Craftsman 917.273170 User Manual
Owner’s Manual
CRRFTSMRN
LAWN TRACTOR
17.5 HR 42” Mower Electric Start 6 Speed Transaxle
Model No.
917.273170
This product has a low emission engine which operates
differently from previously built engines. Before you start the
engine, read and understand this Owner's Manual.
IMPORTANT:
Read and follow all Safety
Rules and Instructions before
operating this equipment.
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.
Visit our Craftsman website:www.sears.com/craftsman
For answers to your questions about
this product, Ca!!:
1-800-659-5917
Sears Craftsman Help Line
5 am - 5 pm, Mon - Sat
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Warranty......................................
Safety Rules................................
Product Specifications
Assembly/Pre-Operation
Operation
Maintenance Schedule
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11
17
2
Maintenance
3
Service and Adjustments....
6
Storage
8
Troubleshooting
Repair Parts.........................
Sears Service
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..................17
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..................27
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....Back Cover
WARRANTY
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 full years. 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 conve
nience, IN HOME warranty service will still be available after the first 30 days of pur
chase, but a trip charge will apply. This charge will be waived if the Craftsman product is
dropped off at an authorized Sears 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-speeding the engine.
• Repairs necessary because of operator negligence, including but not limited to, elec
trical 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 pur
chase date.
• Normal deterioration and wear of the exterior finishes, or product label replacement.
Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.
32
LIMITED WARRANTY ON BATTERY
For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery included with this riding equip
ment 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 avail
able but a trip charge will apply. This charge will be waived if the Craftsman product is
dropped off 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.817WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
SAFETY RULES
IMPORTANT; This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throw
ing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious
injury or death.
AwARNING: In order to prevent ac
cidental starting when setting up, trans
porting, adjusting or making repairs,
always disconnect spark plug wire and
piace wire where it cannot contact spark
plug.
AwARNING: Do not coast down a hill in
neutrai, you may lose control of the tractor.
AwARNING: Tow only the attachments
that are recommended by and comply with
specifications of the manufacturer of your
tractor. Use common sense when towing.
Operate only at the lowest possible speed
when on a slope. Too heavy of a load,
while on a slope, is dangerous. Tires can
lose traction with the ground and cause
you to lose control of your tractor.
AwaRNING: Engine exhaust, some of
its constituents, and certain vehicle com
ponents contain or emit chemicals known
to the State of California to cause cancer
and birth defects or other reproductive
harm.
AwaRNING: Battery posts, terminals
and related accessories contain lead and
lead compounds, chemicals known to the
State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductive harm.
Wash hands after handling.
!. GENERAL OPERATION
• Read, understand, and follow all instruc
tions 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 necessary. Always look down and
behind before and while backing.
• 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.
• Slow down before turning.
• Never leave a running machine unat
tended. 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 un
loading 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 in
juries. 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 before
storage.
!!. SLOPE OPERATION
Siopes are a major factor related to lossof-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.
SAFETY RULES
DO:
• Mow up and down slopes, not across.
• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree
limbs, etc.
• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Un
even terrain could overturn the machine.
Tall grass can hide obstacles.
• Use slow speed. Choose a low gear
so that you will not have to stop or shift
while on the slope.
• Follow the manufacturer’s recommend
ations 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 ail 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 bown the
slope.
DO NOT:
• Do not turn on slopes unless neces
sary, 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.
!!!. CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator
is not alert to the presence of children.
Children are often attracted to the ma
chine and the mowing activity. Never as
sume 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, took 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.
!V. 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 coot 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 equip
ment 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. Ad
just and service as required.
SAFETY RULES
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, took 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. Tali
grass can hide obstacles.
Use stow speed. Choose a low gear
so that you wilt not have to stop or shift
while on the slope.
Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If
tires lose traction, disengage the blades
and proceed slowly straight down the
slope.
if machine stops while going uphill,
disengage blades, shift into reverse and
back down slowly
Do not turn on slopes unless necessary,
and then, turn slowly and gradually
downhill, if possible.
