Craftsman 917.258914 User Manual

®

MODEL 917.258914

®Assembly

• Operation

Customer Responsibilities
Service and Adjustments

, Repair Parts

OWNER'S MANUAL

For answers to your questions

about this product, Call:

1-800-659-5917

Sears CraftsmanHelp Line

5 am - 5 pro, Mon - Sat

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

SAFETY RULES

£k

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 IN SERIOUS iNJURY OR DEATH

L GENERAL OPERATION
° Read, understand, and follow all instructlonsinthe 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 surethe area isclear of other people before mowing Stop

machine if anyone enters the area.

= Never carry passengers,
° Do not mew in reverse 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 tumingo

• Never leave a running machine unattended° Alwaysturnoff

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
° Do not operate the machine while under the influence of

alcohol or drugs°

• Watch for trafficwhen operating near orcrossingroadways°

• Use extra care when loading or unloadingthe machine into
atrailer ortruck°

IL 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 ff you feel uneasy on it, do not mow it.

DO:

• Mow upand down slopes, not across°

o Remove obstacles such as rocks,tree limbs, etc.

• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could
overturnthe machine. Taft grass can hide obstac/es.

o Use slowspeed, Choose a low gear so thatyou willnothave

tostop 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 ot the machine.
Keep all movement on the s!opess!owand gradual Do not

make sudden changes in speed or direction.

° Avoid starting or stopping on a slope° Iftires lose traction,

disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the

slope°

DO NOT:
. Donor turnonslopes unless necessary, and then,turnslowly

and gradually downhill, ifpossible.

° Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. "Fne

mower could suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the edge
ofa cliff or ditch, or ifan edge caves In.

o Do not mow on wet grass Reduced traction could cause

sliding.

. Do not try to stabilize the machine byputting your foot on the

ground°

° Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.

IlL 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.

Keep children out ofthe mowing area and under the watchful
care of another responsible adult.

o 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 fall off and be seriously

injured or interfere with safe machine operation_

° Never allow children to operate the machine°

• Use extra care when approaching blind comers, shrubs,
trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.

IV. 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

running, Allow engine to cool before refueling, Do not
smoke.

- Never refuel the machine indoors.

- Never store the machine or fuel container inside where

. Never run a machine inside a closed area°
o Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment botts, tight

° Never tamper with safety devices Check their proper
o Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris build-upo

o Stop and inspect the equipment ff you strike an object,

° Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine running
= Grass catcher componentsare subject towear, damage, and

° Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or
° Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service as

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

and keep equipment in good condition_

operation regularly_
Clean oil or fuel spillage° Allow machine to cool before

storing°
Repair, if necessary, before restarting.

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.
wear gloves, and use extra cautionwhen servicing them.

required.

cAUTION: Always disconnect spark plug
wire and place wire where it cannot contact

spark plug In order to prevent accidental
starting when setting up, transporting,

...............................adjusting or making repairs,

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

..........A WARNING A

The engine exhaust from this product con-
tains cnemicats Known to the State of Cakfor-

nia to cause cancer, birth defects, or other
reproductive harm,

i,i, , I 'UU I I "lllll !ll!ll , , I lllll' 'lllll I

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a Sears

Tractor+ Ithas been designed, engineered and manufac-

PRODUCT SPECiFiCATiONS

HORSEPOWER: 22+5

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 Department. W_ehave.com-

petent, well-trained technicians and the proper tools to
service or repair this tractor.

GASOLINE CAPACITY 3.5 GALLONS
AND TYPE: UNLEADED REGULAR

OIL TYPE (API+SF/SGiSH): SAE 10W30 (above 32°F)

SAE 5W-30 (below 32=F)

OIL CAPACITY: W/FILTER: 4,2 PINTS

W/O FILTER: 3°7 PINTS

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

917.258914

SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION RC12YC
(GAP: +030")

VALVE CLEARANCE: NOT ADJUSTABLE
GROUND SPEED (MPH): FORWARD: 0- 5.8

REVERSE: 0- 2.1

SERIAL
NUMBER

DATEOF PURCHASE

THE MODEL AND 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

FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

MAONTENANCE AGREEMENT

A Sears Maintenance Agreement isavailable on thisprod-

uct. Contact your nearest Sears storefor details.

TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI

REAR: 10 PSI

CHARGING SYSTEM: I5 AMPS @ 3600 RPM

BATTERY: AMP/HR: 35

MIN° CCA: 280
CASE SIZE: UIR

BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 27-35 FT. LBS+

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). Ifa spark arrester is used, it should be maintained

CUSTOMER RESPONSiBiLiTiES

= Read and observe the safety rules.

- Followa regularschedule inmaintaining,caringforand

using your tractor.

o Follow the instructionsunder"Customer Responsibili-

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

,%[j- i i,iii,iiii I_'_I ±H ±UW I I "II 'I' '"'III 'I'I"'"'I'I"I'

in effectiveworking order by the operator°
In the state of California the above is required by law

(Section 4442 of the California Pubfic 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
Department (See REPAIR PARTS section ofthis manual).

