Craftsman 917.272070 User Manual

Owner’s Manual

17.0 HP ELECTRIC START

42” MOWER 6 SPEED TRANSAXLE

LAWN TRACTOR

Model No.

917.272070

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Repair Parts

This product has a low emission engine which operates

differently from previously built engines. Before you start the en

gine, read and understand this Owner’s Manual.

CAUTION:

Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions before

operating this equipment.

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

Visit our Craftsman websiteiwww.sears.com/craftsman

For answers to your questions about this product, Call;

1-800-659-5917

Sears Craftsman Help Line

5 am - 5 pm, Mon - Sat

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Warranty...................................

Safety Rules Product Specifications

Assembly..................................

Operation..................................

Maintenance Schedule

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11 17

Maintenance.......................

Service and Adjustments...

Storage...............................

Troubleshooting..................

Repair Parts

Parts Ordering....................

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.................21

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.. Back Cover

17 27

28 32

WARRANTY

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT PARTS For two (2) years from the dale of purchase, if this Craftsman Riding Equipment is

maintained, lubricated and tuned up according to the instructions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair or replace, free of charge, any parts found to be defective in material or workmanship. Warranty service is available free of charge by taking your Craftsman riding equipment to your nearest Sears Service Center. In-home warranty service is available but a trip charge will apply. This warranty applies only while this product is in the United States.

This Warranty does not cover:

• Expendable items which become worn during 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 lowing objects beyond the capability of the riding equipment, impacting objects that bend the frame or crankshaft, or over speeding the engine.

• Repairs necessary because of operator negligence, including but not limited to, electrical and mechanical damage caused by improper storage, failure to use the proper grade and amount of engine oil, failure to keep the deck clear of flammable

debris, or the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions

contained in the owner's manual.

• Engine (fuel system) cleaning or repairs caused by fuel determined to be contami

nated or oxidized (stale). In general, fuel should be used within thirty (30) days of its purchase date.

• Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.

LIMITED 90 DAY WARRANTY ON BATTERY For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery included with this riding

equipment proves defective in material or workmanship and our testing determines the battery will not hold a charge. Sears will replace the battery at no charge. War ranty service is available free of charge by taking your Craftsman riding equipment to your nearest Sears Service Center. In-home warranty service is available but a trip charge will apply. This warranty applies only while this product is in the United States.

TO LOCATE THE NEAREST SEARS SERVICE CENTER OR TO SCHEDULE IN

HOME WARRANTY SERVICE, SIMPLY CONTACT SEARS AT 1-800-4-MY-HOME

This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which may vary from state to state.

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

SAFETY RULES

(MPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects, Faiiure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

I. GENERAL OPERATION

Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual and on the machine before starting. Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the instructions, to operate the machine. Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc., which could be picked up and thrown by the blade. Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop machine it anyone enters the area.

Never carry passengers. Do not mow in reverse unless abso lutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing. Be aware of the mower discharge direction and do not point it at anyone. Do not operate the mower without

either the entire grass catcher or the

guard in place.

Slow down before turning. Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn off blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and

remove keys before dismounting.

Turn off blades when not mowing.

Stop engine before removing grass

catcher or unciogging chute.

Mow only in daylight or good artificial light. Do not operate the machine while

under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways.

Use extra care when loading or

unloading the machine into a trailer or truck.

Data indicates that operators, age 60

years and above, are involved in a

large percentage of riding mower-

related injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the riding mower safely enough to

protect themselves and others from

serious injury.

II. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to lossof-conlrol and tipover accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. Alt slopes require extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you feel

uneasy on it, do not mow it,

DO:

• Mow up and down slopes, not across.

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

• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.

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

• Follow the manufacturer’s recommen dations for wheel weights or counter weights to improve stability.

• Use extra care with grass catchers or

other attachments. These can change the stability of the machine.

• Keep all movement on the slopes slow

and graduaf. Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction,

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

blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

DO NOT:

• Do not turn on slopes unless neces

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

• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. The mower could suddenly turn over it a wheel is over the edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.

• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could cause sliding.

• Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your toot on the ground.

• Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.

SAFETY RULES

III. CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator

is not alert to the presence of children.

Children are often attracted to the

machine and the mowing activity. Never assume that children will remain where

you last saw them.

