Craftsman 917271631 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

16.5 HP ELECTRIC START

42" MOWER

6 SPEED TRANSAXLE

LAWN TRACTOR

Model No.

917.27163!

oSafety

Assembly

oOperation o Maintenance

Repair Parts

CAUTION: Read and follow all Safety

Rules and Instructions before

operating this equipment.

For answers to your questions

about this product, Call:

1-800-659-5917

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

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, I160179

Visit our Craftsman website:www.sears_com/craftsman

LIMITEDTWOYEARWARRANTYONCRAFTSMANRIDINGEQUIPMENTPARTS For'two(2)yearsfromthedateof purchase,ifthis CraftsmanRidingEquipmentis

maintained,lubricatedand tunedupaccordingtothe instructionsin theowner's manual,Searswill repairor replace,freeof charge,anypartsfoundto bedefectivein materialor workmanship°Warrantyserviceis availablefreeof chargeby returning

yourCraftsmanridingequipmentto your nearestSearsServiceCenter..In-home warrantyserviceis availablebuta trip chargewillapply.Thiswarrantyappliesonly

whilethisproductisintimeUnitedStates° ThisWarrantydoesnot cover:

• Expendableitemswhich becomewornduringnormaluse,suchas blades,spark plugs,aircleaners,beltsand oilfilters..

. Tire replacementor repaircausedbypuncturesfromoutsideobjects,suchas nails,

thorns,stumps,orglass.

• Repairsnecessarybecauseof operatorabuse,includingbut not limitedto, damage

causedby towingobjectsbeyondthecapabilityof the ridingequipment,impacting objectsthatbendthe frameor crankshaft,or overspeedingtheengine°

° Repairsnecessarybecauseof operatornegligence,includingbut not limitedto,

electricaland mechanicaldamagecausedby improperstorage,failureto usethe

propergradeand amountof engineoil,failureto keepthe deckclearof flammable

debris,or thefailureto maintainthe equipmentaccordingtothe instructions containedin the owner'smanual.

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

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

° Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes. A product is "used for

commercial purpose" if is .used for any purpose other than single family household dwellings or in usage where profit is made.

LIMITED 90 DAY WARRANTY ON BATTERY For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery included with this riding

equipment proves defective in material or workmanship and our testing determines

the battery will not hold a charge, Sears will replace the battery at no charge° War-

ranty service is available free of charge by returning your Craftsman riding equipment to your nearest Sears Service Center. Inohome warranty service is available but a trip

charge will apply. This warranty applies only while this product is in the United States°

TO LOCATE THE NEAREST SEARS SERVICE CENTER OR TO SCHEDULE IN,-

HOME WARRANTY SERVICE, SIMPLY CONTACT SEARS AT 1-800-4-MY-HOME

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

which may vary from state to state.

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

IMPORTANT:This cuttingmachineis capableof amputatingIlandsandfeetand throwingobjects_Failureto observethefollowingsafetyinstructionscould resultin seriousinjuryor death.

I.GENERAL OPERATION

o Read,understand,andfollowall

instructionsinthemanualandonthe machinebeforestarting.

o Onlyallowresponsibleadults,whoare

familiarwithtile instructions,tooperate the machine_

° Cleartheareaofobjectssuchas rocks,

toys,wire,etco,whichcouldbepicked up andthrownbythe blade°

° Besuretheareais clearofotherpeople

beforemowing.Stopmachineif anyone entersthearea..

o Nevercarrypassengers. o Donotmowin reverseunlessabsolutely

necessary.Alwayslookdownand behindbeforeandw!_ilebacking_

• 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°

o Slow down before turning. o Never leave a running machine

unattended_ Always turn off blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and remove keys before dismounting,

o Turn off blades when not mowing. o Stop engine before removing grass

catcher or unclogging chute.

o Mow only in daylight or good artificial

light.

• Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

° Watch for traffic when operating near or

crossing roadways..

