Cub Cadet 980 Series Operator's Manual

Page 1

Safety • Assembly • Operation • Tips & Techniques • Maintenance • Troubleshooting • Parts Lists • Warranty

OPERATOR’S MANUAL

21-inch Self-Propelled Mower — Model Series 980

READ SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY BEFORE OPERATION

Warning: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush-

covered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator. In the State of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest engine authorized service dealer or contact the service department, P.O. Box 361131 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019.

PRINTED IN U.S.A.

CUB CADET LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019

IMPORTANT

FORM NO. 769-02332A

10/30/ 2006

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This Operator’s Manual is an important part of your new lawn mower. It will help you assemble,

www.cubcadet.com

CUB CADET LLC P. O. BOX

361131

CLEVELAND, OH 44136

DEALER LOCATOR PHONE NUMBER:

877-282-8684

prepare, and maintain the unit for best performance. Please read and understand what it says.

Table of Contents

Slope Gauge........................................................ 3

Safe Operation Practices ................................... 4

Setup and Adjustment ....................................... 6

Operating Your Lawn Mower ............................ 10

Cub Cadet LLC reserves the right to change product specifications, designs, and equipment without notice and without incurring obligation.

Maintaining Your Lawn Mower ......................... 12

Trouble Shooting .............................................. 16

Off-Season Storage and Safety Labels .......... 17

Parts List ........................................................... 18

Finding and Recording Model Number

BEFORE ASSEMBLING YOUR NEW EQUIPMENT, please locate the model plate on the equipment and copy the information to the sample model plate provided to the right. You can locate the model plate by standing at the operating position and looking down at the rear of the deck. This information will be necessary to use the manufacturer’s web site, to obtain assistance from the Customer Support Department, or when contacting an authorized service dealer.

Customer Support

Please do

purchased, without ﬁrst contacting Customer Support.

If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation, or maintenance of this unit, you can seek help from the experts. Choose from the options below:

• Visit

• Phone our

• The

www.cubcadet.com for many useful suggestions. Click on the Customer Service link and you will get several options

to help in answering your questions. Click on the appropriate button and help is immediately available.

Customer Dealer Referral Line, to find a dealer nearest you, at 1(877) 282-8684.

engine manufacturer is responsible for all engine-related issues with regards to performance, power-rating, specifica-

tions, warranty and service. Please refer to the engine manufacturer’s Owner’s/Operator’s Manual, packed separately with your unit, for more information.

NOT

return the unit to the retailer from which it was

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3IGHTANDHOLDTHISLEVELWITHAVERTICALTREE

ORACORNEROFABUILDING

ORAFENCEPOST

&OLDALONGDOTTEDLINEREPRESENTSASLOPE



Use this page as a guide to determine slopes where you may not operate safely.

Do not operate your lawn mower on such slopes.

Slope

Gauge

WARNING

Do not mow on inclines with a slope in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10 feet). A riding mower could overturn and cause serious injury. If operating a walkbehind mower on such a slope, it is extremely difficult to maintain your footing and you could slip, resulting in serious injury.

Operate RIDING mowers up and down slopes, never across the face of slopes.

Operate WALK-BEHIND mowers across the face of slopes, never up and down slopes.

Page 4

WARNING: Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

Safe

Operation

Practices

WARNING

This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, could endanger the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow all instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal injury. When you see this symbol.

HEED ITS WARNING!

Your Responsibility

Restrict the use of this power machine to persons who read, understand and follow the warnings and instructions in this manual and on the machine.

DANGER: This machine was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can result in serious injury. This 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.

Children

Tragic accidents can occur if operator is not alert to presence of children. Children are often attracted to mower and mowing activity. They do not understand the dangers. Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them.

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

2. Be alert and turn mower off if a child enters the area.

3. Before and while moving backwards, look behind and down for small children.

4. Use extreme care when approaching blind corners, doorways, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure your vision of a child who may run into the mower.

5. Keep children away from hot or running engines. They can suffer burns from a hot muffler.

6. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate a power

mower. Children 14 years old and over should read and

understand operation instructions and safety rules in this

manual and should be trained and supervised by a parent.

General Operation

1. Read this operator’s manual carefully in its entiret y before

attempting to assemble this machine. Read, understand,

and follow all instructions on the machine and in the

manual(s) before operation. Be completely familiar with

the controls and the proper use of this machine before

operating it. Keep this manual in a safe place for future

and regular reference and for ordering replacement parts.

2. This machine is a precision piece of power equipment,

not a plaything. Therefore, exercise extreme caution at all

times. Your unit has been designed to perform one job: to

mow grass. Do not use it for any other purpose.

3. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate this

machine. Children 14 years old and over should read and

understand the instructions in this manual and should

be trained and supervised by a parent. Only responsible

individuals who are familiar with these rules of safe

operation should be allowed to use this machine.

4. Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to

be used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire, bones, toys

and other foreign objects, which could be tripped over or

picked up and thrown by the blade. Thrown objects can

cause serious personal injury. Plan your mowing pattern

to avoid discharge of material toward roads, sidewalks,

bystanders and the like. Also, avoid discharging material

against a wall or obstruction, which may cause discharged

material to ricochet back toward the operator.

5. To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object injury,

stay in operator zone behind handles and keep children,

bystanders, helpers and pets at least 75 feet from mower

while it is in operation. Stop machine if anyone enters

area.

6. Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during opera

tion and while performing an adjustment or repair to protect

your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can cause serious

injury to the eyes.

7. Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-fitting

slacks and shirts. Shir ts and pants that cover the arms and

legs and steel-toed shoes are recommended. Never operate

this machine in bare feet, sandals, slippery or light-weight

(e.g. canvas) shoes.

8. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under cutting

deck. Contact with blade can amputate hands and feet.

9. A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause blade

contact or thrown object injuries.

10. Many injuries occur as a result of the mower being pulled

over the foot during a fall caused by slipping or tripping.

Do not hold on to the mower if you are falling; release the

handle immediately.

11. Never pull the mower back toward you while you are

walking. If you must back the mower away from a wall or

obstruction first look down and behind to avoid tripping and

then follow these steps:

a. Step back from mower to fully extend your arms.

b. Be sure you are well balanced with sure footing.

c. Pull the mower back slowly, no more than half way

toward you.

d. Repeat these steps as needed.

12. Do not operate the mower while under the influence of

alcohol or drugs.

13. Do not engage the self-propelled mechanism on units so

equipped while starting engine.

14. The blade control handle is a safety device. Never attempt

to bypass its operation. Doing so makes the safety device

inoperative and may result in personal injury through

contact with the rotating blade. The blade control handle

must operate easily in both directions and automatically

return to the disengaged position when released.

15. Never operate the mower in wet grass. Always be sure of

your footing. A slip and fall can cause serious personal

injury. If you feel you are losing your footing, release the

blade control handle immediately and the blade will stop

rotating within three seconds.

16. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light. Walk, never run.

17. Stop the blade when crossing gravel drives, walks or roads.

18. If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the

engine and check immediately for the cause. Vibration is

generally a warning of trouble.

Page 5

19. Shut the engine off and wait until the blade comes to a

complete stop before removing the grass catcher or unclog-

ging the chute.

The cutting blade continues to rotate for a few seconds after

the engine is shut off. Never place any part of the body in

the blade area until you are sure the blade has stopped

rotating.

20. Never operate mower without proper trail shield, discharge

cover, grass catcher, blade control handle or other safety

protective devices in place and working. Never operate

mower with damaged safety devices. Failure to do so can

result in personal injury.

21. Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do

not touch.

22. Only use parts and accessories made for this machine by

manufacturer. Failure to do so can result in personal injury.

23. If situations occur which are not covered in this manual,

use care and good judgment. Contact your dealer for

assistance.

Slope Operation

Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents, which can result in severe injury. Operation on slopes requires extra caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it. For your safety, use the slope gauge included as part of this manual to measure slopes before operating this unit on a sloped or hilly area. If the slope is greater than 15 degrees, do not mow it.

Do:

1. Mow across the face of slopes; never up and down. Exercise

extreme caution when changing direction on slopes.

2. Watch for holes, ruts, rocks, hidden objects, or bumps

which can cause you to slip or trip. Tall grass can hide

obstacles.

3. Always be sure of your footing. A slip and fall can cause

serious personal injury. If you feel you are losing your

balance, release the blade control handle immediately, and

the blade will stop rotating within 3 seconds.

Do Not:

1. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or embankments, you

could lose your footing or balance.

2. Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees as shown on

the slope gauge.

3. Do not mow on wet grass. Unstable footing could cause

slipping.

Service

Safe Handling Of Gasoline:

1. To avoid personal injury or property damage use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive. Serious personal injury can occur when gasoline is spilled on yourself or your clothes, which can ignite. Wash your skin and change clothes immediately.

2. Use only an approved gasoline container.

3. Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place containers on the ground away from your vehicle before filling.

4. Remove gas-powered equipment from the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible, then refuel such equipment on a trailer with a portable container, rather than from a gasoline dispenser nozzle.

5. 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.

6. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources

of ignition.

7. Never fuel machine indoor because flammable vapors will

accumulate in the area.

8. Never remove gas cap or add fuel while engine is hot or

running. Allow engine to cool at least two minutes before

refueling.

9. Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no more than ½ inch

below bottom of filler neck to provide for fuel expansion.

10. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.

11. If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and equipment.

Move unit to another area. Wait 5 minutes before starting

engine.

12. Never store the machine or fuel container near an open

flame, spark or pilot light as on a water heater, space

heater, furnace, clothes dryer or other gas appliances.

13. To reduce fire hazard, keep mower free of grass, leaves,

or other debris build-up. Clean up oil or fuel spillage and

remove any fuel soaked debris.

14. Allow a mower to cool at least 5 minutes before storing.

General Service:

1. Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas.

2. Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make certain the blade and all moving parts have stopped. Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground against the engine to prevent unintended starting.

3. Check the blade and engine mounting bolts at frequent intervals for proper tightness. Also, visually inspect blade for damage (e.g., bent, cracked, worn) Replace blade with the original equipment manufacture’s (O.E.M.) blade only, listed in this manual. “Use of parts which do not meet the original equipment specifications may lead to improper performance and compromise safety!”

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

5. Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the equip ment is in safe working condition.

6. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly.

7. After striking a foreign object, stop the engine, discon nect the spark plug wire and ground against the engine. Thoroughly inspect the mower for any damage. Repair the damage before starting and operating the mower.

8. Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height adjust

ment while the engine is running.

9. Grass catcher components, discharge cover, and trail

shield are subject to wear and damage which could

expose moving par ts or allow objects to be thrown. For

safety protection, frequently check components and re-

place immediately with original equipment manufacturer’s

(O.E.M.) par ts only, listed in this manual. “Use of parts

which do not meet the original equipment specifications

may lead to improper performance and compromise

safety!”

10. Do not change the engine gover nor setting or over-rev the engine. The governor controls the maximum safe operating speed of the engine.

11. Maintain or replace safety labels, as necessar y.

12. Observe proper disposal laws and regulations. Improper

disposal of fluids and materials can harm the environment.

