

2 Remove the cover from the air cleaner
3 Remove the two nuts from the filters
4 Remove the filters
5 Clean the inside of the base and the cover with a cloth

6 Remove the foam filter (if equipped ). from the paper

filter

7 If equipped wash the foam filter in a detergent and water

solution To remove the water solution tightly roll the foam
filter in a dry cloth Remove the foam filter from the cloth

Completely dry the foam filter

CAUTION: Do not wash the filters in gasoline or other
solvents that will burn

8 Evenly applySAE 30Woil to the dry foam filter
9 To clean the paper filter tightly tap the paper filter againsta

hard flat surface

10 If the paper filter is very dirty replace the filter
11 Assemble the air filters with the two nuts

12 install the cover Fasten the cover with the twowingnuts

@"_'-"-'-"_Wingnut

Cover

Foam Fih

D :;_8

HOW TO CHECK THE MUFFLER

Check the muffler every 50 hours Make sure the muffler is correctly

mounted and is not loose If the muffler is wotn or burnt replace

with a new muffler Aworn muffler isa fire hazard and also can
damage the engine

If you mount s spark arrestor to the muffler, also check the spark
arrestor when you check the muffler If the spark arrestor is worn or

damaged replace it with a new spark arrestor See your nearest
authorized service dealer for' a spark arrestor

HOW TO CHECK THE SPARK PLUG

1 Check the gap of the spark plug with a feeler gauge The

correct gap is 0 030"

2 For easy starting and good performance replace the spark

plug every two years

)-429S

\

/!

/Check an d Se[ Spar k Plug'G_ap \

F-92533 24

SERVnCE AND ADJUSTMENT

HOW TO ADJUST THE CARBURETOR

The factory settings for the carburetor are for most conditions if

the engine is operated under the following conditions you can

adjust the carburetor mixture

I Tbe engine has a loss of power or does not run smooth
2 A change from summer to winter operation
3 A40 ° change in the operation temperature The carburetor

was adjusted at 80 ° at the factory

4 The engine is operated above 4 000 feet

If an adjustment is needed, follow the steps below

1 Remove the side panet See "How To Remove Tl_e Side

Panels"

2 With your hand turn the idle mixture screw in a clockwise

direction until you feel some resistance Turn the main jet

screw in a clockwise direction until you feel some resistance
CAUTION: Do not over tighten the idle mixture screw or

the main jet screw The carburetor will be damaged

3 Turn the idle mixture screw counterclockwise 1_1/4 turns

Turn the main jet screw counterclockwise 1-5/8 turns

4 Start the engine Run the engine for several minutes

5 Move the throttle control to SLOW position

6 Turn the idle mixture screw clockwise until the engine begins

to loose speed Note the position of the slot in the idle mix-
ture screw

7 Slowly turn the idle mixture screw counterclockwise until

the engine runs rough Note the position of the slot in the idle
mixture screw

-8

Set the idle mixture screw between the two positions in

steps 6 and 7

9

Move the throttle control to FAST position

10

Turn the main jet screw in a clockwise direction until the

engine begins to loose speed (lean mixture) Note the
position of the slot in the main jet screw

HOW TO ADJUST THE THROTTLE CONTROL

Idle Mixture Screw

Jet Screw

1 I Slowly turn the main jet screw in a counterclockwise direc_

tion until the engine runs rough (rich mixture) Note the
position of the slot in the main jet screw

12 Set the main jet screw between the two posbions in steps 10

and 11

13 To check the adjustment operate the engine If the engine

stops when the blade(s) are engaged, the carburetor mixture
is set too lean Turn the main jet screw counterclockwise

1 16 turn

14 If the engine runs rough when the blade(s) are engaged the

carburetor mixture is set too rich Turn the main jet screw
clockwise 1/16 turn

15 Again check the engine by engaging and disengaging the

blade(s) If necessary repeat steps 13 or 14

For the best engine pedormance set the throttle centre! as
follows

1 Move the throttle control to the FAST position

3 Loosen the c!amp screw so that the cable for the thrott}e

control can move in the cebIe clamp Oo not remove the
cable clamp from the centre! bracket or disconnect the cable
from the engine control lever

3 Move the engine control tever until the slot in the is a!igned

(lines up) with the hole in the control bracket as shown

4 Tighten the clamp screw Move the throttle control to the

SLOW position and then back to the FAST position Check
the alignment of the control lever See step 3

