Craftsman 917.256552 User Manual

917.256552 OWNER'SMANUAL

_0Assembly

oOperation
0Customer Responsibilities

_Service and Adjustments

Repair Parts

C

_AUTIONo Read and follow all safety rules and instructions before operating this equipment.

FOR CONSUMER ASSISTANCE HOT LINE, CALL THIS TOLL FREE NUMBER: 1-800-659-5917

Safe Operation Practices for Ride=On Mowers

WMPORTANT: THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OBJECTS,
FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

L GENERAL OPERATION
, Read, understand, and follow afl instructions in the manual

and on the machine before starting,

, Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the

instructions, to operate the machine.

o Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc.,

which could be picked up and thrown by the blade.

', Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop

machine if anyone enters the area.
Never carry passengers.
Do not mow in reverse unless absotuteiy necessary. Always

took down and behind before and while backing.

, Be aware of the mower discharge direction and do not point

it at anyone. Do not operate the mower without either the
entire grass catcher or the guard in place.

SIow down before turning.

o Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn off

blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and remove keys
before dismounting.

• Turn off blades when not mowing.
Stop engine before removing grass catcher or unclogging

chute.

,, Mow only in daylight or good artificial light:
o Do not operate the machine while under the influence of

alcohol or drugs.

o Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways.
o Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into

a trailer or truck.

WI. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and
tipover accidents, which can result in severe injury or

death. All slopes require extra caution. If you cannot back
up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not mow it.

DO:

• Mow up and down sIopes, not across.
Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.

,, Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could

overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.

• Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so that you will not have

to stop or shift while on the slope.

,, Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for wheel

weights or counterweights to improve stability.

Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments.

These can change the stability of the machir.

SAFETY RULES

III. CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the
presence of children. Children are often attracted to the
machine and the mowing activity. Never assume that

children witl remain where you last saw them.
o Keep children out ofthe mowing area and under the watchful

care of another responsibie adult.
Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area.

o Before and when backing, look behind and down for small

children,
Never carry children They may fail off and be seriously

injured or interfere with safe machine operation.
o Never allow children to operate the machine.
o Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs,

trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.

_V. SERVICE

o Useextracarein handli _gasolineandotherfuels. Theyare

flammable and vapors _e explosive.

Use only an approved container.
Never remove gas cap on add fuei with the engine

running; Allow engine to cool before refueling. Do not

smoke.

Never refuel the machine indoors.
Never store the machine or fuel container inside where

there is an open flame, such as a water heater.

Never run a machine inside a closed area.
o Keep nuts and boks, especially btade attachment bolts, tight

and keep equipment in good condition.

Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper

operation regularly.
,, Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris build-up.

Clean oil or fuel spillage. Allow machine to cool before

storing.

Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object.

Repair, if necessary, before restarting.

, Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine running.

Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage, and

deterioration, which could expose moving parts or allow

objects to be thrown. Frequently check components and

replace with manufacturer's recommended parts, when nec-

essary.

Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or

wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.

• Check brake operation f ,_quently. Adjust and service as

required.

Keep all movement on the slopes slow and g;aduaL Do not
make sudden changes in speed or direction.

Avoid starting or stopping on a slope, if tires lose traction,
disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the

slope.
DO NOT:
, Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn slowly

and gradually downhill, if possible.
Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. The

mower could suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the edge

of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.

wire and place wire where it cannot contact
spark plug in order to prevent accidental
starting when setting up, transporting,

CAUTION: Always j
adjusting or making repairs.

disconnect spark plug

Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could cause

sliding.
o Donottrytostabilizethemachinebyputtingyourfootonthe

WARNING 4&

ground.
o Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.

The engine exhaust from this product contains
chemicals known to the State of California to

cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproduc-

tive harm.

2

CO_Grs_A _.LAo_©[iS o"l your pumhase of a .:_eals

Traetor I[_"-_asbeen des[qned,,.,engir:emed and manufac-
tured Io give you the best possibie dependabiitv arid

Should you experience any probbm you cannot easiiy
remedy, piease contac[ your nearest Sears Authorzed

Sewice Cente_/DepaS:ment Department. We have corm
potent wetbtrained technicians and the proper too!s to

service or repair this tractor,

Please read and retain Ibis manual. The nstructions wll

HORSEPOWER: ! 5.0

GASOL NE CAPAC TY t,25 GALLONS
ANC, TYPE: _NLEADED REGULAR

OIL TYPE (APFSF/SG): SAE IOW30 (above 32°F}

SAE 5W-30 (beiow 32°P)

OIt CAPACi]Y: W/FILTER: 40PNTS

W/O FILTER: 3,5 PINTS

enable you to assemble and maffstainyour tractor pmper!y
Atways observe the '_SAFETYRULES".

SPARK PLUG: ¢'_' _ _ '

.._,AMP,JN RC12YC

G£P: 040")

•,1rJMBEs 9 t /._5650_z
SERIAL

iNUMBER ................................................................................

IUATL:OF P[J[:{CqA,oE

H_ 71ODE<./_,NDSERi£,_ .}JMBERSWIL_.BET,JU,.ID

ON A PLATE UNDER THE SEAT.

YOU SHOULD RECORD BOTH SERIAL NUMBER AND

DATE OF: -_i ' " IN
FOR FU, URn=REFERENC_

lo,,,.RCHASE AND KEEP A SAFE PLACE

VA_.vl: ,.;LhARAN<;E; NO'T, D..USTABLE
GROUND SPEED(MPH): FORWARD: 0 5.5

REVERSE: 0-24

T_RE_-'RESSURE: FRONT: !4 PSI

REAR: !0 PSi

CHAR,s.NGSYSTEM: 3 AMPS BATTERY

=

5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS

"BArTERY: AMP/HR: 30

MIi'4.CCfa,: 240

CASE SIZE; UIR

.NAN¢_ AGREEMEN F

I BLADE BOLTTORQUE:

30-35 FT. LBS

A Sears Maintenance Agreement is avaiiabie on this prod-

uet Contact your nearest Sears store :[ordetaiis

unimproved forest_covered brash,covered or grass-cov-

ered and unless the engines exhaust system is equipped
with aspark arrestor meetin¢] applicable locai or state taws

Read and observe the safety rutes

_', Foitow a _'eguiarschedute in maintaining, caring for arid

Foilow the instructions under "Customer Responsibilb
des _kd "Storage" sections of this owne_ s manuak

WARNING: This t_actor is equipped with an ntemat
combustion engine and shouid not be used on or near any

(ifar;y)_ f a spa,_ka testa s Used ii should be ma r_,tained

n effective working order by Ihe operator.

n the state of California the above is required by law

{Section 4442 of Ihe Caiifornia Pubic Resources Code}•
Other states may have simiiar laws. Federal laws apply on

federai !ands. A spad<arrestor for' the muffler is available
through your r_earest Sears Au[horized Service Cartier/

Depa_'ment (See REPAR PARTS section ofthis manual}.

