Craftsman 917271640 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

16.5 HP

ELECTRIC START

42" MOWER

AUTOMATIC

LAWN TRACTOR

Model No.

917.271640

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Repair Parts

This product has a low emission engine which operates differently from previously built engines. Before you start the en- gine, read and understand this Owner's Manual.

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 your questions about this product,Call:

1-800-659-5917

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

-_:_i?:;__ _ _ _, _:i_ i _i_

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

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

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

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

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

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

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT PARTS : _, For two (2) years from the date of pumhase, 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 iIii material or workmanship. Warranty service is available free of charge by taking your

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

product is in the United States.

Maintenance Schedule ...................... 18 !:_ i ....

Service and Adjustments .................... 22

Storable ............................................... 29

Troubleshooting ................................. 30

Repair Parts ........................................ 34

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

ThisWarrantydoes notcover:

• Expendableitemswhichbecomewom dudng normaluse, suchas blades,spark

plugs,air cleaners,beltsand oilfilters.

• Tire replacementor repaircausedby puncturesfrom outsideobjects,suchas nails,

thorns,stumps,or glass.

• Repairsnecessarybecauseof operatorabuse, includingbutnot limitedto,damage

caused by towingobjectsbeyondthe capabilityof the ddingequipment,impacting

objectsthatbendtheframe Orcrankshaft,or overspeedingthe engine.

• Repairsnecessarybecauseof operatornegligence,includingbut notlimitedto, electricaland mechanicaldamagecaused by improperstorage,failure to use the propergrade and amountof engine oil,failure to keepthedeckclear of flammable

debris,or thefailure to maintaintheequipmentaccordingtothe instructions containedin the owner'smanual.

• Engine(fuel system)cleaningor repairscausedbyfuel determinedto be contami- natedor oxidized(stale).In general,fuel shouldbe usedwithinthirty(30) daysof its

purchasedate.

• Ridingequipmentusedfor commemialor rental purposes.

LIMITED 90 DAY WARRANTY ON BATTERY For ninety (90) days from date of pumhase, 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-

runty service is available free of charge by taking your 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 product is in the United States.

TO OC TET.ENEARES SEARSSERWCECENTERORTOSCREDU'E

.OMEWARRANTYSERWCE,S MPLYCONTACTSEARSAT1- O0- -MY-.OME

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:Thiscuttingmachineiscapableofamputatinghandsandfeet and

throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

I. GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual and on the

machine before starting.

• Only allow responsible adults, who are

familiar with the instructions, to operate

the machine.

• Clear the area of objects such as

rocks, toys, wire, etc., which could be picked up and thrown by the blade.

• Be sure the area is clear of other

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

• Never carry passengers.

• Do not mow in reverse unless abso-

lutely 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 mower without either the entire grass catcher or the

guard in place.

• Slow down before turning.

• Never leave a running machine unattended. Always tum off blades, set

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

• Turn off blades when not mowing.

• Stop engine before removing grass

catcher or unclogging chute.

• Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.

• Do not operate the machine while

under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Watch for traffic when operating near or

crossing roadways.

• Use extra care when loading or

unloading the machine into a trailer or

truck.

• Data indicates that operators, age 60

years and above, are involved in a large percentage of riding mower-

related injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate

the riding mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from

serious injury.

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

control and tipover accidents, which can

result in severe injury or death. All slopes require extra caution. If you cannot back up

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

mow it. DO:

• Mow up and down slopes, not across.

• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree

limbs, etc.

• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps.

Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide ob-

stacles.

• 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 recommen-

dations for wheel weights or counter- weights to improve stability.

• Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments. These can change

the stability of the machine,

• Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual. Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction.

• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction, disengage the

blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

DO NOT:

• Do not turn on slopes unless neces- sary, and then, turn slowly and gradu-

ally downhill, if possible.

• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. The mower could

suddenly turn over if a wheel is over

the edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge

caves in.

• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced

traction could cause sliding.

• Do not try to stabilize the machine by

putting your foot on the ground.

• Do not use grass catcher on steep

slopes.

III.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.

• Be alert and turn machine off if children

enter the area.

: " i: • Before and when backing, look behind

-: . ; and down for small children.

• Never carry children. They may fall off

and be seriously injured or interfere

iii_:ill 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 _ts, tight and keep :: equipment in good condition.

