Craftsman 917273649 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual
CRIIFTSMHN°
LAWN TRACTOR
18.5 HP, 42" Mower Electric Start
Automatic Transmission
Model No.
917.273649
differently from previously built engines. Before you start the
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, Call:
1-800-659-5917
Sears Craftsman Help Line
5 am - 5 pm, Mon- Sat
Warranty................................................2
SafetyRules..........................................3
ProductSpecifications...........................6
AssemblyPre-Operation........................8
Operation.............................................11
Maintenance.......................................18
LIMITEDWARRANTYONCRAFTSMANRIDINGEQUIPMENT Fortwo(2) yearsfromthe date of purchase,ifthis CraftsmanRidingEquipmentis
maintained,lubricatedandtunedupaccordingto the instructionsin theowner'smanual, Searswill repairor replacefreeofchargeanyparts thatarefoundtobedefectivein
materialorworkmanshipaccordingto the guidelinesof coveragelistedbelow.Sears
will alsoprovidefree laborfor theseapplicablewarrantedpartsfor thetwofull years.
Duringthe first30 daysof purchase,therewillbe no chargesto servicetheproduct atyourhomefor issuescoveredby this warranty.(Seeexclusionsbelow). Foryour
convenience,IN HOMEwarrantyservicewillstill be availableafterthe first 30days of purchase,buta trip chargewillapply.This chargewill bewaivedif theCraftsman
productisdroppedoff at an authorizedSears location.Forthe nearestauthorizedSears location,pleasecall 1-800-4-MY-HOME®.Thiswarrantyappliesonlywhilethisproduct
iswithinthe UnitedStates. ThisWarrantydoesnotcover:
Expendableitemswhichbecomeworn duringnormal use,includingbutnot limitedto blades,sparkplugs,air cleaners,belts,and oilfilters.
StandardMaintenanceServicing,oil changes, or tune-ups
Tire replacementor repaircausedby puncturesfrom outsideobjects,suchas nails,
thorns,stumps,or glass.
Repairsnecessarybecauseofoperatorabuse,includingbut not limitedto, damage causedbytowingobjectsbeyondthe capabilityof the ridingequipment,impacting
objectsthat bendtheframeor crankshaft,or over-speedingthe engine.
Repairsnecessarybecauseofoperatornegligence,includingbutnot limitedto, elec-
trical andmechanicaldamagecausedby improperstorage,failureto usethe proper gradeand amountofengineoil, failureto keepthedeckclearofflammabledebris,
orfailureto maintainthe equipmentaccordingto the instructionscontainedin the owner'smanual.
Engine(fuelsystem)cleaningor repairscausedbyfuel determinedto be contami- natedoroxidized(stale). Ingeneral,fuel shouldbeusedwithin 30daysof its pur-
chasedate.
Normaldeteriorationandwearof theexteriorfinishes,or productlabel replacement.
Ridingequipmentusedforcommercialorrentalpurposes.
MaintenanceSchedule........................18
ServiceandAdjustments.....................22
Storage................................................29
Troubleshooting...................................30
RepairParts.........................................34
SearsService........................BackCover
LIMITEDWARRANTYONBATTERY Forninety(90)daysfrom dateofpurchase,if anybattery includedwiththis riding
equipmentprovesdefectivein materialor workmanshipandour testingdeterminesthe batterywill notholda charge,Searswill replacethebatteryat no charge. Duringthe
first 30daysof purchase,therewill benochargesto replacethe batteryat yourHOME. After thefirst 30 days,for yourconvenience,IN-HOMEwarrantyservicewillstillbeavail-
ablebuta trip chargewill apply.Thischargewillbewaivedif theCraftsmanproductis droppedoffat an authorizedSearslocation.Forthe nearestauthorizedSearslocation,
pleasecall 1-800-4-MY-HOME®. Thisbatterywarrantyappliesonlywhilethis productiswithintheUnitedStates.
Thiswarrantygivesyouspecificlegalrights,and youmay alsohaveotherrights,which vary,from stateto state.
