Craftsman 917.271641 User Manual
Owner’s Manual
16.5 HP
ELECTRIC START
42” MOWER
AUTOMATIC
LAWN TRACTOR
Model No.
917.271641
• 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, II60179
Visit our Craftsman website:www.sears.com/craftsman
For answers to your questions
about this product, Call:
1-800-659-5917
Sears Craftsman HePp Line
5 am - 5 pm, Mon - Sat
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Warranty
Safety Rules
....
Maintenance Schedule
.2
Service and Adjustments...
..3
Storage
..6
Troubleshooting
,.8
Repair Parts..................
11
Parts Ordering
18
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..............
...............
.
...............
...............29
...............30
...............
.. Back Cover
18
22
34
WARRANTY
LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY 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
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 but a trip charge will apply. This warranty applies only while this
product is in the United States.
This Warranty does not cover:
• Expendable items which become worn during norma! 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 riding 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
contained 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.
LIMITED 90 DAY WARRANTY ON BATTERY
For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery included with this riding
equipment proves defective in material or workmanship and our testing determines
the battery will not hold a charge. Sears will replace the battery at no charge. War
ranty service is available free of charge by 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 LOCATE THE NEAREST SEARS SERVICE CENTER OR TO SCHEDULE IN
HOME WARRANTY SERVICE, SIMPLY CONTACT SEARS AT 1-800-4-MY-HOME
This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights
which may vary from state to state.
Sears, Roebuck and Co., D/817 WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
SAFETY RULES
IWIPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet 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 turn 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-ofcontrol 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.
SAFETY RULES
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.
• Before and when backing, look behind
and down for small children.
• Never carry children. They may fail off
and be seriously injured or interfere
with safe machine operation.
• Never allow children to operate the
machine.
• Use extra care when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.
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 tamper with safety devices.
Check their proper operation regularly.
Keep machine free of grass, ieaves, 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 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),
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.
SAFETY RULES
• 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.
Atook for this symbol to point out
important safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!! 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
plug.
is CAUTION; Do not coast down a hill
in neutral, you may lose control of the
tractor.
^CAUTION; 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.
^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.
^WARNING: Battery posts, terminais
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
CAPACITY
AND TYPE:
OIL TYPE
(API-SF-SJ):
1.25 GALLONS
UNLEADED
REGULAR
SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)
SAE 5W-30
(BELOW 32°F)
OIL CAPACITY:3.0 PINTS
SPARK PLUG:
CHAMPION RC12YC
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
• Follow the instructions under “Mainte
(GAP: ,030")
GROUND SPEED FORWARD:5.2
(MPH): REVERSE: 2.7
TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI
REAR; 12 PSI
CHARGING
SYSTEM:
3 AMPS BATTERY
5 AMPS 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
cians 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”.
ing, caring for and using your tractor.
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, brushcovered or grass-covered land unless the
engine’s exhaust system is equipped with
a spark arrester meeting applicable local
or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is
used, it should be maintained in effective
working order by the operator.
In the state of California the above is
required by law (Section 4442 of the
California Public Resources Code).
Other states may have similar laws.
Federal laws apply on federal lands. A
spark arrester for the muffler is available
through your nearest Sears sen/tce
center (See REPAIR PARTS section of
this manual).
UNASSEMBLED PARTS
ASSEMBLY
Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception of those parts left
unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your
tractor all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the
correct tools as necessary to insure proper tightness. Review the video cassette before
you begin.
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR
ASSEMBLY
A socket wrench set will make assembly
easier. Standard wrench sizes you need
are listed below.
(1) 9/16" wrench (1) Pliers
(2) 1/2" wrench (1) Utility knife
(1) Tire pressure gauge
When right 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
steering shaft. Aiign mounting holes
in extension and lower shafts and
install 5/16 hex bolt and locknut.
Tighten securely.
2. Place tabs of steering boot over tab
slots in dash and push down to
secure.
INSTALL STEERING WHEEL
3. Position front wheels of the tractor so
they are pointing straight forward.
4. Remove steering wheel adapter from
steering wheel and slide adapter
onto steering shaft extension.
5. Position steering wheel so cross bars
are horizontal (left to right) and slide
inside boot and onto adapter.
Lower
Steering
Shaft
Assemble targe flat washer, 3/8 lock
6.
washer, 3/8 hex bolt and tighten
securely.
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. Lift seat pan to raised position and
open battery box door.