° Use extra care when loading or unload-

ing the machine into a trailer or truck,.

o 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 them-

selves and others frorn serious injury,

o Keep machine free of grass, leaves or

other debris build-up which can touch

hot exhaust / engine parts and burn _Do not allow the mower deck to plow leaves

or other debris which can cause build-

up to occur. Clean any oil or fuel spillage before operating or storing the

machine. Allow machine to cool before storage.

I!. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of- control and tipover accidents, which can re- sutt 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. 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.

o 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 recommenda- tions 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.

o 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:

o Do not turn on slopes unless necessary,

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

o Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or

embankments. The mower could

suddenly turn over il 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.

o Do not use grass catcher on steep

slopes.

HI.CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children.

Children are often attracted to the machine and the mowing activity. Never

assume that children will remain where you last saw them.

° Keep children out of the mowing area

and under the watchful care of another responsible adult.

o Be alert and turn machine off if children

enter time area.

o Before and when backing, look behind

and down for small children.

o Never carry children. They may fall off

and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine operation.

. Never allow children to operate the

machine.

o Use extra care when approaching blind

corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.

IV, 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.

o 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

allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check components and replace with manufacturer's recommended parts,

when necessary,

° Mower blades are sharp and can cut.

Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and

use extra caution when servicing them.

o Check brake operation frequently.

Adjust and service as required.

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

anyone enters the area.

° Never carry passengers or children

even with the blades off.

• Do not mow in reverse unless abso- lutely necessary. Always look down

and behind before and while backing.

o Never carry children,, They may fall off

and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine operation.

. Keep children out of the mowing area

and under the watchful care of another

responsible adult.

° Be alert and turn machine off if children

enter the area.

° Before and when backing, look behind

and down for smatl children.

° Mow up and down slopes (15 ° Max),

not across.

o Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree

limbs, etco

° Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps.

Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.

o Useslowspeed..Choosea lowgearso

thatyouwill nothavetostopor shift whileon the slope°

o Avoidstartingor stoppingon aslope.,if

tireslosetraction,disengagethe bladesand proceedslowly straight

downthe sloper

o If machinestopswhilegoinguphill,

disengageblades,shift into reverse and backdownslowly.

• Donotturnon slopesunlessneces- sary,andthen,turn slowlyandgradu- ally downhill,if possible..

_Look for thissymbolto pointout importantsafetyprecautions.Itmeans

CAUTIQNH!BECOMEALERT!HYOUR SAFETYISINVOLVED.

_ CAUTION:Inorderto prevent accidentalstartingwhen settingLip,

transporting,adjustingor makingrepairs, alwaysdisconnectspark plugwire and

placewirewhereit cannotcontactspark plug.

_, CAUTION:Towonlytheattachments thatare recommendedby andcomply

withspecificationsof themanufacturerof yourtractor.Usecommonsensewhen

towing..Operateonlyatthe lowest possiblespeedwhenon a slope° Too heavyofa load,whileona slope,is dangerous°Tirescanlosetractionwith

thegroundandcauseyou to losecontrol ofyourtractor_

_WARNING: Engineexhaust,someof itsconstituents,andcertainvehicle componentscontainor emit chemicals

known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other repro-

ductive harrn. _WARNING: Battery posts, terminals

and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the

State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

Wash hands after handling.

_, CAUTION: Donotcoastdowna hill in neutral,youmay losecontrolofthe

tractor°

PRODUCT SPECiFICATiONS GASOLINE 1°25

CAPACITY UNLEADED

ANDTYPE: REGULAR

OILTYPE SAE30 (ABOVE32°F)i (APFSF-SJ): SAE5W-30

(BELOW32°F)

OILCAPACITY: 3.0PINTS SPARKPLUG: CHAMPIONRC12YC

(GAP:_.030") GROUNDSPEED(MPH):

FORWARD: 1ST '1,.1

2ND 1.4

3RD 2.2

4TH 3.4

5TH 4,3 6TH 5.4

REVERSE: 1.7

TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT:14 PSI

REAR: 12 PSI

CHARGING 3 AMPS BATTERY SYSTEM: 5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS

BATTERY: AMP/HR: 25

MINoCCA: 190 CASE SIZE:U 1R

BLADE BOLTTORQIJE: 27-35 FT_ LBS

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new tractorr 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 a

Sears or other qualified 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. Tile

instructions will enable you to assemble and maintain your tractor properly_,

Always observe the "SAFETY RULES".