Sears,RoebuckandCo.,Dept.817WA,HoffmanEstates,IL 60179
IMPORTANT:This cuttingmachineiscapableofamputatinghandsandfeetand throw- ingobjects.Failureto observethe followingsafetyinstructionscouldresultinserious
injuryordeath. _WARNING: Inorder topreventac-
cidentalstartingwhensettingup,trans- porting,adjustingor makingrepairs, alwaysdisconnectsparkplugwire and placewirewhereit cannotcontactspark
_iug"
WARNING: Donotcoastdownahill in
neutral,you maylosecontrolof the tractor. _WARNING: Towonlythe attachments that arerecommendedby andcomplywith specificationsofthe manufacturerof your tractor.Usecommonsensewhen towing. Operateonly atthelowestpossiblespeed whenon a slope. Tooheavyof a load, whileon a slope,is dangerous.Tirescan
losetractionwith the groundand cause
_I, WAu to lose control of your tractor.
RNING: Engine exhaust, some of its
constituents, and certain vehicle compo-
nents contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer
and birth defects or other reproductive
harm. _WARNING: Battery posts, terminals
and related accessories contain lead and
lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.
I. 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.
II. SLOPE OPERATION Slopes are a major factor related to loss-
of-control and tipover accidents, which can
result in severe injury or death. All slopes require extra caution. If you cannot back
up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not mow it.
3
DO:
Mow up and down slopes, not across.
Remove obstacles such as rooks, tree limbs, etc.
Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven
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 all movement on the slopes slow
and gradual. Do not make sudden
changes in speed or direction.
Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If
tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope.
DO NOT:
Do not turn on slopes unless neces-
sary, and then, turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.
Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches,
or embankments. The mower could suddenly turn over if a wheel is over
the edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge
caves in.
Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced
traction could cause sliding.
Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on the ground.
Do not use grass catcher on steep
slopes.
III. CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator
is not alert to the presence of children.
Children are often attracted to the machine and the mowing activity. Never assume
that children will remain where you last saw them.
Keep children out of the mowing area and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult.
Be alert and turn machine off if children
enter the area.
Before and when backing, look behind and down for small children.
Never carry children. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with
safe machine operation.
Never allow children to operate the
machine.
Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.
IV. SERVICE
Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They are flammable and vapors are explosive.
- Use only an approved container.
- Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow
engine to cool before refueling. Do not smoke.
- Never refuel the machine indoors.
- Never store the machine or fuel
container inside where there is an open flame, such as a water heater.
Never run a machine inside a closed area.
Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment bolts, tight and keep 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.
Besurethearea is clearofother people beforemowing.Stopmachineif anyone
entersthe area.
Nevercarrypassengersor children evenwiththe bladesoff.
Donotmowin reverseunlessabso- lutelynecessary.Alwayslookdownand behindbeforeandwhile backing.
Nevercarrychildren.Theymayfall off andbeseriouslyinjuredorinterferewith
safemachineoperation.
Keepchildrenout of the mowingarea andunderthewatchfulcare ofanother
responsibleadult.
Bealertandturn machineoff ifchildren enterthe area.
Beforeandwhenbacking,lookbehind anddownforsmall children.
Mowup anddownslopes(15° Max),not across.
Removeobstaclessuchasrocks,tree limbs,etc.
Watchforholes,ruts,or bumps.Uneven
terraincouldoverturnthe machine.Tall grasscan hideobstacles.
Useslowspeed.Choosea lowgear
sothat youwill nothaveto stopor shift whileon the slope.
Avoidstartingorstoppingona slope.If
tireslosetraction,disengagethe blades
andproceedslowlystraightdownthe
slope.
Ifmachinestopswhilegoinguphill,
disengageblades,shift into reverseand
backdown slowly.
Donot turn on slopesunlessnecessary,
andthen,turn slowlyandgradually downhill,if possible.
5
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Gasoline Capacity 4.0 Gallons and Type: Unleaded Regular
Oil Type SAE 30 (above 32°F)
API-SG-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 Forward: 5.5 (MPH): Reverse: 2.4
Tire Pressure: Front: 14 PSI
Rear: 10 PSI
Charging 9 Amps @ 3600RPM System:
Battery: Amp/Hr: 28
Min. CCA: 230 Case Size: U1R
Blade Bolt
Torque:
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new tractor. It has been designed, engineered and manufactured to give you the best possible dependability and performance. Should you experience any problem you cannot easily remedy, please contact 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 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.
AI_,WARNING: 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.
27-35 Ft. Lbs.
