6E/ARS
MODEL 917.258691 OWNER'SMANUAL
oAssembly
oOperation
oCustomer Responsibilities
oService and Adjustments
oRepair Parts
®
CAUTION: 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
v II I'1 _ IIIIII'lr"llll' ' I111Irlllll
SAFETY RULES
_hb Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers
IMPORTANT: THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OBJECTS
FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT tN 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 familiar 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
• Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing.. Step
machine if anyone enters the area.
• Never carry passengers.
• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary Always
look down and behind belore 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.
• Turn off blades when not mowing
• Stop engine before removing grass catcher or unclogging
chute
• Mow only in daylight or good adificiai 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 ca n result in severe injury or death.
A{i 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 slopes, not across.
• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc
• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could
overturn the machiner Tatl grass can hide obstac/es_
• Use slow speed Choose a low gear so that you witl not have
to slop or shift whi[e on the slope.
• FoLtow the manufacturer's recommendations for wheel
weights or counterweights to improve siabillty
• Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments..
These can change the stability of the machine.
• Keep ai! movement on the slopes slow and gradual Do not
make sudden changes in speed or direction.
• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope_ It tires lose traction,
disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the
sfope.
DO NOT:
• Donotturnonslopesunlessnecessary, andthen,tumslowty
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 clil{ or ditch, or il an edge caves in
• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction coutd cause
sliding
• Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on the
ground_
• Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.
III. CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the
presence of childreno Children are often attracted to the
machine and the mowing activity Never assume that
children will remain where you last saw them.
° Keep chitdren outof the mowing area and under the watcllIul
care of another responsible adult.
* Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area
• Before and when backing, look behind and down for small
children
. Never carry children. They may fail off and be serlous[y
injured or interfere with sate machine operation
. Never allow children to operate the machine
• Use extra care when approaching btind corners, shrubs,
trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.
lYe SERVICE
• Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels They are
flammable and vapors are explosive.
Use only an approved container
Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine
lunning. Atlow engine to cool before relueling Do not
smoke
Never refue_ the machine indoors
Never store the machine or fuel container inside where
there is an open flame, such as a water heater.
o 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 Check their proper
operation reguJariy.
• 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 repa[|s with the engine running
• Grass calchercomponents are subject towear, damage, and
deterioration, which could expose moving pads or aliow
objects to be thrown. Frequently check components and
replace with manufacturer's recommended pads, when nec-
essary.
• Mower blades are sharp and can cut W_ap the blade(s) or
wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them
° Check brake operalion frequentlyo Adjust and service as
required.
portant safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERTt!! YOUR
Look for this symbol to point out im-
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
CAUTION: Always disconnect spark plug
wire and place wire where it cannot contact
A
H IHHH,,HI,I
spark plug in order to prevent accidental
starting when setting up, transporting,
adjusting or making repairs.
WARNING A
The engine exhaust from this product con-
tains chemicals known to the State of Califor-
nia to cause cancer, birth defects, or other
reproductive harm.
2
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a Sears
Tractor. It has been designed, engineered and manufac-
tured to give you the best possible dependability and
performance
Should you experience any problem you cannot easily
remedy, please contact your nearest Sears Authorized
Service Center/Department,, We have competent, well-
trained technicians and the proper tools to service or repair
this tractor,
Please read and retain this manual. The instructions wilt
enable you to assemble and maintain your tractor properly°
Always observe the "SAFETY RULES",.
MODEL
NUMBER 917,258691
SERIAL
NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
THE MODELAND SERIAL NUMBERS WILL BE FOUND
ON A PLATE UNDER THE SEAT_
YOU SHOULD RECORD BOTH SERIAL NUMBER AND
DATE OF PURCHASE AND KEEP IN A SAFE PLACE
PRODUCT SPECmFnCATOONS
HORSEPOWER: 18.0
GASOLINE CAPACITY 35 GALLONS
AND TYPE: UNLEADED REGULAR
OIL TYPE (API-SF/SG/SH): SAE 30 (above 32'_F)
SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F)
OIL CAPACITY: W/FILTER: 4.0 PINTS
W/O FILTER: 3.5 PINTS
SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION RV17YC
(GAP: .025")
VALVE CLEARANCE: INTAKE: .003" - 006"
EXHAUST: 013"-.016"
GROUND SPEED (MPH): FORWARD: 5 5
REVERSE: 24
TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI
REAR: 10 PSI
CHARGING SYSTEM: 15 AMPS @ 3600 RPM
BATTERY: AMP/HR: 30
MIN 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 RESPONSIBlUTIES
• Read and observe the safety rules°
• Folfow a regutar schedule in maintaining, caring for and
using your tractor_
o Follow the instructions 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 arrester is used, it should be maintained
in effective working order by the operator.