• Keep children out of the mowing area and under the watchful care of another responsible adult.

• Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area.

• Before and when backing, look behind and down tor smalt children,

• Never carry children. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine operation.

• Never allow children to operate the machine.

• Use extra care when approaching blind

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

IV. SERVICE

• Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They are flammable and vapors are explosive.

- Use only an approved container,

- Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow engine to cool before refueling. Do

not smoke.

- Never refuel the machine indoors.

- Never store the machine or fuel container inside where there is an open flame, such as a water heater.

Never run a machine inside a closed area. Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment bolts, tight and keep equipment in good condition. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly. Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel spillage. Allow machine to cool before storing. Slop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object. Repair, if necessary, before restarting. Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine running. Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage, and deterioration, which could expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check components and replace with manufacturer's recommended parts, when necessary. Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, ant

use extra caution when servicing then 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 atert and turn machine off if children enter the area.

Before and when backing, look behind and down for small children.

Mow up and down slopes {15° Max), not across.

Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.

Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps.

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

SAFETY RULES

• Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so that you wilt not have to stop or shift while on the slope.

• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

• If machine stops while going uphill, disengage blades, shift into reverse and back down slowly.

• Do not turn on slopes unless neces sary, and then, turn slowly and gradu ally downhill, if possible.

^^Look for this symbol to point out important safety precautions. It means

CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

CAUTION: In order to prevent accidental starting when setting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs, always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark plug.

A CAUTION: Do not coast down a hill

in neutral, you may lose control of the tractor.

A CAUTION: Tow only the attachments

that are recommended by and comply with specifications of the manufacturer of your tractor. Use common sense when towing. Operate only at the lowest possible speed when on a slope. Too heavy of a load, while on a slope, is dangerous. Tires can lose traction with the ground and cause you to lose control of your tractor.

AwARNING: 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.

AwaRNING: Battery posts, terminals

and related accessories contain lead and

lead compounds, chemicals known to the

State of California to cause cancer and

birth defects or other reproductive harm.

Wash hands after harrdling.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

GASOLINE CAPACITY AND TYPE:

OILTYPE

(API-SF-SJ):

OIL CAPACITY:

SPARK PLUG: (GAP: .040“)

GROUND SPEED FORWARD: (MPH):

TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14PSI

CHARGING SYSTEM:

BATTERY:

BLADE BOLT TORQUE:

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase

of a tractor. It has been designed, engineered and manufactured to give you the best possible dependability and

performance.

1.25 GALLONS UNLEADED REGULAR

SAE 10W30 (ABOVE 32°F) SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32° F)

W/FILTER: 4.0 PINTS W/OFILTER:3.5 PINTS

CHAMPION RC12YC

1ST 2ND 3RD 4TH

REVERSE:

REAR: 10PSI

15AMPS @ 3600 RPM

AMP/HR: 30

MIN. CCA: 240

CASE SIZE: UlR 27-35 FT. LBS.

1.2

1.5

2.4

3.5

4.8

5.3

1.5

Should you experience any problem you cannot easily remedy, please contact a Sears or other qualifyed service center. We have competent, well-trained technicians and the proper tools to service or repair this tractor. Please read and retain this manual. The instructions will enable you to assemble and maintain your tractor properly. Always observe the “SAFETY RULES”.

REPAIR AGREEMENT

A Repair Agreement is available on this product. Contact your nearest Sears store for details.

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and observe the safely rules.

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

• Follow the instructions under “Cus tomer Responsibilities” and “Storage” sections of this owner’s manual.

À WARNING: This tractor is equipped

with an internal combustion engine and

should not be used on or near any

unimproved forest-covered, brush-

covered or grass-covered land unless

the engine's exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark

arrester is used, it should be maintained

in effective working order by the operator. In the state of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other stales may have similar laws.

Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest Sears service center(See REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).

UNASSEMBLED PARTS

ASSEMBLY

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

unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your tractor all parts and hardware you assemble most 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

(2) 1/2" wrench

(1) Tire pressure

(1) Pliers

(1) Utility knife

gauge

When right or left hand is mentioned in

this manual, it means, from your point of

view, when you are in the operating

position (seated behind the steering

wheel).

TO REMOVETRACTOR FROM CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

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

2. Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on all four corners of carton, and lay panels flat.

