Cub cadet SZ-60, SZ-48 User Manual

Safe Operation Practices • Set-Up • Operation • Maintenance • Service • Troubleshooting • Warranty

OperatOr’s Manual

Tank SZ

WARNING

READ AND FOLLOW ALL SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS MANUAL

BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE THIS MACHINE.

FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THESE INSTRUCTIONS MAY RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY.

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

Printed In USA

Form No. 769-07369

(February 23, 2012)

To The Owner

Thank You

Thank you for purchasing a Cub Cadet Zero-Turn Tractor. It was
carefully engineered to provide excellent performance when
properly operated and maintained.

Please read this entire manual prior to operating the equipment.
It instructs you how to safely and easily set up, operate and
maintain your machine. Please be sure that you, and any other
persons who will operate the machine, carefully follow the
recommended safety practices at all times. Failure to do so could
result in personal injury or property damage.

All information in this manual is relative to the most recent
product information available at the time of printing. Review
this manual frequently to familiarize yourself with the machine,

its features and operation. Please be aware that this Operator’s

Manual may cover a range of product specifications for various
models. Characteristics and features discussed and/or illustrated
in this manual may not be applicable to all models. We reserve
the right to change product specifications, designs and
equipment without notice and without incurring obligation.

Table of Contents

Safe Operation Practices ........................................ 3

Assembly & Set-Up .................................................11

Controls & Features ................................................16

Operation ................................................................19

Maintenance & Adjustment ................................ 25

1

If applicable, the power testing information used to establish
the power rating of the engine equipped on this machine can be

found at www.opei.org or the engine manufacturer’s web site.

If you have any problems or questions concerning the machine,
phone your local Cub Cadet dealer or contact us directly. Cub

Cadet’s Customer Support telephone numbers, website address

and mailing address can be found on this page. We want to
ensure your complete satisfaction at all times.

Throughout this manual, all references to right and left side of the
machine are observed from the operating position

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

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

machine, for more information.

Service .................................................................... 33

Troubleshooting .................................................... 38

Replacement Parts ................................................ 39

Attachments & Accessories ...................................41

Warranty ..................................................Back Cover

Record Product Information

Before setting up and operating your new equipment, please

locate the model plate on the equipment and record the
information in the provided area to the right. The model plate is
located under the seat on the seat frame. This information will be
necessary, should you seek technical support via our web site or
with your local Cub Cadet dealer.

Model NuMber

Serial NuMber

Product Registration and Customer Support

Please register your product on our website, www.cubcadet.com.

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

◊ Visit us on the web at www.cubcadet.com

See How-to Maintenance and Parts Installation Videos at www.cubcadet.com/tutorials

◊ Locate your nearest Cub Cadet Dealer at [phone]

◊ Write to Cub Cadet LLC • P.O. Box 361131 • Cleveland, OH • 44136-0019

2

Important 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!

CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65

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 reproductive harm.

WARNING! Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead

compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive
harm. Wash hands after handling.

WARNING! This machine 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 arrestor meeting applicable local or

state laws (if any). If a spark arrestor 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 arrestor 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.
This spark ignition system complies with Canadian ICES-002.

2

DANGER! The engine manufacturer has supplied an engine owner’s manual for information
regarding US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and California Air resources Board (CARB)

regulations relating to emission control systems, maintenance, and warranty. Making any
unauthorized alterations or modifications to the engine, fuel, or venting systems may violate EPA

and/or CARB regulations. Further information may be obtained from the engine manufacturer.

DANGER! This machine was built to be operated according to the safe operation practices 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.

3

Training

1. Read the Operator’s manual and other training material. If

the operator(s) or mechanic(s) cannot read English it is the

owner’s responsibility to explain this material to them.

2. Become familiar with the safe operation of the machine,
operator controls, and safety signs.

3. All operators and mechanics should be trained to operate
or service the equipment. The owner is responsible for
training them.

4. Never let children under the age of 16 or untrained people
operate or service the equipment. Local regulations may
further restrict the age of the operator.

5. The owner/operator can prevent and is responsible for
accidents or injuries occurring to them, other people or
property.

General Operation

1. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the
machine and in the manual(s) before attempting to
assemble and operate. Keep this manual in a safe place
for future and regular reference by each operator and for
ordering replacement parts.

2. Be familiar with all controls and their proper operation.
Know how to stop the machine and disengage the controls
quickly.

