Craftsman 917270712 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

rRI:IFTXMi:IN

17.0 HP ELECTRIC START

42" MOWER

6 SPEED TRANSAXLE

LAWN TRACTOR

Model No.

917.270712

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Repair Parts

CAUTION:

Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions

before operating this equip- ment.

For answers to your questions

about this product, Call:

1-800-659-5917

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

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

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

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

SafetyRules...........................................2

ProductSpecifications...........................5

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

Operation..............................................12

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

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

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

Storage.................................................29

Troubleshooting....................................30

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

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

LIMITEDTWOYEARWARRANTYONCRAFTSMANRIDINGEQUIPMENT Fortwo(2)yearsfromthedateof purchase,ifthis CraftsmanRidingEquipment 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,

• 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.

• Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes. LIMITED 90 DAY WARRANTY ON BATI'ERY

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

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.

• Never carry passengers.

• Do not mow in reverse unless absolute-

ly necessary. Always look down and

behind before and while backing.

• Be aware of the mower discharge direc- tion and do not point it at anyone. Do

not operate the mower without either

the entire grass catcher or the guard in

place.

• Slow down before turning.

• Never leave a running machine unat-

tended. Always turn off blades, set park- ing brake, stop engine, and remove keys before dismounting.

• Turnoffblades when not mowing.

• Stop engine before removing grass

catcher or unclogging chute.

• Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.

• Do not operate the machine while under

the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Watch for traffic when operating near or

crossing roadways.

• 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.

• 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 nottum on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn slowly and gradually

downhill, if possible.

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

embankments. The mower could sud- denly turn over if a wheel is over the

edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge

caves in.

• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could cause sliding.

• Do nottry to stabilize the machine by

puttingyour foot onthe ground.

• Do not use grass catcher on steep

slopes. CHILDREN Tragic accidents can occur ifthe operator

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

machine and the mowing activity. Never assume that childrenwill remain where

you lastsaw them.

• Keep children out of the mowing area

and under the watchful care of another

responsibleadult.

• Be alert and tum machine off ifchildren

enter the area.

• Before and when backing, look behind

and down for small children.

• Never carry children. They may tall off

and be seriously injured or interfere with

safe machine operation.

• Never allow children to operate the

machine.

• Use extra care when approaching blind

comers, shrubs, trees, or other objects

that may obscure vision. SERVICE * Use extra care inhandling 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 runa 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 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.

Adjustand service as required. • Be sure the area isclear of other people

before mowing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

• Never carry passengers.

• Do not mow in reverse unless absolute-

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

• Never carry children. They may fall off and be sadously injured or interfere with •

safe machine operation.

• Keep children out offthe 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.

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

across.

,A Look for this symbol to point out impor-

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

TY IS INVOLVED.

ACAUTION: In order to prevent acciden-

tal starting when setting up, transporting,

adjusting or making repairs always discon- nect spark plug wire and place wire where itcannot contact spark plug.

Remove obstacles such as recks, tree limbs, etc.

Watch for holes, ruts,or bumps. Uneven

terrain cOuldoverturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.

Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so that you willnot have to stop or shift

while on the slope.

Avoid starting or stoppingon a slope. If

tires lose traction, disengage the blades

and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

Do notturn on slopes unless necessary,

and then, turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.

,_WARNING: The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to

the State of California to cause cancer, birth defacts, or other reproductive harm.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

IASOLINE 1.25 GALLONS

',APACITY UNLEADED

_NDTYPE: REGULAR )ILTYPE SAE 30 (above 32°F)

_,PI-SF/SG/SH): SAE 5W-30

(below 32°F)

,ILCAPACITY: 3.0 PINTS

;PARK PLUG: Champion RC12YC

GAP: .030")

VALVE INTAKE: .003"-.005"

CLEARANCE: EXHAUST: .005"-.007"

GROUND SPEED

MPH):

TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI

3HARGING 3 AMPS BA'I-I'ERY

SYSTEM: 5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS BA'I-rERY: AMP/HR: 25

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:

1ST 1.2 2ND 1.5

3RD " 2.4 4TM 3.5 5TH 4.8

6TM 5.4

REVERSE: 1.5

REAR: 10 PSI

MIN. CCA: 190 CASE SIZE: U1R

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. CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and observe the safety rules.

• Follow a regular schedule in maintain-

ing, caring for and using your tractor.

• Follow the instructions under "Mainte- nance" and =Storage" sections of this

owner's manual.

_,WARNING: This tractor is equipped

with an intemal 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).