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Gasoline 1.25
Capacity and
Type:
Oil Type
(API-SG-SL): SAE 5W-30(below 32“F)
Oil Capacity: W/Fllter:
Spark Plug; Champion RC12YC
(Gap: .040")
Ground Speed Forward:
(MPH): 1st 1.2
Tire Pressure;
Charging System: 15 Amps @ 3600 RPM
Battery: Amp/Hr:
Blade Bolt Torque; 27-35 Ft. Lbs.
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”.
Unleaded
Regular
SAE 10W30 (above 32T)
4.0 Pints
W/0 Filter;
2nd 1.5
3rd
4th
5th
6th
fR©v©rs©* 1.5
Front:
Rear:
Min. CCA:
Case Size: U1R
3.5 Pints
2.4
3.5
4.8
5.3
14 PSI
10 PSI
28
230
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
• Read and observe the safety rules.
• Follow a regular schedule in main
taining, caring for and using your tractor.
• Follow the instructions under “Mainte
nance” and “Storage” sections of this
owner’s manual.
AwaRNING: This tractor is equipped
with an internal combustion engine and
should 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 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 re
quired by law (Section 4442 of the Califor
nia 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).
REPAIR PROTECTION
AGREEMENTS
Congratulations on making a smart pur
chase. Your new Craftsman® product is
designed and manufactured for years of
dependable operation. But like all products,
it may require repair from time to time. That's
when having a Repair Protection Agreement
can save you money and aggravation.
Purchase a Repair Protection Agreement
now and protect yourself from unexpected
hassle and expense.
Here’s what's included in the Agreement:
• Expert service by our 12,000 profe
sional repair specialists.
• Unlimited service and no charge for
parts and labor on all covered repairs.
• Product replacement if your covered
product can’t be fixed.
• Discount of 10% from regular price of
service and service-related parts not
covered by the agreement; also, 10%
off regular price of preventive mainte
nance check.
• Fast help by phone - phone support
from a Sears technician on products
requiring in-home repair, plus conve
nient repair scheduling.
Once you purchase the Agreement, a
simple phone call is all that it takes for you
to schedule service. You can cal! anytime
day or night, or schedule a service ap
pointment online.
Sears has over 12,000 professional repair
specialists, who have access to over 4.5
million quality parts and accessories.
That's the kind of professionalism you can
count on to help prolong the life of your
new purchase for years to come. Purchase
your Repair Protection Agreement today!
Some limitations and exclusions apply.
For prices and additional information
call 1-800-827-6655.
SEARS INSTALLATION SERVICE
For Sears professional installation of home
appliances, garage door openers, water
heaters, and other major home items, in
the U.S.A. call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®
o
Steering
Wheel Insert
UNASSEMBLED PARTS
steering Wheel
(1) Large Flat Washer
(1) Hex Bolt 1/4-28x1-1/4 (1) Locknut 1/2-20
Steering Wheel
Adapter
Seat
^ 17/32x1-3/16x12 Gauge
(1) Knob
(1) Washer
(1) Locknut 1/4-28
Steering
Extension
Steering
Boot
Shaft
Keys
(2) Keys
(1) Oil Drain Tube
For Future Use
Slope Sheet
7
Video Cassette
ASSEMBLY/PRE-OPERATiON
Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those parts left
unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your tractor
all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools
as necessary to insure proper tightness. Review the video cassette before you begin.
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR
ASSEMBLY
A socket wrench set will make assembly
easier. Standard wrench sizes you need
are listed below.
(1) 3/4" wrench (1) Pliers
(2) 7/16" wrench (1) Utility knife
(1) Tire pressure gauge
When right or left hand is mentioned In
this manual, it means 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 along dotted lines on all four pan
els of carton. Remove end panels and
lay side panels flat.
3. Check for any additional loose parts or
cartons and remove.
BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR
FROM SKID
ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND
BOOT
1. Slide extension shaft onto tower steer
ing shaft. Align mounting holes in ex
tension and lower shafts and install 1/4
hex bolt and locknut. Tighten securely.
IMPORTANT: Tighten bolt and nut se
curely to 10-12 ft. lbs torque.
2. Place tabs of steering boot over tab
slots in dash and push down to secure.
INSTALL STEERING WHEEL
3. Position front wheels of the tractor so
they are pointing straight forward.
4. Remove steering wheel adapter from
steering wheel and slide adapter onto
steering shaft extension.
5. Position steering wheel so cross bars
are horizontal (left to right) and slide
inside boot and onto adapter.
6. Assemble large fiat washer, 1/2 hex
nut and tighten securely.
7. Snap steering wheel insert into center
of steering wheel.
8. 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 roil off skid.
INSTALL SEAT
Adjust seat before tightening adjustment
knob.
1. Remove adjustment knob and flat
washer securing seat to cardboard
packing and set aside for assembly of
seat to tractor.
2. Pivot seat upward and remove from
the cardboard packing. Remove the
cardboard packing and discard.
3. Place seat on seat pan so head of
shoulder bolts are positioned over the
large slotted holes in pan.
4. Push down on seat to engage shoulder
bolts in slots and pul! seat towards rear
of tractor.
8
5. Pivot seat and pan forward and as
semble adjustment knob and fiat
washer loosely. Do not tighten.
6. Lower seat into operating position and
sit in seat.
7. Slide seat until a comfortable position
is reached which allows you to press
clutch/brake pedal all the way down.
8. Get off seat without moving its ad
justed position.
9. Raise seat and tighten adjustment
knob securely.
1. Lift seat pan to raised position.
NOTE: If this battery is put into service
after month and year indicated on label
{label located between terminals) charge
battery for minimum of one hour at 6-10
amps. (See "BATTERY’' in Maintenance
section of this manual for charging instruc
tions).
NOTE; You may now roll or drive your
tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate
instruction below to remove the tractor
from the skid.
TOROLLTRACTOROFFSKID (See
Operation section for location and
function of controls)
1. Press lift lever plunger and raise
attachment lift lever to its highest po
sition.
2. Release parking brake by depressing
clutch/brake pedal.
3. Place gearshift lever in neutral (N)
position.
4. Roll tractor forward off skid.
5. Remove banding holding deflector
shield up against tractor.
TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See
Operation section for location and
function of controls)
AwARNING: Before starting, read, un
derstand 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 ail 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 posi
tion.
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 gear
shift lever to 1st gear.
8. Slowly release clutch/brake pedal and
slowly drive tractor off skid.
9. Apply brake to stop tractor, set park
ing brake and place gearshift lever in
neutral position.
10. Turn ignition key to "STOP" position.
Continue with the instructions that follow.
9
INSTALL MULCHER PLATE
(If previously removed)
1. Raise and hold deflector shield in
upright position.
2. Place front of muicher plate over front
of mower deck opening and slide into
place, as shown.
3. Hook front latch into hole on front of
mower deck.
4. Hook rear latch into hole on back of
mower deck.
AcaUTION: Do not remove deflector
shield from mower.
TO CONVERT TO BAGGING OR
DISCHARGING
Simply remove muicher 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 muicher blades are designed
for discharging and bagging also.
CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
The tires on your tractor were overin
flated 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 hous
ing should be properly leveled. See “TO
LEVEL MOWER HOUSING” in the Service
and Adjustments section of this manual.
CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM
After you learn how to operate your trac
tor, check to see that the brake is properly
adjusted. See “TO ADJUST BRAKE” in
the Service and Adjustments section of
this manual.
y CHECKLIST
Before you operate and enjoy your new
tractor, we wish to assure that you receive
the best performance and satisfaction
from this Quality Product.
Please review the following checklist:
/ All assembly instructions have been
completed.
