Craftsman 917275970 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

ICReFTSMeN°I

DEN TRACTOR

22.0 HP, 50" Mower Electric Start

6 Speed Transaxle

Model No.

917.275970

This product has a low emission engine which operates

[_ differently from previously built engines. Before you start the

engine, read and understand this Owner's Manual.

IMPORTANT: Read and follow all Safety

Rules and Instructions before

operating this equipment.

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

Visit our Craftsman website:www.sears.com/craftsman

For answers to your questions

ab._ut th_ protd_ct, Call:

1 800 659 5917

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

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

SafetyRules..........................................3

ProductSpecifications...........................6

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

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

MaintenanceSchedule........................18

Maintenance........................................18

ServiceandAdjustments.....................22

Storage................................................29

Troubleshooting...................................30

RepairParts.........................................34

SearsService........................BackCover

LIMITEDWARRANTYONCRAFTSMANRIDINGEQUIPMENT Fortwo(2) yearsfromthe dateof purchase,if thisCraftsmanRidingEquipmentis

maintained,lubricatedandtuned upaccordingto the instructionsin the owner'smanual, Searswill repairor replacefree of chargeany partsthatare foundto be defectivein materialor workmanshipaccordingto the guidelinesofcoveragelistedbelow.Searswill

alsoprovidefreelaborfortheseapplicablewarrantedparts forthetwo full years.During thefirst 30 daysof purchase,therewill benochargestoservicethe productatyour

homefor issuescoveredby thiswarranty.(Seeexclusionsbelow). Foryourconve- nience, INHOMEwarrantyservicewill stillbe availableafterthefirst 30daysofpur-

chase,butatrip chargewillapply.This chargewill bewaivediftheCraftsmanproductis droppedoff at anauthorizedSearslocation.Forthe nearestauthorizedSearslocation,

pleasecall 1-800-4-MY-HOME®.This warrantyappliesonlywhilethis productiswithin

the UnitedStates. ThisWarrantydoes notcover:

• Expendableitemswhichbecomeworn during normaluse, includingbutnotlimitedto blades,spark plugs,air cleaners,belts,andoil filters.

• StandardMaintenanceServicing,oil changes, or tune-ups

Tire replacementor repaircausedby puncturesfromoutsideobjects,suchas nails, thorns,stumps,or glass.

• Repairsnecessarybecauseof operatorabuse,includingbut notlimitedto,damage causedby towingobjectsbeyondthe capabilityofthe ridingequipment,impacting

objectsthatbendthe frameorcrankshaft,or over-speedingthe engine.

• Repairsnecessarybecauseof operator negligence,includingbutnot limitedto, elec-

trical and mechanicaldamagecausedby improperstorage,failureto usetheproper

gradeandamountof engineoil, failureto keepthe deckclearofflammabledebris, orfailureto maintainthe equipmentaccordingto the instructionscontained inthe

owner'smanual.

• Engine(fuelsystem)cleaningor repairscausedbyfuel determinedto be contami- natedoroxidized(stale). Ingeneral,fuel shouldbe usedwithin30 daysof itspur-

chasedate.

• Normaldeteriorationand wearof the exteriorfinishes,orproductlabelreplacement.

• Ridingequipmentusedfor commercialor rentalpurposes.

LIMITEDWARRANTYON BATTERY Forninety(90)daysfromdateof purchase,ifany batteryincludedwiththis ridingequip-

mentprovesdefectivein materialor workmanshipand ourtestingdeterminesthe battery

will not holda charge,Searswill replacethebatteryat no charge. Duringthefirst 30 daysof purchase,therewill be nochargesto replacethe batteryat yourHOME. After thefirst 30 days,for yourconvenience,IN-HOMEwarrantyservicewill stillbe avail-

ablebut a tripchargewillapply.Thischargewillbe waivedifthe Craftsmanproductis droppedoff at anauthorizedSearslocation.Forthe nearestauthorizedSearslocation,

pleasecall 1-800-4-MY-HOME®. Thisbatterywarrantyappliesonly whilethis productis withinthe UnitedStates. Thiswarrantygivesyouspecificlegalrights,andyou mayalsohaveother rights,which

vary,fromstateto state.

