Craftsman 917255915 Owner’s Manual

OWNERS MANUAL

MODEL NO.

917.255915

Caution:

Read Rules for

Safe Operation

and Instruction s

Carefully

GT 18 TWIN 6 SPEED

GARDEN TRACTOR

Assembly Installation

Operation

Repair Parts

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a Sears GT 18

-Garden Tractor It has been designed, engineered and manu- factured to give you dependability and performance° Should you experience any problem you cannot easify remedy, please contact your nearest Sears Service Center. They have

competent, welt-trained technicians and the proper' tools and parts to service or repair this unit

Please read and retain this manual. The instructions wilt enable you to assemble, operate and maintain your Tractor proper-

ly. Afways observe the "RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION _J

YOUR NEW GT 18 GA RDEN TRACTOR

FEATURES...

CRAFTSMAN 18 HP. TWIN-CYLINDER ENGINE.-coot..

running performance and long life with ptenty of power to

take on a variety of yard, gardening or snow removal tasks.

INTERLOCK SWITCH SYSTEM--allows engine to start only

when tractor Clutch-Brake Pedal is depressed and Attachment

Clutch Switch is in "OFF Hposition

ALL GEAR TRANSMISSION-six speeds forward, two reverse speeds-..to let you select the proper match for the terrain and

the job Automotive-type differential helps guard against turf scuffing.

CONTROL PANEL-with Throttle Choke, Light Switch. Ig-

nition Switch, Ammeter, Parking Brake Lever and Clutch

Switch--conveniently grouped for ease of use

MODEL

NUMBER

SERIAL

NUMBER

THE MODEL AND SERIAL NUMBERS WILL BE

FOUND ON THE MODEL PLATE ATTACHED

TO THE FENDER_

YOU SHOULD RECORD BOTH MODEL AND SERIAL NUMBERS AND KEEP IN A SAFE PLACE

FOR FUTURE REFERENCE

ATTACHMENT VERSATtLITY..-handtes a large variety of Sears Yard and Garden Tractor Attachments including

44 iNCH MOWER with three "high.lift" blades to stand

grass up for level cuts OTHER SOIL TILLAGE ATTACHMENTS including Ptow.

Disc Harrow, Drag Harrow and Cultivator

46 INCH DOZER BLADE levels or moves dirt and gravel or

removes snow.

40 INCH SNOW BLOWER handles wet, heavy powdery snow with ease

REAR GRADER AND LEVELER BLADE leve_s new

yards, grading lanes, driveways and parking areas,

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY

ON ELECTRIC 5TART RIDING EQUIPMENT

For two years from date of purchase, when this riding equipment ismaintained, lubricated, and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instructions in the owner s manual, Sears wilt 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 deanm (s) and belt(s), which a_e expendable and be..

come worn during normaI use,

This warranty does not cover:

- tire replacement or _epair caused by punctures from outside objects (such as nails I:horns. stumps, o_ glass}; and

,, repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, incIuding the failure to maintain the equipment

according to instructions contained in the owner's manual; and f_

.. 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 materia$ ol workmanship and our testing determines the battery wilt not hoid a charge, Sears will replace the battery at no charge, _x

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

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

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

Sears, Roebuck and Co., D/698-731A, Sears Tower, Chicago, tL 60684 _,

TABLE OF

RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION ........ BELOW

ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS ................. 4

CONTENTS

MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS ............. 13

TROUBLE SHOOTING ..................... 25

OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS ................ 7

RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION

1,, Know the controls and how to stop quickly. READ THIS

OPERATOR'S MANUAL 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 end others are around.

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

5_ Keep your eyes and mnd on your tractor, mower and the

area being cut.. Don t let other interests dtstract you,

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

not in the drivers seat.

7, Always get on or off your tractor from the operators left

hand side.

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

9, Disengage all attachment clutches before attempting to

start the engine.

1Q, Disengage power to attachments and stop the engine be-

fore leaving the operator s position.

11o Disengage power to mower, stop the engine and disconnect

spark plug wire(s) from spark plug(s) before cleaning, mak- ing an adjustment or repairs,

12, Disengage power to attachments when transporting or not

in use,

13o Take all possible precautions when leaving the vehicle un-

attended. Disengage the power-take-off, lower the attach- ments, return drive control lever to neutral, shift into

neutral, set the parking brake, stop the engine and remove

the key,,

14., Do not stop or start suddenly when going uphitl or down- hill Mow up and down the face of slopes (not greater than 15°); never across the face Refer to page 47,

15,, Reduce speed on slopes and make turns gradually to pro.

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

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

Lever in Ist gear and Range Shift Lever in 'LO (Low)

position to negotiate the slope without stopping,

17, Never mow in wet or slippery grass, when traction is un _

sure or at a speed which could cause a skid,

18. Stay alert for holes in the terrain and other hidden hazards., Keep away from drop-offs°

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

ways.,

20+, Exercise special care when mowing around fixed objects

in order to prevent the blades from striking them_ Never deliberately run tractor or mower into or over any foreign

object_

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 ormower are

running,, Always keep clear of discharge chute.

