Craftsman 917271634 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

ICRAFTSMAN°I

16.5 HP

ELECTRIC START

42" MOWER

6 SPEED TRANSAXLE

LAWN TRACTOR

Model No.

917.271634

• 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 to yourquestions

about this product,Call:

1-800-659-5917

Sears Craftsman Help Line
5 am o5 pm, Mort - Sat

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

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

ProductSpecifications...........................6

Assembly...............................................6

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

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

LIMITED TWOYEARWARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT PARTS
For two (2) years from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Riding Equipment is

maintained, lubricated and tuned up according to the instructions in the owner's
manual, Sears will repair or replace, free of charge, any parts found to be defective in
matedal or workmanship. Warranty service is available free of charge by returning your
Crattsman 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.

ThLsWarranty 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, such as nails,

thorns, stumps, or glass.

• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, including but not limited to, damage
caused by towing objects beyond the capability of the dding equipment, impacting

objects that bend the frame or crankshaft, or over speeding the engine.

• Repairs necessary because of operator negligence, including but not limited to,
electrical and mechanical damage caused by improper storage, failure to use the
proper grade and amount of engine oil, failure to keep the deck clear of flammable
debris, or the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions con-

tained in the owner's manual.

• Engine (fuel system) cleaning or repairs caused by fuel determined to be contami-
nated or oxidized (stale). In general, fuel should be used within thirty (30) days of its

purchase 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 prot]t is made.

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

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

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

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

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

Parts Ordering ...................... Back Cover

LIMITED 90 DAYWARRANTY ON BATTERY
For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery includedwith 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 avaLlable 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 1-600-4-MY-HOME

This Warranty gives you specific legal dghts, and you may also have other rights which
may vary from state to state.

Sears, Roebuck and Co., [:)/817 WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

2

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

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

serious injuryor death.

I. GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow all

instructionsinthe manual andon the
machine before starting.

• Only allow responsibleadults, who are
familiar with the instructions,to operate

the machine.

• Clear the area of objectssuch as rocks,
toys,wire, etc., whichcould be picked

up and thrown bythe blade.

• Be sure the area is clear of other people

beforemowing. Stop machine if 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

directionand do not pointit at anyone.
Do notoperate the mower without either

the entire grass catcher or the guard in
place.

• Slow down before turning.

• Never leave a running machine
unattended. Always turn off blades, set
parkingbrake, stopengine, and remove
keys before dismounting.

• Turn off blades when notmowing.

• Stop engine before removinggrass
catcher or uncloggingchute.

• Mow only in daylight or good artificial

light.

• Do not operate the machine while under
the influenceof alcoholor drugs.

• Watchfor trafNcwhen operating near or

crossing roadways.

• Use extra care when loading or unload-
ing the machine into a traileror truck.

• Data indicates that operators, age 60
years and above, are involved in a large
percentage of riding mower-related
injuries. These operators should
evaluate their abilityto operate the riding
mower safely enoughto protect them-
selvesand othersfrom seriousinjury.

• Keep machine free ofgrass, leaves or
other debds build-upwhich can touch

hotexhaust / engine parts and bum. Do
notallow the mower deck to plow leaves

or other debris which can cause build-
up to occur. Clean any oilor fuel

spillage before operating or storingthe
machine. Allowmachine to coct before

storage. 3

I1.SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related toloss-of-

control and tipoveraccidents,which can re-
sult in severe in ury or death. All slopes

requre extra caution. Ifyou cannot backup

the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not

mow it.
DO:

• Mow up and down slopes, not across.

• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree
limbs, etc.

Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven
terrain could overturnthe machine. Tall

grass can hide obstacles.

Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so

thatyou willnot have tostop orshift
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 stabilityof the machine.

Keep all movement on the slopes slow

and gradual. Do not make sudden

changesin speed or direction.

Avoid startingor stoppingon a slope. If
tires lose traction, disengage the blades

and proceed slowly straightdown the

slope.

DO NOT:

• Do not turnon slopes unless necessary,
and then, turn slowly and gradually
downhill,if possible.

• Donotmow near drop-offs,ditches,or
embankments. The mower could

suddenlyturnover if a wheel is overthe
edge of a cliffor ditch, or ifan edge

caves in.

• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced

traction could cause sliding.

• Do not try to stabilizethe machine by
puttingyourfoot on the ground.

• Donatusegrasscatcheronsteep

slopes.

