Dixon SPEEDZTR 44, 44-968999538, SPEEDZTR 36, SPEEDZTR 42 User Manual
® ®
SPEEDZTR
Operator Manual
SPEEDZTR 44 / 968999538 SPEEDZTR 36 / 968999539
SPEEDZTR 44 / 968999547 SPEEDZTR 36 / 968999609
SPEEDZTR 44 / 968999611 SPEEDZTR 42 / 968999689
SPEEDZTR 42 / 968999713
Please read the operator’s manual carefully and make sure you
understand the instructions before using the machine.
©2008 HTC. All rights reserved.
Beatrice, NE. Printed in U.S.A.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION .......................................................4
Driving and Transport on Public Roads .................4
Towing ...................................................................4
Operating ...............................................................4
Good Service .........................................................5
SYMBOLS AND DECALS .........................................6
SAFETY .....................................................................8
General Operation .................................................8
Personal Safety Equipment .................................10
Slope Operation ..................................................10
Safe Handling of Gasoline ...................................12
General Maintenance ..........................................13
Transport .............................................................15
Roll Over Protection System (ROPS) ..................16
CONTROLS .............................................................17
Motion Control Levers .........................................18
Tracking .........................................................18
Seat Adjustment Lever ........................................19
Bypass Linkage ...................................................19
Fuel Tank .............................................................20
Ignition Switch .....................................................21
Choke Control .....................................................21
Throttle Control ....................................................21
Blade Switch ........................................................22
Circuit Breaker .....................................................22
Parking Brake ......................................................22
Mower Deck Cut Height Adjustment ....................23
OPERATION ............................................................24
Training ................................................................24
Steering ...............................................................24
Before Starting ....................................................25
Starting the Engine ..............................................25
Weak Battery .......................................................28
Jumper Cables ..............................................28
Running ...............................................................29
Operating on hills ................................................30
Mowing Tips ........................................................31
Stopping the Engine ............................................32
Manual Transport ................................................33
MAINTENANCE ......................................................34
Maintenance Schedule ........................................34
Battery .................................................................36
Ignition System ....................................................37
Safety System .....................................................37
Engine Cooling Air Intake ....................................38
Throttle Cable ......................................................38
Choke Cable ........................................................38
Air Filter ...............................................................39
Fuel Filter ............................................................40
Fuel Pump Air Filter .............................................40
Tire Pressures .....................................................41
Parking Brake ......................................................41
V-belts .................................................................41
Pump Belt ............................................................43
Blades .................................................................44
Mower Deck ........................................................45
Adjusting Mower Deck ...................................45
Leveling Mower Deck ....................................45
Caster Wheels .....................................................46
Hardware .............................................................46
Cleaning ..............................................................46
Tracking Adjustment ............................................47
EZT Transaxle .....................................................47
Purging Procedure ........................................47
Anti-scalp Rollers ................................................47
Lubrication Schedule ...........................................48
General ................................................................48
LUBRICATION .........................................................48
Lubricating the Cables .........................................49
Following the Lubrication Schedule .....................49
Oil Level ..............................................................51
Oil Filter ...............................................................51
TROUBLE SHOOTING ...........................................52
STORAGE ...............................................................55
Winter Storage ....................................................55
Service ................................................................55
SCHEMATIC ............................................................56
TECHNICAL DATA ..................................................57
Accessories .........................................................57
Torque Specications ..........................................57
CONFORMITY CERTIFICATES ..............................66
USA Requirements ..............................................66
SERVICE JOURNAL ...............................................67
Delivery Service ..................................................67
After the First 5-8 Hours ......................................68
25-Hour Service ..................................................69
50-Hour Service ..................................................70
100-Hour Service ................................................71
300-Hour Service ................................................72
At Least Once Each Year ....................................73
INTRODUCTION
Congratulations
Thank you for purchasing a Dixon ride-on mower. This
machine is built for superior efciency to rapidly mow
primarily large areas. A control panel easily accessible
to the operator and a hydrostatic transmission
regulated by steering controls both contribute to the
machine’s performance.
