Craftsman 917270742 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

17=0 HP

ELECTRmC START

42" MOWER AUTOMA C

LAWN TRACTOR

Model No.

917.270742

oSafety oAssembly

oOperation

Maintenance

o Repair Parts

This product has alow emission engine which operates differently from previously built engines. Before you startthe

engine, read and understand this Owner's Manual.

CAUTION:

Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions before

operating this equipment.

For answers to your questions

about this product, Call:

1=800-659-5917

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

Sears, Roebuck and Co,, Hoffman Estates, II60179

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MaintenanceSchedule......................1B

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

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

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

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

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

LIMITEDTWOYEARWARRANTYONCRAFTSMANRIDINGEQUIPMENTPARTS Fortwo (2)yearsfromthe dateof purchase,if this CraftsmanRidingEquipmentis

maintained,lubricatedandtunedup accordingto theinstructionsin the owner's manual,Searswill repairor replace,freeofcharge,any partsfoundto bedefectivein materialor workmanship.Warrantyserviceis availablefreeof chargeby returningyour

Craftsmanridingequipmentto your nearestSearsServiceCenter. In-homewarranty serviceis availablebut atrip chargewillapply..Thiswarrantyappliesonlywhilethis productisin the UnitedStates.

ThisWarrantydoesnotcover:

• Expendableitemswhich becomewornduringnormaluse,such as blades,spark plugs,air cleaners,beltsandoilfilters.

,, Tire replacementor repaircausedby puncturesfromoutsideobjects,suchas nails,

thorns,stumps,or glass.

o Repairsnecessarybecauseof operatorabuse,includingbut not limitedto, damage

causedby towingobjectsbeyondthe capabilityof the ridingequipment,impacting objectsthatbendtheframe orcrankshaft,or overspeedingtheengine.

• Repairsnecessarybecauseof operatornegligence,includingbutnot limitedto, electricaland mechanicaldamagecausedbyimproperstorage,failureto use the

propergradeand amountof engineoil,failureto keepthe deckclearof flammable debris,or thefailureto maintaintheequipmentaccordingto theinstructionscon- tainedin theowner'smanual.

• Engine (fuel system) cleaning or repairs caused by fuel determined to be contami- nated or oxidized (stale). In general, fuel should be used within thirty (30) days of its purchase date.

° Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes° A product is "used for

commercial purpose" if is used for any purpose other than single family household dwellings or in usage where profit is made°

LIMITED 90 DA:Y WARRANTY ON BATTERY

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.. Warranty

service is available free of charge by returning your Craftsman riding equipment to your nearest Sears Service Center. In-home warranty service is available but a trip charge will apply. This warranty applies only while this product is in the United States.

TO LOCATE THE NEAREST SEARS SERVICE CENTER OR TO SCHEDULE IN-HOME

WARRANTY SERVICE, SIMPLY CONTACT SEARS AT 1-800-4-MY-HOME

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

IMPORTANT:Thiscuttingmachineiscapableof amputatinghandsandfeetand

throwingobjects,Failureto observethefollowingsafetyinstructionscouldresultin seriousinjuryor death_

!.GENERAL OPERATION

= 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.

° Clear the area of objects such as rocks,

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

o 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 absolutely

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

o 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. o Slow down before turning.. ° Never leave a running machine

unattended, Always turn off blades, set

parking brake, stop engine, and remove

keys before dismounting.

• Turn off blades when not mowing.

o 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.

° 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 them-

selves and others from serious injury.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves or other debris build-up which can touch

hot exhaust / engine parts and burn. Do not allow the mower deck to plow leaves or other debris which can cause build-

Lip to occur° Clean any oil or fuel spillage before operating or storing the

machine. Allow machine to cool before storage.

II. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of- control and tipover accidents, which can re- sult in severe injury or death. All slopes

require extra caution, ff you cannot back up

the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not

mow it. DO:

° Mow up and down slopes, not across_ o Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree

limbs, etc.

= Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven

terrain could overturn the machine° Taft

grass can hide obstacles

o Use slow speed.. Choose a low gear so

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

o Follow the manufacturer's recommenda -

tions 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.

o Keep all movement on the slopes slow

and gradual. Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction,

• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

DO NOT:

o Do not turn 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 suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the

edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves ino

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_

!11.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, o Keep children out of the mowing area

and under the watchful care of another responsible adult.

o Be alert and turn machine off if

children enter the area,

o 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.

o 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°

-Never refuel the machine indoors°

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

open flame, such as a water heater°

• Never run a machine inside a closed

area.

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

equipment in good condition.

. Never tamper with safety devices.

Check their proper operation regularly.

o Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or

other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel spillage. Allow machine to cool before

storing.

