Craftsman 944603620 Owner’s Manual

OPERATOR'S

MANUAL

MODEL NO.

944.603620

important:

Read and follow

alJ Safety RuJes and instructions

Before Operating

This Equipment

CRRFTSIVlRH°

22. P*

ELECTRIC START

42"

AUTOMATIC TR

LAW TRACTOR

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Service and Adjustments

Gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol (El0) is acceptable for use in this machine.

The use of any gasoline exceeding 10% ethanol (El0) will void the product warranty.

*As rated by the engine manufacturer

Sears Canada, inc., Toronto, Ontario MSB 2B8

01.25.13 BD

584439332 PRINTED IN THE U.S.A.

Safe Operation Practices for Ride=On Mowers

DANGER: THiS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OBJECTS. FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS iNJURY OR DEATH.

SAFETY RULES

WARNING: in order to prevent accidental

starting when setting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs, always discon=

nect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark plug.

WARNING: Tow only the attachments that

Engine exhaust, some of itsconstituents, and certain

vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer

and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

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 ma-

• Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the

• Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the

• Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc.,

• Ensure the area is clear of bystanders before operating.

• Never carry passengers.

• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary.

• Never direct discharged material toward anyone. Avoid

• Do not operate machine without the entire grass catcher,

• Slow down before turning.

are recommended by and comply with specifications of the manufacturer of your

tractor. Use common sense when towing.

Operate only at the lowest possible speed

when on a slope. Too heavy of a load, while on a slope, is dangerous. Tires can lose

traction with the ground and cause you to

lose control of your tractor.

WARNING

chine and in the manual before starting.

machine. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times.

instructions, to operate the machine.

which could be picked up and thrown by the blades.

Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

Always look down and behind before and while backing.

discharging material against a wall or obstruction. Material may ricochet back toward the operator. Stop the blades when crossing gravel surfaces.

discharge chute, or other safety devices in place and working.

• 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 cleaning the machine, removing the grass catcher, or unclogging the discharge chute.

• 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 unloading the machine into a trailer or truck.

• Always wear eye protection when operating machine.

• Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above, are involved in a large percentage of riding mower-related

injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the riding mower safely enough to protect them-

selves and others from serious injury.

• Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for wheel weights or counterweights.

• 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. Operation on all slopes requires extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not mow it.

• Mow up and down slopes, not across.

• Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden ob- jects. 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 ingear when going down slopes.

Do not shift to neutral and coast downhill.

• Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a slope. If the tires lose traction, disengage 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 machine with grass catch- ers or other attachments; 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 if the edge caves in.

Safe Operation Practices for Ride=On Mowers

SAFETY RULES &

ill. CHILDREN

THIS EQUIPMENT. The American Academy

WARNING. CHILDRENCANBEINJUREDBY

of Pediatrics recommends that children be a minimum of 12 year of age before operating

a pedestrian controlled lawn mower and a minimum of 16 years ofage before operating a riding lawn mower.

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 assume that children will remain where you last saw them.

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

• Be alert and turn machine off if a 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 bythe 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.

• If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing immediately.

• Never overfill fuel tank. Replace gas cap and tighten securely.

GENERAL SERVICE

• Never operate machine in a closed area.

• Keep all nuts and bolts tight to ensure the equipment is in safe working 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 and remove any fuel-soaked debris. Allow machine to cool before storing.

• Ifyou strike a foreign object, stop and inspect the machine. Repair, if necessary, before restarting.

• Never make any adjustments or repairs with the engine running.

• Check grass catcher components and the discharge chute frequently and replace with manufacturer's recommended parts, when necessary.

• Mower blades are sharp. Wrap the blade or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.

• Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service as required.

• Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as nec-

essary.

iV. TOWING

• Tow only with a machine that has a hitch designed for towing. Do not attach towed equipment except at the hitch point.

• Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for weight limits for towed equipment 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 container 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 the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible, then refuel such equipment with a portable container, rather than from a gasoline dispenser nozzle.

• Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or container opening at all times until fueling is complete. Do not use a nozzle lock-open device.

• Ensure the area is clear of bystanders before operating. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

• Never carry passengers.

• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing.

• 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 responsible adult other than the operator.

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

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

• Mow up and down slopes (15 ° 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, disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

• If machine stops while going uphill, disengage blades, shift into reverse and back down slowly.

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

• When loading or unloading this machine, do not exceed the maximum recommended operation angle of 15°.

PRODUCT SPECiFiCATiONS

GASOLINE CAPACITY 2.5 Gallons/9.46 L AND TYPE: UNLEADED REGULAR

OIL TYPE SAE 30 (above 32°F/0°C)

(API' SG-SL): SAE 5W30 (below 32°F/0°0)

SYNTHETIC (below 0°F/-I 8°C

Yourtractor was shipped from the factory with non-synthetic SAE 10W30 motor oil.