REPAIR AGREEMENT

A Repair Agreement is available on this

product. Contact your nearest Sears store for details,,

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBiL|TIES

• Read and observe tile safety rules.

,, Follow a regular schedule in maintain-

ing, caring for and using your tractor_

° Follow the instructions under "Mainte-

nance" and "Storage" sections of this owner's manual.

_,WARNING: This tractor is equipped

with an internal combustion engine and

should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush-

covered or grass-covered land unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped with

a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any)If a spark arrester is

used, it should be maintained in effective

working order by the operator.

In the state of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the

California Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws,, Federal laws apply on federal lands. A

spark arrester for tile muffler is available

through your nearest Sears service

center (See REPAIR PARTS section of this manuaO.

Steering Wheel

Steering

Wheel Insert

(1) Hex Bolt

318-t6 x 1

(1) Hex Bolt 5/16-1B x t-I/4

Steering Whee! Extension

........._ ......... Adapter Steering Shaft

(1) Locknut 5/16-18

Seat

(I) Lockwasher 3/8

Boot

(1) Large Fiat Washer

Steering

Keys

ll',l

(2) Keys

(1) Washer

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

_(I) Knob

For Future Use

Slope Sheet

Video Cassette

Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception of tlnose 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 (I) Pliers (2) I/2" wrench (1) Utility knife

(1) Tire pressure gauge When right or left hand is rnentioned in

this manual, it means when you are in the operating position (seated behind the

steering wheel)

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON

UNPACK CARTON 1, Remove all accessible loose parts

and parts cartons from croton.

2o Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on

all four corner's of carton, and lay

panels flat.

3, Check for any additional loose parts

or cartons and remove.

BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR FROM SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND

BOOT

1. Slide extension shaft onto lower steering shaft. Align mounting holes

in extension and lower shafts and

install 5/I6 hex bolt and Iocknut.

Tighten securely.

IMPORTANT: Tighten bolt and nut securely to 18-22 ft. ibs torque.

2. Place tabs of steering boot over tab slots in dash and push down to

secure.

INSTALL STEERING WHEEL

3. Position front wheels of the tractor so they are pointing straight for_vard.

4. Remove steering wheel adapter from

steering wheel and slide adapter onto steering shaft extension.

5. Position steering wheel so cross bars

are horizontal (left to right) and slide inside boot and onto adapter.

6. Assemble large flat washer, 3/8 lock

washer, 3/8 hex bolt and tighten securely.

J _ ...-Steering Boot

Steering Wheel _ -

Adapter_

5/16 Locknut .... _., 5/16 Hex Bolt

Lower _-J"_ '%--', _ Steering_If_. ' _" ,"'Y-_I

Shaft r -- , __,_

7. Snap steering wheel insert into center of steering wheel.

8,, Remove protective materials from

tractor hood and grill.

IMPORTANT: Check for and remove any staples in skid that may puncture tires

where tractor is to roll off skid.

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR

CHECK BATTERY

1. Lift seat pan to raised position and open battery box door.

NOTE; If this battery is put into service after month and year indicated on label (label located between terminals) charge battery for minimum of one hour at 6-10

amps. (See "BATTERY" in Maintenance section of this manual for charging instructions).

Seat

Battery Terminal Box

Terminal

_---_3t8 Hex Bolt

_ Insert

'._--_3/8 Lock Washer

Tabs

Shaft

_,-. -___. o_- Tab

., _ t €

-,.:.. ,,, Slots

-...,:.j.,;,

Label

INSTALL SEAT Adjust seat before tightening adjustment

knob_

1. Remove adjustment knob and flat washer securing seat to cardboard packing and set aside for assembly of

seat to tractor.

