Craftsman 917.270831 User Manual
Owner’s Manual
CMFTSMnN^
20.5HP
ELECTRIC START
42” MOWER
6 SPEED TRANSAXLE
LAWN TRACTOR
Model No.
917.270831
• Safety
• Assembly
• Operation
• Maintenance
• Repair Parts
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, II 60179
Visit our Craftsman website:www.sears.com/craftsman
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Warranty
Safety Rules
Product Specifications ;.............
Assembly
Operation
Maintenance Schedule
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11
17
2
2
5
8
Maintenance
Service and Adjustments...
Troubleshooting
Repair Parts........................
Parts Ordering
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.. Back Cover
WARRANTY
LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT
For two (2) years from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Riding Equipment is
maintained, lubricated and tuned up'according to the instructions in the owner’s
manual. Sears will repair or replace, free of charge, any parts found to be defective in
material or workmanship.
This Warranty does not cover:
• Expendable Items which become worn during normal use, such as blades, spark
plugs, air cleaners, belts, etc.
• Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails,
thorns, stumps, or glass.
• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, negligenpe, improper storage or acci
dent or the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions contained
in the owner’s manual.
• Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.
LIMITED 90 DAY WARRANTY ON 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. In-home
warranty service on your Craftsman riding equipment is available at no charge for 30
days from the date of purchase. Please contact your nearest service center. After 30
days from the date of purchase, warranty service is available by taking your Craftsman
riding equipment to your nearest Sears Service Center. (In-home warranty service will
still be avsulable after 30 days from the date of purchase but a standard trip charge will
apply). This warranty applies only while this product is in the United States. This
Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which may
vary from state to state.
17
21
28
32
Sears, Roebuck and Co., D/817 WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
SAFETY RULES
GENERAL OPERATI9N
• Read, understand, and follow all in
structions in the manual and on the
machine before starting.
• Only allow responsible adults, who are
familiar with the instructions, to operate
the machine.
• Clear the area of objects such as
rocks, toys, wire, etc., which could be
picked up and thrown by the blade.
• Be sure the area is clear of other
people before mowing. Stop machine if
anyone enters the area.
Never carry passengers.
Do not mow in reverse unless abso
lutely necessary. Always look down and
behind before and while backing.
Be aware of the mower discharge di
rection and do not point it at anyone.
Do not operate the mower without ei
ther the entire grass catcher or the
guard in place.
Slow down before turning.
Never leave a running machine unat
tended. Always turn off blades, set
parking brake, stop engine, and re
move keys before dismounting.
SAFETY RULES
• Turn off blades when not mowing.
• Stop engine before removing grass
catcher or unclogging chute.
• Mow only in daylight or good artificial
light.
• Do not operate the machine while un
der the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Watch for traffic when operating near
or crossing roadways.
• Use extra care when loading or un
loading the machine into a trailer or ■
truck.
SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to lossof-control and tipover accidents, which
can result in severe injury or death. All
slopes require extra caution. If you can
not back up the slope or if you feel un
easy on it, do not mow it.
DO:
• Mow up and down slopes, not across.
• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree
limbs, etc.
• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Un
even terrain couid overturn the ma
chine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
• Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so
that you will not have to stop or shift
while on the slope.
• Follow the manufacturer’s recommen
dations for wheel weights or counter
weights to improve stability.
• Use extra care with grass catchers or
other attachments. These can change
the stability of the machine.
• Keep all movement on the slopes slow
and gradual. Do not make sudden
changes in speed or direction.
• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If
tires lose traction, disengage the
blades and proceed slowly straight
down the slope.
DO NOT; *
• Do nof turn on slopes unless neces
sary, and then, turn slowly and gradu
ally downhill, if possible.
• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or
embankments. The mower could sud
denly turn over if a wheel is over the
edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge
caves in.
• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced
traction could cause sliding.
• Do nof try to stabilize the machine by
putting your foot on the ground.
• Do not use grass catcher on steep
slopes.
CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator
is not alert to the presence of children.
Children are often attracted to the ma
chine and the mowing activity. Never as
sume that children will remain where you
last saw them.
