Craftsman 917271380 Owner’s Manual
Owner's Manual
15.5 HP
ELECTRMC START
38" MOWER
AUTOMATIC
LAWN TRACTO
Model No.
917.271380
,, Safety
= Assembly
® Operation
,, Maintenance
,, Repair Parts
®
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and hstructions
before operating this equip-
mento
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
For answers to your questions
about this product, Call:
1o800-659-5917
Sears Craftsman Help Line
5 am - 5 pro, Mort - Sat
Warranty ................................................ 2
Safety Rules ........................................... 2
Product Specifications ........................... 5
Assembly ................................................ 6
Operation .............................................. 11
Maintenance Schedule ......................... 18
LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT
For two (2) years from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Riding Equipment is main-
tained, iubricated and tuned up according to the instructions in the owner's manuai,
Sears will repair or replace, free of charge, any parts found to be defective in material or
workmanship.
This Warranty does not cover:
Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as blades, spark
plugs, air cleaners, belts, etc.
Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails,
thorns, stumps, or glass.
o 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 bah
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
Maintenance ....................................... t8
Service and Adjustments ...................... 22
Storage ................................................ 28
Troubleshooting .................................... 29
Repair Parts ......................................... 34
Parts Ordering ...................... Back Cover
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.
o Be sure the area is clear of other people
before mowing. Stop machine if anyone
enters the area.
Never carry passengers.
Do not mow in reverse unless absolute-
ly necessary. Always took 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 turning.
Never leave a running machine unat-
tended. Always turn off blades, set park-
ing brake, stop engine, and remove
keys before dismounting.
2
oTurnoffbladeswhennotmowing.
oStopenginebeforeremovinggrass
catcheroruncloggingchute
Mowonlyindaylightorgoodartificia!
light
,,Donotoperatethemachinewhileunder
theinfluenceofalcoholordrugs.
Watchfortrafficwhenoperatingnearor
crossingroadways.
,, Useextracarewhenloadingorunload-
ingthemachineintoatrailerortruck.
SLOPEOPERATION
of-controlandtipoveraccidents,which
canresultinsevereinjuryordeath.All
slopesrequireextracaution.Ifyoucannot
backuptheslopeorifyoufeeluneasyon
it,donotmowit.
DO:
• Mowupanddownslopes,notacross.
,, Removeobstaclessuchasrocks,tree
limbs,etc
,,Watchforhotes,ruts,orbumps.Uneven
terraincouldoverturnthemachine.Tall
grasscanhideobstacles.
,,Useslowspeed.Choosealowgearso
thatyouwillnothavetostoporshift
whileontheslope.
,,Followthemanufacturer'srecommen-
dationsforwheelweightsorcounter-
weightstoimprovestability.
Useextracarewithgrasscatchersor
otherattachments.Thesecanchange
thestabilityofthemachine.
oKeepatlmovementontheo,,,Fe......
andgradual.Donotmakesudden
changesinspeedordirection.
• Avoidstartingorstoppingonaslope.If
tireslosetraction,disengagetheblades
andproceedslowlystraightdownthe
slope.
DONOT:
Do notturn on slopes unless necessary,
and then, turn slowly and graduaily
downhill, if possible.
o Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or
embankments. The mower could sud-
denly turn over if a wheel is over the
edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge
caves in.
o Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced
traction could cause sliding.
o Do not try' to stabilize the machine by
putting your foot on the ground.
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 -nder the watchfla! 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_
[',lever 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
o Use extra care in handling gasoline and
other fuels_ They are flammable and
vapors are explosive.
Use only an approved container.
Never remove gas cap or add fuel
with the engine running. Allow en-
gine to cool before refueling. Do not
smoke.
Never refuel the machine indoors.
Never store the machine or fuel
container inside where there is an
open flame, such as a water heater.
o Never run a machine inside a closed
area_
_, Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade
attachment bolts, tight and keep equip°
ment in good condition.
o Never tamper with safety devices.
Check their proper operation regularly.
o Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or
other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel
spillage. Allow machine to cool before
storing.
o Stop and inspect the equipment if you
strike an object. Repair, if necessary,
before restarting.
o Nevermakeadjustmentsorrepairswith
theenginerunning.
Grasscatchercomponentsaresubject
towear,damage,anddeterioration,
whichcouldexposemovingpartsor
allowobjectstobethrown.Frequently
checkcomponentsandreplacewith
manufacturer'srecommendedparts,
whennecessary.
