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 equip
ment.
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.
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.
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 wil 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
2
Page 3
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.
^WARNING; In order to prevent ac
cidental starting when setting up, trans
porting, adjusting or making repairs,
always disconnect spark plug wire and
place wire where it cannot contact spark
plug.
A WARNING: Do not coast down a hill in
neutral, you may lose control of the tractor.
^WARNING: 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.
^WARNING: 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.
A 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 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.
Page 4
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 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 ma
chine 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.
Page 5
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, look behind
and down for small children.
Mow up and down slopes (15° Max), not
across.
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.
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.
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”.
Page 6
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
required by law (Section 4442 of the
California Public Resources Code). Other
states may have similar laws. Federal
laws apply on federal lands. A spark ar
rester 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 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-HOIVIE®
Mower
Leveling Wrench
PARTS BAG CONTENTS
Keys
(2) Keys
Video Cassette
(1) Oil Drain Tube
For Future Use
Slope Sheet
Bubble Level
Page 7
ASSEMBLY/PRE-OPERATION
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 operating 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 packing materials.
3. Remove protective materials from trac
tor hood and grille.
IMPORTANT: Check for and remove any
staplesin skid that may puncture tires
where tractor is to roll off skid.
HOWTO 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
tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate
instruction below to remove the tractor
from the skid.
NOTE: You may now roil 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.
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.
TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See
Operation section for location and
function of controls)
^WARNING: Before starting, read, un
derstand and follow ail 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 Operation section of
this manual).
4. Sit on seat in operating position,
depress clutch/brake pedal and set the
parking brake.
Page 8
5. Place motion control lever in neutral
(N) position.
6. Press lift lever plunger and raise
attachment lift lever to its highest posi
tion.
7. Start the engine. After engine has
started, move throttle control to idle
position.
8. Release parking brake.
9. Slowly move the motion control lever
forward and slowly drive tractor off
skid.
10. Apply brake to stop tractor, set parking
brake and place motion control lever in
neutral position.
11 .Turn ignition key to "STOP" position.
Continue with the instructions that follow.
CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
The tires on your tractor were overinflated
at the factory for shipping purposes. Cor
rect 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 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.
/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).
/ Check mower and drive belts. Be sure
they are routed properly around pulleys
and inside all belt keepers.
/ Check wiring. See that all connections
are still secure and wires are properly
clamped.
/ Before driving tractor, be sure freewheel
control is in “transmission engaged” po
sition (see “To Transport” in the Opera
tion section of this manual).
While learning how to use your tractor, pay
extra attention to the following important
items:
/ Engine oil is at proper level.
/ Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean, regu
lar unleaded gasoline.
/ Become familiar with all controls, their
location and function. Operate them
before you start the engine.
/ Be sure brake system is in safe operat
ing condition.
/ 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).
8
Page 9
OPERATION
These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product.
Learn and understand their meaning.
RN
REVERSE
NEUTRAL
H
HIGHLOW
L
141
CHOKE fast
•m
SLOW
IGNITION
(Й
a|
ENGINE OFF
SI
OVER TEMP
LIGHT
ATTACHMENT ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH ENGAGED CLUTCH DISENGAGED DANGER, KEEP HANDS KEEP AREA CLEAR
(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.
LIGHTS ON
i
FUEL OIL PRESSUREBATTERY
FREEWHEEL
A
(§)
ENGINE ON
0
ENGINE START PARKING BRAKE
a
AND FEET AWAY
DANGER indicates a hazard which, if not avoided,
will result in death or serious injury.
A
WARNING indicates a hazard which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury.
A
CAUTION indicates a hazard which, if not avoided,
might result in minor or moderate injury.
A
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,
iltosiB 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.
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.
Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the
American National Standards Institute,
ATTACHMENT CLUTCH SWITCH - Used
to engage the mower blades, or other at
tachments mounted to your tractor.
LIGHT SWITCH POSITION - Turns the
headlights on and off.
THROTTLE CONTROL - Used to control
engine speed.
CHOKE CONTROL - Used when starting
a cold engine.
CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL - Used for
declutching and braking the tractor and
starting the engine.
FREEWHEEL CONTROL - Disengages
transmission for pushing or slowly towing
the tractor with the engine off.
ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER - Used to
raise, lower and adjust the mower deck or
other attachments mounted to your tractor.
LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to release
attachment lift lever when changing its
position.
IGNITION SWITCH - Used for starting and
stopping the engine.
AMMETER - Indicates battery charging
(+) or discharging (-).
PARKING BRAKE - Locks clutch/brake
into the brake position.
MOTION CONTROL LEVER - Selects the
speed and direction of the tractor.
HOURMETER - Indicates hours of opera
tion.
10
Page 11
The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into
the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety
glasses or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any
adjustments or repairs. We recommend standard safety glasses or a
wide vision safety mask worn over spectacles.
HOWTO 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.
Choke
Control
Throttle
Control
“Brake”
Position
Brake
Peda
“Drive”
Position
Push-In to
“Disengaged
^0
“Disengaged” \ Control Lever
Position Parking Brake
“Engaged” Position
Attachment Clutch
Switch Pull Out To
“Engage”
Motion'
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.
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 run
ning, hot engine exhaust gases may cause
“browning” of grass. To eliminate this pos
sibility, always stop engine when stopping
tractor on grass areas.
^CAUTION: Always stop tractor com
pletely, as described above, before leaving
the operator's position.
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 USE CHOKE CONTROL
Use choke control whenever you are start
ing a cold engine. Do not use to start a
warm engine.
• To engage choke control, pull knob out.
Slowly push knob in to disengage.
TO MOVE FORWARD AND
BACKWARD
The direction and speed of movement is
controlled by the 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 approxi
mately 2-1/2 inches during the cool season
and to over 3 inches during hot months.
For healthier and better looking lawns, mow
often and after moderate growth.
• For best cutting performance, grass over
6 inches in height should be mowed
twice. Make the first cut relatively high;
the second to desired height.
11
Page 12
TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS
Gauge wheels are properly adjusted
when they are slightly off the ground when
mower is at the desired cutting height in
operating position. Gauge wheels then
keep the deck in proper position to help
prevent scalping in most terrain conditions.
NOTE: Be sure tractor is on a flat level surface.
1. Lower mower and adjust mower to
desired cutting height.
2. Remove retainer spring and clevis pin
which secure each gauge wheel bar.
3. Lower gauge wheels to ground. Raise
gauge wheels slightly to align holes
in bracket and gauge wheel bar and
insert clevis pin. Gauge wheels should
be slightly off the ground.
4. Replace retainer spring into clevis pin.
5. Be sure all gauge wheels are in the
same setting.
IMPORTANT: Be sure to readjust gauge
wheels if you change the cutting height
of the mower deck.
