Craftsman 917258920 Owner’s Manual

L 917,258920

oAssembly ®Operation

• Customer Responsibilities ®Service and Adjustments

• Repair Parts

OWNER'S MANUAL

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

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

............................................................... ii

IIIIMIIIIIIIIIIII

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+

I, GENERAL OPERATION III. CHILDREN

• Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual Tragic accidents can occur ifthe operator is not alert to the

and on the machine before starting. .......... presence of children+ Children are often attracted to the

• Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the machine and the mowing activity. Never assume that instructions, to operate the machine.

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

which could be picked up and thrown by the blade+

° Besurethe areais clear ofotherpeople before mowing.Stop

machine if anyone enters the area. ° Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area.

• Never carry passengers+ ° Before and when backing, look behind and down for small

= Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always

look down and behind before and while backing+ ,, Never carry children. They may fall off and be seriously

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

it at anyone+ Do not operate the mower without either the • Never allow children to operate the machine. entire grass catcher or the guard in place+ • Use extra care when approaching blind comers, shrubs,

• Slow down before turning, trees, or other+objects that may obscure vision+

° Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turnoff IV. SERVICE

blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and remove keys before dismounting, ,, Use extracareinhandlinggasolineand otherfuels+They are

° Tum off blades when not mowing+ flammable and vapors are explosive. ° Stop engine before removing grass catcher or'unclogging Use only an approved container.

chute= Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine

. Mow only indaylight or goodartificiallight, running. Allow engine to cool before refueling+ Do not

° Do not operate the machine while under the influence of

alcohol or drugs+ Never refuel the machine indoors.

= Watch for traffic when operating near or crossingroadways. Never' store the machine or fuel container inside where = Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into there is an open flame, such as a water heater+

a trailer or truck+ • Never run a machine inside a closed area.

II. SLOPE OPERATION and keep equipment in goodcondition+ Slopes are a major factor related to loss+of-control and operationregularly.

tipover accidents, which can result in severe injury ordeath. • Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debrisbuild-up. All slopes require extra caution, tf you cannot back up the Clean oil or fuel spillage+ Allow machine to cool before

slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not mow it. storing. DO: ,, Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object+

° Mow up and down slopes, not across. Repair',ifnecessary, before restarting+ ,, Remove obstacles such as rocks,tree limbs, etc.

o Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could deterioration, which could expose moving parts or allow

ovedum the machine. Taftgrass can hide obstacles+ objects to be thrown. Frequently check components and

° Use slowspeed+Choose alow gear'so that youwillnot have replacewith manufacturer'srecommended parts, when nec-

tostop or shift while on the slope, essary+

° Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for wheel • Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or

weights or counterweightsto improve stability+ wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them,

° Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments+ • Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service as

These can change the stability of the machine, required.

° makeKeepallm°vement°ntheslopessl°wandgraduaLsuddenchanges in speed or direction. Donot ............ i ..........Look for thls symbol to point out impOr- I

° Avoid startingor stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction, I tant safety precautions. It means !

disengage the blades andproceed slowly straightdown the _J ! i CAUTIONIII BECOME ALERTlll YOUR I

slope. " " " SAFETY IS INVOLVED, I

DO NOT: ...........................

° Donot turnonslopes unlessnecessary,and then,turnslowly CAUTION: Always disconnect spark plug I

and gradually downhill,tf possible, wireand placewirewhereit cannot contact !

• Do not mow near drop+offs,ditches, or embankments. The spark plug In order to prevent accidental i mower could suddenly tum over tfa wheel is over the edge starting when setting up, transporUng, |

of a cliffor ditch, or if an edge caves in. adjusting or making repairs, I

• Do not mow on wet grass+Reduced traction could cause sliding+ ""'"'"'"'"'""' "

° Do not try to stabilizethe.machine by putting your foot on the

ground.

° Do notuse grass catcher on steep slopes+ The engine exhaust from this product con-

SAFETY RULES

children will remain where you last saw them. ° Keep children out of the mowing area and under the watchful

care of another responsible adult.

children.

injured or interfere with safe machine operation°

smoke+

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

° Never tamper with safety devices+ Check their proper'

,, Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine running.