LH q TED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON ",JRAFTS[VIAN F{ DING E@UIP aENT

For two ,,_)years fromthe date of pumhase,if this CraftsmanRiding Equipment is maintained,iubdcatedand tuned up according

to the nstrJctio<_sin theowner'smanuai, Sears wit! repair or re,aiace free of charge, any parts found to be defective in materialor

1'hisWarrantydoes hotcover:

o Expendableitemswhichbecomewornduring normaluse, such as blades, sparkplugs, aircleaners, belts,etc.

Tire replacementor repaircaused bypuncturesfromoutside objects,such as nails,thorns, stumps,or giass.

o Repairsnecessar£becauseofoperatorabuse negligence,improperstorageor accident orthefaiiure to maintain the

equipment according tothe instructionscontainedin the owners manuei.

'o Ridingequipment usedforcommercialorreniai purposes.

L Ba TED 90 DAY WARRANTY ON B qTERY

or r_ff_ety(go} days from date of purchase, if any batteqi inck._dedwth his riding equipment proves defective in material or

workmanship and our testing determir_esthe battery witlnot holda charge, Searswill_ep!ace the baiter,/at no charge.

N,-HOME WARRANTY SERVICE ON YOUR CRA_SMAN RtD_NG EQ IPMENT IS AVAILABLE AT NO-CHARGE FOR 30
DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PURCHASE PLEASE CONTACT YOUR NEAREST SERVICE CENTER. AFTER 30 DAYS FROM

"r'HE DATE OF PURCHASE, WARRANTY SERVICE iS AVAILABLE BY TAKING YOUR CRAftSMAN RIDING EQU!PMENT TO
YOUR NEAREST SEARS SERVICE CENTER. (!N.-HOME WARRANTY SERVICE WILL STLL St:!;iAVA LABLE AFTER 30 DAYS

FROM THE DATE OF PURCHASE BUT A STANDARD TRIP OflARGE WILL APPLY.') T'IS WARRANTY APPLIES ONLY
WI41LETHIS PRODUCT !S _NTHE UNITED STATES.

This Warranty gves you epecific egat fights and you may also have other _ignts which may _a_y from state to state

.'_c.ARo ESTA'FES, L_d¢.}=-! s_AhROE[V£_<,KA 4_ "*• "-wO, D/817 WA,

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SAFETY RULES ............................................................ 2

PRODUCT SPECiFiCATIONS ...................................... 3

CUSTOMER RESPONSIB_LmES ..................... 3. !5-t9

WARRANTY .................................................................. 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS ................................................. 4

iNDEX ............................................................................ 4

TRACTOR ACCESSORIES ......................................... 5

ASSEMBLY ............................................................... 7-9

iNDEX

A

Accessories ....................................... 5

Adjus_rnen_s:

Brake ........................................... 22

Carburetor .................................... 25

Mower:

Front-To-Back ...................... 2I

Side-To-Side .......................... 2t

Throttle Control Cable ................. 25

Air FHter, Engine ................................. 18

Air Screen Engqe ............................. '_8

Assembly ........................................... 7-9

B
Battery:

Charging ................................ 7 8

Cleaninc ...................................... 16

Starting w_th Weak Battery ....... 24

Storage ...................................... 26

Terminals .................................... I6

Belts:

Motion Drive

Removal/Repiacem_nt ........... 22

Mower Blade Drive

Removal/Replacement ............22

Blade:

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

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

Brake Adjustment ................................ 22

C

Carburetor Adjustment ....................... 25

Controls, Tractor ................................. ! I

Customer Responsibilities .......... 3,I5-19

Engine:

Air Filter .................................... 18

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

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

Cooting Fins, Engine ............... 18

Engine Oil ................................ t7

Fuel Filter ................................ 19

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

Tractor:

Blades ...................................... t6

Lubrication Chart ..................... 15

Maintenance Schedule ........... 15

Tire Care ......................... 8,16,23

Cutting Height, Mower .......................... t2

E,_ectrical:

Interlocks and Reiays ................ 24

Schematic ................................... 29

Wiring Diagram ........................... 30

E_gine:

Air Filter ....................................... 18

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

Cooling Fins Eng ne ................... 18

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

Oil Level ................................. 13.17

Qi! Type .................................. 17

Preoara_tor ................................ 13

Reoair Parts ........................... 48-53

Starting ....................................... 4

Storage ................................... 2_

FlUters:

Air ............................................... 18

Fue_............................................. 19

Ft_ef

Type ............................................ 13

Storage ....................................... 26

Fuse ................................................... 24

Gauge Wheels ..................................... 8

F_'oodRemoval/installation ................. 24

Leve_ingMower Deck ......................... 2!

Lt_brication Chart ................................ 15

Maintenance Schedule ...................... 15

Mower:

Adjustment, Front-to-Back .......... 21

Adjustment, Side-to-Side ........... 2!

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

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

Cutting Height ............................. 12

Installation ................................... 20

Operation ............................... 12-13

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

Mowing Tips ....................................... 14

Muffier ................................................ t 8

. Spark Arrester .......................... 3,40

Muicher Plate ....................................... 9

Oil:

Cold Weather Conditions ....... 13,17

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

Storage ...................................... 26

OPERATION ......................................................... 10-14

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ..................................... 15

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS ........................... 20-25

STORAGE ................................................................... 26

TROUBLESHOOTING ........................................... 27-28

REPAIR PARTS - TRACTOR ................................ 30-47

REPAIR PARTS- ENGINE .................................... 48-53

PARTS ORDERJNGISERV_CE .................. BACK PAGE

E

F

G

H

L

M

O

Ooeration .................................... 10-t4

Operating Mower ..............................