Mowerbladesaresharpandcancut.
WraptheMade(s)orweargloves,and
useextracautionwhenservicingthem.
Checkbrakeoperationfrequently.
AdjustandServiceasrequired.
Besuretheareaisclearofotherpeople
beforemowing.Stopmachineifanyone
entersthearea.
Nevercarrypassengers.
- Donotmowinreverseunlessabsolute-
lynecessary.Alwayslookdownand
behindbeforeandwhilebacking.
®Nevercarrychildren.Theymayfalloff
andbeseriouslyinjuredorinterferewith
safemachineoperation.
• Keepchildrenoutofthemowingarea
andunderthewatchfulcareofanother
responsibleadult.
- Bealertandturnmachineoffifchildren
enterthearea.
Beforeandwhenbacking,lookbehind
anddown for small children.
,_Look for this symbol to point out impor-
tant safety precautions. It means CAU-
TION!!! BECOME AWARE!!! YOUR SAFE-
TY IS INVOLVED.
_ACAUTION: In order to prevent acciden-
tal starting when setting up, transporting,
adjusting or making repairs always discon-
nect spark plug wire and place wire where
it cannot contact spark plug.
® 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. Taft
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 notturn on slopes unless necessary,
and then, turn slowly and gradually
downhill, if possible.
,_WARNING: The engine exhaust from
this product contains chemicals known to
the State of California to cause cancer,
birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
PRODUCTSPECIFBCATIONS
GASOLINE 1.25GALLONS
CAPACITY UNLEADED
ANDTYPE: REGULAR
OILTYPE SAEt0W30
APFSF/SG/SH):(above32°F)
SAE10W30
(below32°F)
OILCAPACITY:4.0W/PINTS
3.5W/OPINTS
SPARKPLUG: ChampionRC12YC
GAP:.040")
VALVE
CLEARANCE: NOT ADJUSTABLE
GROUND SPEED FORWARD: 0- 5.5
(MPH): REVERSE: 0- 2.4
TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSi
REAR: 10 PSI
CHARGING 3 AMPS BATTERY
SYSTEM: 5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS
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 dependability
and performance.
Should you experience any problem wu___
cannot easily remedy, please contact your
nearest Sears Authorized Service Center.
We have competent, weiFtrained technio
cians and the proper tools to service or
repair this tractor_
Please read and retain this manual. The
instructions witl 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 RESPONSIBIUTIES
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 unim-
proved forest-covered, _........ .4or
grass-covered land unless the engine's
exhaust system is equipped with a spark
arrester meeting applicable local or state
laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it
should be maintained in effective working
order by the operator.
In the state of California the above is
required by law (Section 4442 of the
California Public Resources Code). Other
states may have similar laws. Federal
laws apply on federal lands. A spark
arrester for the muffler is available through
your nearest Sears Aut_hodzed Service
brus, ,-_,uv_,_u
(1) Large Flat Washer
Parts Bag contents shown full size
(1) Lockwasher
3/8
(t) Locknut
5/16-18
(1) Hex Bolt
3/8-16 x !
(1) Hex Bolt 5/16-18 x 1-1/4
(1) Knob
(1) Washer
13/32 x 1-1/4 x 16 Gauge
(1) Washer
17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge
(1) Lock
Washer 3/8
(1) Shoulder
Bo!t 5/!6-18
(1) Wing Nut 3/8
Seat
Parts packed separately in carton
Video
Cassette
Mulcher Plate
Steering
Wheel
,1i
Manual Parts Bag
Parts Bag contents not shown full size
Steering
Extension
Shaft
Slope Sheet
Steering Bushing
P
Assemblies
Steering
Boot
Steering
Wheel
Insert
(2) Keys
Steering Wheel
Adapter
Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception of those parts left,
unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your tractor
all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools
as necessary to insure proper tightness. Review the video cassette before you begin.
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR
ASSEMBLY
A socket wrench set will make assembly
easier. Standard wrench sizes you need
are listed below.
(1) 9/16" wrench (1) 3/4" Socket w/
(1)Pliers drive ratchet
m_ !/2" wrench /_ Phillips _.......
(1) 3/4" wrench driver
SteeringWheel
(1) Utility knife (1) Tire pressure
gauge
When right or left hand is mentioned in
this manual, it means, from your point of
Extension Shaft
view, when you are in the operating posi-
tion (seated behind the steering wheel).
TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM
5/16 Locknut
5/16 Hex
CARTON
UNPACK CARTON
Remove all accessible loose parts and
parts boxes from shipping carton (See
page 6).
Lower ,, & -__---,,
Steering_/_ " "', ',
Shaft / ,
<.'..-.. - -,/;"
o 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.
BEFORE ROLMNG TRACTOR OFF
SKiD
ATTACH STEERING WHEEL
ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND
BOOT
,, Slide extension shaft onto lower steer-
ing shaft. Align mounting holes in exten-
sion and lower shafts and install 5/16
hex bolt and tocknut. 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
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.
TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKaD (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 freewheel control in freewheeling
position to disengage transmission (See
"TO TRANSPORT" in the Operation
section of this manual).
, Roll tractor forward off skid.
, Remove banding holding discharge
guard up against tractor.
,, Position front wheels of the tractor so
they are pointing straight forward.
,, Slide steering wheel adapter onto steer-
ing shaft extension.
,, Position steering wheel so cross bars
are horizontal (left to right) and slide
inside boot and onto adapter.
Assemble large flat washer, 3/8 lock
washer, 3/8 hex bolt and tighten securely.
Snap steering wheel insert into center
of steering wheel.
HOWTOSETUPYOURTRACTOR
CHECKBATTERY
Liftseatpantoraisedpo'sitionandopen
batteryboxdoor.
tfthisbattery,isputintosewiceafter
monthandyearindicatedonlabet(label
locatedbetweenterminals)chargebat-
teryforminimumofonehourat6-10
amps.(See"BATTERY"inMA}NTEo
NANCEsectionofthismanualfor
charginginstructions).
Seat
Pan
Label
Battery
Box Terminal
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°
o Assemble adjustment knob and flat
washer loosely. Do not tighten.
0 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 a!! the way down.
Get off seat without moving its adjusted
position.
• Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob
securely.
CHECK-.[ _HE PHESSUHL
The tires on your tractor were ovednflated
at the factory for shipping purposes.
Correct tire pressure is important for best
cutting pedormance.
® 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 POSmON OF
ALL BELTS
See the ures. _,=_a, _ o,,,_..,, ,,_, ,_v,,_,.-
ing motion and mower blade drive belts in
the Service and Adjustments sectoin 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.
Shoulder SeatPan (_\_, 1/
Adn'oU:
'_ Washer
iNSTALLMULCHERPLATE
_CAUTION: Do not remove discharge
guard from mower Raise and hotd guard
when attaching mulcher plate and allow it
to rest on plate while in operation.
@ Raise and hold deflector shield in the
upright position.
@ Position alignment cup over rear baffle.
@ Pivot mulcher plate forward and hook on
mounting bolt. Be sure hang tab hooks
top of deck opening.
0 Assemble flat washer, lock washer and
wing nut to mounting bolt and tighten
securely.
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: If discharging or bagging results
are unsatisfactory with mulcher blades on
mower, remove the muicher blades and
install high performance discharging
blades, which are available at an autho-
rized service center/department. (See
MOWER in the Repair Parts section of this
manual).
.... Mounting
.... Bolt
Mulcher
Deflector : / Plate
Shield _ I Fastening
Rear
Baffle
Hang
Deflector
Shield
i TabSlot
Alignment Cup
Flat
Washer
if i
I
Lock
Washer
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 overinfiat-
ed at the factory).
¢" Be sure mower deck is properly leveled
side4o-side!front4o-rear for best cutting
results. (Tkes must be properly inflated
for leveling).
,/Check mower and drive belts. Be sure
they are routed propedy around pulleys
and inside all belt keepers.
¢" Check wiring. See that al! connections
are still secure and wires are properly
clamped.
,/Before driving tractor, be sure freewheel
control is in drive position.
While learning how to use your tractor, pay
extra attention to the following important
items:
,/Engine oil is at proper level.
,/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.
,/Be sure brake system is in safe operat-
ing condition.
,/It is important to purge the transmission
before operating your tractor for the first
time. Follow proper starting and trans-
mission purging instructions (See "TO
START ENGINE" and "PURGE TRANS-
MISSION" in the Operation section of
this manual).
Tab / i
Mulcher Plate
_9
Wing
Nut
10
These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature suppJied with the product
Learn and understand their meaning.
