Craftsman 917272053 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

ICRRFT$1VlAWJ

16 HP ELECTRIC START

42" MOWER

6 SPEED TRANSAXLE

LAWN TRACTOR

Model No.

917.272053

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Repair Parts

CAUTION: Read and follow all Safety

Rules and Instructions before operating this equipment.

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, II 60179

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

For answers toyourquestions

aboutthis product, Call:

1-800-659-5917

Sears Craftsman Help Line

5 am- 5 pm, Mort. Sat

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

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

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

Assembly .............................................. 9

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

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

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 instructionsin the owner's

manual, Sears will repair or replace, free of charge, any parts found to be defective in matedal or workmanship. Warranty service is available free of charge by 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 dudng normal use, such as blades, spark

plugs, air cleaners, belts and oil filters.

• Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails,

thorns, stumps,or glass.

• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, including but not limited to, damage caused by towing objects beyond the capability of the ddingequipment, impacting objects that bend the frame or crankshaft, or over speeding the engine.

• Repairs necessary because of operator negligence, including but net 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 debds, 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.

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

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

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

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

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

Parts Ordedng ..................... Back Cover

LIMITED 90 DAYWARRANTY ON BATTERY

For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery included with this dding

equipment proves defective in matedal or workmanship and our testing determines the battery will not hold a charge, Sears willreplace the battery at no charge. War-

rantyservice is available free of charge by taking 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.

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 dghts, and you may also have other dghts

which may vary from state to state.

Sears, Roebuck and Co., D/817 WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and foot and throwingobjects. Failure to observe the followingsafety instructionscould result in

sedous injury or death.

I. GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow all instructionsin the manuel 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 ofother people before mowing. Stop machine

if anyone enters the area.

• Never carry passengers,

• Do not mow in reverse unless abso-

lutely necessary. Always lookdown and behind before and while backing.

• Be aware of the mower discharge

directionand do not point it at anyone. Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass catcher or the

guard in place.

• Slow down before turning.

• Never leave a running machine

unattended. Always tum off blades, set

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

• Turn off blades when not mowing.

• Stop engine before removing grass

catcher or unclogging chute.

• Mow only in daylight or good artificial

light.

• Do not operate the machine while

under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Watch for traffic when operating near or

crossing roadways.

• Use extra care when loading or

unloading the machine into a trailer or truck.

• Data indicates that operators, age 60

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

related injuries. These operators should evaluate their abilityto operate

the riding mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from serious injury.

• Keep machinefree of grass, leaves or

other debris build-up whichcan touch bet exhaust / engine parts and bum. Do

not allowthe mower deck to plow leaves or otherdebris which can cause build-

upto occur.Clean any oil or feel

spillage before operating or storing the machine. Allow machine to cool before

storage.

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

control and tipover accidents, which can result in severe in ury or death. All slopes

require extracaut on. f 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 fer holes, ruts, or bumps.

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

Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so that you will not have to stopor shift while on the slope.

Follow the manufacturer's recommen-

dationsfor 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 stoppingon 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 slowlyand gradu- ally downhill, if possible.

• Do not mow near dropoffs, 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

puttingyourfoot on the ground.

• Do not use grass catcher on steep

slopes.

IlL CHILDREN Tragicaccidents 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 fall off

and be seriously injured or interfere

with safe n'_achlee operation.

• Never allow children to operate the

machine.

• Use extra care when approaching blind

comers, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.

IV. SERVICE

• Use extra care in handlinggasoline 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

notsmoke.

-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 regulady.

• Keep machine free ofgrass, leaves, or other debds build-up. Clean oil or fuel spillage. Allow machine to cool before stodng.

• Stop and inspect the equipment if you stdke 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 detedoration, 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 servicingthem.

• 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 mewing area and under the watchful care of another

responsible adult.

• Be alert and tum 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 overturnthe machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.

• Useslowspeed.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 stopswhile going uphill, disengage blades, shift into reverse

and back down slowly.

• Do not tum on slopes unless neces-

sary, and then, turn slowly and gradu- ally downhill, if possible.

_Look for this symbol to pointout

importantsafety precautions. It means

CAUTIONIII BECOMEALERTIII 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

placewire where itcannot contactspark plug.

_ CAUTION: Do not coast down a hill in neutral, you may lose control of the

tractor.

CAUTION: Towonly 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. Tires can lose traction with the ground and cause you to Lose control ofyour 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,terminals

and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the

State of California to cause cancer and birthdefects or other reproductiveharm.