3. Do not allow anyone to operate or maintain this machine
who has not read the manual. Never permit children under
the age of 16 to operate this machine.

4. Do not remove any shields, guards, labels or safety devices.
If a shield, guard, label or safety device is damaged or
does not function, repair or replace it before operating the
machine.

5. To h elp avoid blade contact or a thrown object injury,
keep bystanders, helpers, children and pets at least 75 feet
from the machine while it is in operation. Stop machine if
anyone enters the area.

6. Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to be
used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire, bones, toys, and other
foreign objects that could be picked up and thrown by the
blade(s). Thrown objects can cause serious personal injury.

7. Evaluate the terrain to determine what accessories and
attachments are needed to properly and safely perform

the job. Only use accessories and attachments approved

by the machine manufacturer.

8. 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.

9. Always wear appropriate clothing and personal protective
equipment (e.g. safety glasses, long pants, gloves, hearing
protection , safety shoes, hard hat) when operating or
maintaining this machine. Long hair, loose fitting clothing
or jewelry may get entangled in moving parts. Follow all
federal, state and local guidelines regarding the use of
personal protective equipment.

10. Be aware of the mower and attachment discharge direction
and do not point it at anyone. Do not operate the mower
without the discharge cover or entire grass catcher in its
proper place.

11. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the
cutting deck. Contact with the blade(s) can amputate
hands and feet.

12. A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause blade
contact or thrown object injuries.

13. Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel drives, walks, or
roads and while not cutting grass.

14. Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing
roadways. This machine is not intended for use on any
public roadway.

15. Do not operate the machine while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.

16. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.

17. Never carry passengers.

18. Back up slowly. Always look down and behind before and

while backing to avoid a back-over accident.

19. Slow down before turning. Operate the machine smoothly.
Avoid erratic operation and excessive speed. Be aware of

your direction of travel to avoid accidents.

20. Disengage blade(s), set parking brake, stop engine and wait
until the blade(s) come to a complete stop before removing
grass catcher, emptying grass, unclogging chute, removing
any grass or debris, or making any adjustments.

21. Never leave a running machine unattended. Always stop
on level ground, turn off blade(s), place drive speed control
pedals in neutral, set parking brake, stop engine and
remove key before leaving the operator position.

22. Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine
on a trailer or truck. The machine should not be driven on
unstable, unsecured or inadequate ramps because the
machine could tip over causing serious personal injury.

23. Check overhead clearances carefully before driving under
low hanging tree branches, wires, door openings etc.,

where the operator and/or ROPS may be struck which

could result in serious injury and/or machine tip over.

24. Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do
not touch.

25. Disengage the blades, set the parking brake to the ‘ON’
position and make sure the speed control pedals are in
the neutral position before attempting to start the engine.

Only start the engine from the operator’s position.

26. Do not attempt to mow unusually tall, dry grass (e.g.,
pasture) or piles of dry leaves. Dry grass or leaves may
contact the engine exhaust and/or build up on the mower
deck presenting a potential fire hazard.

27. Do not stop or park the machine over dry leaves, grass,
debris or other combustible material.

4 Section 2 — impo rtant Safe operation practiceS

28. Never attempt to operate the machine without the
mowing deck attached; the machine could tip over.

29. Keep the machine and especially the engine exhaust
system and hydraulic components clean and free of grease,
grass and leaves to reduce the potential for overheating
and fire.

30. Allow the machine to cool at least 5 minutes before storing.

31. Use only accessories and attachments approved for this

machine by the machine manufacturer. Read, understand
and follow all instructions provided with the approved
accessory or attachment.

32. Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above, are

involved in a large percentage of riding mower-related

injuries. Operators should evaluate their ability to operate

this machine safely enough to protect themselves and
others from serious injury.

33. Do not operate or start machine if there is fuel or oil leaks;
repair immediately.

34. When looking for oil leaks, never run your hand over
hydraulic hoses, lines or fittings. Never tighten or adjust
hydraulic hoses, lines or fittings while the system is under
pressure. If high-pressure oil penetrates the skin seek
immediate medical attention or gangrene and permanent
damage may result. Do not check for hydraulic leaks with
your hands, use paper or cardboard instead. Wear gloves
and safety glasses when checking for leaks.

35. Do not operate machines that have been damaged or have
not been properly maintained. If the machine has been
damaged, then have it repaired.