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

BEFORE REMOVINGTRACTOR FROM SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND BOOT

1. Slide extension shaft onto lower steering shaft. Align mounting holes in extension and lower shafts and install 5/16 hex bolt and locknut. Tighten securely.

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

INSTALL STEERING WHEEL

3. Position front wheels of the tractor so they are pointing straight forward.

4. Remove steering wheel adapter from steering wheel and slide adapter onto steering shaft extension.

5. Position steering wheel so cross bars are horizontal (left to right) and slide

inside boot and onto adapter.

Steering Wheel

Adapter'

5/16 Locknut

Lower Steering Shaft

Assemble large flat 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 grill.

IMPORTANT: Check for and remove any staples in skid that may puncture tires where tractor is to roll off skid.

HOWTO SET UPYOURTRACTOR

CHECK BATTERY

1. Lift seat pan to raised position and open battery box door.

NOTE: If this battery is put into service after month and year indicated on label

(label located between terminals) charge battery for minimum of one hour at 6-10 amps. (See "BATTERY” in Maintenance

section of this manual for charging

instructions).

Insert

-3/8 Hex Bolt —3/8 Lock Washer

Large Flat

'washer

Steering Boot

5/16 Hex Bolt

Seat Pan

Label

Terminal Battery BoxDoor

Terminal

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 shouider bolt in slot and pull seat

towards rear of tractor.

5. Pivot seal and pan forward and

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

6. Lower seal 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 secureiy.

Seat

Seat Pan

NOTE: You may now roll or drive your tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate instruction below to remove the tractor from the skid.

TOROLLTRACTOROFFSKID (See Operation section for location and function of controls)

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

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

3. Place gearshift lever in neutral (N)

position.

4. Roll tractor fonward 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)

^WARNING: Before starting, read,

understand and follow all instructions in the Operation section of this manual. Be sure tractor is in a well-ventilated area. Be sure the area in front of tractor is clear of other people and objects.

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

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

3. 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 control to 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 slowly drive tractor off skid.

9. Apply brake to stop tractor, set parking

brake and place gearshift lever in neutral position.

to.Turn ignition key to "OFF" position.

Continue with the instructions that follow.

INSTALL MULCHER PLATE (if previously removed)

1. Raise and hold deflector shield in upright position.

2. Place front of mulcher plate over front of mower deck opening and slide into place, as shown.

3. Hook front latch into hole on front of mower deck.

4. Hook rear latch into hole on back of

mower deck.

AcAUTION: Do not remove deflector shield from mower. Raise and hold shield when attaching mulcher plate and allow it to rest on plate while in operation.

TO convertto bagging or

DISCHARGING

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

discharging or installation of optional

grass catcher accessory.

NOTE: It is not necessary to change

blades. The mulcher blades are de

signed for discharging and bagging also.

CHECKTIRE pressure

The tires on your tractor were overin flated at the factory for shipping pur poses. Correct tire pressure is important for best cufting performance.

• Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS”

section of this manual.

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS

For best cutting results, mower housing

should be properly leveled. See "TO

LEVEL MOWER HOUSING” in the Service and Adiuslments section of this manual.

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF ALL BELTS

See the figures that are shown for

replacing motion and mower blade drive belts in the Service and Adjustments

section of this manual. Verify that the

belts are routed correctly.

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM

After you learn how to operate your tractor, check to see that the brake is properly adjusted. See “TO ADJUST

BRAKE” in the Service and Adjustments

section of this manual.

/CHECKLIST

BEFORE YOU OPERATE AND ENJOY YOUR NEW TRACTOR, WE WISH TO ASSURE THAT YOU RECEIVE THE BEST PERFORMANCE AND SATISFACTION FROM THIS QUALITY

PRODUCT.

PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING CHECKLIST:

/ All assembly instructions have been

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

charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps).

/ Seat is adjusted comfortably and

tightened securely.

/ All 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-rear for best cutting results. (Tires must be properly inflated for leveling).

/ Check mower and drive belts. Be sure

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

/ Check wiring. See that all connections

are still secure and wires are properly clamped.

WHILE LEARNING HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR, PAY EXTRA ATTENTION TO THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT ITEMS; / Engine oil is at proper level. / Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean,

regular unleaded gasoline.

/ Become familiar with all controls - their

location and function. Operate them before you start the engine.