• Grass catchercomponents are subjecttowear; damage, and

.... wA,.+.GA

tains chemicals known to the State of Califor-

nia to cause cancer, birth defects, or other

reproductive 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

performance.

Should you experience any problem you cannot easily

remedy, please contact your nearest Sears Authorized Service Center/Department Department. We have com- petent, welFtrained technicians and the proper tools to service or repair this tractor°

Please read and retain this manual. The instructions will enable you toassemble and maintain your tractor properly.

Always observe the "SAFETY RULES",

MODEL NUMBER

917_258920

SERIAL NUMBER

DATE OF PURCHASE

THE MODELAND SERIAL NUMBERSWlLL 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.

MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT

A Sears Maintenance Agreement is available on th_s prod- uct. Contact your nearest Sears store for details.

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

- Read and observe the safety rules. ° Fo!lowa regularschedulein maintaining, caringforand

using your tractor.

° Followthe tnstnJctions under "Customer Responsibili-

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

PRODUCT SPECiFiCATIONS

HORSEPOWER: 25,0

GASOLINE CAPACITY 3.5 GALLONS

AND TYPE: UNLEADED REGULAR OIL TYPE (API-SF/SG!SH): SAE low30 (above 32°F)

SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F)

OIL CAPACITY: W/FILTER: 42 PINTS

WIO FILTER: 3..7PINTS

SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION RC12YC '(GAP: ,030")

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

REVERSE: 0-2.1

TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI

REAR: 10 PSI

CHARGING SYSTEM: 15 AMPS @ 3600 RPM BATTERY: AMP/HR: 35

MIN, CCA: 280

CASE SIZE: UIR

BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 30-35 FT,LBS.

WARNING: This tractor is equipped with an internal

combustion engine and should not be used on ornear any

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

(if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective workingorder 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 ts available through your nearest Sears Authorized Service Center/

Department (See REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT

Fortwo (2) years from the date of purchase, ifthis Craftsman Riding Equipment is maintained, lubricated and tuned up according

to the instructionsin the owner's manual, Sears wittrepair or replace, free of charge, any parts found to be defective in mater_al or workmanship°

This Warranty does not cover:

- Expendable itemswhich become wom during normal use, such as blades, spark plugs, air cleaners, befts, 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 according to the instructions contained in the owner's manual..

° Riding equipment used for commercialor 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

workmanshipand ourtesting determinesthe batterywill not holda charge, Seam will replacethe 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, VVARRANTY 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 IN THE UNITED STATES°

ThisWarrantygivesyouspecificlegal rights,andyoumayalsohaveotherrightswhichmayvaryfromstatetostate.

SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, IL 60I79

.................................. ,.......................... iiilllllll R ............

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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

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

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

WARRANTY .............................................. .:............. .... 3

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

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

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

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

rlUili'l'lillH[[rr[[[l'["'["' ' '[ [ [ I

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

,,I,,,I,L_II ill,,lll,,,ll,,_l,L_II_I , i

SERVICE NOTES

' ' ,11111,11II ,11,1,11,i I I I /_ i ....I" I" ,' ,1111 ' '1.... I ,i iii

CO OF HARDWARE PACK

uJ .........................

Parts Bag contents

iiiiii

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

(4) Locknut 3/8-16

(12) Crownlock Nuts 3/16 x 8

(1) Shoulder'Bolt

5/t6-18

(12) Carriage Bolts

5/16-18 x 5/8

(4) Adjusting Bar

(1) Knob

_, (4) Reta,ir}erSpn.'ngs

(4) Clevis Pins

(4) Wheels

Steering

Wheel

Steering f

Sleeve f

-_ NoseRoller

Video

Manual Cassette Parts Bag

Seat

! t ! I

! I ! t

e t

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

_'\, (3) Retainer'Spdngs

_r( _ 1 (doubleloop)

(4) Retainer Springs"-_'-JA¥ _/!

(single loop) I

(2) Nylon Locknuts 3/8-16

(2) Hex Bolts

3/8-t6 x 1

17/32 x 7/8 x 16 Ga.

(2) Washers

Parts bag contents not shown full size

III IUI!I

_(2) Front LinkAssemblies

Nose Roller

(2) Keys

Brackets

Wheel

Insert

Slope Sheet

_ teering

LI LJ

E LY

Your newtractor has been assembled atthe factorywith the exception ofthoseparts 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 setwill make assemblyeasier_ Standard wrench sizes are listed.

