Craftsman 917272020 Owner’s Manual
15,5 HP
ELECTRIC START
46" MOWER
HYDROSTATIC (AUTOMATIC}
LAWN TRACTOR
Model Noo
91 : 2 tzO_rJ
_-Safe_y
,, Assembly
: Opsra_is_t
---Mairstena_ce
Repair Parts
CAUTION:
Read and follow at!
Safety Rules and instructions
before opera[ing this eqLdp-
ment.
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, !L 60179
_-,,, answers your q___e:,tions
abcbt this product Cali:
1-800°6,_9_59 _7
Sears Craf_sraan He_p Line
5 am - 5 pro, Mort - S_t
Warranty ................................................. 2
Sdety Rules ........................................... 2
Product Specifications ........................... 5
Assembly ................................................ 8
Operation ............................................. 12
Maintenance Schedule ......................... 19
LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFSMAN RiDiNG EQUIPMENT
For two (2) years from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Riding Equipment is main°
tained, iubricated and tuned up according to the instructions in the owner's manual,
Sears wili repair or repiace, free of charge, any parts found to be defective in materiai or
workmanship.
This Warranty does not cover:
® Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as blades, spark
plugs, air cleaners, belts, etc.
o Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails,
thorns, stumps, or glass
Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, negligence, improper storage or acci-
dent or the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions contained in
the owner's manual.
• Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.
MMITED 90 DAY WARRANTY ON BATTERY
For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery included with this riding equip-
ment proves defective in material or workmanship and our testing determines the bat-
tery will not hold a charge, Sears will replace the battery at no charge. In-home warranty
service on your Craftsman riding equipment is available at no charge for 30 days from
the date of purchase. Please contact your nearest service center° After 30 days from the
date of purchase, warranty service is available by taking your Craftsman riding equip-
ment to your nearest Sears Service Center. (In-home warranty service will still be avail-
able after 30 days from the date of purchase but a standard trip charge will apply). This
warranty applies only while this product is in the United States. This Warranty gives you
specific lega! 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
Maintenance ....................................... 19
Service and Adiustments ..................... 23
Storage ................................................ 30
Troubleshooting .................................... 31
Repair Parts ......................................... 35
Parts Ordering ....................... Back Cover
GENERAL OPERATION
Read, understand, and follow aH instruc-
tions in the manual and on the machine
before starting.
o Only allow responsiMe 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.
o 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 untess absolute-
ly necessary. Always look down and
behind before and white backing.
Be aware of the mower discharge direco
tion 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.
o Never leave a running machine unat-
tended. Always turn off blades, set park-
ing brake, stop engine, and remove
keys before dismounting.
Turnoffbladeswhennotmowing
Stopenginebeforeremovingg_ass
catcheroruncloggingchute
Mowonlyindaylightorgoodartificial
Donotoperatethemachinewhileunder
theinfluenceofalcoholordrugs.
Watchfortrafficwhenoperatingnearor
crossingroadways
Useextracarewhenloadingorunload°
irrgthemachineintoatrailerortruck
::_LOPEOPERATION
:_lopesareamajorfactorrelatedtoloss.-
/:ficontrol and tipover accidents, which
san result in severe injury or death. All
::topes require extra caution. If you cannot
:;ack up the slope or if you feet uneasy on
t do not mow it.
}0:
Mow up and down slopes, not across.
Remove obstacles such as rocks tree
limbs, etc.
Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven
terrain could eve@ms the roach ne Tall
grass can hide obstacles.
Use stow speed. Choose a ow gear so
that you will not have to stop or shift
while on the slope.
Follow the manufacturer's recommen o
dations for wheei wei9hts or counter--
weights to irnprove stability
Use ext_a care wth grass catchers or
other _£tachments. These can change
the stabi!ity of @e roach ne
Keep aH movement on the slopes slow
and gradual Do not make sudden
changes in speed or direction.
Avoid start ng or stopping on a slope If
tires lose traction, disengage the biades
and proceed slowIy straight down the
i}0 NOT:
Do nottum on slopes unless necessary,
and then, turn stowly and gradually
downhill, if possible.
Do not mow near dropooffs, ditches, or
embankments. The mower could sud_-
denty 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 nott% _to stabit ze the machine by
putting your foot on the ground.
o Do not use grass catcher on steep
sbpes.
CHLDREH
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 chitdren wilt remain where
you last saw them
o Keep chitdren out of the mowing area
and under the watchf@ care of another
Be alert and turn macMne off if children
enter the area
o Before and when backing, took behind
and down for small children
o Never can'y children They may fal_off
and be seriously injured or interfere with
safe machine operation
o Hever atlow children to operate the
machine
Use extra care when approaching blind
comers shrubs, trees o_*othe obiects
that may obscure vision.
SERVICE
o __seextra care in handling gasoline aad
other fueb. They are fiammabb and
vapors are explosive
Use only an approved container.
