Craftsman 917258591 Owner’s Manual

MODEL

917.258591 OWNER'S MANUAL

- Assembly

oOperation

®Customer Responsibilities

-,oService and Adjustments

®Repair Parts

CAUTION: Read and follow all safety rules and instructions before operating this equipment

FOR CONSUMER ASSISTANCE HOT LINE, CALLTHIS TOLL FREE NUMBER: 1-800-659-59t7

Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers

IMPORTANT: THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OFAMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OBJECTS,.

FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT iN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH+

I. GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow all Instructions in the manual

and on the machine before starting+

• Only allow responsible adults, who are famUiar with the

instructions,to operate the machine+

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

which could be picked up and thrown by the blade.

• Besurethe areais clearof other people before mowing+ Stop machine if anyone enters the area_

• Never carry passengers..

• Do not mow inreverse unless absolutely necessary+ Always look 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,

° Slow down before turning_

• Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn off blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and remove keys

before dismounting+

= Tum off blades when not mowing.. , Stop engine before removing grass catcher or unclogging

chute+

= Mow only in daylight or good artificial light..

• Do not operate the machine while under the influence of

alcohol or drugs..

° Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways.

• Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into a trailer or truck,.

II. 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, tf you cannot back up the slope or if you feet uneasy on it, do not mow it+

DO:

• Mow upand down slopes, not across+

• Remove obstacles such as rocks,tree limbs, etc+

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

overturn the machine Taftgrass can hide obstacles+

° Use slowspeed. Choose a low gear so thatyouwillnothave

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 stabilityof the machine.

° Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual Do not

make sudden changes in speed or direction+

• Avoid startingor stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction,

disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight downthe

slope.

DO NOT:

° Donot turnonslopesunless necessary, andthen, turnslowly

and gradually downhill, ifpossible+

° Do notmow 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+

° Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could cause

sliding+

° Do nottry to stabilize the machineby puttingyourfoot on the

ground,

• Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.

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 will remain where you last saw them+

• Keepchildrenoutof the mowfng area and under thewatchful

care of another responsible adult+

• Be alert and turn machine off ifchildren enter the area+

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

children.

• Never carry children They may fall off and be seriously injuredor interfere with safe machine operation+

° Never allow childrento operate the machine.

• Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs,

trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.+

IV. SERVICE

° Useextra care inhandlinggasolineandother fuels. They are

flammable and vapors are explosive+

Use only an approved container. Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine

running, Allow engine to coolbefore 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.

° Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment bolts, tight

and keep equipment in good condition+

• Never tamper with safety devices. Cheu_ 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, ifnecessary, 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 frequently. Adjust and service as

required.

The engine exhaust from this product contains

safety precautions. It means Lookfor this symbol topotnt outimportant

CAUTIONII! BECOME ALERTlf! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

I '1 II

CAUTIONi

spark plug In order to prevent accidental |

wlreand place wire where it cannot contact | starting when setting up, transporting, |

Always disconnect spark plug I

IIIJlllUllllllll

A WARNING A

chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defe-c-ts, or other reproduc-

tive harm.

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a Sears tractor. It has been designed, engineered and manufac- tured to give you the best possible dependability and

performahceo Should you experience any problem you cannot easily

remedy, please contact your nearest Sears Service Cen- ter/Department. We have competent, well-trained tech-

nicians and the proper tools to service or repair this trac- tor°

Please read and retain this manual The instructions will enable you to assemble and maintain your tractor prop-

erly. Always observe the "SAFETY RULES"°

MODEL NUMBER 917_258591

PRODUCT SPECiFiCATIONS

HORSEPOWER: 16

GASOLINE CAPACITY 3.5 GALLONS

AND TYPE: UNLEADED REGULAR OIL TYPE (API-SF/SG/SH): SAE 10W-30 (above 32°F)

SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F)

OIL CAPACITY: W/FILTER: 4_0PINTS

W/O FILTER: 3_5 PINTS

SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION RC12YC (GAP: .040")

VALVE CLEARANCE: NOT ADJUSTABLE

SERIAL NUMBER

GROUND SPEED (MPH): FORWARD: 5..5

REVERSE: 2.4

TIRE PRESSURE: FRON]:[ 14 PSI

REAR: 10 PSI

DATE OF PURCHASE

THE MODEL ANDSERIAL NUMBERS WILL BE FOUND

CHARGING SYSTEM: 15 AMPS @3600 RPM

ON A PLATE UNDER THE SEAT° YOU SHOULD RECORD BOTH SERIAL NUMBER AND

DATE OF PURCHASE AND KEEP IN A SAFE PLACE

BATTERY: AMPYHR: 30

MtNo CCA: 240 CASE SIZE: U1R

FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 30-35 FT. LBS.

MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT

A Sears maintenance agreement is available on this prod-

ucL Contact your nearest Sears store for details.

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and observe the safety ruleso ° Follow a regular schedule in maintaining, caring for and

using your tractor.

° Follow the instnJctions under "Customer Responsibili-

ties" and "Storage" sections of this owner's manual

WARNING: This tractor is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any

unimproved forest-covered, brush-covered or grass-cov- ered land unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws

(if any)., If a spark attester is used, itshould be maintained in effective working order by the operator,

in the state of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands_ A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest Sears Authorized Service Center (See REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).

LIMITED "rwo YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT

For two (2) years from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Riding Equipment ismaintained, lubricated and tuned up according to the instructions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair or replace, tree of charge, any parts found to be defective in material or workmanship..

This Warranty does not cover: ° Expendable itemswhich become worn during normal use, such as blades, spark plugs, air cleaners, belts, etco

• Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails, thorns, stumps, or glass_

• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, negligence, improper storage or accident or the failure to maintain the equipment accordingto the instructions contained in the owner's manual.

• Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.

LIMITED 90 DAY WARRANTY ON BATTERY

For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery included with this riding equipment proves defective in material or

workmanship and our testing determines the battery will not hold a charge, Sears wil!replace the battery at no charge.

