Craftsman 917271633 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

ICRRFTSMRWI

16.5 HP
ELECTRIC START

42" MOWER

6 SPEED TRANSAXLE

LAWN TRACTOR

Model No.

917.271633

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Repair Parts

CAUTION:

Read and follow all Safety
Rules and Instructions before

operating this equipment.

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, II 60179

Visit our Craftsman website:www.sears.com/craftsman

For answers toyourquestions

about thisproduct,Call:

1-800-659-5917

Sears Craftsman Help Line
5 am- 5 pm, Mort. Sat

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

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

Product Specifications........................... 6

Assembly ............................................... 8

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

Maintenance Schedule ....................... 17

LIMITED'rWOYEAR WARRAN'rY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT PARTS

Fortwo (2) years from the date of pumhase, if this Craftsman Riding Equipment is
maintained, lubricated and tuned up according to the instructionsin the owner's
manual, Sears will repair or replace, free ofcharge, any parts found to be defective in

material or workmanship. Warranty service is available free of charge by returningyour

Craftsman riding equipment to your nearest Sears Service Center. In-home warranty
service is available but a trip charge will apply. This warranty applies only while this

productis in the United States.
This Warranty does not cover:

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

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

• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, includingbut not limited to, damage
caused by towing objects beyond the capabilityof the ridingequipment, impacting
objects that bend the frame or crankshaft, or over speeding the engine.

• Repairs necessary because of operator negligence, includingbut 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 accordingto the instructionscon-

tained in the owner's manual.

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

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

purchase date.

• Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes. A productis =used for
commercial purpose" if is used for any purpose other than single family household
dwellingsor in usage where profitis made.

Maintenance ........................................ 17

Service and Adjustments ..................... 21

Storage ................................................ 27

Troubleshooting .................................. 28

Repair Parts ......................................... 32

Parts Ordedng ...................... Back Cover

LIMITED 90 DAYWARRANTY ON BA3-1"ERY
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. Warranty

service is available free of charge by returning your Craftsman dding equipment to
your nearest Sears Service Center. In-home warranty service Is available but a trip

charge willapply. This warranty applies onlywhile this productis in the United States.

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

WARRAN'I'Y SERVICE, SIMPLY CONTACT SEARS AT 1-800-4-MY-HOME
This Warranty gives you specific legal dghts, and you may also have other dghts wNch

may vary from state to state.
Sears, Roebuck and Co., D/817 WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

2

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and

throwing o.bects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in

serious injuryor death.
I. GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand,and follow ell

instructionsinthe manual and on the
machine before starting.

• Only allow responsibleadults, who are
familiar withthe instructions,to operate

the machine.

• Clear the area of objectssuch as rocks,
toys,wire, etc., which couldbe picked
up andthrownby the blade.

• Be sure the area is dear of other people
before mowing. Stop machine ff anyone

enters the area.

• Never carry passengers.

• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely

necessary. Always look down and

behind before and while backing.

• Be aware of the mower discharge
direction and do not point it at anyone.
Do not operate the mowerwithout either

the entire grass catcher or the guard in

place.

• Slow down before taming.

• Never leave a runningmachine
unattended. Always turn off blades, set

parking brake, stop engine, and remove
keys before dismounting.

• Turn off blades when notmowing.

• Stop engine before removinggrass
catcher or uncloggingchute.

• Mow only in daylightor good artificial

light.

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

• Watch for trafficwhen operating near or

crossing roadways.

• Use extra care when loading or unload-
log the machine into a trailer ortruck.

• Data indicatesthat operators, age 60
years and above, are involvedin a large

parcentage of ridingmower-related

injuries. These operatorsshould
eveluate their abilityto operate the riding
mower safely enoughto protectthem-

selves and othersfrom serious injury.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves or
other debris build-upwhich can touch

hotexhaust / engine parts and bum. Do
not allowthe mower deck to plowleaves

or other debris which can cause build-
up to occur.Clean any oil orfuel

spillage before operating or storing the
machine. Allow machine to cool before

storage. 3

II. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a majorfactor related to loss-of-

controland tipoveraccidents,whichcan re-
suit in severe injury or death. All slopes
requireextra caution. Ifyou cannot back up

the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, de not
mow it.

