Craftsman 917.271011 User Manual
Owner's Manual
CRAFTSHAN
15.5 HP
ELECTRIC START
42" MOWER
6 SPEED TRANSAX_L
LAWN TRACTGd
Mod._el_No,__.
917.271011
• Safety
• Assembly
• Operation
t Maintenance
• Repair Parts
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equip-
ment.
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, IL 60179
aintenance ......................................... 18
Service and Adjustments ...................... 22
Storage ................................................. 28
Troubleshooting .................................... 29
Repair Parts ......................................... 34
Parts Ordering ....................... Back Cover
LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRAN_._CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT
-For-two'_)-_ ,urn me aa-_uofjsu[chase, _fth=s Craftsman Riding Equipment _smain-
tained, lubricated and tuq_e_du,p a_l_dl_li_j_fo---=f_'n the instructions in the owner's manual,
_"_'_Will repair or replace, free of charge, any parts found to be defective in material or
workmanship.
This Warranty does not cover:
Exper_da-bl_ iterfis which become worn during normal use, such as blades, spark
plugs, air cleaners, belts, etc.
• Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures f_'om 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 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 equip-
ment proves defective in material or workmanship and our testing determines the bat-
tery will not hold a charge, Sears will replace the battery at no charge. In-home warranty
service on your Craftsman riding equipment is available at no charge for 30 days from
the date of purchase. Please contact your nearest service center. After 30 days from the
date of purchase, warranty service is available by taking your Craftsman riding 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
GENERAL OPERATION
• Read, understand, and follow all instruc-
tions in the manual and on the machine
before starting.
• Only allow responsible adults, who are
familiar with the instructions, to operate
the machine.
• Clear the area of objects such as rocks,
toys, wire, etc., which could be picked
up and thrown by the blade.
,_-_re th_ 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.
• Be aware of the mower discharge direc-
tion and do not point it at anyone. Do
not operate the mower without either
the entire grass catcher or the guard in
place.
• Slow down before tuming.
• Never leave a running machine unat-
tended. Always turn off blades, set park-
ing brake, stop engine, and remove
keys before dismounting.
2
• Turnoff blades when not mowing.
• Stopengine before removinggrass
catcher or uncloggingchute.
- Mowonly in daylight orgood artificial
light.
• Do not operate the machine while under
the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Watch for traffic when operating near or
crossing roadways.
• Use extra care when loading or unload-
ing the machine into a trailer or truck.
SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to loss-
of-control and tipover accidents, which
can result in severe injury or death. All
slopes require 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 recks, tree
limbs, etc.
• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven
terrain could overtum 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.
_Avoidstarting 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 necessary,
and then, turn slowly and gradually
downhill, if possible.
• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or
embankments. The mower could sud-
denly tum over if a wheel is over the
edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge
caves in.
• Do ,,mj_ow.en 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 tl_e
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 tum machine off if children
enter the area.
• Before and when backing, look behind
and clown for small children.
• Never carry children. They may fall off
and be seriously injured or interfere with
safe machine operation.
• Never allow children to operate the
machine.
• Use extra care when approaching blind
comers, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.
SERVICE
• Use extra care in handling gasoline and
other fuels. They are flammable and
vapors are explosive.
- Use only an approved container.
- Never remove gas cap or add fuel
with the engine running. Allow en-
gine to cool before refueling. Do not
smoke.
- Never refuel the machine indoors.
- Never store the machine or fuel
container inside where there is an
open 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 equip-
ment in good condition.
• Never tamper with safety devices.
Check their proper operation regularly.
• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or
other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel
spillage. Allow machine to cool before
storing.
• Stop and inspect the equipment if you
strike an object. Repair, if necessary,
3
before restarting.
Nevermake adjustmentsor repairswith
the engine running.
Grasscatcher componentsaresubject
to wear,damage,and deterioration,
whichcould exposemoving partsor
allow objectsto be thrown.Frequently
check componentsand replacewith
manufacturer's recommended pads,
when necessary.
Mower blades are sharp and can cut.
Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and
use extra caution when servicing them.
Check brake operation frequently.
Adjust and service as required.