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RiDiNG EQUIPMENT

Fortwo(2)yearsfromthedateof purchase,ifthisCraftsmanRidingEquipmentismaintained,lubricatedand tunedupaccording
tothe tnstrucUonsinthe owner'smanual,Searswillrepairor replace,freeof charge,any partsfoundtobe defectivein matedal

orworkmanship+

ThisWarrantydoesnotcover.
o Expendableitemswhichbecomewornduringnormaluse, suchas blades,sparkplugs,air cleaners,betts,etc°

= Tire replacementor repaircaused bypuncturesfromoutsideobjects,suchas nails,thorns,stumps, or glass_
o Repairsnecessarybecauseofoperatorabuse,negligence,improperstorageor accidentor the failure to maintainthe

equipmentaccordingtotheinstructionscontainedin the owner's manual

° Riding equipmentused forcommercialor rentalpurposes+

LIMITED 90 DAY WARRANTY ON BATTERY

Forninety(90) days from dateofpurchase,if any battery includedwiththis ridingequipmentprovesdefectivein matedal or

workmanshipandourtestingdeterminesthebatterywillnotholda charge,Searswillreplacethebatteryatno 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 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 IS INTHE UNITED STATES_
This Warranty gives you specific legal rights,and you may also have other dghts which may vary from state to state+

......... I i ,11'11111 , II ii1,11,1,1, , I I I iii i,i1,,i,, i,iiii

SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO., 13/817WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, IL 60'179

TABLE OF CONTENTS

=............. H! '1 I'lll ,llLI I_l' I I'/II"' '" ........ -N

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

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

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ..................... 3, 16.19

WARRANTY ..................................................... _............ 3

TRACTOR ACCESSORIES ..................................... 5,15

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

OPERATION ........................................................... 12-16

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ...................................... t7

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

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

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

REPAIR PARTS - TRACTOR ................................. 32-50

REPAIR PARTS - ENGINE .................................... 51-58

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

INDEX

A

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

Adjustments:

Brake ...............................................................23

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

Clutch Pulley ..............................................23

Gauge Wheels .........................................I4

Mower

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

Side-To-Side ....................................21

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

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

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

Assembly .....................................................7-I0

B

Battery:

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

Cleaning ................................................20

Starting with Weak Battery ................25

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

Terminals .................................................i 9

Belt:

Motion Drive

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

Mower Drive

RemovaVReplacement ..................22

Mower Blade Drive

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

Blade:

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

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

Brake Adjustment ..........................................23

C

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

Clutch Pulley ...................................................23

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

Customer Responsibilities ..................t7-20

Engine:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tractor:

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

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

LubricationChart ..............................17

Maintenance Schedule .............17

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

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

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

E

Electrical:

Interlocks and Relays ............................26

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

Wiring Diagram ..........................................32

Engine:

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

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

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

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

Oil Level ...............................................15

OI1Type ........................................15,19

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

Repair Parts .......................................51-58

Starting.................................................15-16

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

F

Filten

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

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

Oil...................................................................20

Fuel:

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

Type ...................................................................t 5

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

H

Headlights .............................................................26

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

M

Maintenance Schedule .............................17

Mower:.

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

Adjustment, Side-to-Side ................2t

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

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

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

Installation................................................2!

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

Removal .................................................21

Mowing Tips ..................................................t6

Muffler ....................................................................20

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

O

Oil:

Cold Weather Conditions ...........15,t9

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

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

4

Operation .......................................................12_I6

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

Options:

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

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

P

Parking Brake .....................................................13

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

Parts, Replacement/Repair ................32-50

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

R

Repair Parts ...........................................32-50

S

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

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

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

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

Clutch Pulley ..........................................23

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

Hood RemovaVlnstallation ................26

Motion Drive Belt

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

Mower Drive Belt

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

Mower Blade Drive Belt

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

Mower Adjustment

Front-to-Back ..................................22

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

Mower Removal/Instalfation ..........21

Tire Care ........................................8,16,25

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

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

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

Starting the Engine ................................. 15-16

Steering Wheel ............................................7,24

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

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

T

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

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

Troubleshooting Chart .........................29_30

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

W

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

Wiring Diagram .............................................32

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

ACCESSORNES AN ATTACHMENTS;

-- _..._,........................... ,,, ..................... , r, ,,,r,,_,,'...................... ,,,.......

These accessories and attachments were available throughmost Sears retail outlets and service centers when the trectorwas purchased,

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

ENGINE

SPARKPLUG GAS CAN AIR FILTERENGINEOIL FUEL STABILIZER

PERFORMANCE

Sears offersa wide variety of attachments that fit yourtractor., Many of these are listedbelow with brief explanations of how they can hefp
you, Thts tist was currentat the time of publication;however, itmay change !n future years - more attachments may be added, changes

may be made inthese attachments, orsome may no longer be available ortit 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 additionalhitches or conversionkits (those that do are indicated) and are designed for easy
attaching and detaching.

AERATOR promotes deep rootgrowth for a healthy lawn. Tapered
2,5-Inch steel spikes mountedon 10-inch diameter discspuncture

holes insoilatcloseintervalstoletmoisture soakIn. Steelweighttray
for increasedpenetration.

BUMPER protectsfront end of tractorfrom damage°
CARTS makehaulingeasy_Varietyof sizes available, plusaccessm

dessuchasside panelkits,toolcaddy,cartcover, protectivematand

dolty_

CORING AERATOR takes small plugsoui of soil toattow moisture
andnutrientsto reach grass roots, 36-inchswath, 24hardenedsteel
codng tips. 150 lb. capacity weighttray.

DISC HARROW has 2gangs of 4steel blades that anglefrom 10 to
20degrees, 40 incheswide, Can hook 2units intandem, (Requires

Sleevehitch°)

DOZER BLADE removes snow; grades dirt, sand and gravel 48
incheswide,!7 incheshigh,clears44-inchpathwhenangled, Master

liftcontrollever for operator ease, Spdngtdpfor snowremovalon
uneven pavement;buitt-fnfloat for blade to foltow groundcontour.
Reversible,replaceablescraperbar. (Use withtirechainsandwheel
weightsand/or reardrawbar weight.)