III.CHILDREN

Tragicaccidentscanoccurif 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 lastsaw them.

• Keep childran out of the mowing area

and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult.

• Be alert and turn machine off ifchildren
enter the area.

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

• Never carry children. They may fall off

and be sedously 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,

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 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 tamperwith safety devices.

Check their proper operation regularly.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or

other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel
spillage. Anow machine to cool before

stodng.

• Stop and inspectthe equipment if 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, and deterioration,
which couldexpose 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.

• 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.

• 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 small children.

• Mow up and down slopes (15° Max),
notacross.

• Remove obstacles such as rooks, tree
limbs, etc.

• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps.
Uneven terrain could overturn the
machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.

• Use slow speed. Choose a lowgear so
that you will not have to stop or shill

while on the slope.

• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If

tires lose traction, disengage the
blades and proceed slowly straight

down the slope.

• If machine stops while going uphill,

disengage blades, shift into reverse
and back down slowly.

• Do notturn 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!H BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR

SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

_LCAUTION: 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.
_I, CAUTION: Do not coast down a hill in

neutral, you may lose control of the

tractor.

_CAUTION: Towonlythe attachments
that are recommendedby and comply

with specificationsof the manufacturer of
your tractor. Use common sense when

towing. Operate only at the lowest

possiblespeed when on a slope. Too
heavy of a load, while on a slope, is

dangerous. Tires can lose traction with

the ground and cause youto lose control

ofyour tractor.
_WARNING: Engine exhaust some of

ts const tuents, and certa n vehicle

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

cancer and birth defects or other repro-
ductive harm.

_kWARNING: Battery posts,terminals
and related accessones contain lead and

lead compounds, chemicals known to the
State of Californiato cause cancer and

birth defects or other reproductive harm.
Wash hands after handling.

PRODUCTSPECIFICATIONS

GASOLINE 1.25

CAPACITY UNLEADED

AND TYPE: REGULAR
OlLTYPE SAE 30 (ABOVE 32_F)

API-SF - SJ): SAE 5W-30

(BELOW 32°F)

OiL CAPACITY: 3.0 PINTS

SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION RC12YC

GAP: .030")

GROUND SPEED (MPH):

FORWARD: 1ST 1.1

2ND 1.4
3RD 2.2

4TH 3.4
5TN 4.3

6TH 5.5

REVERSE: 1.7

TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI

REAR: 12 PSI

CHARGING 3 AMPS BATTERY

,YSTEM: 5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS

3ATTERY: AMP/HR: 25

MIN. CCA: 190

CASE SIZE:U 1R

BLADE BOLTTORQUE: 27-35 FT.LBS

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase
of a new tractor. Ithas 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 qualifiedservice center.
We have competent, well-trained techni-

cians and the proper tools to service or

repair this tractor.
Please read and retain this manual, The

instructionswill enable you to assemble

and maintain your tractorproperly.
Always observe the "SAFETY RULES".

REPAIR AG REEMENT
A Repair Agreement is available on this

product. Contact your nearest Sears
store for details.

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and observe the safety rules.

• Follow a regular schedule in maintain-
ing, caring for and using your tractor.

• Follow the instructions under "Mainte-
nance" and "Storage" sectionsof this

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 (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 similarlaws.
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

Steedng

Wheel Insert

(1) Hex Bolt 5/16-18 x 1-1/4

_ Steedng Wheel

Adapter

@

(1) Locknut 5/16-18

Seat

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

_(1) Knob

(1) Hex Bolt

3/8-16 x 1

(1) Washer

(1) Large Flat Washer

(1) Lockwasher 3/8

Steering

°t

Extension

Steering Shaft

Boot

€

Keys

(2) Keys

For Future Use

Slope Sheet

Video Cassette

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 wilt make assembly

easier. Standard wrench sizes you need
are listed below.

(1) 9/16"wrench (1) Pliers
(2) l/2"wranch (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
steering wheel).

TO REMOVETRACTOR FROM
CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

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

2. Cut, from top to bottom, along lineson
all four corners of carton, and lay
panels fiat,

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

steedng shaft. Align mounting holes
in extension and tower 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 steering boot over tab
slotsin dash and push down to

secure.

INSTALL STEERING WHEEL

3. Position front 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.

5. Position steenng 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.

-_ _ Insert
_3_/8HeoXpewt asher

_Large Flat

Adapter-------'-_

.__ Extension Shaft

5/16 Locknut -,-., 5/16 HexBolt

Lower

Steering , ..
Shaft ,,

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.

