Craftsman 917259531 Owner’s Manual

SE_/A/RS

MODEL NUMBER 917.259531

° Assembly ° Operation oCustomer 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 TOLL FREE NUMBER: 1-800-659-5917

Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers I_

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

SAFETY RULES

I. GENERAL OPERATION

Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual

and on the machine before starting Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the

instructions, to operate the machine. Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc.,

which could be picked up and thrown by the blade_ Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop

machine if anyone enters the area. Never carry passengers. Do not mow 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 turning. Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn off

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

Turn off blades when not mowing

• Stop engine before removing grass catcher or unclogging chute.

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

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

a trailer or truck

II. SLOPE OPERAI'ION

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

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

DO:

Mow up and down slopes, not across.

Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.

Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine, Tall grass can hide obstacles.

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

to stop or shift while on the slope.

• Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for wheel weights or counterweights to improve stability

• Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments. These can change the stability of the machine

Keep all movement on the slopes slowand gradual Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction_

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

DO NOT:

• Donotturnonslopesunlessnecessary, andthen, turnslowly

and gradually downhill, if possible.

• Do not mow near drep-offs, ditches, or embankments. The

mower could suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.

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

sliding. Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on the

ground,

• Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.

III. CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the

presence of 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 of the mowing area and under the watchful

care of another responsible adult

• Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area

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

Never carry children. They may 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 corners, shrubs,

trees, or other objects that may obscure vision

IV. SERVICE

• Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. Theyare 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

there is an open flame, such as a water heater

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

and keep equipment in good condition. Never tamper with safety devices Check their proper

operation regularly

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

Clean oil or fuel spillage. Allow machine to cool before

storing.

• Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object

Repair, if necessary, before restarting

• Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine running

• Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage, and

deterioration, which could expose moving parts or allow ob ects to be thrown, Frequently check components and rep ace with manu acturer's recommended parts, when nec- essary.

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

wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them

• Check brake operation frequently, Adjust and service as required.

portant safety precautions. It means

A Look for this symbol to point out im-

CAUTION!It BECOME ALERTIH YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

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,

A WARNING A

The engine exhaust from this product con- tains cnemicals 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 CentedDepartmenL We have competent, well-

trained technicians and the proper tools to service or repair this tractol_

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

Always observe the "SAFETY RULES'L

MODEL NUMBER 917.259531

SERIAL NUMBER

DATEOFPURCHASE

THEMODELANDSERIALNUMBERSWILLBEFOUND

ON A PLATE UNDER THE SEAT.

YOUSHOULDRECORDBOTHSERIALNUMBERAND

DATE OF PURCHASE AND KEEP IN A SAFE PLACE FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

PRODUCT SPECIFICAT ONS

HORSEPOWER: 15.5 GASOLINE CAPACITY 1.25 GALLONS

AND TYPE: UNLEADED REGULAR

OIL TYPE (API-BF/SG/SH): BAE 30 (above 32OF)

SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F)

OIL CAPACITY: 30 PINTS SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION RJ19LM

3AP: 030")

VALVE CLEARANCE: INTAKE: 005" - .007"

EXHAUST: 009" - 011"

GROUND SPEED (MPH): FORWARD: 0- 55

REVERSE: 0-24

TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI

REAR: 10 PS!

CHARGING SYSTEM: 3 AMPS BATTERY

5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS "

BATTERY: AMP/HR: 25

MIN CCA: 190 CASE SIZE: UtR

BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 30-35 FT LBS

MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT

A Sears Maintenance Agreement is available on this prod-

ucL Contact your nearest Sears store for details.

CUSTOMER RESPONSlBILRTIES

o Read and observe the safety rules. o Fo!low a regular schedule in maintaining, caring for and

using your tractor.

= Follow the instructions under "Customer Responsibili-

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

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

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

(if any), Ifa spark arrester is used, it should be maintained

in effective working order by the operator,

In the state of California the above is required by law

(Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may 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 of this manual).

LiMiTED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDBNG EQUIPMENT

For two (2) years from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Riding Equipment is maintained, lubricated and tuned up according

to the instructions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair or replace, free of charge, any parts found to be defective in material or

workmanship. This Warranty does not cover:

Expendable items which become worn daring normal use, such as blades, spark plugs, air cleaners, belts, etc

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

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

Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.