EASY OIL DRAIN VALVE makesoilchanges easier,faster°
FRONT NOSE ROLLER canterstn front ofmower deck to reduce

chancesof "scalping" onuneventerrain°
GANG HITCH lets you tow 2 or 3 puf!-behindattachments at

once, such as sweepers, dethatchers, aerators (not for use w_th
rolIers,cartsorotherheavy attachments)°

MULCH RAKFJDETHATCHER loosens soil andflips thatch and
matted leaves to lawnsurface for easy pickup. Twentyspringtins

teeth. Usefulto preparebare areas for seeding. Availableforfront or

rear mounting. HIGH PERFORMANCE REEL-ACTION SPRING

TINE DETHATCHER covers36-1nchwidepathandtossesthatchinto

large hopper° Mountsbehind tractor,,

PLOW turnsso]l 6 inches deep, cuts10-inchfurrow. Crank adjust-

meritcontrolsdepth,3-positionyokesets width,Heavysteeltandside

forstraight furrowing. (Requiressteers hitch.,)

RAMP TOPS AND FEET let you load and unload tractorfrom a

pickuptruck,,Use with2 x 8 or 2 x 10 lumber.

REARGRADER BLADEis42 incheswideand operatedfrom driver's

seat Reversiblesteel bladecanbe angled at30 degreesforgrading_

Reversesfor pushingsnowbackwards. (Requiressleeve hitch,)
ROLLERforsmootherlawnsurface. 364nch wide, 18-Inchdiameter

water-tightdrum holdsup to 390 Ibs°of weight. Roundededges
preventharm toturf° Adjustable scraperautomaticallycleansdrum.

SLEEVE CULTIVATOR is 43 inches wide. Prepares ground for

seeding, helps weedcontrol.Steelframe holds5 adjustablesweeps,
Adjusts vertically,horizontaliy, (Requires sleeve hitch.) Optional

accessory: steel furrow openerfor wider openings for potatoes,
corn,and otherdeep-seeded crOpSr

SLEEVE HITCHfor use with masterlift system. Singlepincouples/

uncouples.
SNOW'THROWER has 42-inchswath,, Drum-type auger handles

powderyandwet/heavysnow Mountseasilywithsimplepinarrange-
ment. Dischargechute adjusts from tractorseat. 6-inch diameter

spout dischargessnow I0 to 50 feel Liftcontrolledat tractorseat.
(Use withchainsand wheel weightsand/or reardrawbar weighL)

SPRAYERS use12-volt DOelectricmotor that connectstothetractor
battery or other 12-volt source, Includes booms for automatic
spraying andhandheldwandforspotspraying_Wand hasadjustable
spray pattern, Forapplyingherbicides,insecticides,fungicides and

liquid fertilizers.

SPREADERff3EEDERS make seeding, fertilizing,and weed killing
easy° Broadcast spreaders are alsousefulfor granularde-icers and

sand°
SWEEPERS letyou collectgrassclippingsand leaves°

TILLERhas8hpenginetoprepareseedbeds,cultivate,andcompost
gardenresidue.Chain-drivetransmisston.SIx1l-inchdiameterone

pieceheat-treatedsteeltines.Tilts30-inchpath.(Requiressleeve
hitch.)Oruse5 hptow-behlndTILLERwith36-Lnchswathtoprepare
seedbeds,cultivateandcompostgardenresidue.Tillerhas itsown
buitt-inliftand depthcontrolsystemanddoes NOT requirea sleeve
hitch.Fitsanylawn,yardorgardentractor°Simplyhookup tothe

tractor drawbar andgol Optional accessories for 5 hp tiller convert
unitfor dethatchtng,aerating, hlllingo,.withouttools.

TIRE CHAINS areheavyduty;closelyspaced extra4argecrosslinks

give smooth ride,outstandingtraction.

TRACTOR CAB has heavy dutyvinylfabricovertubularsteel frame,

ABS plastictop;clearplasticwindshieldoffers 360 degreevisiblIityo
Hinged metal doors with catch. Keeps operator warm and dry,

Remove vinylstdes and windshieldsfor use as sun protector tn
summer. Optional accessories include: tinted/temperedsolid

safety glass windshieldwith hand operated wiper;, t2wolt amber
cautionlight for mountingon cab top,

VACS for powerfulcollectionof heavy grass clippings and leaves,
Optional wand attachment topickupdebdstnhard-to-reachplaces.

VAC/CHIPPER includesa chipper-shredder,
WEIGHT BRACKET fordrawbarfor snow removalapplications,Can

be mountedonfront oftractorfor plowingapplications, Uses (1) 55

Ib, weight.

WHEEL WEIGHTS for rearwheelsprovideneededtractionfor snow

removalor dozingheavymaterials.

MAINTENANCE

BLADES BELTS

5

CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK

,i,,, I_L ;,_ :- ............. _l_,rl¸ i,ii , ,,i. ,, n,n,ll i ..... ; .......... , ,r,ll,i i ,. i......

Parts Bag contents shown

(4) Washers 3/8 x 3/4 x 14 Ga.

2) Carriaqe Botts
16-18 x 578

(4) Adjusting Bar

(4) Shoulder Bolt

e

(4) Wheels

,,,i ...........

(12) Crownlock Nuts 3/16 x 8

(4) Locknut 3/8-16

(1) ShoulderBolt

5/16-18

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

in ..... '1". i_

(1) Knob

Steering

Steering Seat

Sleeve

Wheel

Video ............

Manual Cassette Parts Bag

Parts bag contents not shown full size

_(2) Front Link Assemblies

Wheel

_ teering

Insert

(2) Keys

(2) Hex Bolts 1/4-20 x 314 (2) Hex NutsjC_=_k

. _ 1/4-20 [ _

"J i/(2) Washers L. _ (2)Lock _...