HOWTO SET UPYOURTRACTOR
CHECK BATTERY

1. Liftseat pan to raised positionand
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).

Terminal

Battery
Door

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 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.

SeatPan_ulder

Flat W__

NOTE: You may now roll or drive your

tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate

instruction below to remove the tractor

from the skid.

TO ROLLTRACTOR 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 pedal.

3. Place gearshift lever in neutral (N)

position.

4. Roll tractor forward off skid.

5. Remove banding holding deflector
shield up against tractor,

TO DRIVETRACTOR OFF SKID (See

Operation section for location and

function of controls)
_kWARNING: 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 frontof 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 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.

7. 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.

10.Turn ignition key to "OFF" position,

Continue with the instructionsthat follow.

9

INSTALL MULCHER PLATE

(if previously removed)

1. Raise and hold deflector shield in

upright position.

2. Placa front of mulcher plate over front

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

3. Hookfront latch into hole on front of
mower deck.

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

.F_ Mulcher

Deflector
Shield

A_)_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-

lion.

TO CONVERTTO BAGGING OR

DISCHARGING

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

for discharging or instanation of optional
grass catcher accessory.

NOTE: It is not necessary to change

blades. The mulcher blades are de-

signed for discharging and bagging also.
CHECKTIRE PRESSURE

The tires on your tractor were ovedn-

fiated at the factoryfor shipping pur-

poses. Correct tire 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" in the

Service and Adjustments section of this
manual.

Plate

Latch

Hooks

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF

ALL BELTS

See the figures that ere shown for
replacing motion and mower blade drive

belts in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual. Verify that the

belts are routed correctly.
CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM
Afteryou learn how to operate your

tractor,check to see that the brake is
properly adjusted. See =TOADJUST

BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual.

/CHECKLIST

BEFORE YOU OPERATE AND ENJOY

YOUR NEW TRACTOR, WE WISH TO
ASSURE THATYOU RECEIVETHE BEST

PERFORMANCE AND SATISFACTION
FROM THIS QUALITY PRODUCT.

PLEASE REVIEWTHE FOLLOWING
CHECKLIST:

,/All assembly instructionshave been

completed.

•/ No remaining loose parts in carton.
/ Battery is properly prepared and

charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps).

/ Seat is adjusted comfortablyand

tightened securely.

/ 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).

,I Check mower end drive belts. Be sure

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

,/Check wiring. See that all connections

are still secure end wires are properly
clamped.

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,

regular unleaded gasoline.

d Become familiar with all controls - their

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

/ Be sure brake system is in safe

operating condition.

10

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

Learn and understand their meaning.

t

BATTERY CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW

ENG]NE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP

FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED

WARNING

LIGHT

LOCKED

H L

ATTACHMENT REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW

CLUTCH ENGAGED

IGNITION CLUTCH DISENGAGED (SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

ATrACHMENT

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZ.AR as

PARKING BRAKE

!

MOWER LIFT

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

FREE WHEEL

(Automatic Models only)

11

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

Compare the illustrationswith your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of

various controlsand adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

Attachment Ignition Switch

Clutch

Ammeter ..... - -.

Throttle/Choke
Control

Clutch/Brake Height

Pedal ." "------'"

Gearshift Lever

Light Switch

Lilt

Plunger

Attachment
Lift Lever

g Brake Lever

Our tractors conformto the safety standards ofthe American

NationalStandardsInstitute.

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 startingand
stopping the engine.

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

LIGHT SWITCH -Turns the headlights on
and off.

PARKING BRAKE LEVER - Locksclutch/
brake pedal into the brake position.

THROT'rLE/CHOKE CONTROL- Used
for starting and controlling engine speed.

12

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.

HOWTO USEYOURTRACTOR

TO SET PARKING BRAKE
Your tractor is equipped with an operator

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

leave the seat without firstsetting the
parkingbrake will shut off the engine.

1. Depress clutch/brake pedal into full

"BRAKE" positionand hold.

2. Place parking brake lever in "EN-

GAGED" position and release
pressure from clutch/brake pedal.

Pedal should remain in "BRAKE"

position. Make sure parking brake will
hold tractor secure.

Attachment Clutch Lever

=Engaged"Position

_ _lgnition Key

ed

Choks-__i ',"\ _\a
Control_'_ \_ _/Parking Brake

C_tch/ ........