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

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throw- ing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious

injury or death.

_IWARNING: 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.

,_WARNING: Do not coast down a

hill in neutral, you may lose control of the

tractor.

_WARNING: Tow only the attach-

ments that are recommended by and

comply with specifications of the man-

ufacturer 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 instruc-

tions 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 abso-

lutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing.

• Be aware of the mower discharge direc- tion 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 unat- tended. 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 un-

loading 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 in- juries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the riding mower safely enough to protect themselves 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

result 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. Un- even 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 recommend- ations for wheel weights or counter-

weights to improve stability.

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

the stability of the machine.

• Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction.

• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If

tires lose traction, disengage the blades

and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

DO NOT:

• Do not turn on slopes unless neces- sary, and then, turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.

• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. The mower could

suddenly turn over if a wheel is over

the edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge

caves in.

• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced

traction could cause sliding.

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

• Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.

III. CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur ifthe operator

is not alert to the presence of children.

Children are often attracted to the ma- chine and the mowing activity. Neveras-

sume 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 equip-

ment 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. Ad- just 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.

• Be not turn on slopes unless necessary,

and then, turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

i Gasoline 5 Gallons

Capacity Unleaded and Type: Regular

iOil Type SAE 30 (above 32°F) i (API-SF-SJ): SAE 5W-30

i' (below 32°F) iOil Capacity: W/Filter 4.0 Pints

W/O Filter 3.75 Pints

Spark Plug: Champion QC12YC

',Gap: .040")

Ground Speed Lo: Hi: (MPH): 0.7 1.7

1.4 3.3

2.3 5.4

Reverse: 0.9 2.1

Tire Pressure: Front: 14 PSI

Rear: 10 PSI

Charging

System: 16 Amps @ 3600 RPM Battery: Amp/Hr: 35

Min. CCA: 280

Case size: UIR

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".

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and observe the safety rules.

• Follow a regular schedule in main- taining, caring for and using your tractor.

• Follow the instructions under "Mainte-

nance" and "Storage" sections of this

owner's manual. _I_WARNING: This tractor is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unim-

proved 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 re- quired by law (Section 4442 of the Califor-

nia 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).

REPAIR PROTECTION

AGREEMENTS

Congratulations on making a smart pur- chase. Your new Craftsman® product is designed and manufactured for years of dependable operation. But like all prod- ucts, it may require repair from time to time. That's when having a Repair Protec- tion Agreement can save you money and aggravation.

Purchase a Repair Protection Agreement now and protect yourself from unexpected hassle and expense.

Here's what's included in the Agreement:

• Expert service by our 12,000 profe- sional repair specialists.

• Unlimited service and no charge for parts and labor on all covered repairs.

• Product replacement if your covered product can't be fixed.

• Discount of 10% from regular price of service and service-related parts not covered by the agreement; also, 10% off regular price of preventive mainte-

nance check.

• Fast help by phone- phone support from a Sears technician on products

requiring in-home repair, plus conve- nient repair scheduling.

Once you purchase the Agreement, a simple phone call is all that it takes for you to schedule service. You can call anytime day or night, or schedule a service ap- pointment online. Sears has over 12,000 professional repair specialists, who have access to over 4.5 million quality parts and accessories. That's the kind of professionalism you can count on to help prolong the life of your new purchase for years to come. Purchase your Repair Protection Agreement today! Some limitations and exclusions apply. For prices and additional information

call 1-800-827-6655. SEARS INSTALLATION SERVICE

For Sears professional installation of home appliances, garage door openers, water

heaters, and other major home items, in the U.S.A. call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®

Steering Wheel

Steering

Wheel Insert

(2) Flanged

_:Pins

(1) Front Plate Assembly

Steering Wheel

Adapter

Seat

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

_(1) Knob

Mower

(5) Retainer Springs

loop)

(2) Retainer Springs

, (single loop)

(2) Shoulder

Bolts

Video Cassette

(2) Centerlock Nuts

Gauge Wheels

(2) Wheels

For Future Use

Keys

(2) Washers 3/8 x 3/4 x 14 Ga.

Slope Sheet

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. Review the video cassette before you begin.

Steering

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

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

are listed below.