In the state of California the above is required by law
(Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code).
Other states may ha_'e similar laws. Federal laws apply on
federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available
through your nearest Sears Authorized Service Center/
Department (See REPAIR PARTS section of this manual),
u iiiiiii, _ ' ,,,............... ,' J,i................... i r,, i , i
LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT
For two (2) years from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Riding Equipment is maintained, lubricated and tuned up according
to the instructions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair or replace, free of charge, any parts found to be defective in material or
workmanship
This Warranty does not cover:
,, Expendable ilems which become worn during normal use, such as blades, spark plugs, air cleaners, belts, etc..
• 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 according to 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 wilt replace the battery at no charge
IN-HOME WARRANTY SERVICE ON YOUR CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT IS 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 EQUIPMENT 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 IS IN THE UNITED STATES°
This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have oEherrights which may vary from state to state,.
SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO.., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, IL 60179
.......... 11,1.... i ..... i,rll..... ,,,,,n .... ,m .............. r
TABLE OF
llil..................................
SAFETY RULES ............................................................ 2
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS ...................................... 3
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ................ ;....3, 16"19
WARRANTY ........................ ;......................................... 3
TRACTOR ACCESSORIES .......................................... 5
ASSEMBLY ............... :.............................................. 7-10
OPERATION ........................................................... 11-15
INDEX
CONTENTS
i ii,ilii ,ul, '""" ..... .................. :_
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ...................................... 16
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS ............................ 20-25
STORAG E ...................................................................26
TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................ 27-28
REPAIR PARTS - TRACTOR ................................. 30-47
REPAIR PARTS - ENGINE .................................... 48-57
PARTS ORDERING/SERVICE ................ BACK COVER
A
Accessories ................................................. 5
Adjustments:
Brake .................................................. 23
Carburetor, ...........................................25
Mowe
Front-To-Back ..............................21
Side-To-Side .............................. 20
Throttle Control Cable ................... 25
Air Filter, Engine .........................................18
Air Screen, Engine .................................19
Assembly .................................................7-I0
B
Battery:
Charging ............................................. 8
Cleaning ........................................... 17
Starting with Weak Battery ........... 24
Storage .................................................26
Terminals ...........................................16
Belt:
Motion Drive
RemovaVReplacement .............23
Mower Belt(s)
RemovaVReplacement ..............22
Blade:
Sharpening ........................................17
Replacement .................................. 17
Brake Adjustment ......................................22
C
Carburetor Adjustment .............................25
Controls, Tractor .......................................11
Customer Responsibilities .............. 16-19
Engine:
Air Filter......................................... 18
Air Screen ............................... 18
Cooling Fins ..................................18
Engine Oil ............................... 14,18
Fuel Filter .................................... 19
Spark Plug(s) .............................. 19
Tractor:
Battery ........................................... 17
Blade ............................................. I7
Lubrication Chart ....................... 16
Maintenance Schedule ............. 16
Tire Care ............................8,17,23
Transaxle .......................................18
Cutting Height, Mower ............................13
E
Electrical:
Interlocks and Relays ................... 24
Schematic ............................................29
Wiring Diagram ............................... 30
Engine:
Air Filter ...............................................18
Air Screen ............................................19
Cooling Fins ........................................ 18
Oil Change ..........................................18
OilLevel...............................................14
Oil Type ................................... 14,18
Preparation ..........................................14
Repair Parts ............................... 48-57
Starting .............................................15
Storage ............................................26
F
Filter:
Air Fitter ................................................18
Fuel .....................................................19
Fuel:
Type ................................................... 14
Storage ............................................ 26
Fuse ...................................................... 24
H
Hood Removal/Installation .....................24
L
