Craftsman 917.270860 User Manual

Owner’s Manual

CRnFTSMRH^

20.5 HP ELECTRIC START 42” MOWER

AUTOMATIC

LAWN TRACTOR

Model No.

917.270860

Safety

Assembly

Operation

Maintenance Repair Parts

] This product has a low emission engine which operates

' *

' differently from previously built engines. Before you start the

engine, read and understand this Owner’s Manual.

CAUTION:

Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions before operat ing this equipment.

For answers to your questions about this product, Call:

1-800-659-5917

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

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates. II60179

Visit our Craftsman websiteiwww.sears.com/craftsman

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Warranty Safety Rules

Product Specifications

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

Operation Maintenance Schedule

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-\ 1

2 2 5

Maintenance Service and Adjustments

Storage................................................'29

Troubleshooting Repair Parts

Parts Ordering

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Back Cover

30 34

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 soark plugs, air cleaners, belts, etc. ’ ^

• Jre 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 accident 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, tn-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 wilt

still be available 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 mav vary from state to state. '

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

SAFETY RULES

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is

capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow all

instructions 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 direction and do not point it at anyone. Do not operate the mower without

either the entire grass catcher or the guard in place.

SAFETY RULES

Slow down before turning. Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn off blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and

remove keys before dismounting. Turn off blades when not mowing. 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 unloading 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 cannot back up the slope or if you 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 ob stacles.

• 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 not turn on slopes unless neces

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

Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or

embankments. The mower could suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.

Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced

traction could cause sliding.

Do not 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 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 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 engine to cool before refueling. Do not smoke.

- Never refuel the machine indoors.

- Never store the machine or fuel container inside where there is an open flame, such as a water heater.

Never run a machine inside a closed area.

Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment bolts, tight and keep equipment in good condition. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly.

SAFETY RULES

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,

before restarting.

Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine running.

Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service as required.

Be sure №e 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. 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 children enter the area.

A Look for this symbol to point out important safety precautions. It means CAUTION!!! BECOMEAWAREM! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

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.

• Before and when backing, look behind

and down for small children.

• Mow up and down slopes (15“ Max), not across. .

• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.

• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obsta

cles.

• Use slow speed. Choose a low gear

so that you wiil 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 turn on slopes unless neces

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

^ WARNING: Tfie engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer,

birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

Á CAUTION; In order to prevent

accidenta! starting when setting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs always disconnect spark plug wire and

place wire where it cannot contact spark

plug.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

GASOLINE CAPACITY

AND TYPE: OILTYPE

(API-SF/SG/SH):

OIL CAPACITY:

SPARK PLUG: (GAP: .030”)

VALVE

CLEARANCE:

GROUND

SPEED (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)

W/FILTER: 3.5PINTS W/0 FILTER: 3.0PINTS

CHAMPION RJ19LM OR J19LM

INTAKE: .004”-.006”

EXHAUST:.007”-.009" FORWARD: 5.5 REVERSE: 2.4 FRONT: 14PSI

REAR: 10PSI

SAMPS BATTERY 5 AMPS HEADLIGHT

AMP/HR: 30 MIN. CCA: 240 CASE SI2E:U1 R

27-35 FT. LBS

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase

of a Craftsman Tractor. It has been designed, engineered and manufactured

to give you the best possible depend

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

etnd maintain your tractor properly. Always observe the “SAFETY RULES”.

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 opera

tor.

In the state of California the above is

required by law (Section 4442 of the

California Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available

through your nearest Sears Authorized

Service Center/Department (See REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).

CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK,

(1) Large Flat Washer

Parts Bag contents shown full size

(1) Hex Bolt

3/8-16x1

(1) Lockwasher 3/8

(1) Hex Bolt

5/16-18x1-1/4

(2) Screws #10 X 5/8

(2) Washers

3/16x3/4 X 16 Gauge

(1) Shoulder Bolt 5/16-18

(1) Washer

17/32x1-3/16x12 Gauge

(2) Lock Washers #10

(2) Weld Nuts #10

CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK

Parts packed separately in carton

Manual

Slope Sheet

Parts Bag contents not shown full size

1—I (2) Latch Hook

Assemblies

Steering

Wheel

Steering Extension Shaft

Parts Bag

Steering Wheel Insert

_______

Steering Wheel

Adapter

(2) Keys

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 {2) 1/2" wrench

(1) Pliers

(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 all accessible loose parts and

parts boxes from shipping carton.

• Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on all four corners of shipping carton, and lay pEuiels flat,

• Remove mower and packing materi als.

■ Check for any additional loose parts or boxes and remove.

BEFORE ROLUNG 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.

Steering Wheel

Extension

Shaft

5/16 Locknut

Lower Steering , Shaft V

• 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).

Steering Wheel Insert

Hex Bolt

Lock Washer

Large Flat

Washer

Steering Boot

Tabs

Adapter

5/16 Hex Bolt

■Tab

>' Slots

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

clutch/brake pedal all the way down.

• Get off seat without moving its

adjusted position.

• Raise seat and tighten adjustment '

knob securely.

Seat

Shoulder Bolt

. ^ - Flat Washer

Adjustment Knob

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

function of controis)

• Press lift lever plunger and raise attachment lift lever to its highest position.

• Release parking brake by depressing clutch/brake 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 b-actor.

TODRiVE TRACTOR OFF SKiD

^ WARNING: Before starting, read,

understand and follow all instructions in the Operation section of this manual. Be sure tractor is in a well-ventilated area.

Be sure the area in front of tractor is clear of other people and objects.

• Be sure all the above assembly steps

have been completed.

• Check engine oil level and fill fuel

tank with gasoline.

• Place freewheel control in ‘transmis sion engaged” position.

• Sit on seat in operating position, depress clutch/brake pedal and set

the parking brake.

• Place motion control lever in neutral

(N) position.

• Press lift lever plunger and raise attachment lift lever to its highest

position.

• Start the engine. After engine has started, move throttle control to idle

position.

• Release parking brake.

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

skid.

• Apply brake to stop tractor, set parking

brake and place motion control lever

in neutral position.

• 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.

^ CAUTION: Do not remove discharge guard from mower. Raise and hold guard when attaching mulcher plate and allow

9 It to rest on plate while in operation.

Hook

Deflector Shield

Latch Hooks

TO CONVERT TO BAGGING OR

DISCHARGING

Simply remove muicher 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 muicher 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 PSI shown in “PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS” section of this manual.

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS

For best cutting results, mower housing should be properly leveled. See TO

LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the

Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF ALL BELTS

See the figures that are shown for replacing motion and mower blade drive belts in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual. Verify that the belts are routed correctly.

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM

After you learn how to operate your tractor, check to see that the brake is

properly adjusted. See TO ADJUST BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

✓ CHECKUST

PLEASE REVIEWTHE 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/front-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.

/ Before driving tractor, be sure free

wheel control is in drive position.

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.

✓ it is important to purge the transmis

sion before operating your tractor for the first time. Foliow proper starting and transmission purging instructions

(See TO START ENGINE” and

“PURGE TRANSMISSION" in the

Operation section of this manual).

OPERATION

Learn and understand their meaning. ^

O A

BATTERY

CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD

WARNING

ENGINE ON

ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP

or in literature supplied with the product

4»

FAST

Os 01

LIGHT

i iXlái © ^ M

FUEL

CHOKE MOVI^R HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED

LOCKED

MOWER LIFT

SLOW

ATTACHMENT REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH

CLITTCH ENGAGED

IGNITION

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

R N H L «Bill

LOW

<SEE SAFETY RULES SECHON)

PARKING BRAKE

i = in

FREE WHEEL

(Automatic Models only)

KNOWYOURTnACTOR

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.

Choke Contro

Throttle Control-

Clutch/ Brake Pedal -

Height

Adjustment

Knob-

Free Wheel

Control ■

Ammeter

Attachment Clutch Lever

Light Switch

Lift Lever Plunger

'Attachment

Lift Lever

i;;:~ Parking Brake Lever

■ Motion Control

Lever

Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the American National Standards

Institute.