Wheel Insert

ex Bolt

Lock Washer

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

Steering _ Large Flat

(1) 3/4" socket with drive ratchet (1) Tire pressure gauge

Wheel _ Washer

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 along dotted lines on all four pan- els of carton. Remove end panels and lay side panels flat.

3. Remove mower and packing materials.

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. Position steering wheel so cross bars

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

5. Secure steering wheel to steering shaft

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

6. Snap steering wheel insert into center

of steering wheel.

7. Remove protective materials from trac- tor hood and grill.

i Steering Wheel

Adapter

Steering Shaft

Steering Sleeve

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

where tractor is to roll off skid.

HOWTO 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 instruc- tions).

Label

INSTALLSEAT

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 as-

semble 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 ad- justed position.

9. Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob securely.

Seat

Seat tn

Shoulder

Bolts

Adj

NOTE: You may now roll or drive your tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate

instruction below to remove the tractor from the skid.

TO ROLLTRACTOR OFF SKID (See Operation section for location and function of controls)

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

sition.

2. Release parking brake by depressing clutch/brake pedal.

3. Place gearshift lever in neutral (N) position.

4. Roll tractor forward off skid.

TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Operation section for location and function of controls)

_iI,WARNING: Before starting, read, un-

derstand and follow all 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.

1. Be sure all the above assembly steps have been completed.

2. Check engine oil level and fill fuel tank with gasoline.

3. Sit on seat in operating position, depress clutch/brake pedal and set the parking brake.

4. Place gear shift lever in neutral (N) position.

5. Press lift lever plunger and raise attachment lift lever to its highest posi-

tion.

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

7. Depress clutch/brake pedal into full "BRAKE" position and hold. Move

gearshift lever to 1st gear.

8. Slowly release clutch/brake pedal and slowly drive tractor off skid.

9. Apply brake to stop tractor, set park- ing brake and place gearshift lever in neutral position.

10.Turn ignition key to "STOP" position.

Continue with the instructions that follow.

INSTALL MOWER AND DRIVE BELT

See MOWER AND DRIVE BELT AS- SEMBLY Supplement Sheet for additional

guidance on this assembly.

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 deflec- tor shield to right side of tractor.

IMPORTANT: Check belt for proper rout- ing 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.

Chassis

Double Loop Bracket

Retainer

Shoulder Gau, Bolt Wheel

Suspension Mower Arms Bracket

Idler

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 rout- ing 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 us- ing long shoulder bolts, 3/8 washers,

and 3/8-16 center Iocknuts. Tighten securely.

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

tion of this manual.

CHECKTIRE PRESSURE The tires on your tractor were overin-

flated 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.

Front Electric

Front

Suspension Clutch Brackets Pulley

Front Plate

_8 Washer

3/8-16 Double Center Loop

Locknut Retainer

Use Pliers For

Retainer Springs

Loop Down 10

Spring

Bar

Double Loop Retainer Spring (Inward pointing deck pins)

Single Loop Retainer

Springs

Deflector

Shield

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 re- placing motion, mower drive, and mower

blade drive belts in the Service and Ad- justments section of this manual. Verify that the belts are routed correctly.

CHECK BRAKESYSTEM

After you learn how to operate your trac- tor, check to see that the brake is properly adjusted. See "TO ADJUST BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments section of

this manual.

J 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. ,/Battery is properly prepared and

charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps).

,/Seat is adjusted comfortably and tight-

ened securely.

,/All tires are properly inflated. (For ship-

ping purposes, the tires were overin-

flated at the factory).

,/Be sure mower deck is properly leveled

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

results. (Tires must be properly inflated

for leveling).

,/Check mower and drive belts. Be sure

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

,/Check wiring. See that all connections

are still secure and wires are properly

clamped. While learning how to use your tractor, pay extra attention to the following important

items:

,/Engine oil is at proper level. ,/Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean, regu-

lar 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 operat-

ing condition.

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

Learn and understand their meaning.

