Craftsman 917270941 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

ICRAFTSMAWI

20.0 HP ELECTRIC START

42" MOWER

AUTOMATIC

LAWN TRACTOR

Model No.

917.270941

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Repair Parts

CAUTION:

Read and follow all Safety

Rules and Instructions before

operating this equipment.

For answers to your questions

aboutthis 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 website:_r_w.sears.com/craftsman

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

Safety Rules ......................................... 3

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

Assembly .............................................. 7

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

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

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT PARTS 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. Warranty service is available free of charge by taking your Craftsman riding equipment to your nearest Sears Service Center. In-home warranty service is available but a trip charge will apply. This warranty applies only while this product is in the United States.

This Warranty does not cover:

• Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as blades, spark plugs, air cleaners, belts and oil filters.

• Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails, thorns, stumps, or glass.

• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, including but not limited to, damage caused by towing objects beyond the capability of the riding equipment, impacting objects that bend the frame or crankshaft, or over speeding the engine.

• Repairs necessary because of operator negligence, including but not limited to, electrical and mechanical damage caused by improper storage, failure to use the

proper grade and amount of engine oil, failure to keep the deck clear ot flammable

debris, or the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions con-

tained in the owner's manual.

• Engine (fuel system) cleaning or repairs caused by fuel determined to be contami-

nated or oxidized (stale). In general, fuel should be used within thirty (30) days of its purchase date.

• 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 th_ battery will not hold a charge, Sears will replace the battery at no charge. Warranty service is available free of charge by taking your Craftsman riding equipment to your

nearest Sears Service Center. In-home warranty service is available but a trip charge will apply. This warranty applies only while this product is in the United States.

To locate the nearest sears service center or to schedule in-home warranty service, simply contact sears at 1-800-4-my-home

This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights whict

may vary from state to state.

Maintenance ....................................... 1

Service and Adjustments .................... 2,'

Storage ............................................... 2,€

Troubleshooting ................................. 3(

Repair Parts ........................................ 3,

Parts Ordering ..................... Back Cove

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

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.

• 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.

• Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above, are involved in a large percentage of riding mower-

related injuries. These operators

should evaluate their ability to operate the riding mower safely enough to

protect themselves and others from serious injury.

SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to loss- of-control and tipover accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. All slopes require 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 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 not turn on slopes unless neces- sary, and then, turn slowly and gradual- ly 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 nottry 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• Never carry passengers or children even with the blades off.

• 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.

• 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 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.

• If machine stops while going uphill, disengage blades, shift into reverse and back down slowly.

° Do not turn on slopes unless neces-

sary, and then, turn slowly and gradual-

ly downhill, if possible.

_,Look for this symbol to point out important safety precautions. It means

CAUTION!!! BECOMEAWARE!!! YOUR _FETY IS INVOLVED.

CAUTION. In order to prevent acciden-

tal starting when setting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs always

disconnect spark plug wire and place wire

_ere it cannot contact spark plug.

CAUTION: Do not coast down a hill in

neutral, you may lose control of the tractor.

_CALITION" Tow only the attachments

that are recommended by and comply

with specifications of the manufacturer of your tractor. Use common sense when towing. Operate only at the lowest possible speed when on a slope. Too

heavy of a load, while on a slope, is. dangerous. Tires can lose traction with

the ground and cause you to lose control

_your tractor.

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

API-SF/SG/SH):

OIL CAPACITY: SPARK PLUG:

'GAP: .030") VALVE

ADJUSTMENT

GROUND

SPEED (MPH):

"IRE _RESSURE:

CHARGING

SYSTEM:

BA'I-I'ERY:

BLADE BOLT

TORQUE:

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new 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 authorized service center/ department.

3.5 GALLONS UNLEADED REGULAR

SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)

SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)

3.0PINTS CHAMPION

RJ19LM OR J19LM INTAKE: .004"-.006"

EXHAUST: .007"-.009"

FORWARD: 5.5

REVERSE: 2.4

FRONT: 14 PSI REAR: 10 PSI

3 AMPS BA'I-['ERY 5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS

AMP/HR: 30 MIN. CCA: 240 CASE SIZE:U1R

27-35 FT. LBS

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".

REPAIR AGREEMENT A Repair 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, 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 authorized service center/department (See REPAIR PARTS

section of this manual).