BATTERY
ENGINE ON
FUEL
k
1
MOWER LIFT
J;
CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD
WARNING
ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE CLUTCH
÷
FAST
LIGHTS ON
G
CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT DIFFERENTIAL PARKING BRAKE
REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH
LOCK LOCKED
L (®>_i
LOW PARKING BRAKE
@@@@@
SLOW
OVER TEMP
LIGHT
UNLOCKED
ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH ENGAGED
DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY
ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH DISENGAGED
KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS
(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)
IGNITION
11
FREE WHEEL
(Automatic Models only)
KNOWYOURTRACTOR
READTH!SOWNER'SMANUALANDSAFETYRULESBEFOREOPERATING
YOURTRACTOR
Comparetheillustrationswithyourtractortofamiliarizeyourselfwiththelocationsof
variouscontrolsandadjustments.Savethismanualforfuturereference,
Light Switch
Position
Lift Lever
Plunger
Throttle/Choke
Ammeter
\
Attachment
Clutch Lever
Ignition
Switch
Control _
Clutch/Brake
Pedal
Freewheel
Control
Approx.
" 3 MPH
i
. 2 MPH
Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the American
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,
FREEWHEEL CONTROL: Disengages
transmission for pushing or slowly towing
the tractor with the engine off.
Speed
1 MPH
National Standards Institute.
Attachment
Lift Lever
Height
Adjustment
Indicator
Parking Brake
Motion
Control Lever
MOTION CONTROL LEVER: Selects the
speed and direction of the tractor.
ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER: Used to
raise and lower the mower deck or other
attachments mounted to your tractor.
UFT LEVER PLUNGER: Used to release
attachment lift lever when changing its
position.
IGNITION SWITCH: Used for starting and
stopping the engine.
AMMETER: Indicates battery charging (+)
or discharging (-),
PARKING BRAKE: Locks clutch/brake
into the brake position.
12
Theoperationofanytractorcanresultinforeignobjectsthrownintothe
eyes,whichcanresultin 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 stan-
dard safety glasses°
HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR
Your tractor is equipped with an operator
presence sensing switch. When engine is
running, any attempt by the operator to
leave the seat without first setting the
parking brake will shut off the engine.
TO SET PARKING BRAKE
,, 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.
Throttle/Choke Attachment Clutch Lever
Control "Engaged" Position
"Disengaged"
Position
Clutch/Brake _--Motion
Pedal"Drive" gaged" Control
Position Position Lever
STOPPING
MOWER BLADES -
To stop mower blades, move attach-
ment dutch lever to "DISENGAGED"
position.
GROUND DRIVE -
To stop ground drive, depress
clutch/brake pedal into full "BRAKE"
position.
_, Move motion control tever to neutral (N)
position.
IMPORTANT: The motion'control lever
does not return to neutral (N) position
when the clutch/brake pedal is depressed.
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.
o 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 run-
ning, 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 com-
pletely, as described above, before leaving
the operator's position; to empty grass
catcher, etc.
THROTTLE CONTROL
Always operate engine at full throttle
- Operating engine at less than full throt-
tle reduces the battery charging rate.
Full throttle offers the best bagging and
mower performance.
TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD
The direction and speed of movement is
controlled by the motion control lever.
Start tractor with motion control lever in
neutral (N) position.
* Release parking brake and clutch/brake
pedal.
Slowly move motion control lever to
desired position.
TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT
The 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 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.
13
,, The average lawn should be cut to
approximately 21/2 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 relative-
ly high; the second to desired height°
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 attach-
ment clutch control
o TO STOP MOWER BLADES odisen-
,_gage attachment clutch control.
CAUTION: Do not operate the mower
Attachment Clutch
Lever "Engaged"
Position
Attachment Lift
Lever High Position
"Disenc _-._ Low
Position ----\ Position
?
o If stopping is absolutely necessacj, push
dutch/brake pedal quicMy to brake posi o
tion and engage parking brake
Move motion control lever to neutraJ (N)
position_
IMPORTANT: The motion control lever
does not return to neutral (N) position
when the clutch/brake pedal is depressed.
o To restart movement, slowly release
parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.
SJowly move motion control lever to
slowest setting.
o Make all turns sJowty.
TO TRANSPORT
When pushing or towing your tractor, be
sure to disengage transmission by placing
freewheel control in freewheeling position.
Freewheel control is located at the rear
drawbar of tractor.
,_ Raise attachment lift to highest position
with attachment lift control.
Pull freewheeJ control knob out and hold
in position by inserting retainer spring
into forward hole of control rod.
