Craftsman 917270411 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

I:mAFTSMnNo

13.5 HP
ELECTRIC START

42" MOWER
6 SPEED TRANSAXLE

LAWN TRACTOR

Model No.
917,270411

, Safety
o Assembly

, Operation

Maintenance
Repair Parts

CAUTION:

Read and follow all

Safety Rules and Instructions

before operating this equip-
ment.

For answers to your questions

about this product, Call:

1-800-659=5917

Sears Craftsman Help Line

5 am ,,5 pro, Mon - Sat

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

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 ma!n-

talned, 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 during normal use, such as blades, spark

plugs, air cleaners, belts, etc.

o 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 in
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 riding equip-
ment proves defective in material or workmanship and our testing determines the bat-
tery will not hold a charge, Sears will replace the battery at no charge. In-home warranty

service on your Craftsman ridingequipment is available at no charge for 30 days from
the date of purchase. Please contact your nearest service center, After 30 days from the
date of purchase, warranty service is available by taking your Craftsman riding equip-

ment to your nearest Sears Service Center. (In-home warranty service will still be avail-
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 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

Maintenance ............... i...........................17

Service and Adjustments ............................21

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

Troubleshooting .......... _......................... 28

Repair Parts ............... :......................... 34

Parts Ordering ............ 'o.......... Back Cover

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GENERAL OPERATION
e Read, understand, and follow all instruc-

tions in the manual and on the machine
before starting.

• Only allow responsible adults, who are

familiar withthe 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 absolute-

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

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

tended° Always turn off blades, set park..

ing brake, stop engine, and remove

keys before dismounting.

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• 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.

o 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-control and tipover accidents, which
can result in severe injury or death. All

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

DO:

o 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.

o Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so

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

o Follow the manufacturer's recommen-

dations for wheel weights or counter-
weights 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 slow
and gradual Do not make sudden

changes in speed or direction.

o Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If

tires lose traction, disengage the blades
and proceed slowly straight down the

slope_

DO NOT:

• Do notturn on slopes unless necessary,
and then, turn slowly and gradually

downhill, if possible.

. Do not 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.

° 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

o Do not use grass catcher on steep

slopes.

CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur ifthe operator

is not alert to the presence of children.
Children are often attracted to the

machine and the mowing activity, Never
assume that children wd|remain where

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

and under the watchful care of another

responsible adult.

o Be alert and turn machine off if children

enter the area.

o 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.

SERVICE

o Use extra care in handling gasoline and

other fuels, They are flammable and
vapors are explosive.

Use only an approved container.
Never remove gas cap or add fuel

with the engine running. Allow en-

gine 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.

o Never run a machine inside a closed

area,

• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade

attachment bolts, tight and keep equip-
ment 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,

3

o Nevermakeadjustmentsorrepairswith

theengine running.

" Grass catcher components are subject

to wear, damage, and deterioration,
which could expose moving parts or
allow objects to be thrown. Frequently

check components and replace with

manufa!cturer's recommended parts,

when n_cessa_

o Mower blades are sharp and can cut.

Wrap tl_eblade(s) or wear g!oves, and
use extI'a caution when servnclng them.

', Cheek I_rake operation frequently.

Adjust _nd service as required.

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

enters the area.

. Never carry passengers,

• Do not mew 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 small children.

_kLook for this symbol to point out impor-
tant safety precautions. It means CAU-
TIONI!! BECOME AWARE!!I YOUR SAFE-

TY IS INVOLVED.

•_kCAUTION: In order to prevent acciden-

tal starling when setting up, transporting,
adjusting or making repairs always discon-

nect spark plug wire and place wire where
it cannot contact spark plug.

o Mow up and down slopes (15 ° Max), not

across.=

• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree
limbs, _,tc.

• 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 orLthe slope.

o Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If

tires lose traction, disengage the blades
and proceed slowly straight down the

slope.

° Do notturn on slopes unless necessary,

and then, turn slowly and gradually

downhill, if possible,

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

the State of California to cause cancer,
birth defects, or other reproductive hai'm.

