Craftsman 917.272233 User Manual

Owner’s Manual

20 HP

ELECTRIC START

48" MOWER

6 SPEED TRANSAXLE

LAWN TRACTOR

Model No.

917.272233

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Repair Parts

CAUTION:

Read and foliow all Safety Rules and Instructions before operating this equip ment.

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

Visit our Craftsman website: www.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 - Sal

TABLE OF CONTENTS

..2 Maintenance

Service and Adjustments...

..3

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

..6

Troubleshooting

..8

12 Repair Parts

Parts Ordering

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

.........

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

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

.. Back Cover

18 22 29 30 34

WARRANTY

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

maintained, lubricated and tuned up according to the instructions in the owner’s manuai, Sears wiil repair or repiace, free of charge, any parts found to be defective in material or workmanship. Warranty service is avatiabie free of charge by reluming 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 coven

■ 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 towing objects beyond the capability of the riding equipment, impacting objects that bend the frame or crankshaft, or over speeding the engine.

• Repairs necessary because of operator negligence, including but not limited to, electrical and mechanical damage caused by improper storage, failure to use the

proper grade and amount of engine oil, failure to keep the deck clear of flammable

debris, or the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions con tained in the owner^s manual.

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

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

• Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes. A product is “used for commercial purpose" if is used for any purpose other than single family household dwellings or in usage where profit is made.

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. Warranty senrice is available free of charge by returning 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

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

GENERAL OPERATION

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

Never carry passengers. Do not mow in reverse unless abso* lutely necessaiy. Always look down and behind before and while backing. Be aware of the mower discharge direction and do not point it at anyone. Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass catcher or the guard In place. Slow down before turning. Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn off blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and remove keys before dismounting. Turn off blades when not mowing. Stop engine before removing grass catcher or unclogging chute. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light. Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways.

Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into a trailer or

truck.

Data indicates that operators, age 60

years and above, are involved in a

large percentage of riding mowerrelated injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the riding mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from serious injury. Keep machine free of grass , leaves or other debris build-up which can touch hot exhaust / engine parts and burn . Do not allow the mower deck to plow leaves or other debris which can cause build-up to occur. Clean any oil or fuel spillage before operating or storing the machine . Allow machine to cool refore storage.

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

control and tipover accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. All slopes require extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not mow it.

DO:

• Mow up and down slopes, not across.

• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree

limbs, etc.

• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps.

Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide ob

stacles.

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

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

• Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments. These can change the stability of the machine.

• Keep all movement on the slopes slow

and gradual. Do not make sudden

changes in speed or direction.

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

blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

DO NOT:

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

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

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

• Do not try to stabilize the machine by

putting your foot on the ground.

• Do nof use grass catcher on steep

slopes.

SAFETY RULES

III. CHILDREN Tragic accidents can occur if the operator

is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to the machine and the mowing activity. Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them.

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

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

• Before and when backing, look behind

and down for small children.

• Never carry children. They may 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.

• Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object. Repair, if necessary, before restarting.

• Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine running.

• Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage, and deterioration, which could expose moving parts or

allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check components and replace with manufacturer's recommended parts, when necessary.

• Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and

use extra caution when senricing them.

• Check brake operation frequently.

Adjust and service as required.

Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area. Never carry passengers or children even with the blades off.

Do not mow in reverse unless abso

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

Never carry children. They may fall off and be seriously Injured or interfere

with safe machine operation.

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

Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area. Before and when backing, look behind and down for small children. Mow up and down slopes (15° Max), not across.

Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.

Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps.

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

SAFETY RULES

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

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

blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

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

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

ally downhill, If possible.

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

CAUTIONllI BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

ACAUTION: In order to prevent acciden tal starting when setting up, transporting,

adjusting or making repairs, always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark plug.

i&CAUTION: Do not coast down a hill in

neutral, you may lose control of the

tractor.

