Craftsman 917277251 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

JCRIIFTSMRN'J

LAWN TRACTOR

15,5 HP, 38" Mower

Electric Start

5 Speed Transaxle

Model No.

917.277251

differently from previously built engines. Before you start the

i[_ This product has a low emission engine which operates t

IMPORTANT:

Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructionsbefore

operatingthis 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 about

this product, Call:

1-800-659-5917

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

Iengine, read and understand this Owner's Manual.

Warranty

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

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

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

Operation .............................................. 11

Maintenance Schedule ......................... 17

i,l=l,=....... 1..1.......,i.o.l.o........o.. 1.... 2

Maintenance ......................................... 17

Service and Adjustments ...................... 21

Storage ................................................. 27

Troubleshooting .................................... 28

Repair Parts .......................................... 32

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

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 orworkmanship according to the guidelines of coverage listed below. Sears w 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, ortune-ups

• Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails,

thorns, stumps, or glass. caused by towing objects beyond the capability of the ridingequipment, impacting

Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, including but not limited to, damage

objects that bend the frame or crankshaft, or over-speedin9 the engine.

Repairs necessary because of operator negligence, includingbut not limited to, e ec- 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 claysof its pur-

chase date.

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

• Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.

LIMITED WARRANTY ON BA'I-FERY

For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery included with this riding equip- ment proves defective in matedal or workmanship and our testing determ nes 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 yourHOME. 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_.

,,=,

,,=

,,=,

o,=

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 followingsafety instructionscould result in serious injury or death.

aWARNING: 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.

_IbWARNING: Do not coast down a

hill in neutral, you may lose control of the

tractor.

WARNING: Tow only the attach-

merits 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

instructions on the machine and in the manual before starting.

• Do not put hands or feet near rotating

parts or under the machine. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times.

• 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 blades.

• Be sure the area is clear of bystand-

ers before operating. 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.

• Never direct discharged material toward anyone. Avoid discharging

material against a wall or obstruction. Material may ricochet back toward the

operator. Stop the blades when cross-

ing gravel surfaces.

• Do not operate machine without the entire grass catcher, discharge guard, or other safety devices in place and working.

• Slow down before turning.

• Never leave a running machine

unattended. Always turn off blades,

set parking brake, stop engine, and

remove keys before dismounting.

• Disengage blades when not mowing. Shut off engine and wait for all parts to

come to a complete stop before clean- ing the machine, removing the grass catcher, or unclogging the discharge guard.

• Operate machine 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.

• Always wear eye protection when oper- ating machine.

• Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above, are involved in a large percentage of riding mower-re- lated injuries. These operators should

evaluate their ability to operate the riding mower safely enough to protect

themselves and others from serious injury.

• Follow the manufacturer's recommen- dation for wheel weights or counter-

weights.

• 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 tip-over accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. Opera-

tion on all slopes requires extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or ifyou feel

uneasy on it, do not mow it.

• Mow up and down slopes, not across.

• Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or

other hidden objects. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass

can hide obstacles.

• Choose a low ground speed so that

you will not have to stop or shift while on the slope.

• Do not mow on wet grass. Tires may

lose traction. Always keep the machine in gear when

going down slopes. Do not shift to neutral and coast downhill.

• Avoidstarting, stopping, or turning on

a slope. If the tires lose traction, dis- engage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

• Keep all movement on the slopes slow

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

could cause the machine to roll over.

• Use extra care while operating ma-

chine with grass catchers or other at- tachments; they can affect the stability

of the machine. Do no use on steep slopes.

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

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

suddenly roll over if a wheel is over the edge or ifthe edge caves in.

III. CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator

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

and the mowing activity. Never assume that children will remain where you last

saw them.

• Keep children out of the mowing area and in the watchful care of a respon- sible adult other than the operator.

• Be alert and turn machine off ifa child

enters the area.

• Before and while backing, look behind

and down for small children.

• Never carry children, even with the blades shut off. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with

safe machine operation. Children who have been given rides in the past may suddenly appear in the mowing area

for another ride and be run over or backed over by the machine.

