Craftsman 917271141 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

£RRFTSMAN°

16.5 HP

ELECTRIC START

42" MOWER

AUTOMATIC

LAWN TRACTOR

Model No.

917.271141

, Safety

• Assembly ° Operation

• Maintenance ° Repair Parts

_ hispi_oduCthas a low emission ehgine Wliich 0pi_rates :_i....

CAUTION:

Read and follow all Safety Rules

and Instructions before operat-

ing this equipment.

differently from pre_iiously built engines. BefQre you start-the engihe, l'ead and understandthis Owrier'S Manuai.

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, II60!79

Visit our Craftsman website:www searscom/craftsman

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

SafetyRules...................................................3

ProductSpecifications............................5

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

Operation....................................................1t

MaintenanceSchedule.......................18

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

ServiceandAdjustments.....................22

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

Troubleshooting.................................29

RepairParts..............................................34

PartsOrdering.....................BackCover

LIMITEDTWOYEARWARRANTYONCRAFTSMANRIDINGEQUIPMENTPARTS

Fortwo(2)yearsfromthedateof purchase,ifthisCraftsmanRidingEquipmentis

maintained,lubricatedand tuned upaccordingto theinstructionsinthe owner's

manual,Searswill repairorreplace,freeof charge,anypartsfoundto be defectivein

materialor workmanship.Warrantyserviceisavailablefreeof chargebytakingyour

Craftsmanridingequipmenttoyour nearestSearsServiceCenter. In-homewarranty

serviceIsavailablebuta trip chargewiltapply°This warrantyappliesontywhilethis

productisinthe UnitedStates. ThisWarrantydoesnot cover:

* Expendableitemswhichbecomewornduringnormaluse,such asblades,spark

plugs,aircleaners,beltsand oil filters.

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

o Repairs necessarybecause of operator abuse, including but not limited to, damage

caused by towing objects beyond the capability of the tiding 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 of 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 dater

- Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes. LIMITED 90 DAY WARRANTY ON BATTERY

For ninety (90) days frorn date of purchase, if any battery included with this riding

equipment proves defective in material or workmanship and our testing determines the battery wilt 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. Imhome warranty service ts 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 which may vary from state to state.

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

IMPORTANT,'Thiscuttingmacllineis capableof amputatinghandsand feet

and throwingobjects_Failureto observe the followingsafetyinstructionscould

resultin seriousinjuryor death.

GENERALOPERATION

° Read,understand,and fotlowall

instructionsin the manualandon the machinebeforestarting.

• Onlyallow responsibleadults,whoare familiarwiththeInstructions,to operate

the machine.

° Cleartheareaofobjectssuchasrocks,

toys,w_re,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_

o Never carry passengers. ° Do not mow in reverse unless absolute-

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

o Be aware of the mower discharge

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 white

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 _nto 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 recommem 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.

o 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.

• Keepchifdrenout ofthe mowingarea and underthe watchfulcareof another

responsibleadult.

• Be alert and turnmachineoffif children enterthe area.

° Beforeand whenbacking,tookbehind

and downfor small children.

. Nevercarrychildren.Theymayfailoff

and be seriouslyinjuredor interfere with safe machineoperation.

o Neverallowchildrento operatethe

machine.

• Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.

SERVICE o Use extra care in handling gasoline

and other fuels. They are flammable and vapors are explosive.

Use only an approved container.

Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow 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

o Never make adjustments or repairs with

the engine running.

o Grass catcher components are subject

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

low objects to be thrown. Frequently

check components and replace with

manufacturer's recommended parts, when necessary,

o Mower blades are sharp and can cuL

Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and

use extra caution when servicing them.

° Check brake operation frequently. Ad-

just and service as required.

• Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop machine if

anyone enters the area.

- 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, took behind

and down for small children.

- Mow up and down slopes (15 ° Max),

not across.

o Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree

limbs, etc,

° Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven

terrain could overturn the machine. Tall

grass can hide obstacles.

