Craftsman 917270773 Owner’s Manual
Owner's Manual
(R;IFTSMRN"
19.0 HP
ELECTRIC START
42" MOWER
6 SPEED TRANSAXLE
LAWN TRACTOR
Model No
917.270773
• Safety
• Assembly
• Operation
• Maintenance
• Repair Parts
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equip-
ment.
For answers to yourquestions
about thisproduct,Call:
1-800-659-5917
Sears Craftsman Help Line
5 am - 5 pm, Mort - Sat
Seam, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
Visitour Craftsman website:www.sears.com/craftsman
Warrar_tY_-..,,..;.=;...;_.;;;_._,_.;..................... 2
Safety Rules..:_........,,.:. ........................ 2
Product Specifications .....;..................... 5
Assembly........;:........ ._;.,......................... 8
Operation, ............................................. 11
Maintenance Schedule ......................... 17
LIMITED "FWOYEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT
Fortwo (2) years from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Riding Equipment is main-
tained, lubricated and tuned up according to the instructionsin the owner's manual,
Sears will rbpa_ir Orreplace, free of charge, any parts found to be defective in material or
workmanship: I
This Warrantydoes not cove_
• Expendable!items which become worn during normal use, such as blades, spark
plugs, air cleaners, belts, etc.
• Tire replacement or repair caused by puncturesfrom outside objects, such as nails,
thorns, stumpsj or glassi
• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, negligence, improper storage or acci-
dent or the failure to maintainthe equipment according to the instructionscontained in
the owner's manual.
• Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.
LIMITED 90 DAY WARRANTY ON BATTERY
For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery includedwith this riding equip
ment proves defective in matedal or workmanship and our testing determines the bat-
tery will not holda charge, Sears will replace the battery at no charge. In-home warranty
service on yourCraftsman riding equipment isavailable 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 willstill 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 dghts which may vary from state to
state.
Sears, Roebuck and Co., D/817 WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
Maintenance ......................................... 17
Se_ce and Adjustments...................... 21
Storage ................................................. 27
Troubleshooting.................................... 28
Repair Parts .................... ..................... 32
Parts Ordedng ....................... Back Cover
GENERAL OPERATION
• Read, understand, and follow all instruc-
tions in the manual and on the machine
before starting.
• Only allow responsible adults, who are
familiar withthe 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 ifanyone
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 dire,
tion and do not point itat anyone. Do
not operate the mower without either
the entire grass catcher or the guard
place.
• Slow down before turning.
• Never leave a running machine unr
tended. Always tum offblades, sej
ing brake, stop engine, and ramoff
keys before dismounting.
2
•Tum 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 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 injuryor.death. All
slopes require extra caution. If you cannot
back up the slope or ifyou feel uneasy on
it, do not mow it.
DO:
• Mow up and down stopes_ 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.
• Followthe 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 notmow on wet grass. Reduced
traction could cause sliding.
• Do not tryto stabilize the machine by
putting your foot on the ground.
• Do not use grass catcher on steep
slopes.
CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator
is not alert to the presence of children.
Children are often attracted to the
machine and the mowing activity. Never
assume that children will remain where
you last saw them.
• Keep children out of the mowing area
and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult.
• 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 fall off
and be sedously 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 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. Allowen-
gine to cool before refueling. Do not
smoke.
Never refuel the machine indoors.
Never store the machine orfuel
container inside where there is an
open flame, such as a water heater.
• Never run a machine inside a closed
area.
• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade
attachment bolts, tight and keep equip-
ment in good condition.
• Never tamper with safety devices.
Check their proper operation regularly.
• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or
other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel
spillage. Allow machine to cool before
stodng.
• Stop and inspect the equipment if you
stdka an object. Repair, if necessary,
before restarting.
3
• 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 pads,
when necessary.
• Mower blades are sharp and can cut.
Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and
use extra caution when servicing them.
• Check brake operation frequently.
Adjust and service as required. • Be
sure the area 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 lookdown 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 rum machine offif children
enter the area.
.- Before and when backing, look behind
and down for small children.
• Mow up and down slopes (15° Max), not
across.
