Craftsman 917.253724 User Manual

OWNERS
MANUAL

MODEL NO.

S17,253724

Caution:

Read Rules for

Safe Operation

and Instructions

Carefully

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GARDEN TRACTDR

Assembly
Installation
Operation

Repair Parts

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Chicago, III- 6C^84 U.S.A.

CONG R AT UL ATI OHS on your purchase of a Sears V arid rive
GTV t6 H P Garden Tractor. It has been designed, engineered
and manufactured to give you dependability and performance.

Should you experience any problem you cannot easily rem
edy, please contact your nearest Sears, Roebuck and Co. store
They have competent, well-trained technicians and the proper
tools and parts to service or repair this unit

Please read and retain this manual. The instructions will enable
you to assemble, operate and maintain your Tractor properly
Always observe the "RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION .

YOUR NEW GTV 16 GARDEN TRACTOR

FEATURES

CRAFTSMAN 16 H.P. ENGINE -cool-runrtlng performance

and tong life with plenty of power to take on a variety of
yard, gardening or snow removal tasks.

L

NUMBER —
SERIAL

NUMBER.................................................................

THE MODEL AND SERIAL NUMBERS WILL
BE FOUND ON THE MODEL PLATE ATTACH
ED TO THE TOP RIGHT SIDE OF DRAWBAR

{REFER TO PAGE 16).

YOU SHOULD RECORD BOTH MODEL AND
SERIAL NUMBERS AND KEEP IN A SAFE
PLACE FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

CONTROL PANEL-with Throttle, Choke, Light Switch, Ig
nition Switch, Ammeter and Parking Brake Lever-convenient­ly grouped tor ease of use.

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

——

INTERLOCK SWITCH SYSTEM-allows engine to start only

when tractor Clutch-Brake Pedal is depressed and Attachment

Clutch Lever is in '“OFF" position.
ALL GEAR TRANSMISStON-three speeds forward, plus

reverse to let you select the proper match foi the terrain and

the job Automotive-type differential helps guard against turf

scuffing.

VAHIDRIVE SPEED CONTROL--is especially valuable when
load is not uniform When engine-driven attachments are
overloaded, such as with heavy lawn mowing or deep snow
throwing, the ground speed may be reduced with the Control

Lever to relieve the load while the attachment continues to

operate at full speed

ATTACHMENT VERSATILlTY-handles a large variety of
Seats Yard and Garden Tractor Attachments including , . ,

MANUAL OR electric LIFT. ^
44 INCH MOWER with three "high-lift" blades to stand

grass up for level cuts.

self powered ROTO TILLER prepares soil for new

lawns and gardens with a 3t) inch wide tilling path..

OTHER SOIL TILLAGE ATTACHMENTS including Plow,

Disc Harrow, Drag Harrow and Cultivator.
CHEVRON TIRES for added traction in loose soil, gravel

or snow ,
46 INCH DOZER BLADE levels or moves dirt and gravel or

removes snow.
42 INCH SNOW BLOWER handles wet, heavy powdery
snow with ease.

REAR GRADER AND LEVELER BLADE levels new

yards, grading lanes, drive ways and parking areas.

FÜLL ОМЕ YEAR WARRÄMTY

ОМ ELECTRIC START ОАЙОЕМ TRACTOR

For one year from the date of purchase, when this Garden Tractor is used for personal household purposes. Sears will

repair any defect in material or workmanship in this Garden Trector, except the battery, at no charge.

If this Garden Tractor is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty applies for only 30 days from the date of

purchase.

FULL SQ-OAY WARRAMTY OM BATTERY

For 90 days from tfie date of purchase, if any battery included with the Garden Tractor proves defective in material or
workmanship and will not hold a charge, Sears will replace the battery, at no charge,

LIMUTEO WARRANTY ШШ BATTERY

From the 91st day until one year from the date of purchase, if any battery included widt the Garden Tr^tor proves defec

tive in material or workmanship and will not hold a charge. Sears will replace the battery, charging 1/12th of the price of

the new battery for each full month from the date of purchase.

Warranty service is available at your home, at no charge, by simply contacting the nearest Seats store or Service Center

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

Sears, Roebuck and Co.

Sears Tower

BSC 41-3

Chicago, IL 60884

TABLE OF CONTENTS

RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS

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

...

........................... ,2 TROUBLE SHOOTING ....

