Craftsman 917270510 Owner’s Manual

Owner's anuaR

TRANSAXLE

L TRACTO

Model No.

917.270510

®

• Safety

o Assembly
,, Operation

®Maintenance
,, Repair Parts

CAUTION:

Read and follow all

Safety Rules and Instructions
before operatingthisequip-

ment.

Foranswers toyourquestions

about thisproduct, Call:

1-800-659-5917

Sears Craftsman i-I=elpLine
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 TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT

For two (2) years 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, etc.

o 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, 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 wilt 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

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

Repair Parts ......................................... 32

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

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

tions in the manual and on the machine

before starting.

• Only allow responsibleadults,who are
familiar withthe instructions,to operate

the machine.

° Clear the area of objectssuchas rocks,

toys, wire, etc_,whichcouldbe picked
up and thrownby the blade.

• Be sure thearea is clear of otherpeople
before mowing.Stop machine if anyone

entersthe area.

° Never carry passengers.

= Do not mowin reverse unless absolute-

ly necessary.Always lookdown and
behindbefore and while backing.

= Be aware of the mower dischargedirec-

tionand do notpointit at anyone. Do
not operate the mower withouteither
the entiregrass catcheror the guard in

place.
° Slow downbefore turning.
o Never leave a runningmachine unat-

tended. Alwaystum off blades, set park-

ing brake,stop engine, and remove
keys beforedismounting.

2

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.

o Do not operate the machine while under

the influence of alcohol or drugs.

, Watch for traffic when operating near or

crossing roadways.

= Use extra care when loading or 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, 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.

o Use extra care with grass catchers or

other attachments. These can change
the stability of the machine.

o 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, if

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

slope.

DO NOT:

• Do nottum on slopes unless necessary,
and then, tum 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.

o Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced

traction could cause sliding°

o Do not try to stabilizethe machineby

puttingyourfoot on the ground.

a Do notuse grasscatcher on steep

slopes.

CHILDREN

Tragic accidentscan occurifthe operator

isnot alertto the presence of children.
Childrenare oftenattractedto the

machine and the mowingactivity.Never
assumethat childrenwill remain where

you lastsaw them.
o Keep childrenoutof the mowingarea

and under the watchful care of another
responsibleadult.

o Be alert and turnmachine off if children

enterthe area.

o Before and when backing, lookbehind

and down for smallchildren.

° Never carry children.They may fall off

and beseriouslyinjuredor interferewith
safe machine operation.

° Never allow childrento operate the

machine.

o Use extra care when approachingblind

comers, shrubs,trees, orother objects
that may obscurevision.

SERVICE

• Use extra care in handlinggasoline and
otherfuels. They are flammable and

vaporsare explosive.

Use only an approvedcontainer.
Never remove gas cap or add fuel
withthe engine running.Allow en-
gine to cool before refueling.Do n,ot

smoke.

- Never refuelthe machineindoors.

Never storethe machineor fuel
containerinsidewhere there is an

open flame, such as a water heater.

,, Never run a machineinsidea 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.

o Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or

other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel

spillage. Allow machine to cool before

stodng.

° Stop and inspect the equipment if you

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

3

Nevermake adjustments or repairs with

the engine 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

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.

Check brake operation frequently.
Adjust and service as required.

o 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.

o 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.

o Before and wheri backing, look behind

and down for small children.

_Look for this symbol to point out impor-
tant safety precautions. It means CAU-

TION!H BECOME AWARE!!! YOUR SAFE-

TY IS INVOLVED.

= Mow up and down slopes (15oMax), not

across.

° Remove obstaclessuch as rocks,tree

limbs,etc.

o Watch for holes,ruts,or bumps. Uneven

terraincould overturnthe machine°Taft

grasscan hide obstacles.

° Use slowspeed. Choose a lowgear so

that you willnot have to stopor shift
while on the slope.

° Avoidstartingor stoppingon a slope. If

tires lose traction,disengage theblades

and proceed slowlystraightdown the

slope.

° Do notturnon slopes unless necessary,

and then,turn slowlyand gradually
downhill,ifpossible.

,_kWARNING- The engine exhaust from

this product contains chemicals known to
the State of California to cause cancer,

birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

,_CAUTION: In order to prevent acciden-

tal starting when setting up, transporting,

adjusting or making repairs always discon-
nect sparkplug wire and place wire where
it cannotcontactspark plug.

