Craftsman 917254244 Owner’s Manual

,, , ,,,,.

OWNERS

MANUAL

MODEL NO.

q17.254244

Caution:

Read and Follow

All Safety Rules And instructions

Before Operating

This Equipment

Sears, Roebuck and Co, Chicago, IL 60684 USA

LT 12 HP ELECTRIC START 6 SPEED - 38" MOWER

LA WN TRA CTOR

® Assembly ® Operation

e Maintenance

® Repair and Adjustment

® Repair Parts

SAFETY RULES

I Know the controls and how to stop quickly READ THIS

OPERA TOR'5 MANUAL end instructions furnished with

attachments,

2 Do not allow children to operate the machine. Do not allow

adults to operate it without proper instruction.

3_ Do not carry passengera Do not mow when childran and

others #tie around.

4 o Always waarsubstantialfootweer_ Donot waarloose fit-

tlng clothing that could get caught in moving parts,

5. Keep your ayes and mind on your tractor, mower and the area being cut, Do not let other interests distract you.

6. Do not attempt to operate your tractor or mower when

not in the drivers seaL.

7_ Always get on or off your tractor from the operator's left

hand side°

8. Cleat the work area of objects (wire, rocks, etc3 which

might be picked up and thrown,

g. Disengage all attachment clutches before attempting to

start the engine°

100 Disengage power to attachments and stop the engine

before leaving the operator's position.

! I oDisengage power to mower, atop the engine and discon-

nect spark plug wire(s/from spark plug(s) before clean- ing, making an adjustment or repair° Be careful to avoid

touching hot muffler or engine components.

12. Disengage power to attachments when transporting or not in use.

13. Take all possible precautions when leaving the vehicle un. attended. Disengage the power-take-off, lower the at-

tachments, shift into neutral, set the parking brake, stop

the engine and remove the key.

14 o Do not stop or start suddenly when going, uphill or

downhill Mow up and down the face of slopes (not greater than 15 el; never across the face. Refer to page 47.

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, While going up or down slopes, place Gear Shift Control

Lever ln Ist gear posltion to negotiate the slope without

stopping.

17 oNever mow in wet or slippery grass, when traction is Uno

sure or at e speed which could cause a skid_

t 8. Stay alert for holes in the terrain and other hidden hazards.

Keep away from drop-offs_

19, Do not drive too close to creeks, ditches and public

highways.

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 objects

2 t 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 e, 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

vehicle while in operation.

26_ Handle gasoline with care - it is highly flammable°

a. Use approved gasoline containers o

b. Never remove the fuel cap of the fuel tank or add

gasoline to a running or hot engine or an engine that has not been allowed to cool for several minutes after

running, Never fill tank indoors, always clean up spill-

ed gasoline.

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

fumes ere dangerous° Do not run the engine indoors.

2 7° Keep the vehicle and attachments in good operating con*

dillon, and keep safety devices in place and working,

2 8° Keep all 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 in.

side a building where fumes may reach an open flame or spark° Allow the engine to cool before storing in 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=

3 I, Except for adjustments; DO NOT operate Engine if air

cleaner or cover directly over carburetor air intake is removed. Removal of such part could create a fire hazard°

32. Do not operate without a muffler or tamper with exhaust

system_ Damaged mufflers or spark arresters could create a fire hazard. Inspect periodically and replace ff 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

the 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 Shut the engine off when unclogging chute. c_ Check the blade mounting bolts for proper tightness

at frequent intervals.

36. Do not operate the mower without the deflector shield in place,

37, Disengage power to mower before backing up. Do not

me w in reverse unless absolutely necessary and then on- ly after careful observation of the entire area behind the

mower.

38. Under normal usage the grass catcher bag material is sub:

ject to deterioration and wear It should be checked fre- quently for bag replacement Replacement bags should

be checked to ensure compliance with the original manufacturer's recommendations or specifications

LOOK FOR THIS SYMBOL TO PO NT OUT IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.

T MEANS--ATTENTIONI BECOME ALERTI YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED_

CAUTION: LOOK FOR THIS WORD TO POINT OUT IMPORTANT EQUIPMENT PRECAUTIONS.

',, , ' ,,,

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 MEET- ING APPLICABLE LOCAL OR STATE LAWS (IF ANY). IF A SPARK ARRESTER IS USED, IT SHOULD BE MAINTAINED IN EFFECTIVE WORKING ORDER BY THE OPERATOR

In the State of Cafifornia the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the Cafifornia Public Resources Code)

Other states may have st)77t'iarfaws Fedet al laws app/y on federal lands Refet to the Repair Parts Section. page32

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a Sears Lawn

Tractor Ithas been designed, engineered and manufactured

togive you the best possible dependability and performance.