.12-I3

Ootions:

Accessories ................................ 5

Seark Arrester ........................ 3.40

P

Parking Brake ................................ 1 I-i2

Parts Bag ............................................ 6

Parts. ReDlacementJRepair ........... 30-47

Product Specifications ......................... 3

R

Reeair Parts .................................. 30-47

S

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

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

Service and Adjustments .............. 20-25

Brake ........................................... 22

Carburetor .................................. 25

Fuse ............................................ 24

Hood Removal/Installation .......... 24

Motion Drive Belt

Removal/Replacement ........... 22

Mower Blade Drive Belt

Removal/Replacement ........... 22

Mower Adjustment:

Front_to-Back ......................... 21

Side-to-Side ........................... 21

Mower Installation ....................... 20

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

Tire Care ............................. 8,16,23

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

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

Specifications ....................................... 3

Starting the Engine ....................... ! 3-t4

Steering Wheel ................................ 7,23

Stopping the Tractor ........................... 12

Storage ............................................... 26

T

Throttle Control Cable Adjustment ..... 25

Tires ........................................... 8,16,23

Trouble Shooting Chart .................. 27-28

Transaxle Repair Parts ................. 46-47

W

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

Wiring Diagram .................................. 30

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

TheseaccessoriesandattachmentswereavailablethroughmostSearsro_ailoutletsandservicecenterswhenthetractorwaspurchased.

MostSears stores can order these items for you when you provide the model number of your tractor.

ENGINE

AiR FILTER

PERFORMANCE

Soars offers a wide variety of attach ments that fit your tractor. Many of the_seare listed below with brief explanations of how they can help
you. This _istwas current at the time of publication; however, it may change in f_tUre years - more attachments may be added, changes
may be made in these attachments, or some may n° longer be available or fit your modet Contact your nearest Sears store for the

accessories and attachments that ate available for your tractor.
Most of these attachments do not require additional hifches or conversion kits (those that do are indicated) and are designed for easy

attaching and detaching.

AERATOR promotes deep root growth for a heaithy lawn Ta S#_OWBLADEIorsnowremovatorfiy. 14dnch high,48dnchwide
pered 2.5 inch steel spikes mounted on !0-inch diameter discs _;adec_ears42-inch pathwhen angledld_or dghL Ra!Ses,lowers
puncture holes in soil at Cose intervals to Jet moisture soak in. _;_rlside tever: Adjustable skids; repiaCeabJe, revers Ibte scraper
Stee we ght tray for increased penetrat on ba_. (Use with t re c qa ns'and whee we ghts and/or rear drawbar

BAGGER lets you cottect grass c}ippings and teaves for a
heafthier, nester looking iawn. Two Perrnanex containers hold
30-gallon ptastic bags.

BUMPER protects front end of tractor from damage.
CARTS make hauling easy. Variety of sizes available, plus

accessories such as side panel kits, tool caddy, cart cover,
protective mat and doily.

CORING AERATOR takes smafi piugs out of so_ to allow mois-
ture and nutrients to reach grass roots, 36dnch swath. 24
hardened steel coring tips. 150 lb. capacity weight tray.

EASY OIL DRAIN VALVE makes oil changes easier, faster.
FRONT NOSE ROLLER canters in front of mower deck to reduce

chances of "scalping" on uneven terrain.
GANG NtTCN lets you tow 2or 3pull-behind attachments _t once,

such as sweepers, dethatchers aerators (not for use with toilers,
carts or other heavy attachments).

GAUGB WHEELS on both sides of the mower deck reduce
chances of"scalping" on uneven terrain• Formower decks not so
equipped.

MULCH RAKFWDETRATCHER !oosens soil and flips thatch and
matted leaves to lawn surface for easy pickup. Twenty spring tine
teeth. Useful to prepare bare areas for Seeding. Available forffont
or rear mounting. RI_GH PERFOR_d_ANCE REEL_ACTION

SPRING T_NE DETHATCHER covers 36-inch wide path and
tosses thatch into large hopper, Mounts behind tractor,

MULCHING CLOSE-OUT PLATE K_T, once instaJied, Jets you
muich, discharge or bag clippings (bagger optional) wi[hout
changing blades. For models not equipped as 3din1 Convertible
mowers. See "MOWER" in the Repair Parts section of this

manuai,
RAMP TOPS AND FEET let you load and unload tractor from a

pickup truck. Use with 2 x 8 or 2 x I0 Iumber.
ROLLER for smoother iawn surface. 36dneh wide, 18dnch

diameter water-tight drum holds up to 390 Ibs_of weight. Rounded
edges prevent harm to turf, Adjustable scraper automatically

cleans drum.

SN()_,P_HROWER has 40dnch swath. Drum-.type auger handles
powdery and wet!heavy snow. Mounts easily with simple pin

arrangement. Discharge chute adjusts from tractor seat. 6dnch
d_ameter spout discharges snow 10 to 50 feet. Lift controlled at
tactor seat. (Use with chans and wheei weights and/or rear

SPRAYERS use 12welt DC electric motor that connects to the

lractor batten/ or other 12-volt source. Includes booms for
automatic spraying and hand he!d wand for spot spraying, Wand

fas adjustaMe spray pattern. For apptying herbicides, insecti-

cides, fungicides and liquid fertilizers.
SPREADBRiSEEDERS make seeding, fertilizing, and weed kilt-

_sgaasy_ Broadcast spreaders are also usefuI for granular de-

icers and sand.

'Sh_JE:EPERSlet you coi/ect grass c ippings and leaves.

!;_I:and depth control system and does NOT reqL 'e as eeve hitch

R{Sany iawn, yard Orgarden tractor. Simply hook up to the tractor
a_awbar and g0! Optional accessories convert unt for

@thatching, aerating hilling...without tools.

T_RBCHAINS are heavy duty; ciOsety spaced extra-large cross
}}_ksgive smooth ride, outstanding traction.

*fRAC_OR CAB has heavy duty vinyt fabric over tubular steel

frame, ABS piastiC!op; ciear p!astic windshield offers 360 degree

visibility: Ringed 'netai doors with catch. Keeps operator warm

and dv Remove vinyl sides and WindShields for use as sun
_:,roi_ct0rin summer, Optio_"_a! accessories include: tinted/

12-volt amber caution }ight for mounting on Cab top.
stACS for poweffui coitection of heavy grass c!ippihgs and leaves,

O#tio_at wand attachment to pick up debris in hard4o_reach
p_aces. VACiCH_PP_R includes a chipper-shredder,

W_!GHT BRAC_(_T for drawbar for snow removal applications.

t_ <5Jses (..,. lb. weight.

_HBEL WB_GHTS for rear wheels provide needed traction for
snow removal or ._ozing heavy _.+ _u,,

• operated wiper;tempered s0iid Safety glass Wnc she d Wth harid

*r ct_e ,ate,

OF H E

RaGs Bag oontents shown 'full size

_4

/

f

/

/

) Hex Bo_t

8/8 I6 x I

/,

/

/

(I) Lar@eFiat Washer (t) U>ckwasher 318

(i) Locknut

5/I6-,!8

(1) I4ex Boit 5/16-18 sti-I_4

{{...........

