Craftsman 917272265 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

ICRnFT MnH°I

LAWN TRACTOR

25.0 HP, 48" Mower Electric Start

Automatic Transmission

Model No.

917.272265

differently from previously built engines, Before you start the

This product has a low emission engine which operates I

IMPORTANT:

Read and follow all Safety

Rules and Instructions before operating this equipment.

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, II60179 U.S.A

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- Sat

Iengine, read and understand this Owner's Manual.

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

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

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

AssemblyPre-Operation ....................... 7

Operation ............................................ 10

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

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

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

Storage ............................................... 29

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

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

Sears Service ...................... Back Cover

LIMITED WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT 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 manual, Sears will repair or replace free of charge any parts that are found to be

defective in material or workmanship according to the guidelines of coverage listed

below. Sears will also provide free labor for these applicable warranted parts for the two fullyears. During the first 30 days of purchase, there will be no charges to service the product at your home for issues covered by this warranty. (See exclusions below).

For your convenience, IN HOME warranty service will still be available after the first 30

days of purchase, but a trip charge will apply. This charge will be waived if the Crafts-

man product is dropped off at an authorizedSears location. For the nearest authorized

Sears location, please call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®. This warranty applies only while this

product is within the United States. This Warranty does not cover:

• Expendable items which become worn during normal use, including but not limited

to blades, spark plugs, air cleaners, belts, and oil filters.

• Standard Maintenance Servicing, oil changes, or tune-ups

• 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-speedin._ 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 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 30 days of its

purchase date.

• Normal deterioration and wear of the exterior finishes, or product label replacement.

• Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.

LIMITED 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. During the first 30 days of purchase, there will be no charges to replace the battery at your HOME. After the first 30 days, for your convenience, IN-HOME warranty service will still be available but a trip charge will apply. This charge will be waived if the Craftsman

product is dropped of at an authorized Sears location. For the nearest authorized Sears location, please call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®.

This battery warranty applies only while this product is within the United States. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights, which

vary, from state to state. Sears, Roebuck and Co.,Dept.817VVA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

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

throwing,objects. Failure to observe the following safety instruct=onscould result in

senous injury or death.

./t

WARNING: 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.

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

Do not operate the mower withouteither

the entire grass catcher or the guard in

place.

• Slow down before turning.

• Never leave a running machine

_1, WARNING: Do not coast down a hill in neutral, you may lose control of the

tractor. _1, WARNING: Tow only the attach-

ments that are recommended by and comply with specifications of the manu-

facturer 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

components contain or emit chemicals

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

ductive harm.

unattended. Always turn off blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and remove keys before dismounting.

• Tum 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 unload-

ing 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 them-

selves and others from serious injury.

,_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.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves or other debris build-up which can touch

hot exhaust / engine parts and bum. 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

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 if anyone enters the area.

• Never carry passengers.

• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always look down and

behind before and while backing.

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 re-

sult 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. Ta//

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 recommenda- tions 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 necessary, and then, turn slowly and gradually 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 not use grass catcher on steep slopes.

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 fuet

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 servicing them.

• Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service as required.

• Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop machine if

anyone enters the area.

• Never carry passengers or children

even with the blades off.

• Do not mow in reverse unless abso-

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

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

with safe machine operation.

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

responsible adult.

• Be alert and turn machine off 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 overtum 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.

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.

=RODUCTSPECIFICATIONS

Gasoline 4 Gallons Capacity Unleaded

and Type: Regular Oil Type SAE 30 (Above 32°F)

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

(Below 32°F)

Oil Capacity: 4.0 Pints

Spark Plug: Champion RC12YC

GAP: .040")

Ground Speed Forward: 5.5 (MPH): Reverse: 2.4

Tire Pressure: Front: 14 PSI

Rear: 10PSI

Charging System: 16 Amps @ 3600 RPM

Battery: Amp/Hr: 28

Min. CCA: 230 Case Size: U1R

Blade Bolt 45-55 Ft. Lbs.

Torque:

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new tractor. It has been designed,

engineered and manufactured to give you the best possible dependability and

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 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 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.

_I=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 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).

Keys

Leveling

Mower

Wrench

Bubble Level

For Future Use

Video Cassette

Slope Sheet

Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory. Review the video cassette before you begin.

When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, it means, from your point of view, when you are in the operating

position (seated behind the steering

wheel).

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM

CARTON UNPACK CARTON

1. Remove all, accessible loose parts and parts boxes from carton.

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

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

CHECK BATTERY

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

after month and year indicated on label

(labet 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). _iii'::,,/:::_-,

ADJUST SEAT

1. Raise seat and loosen adjustment

knobs.