5 The thrott!e control is now set at the correct speed When the

throttle control is at the FAST position, the engine speed is
3400+ !00 RPM When the throttle control is in the SLOW

position, the engine speed is 2 ! 50 ± ! 00 RPM

IMPORTANT: Do not change the engine governor If the engine
governor needs an adjustment, go to the nearest Sears Service
Center. They have the equipment and experience to make
the adjustment

F-92533 25

s!o: on Le.ed

I

"_ Thrott!e Con:tel Cable

Cab!e C!amp

Clamp Screw

\

Control Bracket

r

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENT

HOW TO REMOVE THE MOWER HOUSING

1 Move _he lift lever to the MIDDLE position

2 Move the blade engagement control lever [o the

DISENGAGE position

3 Disconnect the blade drive link from the pivol rod and

bracket assembly See illustration C below

4 Remove [he hair pins thai hold time hangers Io the adius[er

plates See illustrabons A'and'B below

5 Move [he mower housing to the left until the right side

hanger sepa[ates from the adjuster plate Then move [he

mower housing to the right ungt the left side hanger

separates from the adjuster plate

6 Remove the long pin from the front suspension bracket See

illustration 'D" below

7 Remove the mower drive belt from the s[ack pulley Slide the

mower drive belt beIween _he stack pulley and the belt
guide

8 Comple:e[y Iurn the steering wheel to the bghi Pull the

mower housing away from the left side of the unit

HOW TO INSTALL THE MOWER HOUSING

1 Completely turn the steering wheel Io [he right Push [he

mower housing under time left side of the unit

2

Slide the mower drive belt belween the stack pulley and the
beltguide PuIthemowerdrivebellaroundthestackpulley
Make surethe"V side of the mower drive belt is against the
stack pulley Make sure the drive belt is not twisted

3 AItach the mower housing to the front suspension bracket

with the long pin Fasten with the washer and hair pin See
illustration "D" below

4 Attach the rear hangers [othe adiuster plates Fasten with

the hair pins See illustrations"A" and"B" below

5 Connect the blade drive link to the pivot rod and bracket

assembly Fasten with a clevis pin and ahair pin See illustration
C below

6 Move the blade engagement control lever to the ENGAGE

posibon Make sure the mower drive belt is inside all the
be_t guides

7 Check the operation of the blade engagement control lever

See the instructions on How To Adiust The Blade Engagement
Conlrol Lever

8 Make sure the mower housing islevel See_he;nstructions

How To Level The Morner Housing in the maintenance
sectEon of this book

lade Enqagemen[ Con rol

Long Pm

\

2 =iS= :

F-92533 26

Blade Drive Link

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENT

HOW TO REPLACE THE MOWER DRIVE BELT

1 Move the lift lever into the low cut position

2 Slide the mower drive belt between the stack pulley and the

belt guide Remove the mower drive belt from the stack
pulley

3 Pull the belt guide away from theidler pulley Remove the

belt from the idler pulley

4 While you push the belt guides away from the mandrel

pulley, remove the mower drive belt from the pulley

5 Install the new mower drive belt

NOTE: Replace the mower drive belt with a factory
replacement belt

6 Make sure the "V" side of the mower drive belt is against the

mandrel pulley Also make sure the mower drive belt is
not twisted

7 Pull the belt guide away from the idler pulle / Put the mower

drive belt around the idler pulley Make sure the "V" side of

the mower drive belt is against the pulley Also make sure the
mower drive belt is not twisted

8 Make sure the mower drive belt is inside all the belt guides

9 Before you mow. check the blade engagement control lever

See the instructions on "How To Adjust The Blade Engage-
ment Control Lever"

HOW TO REPLACE

THE MOTION DRIVE BELT

1 Remove the mower housing See the instructions on "How

To Remove The Mower Housing"

2 Engage the parking brake
3 Disconnect the adiustebte nut from the brake rod at the brake

arm Push the brake rod to the side of the unit

4 Try to push each belt guide away from the drlve putley so that

the motion drive belt can be pulled over the top of the drive
pulley If the bett guides do not provide enough clearance
use one wrench to hold the head of the belt guide on top of
the frame while you use another wrench to loosen the nut

under the frame for each belt guide

5 Remove the motion drive belt from the idler pulley Puff the

drive belt toward the front of the unit

6 Loosen the bett gulde at the stack pu!ley Remove the motion

drive belt from the top pulley of the stack pulley Slide the
belt between the stack pulley and the belt guide Remove the
belt from the lower pulley
NOTE: Inspect the idler pulley, stack pulley and the drive
idler spring for damage Replace if necessary

