Craftsman 917254640 Owner’s Manual

MODEL NO.

917.2546

Caution: Read and Foflow

AH $Mety Rules And instructions

Before Operating This Equipment

LT 12 PiP ELECTRIC

- 38"

TART

LAWN TRACTOR

o Assembly o Operation

® Maintenance o Repair and Adjustment

e Repair Parts

,,==,,j......................... ,,r ' .... "' '"1 ........... I .........

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

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

OPERATOR'S MANUAL and instructionsFurnishedwith attachments.

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

3. De not carP/passengers. Do not mow _,hee children and others are around.

4. Alwaxs wear substantial footwear. Do notwear loose {it. ring Elothing that could get caught in moving parts.

5. Keep your eyes and mind on xour tractor, mower and

the area bein_ cut. Do not let other interestsdistract ygu.

6. Do not attempt to operate your tractor or mower _,hee not in the drivers 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 picked up and thrown.

9. Disengage all attachment dutches before attemp#ng to start the engine.

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

11. Disengage power to mower, stop the engine, and discon- nectspa-rk plug wire(s) from spark plug(s) before clean: ing, makin.g an adjustment, or repair, be careful to avoid touching hot muttler or engine components.

12. Disengagepowertoa#achmentswhentransportingornot

In use.

13. Take all possible precautions when leaving the vehide unatteeded. Di._ngage thepower.take-off,'7ower, the at-

tachments, shift into neutral, set the parking bratce, stop the engine and remove the key.

14. Do not stop or start suddenly when going uphill or

downhill, fAow up and down the face of slopes (nat _rleater than 15°j; never across the face. Refer to page

15. Reduce speed onslopes and make turnsgradually topre- vent tipping or loss of controL.Exercise extreme caution when chen_glngdirection on slopes.

16. While going up or down slopes, place Gear Shift Con- trol Lever m 7st gear positlon to negotiate the slope

without stopping.

17. Never mow m wet or slippery grass, when tr.action is un- sure or at a speed whichcouFd cause a skid.

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

hazards. Keep away from drop-arts.

19. Do not drive too dose to creeks, ditches and public

b. Limit loads to those you can safety control. c. Do not turn sharply. Use care when backing.

d. Use counterwgight or wheel weights whensuggested

in the owneKs manual.

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

25. When using any. attachments, never direct discharge of material towar_l bystanders nor allow anyone near the

vehicle while in operation.

26. Handle gasoline with care - it is highly Flammable. a. Use approved g.asoline contaitiers.

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

gasoline to a running,or hot engine or an engine that has not been allowe_l to cool for several minutesafter

runnlna. Never fill tank indoors. Always clean up

sDilled'aasoline.

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

haust Fumesare dangerous. Do not run the engine indoors.

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

28. Keep all nuts,,b'oltsancIscrews tight to be sure the equTp.

ment is in safe working condition.

29. Never store the equipmeet with gasoline in the tank in. side a building where fumes may reach an open flame

or spark. Alllow 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 c'/ean product while engine _srunning.

3 I. Except for adjustments; DO NOT operate engine if air

cleaner or cover directly ever carburetor air intake is removed. Removal of suchpart could create a fire hazard.

32. Donotoperatewithoutamufflerortamperwithexhaust

system. Damaged mufflers or spark arresters could create a fire hazaid. Inspect periodically and replace if

necessary.

33. The vehfde and attachments should be stopped and in.

spected for damage after striking a foreign ob_ect and

the damage, should be repairedbefore restar#ng and operating the egulpment.

34. Do not change the engine governor settings or overspeed

.the..engine; sgvere 9ra.mage.or injury may result_ .

35. When usingthe vehicle with mower, proceea as tallows;

a. Mow only in daylight or in good artificial light. b. Shut the engine off when unclogging chute.

c. Check the bTade mounting bolts-f_r proper tightness

highways, at frequent intervals.