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

3. Slide seat until a comfortable position

is reached which allows you to press

clutch/brake pedal all the way down.

4. Get off seat without moving its

adjusted position.

5. Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob securely.

NOTE: You may now rollor drive your

tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate

instruction below to remove the tractor

from the skid.

Adjustment

Knob

TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (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 brake pedal.

3. Place freewheel control in disen- gaged position to disengage transmis-

sion (See 'q'O TRANSPORT' in the Operation section of this manual).

4. Roll tractor forward off skid.

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. Place freewheel control in "transmis-

sion engaged" position (see "TO

TRANSPORT" in Operation section of this manual).

4. Sit on seat in operating position,

depress brake pedal and set the parking brake.

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. Release parking brake.

8. Slowly depress forward drive pedal and drive tractor off skid.

9. Apply brake to stop tractor and set

parking brake.

10.Turn ignition key to "STOP" position.

Continue with the instructions that follow.

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

The tires on your tractor were overinflated at the factory for shipping purposes.

Correct tire pressure is important for best cutting performance.

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

of this manual.

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS

For best cutting results, mower housing should be properly leveled. See 'q'O

LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the Service and Adjustments section of this

manual.

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF ALL BELTS

See the figures that are shown for 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 'q'O ADJUST BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments

section of this manual.

V'CHECKLIST

Before you operate 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 instructionshave 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 all belt keepers.

,/Check wiring. See that all connections

are still secure and wires are properly clamped.

4 Before driving tractor, be sure free-

wheel control is in "transmission engaged" position (see 'TO TRANS-

PORT" inthe Operation section of this manual).

While learning how to use your tractor, pay extra attention to the following

important items:

,/Engine oil is at proper level. ,I 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.

,/It is important to purge the transmission

before operating your tractor for the first time. Follow proper starting and transmission purging instructions (See

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

section of this manual).

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

Learn and understand their meaning.

R N H L I",1

REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW CHOKE FAST SLOW tGNtTION

ENGINE OFF LIGHTS ON ENGINE ON

OvER TEMP FUEL OIL PRESSURE

LIGHT

ATTACHMENT A'rrACHMENT

CLUTCH ENGAGED CLUTCH DISENGAGED

FREIE WHEEL

(Automatic Models only)

Failure to follow instructions

could result in serious injury or death. The safety alert symbol

is used to identify safety inform- ation about hazards which can

result in death, serious injury and]or property damage.

ENGINE START PARKING BRAKE PARKING BRAKE PARKING BRAKE

BATTERY REVERSE FORWARD MOWER HEIGHT MOWER UFT

DANGER, KEEP HANDS

AND FEET AWAY

DANGER indicates a hazard which,if notavoided,

will result in death or serious injury.

WARNING indicatesa hazard which,if notavoided,

could result in death or serious injury.

CAUTION indicatesa hazard which,if notavoided,

might result in minor or moderate injury.

CAUTION when used without the alert symbol, indicates a situation that could result in damage

to the tractor and/or engine.

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

LOCKED UNLOCKED

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

HOT SURFACES indicatesa hazard which,

.,_1,._,_.,,.if notavoided, could result in death, serious injury

and/or property damage.

._ FIRE indicatesa hazard which, ifnot avoided,

could result in death, serious injury and/or property damage.

KNOWYOURTRACTOR READTHISOWNER'SMANUALANDSAFETYRULESBEFOREOPERATING

YOURTRACTOR Comparethe illustrationswithyour tractorto familiarizeyourselfwiththe locationsof

variouscontrolsandadjustments.Savethis manualforfuturereference.

Attachment Ignition Switch Light Switch Clutch Switch Position

Ammeter Lift

Choke Lever

Plunger

Throttle

Control

Clutch/Brake Adjustment Pedal Indicator

Freewheel

Control

Parking Brake Lever

Attachment Lift Lever

Pedal

Reverse Drive Pedal

Height

Cruise Control Lever

Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the

American National Standards Institute.

AMMETER - Indicates charging (+) or discharging (-) of battery.

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

ments mounted to your tractor. ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER - Used to raise,

lower, and adjust the mower deck or other attachments mounted to your tractor.

BRAKE PEDAL - Used for braking the tractor and starting the engine.

CRUISE CONTROL LEVER - Used to set

forward movement of tractor at desired speed without holding the forward drive pedal.

FORWARD DRIVE PEDAL - Used for

forward movement of tractor.

REVERSE DRIVE PEDAL - Used for reverse movement of tractor.

IGNITION SWITCH - Used for starting and stopping the engine.

LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to release

attachment liftlever when changing its position.

LIGHT SWITCH POSITION - Turns the headlights on and off.

PARKING BRAKE LEVER - Locks clutch/ brake pedal into the brake position.

