Craftsman 917275044 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

Icnn=:TSmnm+l

GARDEN TRACTOR

23.0 HP, 50"Mower

Electric Start

Automatic Transmission

Model No.

917.275044

I _ This product has a low emission engine which operates differently I

CAUTION:

Read and follow all 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

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

For answers to your questions about this product, Call:

1-800-659-5917

Sears Craftsman Help Line 5 am- 5 pro, Mon- Sat

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

maintained, lubricated and tuned up according to the instructions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair or replace free of charge any parts that are found to be defective in material or workmanship according to the guidelines of coverage listed below. Sears will also provide free labor for these applicable warranted parts for the two full years. During the first 30 days of purchase, there will be no charges to service

the product at your home for issues covered by this warranty. (See exclusions below).

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

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

man product is dropped off at an authorized Sears location. For the nearest authorized

Sears location, please call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®. This warranty applies only while this

product is within the United States.

This Warranty does not cover:

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

• Standard Maintenance Servicing, oil changes, or tune-ups

• Tire replacement or 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 failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions contained in

the owner's manual.

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

purchase date.

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

• Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.

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

equipment proves defective in material or workmanship and our testing determines the battery will not hold a charge, Sears will replace the battery at no charge. During the

first 30 days of purchase, there will be no charges to replace the battery at your HOME. After the first 30 days, for your convenience, IN-HOME warranty service will still be

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

Sears location, please call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®.

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

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

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

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

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

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

This battery warranty applies only while this product is within the United States.

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

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

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

throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

Look for this symbol to point out

important safety precautions. It means CAUTION!!! BECOMEALERT!!! 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 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

white on the slope.

• Follow the manufacturer's recommenda- tions for wheel weights or counter-

weights to improve stability.

• Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments. These can change

the stability of the machine.

• Keep all movement on the slopes slow

and gradual. Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction.

• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction, disengage the blades

and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

DO NOT:

• Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn slowly and gradually

downhill, if possible.

• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or

embankments. The mower could suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the

edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.

• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could cause sliding.

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

• Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.

II1. 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 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. Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so that you will not have to stop or shift

while on the slope. Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction, disengage the

blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

If machine stops while going uphill, disengage blades, shift into reverse

and back down slowly. Do not turn on slopes unless neces- sary, and then, turn slowly and gradu- ally downhill, if possible.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

3asoline 5 Gallons 3apacity Unleaded

_nd Type: Regular ::)ilType SAE 10W30

(above 32°F)

API-SF-SJ): SAE 5W-30

(below 32°F)

Dil Capacity: W/Filter: 4.5 Pints

W/O Filter: 4.0 Pints

Spark Plug: Champion RC12YC CGap: .030")

3round Speed (MPH):

Forward: 5.8 Reverse: 2.1

Tire Pressure: Front: 14 PSI

Rear: 10 PSI

Charging System: 15 Amps @ 3600 RPM

Battery: Amp/Hr: 35

Min. CCA: 280 Case size: U1R

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.

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.

JI_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 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).

Steering Wheel

[

(1) Washer 17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge

(1) Knob _

(2)Flanged

Steering Sleeve

Extension

Bubble

keve_ Mower

Mower

Steering Wheel Insert

qth

Leveling

Wrench

(5) Retainer Springs

oop)

(1)Front Plate \" _

Assembly _P'_Et_

(2) Shoulder

Bolts

(_(2) Wheels

Gauge Wheels

2) Retainer Springs single loop)

(2) Washers 3/8

) x 7/8 x 14 Gauge

@(2) Center-

lock Nuts

Video Cassette

Keys

Slope Sheet

(2) Keys

(1) Oil Drain Tube

Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your

tractor all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools as necessary to insure proper tightness.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

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

are listed below. (1) 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 materi- als.

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

BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR FROM SKID

ATrACH 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.

6. Position steering 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.

r_ _steedng

",_ Wheel Insert

- Hex Bolt

¢P--_Lock Washer

Steering _ Larg.e Flat

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.