• Never allow children to operate the

machine.

• Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects

that may block your view of a child.

IV. TOWING

• Tow only with a machine that has a

hitch designed fortowing. Do not at-

tach towed equipment except at the

hitch point.

• Follow the manufacturer's recommen- dation for weight limitsfor towed equip-

ment and towing on slopes.

• Never allow children or others in or on towed equipment.

• On slopes, the weight of the towed

equipment may cause loss of traction and loss of control.

• Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop.

V. SERVICE SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE

To avoid personal injury or property

damage, use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable

and the vapors are explosive.

• Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes,

and other sources of ignition.

• Use only approved gasoline container.

• Never remove gas cap or add fuel with

the engine running. Allow engine to

cool before refueling.

• Never fuel the machine indoors.

• Never store the machine or fuel con-

tainer where there is an open flame, spark, or pilot light such as on a water heater or other appliances.

• Never fill containers inside a vehicle

or on a truck or trailer bed with plastic liner. Always place containers on the

ground away from your vehicle when

filling.

• Remove gas-powered equipment from Check their proper operation regularly.

the truck or trailer and refuel it on the Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or ground. Ifthis is not possible, then other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel

refuel such equipment with a portable spillage and remove any fuel-soaked

dispenserC°ntainer'nozzle.ratherthan from a gasoline • storing.debris'Allow machine to cool before

• Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim • If you strike a foreign object, stop and of the fuel tank or container opening at inspectthe machine. Repair, if neces-

all times untilfueling iscomplete. Do sary, before restarting.

not use a nozzle lock-open device. • Never make any adjustments or repairs

• If fuel is spilled on clothing, change with the engine running. clothing immediately. • Check grass catcher components and

• Never overfill fuel tank. Replace gas the discharge guard frequently and cap and tighten securely, replace with manufacturer's recom-

GENERAL SERVICE mended parts, when necessary.

Never operate machine in a closed blade or wear gloves, and use extra

area. caution when servicing them.

• Keep all nuts and bolts tight to be sure • Check brake operation frequently. Ad- the equipment is in safe working condi- just and service as required. tion. • Maintain or replace safety and instruc-

• Never tamper with safety devices, tion labels, as necessary.

• Be sure the area is clear of bystand-

ers before operating. 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.

• Never carry children, even with the

blades shut off. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with

safe machine operation. Children who

have been given rides in the past may

suddenly appear in the mowing area for another ride and be run over or

backed over by the machine.

• Keep children out of the mowing area and in the watchful care of a respon-

sible adult other than the operator.

• Be alert and turn machine off if a child enters the area.

• Mower blades are sharp. Wrap the

• Before and while backing, look behind and down for small children.

• Mow up and down slopes (t 5° Max),

not across.

• Choose a low ground speed so that

you will not have to stop or shift while

on the slope.

• Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a slope. If the tires lose traction, dis-

engage 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

Gasoline 1.25 Capacity and Unleaded Type: Regular

Oil Type SAE 30 (above 32°F)

API-SG-SL): SAE 5W-30(below 32°F

Oil Capacity: 3.0 Pints Spark Plug: Champion RC12YC

(Gap: ,030") Ground Speed Forward:

(MPH): 1st 1.1

2rid 2.2 3rd 3.3 4th 4.4 5th 4.9

Reverse: 1.4

Tire Pressure:

Charging System: 3 Amps Battery

Battery: Amp/Hr: 28

Blade BoltTorque: 27-35 Ft. Lbs.

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchaseof a newtractor. Ithas besn designed,engi- neered end manufacturedto giveyou the best

possibledependabilityand performence. 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

instructionswill enable you to assemble

and maintainyour tractor properly. Always observe the =SAFETY RULES".

Front: 14 PSI Rear: 12 PSI

5 Amps Headlights

Min. CCA: 230

Case Size: U1R

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and observe the safety rules. Follow a regular schedule in main-

taining, caring for and using your tractor.

• Followthe 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 ofthis manual).