(1) 5/16" wrench

(1) 1/2" wrench Tire pressure gauge

(2) 9116"wrenches Utility knife

(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

• 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,

• Check for any additional loose parts or cartons and

remove.

BEFORE ROLLING TRACTOR OFF SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL (See Fig. 1)

o Remove hex bolt, lock washer and large flat washer

from steering shaft.

° Positionfront wheels ofthe tractorso theyare pointing

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

(left to right) andslide onto steering wheel adapter. ° Secure steering wheel to steering shaft with hex bolt,

Iockwasher and large flat 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 REMOVE ANY STAPLES IN SKIDTHAT MAYPUNCTURE T1RESWHERETRACTOR

IS TO ROLL.OFF SKID.

STEERING SLEEVE

i II !

FIG. 1

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR

CHECK BATTERY (See Fig. 2)

° Lift hood to raised position.

• tf 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,

(See BATTERY" in MAINTENANCE section of this

manual for charging instructions).

LABEL

TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Operation

section for location and function of controls)

° Press liftlever plunger and raise attachment liftlever to

its highest 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 forward off skid.

° Remove mower and packing materials, ° Remove ties from V-belts.

FIG. 2

INSTALL SEAT (See Fig. 3)

Adjust seat before tightening adjustment knob_

- Remove cardboard packing on seat pan. ,

° Place seat on seat pan and assemble shouider bolt. o Assemble adjustment knob and flat washer loosely.

Do not tighten.

o 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,

Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob securely.

SEAT

ADJUSTMENT KNOB

FIG. 3

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

The tireson yourtractorwere overinflated at thefactory for shippingpurposes. Correct tire pressure is important for

bestcutting performance. . Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in "PRODUCT

SPECIFICATIONS" on page 3 of this manual.

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.

ASSEMBLE GAUGE WHEELS AND BRACK-

ETS TO MOWER DECK (See Fig. 4)

The gaugewheels are designed tokeep themower deckin proper positionwhen operating mower. Be sure they are

properlyadjustedtoensure optimummowerperformanceo_ ° Attach front gauge wheel brackets marked front left

(FL), front right (FR) to mowerdeck using(3) carriage boltsand (3) locknuts. For ease of installationdo not tighten locknuts 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 boltsand (3) Iocknuts. For ease of installationdo not

tighten Iocknuts until all carriage bolts have been installed.

° Slide gauge wheel 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 Iocknuts and

tighten securely.

• Adjust gauge wheels to highest position for ease of mower deck assembly,

= Adjust gaugewheels before operating mower asshown

in the operation section of this manual.

GAUGE WHEEL

BRACKET

SHOULDER BOLT ADJUSRNG

GAUGE WHEEL CARRIAGE

3/8 WASHER BOLTS

BAR

3/_16CENTER

LOCKNUT

FIG. 4

TO ATTACH NOSE ROLLER (See Fig. 5)

° Positionbrackets.17/32x7/Sx 16 gaugewashers,and

nose rollerbetweendeck mounting bracketsasshown. Be sureto positionbracketsoncorrectside, as shown°

, Install 3/8.16 x 1 hex bolts and 3/8-16 lock nuts as

shown. Tighten hardware securefy,

NOTE: Be surebrackettabs are positionedintab holesin deck brackets.

TAB

NOSEROLLER

HEX

"A" LOCK NUT' BRACKET

TAB WASHER

FIG. 5

"B" BRACKET TAB

INSTALL MOWER AND DRIVE BELT (See Figs. 5A and 7)

Be sure tractor is on level surfaceand mowersuspension arms are raised with attachment liftcontrol, Engage park-

ingbrake.

• Cut and remove tiessecuringanti-swaybarand belts,

Swing anti-sway bar to leftside ofmower deck,

° Slide mower undertractorwith dischargeguardto right

side oftractor°

IMPORTANT: CHECK BELT FOR PROPER ROUTING IN

ALL MOWER PULLEY GROOVES. INSTALL BELT INTO

ELECTRIC CLUTCH PULLEY GROOVE,

° Install one front linkin top holeof the L.H, front mower

bracket andL.H. front suspensionbracket. Retain with

two single loop retainer springs as shown,

° installsecond front linkinR.H_front suspensionbracket

only and retain with single loop retainer spring as shown,

° Slide right side of mowerback and install link intophole

of R.H. front mower bracket, Retain with single loop retainer springas shown,

° Turn height adjustment knobcounterclockwiseuntilit

stops.