4

PRODUCT SPECRFICATIONS

GASOLtNE 1.25 GALLONS
CAPACITY UNLEADED
AND TYPE: REGULAR

OIL TYPE SAE 30 (above 32°F)
(API-SF/SG/SH): SAE 5W-30

(below 32°F)

01L CAPACITY: &0 PINTS
SPARK PLUG: Champion RC12YC

(GAP: .030") STD361458

VALVE INTAKE: .005"-.007"

CLEARANCE: EXHAUST: .009"-o011"

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 will enable you to assemble
and maintain your tractor properly. Always

observe the "SAFETY RULES".

MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT
A Sears MaintenanceAgreement is avail-

able on thisproduct°Contact your nearest

Sears store for details.

GROUND SPEED

MPH):

TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI

CHARGING 3 AMPS BATTER'{
SYSTEM: 5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS

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.

FORWARD:

I sT 1.0

2ND 1.3

3RD 2.1

4TM 3ol

5TM 4.0
6TM 5.1

1.6

REAR: 10 PSI

AMP/HR: 25

MIN. CCA: 190

CASE SIZE: U1R

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.

_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). tf 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).

5

Parts Bag contents shown full size

(1) Large Flat Washer

\

(2) Sheet

Metal

Screws

#10-16 × 1/2

(1) Locknut

318_24

(1) Knob

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

(2) Washers
9/32 x 5/8 x 16 Gauge

(1) Washer

17132x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge

(1) Shoulder

Bolt 5/16-18

Washers 1/4

(2) Lock

Nuts
(2) Hex

1/4-20

6

Seat

Parts packed separately in carton

Video Steering

Cassette Wheel

Steering L.

Manual Boot Parts Bag

_ ............... :L : : :::: .......... ;: ............................ / . _ ii j[l_l_l_ ii ,,,_rrrr, ........... : :::::: : :: : : ........... _ ._.,:, I IJ _ :ll_ll)J : fl r _IIII[:, :; :

Parts Bag contents not shown full size

Steering

Wheel
Insert

Slope Sheet

(2) Keys

__ teering

Bushing

Steering Wheel

Adapter

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 tractor

all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools

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

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR
ASSEMBLY

A socket wrench set will make 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).

(2) 7/16" wrenches
(1) Phillips Screw-

driver

(1) Tire pressure

gauge

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM

o Snap steering 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

_ 318-24Locknut

_ Large Fiat Washer

Steering _L _ M,.ertal^,

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.

o Check for any additional loose parts or

boxes and remove.

BEFORE ROLLING TRACTOR OFF
SKiD

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL

o 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.

° 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.

° Position front wheels of the tractor so

they are pointing straight forward.

° Position steering wheel so cross bars

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

o Assemble large flat washer and 3/8-24

locknut and tighten securely.

Steerin_WI__ Steering

i g wnee Bushing

Adapter _ Tabs

Steering ..
(Assembly
Position)

Steering Shaft
(Shipping

Position)

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 its highest position.

° Release parking brake by depressing

clutch/brake pedal,

° Place gearshift lever in neutral (N) posi-

tion.

° Roll tractor forwards off skid.

• Remove banding holding discharge

guard up against tractor.

8

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR

CONNECT BATTERY

,_CAUTION: Do not short battery termi-
nals by allowing a wrench or any other

objectto contactboth terminalsat the
same time. Before connectingbattery,re-

move metal bracelets,wristwatchbands,
rings,etc. Positiveterminalmust becon-

nectedfirst to preventsparking from acci-
dentalgrounding.
o Remove cardboard packingfrom seat

pan and liftseat pan to raisedposition.

o Open battery boxdoor and removepro-

tective plastic.

o Remove terminalprotectivecapsand

discard.

o Ifthis battery is putintoservice after

month and year indicatedon label(label

located betweenterminals)charge bat-

tery for minimumofone hourat 6-10

amps.

o Firstconnect RED battery cable to posi-

tive (+) terminalwith hex bolt,flatwash-

er, lockwasher and hex nutas shown.

Tighten securely.

° Connect BLACK groundingcable to

negative (-) terminalwith remaininghex
bolt,flat washer, lockwasherand hex

nut.Tighten securely.

o Close battery box door.Open battery

box door for:

o Inspectionfor secure connections

(totighten hardware).

° inspectionfor corrosion.

° Testing battery.
° Jumping (if required).
° Periodic charging,

iNSTALL SEAT
Adjustseat beforetighteningadjustment

knob.
o Remove cardboard packingon seat pan.

,, Place seat on seat pan andassemble

shoulder bolt.Tightenshoulderbolt
securely.

