Craftsman 917270611 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

15.5 HP

ELECTRIC START

42" MOWER

TRANSAXLE

LAWN TRACTO

Model No.

917.270611

o Safety

®Assembly

,, Operation

, Maintenance , Repair Parts

CAUTION:

Read and follow all Safety Rulesand Instructions

beforeoperatingthisequip- 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

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

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

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

Maintenance ......................................... 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:

• 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 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

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

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 responsible adults, who are

familiar with the instructions, to operate the machine.

• Clear the area of objects such as rocks,

toys, wire, etc., which could be picked

up and thrown by the blade.

° Be sure the area is clear of other people

before mowing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

o Never carrypassengers. ° Do notmow in reverse unless absolute-

ly necessary.Always lookdown and behindbeforeand while backing.

o Be aware ofthe mower dischargedirec-

tionand do not pointit at anyone. Do

not operatethe mower withouteither

the entiregrass catcheror the guard in

place.

• Slow downbefore turning. ° Never leave a runningmachine unat-

tended. Always turnoffblades, set park-

ingbrake, stopengine, and remove keys beforedismounting.

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.

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. = Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree

limbs, etc.

o Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven

terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.

, Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so

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

° Follow the manufacturer's 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. 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 arcliff or ditch, or if an edge

caves in.

° Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced

traction could cause sliding.

= Do nottry to stabilize the machine by

putting your foot on the ground.

• 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 activ!ty. Never

assume that children will remain where you last saw them.

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.

° 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

• 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.

° 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.

Never make adjustmentsor repairswith the enginerunning.

Grass catchercomponentsare subject to wear, damage, and deterioration, whichcouldexpose movingpartsor

allowobjectsto be thrown.Frequently

checkcomponentsand replace with

manufacturer'srecommendedparts, when necessary.

Mowerblades are sharpand can cut.

Wrap the blade(s)or wear gloves, and

use extracautionwhen servicingthem. Check brake operationfrequently.

Adjustand service as required.

• Be surethe area is clear of other people

before mowing.Stop machine ifanyone entersthe area.

° Never carry passengers. ° Do notmow in reverseunlessabsolute-

lynecessary.Always Iobkdownand

behindbefore and whilebacking.

° Never carry children.They mayfall off

and be seriouslyinjuredorinterferewith safe machineoperation.

• Keepchildrenout ofthe mowingarea

and underthe watchfulcare of another responsibleadult.

° Be alert and turn machineoffif children

enterthe area.

° Beforeand when backing, lookbehind

and downfor small children.

_Look for this symbol to point out impor-

tant safety precautions. It means CAU- TION!t! BECOME AWARE!!! YOUR SAFE-

TY IS INVOLVED.

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

across.

° Remove obstaclessuch as rocks,tree

limbs, etc.

,, Watch for holes, ruts,or bumps. Uneven

terrain couldoverturnthe machine. Taft

grass can hideobstac/es.

° Use slowspeed. Choose a lowgear so

that you willnot have to stop orshift while onthe slope.

° Avoidstartingorstoppingon a slope. If

tireslosetraction,disengage the blades and proceedslowlystraight downthe

slope.

o Do not turnon slopes unless necessary,

and then, turn slowlyand gradually downhill,if possible.

,_WARNING: The engine exhaust from

this product containschemicals known to the State of Californiato cause cancer,

birth defects,or otherreproductiveharm.

,_,CAUTION: In order to prevent acciden-

tal startingwhen settingup, transporting,

adjustingor makingrepairs alwaysdiscon- nect sparkplug wire and place wirewhere it cannot contactspark plug.

PRODUCT SPECIFiCATiONS

GASOLINE 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)

OIL CAPACITY: 3.0 PINTS

SPARK PLUG: Champion RJ19LM (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 Maintenance Agreement is avail- able on this product. Contact your nearest

Sears store for details.

GROUND SPEED

(MPH):

TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PS!

CHARGING 3AMPS BATTERY

SYSTEM: 5AMPS HEADLIGHTS

BLADE BOLT 27-35 FT.LBS.