_ 9/32 x 5/8x 16 Ga, "_ vvasners ]/4

Slope Sheet

6

LY

L HJ[llnl ,,_, ........... ............ ,. : m' I i I 11...... i

Your new tractor has been assembled at the factorywith the 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 wrenchset wiltmake assembly easier_ Standard
wrench sizes are listed,

(2) 7/16" wrenches Tire pressure gauge
(1) 1/2" wrench Utility knife
(1) 9/t6" wrench
(1) 3/4" socket with drive ratchet

When right or 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

o Remove all accessible loose parts and parts cartons

from carton (See page 6).

o Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on all four corners

of carton, and lay panels flat.

° Check for any additional loose parts or cartons and

remove.

BEFORE ROLLING TRACTOR OFF SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL (See Fig. 1)

° Remove hex bolt, lock washer and largeflat washer

from steering shaft.

o Position front wheels of the tractor sothey are pointing

straight forward.
° Slide steering sleeve over steering shaft.
° Position steering wheel so cross bars are horizontal

(left to right)and slide onto steering wheel adapter°

= Secure steering wheel to steering shaft with hex bolt,

lock washer and large flat washer previously removed,

Tighten securety_
o Snap steering wheel insert into center of steering

wheel,

o Remove protective materials from tractor hood and

grill
IMPORTANT: CHECK FORAND REMOVE ANY STAPLES

tN SKID THAT MAY PUNCTURETIRES WHERE TRACTOR
IS TO ROLL OFF SKID.,

TO ROLL TRACTOR O FF SKID (See Operation

section for location and function of controls)

° Press liftlever plungerand raiseattachment lift leverto

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).

o Roll tractor forward off skid°
= Remove mower and packing materials°

o Remove ties from V-belts.

STEERING

WHEEL
ADAPTER

STEERING t t /
SLEEVE _ _, ,,

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR

CONNECT BATTERY (See Fig. 2)

i11 ,lll][Lll,l _ I , i1,,,,i, I ,, i .... !,1/! i i1,1,,, ,,,,i,,11,I......

CAUTION: Do not short battery termi-
nals 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.

o

Lift hood to raised position.

o

Open terminal access doors, remove terminal protec-
tive caps and discard_

° if this battery isput into service after month and year

indicatedon label (label located between terminals)

charge batter),"for minimum of one hour at 6-10 ampso

° First connect RED battery cable to positive (+) battery

terminal with hex bolt, flat washer, lock washer and hex
nut as shown° Tighten securely.

° 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°

7

STEERING WHEEL INSERT

STEERING

SHAFT

I

/

FIG. 1

Y

/

/

/

/

BLY

g!l'l"l' _,_ ...... ....... _ .,.,,,.........,,,....,., + ,_ : • ,,+,, , i p I ,, ,,ii

Use terminal access doors for: CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
° Inspection for secure connections (to tighten hard-

ware).

= inspection for corrosion.
+ Testing battery.

• Jumping (if required).
Periodic charging.

DISCARD -,_ WASHER WASHER
PROTECTIVE HEX

CAPS OLT

HEX NUT LOCK FLAT

The tires onyour tractor were ovednflatedat 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.

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM

After youlearn 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.

•+-,,_+;: + • .+ ........

.++ ++.

++,+++......

a •

TERMINAL ;*

ACCESS ..... > _'._

• CABLE

_'_+_+__ CABLE

"_"NEGATIVE

(BLACK)

FIG. 2

roVE

INSTALL SEAT (See Fig. 3)

Adjust seat before tightening adjustmentknob+
o Remove cardboard packing on seat pan.

= Place seat on seat pan and assemble shoulder bolto

Tighten shoulder bolt securety.

o Assemble adjustment knob and flat washer loosely,

Do nottighten,

o Lower seat into operating positionand sit on seat.
= Slideseat untila comfortable positionisreached which

altows you to press clutch/brake pedal all the way

down.

° Get offseatwithoutmovingitsadjustedposition,

° Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob securely.

ASSEMBLE GAUGE WHEELS AND BRACK-
ETS TO MOWER DECK (See Fig. 4)

The gauge wheels are designed to keep the mower deck in

proper position when operating mower. Be sure they are
propedy adjusted to ensure optimum mower performance°

- Attach front gauge wheel brackets marked front left
(FL), front right (FR) to mower deck using (3) carriage

bolts and (3) locknuts. For ease of installation do not
tighten Iocknuts until all carriage bolts have been

installed°

° Attach rear gauge wheel brackets marked rear left (R

L), rear right (RR) to mower deck using (3) carriage
bolts and (3) locknuts,For ease of installation do not

tighten Iocknuts until all carriage bolts have been

installed.

o Slide gauge wheet bar down into bracket channel, Be

sure that gauge wheel bar aligning holes are on top.

Assemble gauge wheels as shown using shoulder

bolts, 3/8 washers and 3/8-16 center tocknuts and

tighten securely.

= Adjust gauge wheels to highest position for ease of

mower deck assembly.

° Adjust gaugewheels before operating mower as shown

in the operation section of this manual.

