Craftsman 917254940 Owner’s Manual

OWNER'S

MANUAL

MODEL NO.

917.254940

Caution:

Read and follow

all Safety Rules and Instructions

Before Operating

This Equipment

[RI;IFTXMI:IN®

14.0 HP

ELECTRIC START

38" MOWER DECK 6 D TRANSAXLE

LAWN TRACTOR

• Assembly ° Operation

• Maintenance

• Service and Adjustment ° Repair Parts

Sears, Roebuck and Coo, Chicago, IL 60684 U.SoA.

LOOK FOR THIS SYMBOL TO POINT | OUT IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAU- TIONS. IT MEANS - ATTENTION! BE-

COME ALERT! YOUR SAFETY IS INk

VOLVED_

Jui i1,,,i,i i i Ill I I J I II

CAUTION: LOOK FOR THIS WORD TO POINT OUT

IMPORTAN'I 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 unitis equipped Withan internal combustionengine and shouldnotbe used on or near any unimproved forest covered,

brush covered orgrass coveredland unless the engine sexhaustsystem is equipped with a spark arrestor meetingapplicable localorarea laws (ifany). If a spark arrestor is used, itshouldbe maintained ineffective workingorder by the operator, (See REPAIR PARTS forpar1

number identification)_ inthe State ofCaliforniathe above is requiredby law (Section 4442 ofthe CaliforniaPublic Resources Code),,Other States mayhave simitm

laws. Federal taws applyon 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 aglowchildren to operate the machine. Do not allow

adultsto operate it withoutproper instruction.

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

others are around,.

4o Always wear substantialfootwear. Do not wear loosefitting

clothingthat could getcaught in moving parts.,

5. Keep your eyes and mind on your tractor, mower, and the area being cut.,Do notlet other interests distract you,.

6. Do not attempt tooperate your tractoror mower when not in

the driver's seat

74 Always get on or offyour tractorfrom theoperator's left hand

side.

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

9_ Disengage all attachment clutches before attempting tostart

the engine.

10o Disengage powerto attachments and stop the enginebefore

leaving theoperator's position=

11. Disengage power tomower, 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 transporting or not in

use,

!3 Take all possible precautions when leaving the vehicle

unattended. Disengage the power 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 55.

t5 Reduce speed on slopes and make turns gradually toprevent

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

16. While going upor down slopes, place gear shift control lever in tst 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 couldcause 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 objectsin order to prevent the blades from striking them. Never delib-

erately run tractor or mower into or over anyforeign 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 ts 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 ot

material toward bystanders nor attow anyone near the ve hicle while in operation.

26. Handle gasoline with care - itis highly flammable, a., Use approved gasoline containers..

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

gasoline to arunning or hot engine or an engine that ha_

not been allowed to cool for several minutes after run ning.. Never fill tank indoors Always clean up spi_fec

gasoline

c Open doors it the engine is run inthe garage - exhaus

fumes are dangerous,.Do not runthe engine indoors.

27, Keep the vehicleandattachments in good operating condi

lion, and keep safety devices in place and working.

28. Keep all nuts, belts, and screws tight to be sure the equip

ment is in safe working condition.

29., Never store the equipment with gasoline inthe tank inside building where fumes may reach an open flame or spark Allow the engineto 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 i:

running,

3!_ Except for adjustments, DONOToperate engine ifaircleane

or Dover 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 exhaus

system Damaged mufflers or spark arrestors could create fire hazard. Inspect periodicallyand replace if necessary.

33 The vehicle and attachments should be stopped and in

spected for damage after striking a foreign object, and th_

damage should be repaired before restarting and operatin!

the equipment..

34. Do not change the engine governor setSngsoroverspeed th, engine; severe damage or injurymay result..

35. When using the vehicle with mower, proceed as follows I

a. Mow onlyin daylight or ingood artificial light.

b. Shut the engine off when unclogging chute.

c. Check the blade mounting bolts for proper tightness

36 Do not operate the mower without theentiregrass catche 37 Disengage power to mower beforebacking up..Do not me'

38, Undernormal usagethe grasscatcher bag materia]issubje!

frequent intervals,,

on mowers so equipped, or the deflector shield in place,. in reverse unlessabsolutely necessary and then onlyaftt

careful observation of the entire area behind the mower.

todeterioration and wear. It should becheckedfrequentlyfi bag replacement Replacement bags should be checked I ensurecompfiance with the originalmanufacturer's recor_ mendations or specifications

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a Sears Lawn Tractor. It has been designed, engineered and

manufactured togive you the best possible dependability and performance° Should you experience any problem

you cannot easily remedy, please contact your nearest

Sears Service DepartmenL We have competent, well- trained technicians and the proper tools to service or

repair this uniL

MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT

A Sears Maintenance Agreement is available on this producL 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.