2, Pivot seat upward and remove from

the cardboard packing_ Remove the cardboard packing and discard,

3. Place seat on seat pan so head of shoulder bolt is positioned over large slotted hole in pan.

4, Push down on seat to engage

shoulder bolt in slot and pull seat towards rear of tractor°

5. Pivot seat and pan forward and assemble adjustment knob and flat washer loosely° Do not tighten°

6_ Lower seat into operating position and

sit in seal

7, Slide seat until a comfortable position

is reached which allows you to press clutch/brake pedal all the way down_

8. Get off seat without moving its adjusted position.

9. Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob securely_

Seat

Bolt

NOTE: You may now roll or drive your tractor off the slddo 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) 1, Press lift lever plunger and raise

attachment lift lever to its highest position,

2_ Release parking brake by depressing

clutch/brake pedals

3. Place gearshift lever in neutral (N) position,

4, Roll tractor forward off sldd. 5, Remove banding holding deflector

shield up against tractor,

TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See

Operation section for location and

function of controls) _,WARNING: Before starting, read,

understand and follow all instructions in

the Operation section of this manual.. Be

sure tractor is in a well-ventilated area° Be sure the area in front of tractor is clear

of other people and objects° i_ Be sure all the above assembly steps

have been completed,

2. Check engine oil level and fill fuel tank with gasoline.

3.. Sit on seat in operating position, depress clutch!brake pedal and set

the parking brake..

4_ Place gear shift lever in neutral (N)

position.

5_ Press lift lever plunger and raise

attachment lift lever to its highest position.

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

position.

7o Depress clutch/brake pedal into full

"BRAKE" position and hold. Move gearshift lever to 1st gear.

8. Slowly release clutch/brake pedal and slowly drive tractor off skid.

9. Apply brake to stop tractor, set parking brake and place gearshift lever in

neutral position.

t 0.Turn ignition key to "OFF" position. Continue with the instructions that follow.

INSTALL MULCHER PLATE (If previously removed)

i. Raise and hold deflector shield in

upright position°

2, Place front of mulcher plate over front

of mower deck opening and slide into place, as shown.

3., Hook front latci! into hole on front of mower deck.

4. Hook rear latch into hole on back of mower deck_

Mulcher

Deflector Shie

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

shield when attaching mulcher plate and allow it to rest on plate while in opera-

tion.

"TO CONVERT TO BAGGING OR

DISCHARGING Simply remove rnulcher plate and store

in a safe place. Your mower is now ready

for discharging or installation of optional

grass catcher accessory, NOTE: It is not necessary to change

blades. The mulcher blades are de-

signed for discharging and bagging also,

Plate

Latch Hooks

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

The tires on you[ tractor were overin- flated at the factory for shipping pur-

poses. Correct tire pressure is important

for best cutting performance,

• Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS"

section of this manual.

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS

For best cutting results, mower tlousing

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 tllat the belts are routed correctly

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM After you learn how to operate your

tractor, check to see that tile brake is properly adjusted. See "TO ADJUST

BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual

,/CHECKLIST

BEFORE YOU OPERATE AND ENJOY YOUR NEW TRACTOR, WE WISH TO

ASSURE THAT YOU RECEIVE THE BEST PERFORMANCE AND SATISFACTION

FROM THIS QUALITY PRODUCT,, PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING

CHECKLIST: v" All assembly instructions have been

completed,,

v" No remaining loose parts in carton. ¢" Battery is properly prepared and

charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps).

,/Seat is adjusted comfortably and

tightened securely,,

v" All tires are properly inflated° (For

shipping purposes, the tires were overinflated at the factory).

,/Be sure mower deck is properly leveled

side-to-side/front-to-rear for best cutting

results. (Tires must be properly inflated

for leveling).

v" Check mower and drive belts. Be sure

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

¢"Check wiring,, See that all connections

are still secure and wires are properly clamped,,

WHILE LEARNING HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR, PAY EXTRAATTENTION TO

THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT ITEMS: v" Engine oil is at proper level.

