Craftsman 917.271643 User Manual

Owner's Manual

[CRAFTSMAN'[

16.5 HP

ELECTRIC START

42" MOWER
AUTOMATIC

LAWN TRACTOR

Model No.

917.271643

• 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, I160179

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

Foranswers to your questions

about thisproduct,Call:

1-800-659-5917

Sear= Craftsman Help Line
5 am - 5 pm, Mort - Sat

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

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

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

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

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

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

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, lubdcatad 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
matadal or workmanship. Warranty service is available free of charge by returning your

Craftsman dding equipment to your nearest Sears Service Center. In-home warranty
service is available but a trip charge 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 normal use, such as blades, spark
plugs, air cleaners, belts and oil filters.

• "lira 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, faiture to keep the deck clear of flammabTe

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 profit is made.

Maintenance Schedule ...................... 18

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

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

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

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

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

LIMITED 90 DAYWARRANTY ON BA'I-]'ERY
For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery included with this dding

equipment proves defective in matedai or workmanship and our testing determines the
battery will not hold a charge, Sears will replace the battery at no charge. Warranty

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

charge will apply. This warranty applies only while this product is inthe 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 dghts which

may vary from state to state.
Seam, Roebuck and Co., [3/817 WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

2

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

throwing objects. Failure to observe the tallowing sarsty instructionscould resultin

safious injury or death.
I. GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow all
instructionsin the manual and on the

machine before starting.

• Only allow responsible adults, who are
familiarwith 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 absolutely

necessary. Always look down and
behind before and while backing.

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

Do not operate the mower without either

the entire grass catcher or the guard in

place.

• Slow down before turning.

• Never leave a running machine unat-

tended. Alwaysturn off blades, set
parking brake, stop engine, and remove
keys before dismounting.

• Turn off blades when not mowing.

• Stop engine before removinggrass

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 fortraffic when operating near or

crossing roadways.

• Use extra care when loading or unload-
ing the machine intoa trailer or truck.

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

percentage of riding mower-related
injuries. These operators shouldevaluate
their abilityto operate the ridingmower
safely enough to protectthemselves and
othersfrom seriousinjury.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves or

other debris build-upwhich can touch

hotexhaust / engine partsand bum. Do
notallow the mower deckto plow leaves
or other debris which can cause build-up

to occur. Clean any oil orfuel

spillagebefore operating or storingthe
machine. Allow machineto coolbefore

storage. 3

I1oSLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a majorfactor related to loss-of-

control and tipover accidents, which can
rasult insevere in ury or death. All slopes

requireextra caution, fyou cannotback 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 willnot 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 startingor stopping on a slope. If
tires lose traction, disengage the
blades and proceed slowly straight

down the slope.

DO NOT:

• Do not tum on slopes unless neces-
sary, and then, rum 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 cliffor 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.

• DOnot use grass catcher on steep

slopes.

IILCHILDREN
Tragcaccidentscanoccuriftheoperator

isnotaledtothepresenceofchitdren.
Childrenareoftenattractedtothe
machineandthemowingactivity.Never

assume that chitdren witi remain where

you last sawthem.

• Keep children out of the mowing area
and under the watchtul care of another

responsible adult.

• Be aled and turn machine off if children
enterthe 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 arrow chitdren to operate the
machine.

• Use extra care when apprOachingblind
comers, shrubs, trees, or other objects

that may obscure vision.

IV. SERVICE

• Use extra care in handting 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. Altow

engine to coot before refueling. Do
notsmoke.

-Never refuel the machine indoors.

-Never store the machine or fual

container inside where there is an
open flame, such as a water heater.

• Never run a machine inside a dosed

area.

• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade
attachment bolts, tightand keep

equipment in good condition.

• Never tamper with safety devices.
Check their proper operalJonregularly,

• Keep machine free of grass, _eaves, or

other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel
spillage. Allow machine to cool before
stofin9.

• 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 subiect
to wear, damage, and deterioration,

which could expose moving pads or
allow objects to be thrown. Frequently

check components and replace with
manufaoturer's recommended pads,

when necessary.

• Mower blades are sharp and Gancut.
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 ifchildren

enter the area.

• Before and when backing, look behind

and down for smalt 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.