• Be suretheareais clear of otherpeople
before mowing.Stop machineif anyone
enters the area.
• Never carry passengers.
• Do not mow in reverse unless absolute-
ly necessary. Always look down and
behind before and while backing.
• Never carry children. They may fall off
and be seriously injured or interfere with
safe machine operation.
• Keep children out of the mowing area
and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult.
• Be alert and tum machine off ifchildren
enter the area.
• Before and when backing, look behind
and down for sr_all children.
,ALook for this symbol to point out impor-
tant safety precautions. It means CAU-
TION!!! BECOME AWARE!!! YOUR SAFE-
TY ISINVOLVED. _
• Mow up and down slopes (15° Max), not
across.
• Rem_>veobstacles such as rocks, tree
limbs, etc.
• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven
terrain could overtum the machine. Tall
grass can hide obstacles.
• Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so
that you will not have to stop or shift
while on the slope.
• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If
tires lose traction, disengage the blades
and proceed slowly straight down the
slope.
• Do not turn on slopes unless necessary,
and then, tum slowly and gradually
downhill, if possible.
_WARNING: The engine exhaust from
this product contains chemicals known to
the State of Califomia to cause cancer,
birth defects, or._ther reproductive harm.
_CAUTION: In order toprevent 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.
4
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
GASOLINE 1.25 GALLONS
CAPAP__TY UNLEADED
AND TYi_E: - REGULAR
OILTYPE
(API-SF/SG/SH):
SAE 10W-30
(above 32°F)
SAE 5W-30
(below 32°F)
OIL CAPACITY: W/FILTER:4.OPINTS
W/O FILTER:3.5 PINTS
SPARK PLUG: Champion RC12YC
GAP: .040")
GROUND SPEED FORWARD:
MPH): I sT 1.1
2 ND 1.4
3RD 2.3
............ 4TM 3.5
5TM 4.5
6TM 6.0
REVERSE: 1.7
TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI
REAR: 10 PSI
CHARGING
SYSTEM:
3 AMPS BATTERY
5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS
BATTERY: AMP/HR: 30
MIN. CCA:240
CASE SIZE: UIR
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".
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.
• Follow a regular schedule in maintain-
ing, caring for and using your tractor.
• Follow the instructions under "Mainte-
nanceS"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 Califomia the above is
required by law (Section 4442 of the
Califomia Public Resources Code). Other
states may have similar laws. Federal
laws apply on federal lands. A spark
arrester for the muffler is available through
your nearest Sears Authorized Service
Center (See REPAIR PARTS section of
this manual).
5
(1) Large Flat Washer
Parts Bag contents shown full size
(1) Hex Bolt 5/16-18 x 1-1/4
(1) Hex Bolt
3/8-16 x 1
(1) Lockwasher 3/8
(1) Locknut 5/16-18
(1) Knob
(2) Washers
3/16 x 3/4 x 16 Gauge
(1) Washer
17132 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge
(2) Weld
Nuts #10
(1) Shoulder
Bolt 5/16-18
_ (2) Lock
Washers #10
(2) Screws #10 x 5/8
6
Partspacked separately in carton
.. _----.-..-w
Manual
Seat
(2) Shoulder
Video
Mulcher
Cassette
Plate
, I
Parts Bag
Parts Bag contents notshown full size
Steering
Boot
Steedng
Wheel
Bolts
Slope Sheet
(2) Gauge
i i
Steedng Wheel
Adapter
(2) Washers 3/8 •
x 7/8 x 14 Gauge
Steedng
E
Extension
Shaft
===
c
m
C '_1 I I
(_ (2) LatchHook
7
Insert
Assemblies
(2) Keys
Yournew tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception of .those parts left
una_Seml:ded 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 wrenchset willmake assembly
easier.Standard wrench sizes you need
are listed below.
(1) 9/16" wrench
(2) 1/2" wrench
(1) Utility knife
(1)Pliers
When right or/efl_ h_.andis mentioned in
this manual, it means, from your point of
view, when you are in the operating posi-
tion (seated behind the steering wheel).