° Use slow speed° Choose a low gear so

that you wilt 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 whi{e going uphill, disengage blades, shift into reverse and back down slowty.

• Do not turn on slopes unless neces- sary, and then, turn slowly and gradual- ly downhill, if possible,

Look for this sy.mbol to point o_ im,por-

safety precautions. It means u!_u..

TIONl!l BECOME AWARE!!! YOUR

SAFETY tS INVOLVED. _,CAUTION_ In order to prevent acci.den-

tal s_ar[ing when setting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs always dis-

connect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark plug..

,&CAUTION: Do not coast down a hill in neutral, you may lose control of the trac-

tor.

_,CAUTION: Tow.only the attachmen!s that are recommenaea by ano comply wlln

specifications of the manufacturer of your tractor. Use comrnon sense when towing.

Operate only at the lowest possible speed when on a siope_ "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,.

&WARNING: The engine ex!laust from this

proauct comains cnem_cais Known [o [ne

Slate of California to cause cancer, birth

defects, or other reproductive harm.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

GASOLINE 1.25 GALLONS CAPACITY UNLEADED AND TYPE: REGULAR

OILTYPE SAE 10W30

(AP1-SF/SG/SH): (ABOVE 32°F)

SAE 5W-30

(BELOW 32°F)

OIL CAPACITY: 4.0PINTS SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION

GAP: .030") PC12YC

GROUND FORWARD: 55 SPEED (MPH): REVERSE: 2.4

TIRE FRONT: 14 PSI

PRESSURE: REAR: 10 PSI CHARGING 15 AMPS @3600 RPM

SYSTEM:

BATTERY: AMP/HR: 30

MIN. CCA: 240 CASE SIZE:U1R

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 dependabil-

ity and performance, Should you experience any problem you

cannot easily remedy, please contact your

nearest Sears Authorized Service Center.

We have competent, wel!4rained techni- cians and the proper tools to service or

repair this tractor.

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

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

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 owneCs 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 iand 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 manuat).

'lU,nllll I InlllUlll I ill ill M,=l:llr_Ullnllllll I I lun I i

Steering Wheel J

Steering Extension

Shaft

(1) Hex Bolt

3/8-16 x I

Steering

Wheel Adapter

Steering Sleeve

Wheel

Insert

(1) Large Flat Washer

(1) Knob

(1) Lock

washer 3/8

(1) Hex Bolt

5!16-18 x 1-I/4

(1)

Locknut

5/!6-18

i, i ,

Seat

(1) Shoulder

Bolt 5/!6-18

(1) Washer

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

Keys

(2) Keys

Video Cassette

Slope Sheet

Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your

tractor al! 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

(I) Fire 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 pints boxes from shipping carton,

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

o Check for any additional loose parts or

boxes and remove.

BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR

FROM SKID ATTACH STEERING WHEEL

° Assemble large flat washer, 3/8 lock

washer, 3/8 hex bolt and tighten securely,

° Snap steering wheel insert into center

of steering wheef,

° 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.

.. _ Steering

/,__=_.../Wheel Insert

aexBoLt

.._--_'l_ock Wasiter

......;::_._.__ c.._..._..._Lar,',e Flat

; :_-_. I ) Washer

Steering .._"_..__i_...-' ./

Wheel _ "---CC___ J"

..4_,.,, .i Steering Boot

! _-_Ta bs

Extension :

Shaft ._ _ . .

5/16 Locknut__.._ _j5/16 Hex Bolt

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND BOOT

° Slide extension shaft onto lower

steering shaft. Align mounting holes in extension and lower shafts and install

5/t6 hex b01t 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 wlleel 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

, _nl,;, " '

f ' ,' t

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR CHECK BATTERY

o Lift seat pan to raised position and

open battery box door.

° 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-t0 amps, (See "BATTERY" in

MAINTENANCE section of this manual for charging instructions),

Battery Box Door

Termin_

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°

o Pivot seat upward and remove from the

cardboard packing, Remove the

cardboard packing and discard.