Never remove gas cap o__add fuel
with the engine t._nning. AIlow eno
9ie to cool before refue[ing. Do not
smoke.
Never ref(_el the machine indoors.
Never sto_e the sach ne or fise_
containe_ inside where there is an
open flame such as a water heater.
o Never run a maohir-_einsde a dosed
area
Keep r_uts and bolts especia!ly blade
attachment bets ight and keep equip °
ment in good condition.
o Never tamper with safety devices.
Check their proper operation regularly.
_, Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or
ether debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel
spiHage_ AHow machine to coot 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.
e
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 cuL
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.
Do not mow in reverse unless absolute o
ly necessary. Always took down and
behind before and while backing.
o Never carry children. They may fati off
and be seriously iniured or interfere with
safe machine operation.
o Keep children out of the mowing area
and under the watchful care of another
responsiMe adult.
Be alert and turn machine off if children
enter the area.
Before and when backing, look behind
and down for small children.
_Look for this symbol to point out impor-
tant safety precautions. Jtme_ansCAU-
TION!!! BECOME AWARE!!! YOUR SAFE-
TY IS INVOLVED.
,_CAUTION; In order to prevent acciden-
tal starting when setting up, transporting,
adjusting or making repairs always discon-
nect spark plug wire and place wire where
it cannot contact spark plug.
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. Taft
grass can hide obstacles.
o 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 Io_ traction, disengage the blades
and proceed slowly straight down the
slope.
Do nottum on slopes unless necessary,
and then, turn slowly and gradually
downhill, if possible.
_WARNING: The engine exhaust from
this product contains chemicals known to
the State of California to cause cancer,
birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
4
PRODUCTSPECmRCATIONS
GASOLINE 3,5GALLONS
CAPACrTY
ANDPCPE: UNLEADED
REGULAR
OIL_[YPE SAE10W_30
API-SF/SG/SH):(above32°F)
SAE5Wo30
(betow32°F)
OILCAPACITY:W/FILTER:4.0PINTS
W/OFILTER:3.5PINTS
SPARKPLUG: ChampionRC12YC
GAP:.040")
GROUND SPEED FORWARD: 0o4.5
(MPH): REVERSE: 0- 2.0
TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT! 14 PS!
REAR: 10 PSI
CHARGING
SYSTEM: 15 AMPS @ 3600 RPM
BATTERY: AMP/HR: 30
MIN. CCA: 280
CASE SIZE: U1R
BLADE BOLT 27-35 FT.LBS.
TORQUE:
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase
of a Craftsman 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 your
nearest Sears Authorized Service Center.
We have competent, welFtrained 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'L
MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT
A Sears Maintenance Agreement is avaiF
able on this product. Contact your nearest
Sears store for details.
CUSTOMER RESPONSMBIUTtES
Read and observe the safety rules.
o FoHow a regular sched-_e in maintain-
ing, caring for and using your tractor.
o 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 unim-
proved forest-covered, brush-covered or
grass-covered tand unless the engine's
exhaust system is equipped with a spark
arrester meeting applicable !ocat or state
laws (if any). If a spark attester 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 Authorized Service
Center (See REPAIR PARTS section of
this manual).
PARTS BAG CONTENTS SHOWN FULL SIZE
(t) Shoulder Bolt
5/16-!8
[
(1) Washer
17/32 x t-3/16 x 12 Gauge
(2) Washers
9/32 x 5/8 x !6 Gauge
(2) Washers
3/16 x 3/4 x 16 Gau
#10 x 5,/8 _'_ Washers
(2) Weld Nuts _ j
#10
(2)Loc_k
#10
(2) Lock Washers 1/4
(3) Retainer Springs
(Double Loop)
(4) Retainer Springs
(Sipgle Loop)
6
Pa_te packet separately hs ca4on Parts Bag conteqts not showb U! size
(2) Gauge Wheels
-_7_ (2) Latch Hook
Steermg Wheel
N i
Manual Parts Bag
Mulcher
Plate
Steering ._
Slope Sheet
Assemblies
Sleeve
Sleeve Extension
(2) Keys
Steedng
Your new tractor has been assemMed at the factory with exception of those parts left
unassemb_ed for shipping purposes. _s ensure safe and proper operation of your tractor
aH 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 REQUIRE[} FOR
ASSEMBLY
A socket wrench set will make assembly
easier, Standard wrench sizes you need
are _istedbelow.
(!) 3/4'* wrench (1) 3/'4" Socket w/
(2} 7/16" wrenches drive rachet
(2) 1/2" wrench (t} Phillips Screw-
IMPORTANT: Check for and remove any
staples in skid that may puncture tires
where tractor is to roll off ski&
Steering
Whee! insert
e_, Lock Nut
-_- F!at
(1) Utility knife driver
(1)Pliers (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 posio
tion (seated behind the steering wheel).
TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROB_
CARTON
Steering
-- Sleeve
i Extension
UNPACK CARTON
Remove aHaccessible loose parts and Steering
parts boxes from shipping carton (See Shaft
page 6).
• Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on Steering
aHfour corners of shipping carton, and Sleeve
lay pane_sflat.
Remove mower and package materials.
Check for any additional loose parts or
boxes and remove.
BEFORE ROLLING TRACTOR OFF
SKiD
ATTACH STEERING WHEEL"
Remove Iocknut and large flat washer
from steering shaft.
Position front whee!s of the t'ractor so
they are pointing straight forward.
o SHde the steering sleeve over the steer°
ing shaft.
AHgn tabs and press steering sleeve
extension into bottom of steering wheel
TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKiD (See
Operation section for JocatJon and
function of controls)
• Press lift lever pJunger and raise attach-
ment lift lever to its highest position.
• Reaease parking brake by depressing
clutch/brake pedal.
Place freewheel control in freewheeling
position to disengage transmission (See
"TO TRANSPORT" in the Operation
section of this manual).
• Roll tractor forwards off skid.
* Position steering wheet so cross bars
are horizontal (left to right) and slide
onto adapter.
Secure steering wheel to steering shaft
with Iocknut and large flat washer previ-
ously removed. Tighten securely.
o Snap steering wheel insert into center
of steering wheel.
Remove protective materials from trac-
tor hood and grill.
HOWTO SET UP YOURTRACTOR
CONNECT BATTERY
_CAUTJON: Do not short battery termi o
nas by allowing a wrench or any other
object to contact both terminaJs at the
same time. Before connecting batten/,
remove metal bracelets, wristwatch bands,
rings, etc. Positive terminal must be con-
nected first to prevent sparking from acci-
dental grounding.
o Lift hood to raised position.
Open terminal access doors, remove
terminal protective caps and discard.
,f t...... a,,ery is put into service after
month o_"_ ..... indicated on label il_h_l
located between terminals) charge bat-
tery for minimum of one hour at 6-10
amps.
First connect RED battery cable to posi-
tive (+) battery terminal with hex bolt, flat
washer, lock washer and hex nut as
shown. Tighten securely.
, Connect BLACK grounding came to
negative (-) battery terminal with remain-
Jng hex bolt, flat washer, lock washer
and hex nut. Tighten securely.
o Close terminal access doors Use termi-
nal access doors for:
® Inspection for secure connections (to
tighten hardware).
Inspection for corrosion.
Testing battery.
Jumping (if required).
o Periodic charging.
Discard Terminal Lock
Protective Caps Washer
Terminal
Access Door ,.:"
Hex Nut Hex
iNSTALL SEAT
Adjust seat before tightening adjustment
knob.
Remove cardboard packing on seat pan.
Flat
Washer
Bolt
Positive
Cable
ative
Cable
Place seat on seat pan and assemMe
shoulder boil Tighten shoulder bolt
securely.
Assemble adjustment knob and flat
washer Jooseiy. Do not tighten.
Lower seat into operating position and
sit on seat.
Slide seat unti! a comfortabme position is
reached which allows you to press
dutch!brake pedal aJlthe way down.
• Get off seat without moving its adjusted
position°
Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob
securely.
Seat
Seat Pan
Shoulder
Bolt
Flat Washer
Adjustment Knob
CHECK TiRE 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" on page
5 of this manual.
CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM
After you learn how to operate your tractor,
check to see that the brake is properly
adjusted. See "TO ADJUST BRAKE" inthe
Service and Adjustments section of this
manual.
iNSTALL MOWER AND DRIVE BELT
Be sure tractor is on Jevel surface and
mower suspension arms are raised with
attachment lift control. Engage parking
brake.
Cut and remove ties securing anti-sway
bar and belts. Swing antFsway bar to
left side of mower deck.
, Slide mower under tractor with dis-
charge guard to dght side of tractor.
IMPORTANT: Check beltforproperrout°
inginaH mower pulleygrooves Install
belt into electric clutch pulley groove,
o Install one front iink in top ho!e of the
right hand front mower bracket and right
hand front suspension bracket. Retain
with two single toop retainer springs as
shown,
o tnstall second front link in left hand front
suspension bracket only and retain with
single loop retainer spring as shown,
Turn height adjustment knob counter-
clockwise untit it stops_
Lower mower linkage with attachment
Hftcontrol
Place the left hand suspension arm on
outward pointing deck pin. If necessary,
rock and raise front of mower to align
deck pin with the hole in suspension
arm. Retain with double loop retainer
spnng with loops down as shown.
SHde left side of mower back and install
the unattached front link in top hole of
the left hand front mower bracket.