ATTACHMENTS

This unitcan 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 54 for a list of available attachrnents..

SERIAL NUMBER

DATE OF PURCHASE

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 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 ofpurchase, if any battery included with this riding equipment proves defective inmaterial 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 gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other fights which mayvary from state to state.

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

DO NOT OVERLOAD TRACTOR BY TOWING WEIGHTS GREATER THAN 150 POUNDS (68 KG).

iNDEX

Adjustments:

Brake .....................................................15

Carburetor ..........................................20

Choke ................................................19

Mower Drive Belt ............................23

Mower

Front+To-Rear .................................24

Side-To-Side ......................................24

Height ...................................10

Throtlle Control Cable ................19

Air Cleaner .............................................18

Air Screen, Engine ................................18

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

Attachments ..........................................54

Battery:

Charging ...................................7, 19

Cleaning .....................................................17

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

Levels ...........................................16

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

Starting with Weak Battery ......19

Storage ..................................................25

Terminals ..........................................17

Belt:

Motion Drive

Removal]Replacement .......21

Mower Drive

Removal ................................22

Replacement ...........................23

,Adjustment .....................................23

Blade:

Sharpening ...........................................16

Replacement .................................16

Brake Adjustment ................................15

Carburetor Adjustment ........................20

Choke Adjustment ........................................19

Controls, Tractor .............................................t0

Cutting Level, Mower ....................12,24

Engine:

Air Screen ...............................................18

Oil Change ....................................17

Oil Filler ..................................................18

Oil Level ...................................................17

Oil Type ........................................17

Preparation ...........................................11

Repair Parts ................................44-50

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

Sto rage .....................................................25

Filter:

Air Cleaner ....................................18

Fuel .......................................................20

Oil ...................................................18

Fuel:

Type .............................................. 11

Storage ...................................... 25

Fuse ........................................................21

Hood Removaltlnstallation ..................22

Leveling Mower Deck ..................... 24

Lubrication:

Chart ...................................................25

Maintenance .......................................14

Air Cleaner .......................................t8

Air Screen, Engine ..........................18

Battery ....................................... 16

Blade Sharpening .................. 16

Brake Adjustment ............................... 1 5

Engine Oil ........................................17

Fuel Filter ..........................................20

Lubrication Chart ...................................... 25

OilFilter .............................................18

Spark Plugs ......................................20

Tire Care ........................................8,15

Mower:

Adjustment

Front-to-Rear ................................24

Side-to-Side ............................24

Height .................................. 10

Blade Sharpening ........................t 6

Blade Replacement ................16

Cutting Level ............................10,13,24

Installation .............................................22,

Operation .........................................12

Removal .............................................22

+,/lowingTips ........................................13

Muffler+ ..................................................18

Spark Arrester ..........................2,34

Oil:

Cold Weather Conditions .........17

Engine ....................................... 17

Storage ..........................................25

Operation .........................................10-13

Operating Your Mower ........... 12

Operating Your Tractor .............12

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

Stopping Your Tractor ..............11

Tractor Operation on Hills ........13

Options:

Attachments......................................... 54

Spark Arrester ........................2,34

Parking Brake ...........................................10

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

Parts, Rep;acementJRepair .........29-50

Repair and Adjustments ...............15-25

Blade ............................................. 16

Carburetor ..................................20

Fuse .................................................... 21

Hood Removal/Installation .....22

Motion Drive Belt

Removal/Replacement ......21

Mower Drive Belt

Removal .............. ........................ 22

Replacement ......................23

Mower Adjustment

Front- to+Rear......................24

Side-to-Side ........................... 24

Height ................................... 10

Mower Removal/installation ,,22

Tire Care ..........................................15

Repair Parts ...........................................29°50

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

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

Service Record .......................................... 14

Slope Guide Sheet ...........................55

Spark Plugs ..................... ......................... 20

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

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

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

Stopping the Tractor .......................11

Storage ................................................25

Throttle Control Cable

Adjustment ..................................:....19

Tires .........................................................8, 15

Trouble Shooting Chart .............26-27

Transaxle:

Repair Parts......................... 42-43

Transporting..............................................13

Warranty ..............................................