/ Be sure brake system is in safe

operating condition.

OPERATION

These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product.

Learn and understand their meaning.

BATTERY

CAUTION OR

WARNING

REVERSE

FORWARD

4»

FAST

SLOW

engine on

FUEL

ATTACHMENT REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH

CLUTCH ENGAGED

IGNITION

ENGINE OFF

OIL PRESSURE

l\l

CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT

R N H L (<i

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

keep area clear

LIGHTS ON

1 SI

OVER TEMP

light

PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED

LOCKED

LOW

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

MOWER LIFT

PARKING BRAKE

SLOPE HAZARDS

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

T-ta

FREEWHEEL

(Automatic Models only)

KNOWYOURTRACTOR

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING

YOUR TRACTOR

Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of

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

Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the American

National Standards Institute.

AMMETER - Indicates charging (+) or discharging (-) of battery. ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER - Used to engage the mower blades, or other attachments mounted to your tractor.

ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER

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. GEARSHIFT LEVER - Selects the speed and direction of tractor.

- Used to

IGNITION SWITCH - Used for starting and stopping the engine.

LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to release attachment lift lever when

changing its position.

LIGHT SWITCH - Turns the headlights on and off. PARKING BRAKE LEVER - Locks

clutch/brake pedal into the brake

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

The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recommend a wide vision safety mask over spectacles or standard safety glasses.

HOWTO USEYOURTRACTOR

TO SET PARKING BRAKE

Your tractor is equipped with an operator presence sensing switch. When engine is running, any attempt by the operator to leave the seal without first setting the parking brake will shut off the engine.

1. Depress clulch/brake pedal into full “BRAKE” position and hold.

2. Place parking brake lever in “EN GAGED” position and release pressure from dutch/brake pedal. Pedal should remain in “BRAKE” position. Make sure parking brake will hold tractor secure.

Attachment Clutch Lever “Engaged" Position

Throttle/ Choke Control

“Disengaged”

Position

Ignition Key

^ “Disengaged"

..^--^Position

Brake

STOPPING

MOWER BLADES -

• To stop mower blades,move attach ment clutch lever to “DISENGAGED” position.

GROUND DRIVE -

• To slop ground drive, depress clutch/ brake pedal into full “BRAKE" position.

• Move gearshift lever to neutral (N) position.

ENGINE-

• Move throttle control to slow position.

NOTE; Failure to move throttle control to slow position and allowing engine to idle before stopping may cause engine to “backfire”.

• Turn ignition key to “OFF” position and

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

• Never use choke to slop 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.

AcAUTION: 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 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 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: Bring tractor to a complete stop before shifting or changing gears.

Failure to do so will shorten the useful life

of your transaxle.

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT

The position of the attachment lift lever

determines the cutting height.

• Grasp lift lever.

• Press plunger with thumb and move lever to desired position.

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

* The average lawn should be cut to

approximately 2-1/2 inches during the cool season and to over 3 inches during hot months. For healthier and better looking lawns, mow often and

after moderate growth.

• For best cutting performance, grass over 6 inches in height should be mowed twice. Make the first cut relatively high; the second to desired height.

TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS

Gauge wheels are properly adjusted when they are slightly off the ground when mower is at the desired cutting

height in operating position. Gauge wheels then keep the deck in proper position to 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

HEIGHT” in the Operation section of

this manual).

2. With mower in desired height of cut position, gauge wheels should be

assembled so they are slightly off the ground. Install gauge wheel in appropriate hole with shoulder bolt, 3/ 8 washer, and 3/8-16 locknut and tighten securely.

3. Repeat for opposite side installing

gauge wheel in same adjustment

hole.

TO OPERATE MOWER

Your tractor is equipped with an operator presence sensing switch. Any attempt by the operator to leave the seat with the engine running and the attachment clutch engaged will shut off the engine.

1. Select desired height of cut.

2-. Start mower blades by engaging

attachment clutch control.

TO STOP MOWER BLADES disengage attachment clutch control.

AcautiON: Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass catcher, on mowers so equipped, or the deflector shield in place.

Attachment Clutch Lever Aitachemnt "Engaged" Lift Lever High

Position

“Disengaged”

Position

Low Position

, Deflector

Shield

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

^^CAUTION: Do not drive up or down

hills with slopes greater than 15“ and do

not drive across any slope.