, Place seat on seat pan and assemble

shoulder boll Tighten shoulder bolt

securely_

o Assernble adjustment knob and flat

washer loosely. Do not tighten,

o Lower seat into operating position and

sit on seat,

, Slide seat until a comfortable position is

reached which allows you to press

clutch/brake pedal all the way down,

, Get off seat without moving its adjusted

position.

o Raise seat and _ighten adjustment knob

securely_ ,/_=_ _

Shoulder Bolt J_-----,,_ l"

Label

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.

o Release parking brake by depressing

clutch/brake pedal.

• Place freewheel control in freewheeling

position to disengage transmission (See '%0 TRANSPORT" in the Opera-

tion section of this manual)..

o Roll tractor forward off ski&

• 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 ins]ructions 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 tever 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 lhe instructions that follow,

/ ._i _ Flat Washer

-"'---.

Adjustment Knob

CHECK 'TIREPRESSURE

The tires on your tractor were overinflated at the factory for shipping purposes_.

Correct tire pressure is important for best cutting performance.

o Reduce tire pressure to PSi shown in

"PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" 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,

INSTALL MULCHER PLATE (If previously removed)

, Raise and hold deflector shield in

upright position.

o Place front of mutcher 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.

_I_CAUTION: Do not remove deflector shield from mower. Raise and hold shield

when attaching mutcher plate and al!ow it to rest on plate while in operation.

Mulcher

Shield

Plate

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 designed for discharging and bagging also,

z_CHECKLIST

BEFORE YOU OPERA] EAND 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:

3 All assembly instructions have been

completed.

,5 No remaining loose parts in carton, 3 Battery is properly prepared and

charged, (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps).

,5 Seat is adjusted comfortably and

tightened securely.

3 Al! tires are properly inflated, (For

shipping purposes, the tires were overinftated at the factory),

.5 Be sure mower deck is properly leveled

side-to-sideifront-to-rear for best cutting

results. (Tires must be properly inflated

for leveling).

5 Check mower and drive belts. Be sure

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

.5Check wiring. See that all connections

are still secure and wires are properly clamped.

.5 Before driving tractor, be sure free-

wheel control is in drive position.

WHILE LEARNING HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR, PAY EXTRAATTENTION TO

THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT ITEMS:

5 Engine oil is at proper level.

3 Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean,

regular unleaded gasoline.

3 Become familiar with all controls - their

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

3 Be sure brake system is in safe operat-

ing condition.

.3 It is irnportant 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

9 section of this manual).

Thesesymbolsmay appearonyourtractoror in literaturesuppliedwiththe product.

Learnand understandtheir meaning,

BATTERY

ENGINE ON

FUEL

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH ENGAGED

CAUTION OR REVERSE SLOW

WARNING

ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE t

,1;

FORWARD

LIGHTS ON

FAST

OVER TEMP

LIGHT

I'.,I_@@

CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE

LOCKED

REVERSE NEUTRAL HtGH

UNLOCKED

LOW PARKING BRAKE

MOWER LIFT

ATTACHMENT

IGNITION

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

FREE WHEEL

(Automalie Models only)

KNOWYOUR 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.

Attachment Ignition Clutch Lever Switch

.," Lift

Ammeter / " Lever

Plunger

Thfettle/Choke

Control

Lift Lever

Clutch/

Height

Adjustment

Knob

Free Wheel

Control -,..

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

Institute,

=hment

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.

CLUTCHIBRAKE PEDAL - Used for dectutching 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/CHOKE CONTROL -, Used for starting and controlling 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 YOU R 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

Throttle/Choke "Engaged" Position Control Ignition Key

"Disengaged"

Parking Brake

Clutch/

Position

'Height Motion

"Disenga_)ed" Adjustment Control

Position Knob "Brake" Lever STOPPING Position

MOWER BLADES -

• To stop mower blades,move attachment clutch lever to "DISENGAGED" position.

GROUND DRIVE - ° To stop ground drive I depress clutch/

brake pedal into full BRAKE position.

• Move motion control lever to neutral (N) position.

