Craftsman 917254520 Owner’s Manual

OWNER'S

MANUAL

MODEL NO.

917.254520

Caution:

Read and follow

all Safety Rules and instructions

Before Operating This Equipment

£RRFTSMRN®

12. IC ELECTRIC START

_" DECK

5 TRANSAXLE

LAWN TRACTOR

• Assembly , Operation

= Maintenance

• Service and Adjustment

• Repair Parts

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Chicago, IL 60684 UoSoA.

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

LOOK FOR THiS SYMBOL TO POINT

OUT iMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAU- TIONS. iT MEANS _ ATTENTION! BE=

COME ALERT. I YOUR SAFETY JS iN- VOLVED°

CAUTION: LOOK FOR THIS WORD TO POINT OUT

iMPORTANT EQUIPMENT PRECAUTIONS.

NOTE: LOOK FOR THIS WORD TO POINT OUT IM- PORTANT iNFORMATION ABOUT THE OPERATION

AND PERFORMANCE OF YOUR TRACTOR.

RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION

WARNING: 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 isequipped with a spark attester meet ngapp cab eocal or area

laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator. (See REPAIR PARTS for part number identification).

Inthe State of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California Pub ioResources Code) Other States may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands.

1. Know the controls and how to stop quickly. READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL and instructions furnished with attach- ments.

2. Do not allow children to operate the machine. Do not allow adults to operate it without proper instruction.

3. Do not carry passengers. Do not mow when children and

others are around.

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

5. Keep your eyes and mind on your tractor mower and the area being cut. Do not et other nterests distract you.

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

the driver's seat.

7. Always get on or off your tractor from the operator's left hand side.

8. Clear the work area of objects (wire rocks, etc.) which might be p cked up and thrown.

g. Disengage all attachment clutches before attempting to start

the engine.

10. Disengage power to attachments and stopthe engine before leaving the operator's position.

1!. Disengage power to mower stop the engine and disconnect

spark plug wire(s) from spark plug(s) before cleaning, making an adjustment, or repair. Be careful to avoid touching hot

muffler or engine components.

12. Disengage power to attachments when transperting or not in

use.

13. Take all pessible precautions when leaving the vehicle

unattended. Disengage the pewer take-off, lower the attach- ments, shift into neutral set the parking brake, stop the engine, and remove the key.

14. Do not stop or start suddenly when going uphill or downhill Mow up and down the face of slopes (not greater than 15°)

never across the face. Refer to page ;47. - "'

15. Reduce speed on slopes and make turns gradually to prevent

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

1& Whi{e going up or down slopes, place gear shift centre lever

in 1st gear position to negotiate the slope without stopping.

17. Never mow in wet or slippery grass, when traction is unsure,

or at a speed which could cause a skid.

18. 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 high- ways.

20. Exercise special care when mowing around fixed objects in order to prevent the blades from striking them. Never deJib- erately run tractor or mower into or over any foreign objects.

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 is 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

owner's manual.

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

25. When using any attachments never direct discharge of mater al 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 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 run- ning. Never fil! tank indoors. Always clean up spilled

gasoline.

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 coad - t on, and keep safety devices in place and working.

28. 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 inside 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.

31. Except for adjustments, DO NOToperate engine ifaircleaner 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 if necessary.

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

damage, should be repaired before restarting and operating the equBpment.

34. Donotchangetheenginegovernorsettingsoroverspeedthe 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.

3& Do not operate the mower without the entire grass catcher,

on mowers so equipped, or the deflector shieJd in place.

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

Jnreverse unless absolutely necessary and then only after

careful observation of the entire area behind the mower.

38. Under normal usage the grass catcher bag material issubject to deterioration and wear. itshould be checked frequently for bag replacement Replacement bags should be checked to ensure com_iance with the original! manufacturer's recom- mendations or specifications.

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a Sears

Lawn Tractor. It has been designed, engineered and

manufactured to give you the best possible dependability

and performance. Should you experience any problem

you cannot easily remedy, please contact your nearest

Sears Service Department. We have competent, well-

trained technicians and the proper tools to service or repair this unit.

MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT A Sears Maintenance Agreement is available on this

_roduct. See the nearest Sears store or service center

r details.

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 weft cared for tractor will run better and last longer.

