Craftsman 917276051 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

CRRFTSMIIN°

GARDEN TRACTOR

22.0 HP, 50" Mower

Electric Start

6 Speed Transaxle

Model No.

917.276051

_]]] his product has a low emission engine which operates

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

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

For answers to your questions about

th_ product, Call:

1 800 659 5917

Sears Craftsman Help Line

5 am - 5 pm, Mon - Sat

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

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

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

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

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

Maintenance Schedule ........................ 18

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 conve- nience, IN HOME warranty service will still be available after the first 30 days of pur-

chase, but a trip charge will apply. This charge will be waived if the Craftsman 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, elec- trical 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 pur-

chase date.

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

• Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.

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

Service and Adjustments ..................... 22

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

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

Repair Parts ......................................... 34

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

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

ment 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 avail-

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

please call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®.

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 throw- ing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious

injury or death.

_,WARNING: In order to prevent ac- cidental starting when setting up, trans-

porting, adjusting or making repairs, always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark

,_ug.

WARNING: Do not coast down a hill in

neutral, you may lose control of the tractor. _WARNING: 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

u to lose control of your tractor.

WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its

constituents, and certain vehicle compo-

nents contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and

birth defects or other reproductive 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, notacross.

• 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.

Ill. CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator

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

chine and the mowing activity. Never as-

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.

• Besurethe area isclearof otherpeople beforemowing.Stopmachineif anyone

entersthe area.

• Nevercarrypassengersorchildren evenwiththe bladesoff.

• Do not mowin reverseunlessabso- lutelynecessary.Alwayslook downand

behindbeforeand whilebacking.

• Nevercarrychildren.Theymayfalloff and beseriouslyinjuredorinterferewith

safemachineoperation.

• Keepchildrenout of themowingarea and underthe watchfulcareofanother

responsibleadult.

• Bealert andturnmachineoff ifchildren enterthe area.

• Beforeand when backing,lookbehind anddownfor smallchildren.

• Mowup anddownslopes(15° Max),not across.

• Removeobstaclessuchas rocks,tree limbs,etc.

• Watchfor holes,ruts, orbumps.Uneven

terraincouldoverturnthe machine.Tall

grasscan hide obstacles.

• Useslowspeed.Choosea lowgear sothatyou willnothaveto stopor shift

while onthe slope.

• Avoidstartingor stoppingon a slope.If

tireslosetraction,disengagetheblades

andproceedslowlystraightdownthe slope.

• Ifmachinestopswhilegoinguphill, disengageblades,shiftinto reverseand backdown slowly.

• Donot turn on slopesunlessnecessary, andthen,turn slowlyandgradually downhill,if possible.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Gasoline 5 Gallons Capacity Unleaded

and Type: Regular Oil Type SAE 30 (above 32°F)

'API-SG-SL): SAE 5W30

(below 32°F)

Oil 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: 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". 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.

_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 %

Steering Sleeve

Seat

@ (1) Washer

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

_(1) Knob

Mower

(5) Retainer Springs

Steering Wheel

Adapter

loop)

(2) Shoulder

Bolts

Video Cassette

Gauge Wheels

(2) Centerlock Nuts

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

Slope Sheet

For Future Use

Keys

(2) Keys

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.

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

Wheel

I Steering

Wheel Insert

_------ Locknut

(_---___ Large Flat

When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, it means, from your point of

Steerin_asher

view, when you are in the operating posi- tion (seated behind the steering wheel).

!/Steering Wheel

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM

CARTON UNPACK CARTON

1. Remove all accessible loose parts and

Steering Shaft

Steering Sleeve ,' _ _-_-_ _" "..

I/Adapter

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.

///_ / //J /

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

BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR FROM SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL

1. Remove Iocknut 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 Iocknut 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. IMPORTANT: Check for and remove any staples in skid that may puncture tires

where tractor is to roll off skid.

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR CHECK BATTERY

1. Lift hood to raised position. NOTE: If this battery is put into service after month and year indicated on label (label located between terminals) charge battery for minimum of one hour at 6-10 amps. (See "BATTERY" in Maintenance section of this manual for charging instruc- tions).

Label

INSTALL SEAT

Adjust seat before tightening adjustment

knob.

1. Remove adjustment knob and flat washer securing seat to cardboard packing and set aside for assembly of

seat to tractor.

2. Pivot seat upward and remove from the cardboard packing. Remove the cardboard packing and discard.

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 Pa_

Flat Washer

Adjustment Knob _

Shoulder Bolts

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 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) _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.

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 using 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.

