Craftsman 917275043 Owner’s Manual
Owner's Manual
ICRIIFTSMIIN°J
GARDEN TRACTOR
23.0 HP, 50"Mower
Electric Start
AutomaticTransmission
Model No.
917.275043
Document
from previously bu,lt engines. Before you start the engine, read
J _ This product has a low em.lssion engine which operates differently I
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
and understand this Owner's Manual.
For answers to your questions
about this product, Call:
I
I
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equip-
ment.
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.
Visit our Craftsman website: www.sears.com/craftsman
1-800-659-5917
Sears Craftsman Help Line
5 am - 5 pm, Mon- Sat
Warranty ............................................... 2
Safety Rules ......................................... 3
Product Specifications .......................... 6
Assembly/Pre-Operation ...................... 8
Operation ............................................ 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 dding 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
Sears Service ...................... 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 mlury or death.
Look for this symbol to point out
important safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BECOMEALERT!!I 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.
_, CAUTION: Do not coast down a hill
in neutral, you may lose control of the
tractor.
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: Battery posts, terminals
and related accessories contain lead
and lead compounds, chemicals known
to the State of California to cause cancer
and birth defects or other reproductive
harm. Wash hands after handling.
I. GENERAL OPERATION
• Read, understand, and follow all
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 tuming.
• Never leave a running machine
unattended. Always turn off blades, set
parking brake, stop engine, and remove
keys before dismounting.
•Tum 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-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.
3
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 ovedum 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 tum 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
puffing your foot on the ground.
• Do not use grass catcher on steep
slopes.
III. CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator
is not alert to the presence of children.
Children are often attracted to the
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 pads,
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.
4
• 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 tum on slopes unless neces-
sary, and then, turn slowly and gradu-
ally downhill, if possible.
5
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Gasoline
Capacity
and Type:
Oil Type
(API-SF-SJ): SAE 5W-30
_)il Capacity: W/Filter: 4.5 Pints
Spark Plug: Champion RC12YC
'_Gap: .030")
3round Speed (MPH):
tire Pressure: Front: 14 PSI
_harging
System: 15 Amps @ 3600 RPM
Battery: Amp/Hr: 35
Blade Bolt Torque: 27-35 Ft. Lbs.
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase
of a new tractor. It has been designed,
engineered and manufactured to give you
the best possible dependability and
performance.
Should you experience any problem you
cannot easily remedy, please contact a
Sears or other qualified service center.
We have competent, well-trained techni-
cians and the proper tools to service or
repair this tractor.
3.5 Gallons
Unleaded
Regular
SAE 10W30
(above 32°F)
(below 32°F)
W/O Filter: 4.0 Pints
Forward: 5.8
Reverse: 2.1
Rear: 10 PSI
Min. CCA: 280
Case size: U1R
Please read and retain this manual. The
instructionswill enable you to assemble
and maintainyourtractor properly. Always
observethe "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, 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 Califomia the above is
required by law (Section 4442 of the
Califomia 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
(1) Washer
17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge
Steering Wheel Insert
(2)Flanged
Pins
(1)Front Plate
Assembly
B
(1) Knob b
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
Wheels
"7
Q(2) Center-
lock Nuts
Video Cassette
Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those parts
left unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your
tractor all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the
correct tools as necessary to insure proper tightness.
Keys
Slope Sheet
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 REMOVE TRACTOR FROM
CARTON
UNPACK CARTON
1. Remove all accessible loose parts
and parts boxes 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 mated-
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
steering shaft.
4. Align tabs and press steering sleeve
extension into bottom of steering
wheel.
5. Position steering wheel so cross bars
are horizontal (left to right) and slide
onto steering wheel adapter.
6. Secure steering wheel to steedng
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 prote_;tive 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
_-,'_ Wheel Insert
_[_-----H:x Bolt
€_------Lock Washer
Steering _ Large Flat
_/Steering Wheel
_" Adapter
Steedng -_ ,
Sleeve __=="-Tabs
Extension t
6. Lower seat into operating position and
sit in seat.
7. Slide seat until a comfortable position
is reached which allows you to press
clutcl'dbrake pedal all the way down.
8. Get off seat without moving its
adjusted position.
9. Raise seat and tighten adjustment
knob securely.
Seat
Steering Shaft
Steering
Sleeve
CHECK BA'rrERY
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).