• Useslowspeed.Choosealowgearso
thatyouwillnothavetostoporshift
whileontheslope.

• Avoid starting or stoppingon a slope. If

tiros 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 clownslowly.

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

ally downhill, ifpossible.

_J-ook for thissymbol to pointout
importantsafety precautions. It means

CAUTIONll! BECOMEALERT!II YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

_ CAUTION: Inorderto 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.

• l_CAUTION: Do not coast down a hill

in neutral, you may losecontrol 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

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

dangerous. "i3rescan lose traction with
the ground and cause you to lose control

o!your tractor.
_I_WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of
its constituents, and certain vehicle

components contain or emit chemicals

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

ductive harm.

_I_WARNING: Battery posts, terminals
and related accessories contain lead and

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

birthdefects or other reproductive harm.
Wash hands after handling,

PRODUCTSPECIFICATIONS

GASOLINE 1.25GALLONS
CAPACITY UNLEADED

ANDTYPE: REGULAR
OILTYPE ShE30(ABOVE32°F

(API-SF-SJ): SAE5W-30

(BELOW32°F)

DILCAPACITY:3.0PINTS

;PARKPLUG: CHAMPIONRC12YC
SAP:.030")

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

TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI

REAR: 12PSI

CHARGING 3AMPS BA'I-['ERY
SYSTEM: 5AMPS HEADLIGHTS

BA'I-I'ERY: 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
pedormance.

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 retainthis manual. The
instructionswill enable you to assemble

and maintain your tractor propedy.

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.

• Foltow the instructionsunder NMainte-
nance" and =Storage" sections of this

owner's manual

,_WARNING: This tractor is equipped
with an internal combustion engine and

should notbe 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 shouldbe 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 availabte
through your nearest Sears service
center (See REPAIR PARTS section of
this manual).

Steering

Wheel Insert

1) Hex Bolt
3/6-16 x 1

Steering Wheel

1) Lockwasher 3/8

(1) Locknut

5/16-18

(1) Large Flat Washer

/1) Hex Bolt

16-18 x 1-1/4

Steering

Boot

=_ Steering

_(1) Knob

Wheel Adapter

(1) Washer
17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12

Gauge

For Future Use

Keys

Extension

Shaft

t teering

Slope Sheet

Video Cassette

7

Your new tractor has been assembled at the factorywith exception of those parts left
unasssmb{ed 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) 1i2"wranch (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 REMOVE TRACTOR FROM

CARTON

6. Assemble large flat washer, 3/8 lock

washer, 3/8 hex bolt and tighten
secureiy.

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 rolloff skid.

-_ _ insert

3/8 Hex Bolt

3/8 LockWasher

_Large Rat

UNPACK CARTON

1. Remove all accessible loose parts

Washer

and parts cartons from carton.

2. Cut, from topto bottom, along lines
on allfour comers of carton, and lay
panels flat.

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

BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR

Shaft

FROM SKID

ATTACHSTEERINGWHEEL

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND

BOOT

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

in extension and lower shafts and
instaU5/16 hex boltand Iocknut.

Tighten securely.

IMPORTANT: "Rghtanbolt 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. Positionfront 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) end slide
inside boot and onto adapter.

5/16 ex Bolt

Lower

Steering

Shaft

Slots

HOW TO SET UPYOUR TRACTOR
CHECK BATTERY

1. Uft seat pan to raised positionand

open battery box door.

NOTE: Ifthis battery isput intoservice
after month and year indicated on label
(label located between terminals) charge
battery for minimum ofone hourat 6-10
amps. (See "BATTERY" inMaintenance
section of this manual for charging
instructions).

Labe_

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 rearof tractor.

5. Pivot seat and pan forward and
assemble adjustment knob and flat

washer toosely. 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_%ulder

NOTE: You may now rollor drive your
tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate

instruction below to remove the tractor
from the skid.

TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See

Operation section for location end
function of controls)

1. Press liftlever plunger and raise

attachment riftlever to its highest
position,

2. Retease parking brake by depressing
clutch/brake pedal,

3. Place freewheel control in freewheel-

ing positionto disengage transmis-
sion (See "TO TRANSPORT" in the
Operation section of this manual).