LUMaTED90 DAY WARRANTY ON BATTERY

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

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

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

THE DATE OF PURCHASE, WARRANTY SERVICE IS AVAILABLE BY TAKING YOUR CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT TO YOUR NEAREST SEARS SERVICE CENTER. (IN-HOME WARRANTY SERVICE WILL STILL BE AVAILABLE AFTER 30 DAYS

FROM THE DATE OF PURCHASE BUT A STANDARD TRIP CHARGE WILL APPLY) THIS WARRANTY APPLIES ONLY

WHILE THIS PRODUCT IS IN THE UNITED STATES This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which may vary from state to state_

SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO. D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, IL 60179

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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

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

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ..................... 3, 16-20

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

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

INDEX ............................................................................ 4

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

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

INDEX

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

Adjustments:

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

Carburetor ....................................... 26

Mower:

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

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

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

Air Filter, Engine ................................... 19

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

Assembly ........................................... 7.9

Battery:

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

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

Connecting .................................. 7-8

Starting with Weak Battery ........ 24

Storage ........................................... 27

Terminals.., .............................. 18

Belts:

Motion Drive

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

Mower Blade Drive

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

Blade:

Sharpening ......................................17

Replacement .................................. 17

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

Carburetor Adjustment ...................... 26

Controls, Tractor ............................... 11

Customer Responsibilities ............ 16-20

Engine:

Air Filter. .................................. 19

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

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

Cooling Fins, Engine .............. 19

Engine Oil ................................ 18

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

Spark Plugs ............................ 20

Tractor:

Blades ....................................... 17

Lubrication Chart .................... 16

Maintenance Schedule ........... 16

Tire Care ........................ 8,17,24

Cutting Height, Mower ....................... 12

Electrical:

Interlocks and Relays ................ 25

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

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

Engine:

Air Filter .......................................... 19

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

Cooling Fins, Engine ..................... 19

OIl Change ................................18

Oil Level ................................... 13,18

Oil Type ..............................................18

Preparation .....................................13

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

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

Storage ............................................27

Filters:

Air ................................................. 19

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

Fuel:

Type ................................................ 14

Storage ............................................... 27

Fuse .....................................................25

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

Hood RemovaVInstallation ....................25

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

Lubdcal(on Chart ................................ 16

Maintenance Schedule ._.................... 16

Mower:

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

Adjustment, Side4o-Side ............. 22

Blade Sharpening .........................17

Blade Replacement .................... 17

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

Installation ....................................2t

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

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

Mowing Tips ....................................... 15

Muffler .....'........................................... 20

Spark Arrester ............................ 3,42

Mulcher Plate .......................................... 9

OPERATION ........................................................... 10-15

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ...................................... 16

SERVICE AND ADJUSTM ENTS ............................ 21-26

STORAGE ................................................................... 27

TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................ 28-29

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

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

PARTS ORDERING/SERVICE .................. BACK PAGE

Oil:

Cold Weather Conditions ........ 14,18

Engine ............................................... 18

Storage ............................................27

Operation ........................................ 10-15

Operating Mower .................................. 13

Options:

Accessodes ...................................... 5

Spark Arrester ...........................3,42

Parking Brake ............................... 11-12

Paris Bag .............................................6

Parts, Replacement/Repair .............32-49

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

Repair Parts ..................................... 32-49

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

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

Service and Adjustments ...............21-26

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

Carburetor ..........................................26

Fuse ............................................25

Hood Removal/Installation...........25

MotionDriveBelt

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

Mower Blade Drive Belt

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

Mower Adjustment:

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

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

Mower Installation .........................21

Mower Removal ............................ 21

Tire Care ............................. 8,17,24

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

Spark Plugs ........................................ 20

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

Starting the Engine ....................... 13-14

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

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

Storage ...................................................27

Throttle Control Cable Adjustment.._. 25

Tires .............................................. 8,17,24

Trouble Shooting Chart ....................28-29

Transaxle Repair Parts ................. 48-49

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

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

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

ACCESSORIES AND ATTACHMENTS;

