Craftsman 917270311 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

®

12o5HP

ELECTRIC START
38" _aOWER
5 SPEED TRANSAXLE

LAWN

Modet No.
917o270311

o Safety

o Assembly

Operation

o Maintenance
o Repair Parts

CAUTION:

Read and follow att

Safety RuJes and instructions
before operating this equip°

mento

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, _L60t. 79

For answers to your questions

about this product, Catl:

1o800o659_.59!7

Se_r_ CraP_maa H_p Line

5 am - 5 pro, Mort - Sat

Warranty ................................................. 2.

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

Product Specifications ........................... 5

Assembly ................................................ 8

Operation .............................................. 11

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

LIMITED ONE YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT
For one (1) year from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Riding Equipment is main-

tained, 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 inmaterial oi
workmanship.

This Warranty does nolcover:
, Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as blades, spark

plugs, air cleaners, belts, etc.

* Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails,

thorns, stumps, or glass.

, Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, negligence, improper storage or acci-

dent or the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions contained ir

the owner's manual.

o Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.

LIMITED 90 DAY WARRANTY ON BATTERY

For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery included with this tiding equip.,
merit proves defective in material or workmansh{p and our testing determines the bat-
tery will not hold a charge, Sears witt replace the batteq/at no charge, in-home warrant_,
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 th6
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 avai_-
able 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 yoL_
specific legal fights, and you may also have other rights which may vary from state to

state.
Sears, Roebuck and Co., D/8!7 WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

Maintenance.........................................17

Serviceand Adjustments......................2_

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

Troubleshooting....................................28

RepairParts.........................................34

PartsOrdering.......................Back Cover

GENERAL OPERATION

Read, understand, and follow a_ instruc-

tions in the manual and on the machine
before starting.

o Only altow 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 peopfe
before mowing. Stop machine if anyone

enters the area.

e Never carry passengers.

Do not mow in reverse unJess absolute
ly necessary. Always look down and

behind before and white backing.

o Be aware of the mower discharge direc,

tion and do not point it at anyone. Do
not operate the mower without either

the entire grass catcher or the guard in

place.
o Slow down before turning.
o Never leave a running machine unat-

tended. Always turnoff blades, set paris:

}rig brake, stop engine, and remove

keys before d_smounting.

oTurnoffbladeswhennotmow{ng.

Stopenginebeforeremovinggrass
catcheroruncloggingchute.

, Mow only in daylight or good artificial

_ight.

Do not operate the machine while under

the influence of alcohoJ or drugs.

o Watch for traffic when operating near or

crossing roadways.

- Use extra care when loading or unload-
ing the machine into a trailer or truck.

SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to loss-

of-centre} and tipover accidents, which

can result in severe injury or death. Atl
slopes requ}re extra caution. If you cannot
back up the slope or if you feet uneasy on

it, do not mow it.
DO:

Mow up and down stopes, not across.

o 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.

o Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so

that you will not have to stop or shift
while on the slope.

- Foatowthe manufacturer's recommen-

dations for wheel weights or counter-
weights to improve stability.

o Use extra care with grass catchers or

other attachments. These can change
the stability of the machine.
Keep all movement on the slopes sEow
and 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
siope.

DO NOT:

o Do notturn on slopes unless necessary,

and then, turn slowly and gradually

downhill, if possible,

Do no_ mow near drop-offs, ditches, or

embankments. The mower could sud-
denly turn over if a wheel is over the

edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge
caves in.

o Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced

traction could cause sJiding.

Do nottry to stabilize the machine by
putting your foot on the ground,

o Do not use grass catcher on steep

slopes.

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 wilRremain where
you last saw them.
o Keep children out of the mowing area

and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult.

o Se atert 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 fainoff

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.

SERVICE

Use extra care in handling gasoline and
other fuels. They are flammable and
vapors are explosive.

o Use only an approved container.

Never remove gas cap or add fuel
with the engine running. Allow en-
gine to coot before refueling. Do not

smoke.
Never refuel the machine indoors.

Never store the machine or fue!
container inside where there is an

open flame, such as a water heater.

Never run a machine inside a closed

area.

o Keep nuts and bolts, especiaEly blade

attachment bolts, tight and keep equip-
ment in good cond}tion.
Never tamper with safety devices.