36. When operating this machine in the forward direction, do
not allow the speed control pedals to return to the neutral
position on their own. Always operate them smoothly and
avoid any sudden movements of the pedals when starting
or stopping.

37. If situations occur which are not covered in this manual use
care and good judgement. Contact your customer service
representative for assistance.

Slope Operation

Slopes are a major factor related to loss of control and tip-over
accidents that can result in severe injury or death. All slopes
require extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you
feel uneasy on it, do not mow it or drive on the slope.

For your safety, use the slope gauge included as part of this
manual to measure slopes before operating this machine on

a sloped or hilly area. If the slope is greater than 20 degrees as

shown on the slope gauge, do not operate this machine on that
area or serious injury could result.

Do:

1. Mow across slopes, not up and down. Exercise extreme
caution when changing direction on slopes.

2. Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden
objects. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall
grass can hide obstacles.

3. Use slow speed. Choose a low enough speed so that you
will not have to stop while on the slope. Avoid starting
or stopping on a slope. If the tires are unable to maintain
traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly and
carefully straight down the slope.

4. Keep all movements on the slopes slow and gradual. Do
not make sudden changes in speed or direction. Rapid
acceleration could cause the front of the machine to lift
and rapidly flip over backwards, which could cause serious
injury or death.

5. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for wheel
weights or counterweights to improve stability.

6. Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments.
These can change the stability of the machine.

Do Not:

1. Do not turn on slopes unless necessary; then turn slowly
uphill and use extra care while turning.

2. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or embankments. The
machine could suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the
edge of a cliff, ditch, or if an edge caves in.

3. Do not operate on slopes or near the edge of water such as
a lake, pond, river or stream where the machine could slip,
tip or roll-over into the water.

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

5. Do not use a grass catcher on slopes steeper than 15
degrees.

6. Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could cause
sliding and/or loss of control.

7. Do not tow heavy pull behind attachments (e.g. loaded
dump cart, lawn roller, etc.) on slopes greater than 5
degrees. When going downhill, the extra weight tends
to push the machine and may cause loss of traction and
loss of control (e.g. machine may speed up, braking and
steering ability are reduced, attachment may jack-knife and
cause machine to overturn).

Children

1. 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. They do not understand
the dangers. Never assume that children will remain where
you last saw them.

a. Keep children out of the mowing area and in

watchful care of a responsible adult other than the
operator.

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

area.

c. Always look behind and down for small children. Use

slow speed.

d. Never carry children, even with the blade(s) shut off.

They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere
with safe machine operation.

e. Use extreme care when approaching blind corners,

doorways, shrubs, trees or other objects that may
block your vision of a child who may run into the
path of the machine.

f. To avoid back-over accidents, always disengage

blades before traveling in reverse.

g. Keep children away from hot or running engines.

They can suffer burns from a hot muffler.

h. Remove key when machine is unattended to

prevent unauthorized operation.

5Section 2 — impo rtant Safe operation practiceS

2. Never allow children under 16 years of age to operate this
machine. Children 16 and over should read and understand the

instructions and safe operation practices in this manual and on
the machine and should be trained and supervised by an adult.

Towing

1. Do not tow heavy tow-behind attachments (e.g. loaded
dump cart, lawn roller, etc.) on slopes greater than 5
degrees.

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

3. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for weight

limits for towed equipment and towing on slopes.

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

5. On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment may cause
loss of traction and loss of control.

6. Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop.

7. Make wide turns to avoid jack knifing

Transporting Machines

1. This machine is not intended for use on public roads.
Machines operated on public roads must comply with state

& local ordinances, SAE J137, and ANSI/ASABE S279 (lighting

and marking requirements).

2. Use care when loading or unloading machines onto trailers
and trucks.

3. If ramps are used, they must be full width, stable, have an
adequate capacity rating and be secured to the trailer or

truck. Ramp angle should not exceed 15 degrees and trailer

or truck should be parked on level terrain.

4. Machines must be secured onto trailers and trucks with
straps, chains, cables, ropes, or other means deemed
adequate for that purpose. The front and rear of the
machines must be secured to the trailer or truck in both the
lateral and vertical directions.

Operator Protective System (OPS)

1. This machine is equipped with an Operator Protective
System (OPS), which includes:

a. A Roll Over Protective Structure (ROPS) of the fixed

or folding configuration.

b. Seat belt assembly with retractable function.