DO:

• Mow up and down slopes, notacross.

• Remove obstaclessuch as rocks,tree

limbs,etc.
Watch for holes, ruts,or bumps. Uneven

terrain couldovertumthe machine. Tall

grass can hide obstacles.

Use slowspeed. Choose a low gear so

that you willnot have to stopor shift
while on the slope.

Followthe manufacturer's recommenda-

tionsfor wheel weights or counter-
weights to improvestability.

Use extra care with grasscatchersor

other attachments. These can change
the stabilityof the machine.

Keep ell movement on the slopes slow

and gradual. Do not make sudden
changes in speed or direction.

Avoid starting or stoppingon a slope, if
tires lose traction, disengagethe blades

and proceed slowly straightdown the
slope.

DO NOT:

• Do not turn on slopes unless necessary,
and then, tam slowlyand gradually
downhill,if possible.

• Do notmow 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 notmow on wet grass. Reduced
trectJon could cause sliding.

• Do not tryto stabilize the machine by
puttingyourfoot on the ground.

• Do not use grass catcher on steep

slopes.

III.CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator

is not alert to the presence of children.
Children are otlen attracled 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

respons_le adult.

• Be alert.and rum machine off if children
enter the area.

• Before and when backing, look behind

and down for small children.

• Never carry children. They may fall off
and be seriously injured or interfere

with safe machine operation.

• Never allow children to operate the

machine.

• Use extra care when approaching blind

comers, shrubs, trees, or other objects

that may obscure vision.

IV. SERVICE

• Use extra care in handling gasoline

and other fuels. They are flammable

and vapors are explosive.

-Use only an approved container.
. Never remove gas cap or add fuel

with ,,ha engine n_nn_ng.Allow
engine to cool before refueling. Do

notsmoke.

- Never refuel the machine indoors.

-Never storethe 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 debds build-up, Clean oil or fuel

spillage. Allow machine to cool before
storing.

• Stop and inspect the equipmentif you
strike an object. Repair, if necessary,

before restarting.

• Never make adjustments or repairs
with the engine running.

• Grass catcher components are subject

to wear, damage, end 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 see'icing them.

• Check brake operation frequently.

Adjust and service as required.

• Be sure the area is clear of other

people before mowing. Stop machine If
anyone enters the area.

• Never carry passengers or chlldran
even with the blades O1t.

• 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 sedously injured or interfere
with safe machine operation.

• Keep children out of the mowing area

and under the watchful care of another

responsible adult.

• Be alert and turn machine off if children

enter the area.

• Before and when backing, look behind
and down for small children.

• Mew up and down slopes(15 ° Max),

not aeross.

• 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.

4

• Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so
that you will nothave to stop or shift

while on the slope.

• Avoid starting or stoppingon a slope. If

tires lose traction, disengage the
blades and proceed slowly straight
down the slope.

• If machine stops while going uphill,

disengage blades, shift into reverse
and back down slowly.

• Do not tum on slopes unless neces-

sary, and then, tum slowly and gradu-
ally downhill, if possible.

_Look for this symbolto pointout
important safety precautions. It means

CAUTION!I1 BECOMEALERTlll YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

_CAUTION: In order to prevent acci-
dental startingwhen setting up, transport-

ing, adjusting or making repairs, always
disconnect spark plug wire and place
wire where it cannot contact spark plug.

_CAUTION; Do notcoast down a hill in

neutral, you may lose control of the

tractor.

_CAUTION: Tow only the attachments
that are recommendedby and comply
with specifications of the manufacturer of
your tractor. Use common sense when
towing. Operate only at the lowest
possible speed when on a slope. Too
heavy of a load, while on a slope, is
dangerous. Tires con lose tractionwith

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

A_kWARNING: Engine exhaust, some of
its constituents, and certain vehicle

components contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to cause

cancer and birthdefects or other repro-
ductive harm.

_)_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.