ATTACHMENTS

This unit can use many attachments now available at your Sears store. It cannot use attachments that engage the ground

fike a plow, harrow, cultivator, or tiller. See page 46 for a list of available attachments.

DATE OFPURCHASE

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

YOU SHOULD RECORD THESE NUMBERS AND

KEEP FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

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 instructionin the owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge any defect in

material or workmanship in this electric start riding equipment.

This warranty excludes blade(s), blade adapter(s), spark plug(s), air cleaner and belt(s), which are expendable and

become worn during normal use.

This warranty does not cover:

• Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects (such as nails, thorns, stumps, or glass); and

o repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including the failure to maintain the equip-

ment according to instructionscontained in the owner's manual; and

o 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 includedwith 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 charge.

WARRANTY SERVICE IS AVAILABLE BY CONTACTING THE NEAREST SEARS SERVICE CENTER DEPART- MENT IN THE UNITED STATES. This warranty applies only while this productis in use in the United States.

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

SEARS, ROEBUCK and CO., D/731CR-W, Sears Tower, Chicago, IL 60684

_DO NOT OVERLOAD TRACTOR 8Y TOWRNG WEIGHTS GREATER THAN 150 POUNDS (68 KG).

iNDEX

Adjustments:

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

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

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

Mower

Front-To-Rear ................... 23

Side-To-Side ..................... 22

Throttle Control Cable ........... 17

Air Cleaner ................................... 16

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

Assembly .................................. :.5-9

Attachments ................................. 48

Battery:

Charging ............................ 7, 17

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

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

Levels .................................... 15

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

Starting with Weak Battery .... 17

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

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

Belt:

Motion Drive

Removal/Replacement ..... 19

Mower Drive

Removal/Replacement ..... 22

Adjustment ........................ 22

Blade:

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

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

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

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

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

Cutting Level, Mower .............. 12,22

Engine:

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

Oil Change ............................. 15

Oil Level ................................. 16

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

Preparation ............................ 10

Repair Parts ...................... 42-45

Starting .................................. 11

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

Filter:

Air Cleaner ............................. 16

Fuel ........................................ 18

Fuel:

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

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

Fuse ............................................. 19

Hood Removal/Installation ........... 20

Leveling Mower Deck ................... 22

Lubrication:

Chart ...................................... 24

Tractor Pivot Points ............... 17

Maintenance ................................ 13

Air Cleaner ............................. 16

Foam Pre-cleaner ............. 16

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

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

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

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

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

Fuel Filter ............................... 18

Lubrication Chart ................... 24

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

Tire Care ............................. 8,14

Mower:

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

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

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

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

Cutting Level ..................... 12,22

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

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

Removal ................................ 21

Mowing Tips ................................. 12

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

Spark Arrester .................... 2,32

Oi!:

Cold Weather Conditions ....... !6

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

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

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

Operating Your Mower .......... 1!

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

Starting the Engine ................ 11

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

Tractor Operation on Hills ...... 12

Options:

Attachments ........................... 46

Spark Arrester .................... 2,32

Parking Brake ................................ 9

Parts Bag .................................... 5-6

Parts, Replacement/Repair .....28-45

Repair and Adjustments .......... 14-24

Blade ...................................... 14

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

Fuse ....................................... 19

Hood Removal/Installation ..... 20

Motion Drive Belt

Removal/Replacement ..... 19

Mower Drive Belt

Removal/Replacement .....22

Mower Adjustment

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

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

Mower Removal ......_.............. 21

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

Repair Parts ............................ 28-45

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

Seat ................................................ 8

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

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

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

Speed Control Chart .................... 12

Starting the Engine ....................... 11

Steering Wheel .............................. 7

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

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

Throttle Control Cable

Adjustment ............................. !7

Tires .......................................... 8, 14

Trouble Shooting Chart ........... 25-26

Transaxle:

Repair Parts ...................... 40-41

Transporting ................................. 12

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

Wiring Schematic ......................... 27

ASSEMBLY

To assemble tractor you wifl need:

12) 7/16" wrenches Tire Pressure Gauge

11) 1/2" wrench Screwdriver (2) 9/16" wrenches UtiRy Knife

(1) 3/4" wrench 5/16" Wrench Take all of the items out of the box. The box contains the _tems shown beiowo Open the parts bag and check the

contents (see page 6).