TORQUE:

FORWARD:

1sT 1.0

2ND 1.3 3RD 2.1

4TM 3.1 5TM 4.0 6TM 5.1

REVERSE: 1_6

REAR: 10PSI

AMPiHR: 25

MIN. CCA: 190 CASE SIZE: UlR

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase

of a Craftsman Tractor. ithas been designed, engineered and manufactured to giveyouthe best possibledependability

and performance.

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITBES

', 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 (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).

PARTS BAG CONTENTS SHOWN FULL SiZE

(1) Large Flat Washer

(1) Hex Bolt

3/8-16 x I

3/8

(1) Lockwasher

(1) Shoulder Bolt

5/16-18

(1) Washer

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

(1) Hex Bolt

5/16-18

5/16-18x 1-1t4 _ (1) Locknut

(1) Knob

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

(2) Washers

/32 x 5/8 x 16 Gauge

(2) Hex Nuts 1/4-20

(2) Lock Washers 1/4

PARTS BAG CONTENTS SHOWN FULL SIZE

(2) Screws

(2) Weld Nuts

#10

#10 x 5/8

3/16 (2)!4Wash6r_aug _

Washers #10

(2) Lock

Parts packet separately in carton

Seat

Video

Cassette

Parts Bag contents not shown full size

(2) Latch Hook

Assemblies

Steering

Wheel Insert

Steering Wheel

Adapter

(2) Keys

Steering =

Extension

Shaft

Slope Sheet

Yournew 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

Asocketwrenchset willmakeassembly easier.Standardwrenchsizesyouneed

are listed below.

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

When rightorleft hand is mentioned in this manual, it means, fromyour point of

view,when you are inthe operatingposi- tion(seated behind the steeringwheel).

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

o Remove all accessible loose parts and

parts boxes from shipping carton (See page 6).

° Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on

all four comers of shipping carton, and lay panels flat.

o Check for any additional loose parts or

boxes and remove.

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

driver

(1) Tire pressure

gauge

o Assemblelargeflat washer,3/8 lock

washer,3/8 hex boltand tighten securely.

o Snap steeringwheel insertintocenter

of steeringwheel.

° Remove protectivematerialsfrom trac-

tor hood and grill.

IMPORTANT: Check for and removeany

staples inskid that may puncturetires where tractoristo rolloff skid.

Insert

BEFORE ROLLING TRACTOR OFF

SKID ATTACH STEERING WHEEL

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND

BOOT

° Slide extension shaft onto lower steer-

ing shaft. Align mounting holes in exten- sion and lower shafts and install 5/16

hex bolt and Iocknut. Tighten securely.

IMPORTANT" Tighten bolt and nut secure- ly to 18-22 ft. lbs. torque.

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

INSTALL STEERING WHEEL

• Position front wheels of the tractor so they are pointingstraightforward.

o Slidesteering wheel adapter ontosteer-

ingshaft extension.

° Positionsteering wheel so crossbars

are horizontal(left to right) and slide inside bootand ontoadapter.

,.<:. -/

TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Operation section for location and function of controls) ° Press liftlever plunger and raise attach-

ment liftlever to its highestposition.

° Release parking brake by depressing

clutch/brakepedal.

° Place gearshiftlever in neutral(N) posi-

tion.

° Rolltractorforward offskid. ° Remove bandingholdingdischarge

guard up against tractor.

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR

CONNECT BATTERY

,_CAUTION: Do not short batter,] termi-

nals by allowinga wrench or any other objectto contactboth terminalsat the same time. Before connectingbattery, re-

move metal bracelets, wristwatchbands, rings,etc. Positiveterminal mustbe con-

nectedfirst to prevent sparking from acci- dentalgrounding.

o Remove cardboard packingfrom seat

pan and liftseat pan to raisedposition.

, Open battery box doorand remove pro-

tectiveplastic.

° Remove terminal protectivecaps and

discard.

• if thisbattery isput intoservice after

monthand year indicatedon label(label locatedbetween terminals)charge bat-

teryfor minimumof one hourat6-10

arnps.

° Firstconnect RED batterycable to posi-

tive(+) terminal with hex bolt,flat wash- er, lockwasher and hex nutas shown.