_Look for this symbol to point out impor-
tant safety precautions. It means CAU-
TION!I! BECOME AWARE!!! YOUR SAFE-
TY IS INVOLVED.
,_CAUTION: 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 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.
• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If
tires lose traction, disengage the blades
and proceed slowly straight down the
slope.
• Do nottum on slopes unless necessary,
and then, tum slowly and gradually
downhill, if possible.
_WARNING: The engine exhaust from
this product containschemicals known to
the State of Califomia to cause cancer,
birthdefects, or other reproductive harm.
4
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
HORSEPOWER: 19.0
GASOLINE 3.5 GALLONS
CAPACITY UNLEADED
AND TYPE: REGULAR
OILTYPE SAE 30 (above 32°F)
API-SF/SG/SH): SAE 5W-30
(below 32°F)
OIL CAPACITY.' W/FILTER: 3.5 PINTS
W/O FILTER: 3.0 PINTS
SPARK PLUG: Champion RJ19LM OR
(GAP: .030") J19LM
VALVE INTAKE: .004"-,006"
CLEARANCE: EXHAUST: .007"-.009"
GROUND SPEED
(iPR):
TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI
CHARGING 3 AMPS BATTERY
SYSTEM: 5 AMPS HEADUGHTS
BATTERY: AMP/HR: 30
BLADE BOLT 27-35 FT. LBS.
TORQUE:
FORWARD:
1ST 1.2
2ND 1.5
3RD 2.4
4TM 3.5
5TM 4.8
6TM 5.4
REVERSE: 1.5
REAR: 10 PSI
MIN. CCA: 240
CASE SIZE: U1R
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase
of a Craftsman 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 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
instructionswill enable you to assemble
and maintain your tractor properly.Always
observe the "SAFETY RULES".
MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT
A Sears Maintenance Agreement isavail-
able on thisproduct. 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 instructionsunder "Mainte-
nance" and "Storage" sections of this
owner's manual.
,AWARNING: 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 bythe operator.
In the state of California the above is
required by law (Section 4442 of the
Califomia 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).
5
PartsBagcontentsshownfullsize
(1) Hex Bolt
3/8-16 x 1
(1) Lockwasher 3/8
(1) Locknut 5/16-18
(1) Large Flat Washer
17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge
(1) Knob
(2) Screws #10 x 5/8
(1) Hex Bolt 5/16-18 x 1-1/4
(1) Shoulder Bolt 5/16-18
©
(1)Washer
(2) Washers 3/16 x 3/4 x 16 Gauge
(2) Lock Washers #10
17
(2) Weld Nuts #10 I-_1
-'U
6
Parts packed separately in carton
m
Manual
(2) Shoulder
Bolts
Seat
"-t
Video
Mulcher
Plate
' _ Steedng
Parts Bag Wheel
Cassette
©
(2) Washers 3/8x 7/8 x 14 Gauge
Steedng
Boot
Slope Sheet
(2) Gauge Wheels
(2) Center lock Nuts
Parts Bag contents not shown full size
2) Latch Hook
Steering Wheel
=_ / _ Adapter ShaftSteedng
(2) Keys \ / Steedng
Assemblies t
\ / Wheel
7
Extension
5O
Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory withexception 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 tee video cassette before you begin.
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR
ASSEMBLY
Asocket wrench set willmake assembly
easier. Standard wrench sizes you need
are listed below.
(1) 9/16" wrench (2) 1/2" wrench
(1) Phillips Screw- (1) Pliers
driver (1) Tire pressure
(1) Utility knife gauge
(1) 3/4" Socket with drive ratchet
When right or left hand is mentioned in
this manual, it means, from your pointof
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 ofshipping carton, and
• lay panels flat.
• Check for any additional loose parts or
boxes and remove•
• Position steering wheel so cross bars
are horizontal (left to right) and slide
inside boot and onto adapter•
• Assemble largeflat washer, 3/8 lock
washer,3/8 hex bolt and tightensecurely.
• Snap steering wheel insert into center
of steeringwheel.
• Remove protective materialsfrom trac-
tor hood and grill.