/ No remaining loose parts in carton.
/ Battery is properly prepared and
charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps).
/ Seat is adjusted comfortably and tight
ened securely.
/ All tires are properly inflated. (For ship
ping purposes, the tires were overin
flated 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 ail belt keepers.
/ Check wiring. See that all connections
are still secure and wires are properly
clamped.
While learning how to use your tractor, pay
extra attention to the following important
Items:
/ Engine oil is at proper level.
/ Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean, 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 oper
ating condition.
CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION
OF ALL BELTS
See the figures that are shown for replac
ing motion and mower blade drive belts
in the Service and Adjustments section
of this manual. Verify that the belts are
routed correctly.
10
OPERATION
These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product.
Learn and understand their meaning.
R
REVERSE
N
NEUTRAL
ai
ENGINE OFF
SI
OVER TEMP
LIGHT
ATTACHMENT ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH ENGAGED CLUTCH DISENGAGED DANGER, KEEP HANDS KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS
(Automatic ll^odols only)
LIGHTS ON
le
FUEL OIL PRESSURE
FREE WHEEL
H
HIGH LOW
©
ENGINE ON
ENGINE START PARKING BRAKE
Q
BATTERY
L
0
AND FEET AWAY {SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)
A
A
A
141
CHOKE FAST
SLOW
©
PARKING BRAKE
LOCKED
Hi ♦
T ж
REVERSE FORWARD
DANGER indicates a hazard which, if not avoided,
will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING indicates a hazard which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION indicates a hazard which, if not avoided,
might result In minor or moderate injury.
iSt
MOWER HEIGHT MOWER LIFT
PARKING BRAKE
IGNITION
c©
UNLOCKED
A
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.
CAUTION when used without the alert symbol,
indicates a situation that could result in damage
to the tractor and/or engine.
HOT SURFACES indicates a hazard which,
лЛ№№ avoided, could result in death, serious Injury
and/or property damage.
[fi FIRE indicates a hazard which, if not avoided,
M
could result In death, serious injury and/or
property damage.
11
KNOW YOUR TRACTOR
READTHiS OWNER’S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR
TRACTOR
Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of
various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the
American National Standards Institute.
AMMETER - Indicates charging (+) or
discharging (-) of battery.
ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER - Used
to engage the mower blades, or other at
tachments mounted to your tractor.
ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER - Used to
raise, lower, and adjust the mower deck or
other attachments mounted to your tractor.
CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL - Used for
declutching and braking the tractor and
starting the engine.
GEARSHIFT LEVER - Selects the speed
and direction of tractor.
IGNITION SWITCH - Used for starting and
stopping the engine.
LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to release
attachment lift lever when changing its
position.
LIGHT SWITCH POSITION - Turns the
headlights on and off.
PARKING BRAKE LEVER - Locks clutch/
brake pedal into the brake position.
THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL - Used
for starting and controlling engine speed.
12
FORESnHTK BETTER
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.
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 clutch/brake pedal all the way
down and hold.
2. Pull parking brake lever up and release
pressure from clutch/brake pedal.
Pedal should remain in brake position.
Make sure parking brake will hold trac
tor secure.
Attachment Clutch Lever
“Engaged" Position
Ignition Key
Throttl
Choke
Control
C
Brake'^ ^
“Disengaged”
Position
Parking Brake
“Engaged”
Position
Peda^
Gearshift
“Disengaged”
Position
“Brake”
Position
Lever
STOPPING
MOWER BLADES -
• To stop mower blades, move attachment
clutch lever to disengaged position.
GROUND DRIVE-
• To stop ground drive, depress clutch/
brake pedal all the way down.
• Move gearshift lever to neutral (N)
position.
ENGINE -
• Move throttle control between half and
full speed (fast) position.
NOTE: Failure to move throttle control
between half and full speed (fast) posi
tion, 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.
Ac
^CAUTION: Always stop tractor com
pletely, as described above, before leaving
the operator's position.
TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL
Always operate engine at full throttle.
• Operating engine at less than full
throttle reduces the battery charging
rate.
• Full throttle offers the best bagging and
mower performance.
TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD
The direction and speed of movement is
controlled by the gearshift lever.
1. Start tractor with clutch/brake pedal de
pressed and gearshift lever in neutral
(N) position.
2. Move gearshift lever to desired po
sition.
3. Slowly release clutch/brake pedal to
start movement.
IMPORTANT: Bring tractor to a complete
stop before shifting or changing gears.
Failure to do so will shorten the useful life
of your transaxle.
TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT
The position of the attachment lift lever
determines the cutting height.
• Grasp lift lever.
• Press plunger with thumb and move
lever to desired position.
The cutting height range is approxi
mately 1-1/2 to 4". The heights are mea
sured 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.
13
• The average lawn should be cut to approxi
mately 2-1/2 inches during the coo! season
and to over 3 inches during hot months.
For healthier and better looking lawns, mow
often and after moderate growth.
• For best cutting performance, grass over
6 inches in height should be mowed
twice. Make the first cut relatively high;
the second to desired height.
TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS
Gauge wheels are properly adjusted
when they are slightly off the ground when
mower is at the desired cutting height in
operating position. Gauge wheels then
keep the deck In proper position to help
prevent scalping in most terrain conditions.
NOTE: Adjust gauge wheels with tractor
on a flat level surface.
1. Adjust mower to desired cutting height
(See “TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING
HEIGHT" in this section of manual).
2. With mower in desired height of cut
position, 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 3/816 locknut and tighten securely.
3. Repeat for opposite side, installing
gauge wheel in same adjustment hole.
Gauge Wheel
Mounting
Bracket
3/8-16
Locknut
3/8 Washer
Gauge Wheel
Shoulder
Bolt
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. You must
remain fully and centrally positioned in the
seat to prevent the engine from hesitating
or cutting off when operating your equip
ment on rough, rolling terrain or hills.
1. Select desired height of cut.
2. Start mower blades by engaging at
tachment clutch control.
TO STOP MOWER BLADES -
disengage attachment clutch control.
AcAUTION: Do not operate the mower
without either the entire grass catcher,
on mowers so equipped, or the deflector
shield in place.
TO OPERATE ON HILLS
AwARNING: Do not drive up or down
hills with slopes greater than 15° and do
not drive across any slope. Use the slope
guide at the back of this manual.
• Choose the slowest speed before start
ing 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 posi
tion and engage parking brake.
• Move gearshift lever to 1 st 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 recom
mended 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.
14
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE
CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL
The engine in your tractor has been
shipped, from the factory, already filled
with summer weight oil.
1. Check engine oil with tractor on level
ground.
2. Unthread and remove oil fill cap/
dipstick; wipe oil off. Reinsert the
dipstick into the tube and rest oil fill
cap on the tube. Do not thread the cap
onto the tube. Remove and read oil
level, if necessary, add oil until TULL’
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 filler neck. Do
not overfill. 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 quan
tities that can be used within 30 days to
assure fuel freshness.
AcaUTIQN: Wipe off any spilled oil or
fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline
near an open flame.
IMPORTANT: When operating in temper
atures below32°F(0°C), use fresh, dean
winter grade gasoline to help insure good
cold weather starting.
CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels (called
gasohoi or using ethanol or methanol) can
attract moisture which leads to separa
tion and formation of acids during storage.
Acidic gas can damage the fuel system
of an engine while in storage. To avoid
engine problems, the fuel system should
be emptied before storage of 30 days
or longer. Drain the gas tank, start the
engine and let it run until the fuel lines
and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel
next season. See Storage Instructions for
additional information. Never use engine
or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel
tank or permanent damage may occur.
TO START ENGINE
When starting the engine for the first time
or if the engine has run out of fuel, it will
take extra cranking time to move fuel from
the tank to the engine.