,, 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
Discharge
Guard
without either the entire grass catcher, on
mowers so equipped, or the discharge
guard in place.
TO OPERATE ON HILLS
_CAUTION: Do not drive up or down
hills with slopes greater than 15° and do
not drive across any slope. Use the slope
guide provided at the back of this manual.
,, Choose the slowest speed before start-
ing up or down hills.
o Avoid stopping or changing speed on
hills.
• Ifslowing is necessary, move throttle
control lever to slower position.
trailer, be sure hood is closed and secured
to tractor. Use an appropriate means of
tying hood to tractor (rope, cord, etc.).
TOWING CARTS AND OTHER
ATTACHMENTS
Tow only the attachments that are recom-
mended by and comply with specifications
of the manufacturer of your tractor. Use
common sense when towing. Too heavy of
a load, while on a slope, is dangerous.
Tires can lose traction with the ground and
cause you to lose control of your tractor.
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE
CHECK ENGaNE OiL LEVEL
14
o The engine in your tractor has been
shipped, from the factob/, already fitted
with summer weight oiL
o Check engine oil with tractor on level
,, Remove oil fil! cap/dipstick and wipe
clean, reinsed the dipstick and screw
cap tight, wait for a few seconds,
remove and read oil ievel. If necessary,
add oil until "FULL" mark on dipstick is
reached. Do not ovediJJ.
,, For cold weather operation you should
change oil for easier starting (See "OIL
VISCOSITY CHART' in the Mainte-
nance section of this manual).
To change engine oil, see the Mainte-
nance section in this manual.
ADD GASOLINE
,, Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, dean, regular
unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87
octane. (Use of leaded gasoline will
increase carbon and lead oxide
deposits and reduce valve life). Do not
mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in
quantities that can be used within 30
days to assure fuel freshness.
IMPORTANT: When operating in tempera-
tures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh, clean
winter grade gasoline to help insure good
,_d weather starting.
WARNING: Experience indicates that
alcohol blended fuels (called gasohot 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 fue! system should be emp-
tied before storage of 30 days or longer.
Drain the gas tank, start the engine and let
it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are
empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See
Storage Instructions for additional informa-
tion. Never use engine or carburetor
cleaner products in the fuel tank or perma-
nent damage may occur.
_CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank
filler neck. Do not ovedill. 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, itwill
take extra cranking time to move fuel from
the tank to the engine.
,, Be sure freewheel control is in the
transmission engaged position.
o Sit _ _at in _8,_; _r,,, @_
dut_rake _1 and_t _r'dng brake.
o Place motion control lever in neutral (N)
position.
Move attachment clutch to "DISEN-
GAGED" position.
Move throttle control to choke position.
NOTE: Before starting, read the warm and
cold starting procedures below.
,, Insert key into ignition and turn key
clockwise to "START" position and
release key as soon as engine starts.
Do not run starter continuously for more
than fifteen seconds per minute, if the
engine does ........ "^" 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 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, allow engine to run
with the throttle control in the choke
position until the engine runs roughly,
then move throttle control to fast posi-
tion. This may require an engine warm-
up period from several seconds to sev-
eral minutes, depending on the temper-
ature.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WARM UP
,, 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.
o Allow one minute for transmission to
warm up. This can be done during the
engine warm up period.
• The attachments can also be used dur-
ing the engine warm-up period after the
transmission has been warmed up.
NOTE: At a high altitude (above 3000
feet) or in cold temperatures (below 32 F)
the carburetor fuel mixture may need to be
15
adjustedforbestengineperformance.
See"TOADJUSTCARBURETOR"inthe
ServiceandAdjustmentssectionofthis
manual
PURGE TRANSMISSION
CAUTION: Never engage or disen-
gage freewheel lever while the engine is
running.
TOensure proper operation and perfor-
mance, it is recommended that the trans-
mission be purged before operating tractor
for the first time. This procedure will
remove any trapped air inside the trans-
mission 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 free-
wheel 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 throt-
tle control to slow position. With motion
control lever in neutral (N) position,
slowly disengage clutch/brake pedal.
,, Move motion control lever to full forward
position and hold for five (5) seconds.
Move lever to full reverse position and
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 sys-
tem.
o Move motion control lever to neutral (N)
position. Shut off engine and set parking
brake.