Retainer Spring
TO OPERATE MOWER
Your tractor is equipped with an operator
presence sensing switch. Any attempt
by the operator to leave the seat with the
engine running and the attachment clutch
engaged will shut off the engine. 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 with
out either the entire grass catcher, on mowers
so equipped, or the deflector shield in place.
Push In To “Disengage” Attachment
Attachment
Clutch Switch
Pull Out To
“Engage”
" Lift Lever
High
Position
Low
Position
Deflector
Shield
12
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 provided 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.
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.
Pull freewheel control out and down
into the slot and release so it is held in
the disengaged position.
Do not push or tow tractor at more than
two (2) MPH.
To re-engage transmission, reverse
above procedure.
Transmission Engaged
Transmission Disengaged
NOTE; To protect hood from damage when
transporting your tractor on a truck or a
trailer, be sure hood is closed and secured
to tractor. Use an appropriate means of
tying hood to tractor (rope, cord, etc.).
TOWING CARTS AND OTHER 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.
Page 13
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 “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
increase 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.
AcAUTION: 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.
Place motion control lever in neutral
(N) position.
4.
Move attachment clutch to disengaged
Dosition.
5.
VIove throttle control to fast position
^ull choke control out for a cold engine start
6.
attempt. For a warm engine start attempt
the choke control may not be needed.
NOTE: Before starting, read the warm and
cold starting procedures below.
7. Insert key into ignition and turn key
clockwise to start position and release
key as soon as engine starts. Do not run
starter continuously for more than fifteen
seconds per minute. If the engine does
not start after several attempts, push
choke control in, wait a few minutes and
try again. If engine still does not start, pull
the choke control out and retry.
WARM WEATHER STARTING (50° F and
above)
8. When engine starts, slowly push choke
control in until the engine begins to
run smoothly. If the engine starts to
run roughly, pull the choke control out
slightly for a few seconds and then
continue to push the control in slowly.
• The attachments and ground drive can
now be used. If the engine does not
accept the load, restart the engine and
allow it to warm up for one minute using
the choke as described above.
COLD WEATHER STARTING (50° F and
below)
8. When engine starts, slowly push choke
control in until the engine begins to run
smoothly. Continue to push the choke
control in small steps allowing the en
gine to accept small changes in speed
and load, until the choke control is fully
in. If the engine starts to run roughly,
pull the choke control out slightly for a
few seconds and then continue to push
the control in slowly. This may require
an engine warm-up period from several
seconds to several minutes, depending
on the temperature.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WARM UP
Before driving the unit in cold weather,
the transmission should be warmed up as
follows:
1. Be sure the tractor is on level ground.
2. Place the motion control lever in
neutral. Release the parking brake and
let the clutch/brake slowly return to
operating position.
13
Page 14
3. Allow one minute for transmission to
warm up. This can be done during the
engine warm up period.
• The attachments can be used during
the engine warm-up period after the
transmission has been warmed up and
may require the choke control be pulled
out slightly.
NOTE: if at a high altitude (above 3000 feet)
or in cold temperatures (below 32 F) the
carburetor fuel mixture may need to be ad
justed for best engine performance (see “TO
ADJUST CARBURETOR” in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual).
PURGE TRANSMISSION
^CAUTION: Never engage or disengage
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 reinstall
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 throt
tle 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, slowiy 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.
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.
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.
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.
✓✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
SERVICE DATES
✓ 5✓
✓✓
✓✓
✓
✓
1,2
✓
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.
Do not overtighten.
✓
✓
✓
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this tractor does not
cover items that have been subjected to
operator abuse or negligence. To receive
full value from the warranty, operator
must maintain 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-fuel mixture and help
your engine run better and last longer.
BEFORE EACH USE
1.
Check engine oil level.
2.
Check brake operation.
3.
Check tire pressure.
4.
Check operator presence and
interlock systems for proper operation.
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease the
pivot points which have special nylon
bear-ings. Viscous lubricants will attract
dust and dirt that will shorten the life of the
self-lubricating bearings. If you feel they
must be lubricated, use only a dry, pow
dered graphite type lubricant sparingly.
15
Page 16
TRACTOR
Always observe safety rules when per
forming any maintenance.
BRAKE OPERATION
If tractor requires more than five (5) feet to
stop at highest speed in highest gear on a
level, dry concrete or paved surface, then
brake must be checked and adjusted. (See
“TO ADJUST BRAKE” in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual).
TIRES
• Maintain proper air pressure in all tires
(See “PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS”
section of this manual).
• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect
control chemicals which can harm rubber.
• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp
objects and other hazards that may
cause tire damage.
NOTE: To seal tire punctures and prevent
flat tires due to slow leaks, tire sealant
may be purchased from your local parts
dealer. Tire sealant also prevents tire dry
rot and corrosion.
OPERATOR PRESENCE SYSTEM
Be sure that operator presence and
interlock systems are working properly. If
your tractor does not function as described
below, repair the problem immediately.
• The engine should not start unless
the brake pedal is fully depressed and
attachment clutch control is in the disen
gaged position.
• When the engine is running, any at
tempt by the operator to leave the seat
without first setting the parking brake
should shut off the engine.
• When the engine is running and the
attachment clutch is engaged, any at
tempt by the operator to leave the seat
should shut off the engine.
• The attachment clutch should never op
erate unless the operator is in the seat.
BLADE CARE
For best results mower blades must be
kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged
blades.
IMPORTANT: To ensure proper assembly,
center hole in blade must align with star
on mandrel assembly.
4. Install and tighten blade bolt securely
(45-55 Ft. Lbs. torque).
IMPORTANT; Special blade bolt is heat
treated. , ,
Trailing Assembly
Mandrel
TO SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend sharp
ening blade - but if you do, be sure the
blade is balanced.
Care should be taken to keep the blade
balanced. An unbalanced blade will cause
excessive vibration and eventual damage
to mower and engine.
• The blade can be sharpened with a file
or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt
to sharpen while on the mower.
• To check blade balance, you will need a
5/8" diameter steel bolt, pin, or a cone
balancer. (When using a cone balancer,
follow the instructions supplied with
balancer.)
NOTE: Do not use a nail for balancing
blade. The lobes of the center hole may
appear to be centered, but are not.
• Slide blade on to an unthreaded portion
of the steel bolt or pin and hold the
bolt or pin parallel with the ground. If
blade is balanced, it should remain in a
horizontal position. If either end of the
blade moves downward, sharpen the
heavy end until the blade is balanced.
BLADE REMOVAL
1. Raise mower to highest position to al
low access to blades.
NOTE: Protect your hands with gloves
and/or wrap blade with heavy cloth.
2. Remove blade bolt by turning counter
clockwise.
3. Install new or resharpened blade with
stamped "THIS SIDE UP" facing deck
and mandrel assembly.