2. ROPS are structures designed to provide a crush-resistant
space for the operator when properly seat-belted within
the designated seating area of the machine in the event of

a machine tip-over or roll-over. Folding ROPS shall be used

in their fully upright and locked configurations except in
those circumstances whereby they need to be momentarily
folded-down to avoid contact with items such as tree
limbs, clothes lines, guy wires, utility poles, buildings, etc.

At other times and conditions, ROPS shall be in their fully

upright and locked configurations.

DANGER: Damaged ROPS must be replaced

prior to operator use!

3. Seat belts shall be used and shall be properly fastened
about the operator’s waist at all times, except when the
ROPS are:

a. Not properly installed and/or not properly secured

onto the machine.

b. Damaged in such manner that their structural

integrity has been compromised.

c. Not in their fully upright and locked position.

4. Seat belts are attached to the movable portion of the seat
when suspension seats are utilized, and therefore the seat­mounting base must be secured to its pivot means and the
pivot means latched to the frame of the machine. Seat belts
are attached to the seat or the frame of the machine when
non-suspension (standard) seats are provided, however, if
a suspension kit is added to a seat, the seat belt must be
attached to the movable portion of the seat or suspension
mechanism, the seat-mounting base must be secured to its
pivot means, and the pivot means be latched to the frame
of the machine.

DANGER: If ROPS are folded down or missing,

seat belts shall not be fastened. Worn or damaged
seat belt assemblies must be replaced prior to
operator use.

5. A brush guard or canopy may deflect tree limbs, clothes
lines, and other obstacles that otherwise could come in

contact with the ROPS. Contact of ROPS and/or canopies

by items such as tree limbs, clothes lines, guy wires, and
buildings, could create hazardous conditions whereby
the machine could experience a tip-over or roll-over. A
canopy may provide protection for the operator from some
environmental exposure (sunlight, rain, etc.).

6. The ROPS and seat belt are integral parts of this machine
and should not be tampered with, modified in any manner,
or removed.

7. Inspect the ROPS and seat belt assemblies on a regular
basis for damage and improper operation. Replace all
components that are damaged or are not functioning
properly with authorized replacement parts.

8. The ROPS extends above and behind the operator position,
and therefore the operator must be aware of potential

contact of the ROPS with items such as trees, buildings,

doorways, clothes lines, utility wires, etc., that could cause
the machine to tip-over or rollover. Use caution in (or avoid)

areas where the ROPS could come in contact with any

structures, trees, etc.

9. Inspect the ROPS and seat belt assemblies on a regular

basis for damage and improper operation. Replace all
components that are damaged or are not functioning
properly with authorized replacement parts.

10. Failure to use the seat belt properly could result in serious
injury or death if an accidental overturn occurs. In order

for the ROPS to be effective, the seat belt must be securely

fastened around the operator at all times when the

operator is on the machine. Contact with the ROPS during

an overturn could cause serious injury or death.

11. The ROPS will not prevent machine from tip-overs or roll-overs.

12. Do not assume ROPS will protect you in a tip-over or roll-

over. Injuries may still occur.

6 Section 2 — impo rtant Safe operation practiceS

Hydraulic Devices and Systems

Hydraulic fluid escaping under pressure may have sufficient
force to penetrate skin and cause serious injury. If foreign fluid is
injected into the skin or eyes, see immediate medical attention or
gangrene and permanent damage may result.

WARNING: Keep body and hands away from

pinholes or nozzles that could inject hydraulic fluid
under high pressure. Use paper or cardboard, not
your hands, to search for leaks! Wear gloves and
safety glasses.

Safely relieve all pressure in the system before performing any
work on the system, and make sure that:

• The ignition switch is OFF

• The key is removed

• The engine spark plug wire(s) removed

• All connections to the negative terminal of the battery are

removed

• The park brake is set

• All by-pass valves, if so equipped, are open

• Hydraulic controls are actuated to release pressure on

pumps, cylinders, etc. If “float” positions are available, they
should be used.

After the above operations are completed, it should be safe to
begin disconnecting the lines or components. It is still a good
idea to cover the connection with a cloth shield and then gently
loosen connections.

WARNING: Make sure all hydraulic fluid

connections are tight and all hydraulic hoses and
lines are in good condition before applying pressure
to the system.

