Craftsman 917.273010 User Manual

Owner's ManuaJ

20.0 HP ELECTRIC START 46" MOWER 6 SPEED

TRACTOR

Model No.

917.273010

* Safety ,, Assembly ,, Operation

- Maintenance

, Repair Parts

CAUTmON:

Read and follow all Safety Rules and nnstructions

before operating this equip- ment,

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

For answers to your questions about this product, Call:

1-800-659-5917

Sears Craftsman Help Line 5 am - 5 pro, Mon- Sat

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

Safety Hu_s ...........................................

_ 2

Product Specifications ........................... 5

Assembly ................................................ 8

Operation .............................................. 12

Maintenance Schedule ......................... !9

Maintenance ................................... 19

Service and Adiustments ................ 23

Storage ................................................ 3!

Troubleshooting .................................. 32

Repair Parts ....................................... 35

Parts Ordering ....................... Back Cover

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RID!NG EQUIPMENT

For two (2) years from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Riding Equipment is main-

tained, lubricated and tuned up according to the instructions in the owneCs manual, Sears will repair or replace, free of charge, any parts found to be defective in material or

workmanship. This Warranty does not cover: ,, Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as blades, spark

plugs, air cleaners, belts, etc. Tire re_nlacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails,

thorns, stumps, or glass.

Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, negligence, improper storage or acci-

dent or the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions contained in the owner's manual.

,, Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.

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

ment proves defective in materiat or workmanship and our testing determines the bat-

tery will not hold a charge, Sears will replace the battery at no charge. In*home warranty

service on your Craftsman riding equipment is available at no charge for 30 days from the date of purchase. Please contact your nearest service center. After 30 days from the date of purchase, warranty service is available by taking your Craftsman riding equip- ment to your nearest Sears Service Center. (In-home warranty service will still be avail- able after 30 days from the date of purchase but a standard trip charge will apply). This warranty appties only while this product is in the United States. This Warranty gives you specific !egal rights, and you may a!so have other rights which may vary from state to

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

GENERAL OPERATION

o Read, understand, and follow all instruc-

tions in the manual and on the machine

before starting.

o 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.

o Be sure the area is clear of other people

before mowing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

Never carry passengers. Do not mow in reverse unless absolute-

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

o Be aware of the mower discharge direc-

tion and do not point it at anyone. Do

not operate the mower without either

the entire grass catcher or the guard in

place.

o Slow down before turning. o Never leave a running machine unat-

tended. Always turn off blades, set park-

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

Turnoffbladeswhennotmowing

_Stopenginebeforeremovinggrass

catcheroruncloggingchute. Mowonlyindaylightorgoodartificial light. Donotoperatethemachinewhileunder theinfluenceofalcoholordrugs. Watchfortrafficwhenoperatingnearor crossingroadways.

_Useextra care when loading or unload-

ing the machine into a trailer or truck. SLOPE OPERATnON 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: o Mow up and down slopes, not across.

,o Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree

limbs, etc.

o Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven

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

o Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so

that you will not have to stop or shift while on the slope.

o 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.

o Keep a!! 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 notturn 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 sud- denly turn over if a wheel is over the

edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.

o Do net mow on wet grass. Reduced

traction could cause sliding.

Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on the %ound

o Do not use grass catcher on steep

slopes. 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.

o Never aiiow children to operate the

machine.

o Use extra care when approaching blind

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

SERWCE ,, 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 engne running. Allow en- gine to coo! 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.

o Never run a machine inside a closed

area Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade

attachment bolts, tight and keep equip- ment in good condition.

o Never tamper with safety devices.

Check their proper operation regularly.

Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or 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,

beforerestarting.

Nevermakeadjustmentsorrepairswith theenginerunning. Grasscatchercomponentsaresubject towear,damage,anddeterioration, whichcouldexposemovingpartsor allowobjectstobethrown.Frequently checkcomponentsandreplacewith

manufacturersrecommendedparts MowerbladesaresharpandcancuL

Wrapthebtade(s)orweargloves,and

useextra caution when servicing them.

o Check brake operation frequently.

Adjust and service as required.

o Be sure the area is clear of other people

before mowing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

Never carry passengers. Do not mow in reverse unless absolute-

ly necessary. AJways took 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.

o Be alert and turn machine off if children

enter the area.

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

,_Look for this symbol to point out impor-

tant safety precautions, it means CAUo TION!!! BECOME AWARE!!! YOUR SAFE-

TY IS INVOLVED.