Parts bag contents not shown full size

(2) Battery Carriage Bolts - 1/4 -20 x 7-1/2

Terminal Guard

a. Seat d. Battery Acid b. Steering wheel e. Owner's Manual

c. Battery f. Parts Bag

g. Steering Boot

15° Slope Instruction

Battery Caps and

instructions

(2) Keys

Steering Wheel Adapter

Steering Wheel Insert

NOTE: RIGHT HAND(R.H.) AND LEFT HAND (L.H.) ARE

DETERMINED FROM OPERATOR'S POSITION

WHILE SEATED ON THE TRACTOR.

The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye dam- age. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields before start-

ing your tractor and while moving. We recommend Wide Vi- sion Safety Mask for over the spectacles or standard safety glasses, available at Sears Retail or Catalog Stores.

.... ASSEMBLY

ASSEMBLY

LOCATION

BATTERY

TERMINALS

SEAT

PARTS BAG CONTENTS SHOWN FULL SiZE

(2) Wing Nut 1/4-20

(2) Hex Bolt 1/4-20 x 3/4

_ (2) Lock Washer 1/4 G

(2) Hex Nut 1/4-20(2) Washer 9/32 x 5/8 x !6 Ga.

STEERING

BUSHING

STEERING

WHEEL

(1) Adjustment Bolt

(1) Shoulder Bolt 5/!6-18

(2) Sheet Metal Screw 10-16 x 1/2 ABTBS

(1) Lock Washer 1/2

(1) Washer 17/32 x

1-3/16 x 12 Ga.

(1) Washer 2-1/4

(1) Locknut 1/2-20

!. Prepare B_tery

WEAR EYE AND FACE SHIELD, WASH HANDS OR CLOTHING IMMEDI-

ATELY iF ACCIDENTALLY iN CONTACT WiTH BATTERY ACID.

DO NOT SMOKE. FUMES FROM CHARGED BATTERY ACID ARE EX-

PLOSIVE. READ THE iNSTRUCTiONS iNCLUDED

WiTH THE BATTERY VENT CAPS iN THE BAG OF PARTS. ALWAYS WEAR

GLOVES, CLOTHING AND GOGGLES TO PROTECT YOUR HANDS, SKiN AND EYES.

Fill and charge battery (before installing). NOTE: SEE DE-

TAILED iNSTRUCTiONS PACKAGED WITH BATTERY

VENT CAPS FOUND IN BAG OF PARTS.

a. Fill each cel! with battery acid. Add the acid until it

reaches the bottom of the vent tubes (Fig. 1). Do not add the acid beyond this level or the addffional acid

can come out when the battery is charged.

b. After ceils are filled, tilt battery from sideto side to

release air bubbles.

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

minutes. Ifthe level of acid falls below the point de- scribed in step (a), add more acid until the correct

level isreached. Installthe battery caps, found inthe bag ofparts, 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 occurred in handling.

e. Neutralize excess battery acid for disposal by add=

ingit to 2 gallons (7 litres) ofwater ina five gallon (20 litres) plasticcontainer. Stir with awooden orplastic

paddle while adding baking soda until the addition of more soda causes no more foaming.

f. tt is recommended that the battery be charged be-

fore use. Use a 12 volt battery charger. Charge bat-

tery at a rate of 6 amperes for 1 hour. NOTE: OB- SERVE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS, LISTED INBOX

ABOVE, REQUIRED FOR BATTERY CHARGING. Check the acid level after the battery is charged. If the acid has fallen below the correct level, add dis- tilled or iron free water.

2. Unpack Tractor

a. Cut down four corners of the carton with utility knife

and fold down sides.

b. Disengage parkir_j brake and position front wheels

straight ahead (see page 9).

c. install steering wheel

1. Slide the steering bushing over the steering shaft (Fig. 2).

2. Position steering shaft forward until screw holes

indash line up with steering bushing, installtwo (2) screws (Fig. 2).

3. Position steering boot over steering shaft.

4. Place bottom of steering boot over two slots in

dash (Fig. 2).