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

• Avoid stopping or changing speed on hills.

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

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

• Move gearshift lever to 1st gear. Be sure you have allowed room for tractor to roll slightly as you restart movement.

• To restart movement, slowly release

parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.

• Make all turns slowly.

TO TRANSPORT

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

• When pushing or towing your tractor,

be sure gearshift lever is in neutral (N)

position.

• Do not push or tow tractor at more than

five (5) MPH. NOTE: To protect hood from damage when transporting your tractor on a truck or a trailer, be sure hood is closed and

secured to tractor. Use an appropriate

means of tying hood to tractor (rope, cord,

etc.).

TOWING CARTS AND OTHER

attachments

Tow only the attachments that are recommended by and comply with specifications of the manufacturer of your tractor. Use common sense when towing. Too heavy of a load, while on a slope, is dangerous. Tires can lose traction with the ground and cause you to lose control of your tractor.

BEFORE STARTINGTHE ENGINE CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL

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

1. Check engine oil with tractor on level ground.

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

dipstick into the tube and rest oil fill cap on the tube. Do not thread the cap onto the tube. Remove and read oil level. If necessary, add oil until “FULL” mark on dipstick is reached.

Do not overfill.

• For cold weather operation you should change oil for easier starting (See “OIL VISCOSITY CHART' in the Mainte nance section of this manual).

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

Oil Fill 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 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.

^ 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 during storage. Acidic

gas can damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be emptied before storage of 30 days or

longer. Drain the gas tank, start the

engine and let it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel

next season. See Storage Instructions for

additional information. Never use engine

or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.

A CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank

filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any

spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or

use gasoline near an open flame.

TO START ENGINE

When starting the engine for the first time or if the engine has run out of fuel, it will take extra

cranking time to move fuel from the tank to the engine.

1. 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 starling, read the warm and cold starting procedures below,

5. Insert key into ignition and turn key clockwise to “START” position and

release key as soon as engine starts.

Do not run starter continuously for more than fifteen seconds per minute. If the engine does not start after several

attempts, move throttle control to fast

position, wait a few minutes and try

again. If engine still does not start, move the throttle control back to the choke

position and retry.

WARM WEATHER STARTING (50° F and above)

6. When engine starts, move the throttle control to the fast position.

• The attachments and ground drive can

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

COLD WEATHER STARTING (50“ F and below)

6, When engine starts, allow engine to

run with the throttle control in the choke position until the engine runs

roughly, then move throttle control to fast position. This may require an engine warm-up period from several seconds to several minutes, depend

ing on the temperature.

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

NOTE; If at a high attitude {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.

MOWINGTIPS

• Mower should be properly leveled for best mowing performance. See “TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

• The left hand side of mower should be used for trimming.

• Drive so that clippings are discharged onto the area that has been cut. Have the cut area to the right of the tractor. This will result in a more even distribu tion of clippings and more uniform cutting.

• When mowing large areas, start by turning to the right so that clippings will discharge away from shrubs, fences, driveways, etc. After one or two

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

• If grass is extremely tall, it should be mowed twice to reduce load and possible fire hazard from dried clippings. Make first cut relatively high; the second to the desired height.

• Do not mow grass when it is wet. Wet grass will plug mower and leave undesirable clumps. Allow grass to dry before mowing.

• Always operate engine at full throttle when mowing to assure better mowing

performance and proper discharge of material. Regulate ground speed by selecting a low enough gear to give the mower cutting performance as well as the quality of cut desired.

• When operating attachments, select a ground speed that will suit the terrain and give best performance of the attachment being used.

MULCHING MOWINGTIPS IMPORTANT: For best performance,

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

• The special mulching blade will recut the grass clippings many times and

reduce them in size so that as they fall onto the lawn they will disperse into

the grass and not be noticed. Also, the

mulched grass will biodegrade quickly to provide nutrients for the lawn. Always mulch with your highest engine {blade) speed as this will provide the best recutting action of the blades.

• Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet.

Wet grass tends to form clumps and interferes with the mulching action. The best time to mow your lawn is the 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

cutting height so that the mower cuts off only the top one-third of the grass blades. For extremely heavy mulching, reduce your width of cut on each pass and mow slowly.