OIL CAPACITY: W/FILTER: 64 Oz./1.96 L

W/O FILTER: 60 Oz./1.77 L

SPARK PLUG: Champion 696798

CHARGING SYSTEM: 3 AMPS Battery

BATTERY: AMP/HR: 28

BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 45-55 Ft. Lbs./62-75 Nm

(GAP: .030/0.76 mm)

5 AMPS Headlights

MIN. CCA: 230 CASE SIZE: U1R

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 your nearest authorized service center/department. 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".

MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT

A Maintenance Agreement is available on this product. Contact your nearest Sears store for details.

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and observe the safety rules.

• Follow a regular schedule in maintaining, caring for and using your tractor.

• Follow the instructions inthe Maintenance and Storage sections of this manual.

• Wear proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) while operating this machine, including (at a minimum) sturdy footwear, eye protection, and hearing protection.

Do not mow in shorts and/or open toed footwear.

• Always let someone know you are outside mowing.

WARNING: This tractor is equipped with an internal com- bustion engine and should not be used on or near any un-

improved 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. A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your

nearest authorized service center/department.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SAFETY RULES ......................................................... 2-3

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS ....................................... 4

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ................................. 4

ASSEMBLY ................................................................. 5=8

OPERATION ............................................................. 7-13

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ...................................... 14

MAINTENANCE ..................................................... 14-18

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS ............................ 19-24

STORAGE ....................................................................25

TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................ 28-27

WARRANTY ................................................................. 28

UNASSEMBLED PARTS

Keys

11',I

Key(s)

Slope Sheet Battery

(2) Hex Bolts

(2) Nut Keps

ASSEMBLY

Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

A socket wrench set will make assembly easier. Standard wrench sizes are listed.

(1) 1/2" wrench Tire pressure gauge (2) 7/16" wrenches Utility knife

Pliers

When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, itmeans when you are in the operating position (seated behind the

steering wheel).

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

Remove all accessible loose parts and parts cartons

from carton. Cut along dotted lines on all four panels of carton.

Remove end panels and lay side panels flat.

Check for any additional loose parts or cartons and remove.

BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR FROM

SKID

CHECK BATTERY (See Fig. 1)

Lift seat to raised position.

NOTE: If this battery is put into service after month and year indicated on label (label is located between terminals)

charge battery for minimum of one hour at 6-10 amps. (See "BATTERY" inthe Maintenance section of this manual for

charging instructions.)

• For battery and battery cable installation see"REPLAC- ING BATTERY" in the Service and Adjustments section

in this manual.

Fig. 1

ADJUST SEAT (See Fig. 2)

Sit in seat.

• Lift up adjustment lever (A) and slide seat until a com- fortable position is reached which allows you to press

clutch/brake pedal all the way down.

• Release lever to lock seat in position.

Fig. 2

ASSEMBLY

NOTE: You may now roll your tractor off the skid. Continue using the instructions that follow to remove the tractor from

the skid. _, WARNING: Before starting, read, understand and fol-

low all instructions in the Operation section of this manual. Ensure tractor is in a well-ventilated area. Ensure the area

in front of tractor is clear of other people and objects.

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

Raise attachment lift lever to its highest position.

• Release parking brake by depressing clutch/brake pedal.

• Place freewheel control in "TRANSMISSION DISEN- GAGED" position. (See "TO TRANSPORT" in the

Operation section of this manual.)

• Roll tractor forward off skid.

• Remove banding holding the deflector shield upagainst tractor.

Continue with the instructions that follow.

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

The tires on your tractor were overinflated at the factory for shipping purposes. Correct tire pressure is important

for best cutting performance.

• Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown on tires.

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS

For best cutting results, mower housing should be properly leveled. See "TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSl NG" in the Service

and Adjustments section of this manual.

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF ALL BELTS

See the figures that are shown for replacing motion and mower blade drive belts in the Service and Adjustments sec-

tion of this manual. Verify that the belts are routed correctly.

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM

After you learn how to operate your tractor, check to see that the brake is operating properly. See "TO CHECK BRAKE"

in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

Vf 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 CHECKLIS-17

All assembly instructions have been completed.

No remaining loose parts in carton.

Battery is properly prepared and charged.

Seat is adjusted comfortably and tightened securely.

All tires are properly inflated. (For shipping purposes, the tires were overinflated at the factory).

Be sure mower deck is properly leveled side-to-side/ front-to-rear for best cutting results. (Tires must be

properly inflated for leveling).

Check mower and drive belts. Be sure they are routed properly around pulleys and inside all belt keepers.

Check wiring. See that all connections are still secure and wires are properly clamped.

Before driving tractor, be sure freewheel control is in "transmission engaged" position (See "TO

TRANSPORT" inthe Operation section ofthis manual).