(1) 3/4" Socket w/
drive rachet
(1) Phillips Screw-
driver
(1) Tire pressure
gauge
TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM
CARTON
UNPACK CARTON
• Remove all accessible loose parts and
parts boxes from shipping carton (See
page 6).
• Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on
all four comers of shipping carton, and
lay panels flat.
• 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 steer-
ing shaft. Align moun_ing holes in exten-
sion and lower shafts and install 5/16
hex bolt and Iocknut. Tighten securely.
IMPORTANT: Tighten bolt and nut secure-
ly to 18-22 ft. Ibs. torque.
• Place tabs of steering boot over tab
slots in dash and push down to secure.
INSTALL STEERING WHEEL
• Position front wheels of the tractor so
they are pointing straight forward.
• Slide steering wheel adapter onto steer-
ing shaft extension.
• P_ 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 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
J 3/8 Hex Bolt
_'-_ _3/8 Lockwasher
Large Rat
Stee_St__il r
Wheel
Extension Adapter
Shaft _ , 5/16 Hex
5/16 L_lmut@/I_tt
LowerSteering_ ,,i="_'P'-",
Shaft ,'_ ", ,
-..o
TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See
Operation section for location and
function of controls)
• Press lift lever plunger and raise attach-
ment lift lever to its highest position.
• Release parking brake by depressing
clutch/brake pedal.
• Place gearshift lever in neutral (N)posi-
tion.
• Roll tractor forward off skid.
• Remove banding holding discharge
guard up against tractor.
8
HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR
CHECK BATTERY
• Lift seat pan to raised position and open
battety box door.
• If this battery 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. (See "BATTERY" in
•MAINTENANCE section of this manual
for charging instructions).
Seat Pan
Battery Box
Door
INSTALL SEAT
Adjust seat before tightening adjustment
knob.
• Remove cardboard packing on seat pan.
• Place seat on seat pan and assemble
shoulder bolt. Tighten shoulder bolt
securely.
• Assemble adjustment knob and flat
washer loosely. Do not tighten.
• Lower seat into operating position and
sit on seat.
• Slide seat until a comfortable position is
reached which allows you to press
clutch/brake pedal all the way down.
• Get off seat w_lout moving its adjusted
position.
• Raise s_,_ and tighten adjustment knob
secu _,,,-)/. :
Terminal
rminal
Seat
Seat Pan
Shoulder
Bolt _._..
Rat Washer
Adjustment Knob
9
CHECKTIRE PRESSURE
The tires on yourtractorwere overinflated
at thefactory for shipping purposes.
Correct tire pressure is important for best
cutting performance.
• 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 SerVi_e a-ndAdjustments sectoin of
this manual. Verify that the belts are rout-
ed correctly.
CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM
After you leam how to operate your trac-
tor, check to see that the brake is properly
adjusted. See =TO ADJUST BRAKE" in
the Service and Adjustments section of
this manual.
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
_-Nithhook pointing down.
• Tighten hardware securely.
• Raise and hold deflector shield in up-
right position.
• Place front of mulcher plate over front of
mower deck opening and slide into
place, as shown.
• Hook front latch intOhole on front of
mower deck.
• Hook rear latch into hole on back of
mower deck.
Weld Nut From
The Top
Hook Points
Down
Lock
Weld Washer
Latch
Washer
Mulcher
Plate
Deflector
Shield
Lock W_sher
Washer
"_ Screw
Latch
Hook
Weld Nut
Latch
Hooks
,ACAUTION: 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.
TO CONVERT TO BAGGING OR
DISCHARGING
Simply remove mulcher plate and store in
a safe place. Your mower is now ready for
discharging or installation of optional
grass catcher accessory.
NOTE: It is not necessary to change
blades. The mulcher blades are designed
for discharging and bagging also.
10
ASSEMBLE GAUGE WHEELS TO
MOWERDECK
The gauge wheels aredesigned to keep
themower-deck in proper position when
operating mower. Be sure they are proper-
ly adjusted to ensure optimum mower per-
formance.
• Assemble 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 po-
sition, gauge wheels should be assem-
bled so they are slightly off the ground.
Install gauge wheel in appropriate hole
with shoulder bolt, 3/8 washer, and 3/8-
16 Iockn_utand tighten securely.
• Repeat for opposite side installing
gauge wheel in same adjustment hole.