PartsBag contents shown full size-

(1) Large Flat Washer

(1) Hex Bolt

3/8-16 x 1

(1) Lockwasher

3/8

(1) Locknut

5/16-18

(1) Hex Bolt 5/16-18 x 1-1/4

(1) Shoulder Bolt 5/16-18

(1) Washer

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

(2) Screws #10 x5/8 Q (2) LockWashers(2)Weld Nuts#10#10

(2) Washers 3/16 x 3/4 x 16 Gauge

(1) Knob

Seat

Parts packed separately in carton

Mulcher

Plate

Steering

Wheel

Boot

Manual

Parts Bag contents not shown full size

o tU'°m

"-_'_--" (2) Latch Hook (2) Gauge _" Assemblies Wheels

(2) Keys

Slope Sheet

Video

Cassette

Steering Extension

Shaft

Steering

Wheel

Insert

Parts Bag

(2) Washers 3/8 x 7/8 x 14 Gauge

Center lock Nuts

Q(2)

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) 9116"wrench (2) 1/2" wrench

(1) Pliers (1) Utility knife (1) 3/4" wrench socket

drive rachet

(1) Phillips Screw

ddver

(1) Tire pressure

gauge

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

• Assemble large flat washer, 3/8 lock washer, 3/8 hex bolt and tighten securely.

• Snap steering wheel insert into center of steedng wheel.

• Remove protective materials from trac- tor hood and gdll.

IMPORTANT: Check for and remove any staples in skid that may puncture tires

where tractor is to roll off skid.

When rightor left hand is mentioned in this manual, it means, from your point of

view, when you are in the operating posi- tion (seated behind the steering wheel).

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM

CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

• 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.

• Check for any additional loose parts or boxes and remove.

BEFORE ROLUNG TRACTOR OFF

SKID

AI"rACH 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. Ibs. torque.

• Place tabs of steedng boot over tab

slots in dash and push down to secure.

INSTALL STEERING WHEEL

• Position front wheels of the tractor so

they are pointing straight forward.

• Slide steedng wheel adapter onto steer-

ing shaft extension.

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 forward off skid.

• Remove banding holding discharge

guard up against tractor.

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR

Seat Pan

CHECK BATI'ERY

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

• If this battery is put into service after |

month and year indicated on label (label located between terminals) charge bat- _

tery for minimum of one hour at 6-10 amps. (See "BATTERY" in MAINTE-

NANCE section of this manual for charg- Adjustment Knob ing instructions).

INSTALL MULCHER PLATE

• Install two latch hooks to mulcher plate

Seat Pan

using screw, washer, lock washer, and wetd nut as shown.

Battery Box ,Label Door

NOTE: Pro-assemble weld nut to latch hook by inserting weld nut from the top

with hook pointing down.

Terminal

• Tighten hardware securely.

• Raise and hold deflector shield in up- nght position.

• Place front of mulcher plate over front of

mower deck opening and slide into place, as shown.

• Hook front latch into hole on front of

INSTALL SEAT Adjust seat before tightening adjustment

knob.

• Remove cardboard packing on seat pan.

• Place seat on seat pan and assemble

shoulder bolt. Tighten shoulder bolt

securely.

mower deck.

• Hook rear latch into hole on back of

mower deck.

ACAUTION: Do not remove discharge

guard from mower. Raise and hold guard when attaching mulcher plate and allow it

to rest on plate while in operation.

• Assemble adjustment knob and flat washer loosely. Do not tighten.

Weld Nut

The Top

Lock Washer

• Lower seat into operating position and sit on seat.

• Slide seat until a comfortable position is

roached which allows you to press clutch/brake pedal all the way down.

• Get off seat without moving its adjusted

Latch Latch

position.

• Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob

securely.

Washer

Mulcher

Flat Washer

Hook Points Down

Hook

Nut

Lock Washer

Washer

_ Screw

Deflector

Shield

Latch Hooks

TOCONVERTTOBAGGINGOR

DISCHARGING Simplyremovemulcherplateandstorein

asafeplace.Yourmowerisnowreadyfor dischargingorinstallationofoptional grasscatcheraccessory.

NOTE:It isnotnecessarytochange blades.Themulcherbladesaredesigned

for dischargingandbaggingalso.

ASSEMBLEGAUGEWHEELSTO MOWERDECK

Thegaugewheelsaredesignedto keep themowerdeckin properpositionwhen

operatingmower.Be suretheyareprop- erlyadjustedtoensureoptimummower performance.

• Assemble gauge wheels with tractor on

a flat level surface.

• Adjust mower to desired cutting height

(See "TO ADJUST MOWER CUTI'ING HEIGHT* in the Operation section of

this manual).

• With mower in desired height of cut

position, gauge wheels should be assembled so they aro slightly off the

ground. Install gauge wheel in appropri- ate hole with shoulder bolt, 3/8 washer,

and 3/8-16 Iocknut and tighten securely.

• Repeat for opposite side installing gauge wheel in same adjustment hole.

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" on

page 5 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 replac-

ing motion and mower blade drive belts in

the Service and Adjustments section of

this manual. Verify that the belts are rout- ed correctly.