CUT AWAY ViEW BATTERY

STEERING

BUSHING

STEERING SHAFT (iNST. POSITION)

5. Push steering boot down into aligning slots on dash.

6. Place steedng wheel adapter on steering shaft.

7. With front wheels pointed straight ahead, place steering wheel on steering wheel adapter. Bars of steering wheel should point straight across

tractor.

ASSEMBLY

CAP

FIGURE 1

STEERING

qlm V,mEEL

STEERING SHAFT (REC'D. POSiTiON)

ADAPTER

STEERING BOOT

FIGURE 2

ASSEMBLY

SEAT PAN

SHOULDER

BOLT

SEAT

3. Instal| Seat

Remove cardboard from seat pan.

Place seat on seat pan. S_rew adjustment bolt, k)ck

shoulder bolt and washers found in bag of parts (shown full size on page 6).

Tighten shoulder boif using a 1/2" wrench. NOTE: THE SHOULDER BOLT WILL BE LOOSE IN THE

SEAT PAN SLOT.

TirgshtceunraeldvJUstmentbo,, lock washer and flat wash-

ADJUSTMENT BOLT

FIGURE 3

POSITIVE WASHER WASHER NEGATIVE TERh

POSITIVE _ _NEGATIVE

CABLE CABLE

(RED) (BLACK)

FIGURE 4

WiNG NUT __

LOCK FLAT

WASHER WASHER

HEX BOLTS

HEX NUTS

TERMINAL

GUARD'-- WiNG NUT

NOTE:

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

pressure will cause the unit to fide rough. The wrong air pressure will also keep the mower from cutting level. The correct air pressure isshown on the side of the tires. If the air

5. Instait Battery

SEAT POSITION SHOULD BE ADJUSTED FOR=

WARD OR BACKWARD SO THAT THE OPERA- TOR CAN COMFORTABLY REACH CLUTCH/

BRAKE PEDAL AND SAFELY OPERATE TRAC-

TOR.

e. Place seat in operating position. Sit on the seat and

press clutch/brake pedal all the way down. tf operat- ing pos'_ion is not comfortable, adjust seat.

f. To adjust: raise seat. Loosen adjustment bolt. Slide

seat to desired position. Tighten adjustment bolt se- curely.

ADJUSTMENT BOLT, LOCK WASHER AND FLAT WASHER MUST BE TiGHT- ENED SECURELY TO PREVENT MOVE- VENT OF SEAT.

TRAY_. ! _ACCESS

"__ "KEY

FIGURE 5

8. Place 2 1/4" diameterwasheron steering shaft and install a 1/2" Iocknut (washer and Iocknut found in bag of pads).Tighten securely.

9. Snap insert into steering wheel.

Remove plastic on tractor hood. Raise attachment lift handle (see page 9).

RofJTractor off skid. Be careful of staples in skid.

DRAIN TUBE HOLE

WEAR EYE AND FACE SHIELD. WASH HANDS OR CLOTHING IMMEDi-

ATELY IF ACCIDENTALLY IN CONTACT WITH BATTERY ACID,

DO NOT SMOKE. FUMES FROM CHARGED BATTERY ACID ARE EX- PLOSIVE.

READ THE INSTRUCTIONS INCLUDED

WITH THE BATTERY VENT CAPS IN THE BAG OF PARTS. ALWAYS WEAR

GLOVES, CLOTHING AND GOGGLES TO PROTECT YOUR HANDS, SKiN AND

EYES.

ASSEMBLY

a. Lift seat (Fig. 3). b. Lower battery into fenderwell with battery terminals

toward front of tractor (Fig. 4). Make sure battery

rests in battery tray (Fig. 5).

NOTE: BE SURE BATTERY DRAIN TUBE IS SECURELY

ATTACHED TO BATTERY TRAY DRAIN (Fig. 5).

,_ PO_IVlINAL MUST BECON- _

| AWL, NECTEDFIRST TO PREVENT SPARKS |

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

hex nut (shown full size on pg. 6) found in bag of parts. Tighten securely with two 7/16" wrenches. (Fig. 4).

LIFT LEVER PLUNGER

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH

LIGHT SWITCH

IGNITll

d. Connect BLACK ground cable to negative (-) bat-

_ terminal with remaining hex bolt, flat washer,

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 installingcables.

f. Slide two battery bolts through terminal guard and

start the wing nuts onto the threads (Fig. 5).

g. Position terminal guard over battery as shown (Fig.