° Lower mower linkage with attachment lift control.

DOUBLE LOOP RETAINER

SPRING (Inward pointingdock plns}

CHASSIS

o Connect anti-sway bar to chassis bracket under left

= Turn height adjustment knob clockwise to remove

• Raise deck to highest position.

° Adjust gauge wheels before operating moweras shown

CHECK MOWER LEVELNESS

For best cuttingresults,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 thefigures thatare 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.

SUSPENSION

ARMS

Place the suspension arms on inward pointing deck

pins° tf 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°

footrest and retain with double loop retainer spring.

slack from mower suspension.

in the Operation section of this manual.

FRONT SUSPENSION

FRONT MOWER BRACKET

FRONT

LINK

ELECTRIC CLUTCH PULLEY

BRACKETS

GAUGE

WHEEL

DOUBLE

LOOP

RETAINER SPRING

ANTI-SWAY BAR

FIG. 5A

IDLER PULLEY

SINGLE LOOP RETAINER SPRINGS

DISCHARGE GUARD

_.,,, ,,ill iil,,i , i ,, ,

J CHECKLIST

BEFORE YOU OPERATE AND ENJOY YOUR NEW

TRACTOR, WE WlSH TO ASSURE THAT YOU RECEIVE THE BEST PERFORMANCE AND SATISFAC TIONFROM

THIS QUALITY PRODUCT.

PLEASE REVtEW THE FOLLOWING CHECKLIST." v' All assembly instructions have been completed.

•f 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 ovednflated 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 mower and drive belts. Be sure they are routed

properly 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°

WHILELEARNING HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR, PAY

EXTRA ATTENTION TO THEFOLLOWING IMPORTANT ITEMS:

,t" Engine oil is at proper level. / Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean, regular unleaded

gasoline.

,t" 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 operat-

ing your tractor for the firsttime. Follow proper starting

and transmission purging instructions (See,_O START

ENGINE and PURGE TRANSMISSION in the Op-

eration section of this manual)°

i ,,,,,lll,,lllllll,,ll,,,i,i , i

OPE

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

BATTERY CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD

WARNING

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE CLUTCH

FUEL

CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT DIFFERENTIAL PARKING BRAKE

LOCK LOCKED

REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH

FAST SLOW

LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP

LIGHT

UNLOCKED

LOW PARKING BRAKE

MOWER LIFT

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH ENGAGED

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

IGNITION

FREE WHEEL

(Automatic Models only)

......... ,,,,,,,11 ii iiii ,,,i '"M '"'1II1' IIIII1' IIII ................. IIII1'""11 I'111"111" '1'"'1 I I ........................

OPERATION

...................... i'1 'IM" i,, iii, ,, I'

KNOW YOUR TRACTOR

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

Compare the illustrationswithyour tractortofamlliariz_yourself withthe locationof variouscontrolsand adjustments° Save thismanual for future reference.

AMMETER CONTROL SWITCH

THROTTLE CLUTCH SWITCH UGHT

" * _" SWITCH

CHOKE CONTROL

ATTACHMENT

IGNITION

LIFT LEVER PLUNGER

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL

HEIGHTADJUSTMENT KNOB

FREEWHEEL CONTROL

SPEEDS:

HOUR METER LIFT LEVER

PARKING BRAKE

LEVER

MOTION CONTROL

LEVER

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

ATrACHMENTCLUTCH SWITCH- Usedtoengagemower blades or otherattachments mounted to yourtractor,

LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to raiseand lowermower deckor other attachments mountedtoyour tractor.

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL - Used for declutching and brakingthe tractor and starting the engine°

MOTION CONTROL LEVER - Selects the speed and

directionof tractor.

CHOKE CONTROL - Used when startinga cold engine. LIGHT SWITCH - Turns the headlightson and off.

THROTTLE CONTROL - Used to control engine speed.