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM After you learn how to operate your trac-

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

the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

Gauge Wheel Mounting Bracket

3/8-16

Locknut

e Wheel

/ 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. ('13res must be properly

inflated for leveling).

/ Check mower and ddve 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 EXTRAATTENTION 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.

Thesesymbolsmayappearonyourtractororinliteraturesuppliedwiththe product. Learnandunderstandtheirmeaning.

BATTERY CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP

FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED MOWER LIFT

WARNING

LIGHT

LOCKED

R N H L

• ATTACHMENT REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW PARKING BRAKE CLUTCH ENGAGED

ATTACHMENT KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

IGNITION CLUTCH DISENGAGED (SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

FREE WHEEL

DANGER,KEEPHANDS AND FEETAWAY

(AutomaticModelson_y)

KNOW YOUR TRACTOR

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

TRACTOR

Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiadze yourself With the locations of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

Attachment

Ammeter Clutch Lever

Ignition

~--. Switch

Throttle/Choke "- -.

Control

Light

Lift Lever

Plunger

Clutch/Brake

Pedal

Attachment Lift

Lever

Parking Brake

Height

Adjustment

Knob

Gearshift

Lever

Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the American

National Standards Institute,

AI-I'ACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER: Used to engage the mower blades, or other attachments mounted to your tractor.

LIGHT SWITCH: Tums the headlights on

and off. THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL: Used for starting and controlling engine speed.

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL: Used for declutching and braking the tractor and

starting the engine.

PARKING BRAKE: Locks clutch/brake

pedal into the brake position. HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB: Used to

adjust the mower cutting height.

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 trac-

tor.

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 (-).

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 specta- cles, 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

• Depress clutch/brake pedal into full

"BRAKE" position and hold.

• Placeparldng 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"

Cl -c ra,.. _os,0on

Pedal Ddve" .-_!_=ffParking Brake Position _ ", '_',, _/_ "Engaged"

%'-_ ,_,v,,= "Brake" Gearsh ft

"Disengaged" Adjustment"PositionLever

Position Knob

STOPPING MOWER BLADES -

• To stop mower blades, move attach-

ment clutch lever to =DISENGAGED"

position.

GROUND DRIVE -

• To stop ground drive, depress

clutch/brake pedal into full "BRAKE" position.

• 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'.

•Tum ignition key to =OFF" position and

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

use.

• Never use choke to stop engine.

IMPORTANT: Leaving the ignition switch in any position other than =OFF" will cause

the battery to be discharged (dead). NOTE: Under certain conditions when

tractor is standing idle with the engine run- ning, hot engine exhaust gases may cause "browning" of grass. To eliminate this possibility, always stop engine when

,_ol_ping tractor on grass areas.

AUTION: Always stop tractor com-

pletely, as described above, before leaving the operator's position; to empty grass

catcher, etc. THROI"rLE CONTROL

Always operate engine at full throttle.

• Operating engine at less than full throt-

tle reduces the battery charging rate.

• Full throttle offers the best bagging and

mower performance. TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD The direction and speed of movement is

controlled by the gearshift lever.

• Start tractor with clutch/brake pedal depressed and gearshift lever in neutral

(N) position.

• Move gearshift lever to desired posi-

tion.

• Slowly release clutch/brake pedal to

start movement.

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

Failure to do so will shorten the useful life of your transaxle. TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT

The cutting height is controlled by turning the height adjustment knob in desired

direction.

•Tum knob clockwise (G) to raise cutting height.

•Tum knob counterclockwise (O)to lower cutting height.

The cutting height range is approximately

1-112" to 4". The heights are measured

from the ground to the blade tip with the engine not running. These heights are ap-

proximate 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.

• 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

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 shut off the engine.

• Select desired height of cut.

• Lower mower with attachment lift con- trol.

• Start mower blades by engaging attach-

ment clutch control.

• TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disen-

gage attachment clutch control.

Attachment Clutch

Position

Position Position

_,CAUTION: Do not operate the mower

without either the entire grass catcher, on mowers so equipped, or the dis-

charge guard in place.

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

_CAUTION: Do not drive up or down

hills with slopes greater than 15 ° and do not drive across any slope. A slope guide

at the back of your manual is provided for

your use.

• Choose the slowest speed before start-

ing up or down hills.

• Avoid stopping or changing speed on

hills.

• If slowing is necessary, move throttle

control lever to slower position.

• If stopping is absolutely necessary,

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

• Move gearshift lever to 1st gear. Be

sure you have allowed room for tractor to roll slightly as you restart movement.

Attachment LiftLever High Position

Low

Guard

• 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.

• 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.).

TOWING CARTS AND OTHER

ATTACHMENTS Tow only the attachments that are recom-

mended 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 trac- tor.

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL

• The engine in your tractor has been

shipped, from the factory, already filled with summer weight oil.