4

GASOLINE 1.25 GALLONS
CAPACITY UNLEADED
AND TYPE: REGULAR

OILTYPE SAE 30 (above 32°F)

API-SF/SG/SH): SAE 5W-30

(below 32°F)

OIL CAPACITY: 3.0 PINTS
S-_RK PLUG: Champion J19LM or

RJ19LM

GAP: ,030") STD361458

VALVE INTAKE: .005"-.007"
CLEAFLA,NCE: EXHAUST: .009"-.011"

GROUND SPEED
(MPH):

FORWARD:

1sT 1,0

2ND 1.3
3RD 2,1

4TM 3, '1

5TM 4.0
6TM 5.1

REVERSE: 1_6

TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI

REAR: 12PSI

CHARGING 3 AMPS BATTERY
SYSTEM: 5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS

E3ATTERY: AMP/FIR: 25

MIN. CCA: 190
CASE SIZE: U1R

A Sears Maintenance Agreement isavail-
able on this product. Contact your nearest

Sears store for details.

CUSTOMER RESPONSMBILITIES

, 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.

_kWARNING: 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 laws. 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).

E3LADEBOLT 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, well4rained techni-

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

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

observe the "SAFETY RULES".

5

Parts Bag contents shown full size

©

(1) Large Flat Washer

, , ,.. ,,, .........

Metal

Screws

(2) Sheet

#10-t6 × 1!2

3/8.24

(1) Locknut

(1) Knob

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

(2) Washers Nuts

9/32 x 5/8 x 16 Gauge 1/4-20

(1) Washer

17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12Gauge

_ (2)Hex

(1) Shoulder

Bolt 5/16-18

Washers 114

(2) Lock

6

Seat

,- i ir_,l ,,,¸ r...................

Parts packed separately In carton

Video

Cassette

L.,ul

Steering

Wheel

- Steering ........ .._

Manual Beot Parts Bag

Parts Bag contents not shown full size

..... i , , , __

Slope Sheet

,_ (2) Keys

Steering
Bushing

_.__> teering

Insert

Wheel

Steering Wheel

, , Adapter

I---..--J

Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception of those paris left
unassembled for shipping purposes To ensure safe and pi'oper operation of your tractor

all parts and hardware you assemble must be t ghtened securely. Use the correct tools
as necessary to insure proper tightness. Revlew the video cassette before you begin_

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR

ASSEMBLY
A socket wrenchset willmake assembly

easier.Standard wrench sizes you need

are listed below,
(1) 9/16" wrench

(2) 1/2" wrench
(1) Pliers

(1) Utility knife
When right or left hand is mentioned in

this manual, it means, from your point of
view, when you are in the operating posi-
tion (seated behind the steering wheel).

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM

CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

o Remove all accessible loose parts and

parts boxes from shipping carton (See
page 6).

o Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on

all four corners of shipping cadon, and
lay panels flat.

, Check for any additional loose parts or

boxes and remove.

(2) 7/t 6" wrenches
(1) Phillips Screw-

driver

(1) Tire pressure

gauge

o Snap steering wheel insert into center

of stee_tng wheel.

o Remove protective materials from trac-

tor hood and grill.
IMPORTANT" Check for and remove any
staples in!skid that may puncture tires

where tractor is to roll off skid,

BEFORE ROLLING TRACTOR OFF

SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL

o Slide the steering bushing overthe

steering shaft,

• Raise steering shaft forward until screw
holes in dash line up with steering bush-

ing. Install two (2) sheet metal screws
and tighten securely.

° Position steering boot over steering

shaft.

o Place tabs of steering boot over tab

slots in 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
onto adapter°

• Assemble large flat washer and 3/8-24
Iocknut and tighten securely.

TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See

Operation section for location and

function of controls)
o Press lift lever plunger and raise attach-

ment lift lever to its highest position,

o 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,

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR

CONNECT BATTERY

,&CAUTION: Do not short battery termF
rials 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-
dental grounding.

o Remove cardboard packing from seat

pan and lift seat pan to raised position.

o Open battery box door and remove pro-

tective 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 bat.

tery for minimum of one hour at 6-10
amps°

o First connect RED battery cable to posi-

tive (+) terminal with hex bolt, flat wash-
er, lock washer and hex nut as shown.

Tighten securely.

, Connect BLACK grounding cable to

negative (-) termina! with remaining hex
bolt, flat washer, lock washer and hex

nut. Tighten securely.

• Close battery box door. Open battery
box door for:

,, Inspection for secure connections

(to tighten hardware).

• Inspection for corrosion.
, Testing battery.

• Jumping (if required).

• Periodic charging.

INSTALL SEAT

Adjust seat before tightening adjustment
Imob.

= Remove cardboard packing on seat pan.
o Place seat on seat pan and assemble

shoulder bolt, Tighten shoulder bolt
securely,

• Assemble adjustment knob and flat
washer loosely, 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 all the way down.