REPAIR PROTECTION AGREEMENTS

Congratulationson maldnga smart pur- chase.Yournew Craftsman® productis designed and manufacturedfor years of dependable operation.Butlikeall products,

itmay require repairfrom time totime.That's

when havinga Repair ProtectionAgreement 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 ittakes 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 1.600-4-MY-HOME®

Steedng

Wheel Insert

Steering Wheel

(1) Large Flat Washer

Q o

(1) Hex Bolt 1/4-28 x 1-1/4

=__ Steedng Wheel

I I

i i

Adapter

(1) Locknut 1/2-2_ (1) Locknut 1/4-28

Steedng

Extension

Steering Shaft

Boot

Seat

I1) Washer

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

i_(1) Knob

Keys

(2) Keys

For Future Use

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.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

A socket wrench set will make assembly

easier. Standard wrench sizes you need are listed below.

(1) 3/4"wranch (1) Pliers (2) 7/16" wrench (1) Utilityknife

(1) Tire pressure gauge When right or left hand is mentioned in

this manual, it means when you are in the operating position (seated behind the steering wheel).

[_ _ Insert

Fl/2 Hex Nut

Large Flat

Steerin'_"= __[Washer

Wheel_

Boot

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

I. 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. Check for any additional loose parts or

cartons and remove.

BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR

FROM SKID

ATTACHSTEERING WHEEL

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND

BOOT

1. Slide extension shaft onto lower steer-

ing shaft. Align mounting holes in ex- tension and lower shafts and install 1/4

hex bolt and Iocknut. Tighten securely.

IMPORTANT" Tighten bolt and nut se-

curely to 10-12 ft. Ibs torque.

2. Place tabs of steering boot over tab slots in dash and push down to secure.

INSTALL STEERING WHEEL

3. Position front wheels of the tractor so they are pointing straight forward.

4. Remove steering wheel adapter from

steering wheel and slide adapter onto steering shaft extension.

5. Position steering wheel so cross bars

are horizontal (left to right) and slide inside boot and onto adapter.

6. Assemble large flat washer, 112hex

nut and tighten securely.

7. Snap steering wheel insert into center of steedng wheel.

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

IMPORTANT: Check for and remove any

staples in skid that may puncture tires where tractor isto roll off skid.

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 bolt is positioned over large slotted hole in pan.

4. Push down on seat to engage shoulder

bolt in slot and pull seat towards rear of tractor.

5. Pivot seat and pan forward and as- semble adjustment knob and flat washer loosely. Do not tighten.

6. Lower seat into operating position and Terminal sit in seat. Cover\

7. Slide seat untila 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. Positive

DiScardTerminal Caps

i Nut Hex Bolt !

CaNe

Seat Pan-.

Bolt

CONNECT BATTERY

_CAUTION: Do not short battery

terminals by allowing a wrench or any other object to contact both terminals at

the same time. Before connecting battery, remove metal bracelets, wristwatch bands, rings, etc.

Positiveterminal must be connected

first to prevent sparking from accidental grounding.

• Lift seat pan to raised position.

• Remove terminal protective caps and

discard.

• 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 the Mainte-

nance section of this manual for charg- ing instructions).

• First connect RED battery cable to posi-

tive (+) terminal with hex bolt and keps

nut as shown. Tighten securely. Slide

terminal cover over terminal.

• Connect BLACK grounding cable to

negative (-) terminal with remaining hex

bolt and keps nut. Tighten securely.

Seat Pan

Label

NOTE: You may now roll or drive your

tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate

instructionbelow to remove the tractor

from the skid. TO ROLLTRACTOR OFF SKID (See

Operation section for location and

function of controls)

1. Press liftlever 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.

5. Remove banding holding deflector shield up against tractor.

TO DRIVETRACTOR 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 liftlever plunger and raise attachment liftlever 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. 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.

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS For best cutting results, mower hous-

ing 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 replac- ing motion and mower blade drive belts in the Service and Adjustments 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.

J CHECKLIST

Before you operate and enjoy your new tractor, we wish to assure that you receive

the best performance and satisfaction from this Quality Product.