Wiring Schematic ...............................29

+ t

' 4

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 mowing.. We recommend Wide Vision Safety Mask worn over spectacles or standard safety glasses,

available at Sears Retail or Catalog Stores,

Parts Bag Contents Not Shown Full Size,:

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

ASS BLY

,,, ,, ,,,,,,,,,

a seat d battery acid

b, steering wheel a, owner's manual

c battery f part$ b_g

Terminal Guard

15 o Slope Instruction Sheet

(2) Keys

( (6) Battery Caps

Steering Wheel Cap

,,, /ll/,,ii n i illllii i ,ll i i i i ii

NOTE: RIGHT HAND (RH.) AND LEFT HAND (L,H,) ARE DETERMINED FROM OPERATOR'S POSITION WHILE

SEATED ON THE TRACTOR,

ASSEMBLY

ASSEMBL Y

LOCA TION

BA TTERY

TERMINAL S

PARTS BAG CONTENTS SHOWN FULL SIZE

12) Hex Bolt 1/4 - 20 x 3/4

(2) Wing Nut I/4 ,, 20

(21 Lockwasher I/4

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

(2) Hex Nut I/4- 20

SEAT

IIIIUlIllUllllill

(I) Adjustment Knob

(1) Washer 17/32x 1-3/16 x t2 Ga,

-€

- ill_

-t

(11 Shoulder Bolt

: 6

1. Unpack Tractor a Take items out of box. The box contains the items

shown on page 6+

b+ Cut down four corners of the carton with utility knife

and fold down sides.

co Disengage parking brake and position front wheels

straight ahead,,

d,, Remove plastic on tractor hood.

e, Raise attachment lift handle.

f. Roll Tractor off skid. Be careful of staples in skid.

To assemble tractor you wilt need:

(2) 7/! 6" wrenches (1) 1/2" wrench

(2) 9/16" wrenches

(1) 3/4" wrench

2+ Prepare Battery

Fill and charge battery (before installing)+NOTE: SEE DE- TAILED INSTRUCTIONS PACKAGED WITH BATTERY

VENT CAPS FOUND tN BAG OF PARTS,,

a. Fill each cellwith battery acid+Add the acid until it

reaches the bottom of thevent tube s(Fig. 1)Do not add the acid beyond this level or the additional acid

can come out when the battery ischarged°

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. Ifthe level of acid falls below the point de- scribed in step (a), add more acid until the correct level isreached. Install the battery caps, found inthe

bag ofparts, to cover the vent tubes,,Wash the top of the battery with water toremove any acid, thenwipe

dry.

do Check batterycase for leakage to make sure that no

damage has occurred in handling+

e, Neutralize excess battery acid for disposal by add-

ing itto 2 gallons (7 litres) ofwater in afivegallon (20 litres) plastic container. Stir with awooden or plastic

paddlewhile adding baking soda until the addition of

more soda causes no more foaming.

f., It 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 iN BOX ABOVE, REQUIRED FOR BATTERY CHARGING.

Check the acid level after the battery is charged, tf the acid has fallen below the correct level add dis-

tilted or iron free water+

Tire PressureGauge

Screwdriver Utility Knife

(2) 11/16" wrenches

ASS

[ CUT A_J_AYVIEW _//MENT CAP

j BATTERY TUBE

2 - 1/4"'WASHER

:.ERING WHEEL

STEERING /STEERING COLUMN WHEEL INS' RING SLEEVE

BLY

FIGURE i

FIGURE 2

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

ATELY IFACCIDENTALLY 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 TIlE BAG OF PARTS. ALWAYS WEAR

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

3. Install Steering Wheel

NOTE: POSITION FRONT WHEELS FORWARD.

a. Use a 3/4"wrench to remove hex nut and 2-1/4"

diameter washer from steeringcolumn (Fig. 2)

b+ Positionsteeringwheel over steering adapter+ Bars

of steering wheel shouldpoint straightacross trac-

tor+

c. Secure steering wheel to steering column using hex

nut and2-1/4" diameter washer (Fig,'2), Torque to 50 It,- tbs, (68 N-m).

d, Snap steering wheel cap in place on steering wheel+

Steering wheel cap is found in bag of parts,

SHOULDER BOLT

ADJUSTMENT KNO B

FIGURE 3

BATTERY

TRAY_

LOCATING

BRACKET

AIR INTAKE DUCT EXTENSION

AIR INTAKE DUCT

SEAT

SEAT PAN

HOOD

4. Install Seat

Remove cardboard from seat pan.

