Craftsman 917270412 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

®

13.5 HP

ELECTRIC START -
42" MOWER
6 SPEED TRANSAXLE

LAW TRACTOR

Model No.
917o270412

o Safety
o Assembly

o Operation

Maintenance

o 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:

I=800-659°5917

Sears Craftsman Help Line
5 am - 5 pm, Mon - Sat

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

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

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

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

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 in material or

workmanship.
This Warranty does not cover:
o Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as blades, spark

plugs, air cleaners, belts, etco

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

o Repairs necessary because of operator' abuse, negligence, tmproper 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 riding equipment is available at no charge for 30 days from
the date of purchase. Please contact your nearest service center. After 30 days from the
date of purchase, warranty service is available by taking your Craftsman riding equip-
ment to your nearest Sears Service Center. (In-home warranty service will still be 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 ........................................... 17

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

Storage,... ............ .................................. 27

Tr0uble'shooting..:.:: ........................... :.....28

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

Parts Ordering ........................ Back Cover

GENERAL OPERATION

o Read, understand, and follow all instruc-

tions in the manual and on the machine
before starting.

o 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°

o Be sure the area is clear of other people

before mowing_ Stop machine if anyone
enters the area.

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

ly necessary. Always look down and
behind before and while 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 turn off blades, set park-
ing brake, stop engine, and remove
keys before dismounting.

o Turn off blades when not mowing.

o Stop engine before removing grass

catcher or unclogging chute°

o Mow only in daylight or good artificial

light.
Do not operate the machine while under

the influence of alcohol or drugs°

o 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 up the slope or if you feel uneasy on
it, do not mow it.
DO:

• Mow up and down slopes, not across°
o Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree

limbs, eta

o Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps Uneven

terrain could overturn the machine,. Tall

grass can hide obstacle&
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_

, Avoid starting or stopping on a slope° tf

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 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.

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°

o Never allow children to operate the

machine.

o 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. "]'hey 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 coo! 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.

o Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade

attachment bolts, tight and keep equip-
ment in good condition.

o Never tamper with safety devices,

Check their proper operation regularly_

o 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

Nevermakeadjustmentsorrepairswith

to wear,damage,anddeterioration,

which could expose moving parts 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 carp] passengers_

, Do not mow in reverse unless absolute-

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

o Never carry children. They may fall off

and be seriously injured or interfere with
safe machine operation.

o Keep children out of the mowing area

and under the watchful care of another
responsible adulL

o Be alert and turn machine off if children

enter the area_

o Before and when backing, look behind

and down for small children.

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

across.

,_Look for' this symbol to point out impor-

tant safety precautions. It means CAU-,
TtON!!! BECOME AWARE!!! YOUR SAFE-

TY IS INVOLVED.

_CAUTION: In order to prevent accidem
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.

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 tow gear so

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

o Avoid starting or stopping on a slopes If

tires lose traction, disengage the blades

and proceed slowly straight down the
slope.

o Do not turn 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 harm°

4

PRODUCT SPECIFICATLONS

" AsouNE: GALLO.S

CAPACITY UNLEADED
AND TYPE: REGULAR

OlL TYPE SAE 30 (above 32°F)

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

(below 32°F)

OIL CAPACITY: &0 PINTS
SPARK PLUG: Champion RJI9LM or

GAP: ,030") J19LM

VALVE INTAKE: .O05"-.007"
CLEARANCE: EXHAUST: .009"-..01t"

GROUND SPEED

(MPH):

TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI

CHARGING 3 AMPS BATTERY
SYSTEM: 5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS

BATTERY: AMP/HR: 25

FORWARD:

1sT 1.0

2ND 1,3
3RD 2.t

4TM 3.1

5TM 4 0

6TM 5.1

REVERSE: Io6

REAR: 12PSI

MIN, CCA: 190
CASE SIZE: UIR

MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT

A Sears Maintenance Agreement is avail-
able on this product, Contact your nearest

Sears store for details°
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

o Read and observe the safety rules.,

o 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 ('#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).

BLADE BOLT 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 techni-

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

Please read and retain this manual. The
instructions wil! enab{e you to assemble

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

PartsBagcontentsshowr){ull size .....

(1) Large Flat Washer

(2) Sheet

Metal

Screws

#10-16 x 1/2

(1) Locknut

3/8-24

(1) Knob

(1) Shoulder

Bolt 5/t6-18

t

(1) Washer

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

-% • .

Seat

Partspackedseparatelyincarton

,,,_,,

i :

Manual

Video

Cassette

Steering

Boot

Parts Bag contents not shown full size

Steering

Wheel

! I
I !