Tightensecurely.

° Connect BLACK groundingcable to

negative(-) terminal withremaininghex bolt,flat washer, lockwasher and hex

nut.Tighten securely.

° Close battery box door. Open battery

box door for:

° Inspection for secure connections

(totighten hardware).

° Inspection for corrosion. ° Testing battery.

° Jumping (if required).

° Periodic charging.

Positive Discard Terminal (Red) Cable Proctective Caps

Lock Washer

Flat Washer

Hex Bolt

Negative

(Black) Cable

Seat

INSTALL SEAT

Adjustseat before tighteningadjustment

knob.

° Remove cardboardpackingonseat pan. ° Place seat on seat pan andassemble

shoulder bolt.Tighten shoulder bolt securely.

o Assemble adjustmentknoband flat

washer loosely.Do not tighten.

o Lowerseat intooperatingpositionand

siton seat.

o Slide seat untila comfortableposition is

reachedwhichallowsyou to press

clutch/brake pedal all the way down.

° Get off seat without moving its adjusted

position.

, Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob

securely.

Seat

SeatPan

Shoulder \

Flat Washer

Adjustment Knob

INSTALL MULCHER PLATE , Install two latch hooksto mutcher plate

usingscrew, washer, lockwasher, and weld nut as shown.

NOTE: Pre-assemble weld nutto latch hookby insertingweld nutfromthe top

withhook pointingdown.

- Tighten hardware securely. ° Raise and holddeflectorshieldin up-

right position.

° Place front of mulcherplate over front of

mower deckopening and slide into place, as shown.

° Hook frontlatchinto hole on front of

mowerdeck.

° Hook rearlatch intohole on backof

ower deck.

CAUTION. Do not removedischarge

guard from mower.Raise and holdguard when attaching mulcherplate and allowit to reston plate while in operation.

Battery Door

Weld Nut From Hook Points The Top Down

Lock

Weld Washer Nut

Latch Latch Hook Hook

Weld Nut

Washer

Mulcher ',_,..,.Screw

Plate

Deflector Shield

,_ Latch

LockWasher

Washer

Hooks

TO CONVERT TO BAGGING OR

DISCHARGING Simplyremove mulcherplate and storein

a safe place. Your moweris now readyfor dischargingorinstallationof optional

grasscatcheraccessory. NOTE: It isnot necessaryto change blades.The mulcherblades are designed

for dischargingand bagging also.

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

The tires onyour tractor were overinflated

at the factory for shippingpurposes. Correcttire pressureis importantfor best cuttingperformance. ,, Reduce tire pressureto PSI shownin

"PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" on page 5 of this manual.

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS For best cuttingresults,mower housing shouldbe properlyleveled. See =TO

LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the Service andAdjustmentssectionofthis

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

Afteryou learn how to operate your trac-

tor,check to see that the brake is properly

adjusted.See "TO ADJUST BRAKE" in

the Service and Adjustmentssection of

thismanual.

/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 1 hour at 6 amps).

#" Seat is adjusted comfortably and

tightened securely.

/ All tires are properly inflated. (For

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

/ Be sure mower deck is properly leveled

side-to-side/front-to-rear for best cutting results. (Tires must be properly

inflated for leveling).

/ Check mower and drive belts. Be sure

they are routed properly around pulleys and inside all belt keepers.

# 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 FOLLOMVING IMPORTANT ITEMS: / Engine oil is at proper level.

/ Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean,

regular unleaded gasoline.

4 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.

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

Learn and understand their meaning.

BATTERY CAUTION OR REVERSE

WARNING

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE

FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH ENGAGED

REVERSE NEUTRAL

HIGH

FORWARD SLOW

LIGHTS ON

LOCKED

FAST

OVER TEMP

LIGHT

UNLOCKED

MOWER LIFT

LOW PARKING BRAKE

ATTACHMENT

IGNITION

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

HYDROSTATIC FREE WHEEL

(Hydro Models only)

KNOW YOUR TRACTOR READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL 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

Ammeter Clutch Lever

Light

Switch

ThrottteChoke

Control

. _ .... Switch

.," Lift Lever

•' " Plunger

Ignition

ClutcWBrake

Pedal

Attachment Lift

Lever

Height

Adjustment

tndicator

PARKING BRAKE

GearshiftLever _'\!/

Our tractorsconformto the safety standards of theAmedcan

National StandardsInstitute.