Service

Safe Handling of fuel

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

a. Use only approved containers.

b. Never fill containers inside a vehicle or a truck or

trailer bed with a carpeted or plastic liner. Always
place containers on the ground away from your
vehicle before fueling.

c. When practical, remove machines from the truck or

trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible,
then refuel equipment on a trailer with a portable
container rather than from a fuel dispenser nozzle.

d. Keep 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.

e. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other

sources of ignition.

f. Never fuel machine indoors or near ignition sources.

g. Never remove fuel cap or add fuel while the engine

is hot or running. Allow engine to cool at least two
minutes before refueling.

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

below bottom of filler neck to allow space for expansion.

i. If necessary, use a funnel to avoid spillage.

j. Replace fuel cap and tighten securely.

k. If fuel is spilled, wipe off the engine and equipment.

Wait 5 minutes before starting the engine.

l. To reduce fire hazards, keep machine free of grass,

leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean up oil and fuel
spillage and remove any fuel soaked debris.

m. Never store the machine or fuel container inside

where there is an open flame, spark or pilot light
as on a water heater, space heater, furnace, clothes
dryer or other gas appliance.

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(s) and all moving parts have stopped. Disconnect the
spark plug wires and remove the key from the ignition to
prevent unintended starting.

3. Periodically check to make sure the blades come to
complete stop within approximately (7) seven seconds
after operating the blade disengagement control. If the
blades do not stop within this time frame, your machine
should be serviced.

4. Never tamper with the safety interlock system or other
safety devices.

5. Regularly check the safety interlock system for proper
function, as described later in this manual. If the safety
interlock system does not function properly, have your
machine serviced.

6. Check brake operation frequently as it is subjected to wear
during normal operation. Adjust and service as required.

7. Check the blade(s) and engine mounting bolts at frequent
intervals for proper tightness. Also, visually inspect blade(s)
for damage (e.g., excessive wear, bent, cracked). Replace the

blade(s) with the original equipment manufacturer’s (O.E.M.)

blade(s) only, listed in this manual. “Use of parts which do
not meet the original equipment specifications may lead to
improper performance and compromise safety!”

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

9. Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the
equipment is in safe working condition.

10. After striking a foreign object (or if abnormal vibration
occurs), stop the blades and engine and thoroughly inspect
the machine for any damage. Make necessary repairs
before resuming operation.

11. Never attempt to make adjustments or repairs to the
machine while the engine is running.

7Section 2 — impo rtant Safe operation practiceS

12. Grass catcher components and the discharge cover are
subject to wear and damage which could expose moving
parts or allow objects to be thrown. For safety protection,
frequently check components and replace immediately

with original equipment manufacturer’s (O.E.M.) parts only,

listed in this manual. “Use of parts which do not meet the
original equipment specifications may lead to improper
performance and compromise safety!”

13. Do not change the engine governor settings or over-speed
the engine. The governor controls the maximum safe
operating speed of the engine.

14. Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as necessary.

15. Observe proper disposal laws and regulations for gas, oil,

etc. to protect the environment.

Do not modify engine

To avoid serious injury or death, do not modify engine in any
way. Tampering with the governor setting can lead to a runaway
engine and cause it to operate at unsafe speeds. Never tamper
with factory setting of engine governor.

Notice Regarding Emissions

This machine is equipped with an engine that is certified to
federal EPA emission standards for non-road engines and
equipment, and where applicable to California Air Resources

Board (CARB) emission standards. The engine owner’s manual is

supplied by the engine manufacturer, and provides additional
information relating to the emission system, warranty,
maintenance of the engine in accordance with EPA and/or

CARB regulations. Making any unauthorized alterations or

modifications to the engine, fuel, or venting systems may violate

EPA and CARB regulations.

When required, models are equipped with low permeation fuel
lines and fuel tanks for evaporative emission control. California
models may also include a carbon canister. Please contact
Customer Support for information regarding the evaporative
emission control configuration for your model.

This machine is designed to run on regular, unleaded gasoline,
87 octane or higher. Never use gasoline containing methanol or

gasoline containing more than 10% ethanol (i.e., E15 or E85 fuels)

because the fuel system may be damaged.

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.

8 Section 2 — impo rtant Safe operation practiceS

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!

Safety Symbols

This page depicts and describes safety symbols that may appear on this product. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the
machine before attempting to assemble and operate.

Symbol Description

READ THE OPERATOR’S MANUAL(S)
Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual(s) before attempting to
assemble and operate

WARNING— ROTATING BLADES
Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the cutting deck. Contact with the
blade(s) can amputate hands and feet.