1 I

r 1
I l

I I
I t
I I

Parts Bag

!

Slope Sheet

__ teering

Bushing

(2) Keys

7

Wheel
Steering

insert

-_ Steering Wheel

,_: ............ Adapter

Yournewtractorhasbeenassembledatthefactorywithexceptionofthosepartsleft
unassembledforshippingpurposes.Toensuresafeandproperoperationofyourtractor

:ali_lSa'_s:ahdhardwareyouassiamblemustbetightenedsecurely.Usethecorrecttoots:_ _:

asnecessaryto insurepropertightness.Reviewthevideocassettebeforeyoubegin°

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR
ASSEMBLY

A socket wrench set willmake assembly
easier. Standard wrench sizes you need

are listed below_

(1) 9/16" wrench (1) Pliers
(2) 1/2" wrench (1) Utility knife

(1) PhillipsScrew driver
(1) Tire pressure gauge

o Snap steedng wheel insert into center

of steering 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_

Insert

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 carton, and
lay panels flat,

= Check for any additional loose parts or

boxes and remove.

BEFORE ROLLING TRACTOR OFF
SKiD

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL

° Slide the steering bushing over' the

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°

o Position steering boot over steedng

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.

= Position flont wheels of the tractor so

they are pointing straight forward.

o Position steering wheel so cross bars

are hodzonta!.(left to right) and slide
onto adapter,

o Assemble large flat washer and 3/8-24

Iocknut and tighten securely.

_ Large Flat Washer

Sheet

StZeering _/f--._ _ -"-Q\ Metal

S" " w_Steering

teenng Bushing

Adapter _ Tabs

BootSteering_b

Steering ,,
(Assembly

Position)

Steering Shaft ' '

(Shipping "_"- _ //

Position) //"'_'" .......... _ Tab Slot

TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See
Operation section for location and

function of controls)

• Press lift lever plunger and raise attach-
ment lift lever to itshighest position.

o Release parking brake by depressing

clutch/brake pedal,

° Place gearshift lever in neutral (N) posi-

tion.

° Roll tractorforward off skid.
° Remove banding holding discharge

guard up against tractor:

8

: HOWTO SETUPYOUR TRACTOR

CHECK BATTERY

• Lift seat pan to raised position and open
battery box door.

, 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. (See "BATTERY" in Maintenance
section of this manual for charging
instructions)°

Seat
Pan

Ba_e_
Box

INSTALL SEAT

Adjust seat before tightening adjustment
knob°

o 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.

o Slide seat until a comfortable position is

reached which allows you to press
clutch/brake pedal al! the way down.

• Get off seat without moving its adjusted
position,

o Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob

securely.

Seat

Seat Pan

Shoulder
Bolt

Adjustment Knob

Fiat Washer

9

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS

For best cutting results, mower housing

should be properly leveled° See "TO

LEVELMOWER HOUSING":in the

Service and Adjustments section of this:: ....

manual,

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF
ALL BELTS

See the figures that are shown for replaco
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 ieam how to operate your trac-
tor, check to see that the brake is properly

adjusted. See "TO ADJUST BRAKE" in
the Service and Adjustments section of

this manual

_"CHECKLIST

PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING
CHECKLIST:

,[ A!l:assemblyinstructions have been

completed.

•/ No remaining loose parts in carton.
_," Battery is properly prepared and

charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps)_

•/ Seat is adjusted comfortably and
tightened securely.

#" All tires are propedy inflated. (For

shipping pu_oses, 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).

J Check mower and ddve bett& 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,_TTENTION 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_

,/" Be sure brake system is in safe

operating condition°

10

Thesesymbolsmayappearonyourtractororinliteraturesuppliedwith the producL

Learn and understand their meaning,,

BATTERY

ENGINE ON

FUEL

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH ENGAGED

CAUT1ON OR REVERSE FORWARD

WARNING

ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON

\

CHOKE

REVERSE

MOWER HEIGHT

H

NEUTRAL

PARKING BRAKE

LOCKED

HIGH

FAST

OVER TEMP

LIGHT

UNLOCKED

SLOW

MOWER LIFT

L ®)St

LOW PARKING BRAKE

ATTACHMENT

IGNITION

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION}

FREE WHEEL

(Automatic Models only)

11

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

TRACTOR
Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourseif with the locations of

.... various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

Attachment

Clutch Lever

Ammeter Ignition

Switch

ThrottleChoke

Control

Light

Switch

LiftLever

Plunger

Clutch/Brake

Pedal

Gearshift

LeVer Parking Brake

.............................Our"'iractors €0-nform toihe safe_"Standards of the Ameiican ......

