Craftsman 917270662 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

15.5 HP ELECTRIC START

42" MOWER AUTOMATIC

LAW

Model No.

917.270662

• Safety oAssembly oOperation

• Maintenance

° Repair Parts

TRACTO

CAUTION: Read and follow all Safety

Rules and Instructions before operating this equipment.

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

Visit our Craftsman website:www.sears.com/craftsman

For answers to your questions

about this product, Call:

t-800-659=5917

Sears Craftsman Help Line 5 am _5 pm, Mon - Sat

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

SafetyRules.........................................3

ProductSpecifications............................6

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

Operation...............................................1I

ServiceandAdjustments.....................22

Storage................................................28

Troubleshooting.................................29

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

PartsOrdering...........................BackCover

MaintenanceSchedule......................18

Maintenance.......................................18

LIMITEDTWOYEARWARRANTYONCRAFTSMANRIDINGEQUIPMENTPARTS Fortwo (2)yearsfromthedate of purchase,ifthisCraftsmanRidingEquipmentis

maintained,lubricatedandtuned upaccordingto theinstructionsin theowner's manual,Searswillrepairorreplace,freeof charge,any partsfoundto bedefectivein

materialor workmanship.Warrantyserviceis availablefree of chargebytakingyour Craftsmanridingequipmenttoyour nearestSearsServiceCenter. In-homewarranty

serviceisavailablebuta trip chargewi!lapply,This warrantyappliesonlywhile this productisinthe UnitedStates.

ThisWarrantydoesnotcover: o Expendableitemswhichbecomewornduringnormaluse,suchas blades,spark

plugs,air cleaners,beltsandoil filters°

• Tire replacementorrepaircausedby puncturesfromoutsideobjects,suchas nails, thorns,stumps,or glass°

o Repairsnecessarybecauseofoperatorabuse,includingbutnot limitedto, damage

causedby towingobjectsbeyondthe capabilityofthe ridingequipment,impacting objectsthatbendtheframeor crankshaft,oroverspeedingtheengine.

° Repairsnecessarybecauseof operatornegligence,includingbutnot limitedto,

electricaland mechanicaldamagecausedby improperstorage,failureto usethe propergradeand amountof engineoil, failuretokeepthe deckclearofflammable

debris,orthe failureto maintainthe equipmentaccordingto the instructions containedin theowner'smanual°

° Engine(fuelsystem)cleaningor repairscausedbyfuel determinedtobe contami-

natedor oxidized(stale).In general,fuelshouldbe usedwithinthirty(30)daysof its purchasedate.

o Ridingequipmentusedfor commercialor rentalpurposes.

LIMITED90DAYWARRANTYONBATTERY

Forninety(90)daysfromdateof purchase,ifanybatteryincludedwiththisriding equipmentprovesdefectivein materialor workmanshipand ourtestingdetermines the batterywiltnot holda charge,Searswillreplacethe batteryat no charge.War-

rantyserviceis availablefreeof chargebytakingyour Craftsmanridingequipmentto your nearestSearsSen,iceCenter. In-homewarrantyserviceis availablebuta trip

chargewill apply.Thiswarrantyappliesonlywhilethisproductis in the UnitedStates. TOLOCATETHENEARESTSEARSSERVICECENTERORTOSCHEDULEIN-

HOMEWARRANTYSERVICE,SIMPLYCONTACTSEARSAT 1-800..4-MY-HOME ThisWarrantygivesyou specificlegalrights,andyou mayalso haveotherrights

whichmayvaryfromstatetostate° Sears,RoebuckandCo. D/817WA,HoffmanEstates,IL 60179

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

I, GENERAL OPERATION o Read, understand, and follow all

instructions in the manual and on the machine before starting.

o Only allow responsible adults, who are

familiar with the instructions, to operate the machine.

o Clear the area of objects such as

rocks, toys, wire, etc., which could be picked up and thrown by the blade°

° Be sure the area is clear of other

people before mowing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

° Never carry passengers. , Do not mow in reverse unless abso-

lutely necessary. Always look down

and behind before and while backing.