Safe

Operation

Practices

WARNING

This symbol points out important safety instructions, which if not followed, could endanger the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow all

instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal injury. When you see this symbol.

HEED IT’S WARNING!

Your Responsibility

Restrict the use of this power machine to persons who read, understand and follow the warnings and instructions in this manual and on the machine.

Page 6

Setup and

Adjustment

NOTE: Stand behind the mower as if you were going to operate it. Your right hand corresponds to the right side of the mower; your left hand corresponds to the left side of the mower.

NOTE: Make certain the cables are routed around the handles so they do not interfere with attaching the grass bag.

IMPORTANT: This unit is shipped without gasoline or oil in the engine. Fill up gasoline and oil as instructed in the accompanying engine manual BEFORE operating your mower.

Handle

Mounting

Bracket

Figure 3-1: Unfold handle and tighten hardware.

Hardware Pack

Wing Nuts (2)

Figure 3-2: Secure lower handle to mounting brackets.

Carriage Bolts (2)

1. Remove any packing material which may be between upper and lower handles.

a. Pull up and back on upper handle as shown in

Figure 3-1. Make certain the lower handle is seated securely into the handle mounting brackets.

b. Tighten hand knobs securing upper handle to

lower handle. Make sure that each carriage bolt is seated properly in the handle.

2. Locate hairpin clip in one hole on the weld pin on each side of lower handle.

a. Remove hairpin clip from this hole. Using a pair of

pliers, insert hairpin clip into the other hole on the weld pin. Repeat on other side. See Figure 3-2.

b. Insert a carriage bolt from the hardware pack into

the upper hole on the handle mounting bracket. Secure with one plastic wing nut, also included in the hardware pack. Repeat on other side with remaining items from hardware pack.

3. The rope guide, which is connected to the support rod, is located on the right side of the lower handle.

See Figure 3-3.

a. Hold the blade control against upper handle. b. Pull starter rope out of the engine. Release the

blade control.

c. Slip starter rope into rope guide.

4. Attach cables to the lower handle with the cable ties already on the lower handle. Insert pegs on cable ties into the holes on the lower handle. Pull cable ties tight

and cut off the extra.

5. The mower was shipped with the mulching baffle installed on the unit. For bagging purposes, you will have to attach the grass bag and its adapter in place of the mulching baffle.

a. Remove three wing nuts holding the mulching

baffle in place and remove from unit.

b. Replace with grass bag adapter, while making

sure the front lip of adapter goes under the edge of the deck. Secure with wing nuts previously removed. See Figure 3-4.

Figure 3-3: Pull recoil starter through rope guide.

Figure 3-4: Use wing nuts to secure discharge chute to deck.

Page 7

c. Lift chute door on the grass bag adapter and slide

grass bag onto the adapter. See Figure 3-5.

6. Follow steps below to install the side discharge chute:

a. Remove mulching baffle or grass bag adapter from

unit by disconnecting wing nuts.

b. Attach side discharge chute to unit and secure

with the three wing nuts. See Figure 3-6.

7. The cutting height adjustment lever is located above the rear left wheel. See Figure 3-7A insert.

a. Pull lever out and away from mower, move lever

forward or back for desired cutting height, and release lever towards mower deck.

The front wheel cutting height is determined by select

ing one of six positions on each caster assembly. To adjust front cutting height, proceed as follows:

b. Remove wing nut from axle bolt. Slide axle bolt

and wave washer from the assembly and select a cutting height.

With wave washer on axle bolt, reinsert hardware

in the square hole desired through wheel assembly and secure with wing nut previously removed.

The casters can be locked in a straight ahead position

or position to swivel freely. See Figure 3-7C insert.

c. Lift and place lock pins in larger holes to lock

wheels. Place pins in smaller holes to allow casters to rotate freely for turning.

8. The adjustment wheel is located in the drive control handle housing and is used to tighten or loosen the drive belt. You will have to adjust the drive control if any of the following happens:

a. The mower does not propel itself with the drive

control engaged.

b. The mower’s drive wheels hesitate with the drive

control engaged.

If either of these conditions occur, rotate the adjustment wheel clockwise to tighten and counter-clockwise to loosen cable to adjust the drive control. See Figure 3-8.

Tighten

Loosen

Figure 3-5: Attach the grass bag to discharge chute.

Figure 3-6: Remove mulching cover or grass bag before installing side discharge chute.

Setup and

Adjustment

CUTTING HEIGHT

All wheels must be in the same relative position. For rough or uneven lawns, move the height adjustment lever to a higher position.

Drive Control

For some people the drive control may not be in a comfortable position. You can adjust the handle by tightening the adjustment wheel.

NOTE: Make certain the drive cable is routed around the outside and above

the lower handle so it does not interfere with attaching the grass bag. The chute door has been designed to move the starter rope out of the way of the bag when the chute door is opened.

Figure 3-8: Use the adjustment wheel to adjust the drive belt.

Figure 3-7: Front and rear height adjustment; caster locks.

Page 8

Know Your Lawn Mower

Blade Control

Operating

Your Lawn

Mower

WARNING

The blade control

mechanism is a

safety device. Never

attempt to bypass its

operations.

Drive Control

Recoil Starter

Side Discharge Chute

Mulch Plug

Figure 4-1: The major components on the mower.

Now that you have setup your lawn mower, it’s important to become acquainted with its controls and features.

Discharge Chute

Cutting Height

Adjustment Lever

Use extreme care

when handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable

and the vapors are

explosive. Never fuel

the machine indoors

or while the engine

is hot or running.

Extinguish cigarettes,

cigars, pipes and

other sources of

ignition.

