Craftsman 917.270821 User Manual
ClInFT$+Mn+N-
19.5 HP
ELECTRIC START
42" MOWER
AUTOMATIC
LAWN TRACTOR
_vlodel No.
9!7_-27_0821
• Safety
*--ASsembly
• .Operation
• Maintenance
• Repair Parts
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equip-
ment.
For answersto yourquestions
about this product, Call:
1-800-659-5917
Sears Craftsman Help Line
5 am - 5 pm, Mon- Sat
Warranty;.,....,,L,.,,.,._,,.. ....._.................. 2
Safety Rules ....................................... ,_2
Proo_::t Specifications ..................... ......5
Assembly.;., ........... .;.......... :... ......... ;...... 8
Operation:_._...... ;;::...:. ....._....._.............. .12
MaintenancQ Schedule ...... _..,............... 19
LIMITED T_/O
For two (2)
tained,
Sears will
ringto the instructionsin the owner'smanual,
charge, any partsfound to be defectivein material or
Maintenance......_........_;........................ 19
Service and Adjustments............ .........23
Storage................................................. 29
Troubleshooting.................................... 31
Repair Parts......................................... 34
Parts Ordering ....................... Back Cover
if thisCraftsman RidingEquipmentis main-
This__Warr_
• Expenda
plugs; a!!
• Tire repl_
thorns, sl
• Repairs
dent or thefailuretomaintainthe equipment accordingtothe instructionscontainedin
the owner's manual.
Ridingequipment used forcommercial or rentalpurposes.
LIMITED 90 DAY WARRANTY ON BATTERY
For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery included with this riding equip
ment proves defective in material or workmanship and our testing determines the bat-
tery witLnothoTd-a charge, Sears will replace the battery at no charge. In-home warranty
service on your Craftsman riding equipment is available at no charge for 30 days from
the date of purchase. Please contact your nearest service center. After 30 days from the
date of purchase, warranty service is available by taking your Craftsman riding equip-
ment to your nearest Sears Service Center. (In-home warranty service will still be avail-
able-after 30 days from the date of purchase but a standard trip charge will apply). This
warranty applies on_ 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
y dpes pot _ve.P.
leifpm_which become w'pm during normal use, such as blades, spark
;Jle_nenj.belts, _}tc. i :
,ementpr repair._ausedby puncturesfrom outsideobjects,such as nails,
_ml:Is,otglass, i i
eces_sa_ybecause of;operatorabuse, negligence,improperstorageoracci-
GENERAL OPERATION.
• Read, understand, and follow all instruc-
tions in the manual and on the machine
before starting.
, Only allow responsible adults, who are
familiar with the instructions, to operate
the machine.
, Clear the area of objects such as rocks,
toys, wire, etc., which could be picked
up and thrown by the blade.
Be sure the area is clear of other people
before mowing. Stop machine if anyone
enters _rea_"
• Never carry passengers.
• Do not mow in reverse unless absolute-
ly necessary. Always look down and
behind before and while backing.
• Be aware of the mower discharge direc-
tion and do not point it at anyone. Do
not operate the mower without either
the entire grass catcher or the guard in
place.
• Slow down before tuming.
• Never leave a running machine unat-
tended. Always turn off blades, set park-
ing brake, stop engine, and remove
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 injury or death. All
slopes require-extracaution. If yotJcannot
back up the slope or ifyou feel uneasy on
. it, do not mow it.
DO:
• Mow up and down slopes, not across.
• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree
limbs, etc.
• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven
terrain could overturn the machine. Tall
grass can hide obstacles.
• Us-e-sTov__eed. Choose a low gear so
that you will not have to stop or shift
while on the slope.
• Follow the manufacturer's recommen-
dations for wheel weights or counter-
-weights to improve stability.
• Use extra care With grass catchers or
other attachments. These can change
the stability of the machine.
• Keep all movement on the slopes slow
and gradual. Do not make sudden
changes in speed or direction.
•_ Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If
tires lose traction, disengage the blades
and proceed slowly straight down the
slope.