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER: Used GEARSHIFT LEVER= Selects the speed to engage the mower blades, or other and directionoftractor.

attachments mountedto your tractor. ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER: Used to

LIGHT SWITCH: Turns the headlightson raise, lower, and adjustthe mower deck or and off. otherattachmentsmountedto yourtractor.

THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL: Used LIFT LEVER PLUNGER: Used to release for starting and controllingenginespeed, attachmentliftlever when changingits

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL: Usedfor position. declutchingand brakingthe tractorand IGNITION SWITCH: Usedfor startingand

startingthe engine, stopping the engine.

PARKING BRAKE: Locksclutch/brake AMMETER: Indicatesbattery charging(+)

pedal intothe brake position, oi"discharging(-).

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 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

o 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.

Throttle/Choke Attachment Clutch Lever Control lever "Engaged" Position

"-._"_ _ "Disengaged" ClutcS'_rake .,__._ _ Position Pedal"Drive" ,_-"_ _/" Parkin

Position- ', "\:'\ _ r,_ irake g

/_----_:, ,_'_ _" "_Ensigtagned"

,, _ .. "%<.,_./_,.__"-_. "..Gearshift

DJsengageo" - D_u _. Lever

Position Position

STOPPING MOWER BLADES -

° To stop mower blades, move attach.

mentclutch leverto "DISENGAGED" position.

GROUND DRIVE - ° To stopgrounddrive, depress

clutch/brakepedal intofull "BRAKE" position.

,, Move gearshift lever to neutral(N) posi-

tion.

ENGINE -

,, Movethrottlecontrolto slow position.

NOTE: Failure to move throttlecontrolto slow positionand allowingengineto idle

before stoppingmay cause engineto

"backfire".

= 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.

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.

° 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 clutcl-dbrake 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 positionof the attachment liftlever

determines the cuttingheighL ° Grasp liftlever. ° Press plungerwith thumband move

lever to desired position.

The cutting height range is approximately

I-1/2 to 4". The heightsare measured

from the ground tothe blade tip withthe

engine not running.These heightsare approximateand may vary depending uponsoilconditions,heightofgrassand

types of grass being mowed. ° The average lawnshould be cutto

approximately2-1/2 inchesduringthe cool seasonand to over3 inchesduring

hot months. For healthier and better looking lawns, mow often and after

moderate growth.

o For best cutting performance, grass

over 6 inches in height should be mowed twice. Make the first cut relative-

ly high; the second to desired height.

TO OPERATE MOWER

Your tractor is equipped with an operator presence sensing switch. Any attempt by the operator to leave the seat with the engine running and the attachment clutch engaged will shutoff the engine. o Select desired height of cut.

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

o TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disen-

,_cage attachment clutch control.

AUTION: Do not operate the mower

without eitherthe entire grass catcher, on

mowers so equipped, or the discharge

guard in place.

Attachment Lift Lever Attachment Lift Lever

High Position _. High Position

=Disengaged"position___ LOWposition

o Make all turns slowly. TO TRANSPORT

o Raise attachment lift to highest position

with attachment liftcontrol.

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

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

o The engine in yourtractor has been

shipped,from the factory, alreadyfilled withsummerweightoil.

° Check engine oilwith tractor on level

ground.

• Remove oilfill cap/dipstickand wipe

clean, reinsertthe dipstickand screw cap tight,wait for a few seconds,

removeand read oil level. If necessary, add oiluntil "FULL" mark on dipstickis

reached. Do not overfill.

o For coldweather operationyou should

change oilfor easier starting (See "OIL VISCOSITY' CHART" inthe Mainten-

ance sectionof thismanual).

o Tochange engineoil, see the Mainten-

ance sectioninthis manual.