Please review the following checklist:

/ 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-

pingpurposes, 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 stillsecure 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 isfilled 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 oper-

ating 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 HIGH LOW CHOKE FAST SLOW IGNmON

ENGINE OFF MGH'm ON ENGINE ON ENGINE START PARKING BRAKE PARKING BRAKE PARKING BRAKE

OVER TEMP FUEL OIL PRESSURE EAI"rERY REVERSE FORWARD MOWER HEIGHT MOWER LIFT

UGHT

AI'rACHMENT A'n'ACHMENT

CLUTCH ENGAGED CLUTCH DISENGAGED

FREEWHEEL

(AutomdcModel=only)

Failure to follow instructions

could result in serious injuryor death. The safety alert symbol

is used to identity safety inform- alua.

ation about hazards which can

resultin death, serious injury J_,

and/or propertydamage.

DANGER, KEEP HANDS

AND FEET AWAY

DANGER indicatesa hazard which,if notavoided,

will result In death or eadous injury.

WARNING indicatesa hazardwhich,if notavoided, could result In death or serious Injury.

CAUTION indicatesa hazard which,if notavoided,

might result In minor or moderate Injury. CAUTION whenused without thealert symbol,

indicatesa situationthatcould result In damage

to the tractor and/or engine,

HOT SURFACES indicatesa hazard which,

if notavoided, could result In death, serious Injury and/or property damage.

FIRE indicatesa hazard which,ifnotavoided, could result in death, serious injury and/or

property damage.

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

LOCKED UNLOCKED

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

KNOW YOUR TRACTOR READTHIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATINGYOUR

TRACTOR

Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of

various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

Attachment Clutch Lever

Ignition Switch Ught Switch

Position

, "" - "" "- "', LiftLever

/ Plunger

Throttle/Choke Lift Lever Control

o Height

Clutch/Brake

Pedal ..... "

Brake Lever

Adjustment

Indicator

Gearshift Lever

Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the

American National Standards Institute.

ATrACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER - Used to engage the mower blades, or other at-

tachments mounted to your tractor.

A'I-rACHMENT LIFT LEVER - Used to raise, lower, and adjust the mower deck or

other attachments mounted to your tractor. CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL - Used for

declutching and braking the tractor and starting the engine. GEARSHIFT LEVER - Selects the speed

and direction of tractor.

IGNITION SWITCH - Used for starting and stopping the engine.

LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to release

attachment liftlever when changing its position.

LIGHT SWITCH POSITION - Turns the headlights on and off.

PARKING BRAKE LEVER - Locks clutch/

brake pedal into the brake position. THRO'I-rLE/CHOKE CONTROL - Used

for starting and controlling engine speed.

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

glasses or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recommend a wide vision safety mask over spectacles or standard safety glasses.

HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR

TO SET PARKING BRAKE Your tractor is equipped with an operator

presence sensing switch. When engine is running, any attempt by the operator

to leave the seat without first setting the

parking brake will shut off the engine.

1. Depress clutch/brake pedal all the way clownand 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.

AttachmentClutchLever

Throttle/ _ agl :1"Position

Choke _((F_ /

Ignition Key

_. //=Disengaged"

"Brake" I ',_ \ :'_=_ ;l_ /Position Position . ', _ / ParkingBrake

__ =Engaged_

\ Gearshift

Clutch/Brake "Disengaged" Lever Pedal Position

STOPPING MOWER BLADES -

• To stop mower blades, move attachment clutch lever to =DISENGAGED" position.

GROUND DRIVE -

• To stop ground drive, depress clutch/ brake pedal all the way down.

• Move gearshift lever to neutral (N) position.

ENGINE -

• Move throttle control between half and full speed (fast) position.

NOTE: Failure to move throttle control between half and full speed (fast) posi- tion, 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 ignitionswitch 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 bagging and

mower performance.

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 lever to desired po- sition.

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 position of the attachment lift lever

determines the cutting height.

• Grasp lift lever.

• Press plunger with thumb and move

lever to desired position.