° Be aware of the mower discharge

direction and do not point it at anyone°

Do not operate the mower without

either the entire grass catcher or the

guard in place. ° Slow down before turning. ° Never leave a running machine

unattended. Always turn off blades, set

parking brake, stop engine, and

remove keys before dismounting. o Turn off blades when not mowing. ° 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.

o Use extra care when loading or

unloading the machine into a trailer or trucL

o Data indicates that operators, age 60

years and above, are involved in a large percentage of riding mower- related injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate

the riding mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from

serious injury.

II. 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 iL

DO:

o Mow up and down slopes, not across,

• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree

limbs, etCo

• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps.

Uneven terrain could overturn the

machine, Taft grass can hide ob-

stacleso

° 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.

DONOR

• Do not turn on slopes unless neces- sary, and then, turn slowly and gradu- ally downhill, if possible.

° Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or

embankments. The mower could suddenly 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 stabilize the machine by

putting your foot on the ground,

° Do not use grass catcher on steep

slopes_

Iii. 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 aduIL

, 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. IV. 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 engine to cool before refueling° Do

not smoke,_

-['.,lever refuel the machine indoors.

- Never store the machine or fuel container inside where there is an

open flame, such as a water heater,,

o Never run a machine inside a closed

area.

• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment bolts, tight and keep equipment 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 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.

. Be sure the area is clear of other

people before mowing. Stop machine if

anyone enters the area°

• Never carry passengers or children even with the blades off.

o Do not mow in reverse unless abso-

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

. Never carry children. They may fall off

and be seriously injured or interfere

with safe machine operation.

,, Keep children out of the mowing area

and under the watchful care of another responsible adult.

• Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area.

o Before and when backing, look behind

and down for small children.

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

• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc°

• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could overturn the

machine° Tall grass can hide obstacles.

o Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so

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

o Avoid starting or stopping on a slope° If

tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight

down the slope.

° If machine stops while going uphill,

disengage blades, shift into reverse and back down slowly.

° Do not turn on slopes unless neces-

sary, and then, turn slowly and gradu- ally downhill, if possible.

Look for this symbol to point out

important safety precautions. It means

CAUT!ONtl! BECOMEALERT!H YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

_b, CAUTION: In order to prevent accidental starting when setting up,

transporting, adjusting or making repairs, always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark

plug_

& CAUTION; Tow only the attachments that are recommended by and comply

with specifications of the manufacturer of your tractor. Use common sense when towing. Operate only at the lowest

possible speed when on a slope. Too heavy of a load, while on a slope, is dangerous° Tires can lose traction with the ground and cause you to lose control

of your tractor.

WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of

its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals

known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other repro-

ductive harm.

_,WARNING: Battery posts, terminals

and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the

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

Wash hands after handling,

CAUTION: Do not coast down a hill

in neutral, you may lose control of the tractor.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

GASOLINE 1,25 GALLONS

CAPACITY UNLEADED AND TYPE: REGULAR

OILTYPE SAE 30

(API-SFiSG/SH): (ABOVE 32°F)

SAE 5W-30

(BELOW 32°F) OIL CAPACITY: 3.0PINTS SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION

(GAP: .030") RJ19LM OR J19LM

VALVE INTAKE: .003"-.005"

ADJUSTMENT EXHAUST: .005"-.007" GROUND FORWARD: 5,2

SPEED (MPH): REVERSE: 2.7

TIRE FRONT: !4 PSI

PRESSURE: REAR: 12 PSI

CHARGING 3AMPS BATTERY

SYSTEM: 5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS BATTERY: AMP/HR: 25

MIN. CCA: 190 CASE SIZE:U1R

BLADE BOLT 27-35 FT, LBS

TORQUE:

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new 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 authorized service center/ department° We have competent, well- trained technicians 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 Repair Agreement is available on this product. Contact your nearest Sears

store for details° CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and observe the safety rules. ° Follow a regular schedule in maintain-

ing, caring for and using your tractor,

o 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

unimproved 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 opera- tor.