• Check engine oil with tractor on level ground.

• Remove oil fill 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-

ance section in this manual.

ADD GASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular

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

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

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

days to assure fuel freshness.

IMPORTANT: When operating in tempera- tures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh, clean

winter grade gasoline to help insure good

15c°ld weather starting.

_,WARNING: Experience indicates that

alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract

moisture which leads to separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine

problems, the fuel system should be emp- tied before storage of 30 days or longer. Drain the gas tank, start the engine and let

it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See

Storage Instructions for additional informa- tion. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or perma-

_nct damage 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.

• Place gear shift lever in neutral (N) posi- tion.

'• Move attachment clutch to uDISEN-

GAGED" position.

• Move throttle control to choke position.

NOTE: Before starting, read the warm

and cold starting procedures below.

• Insert key into ignition and tum 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. tf the engine does not

accept the load, restart the engine and allow it to warm up for one minute using the choke as descdbed above.

COLD WEATHER STARTING ( 50 ° F AND

BELOW)

• 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.

• 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. 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.

• When mowing large areas, start by tum- ing to the right so that clippings will dis-

charge away from shrubs, fences, drive- ways, etc. After one or two rounds,

mow in the opposite direction making left hand turns until finished

• If grass is extremely tall, it should be

mowed twice to reduce load and possi-

ble fire hazard from dried clippings. Make first cut relatively high; the second

to the desired height.

• Do not mow grass when it is wet. Wet

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

before mowing.

• Always operate engine at full throttle

when mowing to assure better mowing performance and proper discharge of

material Regulate ground speed by se- lecting a low enough gear to give the

mower the best cutting performance as

well as the quality of cut desired.

• When operating attachments, select a

ground speed that will suit the terrain and give best performance of the at- tachment being used.

MULCHING MOWING TIPS IMPORTANT: For best performance,

keep mower housing free of built-up grass and trash. Clean after each use.

• The special mulching blad.ewill recur the grass clippings many times and reduce them in size so that as they fall onto the lawn they willdisperse 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.

• Avoid cuttingyour lawn when it iswet. Wet grass tends to form clumps and interferes with the mulching action. The

best time to mow your lawn is the early aftemoon. 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 cut- ting 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.

• Certain types of grass and grass condi-

tions may require that an area be mulched a second time to completely

hide the clippings. When doing a sec- ond cut, mow across or perpendicular to the first cut path.

• Change your cutting pattern from week

to week. Mow northto south one week then change to east to west the next week. This will help prevent matting

and graining of the lawn.

r" - _r'F,

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE __?.._:"_ =_ __'_ f

,B ooco,P, rE .......

DATES

Check Brake Operation Check Tire Pre_um _

Check Operator P_ and

T Interlock Systems II_

R Check for Loose Fasteners I_ _7 :

A Sharpen/Replace Mower Blade6 I_4

T Lubrication Chart _ 0 Che_ Be.eryLevee !

R clean Battery and Temlioala ! I_

Check Transaxla Cooling V'

Adjust Blade Belt(s) Tension q_'s

Adjust Motion Drive Belt(s) Tension Ks

Check Engine Oil Level _ I1_ Change Engine Oil 1_1.=,_

E Claan Air Filter _V':

N Clean Air Screen

Inspect Muffler/Spark Arrester V' Replace Oil Filter (If equipped) _,=

N Clean Engine Cooling Fln8

Repla,_o Spark Plug I_ Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge

Replace Fuel Filter V'

1 -ChangemoreoCtinwtllmopefatlngtmderMhom.yloadO4"lnh_a_ttomporubJrel. S-IfoquJppe_w_l_Justablosyste_.

2 * 84mrice mo_ often when operg,lng kl dkly or dugty c_.:dlUor)8. • - Not roqu._'od if equipped wtth makltmlanc_fyee bet_ery. 3 - if 8_ped w4th oil RJtor. change OE eve_ SO houm. 7 - TIghtlm front m[_ p_vot bolt to 35 _-It_. m_lmum.

4 " R'I*I_4_'_ b#_0 m °_ °Nen whe¢_ mowtlg In mmdY lid* Do no( overtlghtml.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS The warranty on this tractor does notcover

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

0 Attachment *, , Clutch ' ,

Pivot(s) : ,

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

BEFORE EACH USE

• Check engine oil level.

• Check brake operation.

• Check tire pressure.

• Check operator presence and intedock

systems for proper operation.

• Check for loose fasteners.

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.

v',

v'.

LUBRICATION CHART

Zerk Zerk

• Front Wheel Wheel Bearing Zerk , Bearing

• Engine

i , 0 Gear-

, _ shift

,. . l .' Pivots

0 SAE 30 or 10w30 Motor OIL 0 General Purpose Grease

• Refer to Maintenance =Engine" Section

Zerk

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