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

ENGINE MAINTENANCE

SPARK PLUG GAS CAN ENGINE OIL FUEL STABILIZER AIRFILTER BLADES BELTS

PERFORIVlANCE

Sears offers a wide variety of attachments that fit your tractor Many of these are listed below with brief explanations of how they can help you This list was current at the time of publication; however, it may change infuture years - more attachments may be added, changes may be made inthese attachments, or some may no longer be available or fit your model Contact your nearest Sears store for the

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

attaching and detaching

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

BAGGER lets you collect grass clippings and leaves for a healthier, heater looking lawn Two Permanex containers hold 30+gallon plastic bags+

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

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

CORING AERATOR takes small plugs out of soil to allow mois- ture and nutrients to reach grass roots 36-inch swath 24

hardened steel coring tips. 150 Ib+capacity weight tray+ EASY OIL DRAIN VALVE makes oil changes easier, faster.

FRONT NOSE ROLLER canters in front of mower deck to reduce chances of "scalping" on uneven terrain+

GANG HITCH lets you tow 2 or 3 pull-behind attachments at once, such as sweepers, dethatchers, aerators (not for use with rollers, carts or other heavy attachments)+

GAUGE WHEELS on both sides of the mower deck reduce chances of"scalping" on uneven terrain For mower decks not so equipped.

MULCH RAKE/DETHATCHER loosens soil and flips thatch and matted leaves to lawn surface for easy pickup. Twenty spring tine teeth. Useful to prepare bare areas for seeding. Available for front or rear mounting. HIGH PERFORMANCE REEL-ACTION

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

MULCHING CLOSE+OUT PLATE KIT, once installed, lets you

mulch, discharge or bag clippings (bagger optional) without changing blades For models notequipped as 3-in-1 Convertible

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

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

ROLLER for smoother lawn surface. 36-inch wide, 18+inch diameter water-tight drum holds upto 390 Ibs of weighL Rounded

edges prevent harm to turf Adjustable scraper automatically cleans drum.

SNOW BLADE forsnow removal only. 14-inch high, 48+inch wide bladeclears42-inchpathwhenangledleftorright. Raises lowers with side lever. Adjustable skids: replaceable, reversible scraper

bar_ (Use with tire chains and wl_eel weights and/or rear drawbar weight )

SNOWTHROWER has 40-inch swath. Drum-type auger handles powdery and wet/heavy snow. Mounts easily with simple pin arrangement Discharge chute adjusts from tractor seat. 6-inch diameter spout discharges snow 10 to 50 feet. Lift controlled at

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

SPRAYERS use 12-volt DC electric motor that connects to the tractor battery or other 12-volt source Includes booms for automatic spraying and hand held wand for spot spraying. Wand

has adjustable spray pattern. For applying herbicides, insecti-

cides, fungicides and liquid fertilizers

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

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

TILLER has 5 hp engine and 36-inch swath to prepare seed beds, cultivate and compost garden residue, Tiller has its own built-in

lift and depth control system and does NOT require asleeve hitch. Fits any lawn, yard or garden tractor+ Simply hook up to the tractor

drawbar and go! Optional accessories convert unit for dethatcMng, aerating, hilling+ +without tools.

TIRE CHAINS are heavy duty closely spaced extra-large cross

!nks g ve smooth ride, outstanding traction.

TRACTOR CAB has heavy duty vinyl fabric over tubular steel

frame, ABS plastic top; clear plastic windshield offers 360 degree

visibility. Hinged metal doors with catch. Keeps operator warm

and dry. Remove vinyl sides and windshields for use as sun protector in summer. Optional accessories include: tinted/

tempered solid safety glass windshield with hand operated wiper;

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

Optional wand attachment to pick up debris in hard-to-reach places VAO/OHIPPER includes a chipper+shredder.

WEIGHT BRACKET for drawbar for snow removal applications.