BATTERY
Your tractor has a battery charging system
which is sufficient for normal use. How
ever, periodic charging of the battery with
an automotive charger will extend its life.
• Keep battery and terminals clean.
• Keep battery bolts tight.
• Keep small vent holes open.
Recharge at 6-10 amperes for 1 hour.
16
Page 17
NOTE: The original equipment battery on
your tractor is maintenance free. Do not
attempt to open or remove caps or covers.
Adding or checking level of electrolyte is
not necessary.
TO CLEAN BATTERY AND TERMINALS
Corrosion and dirt on the battery and
terminals can cause the battery to “leak”
power.
1. Remove terminal guard.
2. Disconnect BLACK battery cable first
then RED battery cable and remove
battery from tractor.
3. Rinse the battery with plain water and
dry.
4. Clean terminals and battery cable ends
with wire brush until bright.
5. Coat terminals with grease or petro
leum jelly.
6. Reinstall battery (See “REPLACING
BATTERY" in the SERVICE AND AD
JUSTMENTS section of this manual).
TRANSAXLE COOLING
The transmission fan and cooling fins
should be kept clean to assure proper
cooling.
Do not attempt to clean fan or transmis
sion while engine is running or while the
transmission is hot. To prevent possible
damage to seals, do not use high pressure
water or steam to clean transaxle.
• Inspect cooling fan to be sure fan blades
are intact and clean.
• Inspect cooling fins for dirt, grass clip
pings and other materials. To prevent
damage to seals, do not use com
pressed air or high pressure sprayer to
clean cooling fins.
TRANSAXLE PUMP FLUID
The transaxle was sealed at the factory
and fluid maintenance is not required for
the life of the transaxle. Should the trans
axle ever leak or require servicing, contact
a sears or other qualified service center.
V-BELTS
Check V-belts for deterioration and wear
after 100 hours of operation and replace
if necessary. The belts are not adjustable.
Replace belts if they begin to slip from
wear.
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Only use high quality detergent oil rated
with API service classification SG-SL. Se
lect the oil’s SAE viscosity grade according
to your expected operating temperature.
SAE VISCOSITY GRADES
] I I
30 32 40 60 80 100
TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE
Change the oil after every 50 hours of op
eration or at least once a year if the tractor
is not used for 50 hours in one year.
Check the crankcase oil level before start
ing the engine and after each eight (8)
hours of operation.
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
Determine temperature range expected
before oil change. All oil must meet API
service classification SG-SL.
• Be sure tractor is on level surface.
• Oil will drain more freely when warm.
• Catch oil In a suitable container.
1. Remove oil fill cap/dipstick. Be careful
not to allow dirt to enter the engine
when changing oil.
2. Remove yellow cap from end of drain
valve and install the drain tube onto the
fitting.
Closed
and
Locked
Position
Yellow Cap
3. Unlock drain valve by pushing inward
slightly and turning counterclockwise.
4. To open, pull out on the drain valve.
5. After oil has drained completely, close
and lock the drain valve by pushing
inward and turning clockwise until the
pin is in the locked position as shown.
6. Remove the drain tube and replace the
cap onto the end of the drain valve.
7. Refill engine with oil through oil fill dip
stick tube. Pour slowly. Do not overfill.
For approximate capacity see “PROD
UCT SPECIFICATIONS” section of this
manual.
8. Use gauge on oil fill cap/dipstick for
checking level. Insert dipstick into
the tube and rest the oil fill cap on the
tube. Do not thread the cap onto the
tube when taking reading. Keep oil
at “FULL’ line on dipstick. Tighten cap
onto the tube securely when finished.
17
-10 0 10 20 30 40
Oil Drain Valve
\' i,-^1 \y
Drain
_ Tube
I I i
Page 18
ENGINE OIL FILTER
Replace the engine oil filter every season
or every other oil change if the tractor is
used more than 100 hours in one year.
AIR FILTER
Your engine will not run properly using a
dirty air filter. Clean the foam pre-cleaner
after every 25 hours of operation or every
season. Service paper cartridge every
100 hours of operation or every season,
whichever occurs first.
Service air cleaner more often under
dusty conditions.
1. Loosen knob and remove cover.
TO SERVICE PRE-CLEANER
2. Slide foam pre-cleaner off cartridge.
3. Wash it in liquid detergent and water.
4. Squeeze it dry in a clean cloth. Allow
it to dry.
5. Saturate it in engine oil. Wrap it in
clean, absorbent cloth and squeeze to
remove excess oil.
TO SERVICE CARTRIDGE
• Replace a dirty, bent, or damaged car
tridge.
NOTE: Do not wash the paper cartridge
or use pressurized air, as this will damage
the cartridge.
1. Remove nut and cartridge plate.
2. Reinstall the pre-cleaner (cleaned and
oiled) over the paper cartridge.
3. Check rubber seal for damage and
proper position around stud. Replace
if necessary.
4. Reassemble air cleaner, cartridge
plate, and nut.
5. Reinstall air cleaner cover and secure
by tightening knob.
Foam Cartri^
Pre-Cleaner
Nutx
Knob
Cartridge
Plate
Rubber
Sea]
CLEAN AIR SCREEN
Air screen must be kept free of dirt and
chaff to prevent engine damage from
overheating. Clean with a wire brush or
compressed air to remove dirt and stub
born dried gum fibers.
CLEAN AIR INTAKE/COOLING AREAS
To insure proper cooling, make sure the
grass screen, cooling fins, and other
external surfaces of the engine are kept
clean at all times.
Every 100 hours of operation (more often
under extremely dusty, dirty conditions),
remove the blower housing and other cool
ing shrouds. Clean the cooling fins and
external surfaces as necessary. Make sure
the cooling shrouds are reinstalled.
NOTE: Operating the engine with a
blocked grass screen, dirty or plugged
cooling fins, and/or cooling shrouds
removed will cause engine damage due to
overheating.
MUFFLER
Inspect and replace corroded muffler and
spark arrester (if equipped) as it could cre
ate a fire hazard and/or damage.
SPARK PLUG(S)
Replace spark plug(s) at the beginning
of each mowing season or after every
100 hours of operation, whichever occurs
first. Spark plug type and gap setting are
shown in “PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS"
section of this manual.
IN-LINE FUEL FILTER
The fuel filter should be replaced once
each season. If fuel filter becomes
clogged, obstructing fuel flow to carbu
retor, replacement is required.
1. With engine cool, remove filter and
plug fuel line sections.
2. Place new fuel filter in position in fuel
line with arrow pointing towards carbu
retor.
3. Be sure there are no fuel line leaks and
clamps are properly positioned.
4. Immediately wipe up any spilled gaso
line.
18
Page 19
CLEANING
• Clean engine, battery, seat, finish, etc.
of all foreign matter.
• Keep finished surfaces and wheels free
of all gasoline, oil, etc.
