Craftsman 917273600 Owner’s Manual
Owner's Manual
CRI FTSMIIN°
T
18.5 HR 42" Mower
Electric Start
Automatic Transmission
Model No.
917.273600
i]_ his product has a low emission engine which operates
Read and follow alJ 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
differently from previously built engines. Before you start the
engine, read and understand this Owner's Manual.
For answers to your questions about
this product, Call:
1°800°659°5917
Sears Craftsman Help Line
5 am - 5 pm, Mon - Sat
Warranty ................................................. 2
Safety Rules ........................................... 3
Product Specifications ............................ 6
Assembly/Pre-Operation ........................ 8
Operation .............................................. 11
Maintenance Schedule ......................... 18
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 puF
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;
o 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
o Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails,
thorns, stumps, or glass.
o 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.
o 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.
o 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.
o Normal deterioration and wear of the exterior finishes, or product label replacement.
Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.
Maintenance ......................................... 18
Service and Adjustments ...................... 22
Storage ................................................. 29
Troubleshooting .................................... 30
Repair Parts .......................................... 34
Sears Service ......................... Back Cover
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
IMPORTANT:Thiscuttingmachineiscapableof amputatinghandsandfeet and throw-
ingobjects.Failureto observethe followingsafetyinstructionscouldresultin serious
injuryor death.
_IWARNING: In ordertopreventac- °
cidentatstartingwhen settingup,trans-
porting,adjustingor makingrepairs,
alwaysdisconnectsparkplugwireand
placewirewhereitcannotcontactspark
plug.
_I_WARNING: Do notcoastdown a hillin
neutral,you maylosecontrolofthetractor.
_IWARNING: Towonlythe attachments
that are recommendedbyandcomplywith o
specificationsof the manufacturerofyour o
tractor.Usecommonsensewhen towing.
Operateonly at the lowestpossiblespeed o
whenon a slope. Tooheavyof a load,
while on aslope,isdangerous. Tirescan o
losetractionwiththe groundandcause
you to losecontrolof yourtractor, o
_IWARNmNG:Engineexhaust,someof
itsconstituents,and certainvehiclecom- °
ponentscontainor emitchemicalsknown
to the Stateof Californiato causecancer
andbirthdefectsor other reproductive °
harm.
_:_IWARNING:Batteryposts,terminals
andrelatedaccessoriescontainleadand
leadcompounds,chemicalsknownto the
Stateof Californiato causecancerand
birthdefectsorother reproductiveharm.
Wash hands after handling.
L GENERAL OPERATION
o Read,understand,andfollowall instruc-
tions inthe manualandon themachine
beforestarting.
o Onlyallowresponsibleadults,who are
familiarwith the instructions,tooperate
themachine.
o Clearthe areaof objectssuch as rocks,
toys,wire, etc., whichcouldbe picked
up andthrownby the blade.
o Besurethe area is clearofother people
beforemowing.Stop machineif anyone
entersthe area.
o Nevercarrypassengers.
o Do notmowin reverseunlessabso-
lutelynecessary.Alwayslookdown and
behindbeforeandwhile backing.
Beawareof the mowerdischargedirec-
tion anddo not pointit at anyone. Do
notoperatethe mowerwithouteither
the entiregrasscatcheror theguard in
place.
Slowdownbeforeturning.
Neverleavea runningmachineunat-
tended. Alwaysturn off blades,set
parkingbrake,stopengine,and remove
keysbeforedismounting.
Turnoff bladeswhennot mowing.
Stopenginebeforeremovinggrass
catcheror uncloggingchute.
Mowonly in daylightorgood artificial
light.
Donot operatethemachinewhile under
the influenceof alcoholor drugs.
Watchfortrafficwhenoperatingnearor
crossingroadways.
Useextracarewhenloadingor un-
loadingthe machineintoatraileror
truck.
Dataindicatesthatoperators,age60
yearsand above,are involvedina large
percentageof ridingmower-relatedin-
juries. Theseoperatorsshouldevaluate
their abilityto operatethe ridingmower
safelyenoughto protectthemselvesand
othersfrom seriousinjury.
Keepmachinefree ofgrass, leavesor
other debrisbuild-upwhichcantouch
hotexhaust/ 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.
H. SLOPE OPERATmON
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 Mowup anddownslopes,notacross.
o Removeobstaclessuch as rocks,tree
limbs,etc.
o Watchfor holes,ruts,orbumps. Un-
eventerraincouldoverturnthe machine.
Taft 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 recommend-
ations for wheel weights or counter-
weights to improve stability.
o Use extra care with grass catchers or
other attachments. These can change
the stability of the machine.
o Keep all movement on the slopes slow
and gradual Do not make sudden
changes in speed or direction.
o Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If
tires lose traction, disengage the blades
and proceed slowly straight down the
slope.