FIG. 6

FREEWHEEL CONTROL - Disengages transmission for pushingor slowlytowing the tractorwith the engine off.

IGNITION SWITCH - Used to start and stop the engine,

AMMETER - indicatesbattery charging (÷) or discharging

(-).

PARKING BRAKE LEVER - Locksclutctdbrakepedal into

the brake position.

HEIGHTADJUSTMENT KNOB- Usedtoadjust the mower height.

HOURMETER - indicates hours of operation,

OPEFIATI

i ,,_ ,......... .................. _,! ,,ill,i,

The operation of anytractor can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result

_z-_ in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields while operating your tractor

........ spectacles or standard safety glasses.

or performing any adjustments _or repairs. We recommend a wide vision safety mask over

HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR

TO SET PARKING BRAKE (See Fig. 7)

Yourtractor isequippedwithan operatorpresencesensing switch. When engine is running, any attempt by the operatorto leave the seat withoutfirst settingthe parking brake willshut off the engine.

• Depress clutch/brake pedal intofull "BRAKE" position

and hold.

• Place parkingbrake lever in"ENGAGED" positionand

releasepressurefromclutch/brakepedalrPedalshould remainin BRAKE" position.Make sure parkingbrake

will hold tractor secure.

PUSH IN TO ATTACHMENT CLUTCH

THROTTLE "DISENGAGE" SWITCH PULL OUT TO

CONTROL LEVER _ "ENGAGE'I.

C =oL'\

CLUTC "H_'RAKE_"_

/I ,..--_._ _\ CONTROL

., \.<;v:L.o

"DRIVE" ADJUSTMENT BRAKE

POSITION KNOB "DISENGAGED" "ENGAGED"

STOPPING (See Fig. 7)

MOWER BLADES-

• To stop mower blades,move attachment clutch switch to "DISENGAGED" position.

GROUND DRIVE -

° To stop grounddrive, depress clutch/brakepedal 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 position.

NOTE: Failure tomove throttlecontrolto slowpositionand allowing engine to idle beforestopping may cause engine

to "backfire'L

• Turn ignitionkey to "OFF" position and remove key.

Always remove key when leaving tractor to prevent unauthorized use.

° Never use choke to stop engine.

POSITION POSITION

FIG. 7

IMPORTANT: LEAVING THE IGNITION SWITCH IN ANY

POSITION OTHER THAN "OFF" WILL CAUSE THE BATTERY TO BE DISCHARGED, (DEAD).

NOTE: Under certain conditionswhen tractor isstanding idle withtheenginerunning,hot engine exhaust gasesmay cause "browning" of grass. To eliminate this possibility, alwaysstop engine when stopping tractor on grass areas.

I ,_ CAUTION: Always stop tractor com. I i ,tlA, pletely, asdescribedabove, beforeleav- i

| _ mg the operator's position; to empty !

..................................._.;:....,, ,

!......... ....gras,s........catcher, etc. I

TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL (SEE FIG, 7)

Always operate engine at full throttle.

° Operating engine at less than full throttle reduces the

battery charging rate.

, Full throttle offers the best mower performance.

TO USE CHOKE CONTROL (See Fig. 7)

Usechokecontrolwheneveryou are startingacoldengine_ Do not useto starta warm engine.

° To engage chokecontrol,pullknobout° Slowly push

knobin to disengage°

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD (See Fig. 7)

Thedirectionandspeedof movementiscontrolledbythe

motioncontrollever,

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

position,

° Release parking brake and clutcWbrake pedal. ° Slowly move motion control lever to desired position,

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT

(See Fig. 7)

The cuttingheight iscontrolledby turningthe heightadjust- ment knob in desired direction.

° Turn knob clockwise ((_) to raise cutting heighto ° Turn knob counterclockwise (P'_) to lower cutting

height,

The cutting height range is approximately 1_112"to 4-1/2", The heights are measured from the ground to the blade tip with the engine not running. These heights are approxi-

mate and mayvary depending upon soil conditions,height

of grass and types of grass being mowed_

• The average lawn should becut toapproximately 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.

TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS (see Fig. 8)

Gauge wheels are properly adjustedwhenthey are slightly

off the ground when mower is at the desired cutting height in operating position. Gauge wheels then keep the deck in proper position to help prevent scalping in most terrain

conditions.