• Never tamper with safety devices.

Check their proper operation regularly.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel

spillage, Allow machine to cool before storing.

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

before restarting.

• Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine running.

• Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage, and deterioration,

which could expose moving pads or

allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check components and replace with

manufacturer's recommended pads,

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.

•, ! ,! _i"i

• 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),

not across.

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

• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps.

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

• Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so

that you will not have to stop or shift while on the slope.

• 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 not turn on slopes unless neces- sary, and then, turn slowly and gradu-

ally downhill, if possible.

4_kLookfor this symbol to point out

important safety precautions. It means

CAUTION!!! BECOMEALERT!H YOUR

SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

_, CAUTION: In order to prevent

accidental starting when setting up,

transporting, adjusting or making repairs,

always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark

CAUTION: Do not coast down a hill

in neutral, you may lose control of the

tractor.

4_kCAUTION: Tow only the attachments that are recommended by 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 can lose traction with

the ground and cause you to lose control of your tractor. 4_WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of

its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals

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

ductive harm. 4_kWARNING: 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.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

GASOLINE 1.25 GALLONS CAPACITY UNLEADED ANDTYPE: REGULAR

OILTYPE 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")

VALVE INTAKE: .003-.005 CLEARANCE: EXHAUST: 005-.007

GROUND SPEED FORWARD:5.2 (MPH): REVERSE: 2.7

TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI

REAR: 12 PSI

CHARGING 3 AMPS BATTERY SYSTEM: 5AMPS HEADLIGHTS

BATTERY: AMP/HR: 25

MIN. CCA: 190

CASE SIZE: U1R

BLADE BOLT 27-35 FT. LBS. TORQUE:

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new tractor. 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-

clans and the proper tools to service or repair this tractor.

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

and maintain your tractor properly. Always observe the "SAFETY RULES".

REPAIR AGREEMENT A Repair Agreement is available on this

product. Contact your nearest Sears store for details.

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and observe the safety rules.

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

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

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

Califomia 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).

Steering

Wheel Insert

(1) Hex Bolt

3/8-16 x 1

Steering

Boot

Steering Wheel

(1) Lock

washer 3/8

(1) Locknut

5/16-18

_ Steering

Wheel Adapter

Seat

(_(1) Washer

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

(1) Large Flat Washer

(1) Hex Bolt

5/16-18 x 1-1/4

Steering Extension

Shaft

Slope Sheet

_(1) Knob

For Future Use

Keys

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 will make assembly easier. Standard wrench sizes you need

are listed below. (t) 9/16" wrench (1) Pliem

(2) 1/2"wrench (1) Utility knife (1) Tire pressure gauge

When dght or left hand is mentioned in

this manual, it means, from your point of view, when you are in the operating

position (seated behind the steering wheel).

TO REMOVETRACTOR FROM

CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

1. Remove all accessible loose parts

and parts cartons from carton.

2, Cut, from top to 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 REMOVINGTRACTOR FROM SKID

ATTACH 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 focknut.

Tighten securely.

2. Place tabs of steedng 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 forward.

4. Remove steedng wheel adapter from

steering wheel and slide adapter onto steering shaft extension.

5. Position steering wheel so crass bars

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

5/16

Lower Steenng

Shaft

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

securely.

7. Snap steedng wheel insert into center

of steering wheel.

8. Remove protective materials from

tractor hood and gdll.

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. 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).

Label

Barfer

Ooor

INSTALL SEAT Adjust seat before tightening adjustment

knob. t. 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.

Seat Pan •

'_ Bolt

Flat W shes_.er_

NOTE: You may now rollor 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/breke pedal.

3. Place freewheel control in freewheel- ing position to disengage transmis-

sion (See "TO TRANSPORT" in the Operation section of this manual).

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)

,_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.

1. Be sure all the above assembly steps have been completed.

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

3. Place freewheel control in "transmis- sion engaged" position.

4. Sit on seat in operating position, depress clutch/brake pedal and set

the parking brake.

5. Place motion control lever in neutral

(N) position.

6. Press lift lever plunger and raise attachment lift lever to its highest position.

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

position.

8. Release parking brake.

9. Slowly move the motion control lever forward and slowly ddve tractor off

skid.