REPAIR PARTS ............................. 27

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. [)o not turn sharply, Use care when backing., d., Use counterweight or wheel weights when suggested in

the owner s manual

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

25_ When using any attachments, never direct discharge of

material toward bystanders nor allow anyone near the ve-

hicle while in operation.,

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

a. Use approved gasoline containers° b. Never remove the fuel cap of the fuel tank or add gas-

oline to a running or hot engine or an engine that has

not been allowed to cool for several minutes after run- ning. Never fill the tank indoors, always clean up spilled

gasoline.

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

fumes are dangerous° Do not run the engine indoors°

27° Keep the vehicle and attachments in good operating con-

dition, and keep safety devices in place and working.

28,, Keep all nuts, bolts and screws tight to be sure l_he equip-

ment is in safe working condition°

29,, Never store the equipment with gasoline in the tank inside

a building where fumes may reach an open flame or spark Allow the engine to cool before storing in any enclosure.

30,, To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine free of grass, leaves

or excessive grease_ Do not clean product while engine is running.

31, Except for adjustment; DO NOT operate Engine if air

cleaner or cover directly over carburetor air intake is re-

moved. Removal of such part could create a fire hazard,,

32. Do not operate without a muffler or tamper with the ex- haust system, Damaged mufflers or spark arresters could

create a fire hazard. Inspect periodically and replace if necessary.

33 The vehicle and attachments should be stopped and in-

spected for damage after striking a foreign object and the damage should be repaired before restarting and operating the equipment.

34° Do not change the engine governor settings or overspeed

the engine; severe damage or injury may result

35° When using the vehicle with mower, proceed as follows:

a. Mow only in daylight or in good artificial lightr

bo Shut the engine off when unclogging chute.

c. Check the blade mounting bolts for proper tightness at

frequent intervals,

36 Do not operate the mower without the deflector shield in

place.,

37. Disengage power to mower before backing up,, Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary and then only after

careful observation of the entire area behind the mower.

38. Under normal usage the grass catcher bagm_aterial is stib_t

to deterioration and wear. It should be checked frequently for bag replacement. Replacement bags should be checked to ensure compliance with the original manufacturer's

recommendations or Sl_ecifications.

LOOK FOR THIS SYMBOL TO POINT OUT IMPORTANT SAFETY

PRECAUTIONS. IT MEANS - ATTENTION! BECOME ALERTI YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED°

WARNING

This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush covered or grass-covered land unless the engine s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state

taws (if any) If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained ;n effective working order by the operator

In the State of California the above is required by taw (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources CodeL Other states may

have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. S_e your Authorized Service Center for spark arrester muffler part number

_4A_0,

CUT AWAY VIEW

FIGUt_E 1

VENT CAP

BATTERY TUBE

BATTERY

CELL

HOOD

ASSEMBLY

To assemble and adjust your Tractor you wilt need: two 7/16" wrenches, one 9/16" wrench and a utility

knife NOTE: RIGHT+lAND (R.H.) AND LEFT HAND (Loll.) ARE

DETERMINED FROM OPERATOR'S POSITION WHILE SEATED ON THE TRACTOR,

1 Remove Battery, Steering Wheel, Seat and Bag of Parts,. Cut down

four comers of carton with utility knife, and fold down carton sides,, Remove Banding holding Mower Deck in place and lower Deck down

to the floor. Turn the Deck over so the Blades are down. Disengage the Parking Brake and roll the Tractor off the skid Be careful that you

do not step on or roll the Tractor over any carton staples

READ THE INSTRUCTIONS INCLUDED WITH THE BATTERY ACID CONTAINER. ALWAYS

WEAR GLOVES, CLOTHING AND GOGGLES TO

BATTERY

COMPARTMENT

FIGURE 2

GRILL

HEX BOLTS

BLACK (NEGATIVE)

CABLE

WASH HANDS OR CLOTHING IMMEDIATELY IF

PROTECT YOUR HANDS, SKIN AND EYES. ACCIDENTALLY IN CONTACT WITH

ELECTROLYTE, DO NOT SMOKE, FUMES FROM CHARGED

ELECTROLYTE ARE EXPLOSIVE,

t_ill and charge Battery (before installing), "NOTE: SEI_ DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS PACKAGED WITH BAT-

TERY VENT CAPS IN BAG OF PARTS. a, Fil! Battery with electrolyte to bottoms of tubes in cells

(Fig, 1) NOTE: DO NOT OVERFILL. OVERFILLING

WILL RESULT IN DAMAGE TO TRACTOR

b,_ Check level of electrolyte after 30 minutes. Add addi-

tional electrolyte if necessary° I_OTE: TIGHTEN VENT

CAPS SECURELY,

c_ Charge Battery at a rate of 6 amperes for' one hour, d, Neutralize excess electrolyte 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 bak- ing soda until the addition of more soda causes no more

foaming. ..