• Protect painted surfaces with auto
motive type wax.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS
WARNING: TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY, BEFORE PERFORMING ANY SER
VICE OR ADJUSTMENTS:
A
1. Depress clutch/brake pedal fully and set parking brake.
2. Place motion control lever in neutral (N) position.
3. Place attachment clutch in “DISENGAGED” position.
4. Turn ignition key to “STOP" and remove key.
5. Make sure the blades and all moving parts have completely stopped.
6. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with plug.
TRACTOR
TO REMOVE MOWER
1. Place attachment clutch in “DISEN
GAGED” position.
2. If equipped, turn height adjustment
knob to lowest setting.
3. Lower mower to its lowest position.
4. Disengage belt tension rod from lock
bracket.
ACAUTION: Rod is spring loaded. Have
a tight grip on rod and release slowly.
5. Remove retainer spring holding
anti-swaybar to chassis bracket and
disengage anti-sway bar from bracket.
6. Remove four retainer springs from front
plate assembly and remove plate.
We do not recommend using a garden
hose or pressure washer to clean your
tractor unless the engine and transmis
sion are covered to keep water out. Water
in engine or transmission will shorten the
useful life of your tractor. Use compressed
air or a leaf blower to remove grass,
leaves and trash from tractor and mower.
7.
Remove retainer springs from suspen
sion arms at deck and disengage arms
from deck.
8.
Raise attachment lift to its highest posi
tion.
9.
Slide mower forward and remove belt
from electric clutch pulley.
10. Slide mower out from under right side
of tractor.
TO INSTALL MOWER
Be sure tractor is on level surface and
mower suspension arms are raised with
attachment lift control. Engage parking
brake.
1. Swing anti-sway bar to left side of
mower deck.
Belt Tension Rod
(Disengaged
Position )-
Chassis
Bracket.
Retainer
Spring-—
USE PLIERS FOR
RETAINER SPRINGS
Loop Up
Lock Bracket
Suspension
Arms Double Loop
Retainer Springs
(Outward pointing
deck pins)
Front Mower
Bracket
Electric Clutch
19
Double Loop
Retainer Springs
Front Plate
Assembly
Single Loop
Retainer Springs
Flanged Pins
Front Mower
Bracket
Deflector Shield
Page 20
2. Slide mower under tractor with deflec
tor shield to right side of tractor.
IMPORTANT: Check belt for proper rout
ing in aii mower puliey grooves.
3. If equipped, turn height adjustment
knob counterclockwise until it stops.
4. Lower mower iinkage with attachment
lift control.
5. Be sure belt tension rod is in disen
gaged position.
6. Install belt into electric clutch pulley
groove.
7. Place the suspension arms on outward
pointing deck pins. Retain with double
loop retainer spring with loops up as
shown.
8. Install front plate assembly to tractor
suspension brackets and retain with
single loop retainer springs as shown.
9. Position front plate assembly between
front mower brackets. Raise deck and
plate assembly to align holes and insert
flanged pins. Secure pins with double
loop retainer springs between the plate
assembly and mower brackets.
NOTE: To assist in locating hole in flanged
pin, the hole in pin is inline with notch on
head of pin. If necessary, move mower
side-to-side to give space between plate
and mower brackets.
IMPORTANT: Check belt for proper rout
ing in all mower pulley grooves.
10. Engage belt tension rod by pushing rod
into locking bracket.
ACAUTION:' Belt tension rod is spring
loaded. Have a tight grip on rod and en
gage slowly.
11. Connect anti-sway bar to chassis
bracket under left footrest and retain
with double loop retainer spring.
12. If equipped, turn height adjustment
knob clockwise to remove slack from
mower suspension.
13. Raise deck to highest position.
TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING
Adjust the mower while tractor is parked
on level ground such as a carport or ga
rage. Make sure tires are properly inflated
(See “PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS”
section of this manual). If tires are over or
underinflated, you will not properly adjust
your mower.
Using the lift lever, place mower in
position where no part of the mower,
including gauge wheels, is touching the
ground.
From left side of tractor, find the level
decal on top of mower and place bubble
level on decal as indicated.
Mower is level side-to-side when bubble
is between the two lines in the bubble
level.
If adjustment is necessary, under left
hand footrest, turn lift link adjustment
nut (above yellow cap) in appropriate
direction to bring bubble between the
lines in the bubble level.
Remove bubble level from mower and
store in a safe place.
ALTERNATE SIDE-TO-SIDE
ADJUSTMENT METHOD
• Raise mower to its highest position.
• Measure height from bottom edge of
mower to ground level at front corners
of mower. Distance “A” on both sides of
mower should be the same.
• If adjustment is necessary, make adjust
ment on one side of mower only.
• To raise one side of mower, tighten lift
link adjustment nut on that side.
• To lower one side of mower, loosen lift
link adjustment nut on that side.
NOTE: Each full turn of adjustment nut
will change mower height about 3/16".
• Recheck measurements after adjusting.
Bottom Edge of
Mower to Ground
Bottom Edge of
Mower to Ground
SIDE-TO-SIDE ADJUSTMENT WITH
BUBBLE LEVEL
NOTE: If necessary, check side-to-side
surface below tractor for I eve! ness with a
long board and the bubble level.
20
Page 21
Lift Link
Adjustment
Nut
FRONT-TO-BACK ADJUSTMENT
IMPORTANT: Deck must be level sideto-side. If the following front-to-back
adjustment is necessary, be sure to adjust
both front links equally so mower will stay
level side-to-side.
To obtain the best cutting results, the
mower blades should be adjusted so the
front tip is approximately 1/8" to 1/2" lower
than the rear tip when the mower is in its
highest position.
AcAUTION: Blades are sharp. Protect
your hands with gloves and/or wrap blade
with heavy cloth.
Check adjustment on right side of tractor.
Position any blade so the tip is pointing
straight forward. Measure distance "B" at
front and rear tip of blade
• Before making any necessary adjust
ments, check that both front plate links
are equal in length.
• If links are not equal in length, adjust
one link to same length as other link.
• To lower front of blade, loosen nut “C”
on both front links an equal number of
turns.
NOTE: Each full turn of nut “C” will
change dim. “B” by approximately 3/16".
• When distance “B” is 1/8" to 1/2" lower
at front than rear, tighten nut “D” against
trunnion on both front links.
• To raise front of mower, loosen nut “D”
from trunnion on both front links. Tighten
nut “C” on both front links an equal num
ber of turns. The two front links must
remain equal in length.
• When distance “B" is 1/8" to 1/2" lower
at front than rear, tighten nut “D” against
trunnion on both front links.
• Recheck side-to-side adjustment.
BOTH FRONT PLATE LINKS MUST BE
EQUAL IN LENGTH
TO REPLACE MOWER DRIVE BELT
MOWER DRIVE BELT REMOVAL
1. Park tractor on a level surface. Engage
parking brake.
