Craftsman 917275041 Owner’s Manual
Owner's Manual
ICRAFTSMIIN°
23.0 HP
ELECTRIC START
50" MOWER
AUTOMATIC
GARDEN TRACTOR
Model No.
917.275041
• Safety
• Assembly
• Operation
• Maintenance
• Repair Parts
differently from previously built engines. Before you start the
This product has a low emission engine which operates
engine, read and understand this Owner's Manual,
CAUTION:
Read and follow all Safety
Rules and Instructions before
operating this equipment.
For answers to your questions
about this product, Call:
1-800-659-5917
Sears Craftsman Help Line
5 am- 5 pm, Mon- Sat
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, II 60179
Visit our Craftsman website:www.sears.com/craftsman
Warranty ............................................... 2
Safety Rules ......................................... 3
Product Specifications .......................... 6
Assembly .............................................. 8
Operation ............................................ 12
Maintenance Schedule ...................... 19
LIMITED TWO YEAR 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 returning 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. A product is "used for
commercial purpose" if is used for any purpose other than single family household
dwellings or in usage where profit is made.
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 returning 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
2
IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and
throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in
serious injuryor 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.
• 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 burn. Do
not allow the mower deck to plow leaves
or other debris which can cause build-
up to occur. Clean any oil or fuel
spillage before operating or storing the
machine. Allow machine to cool before
storage.
II. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-
control and tipover accidents, which can 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.
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 notuse grass catcher on steep
slopes.
3
III. CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator
is not alert to the presence of children, o
Children are often attracted to the
machine and the mowing activity. Never
assume that children will remain where •
you last saw them.
• Keep children out of the mowing area •
and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult.
• Be alert and turn machine off if children
enter the area. •
• Before and when backing, look behind
and down for small children.
• Never carry children. They may fall off .
and be seriously injured or interfere
with safe machine operation. •
• Never allow children to operate the
machine.
• Use extra care when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.
IV. SERVICE
• Use extra care in handling gasoline
and other fuels. They are flammable
and vapors are explosive.
-Use only an approved container.
- Never remove gas cap or add fuel
with the engine running. Allow
engine to cool before refueling. Do
not smoke.
-Never refuel the machine indoors.
- Never store the machine or fuel
container inside where there is an
open flame, such as a water heater.
Never run a machine inside a closed
area.
Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade
attachment bolts, tight and keep
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.
• 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.
4
• 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 do_,,nhdl if posstbte
d_lJLook for th,s Symbol 10 point out
important safely p_ecaut_ons II means
CAUTION'" BECOME ALERT'" YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED
,_ CAUTION: In older to prevent
accidental starting when setting up.
transportmg, adlustmg or making repairs,
always d_sconnect spark plug wire and
place wire where it cannot contact spark
plug.
,_ 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
_ls constituents, and certain vehicle
components contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to cause
cancer and birth defects or other repro-
duct_ve harm.
,_I, 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.
,_II, CAUTION: Do not coast down a hill
in neutral, you may lose control of the
tractor.
5
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
GASOLINE
CAPACITY
AND TYPE:
IOILTYPE
(API-SF-SJ):
OILCAPACITY: W/FILTER: 4.5PINTS
SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION
'GAP: .030") RC 12YC
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
BLADE BOLT 27-35 FT. LBS
TORQUE:
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase
of a new Tractor. It has been designed,
engineered and manufactured to give
you the best possible dependability and
performance.
Should you experience any problem you
cannot easily remedy, please contact a
Sears or other qualified service center.
3.5 GALLONS
UNLEADED
REGULAR
SAE 10W30
(ABOVE 32°F)
SAE 5W-30
(BELOW 32°F)
W/O FILTER: 4.0PINTS
MIN. CCA: 280
CASE SIZE:U1R
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".
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.
_IbWARNING: 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 by the operator.
In the state of California the above is
required by law (Section 4442 of the
California Public Resources Code).
Other states may have similar laws.
Federal laws apply on federal lands. A
spark arrester for the muffler is available
through your nearest Sears service
center (See REPAIR PARTS section of
this manual).
6
Steering Wheel
Steering Sleeve
Steering Sleeve
Extension
Seat
(1) Washer
17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge
Steering Wheel Insert
(2)Flanged
Pins
(1)Front Plate
Assembly
(1) Knob
Mower
(5) Retainer Springs
oop)
2) Retainer Springs
single loop)
Gauge Wheels
(2) Washers 3/8
x 7/8 x 14 Gauge
(2) Shoulder
Bolts
_(2)
Wheels
7
Q(2) Center-
lock Nuts
Video Cassette
Keys
Slope Sheet
(2) Keys
-"t
(1) Oil Drain Tube
Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with 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) 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 0n
this manual, it means, from your point of
view, when you are in the operating
position (seated behind the steenng
wheel).
TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM
CARTON
UNPACK CARTON
1. Remove all accessible loose parts
and parts cartons from carton.
2. Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on
all four corners 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 REMOVING TRACTOR
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
sleeting shaft
4 Ahgn labs and press steering sleeve
exte_s_on into bollom of steering
_,heel
5 Pos,bon steer,ng wheel so cross bars
are horizontal (left to f=ght) and sl=de
onto sleeting wheel adapter
6 Secure sleeting wheel to steering
shall with hex boll, 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.
8
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 rear 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
/
HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR
CHECK BATTERY
1. Lift hood to raised position.
NOTE; If this battery is put into service
after month and year indicated on label
(label located between terminals) charge
battery for minimum of one hour at 6-10
amps. (See "BATTERY" in Maintenance
section of this manual for charging
instructions).
Label
i
"N
/
!.? ,_,
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.
SeatPanel
der
Bolt
Flat Washer _
Adjustme/nt Knob _', _i
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
position.
2. Release parking brake by depressing
brake pedal.
3, Place freewheel control in freewheel-
ing position to disengage transmis-
sion (See "TO TRANSPORT" in the
Operation section of this manual).
4. Roll tractor forward off skid.
9
TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See
Operation section for location and
function of controls)
_1, WARNING: Before starting, read
understand and follow a nstructions in
the Operation section of this manual. Be
sure tractor is in a well-ventilated area. Be
sure the area in front of tractor is clear of
other people and objects.
1. Be sure all the above assembly steps
have been completed.
2. Check engine oil level and fill fuel
tank with gasoline.
3. Place freewheel control in "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 its highest
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.
3. If equipped, turn height adjustment
knob counterclockwise until it stops.
4. Lower mower linkage with attachment
lift control.
5. Install belt into electric clutch pulley
groove.
6. Place the suspension arms on
outward pointing deck pins. Retain
with double loop retainer spring with
loops up as shown.
7. Install front plate assembly to tractor
suspension brackets and retain with
single loop retainer springs as shown.
8. Position front plate assembly between
front mower brackets. Raise deck and
plate assembly to align holes and
insert flanged pins. Secure pins with
double loop retainer springs between
the plate and mower brackets.
NOTE: To assist in locating hole in
flanged pin, the hole in pin is inline with
notch on head of pin. If necessary, move
mower side-to-side to give space
between plate and mower brackets.
IMPORTANT: Check belt for proper
routing in all mower pulley grooves.
9. Connect anti-sway bar to chassis
bracket under left footrest and retain
with double loop retainer spring.
10. If equipped, turn height adjustment
knob clockwise 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.
10
Double Loop
Retainer
Shoulder
Bolt
3/8
Washer
Use Pliers For
Retainer Springs
Gau
Wheel
3/8-16 Double
Center Loop
Locknut Retainer
Spring
Chassis
Bracket
Bar
Double Loop
Retainer Spring
(Outward pointing
deck pins)
_Loop Up
Suspension Mowe r
Arms Bracket
Idler
Front
Front
Suspen_on
Brackets
Electric
Clutch
Pulley
Front Plate
ly
.P
Single
Loop
Retainer
Springs
Deflector
Shield
/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:
J" All assembly instructions have been
completed.
J No remaining loose parts in carton.
J Battery is properly prepared and
charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps).
,,zSeat is adjusted comfortably and
tightened securely.
,I All tires are properly inflated. (For
shipping purposes, the tires were
overinflated at the factory).
J Be sure mower deck is properly leveled
side-to-side/front-to-rear for best cutting
results. (Tires must be properly inflated
for leveling).
,/Check mower and drive belts. Be sure
they are routed properly around pulleys
and inside all belt keepers.
,/Check wiring. See that all connections
are still secure and wires are properly
clamped.
,/Before driving tractor, be sure 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.
J" 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).
11
These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product,
Learn and understand their meaning.
BATTERY CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW
WARNING
ENG,NEONENG,NEOFFO,LPRESSOREL,G.TSONOV_,_TEMPT
FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED MOWER LIFT
LOCKED
H L
ATTACHMENT . REVERSE NEUTRAL
CLUTCH ENGAGED
HIGH LOW
PARKING BRAKE
4,
ATTACHMENT KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS
IGNITION CLUTCH DISENGAGED (SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)
DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY
FREE WHEEL
(Automatic Models only)
12
KNOW YOUR TRACTOR
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.
Motion Drive
Belt Tension
Handle
Height
Adj
Knob
Choke
Control
Throttle
Control _
Ammeter Ignition Switch
Light
Attachment
Clutch
Lift
Lever
Plunger
_ "_" /','"_/ A_aachment
",.":_.. .- ._ ,' _/f LiftLever
" _ _ Parking Brake
_-' Lever
Motion Control
Lever
Free
Wheel
Control
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 - Used for starting
and stopping the engine.
ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER - Used to
raise, lower, and adjust the mower deck
or other attachments mounted to your
tractor.
LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to
release attachment lift lever when
changing its position.
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 BELT TENSION
HANDLE-Used when changing motion
drive belt and, if necessary, starting
engine under extremely cold conditions.
13
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 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.
Push-In to Attachment Clutch
Choke "Disengage" Switch Pull Out to
Control. "Engage"
Throttle _
Control_
Clutch/
Brake
Pedal
k -%
Adjustment
Heic
Knob
Clutch/Brake Pedal
"Drive" 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.
'!l !
Key_
Motion
Control Lever
Parking Brake
"Engaged" Position
"Disengaged" Position
• 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.
_IbCAUTION: 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
_L,CAUTION: Do not attempt to operate
motion control lever when the parking
brake is set or when the brake pedal is
depressed. Doing so may result in
misadjustment to the drive control system.
The direction and speed of movement is
controlled by the motion control lever.
1. Start tractor with motion control lever
in neutral (N) position.
2. Release parking brake.
3. Slowly move motion control lever to
desired position.
TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT
The cutting height is controlled by turning
the height adjustment knob in desired
direction.
• Turn knob clockwise (F_) to raise
cutting height.
• Turn kneb counterolockwi,.,_ (1_"_) to
lower cutting height.
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The cutting height range is approximately
1-1/2" to 4-1/2". 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,
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: 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 springs into clevis
pins•
Retainer Clevis Pin
Spring
Gauge %
Bar
Gauc ---_
Wheel
Bracket
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 grass catcher, on
mowers so equipped, or the deflector
shield in place.
Attachment Clutch
Switch Pull Out to
Attachemnt Lift
Lever High 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.
• 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 brake
position and engage parking brake.
IMPORTANT: The motion control lever
returns to neutral (N) position when the
brake pedal is depressed.
• To restart movement, slowly release
parking brake and brake pedal.
• Slowly move motion control lever to
slowest setting.
• Make all turns slowly.
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.
15
TO TRANSPORT
When pushing or towing your tractor, be
sure to disengage transmission by
placing freewheel control in freewheeling
position. Free wheel control is located at
the rear drawbar of tractor.
1. Raise attachment lift to highest
position with attachment lift control.
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
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 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 oilfor 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.
,AWARNING: Experience indicates that
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.
ACAUTION: Fill to 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 starting the engine for the firsttime or if
the engine has runout of fuel, itwilltake 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.
16
NOTE: Before starting, read the warm and
cold starting procedures below.
6. Insert key into ignition and turn key
clockwise to "START" position and
release key as soon as engine starts.
Do not run starter continuously for
more than fifteen seconds per minute.
If the engine does not start after
several attempts, 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 slarts, slowly push
choke control on untd the engine
begins Io run smoolhly If the engine
slarts to tun roughly pull lhe choke
control Out shghtly for a few seconds
and then 6onhnue to push the COntrol
in slowly,
• The attachments and ground dnve can
nOW be used If tt_, engine does not accept
the I<x._drestart lhe en_jane and allow d to
warm up lot one m_nute using the choke
as descnbed above.
COLD WEATHER STARTING (50° Fand
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 spring.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WARM UP
Before driving the unit in cold weather,
the transmission should be warmed up as
follows:
1. Be sure the tractor is on level ground.
2. Place the motion control lever in
neutral. Release the parking brake
and let the 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
feel) or in cold temperatures (below 32 F)
the carburetor fuel mixture may need to
be adjusted for best engine performance.
See "TO ADJUST CARBURETOR" in the
Service and Adjustments section of this
manual.
PURGE TRANSMISSION
_I, 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 of your 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
forward position and hold for five (5)
seconds. Move lever to full reverse
position and hold for five (5) seconds.
Repeat this procedure three (3) times.
NOTE: During this procedure there will be
no movement of drive wheels. The air is
being removed from hydraulic drive
system.
17
5. Move motioncontrol lever to neutral
(N)position. Shut-off engine and set
parking brake.
6. Engage transmission by placing
freewheelcontrol in driving position
(See"TO TRANSPORT"in thissection
of manual).
7. Sittingin the tractor seat,start engine.
After the engineis running,move
throttlecontrolto half (1/2) speed.
Disengage parking brake.
8. Slowly move motion control lever
forward,after the tractor moves
approximatelyfive (5) feet, slowly
move motioncontrol lever to reverse
position.After thetractor moves
approximatelyfive (5)feet returnthe
motioncontrol lever to the neutral (N)
position. Repeat this procedure with
the motioncontrol lever three (3)
times.
Yourtractor is now purged and now ready
for normaloperation.
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 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.
f
IL
- J
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