Gauge Wheel
Mounting_racket
3/8-16 Locknut
Bolt
3/8-16 Washer
e Wheel
v' CHECKLIST
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 tight-
ened securely.
,/All tires are properly inflated.-(For_ship-
ping purposes, the tires were ovddnflat-
ed 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 _till Secure and wires are properly
clam_ed.
While learning how to use your tractor, pay
extra attention to the following important
items:
,/Engine oil is at proper level.
•f Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean, regu-
lar unleaded gasoline.
,/Become familiar with all controls - their
location and function. Operate them
before you start the engine.
4" Be sure brake system is in safe operat-
ing condition.
11
These-symbolsmay appear onyourtractor or in literaturesuppliedwiththe product.
Learnand understandtheir meaning.
BATTERY CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW
WARNING
ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON, OVER TEMP _r
FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED MOWER LIFT
LOCKED
LIGHT
r "k R N H L
ATTACHMENT REVERSE
CLUTCH ENGAGED
IGNITION
CLUTCH DISENGAGED
ATTACHMENT
NEUTRAL HIGH LOW PARKING BRAKE
KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS
(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)
A
J
DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY
HYDROSTATIC FREE WHEEL
(HydroModels only)
12
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
Position
Lift Lever
Plunger
Attachment
Lever
0
Throttle/Choke
Control _
Clutch/Brake
Control
Attachment Ignition
Clutch Lever Switch
Ammeter
©
-::___ --
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.
CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL: Used for
declutching and braking the tractor and
starting the engine.
GEARSHIFT LEVER: Selects the speed
and direction of the tractor.
Adjustment
,Parking Brake Indicator
Gearshift
Lever
ATTACHMENT UFT 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.
13
Theoperation of anytractor canresult in foreignobjectsthrown into the
eyes,which can resultin severeeye damage.Alwayswear safetyglasses
or eye shieldswhile operatingyour tractor or performingany adjustmentsor
- repairs.We recommendawide visionsafety maskover spectacles,orstan-
dard safety glasses.
HOW TO USEYOUR TRACTOR
Yourtractorisequippedwithanoperatorpres-
encesensingswitch.Whenengineisrunning,
anyattemptbytheoperatortoleavetheseat
withoutfirst setting the parkingbrake willshut
offthe engine.
TO SET PARKING BRAKE
• Depress dutcWbrake pedal intofull
"BRAKE" andhokL
• Place parking brake lever in=EN-GAGED"
positionand release pressure from
clutch/brake pedal. Pedal should remain in
"BRAKE" p0_0n. Make sure parking
brake will hold tractorsecure.
Attachment Clutch
Throttle/Choke Lever "Engaged"
Control Position
"Disengaged"
Position
=Disengaged" Lever
Pedal "Ddve"
Position
STOPPING
Position
MOWER BLADES- ,,
• Tostoprnowerblades,moveattachrnent
dutchleverto"DISENGAGED"position.
GROUND DRIVE -
• To stop ground drive,depress clutch/brake
pedal intofull "BRAKE" position.
• Move gearshift lever to neutral(N) position.
ENGINE -
• Move throttle control toslow position.
NOTE: Failure to move throttle controlto
slowpositionandallowingenginetoidle
before stopping may cause engine to -back-
tim"
• Turn ignitionkey to =OFF" positionand
Parking Brake
led"
Position
Gear
Shift
remove key. Always remove key when
leavingb'actorto prevent unauthorized use.
• Never use choke to stop engine.
IMPORTANT: Leaving the ignitionswitch in
any positionotherthan =OFF"wili'cause the
battery to be discharged,(dead).
NOTE: Under certainconditionswhen tractor
isstanding idlewith the engine running, hot
engine exhaust gases may cause "browning"
ofgrass: To eliminatethis possibility,always
stopengine when stopping tractoron grass
areas.
,A CAUTION: Alwaysstop tractor complete-
ly,as described above, before leaving the
operator'sposition;to empty grass catcher,
etc.
THROTTLE CONTROL
Always operate engine at fullthrottle.