^CAUTION; Tow only the attachments that are recommended by and comply

with specifications of the manufacturer of your tractor. Use common sense when towing. Operate only at the lowest

possible speed when on a slope. Too heavy of a load, while on a slope, Is dangerous. Tires can lose traction with the ground and cause you to lose control of your tractor.

^WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle compo

nents contain or emit chemicals known to

the State of California to cause cancer

and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

^WARNING: 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 handling.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

GASOLINE

CAPACITY

AND TYPE; OILTYPE

(API-SF-SJ):

OIL CAPACITY: SPARK PLUG:

(GAP: .030“)

GROUND SPEED 1st

TIRE PRESSURE:FRONT:14PSI

CHARGING SYSTEM; 15 AMPS @3600 RPM

BATTERY: AMP/HR: 30

BLADE BOLT

TORQUE:

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new tractor. It has been designed, engineered and manufactured to give you the best possible dependability and performance. Should you experience any problem you cannot easily remedy, please contact your nearest Sears or other qualified

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’.

3.5 GALLONS UNLEADED

REGULAR

SAE10W30 (above 32"F) SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F)

W/FILTER: 4.5 PINTS W/OFILTER: 4.0 PINTS

CHAMPION RC12YC

1.2

(MPH): 2nd

3rd 4th 3.5 5th 6th 5.3

REVERSE: 1.5 REAR: 10PSI

MIN. CCA; 240 CASESIZE:U1R

45-^5 FT. LBS.

1.5

2.4

4.8

REPAIR AGREEMENT A Repair Agreement is available on this

product. Contact your nearest Sears store for details.

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and observe the safety rules.

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

• 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 unimproved forest-covered, brushcovered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting a|;^licable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is

used, it should be maintained in effective

working order by the operator.

In the state of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest Sears 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 left

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

tractor ali parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the

correct tools as necessary to insure proper tightness. Review the video cassette before you begin.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY A socket wrench set will make assembly

easier. Standard wrench sizes you need are listed below. (1) 9/16” Wrench (1) 3/4“ Socket w/ (1) 1/2" wrench drive ratchet (1) Utility knife (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

position (seated behind the steering

wheel). TO REMOVETRACTOR FROM

CARTON UNPACK CARTON

1. Remove all accessible loose parts

and parts boxes from shipping carton.

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

lay panels flat.

3. Remove mower and package materi

als.

4. Check for any additional loose parts

or boxes and remove.

BEFORE REMOVINGTRACTOR FROM SKID ATTACH STEERING WHEEL

1. Remove lock nut and large flat washer

from steering shaft.

2. Position front wheels of the tractor so

they are pointing straight forward.

3. Slide the steering sleeve over the

steering shaft.

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

5. Secure steering wheel to steering

shaft with lock nut and large flat

washer previously removed. Tighten

securely.

6. Snap steering wheel insert into center

of steering wheel.

7. 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.

Steering Wheel

HOWTO SET UPYOURTRACTOR

CHECK BATTERY

1. Lift hood to raised position. NOTE: If this battery is put into service

after month and year indicated on label

Oabel located between terminals) charge battery for minimum of one hour at 6-10 amps. (See "BATTERY” in MAINTE NANCE section of this manual for charging instructions).

INSTALLSEAT

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. Pivot seat upward and remove from

the cardboard packing. Remove the cardboard packing and discard.

Steering Wheel Insert

Lock Nut

Tge Rat

Washer

3. Place seat on seat pan so head of shoulder bolt is positioned over large slotted hole in pan.

4. Push down on seat to engage shoulder bolt in slot and pull seat towards rear of tractor.

5. Pivot seat and pan forward and assemble adjustment knob and flat washer loosely. Do not tighten.

6. Lower seat into operating position and sit in seat.

7. Slide seat until a comfortabie position

is reached which allows you to press

clutch/brake pedal all the way down.

8. Get off seat without moving its adjusted position.

9. Raise seat and tighten adjustment

knob securely.

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

TO ROLLTRACTOR OFF SKID (See Operation section for location and function of controls)

1. Press iift 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 forward off skid.

TO DRIVETRACTOR OFF SKID (See Operation section for location and function of controls)

AwarniNG: Before starting, read, understand and follow all in^ructions 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.