BELOW MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS

OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS ,4 REPAIR PARTS.

RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION

1. Know the controls and how to stop quickly. READ THE

owner's MANUAL

2. Do not allow children to operate the vehicle. Do not allow
adults to operate it without proper instruction or with,
out having read the owners manual.

3. Do not carry passengers, Keep children and pets a safe dis
tance away. _

4. Always wear substantial footwear. Do not wear loose fitting
clothing that could get caught in moving parts.

5. Keep your eyes and mind on yotir tractor, mower and the
area being cut. Don t let other interests distract you.

6. Oo not attempt to operate your tractor or mower when
not in the drivers seat,

7. Always get on or off your tractor from the operators left
hand side.

8. Clear the work area of objects which might be picked up

and thrown.

9. Disengage all attachment clutches and return speed control

lever to neutral before attempting to start the engine,

10, Disengage power to attphments and stop the engine be

fore leaving the operator s position«

11, Disengage power to mower, stop the engine and disconnect

spark plug wire(s! from spark ptug{s) before cleaning, mak

ing an adjustment or repairs,

12, Disengage power to attachments when transporting or not

In use,

13, Take all possible precautions when leaving the vehicle un

attended, such as disengaging the power-take-off, lowering
ths attachments, returning drive control lever to neutral,
shifting into neutral, setting the parking brake, stopping
the engine and removing the key

14- Do not stop or start suddenly when going uphill or down-

hii|. Mow up and down the face of slopes }not greater than

15 I; never across the face.

15- Reduce speed on slopes and make turns gradually to pre

vent tipping or loss of control. Exercise extreme caution
when changing direction on slopes, _

16. White going Up or down slopes choose 1st gear to negotiate
the slope without stopping To reduce speed, move Vari­drive Control Lever rearward to slower position.

17. Never mow in wet or slippery grass, when traction is urr­sure or at a speed which could cause a skid,

18. Stay alert for holes in the terrain and other hidden hazards.

19. Do not drive too close to creeks, ditches and public high*
ways.

20- Exercise special care when mowing around fixed objects

in order to prevent the blades from striking them. Never
deliberately run tractor or mower into or over any foreign
object.

21, Never shift gears until tractor comes to a stop.,

22. Never place hands or feet under the mower, in discharge

chute or near any moving parts while tractor or mower are

running. Always keep clear of discharge chute.

23. 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 counterweight or wheel weights when suggested in

the owner s manual,

24. Watch out for traffic when crossing or near roadways.

25. When using any attachments, never direct discharge of
material toward bystanders nor allow anyone near the ve
hicle while in operation.

26. Handle gasoline with care - it is highly flammable.
a. Use approved gasoline containers.
b. Never remove the cap of the fuel tank or add gasoline to

a running or hot engine, or fill the fuel tank indoors.
Wipe up spilled gasoitne.

c. Open doors if the engine is run in the garage - exhaust

fumes are dangerous. Do not run the engine indoors,

27. Keep the vehicle and attachments in good operating con«
dition, and keep safety devices in place«

28. Keep ail nuts, bolts and screws tight to be sure the equip
ment is in safe working condition,

29. Never store the equipment with gasoline in the tank inside

a building where fumes may reach an open flame or spark.
Allow the engine to coo! before storing 1n any enclosure,

30. To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine free of grass, leaves

or excessive grease- Do not clean product while engine is
running.

31. Except for adjustment; OO NOT operate Engine If air

cleaner or cover directly over carburetor air intake is re
moved. Hemoval of such part could create a fire hazard.

32. DO NOT OPERATE WITHOUT A MUFFLER OR TAM
PER WITH THE EXHAUST SYSTEM, Damaged mufflers

or spark arresters could create a fire hazard. Inspect period
ically and replace if necessary,

33. The vehicle and attachments should be stopped and in
spected for damage after striking a foreign object, and the

damage should be repaired before restarting and operating
the equipment

34 Do not change the engine governor settings or overspeed

ths engine; severe damage or injury may result

35. When using the vehicle with mower, proceed as follows;
a. Mow only In daylight or in good artificial light.
b. Never make a cutting height adjustment while the engine

is running if the operator must dismount to do so.

c. Shut the engine off when removing the grass catcher or

unciogfingchute.

d. Check the biade mounting bolts for proper tightness at

frequent intervals.