DO NOT:
Do not turn on slopes unless neces-
sary, and then, turn slowly and gradually
downhill, if possible.
o 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.
o Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced
traction could cause sliding.
o Do not try to stabilize the machine by
putting your foot on the ground.
o Do not use grass catcher on steep
slopes.
HI. 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. Neveras-
sume that children will remain where you
last saw them.
o 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.
o Before and when backing, look behind
and down for small children.
o Never carry children. They may fall off
and be seriously injured or interfere with
safe machine operation.
o Never allow children to operate the
machine.
o Use extra care when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.
inV.SERVmCE
o Use extra care in handling gasoline and
other fuels. They are flammable and
vapors are explosive.
- Use only an approved container.
- Never remove gas cap or add fuel
with the engine running. Allow
engine to cool before refueling. Do
not smoke.
- Never refuel the machine indoors.
- Never store the machine or fuel
container inside where there is an
open flame, such as a water heater.
o Never run a machine inside a closed
area.
o 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.
o Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or
other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel
spillage. Allow machine to cool before
storing.
o Stop and inspect the equipment if you
strike an object. Repair, if necessary,
before restarting.
o Never make adjustments or repairs with
the engine running.
o 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.
o Mower blades are sharp and can cut.
Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and
use extra caution when servicing them.
o Check brake operation frequently. Ad-
just and service as required.
o Besurethe area is clearofother people
beforemowing.Stopmachineif anyone
entersthe area.
o Nevercarrypassengersor children
evenwith thebladesoff.
o Do notmowin reverseunlessabsom
lutelynecessary.Alwayslookdown and
behindbeforeandwhile backing.
o Nevercarrychildren.Theymayfall off
andbe seriouslyinjuredorinterferewith
safemachineoperation.
o Keepchildrenoutof themowingarea
andunderthe watchfulcare ofanother
responsibleadult.
o Bealert andturn machineoff ifchildren
enterthe area.
o Beforeandwhenbacking,lookbehind
anddownfor smallchildren.
o Mowup anddownslopes (15° Max),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 Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If
tires lose traction, disengage the blades
and proceed slowly straight down the
slope.
o If machine stops while going uphill,
disengage blades, shift into reverse and
back down slowly.
o Do not turn on slopes unless necessary,
and then, turn slowly and gradually
downhill, if possible.
PRODUCT SPECiFiCATiONS
Gasoline 4.0
Capacityand Unleaded
Type: Regular
OilType SAE30 (above32°F)
'APFSG-SL): SAE 5W-30(below 32°F
Oil Capacity: W/Filter: 3.5 Pints
W/O Filter: 3.0 Pints
Spark Plug: Champion RC12YC
(Gap: .030")
Ground Speed
(MPH):
Tire Pressure: Front: 14 PSI
Charging System: 9 Amps @3600 RPM
Battery: Amp/Hr: 28
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".
CUSTOMER RESPONSJBJLmES
o Read and observe the safety rules.
o Follow a regular schedule in main-
taining, caring for and using your tractor.
o Follow the instructions under"Mainte-
nance" and "Storage" sections of this
owner's manual.
_IWARNJNG: 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
attester 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.
Forward:
t st 1.2
2nd 1.5
3rd 2.4
4th 3.5
5th 4.8
6th 5.3
Reverse: 1.5
Rear: t0 PSI
Min. CCA: 230
Case Size: U1R
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
Congratulations on making a smart pup
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:
o Expert service by our 12,000 profe-
sional repair specialists.
o Unlimited service and no charge for
parts and labor on alJ covered repairs.
o Product replacement if your covered
product can't be fixed.
o Discount of 10% from regular price of
service and service-related parts not
covered by the agreement; also, t0%
off regular price of preventive mainte-
nance check.
o 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 call 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®
Mower Leveling Wrench
)
Keys
(2) Keys
(1) Oil Drain Tube
For Future Use
Slope Sheet
Bubble Level
Video Cassette
r_
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 when you are in the oper-
ating position (seated behind the steering wheel).
TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM
CARTON
UNPACK CARTON
1. Cut along dotted lines on all four pan=
els of carton. Remove end panels and
lay side panels flat.
2. Remove protective materials from trac=
tor hood and grille.
iMPORTANT: Check for and remove any
staples in skid that may puncture tires
where tractor is to roll off skid.
HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR
CHECK BATTERY
1. Lift hood to raised position.
NOTE: If this battery is put into service af=
ter month and year indicated on label (label
located between terminals) charge battery
for minimum of one hour at 6=10 amps.
