Craftsman 917254622 Owner’s Manual

OWNERS MANUAL

MODEL NO.

917.254622

Caution:

Read and Follow

All Safety Rules And Instructions

Before Operating This Equipment

CRRFrSMRN

LT 12 HP ELECTRIC START 5 SPEED - 38" MOWER LAWN TRA CTOR

• Assembly

• Operation

Maintenance

• Repair and Adjustment

• Repair Parts

Sears, Roebuck and Co,, Chicago, IL 60684 U.S.A.

SAFETYRULES

I. Know the controls and how to stop quickly. READ THIS

OPERA TOR SMANUAL and 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 passengers. Do not mow when children and

others are around.

4. Always wear substantial footwear. Do not wear loose fit-

ting 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 let other interests distract you.

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

not in the drivers seat.

7. Alwaysgetonoroffyourtractorfromtheoperator'sleft hand side.

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

9, Disengage all attachment clutchesbefore attempting to

start the engine.

10. Disengage power to attachments and stop the engine before leaving the operator's position. 28.

11. Disengagepowertomower, stoptheengine, anddiscon-

nect s_parkplug wire(s) from spark plug(s) before clean- 29. 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. 30.

13. Take all possible precautions when leaving the yah!de unattended. Disengage thepower-take-off , _ower the at- tachments, shift into neutral, set the parking brake, stop 3 I. the engine and remove the key.

14. Do not stop or start suddenly when going uphil! or downhill. Mow up and down the face of slopes (not 32.

greater than 150); never across the face, Refer to page

15. Reducespeedonslopesandmaketurnsgraduallytopre- vent tipping or loss of control. Exercise extreme caution 33. when changing direction on slopes.

16 While going _p or down slopes, place Gear Shift Con-

trol Lever in 7st gear position to negotiate the slope without stopping, 34.

!7, Never mow in wet or slippery grass, when traction is un-

sure or at a speed whichcoufd cause a skid. 35.

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 highways.

20 Exercise spedal care when mowing araund fixed abjects 36.

in order to prevent the blades from striking them, Never deliberately run tractor or mower into or over any foreign 37.

24.

25.

26.

27.

obiects.

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

22. Neverplacehandsorfeetunderthemower, indischarge

chute or near any moving ports while tractor or mower 38.

_ A_y_ clear of discharge chute.

23_ _re whe_j_uEb'_ ]_ads or using heavy equipment.

I a ._, U_nly_E_pl_p_ea_drowbar h;tch po;nts.

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.

Watch out for traffic when crossing or near roadways. When using any attachments, never direct discharge of

material toward bystanders nor allow anyone near the

vehicle while in operation.

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

running. Never fill tank indoors. Always dean up spilled'gasoline,

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

haust fumes are dangerous. Do not run the engine indoors.

Keep the vehicle and attachments ingood operating con-

dition, and keep safety devices in place and wor'kin_l.

Keep all nuts, bolts and screwstight to be sure the equtp_

ment is in safe working condition. Never store the equipment with gasoline in the tank in- side a building where fumes may reach an open flame

or spark. Al!low the engine to cool before storing in any

enclosure.

To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine free o _grass,

leaves or excessive grease. Do not dean prod_ ct while

engine ts running

Except for adju/t_rl¢ _ J_O.,[qOT operate engine if air

cleaner or cover_j_i_t_O_r ctwbu_etor air intake is removed, RemovcWof _pa_cou_ _e_flre hazard.

Do not operate without _-muffler_ tampe_with exhaust system. Damaged mufflers or spor_ drte_te_ could create a fire hazard. Inspect periodically and replace if

necessary. 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.

Do not change the engine governor settingsor overspeed

the engine; severe damage or injury may result.

When using the yah!de wl"thmower, 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 bohs Tor proper tightness

at frequent intervals.

Do not operate the mower without the deflector shield in

place.

Disengage power to mower before backing up. Do not mow 7nieverse unlessabsolutely necessary-an'd then on-

ly after careful observation of the entire area behind the

mower.

Under normal usage the grass catcher bag material is sub-

ject to deterioration andwear. 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.

