Craftsman 917.270723 User Manual
Owner's Manual
[RI:IFTSMI:IN°
17.0 HP
ELECTRIC START
42" MOWER
AUTOMATIC
LAWN TRACTOR
Model No
917.270723
• Safety
• Assembly
• Operation
• Maintenance
• Repair Parts
CAUTION:
Read and follow all Safety Rules
and Instructions before operat-
ing this equipment.
For answers to your questions
aboat this product, Call:
1-800-659-5917
Sears Craftsman Help Line
5 am- 5 pro,Mon- Sat
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, II60179
Visit our Craftsman website:www.sears.com/craftsman
Warranty...............................................2
SafetyRules.........................................2
ProductSpecifications..........................5
Assembly..............................................8
Operation............................................12
Maintenance Schedule ...................... 19
LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT
For two (2) years from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Riding Equipment is
maintained, 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 ac-
cident or the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions con-
tained in the owner's manual.
• Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.
LIMITED 90 DAY WARRANTY ON BATrERY
For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery included with this riding
equipment proves defective in material or workmanship and our testing determines the
battery 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 equipment to your nearest Sears Service Center. (In-home warranty service will
still be available after 30 days from the date of purchase but a standard trip charge will
apply). This warranty applies only while this product is in the United States. This
Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which may
vary from state to state.
Sears, Roebuck and Co., D/817 WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
Maintenance ....................................... 19
Service and Adjustments .................... 23
Storage ............................................... 29
Troubleshooting ................................. 30
Repair Parts ........................................ 34
Parts Ordering ..................... Back Cover
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.
GENERAL OPERATION
• Read, understand, and follow all in-
structions in the manual and on the
machine before starting.
• Only allow responsible adults, who are
familiar with the instructions, to oper-
ate 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 abso-
lutely necessary. Always look down
and behind before and while backing.
Be aware of the mower discharge di-
rection and do not point it at anyone.
Do not operate the mower without ei-
ther the entire grass catcher or the
guard in place.
2
• Slow down before turning.
• Never leave a running machine unat-
tended. Always turn off blades, set
parking brake, stop engine, and re-
move keys before dismounting.
• Turn off blades 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 un-
der the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Watch for traffic when operating near
or crossing roadways.
• Use extra care when loading or un-
loading 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 can-
not back up the slope or if you feel un-
easy 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. Un-
even terrain could overturn the ma-
chine. 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 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 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
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 ma-
chine and the mowing activity. Never as-
sume that children will remain where you
last saw them.
• Keep children out of the mowing area
and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult.
• Be alert and turn machine off if chil-
dren 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 heat-
er.
• Never run a machine inside a closed
area.
• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade
attachment bolts, tight and keep equip-
ment in good condition.
3
• 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. Ad- •
just 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,
• 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 chil-
dren enter the area.
• Before and when backing, look behind
and down for small children.
Look for this symbol to point out im-
portant safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BECOME AWARE!!! YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
Mow up and down slopes (15 ° Max),
not across.
Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree
limbs, etc.
Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Un-
even terrain could overturn the ma-
chine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
Use slow speed. Choose a low gear
so that you wilt not have to stop or shift
while on the slope.
Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If
tires lose traction, disengage the
blades and proceed slowly straight
down the slope.
Do not turn on slopes unless neces-
sary, and then, turn slowly and gradu-
ally downhill, if possible.
WARNING: The engine exhaust from
this product contains chemicals known to
the State of California to cause cancer,
birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
CAUTION: In order to prevent acci-
dental starting when setting up, trans-
porting, adjusting or making repairs al-
ways disconnect spark plug wire and
place wire where it cannot contact spark
plug.
4
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
GASOLINE
CAPACITY
AND TYPE:
OILTYPE
_,PI-SF/SG/SH):
OIL CAPACITY:
SPARK PLUG:
GAP: .030")
VALVE
CLEARANCE:
GROUND
SPEED (MPH):
TIRE
PRESSURE:
CHARGING
SYSTEM:
_,Al-rERY:
BLADE BOLT
TORQUE:
1.25 GALLONS
UNLEADED
REGULAR
SAE 30(ABOVE 32°F
ShE 5W-30
(BELOW 32°1)
W/FILTER: 3.0PINTS
W/O FILTER: 3.5PINTS
CHAMPION
RC12YC
INTAKE: .003"-.005"
EXHAUST:.005"-.007"
FORWARD: 5.5
REVERSE: 2.4
FRONT: 14 PSI
REAR: 10 PSi
3 AMPS BATTERY
5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS
AMP/HR: 25
MIN. CCA: 190
CASE SIZE:U1R
27-35 FT, LBS
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase
of a Craftsman Tractor. It has been
designed, engineered and manufactured
to give you the best possible depend-
ability and performance.