_CAUTION: In order to prevent acciden-

tal starting when setting up, transporting,

adjusting or making repairs always discon- nect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark plug.

Mow up and down slopes (15° Max), not

across.

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

® Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps Uneven

terrain could overturn the machine. Taft

grass can hide obstacles.

• 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.

Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.

_WARNJNG: The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

I_RODUCTSPECmFJCATJONS

GAS©UNE 35GALLONS CAPACITY UNLEADED

ANDTYPE: REGULAR OiLTYPE SAE10W-30

(API°SFiSG/SH):(above32°F)

SAE5W-30

_ (below32°F) OILCAPACITY:W/FILTER:4.2PINTS

W!OFILTER:3.7PINTS

._PARKPLUG: Champion RC12YC GAP: _040")

GROUND SPEED H!: LO: (MPH): 0.7 1.7

1.4 3.3

2.3 5.4

REVERSE: 0.9 2.1 TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI

REAR: 10 PSI

CHARGING SYSTEM: 15 AMPS@ 3600 RPM

BATTERY: AMP/HR: 35

MIN. CCA: 280 CASE SIZE: U1R

BLADE BOLT 27-35 FT. LBS. TORQUE:

MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT A Sears Maintenance Agreement is avaiF

able on this product Contact your nearest Sears store for details.

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILmES

Read and observe the safety ruJes. 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

_WARNJNG: This tractor is equipped with an interna! comb_st.on engine and

shouid not be used on or near any unim- proved forest-covered, brush-covered or grass-covered land unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting appJicaMe local or state laws (if any), If a spark attester is used, it

should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.

In the state of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the

California Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest Sears Authorized Service Center (See REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase

of a Craftsman 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 Authorized Service Center.

We have competent, weIFtrained 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".

PARTS BAG CONTENTS SHOWN FULL SIZE

(1) ShouJder Bolt

5/16-18

(1) Washer

17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge

(!) Knob

(2) Hex Bolts 1/4-20 x 3/4

9/32 x B/8 x 16 Gauge

(2) Washers

(2) Screws

#10 x 5/8

_s (2) Locq

#1_ Washers#10

(2) Washers _ I

3/16 x 3/4 x16 Gauge _ j

(2) Hex Nuts 1/4-20

(2) Lock Washers 1/4

(3) Retainer Springs

(Double Loop)

PartspacketseparateIyncarton

Seat

Video

Cassette

Parts Bag contents not shown fut! size

(2} Washers 3/8

(2) Shoulder

Bolts

x 7/8 x 14 Ga.

/21coo,er,ock

(2) Keys (2) Gauge

Nuts

Wheels

Mulcher

Plate

PartsBag

SteermgWheel

Manual

L? /(_ _ (2) Latch Hook

_,_nt LinkAssemblies

Steering

Wheel Insert

Slope Sheet

Assemblies

Steering

Sleeve

Steering Sleeve

Extension

Yournewtractorhasbeenassembledatthefactorywithexception of those parts left

unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your tractor all parts and hardware you assemMe must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools

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

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR

ASSEMBLY A socketwrench set will make assembly

easier, Standardwrench sizes you need

are listed below. (1) 9/16" wrench (1) 3/4" Socket wi

(2) 7/16" wrenches drive rachet (!) !/2" wrench (!) Phillips Screw ° (1) Utility knife driver (t)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 posi- tion (seated behind the steering wheel).

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

Remove all accessible loose parts and

parts boxes from shipping carton (See page 6). Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on

all four corners of shipping carton, and

lay panels flat.

Remove mower and package materials.

Check for any additiona! loose parts or

boxes and remove.

BEFORE ROLLING TRACTOR OFF SKiD

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL ® Remove hex bolt, lock washer and large

flat washer from steering shaft.

o Position front wheels of the tractor so

they are pointing straight forward.

o Slide the steering sleeve over the steer-

ing shaft.

- Align tabs and press steering sleeve extension into bottom of steering wheel.

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

onto steering wheel adapter.

o Secure steering wheel to steering shaft

with hex bolt, lock washer and large fiat washer previously removed. Tighten

securely.

Steerinc Sleeve

• Snap steering wheel insert into center of steering wheel.

Remove protective materials from trac-

tor hood and grill.

iMPORTANT: Check for and remove any staples in skid that may puncture tires

where tractor is to roll off skid. TO ROLL TRACTOP OFF SKID (See

Operation section for _ocation and function of controls)

® Press lift lever plunger and raise attach°

ment lift lever to its highest position. Release parking brake by depressing

clutch/brake pedal.

o Place gearshift lever in neutral (N) posi-

tion.

o Roll tractor forward off skid.