2. Lower mower to its lowest position.
3. Disengage belt tension rod from lock
bracket.
^CAUTION: Rod is spring loaded. Have
a firm grip on rod and release slowly.
4. Remove screws from R.H. mandrel
cover and remove cover.
Remove any dirt or grass clippings
5.
which may have accumulated around
mandrels and entire upper deck sur
face.
Disconnect R.H. suspension arm from
6.
rear deck bracket by removing retainer
spring.
Carefully roll belt over the top of R.H.
7.
mandrel pulley.
Remove belt from electric clutch pulley.
8.
Remove belt from idler pulleys.
9.
10. Check primary idler arm and two idlers
to see that they rotate freely.
11. Be sure spring is securely hooked to
primary idler arm and spring arm.
MOWER DRIVE BELT INSTALLATION
12. Install belt in both idlers.
13. install new belt onto electric clutch pul
ley.
14. Carefully roll belt into upper groove of
R.H. mandrel pulley.
15. Carefully check belt routing making
sure belt is in the grooves correctly.
16. Reconnect R.H. suspension arm to
rear deck bracket with retainer spring.
17. Reassemble R.H. mandrel cover.
18. Engage belt tension rod by pushing rod
into locking bracket.
21
Page 22
TO REPLACE MOWER BLADE
(SECONDARY) DRIVE BELT
Park the tractor on level surface. Engage
parking brake.
1. Remove mower (See “TO REMOVE
MOWER” in this section of manual).
2. Remove screws from R.H. and L.H.
mandrel covers and remove covers.
REMOVE MOWER DRIVE BELT
(Refer to “TO REMOVE MOWER DRIVE
BELT” illustration in this section of
manual).
3. Carefully roll belt over the top of R.H.
mandrel pulley.
4. Remove belt from Idler pulleys.
5. Check primary idler arm and two idlers
to see that they rotate freely.
6. Be sure spring is securely hooked to
primary idler arm and spring arm.
REMOVE MOWER BLADE
(SECONDARY) DRIVE BELT
7. Carefully roll belt off L.H. mandrel pul
ley.
8. Remove belt from center mandrel
pulley, idler pulley, and R.H. mandrel
pulley.
9. Remove any dirt or grass which may
have accumulated around mandrels
and entire upper deck surface.
10. Check secondary idler arm and idler
pulley to see that they rotate freely.
11. Be sure spring is hooked in secondary
idler arm and secondary spring arm.
INSTALL NEW MOWER BLADE
(SECONDARY) DRIVE BELT
12. Install new belt in lower groove of R.H.
mandrel pulley, idler pulley, and center
mandrel pulley as shown.
13. Carefully roll belt over L.H. mandrel
pulley. Make sure belt is in all grooves
properly.
REINSTALL MOWER DRIVE BELT
(Refer to “TO REMOVE MOWER DRIVE
BELT” illustration in this section of
manual).
14. Install belt into upper groove of R.H.
mandrel pulley and around both idlers.
Pull belt to front of mower to remove
slack.
15. Reinstall mandrel covers and securely
tighten all screws.
16. Carefully check belt routing making
sure belt is in all grooves correctly.
17. Reinstall mower to tractor (See “TO
INSTALL MOWER” in this section of
manual).
22
Page 23
Secondary
TO CHECK AND ADJUST BRAKE
Your tractor is equipped with an adjustable
brake system which is mounted on the
right side of the transaxle.
If tractor requires more than five (5) feet to
stop at highest speed in highest gear on a
level, dry concrete or paved surface, then
brake must be checked and adjusted.
TO CHECK BRAKE
1. Park tractor on a level, dry concrete or
paved surface, depress clutch/brake
pedal all the way down and engage
parking brake.
2. Disengage transmission by placing
freewheel control in “transmission dis
engaged” position. Pull freewheel con
trol out and into the slot and release so
it is held in the disengaged position.
The rear wheels must lock and skid when
you try to manually push the tractor for
ward. If the rear wheels rotate, the brake
needs to be adjusted or the pads need to
be replaced.
TC ADJUST BRAKE
1. Depress clutch/brake pedal all the way
down and engage parking brake.
2. Measure distance between brake oper
ating arm and nut “A” on brake rod.
3. If distance is other than 1-9/16", loosen
jam nut and turn nut “A” until distance
becomes 1-9/16". Retighten jam nut
against nut “A”.
4. Engage transmission by placing
freewheel control in “transmission
engaged” position.
5. Road test tractor for proper stopping
distance as stated above. Readjust
if necessary. If stopping distance is
still greater than five (5) feet in highest
gear, further maintenance is neces
sary. Replace brake pads or contact a
Sears or other qualified service center.
With parking brake “Engaged”
Do not touch this nut. If further brake
adjustment is necessary contact a Sears or
other qualified service center.
TO REPLACE MOTION DRIVE BELT
Park the tractor on level surface. Engage
parking brake. For assistance, there is a
belt installation guide decal on bottom side
of left footrest.
BELT REMOVAL -
1. Remove mower (See “TO REMOVE
MOWER” in this section of manual).
4.
clutching idler.
Remove belt downward from engine
5.
pulley and around electric clutch.
Pull belt slack toward rear of tractor.
Carefully remove belt upwards from
transmission input pulley and over
cooling fan blades.
Remove belt from center span keeper
7.
and pull belt away from tractor.
BELT INSTALLATION -
1. Carefully work new belt down around
transmission cooling fan and onto the
input pulley.
2. Slide belt into the center span keeper.
23
Page 24
Pull belt toward front of tractor and roll
belt around electric clutch and onto
engine pulley.
4.
Install belt through stationary idler and
clutching idler.
Reinstall clutch locator and tighten nut
securely.
6.
Reconnect clutch harness.
7.
Make sure belt is in ail pulley grooves
and inside all belt guides and keepers.
Install mower (See “TO INSTALL
8.
MOWER" in this section of manual).
TRANSMISSION REMOVAL/
REPLACEMENT
Should your transmission require removal for
service or replacement, it should be purged
after reinstallation and before operating the
tractor. See “PURGE TRANSMISSION” in
the Operation section of this manual.
TO ADJUST STEERING WHEEL ALIGN
MENT
If steering wheel crossbars are not
horizontal (left to right) when wheels are
positioned straight forward, remove steer
ing wheel and reassemble with crossbars
horizontal. Tighten securely.
FRONT WHEEL TOE-IN/CAMBER
The front wheel toe-in and camber are not
adjustable on your tractor. If damage has
occurred to affect the front wheel toe-in
or camber, contact your nearest Sears or
other qualified service center.
TO REMOVE WHEEL FOR REPAIRS
1. Block up axle securely.
2. Remove axle cover, retaining ring and
washers to allow wheel removal (rear
wheels have a square key - Do not lose).