IMPORTANT: Check for and remove any
staples in skid that may puncturetires
where tractor is to rolloff skid•
3/8 Hsx Bolt
1--- ,o k
__sher
Steedng f/_-_._ _"_ Large Flat
Wheel _9 Washer
Steering Boot
Tabs
BEFORE ROLLING TRACTOR OFF
SKID
ATTACH STEERING WHEEL
ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND
BOOT
• Slide extension shaft onto lower steer-
ing shaft. Align mounting holes in exten-
sion and lower shafts and install 5/16
hex bolt and Iocknut. "tightensecurely.
IMPORTANT: Tighten bolt and nut secure-
ly 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 steedng wheel adapter onto steer-
ing shaft extension.
TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See
Operation section for location and
function of controls)
• Press liftlever 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 tractorforward off skid.
• Remove banding holding discharge
guard up against tractor.
HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR
CONNECT BATTERY
• Lift hood to raised position.
• 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
MAINTENANCE section of this manual
for charging instructions).
jJ .*" ."
... .., Labe|
,'--. : • A /
INSTALL SEAT
Adjustseat before tightening adjustment
knob.
• Remove cardboard packing on seat pan.
• Place seat on seat pan and assemble
shoulder bolt. "13ghtenshoulder bolt
securely.
• Assemble adjustment knob and fiat
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 Pan
Shoulder
Bolt
Adjustment
Knob
ASSEMBLE GAUGE WHEELS TO
MOWER DECK
The gauge wheels are designed to keep
the mower dock in proper position when
operating mower. Be sure they are prop
erly adjusted to ensure optimum mower
performance.
• Assemble gauge wheels with tractor on
a flat level surface.
• Adjust mower to desired cutting height
(See "TO ADJUST MOWER CU'I-rlNG
HEIGHT" in the Operation section of this
manual).
• With mower in desired height of cut
posRicn, gauge wheels should be
assembled so they are 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.
Gauge Wheat Mounting
Bracket
3/8-16
Locknut
3/8
INSTALL MULCHER PLATE
• Install two latch hooks to mulcher plate
using screw, washer, lock washer, and
weld nut as shown.
NOTE: Pra-assemble weld nut to latch
hook by inserting weld nut from the top
with hook pointing down.
• Tighten hardware securely.
• Raise and hold defle_or shield in up
right 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.
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 designed
for discharging and bagging also.
9
Hook Points
The Top_ ,Down
Lock
Weld Washer
Latch
Hook
Washal Lock Washer
Washer
,,Screw
Plate
Deflector
Shield
Latch
CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
The tires on your tractor were overinflated
at the factory for shipping purposes.
Correct tire pressure is important for best
cuffing 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.
/ CHECKLIST
PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING
CHECKLIST:
/ All assembly instructions have been
completed.
/ No remaining loose parts in carton.
,f Battery is properly prepared and
charged. (Minimum I 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 drive belts. Be sure
they are routed properly around pulleys
and inside all belt keepers.
/ Check wiring. See that all connections
are still secure and wires are properly
clamped.
WHILE LEARNING HOW TO USE YOUR
TRACTOR, PAY 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.
CHECK FOR PROPER PosmoN 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. Vedfy that the belts are rout-
ed correctly.
CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM
After you leam 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.
10
Thesesymbolsmayappearonyourtractoror in literaturesuppliedwiththeproduct.
Learnandunderstandtheirmeaning,
BAI-rERY CAUTION OR
WARNING
ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF
FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED MOWER UFT
REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW
OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP
LIGHT
LOCKED
R N H L
ATTACHMENT REVERSE
CLUTCH ENGAGED
NEUTRAL HIGH LOW PARKING BRAKE
!
ATTACHMENT KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS
IGNITION CLUTCH DISENGAGED (SEE SAFETY RULEs SECTION)
DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY
11
FREEWHEEL
(AutomaticMod_ only)
KNOW YOUR TRACTOR
READTHISOWNER'SMANUALANDSAFETYRULESBEFOREOPERATINGYOUR
TRACTOR
Comparetheillustrationswithyourtractortofamiliarizeyourselfwiththe locationsof
variouscontrolsandadjustments.Savethismanualforfuturereference.