HOWTOSETUPYOURTRACTOR CONNECTBAKERY

,_CAUTION: Do not short battery termi-

nais by aliowing a wrench or any other object to contact both terminals at the same time. Before connecting battery,

remove metal bracelets, wristwatch bands,

rings_ etc. Positive terminal must be con-

nected first to prevent sparking from accio

dental grounding. ,, Lift hood to raised position.

o Open terminal access doors, remove

terminal protective caps and discard.

ti¢ _, ,

,, ,h_s battery' is put into service after month _,,_'4,uyear _<,4_ _ .4 _h_/_,_ located between terminals) charge _'-' tery for minimum of one hour at 6-10

amps.

o First connect RED battery cabte to posi-

tive (+) battery terminal with hex bolt, flat washer, lock washer and hex nut as

shown. Tighten securely.

,, Connect BLACK grounding cable to

negative (-) battery termina! with remain- ing hex bolt, flat washer, lock washer

and hex nut. Tighten securely.

,, Close terminal access doors.Use termi-

nal access doors for: , Inspection for secure connections (to

tighten hardware). ® Inspection for corrosion. ,, Testing battery. o Jumping (if required).

Periodic charging.

DiscardTerminal ProtectiveCaps

Lock

Washer / Hex

x Nut

,i' I i,

-- (Red)

Terminal _tive

Access Door / ...... (Black)

Cable

INSTALL SEAT

Adjust seat before tightening adjustment

knob.

Remove cardboard packing on seat pan.

LJ*:_L"

Flat

Washer

Bolt

Positive

Cable

• Place seat on seat pan and assemb!e shoutder bolt. Tighten shoutder bolt securely.

o Assemble adiustment knob and f!at

washer loosely. Do not tighten.

o Lower seat into operating position and

sit on seat.

o Slide seat until a comfortable position is

reached which allows you to press

clutch/brake pedal all the way down.

o Get off seat without moving its adjusted

position.

o Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob

securely.

Seat

Shoulder \

FlatWasher

Adjustment Knob

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

The tires on your tractor were overinflated at the factory for shipping purposes. Correct tire pressure is important for best cutting performance. ® Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in

"PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" on page 5 of this manual.

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM

After you team 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. mNSTALL MOWER AND DRIVE BELT

Be sure tractor is on level surface and mower suspension arms are raised with

attachment lift control. Engage parking brake.

o Cut and remove ties securing anti-sway

bar and belts. Swing anti-sway bar to

left side of mower deck.

, Slide mower under tractor with dis-

charge guard to right side of tractor.

iMPORTANT:Checkbeltforproperrout° inginallmowerpulleygrooves.Install

beltintoelectricclutchpuileygroove. oinstallonefrontlinkintopholeofthe

righthandfrontmowerbracketandright handfrontsuspensionbracketRetain

withtwosingleloopretainerspringsas

shown. installsecondfrontlinkin left hand

front suspension bracket only and

retain with single loop retainer spring as shown.

o Turn height adjustment knob counter-

t,_,Jcr_vwo_ it

o _.......... we, linkage with attachment

lift control.

o Place the left hand suspension arm on

inward pointing deck pin. if necessary, rock and raise front of mower to align

deck pin with the hole in suspension

arm. Retain with double loop retainer spring with loops down as shown.

o Slide left side of mower back and install

the unattached front link in top hole of the left hand front mower bracket.

Retain with single loop retainer spring as shown.

,, Place the right hand suspension arm on

Shoulder Bolt

ul iLii .:__v[M o.

Double Loop Retainer Spring

(Inward pointing deck pins)

Chassis Bracket

inward pointing deck pin. If necessary, rock and raise front of mower to atign deck pin with the hole in suspension arm. Retain with double Ioop retainer

spring with toops down as shown.

Connect anti-sway bar to chassis brack- et under left footrest and retain with

double loop retainer spring.

Turn height adjustment knob clockwise to remove slack from mower suspen-

sion. Raise mower to highest position.

Assemble gauge wheels (See "TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS" in the

Operation section of this manual).