I JILL LOOK FOR THIS SYMBOL TO POINT OUT IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.

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

I THIS UNIT IS EQUIPPED WITH AN INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE AND SHOULD NOT BE USED I

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

states may have similar laws, Federal laws apply on federal lands. Refer to the Repair Parts Section, page 32.

IT MEANS-ATTENTION! BECOME ALERT! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED,

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- I ING APPLICABLE LOCAL OR STATE LAWS (IF ANY). IF A SPARK ARRESTER IS USED, IT SHOULD |

BE MAINTAINED I,N EFFECTIVE WORKING ORDER BY THE OPERATOR. !

CONGIIATULATK)NS on your purchase of a Sears Lawn Tractor. It has been designed, engineered and manufactured to give you the best possible dependabili-

ty and performance. Should you experience any pro_

blem you cannot easily remedy, please contact your nearest Sears Service Department. We have compe-

te'nt, well-trained technicians and the proper tools to

service or repair this unit.

SERIAL NUMBER

DATE OF PURCHASE

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

MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT

A Sears Maintenance Agreement is available on this

YOU SHOULD RECORD THESE NUMBERS

AND KEEP FOR FUTURE REFERENCE,

product. See the nearest Sears store or service center

for 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 well cared for tractor will run better and last longer,

A TTACHMENTS

This unit can use many attachments now available at your Sears store. It cannot use attachments that engage the ground like a plow, harrow, cultivator, or tiller. See page 50 for a list of available attachments.

LIMITED ONE YEAR WARRANTY

ON ELECTRIC START RIDING EQUIPMENT

For one year from date of purchase, when this riding equipment is maintained, lubricated, and tuned up accor ding 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 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

- repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including the failure to maintain the equip- ment 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 wifl replace the battery at no charge.

WARRANTY SERVICE tS AVAILABLE BY CONTACTING THE NEAREST SEARS SERVICE CENTER/DEPARTMENT

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, II 60684

INDEX

Adjustments:

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

Carburetor .............. 78

Mower Drive Belt 22 Mower

Front-to-Rear ........... 22

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

Throttle Control Cable ..... 78

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

Air Filter

Cleaning ................ 76

Element ............... !6

Air Intake Screen, Eng ...... 76

Assembly ............... 5-B

Attachments .............. 50

Battery:

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

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

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

Levels .................. t5

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

Starting with Weak Battery 17

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

Terminals ............... t 5

Belt:

Motion Drive Replacement t9 Mower Drive Adjustment 22 Mower Drive,

Remove/Replace ....... 2 t

Blade:

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

Replacement 14

Brake Adjustment ......... t4

Carburetor Adjustment 18

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

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

Engine:

Air Screen ............... t6

Off Change ......... 16

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

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

Starting ................ 10

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

Valve Adjustments ........ 18

Filter:

Air ............................................ 16

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

Fuel:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Levelling Mower Deck ....... 22

Lubrication:

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

Tractor Pivot Points ....... 17

Maintenance ...............

Air Filter ................

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

Air Screen ..............

Battery .................

Blade Sharpening

Brake Adjustment .........

Engine Oil ..............

Fuel Filter .............

Lubrication Chart 24

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

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

Mower:

Adjustment, Front-to-Rear 23 Adjustment, Side*to-Side 22

Blade Sharpening ......... t4

Blade Replacement ........ !4

Cutting Level ............ !2

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

Operation ............... t 1

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

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

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

Oil:

Cold Weather Conditions 75

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

Storage 23

Operation ............. 9 t2

Operating Your Mower ..... t t

Operating Your Tractor ..... 7t

Starting the Engine ........ 1 t

Stopping Your Tractor ..... 10

Tractor Operation on Hills ]2

Options:

Attachments ........... 50

Spark Attester ............ 2

13 16 16 16 15

14 16

Parking Brake ........ 9

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

Repair and Adjustments 14-24

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

Carburetor 18

Fuse ........ 20

Hood Removal .... 20

Motion Drive Belt

Replacement ...... 10

Mower Drive Belt

Replacement ........ 20

Mower Adjustment

Side-to-Side .... 22

Mower Removal 20

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

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

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

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

Spark Plug ................. !8

Speed Control Chert ......... 12

Starting the Engine .......... I 1

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

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

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

Throttle Control Cable

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

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

Trouble Shooting Chart ...... 25

Valves Adjustments 18

Warranty 3 Wiring {Schematic) 27

ASSEMBLY

UnpDck Tractor

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

items shown below,

b. Cut down four corners of the carton with a utili-

ty knife and fold down sides.

c, Disengage Parking Brake. d. Install Steering Wheel

1. Slide upper steering shaft over lower steer ing shaft until bolt holes line up with slots in lower steering shaft (Fig. 1).

2. Usetwohexbotts3/8- 16x 1-1/4andtwo Iocknuts 3/8 _ 16 to retain upper steering

shaft to lower steering shaft. Tighten securely. Bolts and nuts found in bag of parts.

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 in- ward 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 steer-

ing 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

steering shaft and install a 1/2" /ocknut

{washer and Iocknut found in bag of parts).

Tighten securely.

11. Snap insert into steering wheel.

e, Remove plastic on tractor hood. f. Raise attachment lift handle.

g. Roll Tractor off skid, Be careful of staples in skid.

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 starting your tractor and while moving. We recommend Wide Vision Safety Mask for over the spec _

tacles or standard safety glasses, avail-

able at Sears Retail or Catalog Stores.

a, seat b, Steering wheel

c. battery d. battery acid

e, owner's manual

f. parts bag

_. Steering sleeve

upper steering shaft

Parts Bag Contents Not Shown Ful! Size:

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

Terminal Guard

t5 ° Slope Instruction (2) Keys

Steering Wheel Adapter

And Instructions .Steering Wheel Insert

ASSEMBL Y

ASSEMBLY PARTS BAG CONTENTS SHOWN FULL SIZE

LOCATION

BATTER Y

BATTERY

TERMINALS

SEA T

(2) Lockwash_, 1/4 Int/Ext Tooth

12) Hex Bolt, I/4 - 20 x 3/4

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

F-

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

(2) Wing Nut, 1/4-20

(2) Lockwasher 1/4

(2) Hex Nut, 1/4 - 20

(1) Lockwasher 1/2

(I) Washer 17/32 x I -

3/16 x 12 Ga.

UPPER STEERING SHAFT

STEERING WHEEL

(1) Shoulder bolt 5/16 - 18

_HI]]]l]]ll]lllllllllll

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

1/4" Dta. Washer

(2) Hex Locknut 3/8 - 16

(1) Locknut, I/2-20

To assemble" tractor you will need:

(21 7/16" Wrenches Tire Pressure Gauge

(1) I/2" Wrench Screwdriver

(2) 11/16" Wrenches Utllit V Knife (1) 3/4" Wrench

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

DETERMINED FROM OPERATOR'S POSITION

WHILE SEATED ON THE TRACTOR,

WEAR EYE AND FACE SHIELD.

WASH HANDS OR CLOTHING IM-

MEDIA TEL Y 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. ALWAYS

WEAR GLOVES, CLOTHING AND GOGGLES TO PROTECT YOUR HANDS, SKIN AND EYES.

ASSEMBL Y

I 2 NUT .

2 1/4 DIA WASH_Ft

STEERli

BUSHING

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 un-

til it reaches the bottom of the vent tubes (Fig,

3). Do not add the acid beyond this level or the additional acid can come out when the battery is charged.

b. After cells are filled, tilt battery from side to

side to release air bubbles.

c, Allow battery to stand and settle for at least

thirty minutes, If the level of acid falls below the point described in step (al, add more acid

until the correct level is reached. Install the bat-

tery 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.

e. Neutralize excess battery acid for disposal by

adding it to four inches of water in a five gallon plastic container. Stir with a wooden or plastic

paddle while adding baking soda until the ad- dition of more soda causes no mf_re foaming,

f . It is recommended that the battery be charg-

ed before use. Use a 12 volt battery charger. Charge battery at a rate of 6 amperes for 1

hour. NOTE: OBSERVE SAFETY PRECAU-

TIONS, LISTED tN BOX ABOVE, REQUIRED FOR BATTERY CHARGING. Check the acid

level after the battery is charged. If the acid has

fallen below the correct level, add distilled or

iron free water.