Place seatonseat pan. Screw adjustmentknob ar_

fiat washer into seat (Fig. 3). Screw shoulder bol

into seat (Fig. 3). Adjustment knob, shoulder boI and washer '_ounclin bag of parts (shown fullsize o_

page 6).

NOTE:

| _ ER MUST BE TIGHTENED SECURELY

hten shoulder bolt using a 1/2" wrench. NOTE E SHOULDER BOLT WILL BE LOOSE INTHI

SEAT PAN SLOT. Tighten adjustment knob and flat washer securel_

SEAT POSITION SHOULD BE ADJUSTED FOR WARD OR BACKWARD SO THAT THE OPERA TOR CAN COMFORTABLY REACH CLUTCt-

BRAKE PEDAL AND SAFELY OPERATE TRA¢ TOR.

eo Place seat in operatingposition. Siton the seat an,

pressclutch/brake pedal allthe way down. ifoperat mg position is not comfortable, adjust seat.

f. To adjust: raise seat. Loosen adjustment knot:

Slide seat to desired position° Tighten adjustmer knob securely_

!u ToP a EV E " m '_ 0V E M E NT llO F S _T : ............

5o Check Tires Check the air pressure in the tires. Tires with too muchai

pressure will (_ausethe unit to ride rough.. The wrong ai pressure will also keep the mower from cutting level. Th,

correct airpressure is shown on theside of the tires. Ifthe ai pressure is not shown, set to pressures shown in the RE

PAIR AND ADJUSTMENT section (page 15).

6. Install Battery

BATTERY COMPARTMENT

FIGURE 4

BATTERY WASHER WASHER TERMINAL

RED

NUT,

FIGURE 5

BOLTS

LOCKWASHERS

GRILL

BATTERY

TERMINAL

BLACK

NEGITIVE)

,NUT

BEFORE INSTALLING BATTERY, RE- WRISTWATCH BANDS, RINGS, ETC.

MOVE METAL BRACELETS,

FROM YOUR PERSON. TOUCHING THESE ITEMS TO BATTERY TERMI-

NALS COULD RESULT IN BURNS.

a. Lifthoodfrom rear sides (Fig.,4)

b_ Liftout air intake duct°

NOTE: BE SURE BATTERY DRAIN TUBE IS SECUREL'

ATTACHED TO BATTERY TRAY DRAIN.

NECTED FIRST TO PREVENT SPARKS

POSITIVE TERMINAL MUST BE CON-

FROM ACCIDENTAL GROUNDING.

c. Connect RED battery cable to positive (+) batter

terminal with hex bolt, flat washer, Iockwasheran

hex nut (shown full size on pg 6) found in bag ( pads. Tighten securely with two 7/16" wrenche:

(Fig. 5).

d_ Connect BLACK ground cable to negative (-) ba

tery' terminal with remaining hex bolt, flat washe Iockwasher and hex nut (shown full size on pg..

found in bag of parts. Tighten secur.ely. (Fig_5)

e, To prevent corrosion, apply grease to the batte_

terminals after installingcables.

f Usingthekeyholeononesideofthebatterysupport

(Fig6)slidebatteryboltintoframekeyhole(head ofboltdown)Fastenthebatterybolttotheterminal guardusin_wingnut,(shownfullsizeonpg.6)as

showninF_g6

g Assembletheremainingbatterybolttoothersideof

batterysupportandfastenterminalguardtoitwith remainingwingnut,(shownfullsizeonpg.6)as

showninFig,6.

h Replace air intake duct (Fig 4). Make sure bottom

lip of duct sits between battery andlipof battery tray.

BE SURE THAT THE AIR INTAKE DUCT

IS PROPERLY PLACED IN ENGINE COMPARTMENT. IMPROPER LOCA-

TION MAY RESULT IN DAMAGE TO THE AIR INTAKE DUCT DURING EN-

GINE OPERATION. SEE FIGURE 4 (INSET) FOR PROPER PLACEMENT°

WING NUT

ASSEMBLY

TERMINAL

ACCESS DOORS

WING NUT

NOTE: KEEP TERMINAL ACCESS DOORS CLOSED

WHEN NOT IN USE

CAUTION: DO NOT START ENGINE UNTIL YOU HAVE

REVIEWED THE OPERATION SECTION OF

THIS MANUAL.

KEY HOLE DRAIN TUBE TRAY

FIGURE 6

OPERATIO

KNOW YOU R TRACTOR

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL BEFORE OPERATION YOUR YARD TRACTOR° if you understand the machine and its

._ractration,you will achieve efficientand peak perforrnance_While reading the manual, compare theillustrationswithyourYard

ortofamiliarize yourselfwiththe location ofvariouscontrolsariaadjustments, Studythe operatinginstruciions and safety

precautionsthoroughlytoinsureproperfunctioning ofyourYard Tractorandtoprevent injury toyourselfandothers. Besureto pay strictattentionto all notesand cautions;they are includedfor yoursafety_Save this manual for future reference.