NOTE: If this battery is pul 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).
Insert
3/8 Hex Bolt
3/8 Lock Washer
Large Flat
Washer
Steering Boot
5/16 Hex Bolt
NOTE: You may now roll or drive your
'Seat Pan
tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate
instruction below to remove the tractor
from the skid.
Battery BoxDoor
Terminal
TO ROLLTRACTOR OFF SKID (See
Operation section for location and
function of controls)
1. Press lift lever plunger and raise
INSTALL SEAT
Adjust seat before tightening adjustment
2. Release parking brake by depressing
knob.
1. Remove adjustment knob and flat
3. Place freewheel control in freewheel
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
4. Roll tractor forward off skid,
5. Remove banding holding deflector
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,
TO DRIVETRACTOR OFF SKID (See
Operation section for location and
function of controls)
A 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
7. Slide seat until a comfortable position
is reached which allows you to press
2. Check engine oil level and fill fuel
clutch/brake pedal all the way down.
8. Get off seat without moving its
3. Place freewheel control in "transmis
adjusted position.
9. Raise seat and tighten adjustment
4. Sit on seat in operating position,
knob securely.
5. Place motion control lever in neutral
6. Press lift lever plunger and raise
7. Start the engine. After engine has
8. Release parking brake.
9. Slowly move the motion control lever
10. Apply brake to stop tractor, set parking
11. Turn ignition key to "OFF" position.
Continue with the instructions that follow.
attachment lift lever to its highest
position.
clutch/brake pedal.
ing position to disengage transmis
sion (See 'TO TRANSPORT” in the
Operation section of this manual).
shield up against tractor.
have been completed.
tank with gasoline.
sion engaged" position.
depress clutch/brake pedal and set
the parking brake.
(N) position.
attachment lift lever to its highest
position.
started, move throttle control to idle
position.
forward and slowly drive tractor off
skid.
brake and place motion control lever
in neutral position.
INSTALL MULCHER PLATE
(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 rear latch into hole on back of
mower deck.
CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM
After you learn how to operate your
tractor, check to see that the brake is
properly adjusted. See 'TO ADJUST
BRAKE” in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual.
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:
/ All assembly instructions have been
completed.
✓ No remaining loose parts in carton.
y Battery is properly prepared and
charged, (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps).
/ Seat is adjusted comfortably and
tightened securely.
/ All tires are properly inflated. {For
shipping purposes, the tires were
^4CAUTI0N: 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
discharging or installation of optional
grass catcher accessory.
NOTE: It is not necessary to change
blades. The mulcher blades are de
signed for discharging and bagging also.
CHECKTIRE PRESSURE
The tires on your tractor were overinflated
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 properly leveled. See “TO
LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the
Service and Adjustments section of this
manuai.
CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF
ALL BELTS
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).
✓ Check mower and drive belts. Be sure
they are routed properly around pulleys
and inside aii belt keepers.
✓ Check wiring. See that all connections
are still secure and wires are properly
clamped.
/ Before driving tractor, be sure free
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. Foilow proper starting and
transmission purging instructions (See
“TO START ENGINE” and “PURGE
TRANSMISSION” in the Operation
section of this manual).
See the figures that are 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.
10
t/CH ECKLI$T
OPERATION
These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product.
Learn and understand their meaning.
X
a A
BATTERY CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD FAST
WARNING
♦
SLOW
© © Q= la
ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP ♦
light I
is l\l © c©
FUEL
i* R N H L ®|I
CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED MOWER LIFT
LOCKED
ATTACHMENT REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW
CLUTCH ENGAGED
ATTACHMENT
IGNITION
DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY
CLUTCH disengaged
KEEP AREA CLEAR
(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)
11
PARKING BRAKE
SLOPE HAZARDS
FREE WHEEL
(Automatic Uodals only)
KNOWYOURTRACTOR
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR TRACTOR
Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of
various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the American
National Standards Institute.
AMMETER - Indicates charging (+) or
discharging (-) of battery.
ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER - Used
to engage the mower blades, or other
attachments mounted to your tractor.
ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER - Used to
raise, lower, and adjust the mower deck
or other attachments mounted to your
tractor.
CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL - Used for
declutching and braking the tractor and
starting the engine.
MOTION CONTROL LEVER - Selects the
speed and direction of tractor.
12
IGNITION SWITCH • Used for starting and
slopping 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
• Turn ignition key to “OFF” position and
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 wili shut off the engine.