4. Rolltractor forward off skid.
5, Remove banding holding deflector

shield up against tractor.

TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See

Operation section for location and

function of controls)
_k WARNING: Before starting,road,

understand and follow all instructionsin
the Operation section ofthis manual. Be

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

other people and objects.

1. Be sureall 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 clutcl'dbrakepedal and set
the parking brake.

5. Place motion control lever in neutral

(N) position.

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

position.

7. Start the engine. After engine has
started, move throttle controlto 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.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. Placefront 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.

Plate

Shield

Latch

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 operation.

TO CONVERT TO BAGGING OR

DISCHARGING

Simply remove mulcher plate and store in

esafe place. Your mower is now ready for
discharging or installation of optional
grass catcher accessory.
NOTE; It is not necessary to change

blades. The mulcherblades are de-

signed for discharging and bagging also.

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

Thetiresonyourtractorwereovednflated
at thefactory forshippingpurposes.

Correcttirepressureisimportantfor best
cuttingperformance.

• Reducetirepressureto PSishownin

=PRODUCTSPECIFICATIONS"section
ofthismanual.

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS
For best cutting resultS, mower housing

shoutdbe propedy leveled. See "TO
LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" inthe

Service and Adjustments section of this
manual.

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF

ALL BELTS

See the figuresthat are shown for
replacing motion and mower blade drive
belts in the Service and Adjustments
sectionof this manual. Verify that the
belts are muted correctly.

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM
Afteryou leam how to operate your

tractor,check tosee that the brake is
properly adjusted. See "TO ADJUST

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

CHECKLIST

Before you operate and enjoy your new

tractor,we wish to assure that you receive
the best performance and satisfaction
from this qualityproduct.

Please review the following checklist:
/ All assembly instructionshave been

completed.

/ No remaining loose pads in carton.
/ Battery is propedy prepared and

charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps).

4" 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-raar for best cutting
results. (13resmust be properly inflated

for leveling).

,/Check mower and drive belts. Be sum

they are routed properly around pulleys

and inside all belt keepers.

J Check widng. See that all connections

are still secure and wires are propedy
clamped.

,/Before ddving tractor, be sure free-

wheel control is in drive position.

While learning how to use your tractor,

pay extra attention to the following
importantitems:

/ Engine oil is at proper level.
,/Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean,

regular unleaded gasoline.

/ Become familiar with all controls - their

locationand function. Operate them
before youstart the engine.

,/Be sure brake system is in safe operat-

ing condition.

,/It isimportant to purge the transmission

before operatingyour tractor for the first
time. Followproper starting and
transmission purging instructions(See

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

section of this manual).

10

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

BATi'E RY CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP

FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED

_r_'l R N H L

ATTACHMENT REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW

CLUTCH ENGAGED

WARNING

LOCKED

LIGHT

MOWER LIFT

®5I

PARKING BRAKE

@@@@@

_(_) ATTACHMENT KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

IGHmON CLUTCH DISENGAGED (SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

!

DANGER, KEEP HANDSANDFEETAWAY

FREEWHEEL

(A_omaEc Models only)

11

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

YOUR TRACTOR
Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself withthe locations of

various controlsand adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

Attachment Ignition Switch
Clutch

Ammeter .... -..

Ught Switch

I_iR

J Lever

Plunger

Throttle/Choke Attachment
Control Uft Lever

ClutcWBrake Height

Pedal Adjustment

Freewheel
Control Parking Brake Lever

Motion Control

Lever

Indicator

Our tractors conform tothe safety standardsoftheAmerican

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.
A'rrACHMENT 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.

IGNrrlON 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 - Locks clutch/

brake pedal into the brake position,
THRO'I'FLE/CHOKE CONTROL - Used

for starting and controllingengine speed.
FREEWHEEL CONTROL-

Dissngagages transmission for pushing

12

The operation of any tractorcan result in foreign objectsthrown into
the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Alwayswear safety
glasses or eye shields while operating your tractor or performingany
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 settingthe

parking brake will shut offthe 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.

AttachmentClutchLever IgniUon
"Engaged"Position Kay

Position

Choke
Control Brake

Clu_lY pos_on

BmkE

Motion Control

"Disengaged' "Brake"_ever

Pos_on 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 motion control lever to neutral (N)
position.