/ _ _' _ Lever

"Disengaged" B__ "_ ak-"e'_
Position Position

STOPPING
MOWER BLADES -

• To stop mower blades,move attach-

ment clutch lever to "DISENGAGED"
position.

GROUND DRIVE -

• 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 throttlecontrol to
slow position and allowing engine to idle

before stopping may cause engine to

"backfire".

• Turn ignitionkey to "OFF" position and

remove key. Always remove key when
leaving tractor to prevent unauthorized

use.

• Never use choke to stop engine.

"._"_\' \_ )/ "Engaged

_ _- Gearshift

IMPORTANT: Leaving the ignition switch
in any positionother 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

stoppingtractor on grass areas.

_I, CAUTION: Always stop tractor

completely, as described above, before
leaving the operator's position; to empty

grass catcher, etc.
TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL

Always operate engine at full throttle.

• Operating engine at less than full
throttle reduces the battery charging

rate.

• Full throttle offers the best bagging and
mower performance.

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD

The direction and speed of movement 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.

3. Slowly release clutch/brake pedal to

start movement.

IMPORTANT: Bringtractor to a complete
stop before shiftingor changing gears.

Failure to do so will shortenthe useful life
ofyour transaxle,

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

determines the cutting height.

• Grasp liftlever.

• Press plunger with thumb and move

lever to desired position.

The cutting height range is approxi-

mately 1-1/2 to 4". The heightsare
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 cutting performance, grass
over 6 inches in height should be

mowed twice. Make the first cut

relatively high; the second to desired
height.

TO OPERATE MOWER
Your tractor is equipped with an operator

presence sensing switch. Anyattempt by

the operator to leave the seat with the

engine running and the attachment clutch
engaged will shut off the engine.

1. Select desired height of cut.

2. Start mower blades by engaging

attachment clutch control.

TO STOP MOWER BLADES -
disengage attachment clutch control.

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

Attachment
Clutch Lever_ Attachsmnt

"End]aged"_ 7) __ LiftLeverHigh

Position _/,_ Position

F_siUon

"DpoiSi_ngage

I_--_Z/_--_ Deflector

/))/ Sh,.Id

TO OPERATE ON HILLS
A(_CAUTION: Do notdrive up or dewn

hillswith slopes greater than 15° and do

not drive across any slope.

• Choose the slowest speed before

starting up or down hills.

• Avoid stopping or changing speed on

hills.

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

• If stopping is abSOluteLynecessary,
push clutch/brake pedal quickly to

brake position and engage parking
brake.

• Move gearshift lever to 1stgear. Be
sure you have agowed room for tractor

to rollslightlyas you restart movement.

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

• Make all turns slowly.

TO TRANSPORT

• Raise attachment lift to highestposition
with attachment liftcontrol.

• When pushing or towing your tractor,

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

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

NOTE: To protect hood from damage
when transporting your tractor on a truck

or a trailer, be sure hood is closed and
secured totractor. 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 tractionwith
the ground and cause you to lose control
of yourtractor.

BEFORE STARTING THE 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 oil fill cap/dipstick and wipe
clean, reinsert the dipstick and screw

cap tight, wait for afew seconds,
remove and read oil level. If neces-

sary, add oil until "FULL • mark on
dipstick is reached. Do not overfill.

• 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.

_.__ 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 life). Do not
mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in

quantitiesthat can be used within 30
days to assure fuel freshness.

IMPORTANT: When operating in

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

moisture which leads to separation and
formationof 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 carburetor are 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.

_I, CAUTION: Fill tobottom of gas tank
filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe offany

spilled oilor fuel. Do not store, spillor
use gasoline near an open flame.

TO START ENGINE
When startingthe engineforthefirsttimeor if

the enginehas runoutoffuel,itwilltake extra
crankingtJn",etomovefuelfrom the tankto
the engine.

1. Siton seat in operating position,
depress clutch/brake pedal and set
parking brake.

2. Place gear shift lever in neutral (N)

position.

3. Move attachment clutchto "DISEN-
GAGED" position.

4. Move throttle control to choke position.

NOTE: Beforestarting,readthewarmand

coldstartingproceduresbelow.

5. Insert key into ignition and turn key

clockwise to "START" position and
release key as soonas engine starts.
Do not run starter continuously for
more than fifteen seconds per minute.