,/Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean,

regular unleaded gasoline.

¢" Become familiar witll all controls - their

location and function_ Operate them

before you start the engine,

,f Be sure brake system is in safe

operating conditiom

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

Learn and understand their meaning°

BATTERY CAUTION OR REVERSE

WARNING

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE

FUEL MOWER HEIGHT

AFrACHMENT

CLUTCH ENGAGED

CHOKE

REVERSE NEUTRAL

FORWARD FAST

SLOW

LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP

PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED

LOCKED

H L c®) l

HIGH LOW PARKING BRAKE

LIGHT

MOWER LIFT

ATTACHMENT

IGNITION

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

__ ii =i:::

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

FREE WHEEL

(Automatic Models only)

KNOW YOUR TRACTOR READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING

YOUR TRACTOR

Compare tile illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of

various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference,

Light Switch

Attachment Ignition Switch Clutch

Lever

Ammeter

Lift

" Lever

Plunger

Throttle/Choke Control

Clutch/Brake

Pedal

Attachment Lift Lever

Height

Adjustment

Indicator

Parking Brake Lever

Gearshift Lever

Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the

American National Standards Institute,

AMMETER - Indicates charging (+) or discharging (-) of battery.

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER - Used to engage the mower blades, or other

attachments mounted to your tractor. ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER - Used to

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

tractor. CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL - Used for

declutching and braking the tractor and starting the engine. GEARSHIFT LEVER - Selects the speed

and direction of tractor.

IGNITION SWITCH - Used for starting and stopping the engine.

LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to release

attachment lift lever wi_en 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 YOUR TRACTOR

TO SET PARKING BRAKE Your' tractor' is equipped with an operator

presence sensing switch. When engine is running, any attempt by the operator to

leave the seat without first setting the parking brake will shut off the engine.

1. Depress clutch/brake pedal into full "BRAKE" position and hold.

2. Place parking brake lever in "EN- GAGED" position and release

pressure frorn clutch/brake pedal. Pedal should remain in "BRAKE"

position° Make sure parking brake will hold tractor secure°

Attachment Clutch Lever "Engaged" Position

Ignition Key

ed"

Th Position

Choke Control Parking Brake

Ciutch/ Position Brake_

"Disengaged"

Position STOPPING

MOWER BLADES

o To stop mower blades,move attach-

ment clutch lever to "DISENGAGED" position.

GROUND DRIVE -

o To stop ground drive, depress clutch/

brake pedal into full "BRAKE" position.

• Move gearshift lever to neutral (N) position°

ENGINE -

° Move throttle control to slow position.

NOTE: Failure to move tllrottle control to

slow position and allowing engine to idle

before stopping may cause engine to

"backfire"° o 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.

Position

led"

rshift

Lever

IMPORTANT: Leaving the ignition switch in any position other than "OFF" will

cause the battery to be discharged, (dead)° NOTE: Under certain conditions when

tractor is standing idle with the engine

running, hot engine exhaust gases may cause "browning" of grass. To eliminate

this possibility, always stop engine when

stopping tractor on grass areas.

,_CAUTION: Always stop tractor

completely, as described above, before

leaving the operator's position; to empty

grass catcher, etco TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL

Always operate engine at full throttle. o Operating engine at less than full

throttle reduces the battery charging rate.

° Full throttle offers the best bagging and

mower performance°

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

controlled by the gearshift lever.

1. Start tractor with clutch/brake pedal depressed and gearshift lever in

neutral (N) position..

2_ Move gearshift lever to desired

position.

3o Slowly release clutch/brake pedal to

start movement

IMPORTANT: Bring tractor to a complete stop before shifting or' changing gears.

Failure to do so will shorten the useful life

of your transaxle.

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT The position of the attachment lift lever

determines the cutting height_ o Grasp lift lever.