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

when the clutch/brake pedal is de-

pressed. ENGINE -

• Move throttle control to stow 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.

• Never use choke to stop engine, IMPORTANT: Leaving the ignition switch

in any position other than "OFF" wilt 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 *lb 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.

• Ful! throttle offers the best bagging and mower performance°

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

controlled by the motion control lever.

• Start tractor with motion control lever in

neutral (N) position.

• Release parking brake and clutch/

brake pedal.

- Slowly move motion contiol 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 ( f"'_t ) to raise cutting height.

• Turn knob cocinterclockwise (_,) to lower cutting height,,

The cutting height range is approximately

1-1/2" to 4". The heights are measured from the ground to the blade tip with the engine not running. These heights are

approximate and may vary depending

upon soil conditions, height of grass and types of grass being mowed.

• The average lawn should be cut to approximately 2-1/2 inches during tile

cool season and to over 3 inches

during hot months, For hea!tMer 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

heighL

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 appro-

priate hote 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,.

Locknut-- "-J( ( -.-_. V "" ;_.

Gauge _ ' "'-"LC:L_¢__<"i _\ Mounting _.}dl._._., j.._. i_/\j

3/8 Washer ,' _ / Shoulder

Gauge Wheel _ ',_ Bolt

TO OPERATE MOWER

Your tractor is equtpped 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.

_, CAUTION: Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass catcher, on

mowers so equipped, or the deflector shield place.

Attachment Clutch Lever "'Engaged" Position

Lever High

Position

" LOW

.!i Position

Dlsengaged_.-_-..w_. ,,,.: ,,.:

Position -:>... t," ....._:(_ .. ,i. Deflector

........ W' .{_:' ."_ Shield

TO OPERATI= ON HILLS

_I,CAUTION: Do not driveup ordown hillswith slopes greaterthan 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 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 lift to highest position

with attachrnent lift control.

° Pult 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.

Lift

NOTE:Toprotecthoodfromdamage whentransportingyourtractorona truck

ora trailer,be surehood isclosedand securedto tractor. Usean appropriate

meansof tyinghoodtotractor(rope,cord, etc_).

TOWING CARTSAND OTHER ATTACHMENTS

Towonlytheattachmentsthatare recommendedby and complywith

specificationsofthe manufacturerof your tractor°Usecommonsensewhentowing

Tooheavyof a load,whileon a slope, is dangerous.Tirescan losetractionwiththe groundand causeyou to lose controlof yourtractor.

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE CHECKENGINEOILLEVEL

• Theengineinyour tractor hasbeen shipped,fromthe factory,alreadyfilled

withsummerweightoil

° Checkengineoil withtractoron level

ground.

o Unthreadand removeoilfill cap/

dipstick;wipeoil off, Reinsertthe dipstickintothetubeandrestoilfill cap

on thetube_Donot threadthe cap onto thetube,Removeand readoil level If

necessary,addoil until "FULL"markon

dipstickis reached. Do not overfill.

• Forcoldweatheroperationyou should changeoil for easierstarting(See"OIL

VISCOSITYCHART"inlimeMainte- nancesectionof this manual).

• To changeengineoil,see the Mainte- nancesectioninthis manual.

ADD GASOLINE ° Fillfuel tank. Usefresh,clean,regular

unleadedgasolinewitha minimumof 87 octane. (Useof leadedgasoline

will increasecarbonandlead oxide depositsandreducevalvelife). Donot

mixoil withgasoline, Purct_asefuel in

quantitiesthatcan be usedwithin30

daysto assurefuel fleshnesso IMPORTANT:Whenoperatingintem- peraturesbelow32°F(0°C),usefresh,

cleanwintergradegasolineto help insure goodcoldweatherstarting,

_t, WARNING:Experienceindicatesthat alcoholblendedfuels (calledgasoholor usingethanolor methanol)canattract

moisturewhichleadsto separationand formationof 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 wilt take extra cranking time to move fuel from

the tank to the engine. o 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 choke position.