RETAINDER

plm SPRING,\ _ CROWNLOCK

"_ NUT

SEAT

SHOULDER _,, _\ \¢'T"T_ \ ' \\ \

____. FLAT WASHER

ADJUSTMENT
KNOB

FIG, 3 8

GAUGE .,]Uo ;(
WHEEL /_'_ ]
MOUNTING _o ,_ I._

BRACKET

SHOULDER _P_/rl _

BOLT ADJUSTING _t!_ \._. /

il'i "

GAUGE (;_
WHEEL ./ _ _._, _-_CARRIAGE

3/8 WASHER _ BOLTS

3/8-16 CENTER

LOCKNUT

FIG. 4

LY

INSTALL MOWER AND DRIVE BELT = Place the suspension arms on inward pointing deck
(See Figs. 5 and 7) pins. If necessary, rock and raise front of mower to

Be sure tractor is on level surface and mower suspension Retain with double loop retainer springs with loops
arms are raised with attachment lift control, Engage park- down as shown.

ingbrake. °
o Cut and remove ties securing anti-sway bar and belts

Swing antFsway bar to leftside of mower deck.

- Slide mower undertractorwith discharge guardto right
side of tractor, o

IMPORTANT: CHECK BELT FOR PROPER ROUTING iN
ALL MOWER PULLEY GROOVES. INSTALLBELT INTO

ELECTRIC CLUTCH PULLEY GROOVE°
° Install one front linkintop holeofthe L.H. front mower

bracket and LH,,front suspension bracket. Retainwith
two single loop retainer springs as shown.

- installsecondfrontlinkin R.Hofrontsuspensionbracket
only and retain with single loop retainer spring as
shown.

o Slide right side of mower back and installlink intop hole

of RoHofront mower bracket. Retain with single loop
retainer spring as shown,

° Turn height adjustment knob counterclockwise until it

stops.

° Lower mower linkage with attachment lift control,

DOUBLE LOOP
RETAINER

CHASSIS SPRING (inward
BRACKET pointingdeck pins}

SUSPENSION
ARMS

align deck pins with the holes in suspension arms.

Connect anti-sway bar to chassis bracket under left

footrest and retain with double loop retainer spring,

°

Turn height adjustment knob clockwise to remove

slack from mower suspension.
Raise deck to highest position.

=

Adjust gauge wheels before operating mower asshown

in the Operation section of this manual,

CHECK MOWER LEVELNESS

Forbest cuttingresults,mower should be properlyleveled.
See "TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the Service and

Adjustments section ofthis manual.

CHECK FOR PROPER POSiTiON OF ALL
BELTS

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

Adjustments section ofthis manual Verify that the belts are

routed correctly.

FRONT
SUSPENSION
BRACKETS

FRONT

MOWER

BRACKET

FRONT

ELECTRIC
CLUTCH

PULLEY

GAUGE
WHEEL

/

DOUBLE
LOOP

RETAINER
SPRING

SINGLE LOOP

RETAINER
SPRINGS

ANTI-SWAY
BAR

DISCHARGE

GUARD

/

IDLER
PULLEY

FIG. 5

9

ASS

,/'CHECKLIST

BEFORE YOU OPERATE AND ENJOY YOUR NEW

TRACTOR, WE WISH TO ASSURE THAT YOU RECEIVE
THE BEST PERFORMANCEAND 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

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

the tires were overinflatedat the factory)°

,/ Be sure mower deck is properly leveled side4o-side/

front40-rear for best cutting results. (Tires must be
properly inflated for leveling)°

,z Check mower and drive belts. Be surethey are routed

properly around pulleys and inside all belt keepers.

,/ Check wiring. See that all connections are still secure

and wires are properly clamped.

J" 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:
J' Engine oil is at proper level.

,i 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°

J Be sure brake system is in safe operating condition°

#" tt is important to purge the transmission before operat-

ingyour tractor for the first time. Follow proper starting
and transmissionpurging instructions(See,%..OSTART

ENGINE" and PURGE TRANSMISSION in the Op-
eration section of this manual),

LY

10

O ATION

These symbols may appear onyour tractor or inliterature supplied with the product, Learn and understand their meaning.

BATTERY

WARNING

ENGINE ON

FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT DIFFERENTIAL PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED

ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE CLUTCH OVER TEMP

REVERSECAUTION OR FORWARD SLOW

LOCK LOCKED

FAST

LIGHTS ON

L

LIGHT

REVERSE NEUTRAL

MOWER LIFT

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH ENGAGED

HIGH

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

11

LOW PARKING BRAKE

IGNITION

HYDROSTATIC FREE WHEEL

(Hydro Models only)

OPEBATION

KNOW YOUR TRACTOR

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

Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments. Save

this manual for future reference.

CHOKE CONTROL

THROTTLE CONTROL

CLUTCH/BRAKE
PEDAL

HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT

KNOB

AMMETER ATTACHMENT LIGHT SWITCH

...... CLUTCH SWITCH

HOUR
METER

PARING BRAKE

LEVER

LIFT LEVER
PLUNGER

LtFT LEVER

IGNITION SWITCH

SPEEDS:

3 MPH

FREEWHEEL CONTROL

Our tractors conformto the safety standards of the American National Standards Institute.

AI"rACHMENT CLUTCH SWITCH- Used toengage mower
blades or other attachments mountedto your tractor.

LIFT LEVER- Usedto raiseand lowermowerdeck orother

attachments mountedtoyour tractor,

CLUTCH!BRAKE PEDAL - Used for declutching and

braking the tractorand starting the engine,
MOTION CONTROL - Selectsthe speed and direction of

tractor,

CHOKE CONTROL - Usedwhen starting a cold engine°
LIGHT SWITCH - Turns the headlightson and off,

THROI_LE CONTROL - Used tocontrolengine speed,

MOTION
CONTROL

LEVER

FIG. 6

FREEWHEEL CONTROL - Disengages transmission for
pushingor slowly towing the tractor withthe engine off.