DO NOT:
• Do nottum on Slopes unless necessary,
and then, turn slowly and gradually
downhill, if possible.
• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or
embankments. The mower could sud-
denly turn over if a wheel is over the
edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge
caves in.
• Do, e_t-mow_on wet grass. Reduced
traction could cause sliding.
• Do not try to stabilize the machine by
puffing your foot on the ground.
• Do not use grass catcher on steep
slopes.
CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur ifthe operator
is not alert to the presence of children.
Children are often attracted to the
machine and the mowing activity. Never
assume that 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 children
enter the area.
• Before and when backing, look behind
and down for small children.
• Never carry children. They may fall off
and be seriously injured or interfere with
safe machine operation.
• Never allow children to operate the
machine.
• Use extra care when approaching blind
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. 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 flan_, 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
o-ment in good condition.
• Never tamper with safety devices.
Check their proper operation regularly.
• Keep machine free ofgrass, 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 obj.ect. Repair, if necessary,
before restarting.
3
• Never make adjustments or repairs with
th@englae 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 is clear of other people
before mowing. Stop machine if anyone
enters the area.
• Never carry passengers.
• Do not mow in reverse unless absolute-
ly necessary. Always look down and
behind before and while backing.
• Never carry children. They may fall off
and be seriously injured or interfere with
safemachine-operation.
• 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.
• B_fore and when backing, look behind
and down for small children.
_Look for this symbol to point out impor-
tant safety precautions. It means CAU-
TION!!t BECOME AWARE!!! YOUR SAFE-
"I'Y 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. 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 not rum on slopes unless necessary,
and then, turn slowly and gradually
downhill, ifpossible.
,AWARNING: 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 acciden-
tal starting when setting up, transporting,
_djusting or making repairs always discon-
nect spark plug wire and place wire where
t cannot contact spark plug.
4
....-
GASOUNE
CAPACITY
AN[LTY'PE:
OIL'WPE
(API-SF/SG/SH): --
3.5 GALLONS
UNLEADED
REGULAR
SAE 3O
(above 32°F)
SAE 5W-3O
(below 32"F)
OIL CAPACITY: 3.0 PINTS
SPARK PLUG: Champion RJ19LM
GAP: .030") OR J19LM
VALVE CLEARANCE: INTAKE: .005-.007
EXHAUST: .009-.011
instructib_ will enable youto assemDte
and maintainyourtractorproperly.Always
observethe "SAFETY RULES'.
MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT
A Sears Maintenance Agreement isavail-
ableon this product.Contactyour nearest
Searsstore for details.
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILmES
• 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.
GROUND SPEED "FORWARD: 0- 5.5
(MPH):- REVERSE: 0 - 2.4
TIRE P_RESSURE'--FRONT: 14 PSI
REAR: 10 PSI
CHARGING 3 AMPS BATTERY
SYSTEM: 5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS
BATTERY: AMP/HR:30
MIN. CCA:240
CASE SIZE: U1R
BLADE BOLT 27-35 FT. LBS.
TORQUE:
__ _- _... ........
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase
of a Craftsman Tractor. It has been
designed, engineered and manufactured
to_give you the best possible dependability
and performance.-
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.
,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 by the operator.
In the state of Califomia 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
CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK
(1) Large Flat Washer
Parts Bag contents shown full size
III
(1) Hex Bolt 5/16-18 x 1-1/4
(1) Hex Bolt
3/8-16 x I
(1) Lockwasher 3/8
(1) Locknut 5/16-18
.....(1) Knob
(2) Washers
3/16 x 3/4 x 16 Gauge
(1) Washer
17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge
(2) Lock
Washers #10"
(1) Shoulder
Bolt 5/16-18
(2) Weld
Nuts #10
(2) Screws #10 x 5/8
6
Partspackedseparatelyincarton
Manual
Seat
(2) Shoulder
BaRs
Video
Mulcher
Cassette
Plate
|
PartsBag
Parts Bag contents not shown full size
Steering
Boot
Steedng
Wheel
_(2) Center-
lockNuts
a I I w
SteeringWheel Adapter
SlopeSheet
(2) Gauge
Wheels
"_1 I I
(2)Lm_hHook
Assenddk_s
7
(2) Wasi_em 3/8
x7/8 x 14 Gauge
Steedng
WheelInsert
,-.e_
O
i
Steering
Shaft
Extension
Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception of those parts left
unEs,sem61edfor shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your tractor
all parts and har.dware 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
Asocket wrench setwillmake assembly
easier. Standard wrenchsizesyou need
are listed below.