Keep hands and feet

away from the chute

area on cutting deck.

Refer to warning

label on the unit.

Blade Control

The blade control is attached to the upper handle of the mower. Depress and squeeze it against the upper handle to operate the unit. Release it to stop engine and blade.

WARNING: This blade control mechanism is a safety device. Never attempt to bypass its operations.

Cutting Height Adjustment Lever

The cutting height adjustment lever is located above the left rear wheel. To adjust the cutting height, refer to Adjustment Section in this manual.

Drive Control

The drive control is located on the upper handle. Squeeze the drive control to engage the drive system. Release it to disengage the drive system. Release the drive control to slow down when approaching an obstacle, making a turn, or stopping.

Mulch Cover

To use the mower as a mulcher, remove the discharge chute and install the mulch cover.

Recoil Starter

The recoil starter is connected to the support rod and is located on the right side of the lower handle. Stand behind the unit and pull the recoil starter rope to start it.

Side Discharge Chute

Instead of collecting grass clippings in the bag, you may attach the side discharge chute to expel the clippings.

Discharge Chute

The discharge chute must be attached to the deck to use the grass bag.

Gas and Oil Fill-Up

1. Check oil level and add oil if necessary. Follow engine manual for this.

2. Service the engine with gasoline as instructed in the engine manual. See engine manual for location of oil and gas fill.

WARNING: Use extreme care when handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely

flammable and the vapors are explosive. Never fuel the machine indoors or while the engine is hot or running. Extinguish cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources of ignition.

Page 9

WARNING: The operation of any lawn mower can result in foreign objects being

thrown into the eyes, which can damage your eyes severely. Always wear safety glasses while operating the mower, or while performing any adjustments or repairs on it.

Starting the Engine

WARNING: Be sure no one other than the operator is standing near the lawn mower

while starting engine or operating mower. Never run engine indoors or in enclosed, poorly ventilated areas. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas. Keep hands, feet, hair and loose clothing away from any moving parts on engine and lawn mower.

1. Place the fuel valve lever found on the left side of the

engine into the ON position. See Figure 4-2.

2. Move the choke lever (if equipped) all the way

backward into the choke position. See Figure 4-2.

3. Standing behind the mower, squeeze the blade

control against upper handle. See Figure 4-2. The choke will now begin to slowly return to the off choke position after activating the blade control. Therefore, quickly move onto step four below. Refer to the engine manual for further details.

4. Holding these two handles together firmly, grasp recoil

starter handle and pull rope out with a rapid, continuous, full arm stroke. See Figure 4-2. Keeping a firm grip on the starter handle, let the rope rewind slowly. Repeat until engine cranks. Let the rope rewind each time slowly.

Stopping the Engine

1. Release blade control to stop the engine and blade.

2. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and

ground against the engine.

Using Your Lawn Mower

WARNING: Do not operate mower without mulching baffle, discharge chute or grass catcher properly installed.

Be sure lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or other objects which could damage lawn mower or engine. Such objects could be accidently thrown by the mower in any direction and cause serious personal injury to the operator and others.

WARNING: If you strike a foreign object, stop the engine. Remove wire from the

spark plug, thoroughly inspect mower for any damage, and repair damage before restarting and operating. Extensive vibration of mower during operation is an indication of damage. The unit should be promptly inspected and repaired.

• For best results, do not cut wet grass.

• For a healthier lawn, never cut off more than one-third

of the total length of the grass.

Figure 4-2: The steps involved in starting the mower.

OFF

Using as Mulcher

For mulching grass, remove the grass catcher and adapter from the mower. Reattach mulching baffle with the three wing nuts.

• For effective mulching, do not cut wet grass.

• New or thick grass may require a narrower cut. Adjust ground speed according to condition of lawn.

• If the grass has been allowed to grow in excess of four inches, mulching is not recommended. Use the grass catcher to bag clippings instead.

Using Grass Catcher

You can use the grass catcher bag to collect clippings while you are operating the mower. The grass bag is equipped with a bag-fill indicator to add convenience to your work. While the mower is running, air will flow through the bag and into the Grass Gauge. If the grass catcher is empty, air flows through easily pushing the gauge up. If the grass catcher is full, air does not flow through it allowing the gauge to fall. So the position of the gauge acts as a bag-fill indicator signifying when to empty the grass bag.

1. Attach grass catcher following instructions in “Setup and Adjustment”. Grass clippings will automatically collect in the bag as you run the mower.

2. Operate the mower till the grass bag is full.

3. Stop engine completely by releasing the blade control. Make sure that the unit has come to a complete stop.

4. While holding the grass bag by both the rear handle and the lower handle, lift the grass bag straight up off the adapter. The chute door will move the rope out of the way of the bag.

5. Continue to hold the lower handle and raise the rear of the grass bag up toward your chest. The grass bag will open and the grass clippings will disperse. When replacing the grass bag, be sure the top of the bag rests on the wire support between the handles.

Operating

Your Lawn

Mower

WARNING

The operation of any

lawn mower can re-

sult in foreign objects

being thrown into

the eyes, which can

damage your eyes se-

verely. Always wear

safety glasses while

operating the mower,

or while performing

any adjustments or

repairs on it.

Be sure no one other

than the operator is

standing near the

lawn mower while

starting engine or op-

erating mower. Never

run engine indoors or

in enclosed, poorly

ventilated areas.

Engine exhaust

contains carbon

monoxide, an odor-

less and deadly

gas. Keep hands, feet, hair and loose clothing away from

any moving parts

on engine and lawn

mower.