5

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

3ASOLINE 1.25
CAPACITY UNLEADED

A.NDTYPE: REGULAR
3ILTYPE SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)

_,PI-SF - SJ): SAE 5W-30

(BELOW 32°F)

OIL CAPACITY: 3.0 PINTS
SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION RCt2YC

SAP: .030")

GROUND SPEED (MPH):
FORWARD: 1ST 1.1

2ND 1.4
3RD 2.2

4TH 3,4
5TH 4.3

6TH 5.5

REVERSE: 1.7

TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT:t4 PSi

REAR: 12 PSI

CHARGING 3 AMPS BA3-rERY
SYSTEM: 5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS

BATTERY: AMP/HR: 25

MIN. CCA: 190
CASE SIZE:U 1R

BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 27-35 FT. LBS

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase
ofa newtractor, It has been designed,

engineered and manufactured to give
you the best possible dependability and
performance.
Should you expedence any problem you
cannot easily remedy, please contact a
Sears or other qualified service center,
We have competent, well-trained techni-
cians and the propertools to service or

repair this tractor.

Please read and retain this manual. The
instructionswill enable you to assemble
and maintain your tractor properly.

Always observethe =SAFETY RULES".

REPAIR AGREEMENT

A Repair Agreement is available on this

product. Contact your nearest Sears
storefor details.

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and observe the safety rules,

• Follow a regular schedule in maintain-

ing, caring for and using your tractor.

• Follow the instructionsunder "Mainte-
nance" and =Storage" sections ofthis

owner's manual.

/I, 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 (ffany). Ifa spark arrester is
used, it should be maintained in effective
working order bythe 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 service
center (See REPAIR PARTS section of
this manual).

6

Steering Wheel

Steering

Wheet Insert

(1) Large Flat Washer

['[J_[:_ Steering _ Steering

(1) HexBolt 5/16-18x 1-1/4Wheel11)Locknut 5/16-18_ (11Lockwasher 3/8 1

Adapter teedng EhXta'f_sion

_Boot

Seat

Keys

(2) Keys

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

_(1) Knob

For Future Use

Slope Sheet

I1) Washer

Video Cassette

7

Yournew 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

_ Insert

A socket wrench set will make assembly

easier. Standard wrench sizes you need
are listed below.

(1) 9/16"wrench (1) Pliers
(2) 1/2" wrench (1) Utility knife

(1) Tire pressure gauge
When dght or left hand is mentioned in

this manual, it means when you are in the

operating position (seated behind the

J _ fSteedng Boot

SteedngWheel

steering wheel).
TO REMOVETRACTOR FROM

CARTON
UNPACK CARTON

Adapter---"-"_

Tabs

1. Remove all accessible loose parts
and parts cartons from carton.

2. Cut, from topto bottom, along lines on
all four comers of carton, and lay

panels flat.

3. Check for any additional loose parts
or cartons and remove.

BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR
FROM SKID

A'n'ACH STEERING WHEEL
ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND

BOOT

1. Slide extension shaft onto lower

steedng shaft. Align mounting holes
in extension and lower shafts and

install 5/16 hex bolt and Iocknut.

Tighten securely.

IMPORTANT: Tighten bolt and nut
securelyto 18-22 ft. Ibs torque.

2. Place tabs of steedng boot over tab

slotsin dash and push down to

secure,

INSTALL STEERING WHEEL

3. Positionfront wheels of the tractor so

they are pointing straight forward.

4. Remove steedng wheel adapter from
steedng wheel and slide adapter onto
steering shaft extension.

7. Snap steedng wheel insert into center

of steedng wheel.

8. Remove protective materials from
tractor hood and gall.

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

where tractor is to roll off skid.

HOWTO SET UPYOURTRACTOR
CHECK BA'rrERY

1. Liftseat pan to raised positionand
open battery box door.

NOTE: If this battery is put intoservice
after month and year indicated on label

(label located between terminals) charge

battery for minimumof one hourat 6-10
amps. (See "BATTERY" in Maintenance

section of this manual for charging
instructions).

5. Position steering wheel so cress bars

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

6. Assemble large flat washer, 3/8 lock
washer, 3/8 hex bolt and tighten

securely.

8

/abe_

Batter
Door

Terminal

INSTALL SEAT
Adjust seat before tightening adjustment

knob.