° Stop and inspect the equipment if you

strike an objecL Repair, if necessary, before restarting.

° Never make adjustments or repairs

with the engine running_

o 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 cuL

Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing

them,

o 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°

o 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.

o Never carry children° They may fall off

and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine operation.

o Keep children out of the mowing area

and under the watchful care of another

responsible adult.,

° Be alert and turn machine off if

children enter the area.

° 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, etco

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

machine. Tall grass can hide ob- stacles.

o Useslowspeed,Choosea lowgear

sothatyouwiltnot haveto stoporshift whileon theslope.

° Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If

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

o 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 gradually downhill, if possible.

ALook for this symbol to point out important safety precautions. It means

CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERTt!! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

_I_ 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 tracton

_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

reproductive harm

AWARNING: 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

ANDTYPE: REGULAR OIL TYPE SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)

API-SF/SG/SH): SAE 5W-30

(BELOW 32°F)

OIL CAPACITY: 3.0 PINTS SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION RJ19LM

(GAP: .030") OR J19LM

VALVE INTAKE: _.003-.005

CLEARANCE: EXHAUST: 005-.007 GROUND SPEED FORVVARD: 5.5

(MPH): REVERSE: 2.4

TIRE PRESSURE:FRONT: 14 PSI

REAR: 10PSI

CHARGING 3 AMPS 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 Sears 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

instructions wilt enable you to assemble and maintain your tractor properly. Always observe the "SAFETY RULES"°

REPAIR AGREEM ENT

A Repair Agreement is available on this product,. Contact your nearest Sears

store for details. CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and observe the safety rules. o 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 taws (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 Sears

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

Steering

Wheel Insert

Steering Wheel

(1) Large Flat Washer

Boot

(1) Hex Bolt

3/8-I6 x 1

(1) Lock

washer 3/8

(1) Locknut

5/16-18

Steering Wheel Adapter

Seat

l) Washer

7/32 x 1-3/16 x 12

Gauge

(1) Hex Bolt

5/16-18 x 1-1/4

Steering

Extension

Shaft

_) Shoulder

olt 5/16-18

Slope Sheet

_(1 ) Knob

Keys

E23

Video Cassette

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 (2) 1/2"wrench (1) Utility knife

(1) Tire pressure gauge

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 REMOVETRACTOR FROM

Steering Wheel

Ada

__.._ Insert

"-'Y._,------3/8 Hex Bolt

_3/8 Lock Washer

Large Flat

"_ Washer

g Boot

.Tabs

Shaft

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.

° Check for any additional loose parts or

boxes and remove_

BEFORE REMOVlNGTRACTOR FROM SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND

BOOT

o 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.

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

secu re,

INSTALL STEERING WHEEL

• Position front wheels of the tractor so they are pointing straight forward°

° Remove steerng wheel adapter from

steering wheel and slide adapter onto steering shaft extension.

• Position steering wheel so cross bars are horizontal (left to right) and slide

inside boot and onto adapter.

o Assemble large fiat 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.

HOWTO SET UPYOURTRACTOR

CHECK BATTERY . Lift seat pan to raised postion and

open battery box door.

o 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 structions.)

Label

Seat Pan

Terminal

Battery Door

Terminal

INSTALL SEAT

Adjust seat before tightening adjustment

knob°

o Remove adjustment knob and flat

washer securing seat to cardboard packing and set aside for assembly of

seat to tractor.

• Pivot seat upward and remove from the cardboard packing. Remove the

cardboard packing and discard.

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

securely.

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

o 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.

o Get off seat without moving its ad-

justed position.

o Raise seat and tighten adjustment

knob securely.

Seat_,)

Seal Par _"S--Z_-"_. I(

Shoulder / _-_.__ \ _ _ Bolt _..J __\ \ \, '!

)

Adjustment Knob Flat Washer

NOTE: You may now roll or drive your

tractor off the skid. Follow the appropri- ate instruction below to remove the

tractor from the skid.

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.

o Release parking brake by depressing

clutch/brake pedal.

o Place freewheel control in freewheel-

ing position to disengage transmission

(See "TO TRANSPORT" in the

Operation section of this manual).

o Roll tractor forward off skid. o Remove banding holding discharge

guard up against tractor.

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_

• Be sure all the above assembly steps have been completed.

° Check engine oil level and fill fuel tank

with gasoline.

° Place freewheel control in "transmis-

sion engaged" position,

° Sit on seat in operating position,

depress ctutchtbrake pedal and set the parking braker

• 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_

• Release parking brake°

• Slowly move the motion control lever forward and slowly drive tractor off

skid.