20. Exercise special care when mowing around fixed oblects 36. Do not operate the mower wlthout the deflector shield in in order to prevent the blades from striking them. hfever place.

deliberately run tractor or mower into or over any foreign 37. Disengage power to mower before backing up. Do not objects, mow m reverse unless absolutely necessary and then on-

21. Never shift gears until tractor comes to a stop. Iv after careful observation of the entire area behind the

22. Never place hands or feet under the mower, in discharge (newer. chute or near any moving parts while tractor or mower 38. Under normal usage thegross catcher bag material issub. is running. Always keep clear of discharge chute, ject to deterioration andwear. It should-be checked fre-

23. Use care when pulling loads or using heavy equipment, q.uently for bag replacement. Replacement bags should

a. Use only approt;ed drawbar h#_chpolnts. De checked to ensure compliance with the original

..................................... manufacturer's recommendallons or specifications_

LOOK FOR THIS SYMBOL TO POINT OUT IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.

IT MEANS--ATTENTION! BECOME ALERT! YOUR SAFETY IS iNVOLVED.

CAUTIONL .LOOK FOR THIS WORD TO POINT OUT IMPORTANT EQUIPMENT PRECAUT!ONS. .........

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

]{ _ LAND UNLESS THE ENGINE S EXHAUST SYSTEM IS EQUIPPED WITH A SPARK ARRESTER MEET-

/_ ON OR NEAR ANY UNIMPROVED FOREST COVERED, BRUSH COVERED, OR GRASS COVERED H

_ 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 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.

CONGRATULATBONS 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-

tent, well-trained technicians and the proper tools to

service or repair this unit.

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

product. See the nearest Sears store or service center

YOU SHOULD RECORD THESE NUMBERS AND KEEP FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

L..... ,,

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.

ATTACHMENTS

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 49 for a list of available attachments.

............................................................ u_......... LJ .....................................................................................................................

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 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 will replace the

battery at no charge,

WARRANTY SERVICE IS 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 ............... 18

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

Mower

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

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

Throttle Control Cable ..... 18

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

Air Filter

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

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

Air Intake Screen, Eng ...... 16

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

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

Battery:

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

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

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

Levels .................. 75

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

Starting with Weak Battery . 17

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

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

Belt:

Motion Drive Replacement .. 19

Mower Drive Adjustment ... 22

Mower Drive,

Remove/Replace ........ 21

Blade:

Sharpening .............. 74

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

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

Carburetor Adjustment ....... 18

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

Cutting Level, Mower ........ 72

Engine:

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

Oil 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 ............... 13

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Spark Plug .............. 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

Oil:

Cold Weather Conditions . . . 16

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

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

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

Operating Your Mower ..... 11

Operating Your Tractor ..... 11

Starting the Engine ........ ! 1

Stopping Your Tractor ..... !0

Tractor Operation on Hills... 12

Options:

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

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

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 .............. 70

Mower Drive Belt

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

Mower Adjustment

Side-to-Side .............. Z2

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Throttle Control Cable

Adjustment ................ !8

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

Trouble Shooting Chart ....... 25

Valves Adjustments .......... 18

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

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

ASSEMBLY

7. 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 utili-

ty knife and fold down sides.

c. Disengage Parking Brake.

d. Instafl Steering Wheel

7. Slide upper steering shaft over lower steer-

ing shaft until bolt holes fine up with slots in lower steering shaft (Fig. 7).

2. Use two hex bolts 3/8 - 76 x I- 7/4 and two Iocknuts 3/8 - 76 to reta'in 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 aligningnotch 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 _ t/4"" diameter washer on upper

steering shaft and instafl a 7/2" Iocknut

{washer and tocknut found in bag of parts).

Tighten securely.

t 1. 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.

G H

iii ......