10.Apply brake to stop tractor, set parking brake and place motion control lever

in neutral position.

11.Tum ignition key to 'OFF' position.

Continue with the instructions that follow.

INSTALLMULCHERPLATE

(If previously removed)

1. 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 latch into hole on front of

mower deck.

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

S_ Mulcher

Deflector _" \._d_ Plate

Latch

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

when attaching mulcher plate and allow it to rest on plate while in operation.

TO CONVERTTO BAGGING OR DISCHARGING

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

CHECKTIRE PRESSURE The tiros on your tractor were ovednflated

at the factory for shipping purposes. 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 housing

should be propady 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 ddve

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

belts are routed correctly.

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM After you team how to operate your

tractor, check to see that the brake is propedy adjusted. See "TO ADJUST

BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments

section of this manual.

e/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:

4' All assembly instructions have been

completed.

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

charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps).

,/Seat is adjusted comfortably and

tightened securely.

,/All tiros are propedy inflated. (For

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

,/ Be sure mower deck is properly leveled

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

results. (Tires must be propedy inflated for leveling).

,/Check mower and drive belts, Be sure

they are routed propedy around pulleys

and inside all belt keepers.

,/Check widng. See that all connections

are still secure and wires are propedy

clamped.

1/Before ddving tractor, be sure froe-

wheel control is in drive position.

While learning how to use your tractor, pay extra attention to the following

important items: / Engine oil is at proper level.

,/Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean,

regular unleaded gasoline.

,/Become familiar with all controls - their

location and function. Operate them

before you start the engine.

/ Be sure brake system is in safe operat-

ing condition.

•/ It is important to purge the transmission before operating your tractor for the first

time. Follow proper starting and transmission purging instructions (See

"TO START ENGINE" and "PURGE TRANSMISSION" in the Operation

section of this manual),

These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand their meaning.

BATTERY CAUTION OR

WARNING

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF

FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED

REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW

OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP

LIGHT

LOCKED

_r_'=R N H L

ATTACHMENT REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW

CLUTCH ENGAGED

ATTACHMENT KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

IGNITION CLUTCH DISENGAGED (SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

MOWER LIFT

PARKING BRAKE

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

FREE WHEEL

(Automatic Models only)

KNOWYOURTRACTOR

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

Comparethe illustrationswithyour tractorto familiarize yourselfwiththe locationsof

variouscontrolsandadjustments.Save this manualfor future reference.

Attachment Ignition Switch

Clutch / Lift

Ammeter _ Lever

Throttle/Choke Attachment Control _ Lift Lever

Clutch/Brake Height Pedal Adjustment

Light Switch

Plunger

indicator

Freewheel

Control ParkingBrake Lever

MotionControl Lever

Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the American

National Standards Institute,

AMMETER - Indicates charging (+) or

discharging (-) of battery.

A'I-FACHMENT 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.

MOTION CONTROL 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 when changing its

position. LIGHT SWITCH - Turns the headlights on

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

THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL - Used for starting and controlling engine speed.

FREEWHEEL CONTROL - Disengagages transmission for pushing

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 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 from clutch/brake pedal.

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

hold tractor secure.

AttachmentCYutchLever Ignition

"Engaged' Posits. /Key

_(_( ]_ / "Disengaged"

...... _ ) Position

_hr°;lee_..__ _Parking

Con_ \i_.' "=En a

, _', Brake

'.o.onOon,ro.

Position Position

STOPPING

MOWER BLADES -

• TO stop mower blades,move attach-

ment clutch lever to "DISENGAGED" position.

GROUND DRIVE -

• To stop ground ddve, depress clutch/

brake pedal into full "BRAKE" position.

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

IMPORTANT: The motion control lever does not retum to neutral (N) position when the clutch/brake pedal is de-

pressed. ENGINE -

• Move throttle control to slow position.

NOTE: Failure to move throttle control to slow position and allowing engine to idle before stopping may cause engine to

"backfire".

• Turn ignition key to "OFF" position and

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

use.

• Never use choke to stop engine. IMPORTANT: Leaving the ignition switch in any position other than "OFF' will

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

tractor is standing idle with the engine running, hot engine exhaust gases may

cause "browning" of grass. To eliminate this possibility, always stop engine when

stopping tractor on grass areas. p_eCAUTION: A ways stoD tractor com-

te y, as describe_ abo_s,before

leaving the operator's position; to empty 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 motion control lever.