1. Sit on seat in operating position,
depress clutch/brake pedal and set
parking brake.
2. Place gear shift lever In neutral (N)
position.
3. Move attachment clutch to disengaged
position.
4. Move throttle control to choke position.
NOTE; Before starting, read the warm
and cold starting procedures below.
5. Insert key into ignition and turn key
clockwise to start position and release
key as soon as engine starts. Do
not run starter continuously for more
than fifteen seconds per minute. If the
engine does not start after several
attempts, move throttle control to fast
position, wait a few minutes and try
again, if engine still does not start,
move the throttle control back to the
choke position and retry.
WARM WEATHER STARTING (50° F and
above)
6. When engine starts, move the throttle
control to the fast position.
• The attachments and ground drive can
now be used. If the engine does not
accept the load, restart the engine and
allow it to warm up for one minute using
the choke as described above.
COLD WEATHER STARTING ( 50° F and
below)
6. When engine starts, leave throttle
control in choke position until engine
warms up and begins to run roughly.
Once rough running begins, imme
diately move the throttle control to the
fast position. Engine warm-up may
take from several seconds to several
minutes (the colder the temperature,
the longer the warm-up).
• The attachments can also be used dur
ing the engine warm-up period.
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).
15
COLD WEATHER STARTING ( 50“ F and
below)
6. When engine starts, leave throttle
control in choke position until engine
warms up and begins to run roughly.
Once rough running begins, imme
diately move the throttle control to the
fast position. Engine warm-up may
take from several seconds to several
minutes (the colder the temperature,
the longer the warm-up).
• The attachments can also be used dur
ing the engine warm-up period.
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).
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.
• 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 at
tachment being used.
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 recut
ting 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, the newly cut area will not be
exposed to direct sunlight.
• 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, re
duce your width of cut on each pass and
mow slowly.
MAX 1/3
If grass is extremely tall, it should be
mowed twice to reduce load and pos
sible fire hazard from dried clippings.
Make first cut relatively high; the second
to the desired height.
Do not mow grass when it is wet.
Wet grass will plug mower and leave
undesirable clumps. Allow grass to dry
before mowing.
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 sec
ond cut, mow across (perpendicular) 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.
16
MAINTENANCE
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
FILL IN DATES
AS YOU COMPLETE
REGULAR SERVICE
Check Brake Operation
Check Tire Pressure
Check Operator Presence and
Interlock Systems
Check for Loose Fasteners
Sharpen/Replace Mower Blades
Lubrication Chart
Check Battery Level
Clean Battery and Terminals
Check Transaxle Cooling
Check V-Be)ts
Check Engine Oil Level
Change Engine Oil (with oil filter)
Change Engine Oil (without oil filter)
Clean Air Filter
Clean Air Screen
Inspect Muffler/Spark Arrester
Replace Oil Filter (If equipped)
Clean Engine Cooling Fins
Replace Spark Plug
Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge
Replace Fuel Filter
1 " Change more often when operating under a heavy load or
in high ambient temperatures.
2" Service more often when operating In dirty or dusty conditions.
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this tractor does not
cover items that have been subjected to
operator abuse or negligence. To receive
ful! 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.
At least once a season, check to see if
you should make any of the adjustments
described in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual.
• At least 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-fue! mixture and help
your engine run better and last longer.
✓ ✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓ 5
✓ s
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓
✓
✓ l.2
✓ 2
✓
1^.2
✓ 2
✓ ✓
✓ 2
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--lbs, maximum.
✓
✓
✓
LUBRICATION CHART
(DSAE 30 or 10w30 Motor Oil
C?)General Purpose Grease
©Refer to Maintenance “ENGINE” Section
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.
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease the
pivot points which have special nylon
bearings. Viscous lubricants will attract
dust and dirt that wil! shorten the life of the
self-lubricating bearings. If you feel they
must be lubricated, use only a dry, pow
dered graphite type lubricant sparingly.
17
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