SERIAL

NUMBER

Should you experience any problem you cannot easily rem- edy, please contact your nearest Sears Service Department

DATE OF PURCHASE

We have competent, well-trained technicians and the proper

tools to service or repair this uniL

THE SERIAL NUMBER WILL BE FOUND ON THE MODEL PLATE UNDER THE SEAT.

MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT

A Sears Maintenance Agreement is available on this product. See the nearest Sears store or service center for details.

YOU SHOULD RECORD THESE NLIMBERS AND KEEP FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

Read and retain this manual Study and observe the safety rules. Always use care when using your tractor. Always keep your

tractor and mower clean_ Follow a regular schedule in maintaining, caring for, and using your tractor. A well cared for tractor

will run better and last longer.

A TTA CHMEN TS

This unit can use many attachments now available at your Sears store. It cannot use attachments that engage the ground lik, a plow, harrow, cultivator, or tiller

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY

ON ELECTRIC START RIDING EQUIPMENT

For two years from date of purchase, when this riding equipment is maintained, lubricated and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instruction in the owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge

any defect in material or workmanship in this electric start ridino eouiom_m

This warranty excludes blade(s), blade adapterls), spark pluglsl, air cleanerlsl and beltlel which are expen-

dable and become worn during normal use

This warranty does not cover:

Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects tauch as nails, thorns, stumps or glass); and repairs necessary because of operator at]use or negligence, including the failure to maintain the equipment according to instructions contained in the owner's manual and riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes

FULL 90-DAY WARRANTY ON BATTERY

For 90 days from the date of purchase, if any battery included with this riding equipment proves defective in material or workmanship and our testing determines the battery will not hold a charge. Sears will replace

the battery at no charcle

WARRANTY SERVICE IS AVAILABLE BY CONTACTING THE NEAREST SEARS SERVICE CENTER/DEPART-

MENT IN THE UNITED STATES This warranty applies only while this product is in use in the United States

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

to state

SEARS, ROEBUCK and CO, D/698-731A, Sears Tower, Chicago, !1 60684

INDEX

Adjustments:

Brake ...............................................14

Carburetor ................................... 18

Mower Drive Belt ........................22

Mower

Front-to-Rear .......................23

Side-to-Side ....................... 22

Throttle Control Cable .............. 18

Engine Valves ......................... 18

Ak Filter

Cleaning ...................................... 16

Element .................................... 16

Air Intake Screen, Engine ............... 16

Assembly ........................................ 5-8

Battery:

Charging ...................................... 7

Cleaning .................................. 15

Installation .................................. 8

Levels ................................................8

Preparation ........................................7

Staffing with Weak Battery .......17

Storage .........................................23

Terminals ...........................................15

Belt:

Motion Drive Replacement .......19

Mower Drive Adjustment ...........22

Mower Drive,

Remove]Replace .................20

Blade:

Sharpening ...........................................14

Replacement .................................14

Brake Adjustment ..................................14

Carburetor Adjustment .......................18

Controls, Tractor. ................................ 9

Cutting Level, Mower ...................... 12

Filter ..................................................... 16

Fuel:

Type ......................................... 10

Storage ..................................... 22

Fuse ............................................... 20

Hood Removal ............................... 20

Levelling Mower Deck .................... 22

Lubrication:

Chaff ........................................ 24

Tractor Pivot Points ................... 24

Maintenance:

Air Filter ................................... 16

Air Filter Element ....................... 16

Air Screen ....................................16

Battery ...................................... 15

Blade Sharpening ..................... 14

Brake Adjustment .......................14

Engine Oil................................. 16

Lubrication Chaff ....................... 24

Spark Plugs ................................ 18

Tire Care .................................. 14

Mower:

Adjustment, Front-to-Rear ........23

Adjustment, Side-to-Side .........22

Blade Sharpening ........................14

Blade Replacement ...................14

Cutting Level .............................. 12

Installation .................................. 21

Operation .................................. 11

Removal .................................... 20

Muffler. ............................................... 17

Spark Arrester ............................ 2

Parking Brake .............................................14

Paffs Bag ....................................................5-6

Repa# and Adjustments ...............14-23

Blade ..................................................15

Carburetor .......................................18

Fuse .................................................20

Hood Removal ..............................20

Motion Drive Belt

Replacement .........................19

Mower Drive Belt

Replacement ..........................20

Mower Adjustment

Side4o-Side .........................22

Mower Removal ........................20

Safety Rules ................................................2

Seat ...............................................................7

Service Record ........................................13

Slope Guide Sheet ......................................47

Spark Plug ...........................................18

Speed Control Chaff ...........................12

Staffing the Engine ..............................11

Steering Wheel ........................................5

Stopping the Tractor ...............................10

Storage ...........................................................23

Throttle Control Cable

Adjustment .......................................18

Tires ..................................................................14

Trouble Shooting Chaff .........................25

Valves, Adjust ..............................................18

Engine:

Air Screen .....................................16

Oil Change ......................................16

OilLevel ..................................... 16

Oil Type .........................................16

Staffing ............................................11

Storage ........................................ 23

Valve Adjustment .......................18

Oil

Cold Weather Conditions ........ 16

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

Storage ...................................... 23

Operation ....................................... 9-12

Operating Your Mower ............. 11

Operating Your Tractor ........... 11

Staffing the Engine .................. 11

Stopping Your Tractor ...............10

Tractor Operation on Hills ....... 12

Warranty .....................................................3

Wiring (Schematic) ..............................27

1. Unpack Tractor

a Take items out of box, The box contains the items

shown below

b Cut down four corners of the carton with a utility

knife and fold down sides

c Disengage Parking Brake

Install Steering Wheel

1, Slide upper steering shaft over lower steering

shaft until bolt holes line up with slots in lower steering shaft (Fig 11_

2 Use two hex bolts 3/8- 16 x 1-1/4 and two

Iocknuts 3/8 - 16 to retain upper steering shaft to lower steering shaft. Tighten securely

3 Position Steering Sleeve over steering shaft

assembly_

4 For easier assembly, tilt tube towards front of

tractor.,

5 Place bottom of Steering Sleeve over two front

prongs on steering bushing,

6 Squeeze the two steering sleeve retainers inward

to allow Steering Sleeve to pass over retainers

7. Push Steering Sleeve down aligning notch on

Steering Sleeve with tab on steering bushing

8, Place steering wheel adapter on upper steering

shaft.

9_ With front wheels pointed straight ahead, place

steering wheel on steering wheel adapter Bars of

steering wheel should point straight across tractor

10 Place 2 - 1/4" diameter washer on upper steer-

ing shaft and install a 1/2" Iocknut (washer and Iocknut found in bag of parts). Tighten secure ly.

11, Snap insert into steering wheel

e Remove plastic On tractor hood

f Raise attachment lift handle,

The operation of any tractor can result In

foreign objects thrown Into the eyes, which can result In severe eye damage. Always

wear safety glasses or eye shields before startlng yourtractor andwhlle movlng° We

recommend Wide Vision Safety Mask for

over the spectacles or standard safety glasses, available at Sears Retail or Cata- log Stores.

Parrs Bag Contents Nor Shown Full Size:

....... Iilll!lt!lilJ._illlllll!littlllIIHIjlIIjH_

12l Battery Carriage Bolls 1/4 - 20 x 7 • t/2

Terrmnal Guard

15 ° Slope Insrrucfron 5heel

12l Keys

Wheel Adapter

b 5reefing wh_l C baffory d b_flel¥ Bctd

t j_ It t$ 1),1_

ring

Battery Caps

And Instructions

Steering Wheel Inset!l

ASSEMBLY

ASSEMBLY PARTS BAG CONTENTS SHOWN FULL SIZE LOCATION

BA T TER Y

BA TTER Y

TERMINALS

SEAT

(21 Lockwasher, I/4 Int/Ext Tooth

(2) Hex Bolt, I/4 - 20 x 3/4 /P_

(2) Washer 9/32 x 5/8 x 16 Ga,

(1) Hex Bolt, 1/2 - 13 x 1

Grade5

(2) Wing Nut _ 1/4 - 20

(2) Lockwasher 1/4

(2) Hex Nut, 1/4 --20

(J)Lockwashet 1/2

(1) Washer 17/32x I-3/16

x 12 Ga.

UPPER STEERING SHAFT

STEERING

WHEEL

(1) Shoulder Bolt S/16- 18

(2) Hex Bolt 3/8 - 16x 1 - I/4

(I) Washer 15/32x 1x 16 Ga.

(2) Flex Locknut 3/8 - 16

(1) Locknut, 1/2-20

"" Dia. Washer

Toassembletractoryouwillneed:

(2) 7/16"Wrenches TirePressureGauge (1)1/2"Wrench Screwdriver

(I) 3/4" wrench Utility Knife

(2) 9/16" wrenches

NOTE: RIGHT HAND (RH) AND LEFT HAND (L H) ARE

DETERMINED FROM OPERATOR'S POSITION

WHILE SEATED ON THE TRACTOR

ASSEMBLY

INSERT

1/2

2 1/4 DIA

STEERING WHEEL

WEAR EYE AND FACE SHIELD

WASH HANDS OR CLOTHING IM-

MEDIATELY IF ACCIDENTALLY IN

CONTACT WITH BATTERY ACID

DO NOT SMOKE; FUMES FROM

CHARGED BATTERY ACID ARE EXPLOSIVE

READ THE INSTRUCTIONS INCLUD- ED WITH THE BATTERY VENT

CAPS IN THE BAG OF PARTS AL- WAYS WEAR GLOVES, CLOTHING

AND GOGGLES TO PROTECT YOUR HANDS, SKIN AND EYES

2, Prepare Battery

Fill and charge battery (before installing) NOTE: SEE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS PACKAGED WITH BATTERY