WARNING—THROWN OBJECTS
This machine may pick up and throw objects which can cause serious personal injury.

BYSTANDERS

Keep bystanders, helpers, children and pets at least 75 feet from the machine while it is in
operation.

MAX 20˚

WARNING— SLOPE OPERATION
Do not operate this machine on a slope greater than 20 degrees.

DANGER — ROTATING BLADES

To reduce the risk of injury, keep hands and feet away. Do not operate unless discharge cover
or grass catcher is in its proper place. If damaged, replace immediately.

DANGER — CHILDREN
Never carry children, even with the blade(s) shut off. They may fall off and be seriously injured
or interfere with safe machine operation.

DANGER — MOWING IN REVERSE

Always look behind and down for small children. Use slow speed.

DANGER — BACK-OVER

To avoid back-over accidents, always disengage blades before traveling in reverse.

9Section 2 — impo rtant Safe operation practiceS

To check the slope, proceed as follows:

1. Remove this page and fold along the dashed line.

2. Locate a vertical object on or behind the slope (e.g. a pole, building, fence, tree, etc.)

3. Align either side of the slope gauge with the object (See Figure 1 and Figure 2 ).

4. Adjust gauge up or down until the left corner touches the slope (See Figure 1 and Figure 2).

5. If there is a gap below the gauge, the slope is too steep for safe operation (See Figure 2 above).

WARNING! Slopes are a major factor related to tip-over and roll-over accidents which can result in severe injury or death.

Do not operate machine on slopes in excess of 20 degrees. All slopes require extra caution.

Always mow across the face of slopes, never up and down slopes.

(OK)

IF A SLOPE IS TOO STEEP FOR SAFE OPERATION!

USE THIS SLOPE GAUGE TO DETERMINE

20° dashed line

20° Slope

Slope Gauge

Figure 2Figure 1

(TOO STEEP)

20° Slope

10 Section 2 — Safe operation practi ceS

Assembly & Set-Up

Deck Lift Pedal

Clevis Pin

Contents of Crate

• One Zero-Turn Tractor • One ROPS Assembly • One Steering Wheel

• One Deck Wash Hose Coupler • One Zero-Turn Tractor Operator’s

Manual

• One Engine Operator’s Manual

3

NOTE: All references in this manual to the left or right side and
front or back of the machine are from the operating position
only. Exceptions, if any, will be specified.

TOOLS NEEDED: Safety glasses, leather gloves, wire cutters.

1. Remove the upper crating material from the shipping
pallet, and cut any bands or tie straps securing the machine
to the pallet.

2. Use the deck lift pedal to raise the deck to its highest
position and secure in place with the clevis pin attached to

the machine. See Fig. 3-1.

3. The two hydrostatic transmissions are equipped with a

bypass valve that will allow you to manually move the
machine short distances.

4. Engage the transmission bypass valves on each side
of the machine by moving both levers to the left. The
transmission bypass valves (one for each the RH and LH
transmission) are located under the machine on the front of

each transmission inside the rear wheels. See Fig. 3-2.

Figure 3-1

Figure 3-2

WARNING! Do not tow the machine, even with the

bypass valves engaged. Serious transmission
damage will result from doing so.

5. Then carefully roll the machine off the shipping pallet.

6. Rotate the levers to the right of the machine to disengage
the transmission bypass valves.

7. Remove the deck wash system nozzle adapter from the
manual bag and store for future use. Cut the wire tie
holding the chute deflector up and discard any packing
material.

11

Install Roll Over Protective System (ROPS)

ROPS Lower

Sections

Carriage Bolt

Flat Washer

Flat Washer

Reinforced Plate

Flange Lock Nut

Bolt

Retaining

Washer

Lock Nuts

Bolt

Retaining

Washer

A

B

C

The Roll Over Protective System (ROPS) has not been installed

on your unit for shipping purposes. Using the hardware found in

the Roll Over Protective System container, install it on your unit

as follows:

1. Insert each of the ROPS lower section tubular posts into the
brackets welded to the machine main frame. See Fig. 3-3.

Figure 3-3

NOTE: The ROPS folding stop should be positioned toward
the rear of the unit. See Fig. 3-3.

2. Insert the carriage bolts (one per side) through the flat

washer then into the frame brackets and ROPS posts from
the front toward the rear. See Fig. 3-2. Alternately from the

rear toward the front if access is restricted.