Check their proper operation regular_yo

o Keep machine free of grass, _eaves, or

other debris build-up, Clean oil or fuel
spillage. Allow machine to coot before
storing.

o Stop and inspect the equipment ifyou

strike an object. Repair, if necessary,
before restarting.

oNevermakeadjustmentsorrepairswith

theenginerunning.

Grasscatchercomponentsaresubject
towear,damage,anddeterioration,
whichcouldexposemovingparts or

allow objects to be thrown. Frequently
check components and replace with

manufacturer's recommended parts,
when necessary.

• Mower blades are sharp and can cut.
Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and
use extra caution when servicing them.

o Check brake operation frequently.

Adjust and service as required.

@

Be sure the area is clear of other people
before mowing. Stop machine if anyone

enters the area.

° Never carry passengers.
o Do not mow in reverse unless absolute-

ly necessary. Always look down and
behind before and while backing.

• Never carry children. They may fall off
and be seriously injured or interfere with
safe machine operation.
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 smalt children.

,_Look for this symbol to point out impor-
tant safety precautions, tt means CAU-

TIONH! BECOME AWAREI!! YOUR SAFE-
TY IS INVOLVED.

_,CAUTtON: In order to prevent acciden-
tal starting when setting up, transporting,

adjusting or making repairs always discon-
nect spark plug wire and place wire where
it cannot contact spark plug.

Mow up and down slopes (15 ° Max), no

across.

, Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree

limbs, etc.

o Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneve_

terrain could overturn the machine. Talt

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

Do notturn on slopes unless necessa_
and then, turn slowly and gradually
downhill, ff possible.

A_.WARNING: The engine exhaust from
this product contains chemicals known to

the State of California to cause cancer,
birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

;_RODUCT SPECmFICATtONS

GASOLINE 1.25 GALLONS
CAPACITY UNLEADED
AND TYPE: REGULAR

31LTYPE SAE 30 (above 32°F)
APFSF/SG/SH): SAE 5W-30

(below 32°F)

)IL CAPACITY: 3,0 P_NTS
;PARK PLUG: Champion JIgLM or

RJ19LM

GAP: .030") STD361458

VALVE iNTAKE: .005"-.00T'

CLEARANCE: F__HAUST:.009"-,011"
GROUND SPEED FORWARD:

MPH): 1ST !.0

2ND 2.1
3RD 3.1

4 TM 4,0
5 TM 5.t

REVERSE: 1.8

TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PS!

REAR: !2 PSi

CHARGING 3 AMPS BATTERY
SYSTEM: 5AMPS HEADUGHTS

BATTERY: AMPiHR: 25

MIN. CCA: 190
CASE SIZE: UIR

BLADE 8OLT 27-35 FT. LBS.
TORQUE:

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase
of a Craftsman Tractor. it has been

designed, engineered and manufactured
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.
We have competent, well-trained technic

cians and the proper toots to service or
repair this tractor.

Please read and retain this manual. The
instructions will enable you to assemble

and maintain your tractor property. Always
observe the "SAFETY RULES".

MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT
A Sears Maintenance Agreement is avail-

able on this product. Contact your nearest
Sears store for details,

CUSTOMER RESPONS_BtLOTJES
o Read and observe the safety rules.

Follow a regular schedule in maintain-
ing, caring for and using your tractor,

Follow the instructions under "Mainte-
nance" 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 unim-

proved forest-covered, brush-covered or
grass-covered land unless the engine's

exhaust system is equipped with a spark
arrester meeting applicable local or state

laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it
should be maintained in effective working
order by the operator.

In the state of California the above is

required by law (Section 4442 of the
California Public Resources Code). Other

states may have similar taws. Federal

laws apply on federal lands. A spark

arrester for the muffler is available through
your nearest Sears Authorized Service

Center (See REPAIR PARTS section of
this manual).