Retain with single loop retainer spring
as shown°
P_ace the right hand suspension arm on
outward pointing deck pin. If necessary,
rock and raise front of mower to align
deck pin with the hote in suspension
arm. Retain with double loop retainer
spring with loops down as shown
Connect anti-sway bar to chassis brack-
et under left footrest and retain with
double loop retainer spdng.
Turn height adjustment knob clockwise
to remove stack from mower suspen-
sion.
® Raise mower to highest position,
Assemble gauge wheels (See "TO
ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS" in the
Operation section of this manua 0.
For best cutting results, mower should be
propedy leveledo 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 replac-
ing motion, mower drive, and mower blade
drive belts in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual Verify that the
belts are routed correctly,
Shoulder
Bolt
3/8q6
Center
Locknut
Use Pliers For
Retainer Springs
Double Loop
Chassis Retainer Spring
Bracket (Outward pointing
deck pins)
Gauge
Double Loop
Retainer Spring
Anti-Sway
Bar
Front
Suspension Suspension
Arms Brackets
Front Mower
Bracket
Single Loop
Retainer Springs
Discharge Guard
Idler
Pulley
10
iNSTALL_ULCHERPLATE
installtwolatchhookstomulcherptate
usingscrewwasher,lockwasherand
we!dnutasshown_
NOTE:Pr@,assembleweldnuttoJatch
hookbyinsertingweldnutfromthetop
withhookpointin9down.Tightenhard-
waresecurety_
Raiseandholddeflectorshieldinup.-
rightposition.
Placefrontofmulcherplateoverfrontof
mowerdeckopeningandslideinto
place,asshown
o Hookfrontlatchntoholeonfrontof
mowerdeck.
_ Hookrearlatchintohobonbackof
mowerdeck.
_CAUTtON:Donotremovedischarge
guardfrommower.Raiseandhofdguard
whenattachingmulcherplateandat!owit
torestonplatewhteinoperation.
TO CONVERT TO BAGGING OR
DISCHARGING
Simply remove mubher plate and store in
a safe place, Your mower is now ready for
discharging or installation of optionat grass
catcher accessory.
£_tOTE: It is not necessary to change
blades, The mubher blades are designed
for discharging and bagging also.
Weld Nut
Washer
,VeJd Hook
qut ""w
Washer
Mulcher '&.........Screw
Plate
........... Hook Points
Latch
Nut
Lock
Washer
CHECKL _ST
PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING
CHECKLIST:
_ All assembly instructions have been
completed.
_/ No remaining loose parts in carton°
e/ Battery s propedy prepared and
charged. (Minimum ! hour at 6 amps)°
_/ Sea_ is adjusted comfortably and
tightened securely.
_/ All tres are propedy inflated. (For
shipping purposes, the tires were
overinfiated at the factoc_')o
_/ Be sure mower deck is propedy bvebd
side4o-sideitror_toto-rear for best cutting
results, (Tires must be propedy inflated
for teveting)o
_/ Check mower and drive betts Be sure
they are routed properly around pulleys
and inside all belt keepers.
_/ Check widng See that aHconnections
are stilJ secure and wires are properly
clamped.
J Before driving tractor, be sure free-
wheel control is in drive position
WHILE LEARNING ROW TO USE YOUR
TRACTOR, PAY"EXTRA ATTENTION TO
THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT ITEMS:
t Engine oil is at proper level
I Fuel tank is filled with flesh clean,
regular unieaded gasoline.
/ Become familiar with a_[corrtrols --their
bcat on and function. Operate them
before you start the engine.
7 Be sure brake system is in safe operat o
ing condition
,/ It is important to purge the transmission
before operating your tractor fo_ the first
time. Fol}ow proper startir_g and
instructions (See
"TO START ENGINE _'and 'PURGE
TRANSMISSION' in the Operation
section of this manual).
DeflectorK_
Shield
"_. hh"
"d\
11
ThesesymbobmayappearonyourtractororinliteraturesuppJiedwiththeproduct
Learnandunderstandtheirmeaning.
BATTERY
ENGINE ON
FUEL
ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH ENGAGED
IGNITION
CAUTION OR REVERSE
WARNING
ENGINE[ OFF OIL PRESSURE
CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE
REVERSE NEUTRAL
FORWARD SLOW
LIGHTS ON
LOCKED
HIGH
@@@@@
ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH DISENGAGED
KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE H_RDS
PAST
OVER TEMP
LIGHT
UNLOCKED MOWER LIFT
L
LOW
(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION}
PARKING BRAKE
DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY
HYDROSTATIC FREE WHEEL
(Hydro Models only)
12
KNOWYOURTRACTOR
READTHISOWNER%MANUALANDSAFETYRULESBEFOREOPERATING"YOUR
TRACTOR
Comparetheillustrationswithyourtractortofamiliarizeyourselfwkhthetocafionsof
variouscontrolsandadjustments.Savethismanualforfuturereference.
Light Switch
Position
Ignition
Ammeter
Throttle/Choke
Control ---.