Parts Bag Contents Not Shown Full Size:

iiiii ,i

_I IIIIlIIIIIII[IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIFIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII

(2) Battery Carriage Bolts - 114-20 x 7-I/2

Terminal Guard

15° Slope Instruction

(2) Keys

a. seat e. owner's manual b. Steering wheel f. parts bag c. battery steering sleeve

d. battery acid _i upper steering shaft

ring Wheel Adapter

Battery Caps And Instructions Steering Wheel Insert

ASSEMBL (

ASSEMBL Y PANTS BAG CONTENTS SHOWN FULL SiZE

LOCATION

BATTERY

(2) Lockwasher, 1/4 Int/Ext Tooth (2) Wing Nut, 1/4-20

BA TTERY

TERMINALS

SEA T

UPPER

STEERING

SHAFT

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

©_)

i1= 1.1.1.1.1.11.i i _111 i i

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

(1) Shoulder bolt 5/16 - 18

C_I

12) Hex Bolt 3/8 _ 16 x I 1/4

(21 Washer 9/32 x 5/8 x 16 Ga.

i.=. m.,.,.,H = HH'--I _11I '1_

(2) Hox Locknut 3/8 - 16

(2/Hex Nut, 1/4 - 20

{1) Washer 17/32 x 1 -

3/16 x 12 Ga.

STEERING

WHEEL

(1) Locknut, 1/2-20

114" Dia. Washer

To assemble tractor you will need:

(2) 7/t6" Wrenches Tire Pressure Gauge

(t) 1/2" Wrenches Screwdriver (2) 9/16" Wrenches Utility Knife

(1) 3/4" Wrench

(2) 11/16" Wrenches

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

DETERMINED FROM OPERA TOR'S POSITION

WHILE SEA TED ON THE TRACTOR.

......i , i] ,111,,111,,i,1,1,i

WEAR EYE AND FACE SHIELD.

WASH HANDS OR CLOTHING IM-

MEDIA TELY IF ACCIDENTALL Y IN

CONTACT WITH BATTERY ACID.

DO NOT SMOKE: FUMES FROM CHARGED BATTERY ACID ARE EXPLOSIVE.

READ THEINSTRUCTIONS 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.

fl,,,,,, ,i ",

STEERING WHEEL

UPPER

STEERING

SHAFT

BOLTS

STEERING WHEEL_

ADAPTER ----_..._ -- .",,

JUTS

SHAFT

ER_NG

TUBE

FIGURE 1

STEERING SLEEVE

RETAINER

SPRING

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

DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS PACKAGED WITH BATTERY

VENT CAPS FOUND IN BAG OF PARTS.

a. Filleach cell with battery acid. Add the acid until

it reaches the bottom of the vent tubes (Fig. 3). Do not add the acid beyond this level or the ad- ditional 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 (a), 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 orplastic paddle while adding baking soda until the addi- tion of more soda causes no more foaming.

f. It is recommended that the battery be charged

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 IN BOX ABOVE, REQUIRED

FOR BATTERY CHARGING. Check the acid level after the battery is charged, ff the acid has

fallen below the correct level, add distilled or

iron free water."

SLEEVE RETAINER

SPRtNG

3. Install Seat.

Seat position should be 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, lockwasher and flat washer into seat (Fig.

2). Screw shouider 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 and flat washer using a

1/2"" wrench, NOTE: THE SHOULDER BOLT

WILL BE LOOSE IN THE SEAT PAN SLOT.

c. Tighten machine screw, Iockwasher and flat

washer using a I/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.

WASHER MUST BE TUGHTENED SECURE-

A$SEMBL Y

4. Check Tires

Check the air 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 isnot shown, set to pressures shown

in the REPAIR AND ADJUSTMENT section (page 14).

Instal} Battery

, i1,,,

BEFORE INSTALLING BATTERY, REMOVE METAL BRACELETS,

FROM YOUR PERSON. TOUCHING

WRISTWATCH BANDS, RINGS, ETC. THESE ITEMS TO BATTERY TERMI-

NALS COULD RESULT IN BURNS.

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

minals toward front of tractor (Fig. 4). Make sure battery rests in battery tray (Fig. 4).

NOTE: BESURE BATTERY DRAIN TUBE IS SECURELY

ATTACHED TO BATTERY TRAY DRAIN.

i ,11,1 iiiiUll,lrl,ii,_1,1u,1111ilU,

POSITIVE TERMINAL MUST BE CON- NECTED FIRST TO PREVENT SPARKS FROM ACCIDENTAL GROUNDING.