Parts Bag contents shown full size

(1) Large Flat Washer

(1) Knob

Meta_

Screws

(2) Sheet

#10-16 x !/2

{1) Locknut

3/8-24

(2) Hex Bolts t/4-20 x 3/4

d_/_ (2) Washers

9/32 ×5/8 × t6 Gauge

(t) Washer

t7/32 × t-3/16 x 12 Gauge

6

(1) Shoulder

Bolt 5/16-18

Washers t/4

(2)Lock

Nuts
(2) Hex

1/4_20

Seat

Parts packed separately in car_on

Manual Boot

Steering

Parts Bag contents not shown full size

Video

Cassette

Steering

Wheel

I

• t

Parts Bag

Wheei
Steering

insert

i

f

l

1

!

Slope Sheet

(2) Keys

Steering
Bushing

/

[_TT_ Steering Wheel

Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception of those parts left

unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your tractc
all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securety. Use the correct tools

as necessary to insure proper tightness. Review the video cassette before you begin,

TOOLS REQUaRED FOR

ASSEMBLY
A socket wrench set will make assembly

easier. Standard wrench sizes you need

are listed below.

(1) 9116" wrench (2) 7/18" wrenches

(2) 112"wrench (t) Pliers
(1) Utility knife (1) Tire pressure

(I) 5t16" wrench gauge

When right or left hand is mentioned in

this manual, it means, from your point of

of steering wheel.

o Remove protective materials from trace,

tor hood and grill.

flMPORTANT: Check for and remove any

staples in skid that may puncture tires
where tractor is to roll off skid.

TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKiD (See

insert

._ 3!8-24 Locknut

view, when you are in the operating posi-

tion (seated behind the steering wheel).
TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM

CARTON
UNPACK CARTON

Remove all accessible loose parts and
parts boxes from shipping carton (See

page 6).

Steering Wheet _ Bushing
Adapter __ Tabs

Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on

_,_four comers of shipping carton, and

tay panels fiat.

* Check for any additional loose parts or

boxes and remove.

BEFORE ROLLING TRACTOR OFF

Boot _-_
Steenng _LL_b

Steering Shaft
(Assembly

Position)

SKiD

ATTACH STEeRiNG WHEEL

Slide the steering bushing over the
steering shaft.

o Raise steering shaft forward unti! screw

Steering Shaft _._

(Shipping

Position) ......... : , Tab Slot

holes in dash line up with steering bush-
ing. install two (2) sheet metal screws

and tighten securely.

_- Position steering boot over steering

shaft.

Place tabs of steering boot over tab

s_otsin dash and push down to secure.

Slide steering wheel adapter onto upper
steering shaft.

o Position front wheels of the tractor so

they are pointing straight forward.

o Position steering wheel so cross bars

are horizontal (left to right) and slide

Operation section for _locatlon and

function of controls)

r_ ....

lever p,u,,_, ,_,,_raise attac_

ment lift lever to its highest position.
Release parking brake by depressing

clutch/brake pedal.

o Place gearshift lever in neutral (N) posi

tion.

o Roll tractor forward off skid.
o Remove banding holding discharge

guard up against tractor.

onto adapter.

o Assembie large flat washer and 3/8-24

locknut and tighten securely.
Snap steering whee_ insert into center

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR

CONNECT BATTERY
_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, re-
move metal bracelets, wristwatch bands,

rings, etc. Positive terminal must be con-
nected first to prevent sparking from acci-

denta_ grounding.

, Remove cardboard packing from seat

pan and lift seat pan to raised position.

o Open battery box door and remove pro-

tective plastic.

o Remove terminal protective caps and

discard.

o if this battery is put into service after

month and year indicated on label (label
Jocated between terminals) charge bat-
tery for minimum of one hour at 6-10

amps.

. First connect RED battery cable to posF

rive (+) terminal with hex bolt, flat wash-

er, lock washer and hex nut as shown.
Tighten securely.

, Connect BLACK grounding cable to

negative (-) terminal with remaining hex

bolt, flat washer, lock washer and he×
nut. Tighten securely.

o Close battery box door. Open battery

box door for:

, Inspection for secure connections

(to tighten hardware).

o inspection for corrosion.

Testing battery.
Jumping (if required).

o Periodic charging.

Positive Discard Terminal
(Red) Cable Proctective Caps

\ Lock Washer

Fiat Washer

Hex He× Bolt

_NSTALL SEAT
Adjust seat before tightening adjustment

knob.

Remove cardboard packing on seat pan.
PLaceseat on seat pan and assemble

shoulder bolt. Tighten shoulder bolt

securely.