Lift Lever Plunger

Light Switch Ignition

Throttle Control

Choke

Clutch/Brake

Pedal

Height

Adjustment

Knob

GearShift Lever

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER: Push lever upto engage attachmenL There will be an engine hesitationas the ctutch

engages.

ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER: Usethe attachmentlilt lever

to raise and lower the attachment mountedtoyourtractor.

Pulllever back slightlyand pushplunger,then move the lift lever forwardto lower attachment.

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

completely ,_own.

ATTACHI_ENT HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT _1',OB: Use the

height adju _ment knob to adjust the mower height.. With the attachment J;ttlever inthe "up" position, turn knob clockwise

to raise cutting height and counterclockwise to lower cutting

height, When using attachments other than a mower deck,

turn knob to fully lowered position to permitfull travel ofthe

attachment.

Attachment

Lift Lever

Attachment Clutc

Lever

Parking Brake

Height Indicate

GEARSHIFT: Pressthe clutch/brake, pedaldown firmlyan, move gearshift lever to desired speed

IGNITION: Ptace Keyin ignttlon ana turntothe rlgntto star The switch spring returns from the start position

LIGHT SWITCH: Turns the headlights on and ofL

PA,_K_t_G BRAKE: To set the parking brake, push t_"

clutchP,._,'akepedal completely down, Hold theparking bra_

lever in "Engage" position and release pressure from ped_

Clutch/brake pedal will remain in brake position_

THROTTLE CONTROL: Use the throttlecontrol to increa., or decrease the speed of the engine.

CHOKE: To start a cold engine, pullchokeout toengage

1, Stopping Your Tractor

OPERATION

STOP THE ENGINE.

DO NOT CHOKE CARBURETOR TO

NOTE: REMOVE KEY WHEN LEAVING TRACTOR TO

PREVENT UNAUTHORIZED USE:

a. Push clutch/brake pedal intofull "BRAKE" position_

Keep your foot on pedal (Fig_21)o

b, Place attachment clutch lever in "DISENGAGED"

position°

c. Move gear shilt lever to "NEUTRAL" position

d. Place parking brake in"ENGAGED" position and re-

lease pressure from clutch/brake., Pedal should re- main in"BRAKE" position,,

_. ,'Jovethrottle control to "S" (slow) position

f_ Turnignitionkeyto"OFF"position Neverusechoke

to stop engtne_

2. Preparing the Engine

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

GINE.

LEARN TO START, STOP AND RE-

VERSE YOUR TRACTOR IN A LARGE, OPEN AREA.

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH

LEVER "ENGAGED"

POSITION

MGHT SWITCH /

GEARSHIFT LEVER

THROTTLE CONTROL

NOTE: FRESH, CLEAN WINTER GRADE FUEL MUST BE

USED TO INSURE GOOD COLD WEATHER STARTING°

IGNITION KEY

BRAKE

FIGURE 7

a.. This engine has been shipped filled with summer

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

AND ADJUSTMENT section (page 17),,

bo Fill fuel tank,, Use fresh, clean, regular unleaded

gasoline. Capacity is 2gallons (7°6 litres)_

FILL TO BOTTOM OF GAS TANK

WIPE OFF ANY SPILLED OIL OR FUEL.

FILLER NECK. DO NOT OVERFILL. 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) CANAT- 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, _TART 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. Starting the Engine

a, Move throttlecontrol 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, Ifengine does not start after four or five tries, move

throttle control lever to "FAST" position, wait a few

minutes and try again. Ifthe engine does not start after four or five more tries, see the

TROUBLESHOOTING Chart (page 26),

d, After the engine starts move throttle control lever

slowly to the "SLOW" position,,

e, To start a hot engine move the throttlecontrol lever

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

TION" CAREFULLY BEFORE OPERAT-

READ THE "RULES FOR SAFE OPERA- '

ING YOUR MOWER.

CAUTION: DO NOT ADD ADDITIONAL WEIGHT TO

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

WEIGHT MAY OVERLOAD AND DAMAGE TH E TRANSAXLE

I II11 I I II R

ALWAYS WEAR SUBSTANTIAL FOOT- WEAR AND AVOID LOOSE FITTING CLOTHING THAT COULD GET CAUGHT

IN MOVING PARTS.