(See "BATTERY" in Maintenance section
of this manual for charging instructions).
',_iii: !i ....
ADJUST SEAT
1. Raise seat and loosen adjustment
knob.
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 ad=
justed position.
5. Raise seat and tighten adjustment
knob securely.
Adjustment
Knob
NOTE: You may now roll or drive your
tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate
instruction below to remove the tractor
from the skid.
TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKmD (See
Operation section for mocation and
function of controms}
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 DRmVE TRACTOR OFF SKmD (See
Operation section for mocation and
function of controms)
_,WARNING: 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 all the above assembly steps
have been completed.
2. Check engine oil level and fill fuel tank
with gasoline.
3. Sit on seat in operating position,
depress clutch/brake pedal and set the
parking brake.
4. Place gear shift lever in neutral (N)
position.
5. Press lift lever plunger and raise
attachment lift lever to its highest 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
gearshift 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
neutrat position.
10. Turn ignition key to "STOP" position.
Continue with the instructions that follow.
REPOSITmON RmGHT REAR GAUGE
For shipping purposes, the right rear
gauge wheel assembly is mounted upside
down on the mower. Remove the gauge
wheel assembly and reinstall from the
bottom as shown. To adjust gauge wheels,
see the Operation section in this manual.
mNSTALL MULCHER PLATE
(ff previously removed)
1. Raise and hold deflector shield in
upright position.
2. Place front of mulcher plate over front
of mower deck opening and slide into
place, as shown.
3. Hook front latch into hole on front of
mower deck.
4. Hook rear latch into hole on back of
mower deck.
_IOAUTION: Do not remove deflector
shield from mower.
Deflector
Shield
Mulcher
Latch
Hooks
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 mutcher blades are designed
for discharging and bagging also.
CHECKTIRE PRESSURE
The tires on your tractor were overin-
flated at the factory for shipping purposes.
Correct tire pressure is important for best
cutting performance.
o 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 FOR PROPER POSmTmON
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.
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.
,/CHECKL IS T
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 properly around pulleys
and inside all belt keepers.
,/Check wiring. See that atl 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.
10
These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product.
Learn and understand their meaning.
R N H L I'-,I
REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW CHOKE FAST
SLOW IGNITION
G G
ENGINE OFF LIGHTS ON ENGINE ON ENGINE START PARKING BRAKE
PARKING BRAKE PARKING BRAKE
LOCKED UNLOCKED
OVER TEMP FUEL OIL PRESSURE
LIGHT
ATTACHMENT ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH ENGAGED CLUTCH DISENGAGED
FREE 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.
BATTERY REVERSE FORWARD
®@@@@
DANGER, KEEP HANDS
AND FEET AWAY
DANGER indicatesa 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 indicatesa hazard which, if not avoided,
&
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.
HOT SURFACES indicatesa hazard which,
if not avoided, 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.
KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS
MOWER HEIGHT MOWER LIFT
(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)
11
KN OW YOU R TRACTOR
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR
TRACTOR
Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of
various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
ht Switch
Hourmeter
Ignition Switch
Position
Attachment
Clutch Lever
Lift Lever
Plunger
Throttle/Choke
Control
Clutch/Brake
Pedal
Freewheel
Control -_
Attachment
Lift Lever
Height
Adjustment
Lever
Parking Brake Lever
Motion Control
Lever
28O7
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 LmFT 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.
MOTmON CONTROL LEVER - Selects the
speed and direction of tractor.
FREEWHEEL CONTROL - Disengages
transmission for pushing or slowly towing
the tractor with the engine off.
IGNmTmON SWITCH - Used for starting and
stopping the engine.
MFT LEVER PLUNGER _ Used to release
attachment lift lever when changing its
position.
LIGHT SWITCH POSmTION - Turns the
headlights on and off.
PARKmNG BRAKE LEVER _ Locks clutch/
brake pedal into the brake position,
THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL _ Used
for starting and controlling engine speed,
HOURMETER - Indicates hours of op_
eration,
12
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 PARKmNG 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.
Throttle/Choke
Clut_
Pedal
"Disengaged"
Position "Brake"
Position
STOPPING
MOWER BLADES -
o To stop mower blades, move attachment
clutch lever to disengaged position.
GROUND DRWE -
o To stop ground drive, depress clutch/
brake pedal all the way down.
o Move motion control lever to neutral (N)
position.
iMPORTANT: The motion control lever
does not return to neutral (N) position
when the clutch!brake pedal is depressed.
ENGINE -
o 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".
o Turn ignition key to "STOP" position and
remove key. Always remove key when
leaving tractor to prevent unauthorized
use,
o Never use choke to stop engine.