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 authorized service center/department (See REPAIR PARTS section of this manual),

Steering Wheel

Adapter

/ "_--_J" 318

__ ._ (1) Hex Bolt

Steering Sleeve

Steering Extension

Shaft

(1) Hex Bolt

3/8-16 x 1

_j 5/1618xl 1/4

(1) Large Flat

Washer

(I) Knob

Keys

Seat

(1) Washer

t7/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge

Video Cassette

(1)

Locknut 5/16-I 8

(1) Shoulder

Bolt 5/I6-18

Slope Sheet

(2) Keys

'{our 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°

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY A socket wrench set will make assembly

easier° Standard wrench sizes you need are listed below.

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

gauge

When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, it means when you are in the operating position (seated behind

the steering wheel)_

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM

CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

1. Remove all accessible loose parts and parts cartons from carton.

2. Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on all four corners of carton, and lay

panels flat.

3. Check for any additional loose parts or cartons and remove.

BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR FROM SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND

BOOT 1o Slide extension shaft onto lower

steering shaft. Align mounting holes in extension and lower shafts and

install 5/16 hex bolt and locknut. Tighten securely.

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

secure.

INSTALL STEERING WHEEL

3, Position front wheels of the tractor so

they are pointing straight forward.

4. Remove steering wheel adapter from

steering wheel and slide adapter onto steering shaft extension°

5. Position steering wheel so cross bars are horizontal (left to right) and slide inside boot and onto adapter.

6. Assemble large flat washer, 3/8 lock

washer, 3/8 hex bolt and tighten securely°

7. Snap steering wheel insert into center of steering wheel.

8. Remove protective materials from tractor hood and grill.

IMPORTANT: CHECK FOR AND REMOVE ANY STAPLES IN SKID THAT MAY PUNCTURE TIRES WHERE

TRACTOR IS TO ROLL OFF SKID.

i_:, _ Steering

/'_----------_'Xi _ Wheel Insert

........,

/Sf_., t -'_'X -"-_ Large Ftat

__) Washer

Extension

Shaft ........_.......... _ }--_Adapter

"---.......

5/t6 Locknut -,_-

Lower Steering--_-----_'_ _ Shaft _. _S[ots

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR CHECK BATTERY Io Lift seat pan to raised position and

open batter,,, box door.

NOTE: if this battery is put into service

after month and year indicated on label

(label located between terminals) charge

battery for minimum of one hour at 6-10 amps. (See "BATTERY" in Maintenance section of this manual for charging instructions).

Seat Pa

Battery Box

5/16 Hex Bolt

IN STALL S EAT

Adjust seat before tightening adjustment knob_

1, Remove adjustment knob and flat

washer securing seat to cardboard

packing and set aside for assembly of

seat to tractor°

2, Pivot seat upward and remove from

the cardboard packing° Remove the cardboard packing and discard.

3. Place seat on seat pan and assemble shoulder bolt. Tighten shoulder bolt

securely.

4, Assemble adjustment knob and flat

washer loosely° Do not tighten,

5. Lower seat into operating position and sit on seat.

6, Slide seat until a comfortable position

is reached which allows you to press clutch/brake pedal all the way down,

7. Get off seat without moving its adjusted position.

8. Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob securely.

Seat Pan Se_

Bolt ° "[ /

TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See

Operation section for location and

function of controls)

WARNING: Before starting, read,

understand and follow all instructions in

the Operation section of this manual. Be sure tractor is in a well-ventilated area. Be

sure the area in front of tractor is clear of other people and objects°

1. Be sure all the above assembly steps have been complete&

2. Check engine oil level and fill fuel tank with gasoline.

3. Place freewheel control in "transmis-

sion engaged" position.

4. Sit on seat in operating position.

depress clutch/brake pedal and set

the parking brake.

5. Place motion control lever in neutral

(N) position.

6. Press lift lever plunger and raise

attachment lift lever to its highest position.

7. Start the engine. After engine has started, move throttle control to idle

position.

8. Release parking brake°

9_ Slowly move the motion control lever

forward and slowly drive tractor off skid.

10.Apply brake to stop tractor, set parking brake and place motion control lever

in neutral position.

11 .Turn ignition key to "OFF" position.

Continue with the instructions that follow.

Knob

NOTE: You may now roll or drive you

tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate instruction below to remove the tractor

from the skid. TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See

Operation section for location and function of controls)

t_ Press lift lever plunger and raise

attachment lift lever to its highest positron.