WHILE LEARNING HOWTO USE YOUR TRACTOR, PAY

EXTRA ATTENTION TO THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT ITEMS:

Engine oil is at proper level.

Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean, regular unleaded

gasoline.

Become familiar with all controls, their location and function. Operate them before you start the engine.

Be sure brake system is in safe operating condition.

Be sure Operator Presence System and Reverse Op- eration System (ROS) are working properly (See the Operation and Maintenance sections in this manual).

It is important to purge the transmission before operat- ing your tractor for the first time. Follow proper starting andtransmission purging instructions (See "TO START

ENGINE" and"PURGE TRANSMISSION" inthe Opera- tion section of this manual).

OPERATION

These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand their meaning.

L I",l

LOW CHOKE FAST SLOWREVERSE NEUTRAL HiGH

IGNITION SWITCH

ENGINE OFF REVERSE ENGINE ON ENGINE START PARKING BRAKE MOWER HEIGHT MOWER LIFT

LIGHTS ON

ATTACHM ENT

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

(Automatic Models only)

OPERATION

SYSTEM (ROS)

FUEL BATTERY CLUTCH/BRAKE

ATTACHM ENT

CLUTCH ENGAGED

FREEWHEEL

REVERSE FORWARD CRUISE CONTROL

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 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.

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

PEDAL

Failure to follow instructions

could result in serious injury or death. The safety alert symbol

HOT SURFACES indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, could result in death, serious injury

and/or property damage.

is used to identify safety inform- ation about hazards which can

result in death, serious injury

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

and/or property damage.

OPERATION

KNOW YOUR TRACTOR

READ THiS MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR TRACTOR

Compare the illustrationswith your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

Our tractors conform to the applicable safety standards of the American National Standards Institute.

(A) ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER - Used to raise and lower the mower or other attachments mounted to your tractor.

(B) BRAKE PEDAL - Used for braking the tractor and starting the engine.

(D) THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL - Used for starting and controlling engine speed.

(E) ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER- Used to engage the mowerblades, or otherattachments mountedtoyourtractor.

(F) IGNITION SWITCH - Used for starting and stopping the engine.

Fig. 3

(G) REVERSE OPERATION SYSTEM (ROS) "ON" POSiTiON - Allows operation of mower or other powered

attachment while in reverse. (H) LIGHT SWITCH - Turns the headlights on and off.

(J) CRUISE CONTROL LEVER - Used to set forward movement of tractor at desired speed without holding the

forward drive pedal. (K) FORWARD DRIVE PEDAL - Used for forward move-

ment of tractor. (L) REVERSE DRIVE PEDAL - Used for reverse move-

ment of tractor. (M) FREEWHEEL CONTROL - Disengages transmission

for pushing or slowly towing the tractor with the engine off.

OPERATION

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 (See Fig. 4)

Your tractor is equipped with an operator presence sens- ing 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.

• Depress brake pedal (B) all the way down and hold.

• Pull parking brake lever (C) up and hold, release pres- sure from brake pedal (B), then release parking brake lever. Pedal should remain in brake position. Make sure

parking brake will hold tractor secure.

°I

Fig. 4

STOPPING (See Fig. 5)

MOWER BLADES -

• Tostop mower blades, place attachment clutch control in the "DISENGAGED" position (r_).

• Turn ignitionkey (F) to "STOP"position and remove key. Always remove key when leaving tractor to prevent

unauthorized use.

• Never use the choke to stop the 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. Toeliminate this possibility, always stop engine when stopping tractor on grass areas.

pletely, as described above, and set CAUTION: Always stop tractor corn=

parking brake before leaving the opera= tot's position.

TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL (D) (See Fig. 6)

Always operate engine at full speed (fast).

• Operating engine at less than full speed (fast) reduces engines operating efficiency.

• Full speed (fast) offers the best bagging and mower performance.

(_) ATTACHMENT (I_) ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH LEVER CLUTCH LEVER

"DISENGAGED .... ENGAGED"

Fig. 5

GROUND DRIVE -

• To stop ground drive, depress brake pedal into full "BRAKE" position.

iMPORTANT: FORWARD AND REVERSE DRIVE PEDALS RETURNTO NEUTRAL POSITION WHEN NOT DEPRESSED.

ENGINE -

Move throttle control (D) to slow position.

NOTE: Failure to move throttle control to slow position and allowing engine to idle before stopping may cause engine

to "backfi re".

Fig. 6

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD

(See Fig. 7)

The direction and speed of movement is controlled by the forward and reverse drive pedals.

• Start tractor and release parking brake.

• Slowly depress forward (K)or reverse (L) drive pedal to begin movement. Ground speed increases the further down the pedal is depressed.

+ 21 hidden pages