7 Install the new motion drive belt on the top pulley of the stack

pulley
NOTE: Replace the motion drive belt with a factory

replacement belt,

8 Make sure the "V" side of the motlon drive belt is against the

stack pulley

9 Put the motion drive belt around the idler pulley Make sure

the'V" side of the belt faces away from the idler pulley Also
make sure the belt is not twisted

10 While you push the two belt guides away from the drive

pulley install the motion drive bett on the drive pulley

F-92533

WARNING: If the mower drive belt is outside of
a belt guide when the blade engagement control

can continue to rotate and damage the mower
lever is in the DISENGAGE position, the blade

drive belt. Before you operate the mower, make
sure the mower drive belt is inside all the belt

guides,

tdter

Pylley

'V" side

of Belt

D-5279

Idler Pulley Stack Pulle

Drive Putle D'4367~_

1

Make sure the motion drive belt is inside the belt guides and

the guide arm of the idler pulley Tighten the belt guide for the

stack pu!ley

12

Before you use the unit, check the adjustment of the clutch
See "How To Check And Adiust The Clutch"

13

Assemble the adjustable nut to the brake rod at the brake

arm Make sure the brake is correctly adjusted See the
instructions on "How TO Check And Adjust The Drive Brake"

14

Install the mower housing See the instructions on "How To

27

Install The Mower Housing"

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENT

HOW TO LEVEL THE MOWER HOUSING

if the mower housing is level, the mower will cut easier and the
iawn will look better

1 Make sure the unit is on a hard level surface

2 Check [he air pressure in the tires If the air pressure is

incorrect tile mower housing will not cut level Make sure
the rear tires are inflated to !4 psi(lO kg/cm2)and the front
tires are inflated to 24 psi (16 kg/crn2)

3 Move the lever for the blade engagement control to the

ENGAGE position Move the lever for the height of cut to the
middle position

4 There are two adjustment procedures below that will level

the blade housing

WARNING: Before you make an inspection,
adjustment, ot repair to the unit, disconnect the
wire to the spark plug Remove the spark plug
wire to prevent the engine from starting by

accident

THE SIDE TO SIDE ADJUSTMENT

D

Use a ruler and measure the distance from the level surface to the
bottom of the mower housing Measure from the locations

indicated by the small round dimples {or X marks) at points C and O

In correct adjustment the mower housing at points C and D must
be within !/4" (6 mm) of the same height If the difference in the
measurement is more than 1/4" (6 ram} adjust as follows

1 Disconnect one or both of the hangers from the adjuster

plates

2 The higher numbers on the side of the adjuster plates will

raise the height of the mower housing The lower numbers
will lower the mower housing

3 Connect the hangers into the hole of the adjuster pIates that

will level the mower housing Fasten the hangers to the
adjuster ptates with the hair pins

4 Check the measurements at each side of the mower housing

See the above instructions

THE FRONT TO BACK ADJUSTMENT

Use a ruler and measure the distance from the IeveI surface to the
bottom of the mower houslng Measure from the locations

indicated by the small round dimples (or X marks) at points A and B
In correct adjustment, the front of the mower housing at point A
will be 1/8" to 3/8" (3ram to 9 mm) lower than the back of the

mower housing at point B Adjust as follows

/ Measure From The Bottom Of Thc Mower Housing

J

f

t y

Suspension Rod

LevelSurface

1 Loosen the jam nut from the suspension rod Turn the

Iocknut clockwise to raise the front of the mower housing
Turn the locknut counterclockwise to lower the front of the

mower housing

2 Check the front and rear measurements for the correct

adjustment Tighten the jam nut as shown

3 Connect the wire to the spark pIug

F-92533 28

Jam Nut

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENT

HOW TO SET THE HEIGHT OF CUT

The height of cut is sat at the factory from 1'/_ to 4inches To lower

or raise the height of cut make an adjustment to the lifter rod
as follows

1 Move the lift lever to the LOW cut position

2 Disconnect the lifter rod from the lifter arm
3 Turn the lifter rod clockwise to lower or counterclockwise to

raise the height of cut

4 Attach the lifter rod to the lifter arm

5 Move the lift lever to the HIGH position Make sure the

pulleys or belt do not touch the bottom of the frame

HOW TO START WITH A WEAK BATTERY

Ifthebatteryistooweaktostarttheengine thebatteryneedstobe
charged If "Jumper Cables" are used to start the engine in an
emergency folfowthe procedure below