"_;-'°. ....... ;,
, ::'-,, ,'" io"
INSTALL SEAT
Adjust seat before tightening adjustment
knob.
1. Remove adjustment knob and flat
washer securing seat to cardboard
packing and set aside for assembly of
seat to tractor.
2. Pivot seat upward and remove from
the cardboard packing. Remove the
cardboard packing and discard.
3. Place seat on seat pan so head of
shoulder bolts are positioned over the
large slotted holes in pan.
4. Push down on seat to engage
shoulder bolts in slots and pull seat
towards rear of tractor.
5. Pivot seat and pan forward and
assemble adjustment knob and flat
washer loosely. Do not tighten.
Seat
Bolts
Flat Washer t
NOTE: You may now rollor drive your
tractor offthe skid. Followthe appropriate
instructionbelow to removethe 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 disen-
gaged position to disengage trans-
mission (See =TO TRANSPORT" in
the Operation section of this manual).
4. Roll tractor forward off skid.
TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See
Operation section for location and
function of controls)
A
dUb.WARNING: Before starting read,
unoerstand and fo ow a l instructions in
the Operation section of this manual. Be
sure tractor is in a well-ventilated area.
Be sure the area in front of tractor is
clear of other people and objects.
_q
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 (see "TO
TRANSPORT" in Operation section of
this manual).
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 "STOP" 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 inward
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, tum 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 3/8o16 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
propedy 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
Sh0uUer
Bolt
Double Loop
Retainer
Gau
Wheel
Chassis
Bracket
Suspension Mower
Front
Arms Bracket
idler
Front Electric
Suspenl_n Clutch
Brackets Pulley
Front Plate
.P
3/8
Washer
3/8-16
Center
Locknut
Double
Loop
Retainer
Spring
Bar
Double Loop
Retainer Spring
(Inward pointing
deck pins)
Down
,/'CHECKLIST
Before you operate your new tractor, we
wish to assure that you receive the best
performance and satisfaction from this
Quality Product.
Please review the following checklist:
•/All assembly instructions have been
completed.
J' 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.
4 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).
4"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.
Single
Loop
Retainer
Springs
Deflector
Shield
4 Before driving tractor, be sure free-
wheel control is in "transmission
engaged" position (see "TO TRANS-
PORT" in the Operation section of this
manual).
While learning how to use your tractor,
pay extra attention to the following
important items:
,I Engine oil is at proper level.
,/Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean,
regular unleaded gasoline.
4 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.
,f It is important to purge the transmission
before operating your tractor for the first
time. Follow proper starting and
transmission purging instructions (See
"-I-O 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
ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP lr
FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED MOWER LIFT
LOCKED
LIGHT
N H L
A'I-rACHMENT REVERSE
CLUTCH ENGAGED
ATTACHMENT KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS
IGNITION CLUTCH DISENGAGED (SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)
NEUTRAL HIGH LOW
PARKING BRAKE
A
DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY
FREE WHEEL
(AutomaticModelsonly)
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
Free
Wheel
Control
Choke
Control
Throttle
Control
Brake Pedal
Ammeter Ignition Position
Light Switch
Switch
Attachment
Clutch
Lift
Plunger
Attachment
Lift Lever
Parking Brake
Lever
Motion Control
Lever
Approx.
Speed:
1MPH
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.
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.
1."4
The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into the I
eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses I
or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any adjustments I
or repairs. We recommend standard safety glasses or a wide vision safety I
mask worn over spectacles. I
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 all the way down
and hold.
2. Pull parking brake lever up and
release pressure from brake pedal.
Pedal should remain in brake posi-
tion. Make sure parking brake will
hold tractor secure.
Push-In to Attachment Clutch
Choke ,,Disen,_a,_e, Switch Pull Out to
Control _.._ "Engage"
Clutch/ /_ _p]/I_- _ .....
Brake / _ -,y.,uu. --
Keyj
_L AFI'= t t: \ Control Lever
/ _Knob -Parking Brake
Clutch/Brake Pedal "Engaged" Position
"Drive" Position "Disengaged" Position
STOPPING
MOWER BLADES -
• To stop mower blades, push attach-
ment clutch switch in to disengaged
position.
GROUND DRIVE -
• To stop ground drive, depress brake
pedal all the way down.
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 to allow 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 discharge and go
dead.
NOTE: Under certain conditions when
tractor is standing idle with the engine
running, hot engine exhaust gases may
cause "browning" of grass. To eliminate
this possibility, always stop engine when
stopping tractor on grass areas.