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. 61 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 bott 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 in Fig. 5.

NOTE:

KEEP TERMINAL ACCESS DOORS CLOSED WHEN NOT IN USE.

_fAT PA_ __ SlAT

BOLT _ _.o_

. Wltt

OATfI_Y

(*_£T AWAY VH:W I_ATTERY

L,-.--.-J

WASHER

POSiTiVE TERMINA

POS_T;VE

CABLE tRED_

BATTERYTRAY

BATTERY

BOLT

KEY HOLE

#_Dln

FIGURE 2

CAP

TUDE

.BATTERY

CELL FIGURE 3

FIGURE 4

FIGURE 5

CAUTION: DO NOT START ENGINE UNTIL YOU HAVE

REVIEWED THE OPERATION SECTION OF

THIS MANUAL.

6. Maintenance After First 2 Hours (Two Mowings)

Changing oil after thBJ_rsttwo hours (or two mowings)

wilt help eliminate break-in residue which might be

oFamagingto your engine.

OPERA ON

KNOW YOUR TRACTOR

RF_AD THiS OWNER'8 MANUAL OEFORE OFERA TING YOUR LAWN TRACTOR. ff 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 and 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 aft warnings and cautions: they are included for your safety. Save this manual for future reference.

Light Switch

Attachment

Lift Lever

Clutch/Brake Pedal

Clutch

Lever

Height

Adjustment _,_ Knob

Gear Shift Lever

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER: Push lever up to engage attachment. There wil! be an engine hesitation as the

clutch engages.

ATTAC_NT L_cTLEVER: Use the attachment lift lever to raise and lower the attachment mounted to your trac-

tor. Pulllever back slightly and push button, then move the lift lever forward to lower attachment.

CLUTCH/BRAKE _DAL: The pedal has 2 functions; a clutch and a brake. To engage the brake push the pedal

completely down. ATTACHMENT 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'_J to raise cutting height and counterclockwise (/'_,) to lower cutting height.

Parking Brake

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 spring returns from the start positon.

L_HT 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.

_TTLE/CHOKE COtJTROL: 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

7. 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

"'DISENGAGED" position. (Fig;7) ,,

c. Move gear shift lever to NEUTRAL

postion. ('Fig7)

d Place pePklng 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 i nition key to OFF" position.

use cr_nke to stop engine. (Fig.7) Never

2. Preparing The Engine

LEARN TO START, STOP AND RE- VERSE YOUR TRACTOR IN A LARGE,

OPEN AREA.

,,i ..........

a. This engine has been shipped filled with sum-

mer weight oil (For cold weather operation see chart page 16). Check engine oil level. Refer to

REPAIRAND 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.

........I

i,i1,1,1111,,11 ,111

MOWER BLADE CLUTCH "ENGAGED".

POSITION

HEADLIGHT

"CLUTCH'*

POSITION

FIGURE 7

"OISENGAGEO"

POSITION

"DISENGAGED" POSITION

GEARSHIFT

LEVER

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.

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

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 PLUNGER LIFT LEVER

• "HIGHEST"

OStTION

LIFT LEVER

POSITION

READ THE,, "RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION CAREFULLY BEFORE

TiNG YOUR MOWER.

CAUTION: DO NOT ADD ADDITIONAL WEIGHT TO

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

WEIGHT MAY OVERLOAD AND DAMAGE THE TRANSAXLE.

i , ii

ALWAYS WEAR SUBSTANTIAL FOOT- WEAR AND AVOID LOOSE FITTING

CLOTHING THAT COULD GET CAUGHT iN MOVING PARTS.

CAUTION

TO AVOID INJURY

I. 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 took 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, Besure blades and engine have stopped before plac-

ing hands or feet near the blades.

t 1, Remove key when leaving machine.

MAKE SURE PARKH_G BRAKEWeLL HOLD TRACTOR SECURe.

NEVER PLACE YOUR HANDS OR FEET iN

OR UND_ER ANY POWERED ATTACH-_NT OR _.AR ANY _V6_ PART WH_LE TRACTOR OR ANY POWERED

ATTACHMENT iS RUNN_G.