CHECK MOWER LEVELNESS For best cutting results, mower should be

properly leveled. See "TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the Sen,ice and

Adjustments section of this manual CHECK FOR PROPER POSITnON OF

ALL BELTS See the figures that are shown for replac-

ing motion, mower drive, and mower blade drive belts in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual. Verify that the

Suspension Arms Front

Brackets

Front Mower Bracket

Clutch_'_

Gauge

Wheel

3/8 Washer 3/8-16

Center Locknut

Use Pliers for

Retainer Springs

/ /

Double Loop Retainer Spring

Anti-Sway

Bar

Idler Pulley

igle Loop

_\ Retainer Springs

,i_ _,1 I

Discharge Guard

beltsareroutedcorrectly. _NSTALLMULCHERPLATE

_,installtwolatchhookstomulcherplate

usingscrew,washer,_ockwasher,and weldnutasshown.

NOTE:Pre-assembleweldnuttolatch hookbyinsertingweldnutfromthetop

withhookpointingdown Tightenhard- waresecurely.

oRaiseandholddeflectorshieldinup-

rightposition.

• Placefrontofmulcherplateoverfrontof mowerdeckopeningandslideinto place,asshown.

Hookfrontiatchintoholeonfrontof mowerdeck.

Hookrearlatchintoholeonbackof mowerdeck.

,_CAUTRON: Do not remove discharge

guard from mower. Raise and hold guard when attaching mulcher plate and allow it

to rest on plate while in operation. TO CONVERT TO 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 designed for_r_ing and bagging also.

from the Topx.. _--" \ Hook Points

Lock "_ _'. JDown

Washer ;........ _ Latch

Weld -.. ! Hook

Nut _ / _"

Latchji :)

IScrew\

" _..jWeld Nut

_CHECKMST

Please review the following checklist: ,/ All assembly instructions have been

completed. 7" No remaining loose parts in carton. ¢" Battery is properly prepared and

charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps). ,/Seat is adjusted comfortably and tight-

ened securely. ,/All tires are properly inflated. (For ship-

ping purposes, the tires were overinflat-

ed at the factory,). ,/Be sure mower deck is property leveled

side4o-side!front4o-rear for best cutting

results (Tires must be properly inflated

for leveling). V 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. 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, regu-

lar 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 operat-

ing condition.

Hook_:/// /!Jt_/_asher_LOck

Washer i(':t; Washer

.....¢S

Mulcher _---Screw

Plate

Latch Hooks

Thesesymbolsmayappearonyourtractororinliteraturesuppliedwiththeproduct

Learnandunderstandtheirmeaning.

BATTERY

ENGINE ON

FUEL

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH ENGAGED

IGNITION

CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD

WARNING

ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON

l\l 0

CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE

REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

LOCKED

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

FAST

SLOW

OVER TEMP

LIGHT

UNLOCKED

MOWER LIFT

L (®)_i

LOW PARKING BRAKE

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

FREE WHEEL

(Automatic Models only)

KNOWYOUR TRACTOR

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR TRACTOR

Compare the iHustratior_s with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

Light Switch

Ignition Switch

Ammeter

Throttle Control

J i_"_Lift Lever

Position

Attachment CRutch Switch

Clutch/Brake

Pedal

Choke

Height Adjustment

Knob

Our tractors co:qform to the safety standards of the American

National Standards Institute,

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

tachments mounted to your tractor.

LIGHT SWITCH: Turns the headlights on

and off, THROTTLE CONTROL: Used to control

engine speed. CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL: Used for

declutching and braking the tractor and starting the engine.

CHOKE CONTROL: Used when starting a cold engine, HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB: Used to

adjust the mower cutting height.

_ Ptunger

/ / Attachment

_/ Lift Lever

Parking Brake

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

RANGESHIFT LEVER: Allows high (H) and low (L) speed for all forward and

reverse gears. ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER: Used to

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

LIFT LEVER PLUNGER: Used to release

attachment lift lever when changing its

position.

IGNITION SWITCH: Used for starting and stopping the engine. AMMETER: Indicates battery charging (+) or discharging (-).

PARKING BRAKE: Locks clutch/brake

HOWTOUSEYOURTRACTOR Yourtractorisequippedwithanoperator

presencesensingswitch_Whenengineis

running,anyattemptbytheoperatorto

_eavetheseatwithoutfirstsettingthe parkingbrakewinshutofftheengine°

TOSETPARKINGBRAKE ,,Depressdutch!brakepeda!intofun

"BRAKE"positionandhold.

o Placeparkingbrakeleverin"EN-

GAGED"positionandreleasepressure fromclutch/brakepedal.Pedalshould

remainin"BRAKE"position.Makesure parkingbrakewil!holdtractorsecure.