Steering Boot

Steering Wheel

Steering

Wheel Adapter

Steering

Wheel Insert

washer

(1) Lock

3/8

Steering

Extension

Shaft

(1) Hex Bolt

3/8-16 x 1

(1) Large Flat

Washer

i_ (1) Shoulder Bolt 5/16-18(1) Knob

Keys

(1) Hex Bolt

(1) Locknut

5/16-18

Seat

(1) Washer

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

Video Cassette

Slope Sheet

(2) Keys

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.

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

(2) 1/2" wrench (1) Utility knife (1) Tire pressure

gauge

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 panels flat.

• Check for any additional loose parts or

boxes and remove.

• 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.

Extension

Shaft _ Adapter

BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR

FROM SKID

5/16 Locknut__. _ 5/o116Hex

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 Iocknut. Tighten securely.

° 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.

• Remove steering wheel adapter from

steering wheel and slide adapter onto steering shaft extension.

• Position steering wheel so cross bars are horizontal (left to right) and slide

inside boot and onto adapter.

Lower ' "- ' Steering _ _ Tabs

Shaft _,". . . _ , Slots

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).

" ' ' Label

• "..." "

INSTALL SEAT

Adjust seat before tightening adjustment

knob.

• Remove adjustment knob and flat washer securing seat to cardboard

packing and set aside for assembly of

seat to tractor.

• Pivot seat upward and remove from the cardboard packing. Remove the

cardboard packing and discard.

• 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

Seat Pan

Shoulder Bolt

NOTE: You may now roll or drive you

tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate

instruction below to remove the tractor

from the skid. TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See

Operation section for location and function of controls)

• 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 'q-O 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 (See

Operation section for location and

function of controls)

_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 "OFF" position.

Continue with the instructions that follow.

Adjustment

Knob

Flat

Washer

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.

• 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

INSTALL MULCHER PLATE (If previously removed)

• 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 deflector shield from mower. Raise and hold shield

when attaching mulcher plate and allow it to rest on plate while in operation.

Mulcher

Plate

Shield

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

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

Latch

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 mulcher blades are de-

signed for discharging and bagging also.

I/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/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 EXTRAATTENTION TO

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

,/Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean,

regular unleaded gasoline.

,/Become familiar with all controls - their

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

/ Be sure brake system is in safe

operating condition.

,/It is important to purge the transmission

before operating your tractor for the first time. Follow proper starting and transmission purging instructions (See

"TO START ENGINE" and "PURGE TRANSMISSION" in the Operation

section of this manual).

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

Learn and understand their meaning.

BATrERY CAUTION OR

WARNING

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF

FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT

OIL PRESSURE

R N H L

ATTACHMENT REVERSE

CLUTCH ENGAGED

NEUTRAL HIGH LOW PARKING BRAKE

REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW

LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP lr

LIGHT

PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED MOWER LIFT

LOCKED

(_ _ KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

ATTACHMENT

IGNITION CLUTCH DISENGAGED (SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

FREE WHEEL

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

(Automatic Models only)

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.

Light Switch

Attachment Ignition

Clutch Lever Switch

Ammeter - - -..

"" "-.'" Lever

Choke Control Plunger

Throttle Control

Clutch/

Brake Pedal

Free Wheel Control g Brake Lever

Lift Lever

Height Adjustment

Indicator

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. 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.

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 pressure

from clutch/brake pedal. Pedal should

remain in "BRAKE" position. Make

sure parking brake will hold tractor

secure. Attachment Clutch Lever

Choke "Engaged"Position

..//".Disengaged"Th _ _ j" Position

Control._. _ /j Ignition Key

C;_I "_ _" :_ . "Engaged"ParkingBrake

Clut'_ J Position Brak , _--

e_ \,,, t{

"Disengaged". _ Control

Position "Brake" Lever STOPPING Position

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 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.

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 "OFF' position and remove key. Always remove key when

leaving tractor to prevent unauthorized

use.

Motion

• 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 THRO'n'LE 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 disengage.

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACK- WARD

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

• Start tractor with motion control lever in

neutral (N) position.

• Release parking brake and clutch/ brake pedal.

• Slowly move motion control lever tO desired position.

TO ADJUST MOWER CUl-FING HEIGHT

The position of the attachment lift lever determines the cutting height.