Parts packed separately in carton

Ses.t

Cassette

', / /

q

7Yhee, _{?lbleher

Plate

i i

Video

/ i

/" (!} Washer

I.-3ll £x 12

Gauge

!j'

#10

\

\

8/16 x 3/4 _ (2) Wetd

x 16 Gauge Nuts #10

(2) Hex Bo!ts I/4-20 x 3/4

{1) Hex Bolt
!/213 x i

(1} Leck Wad-her i/

(2) Screws

#10x 518

(2) Hex Nuts 114.__.0

Manua

/

Boot

Parts Bag

(2} Center-

lock Nuts

(2) Keys

tt }} Wheel

\}, ..................// lnser_

Assemblys

Extension
bnafl

z_ Washers 9/32 x 518x _ Gauge

Yournewtractorhasbeenassembledatthefactoryw_thexceotion of hose parts left unassembled for shipping purposes.

To ensure safe and proper operation of your tractor all carts and hardware you assemble must be figr_tenedsecurely. Use
the correc_ loots as necessary to insure proper tJghmess.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

A socket wrench set wilt make assembly easier. Standard

wrench sizes are Iisted.

tU 5J16" wrench

_2t 7/!6" Nrencnes
_ _ //2" wrer_cn

(2} 9/I6" wrench
When right or eft hand is mentioned m rots manual, it

means when you are in the operating oosition (sea_ee
behind the s_eermg wnee_ !,

I _ 3/4" Secket w/afire rachel

Philliss Screwdriver

Tire oressure gauge

Utility knife

....... 3/8 HE:X BOLT

......... 318LOCK WASREF!

-" WHEEL

STEERING

BOOT _ .....

STEERING

--.'_ WHEEL _NSERT

WASHER

°_. STEERING

TO RE,lOVE TRACTOR FRON! CARTON

UNPACK CARTON AOAPTER,. -

Remove al accessible loose oa_s ana carts canons 5/16HEXBOLT
Trom capon (See page ] L .,. :

, Cut, from top to bottom, atong lines on alt four comers _J .'i! _'

of carton, and Iay panels fiat. _ -:-,

Check for any additional loose parts or cartons and 5/,6 LOCI(NUT , ' " .... .

remove, i / " "

1 4 / - : _

EXTENSI!ON

/ SHAFT

BEFORE ROLUNG TRACTOR OFF SKID

A°FACH STEERiING WHEEL (See Fig, 1)

ASSEMBLE EX'TENSION SHAFT AND BOOT

Slide extension shaft onto lower steering shaft, Align
mounting holes in extension and iower shafts and
install 5/t6 he>:bolt and Iocknut. Tighten securely.

I_tPORTANT: TIGHTEN BOLT AND NUT SECURELY TO

18_22 FT LBSTORQUE.

o Place tabs of sleeting boot over tab slots in dash and

push down to secure.

iNSTALL STEERING WHEEL

Position front wheeis of the tractor so they are pointing

straight foPTvard.

o Slide steedng wheel adapter onto steering shaft exten-

sion.

o Position steering wheel and sleeve assembly so cross

bars are horizenta! (left to right) and slide onto adapter.

o Assemble large fiat washer, 3/8 iock washer, 3/8 hex

bolt and tighten securely

o Snap steering wheel insert into center of steering

wheel.
Remove protective pastic from tractor hood and grill.

IMPORTANT: CHECK FOR AND REMOVE ANY STAPLES

IN SKID THAT MAY PUNCTURE TIRES WHERE TRACTOR
IS TO ROLL OFF SKID.

TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Opera°
tier section for tocation and function of con.,,

Press riftlever p{unger and raise attachment liftlever to
its highest position

o Reiease parking brake by depressng clutch/brake

Place freewheel control in freewheefing position to
disengage transmission (See "TO TRANSPORT ° in
the Ogeration section of this manua!).

Roil tractor backwards off skid.

Remove banding holding discharge guard up against
tractor

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR

CONNECT BAKERY (See Figs, 2 and 3}

CAUTION: Do not short battery term_
na_s: Before eormecting batterj_ re_

move metal bracelets, wristwatch
bends, rings_ etCo

Positive terminal must be connected

first to prevent sparking from acciden-

o Remove cardboard packing from seat pan and tiff seat

pan to raised position.

Open battery box door.

e

Remove terminal proteciive caps end discard.
If this batten/isput into service after month and year
indicated on label (!abel located between terminals)

charge battery for minimum of one hour at 6-10 amp&

First connect RED batter,! cable to positive (+)terminat
with hex boit, flat washer, lock washer and hex nut as

shown, T ghten securely.
Connect BLACK grounding eabte to negative (-}_fermi-

nai with remaining hex bott flat washer lock washer
and hex nut. Tighten secureiy_

Close battery be)( door.

F_G. !

ASSE

Open battery box door lot':
o Inspection for secure corlnections (to _ig_'ten hard

Inspection Ior corrosion.

_* Testing batteG,

Jumping (f required}

o Periodic ci_arging.

POSIT!VE B_SCARD
{RED) CABLE TERMINAL

, PROTECTIVE

.-.. / CAPS

i ' NUT

LOCK

WASHER

/

/

PLAT
WASHER

NEGATIVE

(BL ACE) CABLE

HEX

BOLT

F_G....

SEAT
PAN

Lower seat into operating position and sit on seat.

o Slide seat until a comfortable position is reached which

a!ows you to press dutch/brake pedal a_I the way
down,

Get off seat without moving its adjusted position.

o Raise seat and tighter adjustment bolt securely.

CHECK TIRE PRESSU!!_E

The tires on your tractor were overinfiated at the !actor/for

shipping purposes. Correct tire pressure is irnpoRant for
best cutting pedormance.

Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown n "PRODUCT

SPECIFICATIONS" on page 3 of this manual.

CHECK ©ECK LEVELNESS

For best cutting results, mower housing should be properly
leveled. See "TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the

Sewice and Adjustments section of this manual•

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF ALL

See the figures thai are shown for replacing motion and
r_iower _lade @;ire betts in the Sergice and AdjustmentS

section of Ibis manual, Verify ihat the belts are rouIed

BATTERY
BOX DOOR

FtGo3

_NSTALL SEAT (See Fig° 4)

Adiust seat before tightening adjustment bott
o Remove cardboard packing on seat pan

0_ Place seat on seat pan and assemble shoulder bolt.