5) and align bolt heads with key holes next to battery tray (Fig.5).

h. Lower bolt heads into key holes and slide square

shafts of bolts into slots of key holes (Fig. 5).

Tighten wing nuts. Close terminal access doors.

CAUTION:

DO NOT START ENGINE UNTIL YOU HAVE REVIEWED THE OPERATION SECTION OF

THIS MANUAL.

OPERATION

ATTACHMENT LiFT LEVER

VENT SLOTS

THR( CONTROL

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL MOWER DECK

PARKING BRAKE

GEARSHIFT LEVER

KNOW YOUR

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER: Push lever upto 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 lift

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.

HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT: Use the height adjustment slots

to adjust the mower height. Push the attachment rift lever

plunger down and position the attachment lift lever into the

desired slot. Release riftlever plunger.

TRACTOR

GEARSHIFT: Press the clutch/brake pedal down firmly and move gearshift lever to desired speed.

iGNiTiON: Place key in ignition and turn to the right to start. The switch spring returns from the start position.

LIGHT SWITCH: Turns the headlights on and off. PARKING BRAKE: To set the parking brake, push the

clutch/brake pedal completely down. Hold the parking brake lever in "Engage" position and release pressure from pedal Clutch/brake pedal will remain in brake position.

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.

NEUTRAL LOCKOUT POSITION: Transmission is disen-

gaged when gearshift lever is in this position.

NEUTRAL LOCK OUT POSITION

HEIGHT

OPERATION

FUEL FILLER CAP

FUELTANK

FIGURE 6

AIR SCREEN

OIL FILLER CAP/DIPSTICK

OiL DRAIN

iGNITION KEY

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER

"ENGAGED" POSITION

"DISENGAGED"

POSITION

1. Stopping Your Tractor NOTE: REMOVE KEY WHEN LEAVING TRACTOR TO

PREVENT UNAUTHORIZED USE:

a. Push clutch-brake pedal intofull "BRAKE" position.

Keep your foot on pedal (Fig. 7).

b. Place attachment clutch lever in "DISENGAGED"

position,

c. Move gearshift lever to "NEUTRAL" position. d. Lift up to place parking brake in "ENGAGED" posi-

tion (Fig. 10) and release pressure from clutch! brake. Pedal should remain in "BRAKE" position.

e. Move throttle control to "S" (slow) position.

f. Turn ignition keyto"OFF"position. Never use choke

to stop engine.

2. Preparing the Engine

LEARN TO STOP YOUR TRACTOR BE- FORE ATTEMPTING TO START THE ENo

GINE.

a. This 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 16).

Changing oil after the first two hours (or two mowings) will

help eliminate break-in residue which might be damaging to

your engine.

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

leaded gasoline. Capacity is5 quarts (4.7 litres).

NOTE: FRESH, CLEAN WINTER GRADE FUEL MUST

BE USED TO INSURE GOOD COLD WEATHER STARTING

HEADLIC SWITCH

THROTTLE

CONTROLLEVER

"CLUTCH"

POSITION

"BRAKE"

POSiTiON

FIGURE 7

CLUTCH/BRAKE

"DRIVE"POSITION

PARKING BRAKE

POSITION

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 GASO- LINE 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 ANY EN- GINE 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 EN-

GINE AND LET iT RUN UNTIL THE FUEL

LINES AND CARBURETOR ARE EMPTY.

USE FRESH FUEL NEXT SEASON. SEE STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS FOR ADDI° TIONAL iNFORMATION.

NEVER USE ENGINE OR CARBURETOR CLEANER PRODUCTS iN THE FUEL TANK

OR PERMANENT DAMAGE MAY OCCUR.

3. StarUng the Engine a. Move throttle control lever (Fig. 7) past "FAST" to

the "CHOKE" position.

b. FuUydepress clutch/brake pedal. c. Turn ignition key to "START" and release key as

soon as engine starts.