2. Release parking brake by depressing clutch/brake pedal.

3. Place freewheel control in freewheel- ing positron to disengage transmis-

sion (See "TO TRANSPORT" in the Operation section of this manual)°

4. Roll tractor forward off skid.

5. Remove banding holding deflector

shield up against tractor_

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

The tires on your tractor were overinflated

at the factory for shipping purposes. Correct tire pressure is important for best

cutting performance,

• Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" section

of this manual_

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS For best cutting results, mower housing

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

Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF ALL BELTS

See the figures that are shown for replacing motion and mower blade drive belts in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual. Verify that the

belts are routed correctly°

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM

After you learn how to operate your tractor, check to see that the brake is

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

section of this manual.

INSTALL MULCHER PLATE

(If previously removed)

1. Raise and hold deflector shield in upright position°

2. Place front of mufcher plate over front of mower deck opening and slide into place, as shown.

3. Hook front latch into hole on front of mower deck°

4. Hook rear latch into hole on back of mower deck.

_CAUTION: Do not remove deflector

shield from mower. Raise and hold shield

when attaching mulcher plate and allow it to rest on plate while in operation_

TO CONVERT TO BAGGING OR

DISCHARGING

Simply remove mulcher plate and store in a safe place. Your mower is now ready for discharging or installation of optional

grass catcher accessory.

NOTE: It is not necessary to change

blades. The mutcher blades are de- signed for discharging and bagging also.

Deft, Mutcher Shield late

Latch Hooks

TO CONVERTTO BAGGING OR

DISCHARGING

Simply remove mulcher plate and store in a safe place. Your mower is now ready for discharging or installation of optional

grass catcher accessory. NOTE: It is not necessary to change

blades. The mulcher blades are de- signed for discharging and bagging also.

_CHECKLIST

BEFORE YOU OPERATE AND ENJOY

YOUR NEW TRACTOR, WE WISH TO ASSURE THATYOU RECEIVE THE BEST

PERFORMANCE AND SATISFACTION FROM THIS QUALITY PRODUCT.

PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING

CHECKLIST: ,/ All assembly instructions have been

completed.

J 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,

v" 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/front4o-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_

v" Check wiring. See that all connections

are still secure and wires are properly clamped.

,/Before driving tractor, be sure free-

wheel control is in drive position.

WHILE LEARNING HOWTO USE YOUR TRACTOR, PAY EXTRAATTENTION TO

THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT ITEMS:

,/Engine oil is at proper level_ ,/" Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean,

regular unleaded gasoline.

v" Become familiar with all controls - their

location and function. Operate them before you start the engine.

J Be sure brake system is in safe

operating condition.

v' It is important to purge the transmission

before operating your tractor for the first time° Follow proper starting and transmission purging instructions (See

"TO START ENGINE" and "PURGE TRANSMISSION" in the Operation

section of this manual)_

These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand their meaning.

BATTERY CAUTION OR

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF

FUEL

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH ENGAGED

WARNING

CHOKE

REVERSE NEUTRAL

REVERSE SLOW

FORWARD FAST

C)- QI

OIL PRESSURE

LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP

LIGHT

MOWER HEIGHT

PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED

LOCKED

H L

HIGH LOW PARKING BRAKE

MOWER LIFT

A'FFACHMENT

IGN ITION

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

@@@@

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION

FREE WHEEL

(Automatic Mode{s 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.

Light Switch

Attachment Ignition Clutch Lever Switch

Ammeter .. _k_,

s s _ .. * •

Lever Plunger

Control

_) Lift Lever

Clutch/

Brake Peda!

Height Adjustment

Indicator

Free Wheel Control g Brake Lever

Motion

Approx. Control

Speed: Lever 2MPH

1MPH

Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the American National Standards

institute.

AMMETER - Indicates charging (+) or discharging (-) of battery.

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

attachments mounted to your tractor. ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER - Used to

raise, lower, and adjust the mower deck or other attachments mounted to your

tractor.

CLUTCHIBRAKE PEDAL - Used for declutching and braking the tractor and

starting the engine. MOTION CONTROL LEVER - Selects the

speed and direction of tractor. FREEWHEEL CONTROL - Disengages

transmission for pushing or slowly towing the tractor with the engine off.