(1) 9116" wrench
(1) 3/4" wrench
(2) 1/2" wrench
(1) Utility knife
(1)Pliers
When-right-or-left-hand is mentioned in
this manual, it means, from your point of
view, when you are in the operating posi-
tion (seated behind the steering wheel).
(1) 3/4" Socket w/
drive rachet
(1) Phillips Screw-
driver
(1) Tire pressure
gauge -
• Assemblelargeflatwasher,3/8 lock
washer,3/8 hexboltand tighten securely.
• Snap steeringwheel insertintocenter
ofsteeringwheel.
• Remove protectivematerialsfromtrac-
torhood andgrill.
IMPORTANT: Check for and remove any
staplesin skidthat may puncturetires
where tractoris to rolloffskid.
Insert
__ 3/8 Hex Bolt
Large Rat
TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM
CARTON
UNPACK CARTON
• Remove all accessible loose parts and
parts boxes from shipping carton (See
Stee__iill r
Wheel
pageS);-......
• Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on
all four comers of shipping carton, and
lay panels flaL
• Check for any additional loose pads or
boxes and remove.
BEFORE ROLUNG TRACTOR OFF
SKID
ATTACH STEERING WHEEL
ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND
BOOT
--_ Slideextension shaft onto lower steer-
ing shaft. Align mounting holes in exten-
sion and lower shafts and install 5/16
he)( bolt and Iocknut. Tighten securely.
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 pointingstraight forward.
• Slide steering wheel adapter onto steep •
ing shaft extension.
• Po_stee_i'ng wheel so cross bars •
a-rehonzontal (left to right) and slide
o!n_ b_:)t and onto adapter.
TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See
Operation section for location and
function of controls)
• Press lift lever plunger and raise attach-
ment liftlever to its highest position.
• Release parking brake by depressing
clutch/brake pedal.
• Place freewheel control in freewheeling
position to disengage transmission (See
"TO TRANSPORT" in the Operation
section of this manual).
Roll tractor forward off skid.
Remove banding holding discharge
guard up against tractor.
CHECK BAr'[ERY
• Lift hoodto raisedposition
• If_is batteryis put intoservice after
month andyearindicatedon label (label
locatedbetweenterminals)charge bat-
tery for minimumof one hourat 6-10
amps. (See"BATTERY" in MAINTE-
NANCE section of this manual for
charging instructions).
o........ _ _ _Label
_,o 9
Adjusts•at before tightanid_ladjustment
knob.
• Remove cardboardpacking on seat pan.
• Place seat on seat pan and assemble
shoulder bolL "Rghten shoulder bolt
securely.
• Assemble adjustment knob and fiat
washer loosely. Do not tighten.
• Lower seat into operating position and
sit on seal
• 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
Seat Pan
Shoulder
Bolt
Adjustment Knob
Rat Washer
9
• [hstall 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 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 attacbingmulcher 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.
; TheTop
Lock
Weld
Latch
Washer
Muicher
Plate
Deflector
Shield
\
"_ Screw
_Down
Latch
Hook
Weld Nut
Lock Washer
Washer
Latch
Hooks
10
AS-SEMBLEGAUGE WHEELS TO
MOWER DECK
The gaugewheelsare designedto keep
the mower deck inproper positionwhen
operatingmower. Be sure they are proper-
lyadjustedto ensure optimummower per-
formance.
• Assemble gauge wheels withtractoron
a fiat level surface.
• Adjustmower to desired cuttingheight
(See "TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING
HEIGHT" in the Operationsectionof
this manual).
• With mower indesired heightofcut po-
sition,gauge wheels shouldbe assem-
bled so they are slightlyoffthe ground.