Attachment LightSwitch
Ammeter Clutch Lever Ignition Position
Switch
...... Uft Lever
Choke Control
Throttle _ Attachment
Control Lift Lever
Clutch/Brake
Pedal
Plunger
Indicator
Gearshift
Lever
Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the American
National Standards Institute.
ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER: Used to
engage the mower blades, or other attach-
ments mounted to your tractor.
UGI-n" SWITCH: Turns the headlights on
and off.
THROTTLE CONTROL: Used for starting
and controlling engine speed.
CHOKE CONTROL: Used when starting a
cold engine.
CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL: Used for
declutching and braking the tractor and start-
ing the engine. "
PARKING BRAKE: Locks clutcldbrake pedal
into the brake position.
Parking Brake
GEARSHIFT LEVER: Selects the speed.
and direction of tractor.
ATTACHMENT UFT LEVER: Used to i
lower, and adjust the mower deck or otl
attachments mounted to your tractor.
MFT LEVER PLUNGER: Used to rale
attachment lift lever when changing it_
tion. _
IGNmON SWITCH: Used for startin{
stopping the engine.
AMMETER: Indicates battery chargi
or discharging (-).
12
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
Yourtractor is equipped with an operator
presence sensing switch. When engine
isrunning, 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 intofull
=BRAKE" position and hold.
• Place parking brake lever in
=ENGAGED" position and release pres-
sure from clutch/brake pedal. Pedal
should remain in =BRAKE" position.
Make sure parking brake will hold trac-
tor secure.
Choke Control Attachment Clutch Lever
"Engaged" PosiUon
Throttle
Control_
Clutch/Brake
Pedal"Drive"
Position_.
'Disengag
_ S "pDoiSi_nognaged"
"_Parldng Brake
"Engaged'
_ Pc_n
"Brake" Gearshift
Positon Lever
Position
STOPPING
MOWER BLADES -
• To stop mower blades, move attach-
ment clutch lever to "DISENGAGED"
position.
GROUND DRIVE -
• To stop ground ddve, depress
clutch/brake pedal into full "BRAKE"
position.
• Move gearshift lever to neutral (N) posi-
tion.
ENGINE -
• Move throttlecontrol to slow position.
NOTE: Failure to move throttle controlto
slow position and allowing engine to idle
before stopping may cause engine to
=backfire".
• Turn ignitionkey 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 ignitionswitch
in any position other than "OFF" will cause
the battery to be discharged, (dead).
NOTE: Under certain conditionswhen
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
stopping tractor on grass areas.
_, CAUTION: Always stop tractor com-
pletely, as described above, before leaving
the operator's position; to empty grass
catcher, etc.
THROI"I'LE 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.
CHOKE CONTROL
Usa choke control whenever you are start-
ing a cold engine. Do not use to start a
warm engine.
• To engage choke control, pull knobout.
Slowly push knob in to disengage.
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 inneutral
(N) position.
• Move gearshift lever to desired posi-
tion.
• Slowly release clutch/brake pedal to
start movement.
IMPORTANT: Bdng tractor to acomplete
stop before shifting or changing gears.
Failure to do so willshorten the useful life
of your transaxle.
13
TOADJUSTMOWERCUTTINGHEIGHT
Thepositionofthe attachmentliftlever
determinesthecuttingheight.
• Graspliftlever.
• Press plunger with thumb and move
lever to desired position.
The cutting height range is approximate-
ly 1-1/2 to 4". The heights are measured
fromthe ground to the blade tip with the
engine not running. These heights are
approximate and may vary depending
upon soilconditions, height of grass and
types of grass being mowed.
• The average lawn should be cut to
approximately 2-1/2 inches duringthe
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 firstcut rela-
tively high; the second to desired
height.
TO OPERATE MOWER
Your tractor is equipped withan operator
presence sensing switch. Any attempt by
the operator to leave the seat with the
engine running and the attachment clutch
engaged will shut offthe engine.
• Select desired height of cut.
• Start mower blades by engaging attach-
ment clutch control.
• TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disen-
,_age 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.