° Get off seat without moving its adjusted

position.

o Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob

securely.

Seat

Seat Pan .,_===== _k

Shoulder _ frT---_'_l /[
Bolt ,k\_'C"_\_ _

F _ _("_- FlatWasher

Adjustment Knob

Positive Discard "lermtnal
(Red) Cable Proctective Caps

Lock Washer

Flat Washer

Seat

Batter
Door

Hex Bolt

Negative
(Black)

9

CHECKDECK LEVELNESS

Fer beet cutting results, mower housing

should be properly teveled_ See '_TO

LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the
Service and Adjustments section of this

manual,

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF

ALL BELTS

See the figures that are shown for replac-

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 BRAKE SYSTEM
After you learn how to operate your trac-

tor, check to see that the brake isproperly
adjusted. See "TO ADJUST BRAKE" in

the Service and Adjustments section of

this manual.

,I CHECKLIST

PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING

CHECKLIST:
,/" All assembly instructions have been

completed.

# No remaining loose parts in carton
,/" Battery is properly prepared and

charged. (Minimum ! hour at 6 amps)o

/" Seat is adjusted comfortably and

tightened securely.

,/" All tires are properly inf!ated. (For

shipping purposes, the tires were
overinflated at the factor,,,).

v" 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_

WHILE LEARNING HOW TO USE YOUR
TRACTOR, PAY EXTRA ATTENTION TO

THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT ITEMS:
#" 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.

,f Be sure brake system is in safe

operating condition.

10

Thesesymbolsmayappear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product,

Learn and understand their meaning.

BATTERY CAUTION OR

WARNING

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF

IXI

FUEL

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH ENGAGED

CHOKE

REVERSE NEUTRAL

REVERSE FORWARD

OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON

.@0

MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE

LOCKED

HIGH

FAST

OVER TEMP

LIGHT

UNLOCKED

SLOW

MOWER LIFT

L

LOW PARKING BRAKE

ATTACHMENT

IGNITION

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

I__1

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

®@@®@

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

HYDROSTATIC FREEWHEEL

(HydroModels only)

11

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

TRACTOR

Compare the illustrationswith your tractor to familiarize yourself with !he locations of

various controls and adjustments_ Save this manual for future reference°

Attachment

ThrottIeChoke

Arnmeter

\

Clulch Lever

Ignition

Switch

Light

Lift Laver

Plunger

Control_

Clutch/Brake

Pedal

Gearshift

Lever Parking Brake

• i i .......

Our tractors conform tothe safety standards of the American

National Standards Institute.

ii ,, ,i, ,, ,,

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

attachments mounted to yourtractor.

LIGHT SWITCH; Turns the headlights on
and off.

THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL: Used

for starting and controllingengine speed.

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL: Used for

declutching and braking the tractor and

starting the engine_
PARKING BRAKE: Locks clutch/brake
pedal into the brake position.

Attachment Lift

Lever

,i , L , , ,1 ,,

GEARSHIFT LEVER: Seledts the speed
and direction of tractor.

ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER: Used to
raise, lower, and adjust the mower deck or

other attachments mounted to your tractor.
LIFT LEVER PLUNGER; Used to release

attachment lift lever when changing its

position.
IGNITION SWITCH: Used for starting and

stopping the engine.
AMMETER: Indicates battery charging (+)

or discharging (-).

12

The operation of any tractor can result in foreign ob_c-"_s'°ihrown into the

eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glass-
es or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any adjust-

ments or repairs, We recommend a wide vision safety mask over the

spectacles, or standard safety glasses.

,, _ , , , ,,, , ,

HOW TO USE YOUR TRACT,OR NOTE; Under certain conditions when
Your tractor is equipped with an _perator

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 BRAKE

Depress clutch/brake pedal into full

"BRAKE" p'osition and hold,

,= 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.

Attachment ClutchLever

Throttle/Choke
Control lever

Position

"Disengaged"

Position

Clutch/Brake

Pedal "Drive" Parklng
Position Brake

"Engaged"

P0sition

Gearshift

"Disengag Lever
Position "Brake"

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
Always operate engine at full throttle.

o Operating engine at less than full throt-

tle reduces the battery charging rate.

• 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) posltiom

,, Move gearshift lever to desired posi-

tion,

o Slowly release clutch/brake pedal to

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

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 full "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 allowing engine to idle
before stopping may cause engine to

"backfire",
° Turn ignition key to "OFF" position and

remove key. Always remove key when
leaving tractor to prevent unauthorized

use.