, Assemble adjustmentknoband flat

washer loosely.Do nottighten.

o Lower seat intooperating positionand

sit on seat.

o Slide seat untila comfortablepositionis

reached which allows you to press

clutch/brake pedal allthe way down.

• Get off seat withoutmoving its adjusted

position.

o Raise seat and tightenadjustmentknob

securely.

Seat

Seat Pan

Shoulder \

FlatWasher

Adjustment Knob

Positive DiscardTerminal
(Red) Cable ProctectiveCaps

Lock Washer

Rat Washer

Hex

Seat Pan

Battery

Door

Hex Bolt

Negative
(Black)

9

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS
For best cutting results,mowerhousing

should be properlyleveled.See "TO

LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" inthe
Service and Adjustments section of this

manual.

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF

ALL BELTS

See the figures that are shownfor replac-
ing motionand mower blade drive beltsin
the Service and Adjustments sectoin of

this manual. Verify that the belts are rout-

ed correctly.

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM
After you learn howto operate yourtrac-

tor, checkto see that the brake is properly
adjusted.See "TO ADJUST BRAKE"in
the Service and Adjustmentssection of

this manual.

,/CHECKLIST

PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING
CHECKLIST:

,/ All assembly instructions have been

completed.

,/ No remaining loose parts in carton.
,I Battery is properly prepared and

charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps).

,/" Seat is adjusted comfortably and

tightened securely.

,/ All tires are properly inflated. (For

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

J 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.

4 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.

,/ Be sure brake system is in safe

operating condition.

10

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

Learn and understand their meaning.

BATTERY

ENGINE ON

FUEL

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH ENGAGED

REVERSECAUTION OR FORWARD SLOW

WARNING

ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON

CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE

LOCKED

REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH

FAST

OVER TEMP

LIGHT

UNLOCKED

MOWER LIFT

L c®) I

LOW PARKING BRAKE

ATTACHMENT

IGNITION

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

FREE WHEEL

(AutomaticModels onty)

11

KNOW YOUR TRACTOR

READ THIS OWNER'SMANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR

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

Ammeter Ignition

Light

Switch

ThrottleChoke

\\ Switch

Control \\.\.

Clutch/Brake

Pedal

Gearshift

Lever Parking Brake

LiftLever

Plunger

Attachment Lift

Lever

O

Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the American

National Standards Institute.

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER: Used
to engage the mower blades, orother

attachments mountedto yourtractor.
LIGHT SWITCH: Turnsthe headlightson

and off.

THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL: Used
for startingand controllingengine speed.

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL: Used for
declutchingand brakingthe tractorand

startingthe engine.

PARKING BRAKE: Locks clutct-,Jbrake
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 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 objects thrown 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 TRACTOR

"/our 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

o Depress clutch_rake pedal into full

"BRAKE" position 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.

AttachmentClutch Lever

Throttle/Choke
Control lever

Pedal "Drive"

Position \

Position

STOPPING

MOWER BLADES -
° 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.

° Move gearshift lever to neutral (N) posi-

tion.

ENGINE -
° 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.

o Never use choke to stop engine.

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

Always operate engine at full 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.
o Start tractor with clutch/brake pedal

depressed and gearshift lever in neutral
(N) position.

o 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 will 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 liftlever.
° 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

o For best cutting performance, grass

over 6 inches in height should be

mowed twice. Make the first cut rela-

tively high; the second to desired

height.

TO OPERATE MOWER

"(our 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.

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

ment clutch control.

o TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disen-

,_age 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

Lift Lever
High

Attachment

Clutch Lever
"Engaged"

Position

"Disengag_
Position

Low

Position

o When pushing or towing your tractor, be

sure gearshift lever is in neutral (N)

position.

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

NOTE: To protect hood from damage

whentransportingyourtractoron atruck

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 ENGgNE

CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL

o 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.

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

ance section of this manual).

= To change engine oil, see the Mainten-

_e

ance section in this manual.

_ 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.

o Avoid stopping or changing speed on

hills.

° Ifslowing 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.

• 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
, Raise attachment lift to highest position

with attachment lift control.

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.

IMPORTANT; When operating in tempera-

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

dWweatherstarting.

ARNING: 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

See Storage Instructions for additional

information. Never use engine or carbure-
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.
o 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.
o 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-

ature.

o 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 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

MOWRNGTnPS

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 "TO

LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" inthe
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-

tingo

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

o 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 mow grass when it is wet. Wet

grass will plug mower and leave unde-
sirable clumps, Allow grass to dr,/
before mowing.