Assemble adjustment knob and flat

washer Ioosety, Do not tighten.

o Lower seat into operating position and

sit on seat.
Slide seat until a comfortable position is

reached which allows you to press
clutch/brake pedal aHthe way down.
Get off seat without moving its adjusted

position.

Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob
securely.

Seat

Bolt

Seat Pan _

Shoutder_

_ "- Flat Washer

Adjustment Knob

Bakery
Door

Negative
(Black)

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS
For best cutting results, mower housing

should be properly leveled. See "TO
LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the

Service and Adjustments section of this
manua!.

CHECK FOR PROPER POSiTiON OF
ALL B_LTS

See the figures that are shown for replec o
ing motion and mower blade drive belts in

the Service and Adjustments sectoin of

this manual Verify that the belts are rout-
ed correctly.

CHECK BRAK_ SYSTEM
After you learn how to operate your traco

tot, check to see that the brake is properJy
adjusted. See "TO ADJUST BRAKE" in
the Service and Adjustments section of

this manual,

J CHECKLtST

PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING
CHECKLIST:

J All assembly instructions have been

compfeted.

J No remaining toose pa_s in carton.

/ Battery is properly prepared and

charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps).

J Seat is adjusted comfortably and

tightened securely.

/ All tires are property inflated. (For

shipping purposes, the tires were

ovednflated at the factory).

_/ Be sure mower deck is propedy teveie_

side-to-side/fronFto-rear for beet

cutting results. (Tires must be properJy
inflated for leveling).

#" Check mower and drive belts, Be sure

they are routed properly around pul]ey_

and inside aHbeit keepers,

/ Check wiring. See that all connections

are still secure and wires are properly
clamped.

WHILE LEARNING HOW TO USE YOUR
TRACTOR, PAY EXTRAATTENTION TO
THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT ITEMS:

_/ Engine oil is at proper _eveL

J 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 insafe

operating condition.

t0

These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product.

Learn and understand their meaning,

E3

BATTERY

ENGINE ON

FUEL

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH ENGAGED

IGNITION

CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD FAST

WARNING

ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP

CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED

LOCKED

LIGHT

L

REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

LOW PARKING BRAKE

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

SLOW

MOWER LIFT

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

HYDROSTATIC FREE WHEEL

(Hydro Models onPy)

11

KNOWYOUR TRACTOR

READ THiS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATmHG YOUI:
TRACTOR

Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of
various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

Attachment

Clutch Lever Light

ignition

Switch

ThrottleChoke LiftLever

Control Plunger

C|utch/Brake

Pedal

N

Gearshift

Lever

Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the American

National Standards institute,

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER: Used
to engage the mower blades, or other

attachments mounted to your tractor.
LIGHT SWITCH: Turns the headJights on

and off.
THRO_LFJCHOKE CONTROL: Used
for starting and controfling engine speed.

CLUTCHJSRAK_ PEDAL: Used for

declutching and braking the tractor and

starting the engine.

PARKING 13RAKE: Locks clutch/brake
peda_ into the brake position°

Attachment Lift

ParkJngBrake

l

GEARSHIFT LEVER: Selects the speed
and direction of tractor.

ATTACHMENT LiFT LEVER: Used to
raise, lower, and adjust the mower deck o,

other attachments mounted to your tracte_
LiFT LEVI_R PLUNGER: Used to reteas_

attachment lift _ever when changing its
position.

iGNiTiON SWITCN: Used for starting an_
stopping the engine.

!2

Theoperatioriofanytractorcanresultinforeignobjectsthrownintothe

es or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any adjust-

eyes,whichcanresultinsevereeye damage. Always wear safety glass-

ments or repairs. We recommend a wide vision safety mask over the
spectacles, or standard safety glasses.

HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR
Your tractor is equipped with an operator

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

TO SET PARKING BRAKIE
o Depress clutch/brake pedal into fuit

"BRAKE" position and hold,

o Place parking brake lever in

"ENGAGED" position and release pres-
sure from clutch/brake pedal, Pedal
should remain in "BRAKE" position.
Make sure parking brake will hold trac-

tor secure.

Throttle/Choke /_

ControIlever __,,_

Clutch/Br__

Position

°Disengaged"- _F _

Position

STOPPING
MOWER BLADES -

To stop mower blades, move attach-

ment clutch lever to "DISENGAGED"
position.