IMPORTANT: The motion controllever

does not return to neutral (N) position
when the clutch/brake pedal is de-

pressed.
ENGINE -

• Move throttle controlto slow position.
NOTE: Failure to move throttlecontrol to

slow position end allowing engine to idle
before stopping may cause engine to

=backfire".

• Turn ignition key to =OFF" positionand

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

USe.

• Never use choke to stop engine.
IMPORTANT: Leaving the ignition switch

in any position other than =OFF"will
cause the battery to be discharged,

(dead).
NOTE: Under 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.

A CAUTION: Always stop tractor
completely, as described above, before
leaving the operator's position; to empty

TO USE THRO'I'FLE 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 tractorwith motion control lever in

neutral (N) position.

2. Release parking brake.

3. Slowly move motion control lever to

desired position.

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTI'ING 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 cuffing 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 end 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 dudno the
cool season and to over 3 inches

dudng hot months. For healthier and

better lookinglawns, mow often and
after moderate growth.

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

mowed_. 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 crutch
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.

_kCAUTION: Do not operate the mower

withouteither the entire grass catcher, on

mowers so equipped, or the defied,or
shield in place.

"Engaged" .,High

Posi_on

Attachemnt

IMPORTANT: The motion control lever
does not returnto 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 contrel lever to

slowest setting.

• Make all toms slowly.

TO TRANSPORT

When pushing ortowing your tractor, be
sure to disengage transmission by
placing freewheel control in freewheeling

position. Free wheel control is located at

the rear drawbar of treotor.

1. Raise attachment lift to highest
position with attachment lift control.

2. Pull freewheel control out and down
into theslot and release so it is he_din
the disengaged position.

• Do not push or tow tractorat more than

two (2) MPH.

* To reengage transmission, reverse

above procedure.

NOTE: To protect hoodfrom damage
when transportingyour tractor on atruck

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

means of tying hood to tractor(rope, cord,
etc.).

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

_3AUTION: Do not ddve upor dowse
hillswith slopes greater than "15 and

not drive across any slope.

• Choose the stowest speed before

starting up or down hills.

• Avoid stopping or changing speed on

hills.

• If slowingis necessary, move throttle
controllever to slower position.

• If stopping is absolutely necessary.
push clutch/brake pedal quickly to
brake position and engage parking

brake.

• Move motioncontrol lever to neutra| (N)
position.

TOWING CARTS AND OTHER AI"rACH-

MENTS

Tow only the attachments that are

recommended by and comply with
spe_t'w..ationsof the manufacturer of your

tractor.Use common sense when towing.
Too heavy of a load, while on a slope, is

dangerous. "Rrescan lose tractionwith the
ground and cause you to lose control of
yourtractor,

14

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE
CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL

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

1. Check engine oil withtractor on level
ground.

2. Remove eil fill cap/dipstick and wipe
clean, reinsert the dipstickand screw

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

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

• For coldweather operationyou should

change oil for easier starting(See "OIL
VISCOSITY CHART" inthe Mainte-

nance sectionof this manual).

• To change engine oil,see the Mainte-
nance section in thismanual.

ADD GASOLINE

• FUlfuel 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.

a, WARNING: Experience indicates that
alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or

using ethanol or methanol) can attract

moisture which leads to separation and
formation of acids duringstorage. Acidic

gas can damage the fuel system of an
engine while in storage. To avoid engine

problems, the fuel system shouldbe
emptied before storage of 30 days or
longer. Drainthe 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 usa engine
or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel
tank or permanent damage may occur.

_11CAUTION: Fill tobottom of gas tank
filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any

spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spillor

use gasoline near an open flame.

TO START ENGINE
When starting the engine for the first time

or if theengine has run out offuel, it will
take extra cranking time to move fuel 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 controllever in neutral

(N) position.

4. Move attachment clutch to "DISEN-

GAGED" position.

5. Move throttle controlto choke position.

NOTE: Before starting, read the warm
and cold starting procedures below.

6. Insert key into ignitionand turn key
clockwise to "STAR'I" position and

release key as soon as engine starts.
Do not run starter continuouslyfor

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 controlback to the
choke positionand retry.

WARM WEA'rI-IER 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 dascribed above.