Be sure tractor is on a flat level surface.

• 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.

° Replace retainer' spring Into clevis pin. IMPORTANT: BE SURETO READJUST GAUGEWHEELS

IF YOU CHANGETHE CUTTING HEIGHT OFTHE MOWER

3ECK.

RETAINER SPRING

CLEVIS PiN

FIG. 8

TO OPERATE MOWER (See Figs. 6 and 7)

Your tractor is equipped with an operator presence sens- ingswitch. Any attempt by the operator to leave the seat withtheengine runningand theattachment clutchengaged

willshut off the engine.

* Select desired tleight of cuL o Lower mowerwith attachment liftcontrol.

, Start mower blades by engaging attachment clutch

control.

, TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disengage attachment

clutchcontrol.

,III,!,,,!,tulIIII,/,!UI , , I ,,, I I IIIII

,,,,,,,,,,,,, ,,, ,,,,,,,,, ,,

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

CAUTION: Do not drive up or down

i................................!

• Choose theslowest 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, pustl clutch/brake

pedal quickly to brake position and engage parking brake.

° 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. ° To restart movement, slowly release parking brake and

clutch/brake pedal.

o Slowly move motion control lever to slowest setting. ° Make all turns slowly.

TO TRANSPORT (See Figs. 6 and 10)

When pushingor towingyour tractor,be sureto disengage

transmission by placingfreewheel control in freewheeling position. Free wheel control is located at the rear drawbar

oftractor. ° Raise attachment lift to highest position with attach-

ment lift control.

. 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 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 onatruckor atrailer, besure hood isclosedand secured to tractor. Use an appropriate means oftying hood to tractor (rope, cord, etc.).

hills with slopes greater than 15° and do not drive across any slope.

without either the entire grass catcher,

CAUTION: Do not operate the mower

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

,_R.H,

RUNNER

DISCHARGE GUARD

FIG. 9 14

FIG. 10

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE

CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL (See Fig. 11)

o The engine inyourtractor hasbeen shipped,from the

factory, already filled with summer weightoil.

° Check engine oil with tractoron level ground. ° Unthread and remove oilfill cap/dipstick;wipe oil off°

Reinsertthe dipstickintothetube and restoilfill capon

thetube. Donot thread the capontothetube. Remove

and read oil level. If necessary, add oil until "FULL" mark on dipstick is reached. Do not overfill.

, For coldweather operation you should change oil for

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

o To change engine oil, see the Maintenance section in

this manual.

FILL CAP/DIPSTICK

FIG. 11

ADD GASOLINE

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

gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane° (Use of leaded gasoline will increase carbon and lead oxide deposits

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

Purchase fuel in quantities that can be used within 30

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 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 fuel tank or permanent

damage may occur.

............................... i,iii ii ,i,,llllllii

_ CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank /

filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open flame.

TO START ENGINE (See Fig. 7)

When startingthe enginefor the first time or if the engine

has runout offuel, it willtake extra crankingtime to move

fuel from the tankto the engine° ° Be sure freewheel control is in the transmissionen-

gaged position.

° Sit on seat inoperating position,depressclutch/brake

pedal and set parking brake.

= Place motioncontrollever in neutral (N) position.

, Move attachment clutchto "DISENGAGED" position.

= Move throttlecontrol to fast position = Pull choke controlout for a cold engine startattempt.

Fora warm enginestart attempt the chokecontrolmay

not be needed.

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

° Insertkeyintoignition andturnkeyclockwiseto"START"

positionand release keyas soo'nasengine starts° Do not runstarter continuouslyfor more thanfifteen sec-

onds per minute. If the engine does not start after several attempts, push choke control in, wait a few minutesand try again, tf engine stilldoes notstart, pull

the chokecontrol out and retry.

WARM WEATHER STARTING (50° F and above) ° When engine starts, slowlypush choke controlin until

the engine beginsto runsmoothly. If theengine starts to run roughly,pull the chokecontrolout slightly for a

few seconds and then continueto pushthe control in slowly.

• The attachments and grounddrivecan nowbe used. If theenginedoes not acceptthe load,restart the engine and allowit towarm upfor one minuteusing the choke

as described above.