1. Start tractor with motion control lever in neutral (N) position.

2. Release parking brake and clutch/ brake pedal.

3. Slowly move motion control lever to desired position.

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

determines the cutting height.

• Grasp lift lever.

• Press plunger with thumb and move

lever to desired position.

The cutting height range is 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.

• 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

reIativehJ high; the second to desired

height.

TO OPERATE MOWER

Your tractor is equipped with an operator presence sensing switch. Any attempt by the operator to leave the seat with the

engine running and the attachment clutch engaged witt 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 not operate the mower without either the entire grass catcher, on

mowers so equipped, or the deflector

shield In place.

Attachment, Attachemnt Clutch "Engaged" High

Position Position

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

when the clutch/brake pedal is de- pressed.

• To restart movement, slowly release

parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.

• Slowly move motion control lever to

slowest setting.

• Make all turns slowly. TO TRANSPORT

When pushing or towing your tractor, be sure to disengage transmission by

placing freewheel control in freewheeling

position. Free wheel control is located at

the rear drawbar of tractor.

1. Raise attachment liftto highest

position with attachment lift control.

2. Pull freewheel control out and down into the slot and release so it is held in

the disengaged position.

• Do not push or tow tractor at more than two (2) MPH.

• To reengage transmission, reverse

above procedure.

NOTE: To protect hood from damage

when transporting 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.).

Pos_on

Position Deflector

TO OPERATE ON HILLS 41_bCAUTION: Do not drive uo or down

hills with slopes greater than 15 ° and do not ddve across any slope.

• Choose the slowest speed before

starting up or down hitls.

• Avoid stopping or changing speed on

hills.

• If slowing is necessary, move throttle

control lever to slower position.

• If stopping is absolutely necessary,

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

brake.

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

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 STARTINGTHE ENGINE CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL

The engine in your tractor has been shipped, from the factory, already filled

with summer weight oil.

t. 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, tf 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.

_ Oi/Fl_/Cc_P/

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 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 help insure good cold weather starting.

_LWARNING: Experience indicates that a-I_oholblended 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 fuel system should be emptied before storage of 30 days or

longer. Drain the gas tank, start the engine and let it run until the fuel lines

and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See Storage Instructions for

additional information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.

dgLCAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any

spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or

usa 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 fue! from the tank to the engine.

1. Be sure freewheel control is in the

transmission engaged position.

2. Sit on seat in operating position, depress clutch/brake pedal and set

parking brake.

3. Place motion control lever in neutral

(N) position.

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

5. Move throttle control to choke position. NOTE: Before starting, read the warm

and cold starting procedures below.

6. 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)

7. When engine starts, move the throttle

control to the fast position.

• The attachments and ground drive can

now be used. If the engine does not accept the load, restart the engine and

allow it to warm up for one minute using the choke as described above.

COLD WEATHER STARTING ( 50° F and below)

7. When engine starts, allow engine to

run with the throttle control in the

choke position until the engine runs

roughly, then move throttle control to

fast position. This may require an engine warm-up period from several

seconds to several minutes, depend-

ing on the temperature.

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WARM UP Before driving the unit in cold weather,

the transmission should be warmed up as

follows:

1. Be sure the tractor is on level ground.

2. Place the motion control lever in neutral. Release the parking brake

and let the clutch/brake slowly return to operating position.

3. Allow one minute for transmission to

warm up. This can be done during the engine warm up period.

• The attachments can also be used

dudng the engine warm-up period after the transmission has been warmed up.

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 "TO ADJUST CARBURETOR" in the Service and Adjustments section of this

manual.

PURGETRANSMISSION

_CAUTION: Never engage or disen- gage freewheel lever while the engine is

running.

To ensure proper operation and perfor- mance, it is recommended that the

transmission be purged before operating tractor for the first time.This procedure will remove any trapped air inside the trans-

mission which may have developed during shipping of your tractor.

IMPORTANT: Should your transmission require removal for service or replacement,

it should be purged after reinstallation before operating the tractor.

1. Place tractor safely on level surface

with engine off and parking brake set.