36 . Check the grass catcher bags frequently for wear or deterio

ration, Replace with new bags for safety protection.

37. Do not operate the mower without the entire grass catcher,
on mowers so equipped, or ths deflector shield in place,

38 Disengage power to mower before backing up Do not mow

in reverse unless absolutely necessary and then only after
careful observation of the entire area behind the mower.

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

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

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

.6

.13

.15

LOOK FOR THIS SYMBOL TO POINT OUT IMPORTANT

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS. iT MEANS - ATTENTION!

A

This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush-

covered or grass-covered land unless 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 worldng order by the operator
In the State of California the above ts required by law (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may

have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. See your Authorized Service Center for spark arrester muffler part number

674A380.

BECOME ALERT! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

WARNING

-1-

CAUTION: DO NOT OPERATE VARIDRIVE CONTROL

(FIG, 11) UNLESS ENGINE IS RUNNING. DAMAGE MAY

OCCUR TO VARIDRIVE SYSTEM.

To assembie and adjust your Tractor you will need:
one 3/4" socket, two 7/16" wrenches and one

11/16" wrench

NOTE: RIGHT HAND (R.H.) AND LEFT HAND (L.H.I ARE
DETERMINED FROM OPERATOR'S POSITION WHILE
SEATED ON TRACTOR.

1. Remove Shipping Strap Banding, Bundling Wires, Battery,
Steering Wheel and Bag of Parts. Also there is a Hold Down

Rod (shown below) holding front end of tractor to wood
crate Remove Lag Screw from Hold Down Rod and wood
crate. Discard Rod and Screw.

2. Fill and charge Battery (before installing). NOTE: SEE

detailed instructions PACKAGED WITH BAT

TERY.

a. Fill Battery with electrolyte to bottoms of tubes in calls

(Fig. 1). NOTE: DO NOT OVERFILL.OVERFILLING

WILL RESULT IN DAMAGE TO TRACTOR.

WASH HANDS OR CLOTHING IMMEDI
ATELY IF ACCIDENTALLY IN CONTACT

A

fa. Check level of electrolyte after 30 minutes. Add addi

tional electrolyte if necessary. NOTE: TIGHTEN VENT

CAPS SECURELY.

c. Charge Battery at a rate not exceeding three amperes

for about two and one half hours.

WITH ELECTROLYTE,

DO NOT SMOKE, FUMES FROM CHARG
ED ELECTROLYTE ARE EXPLOSIVE.

d. Neutralize excess electrolyte for disposal by adding it

to four inches of water in a five gallon plastic contain

er. Stir with a wooden or plastic paddle while adding
baking soda until the addition of more soda causes no
more foaming.

3. Install Battery using:

<S=~~"

Battery Rod, two Wing Nuts, two Flat Washers, two Bat
tery Bolts,

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

Q)=jm it®

two Fiat Washers, two Lockwashers, two Hex Bolts and

two Hex Nuts found in Bag of Parts.
a. Lift Hood from rear sides (Fig. 2i.
b. Remove tape from Plastic Tray, Make sure Drain Tube

(Fig. 3) is fastened to Drain Hole in Battery Tray and

Battery Tray is positioned in hole of Battery Support.

c. Place Battery in Plastic Tray (Battery Terminals to front

of Tractor) (Fig. 3).
NOTE; TIGHTEN WING NUTS SECURELY USING
YOUR THUMB AND FOREFINGER. DO NOT USE
TOOLS - OVER TIGHTENING MAY OVERSTRESS OR
CRACK THE BATTERY CASE.

.2.

d. insert Battery Bolt into square hole on the left side of

Battery Support (Fig. 3}, Fasten Battery ftod to Battery
Bolt with a Flat Washer and Wing Nut

e. insert remaining Battery Bolt into square hole in R.H

side of Battery Support and fasten Battery Rod with a
Flat Washer and Wing Nut {Fig,- 3|. Tighten Wing Nuts
securely

f. Position Terminai Cover over RED Battery Cable {Fig,.

4),

g. Connect RED Battery Cable to Positive !+} Battery Ter

minal with Hex Bolt, Flat Washer, Lockwasher and Hex
Nut {Fig, 4), Form Cable in an upward position (Fig. 4}
and tighten securely. Place Terminal Cover over Termi
nal. NOTE: PULL TERMINAL COVER FORWARD TO

ENCLOSE BATTERY TER(WINAL (FIG, 4 - INSET).