• Apply brake to stop tractor, set parking

brake and place motion control lever in neutral position_

o Turn ignition key to "OFF" position, Continue with the instructions that follow,

INSTALL MULCHER PLATE

(if previously removed)

• 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 deflector shield from mower° Raise and hold

shield when attaching mulcher plate and allow it to rest on plate while in opera-

tiono

Mulcher Plate

Shield

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. CHECKTIRE 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 tile brake is

properly adjusted. See "TO ADJUST

BRAKE" in the Sewice and Adjustments

section of this manual,,

_"CHECKLIST

Before you operate and enjoy your new

tractor, we wish to assure that you

receive the best performance and

satisfaction from this quality producL

Please review the following checklist:

,/All assembly instructions have been

completed,

v" No remaining loose parts in carton, v" Battery is properly prepared and

charged, (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps),

V" Seat is adjusted comfortably and

tightened securely_

v" All tires are properly inflated, (For

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

v" Be sure mower deck is properly

leveled side-to-sidelfront-to-rear for best cutting results, (Tires must be

properly inflated for leveling).,

v" 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 how to use your tractor,

pay extra attention to the following important items:

v' Engine oil is at proper level, v" 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°

v" 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),

Thesesymbolsmayappearonyourtractoror in literaturesuppliedwiththe product,

Learnand understandtheir meaning.

BATTERY CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OiL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON

FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT

WARNING

PARKING BRAKE

N L c®) I

ATTACHMENT REVERSE NEUTRAL

CLUTCH ENGAGED

HIGH LOW PARKING BRAKE

LOCKED

FAST SLOW

Qt k

LIG HT

OVER TEMP

UNLOCKED MOWER LIFT

ATTACHMENT

IGNITION

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

FREE WHEEL

(Automatic bIodels only)

KNOWYOURTRACTOR 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.

Throttle/Choke Control

Clutch/Brake Pedal

Freewheel Control

Ammeter

Attachment Clutch

Lever ",_

Approx.

Speed

2 MPH"

1MPH

Ignition Switch

Light Switch

Lift Lever

Plunger

Attachment

Lift Lever

o Height

Adjustment

Indicator

Parking Brake Lever

Motion Control Lever

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 - Used for

declutching and braking the tractor and starting the engine,

MOTION CONTROL LEVER - Selects the

speed and direction of tractor.

IGNITION SWITCH - Used for starting and stopping the engine°

LIFT 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.

THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL - Used for starting and controlling engine

speed,

FREEWHEEL CONTROL - Disengagages transmission for pushing

or slowly towing the tractor with the

engine ofL

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_

HOWTO USEYOURTRACTOR

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 hot&

. 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/Choke Control,

Brake Pedal

"Disengaged" Brake" Position Position

"Engage_' Position

Ignition Key

//"Disengaged"

_,/ Position

/ Parking Brake

"Engaged"

Motion Control Lever

STOPPING

MOWER BLADES - o To stop mower blades,move attach-

ment clutch lever to "DISENGAGED"

position. GROUND DRIVE - o To stop ground drive, depress clutch/

brake pedal into full "BRAKE" position

• Move 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",

o 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, etCo

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 r

TO MOVE FORWARD AND

BACKWARD

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

. Start tractor with motion control lever in

neutral (N) positiom

. Release parking brake and clutch/

brake pedal

. 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. These heights are approximate and may vary

depending upon soil conditions, height of grass and types of grass being mowed,

o The averagelawnshouldbecutto

approximately2-1/2 inchesduringthe coolseasonandto over3 inches

duringhotmonths..For healthierand betterlookinglawns,mowoftenand

aftermoderategrowth°

o Forbest cuttingperformance,grass

over 6 inchesin heightshouldbe mowedtwice. Makethefirstcut

relativelyhigh;the secondto desired height°

TO ADJUST GAUGEWHEELS

Gaugewheels areproperlyadjusted

whenthey areslightlyoffthe ground whenmowerisat the desiredcutting

heightin operatingposition°Gauge

wheelsthenkeepthedeckin proper

positionto helppreventscalpingin most

terrainconditions_ o Adjustgaugewheelswithtractoron a

flatlevelsurface,.

• Adjustmowerto desiredcuttingheight (See"TOADJUSTMOWERCUTTING

HEIGHT"inthe Operationsectionof thismanual)°

• Withmowerin desiredheightof cut position,gaugewheelsshouldbe assembledso theyareslightlyoffthe ground.Installgaugewheel in appropriateholewith shoulderbolt,3/

8washer,and 3/8-16locknutand tightensecurely..

. Repeatfor oppositesideinstalling

gaugewheel in sameadjustmenthole.

GaugeWhee[__,_

Mouotiog:4¢("

Bracket "----_'--- \ _','__

Gauge Wheel f_k'_'_"_I_ Bolt

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°

• 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 deflector shield in place..