DO NOT SHORT BATTERY TERMINALS,

BEFORE INSTALLING BATTERY, RE-

MOVE METAL BRACELETS, WRIST- WATCH BANDS, RINGS, ETCo FROM

YOUR PERSON.

3 Install Battery,

a. L_ift hood from rear sides (Fig, 2) b, Remove tape from Plastic Tray, Make sure Drain Tube

(Fig,, 3) is fastened to Drain Hole in Battery Tray and Battery Tray is positioned in hole of Battery Support,

c. P_taceBattery in Plastic Tray (Battery Terminals to front

of Tractor ) (Fig., 3)

4,_Connect Battery Cables using: two Hex Botts, two Fiat

Washers, two Lockwashers and two Hex Nuts (shown full

size below) found in Bag of Parts,

FIGURE 3

u[IIl l/lllIllIIll

('1.... Q

NECTED FIRST TO PREVENT SPARKS

POSITIVE TERMINAL MUST BE CON- FROM ACCIDENTAL GROUNDING.

a, Connect RED Battery Cable to Positive (+) Battery Ter =

minal with Hex Bolt, Flat Washer, Lockwasher and Hex Nut (Fig° 3). Tighten securely.

b_ Connect BLACK Ground Cable to Negative (.) Battery

Terminal with remaining Hex Bolt, Flat Washer, Lock. washcr and Hex Nut (Fig,, 3), Tighten securely.

_.tnstalfBatteryusing:twoInt,/Ekt,Lockwashers, two Wing

Nuts (shown full size below) and

INTJEXT,

LOCKWASHER

WING

NUT

WING NUT

two Battery Bolts and one Terminal Guard found in Bag of Parts.

a, Using the square hole on one side of the Battery Support

(Fig, 4_ insert one Battery Bolt, head of Bolt down, Fasten the Battery Bolt to the Terminal Guard using

tnto!Ext, Lockwasher and Wing Nut as shown in Fig_ 4,

b Assemble the remaining Battery Bolt to other side of

Battery Support and fasten Terminal Guard to it with reo

maining Int,iExt Lockwasher and Wing Nut, Tighten Wing Nuts securely by hand (Fig,, 4}.

NOTE: USE TERMINAL ACCESS DOORS (FIGo 4) FOR:

1 Inspection for secure connedtions (tighten hardware), 2, Inspection for corrosion, 3, Testing battery,

4 Jumping (if required). 5_ Charging (if required),

STEERING WHEEL CAP

._" 2. 3/B" DIA WASHER

INT,/EXT;

ACCESS DOOR

TERMINAL GUARD

TERMINAL ACCESS DOOR

BATTERY BOLT

BATTERY SUPPORT

FIGURE 4

NAL

WHEN NOT IN USE, KEEP TERMINAL ACCESS DOORS CLOSED.

DO NOT START ENGINE UNTIL MOWER SUSPENSION BRACKET HAS BEEN RE-

LEASED, SEE MOWER AND DRIVE BELT INSTALLATION, PAGE 8.

6= Remove plastic on Tractor Hood.

7., Close Hood,,

8., Install Steering Wheel. NOTE; POSITION FRONT WHEELS FORWARD,

a, Remove Hex Bolt, Lockwasher and 2- 3/8 _tDia Washer

from Steering Column (Fig. 5),

bo Position Steering Wheel over Steering Wheel Insert_

co Secure Steering Wheel to Steering Column using Hex

Bolt, Lockwasher and 2- 3/8" Dia. Washer (Fig 5),

d Snap Steering Wheel Cap in place on Steering Wheel.,

Steering WheeJ Cap found in Bag of Parts,

9., Install Seat,,

a Remove cardboard from Seat Pan,,

b o Place Seat on Seat Pan° Screw Adjustment Bolts,

Lockwashers and Flat Washers into Seat (Fig,, 6), Ad- justment Bolts, Lockwashers and Flat Washers found in Bag of Parts. Tighten finger tight°

c. 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.,

d, Raise Seat. Use 9/16" wrench to loosen Adjustment

Bolts (Fig 6L When adjusted for comfortable operation, tighten Adjustment Bolts securely,,

EERtNG WHEEL

_ _---_STEERING WHEEL INSERT

_ _ERING COLUMN

SEAT SEAT

SEAT SWITCH

ADJUSTMENT

BOLTS

FUEL TANK

CAP

FIGURE 6

.5 _

REC(_MMENDED SAE VISCOSITY GRADES

TEMPERATURE RANGE EXPECTED BEFORE NEXT OIL

CHANGE° ALL OILS MUST MEET A.PJ,. SERVICE CLAS- SIFICATION SD, SE, OR 5F_

-20° 0° 32° 60° 80 ° 100°

30 OR 10W-30 ..............11II1

ENG INE

FtGURE 7

' A _ ,,PARKING BRAKE

' CLUTCH/BR KE" "_"ENGAGED" POSITION

DIPSTICK

Capacity is 1 - 112 quarts, NOTE: DO NOT OVERFILL,.