1. Depress ciutcfVbrake pedai 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.
Attachment Clutch Lever ignition
“Engaged” Position
Throttle/
Choke
ContJ5[
•
Key
"Disengaged”
Position
Clutch/
Brake, Peda(^'
Motion Control
Lever
“Disengaged”
Position
STOPPING
"Brake”^
Position
MOWER BLADES -
« 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.
^CAUTION: Always stop tractor com
pletely, as described above, before
leaving the operator's position; to empty
TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL
Always operate engine at full throttle.
• Operating engine at less than full
• Full throttle offers the best bagging and
TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD
The direction and speed of movement is
controlled by the motion control lever.
1.
2.
3.
• To stop mower blades,move attach
ment clutch lever to “DISENGAGED"
position.
GROUND DRIVE -
• To slop ground drive, depress clutch/
brake pedal into full “BRAKE" position.
• Move motion control lever to neutral {N)
position.
IMPORTANT: The motion control lever
does not return to neutral (N) position
' when the clutch/brake pedal is de
pressed.
ENGINE-
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
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.
• 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".
13
remove key. Always remove key when
leaving tractor to prevent unauthorized
use.
throttle reduces the battery charging
rate.
mower performance.
Start tractor with motion control lever in
neutral (N) position.
Release parking brake and clutch/
brake pedal.
Slowly move motion control lever to
desired position.
lever to desired position.
• The average lawn should be cut to
approximately 2-1/2 inches during the
coot 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. Any attempt 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.
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 lift to highest
2.
2. Start mower blades by engaging
attachment clutch control.
TO STOP MOWER BLADES disengage attachment clutch control.
• Do not push or tow tractor at more than
• To reengage transmission, reverse
^kcAUTION: Do not operate the mower
without either the entire grass catcher, on
mowers so equipped, or the deflector
shield in place.
Attachment ^ Attachemnt
Clutch Lever^Y’^^ ./I h-
“Engaged”
Position /nti? '/ ,-, n 1 Position
\ Low
Position
“Disengaged”
Position '
Deflector
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.).
' ^Shield
■'i
position with attachment lift control.
Pull freewheel control out and down
into the slot and release so it is held in
the disengaged position.
two (2) MPH.
above procedure.
TO OPERATE ON HILLS
^^CAUTION: Do not drive up or down
hills with slopes greater than 15" and do
not drive across any slope.
• Choose the slowest speed before
starting up or down hills.
• Avoid stopping or changing speed on
hills.
• If slowing is necessary, move throttle
control lever to slower position.
TOWPNG 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.
• 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.
14
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 a few seconds,
A CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank
filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any
spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or
use gasoline near an open flame.
TO START ENGINE
When starting the engine for the first time
or if the engine has run out of fuel, it will
take extra cranking time to move fuel from
the tank to the engine.
1. Be sure freewheel control is in the
remove and read oil level. If neces
sary, add oil until “FULL” mark on
2. Sit on seat in operating position,
dipstick is reached. Do not overfill.
• For cold weather operation you should
change oil for easier starting (See “OIL
3. Place motion control lever in neutral
VISCOSITY CHARr in the Mainte
nance section of this manual).
4. Move attachment clutch to “DISEN
• To change engine oil, see the Mainte
nance section in this manual.
5. Move throttle control to choke position.
NOTE: Before starting, read the warm
and cold starting procedures below.
Oil Fill Cap/
6. Insert key into ignition and turn key
Dipstick
• 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
WARM WEATHER STARTING (50° F and
above)
7. When engine starts, move the throttle
within 30 days to assure fuel freshness.
IMPORTANT: When operating in
* The attachments and ground drive can
temperatures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh,
clean winter grade gasoline to help
insure good cold weather starting.
A WARNING: Experience indicates that
S&>hoi blended fuels (called gasohol or
using ethanol or methanol) can attract
moisture which leads to separation and
formation of acids during storage. Acidic
COLD WEATHER STARTING ( 50° F and
below)
7. When engine starts, allow engine to
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
ionger. 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.
transmission engaged position.
depress clutch/brake pedal and set
parking brake.
(N) position.
GAGED” position.
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.
control to the fast position.
now be used. If the engine does not
acoept the load, restart the engine and
allow it to warm up for one minute
using the choke as described above.
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.