GROUND DRIVE -

To stop ground drive, depress

clutch/brake pedal into furl "BRAKE"

position.

o Move gearshift lever to neutral (N) posi-

tion.

ENGINE -

o Move throttle control to slow position.
NOTE: Failure to move throttle control to

slow position and al!owing engine to id!e
before stopping may cause engine to

"bac_ire =,

o Turn ignition key to "OFF" position and

remove key, Always remove key when

Ieaving tractor to prevent unauthorized

use.

" Never use choke to stop engine.

Attachment Clutch Lever

Engaged" Position

_K__j"Disengaged"

Position

Parking

Broke

/ "Engaged"

Position

_ Gearshift

Lever

"Brake" I_osition

NOTE: Under certain conditions when

tractor is standing idle with the engine run-

ning, hot engine exhaust gases may

cause "browning" of grass. To eliminate
this possibility, always stop engine when

pping tractor on grass areas.

CAUTION: Always stop tractor com-
pletely, as described above, before leaving
the operator's position; to empty grass

catcher, etc,

THROTTLE CONTROL

AJways operate engine at furl throttle.

Operating engine at less than full throt-
tle reduces the battery charging rate.

o Full throttle offers the best bagging and

mower performance,
TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD
The direction and speed of movement is

controlled by the gearshift lever.

Start tractor with clutch/brake pedal

depressed and gearshift lever in neutral

(N) position.

Move gearshift lever to desired posi-
tion.

Slowly release clutct-_brake pedal to
start movement,

IMPORTANT: Bring tractor to a complete
stop before shifting or changing gears.

Failure to do so will shorten the useful life

of your transaxte

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT
The position of the attachment lift lever

determines the cutting height,
o Grasp lift lever.

o Press plunger with thumb and move

lever to desired position,
The cutting height range is approximate-
ly 1-1/2 to 4". The heights are measured

from the ground to the blade tip with the
engine not running. These heights are

approximate and may vary depending
upon soil conditions, height of grass and

types of grass being mowed.

The average lawn should be cut to
approximately 2ol/2 inches during the

cool season and to over 3 inches during

hot months. For heaJthier and better
_ooking fawns, mow often and after
moderate growlh.

I3

Forbestcuttingperformance,grass
over6 inches in height should be

mowed twice. Make the first cut relax
tiveiy high; the second to desired

height.

TO OPERATE MOWER

Your tractor is equipped with an operator
presence sensing switch. Any attempt by

the operator to leave the seat with the
engine running and the attachment clutch
engaged will shut off the engine.

Select desired height of cut.
Start mower bJades by engaging attach-

ment clutch control.

- TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disen-
_gage attachment clutch control.

CAUTmON: Do not operate the mower

without either the entire grass catcher, on
mowers so equipped, or the discharge

guard in place.
Attachment

Lift Lever

High Position

Attachment
LiftLever

High Position

"Disengaged"

Position

TO OPERATE ON HALLS

_.CAUTION: Do not drive up or down
hillswith slopes greater than 15° and do

not drive across any slope, A slope guide

at the back of your manual is provided for
your use.

Choose the slowest speed before start-
ing up or down hills.

o Avoid stopping or changing speed on

hills,

if slowing is necessary, move throttle

control lever to slower position.

* ifstopping is absolutely necessary,

push clutch/brake pedal quickly to brake
position and engage parking brake.

o Move gearshift lever to 1st gear. Be

sure you have allowed room for tractor
to roll slightly as you restart movement.

o To restart movement, slowly release

parking brake and clutchJbrake pedal.
Make all turns slowly.

TO TRANSPORT
o Raise attachment lift to highest position

with attachment lift control

Low

Position

Discharge

Guard

When pushing or towing your tractor, b_

sure gearshift lever is in neutral (N)
position.

o Do not push or tow tractor at more thar_

five (5) MPH.

NOTE[: To protect hood from damage
when transporting your tractor on a truck

or a trailer, be sure hood is closed and
secured to tractor. Use an appropriate

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

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE
CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL

• The engine in your tractor has been
shipped, from the factory, already filled

with summer weight oil

Check engine oil with tractor on level
ground.