Leveling Mower Deck ..............................20
Lubrication:
Chart ...............................................16
Engine ............................................18
M
Maintenance Schedule .......................16
Mower:
Adjustment, Front-to-Back ............ 21
Adjustment, Side-to*Side .............. 20
Blade Replacement ..................... 17
Blade Sharpening .......................... 17
Cutting Height ................................... 13
Installation ...................................... 20
Operation........................................14
Removal ..................................................20
Mowing Tips ..............................................15
Muffler ..................................................... 19
Spark Arrester .............................. 3,38
O
Oil:
Cold Weather Conditions ........ 14,18
Engine ............................................... 18
Storage ............................................ 26
Operation ......................................... 11-15
4
Operating Mower ........................ 14
Options:
Accessories .................................... 5
Spark Attester ..................................3,38
P
Parking Brake .................................. 12-13
Parts Bag ............................................. 6
Parts, Replacement/Repair ............. 30-47
Product Specifications ............................ 3
R
Repair Parts ...................................... 30-47
S
Safety Rules ............................................ 2
Seat ............................................................ 8
Service and Adjustments ....................20-25
Carburetor ..................................... 25
Fuse ................................................... 24
Hood Removaltlnstallation .... 24
Motion Drive Belt
RemovallReplacement ....... 23
Mower Belt(s)
RemovallReplacement .......... 22
Mower Adjustment
Front*to-Back ........................... 21
Side-to-Side ....................................20
Mower Removal/Installation ........ 20
Tire Care ......................................8,17,23
Slope Guide Sheet .................................. 59
Spark Plug(s) ............................................19
Specifications ...............................................3
Starting the Engine ........................ 14-15
Steering Wheel ................................... ..... 7,23
8topping the Tractor .............................. 13
Storage ...........................................................26
T
Throttle Control CaMe Adjustment . 25
Tires.................................................. 8,17,23
Troubleshooting Chart ........................27-28
Transaxle ............................................... 18
W
Warranty ............................................................3
Wiring Diagram ...........................................30
Wiring Schematic ...........................................29
ACCESSORIES AND ATTACHMENTS
These accessories and attachments were available through most Sears reta!i outlets and service centers when the tractor was purchased,
Most Sears stores can order these items for you when you provide the mode! number of your tractor
ENGINE
SPARK PLUG GAS CAN
FUEL STABILIZER AIR FILTER
MAINTENANCE
[ BLADES 1 BELTS
%
PERFORMANCE
Sears offers a wide variety of attachments that fityour tractor Many of these are Iisted below wlth brief explanations of how they can help
you, This list was current at the time ol publication; however, itmay change infuture years - more attachments may be added, changes
may be made in these attachments, or some may no Ionger be available or fit your 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 (lhose 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 104nch diameter discs
puncture holes in soil at close intervals to let moisture soak in.
Steel weight tray for increased penetration
BAGGER lets you coIIect grass clippings and leaves for a
healthier, neater looking lawnr Two Permanex containers hold
30-gallon plastic 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 small plugs out of soi! to allow mois-
ture and nutrients to reach grass roots. 36-inch swath 24
hardened steel coring tips 150 Ib 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 terra!n
GANG HITCH lets you tow2 or3 pulFbehlnd attachments at once,
such as sweepers, dethatchers, aerators (not for use with rollers,
carts or other heavy attachments)°
GAUGE WHEELS on both s!des of the mower deck reduce
chances of "scalping" on uneven terrain For mower decks not so
equipped.
MULCH RAKE/DETHATCHER loosens suit and flips thatch and
matted _eaves tolawn surface for easy pickup. Twenty spring tine
teeth. Usefut to prepare bare areas for seeding. Available for front
or rear mounting. HIGH PERFORMANCE REEL-ACTION
SPRING TINE DETHATCHER covers 36qnch 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 34n-1 Convertible
mowers. See "MOWER" in the Repair Parts section of this
manual
RAMP TOPS AND FEET let you load and unload tractor from a
pickup truck., Use with 2 x 8 or 2 x 10 hJmber
ROLLER for smoother lawn surface, 36-inch wide, 18-inch
diameter water4ight drum holds up to390 Ibs.of we!ght Rounded
edges prevent harm to turf. Adjustable scraper automatically
cleans drum
SNOW BLADE forsnow removal only. 14-inch high, 48-inch wide
blade 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 _)
SNOWTH ROWER has 40-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 feel Lift 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 applying herbicides, insecti-
cides, fungicides and liquid fertilizers_
SPREADER/SEEDERS make seeding, fertilizing, and weed kiN.
ing easy° Broadcast spreaders are also useful for granular de-
icers and 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 builtqn
lift and depth control system and does NOT require a sleeve hitch.