Double Loop Retainer

Spring

Shoulder Gauge Bolt Wheel

3/8 Washer

3/8-16 Double Center Loop

Locknut Retainer

Use Pliers For Retainer Springs

Spring

Chassis Bracket

Anti-Swa_

Bar

Double Loop Retainer Spring (Inward pointing

deck pins)

Front

Suspension Mower

Arms Bracket

Idler

Front Electric

Suspension Clutch

Brackets Pulley

Front Plate

Single

Loop Retainer

Springs

Deflector

ASSEMBLE GAUGE WHEELS AND

BRACKETS TO MOWER DECK

The gauge wheels are designed to keep the mower deck in proper position when

operating mower. Be sure they are prop-

erly adjusted to ensure optimum mower

performance.

1. Attach front gauge wheel brackets marked front left (FL), front right (FR) to mower deck using (3) carriage bolts and (3) Iocknuts. For ease of instal- lation do not tighten Iocknuts until all carriage bolts have been installed.

2. Attach rear gauge wheel brackets marked rear left (R L), rear right (RR) to mower deck using (3) carriage bolts and (3) Iocknuts. For ease of instal- lation do not tighten Iocknuts until all carriage bolts have been installed.

3. Slide gauge wheel bar down into bracket channel, Be sure that gauge wheel bar aligning holes are on top. Assemble gauge wheels as shown using shoulder bolts, 3/8 washers and 3/8-16 center Iocknuts and tighten securely.

4. For ease of mower to tractor assembly, raise gauge wheels to highest position and retain with clevis pins and spring

retainers.

NOTE: Adjust gauge wheels before oper- ating mower. See "TO ADJUST GAUGE

WHEELS" in the Operation section of this

manual.

Crownlock Nut

Retainer spring

Gauge Wheel Mounting

Bracket Shoulder

Bolt \ Adjusting

Bar

Gauge _

Wheel --

3/8 Washer

3/8-16 Center Locknut

CHECK TIRE 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.

Carraige Bolts

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 BRAKE SYSTEM

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.

,/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.

Thesesymbolsmayappearonyour tractoror in literaturesuppliedwiththe product.

Learnandunderstandtheir meaning.

R N H L I' 1

REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW CHOKE FAST

SLOW IGNITION

ENGINE OFF LIGHTS ON ENGINE ON ENGINE START PARKING BRAKE

OVER TEMP

LIGHT

ATTACHMENT ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH ENGAGED CLUTCH DISENGAGED

(Automatic Models only)

FUEL OIL PRESSURE

FREE WHEEL

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.

BATTERY REVERSE FORWARD

DANGER, KEEP HANDS

AND FEET AWAY

DANGER indicates a hazard which, if not avoided,

will result in death or serious injury.

WARNING indicates a hazard which, if not avoided,

could result in death or serious injury.

CAUTION indicatesa 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.

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

HOT SURFACES indicates a hazard which,

4_l/llll/=ll;,,

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

FIRE indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, could result in death, serious injury and/or

property damage.

PARKING BRAKE PARKING BRAKE

LOCKED UNLOCKED

MOWER HEIGHT MOWER LIFT

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

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 iht Switch Switch Position

Ammeter

Throttle Control

Clutch/Brake

Choke Control

Height

Adjustment

Knob

Clutch Switch

Lift Lever Plunger

Attachment Lift Lever

f Parking Brake

-Range Shift Lever

Gear Shift Lever

02147

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.

RANGE SHIFT 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.

SAFETYGLASSES

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.

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 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-In to "Disengaged" Attachment Clutch

Choke Switch Pull Out To Control "Engage"

Throttle Control

"Brake" nition

Positidn Key

Brake

Clutch/ "Engaged" Brake Pedal "Disengaged" Position

"Drive" Position Gear Shift

Position Height Adjustment Lever

Knob

STOPPING MOWER BLADES -

• To stop mower blades, push attachment

clutch switch in to disengaged position.

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.

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

opping 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 (_) to raise cutting

height.

• Turn knob counterclockwise (r-_) 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 Wheel

Bar

Gauc

Wheel

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. You must

remain fully and centrally positioned in the seat to prevent the engine from hesitating or cutting off when operating your equip- ment on rough, rolling terrain or hills.

1. Select desired height of cut.

Bracket

2. Lower mower with attachment lift con- trol.

3. Start mower blades by engaging at- tachment 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 Lift Lever

Attachment Clutch High Position

Switch Pull Out To Low

"Engage" _ Position

Deflector Shield

Push In To

"Disengage"

TO OPERATE ON HILLS _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.

TO TRANSPORT

• 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.

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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• 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.

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