National Standards Institute.

Attachment Lift

ht

Adjustment

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

attachments mounted to your tractor.
LIGHT SWITCH: Turns the headlightson

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: Locksclutch/brake
pedal intothe brake position.

GEARSHIFT LEVER: Selects the speed

and direction of tractor.

ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER: Used to
raise, lower, and adjust the mower deck or
other attachments mounted to yourtractor.

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

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 BRAKE
. Depress clutch/brake pedal into full

"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.

Attachment Clutch Lever

Throttle!Choke _ -... 'Engaged" Position
Control lever _(f'--" _

_-_ _, _,_ "Disengaged"

_" Position

Clutch/Brake "q_-S- 14__; _" ,
Pedal "D;'v_' I>_._\ I i,i_:; Park,ng

Position \ ""--4 _ _ /,,_a_e,_a,,

r__k-J o°lr<.1-_ _ Position

,, --" "-

Disengaged ,, .___,,-._ Lever

Position Brake" Position

STOPPING
MOWER BLADES

o To stop mower blades, move attach-

ment clutch lever to "DISENGAGED"

position°

GROUND DRIVE

o 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",
o Turn ignition key to "OFF" position and

remove key. Always remove key when

leaving tractor to prevent unauthorized
use.

° Never use choke to stop engine.

IMPORTANT: Leaving the ignition switch
in any position other than "OFF" will cause
the battery to be discharged (dead).

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

stopping 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

• 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) position.

° Move gearshift lever to desired posi-

tion.

,, Slowly release clutch/brake pedal to

start movement.

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

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

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'L 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.

13

° Forbestcuttingperformance,grass

over6 inchesinheightshouldbe
mowedtwice. Makethefirstcutrela-

tivelyhigh;the secondto desired

TO OPERATEMOWER "............

'(our tractor is equipped with an operator

presence sensing switch. Any attempt by
the 0perator 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 blades by engaging attach-

ment clutch control.

° TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disen-

gage attachment clutch control.

,_kCAUTION: Do not operate the mower

without either the entire grass catcher, on

mowers so equipped, or the discharge
guard in place.

Attachment

Lift Lever _L._- _...
High Position _ _" Low

Attachment / _ _ _/
Lift Lever / /_-- _,.

High Positing//_

"Disengaged" ----_=_

Position _",_ Dis h g

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

,_CAUTION: Do not drive up or down
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.
o 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.

o if stopping is absolutely necessary,

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

o Move gearshift leverto 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 clutch/brake pedal.

= Make all turns slowly.

Position

c are

-Guard

TO TRANSPORT
° Raise attachment lift to highest position

with attachment lift control.

= When pushing or towing your tractor, be

sur,e.ge.a[s,hi!t lever isin neutral (N)

1_6Sitiofi:: :''" .... .....

= Do not push or tow tractor' at more than

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 fill capldipstick 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

o For cold "weather operation you should

change oil for easier starting (See "OIL
VISCOSITY CHART" in the Mainten-

ance section of this manual).

= To change engine oil, see the Mainten-

ance section in this manual

ADD GASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular

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

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

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

days to assure fuel freshness.

IIVlPORTANT: When operating in tempera-

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

,_WARNING: Experience indicates that

alcohol blended fuels (called gasohot 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.

14

Drain the.gas .tank, start the engine and let
it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are

empty, Use fresh fuel next season. See
Storage instructions for additional informa-
tiono Never use engine or carburetor

cleaner products in the fuel tank or perma-
nent damage may occur°

,_kCAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank
filler neck. Do not overfill Wipe off any

spilled oil or fuel Do not store, spil! 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°
o Sit on seat in operating position,

depress clutchlbrake pedal and set
parking brake°

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

tion_

o Move attachment clutch to "DISEN-

GAGED" position..

, 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 ° F AND
BELOW)

o 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 period from several seconds to sev-
eral minutes, depending on the temper-

atureo

° 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

t5

f

MOWING TiPS

o Tire chains cannot be used when the

mower housing is attached to tractor.

o Mower should be properly leveled for

best mowing performance. See 'qO
LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the

Service and Adjustments section of this
manual

o 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.

o 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
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,

o Do not rnow grass when it is wet. Wet

grass will plug mower and leave unde-
sirable clumps_ Allow grass to dry

before mowing.

o 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°

o When operating attachments, select a

ground speed that will suit the terrain

and give best performance of the at-

tachment being used.

16

CUSTOMER RESPONSiBiLITIES

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE /_/_o_/_o_/_ /

AS YOU COMPLETE /_(?,_0_ .......