• Engage transmission by placing free-
wheel 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 throt-
tle control to half (1/2) speed. With
motion control lever in neutral (N) posi-
tion, slowly disengage clutch/brake
pedal.
o Slowly move motion contro_ lever for-
ward; 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 pro °
cedure with the motion control lever
three (3) times°
o Your tractor is now purged and ready for
normal operation.
MOWING TIPS
,, Tire chains cannot be used when the
mower housing is attached to tractor.
o Mower shoufd be properly leveled for
best mowing performance. See "TO
LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the
Service and Adjustments section of this
manua!,
The !eft hand side of mower shoutd 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 resuJt in a more even distribu-
tion of clippings and more uniform cut-
ting.
When mowing large areas, start by turn-
ing to the right so that clippings will dis-
charge away from shrubs, fences, drive-
ways, etc. After one or two rounds, mow
in the opposite direction making left
hand turns until finished.
,, if grass is extremely tall, it should be
mowed twice to reduce load and possi-
ble fire hazard from dried clippings.
Make first cut relatively high; the second
to the desired height.
Do not mow grass when it is wet. Wet
grass will plug mower and leave unde-
sirable 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 se-
lecting a low enough gear to give the
mower the best cutting performance as
f
weII as the quality of cut desired.
When operating attachments, select a
ground speed that will suit the terrain
and give best performance of the at-
tachment being used.
MULCHINGMUWI_#_!IH5
IMPORTANT:For'bestpedormance,keep
mowerhousingfreeofbuiltoupgrassand
trash.Cleanaftereachuse,
_,Thespecia!mulchin9bladewillrecur
thegrassclippingsmanytimesand
reducetheminsizesothatastheyfall
ontothelawntheywilldisperseintothe
grassandnotbenoticedAlsothe
mulchedgrasswillbiodegradequickly
toprovidenutrientsforthelawnoAlways
mulchwithyourhighestengine(blade)
speedasthiswillprovidethebestrecuto
tingactionoftheblades
,,Avoidcuttingyourlawnwhenitiswet.
Wetgrasstendstoformclumpsand
interfereswiththemulchingactionThe
besttimetomowyourlawnistheearly
17
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
FiLL tN DATES
AS YOU COMPLETE
REGULAR SERViC E
===_ Check Brake Operatic n
1 CheckOperatorP..... ceand l.., I l I I I
T[ interlock Systems |_!___:____l_
R l C-he_oose Fasteners .............
A[ | I 1_41 I I
R Clean Battery and Terminals
Check Transaxle Cooling
Adjust Blade Belt(s) Tension
Adjust Motion Drive Belt(s) Tension
Check Engine Oi! Level
Change Engine Oi!
Clean Air Filter
E
Clean Air Screen
N
G
Inspect Muffler/Spark Arreste_
I
Replace Oil Filter (if equipped}
N
Clean Engine Cooling Fins
E
Replace Spark PIug
Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge
Replace Fuel Filter _ _ _ _
r
Char_ge more often when operating under a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures. 5 _ If equipped with adjustable system.
- Service mote often when operating in dirty or dusty conditions.
- If equipped with oi_ f_Iter, change oil every 50 hoots,
Replace b_ades more ofte_ when n_w_ng n sandy soil
..... _d2 3
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this tractor does not cover
items that have been subjected to operator
J
I
m-_- _L_--
I
-- ml
......... .+-----..-
111,21
IV"
6 - Not required if equipped with maintenance-free battery.
7 - Tighten front axle pivot bolt to 35 ft.dbs, maximum.
Do not overtighten.
LUBRICATION CHART
@ Spindle -- _____._, [i @ Spindle
Zerk
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 periodi-
@FrontWheel , k/ I Bearing
J4"., -----'_"_ _ @Front
/_ ./ _ Wheel
cally to properly maintain your tractor.
All adjustments in the Service and
BearingZe/_ _-'=-=:-==-_ rk
Adjustments section of this manual should
be checked at least once each season.
o Once a year you should replace the
spark plug, clean or replace air filter, and
check blades and belts for wear. A new
@ Attachment I/1"
Clutch J/ I
Pivot(s) "'L _-
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.
• Checktire pressure.
- Check operator presence and interlock
systems for proper operation.
o Check for loose fasteners.
@ SAE30 or 10w30 Motor OIL
@ General Purpose Grease
O Refer to Maintenance "Engine" Section
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease the
pivot points which have specia! 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, pow-
dered graphite type lubricant sparingly.
18
mm
Zerk
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