VENT CAPS FOUND IN BAG OF PARTS

a Fill each cell with battery acid Add the acid until 3.

it reaches the bottom of the vent tubes (Fig 3) Do not add the acid beyond this /eve/ or the addi-

tional acid can come out when the battery is charged

b After cells are rifled, tilt battery from side to side to

release air bubbles.,

c Allow battery to stand and settle for at least thirty a_

minutes If the level of acid falls below the point described in step (a), add more acid until the correct level is reached Instafl the battery caps, found in the bag of parts, to cover the vent tubes Wash the top of

the battery with water to remove any acid, then wipe

dry

d Check battery case for leakage to make sure that no

damage has occured in handling, c

e. Neutralize excess battery acid for disposal by adding

it to four inches of water in a five gallon plastic d, container. Stir with a wooden or plastie paddle while

adding baking soda until the addition of more soda causes no more foaming _, e

L Use a 12 volt battery charger Charge batteo,"=, a

rate of 6 amperes for 1 hour, NOTE: OBSERVE

UPPER ADAPTER

STE

SHAFT

_CK NUTS

SHAFT

STEERING SLEEVE

RETAINER k

FIGURE 1

Install Seat.

Seat position should be adjusted forward or backward so that the operator can comfortably reach Clutch/Brake

Pedal and safely operate tractor.

Place seat on seat pan Screw hex head machine screw, Iockwasher and flat washer into seat (Fig

2) Screw shoulder bolt and flat washer into seat

(Fig 2) Machine screw, shoulder bolt and flat

washers found in bag of parts (shown full size on page 6)

Tighten shoulder bolt and flat washer using a 1/2"" wrench

Tighten machine screw, [ockwasher and flat

washer using a 1/2'" wrench

Place seat in operating position Sit on the seat andpress clutch/brake pedal all the way down If operating position is not comfortable, adjust seat

To adjust Raise seat Loosen machine screw

Shde seat to desired position Tighten machine screw securely

SPRING

STEER}NG

STEERIN(

BUSHING

SPRING

STEERING

REQUIRED FOR BATTERY CHARGING Check the acid level after the battery is charged If the acid

SAFETYPRECAUTIONS. LISTEDINBOXABOVE. [_ has fallen below the correct level, add distilled or iron

free water,

MACHINE SCR EW-LOCKWASH ER-FLAT

WASHER MUST BETIGHTENED SECURE- LY TO PREVENT MOVEMENT OF SEAT.

ASSEMBL Y

4. Check Tires Check the air pressure in the t#es. Tires with too much air

pressure will cause the unit to ride rough. The wrong air

pressure will also keep the mower from cutting level. The

coFect air pressum is shown on the side of the timso ff the ait pf_ssure is not shown, set topressures shown in the REPAIR

AND ADJUSTMENT sectionlpage 14).

5o Install Battery

BEFORE INSTALLING BATTERY, REMOVE METAL BRACELETS,

WRISTWATCH BANDS, RINGS, ETC.

FROM YOUR PERSON. TOUCHING

THESE ITEMS TO BATTERY TERMI-

NALS COULD RESULT IN BURNS.

Lift seat (Fig. 2)_

Lower battery into fender well with battery terminals

toward front of tractor (Fig° 4), Make sure battery rests in battery tray (Fig 4)

NOTE: BE SURE BATTERY DRAIN TUBE IS SECURELY

ATTACHED TO BATTERY TRAY DRAIN,

SHOULOER AOJUSTM_Nt

6QLT _OLT

T_RMINA_ T_RM_NAL

CU'f AWAY VIEW

LIQUID

LE/VEL _ _ f BATTERY

g _ _ _J _ R _ /BATTERY

_" ." {1 ._'..~- ~ -"_-"_1 FIGURE 3

UAT £RV

WASHER

NEGATIVE

TERMINAL

F|GURE 2

VENT CAP

NEGATtVE

POSITIVETERMiNALMUSTBEcON-7

NECTEDFIRSTTO PREVENT/

SPARKS FROM ACCIDENTAL | GROUNDING J

Connect RED battery cable to positive (+) battery terminal with hex bolt, flat washer, Iockwasher and

hex nut (shown full size on pg. 6) found in bag of

parts. Tighten securely with two 7/16" wrenches.