Wash hands after handling.

PRODUCTSPECIFICATIONS

GASOUNE 1.25GALLONS

CAPACITY UNLEADED

ANDTYPE: REGULAR

OIL'I'YPE SAE 10W30 (ABOVE

32°F)

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

(BELOW 32°F)

OIL CAPACITY: W/FILTER: 4.0 PINTS

W/OFILTER: 3.5 PINTS

SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION RC12YC

GAP: .040")

GROUND SPEED FORWARD: (MPH): 1s'r 1.2

2ND 1.5 3"D 2.4

4TM 3.5 5TM 4.8

6TM 5.3

REVERSE: 1.5

TIRE PRESSURE:FRONT: 14 PSI

REAR: 10 PSI

CHARGING 15 AMPS @3600RPM SYSTEM:

BATTERY: AMP/HR: 30

MIN. CCA: 240 CASE SIZE: U1R

BLADE BOLT 27-35 FT. LBS.

TORQUE:

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, cadng for and usingyour tractor.

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

owner's manual.

/kWARNING: This tractor is equipped with an internal combustion engine and

should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush-

covered or grass-covered land unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped with

a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark an'ester 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 an'ester for the muffler is available through your nearest Sears service

center (See REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase ofa new tractor. It has been designed, engineered and manufactured to give you the bust 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 instructionswill enable you to assemble and maintain your tractorproperly.

Always observe the "SAFETY RULES".

Steering

WheelInsert

Steering Wheel

(1) Large Flat Washer

I_(1) Hex Bolt

3/8-16 x 1

Steedng

Boot

l_ I1),ook

_h_,_/ washer 3/8

1) Locknut

5/16-18

J_ Steering

Wheel Adapter

Seat

___, (_ Washer

1_32 x 1-3/16 x 12

Gauge

_(1) Knob

(1) Hex Bolt

5/16-18 x 1-1/4

Steering Extension Shaft

Slope Sheet

For Future Use

Keys

€

(2) Keys

Video Cassette

Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception of those parts left

unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your

tractor all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools as necessary to insure proper tightness. Review the video cassette before

you begin. TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

A socketwrench 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 rightor left hand is mentioned in

this manual, itmeans, from your point of view,when you are in the operating position(seated behind the steedng

wheel).

TO REMOVETRACTOR FROM

CARTON UNPACK CARTON

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

2. Cut, from top to bottom, alonglines on all four comers of carton, and lay

panels fiat.

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

BEFORE REMOVINGTRACTOR FROM SKID

ATTACHSTEERINGWHEEL

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND

BOOT

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

in extension and lower shafts and install 5/16 hex bolt and Iocknut.

Tighten securely.

2. Place tabs of steedng boot over tab slots in dash and push down to

secure.

INSTALL STEERING WHEEL

3. Position front wheels of the tractor so

they are pointing straight forward.

4, Remove steering wheel adapter from

steedng wheel and slide adapter onto steering shaft extension.

5. Position steedng wheel so cross bars

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

Lower Steering ,.. Shaft _ _- ,

6. Assemble large fiat washer, 3/8 lock 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 gdll.

IMPORTANT: Check for and remove any staples in skidthat may puncturetires

where tractor is to roll off skid.

HOWTO SET UPYOURTRACTOR

CHECK BATTERY

1. Liftseat pan to raised positionand open battery box door.

NOTE: If thisbattery is put into service

after month and year indicated on label

(label located between terminals) charge

batteryfor minimum of one hour at 6-10 amps. (See "BATTERY" in Maintenance section of this manual for charging

instructions).

Bolt

Tab Slots

Label

Batter

Door

Terminal

INSTALL SEAT

Adjust seat before tightening adjustment

knob.

1. Remove adjustment knob and fiat

washer eacudng 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 belt In slot and pull seat

towards rear of tractor.

5. Pivot seat and pan forward and

assemble adjustment knob and flat washer loosely. Do not tighten.

6. Lower seat into operating position and

sit in seat.

7. Slide seat until a comfortable position is reached which allows you to press

clutch/brake pedal all the way down.

8. Get off seat without moving its adjusted position.

8. Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob securely.

Seat

Bolt

FlatWasher

NOTE: Youmay now rollor drive your

tractor off the skid. Followthe appropdate

instructionbelow to remove the tractor

from the skid.