IN-HOME WARRANTY SERVICE ON YOUR CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT tS AVAILABLE AT NO-CHARGE FOR 30 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PURCHASE° PLEASE CONTACT YOUR NEAREST SERVICE CENTER,. AFTER 30 DAYS

FROM THE DATE OF PURCHASE, WARRANTY SERVICE IS AVAILABLE BY'TAKING YOUR CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIP-

MENT TO YOUR NEAREST SEARS SERVICE CENTER. (IN-HOME WARRANTY SERVICE WILL STILL BE AVAILABLE AFTER 30 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PURCHASE BUT A STANDARD TRIP CHARGE WILL APPLY,.) THIS WARRANTY APPLIES ONLY WHILE THIS PRODUCT tS IN THE UNITED STATES°

This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rightswhich may vary from state to state,

SEARS, ROEBUCK AND COo, D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, tL 60179

'H',"H'I'II'HI,II, II II I I Ill II I .............................

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

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS ...................................... 3

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ..................... 3, 16-19

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

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

ASSEMBLY .............................................................. 7-10

OPERATION ........................................................... 11-16

INDEX

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

Adjustments:

Brake .............................................. 24

Carburetor° ...................................................27

Mower

Front-To-Back ............................22

Side-To-Side .................................22

Throttle Control Cable ....................27

Air Filter, Engine ......................................20

Air Screen, Engine ........................................19

Assembly ....................................................7.10

Battery:

Charging ...................................................8

Cleaning ............................................18

Stadtng with Weak Battery ................26

Storage .........................................................28

Terminals ..........................................18

Belt:

Motion Ddve

Removal/Replacement ...............24

Mower Belt(s)

RemovaVReplacement ........... 23

Blade:

Sharpening .................................... 18

Replacement ................................................18

Brake Adjustment ...............................................24

Carburetor Adjustment .................................27

Controls, Tractor .................................... 12

Customer Responsibilities ..................17-20

Engine:

Air Filter..............................................20

AirScreen......................................19

CoolingFins................................20

Engine Oil ......................................15,19

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

Spark Plug(s) ....................................20

Traotor:

Battery.......................................... 18

Blade.............................................18

Lubrication Chart ..................... !7

Maintenance Schedule ............ i7

Tire Care ...............................8,18,25

Transaxle .......................................19

Cutting Height, Mower ............................13

Electrical:

interlocks and Relays ................... 26

Schematic ..............................................31

Widng Diagram ....................................32

Engine:

Air Filter ...................................................20

Air Screen .............................................19

Cooling Fins ...........................................20

Oil Change ...................................................19

Oil Level ...................................................19

Oil Type ..........................................15,19

Preparation ............................................15

Repair Parts .......................................50-55

Stading ..........................................................15

Storage ......................................................28

Filter:

Air Filter ...................................................... 20

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

Fuel:

Type ...........................................................15

Storage .....................................................28

Fuse ...............................................................................26

Hood Removal/installation .......................26

Leveling Mower Deck ....................................22

Lubrication:

Chad .............................................17

Engine......................................................19

Maintenance Schedule ........................t7

Mower:

Adjustment, Front-to-Back ..............22

Adjustment, Side-to-Side .................22

Blade Replacement ........................18

Blade Sharpening ...................................18

Cutting Height ..................................13

Installation ............................................29

Operation ....................................................14

Removal ..............................................2 t

Mowing Tips ............................................16

Muffler, ............................................................20

Spark Attester ....................................3,40

0i1:

Cold Weather Conditions ...........15,19

Engine ................................................19

Storage ...................................................28

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ...................................... 17

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS ............................ 21-27

STORAGE .................................................................... 28

TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................ 29-30

REPAIR PARTS - TRACTOR ................................. 32-49

REPAIR PARTS - ENGINE .................................... 50-55

PARTS ORDERING/SERVICE ................ BACK COVER

Operation ..............................................12-16

Operating Mower ................................... 14

Options:

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

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

Parking Brake .....................................12-t3

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

Parts, Replacement]Repair _.................32-49

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

Repair Parts ......................................32-55

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

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

Service and Adjustments ....................21-27

Carburetor.............................................27

Fuse ....................................................26

Hood Removal/Installation...............26

Motion Drive Belt

RemovaVReplacement ............24

Mower Belt(s)

Removal/Replacement ..............23

Mower Adjustment

Front4o-Back ............................22

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

Mower Removal/Installation ...........21

Tire Care ..........................................8,18,25

Slope Guide Sheet ....................................59

Spark Plug(s) ..............................................20

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

Starting the Engine ...................................15

Steedng Wheel ...................................7,25

Stopping the Tractor ...............................13

Storage......................................................28

ThrottleControlCableAdjustment........27

Tires..............................................8,18,25

Trouble Shooting Chad ....................29-30

Transaxle ................................................19

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

Widng Diagram ............................................32

Wiring Schematic ...................................31

ACCESSORIES AND ATTACHMENTS

These accessories and attachments were available through most Sears retail outlets and service centers when the tractor was purchased, Most Sears stores can order these items for you when you providethe model number of your tractor.

ENGINE

SPARKPLUG GAS CAN ENGINEOIL FUELSTABILIZER

AIRFILTER

MAINTENANCE

BLADES BELTS

,, ,,,, ,,,,, ,,, ,i

PERFORMANCE

Sears offers a wide varlety ofattachmentsthat fit your tractor Many of these are listed belowwithbrief explanations of how they can help you. This list was current at the time of publication;however, it may change in futureyears - more attachments may be added, changes may be made in these attachments, orsome may no longer be available or fityour model Contact your nearest Sears store for the

accessories and attachments that are available for your tractor.

Most of these attachments do not require additional hitches or conversion kits (those that do are indicated) and are designed for easy attaching and detaching

AERATOR promotes deep root growth for a healthy lawn. Ta- pered 2.5-inch steel spikes mounted on 10-inch diameter discs puncture holes in soit at close intervals to let moisture soak in..

Steel weight tray for increased penetration.. BAGGER lets you collect grass clippings and leaves for a

healthier, heater looking lawn.. Two Permanex containers hold 30-gallon plastic bags.

BUMPER protectsfront end of tractor from damage. CARTS make hauting easy. Variety of sizes available, plus

accessories such as side panel kits, toot caddy, cart cover, protective mat and dolly..