• Press plunger with thumb and move lever to desired position.

The cutting height range is approxi-

mately 1-1/2 to 4". The heights are measured from the ground to the blade

tip with the engine not running° These

heights are approximate and may vary depending upon soil conditions, height of

grass and types of grass being mowed.

o The average lawn should be cut to

approximately 2-1/2 inches during the cool season and to over 3 inches

during hot months,, For healthier and better looking lawns, mow often and

after moderate growthr

° For best cutting perforrnance, grass

over 6 inches in height should be mowed twice. Make the first cut

relatively high; tile second to desired height.

TO OPERATE MOWER '{our 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 tlle engine.

1. Select desired height of cut.

2. Start mower blades by engaging

attachment clutch control,.

TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disengage attachment clutch control.

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

mowers so equipped, or the deflector

shield in place..

Attachment

Clutch Lever Attachemnt

"Engaged" Lever High

Position _ Position

Low Position

"Disengaged_

Position

_'1 DeflectorShield

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

_CAUTION: Do not drive up or down

hills with slopes greater than 15 ° and do

not drive across any slope.

. Choose the slowest speed before

starting up or down Mls.

o Avoid stopping or changing speed on

hills.

• If slowing is necessary, move throttle control lever to slower position.

o if stopping is absolutely necessary,

push clutch/brake pedal quickly to brake position and engage parking

brake_

o Move gearshift lever to 1st gear. Be

sure you have allowed room for tractor to roll slightly as you restart movement.

o To restart movement, slowly release

parking brake and clutch/brake pedal,

• Make alt turns slowly. TO TRANSPORT ° Raise attachment lift to highest position

with attachment lift control.

° When pushing or towing your tractor,

be sure gearshift lever is in neutral (N) position.

o Do not push or tow tractor at more than

five (5) MPHo NOTE: To protect hood from damage when transpoiting your tractor on a truck

or a trailer, be sure hood is closed and secured to tractor. Use an appropriate

means of tying hood to tractor (rope, cord,

etc.).

TOWING CARTS AND OTHER ATTACH- MENTS

Tow only the attachments that are recommended by and comply with specifications of the manufacturer of your

tractor° Use common sense when towing. Too heavy of a load, while on a slope, is dangerous_ Tires can lose traction with

the ground and cause you to lose control of your tractor°

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE

CHECK ENGINE OIL. LEVEL The engine in your tractor has been

sllipped, from the factory, already filled with summer weight oil.

1o Check engine oil with tractor on level

ground_

2. Remove oil fill cap/dipstick and wipe

clean, reinsert the dipstick and screw cap tight, wait for a few seconds,

remove and read oil level If neces- sary, add oil until "FULL" mark on

dipstick is reached. Do not overfill

o For cold weather operation you should

change oil for easier starting (See "OIL

VISCOSITY CHART" in the Mainte- nance section of this manual),

o To change engine oil, see the Mainte-

nance section in this manual.

ADD GASOLINE o Fill fuel tank_ Use fresh, clean, regular

unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane.. (Use of leaded gasoline

will increase carbon and lead oxide deposits and reduce valve life). Do not

mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in quantities that can be used within 30 days to assure fuel freshness,

IMPORTANT: When operating in temperatures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh, clean winter grade gasoline to tlelp

insure good cold weather starting. ,_ WARNING: Experience indicates that

alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or

using ethanol or methanol) can attract

moisture which leads to separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an

engine while in storage.. To avoid engine

problems, the fuet 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..

r_. CAUTION: Fi!l to bottom of gas tank

iller neck° Do not overfill. Wipe off any

spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or

use gasoline near an open flame°

TO START ENGINE

When starting the engine for the first time or if the engine has run out of fuel, it will take extra

cranking time to move fuel from tile tank to the engine.

1. Sit on seat in operating position, depress clutch/brake pedal and set parking brake_

2. Place gear shift lever in neutral (N) position.

3o Move attachment clutch to "DISEN_

GAGED" position.