• Keep children out of the mowing area
and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult.
• Be alert and turn machine off if chil
dren enter the area.
• Before and when backing, look behind
and down for small children.
• Never carry children. They may fall off
and be seriously injured or interfere
with safe machine operation.
• Never allow children to operate the ma
chine.
• Use extra care when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.
SERVICE
• Use extra care in handling gasoline
and other fuels. They are flammable
and vapors are explosive.
- Use only an approved container.
- Never remove gas cap or add fuel
with the engine running. Allow en
gine to cool before refueling. Do
not smoke.
- Never refuel the machine indoors.
- Never store the machine or fuel
container inside where there is an
open flame, such as a water heat
er.
• Never run a machine inside a closed
area.
• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade
attachment bolts, tight and keep equip
ment in good condition.
• Never tamper with safety devices.
Check their proper operation regularly.
• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or
other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel
spillage. Allow machine to cool before
storing.
• Stop and inspect the equipment if you
strike an object. Repair, if necessary,
3 before restarting.
SAFETY RULES
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 al
low objects to be thrown. Frequently
check components and replace with
manufacturer’s recommended parts,
when necessary.
Never carry passengers.
Do not mow in reverse unless abso
lutely necessary. Always look down and
behind before and while bacldng.
Never carry children. They may fall off
and be seriously injured or interfere
with safe machine operation.
Keep children out of the mowing area
and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult.
Be alert and turn machine off if chil
dren enter the area.
Before and when backing, look behind
and down for small children.
Mow up and down slopes (15“ Max),
not across.
Mower blades are sharp and can cut.
Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and
use extra caution when servicing them.
Check brake operation frequently. Ad
just and service as required.
Be sure the area is clear of other
people before mowing. Stop machine if
anyone enters the area.
Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree
limbs, etc.
Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Un
even terrain could overturn the ma
chine. fall 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 nof turn on slopes unless neces
sary, and then, turn slowly and gradu
ally downhill, if possible.
A Look for this symbol to point out im
portant safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BECOME AWARE!!! YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
A CAUTION: In order to prevent acci
dental starting when setting up, trans
porting, adjusting or making repairs al
ways disconnect spark plug wire and
place wire where it cannot contact spark
plug.
A WARNING: The engine exhaust from
this product contains chemicals known to
the State of California to cause cancer,
birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
GASOLINE
CAPACITY
AND TYPE:
OILTYPE
(APl-SF/SG/SH);
OIL CAPACITY:
SPARK PLUG:
(GAP: .030”)
VALVE
CLEARANCE:
GROUND SPEED FORWARD:
(MPH):
TIRE
PRESSURE:
CHARGING
SYSTEM:
BATTERY;
BLADE BOLT
TORQUE:
3.5 GALLONS
UNLEADED
REGULAR
SAE 30(ABOVE 32“F)
SAE 5W-30
(BELOW 32“F)
3.0 PINTS
CHAMPION
RJ19LM OR J19LM
INTAKE: .004”-.006?
EXHAUST:.007”-.009”
1ST 1.2
2ND 1.5
3RD 2.3
4TH 3.5
5TH 4.8
6TH 5.4
REVERSE: 1.5
FRONT: 14PSI
REAR: 10PSI
3 AMPS BATTERY
5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS
AMP/HR: 30
MIN. CCA: 240
CASE SIZE:U1R
27-35 FT. LBS
MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT
A Sears Maintenance Agreement is
available on this product. Contact your
nearest Sears store for details.
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
• Read and observe the safety rules.
• Follow a regular schedule in maintain
ing, caring for and using your tractor.
• Follow the instructions under “Mainte
nance” and “Storage" sections of this
owner’s manual.
^ WARNING: This tractor is equipped
with an internal combustion engine and
should not be used on or near any
unimproved forest-covered, brushcovered or grass-covered land unless the
engine’s exhaust system is equipped with
a spark arrester meeting applicable local
or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester
is used, it should be maintained in
effective working order by the operator.
In the state of California the above is
required by law (Section 4442 of the
California Public Resources Code).
Other states may have simitar laws.