Uses (1) 55 Ib weighL

WHEEL WEIGHTS for rear wheels provide needed traction for

snow removal or dozing heavy matedals_

CONTENTS OF PACK

Parts Bag contents shown full size

(1) Hex Bolt

3/8-16 x 1

Large

Flat Washer

(1) Hex Bolt 5/16-18 x 1-1/4

(1) Shoulder

j Bolt 5/16-18

(1) Hex Bol

1/2-13 x I

(1) Lock washer 3/8

(1) Locknut

5/16-18

Parts packed separately in carton

Seat

Steering

Wheel

Mulcher

Plate

Eli

Video

Cassette

(1) Washer 17/32 x

1-3/16 x 12 Gauge

#10 x 5/8

(2) Screws

S'_... (2)Lock Washers #10 _../ _,-]

(_) (2) Washers H _4|

/ 3/16 x 3/4 x16 Gauge _ I

(2) Weld Nuts #10

(1) Lock

Washer 1/2

Steering

Manual

Boot

Pa_s Bag

Parts bag contents not shown full size

_ (2)Washers 3/8

\k J) x7/8x 14 Gauge

Shoulder

(2)

Bolts

Extension Shaft

I teering

/ .fF',_ _ (2) Center-

( /_/)] _ lock Nuts \ _j'//(2) Gauge

Wheels

lllIIlllll_, (2) Keys

Steering Wheel

Adapter

Steering Wheel

Insert

(2) Hex Bolts 1/4-20 x 3/4 (2) Hex Nuts 1/4-20

9/32 x 5/8 x 16 Gauge

(2) Washers

(2) Lock Washers 1/4

(2) Latch Hook

Assemblys

Slope Sheet

BLY

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

the correct tools as necessary to insure proper tightness.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

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

(2) 7/16" wrenches Phillips Screwdriver (1) 1/2" wrench Tire pressure gauge

(1) 9/16" wrench Utility knife (1) 3/4" Socket w/drive rachet

When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, it

means when you are in the operating position (seated

behind the steering wheel).

STEERING

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON

UNP_,CK CARTON

o 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.

o Check for any additional loose parts or cartons and

remove.

BEFORE ROLLINGTRACTOR OFF SKiD

ADAPTER

5/16 LOCKNU'I

/ 5/16 HEX BOLT

SOOT

EXTENSION SHAFT

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL (See Fig, 1)

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND BOOT ° Slide extension shaft onto lower steering shaft. Align

mounting holes in extension and lower shafts and install 5/16 hex bolt and IocknuL Tighten securely.

IMPORTANT: TIGHTEN BOLT AND NUT SECURELY TO

18-22 FT. LBS TORQUE.

Place tabs of steering boot over tab slots in dash and push down to secure.

INSTALL STEERING WHEEL

= Position front wheels of the tractor so they are pointing

straight forward.

= Slide steering wheel adapter onto steering shaft exten-

sion,,

= Position steering wheel and sleeve assembly so cross

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

= Assemble large flat washer, 3/8 lock washer, 3/8 hex

bolt and tighten securely.

° Snap steering wheel insert into center of steering

wheel.

° Remove protective plastic from tractor hood and grill. IMPORTANT: CHECK FOR AND REMOVE ANY STAPLES

IN SKID THAT MAY PUNCTU RETIRES WHERE TRACTOR IS TO ROLL OFF SKID

LOWER

STEERING SHAFT

• Roll tractor backwards off skid,

• Remove banding holding discharge guard up against

tractor.

I_ _ ' _ / I

FIG. 1

I i

/ I

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR

CONNECT BATTERY (See Figs. 2 and 3)

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.

TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Operation section for location and function of controls)

" Press lift lever plunger and raise attachment lift lever to

its highest position°

° Release parking brake by depressing clutch/brake

pedal°

o Place freewheel control in freewheeling position to

disengage transmission (See "TO TRANSPORT" in

the Operation section of this manual).

° Remove cardboard packing from seat pan and lift seat

pan to raised position.

° Open battery box door and remove protective plastic.

• Remove terminal protective caps and discard. If this battery is put into service after month and year

indicated on label (label located between terminals)

charge battery for minimum of one hour at 6-10 amps.

o First connect RED battery cable to positive (+) terminal

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

ASSEMBLY

• Connect BLACK grounding cable to negative (-) terrni- nal with remaining hex boiL, flat washer, lock washer

and hex nut. Tighten securely

° Close battery box docr_ Open battery box door for:

• Inspection for secure connections (to tighten hard-

ware).