AMMETER - Indicates charging (+) or

discharging (-) of battery.

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER - Used

to engage the mower blades, or other attachments mounted to your tractor.

ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER - Used to

raise, lower, and adjust the mower deck or other attachments mounted to your tractor. .

CHOKE CONTROL - Used when starting

a cold engine.

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL - Used for

declutching and braking the tractor and starting the engine.

HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB • Used to

adjust the mower cutting height.

MOTION CONTROL LEVER - Selects the

speed and direction of tractor.

FREEWHEEL CONTROL - Disengages

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

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.

Th© op©ration of any tractor can result in foraign objects thrown into

j the eyes, which can result in severe eye darnage. 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 ciutch/brake pedal into full

“BRAKE” position and hold.

• Place parking brake lever in “EN GAGED” position and release pres sure from clutchAirake pedal. Pedal should remain in “BRAKE” position. Make sure parking brake will hold

tractor secure. Attachment Clutch Lever

Choke Controi

Throttle

Contro

Clutch/

BrakesPedaQ^'^

''Height Motion

“Disengaged", Adjustment W Controi Position Knob “Brake" Lever

“Engaged” Position

“Disengaged”

Position

Parking Brake

“Engaged” Position ^

STOPPING Position

MOWER BLADES -

• To stop mower blades,mov© attach

ment clutch lever to “DISENGAGED” position.

GROUND DRIVE -

• To stop ground drive, depress clutch/

brake pedal into full “BRAKE” position.

• Move motion control lever to neutral

(N) position.

IMPORTANT: The motion control lever

does not return to neutral (N) position when the ciutch/brake pedal is de pressed.

ENGINE-

• Move throttle control to slow position.

NOTE: Failure to move throttle control to

slow position and allowing engine to idle before stopping may cause engine to “backfire".

• 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 BACK WARD

The direction and speed of movement is controlled by the motion controi 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.

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.

• Turn knob counterclockwise (P>) 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 be cut to E^proximately 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

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

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 ^ Attachemnt Lift

Lever High Position

“Disengage Position

TO OPERATE ON HILLS ^CAUTION: Do not drive up or down

hills with slopes greater than 15° and do not drive across any slope.

• Choose the slowest speed before

starting up or down hills.

• 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 motion control lever to neutral

(N) position.

IMPORTANT: The motion control lever

does not return to neutral (N) position

when the clutch/brake pedal is de pressed. .

• To restart movement, slowly release

parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.

• Slowly move motion control lever to

slowest setting.

• Make ail turns slowly.

TO TRANSPORT

When pushing or towing your tractor, be sure to disengage transmission by placing freewheel control in freewheel ing position. Free wheel control is located at the rear drawbar of tractor.

• Raise attachment lift to highest

position with attachment lift control.

Low Position

Discharge Guard

• Pull freewheel control out and down into the slot and release so it is held in

the disengaged position.

• Do not push or tow tractor at more

than two (2) MPH.

• To reengage transmission, reverse

above procedure.

NOTE: To protect hood from damage when transporting your tractor on a truck or a trailer, be sure hood is closed and secured to tractor. Use an appropriate means of tying hood to tractor (rope,

cord, etc.).

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 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 fresh ness.

IMPORTANT: When operating in temperatures below 32T(0’’C), use fresh, clean winter grade gasoline to

help insure good cold weather starting. ^ WARNING; Experience indicates that

alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to separation and

formation of acids during storage. Acidic

gas can damage the fuel system of an

engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be emptied before storage of 30 days or 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.

^ CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open flame.

TO START ENGINE

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

• Be sure freewheel control is in the

transmission engaged position.

• Sit on seat in operating position, depress clutch/brake pedal and set

parking brake.

• Place motion control lever in neutral (N) position.

• Move attachment clutch to “DISEN

GAGED" position.

• Move throttle control to fast position

• Pul! 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. If 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 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.