Page 10

Maintaining

Your Lawn

Mower

Lubrication

• Lubricate pivot points on the blade control at least once a season with light oil. The blade control must operate freely in both directions. See Figure 5-1.

• Lubricate the wheels and casters at least once a season with light oil (or motor oil). If wheels are removed for any reason, lubricate the axle bolt and inner surface of the wheel with light oil.

• Lubricate the torsion spring and pivot point on each end of the adapter door at least once a season with light oil to prevent rust. See Figure 5-1.

• The transmission is pre-lubricated and sealed at the factory and does not require lubrication.

• Follow the accompanying engine manual for lubrication schedule and instruction for engine lubrication.

WARNING

Always stop engine,

disconnect spark

plug and ground

against engine be-

fore performing any

type of maintenance

on your machine.

IMPORTANT: Do not

use a pressure washer or garden hose to clean your unit. These may cause damage to pulleys, bearings, or the engine. The use of water will result in shortened life and reduce serviceability.

Figure 5-1: Areas to lubricate on the mower.

Figure 5-2: Cut wire to remove rear ﬂap.

General Recommendations

• Always observe safety rules when performing any type of maintenance.

• The warranty on this lawn mower does not cover items that have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To receive full value from warranty, operator must maintain the lawn mower as instructed here.

• Changing of engine-governed speed will void engine warranty.

• All adjustments should be checked at least once each season.

• Periodically check all fasteners and make sure these are tight.

WARNING: Always stop engine, disconnect

spark plug, and ground against engine before performing any type of maintenance on your machine.

Deck Care

WARNING: Never tip the mower more than 90º

in any direction and do not leave the mower tipped for any length of time. Oil can drain into the upper part of the engine causing a starting problem.

1. Disconnect spark plug wire. Drain gasoline from lawn

mower or place a piece of plastic under the gas cap.

2. Tip mower so that it rests on the housing. Keep the

side with the air cleaner facing up. Hold mower firmly.

3. Scrape and clean the underside of the deck with a

suitable tool. Do not spray with water.

4. Put the mower back on its wheels on the ground. If

you had put plastic under the gas cap earlier, make sure to remove it now.

Engine Care

• Maintain oil level as instructed in engine manual.

• Service air cleaner every 25 hours under normal

conditions. Clean every few hours under extremely dusty conditions. Refer to engine manual.

• Clean spark plug and reset the gap once a season.

Check engine manual for correct plug type and gap specifications.

• Clean engine regularly with a cloth or brush. Keep the

cooling system (blower housing area) clean to permit proper air circulation. Remove all grass, dirt and combustible debris from muffler area.

Replacing Rear Flap

1. Cut off the flat end of the wire rod which secures it to

the deck. See Figure 5-2.

2. Attach the new flap and new rod to the deck, bending

the ends of the new rod over to secure to deck.

Page 11

Blade Care

WARNING: When removing cutting blade

for sharpening or replacement, protect your hands with a pair of heavy gloves or use a heavy rag to hold blade.

1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug. Turn

mower on its side making sure that the air filter and carburetor are facing up.

2. Remove bolt, bell blade support, blade, and blade

adapter from the engine crankshaft. See Figure 5-3.

NOTE: When removing these items, the pulleys and washers may also break free from the crankshaft. Be sure to make note of the orientation of these items for reassembly.

Maintaining

Your Lawn

Mower

3. The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a

grinding wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen the blade while it is still on the mower. Balance the blade on a round shaft screwdriver. Grind cutting edges equally and follow the original angle of grind. Remove metal from the heavy side until it balances evenly.

WARNING: An unbalanced blade will cause

excessive vibration when rotating at high speeds. It may cause damage to mower and could break causing personal injury.

4. Lubricate the engine crankshaft and the inner surface

of the blade adapter with light oil. Reinsert the spacer (if needed), pulleys and washers. Slide the blade adapter onto the engine crankshaft. Place the blade on the adapter such that the side of the blade marked “Bottom” (or with part number) faces the ground when the mower is in the operating position. Make sure that blade is aligned and seated on blade adapter flanges.

5. Place bell blade support on the blade. Align notches

on the bell blade support with small holes in blade. Replace hex bolt and tighten hex bolt to torque: 450 in. lbs. min., 600 in. lbs. max.

To ensure safe operation of your mower, periodically check the blade bolt for correct torque.

Belt Care

When removing the cutting blade or when

sliding the belt around it, protect your hands with a pair of heavy gloves.

Figure 5-3: To access blade, remove the bolt, support, blade, and adapter.

Figure 5-4: Remove blade, hardware, and bafﬂe screws.

WARNING

An unbalanced blade

will cause excessive vibration when rotating at high speeds. It

may cause damage

to mower and could

break causing per-

sonal injury.

When removing

the cutting blade

for sharpening or

replacement or

when sliding the belt

around it, protect

your hands with a

pair of heavy gloves or use a heavy rag to

hold the blade.

Removing the Belt

1. Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it against the engine.

2. Drain the fuel tank or place a piece of plastic beneath the cap to prevent gasoline leakage.

3. Tip mower on its side (air cleaner side of engine up).

4. Move height adjustment lever to the highest position.

5. Remove blade, blade adapter, and related hardware.

Be sure to make note of the orientation of these items for reassembly. Remove the three hex screws

holding baffle to the deck. See Figure 5-4.

Figure 5-5: Peel back bafﬂe (A) and loosen screw holding transmission to deck. (B)

Page 12

Maintaining

Your Lawn

Mower

Figure 5-6: Loosen bolt and nut on belt keeper and idler bracket.

6. Lift baffle towards the rear of the mower. Remove the hex bolt that holds the tranmission to the mower deck from the rear of unit, Figure 5-5.