(Fig. 4)

d. Connect BLACKground cable to negative (-) battery

terminal with remaning hex bolt, flat washer, lock- washer and hex nut (shown full size on pg. 6) found in bag of parts. Tighten securely. (Fig. 4)

e To prevent corrosion, apply grease to the battery

terminals after installing cables.

L Usingthekeyholeononesideof_ebatterysupport

(Fig=5) slide battery boll into frame key hole (head of boll down). Fasten the battery bolt to the terminal guard using internal/external Iockwasher, wing nut, (shown full size on pg. 6) as shown in F_g.5.

g. Assemble the remaining battery boll to other side of

battery support and fasten terminal guard to it with remaining internal/external Iockwasher and wing

nut, (Shown full size on pg_ 6). Tighten wing nuts securely by hand (Fig. 5).

NOTE:

CAUTION: DO NOT START ENGINE UNTIL YOU HAVE

KEEP TERMINAL ACCESS DOORS CLOSED WHEN NOT IN USE.

REVIEWED THE OPERATION SECTION OF

THIS MANUAL 8

WASHER

P_t_VE

TERMINAl

POSITIVE

CABLE(RED_

BATTERY TRAY

BATTERy

6. Maintenance After First 2 Hours (Two Mowlngs) Changing oil alter the first two hours (or two mowings) will

help eliminate break-in residue which might be damaging to

your engine_

FIGURE4

FIGURE 5

OPERATION

KNOW YOUR TRACTOR

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN TRACTOR. If you understand the unit and its

operation, youwillachieveefficientandpeakpedormance, Whilereadingthemanual, comparetheillustrationswithyourLawn

Tractor to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments,, Study the operating instructions and safety

precauti_ns th_r_ugh_y t_ insure pr_per functi_ning _f y_ur Lawn Tract_r and t_ prevent injury t_ y_urse_f and _thers. Be sure

to pay strict attention to all warnings and cautions: they are included for your safety,, Save this manual for future reference+

Light Switch

Throttle/Choke

Clutch/Brake Pedal

Height

Adjustment

Knob

Gear Shift

A TEA CHMENT CLUTCH LEVER: Push lever up to engage

attachment. There will be an engine hesitation as the clutch

engages.

ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER: Use the attachment lift lever to raise and lower the attachment mounted to your tractor,

Pull lever back slightly and push button, then move the rift lever forward to lower attachment+

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL: The pedal has 2 functions; a clutch and a brake To engage the brake push the pedal completely down

:hment Clutch

Lever

Parking Brake

GEARSHIFT: Press the clutclVbrake pedal down firmly and move gear shift lever to desired speed

IGNITION: Place key in ignition and turn to the right to starL

The switch spring returns from the start position,,

LIGHT SWITCH: Turns the headlights on and ofL

PARKING BRAKE: To set the parking brake, push the clutclVbrake pedal completely down. Hold the parking brake

lever in "Engaged"position and release pressure from pedal, Clutch/brake pedal will remain in brake position

ATTACHMENT HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB: Use the height adjustment knob to adjust the mower heighL With the

attachment lift lever in the 'tJp" positiono turn knob clockwise

(F-_ ) to raise cutting height and counterclockwise ('_'-_ ) to lower cutting height

THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL Use the throttle control

to increase or decrease the speed of the engine, and to choke the engine for starting Push lever to the right

and forward to choke

OPERATION

1o Stopping Your Tractor

FUEL FILLER

CAP

TANK

FIGURE 6

AIR

SCREEN

DRAIN

NOTE:

REMOVE KEY WHEN LEAVING TRACTOR TO

PREVENT UNAUTHORIZED USE

Push clutch-brake pedal into full "BRAKE"position,

Keep your foot on pedal.

Place attachment clutch lever in "DISENGAGED" Position,

Move gear shift lever to "NEUTRAL " position_

Place parking brake in "ENGAGED" position and

release pressure from clutch/brakeo Pedal should remain in "BRAKE"position.

Move throttle control to "S" (slow) position°

Turn ignition key to "OFF"position, Never use choke

to stop engine.

Preparing The Engine

, , .... ,

VERSE YOUR TRACTOR IN A LARGE,

_ LEARN TO START, STOP AND RE-

OPEN AREA.

a Tills engine has been shipped filled with summer

weight oil (For cold weather operation see chart page

16). Check engine oil level Refer to REPAIR AND

ADJUSTMENT section (page 161o

b, Fill fuel tank (Fig. 6). Use fresh, clean, regular

unleaded gasoline. Capacity is 5 quarts.

MOWER BLADE

POSITION

HEADLIGHT

_.,_WITCH

"CLUTCW' POSITION

FIGURE 7

_"DISENGAGED"

POSITION

PARKING BRAKE

"ENGAGED"

GEARSHIFT

LEVER

FILL TO BOTTOM OF GAS TANK FILLER NECK. DO NOT OVERFILL.