Should you experience any problem you
cannot easily remedy, please contact
your nearest Sears Authorized Service
Center. We have competent, well-trained
technicians and the proper tools to
service or repair this tractor.
Please read and retain this manual. The
instructionswill enable you to assemble
and maintain your tractor properly.
Always observe the "SAFETY RULES".
MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT
A Sears Maintenance 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.
• Follow the instructions under "Mainte-
nance" and "Storage" sections of this
owner's manual.
_k 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 Sears Author!zed
Service Center/Department (See
REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).
5
Parts Bag contents shown full size
(1) Locknut 5/16-18
(1) Hex Bolt
3/8-16 x 1
(1) Lockwasher 3/8
(1) Large Flat Washer
(1) Knob
(2) Screws #1(' x5/8
(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) Lock Washers #10
(2) Washers 3/16 x 3/4 x 16 Gauge
(2) Weld Nuts #10 _ 1
--tJ
6
Seat
Parts packed separately in carton
Mulcher
Plate
m
Steering
Manual
Parts Bag contents not shown full size
_ (2) Gauge
(2) Shoulder ( /_)_1 Wheels
Bolts
Video
Cassette
Steering
Boot
Wheel
Parts Bag
3/8 x 7/8 x 14 Gauge
Was.ers(
t_" _=LI __j (2) Latch Hook
{j
Slope Sheet
Assemblies
t teering
Extension
Shaft
7
Q Steering
(2) Centerlock Nuts Wheel
Steering Wheel C
Adapter
Insert
(2) Keys
Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception of those parts left
unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your
tractor all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the
correct tools as necessary to insure proper tightness. Review the video cassette before
you begin.
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY
A socket wrench set will make assembly
easier. Standard wrench sizes you need
are listed below.
(1) 9/16" wrench (1) Pliers
(1) 1/2" wrench (1) Utility knife
(1) 3/4" socket with (1) Tire pressure
drive ratchet gauge
(1) Phillips screwdriver
When right or left hand is mentioned in
this manual, it means, from your point of
view, when you are in the operating
position (seated behind the steering
wheel).
TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM
i_ _ Steering
__:_- Wheel Insert
_-_ Hex Bolt
________ Lock Washer
f//"_ _'_, -""- Large Flat
(_-----_'__J) Washer
Steering ._.._ _L.JJ
Wheel_
!_/. Steering Boot
Extension
Shaft_
5/16 Locknut_
_Tabs
_-------Adapte r
5/16 Hex Bolt
CARTON
UNPACK CARTON
• Remove all accessible loose parts and
parts boxes from shipping carton.
• Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on
all four corners of shipping carton, and
lay panels flat.
• Remove mower and packing materi-
als.
• Check for any additional loose parts or
boxes and remove.
BEFORE ROLUNG TRACTOR OFF
SKID
ATTACH STEERING WHEEL
ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND
BOOT
• Slide extension shaft onto lower
steering shaft. Align mounting holes
in extension and lower shafts and
install 5/16 hex bolt and Iocknut.
Tighten securely.
IMPORTANT: Tighten bolt and nut
securely to 18-22 ft. Ibs. 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 pointing straight forward.
• Slide steering wheel adapter onto
steering shaft extension.
Lower Steeringt--_-----_-_,_ _ !
Shaft _.." ,__7_,', Tabs
• Position steering wheel so cross bars
are horizontal (left to right) 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 steering wheel.
• 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.
CHECK BATTERY
• Lift seat pan to raised position and
open battery box door.
• If this battery is put into service after
month and year indicated on label
(label located between terminals)
charge battery for minimum of one
hour at 6-!0 arnps. (See "BA'I-rERY" in
Maintenance section of this manual
for charging instructions).
Seat Pan _,
Batten
Box Door
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.
• Assemble adjustment knob and flat
washer loosely. Do not tighten.
• Lower seat into operating position
and sit on seat.
• Slide seat until a comfortable position
is reached which allows you 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
Shoulder Seat Pan
Bolt
Vasher
Adjustment Knob
TO ROLLTRACTOR OFF SKID (See
Operation section for location and
function of controls)
• Press lift lever plunger and raise
attachment lift lever to its highest
position,
Release parking brake by depressing
clutch/brake pedal.
• Place freewheel control in freewheel-
ing position to disengage transmission
(See 'q-O TRANSPORT" in the Opera-
tion section of this manual).
• Roll tractor forward off skid.
• Remove banding holding discharge
guard up against tractor.
TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID
WARNING: Before starting, read,
understand and follow all instructions ir
the Operation section of this manual. S_.
sure tractor is in a well-ventilated area.
Be sure the area in front of tractor is
clear of other people and objects.
• Be sure all the above assembly steps
have been completed.
• Check engine oil level and fill fuel
tank with gasoline.