Clutch/Brake
Control
Height
Adjustment
Knob
Freewheel
Control
Switch
Attachment
Clutch Switch
J ._'_"-..., Lift Lever
Plunger
Attachment
Lift Lever
_lBrake
Motion
Control Lever
Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the American
National Standards institute.
ATTACHMENT CLUTCH SWITCH: Used
to engage the mower blades, or other at-
tachments mounted to your tractor.
LIGHT SWITCH: Turns the headlights on
and off.
THROTTLFJCHOKE CONTROL: Used to
control engine speed.
CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL: Used for
declutching and braking the tractor and
starting the engine
FREEWHEEL CONTROL: Disengages
transmission for pushing or slowly towing
the tractor with the engine off.
HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB: Used to
adjust the mower cutting height.
MOTION CONTROL LEVER: Selects the
speed and direction of the tractor,
A_ACHMENT LiFT LEVER: Used to
raise and lower the mower deck or other
attachments mounted to your tractor.
LiFT LEVER PLUNGER: Used to release
attachment lift lever when changing its
position.
iGNiTiON SWITCH: Used for starting and
stopping the engine.
AMMETER: indicates battery charging (+)
or discharging (o),
PARKING BRAKE: Locks clutch/brake
into the brake position.
13
HOWTOUSEYOURTRACTOR
Yourtractorisequippedwithanoperator
presencesensingswitch.Whenengineis
running,anyattemptbytheoperatorto
leavetheseatwithoutfirstsettingthe
parkingbrakewiltshutofftheengine.
TO SET PARKING BRAKE
"BRAKF position and hotd,
, Place parking brake lever in "EN-
GAGED" position and release pressure
from dutch/brake pedal Pedai shoutd
remain in"BRAKE" position Make sure
parking brake will hold tractor secure.
Throttle/ Push-in to Attachment Clutch
Choke Switch Pull Out To
"Engage"
-_.."Engaged" Position
Peda! "Drive" "Disengag ed_
Position Position
STOPPING
MOWER BLADES -
To stop mower blades, move attach-
ment clutch switch to "DISENGAGED"
position.
GROUND DRIVE °
Tb stop ground drive, depress
cmutch/brake pedal into full "BRAKE"
position.
Move motion control lever to neutral (N)
position.
_MPORTANT: The motion control lever
does not return to neutrat (N) position
when the clutch/brake pedal is depressed.
ENGINE -
'_ Move throttle contro_ to slow position.
NOTE: Failure to move throttle control to
stow position and allowing engine to idle
before stopping may cause engine to
"backfireL
Turn ignition key to _'OFF" position and
remove key. AJways remove key when
leaving tractor to prevent unauthorized
use.
Never use choke to stop engine.
NOTE: Under certain conditions when
tractor is standing idle with the engine run-
ning, 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 corn o
p_etdy; as described above, before leaving
the operatoCs position; to empty grass
catcher, etc.
THROTTLE CONTROL
Atways operate engine at full throttle,
o Operating engine at less than full throt o
tie 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.
o Start tractor with motion control lever in
neutral (N) position.
o Re}ease parking brake and c_utch/brake
pedal
Slowly move motion control Jever to
desired position.
NOTE: The effort to move the motion con-
trot Eeverwill reduce after the first few
hours of use. This is normal
TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT
The cutting height is controlled by turning
the height adjustment knob in desired
direction,
o Turn knob clockwise (G) to raise cutting
height.
Turn knob counterclockwise (O)to
lower cutting height.
The cutting height range is approximately
1-!/2" to 4". The heights are measured
from the ground to the Hade tip with the
engine not running. These heights are ap-
14
:roximateandmayvarydependingupon
oii conditionsheightofgrassandtypes
f grassbeingmowed.
Theaveragelawnshouldbecutto
_Fp,,_-xman.Iv2-.2 mc_esduringthe
coo[seasonandtoover3inchesdunng
hotmonths.Forhealthierandbetter
lookinglawns,mowoftenandafter
moderatogrowth.
Forbestcuttingperformance,grass
over6inchesinheightshouldbe
mowedtwice.Makethefirstcutre[a_
tivelyhigh;thesecondtodesiredheight.
['OADJUSTGAUGEWHEELS
:_augewheelsarepropedyadjusted
_,w_e__h_yareo,_, ,,,x '_,, the ground ,_,h_,,,,_,,
nower [s at the desired cutting height in
:}perating position. Gauge wheels then
<eep the deck in proper position to help
:)revent scalping in most terrain condi ,_
:ons.
Adjust gauge wheels with tractor on a
flat _eve[ sudace.
Adjust mower to desired cuttin 9 height
(See "TO ADJUST MOWER CUTT!NG
HEIGHT _in the Operation section of
this manual).