Federal taws apply on federal lands. A
spark arrester for the muffler is available
through your nearest Sears Authorized
Service Center/Department (See
REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase
of a Craftsman Tractor. It has been
designed, engineered and manufactured
to give you the best possible dependabil
ity and performance.
Should you experience any problem you
cannot easily remedy, please contact
your nearest Sears Authorized Service
Center. We have competent, well-trained
technicians and the proper tools to
service or repair this tfactor.
Please read and retain this manual. The
instructions will enable you to assemble
and maintain your tractor properly.
Always observe the “SAFETY RULES”.
CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK
Parts Bag contents shown full size
(1) Lockwasher 3/8
(1) Locknut 5/16-18
(1) Hex Bolt
3/8-16x1
(1) Large Flat Washer
(2) Screws #10 X 5/8
6
(1) Hex Bolt
5/16-18x1-1/4
(1) Shoulder Bor 5/16-18
(1) Washer
17/32 X 1-3/16 X 12 Gauge
(2) Lock Washers #10
(2) Washers 3/16x3/4x16 Gauge
(2) Weld Nuts #10
CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK
Parts packed separately in carton Parts Bag contents not shown full size
Manual
Seat
□
Video
Cassette
Parts Bag
Steering
Wheel
Insert
Steering Wheel
Adapter
(2) Keys
(2) Latch Hook
Assemblies
- Steering
Extension
Shaft
Slope Sheet
ASSEMBLY
Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception of those parts left
unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your
tractor all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the
correct tools as necessary to insure proper tightness. Review the video cassette before
you begin. ^
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY
A socket wrench set will make»assembly
easier. Standard wrench sizes you need
are listed below.
(1) 9/16“ wrench (1) Pliers
(1) 1/2" wrench (1) Utility knife
(1) 3/4" socket with
drive ratchet '
(1) Tire pressure gauge
(1) Phillips screwdriver
When right or left hand is mentioned in
this manual, it means, from your point of
view, when you are in the operating
position (seated behind the steering
wheel). .
TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM
CARTON
UNPACK CARTON
• Remove alt accessible loose parts and
parts boxes from shipping carton.
• Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on
all four corners of shipping carton, and
lay panels flat.
• Remove mower and packing materials.
• Check for any additional loose parts or
boxes and remove.
BEFORE ROLLING TRACTOR OFF SKID
ATTACH STEERING WHEEL
ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND
BOOT
• Slide extension shaft onto lower
steering shaft. Align mounting holes
in extension and lower shafts and
install 5/16 hex bolt and locknut.
Tighten securely.
IMPORTANT: Tighten bolt and nut
securely to 18-22 ft. lbs. torque.
• Place tabs of steering boot over tab
slots in dash and push down to
secure.
INSTALL STEERING WHEEL
• Position front wheels of the tractor so
they are pointing straight forward.
• Slide steering wheel adapter onto
steering shaft extension.
• Position steering wheel so cross bars
are horizontal (left to right) and slide
inside boot and onto adapter.
• Assemble large flat washer, 3/8 lock
washer, 3/8 hex bolt and tighten
securely.
• Snap steering wheel insert into center
of steering wheel.
• Remove protective materials from
tractor hood and grill.
IMPORTANT: Check for and remove any
staples in skid that may puncture tires
where tractor is to roll off skid.
HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR
CHECK 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 battery for minimum of one
hour at 6-10 amps. (See “BATTERY”
in Maintenance section of this manual
for charging instructions).
8
INSTALL SEAT
Adjust seat before tightening adjustment
knob.
• Remove cardboard packing on seat
pan.
• Place seat on seat pan and assemble
shoulder bolt. Tighten shoulder bolt
securely.
• Assemble adjustment knob and flat
washer loosely. Do not tighten.
• Lower seat into operating position and
sit on seat.
• Slide seat until a comfortable position
is reached which allows you to press
ciutch/brake pedal ail the way down.
• Get off seat without moving its
adjusted position.
• Raise seat and tighten adjustment
knob securely.
Operation section for iocation and
function of controls)
• Press lift lever plunger and raise
attachment lift lever to its highest
position.