3. Repair tire and reassemble.
NOTE: On rear wheels only: align
grooves in rear wheel hub and axle. Insert
square key.
4. Replace washers and snap retaining
ring securely in axle groove.
5. Replace axle cover.
NOTE: To seal tire punctures and prevent
flat tires due to slow leaks, purchase and
use tire sealant from Sears. Tire sealant
also prevents tire dry rot and corrosion.
Retaining
Ring \ Washers
Axle
Cover
Square Key
(Rear Wheel Only)
TO START ENGINE WITH A WEAK BAT
TERY
^WARNING: Lead-acid batteries gen
erate explosive gases. Keep sparks, flame
and smoking materials away from bat
teries. Always wear eye protection when
around batteries.
If your battery Is too weak to start the
engine, it should be recharged. (See "BAT
TERY" in the Maintenance section of this
manual).
If “jumper cables" are used for emergency
starting, follow this procedure:
IMPORTANT: Your tractor is equipped
with a 12 volt system. The other vehicle
must also be a 12 volt system. Do not use
your tractor battery to start other vehicles.
TO ATTACH JUMPER CABLES -
1. Connect one end of the RED cable
to the POSITIVE (+) terminal of each
battery(A-B), taking care not to short
against tractor chassis.
2. Connect one end of the BLACK cable
to the NEGATIVE (-) terminal (C) of
fully charged battery.
3. Connect the other end of the BLACK
cable (D) to good chassis ground,
away from fuel tank and battery.
TO REMOVE CABLES, REVERSE
ORDER-
1. BLACK cable first from chassis and
then from the fully charged battery.
2. RED cable last from both batteries.
Weak or Dead
Battery
Fully Charged
Battery
24
Page 25
REPLACING BATTERY
^WARNING: Do not short battery termi
nals by allowing a wrench or any other object
to contact both terminals at the same time.
Before connecting battery, remove metal
bracelets, wristwatch bands, rings, etc.
Positive terminal must be connected
first to prevent sparking from accidental
grounding.
1.
Lift hood to raised position.
2.
Remove terminal guard.
3.
Disconnect BLACK battery cable
then RED battery cable and carefully
remove battery from tractor.
4.
Install new battery with terminals in
same position as old battery.
5.
Reinstall terminal guard.
6.
First connect RED battery cable to
positive (+) battery terminal with hex
bolt and keps nut as shown. Tighten
securely.
Connect BLACK grounding cable to
negative (-) battery terminal with re
maining hex bolt and keps nut. Tighten
securely
8.
Close terminal access doors.
9.
Close hood.
Keps Nut
Terminal
Access
Door
Termina
Guard
Negative (Black)
Cable
Hex Bolt
Positive
'(Red) Cable
TO REPLACE HEADLIGHT BULB
1. Raise hood.
2. Pull bulb holder out of the hole in the
backside of the grill.
3. Replace bulb in holder and push bulb
holder securely back into the hole in
the backside of the grill.
4. Close hood.
INTERLOCKS AND RELAYS
Loose or damaged wiring may cause
your tractor to run poorly, stop running, or
prevent it from starting.
• Check wiring. See electrical wiring
diagram in the Repair Parts section.
TO REPLACE FUSE
Replace with 20 amp automotive-type
plug-in fuse. The fuse holder is located
behind the dash.
TO REMOVE HOOD AND GRILL AS
SEMBLY
1. Raise hood.
2. Unsnap headlight wire connector.
Stand in front of tractor. Grasp hood at
sides, tilt toward engine and lift off of
tractor.
When replacing hood, be sure to re
connect the headlight wire connector.
Maintenance, repair, or replacement of
the emission control devices and systems,
which are being done at the customers ex
pense, may be performed by any non-road
engine repair establishment or individual.
Warranty repairs must be performed by an
authorized engine manufacturer's service
outlet.
TO ADJUST THROTTLE CONTROL
CABLE
The throttle control has been preset at the
factory and adjustment should not be nec
essary. Check adjustment as described
below before loosening cable. If adjust
ment is necessary, proceed as follows:
1.2.With engine not running, move throttle
control lever to fast position.
Check that speed control lever is
against stop screw. If it is not, loosen
casing clamp screw and pull throttle
cable until lever is against screw.
Tighten clamp screw securely.
Page 26
TO ADJUST CHOKE CONTROL
The choke control has been preset at the
factory and adjustment should not be nec
essary. check adjustment as described be
low before loosening cable. If adjustment
is necessary, proceed as follows:
1. With engine not running, move choke
control (located on dash panel) to full
choke position.
2. Remove air cleaner cover, filter and
cartridge plate to expose carburetor
choke (See “AIR FILTER" in the Main
tenance section of this manual).
Choke should be closed. If it is not,
3.
loosen casing clamp screw and move
choke cable until choke is completely
closed. Tighten casing clamp screw
securely.
Reassemble air cleaner.
4.
Closed For Fu
Choke
TO ADJUST CARBURETOR
The carburetor has been present at the
factory and adjustment should not be nec
essary. However, minor adjustment may
be required to compensate for differences
in fuel, temperature, altitude or load. If the
carburetor does need adjustment, proceed
as follows:
In general, turning the adjusting needles
in (clockwise) decreases the supply of
fuel to the engine giving a leaner fuel/air
mixture. Turning the adjusting needles out
(counterclockwise) increases the supply
of fuel to the engine giving a richer fuel/air
mixture.
IMPORTANT: Damage to the needles
and the seats in carburetor may result if
screw is turned in too tight.
FINAL SETTING -
1. Start engine and allow to warm for five
minutes. Make final adjustments with
engine running and shift/motion control
lever in neutral (N) position.
NOTE: The high idle is set at the factory
and cannot be adjusted.
2. Idle speed setting - With throttle control
lever in slow position, engine should
idle at 1750 RPM. If engine idles too
slow or fast, turn idle speed adjusting
screw in or out until correct idle is at
tained.
3. Idle fuel needle setting - With throttle
control lever in slow position, turn idle
fuel adjusting needle in (clockwise)
until engine speed decreases and then
turn out (counterclockwise) approxi
mately 3/4 turn to obtain the best low
speed performance.
4. Recheck idle speed. Readjust if neces
sary.
ACCELERATION TEST -
5. Move throttle control lever from slow
to fast position, if engine hesitates or
dies, turn idle fuel adjusting needle out
(counterclockwise) 1/8 turn. Repeat
test and continue to adjust, if neces
sary, until engine accelerates smoothly.
High speed stop is factory adjusted. Do
not adjust-damage may result.
IMPORTANT: Never tamper with the
engine governor, which is factory set
for proper engine speed. Overspeeding
the engine above the factory high speed
setting can be dangerous. If you think the
engine-governed high speed needs ad
justing, contact a Sears or other qualified
service center, which has proper equip
ment and experience to make any neces
sary adjustments.