ATTACHMENTCLUTCHLEVER

"DISENGAGED" POSITION

HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB

DISCHARGE GUARD R.H. RUNNER

FIGURE 8

SPEED SELECTION GUIDE

FUNCTION ! GEARSHIFT

Normal 2 or 3

Mowing

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER "ENGAGED" POSITION

LEVER

"HIGHEST' POSITION

THROTTLE

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 thrownby btades_ 5, Do not mow when children and others are around,.

6o 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

1I, Remove key when ]eaving machine.

....................... JLJL.............. I . .- ,_ li J I LU..... J _,..H ................:: ::: ._:._.... :....._

WHEN PARKING BRAKE IS ENGAGED, MAKE SURE THAT IT WILL KEEP TRACTOR FROM MOVING,

NEVER PLACE YOUR HANDS OR FEET IN OR UNDER ANY POWERED AT-

TACHMENT OR NEAR ANY MOVING

PART WHILE TRACTOR OR ANY POW- ERED ATTACHMENT IS RUNNING.

4, Operating Your Lawn Tractor and Mower

, I ' I ,,l',

DO NOT OPERATE THE MOWER WITH- OUT EITHER THE ENTIRE GRASS CATCHE={, ON MOWERS SO

EQUIPP!-'D, OR THE DEFLECTOR SHIELC ,N F_.ACE.

Heavy 1 or2 FAST

Mowing

Snow 1

Blowing

Snow Blade

Transport

4 through 6

_...:

SLOW

• ____: =,.._,;_] ]

FAST

NOTE:

CAUTION:

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 ENGtNEo

Move the attachment lift lever to the high position

and adjust height o! cut to mid range (See page 1( Start the engine. (See Starting the Engine),,

Move the throttle lever to mid range position. Select a low (lst or 2nd) gear until you become more famil- iar with theoperation of the unit,.

Slowly release clutch/brake pedal and proceed to

the mowing area_

Stop the unit, then select a mowing speed (See Speed Selection Guide at ieft,)

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

Slowly release clutch/brake pedal

h,_

Move throttle lever tofast position. Observe height of cut and readjust as desired°

BEFORE YOU MOVE THF_._GEARSHIFT

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

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

MOWER ATTACHED.

_,. Mower should be adjusted pmpedy front to back

and sideto side for good mowingperformanceo Re-

fer to REPAIR AND ADJUSTMENT section (page

24).

b. Use the Runner on the R°Hoside as a guide; the

Blade cuts approximately an inch (2.54 cm) out-

side the Runner (Fig 8),

c. Driveso that clippingsare discharged ontothe area

that has been cut,.Have the cut area to the rightof the machine° This will resultin a more even distribu-

tion of clippings and more uniform cutting.

do When mowing large areas (Fig. 9), start byturning

to the right so that the clippings wiltdischarge 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 is extremely tall, it should be mowed twice.

The first time cut relatively high; the second time to the desired height°

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

ming,.

g See Speed Selection Guide, page 12..

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

t15.24 cm) tall. It is afire hazard

Operating the Tractor on Hills

_m :: ,,r=rr:_ : _:

OPERATION

FIGURE 9

DO NOT DRIVE UP OR DOWN HILLS

WITH SLOPES GREATER THAN 15°

AND DO NOT DRIVE ACROSS ANY SLOPE° REFER TO PAGE 55_

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

'_ slower position..

.m,,

LEAVE ENOUGH ROOM WHEN STOP- SLIGHT TRACTOR ROLL DOWNHILL

AS CLUTCHtBRAKE PEDAL MOVES

PING AND STARTING TO ALLOW THROUGH CLUTCH POSITION.

.................... I

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°

fo Make all turnsgradually,.

7. Transporting Your Tractor

For pushin_ortowingyourtractor,placegearshift lever in "N" posibon° Do not tow or push at morethan 6 MPH

(97 KPH).

'13

NTENANCE

To keep your tractor running better and longer, perform necessary service using the following maintenance schedule:

WITH EVERY MOWING

1. Make sure all nutson boltsare tight andcotter pinsand

retainer springsare secure.

2= Observe all safety precautions_

3. Keep tractorwell lubricated(refer to page 25)° 4_ Make sure areas around muffler, engine and mower.

deck are clean and free of debds buildup.