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 prod- ucts, it may require repair from time to
time. That's when having a Repair Protec- tion 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 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
7
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 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).
' Label
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 SKID (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 freewheel control in "trans- mission disengaged" position (See "TO
TRANSPORT" in the Operation section of this manual).
4. Roll tractor forward off skid.
5. Remove banding holding deflector shield up against tractor.
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 adjusted position.
5. Raise seat and tighten adjustment
knob securely.
TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Operation section for location and
function of controls)
_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. Place freewheel control in "trans- mission engaged" position. (See "TO
TRANSPORT" in the Operation section of this manual).
4. Sit onseat inoperatingposition, depressclutch/brakepedal andset the parkingbrake.
5. Placemotioncontrolleverin neutral (N)position.
6. Pressliftleverplungerandraise attachmentlift leverto its highestposi-
tion.
7. Start theengine.Afterenginehas started,movethrottlecontrolto idle position.
8. Releaseparkingbrake.
9. Slowlymovethe motioncontrollever forwardandslowlydrivetractoroff
skid.
10.Applybraketo stoptractor,set parking brakeandplacemotioncontrollever in
neutralposition.
11.Turnignition keyto "STOP"position.
Continuewiththe instructionsthatfollow.
REPOSITION RIGHT REAR GAUGE
WHEEL
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.
Deflector Shield
Plate
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 mulching blades are designed for discharging and bagging also.
CHECKTIRE PRESSURE
The tires on your tractor were overinflated
at the factory for shipping purposes. Cor-
rect tire pressure is important for best
cutting performance.
Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" section
of this manual.
INSTALL MULCHER PLATE
(If 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.
_CAUTION: Do not remove deflector
shield from mower.
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 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. 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.
9
V'CHECKLIST
Before you operate your new tractor, we
wish to assure that you receive the best
performance and satisfaction from this quality product. Please review the following checklist: ,/ All assembly 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).
v" Check mower and drive belts. Be sure
they are routed properly around pulleys and inside all belt keepers.
v" Check wiring. See that all connections
are still secure and wires are properly clamped.
v" Before driving tractor, be sure freewheel
control is in "transmission engaged" position (see "TO TRANSPORT" in the
Operation section of this manual). While learning how to use your tractor, pay extra attention to the following important
items:
v" Engine oil is at proper level. v" Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean, reg-
ular unleaded gasoline. v" Become familiar with all controls - their
location and function. Operate them
before you start the engine. v" Be sure brake system is in safe oper-
ating condition. v" It is important to purge the transmission
before operating your tractor for the first
time. Follow proper starting and trans-
mission purging instructions (See "TO
START ENGINE" and "PURGE TRANS-
MISSION" in the Operation section of
this manual).
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\1
REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW CHOKE FAST
G G
ENGINE OFF LIGHTS ON ENGINE ON ENGINE START PARKING BRAKE
t
OVER TEMP FUEL OIL PRESSURE BATTERY REVERSE FORWARD
LIGHT
®@@@@
ATTACHMENT ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH ENGAGED CLUTCH DISENGAGED
FREE WHEEL
(Automatic Models only)
DANGER, KEEP HANDS
AND FEET AWAY
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.
KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS
0#-,0
SLOW IGNITION
PARKING BRAKE PARKING BRAKE
LOCKED UNLOCKED
MOWER HEIGHT MOWER LIFT
(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)
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, if not avoided, could result in death, serious injury
and/or property damage. FIRE indicates a hazard which, if not avoided,
could result in death, serious injury and/or
property damage.
11
KN OW YOU R TRACTOR
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATINGYOUR
TRACTOR
Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of
various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
Throttle/Choke
Control
Clutch/Brake Pedal
Freewheel Control
Ignition Switch Position
Light Switch
Hourmeter Attachment
Clutch Switch
Ammeter
Lift Lever Plunger
Attachment
Lift Lever
o Height
Adjustment
Indicator
Parking Brake Lever
Motion Control Lever
Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the
American National Standards Institute.
AMMETER - Indicates charging (+) or discharging (-) of battery.
ATTACHMENT CLUTCH SWITCH - Used to engage the mower blades or other attachments
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.
MOTION CONTROL 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. FREEWHEEL CONTROL - Disengagages transmission for pushing or slowly towing the tractor with the engine off. HOURMETER - Indicates hours of op-
eration.