COLD WEATHER STARTING (50° F and below) ° When engine starts,slowly pushchokecontrolin until

the engine begins to run smoothly. Continue to push the chokecontrol insmall stepsallowing theengine to

accept small changes in speed and toad, until the choke control is fully in. 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.

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

sionshould be warmed up as follows:

° Be sure the tractor ison level ground°

o Place the motioncontrollever inneutral.

Release the parkingbrake and letthe clutch/brake

slowly returnto operating position.

• Allow oneminute for transmissionto warmup.This

can be done duringthe engine warm up period.

° The attachmentscan beused duringthe enginewarm-

up periodafter the transmissionhas been warmed up andmay requirethechoke controlbepulledoutslightly.

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

temperatures (below32 F) thecarburetorfuel mixture may

need tobe adjustedfor best engine performance. See %0

ADJUST CARBURETOR" in the Service and Adjustments sectionof this manual.

.................................. T_,,,

OPERATION

..,_.,i . I i iI i I .............................................. Illllllllllllll II ill I i I

PURGE TRANSMISSION

To ensure proper operation and performance, it is recom-

mendedthat thetransmissionbe purged beforeoperating

tractorfor the first time_ This procedure will remove any trapped air insidethetransmissionwhich may havedevel-

oped during shippingof your tractor, IMPORTANT: SHOULD YOUR TRANSMISSION REQUIRE

REMOVAL FOR SERVICE OR REPLACEMENT, IT

SHOULD BE PURGED AFTER REINSTALLATION BEFORE OPERATING THE TRACTOR,

= Place tractorsafely onlevel surface with engine off and

parking brake set.

o Disengage transmission by placing freewheel control

in freewheeling position (See "TO TRANSPORT" in

this section of manual).

° Sittinginthetractorseat, startengineo Aftertheeng!ne

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

procedure three (3) times.

NOTE; During this procedure there will be no movementof drive wheels. The air is being removed from hydraulic ddve 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"TOTRANSPORT" inthis section of manual).

= Sitting inthetractor seat, start engine. Afterthe engine

is running, move throttle contro/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 tractormoves approximatelyfive (5)feet, slowlymove

motion control lever to reverse position. After the

tractor moves approximately five (5) feet return the

motioncontrollever tothe neutral (N) position. Repeat

this procedure with the motion control leverthree (3) times,

• Your tractor is now purged and now ready for normal

operation.

MOWING TIPS

o Tire chains cannotbe used when the mower housing

isattached to tractor,

° Mower should be properly leveled for best mowing

performance, See'q'O LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in

the Service and Adjustments section of this manual,

• Use the runneron the righthand side of mower as a tghuide,The blade cuts approximately an inchoutside

e runner (See Fig, 8),

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

ming,

° Drive so that clippingsare discharged onto the area

thathas been cut. Have the cut area to the rightof the tractor, This will resultin a more even distributionof

clippingsand more uniformcutting,

° When mowing large areas, start by turning tothe right

so that clippings will discharge away from shrubs, fences, driveways, etc_ After' one or two rounds, mow in the opposite direction mal,Jng left hand turns until

finished (See Fig. 12).

° If 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 grass will plug

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 wetl 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.

IllL_ Illlll iiii _ll II _

FIG. 12

NE CleanAir Filler V._

....Clean_rScreen .........

inspect MuffterlSparkArrester V.

NEC eanEo;in;coo,, .... .... ,,,.,,,,i,,

Replace Spark Ptug if V.

' Repiace Air Ft]ler Paper Cadddge V._

'Relo!_oe Fuel Filler ......... i _ . i"

1_Changemore_enwflenopera_ngunr_eraheavyto_dorlnl_ghambtenHemperaturee. 5* It equtpped wiLhadjuslab_n system. 2 _ Se_]co morn often when operal_ng in ditty or dusty conditions 6 - Not required if equipped wtlh ma_nlenance-fme baileR/ 3 - !! equipped w_ o_l_lter, c_a.__e oilevery 50 hours 7 - Tighten front axle pivot boll to 35 ft.qbe., rnex.hnum,

4 - RelY_,ce ldsdes me_, often when mowing In sandy soil.. Do not overgghfen

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on thistractor does not coveritems that 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 properiy 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 longer.