Assemb!e adjustment boIt bck washer and fiat washer
looseIy Do not tighten.

Tighten shoulder boit securety

SEAT

SEATPAN

After you ieam how _ooperate your tractor, check to see

that the brake is propedy s.diusted, See "TO ADJUST

BRAKE' in the Service and Adjuslments section of this
rnanual_

ASSEMBLE GAUGE WHEELS TO MOWER

DECK (See Fig. 5)

Assemble gauge wheeis with tractor on aflat level surface
,_ Adjust mower to desired cutting height (See "TO AD-

JUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT" in the Operation
section of this manual),

-_ Wth mower in desired height of cut position, gauge
wheels should be assembled so they are slightly off the
ground. Install gauge wheel in appropriate hole with
shouider bolt, 3/8" washer and 3/8o16 tocknut and

tighten securely.

,, Repeat for opposite side installing gauge wheel in

same adjustment hole.

/"

\

]

l

3/8- t 8

GAUGE WHEEL j .....k

F'iGo4 FIG,, 5

SHOULDER

BOLT

_NSTALL MULCHKR PLATE
{See Figs. 6 & 7}

Install two a[cn nooks _omutcher p_a[eusing screw,

washer, IOCKwasner, and wetd nut as shown,

NOTE: Pre-assembie wetd nut to latch hook by inserting

we_a nut from the top w_th hook oointing down,

Tighten hardware ;ecure_y.
Raise and nolo deflector shield in Jprlght position,

Place front of muiener orate over fret t of mower deCK
opening and slide into p_ace, as shown.

Hook front latch trio note oRfront of mower deck

o Hook rear latch into no_e an back Ofmower DecK.

CAUtiON: Do not remove discharge

guard f_om mower. Raise and hold
guard when attaching muJcher plate
and allow it _o rest on p_ate whi_e in

HOOK POINI"S DOWN

WELD NUT FROM THE TOP jr ....... _

X\ "'S

LOCK

LATCH

J" HOOK

WELD
NUT

WASHER

MULCHKR
PLATE

LOCK
WASHER

WASHER

FIG, 6

TO CONVERT TO BAGGING OR
DiSCHARGiNG

Simply remove mulcher plate and store in a safe place.
Your mower is now ready for discharging or installation of

optional grass catcher accessoPy,
NOTE: It is not necessary to changebtades, The mulcher

blades are designed for discharging and bagging also,

LATCH

HOOKS

FiG. 7

BEFORE YOU OPERATE AND ENJOY YOUF_ NEW
TRACTOR. WE WISH TO ASSURE TH/I T YOURECEfVE

FHEBESTPERFORMANCEAND SATtSFA C TION FROM

FHIS OLIAL/TY PRODUCT,
PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING CHECKLIST:

/ All assembly instructions have been completed.
/ No remaining !dose parts in carton.

_/ Battery is properly prepared and charged, (Minimum

1 hour at 6 amps).

v" Sea{,iS adjusted comfortably and tightened securely,
v' Atttires are properly inflated. (For shipping purposes,

the tires were overinfiated at the factory).

_x Be sure mower deck is properly leveled side-to-side/

frontqo-rear for best cutting results. (Tires must be
properly inflated for ieveiing),

/ Check mower and drive belts, Be sure they are routed

properly around pul!eys and nside all belt keepers.

/ Check wiring. See thai aHconnections are stiil secure

and wires are properly clamped.

v" Before driving tractor, be sure freewheel control is [n

drive position_

WHILE LEARNING HOW T© USE YOUR E_ACTOR, PAY

EXTRA ATTENTION TO7-HEFOLLOWING IMPORTANT

FFE/MS:
v" Engine oil is at proper !eveL
/ Fuel tank is fiIled with fresh, clean, regular unleaded

gasoline.

/ Become familiar with alt controls ,-their location and

function. Operate them before you start the engine.

/ Be sure brake system isin safe operating condition.
v' II is important to purge the transm ssion before operat-

ing your tractor for the first time_ Fotlow proper starting

and transmission purging ins!ruetions (See "TO START

ENGINE" and "PURGE TRANSMISSION' in the Opt.

e_ation section of this msn/4aI)

Thesesymbol,_mayappearoryourtractorofinJ[teraturesuppliedwiththeproduct.Learnandunderstandtheirmeaning.

,-- __,, CAUTIONOR REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW

WARNING

o i

(_' _ C_" _ _ _L _

EN .xJN_z:ON ENGINE OFF JJL PRESSURE C__UI(..,'t MGHTS ON

_, O_._ MOWER _ .... PARi41NG BRAKE UNLO_._'..E_J

LOCm LOCKED

LIGHTS OFF

RLVERoE NEUTRAL HIG_ LOW

l \

vlO NER LIFT

'_ _ _ /E_ D • •

DANG_- , _',._::._ HANDS AND FEET AWAY

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH ENGAGED

÷

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCiq DISENGAGED

(_ydro Moee _ o y

PARKING BRAKE

IGNtT Ob

ii

READ THIS OWNER"S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULSS BEFORE OPERATING YOUR TRACTOR

Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the iocati0ns of Various controis and adjustments. Save
this manual for future reference_

CLUTCHf
BRAKE

PEDAL

HEIGHT
ADJUSTMEN_

KNOB

FREEWHEEL

CONTROL

THROTTLE/

CHOKE
CONTROL

AMMETER

\

IGNmON SWITCH

LIGHT

SW_TCH POStT_ON

,, PLUNGER

ATTACHMENT
LIFT LEVER

ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH LEVER

PARKING BRAKE

iI"-:!!LII¸. CONTRoLMOT'ON

APPROX.

SPEED

3

Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the AmeriCan National Standards institute.

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER: Used to engage the

mower blades, or other attachments mounted to your

tractor.

UGHT SW_TCN: Turns the headlights on and off.

THROTTLF__JCHOKE CONTROL: Used for starting and
controlling engine speed.

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL: Usedfordeciutching and brak-

ng the tractor and s_a_ing the engine.

PARKING BRAKE: Locks clutch/brake peda into the

FREEWHEL CONTROL: Disengages transmission for
pushing or slowly towing the tractor with the engine off,.

_ LEVER

FiG. 8

MOTION CONTROL LEVER - Selects the speed and

direction of the tractor,
ATTACN_'_IENT U_ LEVER: Used to raise and lower the

mower deck or other attachments mounted to your tractor.
LIFT LEVER PLUNGER: Used to retease attachment lift

_everwhen changing its position.
_GN_TION SW_TCN: Used for starting and stopping the

engine_
!4EIGHTABJUSTMENT KNOB: Used toadjustthernowe__

A_I_4ETER: Indicates battery charging (+) or dischergi _g

!!