CORING AERATOR takes small plugs out of soil to allow mois- ture and nutrients to reach grass roots_ 36-inch swath. 24 hardened steel coring tips. 150 [b.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 HITCH letsyou tow2or3 pull-behindattachments at once, such as sweepers, dethatchers, aerators (not for use with rollers,

carts or other heavy attachments), GAUGE WHEELS on both sides of the mower deck reduce chances of"scalping" on uneven terrain,. For mower decks not so

equipped, MULCH RAKE/DETHATCHER loosens soi| and flipsthatch and

matted leaves to lawn surface for easy pickup_ Twenty spring tine teeth° Useful toprepare bare areas for seeding. Available forfront or rear mounting. HIGH PERFORMANCE REEL-ACTION

SPRING TINE DETHATCHER covers 36-inch wide path and tosses thatch into large hopper_ Mounts behind tractor.

MULCHING CLOSE-OUT PLATE KIT, once installed, lets you mulch, discharge or bag clippings (bagger optional) without changing blades° For models not equipped as 3-in-! Convertible

mowers. See "MOWER" in the Repair Parts section of this manual

RAMP TOPS AND FEET let you load and unload tractor froma pickup truck,. Use with 2 x 8 or 2 x 10 lumber.

ROLLER for smoother lawn surface. 36-inch wide, 18-inch diameter water-tight drumholds up to 390 lbs,.ofweight,. Rounded

edges prevent harm to turf, Adjustable scraper automatically cleans drum.

SNOW BLADE for snow removalonly, 14-inch high, 48-inch wide btade clears 42-inch path when angled left or right. Raises, lowers

with side lever. Adjustable skids; replaceable, reversible scraper bar_ (Use with tire chains and wheel weights and/or rear drawbar weight.)

SNOW'THROWER has40-inch swath.. Drum-type auger handles powdery and wet/heavy snow,. Mounts easily with simple pin arrangement. Discharge chute adjusts from tractor seat., 6-inch diameter spout discharges snow 10 to 50 feet. L! _controlled at

tractor seat. (Use with chains and wheel weights and/or rear drawbar weight.)

SPRAYERS use 12-volt DC electric motor that connects to the tractor battery or other 12-volt source, Includes booms for

automatic spraying and hand held wand for spot spraying.. Wand has adjustable spray pattern. For appiying herbicides, insecti- cides, fungicidesand liquid fertilizers.

SPREADER/SEEDERS make seeding, fertilizing, and weed kill* ing easy. Broadcast spreaders are also useful for granular de-

icersand sand.. SWEEPERS let you collect grass clippings and leaves.

TILLER has 5 hp engine and 36-inch swath to prepare seed beds, cultivate and compost garden residue. Tiller has its own built-in lift and depth control system and does NOT require a sleeve hitch.

Fitsanylawn, yardorgardentractoro Simpiy hook uptothetractor drawbar and go! Optional accessories convert unit for dethatching, aerating, hilling.,,.without tools.

TIRE CHAINS are heavy duty; closely spaced extra-large cross links give smooth ride, outstanding traction_

TRACTOR CAB has heavy duty vinyl fabric over tubular steel frame, ABS plastic top; clear plastic windshield offers 360 degree visibility. Hinged metal doors with catch, Keeps operator warm and dry. Remove vinyl sides and windshields for use as sun

protector in summer° Optional accessories include: tinted/ tempered solid safety glass windshield with hand operated wiper;

12-volt amber caution light for mounting on cab top, VACS for powerful collection ofheavy grass clippings and leaves,.

Optional wand attachment to pick up debris in hard-to-reach

places. VACICHIPPER includes a chipper-shredder.. WEIGHT BRACKET for drawbar for snow removal applications.

Uses (1) 55 tb. weight. WHEEL WEIGHTS for rear wheels provide needed traction for

snow removal or dozing heavy materials.

CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK

Parts Bag contents shown full size

................ ...... i ii

(1) ShoutderBolt

5/16-18

(1) Knob

(1) Washer 17/32 x ! -3/16 x 12 Ga

tainer Springs (double loop)

(4) Retainer Springs (single loop)

In, I Iii ii illl

illulnnnl II

Parts packed seParately in carton

Seat

Video

Steering

Wheel

Manual

..... i1,1iii,

Mutcher

Plate

Cassette

Parts Bag

Parts bag contents not shown full size

(2) Screws

#10 x 5/8

(2) Weld Nuts #10

__J (2) Washers 3/16 x 3/4 x 16 Gauge

(2) Hex Bolts 1/4_20 x 3/4

_f'_'_'/(2) Washers _ (2) Lock

• '"----I /' 9/32 x 5/8 _ Washers 1/4

'_j,,J x 16 Ga,

(2) Lock Washers

#10

(2) Hex Nuts 1/4-20

(2) Shoulder (2) CenteP (2) Gauge

Bolts lock Nuts Wheels

(2) Keys

2) Washers 3/8x 7/8 x 14 Gauge

Wheel

Insert

Steering

Assemblies

_'_12) Front Link Assemblies _

Slope Sheet

iiiiiiiiiiiiii iii L i iii I i iiiiiiii I L III " III

Steering

Sleeve

ASSEMBLY

Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes_ To ensure safe and proper operation of your tractor, all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely° Use

the correct tools as necessary to insure proper tightness,

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

A socket wrench set will make assembly easier. Standard wrench sizes are listed

(1) 3/4" wrench (2) 7/16" wrench (1) 9/t 6" wrench Utility knife

(1) 1/2" wrench Tire pressure gauge (1) 3/4" socket w/drive ratchet

When right and left hand is mentioned in this manual, it means when you are in the operating position (seated behind the steering wheel),

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

• Remove all accessible loose parts and parts cartons from carton (See page 6)°

• Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on all four corners of carton, and lay panels flat.

• Remove mower and packing materials.

• Check for any additional loose parts or cartons and remove,

BEFORE ROLLING TRACTOR OFF SKID

/ / _" /

1 I t1 ! /

! /

FIG. 1

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL (See Fig. 1)

• Remove locknut and iarge flat washer from steering

shaft.

• Position front wheels of the tractor so they arepointing straight forward,

• Slide the steering sleeve over the steering shafL

° Position steering wheel so cross bars are horizontal

(left to right) and slide onto adapter.

o Secure steering wheel to steering shaft with locknut

and large fiat washer previously removed. Tighten securely,

° Snap steering wheel insert into center of steering

wheel.,

• Remove protective materials from tractor hood and grill,.