;TEERING

_/ STEERING

SLEEVE RETAINER

SPRING

3. Instafl Seat. SPraNG \

Seat position should De adjusted forward or backward

so that the operator can comfortably reach Clutch, Brake Pedal and safely operate tractor.

a. Place seat on seat pan. Screw hex head machine

screw, iockwasher and flat washer into seat (Fig.

2). Screw shoulder bolt into seat (Fig. 2). Machine screw, shoulder bolt and washers found in bag of

parts (shown full size on page 6).

b. Tighten shoulder bolt using a 1/2" wrench. NOTE:

THE SHOULDER BOL T WILL BE LOOSE IN THE SEA TPAN SL 07-.

c. Tighten machine screw, Iockwasher and ftat

washer using a 1/2"' wrench.

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

seat.

e. To adjust: Raise seat. Loosen machine screw.

Slide seat to desired position. Tighten machine

screw securely,

I AIklLWASHER MUST BE TIGHTENED SECURE- I_MACHINE SCREW-LOCKWASHER-FLAT !

I -LY TO PREVENT MOVEMENT OF SEAT.

7 Ill"

ASSEMBL Y

4. Check Ttres

Check the a# pressure in the tires. 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 correct air pressure is shown on the side of the tires.

If the air pressure is not shown, set to pressures shown in the REPAIR AND ADJUSTMENT section (page 14).

5. 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,

a. Lift seat (Fig. 2). b . Lower battery into fender wel! with battery ter-

minals 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,

POSITIVETERMINALMUSTBECON- SPARKS FROM ACCIDENTAL

c. Connect RED battery cable to positive (+) bat-

tery 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 BLACK ground cable to negative (-) bat-

tery terminal with remaining hex bolt, flat washer, Iockwasher and hex nut (shown full size

on pg. 6) found in bag of parts. Tighten secure- ly. (Fig, 4)

e. To prevent corrosion, apply grease to the bat-

tery terminals after installing cables.

f, Using the key hole on one side of the battery

support (Fig. 5) slide battery bolt into frame key hole (head of bolt down). Fasten the battery bolt

to the terminal guard using internal/external

Iockwasher, wing nut, (shown full size on pg. 6)

as shown in Fig. 5.

g. Assemble the remaining battery bolt to other

side of battery support and fasten terminal guard to it with remaining internal/external Iockwasher, wing nut, (shown full size on pg. 6) as shown

NOTE:

CAUTION: DO NOT START ENGINE UNTIL YOU HAVE

in Fig. 5. KEEP TERMINAL ACCESS DOORS CLOSED

WHEN NOT IN USE,

NECTED FIRST TO PREVENT GROUNDING.

REVIEWED THE OPERATION SECTION OF THIS MANUAL.

FIGURE 2

_'_jl AWAy VI{W GA P

BATTERY

f ........

., VENT

_L_ IATTERY

6. Maintenance After First 2 Hours (Two

Mowing l

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

will help eliminate break-in residue which might be

damaging to your engine.

TUaE

v_L

c{_ FIGURE3

FIGURE 5

OPERA TION

KNOW YOUR TRACTOR

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL BEFORE OPERA TING YOUR LAWN TRACTOR. If you understand the unit and its opera- tion, you will achieve efficient and peak performance While reading the manual, compare the illustrations with your Lawn Tractor to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments. Study the operating instruc- tions end safety precautions thoroughly to insure proper functioning of your Lawn Tractor and to prevent injury to yourself

and others. Be sure to pay strict attention to all warnings and cautions: they ar# included for your safety. Save this manual for future reference.

Ignition

Light Switch

Throttle/Choke

Attachment

Lift Lever

Clutch Brake Pedal

t Clutch

Lever

Height

Adjustment _i

Knob

Gear Shift Lever

ATTACHMENT 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 trac

tot. Pull lever back slightly and push button, then move

the lift lever forward to lower attachment.

