Craftsman 917.275013 User Manual

Owner’s Manual

GARDEN TRACTOR

23.0 HP, 48" Mower Electric Start 6 Speed

Model No.

917.275013

This product has a low emission engine which operates

differently from previously built engines. Before you start the en

gine, read and understand this Owner’s Manual.

CAUTION:

Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions before

operating this equipment.

SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO., HOFFMAN ESTATES, IL 60179 U.S.A.

Visit our Craftsman website:

www.sears.com/craftsman

For answers to your questions

about this product, Call;

1-800-659-5917

Sears Craftsman Help Line

5 am - 5 pm, Mon - Sat

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Warranty

Safety Rules Product Specifications Assembly/Pre-Operation. Operation

Maintenance Schedule ...

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2 3 Service and Adjustments... 6

8 10 16

Maintenance

Storage.................................

Troubleshooting

Repair Parts

Sears Sen/ice

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.. Back Cover

16 20 28 29 34

WARRANTY

LIMITED WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT For two (2) years from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Riding Equipment is maintained, lubricated and tuned up according to the instructions in the owner’s manual, Sears will repair or replace free of charge any parts that are found to be defective in material or workmanship according to the guidelines of coverage listed below. Sears will also provide free labor for these applicable warranted parts for the two full years. During the first 30 days of purchase, there will be no charges to service the proauct at your home for issues covered by this warranty. (See exclusions below).

For your convenience, IN HOME warranty service will still be available after the first 30

days of purchase, but a trip charge will apply. This charge will be waived if the Crafts

man 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 epair 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,

electrical 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 purchase 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 equipment 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 available but a trip charge will apply. This charge will be waived if the Craftsman product is dropped of at an authorized Sears location. For the nearest authorized

Sears location, please call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®. This battery warranty applies only while this product is within the United States. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights, which

vary, from state to state.

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

SAFETY RULES

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and

throwing objects. Failure to obsen/e the following safety instructions could result in

serious injury or death.

kLook for this symbol to point out

important safety precautions. It means

CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR

SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

, CAUTION: In order to prevent

accidental starting when setting up,

transporting, adjusting or making repairs,

always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark plug.

A. CAUTION: Do not coast down a hill

in neutral, you may lose control of the tractor.

A CAUTION: 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 components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other repro

ductive harm.

^WARNING: Batteiy 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 instructions 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 absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing. Be aware of the mower discharge direction 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 unattended. 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 unload

ing 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 injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the riding mower safely enough to protect them selves and others from serious injury.

Keep machine free of grass, leaves or other debris build-up which can touch hot exhaust / engine parts and bum . 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-ofcontrol and tipover accidents, which can re sult in severe injury or death. All slopes require extra caution. If you cannot back up

the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not

mow it.

SAFETY RULES

DO:

• Mow up and down slopes, not across.

• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree

limbs, etc.

• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall

grass can hide obstacles.

• Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so that you will not have to stop or shift while on the slope.

• Follow the manufacturer’s recommenda tions 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 necessary, 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 iittracted to the machine and the mowing activity. Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them.

• Keep children out of the mowing area and under the watchful care of another responsible adult.

• Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area.

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

• Never carry children. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine operation.

• Never allow children to operate the

machine.

• Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.

IV. SERVICE

• Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They are flammable and vapors are explosive.

- Use only an approved container.

- Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow

engine to cool before refueling. Do not smoke.

- Never refuel the machine indoors.

- Never store the machine or fuel container inside where there is an

open flame, such as a water heater.

• Never run a machine inside a closed

area.

• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment bolts, tight and keep

equipment 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.

Adjust and service as required.

SAFETY RULES

Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

Never carry passengers or children

even with the blades off.

Do not mow in reverse unless abso lutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing. Never carry children. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine operation.

Keep children out of the mowing area

and under the watchful care of another

responsible adult. Be alert and turn machine off if children

enter the area.

Before and when backing, look behind

and down for small children.

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

Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.

Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps.

Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. 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 neces sary, and then, turn slowly and gradu ally downhill, if possible.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Gasoline Capacity

and Type: Oil Type

(API-SF-SJ):

Oil Capacity:

Spark Plug:

(Gap: .030")

Ground Speed

(MPH):

Reverse:

Tire Pressure: Front: 14 PSI

Charging

System; 15 Amps @ 3600 RPM

Battery: Amp/Hr: 35

Blade Bolt Torque: 45-55 R. Lbs.

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new tractor. It has been designed, engineered and manufactured to give you the best possibie 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.

5 Gallons Unleaded

Regular

SAE 10W30

(above 32°F) SAE 5W-30

(below 32°F) W/ Filter: 4.5 Pints

W/O Filter: 4.0 Pints Champion RC12YC

Lo: Hi:

0.7 1.7

1.4 3.3

2.3 5.4

0.9 2.1

Rear: 10 PSI

Min. CCA: 280 Case size: U1R

Please read and retain this manual. The

instructions will enable you to assemble and maintain your tractor properly. Always observe the “SAFETY RULES".

REPAIR AGREEMENT

A Repair Agreement is available on this product. Contact your nearest Sears store for details.

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and observe the safety rules.

• Follow a regular schedule in maintain ing, caring for and using your tractor.

• Follow the instructions under “Mainte nance” and “Storage” sections of this owner’s manual.

^^WARNING: This tractor is equipped with an internal combustion engine and

should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brushcovered 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 taws.

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).

UNASSEMBLED PARTS

Video Cassette

□

(U)

(n)

Mower Leveling Wrench

Bubble Level

(1) Oil Drain Tube

For Future Use

Slope Sheet

Keys

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, from your point of view, when you are in the operating

position (seated behind the steering

wheel).

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM

CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

1. Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on all four corners of carton, and lay panels flat.

2. Remove packing materials.

3. Remove protective materials from tractor hood and grille.

IMPORTANT: Check for and remove any

staplesin skid that may puncture tires where tractor is to roll off skid.

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 instructions).

1. Raise seat and loosen adjustment

knobs. Lower seat into operating position

and sit in seat. Slide seat until a comfortable position

is reached which allows you to press clutch/brake pedal all the way down. Get off seat without moving its

4. adjusted position.

Raise seat and tighten adjustment

knob securely.

NOTE: You may now roll or drive your

tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate

instruction beiow 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

2. Release parking brake by depressing

3. Place gearshift lever in neutral (N)

4. Roll tractor forward off skid.

TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See

Operation section for location and function of controls)

^WARNING: Before starting, read,

understand and follow all instructions in

the Operation section of this manual. Be

sure tractor is in a welt-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

2. Check engine oil level and fill fuel

3. Sit on seat in operating position,

4. Place gear shift lever in neutral (N)

5. Press lift lever plunger and raise

6. Start the engine. After engine has

7. Depress clutch/brake pedal into full

8. Slowly release clutch/brake pedal and

Adjustment

Knob

attachment lift lever to its highest position.

clutch/brake pedal.

position.

have been completed. tank with gasoline.

depress clutch/brake pedal and set

the parking brake.

position. attachment lift lever to its highest

position. started, move throttle control to idle

position.

"BRAKE" position and hold. Move gearshift lever to 1 st gear.

slowly drive tractor off skid.

9. Apply brake to stop tractor, set parking brake and place gearshift lever in

neutral position.

10. Turn ignition key to "STOP" position.

Continue with the instructions that follow.

CHECK MOWER LEVELNESS

For best cutting results, mower 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

replacing motion, mower drive, 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 tractor, check to see that the brake is properly adjusted. See ‘TO ADJUST BRAKE” in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

y^CHECKUST

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

tightened securely.

/ All tires are properly inflated. (For

shipping purposes, the tires were overinflated at the factory).

/ Be sure mower deck is properly leveled

side-to-side/front-to-rear for best cutting

results. (Tires must be properly inflated

for leveling).

/ Check mower and drive belts. Be sure

they are routed property around pulleys

and inside all belt keepers.

y 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,

regular 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

operating condition.

OPERATION

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

Learn and understand their meaning.

Q A

BATTERY

CAUTION OR

WARNING

REVERSE FORWARD

a| ©1

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP

ixi

FUEL

i* R N H L ©)|I

ATTACHMENT REVERSE

CLUTCH ENGAGED

CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE

LOCKED

NEUTRAL HIGH LOW

UNLOCKED MOWER LIFT

FAST

LIGHT

SLOW

PARKING BRAKE

ATTACHMENT

IGNITION

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

if"

FREE WHEEL

(Aulomatic Models only)

èn

KNOWYOURTHACTOR

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 attachments mounted to your tractor.

LIGHT SWITCH POSITION: Turns the

headlights on and off.

THROTTLE CONTROL: Used to control

engine speed.

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL: Used for

declutching and braking the tractor and starting the engine.

CHOKE CONTROL: Used when starting

a cold engine.

HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB; Used to

adjust the mower cutting height.

GEARSHIFT LEVER: Selects the speed

and direction of the tractor.

RANGESHIFT LEVER: Allows high (H)

and low (L) speed for all forward and

reverse gears.

ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER; Used to

raise and lower 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

slopping the engine.

AMMETER: Indicates battery charging (+)

or discharging {-).

PARKING BRAKE: Locks clutch/brake

into the brake position.

The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into the

. 1 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.

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 tractor secure.

Push-ln to “Disengaged”

Choke

Control

Throttle^^"^

Control

“Brake”

Positi

Clutch/ / / \ “EngagedBrake Pedal /“Disengaged” N^Posiuon

Pos't'Ofi Gear Shift

Attachment Clutch Switch Pull Out To “Engage”

Brake

A^sLntKnob

STOPPING

MOWER BLADES -

• To stop mower blades, move attach

ment clutch switch to disengaged position.

GROUND DRIVE-

• To stop ground drive, depress clutch/

brake pedal ail the way down.

• Move gearshift lever to neutral (N)

position.

ENGINE-

• Move throttle control to slow position.

NOTE: Failure to move throttle control to

slow position and allowing engine to idle 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 discharged, 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

completely, 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 mower

performance.

TO USE CHOKE CONTROL

Use choke control whenever you are starting 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 BACK WARD

The direction and speed of movement is controlled by the gearshift lever.

1. Start tractor with clutch/brake pedal depressed and gearshift lever in

neutral (N) position.

2. Move gearshift and range shift levers to desired position.

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 cutting height is controlled by turning the height adjustment knob in desired

direction.

• Turn knob clockwise to raise

cutting height.

• Turn knob counterclockwise {^) to

lower cutting height.

The cutting height range is approximately

1-1/2" to 4-1/2". The heights are mea sured from the ground to the biade tip

with the engine not running. These

heights are approximate and may vary depending upon soii conditions, height of grass and types of grass being mowed.

• The average lawn should be cut to approximately 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 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(See “TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT” in this section of manual).

2. Remove retainer spring and clevis pin

which secure each gauge wheel bar.

3. Lower gauge wheels to ground. Raise gauge wheels slightly to align holes in bracket and gauge wheel bar and

insert clevis pin. Gauge wheels

should be slightly off the ground.

4. Replace retainer spring into clevis pin.

5. Be sure all gauge wheels are in the

same setting.

IMPORTANT: Be sure to readjust gauge

wheels if you change the cutting height of the mower deck.

Retainer r 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.

1. Select desired height of cut.

2. Lower mower with attachment lift

control.

3. Start mower blades by engaging

attachment dutch control.

TO STOP MOWER BLADES disengage attachment clutch control.

ACAUTION: Do not operate the mower

without either the entire grass catcher, on

mowers so equipped, or the deflector shield in place.

Attachment Clutch Switch Pull Out To “Engage

Push In To “Disengage”

Attachment Lift Lever

High Positi'

Low

¿'^Position

Deflector

' ' Shield

TO OPERATE ON HILLS ^CAUTION: 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 con trol lever to slower position.

• If stopping is absolutely necessary, push clutch/brake pedal quickly to brake posi tion and engage parking brake.

• Move gearshift lever to 1 st gear and range shift lever to low (L) position. Be sure you have allowed room for Iractorto roll slightly as you restart movement.

• To restart movement, slowly release park ing brake and clutch/brake pedal.

• Make alt turns slowly.

Clevis Pin

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) posi

tion.

• Do not push ortow tractor at more than five

(5) MPH.

NOTE: To protect hood from damage

when transporting your tractor on a truck or a trailer, be sure hood is closed and secured to tractor. Use an appropriate

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

TOWING CARTS AND OTHER ATTACH

MENTS

Tow only the attachments that are

recommended 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. 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 “OIL

VISCOSITY CHARr in the Mainte nance 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 vaive life). Do not mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in quantities 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

temperatures 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

separation 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 mn 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 disen gaged position.

4. Move throttle control to fast position

5. Pull choke control out for a cold engine start attempt. For a warm engine start attempt the choke control may not be needed.

NOTE: Before starling, read the warm and

cold starling procedures below.

6. Insert key into ignition and turn key clockwise to start position and release key as soon as engine starts. Do not run starter continuously for more than fifteen seconds per minute. If the engine does not start after several attempts, 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)

7. 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)

7. 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 engine 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.

• The attachments can be used during the engine warm-up period 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 adjusted for best engine performance. See TO ADJUST CARBURETOR” in the Sen/ice and Adjustments section of this

manual.

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

possible fire hazard from dried clip

pings. 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 attachment being used.

MOWING TIPS

• Tire chains cannot be used when the

mower housing is attached to tractor.

• 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 wilt

discharge away from shrubs, fences,

driveways, etc. After one or two

rounds, mow in the opposite direction making left hand turns until finished .

It;

MAINTENANCE

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

FILL IN DATES AS YOU COMPLETE REGULAR SERVICE

Check Brake Operation Check Tire Pressure

Check Operator Presence and Interlock Systems

Check lor Loose Fasteneis

Sharpen/Replace Mower Blades Lubrication Chart Check Battery Level

Clean Battery and Terminals Check Transaxle Cooling Check V-Belts

Check Engine OH Level Change Engine Oil (with oil filler) Change Engine Oil (without oil filter)

Clean Air Filler

Clean Air Screen

Inspect Muffler/Spark Arrester

Replace OH Filler (If equipped)

Clean Engine Cooling Fins

Replace Spark Plug

Replace Air Fitter Paper Cartridge

Replace Fuel Filter

1 - Change more often when operating under a heavy load or

in high ami"- ' remperatures.

2 ■ Service more often when operating in dirty or dusty conditions.

✓ ✓

✓

T7-

✓ ✓ ✓ 4

✓ ✓ ✓

✓

✓ 2 ✓

✓

3 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil. 4 - Not required If equiioped with maintenance-free battery. 5 - Tighten front axle pivot boll to 35 ft.-lbs. maximum.

✓ s

✓ 2

✓ ✓

✓ 2

±L

Do not overtighten.

DATES

✓

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.

All adjustments in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual should be checked at least once each season.

• 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.

5. Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION CHART

@ Tie Rod Ball Joints

® Spindle

Zerk

(2) Front Wheel

Bearing

(D Spindle

Zerk

®From Wheel

Bearing Zerk

Zerk

©Steering

Sector

Gear

Teeth

©Check/

@ Engine

Add Transaxle Fluid

® SAE 30 or 10w30 motor oil ® General Purpose Grease (2) Refer to Maintenance “ENGINE” Section @ Spray silicone lubriant {Move Boots to

Lubricate)

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.

TRACTOR

Always observe safety rules when performing any maintenance.

BRAKE OPERATION

If tractor requires more than six (6) feet

stopping distance at high speed in highest gear, then brake must be ad justed. (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 operator presence and interlock systems are working properly. If your tractor does not function as described,

repair the problem immediately.

• The engine should not start unless the

brake pedal is fully depressed and attachement clutch control is in the disengaged position.

• When the engine is running, any

attempt 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 attempt by the operator to leave the seat should shut off the engine.

• The attachment clutch should never

operate unless the operator is in the seat.

BLADE CARE

For best results mower blades must be

kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged blades.

3. Install new or resharpened blade with stamped "THIS SIDE UP" facing deck and mandrel assembly.

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. ^ ,

Blade Bolt (Special)

Cénter'

Hole

Mandrel

Assembly

Star

TO SHARPEN BLADE

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpen

ing 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 bal ancer, 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

allow access to blades.

NOTE: Protect your hands with gloves

and/or wrap blade with heavy cloth.

2. Remove blade bolt by turning counter clockwise.

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.

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 ADJUSTMENTS section of this

manual).

TRANSAXLE COOLING

Keep transaxle free from build-up of dirt

and chaff which can restrict cooling.

CHECK TRANSAXLE OIL LEVEL

1. Block up rear axle securely.

2. Remove left rear wheel by removing

hub bolts.

3. Remove filler plug from transaxle. Oil

level must be even with plug threads. If necessary, fill wtHr SAE 30 motor oil,

API SF-SJ. Replace filler plug.

4. Reassemble wheel to hub.

Transaxle Filler

Plug

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 SF-SJ. Select the oil’s SAE viscosity grade according to your expected operating temperature.

Change the oil after every 50 hours of operation or at least once a year if the tractor is not used for 50 hours in one year.

Check the crankcase oil level before starting 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 SF-SJ.

• 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.

Oil Drain Valve

3. Unlock drain valve by pushing upward

slightly and turning counterclockwise.

4. To open, pull down on the drain valve.

5. After oil has drained completely, close and lock the drain valve by pushing upward and turning clockwise until the pin is in the locked position as shown.

6. Remove the drain tube and replace

the cap onto to the end of the drain

valve.

7. Refill engine with oil through oil fill dipstick tube. Pour slowly. Do not overfill. For approximate capacity see “PRODUCT 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.

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