• Release parking brake by depressing
clutchAirake pedal.
• Place freewheel control in freewheel
ing position to disengage transmission
(See “TO TRANSPORT” in the Opera
tion section of this manual).
• Roll tractor forward off skid.
• Remove banding holding discharge
guard up against tractor.
TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKiD
A 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.
• Sit on seat in operating position,
depress ciutch/brake pedal and set the
parking brake.
• Place gear shift lever in neutral (N)
position.
• Press lift lever plunger and raise
attachment lift lever to its highest
position.
• Start the engine. After engine has
started, move throttle control to idle
position.
• Depress ciutch/brake pedal into full
“BRAKE” position and hold. Move
gearshift lever to 1st gear.
• Slowly release ciutch/brake pedal and
slowly drive tractor off skid.
• Apply brake to stop tractor, set parking
brake and place gearshift lever in
neutral position.
• Turn ignition key to “OFP position.
Continue with the instructions that follow.
INSTALL MULCHER PLATE
• Install two latch hooks to mulcher plate
using screw, washer, lock washer, and
weld nut as shown.
NOTE: Pre-assemble weld nut to latch
hook by inserting weld nut from the top
with hook pointing down.
• Tighten hardware securely.
• Raise and hold deflector shield in
upright position.
• Place front of mulcher plate over front
of mower deck opening and slide into
place, as shown.
• Hook front latch into hole on front of
mower deck.
• Hook rear latch into hole on back of
mower deck.
A 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.
Hook Points
TO CONVERT TO BAGGING OR
DISCHARGING
Simply remove mulcher plate and store in
a safe place. Your mower is now ready for
discharging or installation of optional
grass catcher accessory.
NOTE: It is not necessary to change
blades. The mulcher blades are de
signed for discharging and bagging also.
CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
The tires on your tractor were overin
flated at the factory for shipping pur
poses. Correct tire pressure is important
for best cutting performance.
• Reduce tire pressure to PSl shown in
“PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS”
section of this manual*
CHECK DECK LEVELNESS
For best cutting results, mower housing
should be properly leveled. See “TO
LEVEL MOWER HOUSING” in the
Service and Adjustments section of this
manual.
CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF ALL BELTS
See the figures that are shown for
replacing motion and mower blade drive
belts in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual. Verify that the
belts are routed correctly.
CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM
After you learn how to operate your
tractor, check to see that the brake is
properly adjusted. See “TO ADJUST
BRAKE” in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual.
^CHECKLIST
BEFORE YOU OPERATE AND ENJOY
YOUR NEW TRACTOR, WE WISH TO
ASSURE THAT YOU RECEIVE THE
BEST PERFORMANCE AND
SATISFACTION FROM THIS QUALITY
PRODUCT.
PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING
CHECKLIST:
/ All assembly instructions have been
completed.
No remaining loose parts in carton.
/ Battery is properly prepared and
charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6
amps).
/ Seat is adjusted comfortably and
tightened securely.
/ All tires are properly inflated. (For
shipping purposes, the tires were
overinflated at the factory).
/ Be sure mower deck is properly
leveled side-to-side/f rent-to-rear for
best cutting results. (Tires must be
properly inflated for leveling).
/ Check mower and drive belts. Be sure
they are routed properly around pulleys
and inside all belt keepers.
/ Check wiring. See that all connections
are still secure and wires are properly
clamped.
WHILE LEARNING HOWTO USE YOUR
TRACTOR, PAY EXTRA ATTENTION TO
THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT ITEMS:
/ Engine oil is at proper level.
/ Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean,
regular unleaded gasoline.
/ Become familiar with ail controls - their
location and function. Operate them
before you start the engine.
/ Be sure brake system is in safe
operating condition.
10
OPERATION
These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product.
Learn and understand their meaning.