10. Turn ignition key to "OFF* position.

Continue with the instructions that fotlow. ASSEMBLE GAUGE WHEELSTO

MOWER DECK The gauge wheels are designed to keep

the mower deck in proper position when

operating mower. Be sure they are

properly adjusted to ensure optimum

mower performance.

1. Slide gauge wheel bar down into bracket channel, Be sure that gauge wheel bar aligning holes are on top.

Assemble gauge wheels as shown

using shoulder bolts, 3/8 washers and 3/8-16 center locknuts and tighten securely.

2. For ease of mower to tractor assem bly, raise gauge wheels to highest position and retain with clevis pins and spring retainers.

NOTE: Adjust gauge wheels before operating mower. See TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS” in the Operation section of this manual.

Retainer Spring

Pii

Shoulder Adjusting Bolt-— Bar'\ kH

Gauge

Wheef—

3/8 Washer-""''^

I ^3/8-16 Center

Locknut

TO ATTACH NOSE ROLLER

1. Position brackets, 17/32 x 7/8 x 16 gauge washers, and nose rolier between deck mounting brackets as showm. Be sure to position brackets on correct side, as shown.

2. Instail hex bolts and iock nuts as

shown. Tighten hardware secureiy.

NOTE; Be sure bracket tabs are posi tioned In tab holes in deck brackets.

Tab Hole

Nose Roller

Hex Bolt

■A" Bracket-liC

Lock

B' Bracket

Washer

INSTALL MOWER AND DRIVE BELT Be sure tractor is on level surface and mower

suspension arms are raised with attachment lift control. Engage parkirtg brake.

1. Cut and remove ties securing anti

sway bar and belts. Swing anti-sway bar to left side of mower deck.

2. Slide mower under tractor with

deflector shield to right side of tractor. IMPORTANT: Check belt lor proper routing in all mower pulley grooves.

3. If equipped,turn height adjustment

knob counterclockwise until it stops.

4. Lower mower linkage with attachment

lift control.

5. Be sure belt tension rod is in disen

gaged position.

6. Install belt into electric clutch pulley

groove.

7. Place the suspension arms on

outward pointing deck pins. Retain with double loop retainer ^ring with

loops up as shown.

8. Install front plate assembly to tractor suspension brackets and retain with single loop retainer springs as shown.

9. Position front plate assembly between front mower brackets. Raise deck and plate assembly to align holes and insert flanged pins. Secure pins with double loop retainer springs between the plate assembly and mower brackets.

Belt Tension Rod Disengaged Position

Chassis Bracket

Gauge Wheel

Lock Bracket

Electric Front Clutch Suspention Pulley Brackets Front Plate

‘ ' Assembly

Double Loop Retainer Springs

Flanged Retainer

Single Loop

.....

a Springs

Deflector Shelld

NOTE: To assist in locating hole in flanged pin, the hole in pin is inline with

notch on head of pin. If necessary, move mower side-to-side to give space between plate and mower brackets. IMPORTANT: Check belt for proper routing in all mower pulley grooves.

10. Engage belt tension rod by pushing

rod into locking bracket.

^CAUTION: Belt tension rod is spring

loaded. Have a tight grip on rod and engage slowly. 11 .Connect anti-sway bar to chassis

bracket under left footrest and retain with double loop retainer spring.

12. If equipped, turn height adjustment knob clockwise to remove slack from mower suspension.

13. Raise deck to highest position.

14. Adjust gauge wheels before operating mower as shown in the Operation section of this manual.

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE The tires on your tractor were overinflated

at the factory for shippirig purposes. Correct tire pressure is important for best cutting performance.

• Reduce tire pressure to PSl shovm in

“PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS” section of this manual.