This manual is a valuable document. Read the
contents carefully before using or servicing the
machine. The following of instructions (use, service,
maintenance, etc.) by all who operate this machine
is important for the safety of the operator and others.
It can also considerably increase the life span of the
machine and increase its resale value.
If you sell your machine, be sure to give the operator’s
manual to the new owner.
The nal chapter of this operator’s manual provides a
Service Journal. Ensure that service and repair work
are documented. A well-kept service journal reduces
service costs for the maintenance and affects the
machine’s resale value. Please contact your dealer for
more information. Take the operator’s manual along
when the machine is taken to your dealer for service.
General
In this operator’s manual, left and right, backward and
forward are used in relation to the machine’s normal
driving direction.
Continuous dedication to improve our products require
that specications and design are subject to change
without notice.
Driving and Transport on Public Roads
Check applicable road trafc regulations before
transporting on public roads. If the machine is
transported, you must always use approved fastening
equipment and ensure that the machine is well
anchored. DO NOT operate this machine on public
roadways.
Towing
Do not tow this machine, it may cause damage to the
drive system.
Do not tow any trailers, etc. with this mower. They may
jackknife or overturn causing damage to the mower
and possible serious injury to the operator.
Operating
This machine is constructed only for mowing grass
on lawns and even ground without obstacles such
as stones, tree stumps, etc. The machine can also
be used for other tasks when equipped with special
accessories provided by the manufacturer. Operating
instructions for the accessories are provided with
delivery. All other types of uses are incorrect. The
manufacturer’s directions concerning operation,
maintenance, and repairs must be carefully followed.
Lawn mowers and all power equipment, can be
potentially dangerous if used improperly. Safety
requires good judgement, careful use in accordance
with these instructions and common sense.
The machine must only be operated, maintained, and
repaired by persons familiar with the machine’s special
characteristics and who are also knowledgeable about
the safety instructions. Use only approved repair parts
to maintain this machine.
Accident prevention regulations, other general safety
regulations, occupational safety rules, and trafc
regulations must be followed without fail.
Unauthorized modications to the design of the
machine may absolve the manufacturer from liability
for any resulting personal injury or property damage.
4-DIXON
INTRODUCTION
Good Service
Dixon’s products are sold only in specialized retail stores with complete service. This ensures that you as
a customer receive only the best support and service. Before the product is delivered, the machine has, for
example, been inspected and adjusted by your retailer. See the certicate in the Service Journal in this operator’s
manual.
When you need spare parts or support in service questions, warranty issues, etc., please consult the following
professional:
This Operator’s Manual belongs to the machine with
the manufacturing number:
Manufacturing Number
The machine’s manufacturing number can be found on the printed plate afxed to the left in the engine
compartment. Stated on the plate, from the top are:
The machine’s type designation (I.D.).•
The manufacturer’s type number (Model).•
The machine’s serial number (Serial no.)•
Please have the type designation and serial number available when ordering spare parts.
The engine’s manufacturing number is stamped on one of the valve covers.
The plate states:
The engine’s model.•
The engine’s type.•
Code•
Please have these available when ordering spare parts.
Engine
Transmission
DIXON-5
SYMBOLS AND DECALS
These symbols are found on the machine and in the operator’s manual.
Study them carefully so that you know what they mean.
WARNING!
Xxxx xxxxxx xxxxx xxxx
xxxxxxxxx xxxxxx xxxxxxxxx. xx
xxxxxxxx xxxx xxxxxx.
Used in this publication to notify the reader of a risk of personal injury or death, particularly if the reader should
neglect to follow instructions given in the manual.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Xxxx xxxxxx xxxxx xxxx xxxxxxxxx xxxxxx
xxxxxxxxx. xx xxxxxxxx xxxx xxxxxx.
Used in this publication to notify the reader of a risk of material damage, particularly if the reader should neglect
to follow instructions given in the manual. Used also when there is a potential for misuse or misassembly.