Attachment Clutch Lever
"Engage" Position
"Disengage"
Position
Ignition
Motion
Control
Lever
Parking Brake
"Engaged" Position
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.
,_CAUTmON: Always stop tractor com-
pletely, as described above, before leaving
the operator's position.
TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL
Always operate engine at full throttle.
o Operating engine at less than full
throttle reduces the battery charging
rate.
o Full throttle offers the best bagging and
mower performance.
TO MOVE FORWARD AND
BACKWARD
The direction and speed of movement is
controlled by the motion control lever.
1. Start tractor with motion control lever in
neutral (N) position.
2. Release parking brake.
3. Slowly move motion control lever to
desired position.
TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT
The position of the attachment lift lever
determines the cutting height.
o Grasp lift lever.
o 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.
o The average lawn should be cut to approxi-
mately 2q/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.
o 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.
13
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 de m
sired 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
Clevis
Pin
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 equipm
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.
_/ICAUTmON: Do not operate the mower
without either the entire grass catcher,
on mowers so equipped, or the deflector
shield in place,
Attachment Clutch Lever
"Engage" Position
"Disengag
Position
TO OPERATE ON HmLLS
_,WARNmNG: 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.
o Choose the slowest speed before starb
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 motion control lever to neutral (N)
position,
IMPORTANT: The motion control lever
does not return to neutral (N) position
when the clutch/brake pedal is depressed,
. To restart movement, slowly release
parking brake and clutch/brake pedal,
. Slowly move motion control lever 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 remengage transmission, reverse
above procedure,
Deflector
Shield
14
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.).
TOWmNG 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.
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGmNE
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, re-
move and read oil level. If necessary,
add oil until "FULL:' mark on dipstick is
reached. Do not overfill.
o For cold weather operation you should
change oil for easier starting (See the
oil viscosity chart in the Maintenance
section of this manual).
o To change engine oil, see the Mainte-
nance section in this manual.
ADD GASOUNE
o 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.
_,CAUTION: 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, 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 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. Be sure freewheel control is in the
transmission engaged position.
2. Sit on seat in operating position,
depress clutch/brake pedal and set
parking brake.
3. Place motion control lever in neutral
(N) position.
4. Move attachment clutch to disengaged
position.
5. Move throttle control to choke position.
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, 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.
15
WARM WEATHER STARTING (50 ° F and
above)
7. When engine starts, move the throttle
control to the fast position.
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 for one minute using
the choke as described above.
COLD WEATHER STARTING ( 50 ° F and
below)
7. 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 severat
minutes (the colder the temperature,
the longer the warm-up).
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. Place the motion control lever in
neutral. Release the parking brake
and let the clutch/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.
o The attachments can also be used dur-
ing the engine warm-up period after the
transmission has been warmed up.
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).
PURGE TRANSMISSION
_ICAUTiON: Never engage or dis-
engage freewheel lever while the engine
is running.
To ensure proper operation and per-
formance, it is recommended that the
transmission be purged before operating
tractor for the first time. This procedure will
remove any trapped air inside the trans-
mission which may have developed during
shipping of your tractor.
iMPORTANT: Should your transmission
require removal for service or replace-
ment, it should be purged after reinstatl-
ation 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 posi-
tion (See "TO 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. With
motion control lever in neutral (N)
position, slowly disengage clutch/brake
pedal.
4. Move motion control lever to full
forward position and hold for five (5)
seconds. Move lever to full reverse
position and hold for five (5) seconds.
Repeat this procedure three (3) times.
NOTE: During this step there will be no
movement of drive wheels. The air is being
removed from hydraulic drive system.
5. Move motion control lever to neutral
(N) position. Shutoff engine and set
parking brake.
6. Engage transmission by placing free-
wheel control in engaged position (See
"TO 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.
With motion control lever in neutral (N)
position, slowly disengage clutch/brake
pedal.
8. Slowly move motion control lever for-
ward, after the tractor moves approxi-
mately five (5) feet, slowly move motion
control lever to reverse position. After
the tractor moves approximately five
(5) feet return the motion control lever
to the neutral (N) position. Repeat this
procedure with the motion control lever
three (3) times.
Your transmission is now purged and now
ready for normal operation.
16
MOWING TIPS
o Mower should be properly leveled for
best mowing performance. See "TO
LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the
Service and Adjustments section of this
manual,
o The left hand side of mower should be
used for trimming.
o 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.
o 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,
f
..........S
MULCHING MOWING TIPS
IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep
mower housing free of built-up grass and
trash. Clean after each use.
o 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,
o 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,
00272
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.
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,
MAX 1/3
o 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,
o 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,
17
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