BEFORE EACH USE

, Check engine oll level,

• Check brake operation°

• Check tire pressure_

• Check operator presence and intedock systems for proper operation_

, Check for loose fasteners.

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 BEARINGS. IF YOU FEEL THEY MUST BE LUBRICATED, USE ONLY A DRY, POW-

DERED GRAPHITE TYPE LUBRICANT SPARINGLY,,

LUBRICATION CHART

(_)TIE ROD BALL JOINTS

O0"®

o,,°,,oz,,, oo,.,,oz,,,

(_) STEERING

SECTOR GEAR ENGINE _)

TEETH

(_ SPRAY SILICONE LUBRICANT (MOVE BOOTS TO LUBRICATE) (_ GENERAL PURPOSE GREASE

(_) REFER TO CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES "ENGINE" SECTION

IVlAINTENA

ii1,, ii1,11111_rll........ ........... II '1 II !1 L

TRACTOR

Alwaysobserve safety rules when performingany mainte- nance.

BRAKE OPERATION

tftractorrequires more than six (6) feet stoppingdistance

at highspeed in highestgear, then brakemustbeadjusted,

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

TIRES

= Maintain proper air' pressurein all tires (See "PROD-

UCT SPECIFICATIONS" on page 3 of thismanual).

° Keep tires free ofgasoline, oil,or insectcontrolchemi-

cals which can harm rubber_

° Avoid stumps, stones deep ruts, sharp objects and

other hazards that may cause t re 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.

OPERATOR PRESENCE SYSTEM

Be sure operator presence and interlock systems are working properly. If your tractor does not function as

described, repair'the problem immediately. ° The engine should not start unless the clutch/brake

pedal isfully depressed and attachement clutch control {sin the disengaged position.

° When the engine is running,any attempt by the opera-

tor to leave the seat without first setting the parking

brake should shut off the engine.

° When the engine isrunning and the attachment clutch

is engaged, any attempt by the operator to leave the seat should shut off the engine.

, The attachment ctutchshouldneveroperate unlessthe

operatoris in the seat.

TRAILING

EDGE UP BLADE

LOCKWASHER_

*A GRADE 8 HEAT TREATED BOLT CAN BE IDENTIRED BY SIX LINES ON THE BOLT HEAD.

FIG. 13

MANDREL ASSEMBLY

STAR

TO SHARPEN BLADE (See Fig. 14)

NOTE: We donot recornrnend sharpening blade- but ifyou

do, be sure the blade is balanced. Care should be taken to keep the blade balanced. An

unbalancedbladewillcause excessive vibrationand even- tual damage to mower and engine°

° The blade canbe sharpenedwitha file oron a grinding

wheel, Do not attemptto sharpenwhileon the mower,

ancer.)

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

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

• Slide bladeon toan unthreaded portion ofthe steelbolt or pin and hold the bolt or pin parallel with the ground.

If blade is balanced, it should remain in a horizontal position. If either end of the blade moves downward,

sharpen the heavy end until the blade is balanced.

BLADE CARE

For best results mower blades must be kept sharp. Re- place bent or damaged blades.

BLADE REMOVAL (See Fig. 13)

• Raise mower to highest position to allow access to blades=

, Remove hex bolt,lockwasherandflatwasher secudng

blade.

° Installnew or resharpened blade withtrailingedge up

towards deck as shown.

IMPORTANT: TO ENSURE PROPER ASSEMBLY,

CENTER HOLE IN BLADE MUST ALIGN WITH STAR ON

MANDREL ASSEMBLY_ o Reassemble hex bolt, lockwasher and flat washer in

exact order as shown°

° Tighten bolt securely (27-35 Ft. Lbs.torque).

IMPORTANT: BLADEBOLTtS GRADE 8 HEAT TREATED.

FIG. 14

BATTERY

Your tractorhas a batterycharging system which is suffi- cient for normal use. However, pedodic charging of the battery with an automotive charger willextend its life.

= Keep batteryand terminals clean_ ,, Keep battery boltstight.

° Keep small vent holes open.

• Recharge at 6-10 amperes for i hour.

+ 42 hidden pages