_IkCAUTION: 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 BACKWARD
_L,CAUTION: Do not attemptto 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 knob counterclockwise (l_)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 blade tip
with the engine not running.
14
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 fiat 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 _ L
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.
I. 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 Lever High Position
Switch PullOut to
Attachemnt Lift
_._-_, )lI=_ _// _-_j_,::'._ Position
: "_} )'Disengage"_" __lector
Shield
TO OPERATE ON RILLS
x_
_CAUTION: Do not drive up or down
hills with slopes greater than 15° and do
not drive across any slope. Use the slope
guide provided at the back of this manual.
• Choose the slowest speed before
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 TRANSPORT
When pushing or towing your tractor, be
sure to disengage transmission by
placing freewheel control in freewheeling
position. Freewheel control is located at
the rear drawbar of tractor.
1. Raise attachment lift to highest
position with attachment lift control.
2. Pull freewheel control out and down
into the slot and release so it is held in
the disengaged position.
• Do not push or tow tractor at more than
two (2) MPH.
• To re-engage transmission, reverse
above procedure.
Transmission Engaged
Transmission Disengaged
NOTE: To protect hood from damage
when transporting your tractor on a truck
or a trailer, be sure hood is closed and
secured to tractor. Use an appropriate
means of tying hood to tractor (rope, cord,
etc.).
TOWING CARTS AND OTHER ATTACH-
MENTS
Tow only the attachments that are
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. "l]res 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. Reinsed the
dipstick into the tube and rest oil fill
cap on the tube. Do not thread the
cap onto the tube. Remove and read
oil level. If necessary, add oil until
"FULL" mark on dipstick is reached.
Do not overfill.
• For cold weather operation you should
change oil for easier starting (See the oil
viscosity chart in the Maintenance
section of this manual).
• To change engine oil, see the Mainte-
nance section in this manual.
ADD GASOLINE
• Fill fuel tank to bottom of tank filler
neck. Do not overfill. Use fresh, clean,
re.gular 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.
_CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or
fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline
near an open flame.
IMPORTANT: When operating in tem-
peratures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh,
clean winter grade gasoline to help
insure good cold weather starting.
ACAUTION: 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 3O 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 Instruc-
tions for additional information.
Never use engine or carburetor cleaner
products in the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.
TO START ENGINE
When startingthe engine forthe firsttime or if
the enginehas runout of fuel, it willtake 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: 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.
16
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, restartthe engine and allow it to
warm up for one minute using the choke
as described above,
COLD WEATHER STARTING (500 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-oft 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 pedod after the
transm,ssion 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.)
PURGE TRANSMISSION
_bCAUTION: 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 firsttime. 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 reinstailation
before operating the tractor.
1. Place tractor safely on level surface
with engine off and parking brake set.
2. Disengage transmission by placing
freewheel control in disengaged
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 step there will be no
movement of drive wheels. The air is being
removed from hydraulic drive system.
5. Move motion control lever to neutral
(N) position, Shutoff engine and set
parking brake.
6. Engage transmission by placing
freewheel control in engaged position
(See "TO TRANSPORT" inthis 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.
1"7
8. Slowly move motion control lever f
forward, after the tractor moves A
approximately five (5) feet, slowly
move motion control lever to reverse
position. After the tractor moves
approximately five (5) feet retum the
motion control lever to the neutral (N) _-_.
position. Repeat this procedure with
the motion control lever three (3)
times.
Your transmission is now purged and now
ready for normal operation.
MOWING TIPS
• Mower shouldbe 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 clippingsare discharged
onto the area that has already been
cut. Have the cutarea to the rightof the
tractor. This wilt result in a more even
distributionof clippingsand more
uniformcutting.
• When mowing large areas, start by
tuming to the rightso that clippingswill
dischargeaway fromshrubs, fences,
driveways, etc. After one or two
rounds, mow in the opposite direction
making left hand turns untilfinished.
• If grass is extremely tall, it should be
• Do not mow grass when it is wet. Wet
• Always operate engine at full throttle
• When operatingattachments, select a
D
l
mowed twice to reduce load and
possible fire hazard from dried clip-
pings. Make first cut relatively high; the
second to the desired height.
grass will plug mower and leave
undesirable clumps. Allow grass to dry
before mowing.
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.
ground speed that will suit the terrain
and give best performance of the
attachment being used.
18
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