R N
Reverse Neutral Fast Slow Choke Fuel
Warning! Parking Brake CE conformity Warning! Rotating blades, Do not touch parts
marking. Only for keep away from the
European market discharge deck
Battery acid is corrosive, explosive and ammable Do not stand here
Noise emissions to the
surroundings in accordance
with the European Union’s
directive. The machine’s
emission is stated in the
chapter TECHNICAL DATA
and on the decals.
Use protective glasses Use protective gloves
Only machines for European
market
6-DIXON
SYMBOLS AND DECALS
Read Shut off engine and Keep a safe Use on slopes No passengers
Operator’s remove key before distance from no greater
Manual performing any the machine than 10°
maintenance or repair work
Whole body Severing of ngers Do not open or Careful backing up, Careful going
exposure to and toes remove safety watch for other forward, watch for
thrown objects shields while people other people
engine is running
Moving sharp blades under cover
DIXON-7
SAFETY
WARNING!
THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE
OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET
AND THROWING OBJECTS. FAILURE
TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD
RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR
DEATH.
These instructions are for your safety. Read them
carefully.
General Operation
Read, understand, and follow all instructions 1.
on the machine and in the manual before
starting.
Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts 2.
or under the machine. Keep clear of the
discharge opening at all times.
Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar 3.
with the instructions, to operate the machine.
Clear the area of any objects such as rocks, 4.
toys, and wire, which could be picked up and
thrown by the blades.
Be sure the area is clear of bystanders before 5.
operating. Stop machine if anyone enters the
area.
Never carry passengers. The machine is only 6.
intended for use by one person.
Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely 7.
necessary. Always look down and behind
before and while backing.
Never direct discharged material toward 8.
anyone. Avoid discharging material against a
wall or obstruction. Material may ricochet back
toward the operator. Stop the blades when
crossing gravel surfaces.
Do not operate machine without the entire 9.
grass catcher, discharge guard, or other safety
devices in place and working
Slow down before turning.10.
Never leave a running machine unattended. 11.
Always turn off blades, set parking brake, stop
engine, and remove keys before dismounting.
WARNING!
This symbol means that important
safety instructions need to be
emphasized. It concerns your safety.
8011-512
Read the operator’s manual before starting the machine
8011-513
Clear the area of objects before mowing
D-DIXON
SAFETY
Disengage blades when not mowing. Shut 1.
off engine and wait for all parts to come to a
complete stop before cleaning the machine,
removing the grass catcher, or unclogging the
discharge chute.
Operate machine only in daylight or good 2.
articial light.
Do not operate the machine while under the 3.
inuence of alcohol or drugs.
Watch for trafc when operating near or 4.
crossing roadways.
Use extra care when loading or unloading the 5.
machine into a trailer or truck.
Always wear eye protection when operating 6.
machine.
Data indicates that operators age 60 years and 7.
above are involved in a large percentage of
riding mower-related injuries. These operators
should evaluate their ability to operate
the riding mower safely enough to protect
themselves and others from serious injury.
Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for 8.
wheel weights or counterweights.
Anyone who operates this machine must rst 9.
read and understand this Operation Manual.
Local laws may regulate the age of the user.
Keep machine free of grass, leaves or other 10.
debris buildup which can touch hot exhaust or
engine parts and burn. Do not allow the mower
deck to plow leaves or other debris which
can cause buildup to occur. Clean any oil or
fuel spillage before operating or storing the
machine. Allow machine to cool before storage.
8011-520
Never take passengers
WARNING!
Engine exhaust and certain vehicle
components contain or emit chemicals
considered to cause cancer, birth
defects, or other reproductive system
damage. The engine exhaust contains
carbon monoxide, which is a odorless,
colorless, poisonous gas. Do not use
the machine in enclosed spaces.
DIXON-9
Personal Safety Equipment
WARNING!
When using the machine, approved personal protective equipment (shown in illustrations)
shall be used. Personal protective equipment cannot eliminate the risk of injury but it will
reduce the degree of injury if an accident does happen. Ask your retailer for help in choosing
the right equipment.
Make sure that you have rst aid equipment •
close at hand when using the machine.
Never use the machine when barefoot.•
Always wear protective shoes or boots, •
preferably with steel toe caps.