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

• Insert key into ignition and turn key clockwise to "START" position and

release key as soon as engine starts. Do not run starter continuously for more

than fifteen seconds per minute, tf the

engine does not start after several attempts, move throttle control to fast

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

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

WARM WEATHER STARTING (50 ° F and above)

• When engine starts, move the throttle control to the fast position.

• The attachments and ground drive can now be used. If the engine does

not accept the load, restart the en- gine 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, allow engine to run with the throttle control in the choke

position until the engine runs roughly, then move throttle control to fast

position, -[his may require an engine warm-up period from several seconds

to several minutes, depending on the temperature.

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 also be used

during the engine warm_up period after

the transmission has been warmed upo NOTE; tf 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

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 forward position and hold for five (5) seconds.

Move lever to full reverse position and hold for five (5) seconds. Repeat 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 approxi- mately five (5) feet, slowly move motion control lever to reverse position. After the tractor moves approximately five (5)

feet return the motion control lever to the neutral (N) position. Repeat this

procedure with the motion control lever three (3) times.

Your tractor is now purged and now

ready for normal operation,

MOWING TIPS

o Mower should be properly leveled for

best mowing performance. See "TO

LEVEL. MOWER HOUSING" in the

Service and Adjustments section of this

manual.

o The left hand side of mower should be

used for trimming.

• Drive so that clippings are discharged onto the area that has been 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 toad and

possible fire hazard from dried clip*

pings. Make first cut relatively high; the second to the desired heighL

• Do not mow grass when it is wet. Wet grass wilt plug mower and leave undesirable clumps. Allow grass to dry before mowing.

o 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 time

mower cutting performance as welt 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.

o The special mulching blade will recut

the grass clippings many times and

reduce them in size so that as they fall

onto the lawn tf_ey 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 wilt 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 mew your lawn is the early

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

o For best results, adjust the mower

cutting height so that the mower cuts off only the top one-third of the grass blades. For extremely heavy mulching, reduce your width of cut on each pass

and mow slowly.

° Certain types of grass and grass

conditions may require that an area be

mulched a second time to completely hide the clippings. When doing a second cut, mow across or perpendicu- lar to the first cut path.

o Change your cutting pattern from week

to week, Mow north to south one week then change to east to west the next

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

Max 113"

MAINTENANCE o_5<o_>/._xo_:f__o_jO,_,,-

Check Brake Operation if _ _--.

Che_k Tire Pressure Q_" _ .........

5h_¢."Op'e..e_Pittanceaed

T tnleHock SyB{ems

R Check ,'or Loose Fasleners if .......... --_'_": ........

A ! Sharpen/Replace Mower Blades " " _4 .......

C I Lu brio a,, -C-h"a-r_ ------ If

0 Check Battery Level .... _ ......

a Clean Battery and Termlnals ___. if ................. _ ..................

Check Trareaxle Cooling if ....

Adjust Blade Belt(s)Tension i_'#'s

Adiust Motion Drive Bell{s) T_nslon _5

'_ ch,,,kE_gi_eo,Lo_ __ _ .........

oh.neeEo ln.O1, .---- ...............

E Clean Atr FHter 1_-_ !

G Inspecl Mutiler/Spa_k Arresler V #

I_ "_pta_eO,F,G"i';iequipped)....... J,,_

E Clean Engine CooHng Fins ...................... V_,_ ...................... ' ....

Replace SFark f_lug ............. t_ If .........

Reptece AllFiller Paper,,Cartridge I_

Reptace Fuel Filter I _

5 " _f equlpp_,d with m.fj_ir,tId}h}W_tem 6 t4"Jt lequ_red ifequip )ed wlih n_ab_enance f_ee b_,'ler 2

7 " T_(J);|_n I_Ot'4,'t_{8 plvo{ boll tO 35 |t -Ib[_ mn_frnt_t_

4 ',eonl_¢e _Iod_ _re _en wD_on mowlng !n _andy _oi%

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

DO not o*,,n_%lg_l{_n

LUBRICATION CHART

The warranty on this tractor does not _ £i cover items that have been subjected to Zerk

operator abuse or negligence. To receive full value from the warranty,

operator musl maintain tractor as instructed in this manual

Some adjustments wilt need to be made periodically to properly maintain your

•Front Wheel Bearing

Zerk

tractor. All adjustments in the Service and

Adjustments section of this manual @Er

should be checked at least once each season, o Once a year you shotHd replace the

spark plug, clean or replace air filter, and check blades and belts for wear.