THROTTLE CONTROL - Used for controlling engine speed.

FREEWHEEL CONTROL - Disengagages transmission for pushing or slowly towing the tractor with the engine off. CHOKE CONTROL - Used for starting

engine.

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 standard safety glasses or a wide vision safeb / mask worn over spectacles.

HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR

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 brake pedal all the way down and hold.

2. Pull parking brake lever up and release pressure from brake pedal.

Pedal should remain in brake posi- tion. Make sure parking brake will

hold tractor secure.

=Disengaged" Choke Position t Attachment Clutch Contro \ Switch =Engaged"

\ Ignition Key\ Po_sition

Throttle ._ _ / / Forward Contro___'-_ Drive Pedal

Brak?__J'/_

Pedal _F:_ .'-_FS----f _,dll_

"Brake" Brake Control Position "Engaged" Lever

STOPPING

MOWER BLADES -

• To stop mower blades, push attach- ment clutch switch in to disengaged

position.

Position

GROUND DRIVE -

• To stop ground drive, depress brake pedal all the way down.

IMPORTANT: Forward and reverse drive pedals return to neutral position when not

depressed.

ENGINE -

• Move throttle control to slow position.

NOTE: Failure to move throttle control to slow position to allow engine to idle

before stopping may cause engine to "backfire".

• Turn ignition key to "STOP" 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 "STOP" will

cause the battery to discharge and go

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 USE THRO'n'LE 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 forward and reverse drive pedals.

1. Start tractor and release parking brake.

2. Slowly depress forward or reverse drive pedal to begin movement. Ground speed increases the further

down the pedal is depressed.

TO USE CRUISE CONTROL The cruise control feature can be used for

forward travel only.

1. With forward drive pedal depressed to desired speed, move cruise control

lever forward to "SET" position and hold while lifting your foot off the pedal,

then release the cruise control lever.

To disengage the cruise control, pull the

lever backward to "OFF" position, or fully depress the brake pedal.

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT

The position of the attachment lift lever

determines the cutting height.

12 ° 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: Be sure tractor is on a flat level surface.

1. Lower mower and adjust mower to desired cutting height(See "TO

ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT"

in this section of manual).

2. Remove retainer spring and clevis pin which secure each gauge wheel bar.

3. 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.

4. Replace retainer spring into clevis pin.

5. Be sure all gauge wheels are in the same setting.

IMPORTANT: Be sure to readjust gauge wheels if you change the cutting height

of the mower deck.

Retainer

Spring

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.

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

_WARNING: Do not drive up or down

hills with slopes greater than 15° and do

not drive across any slope. Use the slope guide provided at the back of this manual.

• Choose the slowest speed before

starting up or down hills.

• Avoid stopping or changing speed on

hills.

• If stopping is absolutely necessary,

push brake pedal quickly to brake position and engage parking brake.

• To restart movement, slowly release

parking brake and brake pedal.

• Slowly depress appropriate drive pedal

to slowest setting.

• Make all turns slowly.

TO TRANSPORT When pushing or towing your tractor, be

sure to disengage transmission by placing freewheel control in freewheeling

position. Freewheel control is located at

the rear drawbar of tractor.

1. Raise attachment lift to highest

position with attachment lift control.

2. Pull freewheel control out and down

into the slot and release so it is held in

the disengaged position.

• Do not push or tow tractor at more than

two (2) MPH.

• To re-engage transmission, reverse

above procedure.

Transmission Engaged

Transmission Disengaged

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 A'I-rACH-

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 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. Remove oil fill cap/dipstick and wipe clean, reinsert the dipstick and screw cap tight, wait for a few seconds,

remove and read oil level. If neces-

sary, add oil until "FULL" mark on

dipstick is reached. Do not overfill.

• For cold weather operation you should

change oil for easier starting ((See the oil viscosity chart in the Maintenance

section of this manual).

• To change engine oil, see the Mainte-

nance section in this manual.

ADD GASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank to bottom of tank filler

neck. Do not overtiIl. Use fresh, clean, re.gular 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.

ACAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline

near an open flame. IMPORTANT: When operating in tem-

peratures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh,

clean winter grade gasoline to help

insure good cold weather starting. CAUTION: 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 untilthe fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh

fuel next season. See Storage Instruc- tions for additional information.

Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.

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. Be sure freewheel control is in the transmission engaged position.

2. Sit on seat in operating position, depress brake pedal and set parking

brake.

3. Move attachment clutch to disen- gaged position.

4. Move throttle control to fast position

5. Pull choke control out for a cold 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

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, slowly push choke control in until the engine begins to run smoothly. Continue to push the choke control in small steps

allowing the engine to accept small changes in speed and load, until the choke control is fully in. 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. This may require an engine

warm-up period from several seconds to several minutes, depending on the

temperature.