NOTE: The unit is equipped with a 12 volt negative to ground

system Also, the other vehicle must have a 12 volt negative to
ground system

Hair Pin

WARNING: Do not smoke The fumes from the
battery acid can cause an explosion Keep the

battery away from any flames or sparks To
prevent sparks, fasten the red jumper cable to
the positive (+) terminal before connecting the

black jumper cable

1 Put a wet cloth over the vent caps of each battery

2 Connect each end of the RED'Jumper Cable" to the positive (+)

terminais of each battery Make sure you do not touch the
chassis with the cables

3 Connect one end of the BLACK ",Jumper Cable" to the

negative (--) terminal of the charged battery

4 Connect the other end of the BLACK "Jumper Cable" to the

engine block

5 Start the engine that has the weak battery last Allow the

engine to run

6 To disconnect the "Jumper Cables" reverse the above steps

HOW TO CLEAN THE MOWER HOUSING

_ WARNING: Before you clean the mower hous-

ing, stop the engine and disconnect the wire to

the spark plug

HOW TO REPLACE THE FUSE

If the fuse is blown the enginewitlnot start Thelocationofthe fuse
is next to the battery Remove the fuse and replace with a

15 amp Automotive fuse

Grass and other debris on top of the mower housing can keep the

belt from working correctly Clean the mower housing as follows

1

Move the lever for the blade engagement control to the
ENGAGE position

2

Clean the top of the mower housing

3

Move the lever for the blade engagement control to the
DISENGAGE position

4

Again clean the top of the mower housing

5

After you cut the grass, clean the bottom of the mower
housing 29

F-92533

FRONT WHEEL ALIGNMENT

The alignment of the front wheels cannot be adjusted If the
steering is damaged and the alignment has changed see your

nearest Sears Service Center

STORAGE (Over 30 Days)

At the end of each year, prepare the unit for storage as foilo',,_s

MOWER

CLEAN THE UNIT

t Clean the mower housing See "How To Clean The Mower

Housing"

LUBRICATE THE UNIT

See the "Lubrication" instructions in this book

ENGINE

1 Clean the dirt and grass from the engine

2 Change the oil See theinstrucdons "How To Change The

Oi!"

3 Check ,,he air screen See the instructions "How To Clean

The Air Screen"

4 Check the spark p!ug See "How To Check The Spark Plug"

THEFUELSYSTEM

building or near a fire Do not smoke or the
WARNING: Do not drain the gasoline inside a

fumes from the fuel can cause an explosion

CAUTION: During storage, it is important to prevent deposits
from occurlng in fuel system parts like the carburetor, fue!
filter, fuel hose and the fuel tank Alcohol gasoline mixtures

{called gasehol or using ethanol or methanol} attract moisture
causing acid deposits during storage. While the unit is in

storage, the acids in the fuel can damage the fuel system To
prevent engine problems with the fuel system, empty the fuel

system before storage of 30 days or longer

! Start the engine
2 Run the engine until the fue! tank and the carburetor are out

offue! and the engine stops Do not leave fuel in the fueltank
or the carburetor The rue! can damage the function of the

fuel system

3 After storage, make sure yco use fresh fuel

BA]_ERY

! Remove the ba_e_y
2 Clean the better'/ termina!s of any deposits See "How To

Clean The BatteH"

3 CompIetety charge the ba,rten/ See the instructions, "How

To Check And Chalge The Batter/"

4 Store the baker'/in a cool dr4 place

Jel Screw

e-4815

NOTE: After a long period of time in storage, the battery must
be charged.