_[ _ll _]l _l[ _ l, ........... _ .1 ILLL _U LL .............. II Ill ........ Ill I J I _

FOR ANY ADJUSTMENTS, INSPEC- TION OR MAINTENANCE:

1. PUSH TRACTOR CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL COMPLETELY INTO =BRAKE" POSITION.

2. MOVE GEARSHIFT LEVER TO "N" NEUTRAL POSITION.

3. PLACE PARKING BRAKE IN "EN-

GAGED" POSITION. REMOVE FOOT FROM PEDAL.

4, PLACE ATTACHMENT CLUTCH

LEVER IN "DISENGAGED" POSI- "lION.

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 ACCI- DENTAL STARTING. BE CAREFUL

TO AVOID TOUCHING HOT ENGINE OR MUFFLER COMPONENTS.

SERVICE RECORD

FILL IN DATES

AS YOU CO_,PLETE

REGULAR SERVICE

Change _"'_

Check Brake Operation Check Tire Pressure

Clean Air Screen Clean Air Cleaner

Lubricate Pivot Points (see page 25)

!Check Battery Level and Recharge

Clean Batter]/and Terminals Carburetor Adjustment

V-Belt Adjustment Clean Engine Cooling Fins

Check Muffler

.Replace Air Cleaner' Paper Cartridge

Replace Spark Plug

Change Engine Oil Filter

Replace Fuel Filter'

..,,_ _ Oil

f_%_J SERVICE D,ATES _

v' v'

, ,,,,,,,

1. Brake Adjustment

This tractor is equipped with an adjustable brake system

mounted on the right side of the transaxle (Fig 10),,

_ IF TRACTOR REQUIRES MORE THAN i

_1[. SIX FEET (1.8 METERS) STOPPING DIS- |

TANCE IN HIGHEST GEAR, THEN I

BRAKE MUST BE ADJUSTED. !

Depress clutch/brake pedal and engage parking

brake.

Measure distance between brake operating arm and nut "A" on brake rod°

O°

if distance is other than 1-1/2" (3.81 cm), loosen

jam nut (Fig. 10) and turn nut until distance be- comes 1-1/2" (3,81 cm),, Retighten jam nut against

nut "A".

Road test tractor for proper stopping distance as stated above. Readjust if necessary° If stopping distance is still

greater than 6 feet (I _8meters) in highest gear, further main- tenance is necessar/. Contact your local Sears Service

Center.

2. Tire Care

a Maintain tire pressurein frontat 14 PSI ( 1Kg/cm2)

and rear tires at 12 PSI (°84 Kg/crn2).

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.

& ADJUSTMENT

BRAKE OPERATING ARM

BRAKE ROD JAM NUT

NUT "A"

DISC BRAKE

KLIPRING

HUB CAP

ITH PARKING

AKE ENGAGED)

FIGURE 10

NOTE:

WHEN MOUNTING TIRES, BEADS I MUST BE SEATED. OVERINFLATtON |

CAN CAUSE AN EXPLOSION,

Removing wheel fortire repair (Fig, 12)_ !. Block up axle securely.

2. Remove hub cap, klip ring and washer to allow wheel removal (rear wheel contains a square

key- Do Not Lose).

3, Repair tire and reassembleo Align slots in rear

wheel hub and axle. Insert square key,

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

USE GREASE FITTINGS TO LUBRICATE FRONT

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

PURPOSE GREASE TO LUBRICATE REAR

AXLES.

WASHERS

SQUARE KEY

(REAR TIRE ONLY)

FIGURE 11

FIGURE 12

WHEN REPLACING REAR WHEELS ON THE TRACTOR, THEY MUST BE

MOUNTED WITH THE LONG HUB SIDE

TOWARD THE CENTER OF THE TRAC- TOR. INCORRECT INSTALLATION

COULD AFFECT LATERAL STABILITY (FIG, 12).

I IPII

LOCKWASHER

HEX BOLT GR.

FIGURE 13

& ADJUSTMENT

NDRELL

ASSEMBLY

," ES

A GRADE 5 HEAT TREATED

BOLTS CAN BE IDENTIFIED BY

THREE UNES ON THE BOLT

HEAD AS SHOWN AT LEFT.

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

bladescan be sharpenedwith a few strokes ofafile,oron a

grinding wheel We suggest they be sharpened after eve_ 25 hours of mowing. Do not attempt to sharpen while or mower. If you mow insandy soilcheck the blades avter,eacr

two mowings_ The sand wears the blades away rapidlyo

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

blades,

1. Remove the hex head bolt, Iockwasher andfla washer (Fig. 13) (tum counterclockwise).

2. Remove anddiscardold blade.

3. Clean top and bottom of mower housing.

4. Install new blade with SHARP EDGE DOWI_ and secure with flat washer, Iockwasher an(

hex head belt. TIGHTEN SECURELY.