IGNITION SWITCH - Used to start and stopthe engine.
AMMETER _Indicates battery charging (+) or discharging

PARKING BRAKE LEVER _Locksclutch/brakepedal into
the brake position°

HEIGHTADJUSTMENT KNOB- Usedto adjust the mower

height.

HOURMETER - Indicates hours of operation.

12

OPERATION

in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields while operating your tractor !

or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recommend a ,,vide vision safety mask over the |

....... spectacles or standard safety g!asses. ................. i

The operation ofany tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result I

HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR

TO SET PARKING BRAKE (See Fig. 7)

Yourtractor isequippedwithan operatorpresencesensing
switch. When engine is running, any attempt by the
operator to leave the seat without first setting the parking

brake wiilshut offthe engine.
= Depress clutch/brake pedal into fult"BRAKE" position

and holdo

- Place parking brake lever in"ENGAGED" positionand
release pressure from clutch/brake pedal. Pedalshould

remain in "BRAKE" position. Make sure parking brake

will hold tractor secure,

PUSH IN TO ATTACHMENT CLUTCH

THROTTLE "DISENGAGE" SWITCH PULL OUT TO

CONTROL LEVER

CLUTCH/BRAKE

PEDAL "BRAKE"
POSITION _'_

IGNITION

MOTION
CONTROL
LEVER

HEIGHT

"DRIVE" ADJUSTMENT PARKING
POSITION KNOB BRAKE

"DISENGAGED .... ENGAGED"

POSITION POSITION

FIG. 7

STOPPING (See Fig. 7)

MOWER BLADES -

- Move attachment clutch switch to "DISENGAGED"
position.

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 -
o Move throttle control to slow position.

NOTE= Failure to movethrottle control to slow position and

allowing engine to idle before stopping may cause engine
to "backfire".

° 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 unit is standing idle
with the engine running, hot engine exhaust gases may
cause "browning" of grass,, To eliminate this possibility,

always stop enginewhen stopping tractor on grass areas.

CAUTION: Always Stop tractor com-
pletely, as described above, before leav-

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

TO USE CHOKE CONTROL (See Fig. 7)

Usechokecontrolwhenever youare starting a coldengine.
Do notuse to start a warm engine

° To engage choke control, pull knob out_ Slowly push

knobin to disengage°

TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL (See Fig. 7)

Always operate engine at full throttle_
= Operating engine atless than full throttlereduces the

battery charging rate.

• Full throttleoffersthe best mower performance.

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD

(See Fig. 7)

The direction and speed of movement iscontrolledby the

motion control lever_

o 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. 7)

The cutting height iscontrolled by tuming the height adjust_
merit knob in desired direction.

= Turn knob clocl_wise (('_) to raise cutting height,

• Turn knob counterclockwise (F"_) to lower cutting

height.

The cutting height range is approximately 1-1/4" to 4-1/2"o
The heights are measured from the ground to the blade tip
with the engine not running. These heights are approxi-

mate andmay 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 coot 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"ihches in

height should be mowed twice., Make the first cut
relatively high; the second to desired height.

13

OPERATION

TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS (See Fig. 8A)

Gauge wheels are properlyadjusted whenthey are slightly

offthe groundwhen moweris atthe desiredcuttingheight
in operatingposition.Gauge wheels then keep the deck in
proper position to help prevent scalping in most terrain

conditions.

• Be sure tractor is on a flat Ievel surface_
o Lower mower and adjust mower to desired cutting

height.

° Remove retainer spring and clevis pin which secure

each gauge wheel bar,,

• Lower gauge wheels to ground,, Raise gauge wheels
slightly to align holes in bracket and gauge wheel bar

and insert clevis pin° Gauge wheels should be slightly

off the ground°

o Replace retainer spring into clevis pin°

IMPORTANT; BE SURETO READJUST GAUGE WHEELS
IF YOU CHANGE THE CUTTING HEIGHTOFTHE MOWER

DECK.

RETAINER
SPRING

CLEVIS PIN

FIG. 8A

TO OPERATE MOWER (See Figs. 6 and 7)

Yourtractor isequipped with an operatorpresence sens-
ing switch° Any attempt by the operator to leave the seat

withtheengine runningandtheattachmentclutchengaged
willshut off the engine.

= Select desired height of cut.

. Lower mower withattachment lift control.
= Start mower blades by engaging attachment clutch

contro!.

° TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disengage attachment

clutch control.

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

I A ....CAu o.:00notdrlveupo,downI

hills with slopes greater than 15° and |

L ...... . ....... ........: .... !

o Choose the slowest speed before starting up ordown

hitts,,

o 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.

o Move motion control lever to neutral IN) position.,
IMPORTANT; THE MOTION CONTROL LEVER DOES

NOT RETURN TO NEUTRAL IN) 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,
o Make all tums slowly.

TO TRANSPORT (See Figs. 6 and 9)

When pushingortowingyourtractor, be sure to disengage

transmissionby placingfreewheel control infreewheeling
position. Free wheel control is located at the rear drawbar

oftractor.

° Raise attachment liftto highest position with attach-

ment liftcontrol.

• Remove retainer spring from freewheel control rod°

• Push control rod in to disengage transmission and

reinsert retainer spring into control rod hole now on

back side of the bracket.

• Do not pushor tow tractor at more than two (2) MPH.

° To reengage transmission, reverse above procedure,,
NOTE: To protecthood from damage when transporting

yourtractor onatruck oratrailer, be sure hoodisclosed and
secured totractor. Use an appropriate means oftying hood
to tractor (rope, cord, etc,,)o

do not drive across any slope

CAU_ON: 0o not operate the mower
without either the entire grass catcher,
on mowers so equipped, or the dis-

......... i IIIII IIII1' II ....

charge guard in place.