• Operating engineat lessthan full throttle
reducesthe batterycharging rate.
• Fullthrottle offersthe best bagging and
mower performance.
TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD
The directionand speed of movement iscon-
trolledby the gearshift lever.
• Start tractorwithclutch/brake pedal
depressed and gearshiftlever in neutral (N)
position
• Move gearshiftlever to desired position
• Slowly release clutch/brakepedal to start
movement.
IMPORTANT: Bringtractorto a complete
stopbefore shiftingorchanging gears. Failure
to do so will shortenthe useful life ofyour
..,.
TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HBGHT
The positionof the attachment r=ftlever deter-
mines the cutting height.
• Grasp I'dtlever.
• Press plungerwiththumb and move lever
to desired position.
The cutting height range is approximately 1-
1/2to 4". The heightsare measured from the
groundto the blade tipwith the engine not
running. These heights are approximate and
may vary depending upon soilconditions,
height of grass and types of grass being
mowed.
• The average lawn shouldbe cutto approxi-
14
mately 2-1/2 inches duringthe cool season -
and to over 3 inches during hot months.
For healthierand better lookinglawns, mow
oftenand after moderate growth.
• For best cuttingperformance, grass over 6
inches in heightshould be mowed twice.
Make the firstcut relativelyhigh; the second
to desiredheighL
TO OPERATE MOWER
Yourtractor isequipped with an operator
presence sensing switch. Any attempt by the
operatorto leave the seat with the engine run-
ningand the attachment clutchengaged will
shutoffthe engine.
• Select desired height of cut.
• Start mower blades by engaging attach-
ment clutchcontroL
• TO STOP MOWER BLADES - dksengage
,_attachmentdutch<x)ntrol.
CAUTION: Do not operatethe mower
withouteither the entire grass catcher, on
mowers so equipped, orthe discharge guard
in place.
AttachmentClutch AttachmentLift
Lever =Engaged_'_ LeverHighPosition
P'osition_ i/
-Disengaged-__'_/Low
Pos,,on
iu_arhdarge
TO OPERATE ON HILLS
ACAUTION: Do not drive up ordown hills
s!opesgreater than 15.°..and do not drive
acrossany slope.
• Choose the slowest speed before starling
up ordown hills.
• Avoidstopping or changingspeed on hills.
• Ifslowing is necessary, move throttlecon-
trollever to slower position.
• Ifstopping is absolutely necessary, push
clutch/brakepedal quicklyto brake position
and engage parking brake.
• Move gearshift lever to 1st gear. Be sure
you have allowed room for tractor to roll
slightlyas you restartmovement.
• To.re_i_!_rnQv_nent,slowlyreleasepad(-
ing'brakeandclutch/brakepedal.
• Make all turnsslowly.
TO TRANSPORT
• Raise attachment liftto highest positionwith
attachment liftcontrol.
• When pushingor towingyour tractor,be
sure gearshiftlever is inneutral (N) position.
• Do not pushor tow kactor at more than five
(5) MPH.
NOTE: To protecthood fromdamage when
transportingyour tractoron a tnx_ ora trailer,
be sure hood isclosed and securedto tractor.
Use an appropriatemeans of tyinghood to
tractor (rope, cord,etc.).
TOWING CARTS AND OTHER
A'I'rACHMENTS
Tow only the altachmenls that are recom-
mended byandcom wnhspec ca JomOf
the manufacturer ofyour tractor.Use common
sense when towing.Too heavy of a load,
while on a slope, is dangerous. "l]rescan lose '
tractionwith the groundand cause you tolose
control otyour tractor.
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE
CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL
• The engine inyour kactor hasbeen
shipped, from the factory,already filledwith
summer weight oil.
• Check engine oilwith tractoron level
ground.
• Unthread and remove oilfillcap/dips_k;
wipe oil off.Reinsert the d'_'tick intothe
tube and restolifillcap on the tube. Donot
thread the cap onto the tube. Remove and
read oillevel, ifnecessary, add oDuntil
=FULL" mark on dipstickis reached. Do not
overfill.
• For coldweather operationyou should
change oilfor easier starling(See =OILVIS-
COSITY CHART" inthe Customer
ResponsbTdies sectionofthis manual).