RUNNER

RGE

GUARD

FIGURE 8

4. Operating Your Lawn Tractor & Mower

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

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

t,t, t,tt tt,,

NOTE: THIS TRACTOR IS EQUIPPED WITH AN

OPERATOR PRESENCESENSING 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 lever to the high posi-

tion 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 tow (1st or 2nd) gear until you become

more familiar with the operation of the unit.

d, Slowly release clutch brake pedal and proceed

to the mowing area.

e. Stop the unit, then select amowing speed. (See

Speed Selection Guide, page 12).

f. Move throttle lever to half throttle and slowly

move attachment clutch lever to engaged posi-

tion, Fig. 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 WITH 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 will 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.

FUNCTION

i,11,,,111,,111,1,,

Normal Mowing

Heavy Mowing

Snow Blowing

Snow Blade

SPEED SELECTION GUIDE

,,i, I,IIM,II, i

GEARSHIFT THROTTLE

.... iii1,1,1.... ii

2or3

I or2

' i ,"'m','m';

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 51.

a . Move gear shift lever to ""I st'" gear before star-

ting 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 U

._ SLIGHT TRACTOR ROLL DOWNHILL

AS CLUTCH-BRAKE PEDAL MOVES

iii

THROUGH CLUTCH POSITION. !

d. If stopping is absolutely necessary, push

FAST

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 all turns gradually.

Transport

4-6

SLOW-

FAST

7. Transporting Your Tractor

For pushing or towingyour tractor, place Gear Shift Lever in

"N" position. Do not tow or push at more than 6 MPH.

MAINTENANCE

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

maintenance schedule:

With Every Mewing

I. 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).

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

(Enter Date Maintenance Performed)

SERVICE RECORD SCHEDULE

FIRST EVERY EVERY EVERY EVERY

Fill in dates as you complete regular service 2 5 25 50 !00

HOURS HOURS HOURS HOURS HOUR_

Blades- sharpen BrakeAdjustment

Check Battery

Change EngineOil _r t,j

i i

Check EngineOil Level _'

,,i ,, i

Clean Air C{eaner Element _,_

,11i1,,i

Check Muffler

i......... '

Clean Air Screen Clear_Front Grill

,i,i,,,

LubricateTractor _'_

ReplaceSpark Plug _'

' ,i ...........

Replace Air Cleaner Element

Check Tire Pressure

_== ,LL ......... ,,

Replace Fue! Filter

.......,,,,,_,,,,,,,,,,,,, ,, ............

AND ADJUSTMENT

BRAKE ROD

1. Brake Adjustment

This tractor is equipped with an adjustable brake system

mounted on the right side of the transaxle (Fig. I0).

.r.r,,. ............. _:_

IFTRACTOR REQUIRES MORE THAN

DISC BRAKE

FIGURE 10

WASHIER

L_KWASHER

HEX BOLT GR, 5_

FIGURE 11

FIGURE 12

1 • I/2"'

|WITH PARKING BRAKE ENGAGED)

A GRADE 5 HEAT TREATED BOLT CAN BE IDENTIFIED BY THREE

LINES ON THE BOLT HEAD AS SHOWN AT LEFT.

)

WASHERS

KLIP RING

HUB

CAP

j_ SIX FEET STOPPING DISTANCE IN

HIGHEST GEAR, THEN BRAKE MUST BE ADJUSTED.

a . Depress clutch/brake pedal and engage parking

brake.

b. Measure distance between brake operating arm

and nut "'A'" on brake rod.

c, If distance is other than I- 1/2"', loosen jam "'A ""

nut (Fig. t0) and turn nut until distance becomes 1-I/2", Retightenjam nut against nut "'A".

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

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.

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 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

flat washer (Fig. t 1) (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, tockwasher

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, J

REPAIR AND ADJUSTMENT

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 vibration when running, and eventual

damage to mower or engine. Replace bent or

damaged blades.