7. Tilt the transmission forward to make it easier to work in this area.

8. Loosen the belt keeper bolt and lock nut half a turn, Figure 5-6.

9. Using a pair of pliers, pull back and rotate belt keeper from the slot on the idler bracket. See Figure 5-7.

10. Slide the belt out from between the belt keeper and the idler bracket.

11. Slide the belt out from around the pulley on the transmission.

12. Remove belt from around the crankshaft. See Figure 5-8. Discard the worn belt.

Installing the Belt

1. Place the new belt over the transmission pulley. Place the belt in the pulley groove and rotate the pulley until the belt is seated in transmission pulley.

2. Place the belt between the idler bracket and the belt keeper.

3. Using pliers, rotate the belt keeper so that it snaps into slot on the idler bracket.

4. Tighten the belt keeper bolt and lock nut.

5. Reinstall the screw that secures the transmission to the mower deck.

Figure 5-7: Rotate belt keeper to free the belt.

Figure 5-8: Remove belt from crankshaft after freeing it from the transmission pulley.

Page 13

6. Place upper pulley on crankshaft, loop belt around crankshaft, and then install the lower pulley. See Figure 5-9.

7. a. Squeeze the blade control against the upper handle

to tighten the belt.

b. Return baffle back to its original position and

release the blade control. See Figure 5-10.

NOTE: It is important that the belt is routed within the inside of the belt keeper rod attached to the underside of the baffle. Refer to Figure 5-11.

8. Secure the baffle to deck using the three screws removed earlier.

9. Lightly lubricate the inside of the blade adapter and reinstall the blade adapter, blade, and blade bell sup port in the correct order (Refer to Blade Care section). Tighten the hex bolt to 450-600 in. lbs. torque.

Off-Season Storage

The following steps should be taken to prepare your lawn mower for storage.

1. Clean and lubricate mower thoroughly as described in the lubrication instructions.

2. We do not recommend the use of a pressure washer or garden hose to clean your unit.

3. Refer to engine manual for correct engine storage instructions.

4. Coat mower’s cutting blade with chassis grease to prevent rusting.

5. Store mower in a dry, clean area. Do not store next to corrosive materials, such as fertilizer.

When storing any type of power equipment in a poorly ventilated or metal storage shed, care should be taken to rust-proof the equipment. Using a light oil or silicone, coat the equipment, especially cables and all moving parts of your lawn mower before storage.

Figure 5-9: Place upper pulley on crankshaft, loop belt around crankshaft, then install the lower pulley.

Figure 5-10: Engage the blade control to tighten the belt (A) and place bafﬂe back onto deck (B).

Maintaining

Your Lawn

Mower

NOTE: When replacing belt, It is important that the belt is routed within the inside of the belt keeper rod attached to the underside of the baffle.

Belt Keeper Rod (attached to underside of bafﬂe)

Figure 5-11: The belt should be routed to the inside of the belt keeper rod.

Page 14

Trouble

Shooting

For repairs beyond the minor adjustments listed here, contact an authorized service dealer.

Problem

Engine fails to start

Engine runs erratic

Engine overheats

Cause

1. Blade control disengaged.

2. Spark plug wire disconnected.

3. Fuel tank empty or stale fuel.

4. Engine not primed (if equipped with

primer).

5. Faulty spark plug.

6. Blocked fuel line.

7. Engine flooded.

8. Fuel valve (if equipped) closed.

9. Engine not choked (if equipped w/choke).

1. Spark plug wire loose.

2. Blocked fuel line or stale fuel.

3. Vent in gas cap plugged.

4. Water or dirt in fuel system.

5. Dirty air cleaner.

6. Carburetor out of adjustment.

1. Engine oil level low.

2. Air flow restricted.

3. Carburetor not adjusted properly.

Remedy

1. Engage blade control.

2. Connect wire to spark plug.

3. Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.

4. Prime engine as instructed in “Operat

ing Your Lawn Mower”.

5. Clean, adjust gap, or replace.

6. Clean fuel line.

7. Wait a few minutes to restart, but do

not prime.

8. Open fuel valve. See engine manual.

9. Choke engine. See engine manual.

1. Connect and tighten spark plug wire.

2. Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean,

fresh gasoline.

3. Clear vent.

4. Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.

5. Refer to engine manual.

6. Refer to engine manual.

1. Fill crankcase with proper oil.

2. Remove blower housing

and clean.

3. Refer to engine manual.

Occasional skips

(hesitates) at

high speed

Idles poorly

Excessive

Vibration

Mower will not

mulch grass (If

Equipped)

Uneven cut

Mower will not

self propel

1. Spark plug gap too close.

2. Carburetor idle mixture adjustment

improperly set.

1. Spark plug fouled, faulty or gap

too wide.

2. Carburetor improperly adjusted.

3. Dirty air cleaner.

1. Cutting blade loose or unbalanced.

2. Bent cutting blade.

1. Wet grass.

2. Excessively high grass.

3. Dull blade.

1. Wheels not positioned correctly.

2. Dull blade.

1. Belt not installed properly.

2. Debris clogging drive operation.

3. Damaged or worn belt.

1. Adjust gap to .030”.

2. Refer to engine manual.

1. Reset gap to .030” or replace

spark plug.

2. Refer to engine manual.

3. Refer to engine manual.

1. Tighten blade and adapter. Balance

blade.

2. See an authorized service dealer.

1. Do not mow when grass is wet; wait

until later to cut.

2. Mow once at a high cutting height,

then mow again at desired height or

make a narrower cutting path.

3. Sharpen or replace blade.

1. Place all four wheels in same

height position.