- +
•m
SLOW
BATTERY
A
CAUTION OR
WARNING
•
REVERSE
♦
X
FORWARD FAST
©
ENGINE ON
a
FUEL
CLUTCH ENGAGED
IGNITION
H
ENGINE OFF
'fir'
OIL PRESSURE
l\l
CHOKE
MOWER HEIGHT
R N
REVERSE
ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH DISENGAGED
NEUTRAL
ai ©1
LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP
LIGHT
Isr
J
Hi
©
PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED
LOCKED '
H L (<i
HIGH LOW PARKING BRAKE
KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS
(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)
MOWER LIFT
»11
DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY
11
1—4
FREE WHEEL
(Automatic Models only)
tin
KNOW YOUR TRACTOR
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.
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.
CHOKE CONTROL - Used when starting
a cold engine.
CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL - Used for
declutching and braking the tractor and
starting the engine.
GEARSHIFT LEVER • Selects the speed
and direction of tractor.
HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB - Used to
adjust the mower cutting height.
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 CONTROL - Used to control
engine speed.
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
glasses or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any
adjustments or repairs. We recommend a wide vision safety mask
over spectacles or standard safety glasses.
HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR TO SET PARKING BRAKE
Your tractor is equipped with an operator
presence sensing switch. When engine
is running, any attempt by the operator to
leave the seat without first setting the
parking brake will shut off the engine.
• Depress clutch/brake pedal into full
“BRAKE” position and hold. .
• Place parking brake lever in “EN
GAGED” position and release pres
sure from clutch/brake pedal. Pedal
should remain in "BRAKE” position.
Make sure parking brake will hold
tractor secure. ..i..
Choke
Control
Throttle
Control
Clutch/Brake
Pedal
Adjustment
Knob
Attachment Clutch Lever
“Engaged" Position
“Disengaged”
Posifion
Parking Brake
“Engaged"
Position
jSo'n
STOPPING
MOWER BLADES -
• To stop mower blades,move attach
ment clutch lever to “DISENGAGED"
position.
GROUND DRIVE -
• To stop ground drive, depress clutch/
brake pedal into full “BRAKE" position.
• Move gearshift lever to neutral (N)
position.
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”.
• Turn ignition key to “OFP position and
remove key. Always remove key when
leaving tractor to prevent unauthorized
use.
• Never use choke to stop engine.
IMPORTANT: Leaving the ignition
switch in any position other than "OFF"
will cause the battery to be discharged,
(dead).
NOTE: Under certain conditions when
tractor is standing idle with the engine
running, hot engine exhaust gases may
cause “browning” of grass. To eliminate
this possibility, always stop engine when
stopping tractor on grass areas.
CAUTION: Always stop tractor
completely, as described above, before
leaving the operator's position; to empty
grass catcher, etc.
TO USE 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.
TO USE CHOKE CONTROL
Use choke control whenever you are
starting a cold engine. Do not use to start
a warm engine.
• To engage choke control, pull knob
out. Slowly push knob in to disen
gage.
TO MOVE FORWARD AND
BACKWARD
The direction and speed of movement is
controlled by the gearshift lever.
• Start tractor with clutch/brake pedal
depressed and gearshift lever in
neutral (N) position.
• Move gearshift lever to desired
position.
• Slowly release clutch/brake pedal to
start movement.
IMPORTANT: Bring tractor to a complete
stop before shifting or changing gears.
Failure to do so will shorten the useful
life of your transaxle.
TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING
HEIGHT
The cutting height is controlled by
turning the height adjustment knob in
desired direction.
• Turn knob clockwise to raise
cutting height.
13
• Turn knob counterclockwise (>^) to
lower cutting height.
The cutting height range is approxi
mately 1-1/2" to 4". The heights are
measured from the ground to the blade
tip with the engine not running. These
heights are approximate and may vary
depending upon soil conditions, height
of grass and types of grass being
mowed.
• The average lawn should b^ 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, gr^ss
over 6 inches in height should be
mowed twice. Make the first cut
relatively high; the second to desired
height.
TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS
Gauge wheels are properly adjusted
when they are slightly off the ground
when mower is at the desired cutting
height in operating position. Gauge
wheels then keep the deck in proper
position to help prevent scalping in most
terrain conditions. .
• Adjust gauge wheels with tractor on a
flat level surface.
• Adjust mower to desired cutting height
(See TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING
HEIGHT in the Operation section of
this manual).