• To change engine oil,see the Customer
ResponsbTdies sectioninthis manual.
ADD GASOUNE
• RII fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasoline witha minimum of87
octane. (Use of leaded gasolinewill
increase carbon and lead oxide deposits
and reduce valve life).Do not mix oil with
gasoline. Purchase fuel in quantitiesthat
can be used within 30 days to assure fuel
freshness.
IMPORTANT: When operating in ternpera-
-tures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh, dean winter
grade gasolineto help insuregood cold
weather starting.
15
_WAIFINING: Experience indicates that
alcohol blended fuels (called gasoholor using
ethanolor methanol)can attractmoisture
whichleads toseparation and formation of
acids duringstorage. Acidicgas can damage
the fuel system of an enginewhile in storage.
To avoid engine problems,the fuel system
shouldbe emptied before storage of 30 days
or longer. Drainthe gastank, startthe engine
and let itrun un_lthe fuel linesand carburetor
are empty.Use fresh fuel next season. See
Storage Instructionsfor additionalinformation.
Never use engine orcarburetorcleaner prod-
uctsin the fuel tank or permanent damage
,cOCCU .
UTION: Filltobottom of gas tankflier
neck. Do notoverfill.W'q_eoffany spilledoilor
fuel. Do notstore, Sl:Nllor use gasoline near
an open-flan_e_.........
TO START ENGINE
When starlingthe engineforthe fu_ time or if
the engi_ I_ rtm out of fund,it _g take extra
crarddngtime to rr_ fuel lr_ the tard(to
theengine.
• sitonseatinoperafi_positi_, (_.=_xe_
dutchrbrake pedal and set paddng brake.
• Place gear shiftlever in neutral (N) position.
• Move attachment dutch to =DISEN-
GAGED" position.
• Move throttle controlto choke position.
NOTE: Before starling, read the warm and
cold starlingprocedures below.
• Insert key into ignilJonandrum key dock-:
wise to =START" positionand release key
as soon as engine starts. Do not runstarter
continuouslyformore than fifteen seconds
per minute. Ifthe engine does not startafter
several attempts, move throttle controlto
fast position,wait a few minutesand try
again. If engine stilldoes not start, move
_the ilirottle control_=to the choke posi-
tion and retry. :
WARM WEATHER STARTING (50° F AND
ABOVE)
• When engine starts, move the throttle con-
troltothe fast position.
• The attachments and grounddrive can now
be used. Ifthe engine does notaccept the
load, restartthe engine and allow itto warm
upfor one minute using the choke as
descnloedabove.
COLD WEATHER STARTING (50o FAND
BEL_ .... "=""
o
• When engine starts,allow engine to run
with the throttle controlin the choke position
untilthe engine runsroughly,then move
throttlecontrolto fast position.This may
requirean enginewanTeup period from
several secondsto several minutes,
depending on the temperature.
• The attachments can also be used during
the enginewarm-up period.
NOTE: If at a highaltitude(above 3000 feet)
or in coldtemperatures (below 32 F) the'car-
buretorfuel mixturemay need tobe adjusted
for best engine performance. See ='1"O
ADJUST CARBURETOR" inthe Service and
Adjustmentssectionofthis manual.
MOWING TIPS
• "Srechainscannot be used when the
mower housingis attached totractor.
• Mower shouldbe propedyleveledfor best
mowing performance. See =TO LEVEL
MOWER HOUSING" in the Service and
AcrjustmentssedJon ofthis manuaL
• The lefthand side ofmower shouldbe
usedfor
• Ddve so that cr_0ings are dscharged onto
the area that has been cut. Have the cut
area to the rightofthe bactor.This will
resultin a more even distribul_ ofclip-
pingsand more uniformcuffing.
• When mowing large areas, startby turning
to theright so that cr_opingswigdischarge
away from shrubs, fences, driveways, etc.
Afterone or two rounds,mow in the oppe-
site direction makingleft hand turns untilfin-
ished.
• If grass is extremelytall,itshould be
mowed twiceto reduce load and possible
fire hazard from driedclippings.Make first
cut relativelyhigh;the second tothe
de,redhe t.