Attachment Attachemnt

Clutch Lift Lever

"Engaged" ;" Position

Position

"Disengaged_.. Position

TO OPERATE ON HILLS ,_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°

o 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,

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.

• To restart movement, slowly release parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.

• Slowly move motion control lever to slowest setting,

° Make all turns slowly.,

TOTRANSPORT 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 position with attachment lift control.

o 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.

o 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, etco),

High

Low

Position

Deflector

TOWINGCARTS 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,.

o 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 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 vaive 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

Ionger._ 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,

,¢{;kCAUTION: 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.

• 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" positiom

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

° Insert key into ignition and turn key

clockwise to "START" position and release key as soon as engine starts_

Do not run starter continuously for more than fifteen seconds per minute° If the engine does not start after several attempts, move throttle control to fast position, wait a few minutes and

try again. If engine still does not start, move the throttle control back to the

choke position and retry.

WARM WEATHER STARTING (500 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 TRANSMISS ION 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 o

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 manualr

PURGETRANSMISSION

._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

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.

o 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 (1f2) speed. With

motion control lever in neutral (N) position, slowly disengage clutch/

brake pedal.

o 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

Mower should be properly leveled for

best mowing performance. See '%0

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.

o 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 heighL

• Do not mow grass when it is wet. Wet grass will plug mower and leave

undesirable clumps. Allow grass to dry before mowing.

o 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 MOWiNGTIPS 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 fawn, 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 perpen-

dicular 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"

r "l

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE /_...._o___ "

FILL IN DATES /___

AS YOU COMPLETE /_.._._!_.4"_/_'_O%_ '_p"

REGULAR SERVICE /_._-_YSERVICE DATES

i1,11 :

Check Brake Operalien Check Tire Pressure $/" :

Check Operalor Presence and

T Inledoek Systems V"

a Check for Loose Fasie'ner_s V" V', V" ....

V" Iv"

Iv'

A Sharpen/Replace Mew'orBlades ....V'4 .................

C LuBricaii0nChart ....... ' ' V" V" ....

0 Check Ba4ter#" lTeve!.... _ ............

R Clean Battery and Terminals V" V"

Checi_Transaxle Cooling : 6/' .............. • ,

AdjuSt Blade Boil(S} ']'enslon " { $f5

Adjusl MoiionDrive Belt(s) Tens;o'n" , I _s

Cheek Engine Oil Level V" V"

Ohan0e"E'n' i eO,, .... .........................' i,i ........... ........

E Clean Air Filler ........ V'2 , ' ....

N Clean Air Screen 6/2 .............

G inspect Muffteridpa;k Arrester .................. V"

NE C,ean Engine Cooling Fin8 ......... ' _';_ ............ i.... :

....._,,eplaeeSparkP!ug....................... V" V" .......

Replace Air Filler Paper Cartridge V'_ Replace Fuel Filler V"

1 _ Chronic trlolre o|tBn when opetat_n[_ ut_def _ henry _oed or tn high ambient tempetall_fes 5 - II equipped 1.vilb [_djl._slabl@ _ystem,

2 * _@rvlcD more ellen whorl opo_'_tt_ in di_y 05 #Lt._ty conditions 6 * Not reqtJtfed I1 equipped wilh ml],lnlerlBnoa.lreo ballePt

•3 - It equipped wilh oll l|lle_, r,:han£1e oil eveP_," _50 ho_t_ 7 ÷ Tigh_@l_, ffot_! axle pivot boll !a 35 II 4be, m,"_iml,!m 4 - Repl[_ blades mole o|_en when mowing tr_ S_rldy S#_I el) r_ot ove_llghlat_

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this tractor does not _ SF

cover items that have been subjected to Zerk operator abuse or negligence. To

receive full value from the warranty,

operator must maintain tractor as instructed in this manual_ _Front Wheel

Some adjustments will need to be made Bearing

Zerk

periodically to properly maintain your

tractor, All adjustments in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual ,_2_En

should be checked at least once each season,

. Once a year you should replace the

spark plug, clean or replace air filter, i ;

and check blades and belts for wear.. -...... "

A new spark plug and clean air filter assure proper air-fuel mixture and

,_ SAE 30 or 10w30 MOTOR OIL _) REFER TO Maintenance "ENGINE"

help your engine run better and last longer.

BEFORE EACH USE

, Check engine oil level,

• Check brake operation_

- Check tire pressure.. o Check operator presence and

interlock systems for proper operation.

, Check for loose fasteners.

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease the pivot points which have special nylon bearings. 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

18 sparingly.

LUBRICATION CHART

Spindle

t'_]"_ Zerk

SECTION

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