° Always operate engine at full thro_tle

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

AsYouCOMPL E .......

Check Brake Operation _P' ........._ .....

Check'Tire Pressure _ . _' . , ......

Check Operator Presence and
Interlock Systems

T

FI

che'ck for Loose Fasteners ...._ .................. i _'7

J,

0 Check Battery Level _ .............

R I_' _'

Check Transaxle Cooling V _'

,AdjustBladeBelt(s)Tension ...... _'s

Adjust Motion Drive Belt{s) Tension _'s

c.,eck.Eng_.eO,L_vel _

E V_'_!

N Ctean Air Screen V_'2

Replace Sp_ P!ug .............................. _ _' ................

Rap!ace Air Filter Paper Cartridge ......._= ............

Replace Fuel Filter _/'

1 _ Change more oft=n when operating urtder a heavy load ot In high ambient tornperaturo_ S - if equljopod w)th adjustable ey_tom.
2 - Service more often when operlatlng in dirty or dusty _nd_tten= 6 - Not required If equipped with m_fntenanco_freo batto_,
3 - If equipped with eli fl[t_r, chm'tgo o!l avery SO hour_,. 7 - 33ghtan front axle p|vot bolt to 35 fL*tb_ m_xknum_

GENERAL RECOMiVIENDATIONS
The warranty onthistractor does notcover

items that have been subjectedto operator
abuse or negligence.To receivefull value

from the warranty, operatormust maintain
tractoras instructedin this manual. Some

adjustments willneed to be made periodi-
cally to properlymaintainyour tractor.

All adjustmentsin the Service and
Adjustmentssectionof this manualshould

be checked at leastonce each season.

,, Once a year you shouldreplacethe

spark plug, clean or replace airfilter, and
check blades and beltsfor wear. A new

spark plug and clean air filter assure

properair-fuel mixtureand help your

engine run better and last longer.
BEFORE EACH USE
° Check engine oil level.

o Check brake operation.

° Check tire pressure.
,, Check operatorpresence and interlock

systemsfor proper operation.
o Check for loosefasteners.

,,,,,1,,

LUBRiCATiON CHART

O S Spindle
Zerk Zerk

Front Wheel

Bearing Zerk

Engine

@ Attachment
Clutch

Pivot(s) :

SAE 30 or 10w30 Motor OiL
General Purpose Grease .

Refer to Maintenance Engine Section

t'_r'

Front

Wheel

"'_ Bearing

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 Lifeof the self-
lubricating bearings, if you feel they must

be lubricated,use only a dry. powdered
graphite type lubricantsparingly.

17

TRACTOR
Akvays observe safety rules when per-

forming any maintenance.

BRAKE OPERATION
If tractor requires more than six (6) feet

stoppingdistanceat highspeed in highest
gear, then brake must be adjusted.(See

'3"0 ADJUST BRAKE"in the Service and
Adjustments section of thismanual).

TIRES

o Maintain proper airpressure in all tires

(See "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS"

on page 5 ofthis manual).

• Keep tires free ofgasoline,oil, or insect

controlchemicalswhichcan harm rub-
ber.

° Avoidstumps, stones, deep ruts,sharp

objectsand otherhazardsthat may
cause tire damage.

NOTE=To seal tire puncturesand prevent
flat tires due to slow leaks,tire sealant

may be purchasedfrom your local parts
dealer. Tire sealant also preventstire dry

rotand 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.

o Remove hex bolt, lock washer and flat

washer securing blade.

• install new or resharpened blade with
trailing edge up towards deck as shown.

o Reassemble hex bolt, lock washer and

flat washer in exact order as shown.

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

torque).

IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is Grade 8 heat

treated.

Assembly

Bladh_er__ Mandrel

Fiat Was Trailing

Edge Up

LockWasher __...___]

Hex Bolt (Grade

*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 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 using a cone balancer,

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.

• 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

5/8" 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 lifeo
o Keep battery and terminals clean.
o Keep battery bolts tight.

• Keep small vent holes open.
° Recharge at 6-10 amperes for 1 hour.
NOTE= The original equipment batter./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,

TO CLEAN BATTERY AND TERMINALS
Corrosion and dirt on the batter,./and ter-

minals can cause the battery to "leak"

power.
,, Remove terminal guard.

G,Disconnect BLACK battery cable first

then RED batter./cable and remove
battery from tractor.

18