With mower in desired height of cut po-
sition, gauge wheels should be assemo
bled so they are s_ightly off the ground°
Install gauge wheel in appropriate hole
with shoulder bolt, 3/8 washer, and 3/8-
18 Iocknut and tighten securety_
Repeat for opposite side installing
gauge wheel in same adiustment hole.
i_OOPERATE MOWER
four tractor is equipped with an opelator
}resence sensing switch. Any attempt by
he operator to _eave the seat with the
imgine running and the attachment clutch
mgaged w[H shut off the engine.
Select desired height of cut.
Lower mower with attachment lift corn
troL
Start mower blades by engaging attach-
15
ment chtch contro_
TO STOP MOWER BLADES odisen o
age attachment c_utch control
CAUTION: Do not operate the mower
witho _t ether the entire grass catcher, on
mowers so equipped_ or the discharge
guard in placeo
Attachment Clutch
Switch Pull Out To
"Engage*'
\
Push _nTo
"Disengage'
TO OPERATE ON HILLS
_CAUT_ON: Do notdriveup ordown
hillswithslopesgreaterthan 15° and do
notdriveacross any slope..Use theslope
guideprovidedatthe back ofthismanual
Choose theslowestspeed beforestad-
ingup ordown Mils
o Avoidstoppingor changing speed on
hills.
o Ifslowingisnecessary,move throttle
controllevertoslowerpositiom
Ifstoppingisabsolutelynecessary,push
ck_tchibrakepedal quicklytobrake posio
tionand engage parkingbrake.
Move motioncontrol[everto neutral(N)
position°
_MPORTAN'T: The moton controJ [eve_
does not return to neutral (N) posit on
when the dutch/brake peda_ is depressed°
o To restart movement, slowly re_ease
parking brake and dutch/brake pedal.
Stowly move motion control lever to
slowest setting.
o Make al! turns slow_yo
TO TRANSPORT
When pushing or towing your tracto< be
sure to disengage transmission by ptacing
freewheel control in freewheel ng position.
Freewheel control is tocated at the rear
drawbar of tractor.
o Raise attachment Hft to highest position
with attachment lift control.
o PuH freewheel control knob out and hold
in position by inserting retainer spring
into forward hole of control rod
Attachment Lift Lever
High Position
.}/Position
/ Low
Discharge
Guard
oDonotpushortowtractoratmorethan
Tbreengagetransmission,reverse
aboveprocedure.
NOTE:T0protecthoodfromdamagewhen
transportingyourtractoronatruckora
trailer,besurehoodisclosedandsecured
totractor.Useanappropriatemeansof
tyinghoodtotractor(rope,cord,etco).
TOWINGCARTS AND OTHER
ATTACHMENTS
Tow onty the attachments that are recom-
mended by and comply with specifications
of the manufacturer of your tractor. Use
common sense when towing° Too heavy of
a foad, whiJe on a slope, is dangerous
Tires can lose traction with the ground and
cause you to lose control of your tractor.
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGmNE
CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL
, The engine in your tractor has been
shipped, from the factory, already filled
with summer weight oil.
Check engine oi! with tractor on level
ground.
Unthread and remove oil fill cap/dip-
stick; wipe oil off. Reinsert the dipstick
into the tube and rest oit fir1cap on the
tube. Do not thread the cap onto the
tube° Remove and read oJJlevel. If nec-
essary, add oil until "FULL" mark on
dipstick is reached. Do not overfi{L
o For cold weather operation you should
change oil for easier starting (See "OIL
VISCOS_TY CHART" in the Customer
Responsibilities section of this manual).
To change engine oiJ, see the Customer
Responsib_Jities section in this manual
ADD GASOLINE
, FHJfuel tank. Use fresh, c_ean, regular
unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87
octane (Use of _eaded gasoline will
increase carbon and _ead oxide
deposits and reduce valve Jife). Do not
mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in
quantities that can be used within 30
days to assure fuel freshness
mMPORTANT: When operating in tempera°
tures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh, dean
winter grade gasoline to hetp insure good
cotd weather starting
_WARNtNG: Experience indicates that
alcohol blended fuels (called gasoho[ 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 TOavoid engine
proMems, the fue_ system should be emp...
tied before storage of 30 days or _onger.
n_;_, _h..... _"_" start _'^ engine and ,_^"
it run until the fuemlines and carburetor are
empty° Use fresh fuel next season. See
Storage Instructions for additionaJ informa-
tiono Never use engine or carburetor
cleaner products in the fuel tank or perma-
n,ent damage may occur.
ACAUT!ON: 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 fue!, it will
take extra cranking time to move fuel from
the tank to the engine.
Be sure freewheel control is in the
transmission engaged position.
Sit on seat in operating position,
depress clutch/brake pedal and set
parking brake.
, Place motion control lever in neutral (N)
position.
Move attachment dutch to "DlSEN o
GAGED ° position.
® Move throttle controt to choke position.
NOTE: Before starting, read the warm and
cold starting procedures below.