1, Remove adjustment knob and flat

washer securingseat 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 seat.

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.

Bolt

Flat

NOTE: You may now rollor drive your

tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate

instructionbelow to remove the tractor
from the skid,

TO ROLLTRACTOR OFF SKID (See
Operation section for location and

function of controls)

1. Press lift lever plungerand raise

attachment liftlever to its highest

position.

2, Release parking brake by depressing

clutch/brake pedal.

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

4. Roll tractorforward off skid.

5. Remove banding holding deflector
shield up against tractor.

TO DRIVETRACTOR OFF SKID (See
Operation section for location and

function of controls)

-_WARNING: Before starting, read,

understand and follow all ins_tructldnsin
the Operation section ofthis 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.

1. Be sure all the above assembly steps

have been completed,

2. Check engine oil level and fillfuel
tank with gasoline.

3. Sit on seat in operating position,

depress clutch/brake pedal and set

the parldng brake.

4. Place gear shift lever in neutral (N)

position.

5. Press lift lever plunger and raise

attachment liftlever to its highest
position.

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

position,

7. Depress clutch/brake pedal into full
"BRAKE" position and hold. Move
gearshift laver to 1st gear.

8, Slowly release clutch/brake pedal and

slowlydrive tractor off skid.

9, Apply brake to stoptractor, set parking

brake and place gearshift lever in
neutral position.

10.Turn ignition key to "OFF" position.

Continue with the instructionsthat follow.

9

INSTALL MULCHER PLATE
(If previously removed)

t. Raise and hold deflector shield in

upright position.

2. Place front of mulcher plate over frent

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

3. Hookfront latch intohole on front of

mower deck.

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

Mulcher

Def[eclor Plate

Latch

_' Hooks

_ILCAUTION: Do notremove deflector

shield from mower. Raise and hold
shield when attaching mulcher plate and

allow it to reston plate while in opera-
tion.

TO CONVERTTO BAGGING OR
DISCHARGING

Simply remove mulcher plate and store
in a safe place.Your mower is now ready

for discharging or installationof optional
grass catcher accessory.
NOTE: It is notnecessary to change

blades. The mulcher blades are de-
signed for discharging and bagging also.

CHECKTIRE PRESSURE
The tires on your tractor were overin-

flated at the factory for shipping pur-
poses. Correcttire pressure is important

for best cuttingperformance.

• 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" inthe

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
sectionof this manual. Verifythat the
belts are routed correctly.

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM
After you learn how to operate your

tractor,checkto see that the brake is
properly adjusted. See "1"0 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 REVIEWTHE FOLLOWING
CHECKLIST:

v"All assembly instructions have been

completed.

/ No remainingloose parts in carton.
/ Battery is pmpedy prepared end

charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps).

v" Seat is adjusted comfortablyand

tightened securely.

,/All tires are propedy inflated. (For

shipping purposes, the tires were

ovednflated at the factory).

J Be sure mower deck is propedy leveled

side-to-side/front-to-rear for best cutting
results, (Tires must be properly inflated

for leveling).

•/ Check mower and drive bells. Be sure
they are muted propedy around pulleys

and inside all belt keepers.

,/Check wiring. See that all connections

are still secure and wires are properly
clamped.

WHILE LEARNING HOWTO USEYOUR
TRACTOR, PAY EXTRA ATTENTION TO

THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT ITEMS:

•/ Engine oil is at proper level.

,/Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean,

regular unleaded gasoline.

,/Become familiar with all controls- their

locationand function. Operate them
before you start the engine.

,/Be sure brake system is in safe

operating condition.

10

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

Learn and understand their meaning.

BAI"FERY CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARO FAST SLOW

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP t

FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED

WARNING

LOCKED

LIGHT

MOWERLI_

r 'l R N H L

ATTACHMENT REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW PARKING BRAKE

CLUTCH ENGAGED

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

IGNITION

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH DISENGAGED (SEE SAFE'rY RULES SECTION)

!