POSITIVE TERMINAL MUST BE CON

nected first to prevent sparks

FROM accidental GROUNDING.

h. Connect BLACK Ground Cable to Negative (-) Bat

tery Terminal with remaining Hex Bolt, Flat Washer,

Lockwasher and Hex Nut (Fig. 4) Tighten Nut secure

ly-

4, Close Hood

5. Irrstall Steering Wheel using Flat Washer, Hex ,iam Nut
(shown full size below) and

Steering Wheel Insert found in Bag of Parts.
a. Secure the Steering Wheel to Steering Shaft with Washer

and Hex Jam Nut (Fig, 5) Tighten securely.

b. Install the Steering Wheel Insert,

NOTE: A SPARK ARRESTOR MUFFLER (PAGE 1) IS
AVAILABLE AS AN ACCESSORY PART FOR YOUR
TRACTOR, CHECK LEGAL REQUIREMENTS IN YOUR
AREA

miimt mpjysTWEWTS

1. Reduce Tire pressure to 14 pounds In front and 10 pounds
in rear Tires, (Tires were overinflated for shipping pur
poses).

2. Seat position may be adjusted forward or backward by
loosening Bolt in Seat Plate (Fig 6). NOTE; WHEN RE
TIGHTENING BOLT after ADJUSTMENT, MAKE

SURE SEAT PLATE HAS NOT TWISTED OUT OF

alignment with seat spring.

INITIAL SEPVtCi

NOTE: BE CAREFUL NOT TO ALLOW DIRT TO ENTER

THE ENGINE WHEN CHECKING OR ADDING OIL OR

fuel,

1, Check Engine Oil Level with Tractor on level ground.

Wipe dipstick (Fig 71 clean, push it in tight for a few sec

ends, remove and read Oil Level, If necessary, add Olí until
"full'* mark is reached. In summer use S.A E, 30 (SC,
SO, SE or SF) Oil. In winter (below 32°F ) use S A.E.

10W30 (SC SD, SE or SF). In extreme cold (below 0°F.)
use S.A.E. 5W20 (SC, SD, SE or SF) DO NOT USE 10W40
0(L. NOTE: DO NOT OVERFILL.

2, Fill Fuel Tank (Fig, 6) with fresh, clean regular grade lead

ed or low-lead automotive gasoline only. Capacity is 3 ■ 1/2

gallons. NOTE; DO NOT SWITCH FROM LEADED TO

LEAD-FREE GASOLINE.

WARNING: Do not use Gasohol. Gasoho! type alcohols

react with water content in the fuel and tend to form

strong acids which can corrode metsi parts, even eat rubber

and plastics.

FILL TO BOTTOM OF GAS TANK FILL
ER NECK. DO NOT OVERFILL. WIPE

A

■ 3-

OFF ANY SPILLED OIL OR FUEL,

QPiRMlOW

1, Keep ail shields in place.

2, Before leaving operator's position:

a Shift transmission to neutral.
b. Set Parking Brake,
c. Disengage Attachment Lever,
d Shut off engine.
e. Remove Ignition Key.

3, Wait for ail movement to stop before servicing machine.

4, Keep people and pets a safe distance away from machine.

LEARN TO START, STOP AND revERSE

A

Your tractor in a large, open

AREA.

THIS tractor is equipped with

interlock switches to prevent

starting of the tractor engine

WHILE THE attachment CLUTCH

lever is in the engaged position

(FIG. 8) AND THE CLUTCH BRAKE

PEDAL IS IN DRIVE POSITION IFIG.

S).

IMMEDIATELY REPLACE SWITCHES

THAT ARE NOT IN PROPER WORKING

A

ORDER. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO DEFEAT
THE PURPOSE OF THESE SWITCHES.

STARTIW® THE EWeiME

1. Place Attachment Clutch Lever in ^'DISENGAGED**
position (Fig. 8).

2. Push Clutch-Brake Pedal fully into brake position (Fig.

9) .

3, Place Parking Brake Lever in "ENGAGED" position (Fig.

10)

4, Place Gaar Shift Control Lever irt "NEUTRAL", start

position (Fig 8).