Remove oil fiil cap/dipstick and wipe
dean, reinsert the dipstick and screw
cap tight, wait for a few seconds,
remove and read oiQlevel If necessar_j
add oil until "FULL" mark on dipstick is

reached. Do not overfill

• For cold weather operation you should
change oil for easier starting (See "OIL

VISCOSITY CHART" in the Mainten-
ance section of this manual).

o To change engine oil, see the Mainten-.

ance section in this manual.

ADD GASOUNE
o Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular

unleaded gasoline with a minimum of
87 octane. (Use of leaded gasoline wil_

increase carbon and lead oxide
deposits and reduce valve life). Do not

mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fue! in
quantities that can be used within 30

days to assure fuel freshness.

IMPORTANT: When operating irrtemper_
tures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh, clean

winter grade gasoline to help insure good

dAweather starting.

RNtNG: 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 whi_e in storage. To avoid engine
problems, the fuel system should be emp
tied before storage of 30 days or longer.
Drain the gas tank, start the engine and

let it run until the fuel Jines and carbureto_
_reempty. Use ,_reshfuet next season.

14

SeeStorageinstructionsforadditional
information.Neveruseengineorcarbure-

torc{eanerproductsinthefueltankorper-

nentdamagemayoccur.

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 STABT ENGINE

When starting the engine for the first time
or if the engine has run out of _uel,it will

take extra cranking time to move fuel from

the tank to the engine.

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

- Piece gear shift lever in neutral (N) posi-
tion.

Move attachment clutch to "DISEN-
GAGED" position.

o Move throttle control to choke position.
NOTE: Before starting, read the warm
and cold starting procedures below.
= insert key into ignition and turn key

clockwise to "START" position and

release key as soon as engine starts.

Do not run starter continuously for more
than fifteen seconds per minute. |f the
engine does not start after several
attempts, move throttle control to fast
position, wait a few minutes and try
again. If engine etitl does not start,

move the throttle control back to the
choke position and retry.

WARM WEATHER STARTING (50 ° F and

above)

• When engine starts, move the throttle
control to the fast position.
The attachments and ground drive can
now be used, if the engine does not
accept the load, restart the engine and
allow it to warm up for one minute using

the choke as descdbed above.

COLD WEATHER STARTING ( 50° F AND
BELOW)

When engine starts, allow engine to run
with the throttle control in the choke

position until the engine runs roughly,
then move throttle control to fast posi-
tion. This may require an engine warm-
up pedod from several seconds to sev-
eral minutes, depend}ng on the temper_

ature.

, The attachments can also be used dur-

ing the engine warm-up period.

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 _ in the

Service and Adjustments section of this

manual.

NOTE: At a high altitude (above 3000

feet) or in cotd temperatures (beBow32 F)
the carburetor fue_ mixture may need to be
adjusted for best engine performance.

See "TO ADJUST CARBURETOR" in the

Service and Adjustments section of this
manual.

!5

MOWINGTraPS

Tire chains cannot be used when the
mower housing is attached to tractor.

o Mower should be prepedy leveled for

best mowing performance. See "TO
LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the

Service and Adjustments section of this
manual.

- The left hand side of mower should be
used for trimming.

Drive so that clippings are discharged

onto the area that has been cut. Have
the cut area to the right of the machine.

This will result in a more even distribu_
tion of clippings and more uniform cut-

ting.

- When mowing large areas, start by turn-

ing to the right so that clippings will dis-
charge away from shrubs, fences, drive-
ways, etc. After one or two rounds,
mow in the opposite direction making

taft hand turns until finished

* If grass is extremely tall, itshould be

mowed twice to reduce load and possi-

ble fire hazard from dried clippings.

Make first cut relatively high; the secon

to the desired height.

o Do not mow grass when it is wet. Wet

grass will plug mower and leave unde-
sirabie clumps. Allow grass to dry
before mowing.

o Always operate engine at fuJ! throttl_

when mowing to assure better mowin!
performance and proper discharge of

material. Regulate ground speed by s_
lecting a low enough gear to give the

mower the best cutting performance a_:
well as the quality of cut desired.