DANGER_ KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

FREE WHEEL

(AutomaticModelsonly)

11

KNOWYOURTRACTOR
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING

YOUR TRACTOR
Compare the illustrationswith your tractorto familiadze yourself with the locations of

variouscentrals and adjustments, Save this manual for future reference.

Throttle/Choke

Control

Crutch/Brake

Pedal

Attachment Ignition Switch

Light Switch

Clutch

Lift

Ammeter i"__.,_"-.,, Plunger

Attachment

LiftLever

Height
Adjustment

Brake Lever

Gearshift Lever

Our tractorsconformto the safety standardsof the American

National Standards Institute.

AMMETER - Indicates charging (+) or
discharging (-) of battery.
A'rrACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER - Used

to engage the mower blades, or other
attachments mounted to your tractor.
A'n'ACHMENT LIFT LEVER - Used to

raise, lower, and adjustthe mower deck

or other attachments mounted to your
tractor.

CLUTCWBRAKE PEDAL - Used for
declutching and braking the tractor and

starting the engine.
GEARSHIFT LEVER - Selects the speed

and directionof tractor.

IGNITION SWITCH - Used for startingand
stopping the en_g=ine.

LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to release
attachment lift lever when changing its

position.

LIGHT SWITCH - Turnsthe headlights on

and off.

PARKING BRAKE LEVER - Locks clutch/
brake pedal into the brake position.

THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL- Used
for starting and controllingengine speed,

12

The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into
the eyes, whichcan result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety

glasses or eye shieldswhile operating your tractor or performing any
adjustments or repairs. We recommend a wide visionsafety mask over

spectacles or standard safety glasses.

HOWTO USEYOURTRACTOR

TO SET PARKING BRAKE

Yourtractor 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" positionand release
pressure from clutch/brake pedal.

Pedal should remain in "BRAKE"
position, Make sure parking brake will

holdtractor secure.

Attachment Clutch Lever
"Engaged" Position

Position

Choke-_ Brake

Clutch/ Position

=Engaged"

Lever

Position Position
STOPPING

MOWER BLADES -

• To stop mower blades,move attach-

ment clutch lever to "DISENGAGED"
position.

GROUND DRIVE -

• To stop ground drive,depress clutcW
brake pedal intofull =BRAKE" position.

• Move gearshift lever to neutral (N)

position.

ENGINE -

• Move throttle control to slow position.
NOTE: Failureto move throttle controlto

slow positionand allowing engine to idle
before stopping may cause engine to

"backfire".

• Turn ignition key to "OFF" positionand
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" will
cause the battery to be discharged,

(dead).
NOTE: Under certainconditions 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
stoppingtractor on grass areas.

_CAUTION: Always stoptractor
completely, as oescdbed above, before

leavingthe operator's position;to empty
grass catcher,etc.

TO USE TH RO'rFLE CONTROL

Always operate engine at full throttle.

• Operating engine at less than full

throttle reduces the battery charging

rate.

• Full throttle offersthe best bagging and

mower performance.

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD
The directionand speed of movement is

controlled bythe gearshift lever.

1. Starttractor with clutch]brake pedal
depressed and gearshift lever in

neutral (N) position.

2. Move gearshift lever to desired

position.

3. Slowly release clutch/brake pedal to
start movement.

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

Failure to do so will shortenthe usefullife
of your transaxle.

TO ADJUST MOWER CuI-nNG HEIGHT
The positionof the attachment lift lever

determines the cutting height.

• Grasp lift lever.

• Press plunger with thumb and move

lever to desired position.

The cutting height range is approxi-

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

tip with the engine not running. These

heights are approximate and may vary
depending upon soil conditions, height of
grass and types of grass being mowed.

13

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

cool season and to over 3 inches
during hot months. For healthier and

better looking lawns, mow often and

after moderate growth.

• For best cuttingperformance, grass
over 6 inches in height should be

mowedtwice. Make the first cut
relatively 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 runningand the attachment clutch

engaged will shut off the engine.

1. Select desired height of cut.

2. Start mower blades by engaging

attachment clutchcontrol.

TO STOP MOWER BLADES -
disengage attachment clutch control

_I,CAUTION: Do notoperate the mower
withouteither the entire grass catcher, on
mowers so equipped, or the deflector
shield in place.