Install-gaugewheel in appropriatehole
withshoulderbolt,3/8 washer, and 318-
16 Ioclmut_ad tightensecurely.
• Repeat for opposite side installing
gauge wheel in same adjustmenthole.
Gauge Wheel
Bracket
3/8-16 Locknut
Bolt
3/8-16 Washer
Wheel
CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
The tires on yourtractorwere ovednflated
at the factory for shippingpurposes.
Correcttire pressure is importantfor best
cuttingperformance.
• Reduce tire pressureto PSI shown in
_'PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" on
page 5 ofthismanual.
CHECK DECK LEVELNESS
For best cutting results, mower housing
should be propedy leveled. See "TO
LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the
Service and Adjustments section of this
manual.
CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF
ALL BELTS
See the figures that are shown for replac-
ing motion and mower blade drive belts in
the Service and Adjustments sectoin of
this-m_"_l. Veery that the belts are rout-
ed _.Qji_ect_.
CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM
After you learn how to operate your trac-
tor,check to see that the brake isproperly
adjusted.See "TO ADJUST BRAKE"in
the Service and Adjustmentssectionof
this manual.
v' CHECKLIST
PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING
CHECKLIST:
v' Allassembly instructionshave been
completed.
v' No remainingloosepads in carton.
V' Batteryisproperlypreparedand
charged. (MinimumI hourat 6 amps).
v' Seat is adjusted comfortablyand
tightenedsecurely.
v' Alltiresare propedyinflated.(For
shippingpurposes,the tireswere
overinfiatedat the factory).
v' Besure mower deck is properlyleveled
side-to-side/front-to-rearfor best
cuttingresults.(Tires mustbe propedy
inflatedfor leveling).
i/ Check mower and drivebelts. Be sure
they are routedproperlyaroundpulleys
and insideall belt keepers.
v' Check wiring.See that allconnections
are stillsecure and wires are properly
damped.
v' Beforedrivingtractor,be sure free-
wheel controlisin 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 unleadffd gasoline.
/ Become familiar with all controls - their
location and function. Operate them
before you start the engine.
,/ Be sure brake system is in safe operat-
....ing 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 Op-
eration section of this manual).
11
The,_e._syrobols may appear on yourtractor orin literaturesuppliedwiththe product.
Leam and understandtheirmeaning.
BATTERY CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW
WARNING
_-NGIN-EON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE UGHTS ON OVER TEMP '_
UGHT
!
FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED MOWER LIFT
R N
ATTACHMENT REVERSE
CLUTCH ENGAGED
IGNITION
CLUTCH DISENGAGED
ATTACHMENT
NEUTRAL HIGH LOW
KEEPAREACLEAR SLOPEHAZARDS
LOCKED
H L c®) l
PARKING BRAKE
(SEESAFETYRULESSECTION)
DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY
FREE WHEEL
(AutomaticModels only)
12
"KNUW IruuN.mm'i.,.k_murt ;All GYO
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE 0PE N UR
TRACTOR
Coriipam the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of
various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
Attachment Ignition
Clutch Lever Switch
Ammeter
Choke
Throttle Control
Clutch/Brake
.Pedal .........
Height
Adjustment
Knob
Freewheel
Control
Uft Lever
Plunger
©
Attachment
Oft Lever
Parking Brake
Motion
Control Lever
Approx.
Speed
3 MPH
2 MPH
1 MPH
Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the American
National Standards Institute.
ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER: Used to
engage the mower blades, or other attachments
mounted to your tractor. --.
UGHT SWITCH: Turns the headlights on and
off.
CHOKE CONTROL: Used when starting a cold
engine.
THROTTLE CONTROL: Used to control engine
speed.
CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL: Used for declutch-
ing and braking the tractor and starting the
engine.
FREEWHEEL CONTROL: Disengages trans-
mission for pushing or slowly towing the tractor
with the.exKdne off.
HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB: Used to adjust
the mower cutting height.
MOTION CONTROL LEVER: Selects the
speed and direction of the tractor.