Failure to do so will shorten the useful life
of your transaxle

TO ADJUST MOWER cUTrlNG HEIGHT

The position of the attachment liftlever

determines the cutting height°

- Grasp lift lever.

,, 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 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.

. Never use choke to stop engine.

1,3

° Forbestcuttingperformance,grass

over6 inchesin heightshouldbe
mowedtwice. Makethefirstcutrela-

tivelyhigh;the secondto 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 wfll shut off the engine.

o Select desired height of cut,

• Start mower blades by engaging attach-
ment clutch control.

o TO STOP MOWER BLADES -.disen-

_gage attachment clutch control.

CAUTION. Do not operate the mower

without either the entire grass catcher, on
mowers so equipped, or the discharge
guard in place.

Attachment _"

Lilt Lever
High Position _ _l''_-_ '"_',, ;, Low

_'_-_.._/- Position

Lift Lever .7 //_::_
AttachmentJ(F_=N _._

. o./.

HighPosition/"---__

//I Qu rd

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

,_OAUTION: Do notdriveup ordown

hills with 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.

° Avoid stopping or changing speed on

hills.

o If slowing is necessary, move throttle

control lever to slower position.

• If stopping is absolutely necessary,
push clutch/brake pedal quickly to brake

position and engage parking brake.

• Move gearshift lever to 1st gear. Be
sure you have allowed room for tractor

to roll slightly as you restart movement.

• To restart movement, slowly release
parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.

• Make all turns slowly.
TO TRANSPORT

o Raise attachment lift to highest position

with attachment Iift control

,, When p_usl_Ingor towing your tractor, be

sure gearshift lever is in neutral (N)

position.

• Do not push or tow tractor at more than
five (5) MPHo

NOTE: T_ 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 teve!

ground.

o Remove oil fill cap/dipstick and wipe

clean, reinsert the dipstick and screw
cap tight, wait for a few seconds,

remove and read oil level. If necessary,

add oil until "FULL" mark on dipstick is

reached, Do not overfill

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

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

• To change engine oU,see the Mainten-
ance section in this manual.

ADD GASOLINE
° Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular

unleaded gasoline with a minimum of

87 octaner (Use of leaded gasoline will
increase carbon and lead oxide

deposits and reduce valve life). Do not

mix oil with gasoline, Purchase fuel in
quantities that can be used within 30
days to,assure fuet freshness.

IMPORTANT: When operating in tempera-

tures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh, clean
winter grade gasoline to help insure good

,_d 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 emp-
tied before storage 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.

14

LIFT ASSEM

See Storage Instructions for, additional
Information. Never use engine orcarbure-

tor cleaner products in the fuel tank or per _

_nent damage may occur.

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
When starting the engine for the first time

or if the engine has run out of fuel, 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.

,, Place gear shift lever in neutral (N) posi-

tion.

o 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. If the
engine does not start after several

attempts, move throttle control to fast
position, wait a few minutes and try

again° If engine still 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.

o 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 described above.

COLD WEATHER STARTING (50 ° FAND

BELOW)

o When engine starts, allow engine to run

with the throttle control in the choice
position until the engine runs roughly,

then move throttle control to fast posi-
tion. This may require an eng!ne warm-
up period from several seconds to sev.

eral minutes, depending on the temper-
ature.

o The attachments can also be used dur-.

Ing the engine warm..up pedod.

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.

15

MOWING TIPS

• "Tirechains cannot be used when the
mower housing is attached to tractor.

, Mower should be properly leveled for

best mowing performance. See %0
LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the

Service and Adjustments section of this
manual.

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

o 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 ortwo rounds,

mow in the opposite direction making

left hand turns until finished

= If grass is extremely tall, it should be

mowed twice to reduce load and possi-

ble fire hazard from dried clippings.

Make first cut relatively high; the second

to the desired height.

• Do not mow grass when itis wet. Wet
grass will plug mower and leave unde-

sirable clumps. Allow grass to dry

before mowing.

• Always operate engine at full throttle
when mowing to assure better mowing

performance and proper discharge of
material, Regulate ground speed by se..

lecting a low enough gear to give the
mower the best cutting performance as

well as the quality of cut desired,

• When operating attachments, select a
ground speed that will suit tile terrain

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

16

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

F'LL 'N DATES _'_._.._. _, ,O'_i_'_O_,_'_,_d3__
AS YOU COMPLETE .,/_'_'_'__._._ _ .._.t_,q.?._._._ _'_Oq'_ _"

REGULARSERVICE _v _:_,: _:_'_,_/_SERVICE DATES

T J :

o 'y ..... _ ...................