TO ROLLTRACTOR OFF SKiD (See

Operation section for location and

function of controls)

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

position.

2. Release parking brake by depressing clutch/brake pedal.

3. Place gearshift lever in neutral (N)

position.

4. Roll tractor forward off skid.

5. Remove banding holding deflector

shield up against tractor.

TO DRiVETRACTOR OFF SKID (See Operation section for location and

function of controls) _WARNING: Before starting, read,

understand and follow all instructionsin the Operation sectionof this manual. Be

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

of other people end objects.

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

2. Check engine oil level and flu fuel

tank with gasoline.

3. Sit on seat in operating position,

depress clutch/brake pedal and set the parking brake.

4. Place gear shift lever in neutral (N)

position.

5. Press lift lever plunger and raise

attachment lift lever to its highest position.

6. Start the engine. After engine has

started, move throttle controlto idle

position.

7. Depress clutch/brake pedal into full "BRAKE" position and hold. Move gearshift lever to 1st gear.

8. Slowly release clutch/brake pedal and slowlyddve tractor off skid.

9. Apply brake to stop tractor, set parking brake and place gearshift lever in

neutral position.

10.Turn ignitionkey to "OFF" position. Continue with the instructions that follow.

INSTALLMULCHERPLATE

(If previously removed)

1. Raise and hold deflector shield in updght position.

2. Place front of mulcher plate over front of mower deck opening and slide into

place, as shown.

3, Hook front latchinto hole on front of

mower deck.

4, Hook rear latch into hole on back of

mower deck.

A(_CAUTION: Do not remove deflector shield from mower. Raise and hold shield

when attaching mulcher plate and allow it

to rest on plate while in operation.

Mulcher Plate

Shield

Latch

Hooks

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 overin-

flated at the factory for shipping pur-

poses. 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 propedy leveled. See =TO

LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the

Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF ALL BELTS

See the figures that are shownfor replacing motion and mower blade ddve

belts in the Service and Adjustments sectionof this manual. Vedfy thatthe belts are routed correctly.

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM After you learn how to operate your

tractor,check to see that the brake is

properlyadjusted. See "TO ADJUST BRAKE" in the Service andAdjustments

section of this manual.

,/CHECKLIST

BEFOREYOU OPERATE AND ENJOY

YOUR NEW TRACTOR, WE WISH TO ASSURE THATYOU RECEIVE THE

BEST PERFORMANCE AND SATISFACTION FROM THIS QUALITY

PRODUCT. PLEASE REVIEWTHE FOLLOWING

CHECKLIST:

•/ All assembly instructionshave been

completed.

•/ No remaining loose parts in carton.

,/"Battery is propedy prepared and

charged. (Minimum 1 hourat 6 amps),

•/ Seat is adjusted comfortably and tightened securely.

,/All tires are propedy inflated. (For

shipping purposes, the tires were ovednflated at the factory).

•/ Be sure mower deck is properly

leveled side-to-side/front-to-rear for best cutting results. (Tires mustbe

propedy inflatedfor leveling).

•/ Check mower and ddve belts. Be sure

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

,/Check widng. See that all connections

are still secure and wires are propedy clamped.

WHILE LEARNING HOWTO USEYOUR TRACTOR, PAYEXTRA ATTENTION TO

THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT ITEMS:

•/ Engine oil is at proper level.

•/ Fuel tank is filledwith 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

operating condition.

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

A =.

BATTERY CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP

FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED

WARNING

LOCKED

LIGHT

MOWER LIFT

_r_RN H L

ATTACHMENT REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW PARKING BRAKE

CLUTCH ENGAGED

IGNITION CLUTCH DISENGAGED

ATTACHMENT

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HA7JkRDS

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

I=_.

FREEWHEEL

(AutomaticModelsonly)

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

YOUR TRACTOR Compare the illustrationswith your tractor to familiarize yourselfwith the locationsof

vadous controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

Attachment ignition Switch Clutch

Amme_r ..... --.

ThrottlelChoke Control Attachment

Clutch/Brake _Height Pedal

Gearshift Lever

Our tractorsconform to the safety standards of theAmerican

National Standards Institute.

Light Switch

Lift Lever

Plunger

Parking Brake Lever

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

declutchiag and braking the tractor and starting the engine. GEARSHIFT LEVER - Selects the speed

and directionof tractor.

IGNITION SWITCH - Used for starting and stopping the engine.

LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to release attachment lift lever when

changing its position.

LIGHT SWITCH - Turnsthe headlightson

and off.

PARKING BRAKE LEVER- Locks

clutch/brake pedal into the brake

position,

THROT'rLEICHOKE CONTROL- Used for starting and controllingengine speed.

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 recemmend 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 firstsetting the parking brake will shut off the engine.

1. Depress clutch/brake pedal into full

"BRAKE" positionand hold.

2. Place parking brake lever in "EN-

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

Pedal should remain in =BRAKE"

position. Make sure parking brake will hold tractor secure.

AttachmentClutchLever

_osition

Throttle/

Choke

:Disengaged"

Brake

Clutch/

Lever

Posi_on Portion STOPPING

MOWER BLADES -

• To stop mower blades,move attach-

ment clutch lever to "DISENGAGED" position.

GROUND DRIVE -

• To stop ground ddve, depress clutch/ brake pedal into full "BRAKE" position.

• Move gearshift lever to neutral (N) position.

ENGINE-

• Move throttle controlto slow position.

NOTE: Failure to move throttle control to

slow position and allowing engine to idle

before stoppingmay cause engine to

"backfire".

• Turn ignition key to "OFF"position and remove key. Always remove key when leaving tractor to prevent unauthodzed

use,

• Never use choke to stop engine.

IMPORTANT: Leavingthe ignition switch in any positionother than "OFF" will cause the battery to be discharged, (dead).

NOTE: Under certain conditionswhen tractor is standing idle with the engine

running, hot engine exhaust gases may cause "browning" of grass. To eliminate

this possibility,always stop engine when stoppingtractor on grass areas.

_I_CAUTION: Always stop tractor completely, as described above, before

leaving the operator's position;to empty grass catcher, etc.

TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL Always operate engine at full throttle.

• Operating engine at less than full

thrattle reduces the battery charging rate.

• Full throttle offers the best bagging end

mower pe_ormance.

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD The direction and speed of movement is

controlledby the gearshift lever.

1. Start tractor with clutch/brake pedal

depressed and gearshift lever in neutral (N) position.

2. Move gearshift lever to desired position.

3. Slowly release clutch/brake pedal to start movement.

IMPORTANT: Bdng tractorto a onmplete stop before shiftingor changinggears.

Failure to do sowill shorten the useful life ofyour transexle.

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

determines the cuttingheight.

• Grasp lift lever.

• Press plungerwith thumband move

lever to desired position.

The cutting height range is approxi-

mately 1-1/2 to 4". The heightsare measured from the ground to the blade tip with the engine not running. These heights are approximate and may vary depending upon soil conditions, height of grass and types of grass being mowed.

• The average lawn should be cut to approximately 2-1/2 inches dudng the

coolseason and to over 3 inches dudng hot months. For healthier and

Petter looking lawns, maw 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 ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS Gauge wheels are propedy adjusted

when they are slightlyoff the ground when mower is at the desired cutting height in operating position.Gauge wheels then keep the deck in proper

positionto help prevent scalping in most terrain conditions.

NOTE: Adjust gauge wheels with tractor on a flat level surface.

1. Adjust mower to desired cutting height

(See =TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGH'F in the Operation sectionof this manual).

2. With mower in desired height of cut

position, gauge wheels should be assembled so they are slightlyoff the ground. Install gauge wheel in appropriate hole with shoulder bolt, 3/ 8 washer, and 3/8-16 Iocknut and

tighten securely.

3. Repeat for opposite side installing

gauge wheel in same adjustment hole.

Gauge

Wheel

Mounting_ Bracket'-

Locknut

_Bolt

Gauge Wheel

3houlder

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 clutchengaged will shut off the engine.

1. Select desired height of cut.

2. Start mower blades by engaging

attachment clutch control.

TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disengage attachment clutch control.

_CAUTION: Do not operate the mower withouteither the entire grass catcher, on

mowers so equipped, or the deflector shield in place.

Attachment ClutchLever Attachemnt

-Engaged. . Position . Position

Low Position

Position

Deflector

Shield

TO OPERATE ON HILLS A, CAUTION: Do not drive up or down

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

• Choose the slowest speed before starting up or down hills.

• Avoid stopping or changing speed on hills.

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

• If stopping is absolutely necessary, push clutch/brake pedal quicklyto

brake position and engage parking brake.

• Move gearshift leverto 1st gear. Be sure you have allowed room for tractor to rollslightlyas you restart movement.