5 Pull Choke out (Fig 10)

6, Move Throttle Control to middle position (Fig. 10),

7. Turn Ignition Key to "START" position until Engine starts
(Fig 10), Release key into 'ON*' position.

NOTE: DO NOT RUN STARTER CONTINUOUSLY FOR
MORE THAN THIRTY SECONDS AT A TIME. If engine
does not start after several attempts, move Throttle Control
to "fast" position, wait a few minutes, and try again.

ALWAYS WEAR SUBSTANTIAL FOOT
WEAR AND AVOID LOOSE FITTING

A

-4-

CLOTHING THAT COULD GET CAUGHT

IN MOVING PARTS.

mRMiNS UP THE EMSINE

Move Throttle Control to "SLOW” position. Push Choke in
as engine warms up. NOTE: ALLOW ENGINE TO WARM UP
FOR A FEW MINUTES BEFORE OPERATING,

When restarting a w ar m engine, move Throttle Control mid

way between ’%LOW" and "FAST" position. Choke may not
have to be used.

m Mc r m oPtBATio^

1 With engine running and warm, place Throttle Control mid

way between "SLOW" and "FAST” position.

2. Push Clutch-Brake Pedal down firmiy to disengage Parking
Brake and hoid Clutch-Brake Pedal in Brake position ¡Fig,

9),

3. Move Gear Shift Control Lever to desired gear ¡Fig, 10)

4. Release Clutch-Brake Pedal SLOWLY to start forward
or rearward movement

5. Move Varidrive Control Lever to desired speed ¡Fig. II)
If ground travel is too slow advance Throttle Lever.

NOTE; ALWAYS SELECT A GROUND TRAVEL SPEED

THAT WILL SUIT THE TERRAIN AND THE ATTACH

MENT BEING USED.

2. МоУе Shift Control Lever to "NEUTRAL" position.
3 Place Parking Brake in "ENGAGED" position.

CLUTCH-BRAKE PEDAL SHOULD RE
MAIN COMPLETELY DEPRESSED WHEN

A

FOOT PRESSURE IS RELEASED.

DO NOT OPERATE VARIDRIVE CON
TROL UNLESS ENGINE IS RUNNING.

A

A

A

A

NOTE: ALWAYS OPERATE ENGINE AT FULL ENGINE

RPM WHEN MOWING TO ASSURE BETTER MOWING PER
FORMANCE, LONG ENGINE LIFE AND PROPER DIS

CHARGE OF CUT MATERIAL,

DAMAGE MAY OCCUR TO VARIDRIVE

SYSTEM.

BRING TRACTOR TO COMPLETE STOP
BEFORE SHIFTING GEARS.

NEVER PLACE YOUR HANDS OR FEET

IN OR UNDER ANY POWERED ATTACH

MENT OR NEAR ANY MOVING PART
WHILE TRACTOR OR ANY POWERED

attachment is RUNNING.

DO NOT OPERATE THE MOWER WITH

OUT EITHER THE ENTIRE GRASS CAT
CHER, ON MOWERS SO EQUIPPED, OR

THE DEFLECTOR SHIELD IN PLACE.

^imCHMEWT LIFT ADJUSTMEWT

Due to different weights of Attachments, the Attachment

Lift Spring may require adjustment. The Adjustment Bolt
is located on rear of tractor top left side (Fig. 12).

1, Holding Spring Bushing with Wrench, loosen Jam Nut-

2 Turn Adjustment Bolt clockwise (O) to extend Spring and

reduce lift effort (for heavier Attachments).

3, Turn Adjustment Bolt counterclockwise ! ) (for lighter

Attachments).

4, Rettghtan Jam Nut against Spring Bushing.

DO NOT ADJUST FOR MAXIMUM
SPRING EXTENSION WHEN USING

A

A

LIGHT ATTACHMENTS, SUCH AS

MOWER.
ADJUST LIFT SPRING TO AID IN LIFT

ING ATTACHMENT, DON'T OVER

POWER SPRING.

ST0PPIW© YOUP ТЯЙСТ0Р

1, Push Clutch-Brake Pedal completely into "BRAKE" posi-

tion.

4 Place Attachment Clutch Lever In "DISENGAGED" posi

tion and lower attachment to the ground,

5. Move Throttle Control to "SLOW^ position.

6. Move Varidrive Control Lever to "SLOW" position.

7. Turn Ignition Key to "OFF" position.

REMOVE KEY WHEN LEAVING TRAC

TOR TO PREVENT UNAUTHORIZED

USE.
MAKE SURE PARKING BRAKE WILL

HOLD TRACTOR SECURE.