Wheel_eaepdt:egra_/_iel

Steering _ Sleeve _Tabs

Extension I

Steering Shaft -_ z_'-_-_-_'_,_\_\,

Steenng _c - __ ',',

Sleeve /rf;.1:=LJ, ._ . ,,,

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).

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

Seat Pan

der

Bolts

Flat Wa_

Adjustrr _nt_Kn'ci_

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 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)

_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 (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, 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 he

properly leveled. See 'fro 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.

Double Loop Retainer

Shouk_er

Bolt

Gau Wheel

3/8

Washer

3/8-16 Double Center Loop

Locknut Retainer

Use Pliers For Retainer Springs

Spdng

Chassis

Bracket

Bar

Down

SuspensionMower Arms Bracket

Idler

Double Loop

Retainer Spring (Inward pointing

deck pins)

Front

Front Electric

Susper_ Clutch

Brackets Pulley

Front Plate

Single Loop

Retainer Springs

Deflector

' Shield

,/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. ,/No remaining loose parts in carton. ,I 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).

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 "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: ,/ Engine oil is at proper level.

,I 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).

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

Learn and understand their meaning.

I- ;I

BAT[ERY CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW

WARNING

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP

FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED

LOCKED

LIGHT

MOWER LIFT

R N H L

ATTACHMENT REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW PARKING BRAKE

CLUTCH ENGAGED

IGNITION CLUTCH DISENGAGED (SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

ATTACHMENT

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

FREE WHEEL

(Automatic Models only)

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

BeltTension Handle

Height Adj

Knob

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

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 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.

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 standard safety glasses or a wide vision safetyl

mask worn over spectacles. I

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 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 "Disenaaae" Switch Pull Out to Control,_ g "Engage"

Brake / _ _'lgnition "_--'_

Pedal__ _ Key _.

%/_. - .... : \ Control Lever

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.

_ajus[men[ --

/_Knob \Parking Brake

IMPORTANT: Leaving the ignition switch in any position other than "STOP" will cause the battery to discharge and go

dead. NOTE: Under certain conditions when

tractor is standing idle with the engine

running, hot engine exhaust gases may

cause "browning" of grass. To eliminate this possibility, always stop engine when

stopping tractor on grass areas. _CAUTION: Always stop tractor

completely, as described above, before leaving the operator's position.

TO USE THRO'n'LE 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

_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 knob counterclockwise (k_'_) 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.

Theseheightsare 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

Gau,

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 grass catcher, on

mowers so equipped, or the deflector shield in place.

Attachment Clutch Lever High Position

Switch Pull Out to "Engage"

"Disengage"

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

,tt

41_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.

Attachemnt Lift

Deflector Shield

Position

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. Tires can lose traction with

the ground and cause you to lose control of your tractor.

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL

The engine in your tractor has been

shipped, from the factory, already filled with summer weight oil.

1. Check engine oil with tractor on level ground.

2. Unthread and remove oil fill cap/ dipstick; wipe oil off. Reinsert the dipstick into the tube and rest oil fill cap on the tube. Do not thread the

cap onto the tube. Remove and read oil level. If necessary, add-oil until

"FULL" mark on dipstick is reached. Do not overfill.

• For cold weather operation you should

change oil for easier starting (See 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, 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.

_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.

_CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels

(called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which

leads to separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can

damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage.

To avoid engme 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 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 starting the engine for the firsttime or if

the engine has run out of fuel, if will take extra crankin_ time to move fuel from the tank to

the eng=ne.

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.

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-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 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.)

PURGE TRANSMISSION

_ILCAUTION: 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 reinsta!lation

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. Mov_ 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" 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 transmission is now purged and now

ready for normal operation. MOWING TIPS

• Mower should be properly leveled for

best mowing performance. See "TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the

Service and Adjustments section of this

manual.

• The left hand side of mower should be

used for trimming.

• Drive so that clippings are discharged

onto the area that has already been cut. Have the cut area to the dght of the

tractor. This will result in a more even distribution of clippings and more

uniform cutting.

• When mowing large areas, start by

turning to the right so that clippings will discharge away from shrubs, fences,

driveways, etc. After one or two

rounds, mow in the opposite direction

making left hand turns until finished.

• 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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