NOTE: The mounting hardware is accessible from the rear
of the machine with the use of extensions. Also, access can
be gained by reaching in from the sides over the tires fuel
tanks.

3. Install the reinforced plates, flat washers and flange lock
nuts, but do not tighten. See Fig. 3-3.

4. Install the upper ROPS section onto the lower ROPS “posts”.
Install the bolts, retaining washers and lock nuts. See Fig. 3-4.

Figure 3-4

5. Tighten upper ROPS section bolts after both RH & LH
hardware is installed.

6. Tighten the frame mounting hardware to 80-90 lb.-ft.

torque. See Fig. 3-3.

NOTE: Make sure tubular upright posts are absolutely

tight within welded bracket. If the ROPS is not absolutely
tight after tightening hardware to 80-90 ft-lbs, additional

tightening is needed.

7. Route the nylon lanyard as shown in Fig. 3-5. Be sure to
secure the lanyard to the retaining clip and clevis pin.

Section 2— ASSembly & Set-Up12

Figure 3-5

8. Move the upper ROPS section to the upright position, and

Locking Pin

Locking Pin

Retainer

Hairpin

Clips

Steering Column

Adjustment Lever

Steering

Wheel

Cover

Hex Lock

Screw

Belleville Washer

insert the locking pins with their retainer hairpin clips. See

Fig. 3-6.

Figure 3-6

Steering Wheel Column

The steering wheel column is tilted all the way back for shipping
purposes. To tilt the column forward, rotate the steering column
adjustment lever down, place the column in the desired position and

then rotate the lever up to secure the column in place. See Fig. 3-7.

3. Place the belleville washer over the steering wheel and
secure with the hex lock screw. See Fig. 3-8.

Figure 3-8

4. Place the steering wheel cover over the center of the steering
wheel and push downward until it “clicks” into place.

Proper steering column and seat adjustment will result in the
following (to adjust the seat see below):

In the neutral position with hands on the steering wheel,

• Operator’s upper arms should be relaxed and

approximately vertical.

• Operator’s forearms should be approximately horizontal.

• Operator’s back should stay in contact with the seat back.

• Steering column should not contact operator’s legs.

Check the results of any adjustments to the conditions described
above. Repeat any adjustment procedures as required until all
conditions are met.

Figure 3-7

NOTE: Be sure that the steering column adjustment lever is tight to

prevent the column from moving when operating the machine.

Steering Wheel

1. Remove the hardware for attaching the steering wheel
from beneath the steering wheel cap. Carefully pry off the
steering wheel cover to remove the hardware.

2. With the wheels of the machine pointing straight forward,
place the steering wheel over the steering shaft.

Section 2 — ASSemb ly & Set-Up 13

Seat Adjustment

Standard Seat (If equipped)

This machine is equipped with an adjustable seat, which includes

a retractable seat belt assembly and an Operator Presence
Sensor (OPS). The OPS in the form of a switch, is integrated into

the seat bottom and is connected to the machine electrical
system.

The seat can be adjusted forward and back and the arm rest can
be adjusted up and down.

To move the seat forward or back, locate the seat adjustment rod
under the seat. Push the rod to the left and slide the seat forward
or back into the desired position and release the rod when the

seat is in the desired position. See Fig. 3-9.

Suspension Seat (If equipped)

This machine is equipped with an adjustable seat, which includes

a retractable seat belt assembly and an Operator Presence
Sensor (OPS). The OPS in the form of a switch, is integrated into

the seat bottom and is connected to the machine electrical
system.

The seat can be adjusted forward and back, the armrests can
be adjusted up and down and the mechanical suspension
mechanism weight/ride adjustment controls can be adjusted for

weights between 125- and 275-pounds.

To move the seat forward or back, locate the seat adjustment rod
under the seat. Push the rod to the left and slide the seat forward
or back into the desired position and release the rod when the

seat is in the desired position. See Fig. 3-11.

Figure 3-9

To adjust the arm rest, lift the arm rest and rotate the block

adjustment into one of the four positions (0-3, 0 being the lowest
and 3 being the highest.) and lower the arm rest. See Fig. 3-10.

Figure 3-10

Figure 3-11

To adjust the arm rest, lift the arm rest and rotate the block

adjustment into one of the four positions (0-3, 0 being the lowest
and 3 being the highest.) and lower the arm rest. See Fig. 3-12.

Figure 3-12

Section 2— ASSembly & Set-Up14