_' °" TRA_J R9 H

TO SEX"PARKH!G BRAKE {See Fig_ 9)

You tractor s equipped with an operator p esence sensing

switch. When engine is running, any attempt by the
operator Io eave the seat without first setting the parking
brake wiil sPut off the engine,

Depress dulch/brake pedat into fuli "BRAKE" position
and hold

P/acs_parking brake iever in "ENGAGED" position and

release pressure from ch4ch/brake pedai Pedal shou!d
remain in "BRAKE" pos tion. Ma_<es_ze parking brake

will llold tractor secure.

A_iTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER

'_@_SENGAGED"

p

j, POSITION

PARKING BRAKE
"ENGAGBD"

GEARSHIET

.....LEWR

CLUTCH/

BRAKE
PEDAL

"DRIVE' HEIGHT ADJU "_

POSKION MENT _NO8

F_G°9

STOPPerinG (See Fig, 9}

MOWER BLADES ..

o Move attac _ment ciutch ieve' to 'DISENGAGED'* po

sition_

GROUND DRIVE-
_, Depress clutch!brake pedai nto _uit _BRAKE_'positieh_

Move motion control lever to r eutral (N) position,

!MPOATAHT: THE MOTION CONTROL LEVER DOES
NOT RETURN TO NEUTRAL (N) POSIT!ON WHEN THE

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL IS DEPRESSED,
ENGINE -

Mow_ _hrottJecontrol to slow (_) pos tiom

NOTE Faiiure to move throttie centre to sio,¢_(_)
position and ai owing engine to die before stopping rnay

cause engine to 'backfire",

Turn ;gnton key to "OFF' position and remove key.
Always remove key when !eaving tractor to preve@

unauthorized use.

o Never .;se choke to stop engine.
NOTE: Under certain conditions when tractor s standing

die with he engne runnin% h@:erK3ne ex iaus[ gases may
cause "browning* oi grass. To e iminate this possib@!_

always stop engne when stoppin{} tractor ors grass areas

Uo_, _ON

TO US_:£TRRO_L£ CONTROL (See Fig. 9)

Always operate engine st fuji throttle.

Operating engine at less than ful throttle reduces the
battery charging rate.

o Fuii thro@e offers the best bagging and mower pefforo

rT_ance,

TO _",aOVEFORWARD AND BACKWARD (See

F_go9)

The direction and speed of movemerit is controiled by the
motion control lever

Start tractor with motion control !ever in neu[rat (N)

o Release parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.
o Slowly move motion control !ever to desired position.

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT

(See isig,,g}

The cutting height is controlled by turning the height adjust-

mast knob n desired direction,

-. _xrn kK)b c!ockwise (,S:,q) to raise-c_tting height,

*_ -%ira kieb counterclockwise (_-%) to lower cutting

The cutting height range is approximately I o1/2" to 4" The
heights are measured from the g,_oundto the blade tip with

the engine not runnihg. These heights are approximate
and n_ay van/depending upon soil conditions, height of
,grass ad types of grass being mowed.

The average lawn shoutd be cutto approximately 2ol/2

nches during the cool season and to over 3 inches

during hot months. F:or healthier and better ooking

lawns mow often and after moderate growth,

_0 For best cutting pedormance_ grass over 6 inches in

height should be mowed twice. Make the first cut
releNvely high; the second to desired he ght.

TO OPERATE _VtOWER (See Fig, 10)

Your tractor isequipped with an operator presence sensing
switch, Any attempt by the operator to leave the seat with
the engine running and the attachment clutch engaged wil!

shut off the engine,

Select desired height of cut

,_ Lower mower with attachment lift control

S_art mower blades by engaging attachment clutch
control.

_ TO STOP M©WER BLADES - disengage attachment

clutch control.

without either the er_tire grass catcher,,

CAUTION: Do not operate the mower
o_ mowers so equipped, or the dis-

CAU°_'IOH: A_ways stop t_'actor com_
p_ete% as described above before _eav,-
hg the operator's position:; to empty
grass catcher_ etCo

"EN@AGED"
POSITION ATTACHMEHT

HEIGHT

ADJUSTMENT
KNOB

k....

FIG. I0

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

LOW

i V

CHECK ENGINE OIL L£VEL (See Fig. 17}

rise engine t-yoJ_ t<ac or has been shipped, from the
factory, already flied ws summ,e_ weight oii.

=, Check engne oii wh '.tae_oron ievei ground.

GL_ABO

gffhread a_d _'emove o cap/dbstick wipe oil off
Re nse_-the a ps! ck <:to ;he tube and est oil fii! cap on
the tube. Do not h_ead the ei@onto Ihe tube. Remove

and read o! eve _:_cessary add oil un! 'FULL"
;na_k on d pstic_<is _esched Do r_ot overt 1_

£or cold weather operation you st ould change oi! for
easier starling (See OL VISCOS TY CHARW n the
Castomer Ressonsl: ties section of this nanua0o
To change e _gine oi, see the C ;stomer Responsibifi-

ties section n t!qs Y,a .ai.

o Choose the slowest speed before starting up or down

hi!ls.

Avoid stopping or changing speed on hils.

o if sbwing is necessary, move throttle controi tever to

f stopping is absoiutely necessa%,, push c_uth!bn_ke
pedal qu ckiy to brake pesitk)n and engage parking

brake.
_ Move motion control tever to neutrat (N} positior.
It_PORTA_t"[': THE MOTION CONTROL LEVER DOES

NOT' RETURN TO NEUTRAL (H) POSKION WHEN THE

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL JS DEPRESSED.
o TOrestart movemenl, stowiy retease parking brake and

o Slowly move motion control lever to slowest setting.
o Make a! turns slowly.

TO TRANSPORT {See Fig= 1!}

When pushing or towing your tractor, be sure to disengage
transmission by placing freewheel control in freewneetng

position Free wheel control is located at th,e resr@awbar

of tractor.
o Raise attachment Iift to highest position with attach°

ment tift control.
o PuiJf_eewhee! controi knob out and hold in position by

inserting retainer spring into foP_uardhoie ofcontrol rod.
o Do not bush or tow tractor" at more than t:we{2} MPH.

° To reenijage transmission, reverse above procedure
_,_O'/'E: To protect isood from damage when transporting

your t:ac o_ on a truck or a traiter, be sure hood is closed
and sec ire Sto t_actor. Use an appropr a_emeans 9f tying
hood o t_actor (rope co_d, etc.).