R Clean Sallbry and Terminals/Recharge _ _,l

x ioo,.o,,ooo, o • , ,..°

Check Engine OII Level

Change Engine Oil
Clean Air Filler

E

N

Clean Air Screen
Inspect Muffler/Spark Arrester

?

Replace OII Filler (If equipped)
Clean Engine COOling Fins
Replace Spark Plug

Replace Air Filler Paper Cartridge
Replace Fuel Filler

1 - Ch_g_ rnorm ellen when opqrmllng under t=heavy _o_d or In high arnblo_ tompi;r _oa 5 - II I={l_{pp_d with R_jul[mb_ _t_r_,
_ZA Sarvl_{_ mo_. oft=n when _perattng In dirty or _u_ty _ondltlon_
3 _ II _qutpped with o!1 fllhlr, ¢h_ng_ o{I _livery _0 hour=

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this tractor does not cover

itemsthat have been subjected to operator

Zerk Zerk

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 periodF

cally to properly maintain your tractor.

Front Wheel Wheel

Beadng Zerk Zerk

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

@Attachment}

Clutch

Pivot(s) i

proper air-fuel mixture and help your

engine run better end lest longer.

BEFORE EACH USE

• Check engine oil level.

o Check brake operation,
o Check tire pressure.

o Check operator presence and interlock

systems for proper operation.

o Check for loose fasteners.

@SAE30 or I0w30 MotorOIL

General Purpose Grease .
Refer to Maintenance Engine Section

IMPORTANT: 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. If you feel they must
be lubricated, use only a dry, powdered

graphite type lubricant sparingly,

- Not r=qLd_d If =qLllppOd with malnl=n=nc{=, fl_=o to_ltoly

7 ,.'f'lghtan tront €_xlo i_vot bolt to _6 fL-tb_ maximum,

LUBRICATION CHART

Engine

i

Spindle

-'rent

Searing

17

TRACTOR

Always obsewe safety rules when per-

forming any maintenance.

BRAKE OPERATION

If tractor requires more than six (6) 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).

TIRES

. 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 ruls, sharp
objects and other hazards that may

cause tire damage.

NOTE: To seal tire punctures and prevent
flat tires due to slow leaks, tire sealant

may be purchased from your local parts

dealer. Tire sealant also prevents tire dry

rot and corrosion.

BLADE CARE

For best results mower blades must be
kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged

blades.

BLADE REMOVAL

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

Remove hex bolt, lock washer and flat

washer securing blade.

= Install new or resharpened blade with

trailing edge up towards deck as shown.

- Reassemble hex bolt, lock washer and
flat washer in exact order as shown.

Tighten bolt securely (27-35 R. Lbs.
torque).

IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is Grade 8 heat

treated.

Blade _ Mandrel

FlatWasl _ Trailing

Washer....'_....._" _ EdgeUp

Lock

Hex Bolt (Grade8)*.

*A Grade 8 heat treated bolt can be
identified by six Itnes on '_hebolt head_

TO SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening
blade, but if you do, be sure the blade is

balanced.
Care should be taken to keep the blade

balanced. An unbalanced blade will cause
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 blade balance, you will need a

5/8" diameter steel bolt, pin, or a cone
balancer. (When L.,singa cone ba!ancer,

follow the instructions supplied with bal-
ancer).

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

o Slide blade onto an unthreaded portion

of the steel bolt or pin and hold the bolt
or pin parallel with the ground. If blade

is balanced, itshould remain in a hori-
zontal position. If either end of the blade

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

Center Hale

Blade

518"Bolt
or Pin

BATTERY

Your tractor has a battery charging system
which is sufficient for normal use. Howev-

er, periodic charging of the battery with an

automotive charger will extend its life.
° Keep battery and terminals clean.

• Keep battery bolts tight.
o Keep small vent holes open.

• Recharge at 6-10 amperes for I hour.
NOTE: The original equipment battery on

your tractor is maintenance free. Do not
attempt to open or remove caps or covers.

Adding or checking level of electrolyte is
not necessary.

10 CLEAN BATTERY AND TERMINALS
Corrosion and dirt on the battery and ter-

minals can cause the battery to "leak"
power.

o Remove terminal guard.
= Disconnect BLACK battery cable first

then RED battery cable and remove
battery from tractor.

ENGINE

18