ТРЙМ8Р0РТ1М6 ¥©yp Тйдетой

TOWING IS NOT

damage can result.

RECOMMENDED. Interna! transaxle

TiACTOR OPER^TIOW OM HILLS

1 Choose one of the lowest gears BEFORE starting up or

down hills.

DO NOT DRIVE UP OR DOWN HILLS
WITH SLOPES GREATER THAN 1B°,

A

2. AVOID STOPPING OR SHIFTING ON HILLS.
a, If slowing is necessary, move Varidrive Control Lever

to slower position.

A

if stopping is absolutely necessary, push Clutch-Brake

b,

Pedal quickly to brake position and lock Parking Brake.
To restart your tractor, make sure tractor Is iri 1st

c.

gear and that you have allowed room to roll slightly
downhill, Unlock Parking Brake and release Clutch­Brake Pedal SLOWLY to start tractor forward move
ment, then move Varidrive Control Lever to desired
speed,

eke all turns gradually

AND DO NOT DRIVE ACROSS ANY
SLOPE.

LEAVE ENOUGH ROOM WHEN STOP
PING AND STARTING TO ALLOW
SLIGHT TRACTOR ROLL DOWNHILL AS
CLUTCH-BRAKE PEDAL MOVES
THROUGH CLUTCH POSITION.

1 Connect each end of the RED cable to the POSITIVE {+)

terminals of each battery (taking care not to short against

chassis},

2. Connect one end of the BLACK cable to the NEGATIVE
(-} terminal of fully charged battery.

3. Connect the other end of the cable to ENGINE BLOCK
or good CHASSIS GROUND on tractor (away from Gas
Tank or Battery),

4. Disconnect cables in reverse order:
a Engine Block or chassis of tractor.

b. Negative terminal of fully charged battery,

c. Positive terminais.

DO NOT USE YOUR TRACTOR BAT
TERY TO START OTHER VEHICLES.

тмттштмйш

To keep your tractor running better, longer; perform nec
essary service using the following Maintenance Schedule.

Each time you start your tractor, check your Ammeter {Fig.

13). The needle should move towards the + (charging) mark

indicating the battery is being charged as you operate the

tractor.

DISCONNECT SPARK PLUG WIRES TO

PREVENT ACCIDENTAL STARTING BE

A

FORE MAKING ANY INSPECTION, AD-

^except CAR

BURETOR).

SmRfBRi© YOUR TPACTCIR WITH

A LQW eATTlRY

If your Battery is too low to start the engine, it should be
recharged, if Jumper Cables are used for emergency starting
follow this procedure; NOTE: YOUR TRACTOR IS EQUIP
PED WITH A 12 VOLT NEGATIVE GROUNDED SYSTEM,
THE OTHER VEHICLE MUST ALSO BE A 12 VOLT NEGA
TIVE GROUNDED SYSTEM,

LEAD-ACID BATTERIES GENERATE EX

PLOSIVE GASES. KEEP SPARKS, FLAME,

A

and SMOKING MATERIALS AWAY

FROM BATTERIES. ALWAYS WEAR EYE

PROTECTION AROUND BATTERIES.

Make sure all nuts on bolts are tight and cotter pins are secure.
Observe ail safety precautions. Keep Tractor wet! lubricated
(refer to page 8),

ELECTRICAL MAINTENANCE

DIAGNOSTIC TERIVIINAL BOX

Your Tractor is equipped with a Tractor Diagnostic Terminal
Box which is used to simplify electrical system diagnosis. The
location of the Diagnostic Terminal Box is shown in Fig. 14.
The Diagnostic Terminal Box provides access to a number of
test points within the electrical system of the tractor.

WHEN USING THE DIAGNOSTIC TER
MINAL BOX - ENGINE TO BE STOPPED

A
A

The Diagnostic Terminal Box is designed to accept the Diag

nostic Terminal Adapter (opticmal) (Fig, IS), which is avail­ahie from Sears (Part No, 677A823), If you order the Adap
ter, also order the Test Procedure Manual (Manual No. 8441J),
showing diagnostic procedures and components of electrical

circuits.

To perform the testing with the Diagnostic Terminal Box, a
quality multimeter or automotive analyzer is required.