TO S_£R f ENGBIE (See Fig_ 9)

When starting d'_eengine for the first time or f the engine

has run out of f_.e, it will take extra crar_king time _omove
fuel from the tank to the engine.

_ Depress clutch/brake pedat and se_parking brake.

Place motion control lever in neutral (N) position.
b;iove attachment c!utch to "DISENGAGED" position_
Move throttte control to choke (l_.i) position.

Note: Before starting, read the warm and cotd starting

procedures below.
o !nsert key into ignition andturn keyclockwise to"START"

positior_ and reiease key as soon as engine starts. Do
not ;un starter continuously for more than fifteen sec-.
ends per minute, tf the engine does not start after
several attempts, move throt£Je controJ to fast (@)
position, wait a few minutes and try again, f engine sfiIJ
does not start:, move the throttJe controi back to the
choke (t'q) position and retry',

',/?ARM WE.A_sJ_::_ R oc'-_AR,TtxG___"/50° F arid above) With motion control iever in neutral (N) position, slowly

._,._mo move the ,_hrot.._.o troJto Ihe fastWhen engine s*a '_"_- ' ,_.r f_:_-, i

(@} position.

]"he attachments and ground ddve cart now be used. if
the engine does not accept the end, restart the engine

and allow itto warm up for one min£e using the choke
as described above.

COLD WEATHER STARTING ( 50° F and beow)
o When eng r_estarts, allow engine to run with the throttle

cont_oi n the choke (ikl) position unfit the engine runs
roughly, then move throttie control to fast (_) position.
This may require an engine warm-up period from
severaJ seconds to several minutes, depending on the

HYDROSTAT C TRANSMISSION WARM LIP

Before driving the unit in cold weather, the transmis.
sion should be warmed up as follows:

"_ Be sure the tractor is on level ground.
_ Place the motion control lever in neutrat.

Re/ease the parking brake and let the chJtch/brake
slowly return to operating position,

Allow one minute for transmission to warm up.

This can be done during the engine warm up

The attacf ments can also be used during the engine

warm.<@period afterthe transmission has been warmed

Ijp,

NOTE: If at a figh aititude (above :3000 feet) or in cold
temperatures (below 32 F) the carburetor fuel mixture may

need to be adjusted for best engine performance. See "TO
ADJUST CARBURETOR" in the Sewice and Adiustments

section of this manuak

PURGE TRANSMISS_ON

To ensure proper operation and perfomlance, it is recom-
melsded that the transmission be purged before operating

tractor' for the first time. This procedure wiit remove any
trapped air inside the transmission which may have develo

oped dudng shipping of your tractor.

_B._PORTANT:SHOULDYOUR TRANSMiSSiON REQUIRE
REMOVAL FOR SERVICE OR REPLACEMENT, IT

SHOULD BE PURGED AFTER REINSTALLATION
BEFORE OPERATING THE TRACTOR.

P'.acetractor saifeiyontevet sudace with engine off and
parking brake set.

Disengage transmission by placing freewheel control
in freewheeling position (See "TO TRANSPORT" in

this section of manuai).

Sitting inthe tractor seat, sta£ engine. After the engine
is running, move throttle controi _9stow 0 position.

disengage clutch/brake pedal:

,_ Move motion control iever to full forward position and

hold for five (5} seconds Move lever to futJ reverse
postion and hold for five (5) seconds. Repeat this
procedure three (3) times.

NOTRE:During this procedure there wiit be no movement of
drive wheels. The airis being removed from hydraulic drive

Move motion control lever io neutral (N) position. Shut °

off engine and set parking brake_

Engage transmission by placing freewheel control in

driving position {See"TO TRANSPORT' n this section

of r,_anual).
Sitting inthe tractor seat, sfart engine. After the engine

s running, move throttie control io hail (1/2) speed.

With motion control tever in neu_rat (N) position, slowly

disengage clutch/brake pedak

o S!owiy move metion control /ever forward, after the

tractor moves approximafe]y five (5) feet, slowly move
motion contm_ bver to reverse position. After the

tractor moves approximately five (5) feet return the
motion controi _everto the neutraJ (N) position. Repeat
this procedure with the molion controt lever three (3)

times,
'Four tractor is now purged and now ready for normal

OPER ]ON

V OW NG TIPS

o Tirechainscannotbe usedwhen themower housingis

attachedtotracto__,

_ Mower shouldbe properlyleveledforbestmowing

performance. See"TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING _'n
the Sewice and Adiustments section of this manuai.

Fhe left hand side of mower shoutd be used for trim-

ruing.

o Driveso thatcfippingsae dischargedonto thearea

thathas been cuL Have thecutarea.totherightofthe
tractor.Thiswi!lresultina more even distributionof

clippingsand morn uniformcutting,
When mowing largeareas,startbyturningtotheright

so thatciippingswilldischargeaway from shrubs,
fences_driveways,e_c.Afterone ortwo rounds,mow

inthe oppositedirectionmaking lefthand turnsunti

finished(See Fig _2 )

o Ifgrassisextremelytail,itshouldbe mowed twiceto

reduce oad and possiblefirehazardfromdriedclip-.
pings.Make firstcutrelativelyhigh;thesecondo the
desiredheight.

o Do notmow grasswhen its wet. We[ grasswillplug

mower and leave undesirable clumps: A!tow grass to
dry before mowing.

o Always operate engine at full throttle when mowing to

assure better mowing performance and proper dis-
charge of ma_eriat Regulate ground speed by seiect_
ng a low enough gear to give the mower cutting
performance as v_ellas the quaiity of cut desired.

o When operating etlachments, select a ground speed

that will suit the terrain and give best perferrnance of
the attachment being used.

_1ULCH_NG _._fOW_NGT_PS

_PORTANT: r.JR B.__ PERFORMANCE KE£1_
,_,_OWERHOUSING FREE (Yx BU}LT-UP GRASS AND

TRASH CLEAN At:TEl E_.CH USE{

The speciai muiching b_ade wilt recut the grass clip.
pings many times and reduce them n size so that as

un_,_th_ _awn i:-_eywill d sperse rite the grassthey faii ..... " _ '

and not ,._._'_noticed. Aiso_ the mutched grass will
u,ua_g d_e quickiy to !J,o_ ,_e nutrients for the awn.
Always mulch witb_your '_* _<÷
as this wiiI provd_.Sthe best recutting action of Ihe

biades,
Avoid cutting your iawn when itis weL Wet grass tends

to form chimps and inte_eres with the mulching action.
The best time to mow your !awn is the early afternoon°

At this time the_a _' _-_ d ......

wiil not be exposed to the direct sun.

oorbest re_utts, adjust the mowe_ cutt ng he ght so that
the mower cuts off only £he top one-third of the grass
biades (See Fig. i2A). F:>rextrerneiy heavy mulching,

_'educeyour width of cut and mow slowly.

eornpie e y hide the clippings. When doing a second
cui, mew across or perpend cuiar to the firsi cut path.