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL: The pedal has 2 f_Jnctions; a clutch and a brake, To engage the brake push the pedal

completely down.

A TTA CHMENT HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB: Use the height adjustment knob to adjust the mower height. With

the attachment lift lever in the "'up" position, turn knob

clockwise (F-_l to raise cutting height and counterclockwise (f-_ ) to lower cutting height.

i,,,,

Parking Brake

t f2/

GEARSHIFT: Press the clutch/brake pedal down firmly

and move gear shift lever to desired speed.

IGNITION: Place key in ignition and turn to the right to start. The switch sprin 9 returns from the start positon,

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 wilt 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.

OPERA TION

AIR

SCREEN

/ •

FUEL FILLER

CAP

TANK

FIGURE 6 /

1. Stopping Your Tractor

NOTE: REMOVE KEY WHEN LEAVING TRACTOR TO PREVENT UNAUTHORIZED USE.

a, Push clutch-brake pedal into full "'BRAKE'"

position. Keep your foot on pedal.(Fig.7)

b. Place attachment clutch lever in

...... Fi 7

DISENGAGED position.( g; ) ,,

c, Move gear shift lever to NEUTRAL

postion, (Fig.7)

d Place parking brake in "'ENGAGED" posi-

tion and release pressure from clutch/brake. Pedal should remain in "'BRAKE'" position.

(Fig.7)

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

position. (Fig,7)

f . Turn ignition key to "OFF"position. Never

I LEARN TO START, STOP AND RE* I

use choke to stop engine. (Fig.7)

Preparing The Engine

A VERSEYOURTRACTORIN ALARGE, I

MOWER 8LADE CLUTE

POSITION

HEADLIGHT

THROTTLE

"'--_CONTROL

_'LEVER

POSiTiON

PARKING BRAKE

"ENGAGED"

POSITION

GEARSHIFT

LEVER

NGAGED"

c3.

This enginehasbeenahipped f!lled with su -

OPEN AREA. m I

mer weight oi! (For cold weather operation see chart page 16). Check engine off level. Refer to REPAIR AND ADJUSTMENT section (page 16).

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

unleaded gasoline. Capacity is 5 quarts.

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 INSTRUCTIONS FOR ADDI- TIONAL INFORMATION.

FIGURE 7

NEVER USE ENGINE OR CARBURETOR CLEANER PRODUCTS IN THE FUEL TANK OR PERMANENT DAMAGE MAY OCCUR.

3, Starting The Engine

a'. Move throttle control lever (Fig. 7) past "'FAST"

to the "CHOKE" position.

b. Turn ignition key to "'START" and release key

as soon 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 TROUBLESHOOTING 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".

HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT

KNOB

OPERA TION

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH

LEVER "'DISENGAGED'"

POSITION

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER"ENGAGED" POSITION

LIFT LEVER

-'LOWEST

, POSITfOr_

4_ READ THE "RULES FOR SAFE

CAUTION: DO NOT ADD ADDITIONAL WEIGHT TO

OPERATION" CAREFULLY BEFORE OPERATING YOUR MOWER.

THE TRACTOR OTHER THAN THE OP- TIONAL WHEEL WEIGHTS. EXCESSIVE

WEIGHT MAY OVERLOAD AND DAMAGE

THE TRANSAXLE.

ALWAYS WEAR SUBSTANTIAL FOOT- | WEAR AND AVOID LOOSE FITTING

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, q 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 t?ot mow where machine can tip or slip. 9 ,, machine stops going uphill, stop blades and back

slowly down.

! O. Be sure blades and engine have stopped before plac

ing hands or feet near the blades.

11, Remove key when leaving machine.

MAKE SURE PARKING BRAKE WILL HOLD TRACTOR SECURE.

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

Operating Your Lawn Tractor & Mower

DO NOT OPERATE THE MOWER WITH- OUT EITHER THE ENTIRE GRASS I

CATCHER, ON MOWERS SO EQUIPPED, | OR THE DEFLECTOR SHIELD 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,

Move the attachment lift lever to the high pos_ lion and adjust height of cut to mid range. See

Fig. 8.