IMPORTANT: CHECK FOR AND REMOVEANY STAPLES INSKIDTHAT MAYPUNCTU RETIRES WHERETRACTOR

IS TO ROLL OFF SKID,

TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Opera- tion section for location and function of con-

trols)

• Press lift lever plungerand raise attachment lift lever to itshighest position,

• Release parking brake by depressing clutch/brake pedal.

° Place freewheel control in freewheeling position to

disengage transmission (See "TO TRANSPORT" in the Operation section of this manual).,

• Roll tractor backwards off skid°

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR

CONNECT BATTERY (See Fig. 2)

him.. i iiiilull ii ii ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, 1 iiiiii nil I HI

CAUTION: Do not short batterytermi- nats by allowing a wrench or any other

object to contact both terminals at the same time. Before connecting battery,

remove metal bracelets, wristwatch bands, rings, etc.

Positive terminal must be connected

first to prevent sparking from acciden- tal grounding.

• Lift hood to raised position_

• Open terminal access doors, remove terminal protec- tive caps and discard.,

• If this battery is put into service after month and year indicated on label (label located between terminals) charge battery for minimum of one hour at 6-10 amps

• First connect RED battery cable to positive (+) battery terminal with hex bolt, flat washer, Iockwasher-and hex

nut as shown. Tighten securety_

° Connect BLACK grounding cable to negative (-) bat_

tery terminal with remaining hex bolt, flat washer, lock washer and hex nut. Tighten securely.

• Close terminal access doors..

Use terminal access doors for:

• Inspection for secure connections (to tighten hard- ware)_

° Inspection for corrosion,

• Testing battery.

° Jumping (if required)..

° Periodic charging.

LOCK FLAT

HEX NUT WASHER WASHER

INSTALL SEAT (See Fig. 3)

Adjust seat before tighteningadjustment knob.

Remove cardboard packing on seat pan°

• Place seat on seat pan and assemble shoulder bolto

• Assemble adjustment knob and fiat washer loosely° Do not tighten.,

• Tighten shoulder bolt securely,,

• Lower seat into operating position and sit on seat,

° Slide seat until a comfortable position is reached which

allows you to press clutch/brake pedal all the way down.

• Get off seat without moving its adjusted position.

• Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob securely.

SEAT

SEAT PAN

SHOULDER BOLT

ADJUSTMENT KNOB

FLAT WASHER

FIG. 3

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

The tires on your tractor were overinflated at the factory for

shipping purposes. Correct tire pressure is important for best cutting performance.

• Reduce tire pressure to PSi shown in "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" on page 3 of this manual

FIG. 2

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM

After you learn how to operate your' tractor, check to see that the brake is properly adjusted. See "TO ADJUST BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments section of this

manual,,

ASSEMBLY

INSTALL MOWER AND DRIVE BELT (See Figs. 4 and 7)

Be sure tractor is on level surface and mower suspension arms are raised with attachment lift control+ Engage park-

ing brake, o Cut and remove ties securing anti-sway bar and belts+

Swing anti+sway bar to left side of mower deck

• Slide mower under tractor with discharge guard to right side of tractor+

IMPORTANT.* CHECK BELT FOR PROPER ROUTING IN

ALL MOWER PULLEY GROOVES, INSTALL BELT INTO

ENGINE PULLEY GROOVE.

• Install one front link in top hole of the L+H.front mower bracket and L+H+front suspension bracket+ Retain with

two single loop retainer springs as shown.

• Install second front linkinR.H. frontsuspension bracket and retain with single loop retainer spring as shown.

• Slide right side of mower back and install finkintop hole

of R+H,front mower bracket. Retain with single loop

retainer spring as shown.

o Turn height adjustment knob counterclockwise until it

stops+

° Lower mower linkage with attachment lift control,

o Place the suspension arms on outward pointing deck

pins. if necessary, rock and raise front of mower to align deck pins with the holes in suspension arms+ Retain with double loop retainer springs with loops

down as shown.

• Connect anti-sway bar to chassis bracket under left footrest and retain with double loop retainer spring.

- Install clutch rod in clutch lever,+ Secure with retainer

spring.

° Turn height adjustment knob clockwise to remove

slack from mower suspension.

° Raise deck to highest position, ° Assemble gaugewheels as shown usinglong shoutder

bolts, 3/8 washers, and 3t8-16 center locknuts+Tighten securely

o Adjust gauge wheels before operating mower asshown

in the Operation section of this manual.

CHECK MOWER LEVELNESS

For best cutting results, mower should be properly leveled. See '_TOLEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the Service and

Adjustments section of this manual

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF ALL

BELTS

See the figures that are shown for replacing motion, mower drive, and mower blade drive belts in the Service and

Adjustments section of this manual Verify'that the belts are routed correctly,

CLUTCH LEVER

CLUTCH

ROD

RETAINER

SPRING

FRONT

SUSPENSION

DRACKETS

SHOULDER

BOLT

GAUGE WHEEL

318WASHER

USE PLIERS FOR

RETA|NERSPRINGS

DOUBLE LOOP

CHASSIS (outward pointing BRACKET deck pins)

3/8-16 CENTER LOCKNUT

DOUBLE LOOP RETAINER ANTI+SWAY

SPRING BAR

RETAINER SPRING

IDLER

PULLEY

SUSPENSION

ARMS

FIG. 4

ENGINE PULLEY

FRONT LINK

SINGLE LOOP

RETAINER SPRINGS

MOWER BRACKET

DISCHARGEGUARD

JJuJ

INSTALL MULCHER PLATE (See Figs. 5 and

, Install two latch hooks to mulcher plate usingscrew,

washer, lock washer, and weld nut as shown.

NOTE; Pre-assemble weld nut to latch hook by inserting

weld nut from the top with hook pointing down

• Tighten hardware securely_ ° Raise and hold deflector shield in upright position.

• Place front of nlulcher plate over front of mower deck opening and slide into place, as shown.

• Hook front latch into hole on front of mower deck°

° Hook rear latch into hole on back of mower deck.