• Grasp lift lever.

• Press plunger with thumb and move

lever to desired position.

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 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, o

• 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 'q'O 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 appro- priate hole with shoulder bolt, 3/8

washer, and 3/8-16 Iocknut and tighten securely.

• Repeat for opposite side installing gauge wheel in same adjustment hole.

3/8 -16 Locknut\

Gauge

Wheel

Mounting Bracket

3/8

Gauge Wheel 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.

• Start mower blades by engaging attachment clutch control.

• TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disen- gage attachment clutch control.

ACAUTION: Do not operate the mower

without either the entire grass catcher, on

mowers so equipped, or the deflector

shield in place.

Attachment Clutch

Lever "Engaged" Position

"Disengaged"

Position

Attachemnt Lift

Lever High PosiUon

.!,1:_ Low

Position

Deflector

Shield

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

ACAUTION: 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 neuiral (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 all turns slowly.

TO TRANSPORT When pushing or towing your tractor, be

sure to disengage transmission by

placing freewheel control in freewheeling position. Free wheel control is located at

the rear drawbar of tractor.

• Raise attachment liftto highest position with attachment lift control.

• 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.

ADDGASOLINE

• 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 temperatures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh,

clean winter grade gasoline to help insure good cold weather starting.

AWARNING: 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.

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.

• 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

• 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. 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 tempera-

ture.

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WARM UP

• Before driving the unit in cold weather, the transmission 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 performance.

See =TO ADJUST CARBURETOR" in the Service and Adjustments section of this

manual. PURGE TRANSMISSION

_CA,UTIO.N: Never engage or disen- gage treewneei lever wniie 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 'q'O 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

forward position and hold for five (5) seconds. Move lever to full reverse

_losition and hold for five (5) seconds.

epeat this procedure three (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 clutch/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 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 clip- pings. 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 f_ onto the lawn they will disperse into t grass and not be noticed. Also, the mulched grass will biodegrade quick to provide nutrients for the lawn. Always mulch with your highest engi (blade) speed as this will provide the best recutting action of the blades.

• Avoid cutting your lawn when it is we Wet grass tends to form clumps and

interferes with the mulching action. The best time to mow your lawn is thq early afternoon. At this time the gras..

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 only the top one-third of the grass

blades. For extremely heavy mulchin reduce your width of cut on each pas

and mow slowly.

• Certain types of grass and grass

conditions may require that an area I mulched a second time to completel

hide the clippings, When doing a

second cut, mow across or perpend

lar to the first cut path.

• Change your cutting pattern from wE

to week. Mow north to south one w( then change to east to west the next

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

'''',,.-.

MAI.TENANCESCHEDU'E

AS YOU COMPLETE

F,LL,NDATES °

REGULAR SERVICE ATES

Check Brake Operation _V' _

Check Tire Pressure

Check Operator Presence and Interlock Systems t,_

Check for Loose Fasteners K t,_.7 K

A Sharpen/Replace Mower Blades 1_4

0 Check Battery Level

ic ,ub. tio°Oha. K

R Clean Battery and Terminals V'

Check Transaxle Cooling V' Adjust Blade Belt(s) Tension Ks

AdjuSt Motion Drive Belt(s) Tension Ks

Check Engine Oil Level If If Change Engine Oil 1_1.2..'. V'

E Clean Air Filter K= N Clean Air Screen K2

Inspect Muffler/Spark Arrester K Replace Oil Filter (If equipped) _2

Replace Spark Plug V'

N Clean Engine Cooling Fins _i

Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge Replace Fuel Filter K

1 - Change more often when operating under a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures 5 - if equipped with adjustable system.

2 - Service more often when operating in dirty or dusty conditions, 6 - Not required g equipped with maintenance-free battery 3 - If equipped with oil filter, change oil 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

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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

OFront Wheel .-

Bearing ; Bearing

periodically to properly maintain your tractor.

All adjustments in the Service and

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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.

(DGeneral Purpose Grease (_Refer to Maintenance "Engine" Section

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 7ou feel they must be lubricated, use only a dry,

powdered graphite type lubricant sparingly.

7 - Tighten front axle pivot bolt to 35 ft.-Ibs, maximum

CO not overtighten.

LUBRICATION CHART

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iindle

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