AND IGNITION OFF.

USE PROPER EQUIPMENT IN THE
CHECKING OF ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
THROUGH THE DIAGNOSTIC TERMIN
AL BOX.

6-

FiUST ¿h nouns

1. CHECK BELT ADJUSTMENT

New Belts may stretch after the first few hours of operation
resulting in loss of power.

a. With engine running, transmission in neutral, place Vari-

drive Control Lever in "FAST*’ position (Fig. 11) and
check if Secondary Belt (Fig. 16 - Inset) rides flush with
outside of Variator Sheave. (DO NOT PUSH DOWN ON
CLUTCH PEDAL).

b. if Secondary Belt is riding down in groove of Variator

Sheave adjustment is required

2. V-BELT ADJUSTMENT ^
a. With engine running, Transmission in NEUTRAL

position, move Varidrive Control Lever to full FAST

position (Fig. 11). ,,

b. Shut engine off and loosen Adjustment Nut on Bolt A

for Variator Stop Plate (Fig. 16).

c. Start engine and run at Idle Speed

d- Slowly move Varidrive Control Lever (Fig, 11) forward

or backward until Secondary Belt is riding flush to

1/16" outside of Variator Sheave (Fig.. 16 ■ inset).

NOTE: DO NOT PUSH DOWN ON CLUTCH PEDAL

e. Shut engine off holding Varidrive Control Lever in posi

tion as described in step d and tighten Adjustment Nut
on Boit"A" (Fig. 16).

f, Start engine and move Varidrive Control Lever to

"slow" position (Fig. 11). Primary Belt should ride
flush to 1/16" out of Variator Sheave (Fig. 16 - Inset).

g Adjustment is complete when the Secondary Beit rides

in the same position on the Variator Sheave in full

"fast" position, as the Primary Belt does in the

"slow" position,

h. Re-adjust as needed thereafter.

i- if Belt cannot be adjusted as described in step g, replace

V-8ettSo Refer to Belt Replacement , page 12,

3. CHANGE ENGINE OIL

Changing Oil after the first two hours will help eliminate
break-in residue which might be damaging to your Engine.

NOTE: BE CAREFUL NOT TO ALLOW DIRT TO ENTER
THE ENGINE WHEN CHANGING OIL

a Drain Oil with Engine warm. Unscrew Oil Drain Plug

(Fig. 18) and catch Oil in a suitable container. Replace
Plug.

b Refill Engine Oil (Fig. 17). In summer use S.A.E. 30

ISC, SD, se or SF) Oil. In winter (below 32°F.) use

SAE, 10W30 (SC, SD, SE or SF). In extreme cold

(below 0°F.) use S.A.E. SW20 (SC, SD, SE or SF). DO
NOT USE 10W40 OIL. Refill capacity is 3 pints. NOTE:
DO NOT OVERFILL,

FPiOyEWTiY

L CHECK BATTERY

a Electrolyte solution ievel in each Battery Cell should be

even with bottoms of tubes in cells (Fig* 19). Add dis
tilled water if necessary, NOTE: DO NOT OVERFILL.

b. Keep Battery and Terminals clearr Refer to page 12,

step 6.
c. Keep Battery Bolts tight.
d. Keep Vent Caps tight and small vent holes in Caps open.
e. Recharge SLOWLY at 3 amperes if necessary.

2. CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

Tire pressure in front should be H pounds and rear Tires
should be 10 pounds.

3. CLEAN AIR SCREEN
Air Screen (Fig. 17) must be kept free of dirt and chaff to
prevent Engine damage from overheating.

E¥E@¥ &HOUflS

1 CHECK ENail^E OIL LEVEL

DO NOT CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL

A

Several tnirtutes after stopping Engine, check Engine Oil
Level with Tractor on level ground , Wipe dipstick (Fig, 17)
clean, push it down tight for a few seconds, remove and
read Oil Level. If necessary, add Oil until "FULL“ mark is
reached, in summer use S A.E. 30 (SC, SD, SE or SF) Oil.

In winter (below 32°F,} use S.A.E. 10W30 (SC, SD, SE or
SF) In extreme cold (below 0°F.) use S.A.E, 5W20 (SC,
SD, SE or SF). DO NOT USE 10W40 OIL. NOTE: DO

NOT OVERFILL-

WITH ENGINE RUNNING.