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

• Make all turns slowly.

TO TRANSPORT

• Raise attachment liftto highest position with attachment lift control.

• When pushing or towing your tractor, be sure gearshift lever is in neutral (N)

position.

• Do notpush or tow tractor at more than five (5) MPH.

NOTE: Toprotect hoodfrom damage

when transportingyour tractor on a truck or a trailer, be sure hood is closedand secured to tractor. Use an appropriate

means of tyinghood to tractor(rope, cord,

etc.).

TOWINGCARTSANDOTHER

ATTACHMENTS Towonlytheattachmentsthatare

recommendedbyandcomplywith specificationsofthemanufacturer of your

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

dangerous. Tires can lose tractionwith the ground and cause you to lose control of your tractor.

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. Unthread and remove oil fill cap/ dipstick;wipe oiloff. Reinsert the

dipstickinto the tube and rest oil fill cap on the tube. Do notthread the cap onto the tube. Remove and read

oil level. If necessary, add oiluntil "FULL" mark on dipstick is reached.

Do not ovenlll.

• For cold weather operationyou should

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

nance section of this manual).

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

OilFill Cap/

Dipstick

ADD GASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular

unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane. (Use of leaded gasoline

will increase carbon and lead oxide deposits and reduce valve life). Do not

mix oilwith gasoline. Pumhase 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, 6. When engine starts, move the throttle

clean winter grade gasoline to help control to the fast position. insure good cold weather starting. • The attachments and ground drive can

_WARNING: Experience indicatesthat alcohol blended fuels (called gasehol or

using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to separation and

formation ofacids dudng storage. Acidic

gas can damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be

emptied before storage of 30 days or longer. Drain the gas tank, start the engine

and let it run untilthe fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use freshfuel next

season. See Storage Instructions for additionalinformation. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner productsin the fuel

tank or permanent damage may occur.

CAUTION: Fill to bottomof gas tank

fillerneck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spillor use gasoline near an open flame.

TO START ENGINE When sta_ng the engineforthe first lime or if

theeegine has mn outoffuel,itwilltakeextra crankingtlmetomovefuoifromthetankta the

engine.

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

parking brake.

2. Place gear shift lever in neutral (N) position.

3. Move attachment clutch to =DISEN-

GAGED" position.

4. Move throttle control to choke position.

NOTE: Before starting, readthe warm and coldstaring proceduresbelow.

5. Insert key into ignitionand turn key clockwise to "START" positionand

release keyas soon as engine starts. Do not run starter continuouslyfor more than fifteen seconds per minute. If the engine does not start afterseveral attempts, move throttle controltofast position, wait a few minutes and try again. Ifengine stilldoes not start,

move the throttle control back to the choke position and retry.

WARMWEA'[HER STARTING (50° F and above)

now be used. If the engine does not accept the load, restart the engine and allow it to warm up for one minute using

the choke as described above.

COLDWEATHER STARTING( 50° F and below)

6. When engine starts, allow engine to run with the throttle control in the

choke position untilthe engine runs roughly, then move throttle controlto fast position. This may require an engine warm-up period from several seconds to several minutes, depend-

ing on the temperature.

• The attachments can also be used

dudng the engine warm-up period.

NOTE: If ata highaltitude (above 3000feet) or incoldtemperatures(below32 F)the carburetorfuelmixturemay needto be a_usted for bestengineperfom_ance.See

"TO ADJUST CARBURETOR" inthe Service and Adjustmentssec_eeof this manual.

MOWlNGTIPS

• Mower should be propedy leveled for best mowing performance. See =TO

LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the

Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

• The left hand side of mower should be

used for ltimming.

• Drive so that clippings are discharged

onto the area that has been cut. Have the cut area to the right of the tractor.

Thiswill result in a more even distdbu- tion of clippingsand more uniform cutting.

• When mowing large areas, start by

turningto the right so that clippingswill discharge away from shrubs, fences, driveways, etc. After one or two rounds, mow in the opposite direction making left hand turns until finished.

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

possiblefire 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 MOWlNGTIPS IMPORTANT: For best performance,

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

• The special mulchingblade 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 he noticed. Also,the mulched grass will biodegrade quickly to provide nutrientsfor the lawn. Always mulchwith your highest engine (blade) speed as this will

provide the best recuttingaction of the blades.

• Avoid cuttingyour lawn when it iswet.