Insert key into ignition and turn key
clockwise to "STAR_ position and
retease key as soon as engine starts.
Do not run starter continuously for more
than fifteen seconds per minute° ff the
engine does not start after several
attempts, move throttJe controt to fast
position, wait a few min_es and try
again° If engine stiti does not start,
move the throttle control back to the
choke position and retry.
WARM WEATHER STARTING (50 ° F and
above)
16
Whenenginestarts,movethethrottle
controttothefastposition.
• Theattachmentsandgrounddrivecan
r;owbeused.!ftheenginedoesnot
accepttheload,restarttheengineand
allowittowarmupforoneminuteusing
thechokeasdescribedabove.
COLDWEATHERSTARTING(50° Fand
below)
oWhenenginestarts,altowenginetorun
withthethrottlecontrolinthechoke
positionuntiltheenginerunsrougM}i
thenmovethrottlecontroltofastposi-
tion.Thismayrequireanenginewarm--
upperiodfromseveratsecondstosev°
..,,u_o,uepen._,,,__,,,,,,etemper-
ature.
HYDROSTATICTRANSMISSIONWARM
UP
• Before driving the unit in cold weather,
the transmission should be warmed up
as follows:
Be sure the tractor is on mevelground.
Place the motion control lever in neutral.
Release the parking brake and let the
clutch!brake slowly return to operating
position.
® Allow one minute for transmission to
warm up. This can be done during the
engine warm up period.
• The attachments can also be used dur-
ing the engine warm-up period after the
transmission has been warmed up.
NOTE: 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.
PURGE TRANSMISSION
_,CAUTION: Never engage or disem
gage freewheel lever while the engine is
running.
To ensure proper operation and perfor-
mance, it is recommended that the transo
mission 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.
!MPORTANT: Should your transmission
require remova_ for service or replace o
merit, it shoutd be purged after reinstaHao
tion before operating the tractor.
Place tractor safely on level surface with
engine off and parking brake set.
Disengage transmission by placing free-
wheel control in freewheeling position
(See "TO TRANSPORT" in this section
of manual).
Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine.
After the engine is running, move throt-
tle control to slow position. With motion
control lever in neutral (N) position,
slowly disengage clutch/brake pedal.
o Move motion control lever to full forward
position and ho_d 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 sys-
tem.
Move motion control lever to neutral (N)
position. Shut off engine and set parking
brake.
Engage transmission by placing free-
whee_ control in driving position (See
"TO TRANSPORT" in this section of
manual).
Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine.
After the engine is running, move throt-
tle control to half (1/2) speed. With
motion control lever in neutral (N) posi o
tion, slowly disengage clutch!brake
pedal.
Slowly move motion control lever for_
ward; after the tractor moves approxi -
mately 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 pro-
cedure with the motion control lever
three (3) times.
Your tractor is now purged and ready for
normal operation°
17
MOWENGTIPS
Tire chains cannot be used when the
mower housing is attached to tractor:
o Mower shouid be propedy teveled for
best mowing performance° See TO
LEVEL MOWER HOUSING '_in the
Service and Adjustments section of this
manual
o 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 distribuo
'".... lippi .............. -du_ v_c ngs and more "_ .......
ring.
o When mowing large areas, start by turn-
ing to the right so that clippings will dis-
charge away from shrubs, fences, drive-
ways, etc° After one or two rounds, mow
in the opposite direction making left
hand turns until finished.
lYlULCHING lYlOWING TIPS
IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep
mower housing free of built-up grass and
trash Clean after each use.
The special mulching blade will recut
the grass clippings many times and
reduce them in size so that as they fall
onto the lawn they will disperse into the
grass and not be noticed. Also, the
mulched grass will biodegrade quickly
to provide nutrients for the lawn. Always
mulch with your highest engine (blade)
speed as this will provide the best recut-
ring action of the blades.
Avoid cutting your '........ "^" it is .....
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.
For best results, adjust the mower cut:
ring 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+
Max 1/3
o If grass is extremely tall, it should be
mowed twice to reduce load and possi-
ble 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 unde o
sirable clumps. Allow grass to dry
before mowing.
, Always operate engine at ful! throttle
when mowing to assure better mowing
performance and proper discharge of
material. Regulate ground speed by seo
lecting a low enough gear to give the
mower the best 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 at-
tachment being used.
o Certain types of grass and grass condi-
tions may require that an area be
mulched a second time to completely
hide the clippings When doing a sec-
ond cut, mow across or perpendicular to
the first cut path.
o 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.