Throttle Push-in to Attachment Clutch Control "Disengaged" Switch Pull Out To

"Engage"

"Brake"

Position

.Lever

_gBrake

"Engaged"Position

C Pedal "Drive"

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 stopping may cause engine to "backfire".

"Disengaged'""

Position

Turn ignition key to "OFF" position and

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

use.

Never use choke to stop engineo

NOTE: Under certain conditions when

tractor is standing idle with the engine run-

ning, hot engine exhaust gases may

cause "browning" of grass. "Toeliminate 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. THROTTLE CONTROL

Always operate engine at full throttle.

- Operating engine at !ess than full throt- tle reduces the battery charging rate. Full throttle offers the best bagging and mower performance.

CHOKE CONTROL Use choke control whenever you are start-

ing 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. ® Start tractor with clutch/brake pedal

depressed and gearshift lever in neutral (N) position.

o Move gearshift and range shift levers to

desired position. Slowly re_ease clutch/brake pedal to

start movement.

mMPORTANT: 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 cutting height is controlled by turn-

ing the height adjustment knob in desired direction.

® Turn knob counterclockwise (O) to

lower cutting height.

The cutting height range is approximately

1-1/2" to 4ol/2 ". The heights are mea-

suredfromthegroundtothebtadetipwith theenginenotrunning.Theseheightsare

approximateandmavarydepending uponsoitconditions,_eightofgrassand

typesofgrassbeingmowed.

Theaveragelawnshouldbecutto approxmate_y2-1/2inchesduringthe

coolseasonandtoover3inchesduring

hotmonths.Forhealthierandbetter lookinglawns,mowoftenandafter

moderategrowth. Forbestcuttingperformance,grass

over6inchesinheightshouldbe mowedtwice°Makethefirstcutrela-

tive!yhigh;thesecondtodeskedheighL

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 condi-

tions.

Adjust gauge wheels with tractor on a ftat tevel surface.

Adjust mower to desired cutting height

(See "TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT" in the Operation section of

this manual).

• With mower in desired height of cut poo sition, gauge wheels should be assem-

bled so they are slightly off the ground. Install gauge wheel in appropriate hole

with shoulder bolt, 3/8 washer, and 3/8-

16 Iocknut and tighten securely.

® Repeat for opposite side installing

gauge wheel in same adjustment hole.

Gauge Mounting

Bracket \

3/8- 16

Locknut ,,, ,_j

3/8 Washer \Gauge Wheel

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.

• Select desired height of cut.

o Lower mower with attachment lift con-

trol.

Shou der Bolt

Start mower blades by engaging attach°

ment clutch control.

o TO STOP MOWER BLADES disen.-

ge attachment ctutch contro_

AUTmON: Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass catcher, on mowers so equipped, or the discharge guard in place. TO OPERATE ON H_LLS

Attachment Clutch Attachment Lift Lever Switch Pull Out To High Position

"Engage" -/Position

Push InTo _/: "Disengage" _)'))

,_CAUTION: 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 start-

ing up Ordown hills.

o 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 posi- tion and engage parking brake.

* Move gearshift lever to 1st gear and

range shift lever to low (L) position. 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 al! turns slowly.

TO TRANSPORT

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

o 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.).

Low

Discharge

Guard

TOWINGCARTSANDOTHER A_ACHMENTS

Towonlytheattachmentsthatarerecom- mendedbyandcomplywithspecifications

ofthemanufacturerofyourtractor.Use commonsensewhentowingTooheavyof

aload,whileonastope,isdangerous Tirescanlosetractionwiththegroundand

causeyoutolosecontrolofyourtractor BEFORESTARTINGTHEENGINE

CHECKENGINEOILLEVEL

Theengineinyourtractorhasbeen

shipped,fromthefactory,alreadyfilled withsummerweightoil.

Checkengineoilwithtractoronlevel ground.

Unthreadandremoveoilfillcap/dip- stick;wipeoiloff.Reinsertthedipstick

intothetubeandrestoilfillcaponthe tube.Donotthreadthecapontothe

tube.Removeandreadoillevel.Ifnec- essary,addoiluntil'FULL"markon

dipstickisreached.Donotovedi!l Forcoldweatheroperationyoushould

changeoilforeasierstarting(See"OIL VISCOSITYCHART"intheCustomer

Responsibilitiessectionofthismanua!).

oTochangeengineoil,seetheCustomer

Responsibilitiessectioninthismanual. ADDGASOLINE , Fillfueltank.Usefresh,clean,regular

unleadedgasolinewithaminimumof87

octane.(Useofleadedgasolinewill

increasecarbonandleadoxide

depositsandreducevalvelife).Donot

mixoilwithgasolinePurchasefue!in quantitiesthatcanbeusedwithin30

daystoassurefuelfreshness. IMPORTANT:Whenoperatingintempera- turesbelow32'_F(0°C),usefresh,dean wintergradegaso!inetohelpinsuregood

,_d 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 emp-

tied 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.