Always wear approved protective glasses or a •
full visor when assembling or driving.
Always wear gloves when handling the blades.•
Never wear loose clothing that can get caught •
in moving parts.
Use ear protectors to avoid damage to hearing.•
SAFETY
Slope Operation
Slopes are a major factor related to loss of control and
tip-over accidents, which can result in severe injury or
death. Operation on all slopes requires extra caution. If
you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on
it, do not mow it.
Mow up and down slopes (10 degrees 1.
maximum), not across.
Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other 2.
hidden objects. Uneven terrain could overturn
the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
Choose a low ground speed so that you will 3.
not have to stop while on the slope.
Do not mow on wet grass. Tires may lose 4.
traction.
Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a slope. 5.
If the tires lose traction, disengage the blades
and proceed slowly straight down the slope.
Keep all movement on the slopes slow and 6.
gradual. Do not make sudden changes in
speed or direction, which could cause the
machine to roll over.
8011-670a
Personal protective equipment
6003-004
Mow up and down, not side to side
D-DIXON
WARNING!
Do not drive up or down hills with
slopes greater than 10 degrees. And
do not drive across any slopes.
SAFETY
Use extra care while operating machine with 7.
grass catchers or other attachments; they can
affect the stability of the machine.
Do not use on steep slopes.8.
Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting 9.
your foot on the ground.
Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or 10.
embankments. The machine could suddenly
roll over if a wheel is over the edge or if the
edge caves in.
Children
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to
the presence of children. Children are often attracted
to the machine and the mowing activity. Never assume
that children will remain where you last saw them.
Keep children out of the mowing area and in •
the watchful care of a responsible adult other
than the operator.
Be alert and turn machine off if a child enters •
the area.
Before and while backing, look behind and •
down for small children.
Never carry children, even with the blades shut •
off. They may fall off and be seriously injured
or interfere with safe machine operation.
Children who have been given rides in the past
may suddenly appear in the mowing area for
another ride and be run over or backed over by
the machine.
Never allow children to operate the machine.•
Use extra care when approaching blind •
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that
may block your view of a child.
8011-509
Be extra cautious when driving on slopes
8011-517
Never allow children to operate the machine
Keep children away from work area
8011-518
DIXON-11
SAFETY
WARNING!
The engine must not be started when the driver’s oor plate or any protective plate for the
mower deck’s drive belt is removed.
Safe Handling of Gasoline
To avoid personal injury or property damage, use
extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is
extremely ammable and the vapors are explosive.
Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and •
other sources of ignition.
Use only approved gasoline container.•
Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the •
engine running. Allow engine to cool at least
two (2) minutes before refueling.
Never fuel the machine indoors.•
Never store the machine or fuel container •
where there is an open ame, spark, or pilot
light such as on a water heater or other
appliance.
Before you begin refueling, minimize the risk of •
static electricity by touching a metal surface.
Never ll containers inside a vehicle or on a •
truck or trailer bed with plastic liner. Always
place containers on the ground away from the
vehicle when lling.
Remove gas-powered equipment from the •
truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If
this is not possible, refuel such equipment
with a portable container, rather than from a
gasoline dispenser nozzle.
Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the •
fuel tank or container opening at all times until
fueling is complete. Do not use a nozzle lockopen device.
If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing •
immediately.
Never overll fuel tank. Replace gas cap and •
tighten securely.
Do not start the engine near spilled fuel.•
Never use gasoline as a cleaning agent.•
If leaks arise in fuel system, engine must not •
be started until problem has been resolved.
Check the fuel level before each use and leave •
space for the fuel to expand, as the heat from
the engine and the sun may otherwise cause
the fuel to expand and overow.
8011-516
Never ll the fuel tank indoors
WARNING!
The engine and the exhaust system
become very hot during operation.
There is risk for burns if touched.
Allow engine and exhaust system to
cool at least two (2) minutes before
refueling.
D-DIXON
General Maintenance
Never operate machine in a closed area.•
Keep all nuts and bolts tight to be sure the •
equipment is in safe working condition.