, ,,,,,,,,_, ,_,,, .......... ,,,, ,,, ...... IHI

CAUTION: Do not remove discharge

guard from mower. Raise and hold guard when attaching mulcher plate

and allow it to rest on plate while in operation,

TO CONVERT TO BAGGING OR

DISCHARGING

Simply remove mulcher plate and store in a safe place.

Your mower is now ready for discharging or installationof optional grass catcher accessory.

NOTE- It isnot necessary to change blades. The mulcher

blades are designed for discharging and bagging also.

HOOK POINTS

LOCK

WASHER

DOWN

HOOK

WELD NUT

FROMTHE TOP,

LOCK WASHER

WELD.

NUT \_ SCREW

LATCH

WASHER

MULCHER PLATE

FIG. 5

DEFLECTOR SHIELD

LATCH HOOKS

FIG, 6

,/CHECKLIST

BEFORE YOU OPERATE AND ENJOY YOUR NEW

TRACTOR, WE WISH TOASSURE THAT YOU RECEIVE THEBEST PERFORMANCE AND SATISFACTION FROM

THIS QUALITY PRODUCT.

PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING CHECKLIST: v' All assembly instructions have been completed.

,/ No remaining loose parts in carton°

/ Battery is properly prepared and charged. _Minimum

1 hour at 6 amps). ,/ Seat is adjusted comfortably and tightened securely. ,/ All tires are properly inflated. (For shipping purposes,

the tires were 0verinflated at the factory)° €" Be sure mower deck is properly leveled side-to-side/

front-to-rear for best cutting results. (Tires must be

properly inflated for leveling). #" Check mowerand drive belts. Be sure they are routed

propedy around pulleys and inside all belt keepers. / Check wiring. See that all connections are still secure

and wires are properly clamped. ,/ Before driving tractor, be sure freewheel control is in

drive position°

WHILE LEARNING HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR, PAY

EXTRA ATTENTION TO THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT ITEMS:

v" Engine oil isat proper level,

,/ Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean, regular unleaded

gasoline. ,," Become familiar with all controls - their location and

function. Operate them before you start the engine. #" Be sure brake system is in safe operating condition°

_" It is important to purge the transmission before you

operate your' new tractor: for the first time. Follow

proper'starting and transmission purging instructions

(See "TO START ENGINE and "PURGE TRANSMIS-

SION" in Operation section of this manual),

OPERATION

These symbols may appear on your tractor or inliterature supplied with the product. Learn and understand their meaning_

BATTERY CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW

WARNING

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE CLUTCH LIGHTS ON LIGHTS OFF

Ix! c--_@ 0

FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT DIFFERENTIAL PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED

LOCK LOCKED

REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH

MOWER LIFT ATTACHMENT ATTACHMENT IGNITION

CLUTCH ENGAGED CLUTCH DISENGAGED

LOW PARKING BRAKE

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

HYDROSTATIC FREE WHEEL

(Hydro Models only)

OPERATION

i lll ii illllllll illllllllllll i i i i ii HH Illlll

KNOW YOUR TRACTOR

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR TRACTOR

Compare the illustrationswithyourtractortofamiliarize yourselfwiththe locationsofvariouscontrols andadjustments_ Save

this manual for future reference_

THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL

CLUTCH/BRAKE

HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB

FREEWHEEL 2 MPH CONTROL 1

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER

_ * ...... - LIFT LEVER

SPEED

3 MPH

IGNITION SWITCH LIGHT SWITCH

PLUNGER

ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER

PARKING BRAKE LEVER

MOTION CONTROL LEVER

Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the American National Standards institute°

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEV ER: Used to engage the mower blades, or other attachments mounted to your

tractor° LIGHT SWITCH: Turns the headlights on and off,. THROTrLE/CHOKE CONTROL: Used for starting and

controlling engine speed, CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL: Used for'declutching and brak- ing the tractor and starting the engine,

PARKING BRAKE LEVER: Locks clutch/brake pedal into the brake position.

AMMETER - Indicates charging (+) or discharging (-) of battery,

FIG. 7

HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB: Used to release attach- ment lift lever when changing its position,

MOTION CONTROL LEVER: Selects the speed and direction of tractor.

LIFT LEVER PLUNGER: Used to release attachment lift lever when changing its position.

ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER: Usedto raise and lower the mower deckor otherattachments mounted toyourtractor°

IGNITION SWITCH: Used for starting and stopping the engine.

FREEWHEEL CONTROL: Disengages transmission for

pushing or'slowly towing the tractorwith the engine off,,

OPERATI

,l,,,ll,l,_H ,l,Hlllllllll,l,, ,,,,,,l,,,,,,uii,l,llll,i i i i

I _ The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can I [L_'_r__E'] result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields while operating your

I _ tractor or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recommend a wide vision safety mask

I _ over the spectacles or standard safety glasses.

: :: : i,,,,ii,ii .................... !,!,,, I L !

HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR

TO SET PARKING BRAKE (See Fig. 8)

Your tractor isequipped with an operator presence sensing switch, When engine is running, any attempt by the operator to leave the seat without first setting the parking brake will shut off the engine.

. Depress clutch/brake pedal intofuti "BRAKE" position

and hold_

° Place parking brake lever in "ENGAGED" position and

release pressure from clutch/brake pedal, Pedal should remain in "BRAKE" position. Make sure parking brake

will hold tractor secure.

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER

IGNITION

KEY _.

THROTTLE/

POSITION

CLUTCH/BRAKE HEIGHT PEDAL "DRIVE" ADJUSTMENT POSITION KNOB

STOPPING (See Fig. 8) MOWER BLADES -

• Move attachment clutch lever to "DISENGAGED" pco sition.

GROUND DRIVE -

• Depress clutch!brake pedal into full "BRAKE" position.

• Move motion control lever to neutral (N) position,

IMPORTANT: THE MOTION CONTROL LEVER DOES NOT RETURN TO NEUTRAL (N) POSITION WHEN THE

CLUTCHIBRAKE PEDAL IS DEPRESSED° ENGINE -

• Move throttlecontrol to slow (,_ub) position.

NOTE: Failure to move throttle control to slow (=,=h) position and allowing engine to idle before stopping may cause engine to "backfire"..