COLD WEATHER STARTING ( 50° F and
below)

7. When engine starts, allow engine to

run with the throttlecontrol in the
choke position untilthe engine runs
roughly, then move throttle control to

fast position. This may require an
engine warm-up period from several
seconds to several minutes, depend-
ing on the temperature.

15

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WARM UP
Before drivingthe unit incold weather,

the transmission shouldbe warmed up as

follows:

1. Be surethe tractor is on level ground.

2. Place the motion controllever in

neutral. Release the parking brake
and let the clutch/brake slowly return

to operating position.

3. Allow one minute for transmissionto

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

• The attachments can also be used
during the engine warm-up period alter

the transmissionhas been warmed up.

NOTE: Ifat a high altitude (above 3000

feet) or in coldtemperatures (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 sectionof this

manual.
PURGE TRANSMISSION

r_eCAUTION: Never engage or disengage

ewheel lever while the engine is
running.
To ensure properoperation and perfor-
mance, it is recommended that the
transmissionbe purged before operating
tractorfor the firsttime. This procedurewill
remove any trapped air inside the trans-

mission which may have developed during
shippingof your tractor.
IMPORTANT: Should your transmission

requireremoval for service or replacement,

it should be purged alter reinstallation
before operatingthe tractor.

1. Place tractor safely on level surface

with engine off and parking brake set,

2. Disengage transmission by placing

freewheel control in freewheeting

position(See "TO TRANSPORT" in

this section of manual).

3. Sittingin the tractor seat, start engine.

Afterthe engine is running, move

throttlecontrol to slow position.With

motioncontrol lever in neutral (N)
position, slowly disengage clutch/

brake pedal.

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

seconds. Move lever to full reverse
positionand hold for five (5) seconds.

Repeat this procedure three (3) times.

NOTE: Duringthis procedure there will

be nomovement of drivewheels. The air

is being removed from hydraulicdrive
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 driving position
(See "TO TRANSPORT" in this
section of manual).

7. Sittingin 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 returnthe

motion controllever 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.

16

MOWING TIPS

• Mower should be properly leveled for
best mowingperformance. 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 rightof the tractor.
This will resuttin a more even distribu-

tion of clippings and more uniform
cutting.

• When mowing large areas, start by

turning to the rightso 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.

• Ifgrass 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 gross when itiswet. Wet

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

• Always operate engine st 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 MOWING TIPS
IMPORTANT: For best performance,

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

• The special mulchingblade will rscut

the grass clippings many times and

reduce them in size sothat as they fall

onto the lawn they will disperse intothe
grass and not be noticed. Atso. the

mulched grass will biodegrade quickly

to provide nutrients for the lawn.

Always mulch with your highest engine
(bleds) speed as this will provide the
best recuttingaction of the blades.

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

early afternoon. At this time the grass
has dried and the newly cut area will

notbe exposed to the directsun.

• For best results,adjust the mower

cuttingheight sothat the mower cuts oft
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 fims to completely
hide the clippings. When doing a
second cut, mow across or perpendicu-
larto the first cut path.

• Change yourcutting pattern from week

toweek. Mow northtosouth one week
then change to east towest the next

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

17

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty onthis tractordoes not

cover items that have been subjectedto
operatorabuse or negligence. To r_ive
faltvalue from the warranty, operator must

maln_in tractor as instructedin this
manual.

Some adjustments will need to be made
periodicallyto property maintain your

tractor.
All adjustments in the Se_ce and

Adjustmentssection of this 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 beltsfor 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

intedeck systems for proper opera-

tion.

5. Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION CHART

_) Spindle_

.............

_Front Wheel

Beadng ====--=,

Zerk _ ,;..,

_Engine ..--

IMPORTANT: Do notoil or grease the
pivot points which have special nylon

bearings. Viscous lubricantswill attract
dust and dirt that willshodan the lifeof

the self-lubdc_tin_ beadngs. If you feal
they must be lubncated, use only a dry,

sparingly.

Y

1

_)SAE30o¢10w30MOTOROIL

• )REFERTO Maintenance "ENGINE'SECTION

powdered graphite type lubricant

-- _)Spindle

_ Zerk

FrontWheel

18

ngZerk