Never tamper with safety devices. Check their •
proper operation regularly.
Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other •
debris buildup. Clean oil or fuel spillage and
remove any fuel-soaked debris. Allow machine
to cool before storing.
If you strike a foreign object, stop and inspect •
the machine. Repair, if necessary, before
restarting.
Never make any adjustments or repairs with •
the engine running.
Check grass catcher components and the •
discharge guard frequently and replace with
manufacturer’s recommended parts, when
necessary.
Mower blades are sharp. Wrap the blade or •
wear gloves, and use extra caution when
servicing them.
Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and •
service as required.
Maintain or replace safety and instruction •
labels, as necessary.
Do not modify safety equipment. Check •
regularly to be sure it works properly. The
machine must not be driven with defective
or unmounted protective plates, protective
cowlings, safety switches, or other protective
devices.
Do not change the settings of governors and •
avoid running the engine with overly high
engine speeds. If you run the engine too fast,
you risk damaging the machine components.
Be very careful when handling battery acid. •
Acid on skin can cause serious corrosive
burns. If you spill battery acid on your skin,
rinse immediately with water.
Acid in the eyes can cause blindness, contact •
a doctor immediately.
Be careful when servicing the battery. •
Explosive gases form in the battery. Never
perform maintenance on the battery when
smoking or near open ames or sparks.
The battery can explode and cause serious •
injury/damage.
SAFETY
8011-515
Never drive the machine in an enclosed space
WARNING!
Use protective glasses for
maintenance work.
WARNING!
The battery contains lead and lead
compounds, chemicals that are
considered to cause cancer, birth
defects, and other reproductive
system damage. Wash your hands
after handling the battery.
DIXON-13
SAFETY
Ensure that nuts and bolts, especially the •
fastening bolts for the blade attachments,
are properly tightened, torqued and that the
equipment is in good condition.
Do not modify safety equipment. Check •
regularly to be sure it works properly. The
machine must not be driven with defective
or unmounted protective plates, protective
cowlings, safety switches, or other protective
devices.
Do not change the settings of governors and •
avoid running the engine with overly high
engine speeds. If you run the engine too fast,
you risk damaging the machine components.
Sparking can occur when working with the •
battery and the heavy cables of the starter
circuit. This can cause battery explosion, re or
eye injury. Sparking in this circuit can not occur
after the chassis cable (normally negative,
black) is removed from the battery.
6003-009
Do not smoke when performing maintenance on the battery.
The battery can explode and cause serious injury/damage.
WARNING!
Avoid electrical sparking and its
consequences by the following
routines:.
Use protective goggles.•
Ensure that the fuel ller cap is mounted tightly •
and no ammable substances are stored in an
open vessel.
Never work with the starter circuit if there is •
spilled fuel.
Disconnect the chassis cable from the battery •
rst and reconnect it last.
Do not make a bridge short circuit across the •
starter relay to run the starter.
Never use the machine indoors or in spaces •
lacking proper ventilation. The exhaust fumes
contain carbon monoxide, an odorless,
poisonous, and lethal gas.
Stop and inspect the equipment if you run over •
or into anything. If necessary, make repairs
before starting.
Never make adjustments with the engine •
running.
The machine is tested and approved only •
with the equipment originally provided or
recommended by the manufacturer. Only use
approved repair parts for the machine.
8009-728
Risk of sparking
D-DIXON
The blades are sharp and can cause cuts and •
gashes. Wrap the blades or use protective
gloves when handling them.
Check the parking brake’s functionality •
regularly. Adjust and service as necessary.
The mulch blades should only be used in •
familiar areas when higher quality mowing is
desired.
Reduce the risk of re by removing grass, •
leaves, and other debris that may have
accumulated on the machine. Allow the
machine to cool before putting it in storage.
Regularly clean deck and underside of •
deck, avoid spraying engine and electrical
components with water.
Transport
The machine is heavy and can cause serious •
crushing injuries. Be extra cautious when it is
loaded on or unloaded from a vehicle or trailer.
Use an approved trailer to transport the •
machine. Activate the parking brake, turn off
the fuel supply, and fasten the machine with
approved fastening devices, such as bands,
chains, or straps, when transporting.