F-92533

30

TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART

(Recoii-Sta_ And Electric Models)

PROBLEM: The engine will not start

1 Follow the steps How To Start The Engine in this book
2 Clean the battery terminals Tighten the cables
3 Check for a loose wire Tighten the limit switches (See the

wiring diagram )

4 Drain the fuel tank Clean the fuel Iine Replace the fue!

filter

5 Remove the spark plug(s) Move the throttle to the SLOW

position Turn the ignition key to the ON position Try to start

the engine several times Install the spark plug
6 Replace the spark plug
7 Adjust the carburetor

PROBLEM: The engine will not turn over
1 FoIlow the steps How To Start The Engine in this book

2 Check the level of the acid in the battery If needed, add

water Charge the battery
3 Replace the fuse
4 Check the wiring harness for damage or a loose connection

Repair the damaged wire

5 Electric-Start Models: replace the solenoid

Recoil-Start Models: replace the module

PROBLEM: The engine is difficult to start

1 Adjust the carburetor
2 Replace the spark plug
3 Replace the fuel filter

PROBLEM: The engine does not run smooth or has a loss of
power

1 Check the oil
2 Clean the air filter
3 Clean the air screen

4 Replace the spark plug

5 The engine is working to hard Use a lower gear

6 Adjust the carburetor

7 Replace the fuel filter

PROBLEM: The engine does not run smooth at fast speed

1 Replace the spark plug
2 Adjust the throttte control
3 Clean the air filter

4 Replace the fuel filter

PROBLEM: The engine stops when the
blades are engaged

1 To activate the seat sensor always sit in the middle of

the seat

2 Check the wiring harness for damage or a loose connection

Repair the damaged wire

PROBLEM: On slopes, the engine stops

1 Mow up and down slopes Never mow across a slope

2 To activate the seat sensor always sit in the middle of

the seat

PROBLEM: A hot engine causes a decrease in power

1 Ctean the air screen

2 Check the oil
3 Adjust the carburetor

4 Replace the fuel filter

PROBLEM: Excessive vibration

1 Replace the blade
2 Check for loose engine bolts
3 Check the air pressure in the tires

4 Adjust the carburetor
5 Check for a damaged beIt or damaged pulley Replace the

damaged parts

PROBLEM: The grass does not discharge correctly

1 Stop the engine Clean the mower housing
2 Raise the height of cut

3 Replace or sharpen the blade(s)

4 Move the shift lever to a slower speed

5 Move the throtde control to the FAST position

6 Replace the spring for the blade idler

PROBLEM: The mower housing does not cut level

1 Check the air pressure in the tires
2 Adjust the level of the mower housing
3 Check the front axle If the front axle doesnol freely pivot

loosen the two axte bolts

PROBLEM: The mower blades will not rotate

1 Check the mower drive belt Make sure the belt is

installed correctly

2 Replace the mower drive belt

PROBLEM: The unit will not move when the ciutch is
engaged

1 Adjust the clutch

2 Replace the motion drive belt

3 Check the motion drive be_t Make sure the belt is

installed correctly

PROBLEM: The unit moves slower or stops when the clutch

is engaged

1 Replace the motion drive belt

2 Adiust the dutch

PROBLEM: When the clutch/brake pedal is released, belt noise

can be heard

1 Temporary belt noise does not change the operation of the

unit If belt noise is continuous check the routing of the belt
Make sure the belt is inside all belt guides

2 If the noise is continuous adjust the clutch

PROBLEM: The rear wheels spin over uneven terraln

1 Check the front axle tf the front axle does not freely pivot

loosen the two axle bolts

PROBLEM: The engine will not idle

1 Replace the spark plug

2 Clean the air filter
3 Adjust the carburetor

4 Adjust the throttle control

5 Drain the fuel tank Clean the fuel line Replace the fuel

filter

F-g2533 3 1

®

Medea No,

502.255020

10

30" MOWER /

HPo ELECTRIC START

MULCHER

5 SPEED
REAR ENGINE

The Model Number for the mower is found under the seat on a decal attached to the

seat support. The Model Number for the engine is found on the blowel housing above
the spark plug Always give the Model Number when you call for service or order repair

parts for your' unit

Repair parts can be ordered from any Sears Service Center/Departments and most

Sears Stores,.

WHEN ORDERING REPAIR PARTS, ALWAYS HAVE THEFOLLOWING iNFORMATiON

AS SHOWN IN THIS LIST

o PRODUCT- REAR ENGINE RIDER
D MODEL NUMBER- 502 255020

" ENGINE MODEL NO_- 14&426072
e PART NUMBER
o PART DESCRIPTION

How to Order

Repair Parts

Your Seat's merchandise has added value when you consider Sears has service units
nationwide staffed with Sears trained technicians, Seats technicians have the

necessary parts, tools, and equipment to meet the Sears pledge, "We Service What

We Sell"

, ,ui , L

F-92533 11-22-91 Sears, Roebuck and Co., Chicago, IL, 60684 U.S.A. Printed in US.&