HOUitS

(EVERY 15 HOURS IF OPERATING
IN VERY DUSTY CONDITIONS)

1. CLEAN FOAIV! PRE-CLEANER.

a. Unscrew Knob (Fig. 21) to remove Cover.

b. Remove Nut arid Washer to remove Cartridge

Paper Cartridge and Oil Foam Pre-Cleaner.
Wash Foam Pre-Cleaner in detergertt and water.

c.

Rinse, squeeze (rather than twist) and allow to dry

d.

thoroughty.
Coat with three tablespoons of S.A.E. 30 Engine Oil,

e.

squeeze to distribaJte eveniy, and squeeze out excess.
Check Paper Cartridge. Replace if excessively dirty,

f.
g. Reassemble Paper Cartridge and re-position on Tractor.

NOTE: NEVER RUN ENGINE WITH AIR CLEANER RE
MOVED.

Plate,

2, CLEAN AIR SCREEN

Air Screen (Fig. 22) must allow free-flow of air to prevent

Engine damage from overheating. Clean with a wire brush,

compressed air or water pressure to remove dirt, chaff,
stubborn dried gum and fibers.

3, CHANGE ENGINE OIL

The best time to change Engine Oil is at the errd of a days

operation when all dirt and foreign material is suspended

in the hot Oil. Refer to page 7.

4, CLEAN FRONT 6RILL SCREEN

The Frorrt Grill Screen (Fig. 2! must allow free flow of air
to prevent engine damage from overheating.

a. Remove Grill Screen by removing two screws.
b. Clean with a wire brush, compressed air or water pres

sure to remove dirt, chaff, stubborn dried gum and
fibers,

c. Replace Grill Screen and secure screws.

B. LUBRICATE STEERING AND FRONT WHEELS ,

There are seven Grease Fittings on your Tractor (Figs. 20
and 24),, Using a Grease Gun, give each Grease Fitting two
shots of Extreme Pressure Lubricating Grease Amdex No. 1

or equivalent (availabie through your Sears Service Center).

-8-

6. OIL PIVOT POINTS
Place several drops of S A,E, 30 Oil at points where parts
move against each other, especially:

a. Front Axle Pivot (Fig-201.
b Hood Hinges.

c. Foot Pedal Shaft (Fig. 8).
d. Lift Shaft {Fig- 33).
e- Polyfoam Seal at Variator Arm Assembly Pivot Shaft

(saturate with oii), see page 18, Key No's. 46, 51 and 53.

f Clutch Link and Varidrive Control Link, see page 18,

Key No's. 47 and 49.

g Varidrive Handle Pivot Bushing (Fig. 33)

EViPY

1. CLEAN ENGINE COOLING FINS
Remove any dust, dirt or oil from Engine Cooling Fins

to prevent Engine damage from overheating (Fig- 23!

2. CHECK TRANSAXLE OIL LEVEL
a Remove Filler Plug (Fig, 25) from Transaxia. Oi! Level

should be even with Filler Plug threads Add S A.E 30
Motor Oil if necessary-

b- Check Pressure Relief Valve (Fig. 27 - Inset) located on

R.H, side near top It should spring completely dosed

when pulled out by hand and relaased-

3. LUBRICATE STEERING U*JOINT
a Lift Hood (Fig 2).
b Rotate Steering Wheel so that U-Joint Grease Fitting

is exposed (Fig 24).

c Using a Grease Gun, give Fitting two shots of Extreme

Pressure Lubricating Grease Amdex No- I or equivalent

(available at your Sears Service Center)

4. MUFFLER
Do not operate the tractor without a Muffler (Fig. 22) or
tamper with the exhaust system Damaged Mufflers or
spark arresters could create a fire hazard, inspect periodi
cally and replace if necessary If your engine is equipped
with a spark arrester screen assembly, remove every SO
hours for cleaning and inspection, Replace if damaged.

HOy^S

EVERY

1. REPLACE SPARK PLUGS & RESET GAP
Replace Spark Plugs at the beginning of each season or

every 100 hours, whichever comes first. Gap should be set

at .030 inch (Fig 26)

2. LUBRICATE BALL JOINTS
a Move Rubber Boots to expose Ball Joints on Tie Hods

and Steering Link (Fig 20)
b- Coat Ball Joints with Silicone Spray Lubricant,
c. Reposition Rubber Boots,

HOURS