Craftsman 917274390 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

CRAFTSMAN°

LAWN TRACTOR

18.0 HP,42" Mower

Electric Start

6 Speed Transaxle

Model No.

917.274390

i_ This product has a low emission engine which operates

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

differently from previously built engines. Before you start the engine, read and understand this Owner's Manual,

For answers to your questions about

this product, Call:

1-800-659-5917

Sears Craftsman Help Line

5 am - 5 pm, Mon- Sat

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

Safety Rules ........................................... 3

Product Specifications ............................ 6

Assembly/Pre-Operation ........................ 8

Operation .............................................. 11

Maintenance Schedule ......................... 17

LIMITED WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT For two (2) years from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Riding Equipment is

maintained, lubricated and tuned up according to the instructions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair or replace free of charge any parts that are found to be defective in

material or workmanship according to the guidelines of coverage listed below. Sears will also provide free labor for these applicable warranted parts for the two full years. During

the first 30 days of purchase, there will be no charges to service the product at your

home for issues covered by this warranty. (See exclusions below). For your conve- nience, IN HOME warranty service will still be available after the first 30 days of pur-

chase, but a trip charge will apply. This charge will be waived if the Craftsman product is

dropped off at an authorized Sears location. For the nearest authorized Sears location,

please call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®. This warranty applies only while this product is within

the United States. This Warranty does not cover:

• Expendable items which become worn during normal use, including but not limited to blades, spark plugs, air cleaners, belts, and oil filters.

Standard Maintenance Servicing, oil changes, or tune-ups

• Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails, thorns, stumps, or glass.

• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, including but not limited to, damage caused by towing objects beyond the capability of the riding equipment, impacting

objects that bend the frame or crankshaft, or over-speeding the engine.

• Repairs necessary because of operator negligence, including but not limited to, elec- trical and mechanical damage caused by improper storage, failure to use the proper

grade and amount of engine oil, failure to keep the deck clear of flammable debris, or failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions contained in the

owner's manual.

• Engine (fuel system) cleaning or repairs caused by fuel determined to be contami- nated or oxidized (stale). In general, fuel should be used within 30 days of its pur-

chase date.

• Normal deterioration and wear of the exterior finishes, or product label replacement.

• Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.

Maintenance ......................................... 17

Service and Adjustments ...................... 22

Storage ................................................. 28

Troubleshooting .................................... 29

Repair Parts .......................................... 34

Sears Service ......................... Back Cover

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

ment proves defective in material or workmanship and our testing determines the battery

will not hold a charge, Sears will replace the battery at no charge. During the first 30 days of purchase, there will be no charges to replace the battery at your HOME. After

the first 30 days, for your convenience, IN-HOME warranty service will still be avail- able but a trip charge will apply. This charge will be waived if the Craftsman product is

dropped off at an authorized Sears location. For the nearest authorized Sears location,

please call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®.

This battery warranty applies only while this product is within the United States. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights, which

vary, from state to state.

Sears, Roebuck and Co.,Dept.817WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

IMPORTANT: 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.

_ILWARNING: 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.

_IbWARNING: Engine exhaust, some of

its constituents, and certain vehicle com-

ponents contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer

and birth defects or other reproductive

harm. _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 on the machine and in the manual before starting.

• Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the machine. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times.

• 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 blades.

• Be sure the area is clear of bystand- ers before operating. 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.

• Never direct discharged material toward anyone. Avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction. Material may ricochet back toward the operator.

Stop the blades when crossing gravel surfaces.

• Do not operate machine without the entire grass catcher, discharge guard,

or other safety devices in place and

working.

• 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.

• Disengage blades when not mowing. Shut off engine and wait for all parts to come to a complete stop before clean- ing the machine, removing the grass catcher, or unclogging the discharge guard.

• Operate machine 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 unload- ing the machine into a trailer or truck.

• Always wear eye protection when oper- ating machine.

• 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.

• Follow the manufacturer's recommen- dation for wheel weights or counter-

weights.

• 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 tip-over accidents, which can

result in severe injury or death. Opera-

tion on all slopes requires extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you feel

uneasy on it, do not mow it.

• Mow up and down slopes, not across.

• Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden objects. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass

can hide obstacles.

• Choose a low ground speed so that you

will not have to stop or shift while on the

slope.

• Do not mow on wet grass. Tires may lose traction.

Always keep the machine in gear when

going down slopes. Do not shift to neu- tral and coast downhill.

• Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a slope. If the tires lose traction, disen- gage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

• Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual. Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction, which

could cause the machine to roll over.

• Use extra care while operating machine

with grass catchers or other attach-

ments; they can affect the stability of the machine. Do no use on steep slopes.

• Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on the ground.

• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. The machine could

suddenly roll over if a wheel is over the edge or if the edge caves in.

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 in the watchful care of a responsible adult other than the operator.

• Be alert and turn machine off if a child enters the area.

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

• Never carry children, even with the blades shut off. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine operation. Children who have been given rides in the past may suddenly appear in the mowing area for

another ride and be run over or backed over by the machine.

• Never allow children to operate the machine.

• Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may block your view of a child.

IV. TOWING

• Tow only with a machine that has a hitch designed for towing. Do not attach

towed equipment except at the hitch point.

• Follow the manufacturer's recommenda- tion for weight limits for towed equip-

ment and towing on slopes.

• Never allow children or others in or on towed equipment.

• On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment may cause loss of traction

and loss of control.

• Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop.

V. SERVICE

SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE

To avoid personal injury or property damage, use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable

and the vapors are explosive.

• Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other sources of ignition.

• Use only approved gasoline container.

• Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow engine to cool before refueling.

• Never fuel the machine indoors.

• Never store the machine or fuel con- tainer where there is an open flame,

spark, or pilot light such as on a water heater or other appliances.

• Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer bed with plastic liner.

Always place containers on the ground

away from your vehicle when filling.

• Removegas-poweredequipmentfrom thetruckortrailer andrefueliton the

ground.Ifthisisnot possible,then refuelsuch equipmentwith a portable container,ratherthanfrom a gasoline dispensernozzle.

• Keepthenozzlein contactwiththe rim ofthe fuel tankor containeropeningat alltimes untilfuelingiscomplete.Do not usea nozzlelock-opendevice.

• Iffuel is spilledon clothing,change clothingimmediately.

• Neveroverfillfuel tank. Replacegas cap andtightensecurely.

GENERAL SERVICE

• Never operate machine in a closed are.

• Keep all nuts and bolts tight to be sure the equipment is in safe working condi- tion.

• 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 and remove any fuel-soaked debris. Allow machine to cool before

storing.

• If you strike a foreign object, stop and inspect the machine. Repair, if neces- sary, before restarting.

• Never make any adjustments or repairs

with the engine running.

• Check grass catcher components and the discharge guard frequently and replace with manufacturer's recom- mended parts, when necessary.

• Mower blades are sharp. Wrap the blade or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.

• Check brake operation frequently. Ad-

just and service as required.

• Maintain or replace safety and instruc- tion labels, as necessary.

• Be sure the area is clear of bystand- ers before operating. 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.

another ride and be run over or backed over by the machine.

• Keep children out of the mowing area and in the watchful care of a responsible adult other than the operator.

• Be alert and turn machine off if a child enters the area.

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

• Mow up and down slopes (15 ° Max), not across.

• Choose a low ground speed so that you

will not have to stop or shift while on the

slope.

• Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a slope. If the tires lose traction, disen-

gage 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 neces- sary, and then, turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

GasolineCapacity1.25Unleaded andType: Regular

OilType SAE30 (above32°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 (MPH):

Tire Pressure: Front: 14 PSI

Charging System: 3 Amps Battery

Battery: Amp/Hr: 28

Blade Bolt Torque: 27-35 Ft. Lbs.

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of

a new tractor. It has been designed, engi-

neered 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.

_jLWARNING: 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.

Forward:

1st 1.1 2nd 1.4 3rd 2.2 4th 3.3 5th 4.4 6th 4.9

Reverse: 1.4

Rear: 12 PSI

5 Amps Headlights

Min. CCA: 230 Case Size: U1R

In the state of California the above is re-

quired by law (Section 4442 of the Califor- nia Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest Sears service center (See REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).

REPAIR PROTECTION 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-HOME®

Steering Wheel

Steering

Wheel Insert

(1) Hex Bolt

5/16-18 x 4

_ Steering Wheel

' I I i

Adapter

Seat

(1) Large Flat Washer

(1) 5/16 Lock Washer

Steering

Boot

Steering

Extension

Shaft

Keys

(2) Keys

(1) Washer

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

_(1) Knob

(1) Oil Drain Tube

For Future Use

Slope Sheet

Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those parts left

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

as necessary to insure proper tightness.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR

ASSEMBLY

A socket wrench set will make assembly easier. Standard wrench sizes you need

are listed below. (1) 3/4" wrench (1) Pliers

(1) 1/2" wrench (1) Utility knife (1) Tire pressure gauge

When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, it means when you are in

the operating position (seated behind the steering wheel).

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM

CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

1. Remove all accessible loose parts and parts boxes from carton.

2. Cut along dotted lines on all four pan- els of carton. Remove end panels and

lay side panels flat.

3. Check for any additional loose parts or cartons and remove.

BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR FROM SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL

Insert

5/16 Hex Bolt

Steering Wheel

Steering

oot

Tabs

Adapter_ _, Extension

-----"-_ JShaft

I ! _ _ ,.

Lower_'_. _ \ _ / Steenng _ --. _ _\__,' Shaft -,._.- _"-_.4_'_

Slots

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND

BOOT

1. Slide extension shaft onto lower steer- ing shaft.

2. Place tabs of steering boot over tab slots in dash and push down to secure.

INSTALL STEERING WHEEL

3. Position front wheels of the tractor so they are pointing straight forward.

4. Remove steering wheel adapter from steering wheel and slide adapter onto

steering shaft extension.

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

inside boot and onto adapter.

6. Assemble large flat washer, 5/16 lock washer, 5/16 hex bolt and tighten se-

curely.

7. Snap steering wheel insert into center of steering wheel.

8. Remove protective materials from trac- tor hood and grill.

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

where tractor is to roll off skid.

INSTALL SEAT

Adjust seat before tightening adjustment knob.

1. Remove adjustment knob and flat washer securing seat to cardboard

packing and set aside for assembly of seat to tractor.

2. Pivot seat upward and remove from the cardboard packing. Remove the cardboard packing and discard.

3. Place seat on seat pan so head of shoulder bolts are positioned over the large slotted holes in pan.

4. Push down on seat to engage shoulder bolts in slots and pull seat towards rear

of tractor.

5. Pivot seat and pan forward and as- semble adjustment knob and flat washer loosely. Do not tighten.

6. Lower seat into operating position and sit in seat.

7. Slideseatuntila comfortableposition isreachedwhich allowsyou to press clutch/brakepedalall thewaydown.

8. Getoff seatwithout movingits ad-

justedposition.

9. Raiseseatandtightenadjustment knobsecurely.

Seat

Seat Pa_

Flat Washer

Adjustment Knob i

CHECK BATTERY

1. Lift seat pan to raised position.

NOTE: If this battery is put into service after month and year indicated on label

(label located between terminals) charge battery for minimum of one hour at 6-10

amps. (See "BATTERY" in Maintenance section of this manual for charging instruc-

tions).

Seat

Terminal

Shoulder Bolts

Label

Terminal

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 gearshift lever in neutral (N) position.

4. Roll tractor forward off skid.

5. Remove banding holding deflector

shield up against tractor.

TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See

Operation section for location and

function of controls)

,_WARNING: Before starting, read, un- derstand and follow all instructions in the

Operation section of this manual. Be sure

tractor is in a well-ventilated area. Be sure the area in front of tractor is clear of other

people and objects.

1. Be sure all the above assembly steps have been completed.

2. Check engine oil level and fill fuel tank with gasoline.

3. Sit on seat in operating position, depress clutch/brake pedal and set the

parking brake.

4. Place gear shift lever in neutral (N) position.

5. Press lift lever plunger and raise attachment lift lever to its highest posi-

tion.

6. Start the engine. After engine has started, move throttle control to idle

position.

7. Depress clutch/brake pedal into full "BRAKE" position and hold. Move gear-

shift lever to 1st gear.

8. Slowly release clutch/brake pedal and

slowly drive tractor off skid.

9. Apply brake to stop tractor, set park- ing brake and place gearshift lever in neutral position.

10. Turn ignition key to "STOP" position.

Continue with the instructions that follow.

CHECKTIRE PRESSURE

The tires on your tractor were overin- flated at the factory for shipping purposes.

Correct tire pressure is important for best cutting performance.

• 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.

J CHECKL IS T

Before you operate and enjoy your new tractor, we wish to assure that you receive the best performance and satisfaction from this Quality Product.

Please review the following checklist: v" All assembly instructions have been

completed.

v" No remaining loose parts in carton. v" Battery is properly prepared and

charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps).

v" 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. While learning how to use your tractor, pay extra attention to the following important

items:

¢" Engine oil is at proper level. ¢" Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean, regu-

lar unleaded gasoline. ¢" Become familiar with all controls - their

location and function. Operate them

before you start the engine. ¢" Be sure brake system is in safe oper-

ating condition. ¢" Be sure Operator Presence System

and Reverse Operation System (ROS)

are working properly (See the Opera-

tion and Maintenance sections in this

manual).

These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product.

Learn and understand their meaning.

R N H L I'.,,I

REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW CHOKE FAST

SLOW

IGNITION SWITCH

ENGINE OFF REVERSE ENGINE ON ENGINE START PARKING BRAKE

OPERATION

SYSTEM (ROS)

OVER TEMP

LIGHT

FUEL OIL PRESSURE BATTERY REVERSE

FORWARD MOWER HEIGHT MOWER LIFT

ATTACHMENT ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH DISENGAGED CLUTCH ENGAGED

LIGHTS ON

FREE WHEEL

(Automatic Models only)

Failure to follow instructions could result in serious injury or

death. The safety alert symbol is used to identify safety inform-

ation about hazards which can result in death, serious injury

and/or property damage.

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.

CAUTION when used without the alert symbol, indicates a situation that could result in damage to the tractor and/or engine.

NOT 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.

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

PARKING BRAKE PARKING BRAKE

LOCKED UNLOCKED

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

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.

ROS "ON" Position

Attachment Clutch Lever

Light Switch ,- . Lift Lever

Ignition Switch

_, , , Plunger

Throttle/Choke

Control

Clutch/Brake o Height

Pedal "" ." " _ --- - _ __.'" Indicator

Attachment Lift Lever

", " Adjustment

Parking Brake Lever

Gearshift Lever

Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the

American National Standards Institute.

AMMETER - Indicates charging (+) or discharging (-) of battery.

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

tachments mounted to your tractor. ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER - Used to

raise, lower, and adjust the mower deck or

other attachments mounted to your tractor.

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL - Used for

declutching and braking the tractor and starting the engine.

GEARSHIFT LEVER - Selects the speed and direction of tractor.

IGNITION SWITCH - Used for starting and stopping the engine.

LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to release attachment lift lever when changing its

position. LIGHT SWITCH - 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.

REVERSE OPERATION SYSTEM (ROS)

"ON" POSITION - Allows operation of mower deck or other powered attachment

while in reverse.

The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any

adjustments or repairs. We recommend a wide vision safety mask over

spectacles or standard safety glasses.

HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR

TO SET PARKING BRAKE

Your tractor is equipped with an operator

presence sensing switch. When engine is running, any attempt by the operator

to leave the seat without first setting the

parking brake will shut off the engine.

1. Depress clutch/brake pedal all the way down and hold.

2. Pull parking brake lever up and release pressure from clutch/brake pedal.

Pedal should remain in brake position. Make sure parking brake will hold trac-

tor secure.

Throttle/ Choke

Control X

"Brake"

Position

Clutch/Brake Pedal

STOPPING

MOWER BLADES -

• To stop mower blades, move attachment clutch lever to disengaged position.

GROUND DRIVE -

• To stop ground drive, depress clutch/ brake pedal all the way down.

• Move gearshift lever to neutral (N) position.

ENGINE -

• Move throttle control between half and full speed (fast) position.

NOTE: Failure to move throttle control between half and full speed (fast) posi-

tion, before stopping, may cause engine to

"backfire".

• Turn ignition key to "STOP" position and remove key. Always remove key when leaving tractor to prevent unauthorized

use.

• Never use choke to stop engine.

Attachment Clutch Lever "Engaged Position

nition Key

t"Disengaged"

Position

Parking Brake

"Engaged"

Position

Gearshift

"Disengaged" Lever

Position

IMPORTANT: Leaving the ignition switch in any position other than "STOP" will

cause the battery to discharge and go dead.

NOTE: Under certain conditions when

tractor is standing idle with the engine

running, hot engine exhaust gases may cause "browning" of grass. To eliminate this possibility, always stop engine when stopping tractor on grass areas.

_CAUTION: Always stop tractor com- pletely, as described above, before leaving

the operator's position.

TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL Always operate engine at full throttle.

• Operating engine at less than full

throttle reduces the battery charging

rate.

• Full throttle offers the best bagging and

mower performance.

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD The direction and speed of movement is

controlled by the gearshift lever.

1. Start tractor with clutch/brake pedal de- pressed and gearshift lever in neutral (N) position.

2. Move gearshift lever to desired po- sition.

3. Slowly release clutch/brake pedal to start movement.

IMPORTANT: Bring tractor to a complete

stop before shifting or changing gears.

Failure to do so will shorten the useful life

of your transaxle. TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT

The position of the attachment lift lever determines the cutting height.

• Grasp lift lever.

• Press plunger with thumb and move

lever to desired position.

The cutting height range is approxi-

mately 1-1/2 to 4". The heights are mea- sured from the ground to the blade tip with the engine not running. These heights are approximate and may vary depending upon soil conditions, height of grass and types of grass being mowed.

• 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 looking lawns, mow often and after moderate growth.

• For best cutting performance, grass over 6 inches in height should be mowed twice. Make the first cut relatively high; the second to desired height.

TO 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. _,CAUTION: Do not operate the mower

without either the entire grass catcher, on mowers so equipped, or the deflector shield in place.

Attachemnt Lift Lever High Position

Attachment _-_ , _,.;_

Clutch Lever /-_

"E ng age[::t__//'_

"Disengage__"} I _/'

J_s_ Low

Position _ _ _ _

Shield

OPERATING IN REVERSE

Your tractor is equipped with a Reverse Operation System (ROS). Any attempt by

the operator to travel in the reverse direc- tion with the attachment clutch engaged

will shut off the engine unless the ignition

key is placed in the ROS "ON" position.

,all'WARNING: Backing up with the at- tachment clutch engaged while mowing

is strongly discouraged. Turning the ROS "ON", to allow reverse operation with the attachment clutch engaged, should only be done when the operator decides it is

necessary to reposition the machine with the attachment engaged. Do not mow in

reverse unless absolutely necessary.

USING THE REVERSE OPERATION SYSTEM -

1. Depress clutch/brake pedal all the way down and hold.

2. With engine running, turn ignition key counterclockwise to ROS "ON" posi- tion.

3. Look down and behind before backing up.

4. Move gear shift lever to reverse (R) po- sition and slowly release clutch/brake

pedal to start movement.

5. When use of the ROS is no longer needed, turn the ignition key clockwise to engine "ON" position.

ROS "ON" Position

Engine "ON" Position (Normal Operating)

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

_,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 gearshift lever to 1st gear. Be

sure you have allowed room for tractor to roll slightly as you restart movement.

• To restart movement, slowly release

parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.

• Make all turns slowly.

TO TRANSPORT

• Raise attachment lift to highest position

with attachment lift control.

• When pushing or towing your tractor,

be sure gearshift lever is in neutral (N) position.

• Do not push or tow tractor at more than

five (5) MPH. NOTE: To protect hood from damage when transporting your tractor on a truck

or a trailer, be sure hood is closed and secured to tractor. Use an appropriate

means of tying hood to tractor (rope, cord, etc.).

TOWINGCARTS 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 filler neck. Do not overfill. Use fresh, clean, regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum of

87 octane. (Use of leaded gasoline will increase carbon and lead oxide deposits

and reduce valve life). Do not mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in quan- tities that can be used within 30 days to

assure fuel freshness.

_CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline

near an open flame.

IMPORTANT: When operating in temper- atures below32°F(0°C), use fresh, clean winter grade gasoline to help insure good

cold weather starting.

CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to separa- tion and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be emptied before storage of 30 days or longer. Drain the gas tank, start the engine and let it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel

next season. See Storage Instructions for additional information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.

TO START ENGINE When starting the engine for the first time

or if the engine has run out of fuel, it will take extra cranking time to move fuel from the tank to the engine.

1. Sit on seat in operating position, depress clutch/brake pedal and set parking brake.

2. Place gear shift lever in neutral (N) position.

3. Move attachment clutch to disengaged position.

4. Move throttle control to choke position.

NOTE: Before starting, read the warm

and cold starting procedures below.

5. Insert key into ignition and turn key clockwise to start position and release

key as soon as engine starts. Do

not run starter continuously for more than fifteen seconds per minute. If the engine does not start after several attempts, move throttle control to fast position, wait a few minutes and try again. If engine still does not start,

move the throttle control back to the choke position and retry.

WARM WEATHER STARTING (50 ° F and above)

6. When engine starts, move the throttle control to the fast position.

• The attachments and ground drive can

now be used. If the engine does not accept the load, restart the engine and allow it to warm up for one minute using

the choke as described above.

COLD WEATHER STARTING ( 50° F and below)

6. When engine starts, leave throttle control in choke position until engine

warms up and begins to run roughly.

Once rough running begins, imme-

diately move the throttle control to the fast position. Engine warm-up may

take from several seconds to several

minutes (the colder the temperature,

the longer the warm-up).

• The attachments can also be used dur- ing the engine warm-up period.

NOTE: If at a high altitude (above 3000 feet) or in cold temperatures (below 32 F) the carburetor fuel mixture may need to

be adjusted for best engine performance

(see "TO ADJUST CARBURETOR" in the

Service and Adjustments section of this

manual).

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.

( •

00272

• If grass is extremely tall, it should be mowed twice to reduce load and pos-

sible fire hazard from dried clippings.

Make first cut relatively high; the second

to the desired height.

• Do not mow grass when it is wet.

Wet grass will plug mower and leave

undesirable clumps. Allow grass to dry before mowing.

• Always operate engine at full throttle

when mowing to assure better mowing

performance and proper discharge of material. Regulate ground speed by

selecting a low enough gear to give the

mower cutting performance as well as

the quality of cut desired.

• When operating attachments, select a

ground speed that will suit the terrain

and give best performance of the at-

tachment being used.

MAI.TE.A.CESC.EDU'E

AS YOU COMPLETE REGULAR SERVICE

Check Brake Operation _

Check Tire Pressure

Check Operator Presence and

T ROS Systems If

R Check for Loose Fasteners li_ I_'s If A Sharpen/Replace Mower Blades lI_3

C Lubrication Chart if if

0 Check Battery Level 1_4

a Clean Battery and Terminals ll_

Check Transaxle Cooling v'

Check V-Belts I_ Check Engine Oil Level If

Change Engine Oil (with oil filter) 1_1,2

E Change Engine Oil (without oil filter) _1,2

N Clean Air Filter 11_2 G Clean Air Screen 11_2

Inspect Muffler/Spark

E Replace Oil Filter (If equipped) _1,2

Clean Engine Cooling Fins I_ 2 Replace Spark Plug _ li_ Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge 11_'2

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,

Arrester

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 ROS systems for proper operation.

5. Check for loose fasteners.

/_///_'_ ERVICED ATES

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,-Ibs, maximum,

Do not overtighten.

LUBRICATION CHART

@ S_ Zerk

@Front Wheel ,

Bearing

Zerk

_SAE 30 or 10w30 Motor Oil @General Purpose Grease

LgPReferto Maintenance "ENGINE" Section

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease the pivot points which have special nylon bearings. 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, powdered graphite type lubricant sparingly.

-- @ Spindle Zerk

@Front Wheel

Bearing Zerk

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