__"'_ R,H.

RUNNER

O,SC.ARGE

GUARD

FIG. 8B 14

FIG. 9

OPERATION

..................................................................... illl,

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE

CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL (See Fig. 10)

o The engine inyour tractor has been shipped, fromthe

factory, already filled with summer weight oilo

• Check engine oilwith tractor on level ground°
° Unthread and remove oilfill cap/dipstick;wipe oil off°

Reinsertthe dipstickintothe tube and rest oilfill cap on

thetube° Do notthreadthecap ontothetube. Remove

and read oil level° If necessary',add oiluntil "FULL"
mark on dipstickis reached° Do not overfill,

• For cold weather operation youshould change oil for
easier starting(See "OIL VISCOSITY CHART" in the

Customer Responsibilitiessection ofthis manual).

° To change engine oil, see the Customer Responsibili-

ties section in this manual.

ENGINE OIL
FILL CAP/DIPST|CK

FIG. 10

ADD GASOLINE

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

gasolinewith a minimum of87 octane° (Use of leaded
gasolinewillincrease carbon and lead oxide deposits

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

Purchasefuel in quantitiesthatcan be usedwithin30

days to assure fuel freshness,

IMPORTANT: WHEN OPERATING IN TEMPERATURES
BELOW 32°F(0°C), USE FRESH, CLEAN WINTER 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 letit run until the fuel lines and carburetorare
empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See Storage Instruc-

tions for additional tnformation. Never use engine or
carburetor cleaner products inthe fuel tank or permanent

damage may occur.

' Iq ii m q,l,,,llll,l,, I I

filler neck. Do notoverfill. Wipe off any

spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or

CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank
use gasoline near an open flame,

TO START ENGINE (See Fig. 6)

When starting the engine for the first time or if the engine
has run out of fuel, itwill take extra cranking time to move

fuel from the tank to the engine_

• Be sure freewheel control is in the transmission en-
gaged position.

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

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

° Move throttle control to fast position
° Pull choke control out for a cold engine start attempt,,

For a warm enginestart attempt the choke control may
not be needed,

Note: Before starting, read the warm and cold starting
procedures below.

° Insert keyinto ignitionand turn key clockwise to"START"

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

onds per minute° If the engine does not start after
several attempts, push choke control in, wait a few

minutes and try again. If engine still does not start, pull
the choke control out and retry_

WARM WEATHER STARTING (50° F and above)
° When engine starts, slowly push choke control in until

the enginebegins to run smoothly, if the engine starts
to run roughly, pull the choke control out slightly for a

few seconds and then continue to push the control in
slowly.

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

the enginedoes 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 below)

° When engine starts, slowly push choke control in until

the engine begins to run smoothly. Continue to push

the choke control in small steps allowing the engine to
accept small changes in speed and toad, until the
choke control is fully ino If the engine starts to run

roughly, pull the choke control out slightly for a few
seconds and then continue to .push the control in

slowly. This may require an engine warm-up period
from several seconds to several minutes, depending

on the 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 is on level ground.
° Place the motion control lever in neutral.

Release the parking brake and let the clutch/brake
slowly return to operating position,,

° Allow one minute for transmission to warm up.

This can be done dudng the engine warm up
period.

° The attachments can be used during the engine warm-

up period after the transmission has been warmed up
and mayrequire thechoke control be pulled out slightly.

NOTE: If at a high altitude (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" inthe Service and Adjustments

section of this manual.

15

OPERATRON

PURGE TRANSMISSION

freewheel lever while t_l_eengine is r'un-

.........................ning,.................... .................._ .......... _..... .... I

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: SHOULD YOUR TRANSMISSION REQUIRE

REMOVAL FOR SERVICE OR REPLACEMENT, IT
SHOULD BE PURGED AFTER REINSTALLATION

BEFORE OPERATING THE TRACTOR.
o Placetractorsafely on levelsurface withengineoffand

parking brake set,.

° Disengage transmission by placing freewheel control

in freewheeling position (See "TO TRANSPORT _ in
this section of manual).

- Sitting inthetractor seat, start engine. After the engine
is running, move throttle control to slow position. With

motion control lever in neutral (N) position, slowly

disengage clutch/brake pedal

. Move motion control lever to full forward position and

hold for five (5) seconds. Move lever to full reverse

position and hold for five (5) seconds. Repeat this

procedurethree (3) times.

NOTE: During this procedure there will beno movement of

drivewheels. The air isbeing removed from hydraulic drive

system.
° Move motion control lever to neutral (N) position. Shut-

off engine and set parking brake.

° Engage transmission by placing freewheel control in

driving position (See "TOTRANSPORT" in this section
of manual).

° Sittingtn the tractor seat, startengine. Aftertheengine

is running, move throttle contro/to half (1/2) speed.

With motion control lever in neutral (N) position, slowly

disengage clutch/brake pedal°

o 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 a,pproximately five(5) feet return the
motion control tever to the 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,.

cAUTiON: Never engage 9r disengage I

MOWING TIPS

° Tire chains cannot be used when the mower housing is

attached to tractor°

o Mower should be properly leveled for best mowin.g

performance. See "TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING in
the Service and Adjustments section of this manual°

° Use the runner on the right hand side of mower as a

guide. The blade cuts approximately an inch outside
the runner (See Fig° 8).

° 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 right of the
tractor. This will result in a more even distribution of

clippings and more uniformcutting.

° When mowinglarge areas, startby turningtothe right

so that clippings will discharge away from shrubs,

fences, driveways, etco After one ortwo rounds, mow

in the opposite direction making left hand turns until
finished (See Fig. 1t).