. REGU_R SERVICE .Jf'_e-_'_SER\,/tCE DATES

CheckB,akeOperat oni '! ' 1 1I iifill "

Check Tire Pressure _# a## ............ " .......

check operator Presence and H

T Inledock Systems _'4 tt
R Check for Loose Fasteners 64# 6/7

A "S'h'a'_e_Repiace MOWer Blades 644,

C Lub;icatlonChart V'

0 Check Battery Level

R clean Battery and Terminals/Recharge V _ V'

Check Transaxie Cooling

Adjust Blade Belt(s) Tension _s

i Adjust Motion Drive Belt(s) Tension . , , V's

Check Engine Oil Level _ _ , .
Change Engine Oil _,2,_ V"

E Clean Air Filter V_'z

N ciean Air screen 644_

G inspectMuffler!SparkArrestor It V'
/

Replace Oii Fiiier(ifequipped) {&_1,2

N _iean E,minec00ii,g runs e/_

Replace Spark pfug _ 6_
Replace Air Filter Paper Cailridge _#"#2

Replace Fuel Filler G/

1 * Change mote ellen when opai'atlng under a heavy load or In high ambient tempefrJt_'e$ 5 - I{ equipped wilb adjustable ;yslom

2 - Sorv_{::e mote often when operating Ir_dirty or dusty conditions
3 - If equipped with o!1 filter, change oil every 50 hour;

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this tractor does not cover
items that have been subjected to operator

6 _ Not required If equipped with mathlenarlco÷froo battery

7 - Tlg_hton front axle pivot boil to 35 {t,-Ibs m#,.,_imum

LUBRiCATiON CHART

Spindle--

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 periodi-

@FrontWheel ,.

cally to properly maintain your tractor,
All adjustments in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual should

Bearing _

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

0 Eng_ne_, '

@Attachment! i

Clutch ! i

Pivot(s) i "--'r

proper air-fuel mixture and help your
engine run better and last longer,.

BEFORE EACH USE

o Check engine oil level.
o Check brake operation.
, Check tire pressure..

o Check operator presence and interlock

systems for proper operation.

• Check for loose fasteners.

@SAE 30 or 10w30 Motor OIL
@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 wilt shorten the life of the self-

lubricating bearings. If you feel they must
be lubricated, use only a dry, powdered

graphite type lubricant sparingly,

FV'

' It.

I I

,_.,, ,°°

• @ ,

t7

TRACTOR o Reassemble hex bolt, lock washer and

Always observe safety rules when per- flat washer in exact order as shown.
forming any maintenance° = Tighten bolt securely (27-35 Ft. Lbs.

BRAKE OPERATION torque).
tf tractor requires morn than si_ (6)_feet IMPORTANT; Blade bolt is Grade 8 heat _

stopping distance at high speed in highest treated.

gear, then brake must be adjusted. (See .... Mandrel Assembly

"TO ADJUST BRAKE" in the Service and _-age up
Adjustments section of this manual).

TIRES

Blade

Center Hole

= Maintain proper air pressure in all tires

(See =PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS"
on page 3 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 sealant also prevents tire dry
rot and corrosion.

OPERATOR PRESENCE SYSTEM
Be sure that operator presence and inter-

lock systems are working properly. If your
tractor does not function as described

below, repair the problem immediately.
o The engine should not start unless the

clutch/15rake pedal is fully depressed
and attachment clutch control is in the

disengaged position.

o When the engine is running, any

attempt by the operator to leave the
seat without first setting the parking

brake should shut off the engme_

o When the engine is running and the

attachment clutch is engaged, any
attempt by the operator to leave the

seat should shut off the engine.

o The attachment clutch should never

operate unless the operator is in the
seat°

BLADE CARE

For best results mower blades must be

kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged
blades.

Lock
Washer-,,..._ .._" Star

.,- "=' Flat Washer

Hex Bolt (Grade 8)*

*A Grade 8 heat treated bolt can be

identified by six lines on the bolt 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 wilt 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 wilt need a

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

balancer. (When using a cone balancer,

follow the instructions supplied with bal-

ancer)o

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, it should remain in a hori-
zontal position if either end of the blade
moves downward, sharpen the heavy

end until the blade is balanced.

Center Hole

BLADE REMOVAL

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

5/8"
or Pin

Blade

, Remove hex bolt, lock washer and flat

washer securing blade.

= Install new or resharpened blade with

trailing edge up towards deck as shown.

IMPORTANT: To ensure proper assembly,
center hole in blade must align with star

on mandrel assembly.

BATTERY

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

However, periodic charging of the battery
with an automotive charger will extend its
life.

t8