Craftsman 917270841 User Manual

Owner's Manual

16.0 HP

ELECTRIC START
42" MOWER
AUTOMATIC

LAWN TRAOTO

Model No.

917.270841

Safety
Assembly

Operation

o Maintenance
o Repair Parts

CAUTBON:

Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions

before operating this equip-
ment.

For answers to your questions
about this product, Call:

1°800=859=5917

Sears Craftsman Help Line

5 am _5 pro, Mon - Sat

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

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

Safety Rules .................................................. 2

Product Specifications ............................ 5

Assembly ................................................ 6

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

Maintenance Schedule .......................... 18

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT
For' two (2) years from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Riding Equipment is main-

tained, 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:
o Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as blades, spark

plugs, air cleaners, belts, etc.

° Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails,

thorns, stumps, or glass.

° Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, negligence, improper storage or acci-

dent or the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions contained in

the owner's rnanual.

o 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 equip-

ment proves defective in material or workmanship and our testing determines the bat-
tery wilt 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 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 only while this product is in the United States_ This Warranty gives you

specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which may vary from state to
state_

Sears, Roebuck and Co., D/817 WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

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

Service and Adjustments ....................... 22

Storage ................................................. 28

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

Repair Parts ......................................... 34

Parts Ordering ....................... Back Cover

GENERAL OPERATgON

o 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.

o 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 absolute_

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

o 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 turning
o Never leave a running machine unat-

tended, Always turn off blades, set park-
ing brake, stop engine, and remove

keys before dismounting°

2

o Turnoffbladeswhen not mowing°

o Stop engine before removing grass

catcher or unclogging chute.

o Mow only in daylight or good artificial

light.

• Do not operate the machine while under
the influence of alcohol or drugs.

o Watch for traffic when operating near or

crossing roadways.

o Use extra care when loading or unload-

ing the machine into a trailer or truck.

SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to Ioss-_

of-control and tipover accidents, which

can result in severe injury or death° All
slopes require extra caution. If you cannot

back up the slope or if you fee! uneasy on
it, do not mow it.
DO:

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

limbs, etc.

o Watch for hoies, ruts, or bumps. Uneven

terrain could overturn the machine.. Tall
grass can hide obstacles°

o Use slow speed. Choose a tow gear so

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

o Follow the manufacturer's recommen-

dations for wheel weights or counter-

weights to improve stability°

o Use extra care with grass catchers or

other attachments These can change

the stability of the machine_

o Keep all movement on the slopes stow

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

o Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If

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

slope°

DO NOT:

o Do not turn on slopes unless necessary,

and then, turn slowly and gradually
downhill, if possible.

o 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 ino

° Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced

traction could cause sliding_

o Do not try to stabilize the machine by

putting your foot on the ground.

o 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°

o Be alert and turn machine off if children

enter the area.

o Before and when backing, look behind

and down for small children.

° Never carry children. They may fall off

and be sedously injured or interfere with
safe machine operation.

• Never allow children to operate the
machine.

° Use extra care when approaching blind

corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects

that may obscure vision.

SERVICE
o 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 heater,,

o Never run a machine inside a closed

area°

o Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade

attachment bolts, tight and keep equip-
ment in good condition.

o Never tamper with safety devices°

Check their proper operation regularly.

o Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or

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

storing.

° Stop and inspect the equipment if you

strike an object° Repair, if necessary,

3

Never make adjustments or repairs with

the engine running°

o

Grass catcher components are subject

to wear, damage, and deterioration,
which could expose moving parts or

allow objects to be thrown. Frequently
check components and replace with

manufacturer's recommended parts,
when necessary_

° Mower blades are sharp and can 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.

o Never carry passengers_
o 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

safe machine operation.

o Keep children out of the mowing area

and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult,

o Be alert and turn machine off if children

enter the area.