OPERATION

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER "ENGAGED" POSiTiON

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LIFT LEVER LEVER "DISENGAGED" PLUNGER POSITION

LiFT LEVER "HIGHEST"

POSiTiON

CAUTION: DO NOT RUN STARTER CONTINUOUSLY

d. ff engine does not start after four or five tries, move

e. After the eng!ne sta_s move throttle control lever f. To start a hot engine move the throttle control lever

FOR MORE THAN FIFTEEN SECONDS PER MINUTE.

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 TROUBLESHOOTING Chart (page 25).

slowly to the SLOW' position.

to a position between "FAST" and "SLOW".

READ THE "RULES FOR SAFE OPERA- TION" CAREFULLY BEFORE OPERAT- iNG YOUR MOWER.

DO NOT OVER LOAD TRACTOR BY TOWING WEIGHTS GREATER THAN

150 POUNDS {68 KG). ALWAYS WEAR SUBSTANTIAL FOOT=

WEAR AND AVOID LOOSE FITTING

CLOTHING THAT COULD GET CAUGHT iN MOVING PARTS.

DO NOT OPERATE THE MOWER WiTH- OUT EITHER THE ENTIRE GRASS

CATCHER, ON MOWERS SO EQUIPPED, OR THE DEFLECTOR SHIELD iN PLACE,

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 down.

10. Be sure blades and engine have stopped before placing hands or feet near the blades.

11. Remove key when leaving machine.

"LOWEST"

POSITION

R.H. RUNNER

DISCHARGE GUARD RGURE8

WHEN PARKING BRAKEIS ENGAGED, MAKE SUREIT WILL KEEP TRACTOR FROM MOVING.

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.

4. Operating Your Lawn Tractor and Mower NOTE: THIS TRACTOR iS EQUIPPED WITH AN OPERA-

TOR PRESENCE SENSING SWITCH. ANY AT- TEMPT BY THE OPERATOR TO LEAVE THE

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

CAUTION: DO NOTADDADDITIONAL WEIGHT TO THE TRACTOR OTHER THAN THE OP- TIONAL WHEEL WEIGHTS. EXCESSIVE

WEIGHT MAY OVERLOAD AND DAMAGE THE

TRANSAXLE.

a. Depress liftlever plunger and move the attachment

lift lever to the highest position. See Fig. 8.

b. Start the engine. (See Starting the Engine).

c. Move the throttle lever to mid range position. Fully

depress clutch/brake pedal Select a low (Istor 2nd) gear until you become more familiar with the opera-

tion of the unit.

....OPERATION

FIGURE 9

FUNCTION

Normal

Mowing

Heavy Mowing

Snow Blowing

SPEED SELECTION GUIDE

GEARSHIFT

2or3

1 or2

THROTTLE

FAST

a. Mower should be adjusted properly front to back

and side to side for good mowing performance. Re- fer to REPAIR AND ADJUSTMENT section (page

22).

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

blade cuts approximately an inch (2.54 cm) outside

the runner (Fig. 8).

c. Drive so that clippings are discharged onto the area

that has been cut. Have the cut area to the right of the machine. This will result ina more even distribu-

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. If grass isextremely 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 trim-

ming.

g, See Speed Selection Guide.

h. Do not mow tall, dry (brown) grass over 6 inches

(15.24 cm) tall. It is a fire hazard.

6. Operating the Tractor on Hills

Snow Blade

Transport

Slowly release clutch/brake pedal and proceed to

the mowing area.

Stop the unit, then select a mowing speed. (See Speed Selection Guide, above).

Move throttle lever to half throttle and slowly move attachment clutch lever to engaged position, Fig. 8.

Slowly release clutch/brake pedal.

Move throttle lever to fast position.

Observe height of cut and readjust as desired (see page 9).

CAUTION:

5. Mowing Tips NOTE: TiRE CHAINS CANNOT BE USED WITH THE

BEFORE YOU MOVE THE GEARSHIFT LEVER, COME TO A COMPLETE STOP. FAILURE TO DO SO CAN RESULT IN GEAR

BOX DAMAGE.

MOWER ATTACHED.

4-5

SLOW-

FAST

DO NOT DRIVE UP OR DOWN HILLS

WiTH SLOPES GREATER THAN 15°

AND DO NOT DRIVE ACROSS ANY SLOPE. REFER TO PAGE 47.

a. Move gearshift lever to "lst" gear before starting up

or down hills.

b: AVOID STOPPING OR SHIFTING ON HILLS. c. if slowing is necessary, move throttle control lever

to slower position.