2. Disengage transmission by placing

freewheel control in freewheeling position (See 'q'O TRANSPORT" in

this section of manual).

3. Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine. After the engine is running, move

throttle control to slow position. With motion control lever in neutral (N)

position, slowly disengage clutch/ brake pedal.

4. Move motion control lever to full forward position and hold for five (5)

seconds. Move lever to full reverse position and hold for five (5) seconds. Repeat this procedure three (3) times.

NOTE: During this procedure there will be no movement of drive wheels. The air

is being removed from hydraulic drive system.

5. Move motion control lever to neutral (N) position. Shut- off engine and set

parking brake.

6. Engage transmission by placing

freewheel control in ddving position

(See "TO TRANSPORT" in this

section of manual).

7. Sitting in the tractor seat, start

engine. After the engine is running, move throttle control to half (1/2)

speed. With motion control lever in neutral (N) position, slowly disen-

gage clutch/brake pedal.

8. Slowly move motion control lever

forward, after the tractor moves approximately five (5) feet, slowly

move motion control lever to reverse position. After the tractor moves approximately five (5) feet retum the motion control lever to the neutral (N)

position. Repeat this procedure with the motion control lever three (3)

times.

Your tractor is now purged and now ready for normal operation.

MOWINGTIPS

• Mower should be propedy 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.

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

the cut area to the right of the tractor. This will result in a more even distribu-

tion of clippings and more uniform cutting.

• When mowing large areas, start by turning to the dght so that clippings will

discharge away from shrubs, fences, driveways, etc. After one or two

rounds, mow in the opposite direction making left hand turns until finished.

• If grass is extremely tall, it should be mowed twice to reduce load and

possible fire hazard from dded clippings. Make first cut relatively high; the second to the desired height.

• Do not mow grass when it iswet. 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

matedaL 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 MOWINGTIPS IMPORTANT: For best performance,

keep mower housing free of built-up grass and trash. Clean after each use.

• The special mulching blade will recur

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 provide the

best recutting action of the blades.

• Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet. Wet grass tends to form clumps and interferes with the mulching action.

The best time to mow your lawn is the

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

• For best results, adjust the mower cutting height so that the mower cuts off

only the top one-third of the grass blades. For extremely heavy mulching,

reduce your width of cut on each pass and mow slowly.

• Certain types of grass and grass conditions may require that an area be

mulched a second time to completely hide the clippings. When doing a

second cut, mow across or perpendicu-

lar to the first cut path.

• Change your cutting pattern from week

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

week. This will help prevent matting

and graining of the lawn.

Max 1/3"

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE _'_.=_.._ _..,_ _"_,,_'_.,,_

FILL IN DATES _ :,_ _

AS YOU COMPLETE __'_ _ _7

REGULARSERVICE /_"tr_t_r_ _SERVICE DATES

Check Brake Operation _Check Tire Pressure

Check Operator PreSence and

T Interlock Systems Ii_

R CheckforLOOseFaeleners I_ II_r I_

IA Shmpen_ep@_e Mower Blades 1_4

! L,_._c_ _ v'

CheckBatteryLevel 1_6

)R CleansatteryendTermlnals I/ t/

checkTransaxleCooling I/

AdjustMotionDriveBelt[s)Tension iwSs CheCkEr,g_ne011Level _ I¢_

changeEngmeo, 11_2_

E ( C.3eanAir Fgter I_

N CleanAirScraen _=

iG Inspect MullledSpark Arreeler I_

Replace Oil Filter (If equipped) _ z

EN Clean Engine Cooling Fi_ fl_=

ReplaceSparkPlug I_

ReplaCe Air Filter paper Carffidge t=/= Replace Fuel Rller

3 - I_ _lpp_d with o_gn*_, ¢h_ oil =*v*_yS0 ho_r= 4 - Rs_ 1_=ff4_ m_* ¢lt=_ whe_ rnowk_ In Rney _oq

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS The warranty on this tractor does not

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

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

_Fmnt Wheel

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 ths

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

interlock systems for proper opera- tion.

5. Check for loose fasteners.

(_SAE 30 or 10w30 MOTOR OIL _)REFERTOMalntenance "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 salf-lubdcatin_ bearings. If you feel they must be lubncatad, use only a dry,

powdered graphite type lubricant sparingly.

Bearing BeadngZerk

Zerk

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