• Before and when backing, look behind
and down for small children°

,_kLook for this symbol to point out impor-
tant safety precautions. It means CAU-

TION!!! BECOME AWARE!!! YOUR SAFE-
TY tS INVOLVED.

° Mow up and down slopes (15 ° Max), not

across°

o 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_

o Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so

that you will not have to stop or shift

while on the slope.

o Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If

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

slope.

• Do not turn on slopes unless necessary,
and then, turn slowly and gradually
downhill, if possible.

,_kWARNING: The engine exhaust from

this product contains chemicals known to
the State of California to cause cancer,

birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

,_kCAUTtON: 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
it cannot contact spark plug.

z[

PRODUCT SPECiFiCATiONS

GASOLINE 1.25 GALLONS
CAPACITY
AND TYPE: UNLEADED

REGULAR

OIL TYPE

API-SF/SGiSH):

OIL CAPACITY: 30 PINTS

SPARK PLUG: Champion RC12YC

GAP: .030")

GROUND SPEED FORWARD: 0- 5.7

(MPH): REVERSE: 0- 2.7

TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: t4 PSI

CHARGING 3 AMPS BATTERY

SYSTEM: 5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS
BATTERY: AMP/HR: 25

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..

Please read and retain this manual. The
instructions will enable you 'to assemble

and maintain your tractor properly. Always
observe the "SAFETY RULES'L

SAE 30
(above 32°F)

SAE 5W-30
(below 32°F)

REAR: 12 PSI

MIN CCA:190

CASE SIZE: U1R

MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT
A Sears Maintenance Agreement is avail-

able on this product Contact your nearest
Sears store for details..

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
= Read and observe the safety rules

o Follow a regular schedule in maintain °

ing, caring for and using your tractor.

o Follow the instructions under "Mainte-

nance" and "Storage" sections of this
owner's manual.

._WARNING: This tractor is equipped

with an internal combustion engine and
should not be used on or near any 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 California the above is

required by law (Section 4442 of the
California Public Resources Code). Other
states may have similar laws.. Federal
laws apply on federal lands.. A spark

arrester for the muffler is available through
your nearest Sears Authorized Service
Center (See REPAIR PARTS section of
this manual)°

(1) Large Fiat Washer

(1) Hex Bolt

3/8-16 x 1

(1) Lockwasher

3/8

(1) Shoulder Bolt

5/16-18

(1) Washer

17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge

(1) Hex Bolt

5/16-18× 1-1/4

(1) Locknut

5/16-18

(1) Knob

(2) Hex Bo!ts !/4-20 × &_4

@_ (2) Washers

(2) Hex Nuts i14-20

(2) Lock Washers 1/4

/32 x5/8 x !8 Gauge

6

PARTS BAG CONTENTS SHOWN FULL SiZE

(2) Screws _ (2) Lock

#10 x 5/8 L_._ Washers #10

(2) Weld Nuts

#10

(2) Washers

3/16 x 3/4 x 16 Gauge

Parts packet separately in carton

Seat

Video

Cassette

St_rmgWhe_ Parts Bag

Steering ,

Boot

Manual

Parts Bag contents not shown full size

(2) Latch Hook

Assemblies

Steering

Wheel Insert

Steering Wheel

Adapter

(2) Keys

Steering =

Extension

Shaft

o

Slope Sheet

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 REQUIIRED FOR

ASSEMBLY

A socket wrench set will make assembly

easier. Standard wrench sizes you need

are listed below.
(1) 9/16" wrench

(2) 7/16" wrenches
(2) 1/2" wrench
(1) 3/4" 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).

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM
CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

o Remove all accessible loose parts and

parts boxes from shipping carton (See
page 6).

o Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on

all four corners of shipping carton, and
lay panels flat.

o Check forany additional loose parts or

boxes and remove.

(1) 3/4" Socket wi

drive rachet

(1) Phillips Screw-

driver

(1) Tire pressure

gauge

o Assemble large flat washer, 3/8 lock

washer, 3/8 hex bolt and tighten securely.