Start the engine, (See Starting the Engine)

Move the throttle lever to mid range position. Select a tow (_ st or 2nd) gear unlit you become more familiar with the operation of the unit.

Slowly release clutch brake pedal and proceed

to the mowing area.

Stop the unit, then select a mowing speed. ISee Speed Selection Guide, page 12).

Move throttle lever to half throttle and slowly move attachment clutch lever to engaged posi- tion, Fig. 8.

FIGURE 8

OPERA TION

5. Mowing Tips

g. Slowly release clutch brake pedal.

h. Move throttle lever to fast position.

i. Observe height of cut and readjust as desired,

CAUTION: BEFORE YOU MOVE THE GEAR SHIFT

LEVER, COME TO A COMPLETE STOP. FAILURE TO DO SO CAN RESULT IN GEAR BOX DAMAGE.

FIGURE 9

NOTE: TIRE CHAINS CANNOT BE USED WI'PH THE

MOWER ATTACHED.

a , Mower should be adjusted properly front to back

and side to side for good mowing performance. Refer 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 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 wil! result in a more

even distribution of clippings and more uniform cutting.

d. When mowing large areas (Fig. 9), start by tur-

ning to the right so that the clippings will discharge away from shrubs, fences, driveways,

etc. After two or three rounds, mow in the op- posite direction making left hand turns until

finished.

e. If grass is extremely taft, it should be mowed

twice. The first time cut relatively high; the se-

cond time to the desired height.

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

trimming,

g, See Speed Selection Chart. h. Do not mow tall, dry (brown) grass over 6 in-

ches tall. It is a fire hazard.

6. Operating The Tractor On Hills

FUNCTION

Normal Mowing

Heavy Mowing

Snow Blowing

Snow Blade

SPEED SELECTION GUIDE

GEARSHIFT THROTTLE

2or 3

I or2

FAST

DO NOT DRIVE UP OR DOWN HILLS | WITH SLOPES GREATER THAN 15 °

AND DO NOT DRIVE ACROSS ANY

SLOPE. REFER TO PAGE 51,

a. Move gear shift lever to "" 1st" gear before star

ring 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 ("Ist'" Gear) and release clutch-brake pedal SLOWLY.

f. Make all turns gradually.

Transport

4-6

SLOW-

FAST

7. Transporting Your Tractor

For pushing or towingyour tractor, place Gear Shift Lever in

"iV"position. Do nottow or push at more than 6 MPH.

To keep your tractor running better, longer, per- form necessary service using the following

maintenance schedule:

With Every Mowing

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

2. Observe aft safety precautions, 3, Keep tractor weft lubricated (refer to page 17).

MAINTENANCE

BEFORE MAKING ANY INSPECTION, ADJUSTMENT, OR REPAIR:

1. PUSH CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL COM- PLETELY DOWN.

2. MOVE'GEAR SHIFT CONTROL LEVER TO NEUTRAL POSITION.

3. PLACE PARKING BRAKE IN "ENGAG- ED" 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 ACCI-

DENTAL STARTING. BE CAREFUL TO

AVOID TOUCHING HOT ENGINE OR MUFFLER COMPONENTS.

SERVICE RECORD

SERVICE RECORD SCHEDULE

FIRST EVERY EVERY EVERY EVERY

Fill in dates as you complete regular service 2 5 25 50 1OO

HOURS HOURS HOURS HOURS HOUR_

Blades - sharpen

Brake Adjustment

Check Battery

Change Engine Oil _'_

Check Engine Oil Leve_

Clean Air Cleaner Element l_J

Check Muffler

Clean Air Screen 1_d

Clean Front GrilI

Lubricate Tractor

(Enter Date Maintenance Performed)

Replace Spark Plug I_

Replace Air Cleaner Eiement

Check Tire Pressure

Replace Fuel Filter

REPAIR AND ADJUSTMENT

1. Brake Adjustment

This tractor is equipped with an adjustable brake system

mounted on the right side of the transaxle (Fig. !0).