The cutting height range is approxi-

mately 1-1/2 to 4". 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 ap- proximately 2-112 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 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, rollingterrain or hills.

1. Select desired height of cut.

2. 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.

Lift

High Position

Attachmen Clutch Lever

Position

Shield

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 start-

ing 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 posi- tion and engage parking brake.

• Move gearshift lever to 1st gear. Be

sure you have allowed room for tractor to rollslightly as you restart movement.

• To restart movement, slowly release parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.

• Make all turns slowly.

TO TRANSPORT

• Raise attachment liftto highest position with attachment liftcontrol.

• 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

• Fillfuel 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 orusing 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 choke position.

NOTE: Before starting, read the warm and cold starting procedures below.

Insert key into ignitionand turn key clockwise to start position and release key as soon as engine starts. Do not run starter continuouslyfor more than fifteen seconds per minute. If the engine does not start after several attempts, move throttle control to fast position, wait a few minutes and try

again. If engine still does not start,

move the throttle control back to the choke position and retry.

WARM WEATHER STARTING (50° F and

above)

6. When engine starts, move the throttle control to the fast position.

• 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 forone minute using the choke as described above.

COLD WEATHER STARTING ( 50 ° F and below)

6. When engine starts, leave throttle control in choke position untilengine warms up and begins to run roughly.

Once rough running begins, imme- diately move the throttle control to the

fast position.Engine warm-up may take from several seconds to several

minutes (the colder the temperature,

the longer the warm-up).

• The attachments can also be used dur-

ing the engine warm-up period.

NOTE: Ifat 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

• 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 untilfinished.

• If grass is extremely tail, itshould 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.

= J

0o272

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE _/_._/,_e_/_._/,._./,=p_oe _'*"

F,,,..o. s

REGULAR SERVICE

C_eckOperator Presence and

T InterlockSystems R Chec_torLooseFastenws

A SharpervRep_ce Mower Blades

T LubdcetlonCt'_ut 0 Check BatteryLevel

R Clean Batted/and Termir_ls

Check TransaxleCOoling

Check( V-Be_s Check Engine OII Level

Change Engine Oil (with oll filter)

Clean Air Filter

Change Engine Oil (without oil filter)

Clean Air Screen

Inspect Muffleri_rk Arreslar Replace Oil Filter (If equipped)

Clean Engine Cooling Fins

Replace Spark Plug Replace Air FiNer Paper Cartridge

Replace Fuel Filter

1 - Change more often when oper_ng under = heavy k_d or 3 - Replete bladee more onen when mowlng Insandy s_l.

in high ambient te_. 4 - Not required If equipped with n_l_efl_nCe*fr_ beJteP/.

2 - Sewice morn often when operating k_dirty orduety co_d_ons. 5 - "ngh_n _:nt rode pivot bolt_o35 ft,-It_. _.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS The warranty on this tractor does not

cover items that have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To receive full value from the warranty, operator

must maintain tractor as instructed in this manual.

Some adjustments will need to be made periodically to properly maintain your

tractor. At least once a season, check to see if

you should make any of the adjustments described in the Service and Adjustments

section of this manual.

• At least once a year you should replace the spark plug, clean or replace air filter,

and check blades and belts for wear. A new spark plug and clean air filter

assure proper air-fuel mixture and help your engine run better and last longer.

BEFORE EACH USE

1. Check engine oil level.

2. Check brake operation.

3. Check tire pressure.

4. Check operator presence and

interlock systems for proper operation.

5. Check for loose fasteners.

Do not ov_nt_m.

LUBRICATION CHART

Spindle

'_'_

_Front Wheel ,-

Bearing

Zerk _

@Engine

• o,oy

• SAE 30 or 10w30 Motor Oil _General Purpose Grease

(_Refer to Maintenance =ENGINE" Section

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease the pivot points which have special nylon bearings. Viscous lubricants will attract

dust and dirt that will shorten the lifeof the self-lubricating bearings. If you feel

they must be lubricated, use only a dry, powdered graphite type lubricant sparingly.

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