AI'rACHMENT LIFT LEVER: Used to raise and
lower the mower deck or other attachments
mounted to your tractor.
UFT LEVER PLUNGER: Used to release
attachment lift lever when changing its position.
IGNITION SWITCH: Used for star'dngand stop-
ping the engine.
AMMETER: Indicates battenj charging (+) or
discharging (-).
PARKING BRAKE: Locks dutch/brake intothe
brake posiJion.
13
eyes,.which can resuR in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses |
or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any adjustments or |
-____. The operation of any tractor can result inforeign objects thrown _to the ' I
repairs. We recommend a wide vision safety mask over spectacles, or Stan- |
dard safety glasses. I
HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR
Your tractor is equipped with an operator
presence sensing switch. When engine is
running, any attempt by the operator to
leave the seat without first setting the
parking brake will shut off the engine.
TO SET PARKING BRAKE
• Depress clutch/brakepedal intofull
"BRAKE"positionand hold.
• Place parkingbrake lever in "EN-
GAGED" positionand release pressure
from clutch/brakepedal. Pedal should
remainiff'BRAKE" position.Make sure
parking brakewill holdtractorsecure.
Attachment Clutch
Choke Lever =Engaged"
Control Position
=Disengaged"
Control
=Brake"
Pedal "Ddve" "Disengaged" Control
Position Position Lever
STOPPING
MOWER BLADES -
•._To stopmower blades, move attach-
ment clutch lever to "DISENGAGED"
position.
GROUND DRIVE -
• To stop ground ddve, 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 depressed.
ENG!NF__
• Move throttle Control to slow position.
Parking Brake
=Engaged"
Portion
Motion
NOTE: Failureto move throttlecontrolto
slow positionand allowingengine to idle
beforestoppingmaycause engine to
"backfire".
• Tum ignition key to =OFF" position and
remove key. Always remove key when
leaving tractor to prevent unauthorized
use.
• Never use choke to stop engine.
IMPORTANT: Leaving the ignition switch
in any position other than "OFF" will cause
the battery to be discharged, (dead).
NOTE: Under certain conditions when
tractor is standing idle with the engine run-
ning, hotengine exhaust gases may
cause =browning" of grass. To eliminate
this possibility, always stop engine when
stopping tractor on grass areas.
_i, CAUTION: Always stop tractor com-
pletely, as described above, before leaving
the operator's position; to empty grass
catcher, etc.
THROTTLE 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
Use choke control whenever you are start-
ing a cold engine. Do not use to start a
warm engine.
• To engage choke control, pull knob out.
Slowly push knob in to disengage.
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) position.
• Release parking brake and clutch/brake
pedal.
• Slowly move motion control lever to
desired position.
NOTE: The effort to move the motion con-
trol lever will reduce after the first few
hours of use. This is normal.
TO ADJUST MOWER CUTFING HEIGHT
The cuffing height is controlled by tuming
the height adjustment knob in desired
direction.
14
height.
• Turn knob countemlockwise (O)to
lower cutting heighL
The _g height range is approximately
1-1/2" to 4". The heights are measured
from the ground tothe blade tip with the
engine not running. These heights are ap-
proximate and may vary depending upon
soil conditions, height of grass and types
of grass being mowed.
• The average lawn should be cut to
approximately 2-1/2 inches during the
cool season and to over 3 inches during
hot months. For healthier and better
looking lawns, mow often and after
moderate growth.
• For best cutting performance, grass
ove-t 6 Inches in height should be
mowed twice. Make the first cut rela-
tively high,Tthe-se'cond to desired height.
TO OPERATE MOWER
Your tractor is equipped with an operator
presence sensing switch. Any attempt by
the operator to leave the seat with the
engine running and the attachment clutch
engaged will shut off the engine.
• Select desired height of cut.
• Lower mower with attachment liftcon-
trol.
• Start mower blades by engaging attach-
ment clutch control.
• TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disen-
gage attachment clutch control.
AttachmentClutch AttachmentLift
Lever "Engaged" Lever HighPosition
control lever to slower posit_n.