ALWAYS USE GRADE 5 HEAT

TREATED BOLTS TO ATTACH

BLADES. DO NOT USE PLATED BOLTS, CHECK BOLTS IN BLADESOC- CASIONALLY TO MAKE SURE BOLTS

ARE TIGHT. TORQUE BOLTS TO 30-35 FT.-LBS. (41 - 47 Nm).

FIGURE 14

FIGURE 15

BLADE

When grinding, care should be taken to maintail

blade balance and the blade should be checkedfo proper balance before reinstaUationon mower. AI

unbalanced or bent blade wiltcause excessive vi bration when running, and eventual damage t_

mower or engine. Replace bent or damaged blade_

Tocheck blade balance, drive a nail intoa beam o wall. Leave aboutone inch (254 cm)ofthestraigh

nail exposed, Place center hole of clean bladi over the head of the nail (Fig. 14). NOTE: CEN TER THE HOLE OF BLADE ON NAIL. IF BLADE

tS PROPERLY BALANCED, BLADE SHOUL[_

REMAIN IN POSITION SHOWN IN FIGo 14. I1 EITHER END OF THE BLADE MOVES DOWN

WARD, BLADE IS NOT BALANCED. SHARPE_ THE HEAVY END UNTIL BLADE IS BALANCEB

4, Battery Care

CHECK BATTERY

a, Battery acidsolutionlevel in each batterycellshoL

beeven withbottoms of vent tubes in cells (Fig. 1!

Add ONLY distilled or iron free water if necessa

NOTE: DO NOT OVERFILL.

bo Keep battery and terminalsclean, c. keep battery bolts tight.

d. Keep vent caps tight and small vent holes in c_

open

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

NOTE: OVERCHARGING WILL SHORTEN BATTERY

LIFE..

CLEAN BATTERY AND TERMINALS Corrosion and dirt on the battery and terminals cause the

battery to "leak" power and hinders the operation of the charger°

LEAD-ACID BATTERIES GENERATE FLAME AND SMOKING MATERIALS

EXPLOSIVE GASES. KEEP SPARKS,

AWAY FROM BATTERIES. ALWAYS SHIELD YOUR EYES AROUND BAT-

TERIES,

a. Removeterminalguard, b. Disconnect BLACK battery cable,then REDbattery

cable, and remove battery from tractor,

c,, Wash battery with four tablespoons (60 grams)of

baking soda to one gallon (3.8 litres) o! water. NOTE: BE CAREFUL NOT TO GET THE SODA

SOLUTION INTO THE CELLS.

d_ Rinse the batter,/with plain water, de/and reinstall

on tractor,,

eo Clean terminals and battery cable ends with wire

brush until bright,

f. Replacebatterycables, connecting REDbatteryca-

ble to positive terminalfirst,then BLACK battery ca- ble to negative terminal° Coat terminal connections

with grease after installation of cable&

g. Replace terminal guard

ADJUSTMENT

AIR INTAKE DUCT

OIL FILLER CAP/DIPSTICK

FIGURE 16

RECOMMENDED SAE VISCOSITY GRADES

5. Change Engine Oil

The best time to change engine oil isat the end of aday's operation when all dirt and foreign materials are suspended

in the hot oil. NOTE: BE CAREFULL NOT TO ALLOW DIRT TO ENTER

THE ENGINE WHEN CHANGING OIL.

a. Drain oil wilh engine warm. Loosen oil drain plug

(Fig, 16) and remove dipstick (F!g 16),, Catch oil in

a suitable container_ Replace plug,

b, Refill engine oil (see chart at right),, Refill capacity

is 3-1/2 pints (16 titres) with empty oil filter or 3 pints (1.4 litres) with full oil filter. NOTE: DO NOT

OVERFILL Replace dipstick°

RECOMMENDED SAE VISCOSITY GRADES Determine temperature range expected before next oil

change. All oil must meet A,,P,Lservice classification SD, SE or SF,,

CAUTION:

TO AVOID DAMAGE TO THE STARTING

SYSTEM, USE SAE 5W30 OIL WHEN THE TEMPERATURE FALLS BELOW 32° F (0°

c),

6. Check Engine Oil Level NOTE: DO NOT CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL WITH EN-

GINE RUNNING,

Several minutes after stopping engine, check engine oil level with tractor on level ground Wipe dipstick (Fig, t6)

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 right,)

-20° 0° 32° 60° 80° 100°

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