PRELIMINARY SETTING -
1. Be sure you have a clean air filter, and
the throttle control cable is adjusted
properly (see “TO ADJUST THROTTLE
CONTROL CABLE” in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual).
2. With engine off turn idle fuel adjust
ing needle in (clockwise) closing it
finger tight and then turn out (counter
clockwise) 1 turn.
26
Page 27
STORAGE
Immediately prepare your tractor for stor
age at the end of the season or if the trac
tor will not be used for 30 days or more.
^WARNING: Never store the tractor
with gasoline in the tank inside a building
where fumes may reach an open flame
or spark. Allow the engine to cool before
storing in any enclosure.
TRACTOR
Remove mower from tractor for winter
storage. When mower is to be stored for a
period of time, clean it thoroughly, remove
all dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Store in a
clean, dry area.
1. Clean entire tractor (See “CLEANING”
in the Maintenance section of this
manual).
2. Inspect and replace belts, if necessary
(See belt replacement instructions in
the Service and Adjustments section of
this manual).
3. Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance
section of this manual.
4. Be sure that all nuts, bolts and screws
are securely fastened. Inspect moving
parts for damage, breakage and wear.
Replace if necessary.
5. Touch up all rusted or chipped paint
surfaces; sand lightly before painting.
BATTERY
• Fully charge the battery for storage.
• After a period of time in storage, battery
may require recharging.
• To help prevent corrosion and power
leakage during long periods of storage,
battery cables should be disconnected
and battery cleaned thoroughly (see “TO
CLEAN BATTERY AND TERMINALS” in
the Maintenance section of this manual).
• After cleaning, leave cables discon
nected and place cables where they
cannot come in contact with battery
terminals.
• If battery is removed from tractor for
storage, do not store battery directly on
concrete or damp surfaces.
ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent
gum deposits from forming in essentia!
fuel system parts such as carburetor, fuel
hose, or tank during storage. Also, alcohol
blended fuels (called gasohol or using
ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture
which leads to separation and formation of
acids during storage. Acidic gas can dam
age the fuel system of an engine while in
storage.
• Empty the fuel tank by starting the en
gine and letting it run until the fuel lines
and carburetor are empty.
• Never use engine or carburetor cleaner
products in the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.
• Use fresh fuel next season.
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable
alternative in minimizing the formation of
fuel gum deposits during storage. Add
stabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or stor
age container. Always follow the mix ratio
found on stabilizer container. Run engine
at least 10 minutes after adding stabilizer
to allow the stabilizer to reach the car
buretor. Do not empty the gas tank and
carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.
ENGINE OIL
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace
with clean engine oil. (See “ENGINE” in
the Maintenance section of this manual).
CYLINDER(S)
1. Remove spark plug(s).
2. Pour one ounce of oil through spark
plug hole(s) into cylinder(s).
3. Turn ignition key to “START” position
for a few seconds to distribute oil.
4. Replace with new spark p!ug(s).
OTHER
• Do not store gasoline from one season
to another.
• Replace your gasoline can if your can
starts to rust. Rust and/or dirt in your
gasoline will cause problems.
• If possible, store your tractor indoors
and cover it to give protection from dust
and dirt.
• Cover your tractor with a suitable pro
tective cover that does not retain mois
ture. Do not use plastic. Plastic cannot
breathe which allows condensation to
form and will cause your tractor to rust.
IMPORTANT; Never cover tractor while
engine and exhaust areas are still warm.
27
Page 28
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART:
See appropriate section in manual unless directed to Sears service center
PROBLEMCAUSECORRECTION
Will not start1. Out of fuel.
2. Engine not “CHOKED”
properly.
3. Engine flooded.
4. Bad spark plug.
5. Dirty air filter.
6. Dirty fuel filter.
7. Water in fuel.
8. Loose or damaged wiring.
9. Carburetor out of adjustment.
10. Engine valves out of
adjustment.
1. Fill fuel tank.
2. See “TO START ENGINE” in
Operation section.
3. Wait several minutes before
attempting to start.
4. Replace spark plug.
5. Clean/replace air filter.
6. Replace fuel filter.
7. Empty fuel tank and carbure
tor, refill tank with fresh gas
oline and replace fuel filter.
8. Check ail wiring.
9. See “To Adjust Carburetor”
in Service and Adjustments
section.
10. Contact a Sears or other
qualified service center.
Hard to start1. Dirty air filter.
2. Bad spark plug.
3. Weak or dead battery.
4. Dirty fuel filter.
5. Stale or dirty fuel.
6. Loose or damaged wiring.
7. Carburetor out of adjustment.
8. Engine valves out of
adjustment.
Engine will not
turn over
Engine clicks but
will not start
1. Brake pedal not depressed.
2. Attachment clutch is engaged.
3. Weak or dead battery.
4. Blown fuse.
5. Corroded battery terminals.
6. Loose or damaged wiring.
7. Faulty ignition switch.
8. Faulty solenoid or starter.
9. Faulty operator presence
switch(es).
1. Weak or dead battery.
2. Corroded battery terminals.
3. Loose or damaged wiring.
4. Faulty solenoid or starter.
1. Clean/replace air filter.
2. Replace spark plug.
3. Recharge or replace battery.
4. Replace fuel filter.
5. Empty fuel tank and refill tank
with fresh, clean gasoline.
6. Check all wiring.
7. See “To Adjust Carburetor” in
Service and Adjustments
section.
8. Contact a Sears or other
qualified service center.
1. Depress brake pedal.
2. Disengage attachment clutch.
3. Recharge or replace battery.
4. Replace fuse.
5. Clean battery terminals.
6. Check ail wiring.
7. Check/replace ignition switch.
8. Check/replace solenoid or
starter.
9. Contact a Sears or other
qualified service center.
1. Recharge or replace battery.
2. Clean battery terminals.
3. Check all wiring.
4. Check/replace solenoid or
starter.
Loss of power1. Cutting too much grass/too
fast.
2. Throttle in “CHCKE” position.
3. Build-up of grass, leaves and
trash under mower.
4. Dirty air filter.
5. Low oil level/dirty oil.
28
1. Raise cutting height/reduce
speed.
2. Adjust throttle control.
3. Clean underside of mower
housing.
4. Clean/replace air filter.
5. Check oil level/change oil.
Page 29
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART:
See appropriate section in manual unless directed to Sears service center
PROBLEMCAUSECORRECTION
Loss of power
(continued)
6. Faulty spark plug.
7. Dirty fuel filter.
8. Stale or dirty fuel.
9. Water In fuel.
10.Spark plug wire loose.
11. Dirty engine air screen/fins.
12. Dirty/clogged muffler.
13. Loose or damaged wiring.
14. Carburetor out of adjustment.
15. Engine valves out of
adjustment.