"ENGAGED" POSITION

PARKING BRAKE "DISENGAGED" POSITION

FIG. 8

• Turn ignition key to "OFF" position and remove key. Always remove key when leaving tractor to prevent

unauthorized use.

• Never use choke to stop engine, NOTE: Under certain conditions when tractor is standing

idle withthe engine running, hot engine exhaust gases may cause "browning" of grass, To eliminate this possibility, always stop engine when stopping tractor on grass areas,

pletely, asdescribed above, before leav- CAUTION: Always stop tractor com-

ing the operator's position; to empty grass catcher, etc.

TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL (See Fig. 8)

Always operate engine at full throttle.

- Operating engine at lessthan full throttle reduces the battery charging rate°

- Full throttle offers the best mower performance.

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD

(See Fig. 8)

The direction and speed of movement is controlled by the motion control lever_

° Start tractor with motion control lever in neutral (N)

position

• Release parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.

° Slowly move motion control lever to desired position°

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT

(See Fig. 8) The cutting height is controlled byturning the height adjust-

ment knob in desired direction.

° Turn knob clockwise (f-_) to raise cutting height. ° Turn knob counterclockwise (P-_)to lower cutting

height.

The cutting height range is approximately 1-1/2" to 4". The

heights are measured from the ground to the blade tip with the engine not running. These heights are approximate and may vary depending upon soil conditions, height of grass and types of grass being mowed.

° The average lawn should be cut to approximately 2-1/2

inches during the cool season and to over 3 inches during hot months., For healthier and better looking

lawns, mow often and after moderate growth.

- For best cutting performance, grass over 6 inches in height should be mowed twice° Make the first cut

relatively high; the second to desired height.

OPERATION

........:H

TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS (See Fig. 9)

Gauge wheels are properly adjusted when they are slightly off the ground when mower is atthe desired cutting

height in operating position. Gauge wheels then keep the deck in proper position to help prevent scalping in most

terrain conditions

° Adjust mower to desired cutting height (See "TO

ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT' inthe Opera- tion section of this manual)

• With 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 shoulder bolt, 3/8 washer, and 3/8-16 Iocknut and

tighten securely

• Repeat for opposite side installing gauge wheel in same adjustment hole.

........................................................ :: ........ :::.?...:..............

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

hills with slopes greater than 15° and CAUTION: Do not drive up or down

do not drive across any slope.

• Choose the slowest speed before starting up or down hills,

° Avoid stopping or changing speed on hills.

• if slowing is necessary, move throttle control lever to slower position.

• If stopping is absolutely necessary, push clutch/brake pedal quickly to brake position and engage parking

brake.

° Move motion control lever to neutral (N) positiorL IMPORTANT: THE MOTION CONTROL LEVER DOES

NOT RETURN TO NEUTRAL (N) POSITION WHEN THE CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL IS DEPRESSED_

• To restart movement, slowly release parking brake and clutch/brake pedal,

• Slowly move motion control lever to slowest setting°

• Make all turns slowly.

FIG. 9

TO OPERATE MOWER (See Fig. 10)

Yourtractorisequipped withanoperatorpresence sensing switch. Any attempt by the operatorto leave the seat with theengine runningand theattachment clutchengaged will

shut offthe engine_

• Select desired height of cut.

Lower mower with attachment lift control.

Start mower blades by engaging attachment clutch control.

TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disengage attachment clutch control°

without either the entire grass catcher,

l i_l_ CAUTION: Do not operate the mower

ATTACHMENT ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER LIFT LEVER

"ENGAGED" HIGH POSITION

POSITION

on mowers so equipped, or the dis- charge guard in place.

TO TRANSPORT (See Figs. 7 and 11)

When pushingortowingyourtractor,be sure to disengage transmissionby placing freewheel controlin freewheeling

position. Free wheel controlis located at the real drawbar

of tractor.

• Raise attachment lift to highest position with attach- ment lift control.

• Pull freewheel control knob out and hold in position by insertingretainer spring intoforward hole ofcontrol rod.

• Do not push ortow tractor at more than two (2) MPH.

• To reengage transmission, reverse above procedure.

NOTE: To protect hood from damage when transporting

your tractor on atruck ora trailer, be sure hood is closed and

secured to tractor. Usean appropriate means of tying hood to tractor (rope, cord, etc.).

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER

"DISENGAGED"

POSITION

"_ DISCHARGE

GUARD

FIG. 10 14

FIG. 11

OPEBA ON

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE

CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL (See Fig. 16)

• The engine in your tractor has been shipped, from the factory_ already filled with summer weight oil

o Check engine oil with tractor on level ground.

• Unthread and remove oil fill cap/dipstick; wipe oil off..

Reinsert the dipstick intothe tube and rest oil fillcap on

the tube. Do not thread the cap onto the tube. Remove and read oil level If necessary, add oil until "FULL"

mark on dipstick is reached. Do not overfill.

° For cold weather operation you should change oil for

easier starting (See "OIL VISCOSITY CHART' in the Customer Responsibilities section of this manual).

° To change engine oil, see the Customer Responsibili-

ties section in this manual

ADD GASOLINE

° Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular unleaded

gasoline witha minimumofB7octane (Use of leaded gasolinewill increase carbon and lead oxidedeposits

and reduce valve life). Do not mix oil with gasoline.

Purchase fuel in quantities that can be used within30

days to assure fuel freshness.

IMPORTANT: WHEN OPERATING IN TEMPERATURES BELOW 32°F(0°C), USE FRESH, CLEANWINTER GRADE

GASOLINE TO HELP INSURE GOOD COLD WEATHER

STARTING° WARNING: Experience indicates that alcohol blended

fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine

problems, the fuel system should be emptied before stor- age of 30 days or longer. Drain the gas tank, start the

engine and let it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next season° See Storage Instruc-

tions for additional information,. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fueI tank or permanent damage may occur.

_) AUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank

TO START ENGINE (See Fig. 8)

When starting the engine for the first time or ifthe engine has run out of fuel, it will take extra cranking time to move fuel from the tank to the engine.

° Be sure freewheel control is in the transmission em

gaged position.

• Sit on seat in operating position, depress clutch/brake pedal and set parking braker

° Place motion control lever in neutrat (N) position.. ° Move attachment clutch to "DISENGAGED" position..