_ OPERATE ON HILLS

CAUTION: Do not drive upor down

hillswithslopesgreaterthan 15° and do notdrive across any slope.A slope guide

at the back ofyour manual is providedfor youruse.

• Choosethe slowestspeed before start-

ing up ordown hills.

o Avoidstoppingor changingspeed on

hills.

o If slowing is necessary, move throttle

controllever to slower position.

° If stoppingis absolutelynecessary,

pushclutch/brakepedal quickly to brake positionand engage parkingbrake.

• Move gearshift leverto 1stgear. Be

sure youhave allowed roomfor tractor to rollslightly as you restartmovement.

° To restartmovement, slowlyrelease

parkingbrake and clutch/brakepedal.

ADD GASOLINE o Fillfuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular

unleadedgasolinewith a minimumof 87 octane. (Use ofleaded gasolinewill

increasecarbon and lead oxide depositsand reducevalve life). Do not

mix oilwithgasoline. Purchasefuel in quantitiesthatcan be used within30 daysto assure fuel freshness.

IMPORTANT: When operatingintempera-

turesbelow 32°F(0°C), use fresh, clean winter gradegasolineto help insure good

dAweatherstarting.

RNING: Experienceindicatesthat

alcohol blendedfuels (called gasoholor usingethanolormethanol) can attract

moisture which leads to separation and formation ofacidsduringstorage.Acidic

gascan damage the fuel system of an enginewhile instorage.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. See Storage Instructions for additional informa-

tion. Never use engine or carburetor

cleaner products in the fuel tank or perma-

nct amage may occur.

AUTION: 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.

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

tion.

• 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.

° 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

BELOV_

° 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 'q'O 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 'q'O ADJUST CARBURETOR" in the Service and Adjustments section of this

manual.

MOWING TiPS

° Tire chains cannot be used when the

mower housing is attached to tractor.

° Mower should be properly leveled for

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

Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

° The left hand side of mower should be

used for trimming.

° Drive so that clippings are discharged

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

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

ting.

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

, JJ

iid H iJ

If grass is extremely tall, it should be mowed twice to reduce toad 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 iswet. Wet

grasswill plug mower and leave unde-

sirable clumps. Allow grass to dry

before mowing.

o Always operate engine at full throttle

when mowing to assurebetter mowing

performanceand properdischarge of material. Regulate groundspeed by se- lectinga low enoughgear to givethe mowerthe best cuttingperformanceas

well as the qualityofcut desired.

• When operatingattachments,select a groundspeed that willsuit the terrain and give best performanceof the at-

tachment beingused.

MULCHING MOWING TIPS IMPORTANT: Forbest performance,

keep mower housingfree of built-upgrass and trash. Clean after each use.

° The special mulchingblade will recut

the grass clippingsmanytimesand reducethem in size sothat as they fall ontothe lawn they willdisperseintothe grassand not be noticed. Also,the mulchedgrasswill biodegradequickly

to providenutrientsfor the lawn. Alwaysmulchwith yourhighestengine

(blade) speed as thiswillprovidethe best recuttingactionof the blades.

o Avoidcuttingyour lawnwhen it is wet.

Wet grasstends toform clumpsand

interfereswiththe mulchingaction. The besttime to mow your lawnisthe early afternoon. At this timethe grasshas dried and the newly cutarea will notbe

exposedto the directsun. For best results,adjustthe mowercut-

ting heightso thatthe mowercuts off

onlythe top one-thirdofthe grass blades. For extremelyheavymulching, reduceyourwidth ofcut on each pass and mowslowly.

Max 1/3

° Certain types of grassand grasscondi-

tionsmay requirethat an area be mulcheda secondtime to completely hide the clippings. When doinga sec- ond cut, mowacrossorperpendicularto

the first cut path.

° Change your cuttingpattern from week

to week. Mow northto southone week then change to eastto west the next week. This willhelp preventmatting

and grainingof the lawn.

CUSTOMER RESPONSOBILmES

....... MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE .___o_y

AS YOU COMPLETE .,_"_/_._,,_O_'_

....RrEGU .SE.V,C / "rSERV,CE DATES

Check Brake Operation If V _' ....................