AttachmentClutch AttachmentUft Lever
Lever'En_gaged'/_ High Position
Position_'*_'_(._J/_ common sense when towing. Too hea_j
"Disengaged'_--_../L__----, ",,'__'J_L°w Tires can lose tractionwith the ground_
Position- -_Y'-_ Position tor.andcauseyout°l°sec°ntrol°fy°ur_
_ILOOPERATE ON HILLS
CAUTION: Do not drive up or down
hillswith slopes greater than 15° and do
not driveacross any slope. Aslope guide
at the back of your manual is provided for
your use.
• Choose the slowest speed before start-
ing up or down hills.
• Avoid stoppingor changing speed on
hills.
• Ifslowing is necessary, move throttle
control lever to slower position.
• Ifstopping is absolutely necessary,
push clutch/brake pedal quicklyto brake
position and engage parking brake.
• Move gearshift lever to 1st gear. Be
sure you have allowed room for tractor
to rollslightly as you restart movement.
• To restart movement, slowly release
parking brake and clutch/orake pedal.
• Make all turns slowly.
TO TRANSPORT
• Raise attachment lift to highest position
with attachment lift control.
• When pushing ortowing your tractor, be
sure gearshift lever is in neutral (N)
position.
• Do not push or tow tractor at more thanJ
five (5) MPH.
NOTE: To protect hoed from damage
when transportingyour tractor on a truck
or a trailer, be sure hood isclosed and
secured to tractor. Use an appropdate
means of tying hood to tractor(rope, cor_
etc.).
TOWING CARTS AND OTHER
ATTACHMENTS
Tow only the attachments that are recoi_
mended by and comply with specificati_
of the manufacturer of your tractor. Use_
of a load, while on a slope, is dangerou •
e CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL lJ
• The engine in your tractor has bee_
shipped, from the factory, already f_
with summer weight oil. |
• Check engine oilwith tractor on le_
ground.
14
• 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 CHAR'I" in the Mainten-
ance section of this manual).
• To change engine oil, see the Mainten-
ance section in this manual.
ADD GASOLINE
• Fillfuel 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
mixoil with gasoline; Purchase fuel in
quantitiesthat can be used within 30
days to assure fuel freshness.
IMPORTANT: When operating intempera-
tures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh, clean
winter grade gasoline to help insuregood
,_dwAweatherstarting.
RNING: Expedence indicates that
alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or
using ethanol or methanol) can attract
moisture which leads to separation and
formation of acids dudng storage. Acidic
gas can damage the fuel system of an
engine while in storage. Toavoid 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
itrun until the fuel lines and carburetor are
empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See
Storage Instructionsfor additional informa-
tion. Never use engine or carburetor
cleaner products inthe fuel tank or perma-
_nct damage may occur.
AUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank
filler neck. Do not overfill.Wipe off any
spilled oilor 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 runout of fuel, itwill
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)
position.
• Move attachment clutch to =DISEN-
GAGED" position.
• Move throttle control to fast position
• Pull choke control out for a cold engine
start attempt. For a warm engine start
attempt the choke control may not be
needed.
NOTE: Before starting, read the warm and
cold startingprocedures below.
• Insert key into ignitionand turn key
clockwise to =START" position and
release key as soon as engine starts.
Do not run starter continuouslyfor more
than fifteen seconds per minute. If the
engine does not start after several
attempts, push choke controlin, wait a
few minutes and try again. Ifengine still
does not start, pull the choke control out
and retry.
WARM WEATHER STARTING (50° F
AND ABOVE)
• When engine starts, slowlypush choke
control in untilthe engine begins to run
smoothly. If the engine starts to run
roughly,pull the choke control out slight-
ly for afew seconds and then continue
to pushthe control in slowly.
• The attachments and groundddve can
now be used. Ifthe 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, slowlypush choke
control in untilthe engine begins to run
smoothly.Continue to push the choke
control in smallsteps allowingthe
engine to accept small changes in
speed and load, untilthe choke control
isfully in. If the engine starts to run
roughly,pullthe choke control out slight-
lyfor a few seconds and then continue
to pushthe control in slowly.This may
require an engine warm-up period from
several seconds to several minutes,
depending on the temperature.
• The attachments can be used during
the engine warm-up period and may
require the choke control be pulled out
slightly.
NOTE: 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 sectionof this
manual:
15
MOWING TIPS
• Mowershouldbepropedyleveledfor
bestmowingperformance.See=TO
LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the
Service andAdjustments 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 dght of the machine.