• With mower in desired height of cut
position, gauge wheels should be
assembled so they are slightly off the
ground. Install gauge wheel in
appropriate hole with shoulder bolt, 3/
8 washer, and 3/8-16 locknut and
tighten securely.
• Repeat for opposite side installing
gauge wheel in same adjustment hole.
3/8-16
Locknut
Gauge
Wheel
Mounting
Bracket
3/8 Washer
Gauge Wheel
C / Shoulder
^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.
• Lower mower with attachment lift
control.
• Start mower blades by engaging
attachment clutch control.
• TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disen
gage attachment clutch control.
A CAUTION: Do not operate the mower
without either the entire grass catcher, on
mowers so equipped, or the discharge
guard in place.
Attachment Clutch Lever “Engaged
Position
“Disengag
Position
Attachemnt Lift
Lever High
Position
Low
Positon
Discharge
Guard
TO OPERATE ON HILLS
4 CAUTION: Do not drive up or down
hills with slopes greater than 15® and do
not drive across any slope.
• Choose the slowest speed before
starting up or down hills.
• Avoid stopping or changing speed on
hills.
• If slowing is necessary, move throttle
control lever to slower position.
• if stopping is absolutely necessary,
push clutch/brake pedal quickly to
brake position and engage parking
brake.
• Move gearshift lever to 1st gear. Be
sure you have allowed room for tractor
to roll slightly as you restart movement.
• To restart movement, slowly release
parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.
• Make alt turns slowly.
TO TRANSPORT
• Raise attachment lift to highest
position with attachment lift control.
• When pushing or towing your tractor,
be sure gearshift lever is in neutral (N)
position.
• Do not push or tow tractor at more than
five (5) MPH.
NOTE; To protect hood from damage
when transporting your tractor on a truck
or a trailer, be sure hood is closed and
secured to tractor. Use an appropriate
means of tying hood to tractor (rope,
cord, etc.).
14
TOWING CARTS AND OTHER ATTACHMENTS
Tow only the attachments that are
recommended by and comply with
specifications of the manufacturer of your
tractor. Use common sense when towing.
Too heavy of a load, while on a slope, is
dangerous. Tires can lose traction with
the ground and cause you to lose control
of your tractor. .
BEFORE STARTING THE ENIGNE
CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL
• The engine in your tractor has been
shipped, from the factory, already filled
with summer weight oil.
• Check engine oil with tractor on level
ground.
• Remove oil fill cap/dipstick and wipe
clean, reinsert the dipstick and screw
cap tight, wait for a few seconds,
remove and read oil level. If 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 CHARr in the Customer
Responsibilities 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 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.
A WARNING: Experience indicates that
^ohol blended fuels (called gasohol or
using ethanol or methanol) can attract
moisture which leads to separation and
formation of acids during storage. Acidic
gas can damage the fuel system of an
engine while in storage. To avoid engine
problems, the fuel system should be
emptied before storage of 30 days or
longer. Drain the gas tank, start the
engine and let it run until the fuel lines
and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel
next season. See Storage Instructions
for additional information. Never use
engine or carburetor cleaner products in
the fuel tank or permanent damage may
occur.
ACAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank
filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any
spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or
use gasoline near an open flame.
TO START ENGINE
When starting the engine for the first time
or If the engine has run out of fuel, it will
take extra cranking time to move fuel
from the tank to the engine.
• Sit on seat in operating position,
depress clutch/brake pedal and set
parking brake.
• Place gear shift lever in neutral (N)
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 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, 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. It the engine
starts to run roughly, pull the choke
control out slightly 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
15 starts to run roughly, pull the choke
control out slightly 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.
• The attachments can be used during
the engine warm-up period and may
require the choke control be pulled out
slightly. ,
NOTE: If at a high altitude (above 3000
feet) or in cold temperatures (below 32
F) the carburetor fuel mixture may need-
to be adjusted for best engine perfor
mance. See TO ADJUST CARBURE
TOR” in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual.
MOWING TIPS
• Tire chains cannot be used when the
mower housing is attached to tractor.