2. Sharpen or replace blade.

1. Check belt for proper pulley installation

and movement.

2. Stop engine, disconnect spark plug

wire and clean out debris.

3. Inspect and replace belt.

Page 15

Safety Labels Found On Your Lawn Mower

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF INJURY, DO NOT

OPERATE UNLESS DISCHARGE COVER OR GRASS CATCHER IS IN ITS PROPER PLACE. IF DAMAGED, REPLACE IMMEDIATELY.

HTAED RO YRUJNI SUOIRES DIOVA

MORF YAWA TEEF DNA SDNAH PEEK •

.STRAP GNITATOR

•

NWORHT EB NAC TAHT STCEJBO EVOMER

.NOITCERID YNA NI EDALB EHT YB

.SESSALG YTEFAS RAEW

SREHTO RO NERDLIHC NEHW WOM TON OD •

.DNUORA ERA

•

WOM TON OD .SEPOLS NO NOITUAC ARTXE ESU REVEN SSORCA WOM .˚51 NAHT RETAERG SEPOLS OT ESOLC REWOM LLUP REVEN .NWOD DNA PU

EROFEB DNIHEB DNA NWOD KOOL .TEEF RUOY .SDRAWKCAB GNIVOM ELIHW DNA

,DLEIHS GNILIART ,LORTNOC EDALB( SECIVED YTEFAS PEEK . LAUNAM S'ROTAREPO DAER

.YLETAIDEMMI ECALPER ,DEGAMAD FI .GNIKROW DNA ECALP NI ).CTE ,REVOC EGRAHCSID

Safety

Labels

WARNING

DO NOT remove safety (or any) labels from mower for any reason.

Page 16

Model Series 980

Page 17

Ref. Part No. Description

1 647-04008 Deluxe Control Handle Assembly

2 753-05096A Control Lever Assembly

3 746-0711B Drive Cable 51”

4 712-0324 Top Lock Nut 1/4-20

5 746-0883 Control Housing

6 710-1270 Oval C-Sunk Screw

7 746-0557 Control Cable 47”

8 749-0439D Upper Handle

9 720-04072 Star Knob

10 747-04451 Belt Keeper

11 710-1174 Carriage Bolt 5/16-18 x 2.0

12 726-0240 Cable Tie

13 749-0907B Lower Handle

14 631-0066 Chute Assembly

15 731-1832 Side-Discharge Chute

16 731-1833A Mulch Cover

17 782-0078B Deck 21-inch

18 712-0397 Wing Nut

19 710-0703 Carriage Bolt 1/4-20 x .75”

20 714-0104 Cotter Pin

21 726-0233 Push Nut .25 x ID x .50 OD

22 750-04438A Slv. Spcr., 25mm x 1.375 x .440

23 756-04160 Half Pulley: Key 25mm x 2.62 OD

24 756-04161 Half Pulley: Upper 25mm x 2.62

Ref. Part No. Description

25 736-0277 Flat Washer 1.031 x 1.620 x .095

26 736-0447 Wave Washer, 1.5 x 1.0 x .029

27 748-04082 Blade Adapter

28 736-0452 Bell Washer, .396 x 1.140 x .095

29 710-1257 Hex Bolt 3/8-24 x 2.5

30 742-0741 21” Mulching Blade

31 710-0653 Screw 1/4-20 x 3.75

32 731-1828 Baffle

33 754-0460 Belt 3/8 x 39.24

34 710-0895 HL Screw 1/4-15 x .75

35 664-0180 Grass Catcher

36 747-0940A Support Rod w/ Rope Guide

37 747-0939 Pivot Rod

38 747-0937 Grass Bag Frame

39 631-0071 Grass Bag Cover

40 726-0106 Cap Nut

41 712-04063 Hex Nut 5/16-18

42 731-1874 Chute Door

43 732-0819 Torsion Spring

44 726-0111 Push Cap

45 747-0965 Pivot Rod

46 712-04064 Flange Lock Nut, 14-20

47 710-0654A Sems Screw 3/8-16 x 1.00

Parts List

To order replacement

parts, call the Customer

Dealer Referral Line at

1-877-282-8684,

or visit

www.cubcadet.com to

find the nearest Cub

Cadet service dealer in

your area.

IMPORTANT

For a proper working machine, use Factory Approved Parts. V-BELTS are specially designed to engage and disengage safely. A substitute (non-OEM) V-Belt can be dangerous by not disengaging completely.

Page 18

Model Series 980

4243

Page 19

Ref. Part Number Description

1 731-1901A Trail Shield

2 732-0842 Trail Shield Wire

3 736-0264 Flat Washer.330 ID x.630 OD

4 714-0104 Cotter Pin

5 732-0306 Compression Spring

6 734-2010 Wheel 9 x 2

7 712-0414 Top Lock Tab Weld Nut 1/4-20

8 16855 Ratchet Pawl Plate

9 10622B Plastic Spring Ratchet

10 748-0381 Pawl RH

748-0188B Pawl LH

11 738-0137A Shoulder Screw.340 ID x.285 OD

12 748-0318 Wheel Ratchet

13 736-0270 Bell Washer.265 ID x.75 OD

14 710-0751 Hex Cap Screw 1/4-20 x.620

15 737-3000 Grease Fitting

16 736-0931 Flat Washer.203 ID x.403 OD

17 747-0924 Wheel Pin Lock

18 682-9020A Caster Assembly RH

682-9021A Caster Assembly LH

19 682-9024 Caster Bracket Assembly RH

682-9026 Caster Bracket Assembly LH

20 720-0223 Grip

21 732-0803A Spring Lever

22 738-0529 Shoulder Nut.825 x .165 Lg.