LEAVE ENOUGH ROOM WHEN STOP- PiNG AND STARTING TO ALLOW

SLIGHT TRACTOR ROLL DOWNHILL AS CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL MOVES THROUGH CLUTCH POSITION.

d. If stopping is absolutely necessary, push clutch/

brake pedal quickly to brake position.

e. To restart tractor movement, make sure tractor is in

the lowest speed range ("1st" Gear) and release clutch/brake pedal SLOWLY.

f. Make allturns gradually.

7. Transporting Your Tractor

For pushing or towingyour tractor, place gearshift lever in "N" position. Do not tow or push at more than 6 MPH

(9.7 KPH).

To keep yourtractor running better and longer,

perform necessary setvioe using the follow=

ing maintenance schedule:

WiTH EVERY MOWING

1. Make sure all nuts on bomtsare tight and cotter pins and retainer springs are secure.

2. Observe all safety precautions.

3. Keep tractor well lubricated (refer to page 24).

4. Make sure areas around muffler, engine and mower deck are clean and free of debris buildup.

MAINTENANCE

FOR ANY ADJUSTMENTS, iNSPEC-

TiON OR MAINTENANCE:

1. PUSH TRACTOR CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL COMPLETELY iNTO

"BRAKE" POSITION.

2. MOVE GEARSHIFT TO "N" NEUTRAL

POSiTiON,

3. PLACE PARKING BRAKE IN "EN-

GAGED" POSiTiON. REMOVE FOOT FROM PEDAL.

4. PLACE ATTACHMENT CLUTCH

LEVER iN "DISENGAGED" POSi-

TION.

5. TURN iGNiTiON KEY TO "OFF" PO- SITION.

6. MAKE ABSOLUTELY SURE THE

BLADES AND ALL MOVING PARTS HAVE COMPLETELY STOPPED.

7. REMOVE THE iGNiTION KEY.

8. DISCONNECT THE SPARK PLUG

WIRE FROM THE SPARK PLUG AND

KEEP WiRE AWAY FROM THE PLUG

TO PREVENT iNJURY FROM ACCF

DENTAL STARTING. BE CAREFUL

TO AVOID TOUCHING HOT ENGINE

OR MUFFLER COMPONENTS.

RECORD

FILL IN DATES AS YOU COMPLETE REGULAR SERVICE

Change Engine Oil

Check Brake Check Tire Pressure

Clean Air Screen Clean Air Cleaner

Lubricate Pivot Points

Level and

Clean and Terminals Carburetor Ad

V-Belt Adjustment

Clean Engine Cooling Fins

Check Muffler

Replace Air Cleaner Paper Cartridge

Replace Spark Plug Replace Fuel Filter

SERVICE DATES

D_DA|D

1, Brake Adju_ment

"--'-""" Th 0, octori. w,.oondjo0tab brow0sy0tom

mounted on the right side of the transax_e (F_o 10).

_WITHPARKING

RAKE ENGAGED)

NUT"A"

JAM NUT

DiSC BRAKE

FIGURE 1o

FIGURE 11

HUBCAP

SQUARE KEY (REARTIRE ONLY)

j _ DI_HEST GEAR, THEN

a. Depress clutch_brake pedaJ and engage parking

brake.

b. Measure distance between brake operating arm

and nut "A" on brake rod_

c. if distance is other than 1-1/2" (3.8t cm), k)osen

jam nut (Fig. 10) and turn nut until distance be- comes 1-1/2" (3.81 cm)o Retighten jam nut against

nut "A".

Road test tractor for proper stopping distance as stated above. Readjust if necessary, ff stopping distance is _ill

greater than 6 feet ft.8 meters) in highest gear, further maintenance is necessary. Contact your k)caJSears Serv=

ice Center.

2. Tire(3are

a. Maintain tire pressure in front at 14 PSi (tKg/cm 2)

and rear tires at 10 PSi (0.7 Kg/cm2).

b. Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect controJ

chemicals which can harm rubber.

c. Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp objects and

other hazards that may cause tire damage.

d. Removing wheel for tire repair (Fig. 12).