Do not operate this machine on public •
roadways.
Check and abide by local trafc regulations •
before transporting the machine on any road.
Do not tow this machine, it may cause damage •
to the drive system.
Do not tow any trailers, etc. with this mower. •
They may jackknife or overturn causing
damage to the mower and possibly serious
injury to the operator.
Load the unit onto truck or trailer by driving up •
ramps of suitable strength using a slow speed.
Do not lift! The machine is not intended to be
lifted by hand.
SAFETY
8011-514
Regularly clean deck
WARNING!
Escaping hydraulic oil under pressure
can have sufcient force to penetrate
the skin, causing serious injury.
If injured by escaping uid, see a
doctor at once. Serious infection
or reaction can develop if proper
medical treatment is not administered
immediately.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
The parking brake is not sufcient
to lock the machine in place during
transport. Ensure that the machine is
well fastened to the transport vehicle.
Always reverse the machine onto the
transport vehicle to avoid tipping it
over.
DIXON-15
SAFETY
Roll Over Protection System (ROPS)
The ROPS increases the basic weight of the unit by 42
lbs/19 kg. The ROPS is an accessory.
Do not use ROPS as a lifting, attaching or •
anchoring point.
Do not use ROPS for wrecking or towing.•
Do not exceed Max GVW: 2822 lbs/1283 kg.•
Read machine operator´s manual before each •
use.
Securely fasten your seat belt if the unit has a •
ROPS.
Where possible, avoid operating the unit near •
ditches, embankments and holes.
Reduce speed when turning, crossing slopes •
and on rough, slick or muddy surfaces.
Stay off slopes too steep for safe operation.•
Watch where you are going, especially at row •
ends, on roads and around trees.
Do not permit others to ride.•
Operate the mower smoothly - no jerky turns, •
starts or stops.
When mower is stopped, set brakes securely •
and use park brake.
If any part of ROPS is damaged, the entire •
ROPS must be replaced.
Check all bolts including seat belt for correct •
torque before each use.
Check ROPS structure for damage before •
each use.
ROPS bar is NOT intended for use in sub •
zero temperatures.
WARNING!
The rollover protection system’s
capabilities may be impaired by
damage if the mower is overturned
or if alteration to the ROPS occurs. If
these conditions take place, the total
structure MUST be replaced.
WARNING!
This mower is equipped with an
internal combustion engine and
should not be used on or near any
unimproved forested, bush covered
or grassy lands unless the engine’s
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.
D-DIXON
CONTROLS
This operator’s manual describes the Dixon Zero
Turn Rider. The rider is tted with either a Briggs &
Stratton or Kohler four-stroke overhead valve engine
developing 16 - 22 horse power.
Transmission from the engine is made via two beltdriven hydraulic pumps, which in turn drive a hydraulic
motor for each drive wheel. Using the left and right
steering controls, the ow is regulated and thereby the
direction and speed.
4
3
8
9
7
5
10
6
11
1
2
1. Motion Control Levers
2. Seat Adjustment Lever
3. Bypass Linkage
4. Fuel Tank
5. Ignition Switch
6. Choke Control
7. Throttle
8. Blade Switch
9. Circuit Breaker
10. Parking Brake
11. Lift Lever
DIXON-17
CONTROLS
Motion Control Levers
The machine’s speed and direction are continuously
variable using the two steering controls. The steering
controls can be moved forward or backward about
a neutral position. Furthermore, there is a neutral
position, which is locked if the steering controls are
moved outward.
When both controls are in the neutral position (N), the
machine stands still.
By moving both controls an equal amount forward
or backward, the machine moves in a straight line
forward or backward respectively.
In order, for example, to turn right while moving
forward, move the right control towards the neutral
position. The rotation of the right wheel is reduced and
the machine turns to the right.
Zero turn can be achieved by moving one control
backward (behind the neutral position) and carefully
moving the other steering control forward from its
neutral position. The rotation direction when zero
turning is determined by which steering control is
moved backward behind the neutral position. If the left
steering control is pulled backward, the machine turns
to the left. Use extra care when using this maneuver.