This will resultin a more even distdbu-
tion of clippings and more uniformcut-
ting.
• When mowing large areas, start byturn-
ing to the dght so that clippingswill dis-
charge away from shrubs, fences, drive-
ways, etc. After one or two rounds,
mow in the oppositedirection making
left hand turns untilfinished
• If grass is extremely tall, it should be
mowed twice to reduce load and possi-
ble fire hazard from dded clippings.
Make first cut relatively high;the second
tothe desired height.
• Do not mow grass when it iswet. Wet
grass will plug mower and leave unde-
sirable clumps. Allow grassto dn/
before mowing.
• Always operate engine at full throttle
when mowing to assure better mowing
performance and proper discharge o!
matedal. Regulate ground speed by se-
lecting a low enough gear to give the
mower the best cutting pedormance 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 blade willrecut
the grass clippingsmany 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 nutdentsfor the lawn.
Always mulch with your highest engine
(blade) speed as thiswill provide the
best recuffingaction of the blades.
• Avoid cuffingyour lawn when it is weL
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 timethe grass has
dded 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 i_
and mow slowly. _
• Certain types of grass and grass cond
tions may require that an area be _
mulched a second time to completely t r
hide the clippings. When doing a se_
ond cut, mow across or perpendicuis
the first out path.
• Change your cuttingpattern from wE
to week. Mow northto south one w_
then change to east to west the eexJ
weak. This will help prevent maffin
and graining of the lawn.
16
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE _. _/_,"_oo_y
AS YOU COMPLETE
DATES
Check Operator Pte_,ence and
T Intedoc_s,fstems I_
R Check for Loose Fastermrs I_ J_7 II_
T Lubrication Chart
0 Check Battery Level
A Sharper_Replace M°wer Blades _"
R Claan Battery and Ten_klals V'
Check Transaxla Coolltlg I_
Adjust Blade Belt(s) Tension (_s
Adjust Motion Drive Belt(s) Tension II_s
Engine (_l Level I_ _1_
c,.ng._r_ O, vr,_, V'
E Clean Air Filter laaS=
N CleanA_-screen I/'=
IG mepectM.met/SparkAn'ester I/'
Rep_moO_ Filter(Ifequipped) I_.a
N Clean Engine Cooling Fins
Replace Spark Plug _P_± V'
Replace Air Filter Paper CallHdge I¢_d'=
Replace Fuel Filter I_
I - Char4le more olin v,/_n _ WPCW• heawyIo_d _ In high am_mt tm_uree. S - # eq_ppod v#_ adlumab_ _,/stom.
2 - sewlco mo_ oawawhamoperm_U k_eW_/€€ _y cer,dmoe_ i - N_ NK_Bd I aq_ _h mllmm_=_-_ I_y
3 - If equll_Od '0/_t el mz¢, _mge e4levery50 hokum. 7 -"n_tt_a Irm_ rod=ida0otbolt to 36It.-I_. maedmum.
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this tractordoes notcover
items that have been subjected to operator Zerk
abuse or negligence. To receive full value
from the warranty, operator must maintain
tractor as instructedin this manual. Some
adjustments will need to be made periodi-
cally to properly maintain your tractor.
All adjustments in the Service end
Adjustments section of this manual should
be checked at least once each season. _ Engine
• Once a year you should replace the
spark plug, clean or replace air filter,and O Attachment
check blades and beltsfor wear. A new Clutch
spark plug and clean air filter assure 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 interlock
systems for proper operation.
• Check for loosefasteners.
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease the
pivot points which have special nylon bear-
ings. _rmcous lubricants will attract dust
and dirt that will shorten the life of the self-
lubricating bearings. If you feel they must
be lubricated, use only a dry, powdered
graphite type lubricant sparingly.
LUBRICATION CHART
Zerk
• Front Whee;
Bearing Zerk
: : • Gear-
o shift
.... I I.__ J PiVOtS
O SAE 30 or 10w30 Motor OIL
• General Purpose Grease
@ Refer to Maintenance "Engine" Section
Wheel
Bearing
Zerk
I
17
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