• Do not mow grass when it is weL Wet
grasswillplug mower and leave undesir-
able dumps. Allowgrass to dry before
mowing.
• Always operate engine at full throttle
when mowing to assure better mowing
performance and proper discharge ofmate-
rial.Regulate groundspeed by selecting a
low enough gear togive the mower the
bestcutt_ performance as well as the
quality ofcutdesired.
• when operatingattachments, select a
groundspeed that willsuit theterrainand
give bestperformance of the attachment
being used.
16
MULCHING MOWING TIPS
IMPORTANT: Fix best perlonTmnce,keep
mower housingfree of built-upgrass and
trash. Clean @er each use.
• The speclalmulching blade will recutthe
grass clippingsmany timesand reduce
them insize so that as they fall ontothe
lawntheywindisperseintothegrassand
notbe noticed.Also,the mulched grass will
biodegrade quicklyto providenutrientsfor
the lawn.Always mulch with yourhighest
engine (blade) speed as thiswill provide
the best recu_ng action ofthe blades.
• Avoidcuttingyour lawn whenit is weL Wet
grass tends to formdumps and interferes
with the mulchingaction. The besttime to
mow your lawn isthe early afternoon.At
this time the grass has dried andthe newly
cut area will not be exposed tothe direct
sun.
• For best results,adjust the mower cutting
height so that the mower cutsoff only the
top one-thirdof the grass blades. Forex-
tremely heavy mulching,reduce yourwidth
ofcutoneachpassandmowslowly.
• Pertain types of grass and grassconditions
may requirethat ah area be mulched a
second time tocompletely hide the clip
pings.Whendoingasecondcut,mow
across orperpendiculartothe firstcut path.
• ChangeyourcutUngpattemfromweekto
week. Mow northto southone week then
changeto east towestthe next week. This
will help prevent mattingand graining of the
lawn.
... ,
17
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
AS YOU COMPLETE
REGULAR SERVICE ICE DATES!
Check Brake Operation V' tl/
Check Tire Pressure V'
Check Operator Presence and
Interlock Systems I_
R Check for Loose Fasteners V' V'7 lkf ; ,
AC Sharpen/Replace Mower Blades V'4
T Lubrication Chart I_ I/r
0 Check Battery Level 1_6
R CkDan Battery and Terminals tk/ I1_
Check Transaxle Cooling Ik/
Adjust Blade BaR(s) Tension Ik/s
Adjust Motion Drive Belt(s) Tension _s
Chec_Er_ o,r_eve_ t/ V'
Change Engine Oil _,3
E Clean Air Filter V'= t
N Clean Air Screen VP=
G Inspect MuffledSpark Arrester V e
Replace Oil Filter (If equipped) l_t,2
E Clean Engine Cooling Fins re2
Replace Spark Plug V' I_
Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge V'z
Replace Fuel Filter If
1 - Change more often when operating under • heavy load or in hlgh ambierff temperatures. 5 - If equipped with adjustable system.
2 - Service more often when operating in dbly or dusty conditiorm.
3 - ff equipped with oil _ter, change oil evwy 50 hours.
4 - Replaco Idade= more often w'mm mowing In ,,andy =oil.
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this tractor does not cover
items that have been subjected to operator
abuse or negliger_ce. To receive full value
from the warranty, operator must maintain
tractor as instructed in this manual. Some
adjustments will need to be made periodi-
cally to propedy 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.
• Ch___v..koperator presence and intedock
-'sys_{_'rms'f_rprope r operation.
• Check for loose fasteners.
i
i
6 - Not required if equipped with mainten-nce-lroe battery.
7 - Tighten kont axle pivot bolt to 35 ft.-Ibe, n_udmum.
Do not ovo_ghten.
LUBRICATION CHART
@
I
!
0 Attachmenl_ ;
Clutch _ , @ Gear
Pivot(s) I T-" I Shift
i I
; I I .0
....... Pivots
O SAE 30 or10w30 Motor OIL
O General PurposeGrease
O Referto Maintenance "Engine" Section
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease the pivot
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 dry, powdered graphite type lubd-
cant sparingly.
18
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