Fits any lawn, yard or garden tractor, Simply hook up tothe tractor
drawbar and got 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 windshierds 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 of heavy grass clippings and leaves
Optional wand attachment to pick up debris in l_ardqo-reach
places. VAC/CHIPPER includes a chipper-shredder
WEIGHT BRACKET for drawbar for snow removal appflcations,
Uses (t) 55 tb. weight
WHEEL WEIGHTS for rear wheels provide needed traction for
snow removal or dozing heavy materials
CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK
........... t Ir .................. iiiiir,nfflIW, ii ,,.1, ,
iii i ................... ...................r =
Parts Bag contents shown full size
(1) Shouider Bolt
' 5/16-18
(!) Knob
Parts packed separately in carton
................... i iii1,
Seat
©
(1) Washer
17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Ga,
ner Springs (double loop)
(4) Retainer Springs (single loop)
,I,HI i i,iii ,, ,,,,,,',,,,,,, i i
_ (2) Screws #10 x 5/8
(2) Lock Washers #10
(2) Weld Nuts #10
Steering
Wheel
Mulcher
Plate
Video
Cassette
I ,t
Manual
,i i
i , H ,ll!ll ,HII, ii1,,,i ,,,H
Parts bag contents not shown full size
i H, i , i ................... i HHI, I
©
(2) Shoulder (2) Center-
Bolts lock Nuts
(_(2) Washers 3/8 Steering
x 7/8 x 14 Gauge Sleeve
_nt Link Assemblies
Parts Bag
ii, ,,,,
(2) Washers 3/16 x 3/4 x 16 Gauge
(2) Hex Bolts 1/4-20 x 3/4
(2) Hex Nuts 1/4-20
(2) Washers
9/32 x 5/8 x 16 Ga.
(2) Lock Washers !/4
_ teering
Wheel
Insert
@
_(2) Keys
®
Assemblies
Slope Sheet
,i..............................
6
ASSEMBLY
Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception ofthose 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,
(2) 7/16" wrenches Pliers
(1) 9/16" wrench Tire pressure gauge
(1) 3/4" Socket w/drive ratchet Phillips Screwdriver
Utility knife
When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, it
means when you are in the operating position (seated
beh{nd the steering wheel),
TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON
UNPACK CARTON
• Remove all accessible loose parts and parts cartons
from carton (See page 6).
o Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on al! four corners
of carton, and fay panels flat.
. Remove mower and packing materials.
= Check for any additional loose parts or cartons and
remove.
BEFORE ROLLING TRACTOR OFF SKiD
ATTACH STEERING WHEEL (See Fig. 1)
o Remove locknut and large flat washer from steering
shaft.
• Position front wheels of the tractor so they are pointing
straight forward.
• Slide the steering sleeve over the steering shaft,
. Position steering wheel so cross bars are horizontal
(left to right) and slide onto adapter.
• Secure steering wheel to steering shaft with iocknut
and large flat washer previously removed° Tighten
securely.
,, Snap steering wheel insert into center of steering
wheel,
• Remove protective materials from tractor hood and
gdll,
IMPORTANT: CHECK FOR AND REMOVE ANY STAPLES
IN SKID THAT MAY PUNCTURE TIRES WHERE TRACTOR
IS TO ROLL OFF SKID,
_ TEERING WHEEL
INSERT
.- HEX LOCKNUT
FLAT WASHER
STEERING
WHEE I"
STEERING__
I I / / /
/ t 1/ /
_'_._ z I
FIG, 1
TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Operation
section for location and function of controls)
• Press lift lever plunger and raise attachment lift lever to
its highest position_
o 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.
7
............. i .......... iii
LY
ill i i iUl .... i ....
HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR INSTALLSEAT(See Fig. 3)
CONNECT BATTERY (See Fig. 2) Adjust seat before tightening adjustment knob,
........_ ii ilU ........ i.i ii iliiiilillilii I
nals by allowing a wrench or any other
object to contact both terminals at the °
CAUTION: Do not short battery termi- •
same time. Before connecting battery,
remove metal bracelets, wristwatch
bands, rings, etc.
Positive terminal must be connected
first to prevent spartdng from acciden-
tal grounding.
...................... ii iliii I I
° 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, fiat washer, lock washer and hex
nut as shown. Tighten securely.