• If stoppingis absolutely necessary, push
clutch/brake pedal quickly to brake posi-
tion 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 depressed.
• 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 pushingor towingyour tractor,be
sure to disengagetransmissionby placing
freewheel control infreewheeling position.
Freewheel controlis located at the rear
drawbar oftractor.
• Raise attachment lift to highest position
with attachment lift control.
• Pull freewheel control knob out and hold
in position by inserting retainer spring
into forward hole of control rod.
• Do not push or tow tractor at more than
two (2) MPH.
• To reengage transmission,reverse
above procedure.
NOTE: Toprotecthoodfrom damage when
transportingyourtractoron a truck or a
trailer,be surehoodisclosedand secured
to tractor.Use an appropriatemeans of
tyinghoodto tractor(rope,cord, etc.).
Position.__ /
"Disengaged'__::'
Position-----'-f'_'_/1_..:_'_. Low
', Posmon
._
_ _'_Discharge
TO OPERATE ON HILLS
_CAUTION: Do not ddve up or down
hills with slopes greater than 15" and do
not drive across any slope. Use the slope
guide provided at the back of this manual.
• Choose the slowest speed before start-
ing up,m,,do,,ua hills.
• Avoid _topping or changing speed on
hilts_
TOWING CARTS AND OTHER
ATTACHMENTS
Tow only the attachments that are recom-
mendedby 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.
15
BEFORE STARTING .THE ENGINE
CHECK ,ENGINE OIL LEVEL
• The engine in your tractor has been
shipped,--from the factory, already filled
with summer weight oil.
• Check engine oil with tractor on level
ground.
• Hemove oil fill cap/dipstick and wipe
clean, reinsert the dipstick and screw
cap tight, wait for a few seconds,
remove and read oil level. If necessary,
add oil until =FULL• mark on dipstick is
reached. Do not overfill.
• For cold weather operation you should
change oil for easier starting (See =OIL
VISCOSITY CHART" in the Mainte-
nance section of this manual).
• To-change engine oil, see the Mainte-
nance section in this manual.
ADD GASOLINE-
• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87
octane. (Use of leaded gasoline will
increase carbon and lead oxide
deposits and reduce valve life). Do not
mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in
quantities that can be used within 30
days to assure fuel freshness.
IMPORTA_N_T:W_.henoperating in tempera-
tures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh, clean
winter grade gasoline to help insure good
,_dAweather starting.
RNING: Experience indicates that
alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or
us_g ethanol or methanol) can attract
moisture which leads to separation and
formation of acids during storage. Acidic
gas can damage the fuel system of an
engine while in storage. To avoid engine
problems, the fuel system should be emp-
tied before storage of 30 days or longer.
_rain the gas tank, start the engine and let
it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are
empty. Use fresh fuel next_season. See
Storage Instructions for additional informa-
tion. Never use engine or carburetor
"_leaner products in the fuel tank or perma-
nct amage may occur.
AUTION: Fil! 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 ENGfNE
When starting the engine for the first time
or if the_ne I_s run out of fuel, itwill
take extra cranking time to move fuel from
the tah'R'to tlT-eengine.
• Be sure freewheel control _ 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-
GAG ED" 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 starting procedures below.
• Insert key into ignition and tum key
clockwise to =START" position and
release key as soon as engine starts.
Do not run starter continuously for more
than fifteen seconds per minute. If the
engine does not start after several
attempts, push choke control in, wait a
few minutes and try again. If engine still
does not start, pull the choke control out
and retry.
WARM WEATHER STARTING (50 ° F
AND ABOVE)
• When engine starts, slowly push choke
control in until the engine begins to run
smoothly. If the engine starts to run
roughly, pull the choke control out slight-
ly for a few seconds and then continue
to push the control in slowly.
• 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, slowly push choke
control in until the engine begins to run
smoothly. Continue to push the choke
control in small steps allowing the
engine to accept small changes in
speed and load, until the choke control
is fully in. If the engine starts to run
roughly, pull the choke control out slight-
ly for a few seconds and then continue
to push the control in slowly. This may
require an engine warm-up period from
several seconds to several minutes,
depending on the temperature.