To check blade balance, drive a nail into a beam or walt. Leave about one inch of the straight nail exposed. Place center hole of clean blade over the head of the nail (Fig. 13), 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.

Clean 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.

HOLE 0 -

lll , j !l!

FIGURE 13

CIJ! AWAY VI(W DATTI[RY

"" _ VENT

• I TU_E

CAP

IATTERY

FtGURE14

LEAD-ACID BATTERIES GENERATE EXPLOSIVE GASES. KEEP SPARKS,

FLAME AND SMOKING MATERIALS

AWAY FROM BATTERIES. 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

reinstafl 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.

REPAIR AND ADJUSTMENT

FUEL _\_\ CAP

FIGURE15

ENGINE 01L AIR CLEANER I - FILLER CAP COVER AND DIPSTICK

AIR SCREEN

FIGURE 18

FUEL

TANK

AIR

CLEANER

BODY

FOAM

ELEMENT

.20 ° 0 o

32 c

60 ° 80 ° 100 °

n l i !3Ho-!

30or70W-

5W-30

UIil

6. Check Engine Off Level

NOTE: DO NOT CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL WITH

ENGINE RUNNING.

Several minutes after stopping engine, check engine off level with tractor on level ground. Wipe dipstick (Fig. 15) clean, screw it down tight for a few seconds, remove and read oil level. If necessary, add oil until "'FULL'" mark is reached. (See chart above). NOTE: DO NOT

OVERFILL.

7. Clean Air Cleaner Element {Fig. 16)

a. Remove two cover knobs and remove air cleaner

cover.

b. Remove foam pre-c/eaner.

- - Wash pre-cleaner in liquid detergent and warm water to remove dirt.

-- Wrap pre-cleaner in cloth and squeeze dry.

-= Wipe foam with a light coat of engine oil. Do not saturate, squeeze in rag or towel to remove excess oil.

c, Remove two nuts from top of cartridge. d. Remove cartridge and clean air cleaner body carefully

to prevent dirt from entering carburetor.

e. Clean cartridge by gently tapping on flat surface. If

very dirty, replace cartridge.

f, Reassemble air cleaner,

NOTE: Nuts holding air cleaner cartridge must be installed with

fiber washers down on cartridge plate to prevent dirt from entering carburetor, Tighten nuts by hand. Over tightening

could collapse cartridge, NOTE: NEVER RUN ENGINE WlTH AIR CLEANER REMOVED,

8. Clean Air Screen and Engine Cooling Fins.

i i,i, i i,, J_'

ALWAYS WEAR EYE AND FACE

5. 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 suspend- ed in the hot off.

Capacity is 1-1/2 quarts. NOTE: DO NOT OVERFILL. Dipstick assembly must be securely tightened into tube

at all times when engine is operating.

IMPORTANT: TO AVOID DAMAGE TO THE STAR-

TING SYSTEM, USE SAE 5W30 OIL WHEN THE TEMPERATURE FALLS

BELOW 32 ° .

Recommended SAE Viscosity Grades Determine temperature range expected before next oil change, All oil must meet A.P.I. service classification SD,

SE or SF.

PROTECTION WHEN USING COMJ

i, i,ii ii,,11,1,11 ii, I

PRESSED AIR. J

Air screen and cooling fins (Figs. 16 and 17) must be

kept free of dirt and chaff to prevent engine damage from overheating. Clean with a wire brush or compressed air to remove dirt and dried gum fibers.

a. Remove hood (page 20).

b . Remove aircieanercover (Fig. t6),

c, Remove 3 screws securing air cleaner body (Figs. 16

and 17) and remove, (Cover carburetor to prevent en- try of dirt.)

d. Remove off dipstick and cover opening to prevent en-

try of dirt.

e. Remove 3 screws from blower housing and lift hous-

ing off engine (Fig. 17).

f , Use compressed air or stiff bristle brush to thoroughly

clean engine cooling fins (Fig, 17) and air screen (Fig.

16), g. To reassemble, reverse above procedure. h, Be certain carburetor tube, breather tube, and gaskets

are in place (Fig. 17),

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