4. Move throttle control to choke position.

NOTE: Before starting, read the warm and

cold starting procedures below_

5. Insert key into ignition and turn key

clockwise to "START" position and release key as soon as engine starts° Do not run starter continuously for

more than fifteen seconds per minute. If the engine does not start after several attempts, 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)

6. 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 choice as described above.

COLD WEATHER STARTING (50" F and below) 6, When engine starts, allow engine to

run with the throttle control in the

choke position until tile engine runs

roughly, then move throttle control to fast position. This may require an engine warm-up period from several

seconds to several minutes, depend-

ing on the temperature.

,, The attachments can also be used

during the engine warm-up period,

NOTE: If at a high altitude (above 3000 feet) or in cold temperatures (below 32 F) the carburetor fuel mixture may need to be

adjusted for best engine performance. See '%0 ADJUST CARBURETOR" in the Service

and Adjustments section of this manual

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.

° The left hand side of mower should be

used for trimming,

o Drive so that clippings are discharged

onto the area that has been cut, Have tile cut area to the right of the tractor.

This will result in a more even distribu_ tion of clippings and more uniform

cutting,.

o 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.

o If grass is extremely tall, it should be

mowed twice to reduce load and possible fire hazard from dried clip-

pings. Make first cut relatively high; the

second to the desired height.

o Do not mow grass when it is wet. Wet

grass will plug mower and leave

undesirable clumps. Allow grass to dry before mowing.

° Always operate engine at full throttle

when mowing to assure better mowing

performance and proper discharge of material. Regulate ground speed by

selecting a low enough gear to give the

mower cutting performance as well as

the quality of cut desired.

• When operating attachments, select a ground speed that will suit the terrain

and give best performance of the attachment being used.

MULCHING MOWING TIPS

IIVIPORTANT: For best performance, keep mower housing free of built-up

grass and trash. Clean after eacfm use° . The special mulching blade will recut

the grass clippings many times and

reduce them in size so that as they fall onto the lawn they will disperse into the grass and not be noticed. Also, the

mulched grass wit! biodegrade quickly to provide nutrients for timelawn.

Always mulch witlm your highest engine

(blade) speed as this will provide time best recutting action of the blades.

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

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

has dried and the newly cut area will

not be exposed to tile direct sun°

• For best resulls, 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.

• 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 lawno

Max 1/3"

lL__

MA,,TE,A,OESO,EOUL,

AS YOU COMPLETE

REGULARSERVICE /_./_ ERV'C E DATES

chec_Br.kaOpo,a,on V" it'.....................

Check Tire Pressure V' V'

_Check Operator Presence and ......................

T lnledock Systems tf

R [&eekforLoosaFas,ener_.....................u_ ..... VS

A i Sharpen!Replace Mower Blades V'4

c ............................................v v......

0 Check Battery Level ....

R CIean Batlery and Teiminals V e

Check Transaxle Cooling V" Adjust Btade Bell(e) Tension

Adjust Mol.len Drive Bett(s) Tension

Check Engine oil Level V ° If Change Engine Oil I_tm3

E Clean Air Filter ............V_:_ ....................

N Clean Air Screen V'=

G Insp_Ci_,_uiiier/spa,kArrestor

ReplaceOii'Fi"_';'i"eq"ippe¢ .... _._ ...........................

a clean Engine Cooling Fins ..........., ......... V';_

Replace Spark Hug _ _'

....4'eplaceAi."Fi"erPaperca.,dge ..... V%

Reptace Fuel Filler

t -Change m(_.'eo!lan when epe,talfng under a heavy k)ad at tn high ambient leml;,eta.lures 5 * If equipped with adj_lslable syelem 2 - Seraice mo,/e ellen wt;en ,c,pemlieg indl,rlyat dusly cendilions e * Net required it equipped with rna_eteeanee,llee ballefy 3 - II equipped w{lh ell f_ller, change eli every 50 heu{_ 7 - Tighlan Iienl awle plvc,l boll to 35 II -Ibs maximum

4 _ Replace blades mofe ellen when mewing in sandy sei! Do not over_tghlen

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this tractor does not cover

items that have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To receive full value

from the warranty, operator must maintain tractor as instructed in this manual,

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

tractor, All adjustments in the Service and

Adjustments section of this manual should be checked at least once each season.