Ifthe engine does not start after

several attempts, move throttle control
to fast position,wait a few minutes
and try again. If engine stilldoes not
start, move the throttlecontrol back to

the choke position and retry.

WARMWEATHER STARTING(50• Fand
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 towarm up for one minute
using the choke as described above.

COLDWEATHER STARTING( 50° F and
below)

6. When engine starts, allow engine to

run with the throttlecontrol in the
choke position until the engine runs

roughly,then move throttlecontrol 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 hk3ha]t_ude(above 3000 feet)
or incoldtemperatures(below32 F) the
carberator fue_mixture may needto be

adjL_tedfor bestengineperformance.See

='1"OADJUST CARBURETOR" in the Service

andAdjustments sectionof this manual.

15

MOWINGTIPS

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

LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" inthe
Service and Adjustments section ofthis

manual.

• The left hand side of mower shouldbe
used for 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

turning tothe rightso that clippingswill
discharge away from shrubs, fences,

driveways, etc. After one or two
rounds, mow in the opposite direction

making left hand turns untilfinished.

• If grass is extremely tail, 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.

• 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 suitthe terrain
and give best performance of the
attachment being used.

MULCHING MOWlNGTIPS
IMPORTANT: For best performance,

keep mower housing free of built-up
grass and trash. Clean aftereach 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 biodegrade quickly
to provide nutrients for the lawn.

Always mulch with your highest engine
(blade) speed as this will providethe

best recuttingaction of the blades.

• Avoid cuttingyour 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 thistime the grass
has dried and the newly cut area will
not be exposed to the directsun.

• For best results, adjust the mower

cuttingheight so that the mower cutsoff
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

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 towest the next
week. This will help prevent matting

and graining of the lawn.

Max 1/3"

16

MAINTENANCESCHEDULE

FILL IN DATES

AS YOU COMPLETE

REGULAR SERVICE ;ERV]CE DATES

CheCk Brake Operation _ _1_

CheckT_rePressure I/ _

CheCk Operator Presence and

Interlock Systems k/

Check f_ loose Fasteners I_ If?: I1_ I
Sharpen/Re@ace Mower Blades I_4

lu_caUonChad $/ b/

Check Batte_ lev_4

Clean Barley and Terminals li/ I_

Check Transa_e Co_mg

Adlust Blade BeitCS)Tension fl/_

Adjust Moron Ddve Belt(s) Tension _s

Change Engine Oi_ _2,! IkS
Clean Air Filter {t_z

Clean Air Screen I1_
Inspect Muffler/Spark Attester (1_

Replace Oil F_l_er(ff equipped) 1_12
Clean Engine Cc_ing Fins I_z

Replace Spark Plug V'
Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge V'2

Reptace Fuel FiRer (1_

1. Change r_nl oein _teel _llllJng unde- i hei_ I_d a{ I_ _lh ir._b_ln{ klf_elbJr# S. Ife_Ji_ wl_ IdjLit=_* Syll_¢.

2. Sen _cer_oll oP,enwhen o_ng in_/o_ du_ co*',d_O_l.

3. ffe_ped w_ oefl_e_ rP_e oi e_y 50 ho_nL

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on thistractor does not cover

•)Spindle _("---'--'-_ --_)Spindle

6. NO_m_ 4 e_J_ed w_lhmaz_m-frl balzary+

Do r_ o',_rcghUm.

LUBRICATION CHART

itemsthat have been subjected tooperator
abuse or negligence. To receive fullvalue

from the warranty,operator must maintain

tractoras instructedin this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made

Zerk i";-,_4_............._'= _, Zerk

_Front Wheel __ ..... j _Front Wheel

Bearing "Z_"_ ..... I _. BearingZerk

periodicallyto propedy maintain your
tractor.

All adjustmentsin the Service and
Adjustmentssection ofthis manual should

be checked at leastonce each season.

• Once a year you should replace the

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

spark plug and clean air filter assure
proper air-fuel mixture and help your

engine run better and last longer.

BEFORE EACH USE

1. Check engine oil level.

2. Check brake operation.

3. Check tire pressure.

4. Check operator presence and
intedock systems for proper operation.

5. Check for loose fasteners.

_)SAE 30 or 10w30MOTOROIL

_)GENERALPURPOSE GREASE
@REFERTO 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-lubricating bearings. If you feel
they must be lubricated, use only a dry,

; \ J , ,_Gear-
L.___--_...J_,__, , shift

....... Pivots

powdered graphite type lubricant

17sparingly.