• Certain types of grass and grass conditions may require that an area be mulched a second time to completely hide the clippings. When doing a second cut, mow across or perpen dicular to the first cut path.

• Change your cutting pattern from week to week. Mow north to south one week then change to east to west the next week. This will help prevent matting and graining of the lawn.

MAINTENANCE

MAPNTENANCE SCHEDULE

FILL IN OATES AS YOU COMF-LETE REGULAR SERVICE

Check Brake Operation Check Tire Pressure

Check Operator Pre^erwe anci Interlock Systems

R Check for Loose Fasteners

SharperVRepiace Mower Blades

Lubrication Chart

Check Battery Level

Clean Battery and Terminals

Check Transaxle Cooling Adjust Blade Belt(s) Tension

Adjust Motion Drive Belt($) Tension

Check Engine Oil Level Change Engine Oil Clean Air Filter

Clean Air Screen

N G

Inspect Muffier/Spark Arrester

Replace Oil Filter {If equipped)

Clean Engine Cooling Fins

Replace Spark Plug Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge

Replace Fuel Filter

1 - Change more often when operating undei a heavy to^d or in hi

2 - Service more ollen when operating in didy cr dusty conditions 3 • It equipped wHh oil fitter, change oil every 50 hours A • Replace blades more often when mowing ih sandy soil

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this tractor does not cover items that have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To receive full value from the warranty, operator must maintain tractor as instructed in this manual. Some adjustments will need to be made

periodically to properly maintain your tractor. Ail adjustments in the Service and

Adjustments section of this manuai should

be checked at least once each season. * Once a year you should replace the

spark plug, clean or replace air fitter, and check blades and belts for wear. A new spark plug and clean air filter assure proper air-fuel mixture and help your engine run better and last longer.

BEFORE EACH USE

1. Check engine oil level.

2. Check brake operation.

3. Check tire pressure.

4. Check operator presence and interlock systems for proper operation,

5. Check for loose fasteners.

✓ ✓ ✓

✓

igh ambient temperature« 5 • If equipped with adjustable system.

dates

✓ ✓ ✓ = ✓

✓

✓ s

1^3,3

✓

✓ ✓

✓

6 ' Not required if equipped with mainlenarKS'lree battery 7 - Tighten llOnt axle pivot boll to 35 ft.-lbs. n^aximum.

Do not overtighten.

LUBRICATION CHART

mSAE 30 or 10w30 MOTOR OIL «)OENERAL PURPOSE GREASE tTREFER TO Maintenance "ENGINE" SECTION

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease the pivot points which have special nylon bearings. Viscous lubricants will attract dust and dirt that will shorten the life of the self-lubricat ing bearings. If you feel they must be lubricated, use only a dry, powdered graphite type lubricant sparingly.

TRACTOR

Always observe safety rules when performing any maintenance.

BRAKE OPERATION

If tractor requires more than six (6) feet stopping distance at high speed in highest gear, then brake must be ad justed. (See “TO ADJUST 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).

• 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 flat tires due to slow leaks, tire sealant may be purchased from your local parts dealer. Tire sealant also prevents tire dry

rot and corrosion.

OPERATOR PRESENCE SYSTEM

Be sure operator presence and interlock systems are working properly. 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 clutch control 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 clutch is engaged, any attempt by the operator to leave the seat should shut off the engine.

• The attachment clutch should 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

1. Raise mower to highest position to allow access to blades.

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

3. Install new or resharpened blade with trailing edge up towards deck as shown.

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

4. Reassemble hex boll, lock washer and flat washer in exact order as shown.

5. Tighten bolt securely (27-35 Ft. Lbs. torque).

IMPORTANT: Blade boll is grade 8 heat

treated.

Trailing Edge Up ■ '

, ,, Mandrel Assembly

\ Blade

: ; ;>L

Flat Washer Lock Washer

*A Grade 8 heat treated bolt can be identified

"S^Hex Bolt (Grade)*''^W

by six lines on the bolt 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 can be sharpened with a file or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt 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 instructions supplied with balancer.)

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 on to 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 horizontal position. If either end of the blade moves downward, shaipen the heavy end until the blade is

Blade

Your tractor has a battery charging system which is sufficient for normal use. How ever, periodic charging of the battery with

.|0 an automotive charger will extend its life.

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