15
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WARM UP
Betöre driving the unit in cold weather,
the transmission should be warmed up as
follows:
1. Be sure the tractor is on level ground.
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
2. Place the motion control lever in
neutral. Release the parking brake
and let the clutch/brake slowly return
6. Engage transmission by placing
to operating position.
3. Aliow one minute for transmission to
warm up. This can be done during
the engine warm up period.
7. Sitting in the tractor seat, start
• The attachments can also be used
during 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
8. Slowly move motion control lever
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
Your tractor is now purged and now
ready for normal operation.
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 sen/ice 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 “TO TRANSPORF’ in
this section of manual).
3.
Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine.
After the engine is running, move
throttle control to slow posilion. With
motion control lever in neutral (N)
position, slowly disengage ciutch/
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.
(N) position. Shut- off engine and set ,
parking brake.
freewheel control in driving position
(See TO TRANSPORr in this
section of manual).
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 clutctVbrake pedal.
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 return the
motion control lever to the neutral (N)
position. Repeat this procedure with
the motion control I'ever three (3)
times.
16
MOWING TtPS
• Mower should be properly leveled for
Jjest 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 wifi result in a more even distribu
tion of clippings and more uniform
cutting.
• When mowing iarge areas, start by
turning to the right so that ciippings wiil
discharge away from shrubs, fences,
driveways, etc. After one or two
rounds, mow in the opposite direction
making ieft hand turns until finished.
• If grass is extremely tall, it should be
mowed twice to reduce load and
possible fire hazard from dried
clippings. Make first cut relatively
high; the second to the desired height.
• Do not mow grass when it is wet. Wet
grass will plug mower and leave
undesirable clumps. Allow grass to
dry before mowing.
• Always operate engine at full throttle
when mowing to assure better mowing
performance and proper discharge of
material. Regulate ground speed by
selecting a low enough gear to give
the mower cutting performance as well
as the quality of cut desired.
• When operating attachments, select a
ground speed that will suit the terrain
and give best performance of the
attachment being used.
/•
-----
MULCHING 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
• Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet.
• For best results, adjust the mower
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,
Wet grass tends to form clumps and
interferes with the mulching action.
The best time to mow your lawn is the
early afternoon. At this time the grass
has dried and the newly cut area will
not be exposed to the direct sun.
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.
Iff
17
MAINTENANCE
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
FILL IN DATES
AS YOU COMPLETE
REGULAR SERVICE
Check Brake Operation
Check Tire Pressure
Check Operator Presence and
Jhterlock Systems
Check for Loose Fasteners
Sharpen/Replace Mower Blades
Lubrication Chari
Check BaHery Level
Cleart Battery and Terminals
Check Transaxle Cooling
Adjust Blade Belt(s) Tension
Adjust Motion Drive Belijs) Tension
Check Engine Oil Level
Change Engine Oil
Clean Air Filter
Clean Air Screen
Inspect Mulfler/Spark Arrester
Replace Oil Filter (11 equipped)
Clean Engine Cooling Fins
Replace spark Plug
Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge
Replace Fuel Filter
1 - Chang* mor* ottoo wtMo op«fa1lng Ljr>cl*ra heavy load or In high 4mU*ntt*mp*faiur««. 5'
2 - 5*fVK* mor« oftofl wh*n oparadng in dirty or dufty oortditlon*, s >
9 • li K|ujpp*<i with oil iHttr, Chang* oH *vafy 50 twora. 7
4' flapiaca blades more often when rrwwing in aarxiy aoH
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this tractor does not
cover items that have been subjected to
operator abuse or negligence. To receive
full value from the warranty, operator must
maintain tractor as instructed in this
manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made
periodically to properly maintain your
tractor.
All adjustments in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual should
be checked at least once each season.
• Once a year you should replace the
spark plug, clean or replace air filter,
and check blades and belts for wear. A
new spark plug and clean air filter
assure proper 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.
✓ ✓
✓
✓
Ir 4
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓
✓
1^2,3 ✓
✓
(DSAE 30 or 10w30 MOTOR OIL
(2' 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,
powdered graphite type lubricant
sparingly.
18
✓7
✓ s
1^.2
✓ 2
✓
✓ 2
✓
✓
✓
|1 »quipped wilh adjustabl*
Not required H «quipped with maintenanca-lr** batlsry.
TlghtMi front axle pivot boM to 3S 1L4b«. maxirrxjm.
Oo rwt ovatlighlen.
LUBRICATION CHART
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