Dipstick assembly must be securely tightened into tube at all timeswhen engine isoperating.

2. FIll Fuel Tank {Fig 6). Use fresh, dean, regular unleaded automotive gasoline, (Use of leaded gasoline will increase

carbon and lead oxide deposits and reduce valve life}.

Capacity is 3 = 1/2 gallons

TO AVOID DAMAGE TO THE STARTING SYSTEM, USE SAE 5W30 OIL WHEN

THE TEMPERATURE FALLS BELOW 32O,

"C UTCH",O IT,O,\'ARKING°,AK

FIGURE 8

FILL TO BOTTOM OF GAS TANK FILL- ER NECK. DO NOT OVERFILL WIPE

OFF ANY SPILLED OIL OR FUEL. DO NOT STORE, SPILL OR USE GASOLINE

CLUTCH SWITCH

NEAR AN OPEN FLAME

GNITION 3.. Tire pressure to 14 PSi in front and 10 PSi in rear

GEAR SHIFT CONTROL LEVER

FIGURE 9

INITIAL SERVICE

t.. This engine has been shipped filled with oil Check Engine

Oil Level with Tractor on level ground, Wipe Dipstick

(Fig.. 7) clean, screw it n tight for a few seconds, remove

and read Oil Level If necessary, add Oil until "FULL t mark is reached.

NOTE: ENGINE IS SHIPPED WITH SUMMER WEIGHT OIL

LEARN TO START, STOP AND REVERSE

YOUR TRACTOR IN A LARGE, OPEN

AREA°

NOTE: THIS TRACTOR IS EQUIPPED WITH INTERLOCK SWITCHES TO PREVENT STARTING OF THE TRACTOR

ENGINE WHILE THE ATTACHMENT CLUTCH OR THE

TRACTOR CLUTCH 1S ENGAGED.

IMMEDIATELY REPLACE SWI'I;CHES

THAT ARE NOT IN PROPER WORKING ORDER. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO DEFEAT

THE PURPOSE OF THESE SWITCHi=So

1 Place Attachment Clutch Switch in "DISENGAGED"

position (Fig,,9_.

2. Push Clutch-Brake Pedal fully into brake position (Fig 8)_

3. Place Gear Shift Control Lever in "N" neutral, star1: posi-

tier, and Range Shift Lever in "N" neutral position (Fig.. 9).

4o full L;noke out (Pig. 9_o

Move Throttle Control to middle position (Fig, 9).

Turn Ignition Key to '_START" position until Engine starts (Fig, 9), NOTE; DO NOT RUN STARTER CONTINU-

OUSLY FOR MORE THAN FIFTEEN SECONDS PER

M1NUTE_ if engine does not start after several attempts, move Throttle Control ?o 'IF" (fast) position, wait a few

minutes and try again,

The first time you start the engine, it will take extra crank- ing time to move fuel from tank to the engine°

NOTE: ALLOW ENGINE TO WARM UP FOR A FEW

MINUTES BEFORE ENGAGING CLUTCH OF TRACTOR OR ATTACHMENT,

7 When restartin_l a warm engine, move Throttle Control mid-

way between _S" (stow) and "F '1 (fast) position. C%oke

may not have to be used.

OPERATION

BEFORE DRIVING THE TRACTOR, IN- STALL MOWER OR REMOVE MOWER SUSPENSION BRACKET.

CAUTION TO AVOID INJURY

I, Read owners manual,

2. Know location and function of atl controls, 3_ Keep guards, safety shields and switches in p]ace and work-

ing,

4. Remove objects that can be thrown by blades.,

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

7., Always look behind machine before backing,

8. Do not mow where machine can tip or slip.

9. If machine stops going uphill, stop blade and back slowly down,

10= B'e sure blades and engine have stopped before placing

hands or feet near the blades,

1t, Remove key when taaving maehine_

TRACTOR OPERATIION

NOTE: THIS TRACTOR IS EQUIPPED WITH AN OPERATOR PRESENCE SENSING SWITCH, ANY ATTEMPT BY THE

OPERATOR TO LEAVE THE SEAT WITH THE ENGINE RUN- NING AND THE ATTACHMENT CLUTCH ENGAGED WILL SHUT-OFF THE ENGINE.

1_ With engine running and warm, place Throttte Control mid*

waybetween S (slow) and (fast) postton,

2. Push Clutct_,Brake Pedal down firmly (Fig 8)., Move Gear Shift Control Lever to desired gear and Range Shift Lever

to "LO" (Low) position (Figr 9).

3, Release Clutch-Brake Pedat SLOWLY to start forward

or rearwarll movement.