CHECK MOWER LEVELNESS For best cutting results, mower should be

properly leveled. See TO LEVEL MOWER

HOUSING” in the Senrice 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 Sen/ice 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 №at tiie brake is properly

adjusted. See TO ADJUST BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

V'CHECKUST

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 property 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 property around pulleys and inside all 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 ail 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

|sii^

REVERSE

“fir

ENGINE ON

FUEL

ATTACHMEMT REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW

CLUTCH ENGAGED

IGNITION CLUTCH DISENGAGED

ENGINE OFF

OIL PRESSURE

l\l jjiif

CHOKE

MOWER HEIGHT

R N

ATTACHMENT

LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP

PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED

LOCKED

H L (d

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

FORWARD FAST

ai ©i

LIGHT

•m

i ^

MOWER LIFT

»1!

PARKING BRAKE

SLOW

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

i ¿a

FREEINHEEL

(Automatic Modala only)

KNOWYOURTFiACTOR 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

Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the

American National Standards Institute.

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH SWITCH: Used to engage the mower blades, or other

attachments mounted to your tractor. LIGHT SWITCH: Turns the headlights on and off.

THROTTLE CONTROL- Used to control

engine speed. CHOKE CONTROL - Used when starting

a cold engine. CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL: Used for declutching and braking the tractor and starting the engine. GEARSHIFT LEVER - Selects the speed and direction of tractor.

ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER - Used to raise, lower, and adjust 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 (-).

PARKING BRAKE: Locks clutch/brake into the brake position.

HOURMETER - Indicates hours of operation.

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

1. Depress clutch/brake pedal into full

“Bf^KE" position and hold.

2. Place parking brake lever in “EN

GAGED” position and release pressure from clutch/brake pedal. Pedal should remain in “BRAKE" position. Make sure parking brake will hold tractor secure.

Choke “Disengaged” Switch PuHOi^o

Clutch/Brake Pedal “Drive" Position

Push-In to Attachment Clutch

Marking Brake

“Engaged” Position

“Disengaged" Position

STOPPING MOWER BLADES -

• To stop mower blades,move attach

ment clutch switch to “DISENGAGED”

position.

GROUND DRIVE -

• To stop 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 slopping may cause engine to “backfire".

• Tum ignition key to “OFP position and remove key. Always remove key when leaving tractor to prevent unauthorized use.

• Never use choke to stop engine. IMPORTANT: Leaving the ignition switch in any position other than “OFF" will cause the battery to be discharged, (dead). NOTE: Under certain conditions when tractor is standing idle with the engine

running, hot engine exhaust gases may cause "browning” of grass. To eliminate this possibility, always stop engine when

stopping tractor on grass areas.

^CAUTION: Always stop tractor com

pletely, 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 USE CHOKE CONTROL

Use choke control whenever you are starting a cold engine. Do not use to start a warm engine.

■ To engage choke control, pull knob out.

Slowly push knob in to disengage.

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 approximalely 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 wheeis are properiy 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; Be sure tractor is on a flat level surface.

1. Lower mower and adjust mower to

desired cutting height. Remove retainer spring and clevis pin

which secure each gauge wheel bar. Lower gauge wheels to ground. Raise

gauge wheels slightly to align holes in bracket and gauge wheel bar and insert clevis pin. Gauge wheels should be slightly off the ground. Replace retainer spring into clevis pin.

Besure all gauge wheels are in the

5. same setting.

IMPORTANT: № sure to readjust gauge wheels if you change the cutting height of the mower deck.

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.

^CAUTION: Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass catcher, on

mowers so equipped, or the deflector shield in place.

Attachment Clutch Attachment Lift Lever Swtch Pull Out To High Position “Engage" ^

Push In To 'Disengage'

' 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 ATTACH

MENTS

Tow only the attachments that are

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

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 oli level. If necessary, add oil until TULL" 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.

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 d№s to assure fuel freshness.

IMPORTANT: When operating in tem peratures below 32“F(0°C), use fresh, clean winter grade geisoline to help insure good cold weather starting.