6. Clean and regap or change
spark plug.
7. Replace fuel filter.
8. Empty fuel tank and refill tank
with fresh, clean gasoline.
9. Empty fuel tank and carbure
tor, refill tank with fresh gas
oline and replace fuel filter.
10. Connect and tighten spark
plug wire.
11. Clean engine air screen/fins.
12. Clean/replace muffler.
13. Check all wiring.
14. See “To Adjust Carburetor’’
in Service and Adjustments
section.
15. Contact a Sears or other
qualified service center.
Excessive
vibration
Engine continues
to run when
operator leaves
seat with
attachment
clutch engaged
Poor cut - uneven1. Worn, bent or loose blade.
1. Worn, bent or loose blade.
2. Bent blade mandrel.
3. Loose/damaged part(s).
1. Faulty operator-safety
presence control system.
2. Mower deck not level.
3. Buildup of grass, leaves, and
trash under mower.
4. Bent blade mandrel.
5. Clogged mower deck vent
from build-up of grass, leaves,
and trash around mandrels.
1. Replace blade. Tighten blade
bolt.
2. Contact a Sears or other
qualified service center.
3. Tighten loose part(s).
Replace damaged parts.
1. Check wiring, switches and
connections. If not corrected,
contact a Sears or other
qualified service center.
1. Replace blade. Tighten blade
bolt.
2. Level mower deck.
3. Clean underside of mower
housing.
4. Contact a Sears or other
qualified service center.
5. Clean around mandrels to
open vent holes.
Mower blades will
not rotate
Poor grass
discharge
1. Obstruction in clutch
mechanism.
2. Worn/damaged mower drive
belt.
3. Frozen idler pulley.
4. Frozen blade mandrel.
1. Engine speed too slow.
2. Travel speed too fast.
29
1. Remove obstruction.
2. Replace mower drive belt.
3. Replace idler pulley.
4. Contact a Sears or other
qualified service center.
1. Place throttle control in
“FAST” position.
2. Shift to slower speed.
Page 30
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART:
See appropriate section in manual unless directed to Sears service center
PROBLEMCAUSECORRECTION
Poor grass
discharge
(continued)
Headlight(s) not
working
(if so equipped)
3. Wet grass.
4. Mower deck not level.
5. Low/uneven tire air pressure.
6. Worn, bent or loose blade.
7. Buildup of grass, leaves and
trash under mower.
8. Mower drive belt worn.
9. Blades improperly installed.
10. Improper blades used.
11. Clogged mower deck vent
holes from buildup of grass,
leaves, and trash around
mandrels.
1. Switch is “OFF”.
2. Bulb(s) or lamp{s) burned out.
3. Faulty light switch.
4. Loose or damaged wiring.
5. Blown fuse.
3. Allow grass to dry before
mowing.
4. Level mower deck.
5. Check tires for proper air
pressure.
6. Replace/sharpen blade.
Tighten blade bolt.
7. Clean underside of mower
housing.
8. Replace mower drive belt.
9. Reinstall blades sharp edge
down.
10. Replace with blades listed in
this manual.
11. Clean around mandrels to
open vent holes.
1. Turn switch “ON”.
2. Replace bulb(s) or lamp(s).
3. Check/repiace light switch.
4. Check wiring and connections.
5. Replace fuse.
Battery will not
charge
Loss of drive1. Freewheel control in
Engine “backfires”
when turning
engine “OFF”
1. Bad battery cell(s).
2. Poor cable connections.
3. Faulty regulator
(if so equipped).
4. Faulty alternator.
“disengaged” position.
2. Motion drive belt worn,
damaged, or broken.
3. Air trapped in transmission
during shipment or servicing.
1. Engine throttle control not set
between half and full speed
(fast) position before stopping
engine.
1. Replace battery.
2. Check/clean all connections.
3. Replace regulator.
4. Replace alternator.
1. Place freewheel control in
“engaged” position.
2. Replace motion drive belt.
3. Purge transmission.
1. Move throttle control
between half and full speed
(fast) position before
stopping engine.
30
Page 31
SCHEMATIC
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273663
IGNITION SWITCH
POSITION CIRCUIT“MAKE"
OFFM-fG + AINONE
ON + LIGHTS B + A1L-f A2
ONB +A1NONE
START B + S + A1 NONE
WIRING INSULATED CLIPS
NOTE; IF WIRING INSULATED
CLIPS WERE REMOVED FOR
SERVICING OF UNIT. THEY
SHOULD BE REPLACED TO
PROPERLY SECURE YOUR
WIRING,
32170389SleeveBearing(Outboard)82170424Clip, Washer .316x1.50x. 1046
33142991Washer, 3/4 Id X 1-1/2 0dX83161168Pin, Standard Headless
34170390Lip Seal Axle Seal85170426Hose, Expansion Tank
50170402Retaining Ring .250 External124 170444Center Section-Filter-Bypass
51170403Seal, Lip .741 X .250 X .250Assembly
52170404Flat Washer, 5/8 Id X I.OOdX126 170446Fan - Pulley Service Assembly
53170405Retaining Ring128173165Kit, Expansion Tank
54170406Bearing, Center Block900166768Transaxle Complete
55142977Spring - Helical Compression
56142978WasherNOTE; All component dimensions given in U.S.
5720W-50 Oilinches; 1 inch =25.4 mm
58170407Brake Yoke
SUGGESTED GUIDE FOR SIGHTING SLOPES FOR SAFE OPERATION
/oto
WARNING: To avoid serious injury, operate your tractor up and
down the face of slopes, never across the face. Do not mow
slopes greater than 15 degrees. Make turns gradually to prevent
tipping or loss of control. Exercise extreme caution when
changing direction on slopes.
1. Fold this page along dotted line indicated above.
2. Hold page before you so that its left edge is vertically parallel to a tree
trunk or other upright structure.
3. Sight across the fold in the direction of hil! slope you want to measure.
4. Compare the angle of the fold with the slope of the hill.
Page 56
Get it fixed, at your home or ours!
Your Home
For repair - in your home - of all major brand appliances,
lawn and garden equipment, or heating and cooling systems,
no matter who made it, no matter who sold it!
For the replacement parts, accessories and
owner’s manuals that you need to do-it-yourself.
For Sears professional installation of home appliances
and items like garage door openers and water heaters.
1-800-4-MY-HOME® Anytime, day or night
(1-800-469-4663) (U.S.A. and Canada)
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Our Home
For repair of carry-in products like vacuums, lawn equipment,
and electronics, call or go on-line for the nearest
Sears Parts and Repair Center.
1 -800-488-1222 Anytime, day or night (U.S.A. only)
www.sears.com
To purchase a protection agreement (U.S.A.)
or maintenance agreement (Canada) on a product serviced by Sears: