Craftsman 917275040 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

I{R.mM..'l

23.0 HP

ELECTRIC START

50" MOWER AUTOMATIC

GARDEN TRACTOR

Model No.

917.275040

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Repair Parts

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.

CAUTION: Read and follow all Safety

Rules and Instructions before operating this equipment,

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, II 60179

Visit our Craftsman website:www.sears.condcraffsman

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 .............................................. 8

Operation ............................................ 12

Maintenance Schedule ...................... 19

LIMITED TWOYEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT PARTS 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 found to be defective in

material or workmanship. Warranty service is available free of charge by taking your Craftsman riding equipment to your nearest Sears Service Center. In-home warranty

service is available but a trip charge will apply. This warranty applies only while this

product is in the United States.

This Warranty does not cover:

• Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as blades, spark plugs, air cleaners, belts and oil filters.

• 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,

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 the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions con-

tained 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 thirty (30) days of its

purchase date.

• Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.

Maintenance ....................................... 19

Service and Adjustments .................... 23

Storage ............................................... 31

Troubleshooting ................................. 32

Repair Parts ........................................ 36

Parts Ordering ..................... Back Cover

LIMITED 90 DAY 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. Warranty

service is available free of charge by taking your Craftsman riding equipment to your

nearest Sears Service Center. In-home warranty service is available but a trip charge

will apply. This warranty applies only while this product is in the United States. TO LOCATE THE NEAREST SEARS SERVICE CENTER OR TO SCHEDULE IN-HOME

WARRANTY SERVICE, SIMPLY CONTACT SEARS AT 1-800-4-MY-HOME

This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which may vary from state to state.

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

MPORTANT Ths cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects, Failure to observe the fol owing safety instructions could result in serious iniury or death.

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.

• 0o not mow in reverse unless abso-

lutely 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 unloading 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 themselves and others from serious injury.

II. SLOPE OPERATION Slopes are a major factor related lo loss-of-

control and tipover accidents, which can result in severe injuryor death. All slopes require extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not

mow it.

DO:

• 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 ob-

stacles.

• 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 recommen-

dations 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 gradu- ally downhill, if possible.

• Do notmow 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 notmow 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.

IlL'CHILDREN Tragicaccidentscanoccurifthe operator

is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to the

machine and the mowing activity, Never assume that children will remain where

you last saw them.

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

responsible adult.

• Be alert and turn machine off if children

enter the area.

• Before and when backing, look behind

and down for small children.

• Never car_ 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 comers, 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

notsmoke.

-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 debds 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 repeirs 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.

• 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. Tart 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.

_ILook for this symbol to point out

important safety precautions. It means

CAUTION!!! BECOMEALERT!!! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

_b CAUTION: In order to prevent

accidental starting when setting up,

transporting, adjusting or making repairs,

always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where itcannot contact spark

plug. _1, CAUTION: Do not coast down a hill

in neutral, you may lose control of the tractor.

_i 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. _IWARNING: 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.

_IWARNING: 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.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

GASOLINE 3.5 GALLONS

CAPACITY UNLEADED

ANDTYPE: REGULAR OILTYPE SAE 10W30

API-SF-SJ): (ABOVE 32°F)

SAE 5W-30

(BELOW 32°F)

OIL CAPACITY: W/FILTER: 4.5PINTS

W/O FILTER: 4.0PINTS

SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION

GAP: .030") RCt2YC

GROUND FORWARD: 5.8 SPEED(MPH): REVERSE: 2.1

TIRE FRONT: 14 PSI

PRESSURE: REAR: 10 PSI CHARGING 15AMPS @3600RPM

SYSTEM: BATTERY: AMP/HR: 35

MIN. CCA: 280 CASE SIZE:U1 R

BLADE BOLT 27-35 FT.LBS

TORQUE:

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a newTractor. 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 orother 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 obsen_e 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.

AWARNING: This tractor is equipped with an internal combustion engine and

should not be used on or near any unimproved 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 bythe 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 attester for the muffler is available through your nearest Sears service

center (See REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).

Steering Wheel

Steering Sleeve

Extension

Seat

(1) Washer

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

(1) Knob

Mower

Steering Wheel Insert

(3) Retainer Springs (double loop) (4) Retainer Springs (single loop)

Gauge Wheels

(2) Washers 3/8

_) x 7/8 x 14 Gauge

(2) Shoulder

Bolts

\ (_'_ JJ _'_ (2) Center-

(2) Wheels _J lock Nuts

Video Cassette

Keys Slope Sheet

€

(2) Keys

(1) Oil Drain Tube

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

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) 9/16" wrench (1) Pliers (1) 1/2"wrench (1) Utility knife

(1) 3/4" socket with

drive ratchet

(1) Tire pressure gauge 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 REMOVETRACTOR FROM CARTON UNPACK CARTON

1. Remove all accessible loose paris and parts carlons from cadon.

2. Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on all four comers of carton, and lay

panels flat.

3. Remove mower and packing materi- als.

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

BEFORE REMOVINGTRACTOR FROM SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL

1, Remove hex bolt, lock washer and

large flat washer from steering shaft,

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

3. Slide the steering sleeve over the

steenng shaft.

4. Align tabs and press steering sleeve

extension into bottom of steering wheel.

5. Position steedng wheel so cross bars

are horizontal (left to right) and slide onto steering wheel adapter.

6. Secure steering wheel to steering

shaft with hex bolt, lock washer and large flat washer previously removed.

Tighten securely.

7, Snap steering wheel insert into center

of steering wheel

8. Remove protective materials from

tractor hood and grill.

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

where tractor is to roll off skid.

Steerin

Steeve

/\ \\

HOWTO SET UPYOURTRACTOR

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).

3. Place seat on seat pan so head of shoulder bolt is positioned over large

slotted hole in pan.

4. Push down on seat to engage shoulder bolt in slot and pull seat

towards roar of tractor.

5. Pivot seat and pan forward and assemble adjustment knob and flat

washer loosely. Do not tighten.

6. Lower seat into operating position and

sit in seat.

7. Slide seat until a comfortable position is reached which allows you to press

clutch/brake pedal all the way down.

8. Get off seat without moving its

adjusted position.

9. Raise seat and tighten adjustment

knob securely.

Seat

; ' Label

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.

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 ROLLTRACTOR OFF SKID (See Operation section for location and

function of controls)

1. Press lift lever plunger and raise attachment lift lever to its highest

position.

2. Release parking brake by depressing

brake pedal.

3. Place freewheel control in freewheel-

ing position to disengage transmis-

sion (See "3"0 TRANSPORT" in the Operation section of this manual).

4. Roll tractor forward off skid.

TO DRIVETRACTOR OFF SKID (See

Operation section for Iocat_,_n _nrt 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 wellwentilated 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 "transmis-

sion engaged" position.

4. Sit on seat in operating position, depress brake pedal and set the

parking brake.

5. Press lift lever plunger and raise attachment lift lever to itshighest

position.

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

position.

7. Release parking brake.

8. Slowly move the motion control lever

forward and slowly drive tractor off skid.

9. Apply brake to stop tractor and set parking brake.

10. Turn ignition key to "OFF" position.

Continue with the instructions that follow. INSTALL MOWER AND DRIVE BELT

Be sure tractor is on level surface and mower suspension arms are raised with attachment lift control. Engage parking

brake,

1, Cut and remove ties securing anti-

sway bar and belts, Swing anti-sway bar to left side of mower deck,

2. Slide mower under tractor with deflector shield to right side of tractor.

IMPORTANT: Check belt for proper routing in all mower pulley grooves.

Install belt into electric clutch pulley groove.

3. Install one front link in top hole of the

L.H, front mower bracket and L.H, front suspension bracket. Retain with two single loop retainer springs as shown,

4, Install second front link in R.H. front

suspension bracket only and retain with single loop retainer spring as

shown.

5. Slide right side of mower back and in_t-_!!!in_in top hole of R.H. front

,,,. ,,,_,,,._t. Retain with single loop retainer spring as shown.

6. Turn height adjustment knob counter- clockwise until it stops.

7. Lower mower linkage with attachment

lift control.

8. Place the suspension arms on inward

pointing deck pins. If necessary, rock and raise front of mower to align deck

pins with the holes in suspension arms. Retain with double loop

retainer springs with loops down as shown.

9. Connect anti-sway bar to chassis bracket under left footrest and retain

with double loop retainer spring.

10.Turn height adjustment knob clock- wise to remove slack from mower

suspension,

11. Raise deck to highest position.

12.Assemble gauge wheels as shown using long shoulder bolts, 3/8 wash-

ers, and 3/8-16 center Iocknuts.

Tighten securely.

13.Adjust gauge wheels before operating mower as shown in the Operation

section of this manual.

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE The tires on your tractor were overinflated

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 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 propedy adjusted. See =TO ADJUST

BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

Chassis Bracket

Double Loop Retainer Spdn!

Shoulder Bolt

I se Pliers for Bar

L.H, Gauge

Wheel

3/8 Washer Center

Retainer Spr!ngs I

_¢'__ Loop Down

3/8-16 Locknut

Double Loop Retainer Spring(Inward Suspension

pointing deck pins)

Anti-Sway

Arm

Idler Pulley

Deflector

Shield

Front Suspension

Brackets

Front Links

Retainer Springs

Bracket

v_CHECKLIST

Before you operate and enjoy your new tractor, we wish to assure that you receive

the best performance and satisfaction from this Quality Product.

Please review the following checklist:

`/All assembly instructions have been

completed.

`/No remainingloosepartsincarton.

.,/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 propedy leveled

side-to-side/front-to-raar for best cutting results. (Tires must be properly inflated for leveling).

`/Check mower and ddve belts. Be sure

they are routed properly around pulleys and inside all belt keepers.

,/Check wiring. See that al! connections

are still secure and wires are properly

clamped. 11

,/Before driving tractor, be sure free-

wheel control is in drive position.

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.

,/It is important to purge the transmission

before operating your tractor for the first

time. Follow proper starting and transmission purging instructions (See

"TO START ENGINE" and "PURGE TRANSMISSION" in the Operation section of this manual).

Th_sesymbolsmayappearonyourtractororinliteraturesuppliedwiththeproduct.

Learnandunderstandtheirmeaning.

BATTERY CAUTION OR

WARNING

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF

FUEL CHOKE

REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW

OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP lr

MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED MOWER LIFT

LOCKED

LIGHT

r_'l R N H L

AI-i-ACHM ENT REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW

CLUTCH ENGAGED

IGNITION CLUTCH DISENGAGED (SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

ATTACHMENT

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

®3I

PARKING DRAKE

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

FREE WHEEL

(Automatic Modelsonly)

KNOWYOURTRACTOR READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING

Y6UR TRACTOR

Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

Light

Attachment

Clutch

Attachment Lift Lever

Parking Brake Lever

Uft

Plunger

Motion Drive Belt Tension

Handle

Choke Control

Throttle

Control

BrakePedal

Ammeter Ignition

Switch

Height Adjustment

Lever

Knob I

Control I _

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 - Turns the headlights on

and off. THROTTLE CONTROL - Used to control

engine speed. BRAKE PEDAL - Used for 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. IGNITION SWITCH oUsed for starting and stopping the engine.

LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to

release attachment lift lever when

changing its position. AMMETER - Indicates charging (+) or

discharging (-) of battery.

PARKING BRAKE LEVER - Locks brake

pedal into the brake position.

MOTION CONTROL LEVER - Selects the

speed and direction of tractor.

FREEWHEEL CONTROL - Disengages

transmission for pushing or slowly towing the tractor with the engine off.

MOTION DRIVE BELTTENSION HANDLE-Used when changing motion

drive belt and, if necessary, starting

engine under extremely cold conditions.

ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER - Used to

raise, lower, and adjust the mower deck or other attachments mounted to your

tractor.

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.

HOWTO USEYOURTRACTOR

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 brake pedal into full "BRAKE" position and hold.

2. Place parking brake lever in "EN- GAGED" position and release

pressure from brake pedal. Pedal should remain in "BRAKE" position. Make sure parking brake will hold

tractor secure.

Choke _ "D senaaoe" Switch Pull Out to Control,-_ _- "Engage"

Control\ (i_ _-._'_;_._, _."_ (_

Push-In to Attachment Clutch

c,ut

Brake _2) _-_',,.ignition_._._ " Pedal _ _ Key

;st'rnent Control"e,er

/'_Knob / "Parking Brake

Clutch/BrakePedal | "Engaged" Position "Drive" Position "Disengaged" Position

STOPPING

MOWER BLADES -

• To stop mower blades,move attach- ment clutch switch to "DISENGAGED"

position.

GROUND DRIVE -

• To stop ground drive, depress brake pedal into full "BRAKE" position.

IMPORTANT: The motion control lever returns to neutral (N) position when the

brake pedal is fully depressed. 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 =OFF" 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 "OFF" will cause the battery to be discharged,

(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. _II, CAUTION: Always stop tractor

completely, as described above, before leaving the operator's position; to empty

grass catcher, etc.

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 BACKWARD

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

1. Stad 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 CU'I'FING 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 (1_) to

lower cutting height.

The cutting height range is approximately

1-I/2" to 4-t/2". 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,

helght of gross 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 propedy 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: Adjust gauge wheels with tractor on a flat level surface.

1. Adjust mower to desired cutting height.

2. Lower mower with lift control. Re-

move rear retainer spring and clevis pin which secure each gauge wheel.

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

and insert clevis pins. Gauge wheels should be slightly off the ground.

4. Replace retainer spdngs into clevis pins.

Retainer Clevis Pin

Spring \ /

Gauge ,_0 _/_\

Wheel_/_\

Bar_

Gauge_ _ _ -

Wheel

Bracket

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 clutch control.

TO STOP MOWER BLADES -

disengage attachment clutch control. ,_CAUTION: Do not operate the mower

without either the entire gross catcher, on mowers so equipped, or the deflector

shield in place. AttachmentClutch AttachernntLift

SwitchPullOut to Lever High Position

"Engage" /

(v_ _)_- 7\ Position

.... _,_ 2_

P'USR '1 IO _ \,

"Disengage" -4 ._d

Deflector Shield

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

_CAUTION: Do not drive up or down hills with slopes greater than 15° and do

not ddve across any slope.

• Choose the slowest speed before

starting up or down hills.

• Avoid stopping or changing speed on hills.

• If stopping is absolutely necessary, push brake pedal quickly to broke

position and engage parking brake.

IMPORTANT= The motion control lever retums to neutral (N) position when the

brake pedal is depressed.

• To restart movement, slowly release parking broke and brake pedal.

• Slowly move motion control lever to slowest setting.

• Make all turns slowly.

TO TRANSPORT When pushing or towing your tractor, be

sur@to disengage transmission by placing freewheel control in freewheeling

position. Free wheel control is tocated at the rear drawbar of tractor.

1. Raise attachment liftto highest position with attachment lift controt.

2. Pull freewheel control out and 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 reengage transmission, reverse

above procedure.

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 ofyour tractor.

BEFORE STARTINGTHE 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, reinsed the dipstick and push it all the way down into the tube, wait for

a few seconds, 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 CHART" 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. 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

quantities that can be used within 30 days to assure fuel freshness.

IMPORTANT: When operating in temperatures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh,

clean winter grade gasoline to help insure good cold weather starting.

_WARNING: Experience indicates that alcohol blended fuels (celled 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. _I,CAUTION: Fillto bottom of gas tank

filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open flame.

TO START ENGINE When startingtheenginefor the flinttime or if

the engine has run out of fuel, if 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 brake pedal and set parking brake.

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: Beforestarting,read the warm and coldstarting 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.

NOTE; In extreme cold conditions, if engine will not start you may need to

disengage the motion drive belt as

follows:

1. Be sure parking brake is engaged.

2. Remove retainer spring from the drive

belt tension handle to relieve belt tension.

3. Start engine and allow it to warm up for three (3) minutes.

4. Shut-off engine and engage parking brake.

5. Engage drive belt tension handle and

replace the retainer spdng.

AUTOMATICTRANSMISSION 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 brake slowly return to operating position.

3. Allow one minute for transmission to warm up. This can be done during the

engine warm up period.

• The attachments can 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 adjusted for best engine performance.

See "TO ADJUST CARBURETOR" in the Service and Adjustments section of this

manual.

PURGETRANSMISSION

,_CAUTION= Never engage or disen- gage freewheel lever while the engine is

running. To ensure proper operation and perfor-

mance, 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 ofyour tractor. IMPORTANT; Should your transmission

require removal for service or replacement, it should be purged after reinstallation

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 freewheeling

position (See "TO TRANSPORT" in this section of manual).

3. Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine. After the engine is running, move throttle control to slow position.

Disengage parking brake.

4. Move motion control lever to full fonNard 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 procedure there will be no movement of drive wheels. The air is

being removed from hydraulicdrive system.

5. Move motion control lever to neutral (N) position. Shut- off engine and set

parking brake.

6. Engage transmission by placing freewheel control in driving position (See '+TOTRANSPORT" 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.

Disengage parking brake.

8. Slowly move motion control lever forward, after the tractor moves

approximately 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 tractor is now purged and now ready for normal operation.

MOWINGTIPS

• 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 been cut. Have the cut area to the right of the tractor.

This will result in a more even distribu- tion 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 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.

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