A new spark piug 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,

(])General Purpose Grease @Refer to Maintenance "Engine" Section

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease the _ivot points which have special nylon

earings. 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.

• Check for loose fasteners. 17

.... =

Wheel

=' L Bearing Zerk

TRACTOR Alwaysobservesafetyruleswhen

performingany ma}ntenance.

BRAKE OPERATION

[f tractor requires more than six (6) feet

stopping distance at high speed in highest gear, then brake must be ad- justed. (See "TO ADJUST BRAKE" in the

Service and Adjustments section of this manual).

TIRES

• Maintain proper air pressure in ali tires (See "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" section of this manual),

, Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect

control chemicals which can harm

rubber.

= Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp

objects and other hazards that may cause tire damage.

NOTE; To seal tire punctures and prevent

flat tires due to slow leaks, tire sealant

may be purchased from your local parts dealer. Tire sealant also prevents tire dry

rot and corrosion. OPERATOR PRESENCE SYSTEM

Be sure operator presence and interlock

systems are working properly. If your tractor does not function as described,

repair the problem immediately,

• The engine should not start unless the clutch/brake pedal is fully depressed

and attachement clutch control is in the disengaged position.

• When the engine is running, any attempt by the operator to leave the

seat without first setting the parking brake should shut off the engine.

• When the engine is running and the attachment clutch is engaged, any

attempt by the operator to leave the seat should shut off the engine,

° The attachment clutch shouId never

operate unless the operator is in the

seat.

BLADE CARE For best results mower blades must be

kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged blades.

BLADE REMOVAL

• Raise mower to highest position to allow access to blades.

° Remove hex bolt, lock washer and flat

washer securing btade.

° Install new or resharpened blade with

trailing edge up towards deck as shown,

IMPORTANT: To ensure proper assembly, center hole in blade must align with star on mandrel assembly.

• Reassemble hex bolt, lock washer and fiat washer in exact order as shown.

° Tighten bolt securely (27.35 Ft, Lbs.

torque).

IMPORTANT: Blade bolt ts Grade 8 heat

treated, Mandrel Assembly

Traiiin Edge Up

Blade Center

Hole

Flat Lock Washer

'_--&--Hex Boil (Grade)

*A Grade 8 heat treated bolt can be Identified

by six lines on the bolt head.

TO SHARPEN BLADE

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpem ing blade .-but [f you do, be sure the

blade is balanced. Care should be taken to keep the blade

balanced. An unbalanced blade will cause excessive vibration and eventual

damage to mower and engine.

, The blade can be sharpened with a file

or on a grinding wheel Do not attempt to sharpen while on the mower.

, To check blade balance, you will need

a 5/8" diameter steel bolt, pin, or a cone balancer. (When using a cone bal-

ancer, follow the instructions supplied with balancer,)

NOTE: Do not use a nail for balancing blade° The lobes of the center hole may

appear to be centered, but are not. ° Slide blade on to an unthreaded

portion of the steel bolt or pin and hold the bolt or pin parallel with the ground.

if blade is balanced, it should remain in

a horizontal position, tf either end of the blade moves downward, sharpen

the heavy end until the blade is balanced.

5/8" Bolt or Pit

Center Hole

BATTERY Your tractor has a battery charging system

which is sufficient for normal use. How- ever, periodic charging of the battery with

an automotive charger will extend its life, ° Keep battery and terminals dean.

• Keep battery bolts tight.

- Keep small vent holes open.

• Recharge at 6-10 amperes for 1 hour.

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