1. Block up axle secureJy.

2. Remove hub cap, klip ring and washerto allow wheel removai (rear wheel contains a square

key - Do Not Lose).

3. Repair tire and reassemble. Align slots in rear wheel hub and axle. insert square key. Re-

place washers and snap kfip ring securely in axle groove. Replace hub cap.

NOTE: USE GREASE FiTTiNGS TO LUBRICATE FRONT

WHEELS WITH GENERAL PURPOSE GREASE. APPLY AN ANTI-SEIZE OR GOOD GENERAL

PURPOSE GREASE TO LUBRICATE REAR AX-

LES.

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

blades can be sharpened with 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. Jtyou mow in sandy _i_ check the blades a_ter each two redwings. The sand wears the blades away rapidBy.

a. Blnde Replacement

Raise mower to h_ghest position to pe_it access to

bmades.

1. Remove the hex head belt, Iockwasher and flat washer (Hg. 11) (turn counterck)ckwise).

2. Remove and discard oldbladed

3. Clean top and bottom of mower housing.

4. Install new blade with SHARP EDGE DOWN

and secure with flat washer, k_kwasher and hex head belt. TIGHTEN SECURELY.

A GRADE 5 HEAT TREATED BOLT CAN BE IDENTIFIED BY

THREE LINES ON THE BOLT HEAD ASSHOWN ATLEFTo

ALWAYS USE GRADE 5 HEAT TREATED BOLTS TO ATTACH

CHECK BOLTS _NBLADES OCCASION-

BLADES. DO NOT USE PLATED BOLTS.

ALLY TO MAKE SURE BOLTS ARE TIGHT, TORQUE BOLTS TO 30_5

FT.-.4_BS (41--47 Nm).

proper balance before reinstaliation on mower. An unbalanced or bent blade will cause excessive vi-

bration when running, and eventual damage to

mower or engine. Replace bent ordamaqed blades.

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

waft. Leave about one inch(2.54 cm) ofthe straight nai! exposed. Place center hole of clean blade

over the head of the nail (Fig. 13). NOTE: CEN- TER THE HOLE OF BLADE ON NAIL. IF BLADE

iS PROPERLY BALANCED, BLADE SHOULD REMAIN iN POSiTiON SHOWN iN FIG. 13. IF

EITHER END OF THE BLADE MOVES DOWN- WARD, BLADE iS NOT BALANCED. SHARPEN

THE HEAVY END UNTIL BLADE IS BALANCED.

4. t_ttery Care

CHECK BATTERY

a. Battery acid sotution level ineach battery cell should

be even with bottoms of vent tubes incells (Fig. 14).

Add ONLY distilled or iron free water ifnecessary.

NOTE: DO NOT OVERFILL.

b. Keep battery and terminals clean. c. Keep battery bolts tight. d. Keep vent caps tight and small vent holes incaps

open.

e. Recharge with auto battery charger.

NOTE: OVERCHARGING WILL SHORTEN BATTERY

LIFE°

FIGURE 13

BATTERY

CUTAWA_ YVlE_ WFC

_/ BATTERY

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.

.... _TTERIES GENERATE

| ,AJk FLAMEAND SMOKINGMATER!$LS

| ,mwm_ WEAR EYE PROTECTION WHEN

a. Remove terminal guard.

b. Disconnect BLACK battery cable, then RED battery

cabte, and remove battery from tractor.

c. Wash batte_ with four tablespoons (60grams) of

baking soda in one gallon (3.8 litres) of wa_er. NOTE: BE CAREFULL NOT TO GET THE SODA

SOLUTION INTO THE CELLS.

d. R_nse the battery with plain water, dry and reinstall

on tractor.

e. Clean terminals and battery cable ends with wire

brush until bdght.

f° Rep_aco batterycables, connecting RED batteryca-

b_eto positive terminal first, then BLACK battery ca- bte to negative terminal Coat terminal connections

with grease after installation of cables.

g. Replace terminal guard.

gH/L V L

FIGURE 14

S. Change Engine Oil The best time to change engine oil is at the end of a day's

operation when all dirt and foreign materials are suspenDeD in the hot oil

Capacity is 1-1/2 quarts (1.4 litres). NOTE: DO NOT OVERFILL Dipstick assembiy rnust be securely tightened 15

intotube at all times when engine is operating.

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