AUTOMATICTRANSMISSION WARM UP

• Before driving the unit in cold weather, the ^ansmission should be warmed up as follows:

• Be sure the tractor is on level

ground.

• Place the motion control lever in neutral. Release the parking brake and let the clutch/brake

slowly return to operating position.

• Allow one minute for transmission to warm up. This can be done during the engine warm up period.

• The attachments can be used during the engine warm-up period after the transmission has been warmed up 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.

PURGE TRANSMISSION Â CAUTION: Never engage or disen

gage freewheel lever while the engine is running. To ensure proper operation and perfor mance, it is recommended that the transmission be purged before operating tractor for the first time. This procedure will remove any trapped air inside the transmission which may have developed during shipping of your tractor.

IMPORTANT: Should your transmission

require removal for service or replace ment, it should be purged after reinstalla

tion before operating the tractor.

• Place tractor safely on level surface

with engine off and parking brake set.

• Disengage transmission by placing freewheel control in freewheeling

position (See “TO TRANSPORT in this section of manual).

• Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine.

After the engine is running, move throttle control to slow position. With

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

• Move motion control lever to full

fonward position and hold for five (5)

seconds. Move lever to full reverse position and hold for five (5) seconds. Repeat this procedure tiiree «(3) times.

NOTE: During this procedure there will

be no movement of drive wheels. The air is being removed from hydraulic drive system.

• Move motion control lever to neutral (N) position. Shut- off engine and set

parking brake.

■ Engage transmission by placing freewheel control in driving position

(See ‘TO TRANSPORT in this section

of manual).

• sitting in the tractor seat, start engine. After the engine is running, move throttle control to half (1/2) speed. With

motion control lever in neutral (N) position, slowly disengage dutch/ brake pedal.

• Slowly move motion control lever forward, after the tractor moves approximately five (5) feet, slowly

move motion control lever to reverse position. After the tractor moves approximately five (5) feet return the motion control lever to the neutral (N) position. Repeat this procedure with

the motion control lever three (3) times.

• Your tractor is now purged and now

ready for normal operation.

MOWING TIPS

• Mower should be properly leveled for

best mowing performance. See 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 distritjution of clippings and more uniform cutting.

• When mowing large areas, start by

turning to the right so that clippings wilt

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. .

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 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-fiiird 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

mulched a second time to completely

hide the clippings. When doing a second cut, mow across or perpen dicular to the first cut path.

• Change your cutting pattern from week to week. Mow north to south one week

then ohange to east to west the next

week. This will help prevent matting and graining of the lawn.

MAINTENANCE

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

Fll

.L tN DATES

YOU COMPLETE

GULAR SERVICE

Check Brake Operation Check Tire Pressure

Check Operator Presence and Interlock Systems

Check for Loose Fasteners

Sharpen/Raplace 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 Filter

Clean Air Screen

Inspect Muffler/Spark Arrester

Replace OH RIter (If equipped)

Clean Engine Cooilrtg Rns

Replace Spark Plug Replace Air RIter Paper Cartridge Replace Fuel Filter

1 ' Chang« more often when operating under a heavy load or in high ambierrt temperatures. 5 2 - Setvioe more often when operating in dirty or dusty conditions. 6 • 3 > If ecfuippod wtth olT filter, change oli every SO hours. 7 4 - Bepiace blades more ol№ whan 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 №is manual. Some adjustments will need to be made periodicatty 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.

✓ 4

✓ ✓

✓

✓ 2

✓

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

dust and dirt that will shorten the life of the self-lubricating bearings. If you feel they must be lubricated, use only a dry,

powdered graphite type lubricant

sparingly.

>^ERVICE DATES

✓ 7

✓ ✓ ✓

✓

✓ 2 ✓ ✓ ✓ 2

✓

If «quipp«d with ac^ustable aystem. Not required If «quipped with maint«n&nc«-fre» battery. Tighten front axle pivot boh to 35 ft.-lbs. msodmum.

Do not overtighten.

LUBRICATION CHART

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