, Snap steering wheel insert into center

of steering wheel.

o Remove protective materials from trac-

tor hood and grill°

IMPORTANT: Check for' and remove any
staples in skid that may puncture tires

where tractor is to roll off skid°

Insert

Wheel _Boot

/_,/_ Adapter

Extension __

Shaft5/16 L__/5/1 Bolt6 Hex

BEFORE ROLLBNG TRACTOR OFF

SKSD

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND
BOOT

o Slide extension shaft onto lower steer-

ing shaft. Align mounting holes in exten-
sion and lower shafts and install 5/16

hex bolt and locknuL Tighten securely.

IMPORTANT: Tighten bolt and nut secure-
ly to 18-22 ft. Ibs. torque.

o Place tabs of steering boot over tab

slots in dash and push down to secure.

INSTALL STEERING WHEEL
o Position front wheels of the tractor' so

they are pointing straight forward.

Slide steering wheel _dapter onto steer-
ing shaft extension°

o Position steering wheel so cross bars

are horizontal (left to right) and slide

inside boot and onto adapter:

. ,'-'- __..,'.,.

Lower Steering.,_.€_...._,_ "-"_'_--,

Shaft , ' "',

t_ t .1 t

, ,,

TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See
Operation section for location and

function of controls)
o Press liftlever plunger and raise attach-

ment lift lever to its highest position,

o Release parking brake by depressing

clutch!brake pedal.

o Place freewheel control in freewheeling

position to disengage transmission (See

"TO TRANSPORT" in the Operation
section of this manual),

• Rotl tractor forward off skid,
= Remove banding holding discharge

guard up against tractor'.

8

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR

CONNECT BATTERY

,_kCAUTION: Do not short battery termi-

nals by allowing a wrench or any other
object to contact both terminals at the
same time. Before connecting battery, re-
move metal bracelets, wristwatch bands,

rings, etc. Positive terminal must be con-

nected first to prevent sparking from acci-
dental grounding.

• Remove cardboard packing from seat
pan and lift seat pan to raised position.

° Open battery box door and remove pro-

tective plastic°

• Remove terminal protective caps and
discard.

° If this batter,! 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.

° First connect RED battery cable to posi-

tive (+) terminal with hex bolt, flat wash-
er, lock washer and hex nut as shown.

Tighten securely_

• Connect BLACK grounding cable to
negative (-) terminal with remaining hex
bolt, flat washer, lock washer and hex

nut. Tighten securely.

o Close battery box door.
Open battery box door for:

o Inspection for secure connections

(to tighten hardware),

° inspection for corrosion
o Testing battery,

• Jumping (if required).

• Periodic charging.

Positive Discard Terminal
(Red) Cable Proctective Caps

Lock Washer

Flat VVasher

Hex Hex Bolt

Negative
(Black)

iNSTALL SEAT

Adjust seat before tightening adjustment

knob.

o Remove cardboard packing on seat pan.
o Place seat on seat pan and assemble

shoulder bolt. Tighten shoulder bolt
securely.

o Assemble adjustment knob and flat

washer loosely. Do not tighten.
Lower seat into operating position and

sit on seat.

• Slide seat until a comfortable position is
reached which allows you to press
clutch/brake pedal all the way down.

° Get off seat without moving its adjusted

position.

o Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob

securely,

Seat

Seat Pan

Shoulder !

Bolt

@

_ Fiat Washer

Adjustment Knob

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

The tires on your tractor were overinflated
at the factory for shipping purposes,
Correct tire pressure is important for best

cutting performance°
o Reduce tire pressure to PSi shown in

=PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" on page
5 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 replac-
ing motion and mower blade drive belts in
the Service and Adjustments sectoin of

thismanual. Verifythat the belts are muted
correctly°

Battery
Door

9

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM
After you learn how to operate your trac-

tor,check to see that the brake is propedy
adjusted. See =TOADJUST BRAKE" in

the Service and Adjustments section of
this manual.

iNSTALL MULCHER PLATE

o Install two latch hooks to rnulcher 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.
o Raise and holddeflector shield in up-

rightposition.