IGNITION SWITCH - Used for starting

and stopping the engine.

LIFT [..EVER PLUNGER - Used to release attachment lift lever when

changing its position.

LIGHT SWITCH - Turns the headlights on

and off.

PARKING BRAKE LEVER - Locks

clutch/brake pedal into the brake

position.

THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL - Used for starting and controlling engine speed,

The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into

the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage° Always wear safety glasses or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any

adjustments or repairs. We recommend a wide vision safety mask over spectacles or standard safety glasses.

HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR

TO SET PARKING BRAKE 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.

1.. Depress clutch/brake pedal into full "BRAKE" position and hold_

2. Place parking brake lever in "EN- GAGED" position and release pres- sure from clutch/brake pedal_ Pedal

should remain in "BRAKE" position. Make sure parking brake will hold

tractor secure.

Attachment Clutch Lever "Engaged" Position

Ignition Key

ed"

7hro.,e C

Choke'---._ ', Con_

Clutch/ Brake_[_

"Disengaged". 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.

o Move motion control lever to neutral

(N) position.

IMPORTANT: The motion control lever does not return to neutral (N) position

when the clutch/brake pedal is de- pressed°

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.

"Brake" Lever

Position

Parking Brake

ed"

Position

Motion

Control

• 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

running, hot engine exhaust gases may

cause "browning" of grass. To eliminate this possibility, always stop engine when stopping tractor on grass areas. b_i,nCAUTION: Always stop tractor

pletely, as described above, before

leaving the operator's position; to empty

grass catcher, etc. TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL

Always operate engine at full throttle.

• Operating engine at less than full

throttle reduces the battery charging

rate.

• Full throttle offers the best bagging

and mower performance°

TO MOVE FORWARD AND

BAClONARD

The direction and speed of movement is controlled by the motion control lever.

1o Start tractor with motion control lever

in neutral (N) position.

2. Release parking brake and clutch/

brake pedal.

3. Slowly move motion control lever to

desired position.

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING

HEIGHT

The position of the attachment lift lever

determines the cutting height.

° Grasp lift lever.

, Press plunger with thumb and move

lever to desired position_

The cutting height range is approxi-

mately 1-1/2 to 4". The heights are measured from the ground to the blade

tip with the engine not running°

Theseheightsare approximateand may varydependinguponsoi! conditions,

heightof grassandtypes of grassbeing mowed.

• Theaveragelawnshouldbe cutto approximately2-1/2inchesduringthe

coolseasonandto over3 inches duringhot months. Forhealthierand

betterlookinglawns,mowoftenand aftermoderategrowth.

° Forbestcuttingperformance,grass

over6 inchesin heightshouldbe mowedtwice. Makethefirst cut

relativelyhigh;the secondto desired height.

TOOPERATE MOWER Yourtractor isequippedwithanoperator

presencesensingswitch. Any attemptby

theoperatorto leavetheseatwiththe enginerunningandthe attachment clutchengagedwilt shutoff the engine°

1. Selectdesiredheightof cut°

2. Startmowerbladesby engaging attachmentclutchcontrol

TOSTOPMOWERBLADES- disengageattachmentclutch control.

_f_CAUTION: Donotoperatethe mower withouteitherthe entiregrasscatcher,on mowersso equipped,or the deflector shieldin place.

AttachmentClutchLever "Engaged"Position

AttachemntLift

LeverHigh Position

,:!:'_-"-_" Low

_=--'\ Position

• Movemotioncontrollever'to neutral(N) position.

IMPORTANT:Themotioncontrollever

doesnotreturnto neutral(N) position whenthe clutch/brakepedalis de-

pressed,

• To restartmovement,slowlyrelease

parkingbrake andclutch/brakepedal.

o Slowlymovemotioncontrolleverto

slowestsetting.

° Makeall turnsslowly. TOTRANSPORT

Whenpushingor towingyourtractor,be sureto disengagetransmissionby

placingfreewheelcontrol in freewheeling position. Freewheelcontrolislocatedat

thereardrawbarof tractor.