R N H L I',,I

REVERSE NEUTRAL NIGH LOW CHOKE FAST SLOW IGNITION

ENGINE OFF LIGHTS ON ENGINE ON ENGINE START PARKING BRAKE PARKING BRAKE PARKING BRAKE

OVER TEMP FUEL OIL PRESSURE BATTERY REVERSE FORWARD

LIGHT

ATTACHMENT ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH ENGAGED CLUTCH DISENGAGED

FREE WHEEL

(Automatic Models only)

Failure to follow instructions could result in serious injury or

death. The safety alert symbol is used to identify safety inform-

ation about hazards which can result in death, serious injury

and/or property damage.

DANGER, KEEP HANDS

AND FEET AWAY

DANGER indicatesa hazard which, if not avoided,

will result in death or serious injury. WARNING indicatesa hazard which, if not avoided,

could result in death or serious injury. CAUTION indicates a hazard which, if not avoided,

might result in minor or moderate injury. CAUTION when used without the alert symbol,

indicates a situation that could result in damage to the tractor and/or engine.

:_ HOT SURFACES indicatesa hazard which,

,dl_,., if not avoided, could result in death, serious injury

and/or property damage.

FIRE indicatesa hazard which, if not avoided, could result in death, serious injury and/or property damage.

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

LOCKED UNLOCKED

MOWER HEIGHT MOWER LIFT

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.

Ignition ht Switch Switch Position

Ammeter

Throttle Control Clutch Switch

Lift Lever Plunger

Clutch/Brake

Attachment Lift Lever

Choke Control

Height

Adjustment

Knob

Gear Shift Lever

Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the

American National Standards Institute.

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH SWITCH - Used to engage the mower blades, or other at-

tachments mounted to your tractor.

LIGHT SWITCH POSITION - Turns the headlights on and off.

THROTTLE CONTROL - Used to control engine speed.

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL - Used for

declutching and braking the tractor and starting the engine.

CHOKE CONTROL - Used when starting

a cold engine.

HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB - Used to

adjust the mower cutting height.

GEARSHIFT LEVER - Selects the speed

and direction of the tractor.

Brake

Range Shift Lever

RANGESHIFT LEVER - Allows high (H) and low (L) speed for all forward and

reverse gears.

ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER - Used to

raise and lower the mower deck or other

attachments mounted to your tractor.

LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to release

attachment lift lever when changing its position. IGNITION SWITCH - Used for starting and stopping the engine. AMMETER - Indicates battery charging (+) or discharging (-).

PARKING BRAKE - Locks clutch/brake

into the brake position.

The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety

glasses or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recommend standard safety glasses or a

wide vision safety mask worn over spectacles.

HOWTO USE YOUR TRACTOR

TO SET PARKING BRAKE

Your tractor is equipped with an operator presence sensing switch. When engine is running, any attempt by the operator to leave the seat without first setting the parking brake will shut off the engine.

1. Depress clutch/brake pedal all the way down and hold.

2. Pull parking brake lever up and release pressure from clutch/brake pedal.

Pedal should remain in brake position. Make sure parking brake will hold trac-

tor secure.

Push-Into

Choke Control

Throttle Control

"Brake"

Clutch/ "Engaged"

Brake Pedal "Disengaged" Position

"Drive" . / Position Gear Shift

Position Height Adjustment Lever

STOPPING

MOWER BLADES -

• To stop mower blades, push attachment

clutch switch in to disengaged position.

"Disengaged"

Knob

GROUND DRIVE -

• To stop ground drive, depress clutch/

brake pedal all the way down.

• Move gearshift lever to neutral (N) posi-

tion.

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.

Attachment Clutch Switch Pull Out To

"Engage"

Key

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 com-

pletely, 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 perfor-

mance.

TO USE CHOKE CONTROL Use choke control whenever you are start-

ing a cold engine. Do not use to start a warm engine.

• To engage choke control, pull knob out.

Slowly push knob in to disengage.

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD

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

1. Start tractor with clutch/brake pedal de-

pressed and gearshift lever in neutral (N) position.

2. Move gearshift and range shift levers

to desired position.

3. Slowly release clutch/brake pedal to

start movement.

IMPORTANT: Bring tractor to a complete stop before shifting or changing gears.

Failure to do so will shorten the useful life of your transaxle.

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT The cutting height is controlled by turn-

ing the height adjustment knob in desired

direction.

• Turn knob clockwise (J_l) to raise cutting height.