WIPE OFF ANY SPILLED OIL OR

FUEL. DO NOT STORE, SPILL OR USE GASOLINE NEAR AN OPEN FLAME.

CAUTION:

EXPERIENCE INDICATES THAT ALCOHOL

BLENDED FUELS (CALLED GASOHOL OR USING ETHANOL OR METHANOL) CAN AT-

TRACT MOISTURE WHICH LEADS TO

SEPARATION AND FORMATION OF ACIDS DURING STORAGE ACIDIC GAS CAN DAMAGE THE FUEL SYSTEM OF AN ENGINE

WHILE IN STORAGE.

TO AVOID ENGINE PROBLEMS, THE FUEL

SYSTEM SHOULD BE EMPTIED BEFORE

STORAGE FOR 30 DAYS OR LONGER, DRAIN

THE GAS TANK, START THE ENGINE AND

LET IT RUN UNTIL THE FUEL LINES AND CARBURETOR ARE EMPTY. USE FRESH FUEL NEXT SEASON. SEE STORAGE IN- STRUCTIONS FOR ADDITIONAL INFOR- MATION

NEVER USE ENGINE OR CARBURETOR CLEANER PRODUCTS IN THE FUEL TANK

OR PERMANENT DAMAGE MAY OCCUR

3. StaRing The Engine

a,. Move throttle control lever (Fig., 7) past "FAST"to the

"CHOKE" position.

b. Tumignitionkeyto "START"andreleasekeyassoon

as engine starts.

CAUTION: DO NOT RUN STARTER CONTINUOUSLY

FOR MORE THAN FIFTEEN SECONDS PER

MINUTE,.

c, If engine does not start after four or five tries, move

throttle control lever to "FAST" position, wait a few minutes and try again,, If the engine does not start

after four or five more tries, see the TROU-

BLESHOOTING Chart (page 25),

d After the engine starts move throttle control lever

slowly to the "SLOW"position

e To start a hot engine move the throttle control lever

to a position between "FAST" and "SLOW"

OPERATION

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH

LEVER "DISENGAGED*'

HEIGHT ATTACHMENT CLUTCH ADJUSTMENT LEVER "ENGAGED" KNOB POSIT!ON

POSITION

LIFT LEVER

;R LIFT LEVER

'OSITION

LIFT LEVEF

POSITION

OPERATION" CAREFULLY BEFORE READ THE "RULES FOR SAFE J

OPERATING YOUR MOWER.

CAUTION: DO NOT ADD ADDITIONAL WEIGHT TO THE

TRACTOR OTHER THAN THE OPTIONAL WHEEL WEIGHTS. EXCESSIVE WEIGHT

MAY OVERLOAD AND DAMAGE THE

TRANSMISSION

WEAR AND AVOID LOOSE FITTING

l _ ALWAYS WEAR SUBSTAN]IAL FOOT-

CLOTHING THAT COULD GET CAUGHT IN MOVING PARTS

CAUTION

TO AVOID INJURY

1 Read owner's manual

2 Know location and function of all controls 3 Keep guards, safety shield and switches in place

and working

4 Remove objects that can be thrown by blades

5, Do not mow when children and others are around 6 Never carry children or passengers

7 Always look behind machine before backing

8 Do not mow where machine can tip or slip 9 If machine stops going uphill, stop blades and back

slowly clown

10 Be sure blades and engine have stopped before

placing hands or feet near the blades

1I Remove key when leaving machine

MAKE SURE PARKING BRAKE WILL HOLD TRACTOR SECURE.

RUNNER

GUARD

FIGURE8

4. Operating Your Lawn Tractor & Mower

WITHOUT THE DEFLECTOR SHIELD

DO NOT OPERATE THE MOWER (DISCHARGE GUARD) IN PLACE,

NOTE: THIS TRACTOR IS EQUIPPED WITH AN

OPERATOR PRESENCE SENSING SWITCH ANY ATTEMPT BY THE OPERATOR TO LEAVE

THE SEAT WITH THE ENGINE RUNNING AND THE ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER ENGAGED WILL SHUT OFF THE ENGINE

a, Move the attachment lift leverto the high position and

adjust height of cut to mid range See Fig 8.

b Start the engine, (See Starting the Engine)

c Move the throttle lever to mid range position, Select

a low (1stor2nd) gear untilyou become more familiar

with the operation of the unit,

d_ Slowly release clutch brake pedal and proceed to the

mowing area,

NEVER PLACE YOUR HANDS OR FEET IN

OR UNDER ANY POWERED ATTACHMENT OR NEAR ANY MOVING PART WHILE

TRACTOR OR ANY POWERED ATTACH- MENT IS RUNNING.

e Stop the umt, then select a mowing speed (See

Speed Selection Guide. page 12)

f Move throttle lever to half throttle and slowly

move attachment clutch lever to engaged pos/-

(ton. Fig 8

OPERATION

g. Slowly release clutch brake pedal

5. Mowing Tips

NOTE: TIRE CHAINS CANNOT BE USED WITH

THE MOWER ATTACHED.

h, Move throttle lever to fast position,

L 05serve height of Cut and readjust as desired

CAUTION: BEFORE YOU MOVE THE GEAR SHIFT

LEVER, COME TO A COMPLETE STOP. FAIL-

URE TO DO SO CAN RESULT IN GEAR BOX DAMAGE.

FIGURE 9

a, Mowershouldbe adjustedpropedy front toback and

side to side for good mowing performance, Referto REPAIR AND ADJUSTMENT section Ipage 22).

b. Use the runner on the R.H. side as a guide; the blade

cuts approximately an inch outside the runner (Fig.

8).

C_ Drive so that clippings ate discharged onto the area

that has been cut. Have the cut area to the right of themachine. Thiswillresultinamoreevendistribu-

tion of clippings and more uniform cutting.

d_ When mowing large areas (Fig. 9), start by turning to

the right so that the clippings will discharge away

from shrubs, fences, driveways, etc. After two or

three rounds, mow in the opposite direction making

left hand turns until finished.

e. ff grass is extremely tall it should be mowed twice

The first time cut relatively high; the second time to

the desired height.

f. The left hand side of mower should be used for

trimming.

SPEED SELECTION GUIDE

FUNCTION

Normal

Mowing ........

Heavy Mowing

,,,,,,

Snow Blowing

Snow Blade

Transport

GEARSHIFT

2or3

I or2

4-6

THROTTLE

FAST

SLOW-

FAST

g. See Speed Selection CharL

6. Operating The Tractor On Hills

DO NOT DRIVE UP OR DOWN HILLS WITH SLOPES GREATER THAN 15° AND DO NOT DRIVE ACROSS ANY SLOPE. REFER TO PAGE 47.

Move gear shift lever to "1st" gear before starting up or down hills.

AVOID STOPPING OR SHIFTING ON HILLS.

ff slowing is necessary, move throttle control lever to slower position.

LEAVE ENOUGH ROOM WHEN STOP- PING AND STARTING TO ALLOW/

If stopping is absolutely necessary, push clutch/ brake pedal quickly to brake position.

To restart tractor movement, make sure tractor is in

the lowest speed range ("Ist" Gear) and release clutch-brake pedal SLOWLY.

Make all turns gradually.

SLIGHT TRACTOR ROLL DOWNHILL AS CLUTCH-BRAKE PEDAL MOVES

THROUGH CLUTCH POSITION.

To keep your tractor running better, longer,

perform necessary service using the folio wing

maintenance schedule:

With Every Mowing

1 Make sure all nuts on bolts are tight and cotter pins and

retainer springs are secure

2 Observe all safety precautions,

3. Keep tractor well lubricated (refer to page 17)

MAINTENANCE

BEFORE MAKING ANY INSPECTION,

ADJUSTMENT, OR REPAIR:

1. PUSH CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL COMPLETELY DOWN,

2. MOVE GEAR SHIFT CONTROL LEVER TO NEUTRAL POSITION.

3. PLACE PARKING BRAKE IN "EN- GAGED" POSITION. REMOVE

FOOT FROM PEDAL.

4. DISENGAGE ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH LEVER

5. SHUT OFF THE ENGINE.

6. MAKE ABSOLUTELY SURE THE BLADES AND ALL MOVING

PARTS HAVE COMPLETELY STOPPED_

7. DISCONNECT THE SPARK PLUG

WIRE FROM THE SPARK

PLUG AND KEEP WIRE

AWAY FROM THE SPARK PLUG TO PREVENT INJURY

FROM ACCIDENTAL STARTING

BE CAREFUL TO AVOID TOUCH-

ING HOT ENGINE OR MUFFLER COMPONENTS

SERVICE RECORD

.... SERVICE RECORD

Fill in dates as you complete regular service

Blades - sharpen

Brake Adlustment

Check Battery

Change Engine OII

Check Engine OII level

Clean Air Cleaner Element

Check Muffler v"

Clean Air Screen

Clean Front Grill

Lubricate Tractor

Replace Spark Plug

(Enter Date Maintenance Performed)

SCHEDULE

FIRST

HOURS

EVERY EVERY EVERY EVERY

5 25 50 100

HOURS HOURS HOURS HOURS

€

Replace Air Cleaner Element

CheckTire Pressure

€

FtEPAIR AND ADJUSTMENT

1. Brake Adjustment This tractor is equipped with an adjustable brake system

mounted on the right side of the transaxle (Fig. 10)_

DISC BRAKE

BRAKE ROD

BRAKE JAM NUT

OPERATING ARM

)WITH PARKING BRAKE ENGAGED)