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WARM UP Before driving the unit in cold weather,

the transmission should be warmed up as follows:

1. Be sure the tractor is on level ground.

2. Release the parking brake and let the brake slowly return to operating

position.

3. Allow one minute for transmission to warm up. This can be done during the

engine warm up period.

• The attachments can be used during

the engine warm-up period after the transmission has been warmed up and may require the choke control be

pulled out slightly. NOTE: If at a high altitude (above 3000 feet) or in cold temperatures (below 32 F) the carburetor fuel mixture may need to be adjusted for best engine performance

(see "TO ADJUST CARBURETOR" in the Service and Adjustments section of this

manual).

PURGETRANSMISSION

CAUTION= Never engage or disengage freewheel lever while the engine is

running.

To ensure proper operation and perfor-

mance, it is recommended that the

transmission be purged before operating tractor for the first time. This procedure will

remove any trapped air inside the

transmission which may have developed

duringshippingof your tractor. IMPORTANT= Should your transmission

require removal for service or replace- ment, it should be purged after reinstalla-

tion before operating the tractor.

1. Place tractor safely on level surface with engine off and parking brake set.

2. Disengage transmission by placing

freewheel control in disengaged

position (See 'fro TRANSPORT" in

this section of manual).

3. Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine. After the engine is running, move

throttle control to slow position.

Disengage parking brake.

4. Depress forward drive pedal to full forward position and hold for five (5)

seconds and release pedal. Depress reverse drive pedal to full reverse

position and hold for five (5) seconds and release pedal. Repeat this

procedure three (3) times. NOTE: During this step there willbe no movement of drive wheels. The air is

being removed from hydraulic drive system.

5. Shutoff engine and set parking brake.

6. Engage transmission by placing

freewheel control in engaged

position (See 'frO TRANSPORT" in

this section of manual).

7. Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine. After the engine is running, move throttle control to half (1/2) speed. Disengage parking brake.

8. Drive tractor forward for approxi- mately five feet then backwards for

five feet. Repeat this driving proce- dure three times.

Your transmission is now purged and

now ready for normal operation.

MOWING TIPS

• 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 already been cut. Have the cut area to the right of

the tractor. This will result in a more even distribution 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.

MULCHING MOWING TIPS

IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep mower housing free of built-up

grass and trash. Clean after each use.

• The special mulching blade will recut

the grass clippings many times and reduce them in size so that as they fall

onto the lawn they will disperse into the grass and not be noticed. Also, the mulched grass will biodegrade quickly to provide nutrients for the lawn. Always mulch with your highest engine

(blade) speed as this will provide the best 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 grass,

reduce your width of cut on each pass

and mow slowly.

• if grass is extremely tall, it should be mowed twice to reduce load and

possible fire hazard from dried clip- pings. 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.

Max 1/3

• 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 perpendicu- lar 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.

FILL IN DATES

,svo0COMPLETE _....

REGULAR SERVICE _'_/_(,_"_-_/_j_"SERVICE DATES

Check Brake Operation t_ / _1

Check Tire Pressure

Check Operator Presence and

T Intedock Systems

R Check for Loose Fasteners ll_ I_s II_

T Lubrication Chart If

0 Check Battery Level

A Sharpen/Replace Mower Blades _3

R Clean Battery and TerminaLs If

Check TransaxLs Cooling t# # Check V-Belts

Check Engine Oil Level V' q_# Change Engine Oil (with oil filter) V'I,; V'

E Change Engine Oil (without oil filter) I1_1,=

N clean Air Filter _;

G Clean Air Screen

al Inspect Muffler/Spark

Arrester

E Replace Oil Filter (if equipped) t,_l.;

Clean Engine Cooling Fins If;

Replace Spark Plug _"#z If Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge

Replace Fuel Filter

1 - Change more often when operating under a heavy load or

in high ambient temperatures,

2 - Service more often when operating in dirty or dusty ¢ondition.s.

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 tractoras 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 opera-

tion.

5. Check for loose fasteners.

3 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy SOil. 4 - Not required if equipped with maintenance-free battery.

5 - Tighten front axle pivot bolt to 35 ft,-Ibs, maximum.

Do not ovenighten.

LUBRICATION CHART

OSF )indle(_)

Zerk Zerk

(_ Wheel_

Wheel _ Bearing

Bearing zerk zerk

(1) Mandrel!

Zerks

General Purpose Grease

_) Refer 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-lubricating bearings. If you feel they must be lubricated, use only a dry,

powdered graphite type lubricant spar- ingly.

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