When operating attachments, select a
ground speed that wilJ suit the terrain

and give best performance of the at-
tachment being used.

t1,1

16

CUSTOMER RESPONSgBILmES

- l_ eq_J_ppe,d with o_| n_t, ehmnge o_1 every ,_o hou;,'e,

G_N_FIAL RECO_MENDATIIONS

The warranty on this tractor does not cover

items that have been subjected to operator

abuse or negligence. To receive ful! value
from the warranty, operator must maintain

tractor as instructed in this manual. Some
adjustments will need to be made periodi-

cally to properly maintain your tractor.
Atl 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 betts for wear. A new

spark ptug and clean air filter assure
proper air-fuel mixture and help your

engine runbetter and last longer.

B_FOR_ _ACH US_

o Check engine oil level.

Check brake opeFation.

o Check tire pressure.

Check operator presence and interlock
systems for proper operation.

Check for _oosefasteners.

Front Wheel Wheel

Bearing Zerk Zerk

Engine

@Attachmenti =

clu c, i i

Pivot(s) i i

@ SAE30 or I0w30 Moto{ OIL
@Genera_Purpose Grease

@ Referto Maintenance Engine"Section

_PO_TANT: Do not oil or grease the
pivot points which have special nylon bear-

ings. Viscous lubricants will attract dust
and dirt that will shorten the life of the self-

lubricating bearings, tf you feel they must
be iubricated, use only a dry, powdered
graphite type _ubricant sparingly.

17

, I

Front

Bearing

TRACTOR

Always observe safety rules when per-
forming any maintenance.

BRAKE OPERATION
if tractor requires more than six (8) feet

stopping distance at high speed in highest
gear, then brake must be adjusted. (See

"TO ADJUST BRAKE" in the Service and

Adjustments section of this manual).

TtRES

Maintain proper air pressure in all tires
(See =PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS"
on page 5 of this manual).
Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect

control chemicals which can harm rub-
ber.

• 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 sea_ant atso prevents tire dry

rot and corrosion.

BLADE CARE
For best results mower blades must be

kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged

blades.
6LADE REMOVAL

Raise mower to highest positionto atiow
access to blades.

Remove hex bolt, tock washer and fiat
washer securing btade.

, Install new or resharpened blade with

trailing edge up towards deck as shown.

o Reassemble hex bolt, lock washer and

fiat washer in exact order as shown.

= Tighten bolt securely (27-35 Ft. Lbs.

torque).

!MPORTANT: Blade boil is Grade 8 heat
treated.

Assembly

Bladle_r_.._ Mandrel

Fiat Was Tra}ting

Hex Bolt (Grade

"A Grade 8 heat treated bolt can be
identified by six lines on the bott head.

EdgeUp

TO SHARPEN BLADE

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpen!n!
biade, but if you do, be sure the blade is
balanced.

Care shouJd be taken to keep the blade
balanced. An unbalanced blade witlcaus_

excessive vibration and eventual damage
to mower and engine.
= The blade can be sharpened with a file

or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt
to sharpen while it is on the mower.
To check btade balance, you will need

5/8" diameter steel bolt, pin, or a cone

balancer. (When using a cone balance_
follow the instructions supplied with bai

ancer).
NOTE: Do not use a nail for balancing
blade. The lobes of the center hole may
appear to be centered, but are not.

Slide blade onto an unthreaded portior_

of the steel bolt or pin and hold the bolt
or pin para!iel with the ground. If blade

is bafanced, it should remain in a hori-
zontal position. If either end of the biad

moves downward, sharpen the heavy
end until the blade is balanced.

Center Hole

B_ade

BATTERY

"{our tractor has a battery charging syste_
which is sufficient for normal use. Howev

er, periodic charging of the battery with al
automotive charger will extend its life.

Keep battery and terminals clean.

Keep battery bolts tight.

® Keep small vent holes open. _"

Recharge at 6-10 amperes for 1 hour.
NOTE: The originai equipment battery or
your tractor is maintenance free. Do not

attempt to open or remove caps or cove_
Adding or checking level of electrolyte is
not necessary.

TO CLEAN BATTERY AND TERMINALS
Corrosion and dirt on the battery and tar-.

minats can cause the battery to "leak"
power.

, Remove terminal guard.

Disconnect BLACK battery cable first

then RED battery cable and remove

ba_e_y from tractor.

18