Tracking
If the mower is not tracking straight, check the air
pressure in both rear tires. Recommended air pressure
is 15 psi (1 bar). Tracking must be checked on a at
and level concrete or blacktop surface. If unit still
does not track straight, contact a Dixon dealer for
adjustment.
8050-106
Steering controls
WARNING!
The machine can turn very rapidly if
one steering control is moved much
further forward than the other.
18-DIXON
8050-166-1
1. Forward
2. Neutral
3. Neutral slot, Neutral lock
4. Reverse
Motion control lever pattern (right side)
CONTROLS
Seat Adjustment Lever
The seat can be adjusted lengthways. When making
adjustments, sit on the seat. Slide the lever to the side
and maneuver seat to appropriate placement and
release lever.
8050-165
Seat adjustment
Bypass Linkage
Unlocking Transmission
When pushing or pulling the mower, be sure to engage
the bypass linkages.
Always turn off engine before engaging or 1.
disengaging the hydro release (free wheel)
lever. Never attempt to move the lever with the
engine running.
Lift the seat to access release levers. Push 2.
the hydro release levers toward the rear of the
machine and inward until notches lock in place
on frame. Release park brake.
To engage the transmissions, move the 3.
release levers outward so they return to normal
position.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Before pushing or towing tractor,
transmission must be unlocked and park
brake released. The tractor should never
be pulled at more than 2 miles per hour (3.2
km/h) or for distances over ¼ mile (.402 km).
Trailer the unit for distances over ¼ mile.
Push lever in
and lock notch
on frame
(2 places)
8050-811
Bypass linkages
DIXON-19
CONTROLS
Fuel Tank
The machine has one fuel tank, just behind the seat.
The tank capacity is 4.5 gallons (17 liters).
The engine will run on a minimum of 85-octane
unleaded gasoline (no oil mix). Environmentally
adapted alkylate gasoline can be used. See also
Technical Data concerning ethanol fuel. Methanol fuel
is not allowed.
When operating below 32°F (0°C) use fresh, clean
winter grade gasoline to help insure good cold weather
starting.
WARNING!
Gasoline is highly ammable.
Observe caution and ll the tank
outdoors. (See Safety)
8050-106
Fuel tank
WARNING!
Fill to the bottom of the ller neck.
Do not overll. Wipe off any spilled
oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use
gasoline near an open ame.
WARNING!
The engine and the exhaust system,
become very hot during operation.
Risk for burns if touched.
Allow engine and exhaust system to
cool at least two (2) minutes before
refueling.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Experience indicates that alcohol blended
fuels (called gasohol, ethanol or methanol)
can attract moisture which leads to separation
and formation of acids during storage. Acidic
gas can damage the fuel system of an engine
while in storage. To avoid engine problems,
the fuel system should be emptied before
storage of 30 days or longer. Drain the gas
tank, start the engine and let it run until the
fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh
fuel the next season. See Storage Instructions
for additional information. Never use engine
or carburetor cleaners in the fuel tank or
permanent damage may occur.
20-DIXON
CONTROLS
Ignition Switch
The ignition key is placed on the driver’s panel and is
used to start and stop the engine.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Do not run the starter for more than ve
seconds each time. If the engine does not
start, wait about 10 seconds before retrying.
Choke Control
The choke is used for cold starts to provide the engine
with a richer fuel mixture.
Two choke options are available, depending on model.
For units with a separate choke control, pull the
choke control knob up. For units with choke/throttle
combinations, push the throttle control all of the way
forward into the indicated slot.
8050-816
Ignition Switch
Throttle Control
The throttle control regulates the engine speed and
thereby the rate of rotation of the blades, assuming the
blade switch is pulled out, see Engaging the Mower
Deck.
In order to increase or decrease the engine speed, the
control is moved.
Avoid idling the engine for long periods, as there is a
risk of fouling the spark plug.
USE FULL THROTTLE WHEN MOWING, for best
mower performance and battery charging.