° Move throttle control to choke (N) position. Note: Before starting, read the warm and cold starting

procedures below.,

filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any

spilled oil or fuet. Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open flame.

o Insertkey intoignitionand turn keyclockwise to"START'

position and release key as soon as engine starts. Do not run starter continuously for more than fifteen sec-

onds per minute,. If the engine does not start after

several attempts, move throttle controi to fast (,ca,) dPosition,wait a few minutes and try again.. Ifengine still

oes not start, move the throttle control back to the

choke (N) position and retry_

WARM WEATHER STARTING (50° F and above) = When engine starts, move the throttlecontrol tothe fast

(,_) position.

° The attachments and ground drive can now be used° If

the engine does not accept the load, restart the engine

and allow it to warm up for one minute using the choke as described above.

COLD WEATHER STARTING ( 50° F and beiow)

• When engine starts, allow engine to run withthe throttle control in the choke (]\1) position until the engine runs

roughly, then move throttle control to fast (,t_) position°

This may require an engine warm-up period from

several seconds to several minutes, depending onthe

temperature.

HYDROSTATIC TRANSMISSION WARM UP ° Before driving the unit in cold weather, the transmis-

sion should be warmed up as follows:

° Be sure the tractor ison level ground,,

° Place the motion control lever in neutral

Re{ease the parking brake and let theclutch/brake slowly return to operating position.

° Allow one minute for transmission to warm up.

This can be done during the engine warm up

period.

° The attachments can also be used during the engine

warm-up periodafter thetransmission hasbeen warmed up.

NOTE: if at a high altitude (above 3000 feet) or in cold

temperatures (below 32 F) thecarburetor fuel mixture may

need to beadjusted for best engine performance. See 'TO ADJUST CARBURETOR" inthe Service and Adjustments section of this manual

PURGE TRANSMISSION

t.... A CAUTION: Never engage or disengage

U ning.

To ensure proper operation and performance, it is recom-

mended that the transmission be purged before operating tractor for the first time. This procedure will remove any trapped air inside the transmission which may have devel- oped during shipping of your tractor.

IMPORTANT: SHOULDYOUR TRANSMISSION REQUIRE

REMOVAL FOR SERVICE OR REPLACEMENT, IT

SHOULD BE PURGED AFTER REINSTALLATION

BEFORE OPERATING THE TRACTOR.. ° Place tractor safely on level surface with engine offand

parking brake seL

° Disengage transmission by placing freewheel con!rol

in freewheeling position (See _TOTRANSPORT' in

this section of manual)°

freewheel lever while the engine is run-

'15

• Sitting inthetractor seat, start engine° After the engine is running, move throttle control to slow (,im_)position_

With motion control lever inneutral (N) position, slowly

disengage clutch/brake pedal.

• Move motion control lever to full forward positionand hold for five (5) seconds. Move lever to full reverse

position and hold for five (5) seconds. Repeat this procedure three (3) times.

NOTE: During this procedure there will be no movement of drive wheels. The air isbeing removed from hydraulic drive system.

° Move motion control leverto neutral (N)position. Shut-

off engine and set parking brake.

• Engage transmission by placing freewheel control in

driving position (See'q'O TRANSPORT" inthissection of manual)°

• Sittingin thetractor seat, startengine. Afterthe engine

is running, move throttle control to half (1/2) speed. With motion control lever in neutral (N) position, slowly

disengage clutch/brake pedal°

° Slowly move motion control lever forward, after the

tractor moves approximately five (5) feet, slowly move

motion control lever to reverse position° After the

tractor moves approximately five (5) feet return the

motion control lever tothe neutral (N) position. Repeat

this procedure with the motion control lever three (3) times.

• Your tractor is now purged and now ready for normal

operation.

MOWING TIPS

o Tire chains cannot be used when the mower housing

is attached to tractor°

° Mower' should be properly leveled for best mow!ng

performance. See'q'O LEVEL MOWER HOUSING in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

= The left hand side of mower' should be used for trim-

ming.

• Drive so that clippings are discharged onto the area

that has been cut. Have the cut area to the ri_.htof the machine. This will result in a more even distnbution of

clippings and more uniform cutting.

• When mowing large areas, start by turning to the right

so that clippings will discharge away from shrubs, fences, driveways, etc_ After one or two rounds, mow

in the opposite direction making left hand turns until finished (See Fig_ 12).

° tf grass is extremely tall, it should be mowed twice to

reduce load and possible fire hazard from dried clip-

pings, Make first cut relatively high; the second to the desired height.

° Do not mow grass when it is wet. Wet grasswill ptug

mower and leave undesirable clumps. Allow grass to dry before mowing.

• Always operate engine at full throttle when mowing to

assure better mowing performance and proper dis- charge of material. Regulate ground speed by select-

ing a low enough gear to give the mower cutting

performance as welt as the quality of cut desired.

• When operating attachments, select a groundspeed

that will suit the terrain and give best perform,=nceof the attachment being used.

ATION

FIG. 12

MULCHING MOWING TIPS

IMPORTANT: FOR BEST PERFORMANCE, KEEP MOWER HOUSING FREE OF BUILT-UP GRASS AND

TRASH. CLEAN AFTER EACH USE,.

° The special mulching blade will recut the grass clip-

pings many times and reduce them in size so that as they fall onto the lawn they will disperse into the grass

and not be noticed. Also, the mulched grass will biode- grade quickly to provide nutrients ferthe lawno Always

mulch with your highest engine (blade) speed as this will provide the best recutting action of the blades_

° Avoid cutting your lawn when itis wet. Wet grass tends

to form clumps and interferes with the mulching action° The best time to mow your' lawn is the early afternoon,

At this time the grass has dried and the newly cut area will not be exposed to the direct sun°

° For best results, adjust the mower cutting height sothat

the mower cuts off only the top one-third of the grass

blades (See Fig. 13). For' extremely heavy mulching, reduce your' width ofcut on each pass and mow slowly.

* Certain types of grass and grass conditions may re-

quire that an area be mulched a second time to com- pletely hide the clippings° When doing a second cut,

mow across or perpendicular to the first cut path.