12
The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into the I
eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses I or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any adjustments I or repairs. We recommend standard safety glasses or a wide vision safety I
mask worn over spectacles. I
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. Push in to
Throttle/Clloke DIsengage Clutch Switch Pull
Clutch/Brake Position Parking Brake
Pedal
STOPPING
MOWER BLADES -
To stop mower blades, push attachment
clutch switch in to disengaged position.
GROUND DRIVE -
To stop ground drive, depress clutch/
brake pedal all the way down.
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 -
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.
..... Attachment
out to "Engage"
Key
Motion
"Disengaged" Control Lever
"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
opping tractor on grass areas.
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 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.
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.
The average lawn should be cut to ap- proximately 2-1/2 inches during the cool season and to over 3 inches during hot
months. For healthier and better look- ing lawns, mow often and after moder-
ate growth.
For best cutting performance, grass over 6 inches in height should be mowed twice. Make the first cut rela-
tively 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- 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 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.
_kCAUTION: Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass catcher, on mowers so equipped, or the deflector shield in place.
Attachment Clutch Switch
Pull Out To "Engage"
Push in to "Disengage"
TO OPERATE ON HILLS _I:_WARNING: 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 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.
Lift Lever High
,_Position
"1:"("'_"_ Low
Position
Deflector
Shield
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 posi- tion with attachment lift control.
2. Pull freewheel control out and down into the slot and release so it is held in
the disengaged position.
Do not push or tow tractor at more than
two (2) MPH.
To re-engage transmission, reverse
above procedure.
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.).
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.
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL
The engine in your tractor has been shipped, from the factory, already filled with summer weight oil.
1. Check engine oil with tractor on level ground.
2. Remove oil fill cap/dipstick and wipe clean, reinsert the dipstick and screw cap tight, wait for a few seconds, re-
move and read oil level. If necessary,
add oil until "FULL" mark on dipstick is
reached. Do not overfill.
For cold weather operation you should
change oil for easier starting (See the oil viscosity chart in the Maintenance section of this manual).
To change engine oil, see the Mainte- nance section in this manual.
ADD GASOLINE
Fill fuel tank to bottom of tank filler neck. Do not overfill. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87
octane. (Use of leaded gasoline will in-
crease carbon and lead oxide deposits and reduce valve life). Do not mix oil
with gasoline. Purchase fuel in quanti- ties that can be used within 30 days to assure fuel freshness.
All, CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or
fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open flame. IMPORTANT: When operating in tempera- tures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh, clean
winter grade gasoline to help insure good
cold weather starting. CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to 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.
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, allow engine
to run with the throttle control in the
choke position until the engine runs roughly, then move throttle control
to fast position. This may require an engine warm-up period from several seconds to several minutes, depending on the temperature.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WARM UP
Before driving the unit in cold weather,
the transmission should be warmed up as follows:
1. Be sure the tractor is on level ground.
2. 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.
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
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 reinstall- ation before operating the tractor.
1. Place tractor safely in an area that is flat for approximately 80 feet in front of the tractor and set the parking brake.
2. 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.
3. Slowly move motion control lever to full forward position and hold for five
(5) seconds, or approximately 40 feet. Slowly move lever to full reverse posi-
tion and hold for five (5) seconds, or approximately 20 feet. After the tractor
moves approximately 20 feet in reverse return the motion control lever to the
neutral (N) position. Repeat this proce-
dure three (3) times.
Your transmission is now purged and now ready for normal operation.
16
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 trac- tor. This will result in a more even distri-
bution of clippings and more uniform cutting.
When mowing large areas, start by turning to the right so that clippings will discharge away from shrubs, fences, driveways, etc. After one or two rounds, mow in the opposite direction making
left hand turns until finished.
MULCHING MOWING TIPS IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep
mower housing free of built-up grass and
trash. Clean after each use.
The special mulching blade will recut the grass clippings many times and
reduce them in size so that as they fall
onto the lawn they will disperse into the grass and not be noticed. Also, the
mulched grass will biodegrade quickly
to provide nutrients for the lawn. Always
mulch with your highest engine (blade) speed as this will provide the best 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.
( "
,_ ,.J
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 mow-
ing 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.
00272
Max 1/3
Certain types of grass and grass conditions may require that an area be mulched a second time to completely hide the clippings. When doing a 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.
17
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