23 736-0369 Flat Washer .508 ID x 1.0 OD

24 782-0566B Pivot Arm Assembly

25 750-0515 Spacer .510 ID x .70 OD

26 741-0978 Sleeve Bearing .504 ID x .830 OD

27 750-1056 Shoulder Spacer

28 710-0653 Tap Screw 1/4-20 x .375

Ref. Part Number Description

29 682-7528 Chain Cover Assembly

30 741-0324A Flange Bearing .506 ID x .590 Lg

31 682-7526 Transmission Axle Assembly

32 618-0263A Transmission Assembly Complete

33 710-0604A Hex Screw 5/16-18

34 713-0453 Chain

35 638-0012 Rear Axle Assembly

36 741-0522 Flange Bearing .506 ID x .715 Lg

37 732-0832 Torsion Spring

38 750-0151 Spacer .550 ID x .750 OD

39 710-1315 Screw 3/8-16 x .25

40 711-0835 Clevis Pin .50 Dia x 4.82 Lg.

41 750-0807 Spacer .385 ID x .624 OD

42 782-0568 Spring Bracket: Height Adjustment

43 710-1652 Screw 1/4-14 x .825

44 714-0474 Cotter Pin

45 682-3053 Handle Bracket Assembly - LH

46 682-3052 Handle Bracket Assembly - RH

47 725-0157 Cable Tie

48 710-1348 Screw 1/4-14 x.500

49 710-0260A Carriage Bolt 5/16-18 x.62

50 711-1146 Caster Axle

51 712-0397 Wing Nut

52 712-04063 Flange Lock Nut 5/16-18

53 726-0214 Push Cap

54 736-0232 Wave Washer.531 ID x.781 OD

55 736-0366 Flat Washer.640 ID x 1.12 OD

56 741-0685 Flange Bearing

57 734-1857 Wheel 7 x 2

58 731-1888 Hubcap - Spoke w/ Hole

59 731-0982A Hubcap - Radial Spoke

Parts List

To order replacement

parts, call the Customer

Dealer Referral Line at

1-877-282-8684,

or visit

www.cubcadet.com to

find the nearest Cub

Cadet service dealer in

your area.

Page 20

MANUFACTURER’S LIMITED WARRANTY FOR

The limited warranty set forth below is given by Cub Cadet LLC with respect to new merchandise purchased and used in the United States, its possessions and territories. “Cub Cadet” warrants this product against defects in material and workmanship for a period of two (2) years commencing on the date of original purchase and will, at its option, repair or replace, free of charge, any part found to be defective in materials or workmanship. This limited warranty shall only apply if this product has been operated and maintained in accordance with the Operator’s Manual furnished with the product, and has not been subject to misuse, abuse, commercial use, neglect, accident, improper maintenance, alteration, vandalism, theft, fire, water, or damage because of other peril or natural disaster. Damage resulting from the installation or use of any part, accessory or attachment not approved by Cub Cadet for use with the product(s) covered by this manual will void your warranty as to any resulting damage. Normal wear parts are warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of thirty (30) days from the date of purchase. Normal wear parts include, but are not limited to items such as: batteries, belts, blades, blade adapters, grass bags, rider deck wheels, seats, snow thrower skid shoes, shave plates, auger spiral rubber and tires. HOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE: Warranty service is available, WITH PROOF OF PURCHASE, through your local authorized service dealer. To locate the dealer in your area, check your Yellow Pages, or contact Cub Cadet LLC at P.O. Box 361131, Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019, or call 1-877-282-8684, or log on to our Web site at www.cubcadet.com. This limited warranty does not provide coverage in the following cases: a. The engine or component parts thereof. These items may

carry a separate manufacturer’s warranty. Refer to applicable manufacturer’s warranty for terms and conditions.

b. Log splitter pumps, valves, and cylinders have a separate one year

warranty.

c. Routine maintenance items such as lubricants, filters, blade

sharpening, tune-ups, brake adjustments, clutch adjustments, deck adjustments, and normal deterioration of the exterior finish due to use or exposure.

d. Cub Cadet does not extend any warranty for products sold or exported

outside of the United States, its possessions and territories, except those sold through Cub Cadet’s authorized channels of export distribution

e. Replacement parts that are not genuine Cub Cadet parts.

f. Service completed by someone other than an authorized service

dealer.

g. Transportation charges and service calls.

No implied warranty, including any implied warranty of merchantability of fitness for a particular purpose, applies after the applicable period of express written warranty above as to the parts as identified. No other express warranty, whether written or oral, except as mentioned above, given by any person or entity, including a dealer or retailer, with respect to any product, shall bind Cub Cadet. During the period of the warranty, the exclusive remedy is repair or replacement of the product as set forth above. The provisions as set forth in this warranty provide the sole and exclusive remedy arising from the sale. Cub Cadet shall not be liable for incidental or consequential loss or damage including, without limitation, expenses incurred for substitute or replacement lawn care services or for rental expenses to temporarily replace a warranted product.

Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, or limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above exclusions or limitations may not apply to you. In no event shall recovery of any kind be greater than the amount of the purchase price of the product sold. Alteration of safety features of the product shall void this warranty. You assume the risk and liability for loss, damage, or injury to you and your property and/or to others and their property arising out of the misuse or inability to use the product. This limited warranty shall not extend to anyone other than the original purchaser or to the person for whom it was purchased as a gift. HOW STATE LAW RELATES TO THIS WARRANTY: This limited warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state. IMPORTANT: Owner must present Original Proof of Purchase to obtain warranty coverage.

Cub Cadet LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019; Phone: 1-877-282-8684