Change your cutting pattern from week to week. Mow

north te south one week then change to eastto west the
next we_.K. This will i'ep prevent matting and oraininc

el the awn,.

:er_s,:_nao ,Jie._ c:nd ne new y cut area

,lg,_,_.., engine (Made) speed

condkions may re-.

a second time to

i taAx_/s

FIG. 12

Check Brake Operation

[

L Check Tre Pressure

Check for _Bose Fasteners
Shaq:.ten/Reptace Mower Blades

Lubrication Cha4
Chock Battery Lovei/Recharge

i- Clean Balery and Terminals
k

i Che_k Transaxie Cooiin 9

Adjus Blade Beit(s) Tension
Ad ust Motion Drive Bek(s) Tension

Check Engine Oil Love

I Cha%ge Engine Oil

i

C ean Air F;ter

ER REI tLITtES

SERVICE DATES

I
/

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

i Clean Engine Coo!ing Fns

Replace }park PN_g

Bapl

Replace Fuel Fiiter

- Change more often when operatk! 9 under a hea,_ f ioad ot in high all bienl tempera{urea.

2 - Service more often vw_en oeerating in dirty or dusty cot _Jitions.
3 If eaaipped wilh oil filte_ change oi every 50 hours

4 - Replace blades more oHen when mowing in sandy sol.

............_ ............ .......' I.......... :>- i

i LJ2_

GENER£L REOOMME , ©AXIONS

The warranty on this tractor does not cover items that have
been subjected to operator abuse oF negligence. To

receive futIvalue from _hewarranty, operator must maintain
tractor as instructed in this manual

Some adjustments win need _o be made periodicaily to
properly maintain your tractor.

All adjustments in the Sen/ice and Adjustments section of
this manual should be checked at least once each season.

Once a year you should replace the spark plug clean
or replace air filter and check blades and belts for
wear. A new spark plug and clean air filter assure
proper air-fuel mixture and help your engine run better
and last longer.

BEFOR_ BACH US_

_,.,l_ec_..r,glne oil level

[ _IW ¢W

5 - If equipped with ad ustabie system,

6 - Not red,sired if equipped with maintenance-free battely.

7 Tirhtep frort axle pivot bolt to 35 ft,-Ibs< maximum

Do not overt ghten

, F

F--

I

L

I

!

f

,., _,:;.!4 tlre pressure.

,_ Chec( for Bose !asteners

Always observe safety rules when performing any mamte_

nance.

BRAKE OPERATION

_ttractor requires more than six f6} feet stooping distance

st h_ghsseed in hignesxgear. then brake must be adjusted.

See "TO ADJUST BRAKE' '_ the Service and _,djusP

rnents section of this manua_l.

T_RES

o Maintair proper a_rpressure in alt tires ISee 'PROD-

UCT SPECIFICATIONS" on page 3 of this manuah.

o Keep tires free of gasoline_ oil, or insect control chemi-

cals which can narm rubber,
Avoid stumps, stones, deed ruts. sharp objecls abe

omer nazaras that may cause tire damage.

BLADE CARE

For best results mower blades must be Rep; snarD. Re--
p_ace Den[ or aamagea blades.

ES

TO SHARPEN BLADE (See Fig, '14}

Sate £n}uld be _aKento keeu :he blade oaancedo An
unbalanced blade w_!cause excesswe wbration and evem
_ual eamaae [o _ewe_ ar_aengine.

The blade can be sharpened with a file or on _grinding
wheel Dc not attempt to sharpen while on the mower.

To check blade rsa_ance,you _al_neecJa 5/8" diameter
steei bott ore. oracone oaiancer. When using a cone

bB]ancer. 1oucw [he nstructlons sursoJied with oaf

3RcBrL

o Slide blade on to anunthreaded portion of the stee! bott

ar p_nano hold the Bolt or pm natalie with the g ouna.

I blade _sbatanced _1snoutct remain tn a horizontal

eosition, f either ena of the blade moves downwaro.
sharpen the heavy ena until the blade is Balanced.

NOTE: Do not use a nail for balancing blade. The _oDesof

En<_cen_e_"hole may aE;oearto De cen'iered but are no_

CENTER HOLE

BLADE REMOVAL (See Fig, 13)

Raise mower to highest position to allow access to
blades.

o Remove hex bolt, iock washer and fiat washer securing

blade.

o InstaJt new or resharpened blade with traiting edge up

towards deck as shown,

Reassemble hex bolt, lock washer and flat washer in

exact order as shown.

o Tighten bolt securely (30-35 Ft. Lbs. torque).
IMPORTANT: BLADE BOLT iS GRADE 8 HEAT TREATED.

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening blade - but if you
do be sure the blade is balanced.

BLADE

\

FLAT'WASHER

LOCK WASHEF

HEXBOLT

(GRADE8) ..... _.,_ '@

*A GRADE 8 HEAT TREATED BOLT CAN BE

IDENTIFIED BY S1XLINES ON THE BOLT HEAD.

FIG. 13

MANDREL

ASSEMBLY

518" BOLT

OB P_N

FIG. 14

Your tractor has a baSeR/charging system which is suffi-
cient for normal use However, periodic charging of the

battery with an aulomolive charger will extend its iile.

o Keep battery and terminals ctean.

Keep battery bolts tighL
Keep srnail vent holes open.

o Recharge at 6q0 amperes for 1 hour.

TO CLEAN BATTERY AND TERMINALS

Corrosion and dirt on the batteB_and terminals can cause

the battery to 'leakf power.

Open batten/box door°

o Disconnect BLACK battery cable first then RED bat-

ten/, cable and remove battery from tractor

o Rinse the battery with piain water and dry.

Clean terminals and batters/cabte endswith wire brush
until bright.

o Coat terminals wi'thgrease or petroleum jetly,

Reinstail batte_ {See "CONNECT BATTERY" in the
Assembty sect;on of this manual),

Check V-beits for deterioration and wear after 100 hours of

operation and replace if necessary. The belts are not

adiustabie Replace betts if they be@p,to slip from wear.

BLADE

I

J