AwarninG: 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 lonqer. 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 Instmctions for additional information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur. AcAUTION: Rll 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 cranidng 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. Place gear shift lever in neutral (N)

position. Move attachment clutch to “DISEN GAGED" position. Move throttle control to fast position

4. Pull choke control out for a cold

5. engine start attempt. For a warm engine start attempt the choke control may not be needed.

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

6. 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, push choke control

in, wait a few minutes and try again. If engine still does not start, pull the choke control out and retry.

WARM WEATHER STARTING (50" F and

above)

7. When engine starts, slowly push choke control in until the engine begins to run smoothly. If the engine starts to run roughly, pull the choke control out slightly for a few seconds and then continue to push the control

in slowly.

• The attachments and ground drive can

• When mowing large areas, start by

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)

7. When engine starts, siowiy push

• If grass is extremely tall, it should be

choke control in until the engine begins to run smoothiy. Continue to push the choke control in small steps allowing the engine to accept small changes in speed and load, until the

• Do not mow grass when it is wet. Wet

choke control is fully in. If the engine starts to run roughly, pull the choke control out slightly tor a few seconds

and then continue to push the control

• Always operate engine at full throttle

in slowly. This may require an engine warm-up period from severai seconds to several minutes, depending on the temperature.

• The attachments can be used during the engine warm-up period and may

r^uire the choke control be pulled out

• When operating attachments, select a

slightly.

NOTE: If at a high altitude (above 3000 feet) or in cold temperatures (bdow 32 F) the cartxjretor fuel mixture may need to be adjusted for best engine performance. See TO ADJUST CARBIIRET-OR" 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.

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.

mowed twice to reduce load and possible fire hazard from dried clip pings. Make first cut relatively high; the second to the desired height.

grass will plug mower and leave

undesirable clumps. Allow grass to dry before mowing.

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 the best cutting performance as

well as the quality of cut desired.

ground speed that will suit the terrain and give best performance of the attachment being used.

MAINTENANCE

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

FILL IN DATES AS YOU COMPLETE

REGULAR SERVICE SERVICE DATES

Check Brake Operation Check Tire Pressure

Check Operalor Presence and Interlock Sysiems

Check for Loose Fasteners

ShaipeiVHepla« Mower Blades Lubrication Chart Check Banery Level Clean Batteiy and Tarmlnale Check Transaxle Cooling Ad|u$t Blade Bett(s) Tertaion

AdtuBi Motion Drtva Bett(s) Ter>sion

Check Engirw Oil Level Change Engine OM Cteen Air Filer

Clean Air Screen Inspect Muffler/Spark Arrester Replace Oil Filter (№ equipped) Clean Engine Cooling Rns Replace Spark Plug

Replace Air Fitter Paper Cartridge Replace Fuel Ritef

1 < Chftng* mor* oDm when op*r«ting <jixl*r • load or In high 2 * Swvica rrwKa ofl*n whan opanling In dkty or duaty condWona. a' H aquippad wMv oN Mar, ehanga ad avary 50 houra. 4' Rapiaca Midaa mora oAan w4ian mowing In aandy aoN.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS The warranty on this tractor does not

cover items that have been subjected to

operator abuse or negligence. To receive full value from the warranty, operator must maintain tractor as instructed in this manual. Some adjustments will need to be made periodically to properly maintain your tractor. All adjustments in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual

should be checked at least once each season.

• Once a year you should replace the spark plug, clean or replace air filter,

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

BEFORE EACH USE

1. Check engine oil level.

2. Check brake operation.

3. Check tire pressure.

4. Check operator presence and

interlock systems for proper operation.

5. Check for loose fasteners.

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LUBRICATION CHART

® Spindle

Zerk

@ Front

Wheel

Bearing Zetk

0 SAE 30 or 10w30 Motor Oil ® General Purpose Grease ® Refer to Mainterunce “ENGINE” Section

® Spindle

® Front Wheel

L--' Pivots

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

powered graphite type lubricant sparingly.

_L_

Zerk

Bearing

Zerk ® Engine

0 Gearshift

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