Check Tire Pressure _

....check Operator Presence and ..............................

T Interlock Systems

R Check for Loose Fasteners tf Q/_'7 _ .......

Sha e 'RoplaooMowe,BiaSes ....

F_ Check Battery Level

Ciean Battery and Term|nalslRechargei

_ _ _ Iw .... :.......................

Adjust Blade Bett(s) Tension

Adjust Motion Drive Belt(s) Tension

Check Engine Oil Level

Change Engine 0tl

E Clean Air Filter

N CleanAir Screen _/'2

(_ Inspect Muffler/Spark Attester _ _.2

Replace 011Filter (if equipped)

NE Clean ,Eng,fneCoolfng Fins ..... !f_=.

Replace Spark Plug V _' _' Replace 'Air Filter Paper Cartridge 1_2

Replace Fue! Filler fi

1 - Change more oft,an when opomling under a heavy toad or fr_ hlgh ambient temporatural, 5 - II equipped wi_h adJust,_bla rejoice,

2 * Service more often when operating In dirty or dusty candll_orts, 6 - Not Toqulred tf equipped w|th maintenance-free baltery. 3 + If equipped wl_ oil flltar_ change oil every SO hour_ 7 - llghton front axle phtot boll to 35 _-I1_a_maxlmurn_

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this tractor does not cover

items that have been subjected to operator

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-

cally to properly maintain your tractor. 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 proper air-fuel mixture and help your engine run better and last longer.

BEFORE EACH USE

° Check engine oil level. o Check brake operation.

o Check tire pressure.

- Check operator presence and interlock

systems for proper operation.

° Check for loose fasteners.

rr,rr,..... ;;.............

LUBRICATION CHART

O Sf Spindle Zerk Zerk

O Front Wheel Wheel Bearing Zerk Bearing

_t Engine

@ Attachment Clutch

Pivot(s)

I l...... J

@SAE 30 or 10w30 Motor OIL (it 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.

Zerk

Front

TRACTOR

Always observe safety rules when per-

forming any maintenance.

BRAKE OPERATION

If tractor requiresmore than six (6) feet stopping distance at high speed in highest

gear,then brake mustbe adjusted. (See

"TO ADJUST BRAKE"inthe Service and Adjustments sectionofthis manual).

TIRES o Maintain proper air pressure in all tires

(See "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" on page 5 of this manual).

,, Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect

control chemicals which can harm rub- ber.

, Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp

objects and other hazards that may cause tire damage.

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

may be purchased from your local parts dealer. Tire 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.

o 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 Ft. Lbs.

torque).

IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is Grade 8 heat

treated.

Assembly

Rat Was Trailing

EdgeUp

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 ifyou do, be sure the blade is

balanced. Care shouldbe taken to keep the blade

balanced.An unbalancedblade will cause excessivevibrationand eventualdamage

to mower and engine.

o The blade can be sharpened witha file

or on a grindingwheel. Do notattempt to sharpenwhile it is onthe mower.

o To check blade balance, youwill need a

5/8" diametersteel bolt, pin, or a cone balancer.(When usinga cone balancer, follow the instructionssuppliedwithbal-

ancer).

NOTE: Do not use a nail for balancing blade. The lobesofthe center hole may appear to be centered, butare not. ° Slide blade onto an unthreaded portion

of the steel boltorpin and holdthe bolt or pinparallel withthe ground.If blade

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

movesdownward,sharpen the heavy end untilthe blade is balanced.

Center Hole

Blade

5/8" Bolt or Pin

BATTERY

Yourtractor has a battery charging system whichissufficient for normal use. Howev-

er, periodicchargingofthe batterywith an automotivechargerwill extend its life. ° Keep battery and terminalsclean. ° Keep battery bolts tight.

• Keep small vent holesopen. ,, Rechargeat 6-10 amperes for 1 hour.

NOTE: The originalequipmentbatteryon yourtractoris maintenancefree. Do not attemptto open or remove capsor covers. Addingor checkinglevel ofelectrolyteis

not necessary.

TO 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.

+ 42 hidden pages