1. Raiseattachmentliftto highest positionwithattachmentlift control.

2. Pullfreewheelcontrolout anddown intothe slot andreleasesoit is heldin

the disengagedposition.

o Donot pushortowtractorat morethan

two(2) MPHo

• To reengagetransmission,reverse

aboveprocedure.

NOTE:Toprotecthoodfromdamage

whentransportingyourtractoron a truck

ora trailer,be surehoodis closedand

securedtotractor. Usean appropriate

meansoftyinghoodtotractor(rope,cord, etc.).

"Disem

Position

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

_I, CAUTION: Do not drive up. or down hills with slopes greater than I5 ° and do

not drive across any slope.

• Choose the slowest speed before starting up or down hills..

° Avoid stopping or changing speed on

hills.

o If slowing is necessary, move throttle

control lever to slower position.

° tf stopping is absolutely necessary,

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

brake.

Deflector

Shield

TOWING CARTS AND OTHER ATTACHMENTS

Tow only the attachments that are recommended by and comply with specifications of the manufacturer of your tractor_ Use common sense when towing.

Too heavy of a load, while on a slope, is dangerous. Tires can lose traction with the ground and cause you to lose control

of your tractor.

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.

1. Check engine oil with tractor on level ground.

2. 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 neces-

sary, add oil until "FULL" mark on

dipstick is reached. Do not overfill.

, For cold weather operation you should

change oii for easier starting (See "OIL VISCOSITY CHART" in the Mainte-

nance section of this manual).

, To change engine oil, see the Mainte-

nance 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 fresh-

ness.

IMPORTANT: When operating in temperatures 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 emptied 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 information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner

products in the fuel tank or permanent

damage may occur. & CAUTION: Fill to bqt,tom of gastank

filler neck. Do not ovenillo vvjpe OTTany 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 wi!l take extra cranking time to move fuel from

the tank to the engine_

1. Be sure freewheel control is in the transmission engaged position.

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

parking brake_

3o Place motion control lever in neutral

(N) position.

4_ Move attachment clutch to "DISEN-

GAGED" position.

5. Move throttle control to choke position. NOTE: Before starting, read the warm and cold starting procedures below.

6. 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)

7. 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 below)

8. 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 position. This may require an engine warm-up period from several seconds to several minutes, depend-

ing on the temperature.

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WARM UP

Before driving the unit in cold weather,

the transmission should be warmed up as follows:

1. Be sure the tractor is on level ground.

2. Place the motion control lever in neutral. Release the parking brake

and let the clutch/brake slowly return

to operating position°

3. Allow one minute for transmission to

warm up. This can be done during the engine warm up period.

° The attachments can also be used

during the engine warm*up period after the transmission has been warmed up.

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

15manualo

PURGE TRANSMISSION

_,CAUTION: Never engage or disen- gage freewheel lever while the engine is

running.

To ensure proper operation and perfor-

mance, it is recommended that the

transmission be purged before operating tractor for the first time° This procedure wilt

remove any trapped air inside the trans- mission which may have developed during

shipping of your tractor.

IMPORTANT: Should your transmission require removal for service or replacement, it should be purged after reinstallation

before operating the tractor.

1. Place tractor safely on level surface with engine off and parking brake set,

2o Disengage transmission by placing

freewheel control in freewheeling position (See "TO TRANSPORT" in this section of manual).

3. Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine. After the engine is running, move

throttle control to slow position. With motion control lever in neutral (N) position, slowly disengage clutch/ brake pedal°

4. Move motion control lever to full forward position and hold for five (5)

seconds. Move lever to full reverse position and hold for five (5) seconds.

Repeat this procedure three (3) times.

NOTE: During this procedure there will be no movement of drive wheels, The air is

being removed from hydraulic drive system.

5. Move motion control lever to neutral (N) position, Shut- off engine and set

parking brake.

6. Engage transmission by placing freewheel control in driving position (See '_O TRANSPORT" in this section of manual)°

7. Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine. After the engine is running, move

throttle control to half (1/2) speed° With motion control lever in neutral (N)

position, slowly disengage clutch/ brake pedal.

8. Slowly move motion control lever forward, after the tractor moves approximately five (5) feet, slowly

move motion control lever to reverse position, After the tractor moves approximately five (5) feet return the

motion control lever to the neutral (N) position° Repeat this procedure with the motion control lever three (3)

times.