4o tf _qround travel is too slow, move Throttle Control to

"FtT (fast) position or press Clutch-Brake Pedal and shift

to a different gear,

NOTE: BRING TRACTOR TO COMPLETE STOP BE- FORE SHIFTING GEARS. ALWAYS SELECT A

GROUND TRAVEL SPEED THAT WILL SUIT THE TER-

RAIN AND THE ATTACHMENT BEING USED,

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

DO NOT OPERATE THE MOWER WITH- OUT THE DEFLECTOR SHIELD IN

PLACE

NOTE: A SPARK ARRESTER MUFFLER (PAGE 30) IS

AVAILABLE AS AN ACCESSORY PART FOR YOUR

TRACTOR, CHECK LEGAL REQUIREMENTS IN YOUR AREA.

STOPPING YOUR TRACTOR

1., Push Clutch-Brake Pedal into "BRAKE" positiom

2,, Place Parking Brake Lever in "ENGAGED" position and

release pressure from Clutch-Brake. Pedal should remain in brake position, NOTE: MAKE SURE PARKING BRAKE WILL HOLD TRACTOR SECURE.

3 Move Shift Control Lever to "NEUTRAL" position,

4. Place Attachment Clutch Lever in "DISENGAGED" position,

5 Move Throttle Control to "S" (slow) position,

6, Turn ignition Key to "OFF" position, Never use Choke to

stop Engine,

REMOVE KEY WHEN LEAVING TRAC- TOR TO PREVENT UNAUTHORIZED

USE,

TRANSPORTIING YOUR TRACTOR

For pushing or towing your tractor, place Gear Shift Control Lever and Range Shift Lever to N neutraf pos=tJon (Fig. 9).

NO3_E: DO NOT TOW YOUR TRACTOR FASTER THAN

SIX MILES PER HOUR,

II /1 _ ,

TRACTOR OPERATOON ON H0aLS

1., Choose the lowest gear BEFORE starting up or down. hills.

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

AND DO NOT DRIVE ACROSS ANY

SLOPE, REFER TO PAGE 47°

2_ AVOID STOPPING OR SHIFTING ON H ILLS,,

a., if slowing is necessary, move Throttle Control Lever

to middle position,

LEAVE ENOUGH ROOM WHEN STOP- PING AND STARTING TO ALLOW

SLIGHT TRACTOR ROLL DOWNHILL AS

CLUTCH-BRAKE PEDAL MOVES

THROUGH CLUTCH POSITION,,

bo If stopping is absolutely necessary, push Clutch-Brake

Pedal quickly to brake position and engage Parking

Brake.

c. To restart your tractor, make sure tractor is in tst gear

and that you have allowed room to roll slightly down-

hill, Disengage Parking Brake and release Crutch, Brake Pedal SLOWLY to start tractor forward movement.,

7 _ 3- Make all turns slowly

POSITIVE (RED CABLE) TERMINAL

FIGURE 10

FIGURE 11

DEPTH ADJUSTMENT

KNOB

NEGATIVE (BLACK CABLE)

TERMINAL

BRACKET

ATTACHMENT

HANDLE

|GHEST _'

POSITION

_"LOWEST"

SUSPENSION

ATTACHMENT HANDLE

POSITION

_RY

STARTING YOUR TRACTOR WITH

A LOW BATTERY

If your Battery is too low to start the engine, it shouid be recharged_ If "Jumper Cabfes" are used for emergency star- tingfollow this procedure: NOTE: YOUR TRACTOR IS EQUIP- PEDWITH A 12 VOLT NEGATIVE GROUNDED SYSTEM, THE

OTHER VEHICLE MUST ALSO BE A 12 VOLT NEGATIVE

GROUNDED SYSTEM,. NOTE: DO NOT USE TRACTOR TO START OTHER VEHICLES+

LEAD-ACID BATTERIES GENERATE EX+

PLOSIVE GASES. KEEP SPARKS, FLAME, AND SMOKING MATERIALS AWAY

FROM BATTERIES. ALWAYS WEAR EYE

PROTECTION AROUND BATTERIES,

Connect each end of the RED cable to the POSITtVE (+)

terminals of each battery (taking care not to short against

chassis) (Fig,. 10),

Connect one end of the BLACK cable to the NEGATIVE

(-) terminal of fully charged battery,

Connect the other end of the cable to the L+H,, Side Panel

Bolt (Fig. 8),. NOTE: KEEP AWAY FROM GAS TANK AND BATTERY

Disconnect cables in reverse order: a L H+ Side Panel Bolt (Fig, 8)_

b., Negative terminal of fully charged battery.

c, Positive terminals.

MOWER AND DRIVE BELT

IN STALLATION

Your tractor has been shipped with the Mower Suspension

Bracket banded to the frame, Remove bands and lower Mower

Suspension Bracket (Fig+ 11 )+

MOWER INSTALLATION

1+ Remove banding from Suspension Arms and Gauge Wheelso

Set Gauge Wheels aside for later assembly.