• Turn knob counterclockwise (v9 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. 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. Remove

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 in-

sert clevis pins. Gauge wheels should be slightly off the ground.

4. Replace retainer springs into clevis

pins.

Clevis Pin

Retainer

Spring _

Gauge _

Gauge / --_.

Wheel Bracket _

TO OPERATE MOWER

Your tractor is equipped with an operator

presence sensing switch. Any attempt

by the operator to leave the seat with the engine running and the attachment clutch engaged will shut off the engine.

1. Select desired height of cut.

2. Lower mower with attachment lift con-

trol.

3. Start mower blades by engaging at- tachment clutch control.

TO STOP MOWER BLADES - _JScengageattachment clutch control.

AUTION: Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass catcher, on mowers so equipped, or the deflector shield in place.

Attachment Lift Lever

_ttwatCchmpeL?_Ctu_tcTh High Positi/on Low

"Enga_ JJ/',-)'/Position

[ _ _I_"_/ _ _','_' Deflector

_- "_O_y \'_LJ \, :,'- Shield

D,s.." -'-?h

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

_i,WARNING: Do not drive up or down

hills with slopes greater than 15 ° and do not drive across any slope. Use the slope guide at the back of this manual.

• Choose the slowest speed before starting

up or down hills.

• Avoid stopping or changing speed on

hills.

• If slowing is necessary, move throttle

control lever to slower position.

• If stopping is absolutely necessary, push

clutch/brake pedal quickly to brake position and engage parking brake.

• Move gearshift lever to 1st gear and range

shift lever to low (L) position. Be sure you

have allowed room for tractor to roll slightly

as you restart movement.

• To restart movement, slowly release park-

ing brake and clutch/brake pedal.

• Make all turns slowly.

TOTRANSPORT

• Raise attachment lift to highest position

with attachment lift control.

• When pushing or towing your tractor,

be sure gearshift lever is in neutral (N) position.

• Do not push or tow tractor at more than

five (5) MPH.

NOTE: To protect hood from damage when transporting your tractor on a truck

or a trailer, be sure hood is closed and secured to tractor. Use an appropriate

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

TOWING CARTS AND OTHER ATTACH-

MENTS

Tow only the attachments that are recom-

mended 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 screw

cap tight, wait for a few seconds, re- move 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 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 quan-

tities 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 temper- atures below32°F(0°C), use fresh, clean winter grade gasoline to help insure good cold weather starting.

CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to separa- tion and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be emptied before storage of 30 days or longer. Drain the gas tank, start the engine and let it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel

next season. See Storage Instructions for additional information. Never use engine

or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.

TO START ENGINE

When starting the engine for the first time or if the engine has run out of fuel, it will

take extra cranking time to move fuel from the tank to the engine.

1. Sit on seat in operating position, depress clutch/brake pedal and set parking brake.

2. Place gear shift lever in neutral (N) position.

3. Move attachment clutch to disengaged 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 con- trol 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 en- gine to accept small changes in speed and load, until the choke control is fully in. If the engine starts to run roughly,

pull the choke control out slightly for a few seconds and then continue to push the control in slowly. This may require

an engine warm-up period from several

seconds to several minutes, depending

on the temperature.

• The attachments can be used during the engine warm-up period and may

require the choke control be pulled out slightly.

NOTE: If at a high altitude (above 3000 feet) or in cold temperatures (below 32 F) the carburetor fuel mixture may need to

be adjusted for best engine performance.

See "TO ADJUST CARBURETOR" in the

Service and Adjustments section of this

manual.

- J

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

sible fire hazard from dried clippings.

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 at- tachment being used.

MOWING TIPS

• Tire chains cannot be used when the mower housing is attached to tractor.

• Mower should be properly leveled for best mowing performance. See "TO

LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the Service and Adjustments section of this

manual.

• The left hand side of mower should be used for trimming.

• Drive so that clippings are discharged onto the area that has already been

cut. Have the cut area to the right of the tractor. This will result in a more

even distribution of clippings and more uniform cutting.

• When mowing large areas, start by turning to the right so that clippings will

discharge away from shrubs, fences, driveways, etc. After one or two rounds, mow in the opposite direction making

left hand turns until finished.

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