8050-817
Choke control
8050-816
Choke and throttle control
DIXON-21
CONTROLS
Blade Switch
In order to engage the mower deck, pull the knob out;
the mower blades are disengaged when the knob is
depressed.
Circuit Breaker
The circuit breaker provides protection for the electrical
system by (1) 15 amp circuit breaker. If the circuit
breaker trips, push the button to reset. If the condition
repeats, consult a dealer for inspection and repair.
8050-816
Blade switch
Parking Brake
The parking brake is found on the operator’s left. Pull
the lever upward to activate the brake and downward
to release it.
The park brake is designed to hold the mower from
moving and is not intended for use in stopping the
mower while it is in motion. The engine will stop if the
park brake is engaged while the control levers are in
the drive position.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
The machine must stand absolutely still when
applying the parking brake. Always set the
parking brake before dismounting. Release
the parking brake before moving the mower.
8050-816
Circuit breaker
8050-823
Engaged parking brake
22-DIXON
CONTROLS
Mower Deck Cut Height Adjustment
Located on the right front of the frame, the lift lever
pedal controls the cutting height. The deck cutting
height is obtained by pressing the foot pedal forward to
lift the deck. To lower the deck, apply pressure to the
top side of the foot pedal and allow it to pivot into the
desired cutting height notch. Secure the desired cut
height with pin.
The cutting height range is from 1½" (38 mm) to 5½"
(140 mm) in ½" (13 mm) increments. The heights are
measured from the ground up to the blade tip with the
engine not running.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Always use the high position to transport.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
8050-806
Cut height lift pedal
In order to obtain an even cutting height it is
important that the air pressure in all four tires
is the same 15 psi (1 bar).
DIXON-23
OPERATION
Read “Safety Instructions” section and following
pages, if you are unfamiliar with the machine.
Training
Zero turn mowers are far more maneuverable than
typical riding mowers due to their unique steering
capabilities.
We suggest that this section be reviewed in its entirety
prior to attempting to move the mower under its own
power. Additionally, we suggest when rst operating
the mower, use a reduced throttle speed and reduced
ground speed by NOT moving control levers to the
furthest forward or reverse positions during initial
operation, or until operator becomes comfortable with
controls. We also suggest rst time users, or new
users to Zero Turn mowers to become familiar with
the mower’s movement on a hard surface, such as
concrete or blacktop PRIOR to attempting to operate
on turf. Until operator becomes comfortable with
mower controls and zero turning capability, they may
damage turf due to overly aggressive maneuvers.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
When control levers are in the reverse
position they return to neutral when released.
This may cause the mower to suddenly stop.
the control levers have not been moved forward or
backwards, mower will not move. Slowly move both
control levers forward slightly. This will allow mower
to start moving forward in a straight line. Pull back on
control levers to the neutral position and mower should
stop moving. Pull back slightly on control levers, this
will allow mower to start moving backwards. Push
forward on control levers to the neutral position and
mower should stop moving.
To turn to the right
While moving in a forward direction, pull the right lever
back towards the neutral position while maintaining the
position of the left lever, this will slow the rotation of
the right wheel and cause the machine to turn in that
direction.
To turn to the left
While moving in a forward direction pull the left lever
back towards the neutral position while maintaining
the position of the right lever, this will slow the rotation
of the left wheel and cause the machine to turn in that
direction.
To zero turn
While moving in a forward direction, rst pull both
control levers back until the mower stops or slows
dramatically. Then by alternating one lever slightly
to the forward position and the other in the reverse
position.
Steering
To move forward and backward
The direction and speed of the mower’s movements
is effected by the movement of the control lever(s)
on each side of mower. The left control lever controls
the left wheel. The right control lever controls the right
wheel.
First time users should push mower (see “Moving by
Hand” in the “Operation” section) to an open, at area,
without other people or vehicles/obstacles nearby. In
order to move unit under its own power, the operator
must be in the seat, start engine (see “Before Starting”
in “Operation” section), adjust engine speed to idle,
disengage parking brake, do not engage blades at
this time, rotate control levers inward. As long as
24-DIXON
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