= If grass is extremelytall, it should be mowed twice to

reduce load and possible fire hazard from dried clip-

pings. Make first cut relativelyhigh; the second tothe
desired height.

° Do not mow grass when it iswet Wet grass will plug

mower andleave undesirable clumps. Allow grass to
dry before mowing.

• Always operate engine at full throttlewhen mowingto
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 well as the quality of cut desired.

• When operating attachments, select a ground speed
that will suit the terrain and give best performance of

the attachment being used,

FIG. 11

16

Check Brake Operation _/ _ I
Check Tire Press";e _ _#1

T

Check f0; Loose Fastener's ...... _ ................. _/7 ........ _P' ......

R Sho,pe_Rep,acoMowe,B,ades i '¢," ......." ' ".......

C Lubrication Chart ................. 1 _ _#'

T Check Battery LeveVRecharge _ ..................

0 Clean Battery and Terminals ...... _/ ............. _#_

R Check Transaxte Cooling _ .............

,Ad!u_tBladem,lt(_)Ter,sio° ..................... V'0............

Adjust Motion D_e Belt(s) Tension , , _=#'6
Check Engine 011Level if _#'

Chang;"Engin'e'"'O,.... _,_ V' ......

Clean Air Filter Vt_z

Clean Air Screen _1'2 =_=

or ..........i . ,, i[i,,,..........

I Replace Oil Biter (if equipped) _,2

NE _;_;,_;_gi,e€'0oii'n'_F_ns.................. v'_ ....

=Re;iacespar"Pl_g .... J _ ......

Replace Ai;FilterPape;' Ca'ltddge _#'2 ................. ....

Replace'Fuel Fiffer ............ I

1 - Change more often when operatingunder aheavy load or in highambient temperatures,

2 - Setvlce more o{tenwhen opera[leg ]n dirty ordusty condt!lans
3 - t! equipped with oll _{ter, change olt every 50 hours.

4 - Replace blades mere often when mowing in sar_dysolt,

5- I! equippedwitha_usteblesystem..
6- Notrequiredi_equippedwithmaintenance-freebattery..
7- Tightenfrontaxlepivotboltto 35tt-tbs maximum..

Donotovertlghten

GENERAL RECOMMENDATaONS

The warrantyon thistractor does not cover itemsthat have

been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To
receive full value from the warranty, operator mbst maintain

tractor as instructedin this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made periodically to

properly maintain your tractor°
All adjustments in the Service and Adjustments section of

thismanual 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
andlast longer.

BEFORE EACH USE

. Check engine oil level,
o Check brake operation,

° Check tire pressure.

= Check for loosefasteners.

IMPORTANT: DO NOT OiL 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 BEARtNGS, IF YOU

FEEL THEY MUST BE LUBRICATED, USE ONLY A DRY, POW-
DERED GRAPHITE TYPE LUBRICANT SPARINGLY,

LUBRICATION CHART

(_TIE ROD BALL JOINTS

SPINDLE ZERK (_)

(_) FRONT WHEEL_

BEARING ZERK

(_ STEERING ---'-----'-'_

13_)SPRAY SILICONE LUBRICANT (MOVE BOOTS TO LUBRICATE)
(_) GENERAL PURPOSE GREASE
(E) REFER TO CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES "ENGINE" SECTION

BEARING ZERK

ENGINE (_)

17

E)

TRACTOR

Always observe safety rules when performing any mainte-
nance.

BRAKE OPERATION

If tractor requires more than six (6) feet stopping distance
at high speed inhighest gear, then brake must be adjusted°

(See "TO ADJUST BRAKE" in the Service and Adjust-

ments section of this manual).

TIRES

• 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°

TO SHARPEN BLADE (See Fig. 13)

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

tual damage to mower and engine_

The bladecan be sharpened witha fileor on a grinding
wheel, Do not attemptto sharpen while on the mower°

° To checkblade balance,you will needa 5/8" diameter

steelbolt,pin,or acone balancer,, (When usinga cone

batancer, follow the instructions supplied with bal-

ancer).

° Slide b_adeonto an unthreaded portion of the steel bolt

or pin and holdthe bolt or pinparallel with the ground.
If blade is balanced, it should remain in a horizontal

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

NOTE: Do not use anail for balancing blade. The lobes of

the center hole may appear to be centered, but are not.

BLADE REMOVAL (See Fig. 12)

° Raise mower to highest position to allow access to

blades°

° Remove hex bolt, lock washer and flat washer securing

blade.

= 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 (27-35 Ft. Lbs. torque).

IMPORTANT: BLADEBOLTtSGRADE 8 HEATTREATEDo
NOTE: We donot recommend sharpening blade -butifyou

do, be sure the blade is balanced.

BLADE ASSEMBLY'

FLAT _,= /

WAS

HEX BOLT (GRADE 8)*

•A GRADE 8 HEAT TREATED BOLT CAN BE
IDENTIRED BY SIX LINES ON THE BOLT HEAD,

FIG. 12

MANDREL

TRAILING
EDGE UP

FIG. 13

BATrERY

Your tractor has a batter;/charging system which is suffi-

cient for normal use. However, periodic charging of the

battery with an automotivecharger will extend itslifeo

- Keep batteryand terminals clean.

= Keep batter'), bolts tight.
o Keep small vent holes open.

° Recharge at 6-10 amperes for 1 hour.
TO CLEAN BATTERY AND TERMINALS
Corrosionand 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 withplain water and dry.

° Clean terminalsand batterycable endswithwire brush

until bright.

° Coat terminals with grease or petroleum jelly.
= Reinstal_ batterY (See "CONNECT BATTERY" in the

Assembly section of this manual)°

_ 18