• Sit on seat in operating position,
depress clutch/brake pedal and set
the parking brake.
• Place motion control lever in neutral
{N) position,
• Press lift lever plunger and raise
attachment lift lever to its highest
position.
• Start the engine. After engine has
started, move throttle control to idle
position.
• Depress clutch/brake pedal into full
"BRAKE" position and hold. Move
motion control lever to 1st gear.
• Slowly release clutch/brake pedal am
slowly drive tractor off skid.
• Apply brake to stop tractor, set parkin!
brake and place gearshift lever, in
neutral position.
• Turn ignition key to "OFF" position.
Continue with the instructions that
follow.
ASSEMBLE GAUGE WHEELS TO
MOWER DECK
The gauge wheels are designed to keel
the mower deck in proper position wher
operating mower. Be sure they are
properly adjusted to ensure optimum
mower performance.
• Assemble gauge wheels with tractor
on a fiat level surface.
• Adjust mower to desired cutting heigh
(See 'qO ADJUST MOWER CU-I-I-ING
HEIGHT" in the Operation section of
this manual).
• With mower at desired height, gauge
wheels should be assembled so they
are slightly off the ground. Install
gauge wheel in appropriate 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 hol_
3/8-16
Gauge Wheel
Wheel
Mounting 3/8 Washer Bolt
Bracket
INSTALL MULCHER PLATE
• Install two latch hooks to mulcher plate
using screw, washer, lock washer, and
weld nut as shown.
NOTE: Pre-assemble weld nut to latch
hook by inserting weld nut from the top
with hook pointing down.
• Tighten hardware securely.
• Raise and hold deflector shield in
upright 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
mower deck.
• Hook rear latch into hole on back of
mower deck.
CAUTION: 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.
Weld Nut Hook Points
From The .Down
Lock
Latch
Hook
Latch
Nut
Shield
Latch Hooks
CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
The tires on your tractor were overin-
flated at the factory for shipping pur-
poses. 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.
Washer
PlateMUlcher '_fScrew
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 mulcher blades are de-
signed for discharging and bagging also.
10
_CHECKUST
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 propedy
clamped.
,/Before driving tractor, be sure free-
wheel control is in drive position.
While learning how to use your tractor,
pay extra attention to the following
important items:
,/Engine oil is at proper level.
,/Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean,
regular unleaded gasoline.
,/Become familiar with all controls - their
location and function. Operate them
before you start the engine.
,/Be sure brake system is in safe
operating condition.
,/It is important to purge the transmis-
sion 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).
1t
Thesesymbolsmay appearon yourtractororin literaturesuppliedwiththeproduct.
Learnand understandtheir meaning.
BATrERY CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW
WARNING
EN,,NEON_j_ENG,NEOFFIklO,LPRESSURE/_,,GHTSON_O%_E#P_
FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED MOWER LIFT
LOCKED
R N H L
ATTACHMENT REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW PARKINGBRAKE
CLUTCH ENGAGED
(_) _ KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS
ATTACHMENT
IGNITION CLUTCH DISENGAGED
DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY
(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)
FREE WHEEL
(Automatic Models only)
12
KNOWYOUR"rP.ACTOR
READTHISOWNER'SMANUALANDSAFETYRULESBEFOREOPERATING
YOURTRACTOR
Comparetheillustrationswithyourtractortofamiliarize yourself with the locations of
various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
Attachment
Clutch Lever Ignition
,_ Switch
Ammeter ,
Throttle Lift Lever
Pedal
Height
Adjustment
Knob
Lever
Plunger
Free Wheel
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.
CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL o 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.
UFT LEVER 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.
THRO'I-FLE CONTROL - Used to control
engine speed.
HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT ._NOB - Used to
adjust the mower cutting height,
Brake Lever
Motion
Control
Lever
13
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.
• Depress clutch/brake pedal into full
"BRAKE" position and hold.
• 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
Throttle
Control
Clutch/
"Dise_
Position
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 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 -
• 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".
Adjustment Kn_
Position
Position
Brake
=Engaged"
Contml
• Turn ignition key to "OFF" position and
remove key. Always remove key when
leaving tractor to prevent unauthorized
use.
• Never use choke to stop engine.
IMPORTANT: Leaving the ignition
switch in any position other than "OFF"
will cause the battery to be discharged,
(dead).
NOTE: Under certain conditions when
tractor is standing idle with the engine
running, hot engine exhaust gases may
cause "browning" of grass. To eliminate
this possibility, always stop engine when
stopping tractor on grass areas.
CAUTION: Always stop tractor
completely, as described above, before
leaving the operator's position; to empty
grass catcher, etc.
TO USE THROI-rLE 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 BACK-
WARD
The direction and speed of movement is
controlled by the motion control lever.