IF TRACTOR REQUIRES MORE THAN I SIX FEET STOPPING DISTANCE IN I HIGHEST GEAR, THEN BRAKE MUST I

BE ADJUSTED. l

FIGURE !0

WASHER

I 112

(WITH PARKING BPJ_K E ENGAGED)

ASSEMBLY

a, Depress clutch/brake pedal and engage parking

brake.

b. Measure distance between brake operating arm

and nut "A" on brake rod.

c, ff distance is other than l-l/2" loosen jam nut (Fig. 10)

and tum nut "A "until distance becomes 1-1/2", retighten

jam nut against nut "A"

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

2, Tire Care

a . Maintain tire pressure in front at 14 PSi and rear

tires at 12 PSI.

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

chemicals which can harm rubber.

c. Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts and other

hazards that may cause tire damage.

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

1 - Block up axle securely,

2 - Remove hub cap, klip ring and washer to

allow wheel removal.

3 - Repair tire and reassemble, Replace washers

and snap klip ring securely in axle groove, Replace hub cap.

FIGURE 11

FIGURE 12

A GRADE 5 HEAT TREATED BOLT CAN BE IDENTIFIED BY THREE

LINES ON THE BOLT HEAD AS SHOWN AT LEFT.

tERS

HUB CAP

KLIP RING 14

3. Blade 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. If you mow in sandy soft 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 flat washer (Fig. 11) (turn counterclock

wise) (F_).

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, Iockwasher

and hex head bolt, TIGHTEN SECURELY.

ALWAYS USE GRADE 5 HEAT TREAT- i ED BOLTS TO ATTACH BLADES. DO

NOT USE PLATED BOLTS. CHECK BOLTS IN BLADES OCCASIONALLY TO MAKE SURE BOLTS ARE TIGHT,

TORQUE BOLTS TO 30-35 FT,-LBS.

b . When grinding, care should be taken to maintain

blade balance and the blade should be checked for proper balance before reinstailation on mower. An unbalanced or bent blade will cause

excessive vibration when running, and eventual damage to mower or engine. Replace bent or

damaged blades.

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

or wail. Leave about one inch of the straight nail exposed. Place center hole of clean blade over

the head of the nail (Fig. 131. NOTE: CENTER

HOLE OF BLADE ON NAIL, IF BLADE IS PROPER- LY BALANCED, BLADE SHOULD REMAIN IN POSITION SHOWN IN FIG. 13. IF EITHER END

OF THE BLADE MOVES DOWNWARD, BLADE IS NOT BALANCED. SHARPEN THE HEAVY END

UNTIL BLADE IS BALANCED.

4. BATTERY CARE

Check Battery

a. Battery acid solution level in each battery cell

should be even with bottoms of vent tubes in cells (Fig. 14). Add ONLY distilled or iron free

water if necessary, NOTE: DO NOT OVERFILL,

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

open.

e. Recharge at 6 amperes for 1 hour if necessary.

REPAIR AND ADJUSTMENT

' I CENTER

_' HOLE

i - °

BLADE i(

FIGURE 1 3

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Clemn Battery, and Terminals

Corrosion and dirt on the battery and terminals cause the battery to "'leak" power and hinders the opera

tion of the charger.

LEAD-ACID BATTERIES GENERATE EXPLOSIVE GASES, KEEP SPARKS,

FLAME AND SMOKING MATERIALS AWAY FROM SATTERIES. ALWAYS SHIELD YOUR EYES AROUND

BATTERIES.

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

tery cable, and remove battery from tractor.

c. Wash battery with four tablespoons of baking

soda to one gallon of water. NOTE: BE CAREFUL NOT TO GET THE SODA SOLUTION INTO THE

CELLS.

d. Rinse the battery with plain water, dry and

reinstall on tractor.

e . Clean terminals and battery cable ends with wire

brush until bright.

f . Replace battery cables, connecting RED battery

cable to positive terminal first, then BLACK bat- tery cable to negative terminal, Coat terminal

connections with grease after installation of

cables.

g. Replace terminal guard.

FIGURE14

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