• Once a year you should replace the spark plug, clean or' replace air filter, and

check blades and belts for wear. A new spark plug and clean air filter assure

proper air4uel mixture and help your engine run better and last longer.

BEFORE EACH USE

1_ Check engine oil level. 2, Check brake operation. 3o Check tire pressure.

4_ Check operator presence and

interlock systems for proper' operation.

5. Check for loose fasteners,

v'o ;;;I;

LUBRICATION CHART

@ S[ Spindle

Zerk iq7 _ Zerk

_','Front Wheel ,- Wheel

Bearing Beating Zerk Zerk

(_Engine /

([JSAE 30 or 10w30 MOTOR OIL

@GENERAL PURPOSE GREASE _,REFER TO Maintenance "ENGINE" SECTION

IMPORTANT.' Do not oil or grease the pivot points which have special nylon bearings,

Viscous lubricants will attract dust and dirt that will shorten the life of the self-lubricat- ing bearings. If you feel they must be

lubricated, use only a dry, powdered graphite type lubricant sparingly.

TRACTOR Alwaysobservesafetyruleswhen

performingany maintenance. BRAKEOPERATION

Iftractorrequiresmorethansix (6)feet

stoppingdistanceat highspeedin

highestgear,then brakemustbead-

justed.(See"TOADJUSTBRAKE"inthe

ServiceandAdjustmentssectionof this manual).

TIRES ° Maintainproperair pressurehi all tires

(See"PRODUCTSPECIFICATIONS" sectionof thismanual).

o Keeptiresfree ofgasoline,oil,or insect

controlchemicalswhichcan harm rubber.

o Avoidstumps,stones,deepruts,sharp

objectsandotherhazardsthatmay

causetire damage. NOTE:Tosealtire puncturesandprevent flattiresdueto slowleaks,tire sealant

maybe pu[chasedfromyourlocalparts dealer.Tiresealantalsopreventstiredry rot andcorrosion.

OPERATORPRESENCESYSTEM Besureoperatorpresenceand interlock

systemsareworkingproperly. Ifyour tractordoesnotfunctionas described,

repairthe problemimmediately. o The engineshouldnot startunlessthe

brakepedalisfully depressedand

attachementclutchcontrolis in the

disengagedposition. o Whenthe engineis running,any

attemptbythe operatortoleavethe

seatwithoutfirstsettingtheparking

brakeshouldshut off theengine.

o Whenthe engineis runningandthe

attachmentclutchis engaged,any

attemptbythe operatortoleavethe

seatshouldshutoff the engine. o The attachmentclutchshouldnever

operateunlessthe operatoris inthe seat.

BLADECARE Forbestresultsmowerbladesmustbe keptsharp. Replacebentor damaged

blades°

BLADE REMOVAL

1. Raisemowerto highestpositionto allowaccessto blades.

2. Removehex bolt, lockwasherand flat washersecuringblade°

3.. Installnewor resharpenedbladewith trailingedge uptowardsdeckas

shown.

IMPORTANT:Toensureproperassem- bly,centerhotein blademustalignwith

staron mandrelassembly.

4. Reassemblehex bolt, lockwasher andflatwasherin exact order as

shown.

5, Tighten bolt securely (27-35 Fto Lbs.

torque).

Ir,4PORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heat treated°

Trailing Edge Up Mandr'el Assembly

Blade Center

Hole

Fiat Washer....

Lock Washer

_--Hex Bolt (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 sharpen-

ing blade - but if 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. o The blade can be sharpened with a file

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

o 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 tile 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. If either end of

the blade moves downward, sharpen the heavy end until the blade is

balanced_

Center Hole "_

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