• Start tractor with motion control lever in
neutral (N) position.
• Release parking brake and clutch/
brake pedal.
• Slowly move motion control lever to
desired position.
TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT
The cutting height is controlled by
turning the height adjustment knob in
desired direction.
• Turn knob clockwise _ to raise
cutting height.
• Turn knob counterclockwise F'-)to
lower cutting height.
14
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. These
• heights are approximate and may vary
depending upon soil conditions, height
of grass and types of grass being
mowed.
• The average lawn should be cut to
approximately 2-1/2 inches during the
cool season and to over 3 inches
during hot months. For healthier and
better looking lawns, mow often and
after moderate growth.
• For best cutting performance, grass
over 6 inches in height should be
mowed twice. Make the first cut
relatively high; the second to desired
height.
TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS
Gauge wheels are properly adjusted
when they are slightly off the ground
when mower is at the desired cutting
height in operating position. Gauge
wheels then keep the deck in proper
position to help prevent scalping in most
terrain conditions.
• Adjust gauge wheels with tractor on a
fiat level surface.
• Adjust mower to desired cutting height
(See 'TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING
HEIGHT" in the Operation section of
this manual).
• With mower in desired height of cut
position, gauge wheels should be
assembled so they are slightly off the
ground, install gauge wheel in
t appropriate 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.
3/8 -16 f"-;..-_._f,'-_"_" __
Locknut_.
Gauge
Wheel
Mounting
Brack 8 Shoulaer
Gauge Wheel Boll
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
control.
• Start mower blades by engaging
attachment clutch control.
• TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disen-
gage attachment clutch control.
_CAUTION: Do not operate the mower
without either the entire grass catcher, on
mowers so equipped, or the discharge
guard in place.
Attachment Clutch Lever "Engaged"
Position t Lift
Lever High
Position
Position
Guard
TO OPERATE ON HILLS
J_-CAUTION: Do not drive up or down
hills with slopes greater than 15 ° and do
not drive across any slope.
• Choose the slowest speed before
starting 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 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.
• To restart movement, slowly release
parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.
• Slowly move motion control lever to
slowest setting.
• Make all turns slowly.
TO TRANSPORT
When pushing or towing your tractor, be
sure to disengage transmission by
placing freewheel control in freewheel-
ing position. Free wheel control is
located at the rear drawbar of tractor.
• Raise attachment lift to highest
15 position with attachment lift control.
• Pull freewheel control out and down
into the slot and release so it is held in
the disengaged position.
• Do not push or tow tractor at more
than two (2) MPH.
• To reengage transmission, reverse
above procedure.
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
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 ENIGNE
CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL
• The engine in your tractor has been
shippgd, 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 neces-
sary, 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 Mainte-
nance section of this manual).
• To change engine oil, see the Mainte-
nance section in this manual.
ADD GASOUNE
• 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 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
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,
A_,CAUTION: Fi!l 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.
• Be sure freewheel control is in the
transmission engaged position.
• Sit on seat in operating position,
depress clutch/brake pedal and set
parking brake.
• Place motion control lever in neutral
(N) position.
• Move attachment clutch to "DISEN-
GAGED" position.
• Move throttle control to choke position.
NOTE: Before starting, read the warm
and cold starting procedures below.
16
• 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 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 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:
• Be sure the tractor is on level
ground.
• Place the motion control lever in
neutral. Release the parking brake
and let the clutch/brake
slowly return to operating position.
• 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 perfor-
mance. See "TO ADJUST CARBURE-
TOR" in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual.
PURGE TRANSMISSION
_- CAUTION: Never engage or disen-
gage freewheel lever while the engine is
runmng.
To ensure proper operation and perfor-
mance, it is recommended that the
transmission be purged before operating
tractor for the first time. This procedure
will remove any trapped air inside the
transmission which may have developed
during shipping of your tractor.
IMPORTANT: Should your transmission
require removal for service or replace-
ment, it should be purged after reinstalla-
tion before operating the tractor.
• Place tractor safely on level surface
with engine off and parking brake set.
• Disengage transmission by placing
freewheel control in freewheeling
position (See "TO TRANSPORT" in
this section of manual).
• 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.
• 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.
• Move motion control lever to neutral
(N) position. Shut- off engine and set
parking brake.
• Engage transmission by placing
freewheel control in driving position
(See "TO TRANSPORT" in this section
of manual).
• 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.
• 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
17
ready for normal operation.
MOWING TIPS
• 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 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
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
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 will suit the terrain
and give best performance of the
attachment 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 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 biodegrede 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 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.
• 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 perpen-
dicular to the first cut path.
• Change your cutting pattern from week
to week. Mow north to south one week
then change to eas t to west the next
week. This will help prevent matting
and graining of the lawn.
Max 1/3"
18
Loading...