Inspection for corrosion, o Testing battery_ . Jumping (if required)_

Periodic charging

DISCARD TERMINAL

PROTECTIVE CAPS

LOCK WASHER

HEX

POSITIVE NEGATIVE (RED)CABLE (BLACK)CABLE

NUT

FLAT WASHER

HEX BOLT

FIG. 2

SEAT

PAN

SEAT

SEAT PAN

SHOULDER

BOLT

FLAT WASHER

ADJUSTMENT BOLT 'LOCK WASHER

FIG. 4

ASSEMBLE GAUGE WHEELS TO MOWER

DECK (See Fig. 5)

The gauge wheels are designed to keep the mower deck in

proper position when operating mower, Be sure they are properly adjusted to ensure optimum mower performance. o Assemble gauge wheels with tractor on a flat level

surface.

o Adjust mower to desired cutting height (See '`TO AD-

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

• With mower in desffed height of cut position, gauge wheels should be assembled so they are slightly off the

ground. Install gauge wheel in appropriate hole with shoulder bolt, 3/8 washer, and 3/8-16 Iocknut and

tighten securely

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

GAUGE WHEEL MOUNTING

BRACKET _,

BOX DOOR

FIG. 3

INSTALL SEAT (See Fig. 4) Adjust seat before tightening adjustment bolt.

• Remove cardboard packing on seat pan_ ° Place seat on seat pan and assemble shoulder bolt.

° Assemble adjustment bolt, lock washer and flat w'asher

loosely. Do not tighten.

• Tighten shoulder bolt securely,

• Lower seat into operating position and sit on seal ° Slide seat until a comfortable position is reached which

allows you to press clutch/brake pedal all the way

down. o Get off seat without moving its adjusted position_ . Raise seat and tighten adjustment bolt securely_

3/8-16 LOCKNUT

3/8"WASHER

GAUGE

R BOLT

FIG. 5

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE The tires on your tractor were overinflated at the factory for

shipping purposes. Correct tire pressure is important for

best cutting performance.

o Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in "PRODUCT

SPECIFICATIONS" on page 3 of this manual

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS

Forbest cutting results, mower housing should be properly

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

ASSEMBLY

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF ALL BELTS

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

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

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM After you learn how to operate your tractor, check to see

that the brake is properly adjusted. See 'q'O ADJUST BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments section of this

manual

iNSTALL MULCHER PLATE

(See Figs. 6 & 7)

Install two latch hooks to mulcher plate using screw,

washer, lock washer, and weld nut as shown_

NOTE: Pre-assemble weld nut to latch hook by inserting weld nut from the top with hook pointing down.

o Tighten hardware securely. o Raise and hold deflector shield in upright position_

° Place front of mulcher plate over front of mower deck

opening and slide into place, as shown.

° Hook front latch into hole on front of mower deck_

Hook rear latch into hole on back of mower deck.

guard from mower. Raise and hold CAUTION: Do not remove discharge

guard when attaching mulcher plate and allow it to rest on plate whtle in

operation.

WELD NUT FROM THE TOP HOOK POINTS DOWN

LOCK

WELD WASHER

NUT_

LATCH

HOOK

WELD NUT

WASHER

MULCHER PLATE

LOCK WASHER

WASHER

"_'_SCREW

FIG. 6

TO CONVERT TO BAGGING OR DISCHARGING

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

optional grass catcher accessory

DEFLECTOR

LATCH HOOKS

FIG. 7

,/'CHECKLIST

BEFORE YOU OPERATE AND ENJOY YOUR NEW

TRACTOR, WE WISH TO ASSURE THAT YOU RECEIVE THE BEST PERFORMANCE AND SATISFACTION FROM

THIS QUALITY PRODUCT. PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING CHECKLIST" v" All assembly instructions have been completed.

,/ No remaining loose parts in carton. ,/ Batteryis proper,ly 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 overinflated 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.

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

and wires are properly clamped.

,/ Before driving tractor, be sure freewheel control is in

drive position,

WHILE LEARNING HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR, PAY EXTRA A TTENTION TO THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT

ITEMS:

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

gasoline.

,/ Become familiar with all controls - their location and

function. Operate them before you start the engine.

,/ Be sure brake system is in safe operating condition. v" !t isimportant to purge the transmission before operat-

ing your tractor for the first time. Follow proper starting and transmission purging instructions(See'TO START ENGINE" and "PURGE TRANSMISSION" in the Op- eration section of this manual).

+ 21 hidden pages