° Place front of muicher plate over front of

mower deck opening and slideinto
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.

WeldNutFrom HookPoints
TheTop Down

Lock

Weld Washer

Latch Latch

Hook

Nut

Washer

Mulcher
Plate

Deflector
Shield

Screw

_ Latch

Lock Washer

Washer

Hooks

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 mutcher blades are designed

for discharging and bagging also.

CHECKLIST

PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING

CHECKLIST:

All assembly instructions have been
completed.

No remaining loose parts in carton.

e/ Battery is properly prepared and

charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 arnps)

_' Seat is adjusted comfortably and

tightened securely.

_' All tires are propedy inflated. (For

shipping purposes, the tires were

overinflated at the factory).

v' Be sure mower deck is properly levele_

side-to-side!front..to-rear for best

cutting results. (Tires must be properl_
inflated for leveling).

e/ Check mower and drive belts. Be sure

they are routed properly around pulley
and inside all belt keepers.

_' Check wiring. See that al! connections

are still secure and wires are properly
clamped.

Before driving tractor, be sure free-
wheel control is in drive position.

WHILE LEARNING HOW TO USE YOUP
TRACTOR, PAY EXTRA ATTENTION TC

THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT ITEMS:
,/ Engine oil is at proper level.

,/ Fuel tank is filled with fresh, cl"ean,

regular unleaded gasoline.

v" Become familiar with all controls - thei

location and function. Operate them
before you start the engine.

,/ Be sure brake system is in safe opera

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).

i0

These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product.

Learn and understand their meaning.

E3

BATTERY

ENGtNE ON

FUEL

A'N'ACHMENT

CLUTCH ENGAGED

CAUTION OR REVERSE

WARNING

@

ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE

CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT

REVERSE NEUTRAL

FORWARD FAST

LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP

PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED

LOCKED

LIGHT

L

HIGH

LOW

SLOW

MOWER LIFT

PARKING BRAKE

ATTACHMENT

IGNITION

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

SLOPE HAZARDSKEEP AREA CLEAR

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

FREE WHEEL

(Automalic Models only)

I1

KNOW YOUR TRACTOR
READ THBS 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,

Light Switch

Attachment Ignition
Clutch Lever Switch

Position

\

Ammeter

Lift Lever

Throttle!Choke

Control

Plunger

Attachment
Lift Lever

©

Clutch/Brake

Control

Freewheel
Control

÷

Height
Adjustment

Indicator

Parking

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 attach

ments mounted to your tractor
LIGHT SWITCH: Turns the headlights on

and off
THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL: Used to

control engine speed

CLUTCWBRAKE PEDAL: Used for
declutching and braking the tractor and

starting the engine.
FREEWHEEL CONTROL: Disengages

transmission for pushing or slowly towing
the tractor with the engine off°

Motion
Control Lever

MOTION CONTROL LEVER: Selects the

speed and direction of the tractor:

ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER: Used to
raise and lower the mower deck or other

attachments mounted to your tractor

LiFT LEVER PLUNGER: Used to release

attachment lift lever when changing its
position

iGNITiON SWITCH: Used for starting and
stopping the engine
AMMETER: Indicates battery charging (+)
or discharging ()

PARKING BRAKE: Locks clutch/brake
into the brake position

12

repairs,,Werecommendawidevisionsafetymaskoverthespectacles,or
standardsafetyglasses.

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

o Depress clutch/brake pedal into full

"BRAKE" position and hold.

• Place parking brake lever in "EN-
GAGED" position and release pressure
from clutch/brake pedal,, Pedal should

remain in "BRAKE" position. Make sure
parking brake will hold tractor secure,,

Attachment Clutch

Throttle/Choke Lever "Engaged"

Controt Position

"" "Disengaged"

.,,__.<. ..Position

"Brake" I _ Parking Brake

Position___ ' "Engaged"

_Z "-_ _ . _ Position

Pedal "Drive .... Disengaged" Control

Position Position Lever

STOPPING
MOWER BLADES -

o To stop mower blades, move attach-

ment clutch Lever to "DISENGAGED"
position.

GROUND DRIVE-
o To stop ground drive, depress

clutch/brake pedal into full "BRAKE" po_
sitiono

o Move motion control lever to neutral (N)

position.

IMPORTANT: The motion control lever
does not return to neutral (N) position

when the clutch/brake pedal is depressed.

ENGINE -

o 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 "OFF" position and

remove key_Always remove key when
leaving tractor to prevent unauthorized use.

o Never use choke to stop engine,,
NOTE: Under certain conditions when

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

pping tractor on grass areas,,

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.
o Operating engine at less than full throt-

tle reduces the battery charging rate,,

o Full throttle offers the best bagging and

mower performance,,

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD
The direction and speed of movement is

controlled by the motion control lever,
o Start tractor with motion control lever in

neutral (N) position.

o Release parking brake and clutch/brake

pedal.

o Slowly move motion control lever to

desired position.

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT

The position of the attachment lift lever

determines the cutting height,,
° Grasp lift lever°

o Press plunger with thumb and move

lever to desired position.

The cutting height range is approximately

1-1/2 to 4". The heights are measured

from the ground to the blade tip with the

engine not running° These heights are
approximate and may vary depending
upon soil conditions, height of grass and

types of grass being mowed.
o The average lawn should be cut to

approximately 2-1/2 inches during the
cool season and to over 3 inches during

13

hot months. For healthier and better
looking lawns, mow often and after

moderate growth.

o For best cutting performance, grass

over 6 inches in heightshould be
mowed twice. Make the first cut relative-

ly high; the second to desired height.

TO OPERATE ON HILLS
,_kCAUTBON: Do not drive up or down

hillswith slopes greater than 15° and do
not drive across any slope. Use the slope

guide provided at the back of this manual.
o Choose the slowest speed before start-

ing up or down hills°

o Avoid stopping or changing speed on

hills.

° If slowing is necessary, move throttle

control lever to slower position.

° if stopping is absolutely necessary, push

clutcWbrake pedal quickly tobrake 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°

o To restart movement, slowly release

parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.

o Slowly move motion control lever to

slowest setting.

o Make all turns slowly.

Attachment Lift

Attachment Clutch Lever High Position
Lever "Engaged"

Position /

"Disengaged _ Low

Position Position

TO TRANSPORT
When pusl_ing or towing your tractor, be

sure to disengage transmission by placing
freewheel control in freewheeling position,

Freewheel control is located at the rear

drawbar of tractor:
,, Raise attachment lift to highest position

with attachment lift control.

o Putl freewheel control knob out and hotd

in position by inserting retainer spring
into forward hole of control rod.

= Do not push or tow tractor at more than

two (2) MPH°

o To reengage transmission, reverse

above procedure.

NOTI_: To protect hood from damage when
transporting your tractor on a truck or a
trailer, be sure hood is closed and secured

to tractor: Use an appropriate means of
tying hood to tractor (rope, cord, etc..).

TOWING CARTS AND OTHER

ATTACHMENTS

Tow only the attachments that are recom-

mended by and comply with specifications

of the manufacturer of your tractor. Use
common sense when towing. Too heavy of

a load, while on a slope, is dangerous.
Tires can lose traction with the ground and
cause you to lose control of your tractor:

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE

CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL _.

o 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.

o 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.

14

o 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°

IMPORTANT: When operating in tempera-
tures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh, clean

winter grade gasoline to help insure good

dweather starting.

ARNtNG: Experience indicates that

alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or
using ethanol or methanol) can attract

moisture which leads to separation and

formation of acids during storage° Acidic

gas can damage the fuel system of an
engine while in storage. To avoid engine

problems, the fuel system should be emp-

tied 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 informa-

tiono Never use engine or carburetor
cleaner products in the fuel tank or perma-
nent damage may occur.

_kCAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank

filler neck. Do not overfill° Wipe off any
spilled oil or fuel.. Do not store, spill or use
gasoline near an open flamen
TO START ENGINE

When starting the engine for the first time
or if the engine has run out of fuel, it will
take extra cranking time to move fuel from
the tank to the engine.

° Be sure freewheel control is in the

transmission engaged position.

- Sit on seat in operating position, depress
clutcl_rake pedal and set parking brake.

o Place motion control lever in neutral (N)

position,.

° Move attachment clutch to "DISEN-

GAGED" position..

° Move throttle control to choke position.

NOTE: Before starting, read the warm and
cold starting procedures below.

. Insert key into ignition and turn key

clockwise to "START" position and
release key as soon as engine starts.
Do not run starter continuously for more

than fifteen seconds per minute,, if the
engine does not start after several
attempts, move throttle control to fast

position, wait a few minutes and try
again° If engine still does not start,

move the throttle control back to the
choke position and retry..

WARM WEATHER STARTING (50 ° F and
above)

o When engine starts, move the throttle

control to the fast position.

° The attachments and ground drive can

now be used. If the engine does not
accept the load, restart the engine and

allow it to warm up for one minute using

the choke as described above.

COLD WEATHER STARTING ( 50 ° F and

below)

o When engine starts, allow engine to run

with the throttle control in the choke
position until the engine runs roughly,

then move throttle control to fast posi-
tion. This may require an engine warm-
up period from several seconds to sev-
eral minutes, depending on the temper-

ature.

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WARM UP
o Before driving the unit in cold weather,

the transmission should be warmed up
as follows:

• Be sure the tractor is on level ground.,
o Place the motion control lever in neutral

Release the parking brake and let the

clutch/brake slowly return to operating
position,,

o Allow one minute for transmission to

warm up. This can be done during the
engine warm up period,

o The attachments can also be used dur-

ing the engine warm-up period after the

transmission has been warmed up.

NOTE: 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 performance°
See "TO ADJUST CARBURETOR" in the

Service and Adjustments section of this
manual..

15

PURGE 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-
missionbe purged before operating tractor

for the first time. This procedure will

remove any trapped air inside the trans-
missionwhich 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.
o Place tractor safely on level surface with

engine off and parPJngbrake set.

o Disengage transmission by placing free-

wheel control in freewheeling position

(See =TO TRANSPORT" in this section
of manual).

o Sitting inthe 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

holdfor five (5) seconds. Repeat this

procedure three (3) times,

NOTE: During this procedure there willbe

no movement of drive wheels. The air is
being removed from hydraulic ddve sys,o

tern.
o Move motion control lever to neutral (N)

position. Shut off engine and set parking

brake.

° Engage transmission by placingfree-

wheel control in drivingposition (See

'qO TRANSPORT" in this section of
manual).

o Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine.

After the engine is running,move throt-

tle control to half (1/2) speed. With
motion control lever in neutral (N) posi-

tion,slowly disengage clutch/brake
pedal.

o Slowly move motion control lever for-

ward; after thetractor moves approxi-

mately five (5) feet, slowly move motion

control lever to reverse position.After
the tractor moves approximately five (5)
feet return the motion control lever to

the neutral (N) position. Repeat this pro-

cedure with the motion control lever
three (3) times,

° Your tractor is now purged and ready for

normal operation.

MOWHNG TiPS
o 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.

o The left hand side of mower should be

used for* trimming.