Wet grass tends to form clumpsand

interfereswith the mulching action.

The best time to mow yourlawn is the

early afternoon. At this time the grass has dded and the newly cut area will notbe exposed to the directsun.

• For best results,adjust the mower

cuttingheight so thatthe mower cuts off only the top one-third ofthe grass blades. For extremely heavy mulching, reduce your widthof cut on each pass and mow slowly.

• Certain types of grass and grass

conditionsmay require that an area be

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

second cut, maw across or perpen- dicularto the first cut path.

• Change your cutting pattern from week

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

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

Max 1/3"

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS ]he warrantyon thistractordoes net cover

items that have bean subjectedto operator abuse or negligence. To receive full value

from the warranty,operator must maintain b'actor as instructedin this manual.

Some adjustmentswill need to be made periodicallyto propedy maintainyour

tractor.

All adjustmentsin the Service and Adjustmentssectionof this manual should

be checked at least once each season.

• Once a year you should replace the spark plug, clean or replace airfilter, and

check blades and belts forwear. 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 operation.

5. Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION CHART

Zerk Zerk

@Front Wheel

Bearing

Zerk

Bearing Zerk

(_SAE30 or 10w30MOTOROIL _)GENERALPURPOSEGREASE

_REFER TO Maintenance "ENGINE"SECTION

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

Viscous lubricantswill attract dustand dirt that will shorten the life of the self-lubricat-

ing beadngs, if you feel they mustbe lubdcated, use only a dry, powdered graphite type lubricant sparingly.

TRACTOR Always obsawe safety rules when

performing any maintenance. BRAKE OPERATION

If tractor requires more than six (6) feet stoppingdistance at high speed in highestgear, then brake must be ad- justed. (See =TOADJUST BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments section of this

manual). TIRES

• Maintain proper air pressure in all tires

(See =PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" section of this manual). FlatWasher

• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil,or insect

control chemicals which can harm rubber.

• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp

objects and other hazards that may cause tire damage.

NOTE: To seal tire punctures and prevent

fiat tires due to slow leaks, tire sealant may be purchased from your local parts

dealer. Tire sealant also preventstire dry rot and corrosion.

OPERATOR PRESENCE SYSTEM Be sure operator presence and interlock

systems are working propedy. If your tractor does not function as described,

repair the problem immediately.

• The engine should not start unless the clutch/brake pedal is fully depressed

and attachment clutchcontrol is in the disengaged position.

• When the engine is running, any attempt by the operator to leave the

seat without first setting the parking brake should shut off the engine.

• When the engine is running and the attachment clutchis engaged, any attempt by the operator to leave the seat should shut off the engine.

• The attachment clutchshould never operate unless the operator is in the

seat.

BLADE CARE For best results mower blades must be kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged

blades.

BLADE REMOVAL orPin

1. Raise mower to highest position to

allow access to blades.

2. Remove hex bolt, lock washer and fiat washer securing blade.

3. install new or resharpened blade with trailingedge up towards deck as

shown.

IMPORTANT: To ensure proper assembly, center hole in blade must align with star on mandrel assembly.

4. Reassemble hex bolt, lock washer and fiat washer in exact order as

shown.

5. Tighten boltsecurely (27-35 Ft. Lbs. torque).

IMPORTANT: Blade bolt isgrade 8 heat treated.

*A Grade8 heattreatedboltcanbeidentified

bysixlinesonthebelt head.

TO SHARPEN BLADE

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpen- ing blade - but if you do, be sure the

blade is balanced. Care should be taken to keep the blade

balanced. An unbalanced blade will cause excessive vibration and eventual damage to mower and engine.

• The blade san be sharpened with a file

or on a grindingwheel Do notattempt to sharpen while 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 bal- ancer, follow the instructionssupplied

with balancer.)

NOTE: Do notuse a nailfor balancing blade. The lobes of the center hole may appear to be centered, but are not.

• Slide blade on to an unthreaded portionof the steel boltor pinand hold

the bolt or pin parallel with the ground. If blade is balanced, it should remain in a hodzontal position. If either end of

the blade moves downward, sharpen the heavy end until the blade is

balanced.

5/8"Bolt

BATTERY Yourtractorhas a battery chargingsystem

whichis sufficientfor normal use, How- ever, periodic charging of the battery with an automotive charger will extend its Jife,

Star

Center

"_ Assembly

Hex Bolt

CenterHole

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