,_CAUTRON: Fill to bottom of gas tank

filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spitl or use

gasoline near an open flame TO START ENGINE

When start ng the engine for the first time or if the engine has run out of fuel, it wil! take extra cranking time to move fuel from the tank to the engine. o Sit on seat in operating position,

depress clutch/brake pedal and set parking brake.

,, Place gear shift lever in neutral (N)

position.

o Move attachment clutch to "DISEN-

GAGED" position. Move throttle control to fast position

,, 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.

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 (500 F AND ABOVE)

When engine starts, slowly push choke control in until the engine begins to run

smoothly. If the enyine starts to run roughly pull the choke control out slight- ly for a few seconds and then continue to push the control in slowly.

o 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 _orone minute using

the choke as described above.

COLD WEATHER STARTING (50° F AND

BELOW)

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

enginetoacceptsmallchangesin speedandload,unt_thechokecontrol

isfullyin.tftheengi_estartstorun rougHy_pullthechokecontro!outslighto lyforafewsecondsandthencontinue topushthecontrolinslowly.Thismay requireanenginewarmoupperiodfrom

severalsecondstoseveralminutes, dependingonthetemperature.

Theattachmentscanbeuseddudng theenginewarm-upperiodandmay

requirethechokecontrolbeputtedout

slightly.

NOTE:Ahighaltitude(above3000feet)

orincoldtemperatures(below32F)the carburetorfuelmixturemayneedtobe

adjustedforbestengineperformance.

See"TO ADJUST CARBURETOR _ in the

Service and Adjustments section of this manual

MOWING TiPS o Tire chains cannot be used when the

mower housing is attached to tractor.

® 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 cut- ting.

o When mowing large areas_ sta_ by turn°

ing to the right so that clippings wilt dis-

charge away from shrubs, fences, drive- ways, etc. After one or two rounds, mow

in the opposite direction making left hand turns until finished.

o If grass is extremely tall, it should be

mowed twice to reduce load and possi- ble fire hazard from dried clippings. Make first cut relatively high; the second to the desired height. Do not mow grass when it is wet. Wet

grass will plug mower and leave unde- sirable clumps. Allow grass to dry

before mowing.

® Always operate engine at _uii throttie

when mowing to assure better mowing performance and proper discharge of material. Regulate ground speed by se-

lecting a low enough gear to give the mower the best cutting performance as well as the quality of cut desired.

, When operating attachments, select a

ground speed that will suit the terrain and give best performance of the at- tachment being used.

MULCHINGMOWINGT_PS 8MPORTANT_Forbestperformance,keep

mowerhousingfreeofbuilt-upgrassand trashC!eanaftereachuse_

Thespecialmulchingbladewil!recut thegrassclippingsmanytimesand

reducetheminsizesothatastheyfall ontothelawntheywilldisperseintothe grassandnotbenoticed°Also,the mulchedgrasswillbiodegradequickly toprovidenutrientsforthelawn.Always mulchwithyourhighestengine(blade)

speedasthiswillprovidethebestrecut- tingactionoftheblades.

oAvoidcuttingyourlawnwhenitiswet.

Wetgrasstendstoformc_umpsand

interfereswiththemulchingaction.The besttimetomowyourlawnistheearly

afternoon.Atthistimethegrasshas driedandthenewlycutareawillnotbe

exposedtothedirectsun.

oForbestresults,adjustthemowercut-

tingheightsothatthemowercutsoff

onlythetoponeothirdofthegrass blades.Forextremelyheavymulching, reduceyourwidthofcutoneachpass andmowslowly.

oCertaintypesofgrassandgrasscondi_

tionsmayrequirethatanareabe mulchedasecondtimetocompletely hidetheclippings.Whendoingaseco ondcut,mowacrossorperpendicularto

thefirstcutpath.

oChangeyourcuttingpatternfromweek

toweek.Mownorthtosouthoneweek thenchangetoeasttowestthenext

week.Thiswillhelppreventmattingand grainingofthelawn.

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