18
::USTOMER RESPONSBIUTSES
i - change o e _>f_en wh@l cper ti_ g b_dsr a heaey ioad or in high anYoient temperatures. 5 If r_quf_s_td wit!_ _dj lsta_le system
2 Serv_c_ more often wh_; _t_e_at_g _l dir[y or dusty conditions. 6 Not req_d _f ÷quipf_d w_th _a_te_r_e free balle_y
3 - if equ pped with oJ fi_ter change o_ #_ve'-y 50 ho_rs
4 - R_fac÷ blades p,or÷ often whe_ r_:o_v_ng _n san_ so_
:_ENERAL RECO_,_ENDATIONS
he warranty on this tractor does not cover
:eros that have been subjected to operator
_.buseor negligence TO receiw_ furl value
_omthe warranty, operator must maintain
factor as instructed in this manual Some
diustments will need to be made periodi o
:afiy to propedy maintain your tractor
ql adjustments in the Service and
(djustments section of this manuat should
e checked at bast once each season.
Once a year you should replace the
spark ptu% cban or replace air fi_ter, and
check blades and belts for wear A new
spark p_ug and dean air fIter assure
proper air fuet mixture and help your
engine run better and last !onger.
_EFORE EACH USE
Check engineoil!eveI_
Check brakeoperation,
Check tirepressure
Check operatorpresence and interlock
systems farproperoperation,
Check forloosefasteners
@ Front Whee!
BearingZerk Bearing
@ Engine
@ Attachmemt
Clutch i
Pivot(s) i.........
@SAE 30 or 10w30 Motor OIL
@Genera_Purpose Grease
@ Refer to Maintenance 'Engir_e"Section
_MPORTANT: Do not oil or grease the pivot
points which have special nylon bear-ings.
Viscous lubricants will attract dust and diR
that wil_shorten the life of the se_f k_bdcating
bearings. If you feel they must be lubricated,
use only a dry, powdered graphite type lubrio
cant sparingly.
19
Front
Wheel
Zerk
TRACTOR
Alwaysobservesafetyruleswhenper°
forminganymaintenance,
BRAKEOPERATION
Iftractorrequiresmorethansix(6)feet
stoppingdistanceathighspeedinhighest
gear,thenbrakemustbeadjusted°(See
"TOADJUSTBRAKE"intheServiceand
Adjustmentssectionofthismanual).
TIRES
MaintainproperairpressureinaJltires
(See"PRODUCTSPECIFICATIONS'_
on page 5 of this manual)°
Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect
control chemicals which can harm rub-
ber.
o Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp
objects and other hazards that may
cause tire damage.
NOTE: Tosea! tire punctures and prevent
fiat tires due to slow leaks, tire sealant
may be purchased from your Ioca_parts
dealer° Tire sealant also prevents tire dry
rot and corrosion.
BLADE CARE
For best results mower blades must be
kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged
blades.
BLADE REMOVAL
Raise mower to highest position to allow
access to blades.
Remove hex bolt, lock washer and flat
washer securing blade.
Install new or resharpened blade with
trailing edge up towards deck as shown.
Reassemble hex bolt, lock washer and
fiat washer in exact order as shown
® Tighten bolt securely (27-35 Ft. Lbs.
torque).
iMPORTANT: Blade bolt is Grade 8 heat
treated.
Assembly
Blad\kx4_j_\_ Mandrel
Flat
LockWas
Hex Bolt(Grad:-8}*_'"_ "%_
. TraiJing
EdgeUp
*A Grade 8 heat treated bolt can be
identified by six lines on the bolt head.
TO SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening
blade, but if you do, be sure the blade is
balanced°
Care should be taken to keep the Made
baJanced. An unbalanced blade wilt cause
excessive vibration and eventual damage
to mower and engine.
The b_ade can be sharpened with a file
or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt
to sharpen while it is on the mower.
To check blade balance, you will need a
5/8" diameter steel bolt, pin, or a cone
balancer. (When using a cone balancer,
follow the instructions supplied with bal-
NOTE: Do not use a nail for balancing
blade. The lobes of the center hole may
appear to be centered, but are not.
, Slide blade onto an unthreaded portion
of the steel bolt or pin and hold the bolt
or pin parallel with the ground, if blade
is balanced, it should remain in a hori-
zontal position, if either end of the blade
moves downward, sharpen the heavy
end until the blade is balanced.
Center Hole /
BJade
5!8" Bo!
or Pm "_-4_
BATTERY
Your tractor has a battery charging system
which is sufficient for normal use. Howev-
er, periodic charging of the battery with an
automotive charger will extend its life.
® Keep battery and terminals clean.
Keep battery bolts tight.
Keep small vent holes open.
- Recharge at 6-10 amperes for t hour.
NOTE: The original equipment battery on
your tractor is maintenance free. Do not
attempt to open or remove caps or covers.
Adding or checking teve! of eJectroJyte is
not necessary.
TQ CLEAN BATTERY AND TERMINALS
Corrosion and dirt on the battery and ter=
minais can cause the battery to "leak"
power.
Remove termina! guard,
- Disconnect BLACK battery cable first
then RED battery cable and remove
battery from tractor.
2O
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