, Change your cutting pattern from week to week. Mow

north tosouth one week then change to east to west the next week_ This will he_pprevent matting and graining

of the lawno

MAX 1/3

FIG. 13

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ' j"___.i_ _.,_e'_j_ '"

,,YOUooM

Check Brake Operation _/' @i'

Check Tire Pressure ............[##'

Check for Loose Fasteners if

........................

R,,. Mowo,Siad,e .........V',....................

C Lubrication Chart _

T CheckBati'o' ;'Leve,,Rie,c, ';;' ......

0 Clean Battery and Te!m!na!s .... _ _ .....

a Check Transaxte Cooling _ ..... ,.......

Adjust Blade BeEt(s)Tension _i' s

Adjust Motion Drive Belt(s) Tension ........... _5

Check Engine Oil Leve,!................r, _ _.._

Change Engine Oil 1_1,2_ _#'

E _,_€_leanAir Filter .................... ..... _#'2 ..............................

N Clean Air Screen _=

G Inspect Muffler/spark A;r'ester _' ......

I Replace Oil Filter (If equipped) _,2

N ciean Engine Cooling Fins , _;z: ' .......

Replace Spark Plug {if

Repl.'C'e'A'_';F,terPaperCartridge ......................_ .......

Replace FueI Filter .......... _1'

I - Change more o{ten when operating under a heavy {cador in high ambient temperatures 2 _Service more often when operating In dirty or dustyconditions.

3 - If equipped with oil filler, change o_Ievery 50 hours 4 - Replace biadee more often when mowing in sandy soil

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this tractor does not cover itemsthat have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To

receive full value from the warranty, operator must maintain

tractor as instructed in this manual_ Some adjustments will need to be made periodically to

properly maintain your tractor, All adjustments in the Service 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 Gonger.

............. B .... ,,,, ,

. ........... : : ................

5 - if equipped with adjustable system.

6 - Not required if equipped withmafntenance-h'ee battery 7 - Tighten front axle pivot bolt 1o 35 ft.-tbs m_{mum

Do not overtighlen

LUBRICATION CHART

SPINDLE ZERK ®

® ®

BEARING ZERK _ BEARING ZERK

CLUTCH PIVOT

BEFORE EACH USE

• Check engine oil level.

• Check brake operation_

• Check tire pressure,,

° Check for loose fasteners.

(_)SAE 30 MOTOR OIL ®GENERAL PURPOSE GREASE

(_) REFER TO CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES "ENGINE" SECTION

IMPORTANT: DO NOT OtL OR GREASE THE PIVOT POINTS,

WHICH HAVE SPECIAL NYLON BEARINGS VISCOUS LUBRI- CANTS WILL ATTRACT DUST AND DIRT THAT WILL SHORTEN

THE LIFE OF THE SELF-LUBRICATING BEARINGS. IF YOU FEEL THEY MUST BE LUBRICATED, USE ONLY A DRY, POW-

17 DERED GRAPHITE TYPE LUBRICANT SPARINGLY,

CUSTOMER R ILITIES

TRACTOR

Always obsewe safety ruleswhen performingany mainte-

nance_

BRAKE OPERATION

If tractor requires more than six (6) feet stopping distance at high speed in highest gear, then brake must be adjusted_

(See "TO ADJUST BRAKE" in the Service and Adjust- ments section of this manual).

TIRES

• Maintain proper air pressure in all tires (See "PROD- UCT SPECIFICATIONS" on page 3 of this manual).

= Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect control chemi-

cals which can harm rubber.

• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp objects and other hazards that may cause tire damage.

NOTE: To seal tire punctures and prevent flat tires due to slow leaks, tire sealant may be purchased from your local parts dealer° Tire sealant also prevents tire dry rot and

corrosion.

BLADE CARE

For best results mower blades must be kept sharp_ Re- place bent or damaged blades°

BLADE REMOVAL (See Fig. 14)

° Raise mower to highest position to allow access to

blades

• Remove hex bolt, lockwasher and flat washer securing bIade_

• Install new or resharpened blade with trailing edge up towards deck as shown°

° Reassemble hex bolt, lock washer and flat washer in

exact order as shown.

° Tighten bolt securely (30-35 Ft. Lbsotorque). IMPORTANT: BLADE BOLT IS GRADE 8HEATTREATED_

NOTE: We do notrecommend sharpening blade- but ifyou

do, be sure the blade isbalanced_

BLADE

__ MANDREL

FLAT WISH ER__

LOCKWASHER_,.,.._

_LT (GRADE 8)*

ASSEMBLY

TRAILING

EDGE UP

TO SHARPEN BLADE (See Fig. 15)

Care should be taken to keep the blade balanced, An unbalancedblade willcauseexcessive vibrationand even-

tual damage to mower and engine. ° The blade canbe sharpened witha file or ona gdnding

wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen whileon the mower.

• To check blade balance, you will need a 5/8" diameter steelbolt, pin,ora cone balancer. (When usinga cone

balancer, follow the instructions supplied with bat-

ancer).

° Slide blade ontoan unthreaded portionofthe steel bolt

or pinand hold the bolt or pinparallel with the ground.

If btade is balanced, it should remain in a horizontal

position. If either end of the blade moves downward, sharpen the heavy end untilthe blade is balanced.

NOTE: Do notusea nail for balancing blade. The lobesof the center hole may appear to be centered, but are not.

518"BOLT ORPiN

FIG. 15

BATTERY

Your tractorhas a battery charging system which is suffi- cient for normal use. However, periodic charging of the

battery withan automotive charger witl extend its life.

• Keep battery and terminals clean. ° Keep battery bolts tight.

• Keep small vent holes open.

• Recharge at 6-10 amperes for 1 hour. TO CLEAN BATTERY AND TERMINALS Corrosion and dirt on the battery and terminals can cause

the battery to "leak" power.

° Remove terminal guard. = Disconnect BLACK battery cable first then RED bat-

tery cable and remove battery from tractor.

° Rinse the battery with plain water and dry. ° Clean terminals and battery cable ends with wire brush

until bright.

• Coat terminals with grease or petroleum jelfy. ° Reinstall battery (See "CONNECT BATTERY" in the

Assembly section of this manual).

*A GRADE 8 HEAT TREATED BOLT CAN 8E IDENTIFIED BY SIX LINES ON THE BOLT HEAD,

FIG, 14

+ 42 hidden pages