= Connect BLACK grounding cable to negative (-) bat-
tery terminal with remaining hex belt, flat washer, lock
washer and hex nut. Tighten securely°
= Ctose terminal access doors.
Use terminal access doors for:
= Inspection for secure connections (to tighten hard-
ware).
• inspection for co[rosion°
• Testing battery.
• Jumping (if required)°
Periodic charging,
HEX NUT WASHER WASHER
D,SCARD TERM,NAL _ I / HEoXLT
PROTECTIVE CAPS i._._B
LOCK FLAT
Remove cardboard packing on seat pan.
Place seat on seat pan and assemble shoulder bolto
Assemble adjustment knob and flat washer loosety.
Do not tighten°
. Tighten shoulder bolt securely.
° Lower seat into operating position and sit on seat,
° Slide seat until acomfortable position isreached which
allows you to press clutch/brake pedal all the way
down.
. Get off seat without moving its adjusted position.
o Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob securely.
SEAT PAN
SHOULDER
BOLT
"FLAT WASHER
ADJUSTMENT
KNOB
FIG. 3
CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
The tires onyour tractor'were overinflated at the factory for
shipping purposes, Correct tire pressure is important fer
best cutting performance.
= Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in "PRODUCT
SPECIFICATIONS" on page 3 of this manual.
ACCESS
DOOR "_/1_ _ POSITIVE
__ - - (RED)
FIG. 2
CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM
After you learn how to operate your tractor, check to see
that the brake is properly adjusted, See 'q'O ADJUST
BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments section of this
manual
8
= r= H =, == = HHHHH = rrH'IHH= ' ='=" "H'"'=H" = H,IHI,
ASSEMBLY
,,,H,,,,,=,,, = i ' ,,=,H,,=...... , .................
INSTALL MOWER AND DRIVE BELT • Place the R.Ho suspension arm on outward pointing
(See Figs. 4 and 7) deck pin. If necessary, rock and raise front of mower
Be sure tractor is on levei surface and mower suspension Retain with double loop retainer spring with loops down
arms are raised with attachment lift control Engage park- as shown.
ing brake o Connect anti-sway bar to chassis bracket under left
• Cut and remove ties securing anti-sway bar and belts footrest and retain with double loop retainer spring.,
Swing anti-sway bar to left side of mower deck,, • Turn height adjustment knob clockwise to remove
° Slide mower under tractor with discharge guard to right slack from mower suspension_
side of tractor, o Raise mower to highest position,
IMPORTANT: CHECK BELT FOR PROPER ROUTING IN
ALL MOWER PULLEY GROOVES. INSTALL BELT_NTO
ELECTRIC CLUTCH PULLEY GROOVE,
o Install one front link in top hole of the R Hofront mower
bracket and R H. front suspension bracket. Retain
with two single loop retainer springs as shown.
o Install second front link in L,H. front suspension bracket
only and retain with single loop retainer spring as
shown,
- Turn height adjustment knob counterclockwise until it
stops.
o Lower mower linkage with attachment lift control.
• Place the Loll suspension arm on outward pointing
deck pin, If necessary, rock and raise front of mower
to align deck pin with the hofe in suspension arm.
Retain with double loop retainer spring with loops
down as shown,,
o SIide left side of mower back and install the unattached
front link in top hole of the Loll. front mower bracket.
Retain with single loop retainer spring as shown,
to align deck pin with the hole in suspension arm
o Assemble gauge wheels (See "TO ADJUST GAUGE
WHEELS" in the Operation section of this manual)°
CHECK MOWER LEVELNESS
For best cutting results, mower should be properly leveled,
See "TO LEVEL 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,,
FRONT
ELECTRIC
CLUTCH
PULLEY
SUSPENSION
BRACKETS
SHOULDER
BOLT
GAUGE
WHEEL
3/B WASHER
USEPLIERSFOR
RETAINER SPRINGS
DOUBLE LOOP
RETAINER SPRING
CHASSIS (outward pointing
BRACKET deck pins)
318-16
CENTER
LOCKNUT
DOUBLE LOOP
RETAINER
SPRING
ANTI-SWAY
BAR
IDLER
PULLEY
SUSPENSION
ARMS
FRONT
MOWER
BRACKET
FRONT
LINK
SINGLE
LOOP
RETAINER
SPRINGS
DISCHARGE GUARD
FIG. 4