2. Slide Mower under Tractor, Deflector to right hand side.

Slide Front Suspension Brackets into Mower Brackets, Re-

tain with Release Pins (Fig. 12), Turn Depth Adjustment

Knob counterclockwise ( ('-", } until it stops. Push Attach* ment Handle forward to lower mower to ground,

FIGURE 12

RELEASE

FRONT

SUSPENSION

BRACKET

4+ Slide Studs through Lift Links on both sides of Tractor

(Fig, 12A)+ Retain with Washers and Retainer Springs found in Bag of Parts,

KET

Place the Suspension Arms on Brackets on both sides of

Frame (Fig. t2A)+ Retain with Washers and Retainer

Springs found in Bag of Paris.

Turn Depth Adjustment Knob (Fig. t2) clockwise ((-_) to remove slack from Mower Suspension+

7. Roll Drive Belt over Primary Mandrel (Fig+ 13)+

8. t_sert Gauge Wheel Bar into Bracket+, Retain with Clevis Pin and Retainer Spring (Fig 14),+

-8 + ,,,_

DRIVE BELT INSTALLATION

I. Remove Hood and Gritl (seepage 24),

2. Place Mower Drive Belt over Clutch Pulley and under Idler Pulley and Tension Pulley (Fig, 15L NOTE: PULL LEVER UP TO SWING TENSION PULLEY FOR BELT CLEAR-

ANCE,, Make sure narrow "V j' side of Belt is engaged with

each Pu{ley,

3, Pull Mower Drive Belt over Front Mower Suspension Brack-

et (Fig. 16)o

4o Replace Hood and Grilt,

BELT ADJUSTMENT

1.. Lower mower

2,, If dimension "A" on Idler Bracket Assembly measures I/4"

or less, Mower Drive Belt must be adjusted (Fig. 15- insetL

3 Disengage Attachment Clutch Switch,

4. Remove, Bolt, Washer, Washer (2)_ Lockwasher and Nut from Idler Pulley (Fig_ 15- inset) (original position),

5. Place V,Belt and Idler Pulley in "NEW" Pulley position (Fig., 15 - inset). Replace Bolt, Washer, Washer (2), Lock-

washer and Nut Tighten securely

6. Check V-Bett for proper installation on al! Pulley Grooves

GAUGE WHEEL

CLUTCH FULLEY_

TENSION

PULLEY

GAUGE WHEEL

BAR

CLEVIS PIN

RETAINER

SPRING

BRACKET

FIGURE 14

MOWER ORIVE

BELT

IDLER

ILLEY

FIGURE 15

MOWER

DRIVE BELT

FIGURE 12A

PRIMARY MANDREL

MOWER DRIVE BELT

IDLER BRACKET

PULL FORWARD _P'

TO LOOSEN BELT

FOR EASIER

BELT INSTAL LATt ONj_I_"

ASSEMBLY

MOWER SUSPENSION BRACKET

FIGURE '13 - 9- FIGURE 16

ION

ATTACHMENT

HANDLE

MOWER ADJUSTMENT

Adjust the mower' while tractor is parked on levet ground or

driveway, NOTE: MOWER SHOULD BE IN LOWEST CUT-

TING POSITION, Make sure tire pressures are 14 PSi in front;

10 PSi in teat,,

H,_IRPIN

CLIP

T.,NT............. i----'--

............o ......,,u::.

SIDE TO SIDE ADJUSTMENT

1_ Use a ruler to make sure Flanges at rear of mower deck

are the same height from the ground on each side (Fig,

t9),

2. If adjustment is required, snap out Access Cover on L,H. side of tractor above Foot Rest (Fig, 18),.

3o Move Attachment Handle to futi "UP" position (Fig 17).

4, To lower tight side of mower, loosen Nut "B" and screw

Nut "A" down on Adjustment Rod,

5o To lower ieft side of mower, loosen Nut r'B" and screw

Nut "A" up on Adjustment Rod,

6_ Adjust until both rear mower flanqes are the same height

above the ground, Tighten Nuts A and B securely. Snap Access Cover in place.

FRONT TO REAR ADJUSTMENT

Move Attachment Handle to futl "UP" positior_ (Fig. 17),

After leveling side to side, measure R.Ho Flanges at FRONT

AND REAR OF MOWER,. The RH. Front Flange should measure 3/4" tower than the RH Rear Flange (Fig° 19),

If adjustment is required, follow procedure below.

FIGURE 18

FLANGE

FIGURE .19 o _ _ - - 10 -

FLANGE

FRONT FLANGE

;_ IU r,,/_loC rriul_t| Ur |VI_.,IVVr'M

Loosen Nuts "D". Scre+w Nuts _iC" up onto Suspension

Arms (Fig. 28). NOTE: SCREW NUTS "C" ON BOTH SUSPENSION ARMS THE SAME NUMBER OF TURNS

SO MOWER WILL REMAIN LEVEL Tighten Nuts "D"

securely,

2., TO LOWER FRONT OF MOWER Loosen Nuts "C _. Screw Nuts "D" down Suspension Arms,

NOTE: SCREW NUTS "D" THE SAME NUMBER OF TURNS SO MOWER WILL REMAIN LEVEL Tighten

Nuts "C _ securely.,

3o With mower deck at desired height, set Gauge Wheels (Fig_

17) to lowest position without touching the ground_

Use Adjustment Handle to set mower at the approximate cutting height you need. Use Clevis Pins (Fig,, t7) to set gauge

wheels at lowest point without touching the ground.