Attachment

ClutchLever Attachemnt
=Engaged""

Posi#on , Position

Low

position

Position

Deflector

Shield

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

_kCAUTION: Do not drive up or down

hills with slopes greater than 15° and do

notddve across any slope.

• Choose the slowest speed before

starting up or down hills.

• Avoid stopping or changing speed on

hi((s.

• If slowingis necessary, move throttle

control lever to slower position.

• If stopping is absolutely necessary,

push elutch/brake pedal quickly to

brake position and engage parking
brake.

• Move gearshift lever to 1st gear. Be

sure you have allowed room for tractor

to roll slightlyas you restart movement.

• To restart movement, slowly release
parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.

• Make all turns slowly.

TO TRANSPORT

• Raise attachment lift to highest position
with attachment liftcontrol.

• When pushing or towingyour tractor,

be sure gearshift lever is in neutral (N)

position.

• Do not push ortow tractor at more than
five (5) MPH.

NOTE: To protect hoodfrom damage
when transportingyour 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
specificationsof the manufacturer of your
tractor.Use (_ommonsense when towing,
Too heavy of a load, while on a slope, is
dangerous. "rims can lose tractionwith

the ground and cause you to lose control
ofyour tractor.

BEFORE STARTINGTHE ENGINE
CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL

The engine in your tractor has been
shipped, from the factory, already filled
with summer weight oil.

1. Check engine oil with tractor on level
ground.

2. Remove oilfill cap/dipstick and wipe
clean, reinsert the dipstick and screw

cap tight, wad for a few seconds,

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

dipstick is reached. Do not overfill.

• For cold weather operation you should
change oil for easier starting (Sea "OIL

VISCOSITY CHART" inthe Mainte-

nance section of thismanual).

• To change engine oil, see the Mainte-

nance section in this manual.

Oil Fill Cap/

Dipstick

14

ADD GASOLINE

• 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 llfe). Do not
mix oilwith gasoline. Purchasefuel in
quantitiesthat can be used within 30
days to assure fuel freshness.

IMPORTANT: When operating in
temperatures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh,
clean winter grade gasoline to help
insure good cold weather starting.

_WARNING: Experience indicatesthat
alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or

using ethanol or methanol) can attract
moisturewhich leads to separation and

formation of acids duringstorage. 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 untilthe fuel lines
and carburetorare empty. Use fresh fuel
next season. See Storage Instructionsfor
additional information. Never use engine
or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel

tank or permanent damage may occur.
_,CAUTION: Fill to bottomof gas tank

fillerneck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any
spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spillor
use gasoline near an open flame.

TO START ENGINE
Whenstartingtheengine forthe ifrstifma or if

theenginehasrun out offuel, itwil take extra
crankingifma to movefuel fromthe tankto
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.

3. Move attachment clutch to =DISEN-
GAGED" position.

4. Move throttle oontrol to choke position.

NOTE: Beforestarting,readthewarm and
coldstarling _res below.

5. Insert key into ignitionand turn key
clockwise to "START" position and

release key as soon as engine starts.
Do not run starter continuouslyfor
morethan fifteen seconds per minute.
Ifthe engine does not start after
several attempts, move throttlecontrol

to fast position, wait a few minutes

and try again. If engine still does not
start,move the throttlecontrol back to

the choke position and retry.

WARMWEATHER STARTING (50°F and

above)

6. When engine starts, move the throttle
controlto the fast position.

• The attachments and ground drive can

now be used. Ifthe engine does not
accept the load, restartthe engine and
allow it to warm up for one minute
using the choke 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 untilthe 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: ffat a highaltitude (above3000 feet)

or incoldtemperatures(below32 F)the

carburetorfuelmixture may need to be
ac_ustadfor best engine performance. See

"1"OADJUST CARBURETOR" inthe Service

andA_ustments section of this manual.

15

MOWINGTIPS

• Mower should be propedy leveled for
bestmowing performance. See "TO

LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the
Service and Adjustments section of this

manual.

• The left hand side of mower should be
usedfor trimming.