NUT A

1 112"

IF TRACTOR REQUIRES MORE THAN SIX FEET STOPPING DISTANCE IN

HIGHEST GEAR, THEN BRAKE MUST BE ADJUSTED.

a. Depress clutch/brake pedal and engage parking

brake°

bo Measure distance between brake operating arm and

nut "A"on brake rod,

c. ff distance is other than 1.1/2", disengage parking

brake, loosen jam nut (Fig. 10) and turn nut "A" until distance becomes t. 1/2", Retighte njam nut against Nut ",4".

FIGURE 10

Road test tractor for proper stopping distance as stated above. Readjust if necessary.

2. Tire Care

Maintain tire preSsure in front at 14 PSI and rear tires at 12 PSL

3. Blade Care For best results mower blades must be kept sharp. The

blades can be sharpenedwith a few strokes of a file, or on a grinding wheel, We suggest they be sharpened after every 25 hours of mowing. Do not attempt to sharpen while on mower Ifyou mow in sandy soil check the blades after each

two mowings The sand wears the blade away rapidly

a. Blade Replacement Raise mower to highest position to permit access to

blades..

1. Remove the hex head bolt, Iockwasher and l/at washer (Fig. 11) (turn counterclockwise)_r_)

2. Remove and discard old blade.

3, Clean top and bottom of mower housing_

4. Install new blade with SHARP EDGE DOWN and secure with flat washer, lockwasher and hex head bolt. TIGHTEN SECUREL Y.

A GRADE 5 HEAT TREATED BOLT CAN BE IDENTIFIED BY THREE

LINF._ ON THE BOLT HEAD AS SHOWN AT LEFT°

ALWAYS" USE GRADE 5 HEAT

TREATED BOLTS TO ATTACH

BLADES. DO NOT USE PLATED

When grinding, care should be taken to maintain

blade balance and the blade should be checked for proper balance before reinstallation on mower An

unbalanced or bent blade will cause excessive vibra-

tion when running, and eventual damage to mower

or engine° Replace bent or damaged blades,

BOLTS. CHECK BOLTS IN BLADES OCCASIONALLY TO MAKE SURE BOLTS ARE TIGHT. TORQUE BOLTS TO 30 - 35 FT.- LBS.

To check blade balance, drive a nail into a beam or

wall., Leave about one inch of the straight nail exposed, Place center hole of clean blade overthe head of the nail(Fig. 12) NOTE: CENTER HOLE

OF BLADE ON NAIL, IF BLADE IS PROPERLY BALANCED, BLADE SHOULD REMAIN IN POSI-

TION SHOWN IN FIG 12. IF EITHER END OF THE

BLADE MOVES DOWNWARD, BLADE IS NOT BALANCED SHARPEN THE HEAVY END UNTIL

BLADE IS BALANCED

REPAIR AND ADJUSTMENT

,,,,,f............

4_ BATTERY CARE

Check Battery

& Battery acid solution level in each battery cell should

be even with bottoms of vent tubes in cells (Fig 13) Add ONLY distilled or iron free water if necessary, NOTE: DO NOT OVERFILL.

b_ Keep battery and terminals clean c Keep battery bolts tighL d. Keep vent caps tight and small vent holes in caps

open_

e,. Recharge at 6 amperes for 1hour ff necessary.

Clean Battery and Terminals Corrosion and dirt on the battery and terminals cause the battery to "leak" power and hinders the operation of the charger,

LEAD-ACID BATTERIES GENERATE EXPLOSIVE GASES. KEEP SPARKS,

FLAME AND SMOKING MATERIALS AWAY FROM BATTERIES. ALWAYS

SHIELD YOUR EYES AROUND BATTERIES.

FIGURE 12

CU't AWAY VtEW

LIQUID LEVEL BATTERY

VENT CAP

CELL

FIGURE13

a., Remove terminal guard, b. Disconnect BLACK battery cable, then RED battery

cable, and remove battery from tractor,

c Wash battery with fourtablespoons of baking soda to

one gallon of water NOTE: BE CAREFUL NOT TO GET THE SODA SOLUTION INTO THE CELLS,,

d. Rinsethebatterywithpfainwater, dryandreinstaflon

tractor.

eo Clean terminals and battery cable ends with wire

brush until bright.

L Replace battery cables, connecting RED battery

cable to positive terminal first, then BLACK battery cable to negative terminal Coat terminal connec-

tions with vasoline after installation of cables

g, Replace terminal guard

+ 33 hidden pages