16
Before driving the unitin cold weather,.
the transmission should be warmed up
asrfollo_s:
• Be sure the tractor is on level ground.,
• Place the motion control lever in neu-
tral. 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 be used during
the engine warm-up period after the
transmission has been warmed Up and
may require the choke control be pulled
_t slightly.
NOTE:_ A_h_igh_a!_it_u.de(above 3000 feet)
or in cold temperatures (below 32 F) the
carburetor fuel mixture may need to be
- adjusted for best engine performance.
See "TO ADJUST CARBURETOR" in the
Service and Adjustments section ofthis
manual.
,_RGE TRANSMISSION
CAUTION: Never engage or disen-
gage freewheel lever while the engine is
running_.........
To ensure proper operation and perfor-
mance, it is recommended that the trans-
mission be purged before operating tractor
for the first time. This procedure will
remove any trapped air inside the trans-
niission 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 free-
wheel control in freev_heeling position
(See "TO TRANSPORT" in this section
of manual).
_. Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine.
After the engine is running, move throt-
tle 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
.b_ five=(5) seconds. Repeat this
procedure three (3) times.
no movementof drivewheeLs.Theair is
being removed from hydraulicdrive sys-
tem.
• Move m0tioncontrol lever to neutral (N)
position.Shut offengine andset parking
brake.
• Engage transmissionbyplacingfree-
wheel controlin drivingposition(See
"TO TRANSPORT" in thissectionof
manual).
• Sittinginthe tractorseat, startengine.
After the engine isrunning,move throt-
tle controlto half (1/2) Speed.With
motioncontrollever in neutral(N) posi-
tion, slowlydisengage clutch/brake
pedal.
• Slowly move motioncontrollever for-
ward; after the tractor moves approxi-
matelyfive (5) feet, slowlymove motion
controlleverto reverseposition.After
the tractor movesapproximatelyfive (5)
feet retumthe motioncontrolleverto
the neutral (N) position. Repeat thispro-
cedurewiththe motioncontrollever
three (3) times.
• Yourtractoris nowpurgedand readyfor
normal operation.
MOWING TIPS
• "13rechainscannot be usedwhen the
mower housingis attachedto tractor.
• Mower shouldbe properlyleveledfor
best mowing performance.See "TO
LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the
Service and Adjustmentssectionof this
manual.
• The left hand side of mower shouldbe
used for trimming.
• Drive so that clippingsare discharged
ontothe area that has beencut. Have
the cut area to the rightof the tractor.
This will resultina moreeven distribu-
tion of clippingsand more uniformcut-
ting.
• When mowinglarge areas, startbyturn-
ingto the rightso that clippingswill dis-
charge away from shrubs,fences, drive-
....ways, etc. After one ortwo rounds,mow
in the oppositedirectionmakingleft
hand turnsuntilfinished.
• If grass is extremelytall, it shouldbe
mowedtwice to reduceload and possi-
ble fire hazard from driedclippings.
Make firstcut relativelyhigh;the second
to the desired heighL
17
-grasswill plugmower,and!eav e unde-
sirable cluinpe.Allow grassto dry
before mowing.
• Always operate engine at full throttle
when mowing to assure better mowing
performance and proper discharge of
material. Regulate ground speed byse-
lecting a low enough gear to give the
mower the best cutting performance as
Well as the quality of cut desired.
• When operating attachments, select a
ground speed that will suit the terrain
and give best performance of the at-
tachment being used.
r .
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 biodegrade quickly
to provide nutrients for the lawn. Always
mulch with your highest engine (blade)
speed as this will provide the best recut-
ring action of the blades.
Wet grass tends to form.clurflps and
interfe_ 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 cut-
ting height so that the mower cuts off
only the top one-third of the grass
blades. For extremely heavy mulching,
reduce your width of cut on each pass
and mow slowly.
• Certain types of grass and grass condi-
tions may require that anarea be
mulched a second time to completely
hide the clippings. When doing a sec-
ond cut, mow across or perpendicular to
the first cut path.
• Change your cutting pattem 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.
18
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