• Drive so that clippings are discharged onto
the area that has been cuL Have the cut area

tothe rightof the tractor.This will resultina

more even distributionofclippingsand more

uniform cutting.

o When mowing large areas, start by turn-

ing to the dght so that clippings will dis-
charge away from shrubs, fences, drive-
ways, 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 possi-

ble fire hazard from dried clippings.
Make first cut relatively high; tile second

to the desired height.

o Do not mow grass when it is wet. Wet

grass will plug mower and leave unde-
sirable clumps. Allow grass to dry

before mowing.

o Always operate engine at full throttte

when mowing to assure better mowing

performance and proper discharge of
matedal. Regulate ground speed by se*
lecting a low enough gear to give the
mower the best cutting performance as

well as the quality of cut desired.

o When operating attachments, select a

ground speed that will suit the terrain
and give best performance of the at-
tachment being used.

16

MULCHING MOWING TaPS
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 lawno Always

mulch with your highest engine (blade)
speed as this wilt provide the best recut-

ting action of the blades_

o Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet

Wet grass tends to form clumps and

interferes with the mulching action. The
best time to mow your lawn is the early

afternoon. At this time the grass has
dried and the newly cut area will not be
exposed to the direct sun°

. For best results, adjust the mower 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°

o Certain types of grass and grass condi-

tions may require that an area 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°

o 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 lawno

Max 1/3

17

CUSTOMER RESPONSgBgUTIES

Check Brake Operation _

Check Tire Pressure _ _#' .....

Check Operator Presence and

T L.IntedOck Systems ..............

R Check forLoOse Fasteners _ _ - 6/'7 .............6_'

(A S.,_RoplsceMoworBlades :]..........._',- ,....

Lubri=_0nC"a,_............... _ _ ....

T , J_

(} ,,Check Batte_ Level ................ ......._ ___

R clean Battery and Terminals/Recharge _ , _#P .............

Check Trenssxle Cooling _#'

"Adjust Blade Belt(s)TensiOn = _ _#'s

....... Adjust Motion Drive Belt(s) Tension ...... 8##'s I ! I I i

Check Engine Oil Level _#
Change Engine Oil

E €iea,'"Ai;_,_; ..........

N Clean Air Screen

Inspect Muffler/Spad_ Arrestor

#o RePl_ce Oii Filter(Ifequipped)

E €ieanEngine Cooling Fins

V'21 ............

................ , ....... ,.,,,_ Ip2 .

R_p!,a,cesp.amPlug.......

Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge

_,acoFue,F,,ier..................... J ..... ,

I - Ch_ng_ r'r_ro of;Ion when o_perating unde€ _ hosw load o_ In h_gh m'nbtent tomporatures 5 - If oquippod wib% Bdjustablo system,

2 - Set,co mm*e often when operating tn dittyor dusty conditions
3 - If equipped w_th otl fitter, change oil every 50 hours

4 - Flopl=o btodos moro o[ten when mowing In sandy soil.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATnONS

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 insbucted in this manual. Some
adjustments will need to be made periodi-

cally to properly maintain your tractor.

@FrontWheel
BearingZerk Zerk

All adjustments in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual should

be checked at least once each season.
o 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.

Clutch

Pivot(s)

@SAE 30 or 10w30 Moto_ OIL

BEFORE EACH USE

!MPORTANT; Do not oi! or grease the pivot

° Check brake operation°
o Check tire pressure.

Check operator presence and interlock
systems for' proper operation.

o Check for loose fastener&

points which have special nylon bear-ings.

Viscous lubricants will attract dust and dirt
that will shorten the life of the self-lubricating

bearings. If you feel they must be lubricated,
use only a dr/, powdered graphite type lubri-

cant sparingly

18

6 - Not required if equipped with maintenance-free b=ttew

7 - Ttghtet_ front rode pivot bolt to 35 tL4bs maximum

Do not ovo_ghten

LUBRiCATiON CHART

Spindle

Zerk Zerk

Wheel

Beadng

Engine

General Purpose Grease
Refer to Maintenance "Engine" Section

Front