• Mower should be properly leveled for
best mowing performance. See TO
LEVEL MOWER HOUSING” in the
Service and Adjustments section of
this manual.
• The left hand side of mower should be
used for trimming.
• Drive so that clippings are discharged
onto the area that has been cut. Have
the cut area to the right of the tractor.
This will result in a more even distribu
tion of clippings and more uniform
cutting.
• When mowing large areas, start by
turning to the right so that clippings will
discharge away from shrubs, fences,
driveways, etc. After one or two
rounds, mow in the opposite direction
making left hand turns until finished.
• If grass is extremely tall, it should be
mowed twice to reduce load and
possible fire hazard from dried
clippings. Make first cut relatively
high; the second to the desired height.
• Do not mow grass when it is wet. Wet
grass will plug mower and leave
undesirable clumps.. Allow grass to
dry before mowing.
• Always operate engine at full throttle
when mowing to assure better mowing
performance and proper discharge of
material. Regulate ground speed by
selecting a low enough gear to give
the mower cutting performance as well
as the quality of cut desired.
• When operating attachments, select a
ground speed that will suit the terrain
and give best performance of the
attachment being used.
r
1
_____
J
J
>
V J
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 wi|l biodegrade quickly
to provide nutrients for the lawn.
Always mulch with your highest
engine (blade) speed as this will
provide the best recutting action of the
blades, '
• Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet.
Wet grass tends to form clumps and
interferes with the mulching action.
The best time to mow your lawn is the
early afternoon. At this time the grass
has dried and the newly cut area will
not be exposed to the direct sun.
• For best results, adjust the mower
cutting height so that the mower cuts
off only the top one-third of the grass
blades. For extremely heavy mulching,
reduce your width of cut on each pass
and mow slowly.
• Certain types of grass and grass
conditions may require that an area be
niulched 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.
K.
16
MAINTENANCE
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
FILL IN DATES
AS YOU COMPLETE
REGULAR SERVICE
Check Brake Operatiorr
Check Tire Pressure
Check Operator Presence and
Interlock Systems
Check for Loose Fasteners '
Sharpen/Replace Mower Blades
Lubrication Chart
Check Battery Level
Clean Battery and Terminals
Check Transaxle Cooling
Adjust Blade Belt(s) Tension
Adjust Motion Drive Belt(s) Tension
Check Engine Oil Level
Change Engine Oil
Clean Air Biter
Clean Air Screen
Inspect Mufller/Spark Arrester
Replace Oil Filter (If equipped)
Clean Engine Cooling Rns
Replace Spark Plug
Replace Mr Filter Paper Cartridge
Replace Fuel Filter
1 ~ Change more often when operating under a heav7 load or in high ambient temperatures.
2 - Service more often when operating in dirty or dusty conditions.
3 * H equipped with oit filter, change oit every 50 hours.
4 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil.
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this tractor does not
cover Items that have been subjected to
operator abuse or negligence. To
receive full value from the warranty,
operator must maintain tractor as
instructed in this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made
periodically to properly maintain your
tractor.
All adjustments in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual
should be checked at least once each
season.
• Once a year you should replace the
spark plug, clean or Replace air filter,
and check blades and belts for wear.
A new spark plug and clean air filter
assure 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 loose fasteners.
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
SERVICE DATES
✓ 7
✓ 4
✓ ✓
✓ e
✓
✓
✓ s
✓ 5
✓ 2
✓ 2
✓
|/.2
✓ 2'
✓
✓ 2
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
If equipped with adjustable system.
Not required if equipped with maintenance^free battery.
Tighten front axte pivot bolt to 3S ft.-lbs. manmum.
Do not overtighten.
LUBRICATION CHART
®SAE 30 or 10w30 MOTOR OIL
©GENERAL PURPOSE GREASE
©REFER TO Maintenance “ENGINE” SECTlOh
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease the pivoi
points which have special nylon bearings.
Viscous lubricants will attract dust and dirt
that will shorten the life of the self-lubricat
ing bearings. If you feel they must be
lubricated, use only a dry, powdered
graphite type lubricant sparingly.
17
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