MOWER OPERATION

When ready to mow, lower Attachment Handle {Fig. 21) to preferred mower height, Select a gear that allows mowing

at full throttle. This allows the mower blades to lift and cut the grass efficiently

MOWER ENGAGEMENT

Pull Clutch Switch {Fig. 22) out and up to engage clutch. There will be an engine hesitation as the clutch engages. 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 AT- TACHMENT CLUTCH ENGAGED WILL SHUT-OFF THE

ENGINE,

NUT "D"

SUSPENSION ARMS

FIGURE 20

ATTACHI_NT

HANDLE

DEPTH ADJUSTMENT

Fine adjustment of mower height is controlled by the Depth

Adjustment Knob, Turn clockwise (_) to raise mower Turn counterclockwise (_) to lower mower (Fig, 22)

CLUTCH SWITCH _ '*ON" POSITION

DEPTH ADJUSTMENT KNOB

FIGURE 2'1

CLUTCH

SWITCH "OFF"

POSITION

FIGURE 22

iNNER

Use the Runner on the right hand side as aguide; the blade

cutsapproximately an inch outside the runner_,

HANDS AND FEET FROM UNDER MOW-

NEVER RF.JNOVE gEELECTOR. KEEP ER.

FIGURE 23

FIGURE 24

DEPTH ADJUSTMENT KNOB

DEFLECTOR

/t F,-......... ,,/

:L ':!I

'ii,' L_ ---- ti,

_ATTACHMENT

PLUNGER

HANDLE

CAUTION

TO AVOID INJURY

1. Read owners manual,

2o Know location and function of all controls,.

3. Keep guards, safety shields and switches in place and work-

ing.

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, 8o Do not mow where machine can tip or slip.

9= If machine stops going uphill, stop blade and back slowly

down,

10,, Be sure blades and engine have stopped before placing

hands or feet near the blades.

11_ Remove key when leaving machine.

MOWER EXCEPT WHEN SITTING ON NEVER ENGAGE ("ENGAGE" POSITION) TRACTOR SEAT,,

TIRE CHAINS CANNOT BE USED WITH THE MOWER

HOUSING ATTACHED.,

READ THE "RULES FOR SAFE OPERA-

TION" CAREFULLY BEFORE OPERAT-

ING YOUR MOWER, REFER TO PAGE 3.

Use Attachment Handle to lower mower into cutting posi-

12_

tion= Start mowing at slow speed and increase ground speed by increasing throttle as conditions wilt permit_ Average cutting height is approximately 2 - 1/2 to 2 _ 3/4 inches.

Height of cut can be adjusted by means of the Depth

Adjustment Knob (Fig, 25), Turn Depth Adjustment Knob

(clockwise (/'-'_) or counterclockwise (f'_) to match pre-

selected Lift Control Lever mowing height°

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_ When mowing large areas (Fig,

24), start by turning to the J'ight so that the clippings will be discharged away from shrubs, fences, driveways, etc_

After two or three rounds, mow in the opposite direction making left hand turns until finished, if grass is extremely

tall, it should be mowed twice. The first time cut relatively high, The second time to the desired height. The left hand

side of mower should be used for' trimming_

FIGURE 25

MOWER MAINTENANCE mNETRUCTUONS

MOWER CLUTCH SWITCH "OFF" POSITION

BEFORE MAKING ANY INSPECTION,

ADJUSTMENT OR REPAIR: PUSH TRAC* TOR CLUTCH-BRAKE PEDA'-L COM-

PLETELY INTO BRAKE POSITION° MOVE SHIFT CONTROL LEVER TO NEUTRAL

POSITION. PLACE PARKING BRAKE IN "ENGAGED" POSITION. TURN OFF

MOWER CLUTCH SWITCH (FIG 26),

SHUT OFF THE ENGINE, MAKE ABSO-

LUTELY SURE THE BLADES AND ALL

MOVING PARTS HAVE COMPLETELY STOPPED, REMOVE THE IGNITION KEY,

DISCONNECT THE SPARK PLUG WIRES FROM THE SPARK PLUGS AND KEEP

WIRES AWAY FROM THE PLUGS TO PREVENT INJURY FROM ACCIDENTAL STARTING,,

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 15 hours of mowing. Do not attempt to sharpen while on mower,

1. When grinding, care should be taken to maintain blade bal- ance and the blade should be checked for proper balance

before reinstallation on mower° 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 balance0 drive a nail into a beam or wall.