• Drive so that clippings are discharged
onto the area that has been cut. Have

the cut area to the dght of the tractor.

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

cutting.

• When mowing large areas, start by
turningto the right so that clippingswill

discharge away from shrubs, fences,

driveways, etc. Afterone or two

rounds, mow inthe opposite direction
making left hand turns untilfinished.

• If grass is extremely tall, it should be

mowed twice to reduce load and
possiblefire hazard from dried clip.

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

• Do not mow grasswhen it is wet. Wet

grass will plug mower and leave
undesirable clumps. Allow grass to dry
before mowing.

• Always operate engine atfull throtUe
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

groundspeed that will suitthe terrain
and give best performance of the
attachment being used.

f

MULCHING MOWINGTIPS

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

grass and trash. Clean after each use.

• The special mulching blade will recut

the grass clippings many times and

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

mulched grass will biodegrede quickly
to provide nutrientsfor the lawn.
Always mulch with your highest engine

(blade) speed as this will provide the

best recutting action of the blades.

• Avoid cuttingyour lawn when it iswet.

Wet grasstends to form clumpsand

interferes with the mulchingaction.
The best time to mow your lawn is the

eady aftemoon. At this timethe grass

has dried and the newly cut area will
notbe exposed to the direct sun.

• For best results, adjust themower

cuttingheight so that the mower cuts off
onlythe 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
conditionsmay 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 firstcut path.

• Change your cutting pattern from week

to week. Mow northto southone week
then change to east to west the next

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

Max 1/3"

16

MAINTENANCESCHEDULE

FILL IN DATES
AS YOU COMPLE3E
REGULAR SERVICE

Ch,v_kBrakeOperation t/ t/
CheckT'.. Pm_uro t,/ t/

Check Operator Prese_cs a_d

InterlockSystems b/

ER_CEDATES

c_.d_forLooseFas_n_x= J V', I,/

Sherpen/R ep_ar_ k4owet Bled_ _4

Ch_k Batter/Lewl I_s

Ckmn_tlsry andTeeninak b/ I/

Ch_:_ Tmnsa)de Cooling

Adjust81andBelt(s)Teeslon f_

Adlust

Mo(io_ D_e Be_t(s)Tension _

Check Engbe Oil Level _

ChangeEn0ineON l_?,_ b#

Air Filter _

Clean Ak-Scrsen b/2
Inspect MuffledSpa_ Arrester I_

Replace Oil Filter (If equipped) k_t2

Clean Engine Cooling Fir_s I_=

Rep_ca Nr Filter Paper C_lddge 1_2
Repine Fuel miter (_

3. _ eou;pp_d v,_*_o_ _lt _, d._ oa m 50 h_xr_ 7.11ghtm tront_ ph_t _dt I_ 35 P_4_. rra_mJm.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on thistractordoes notcover

itemsthat have been subjected to operator
abuse or negligence, To receivefull value

from the warranty,operator must maintain
tractor as instructedin this manual.

Some adjustments willneed to be made
pedodicallyto properly maintain your

tractor.
All adjustmentsin the Service and

Adjustmentssection ofthis manual should
be checked at leastonce each season.

• Once a year you should replacethe

spark plug, clean or replace air filter, and
check blades andbeltsfor wear. A new

spark plugand clean air filter assure
proper air-fuel mixtureand help your
engine run better and last longer.

BEFORE EACH USE
1, Check engine oil level.

2. Check brake operation.

3. Check tire pressure.

4. Check operator presence and

intedeck systems for proper operation.

5, Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION CHART

_) SpindLe

Zerk Zerk

(_Front Wheel

Bearing Bearing Zerk

Zerk

, - _- ,--_ shirt
L__., '"- - _ Pivots

_SAE 30 or 10w30MOTOROIL
@GENERALPURPOSEGREASE

@REFERTO Maintenance=ENGINE"

SECTION
IMPORTANT: Do notoil or graase the

pivot points which have special nylon
bearings. Viscous lubricants will attract

dust and dirt that willshorten the life of
the self.lubricatingbearings. If you feel
they must be lubricated, use only a dry,

powdered graphite type lubricant

17sparingly.