Your tractor is now purged and now ready for normal operation°

MOWING TIPS

o 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.

o Drive so that clippings are discharged

onto the area that has been cut. Have

the cut area to the right of the tractor. This will result in a more even distribu-

tion of clippings and more uniform cutting.

• When mowing large areas, start by

turning to the right so that clippings will

discharge away from shrubs, fences, driveways, 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 possible fire hazard from dried clip-

pings. Make first cut relatively high; the

second to the desired height°

° Do not mow grass when it is wet° Wet

grass wil! plug mower and leave

undesirable clumps. Allow grass to dry before mowing_

° Always operate engine at full throttle

when mowing to assure better mowing performance and proper discharge of

material. Regulate ground speed by

selecting a low enough gear to give the

mower cutting performance as well as

the quality of cut desired,

• When operating attachments, select a

ground speed that wilt suit the terrain and give best performance of the

attachment being used_

]

MULCHINGMOWINGTIPS

IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep mower housing free of built-up

grass and trash. Clean after each use. o The special mulching blade will recut

the grass clippings many times and

reduce them in size so that as they fall onto the lawn they will disperse into the grass and not be noticed. Also, the mulched grass will biodegrade quickly

to provide nutrients for the lawn_ Always mulch with your highest engine (blade) speed as this will provide the

best recutting action of the blades.

o Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet.

Wet grass tends to form clumps and interferes with the mulching action.

The best time to mow your lawn is the early afternoon° At this time the grass

has dried and the newly cut area will not be exposed to the direct sun,

,, For best results, adjust the mower

cutting height so that the mower cuts off only the top one-third of the grass

blades° For extremely heavy mulching, reduce your width of cut on each pass

and mow slowly.

o Certain types of grass and grass

conditions may require that an area be mulched a second time to completely hide the clippings. When doing a

second cut, mow across or perpendicu- lar to the first cut path_

° Change your cutting pattern from week

to week. Mow north to south one week then change to east to west the next

week. This will help prevent matting and graining of the lawn.

Max 1/3"

'17

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE _j_, _///_

F,LLI=OATES

AS YOU COMPLETE

Check Brake .Operat!o n .............. 1#1' $f

Check Tire Pressure V # _ ......

Check Operator Presence and

T Interlock Systems 6f

R Check for LOose #ast_nars .... _ ' : _;, V r

T Lubrication Ch"_ ......

0 ,,,Check Battery Level a Clean Battery and Terminals

Cheek Transaxle Cooling

Adjust Blade Belt(s) Tension Adjust Motion Drive Belt(s) Tension

Check Engine Oil Level Change Engine Oil

v,v" ................... , !

......... g. ! ! .....

................... _' _______

E C!eanA!rFilter

N Clean Air Screen 6_2

? _'"lnspect Muffler/SparkArrester i .............._ " ' !

....Repiac'e OilFilter (If equipped) ..............................._2

ci;a.Engi,;coo,in=Fin= i.....

Replace Spark Plug V r $f : : Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge 6f2

Replace Fuel Filler

I - Change mare ollet_ when operating under e heavy Ioad or in high. ambient !omperalures. 5 - If equipped with adjustable l._y_;lem 2 _ Service more ellen when operating in d_tty or dusty conditions 6 - Not required if equipped with ma_ntenance-frao betlery 3 - II equipped wllh oli fillet, change oil every 51) hours 7 - Tighlon trent axle pivot bo]t to 35 It *Ibs maximum 4 - Rop|ace blades more often whoa mowing ta sandy _Oi_ Do, not overllghlen,

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 periodically to properly maintain your

tractor. Al! adjustments in the Service and

Adjustments section of this manual should

be checked at least once each season,

o 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

1. Check engine oil level

2, Check brake operation.

3. Check tire pressure.

4. Check operator presence and interlock systems for proper opera-

tion.

5. Check for loose fasteners.

..cOSl O Spindle

(DFront Wheel Wheel

Bearing Bearing Zerk

Zerk

OGenerat Purpose Grease _bRefer to Maintenance "Engine" Section

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease the

ivot points which have special nylon

earings. 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.

LUBRICATION CHART

Zerk _-%'_" Zerk

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