Leave about one inch of the straight naif exposed Place

Center Hote of clean Blade over the head of the nail (Fig.

27A). NOTE,: CENTER HOLE OF BLADE ON NAIL. IF

BLADE IS PROPERLY BALANCED, BLADE SHOULD

REMAIN IN POSITION SHOWN IN FIG 27A, tFEITHER

END OF THE BLADE MOVES DOWNWARD, BLADE IS

NOT BALANCED AND MUST BE REPLACED

2,, To ensure satisfactory operation, it is recommended that

before the start of each mowing season, the old blades be

discarded and replaced with new blades Mower blades can

be purchased at any Sears Service Center/Departments and most Sears Retail Stores=

IGNITION

CLUTCH,* BRAKE PEDAL

"BRAKE'"

POSITION

TREATED BOLT

HEX HEAD HEAT _ GRADE 5

PARKING

AKE

FIGURE 26

FIGURE 27

BLADE REPLACEMENT

It is not necessary to remove mower from tractor for blade re-

placement. By moving Lift Control [.ever to up (Rear) posi-

tion will permit access to blades.

1. Remove the Hex Head Bolt, Lockwasher and Flat Washer (Fig. 27).

2 Install new blade with SHARP EDGE DOWN and secure

with Flat Washer, Lockwasher and Hex Head Bolt, TIGHT-

EN SECURELY.,

ALWAYS USE GRADE 5 HEAT TREATED

BOLTS TO ATTACH BLADES_ CHECK BOLTS IN BLADES OCCASIONALLY TO

MAKE SURE BOLTS ARE TIGHT, TOR- QUE BOLTS 30-35 FT, LBS.

A GRADE 5 HEAT TREATED BOLT CAN BE IDENTIFIED BY THREE

LINES INDICATED ON THE BOLT HEAD AS SHOWN AT LEFT,,

DAI LY MAI NTENANCE

Make sure all nuts on bolts are tight, cotter pins and retainer

springs are secure. Keep blades sharp, Observe all safety pre- cautions, Keep mower well lubricated

FIGURE 29

POWER

CLUTCH

_OFF

CLEANING MOWER

PREVENT ACCIDENTAL STARTING BE-

DISCONNECT SPARK PLUG WIRES TO

FORE CLEANING_

Water pressure from a garden hose will remove fresh clippings from underside of mower Clean mower after each mowing,

POWER TAKE- OFF CLUTCH

The Power Take-0ff Clutch (Fig 29) should provide years of service. The C_utch incorporates a built in brake that stops the Pulley almost immediately. Eventually, the internat brake will

wear so the mower blades will not stop as recommended. Ad- justment should be made by a Sears Service Technician.

..... - 14-

OUTER BLADES DRIVE BELT (CENTER TO OUTER MANDRELS)

BELT ROUTING DECAL UNDER MOWER DECK COVER

1. Remove Mower from Tractor (see below).

2. Remove Top Cover Self Tapping Screws, and Nut from

Idler Arm Bott.,

3. Roll Belt over the top of the R, H. Mandrel,

4. Pull Belt off all other Mandrels

5 Remove any dirt and grass which may have accumulated

around Mandrels and idler Arm,

6. Check Deck Idler Arm Assembly and Flat Idler to see that

they rotate freely (Fig, 30)

7,, Be sure spring is hooked in Deck Idler Arm Assembfy and

on bolt in Mower Housing (Fig. 30),,

8 Install new Belt in groove of LH. Mandrel Sheave, lower

groove of Center Mandrel Sheave and around Flat fd_er as shown (F_g 30).

9_ From a position at discharge end of mower, roll Belt into

groove of Roll Mandrel Sheave (Fig, 30)

10., Rotate Center Mandrel Sheave by hand to make sure Belt is in grooves properly

IDLER ARM NUT

L,H. MANDREL

SHEAVE

FLAT IDLIL_R

CENTRAL MANDREL SHEAVE

RHoMANDREL SHEAVE

FIGURE 30

BLADES WILL ROTATE WITH CENTERMANDREL SHEAVE_

11 Reassemble Top Cover to Deck, Tighten all Screws secure-

12, install Mower to tractor (see page 8)

REMOVBNG MOWER FROM TRACTOR

t, Lower Mower,

2, Pull the four (4) Release Pins out of Suspension Brackets

(Fig, 31),,

3, Pull back on Attachment Lift Handte and lock into place.

4. Slide Mower forward and remove Belt from Primary Man° drel.

5. Raise Attachment Lift Handle. Slide Mower out from under

tractor.

NOTE: 1F AN ATTACHMENT OTHER THAN THE MOWER DECK IS TO BE MOUNTED ON THE TRACTOR, THE LH.

AND R.H. SUSPENSION ARMS (FIG 3t) SHOULD BE REMOVED FROM TRACTOR,

RELEASE

FIGURE 3'1

- 15-

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