The Dixon® ZTR® Mower is both easy and fun to operate. However, any
power mower must be operated properly to be safe. It is not a toy or a
recreational vehicle. Before you start to use the mower, read the
operator's manual carefully and become completely familiar with the
controls.
The information in this operator's manual applies to all Dixon® ZTR® 5000
Series Commercial Mowers. Your Dixon dealer will gladly answer any
questions.
See your dealer for warranty service, parts and repairs.
Page 2
DIXON INDUSTRIES, INC.
A BLOUNT International Inc. Co.
PO BOX 1569
COFFEYVILLE KS 67337 0945
316 251 2000
The most common causes of injury to the operator or bystander...
BLADE CONTACT
RUN-OVER
...read and understand this manual to prevent injuries.
TIP-OVER
BACK-OVER
Page 4
SAFETY
SAFETY SYMBOLS
Safety Alert Symbol
When you see this symbol,
BE ALERT to the potential for injury.
Follow recommended safety precautions and safe
operating practices.
Danger
indicates an imminently hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, will result in death or
serious injury.
Warning
indicates a potentially hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, could result in death
or serious injury.
Caution
indicates a potentially hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, may result in minor or
moderate injury. It may also be used to alert
against unsafe practices.
5Page
SAFETY
This cutting mower is capable of amputating hands & feet, and throwing objects.
Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in
serious injury or death.
GENERAL OPERA TION:
•Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual and on the mower before
starting.
•Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the instructions, to operate the mower.
•Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc., which could be picked up and thrown
by the blade.
•Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop mower if anyone enters the
area.
•Never carry passengers.
•Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before
and while backing.
•Be aware of the mower discharge direction and do not point it at anyone. Do not operate
the mower without either the entire grass catcher or the deflector in place.
•Slow down before turning.
•Never leave a running mower unattended. Always turn off blades, set parking brake, stop
engine, and remove key before dismounting.
•Turn off blades when not mowing.
•Stop engine before removing grass catcher or unclogging chute.
•Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
•Do not operate the mower while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
•Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways.
•Use extra care when loading or unloading the mower into a trailer or truck.
Do not ride the mower when loading & unloading.
•Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields when operating mower.
•Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above, are involved in a large percentage
of riding mower-related injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate
the riding mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from serious injury.
•Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for wheel weights or counterweights.
W ARNING:
Page 6
The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the
State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.
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.
All slopes require extra caution.
If you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not mow it.
DO
Mow across the slope with your Dixon ZTR - never up or down.
Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.
Watch for holes, ruts or bumps. Uneven terrain could overturn the mower. Tall
grass can hide obstacles.
Use slow speed. Tires may lose traction on slopes even though the brakes are
functioning properly.
Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments. These can change the
stability of the mower.
Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual. Do not make sudden changes
in speed or direction.
Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction, disengage the blades and
proceed slowly down the slope.
If front wheels lift off the ground, pull the levers back to stabilize the mower.
DO NOT
Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn slowly and gradually
downhill, if possible.
Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. The mower could suddenly
turn over if a wheel is over the edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.
Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could cause sliding.
Do not try to stabilize the mower by putting your foot on the ground.
Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.
7Page
SAFETY
CHILDREN:
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the
presence of children.
Children are attracted to lawn mowers and the mowing activity.
NEVER assume children will stay where they were last seen.
Be alert to avoid accidents.
•Keep children out of the mowing area and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult.
•Be alert and turn mower off if a child enters the area.
•Before and during backing, look behind and DOWN for small children.
•Never carry children. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with
safe mower operation.
•Never allow children to operate the mower.
•Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.
12 VOLT UTILITY OUTLET
A utility outlet is provided for use with 12 volt DC attachments. It is located just
ahead of the instrument panel.
Output is limited to 5 amps.
We do not recommend the use of sound equipment (such as CD players with
earphones) that could interfere with the operators hearing. The operator may not hear
impending hazards and could be distracted from the safe operation of the mower.
Page 8
SAFETY
SERVICE:
•Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They are flammable and vapors are
explosive.
Use only an approved container.
Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow engine to cool before
refueling. Do not smoke.
Never refuel the mower indoors.
Never store the mower or fuel container inside a building where there is an open flame.
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.
When practical, 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.
If a gasoline dispenser nozzle must be used, 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.
•Never run a mower inside a closed area. The exhaust fumes are toxic.
•Keep nuts and bolts tight, especially blade attachment bolts, and keep equipment in good
condition.
•Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly.
•Keep mower free of grass, leaves, or other debris buildup. Clean up oil or fuel spillage. Allow
mower to cool before storing.
•Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object. Repair, if necessary, before restarting.
•Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine running.
•Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage, and deterioration, which could expose
moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check components and replace with
original equipment parts, when necessary.
•Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and use extra caution
when servicing them.
•Batteries contain sulfuric acid. To prevent burns avoid contact with skin, eyes and clothing. To
prevent a fire or explosion keep sparks and open flames away from battery.
Before disconnecting the negative (-) ground cable, make sure all switches are OFF.
9Page
DIXON LIMITED W ARRANTY POLICY -- EST ATE MODELS
This warranty policy applies to all Estate Mowers purchased on or after September 1, 1997.
WARRANTY:
Commercial Applications: Dixon Estate Models used in any commercial application are warranted for a period of six
(6) months from date of purchase. Commercial applications or use is defined as any use other than at owners primary
place of residence.
are warranted for a period of two (2) years from date of purchase. DIXON ZTR MOWERS ARE WARRANTED
AGAINST DEFECTS IN MATERIALS AND WORKMANSHIP AND PROVIDES FOR REPLACEMENT OR REPAIR OF
PARTS INCLUDING LABOR COSTS. THIS WARRANTY IS SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS AND
LIMITATIONS:
1.Warranty applies only to original retail purchaser of new and unused mowers and accessories.
2.All Dixon warranty must be accomplished by authorized Dixon dealers and in accordance with Dixon warranty policy and
allowances. All warranty claims must be approved by Dixon Industries, Inc.
3.Battery warranty: Limited to 90 days from date of purchase.
4.Accessories Warranty (Grass Catchers, Snow Blades, Tine Rakes, Covers, etc.): Limited to 90 days from date of purchase.
5.Warranty does not apply to damage in transit or incidents of misuse, negligence, accidents, or alteration. The use of parts
or components other than those supplied by Dixon Industries, Inc. VOIDS ALL WARRANTY.
Home Owner Applications: Dixon Estate Models used primarily at the owner’s place of residence
6.The following items are not covered by this warranty policy:
(a) Pick up and delivery charges for transportation of mower to and from an Authorized Dixon Dealer's place of business.
(b) Routine maintenance or adjustments.
(c) Belts / cutting blades / HydroGear Filters.
(d) Engines -- All engines used on Dixon ZTR mowers are warranted by each individual engine manufacturer.
(e) Any costs or expense of providing substitute equipment while repair work is being performed on a warranted mower.
7.There is no other express warranty. Implied warranties, including those of merchantability and fitness for a particular
purpose, are limited to the same duration of the express warranty, and to the extent permitted by law any and all implied
warranties are excluded. Liabilities for consequential damages under any and all warranties are excluded.
WARRANTY VALIDATION: At the time of sale, selling dealer must review each portion of this warranty document, complete the
information section below, secure customer's signature and send copy to Dixon Industries, Inc.
DATE OF PURCHASE__________________________Model ____________________ S/N______________________
(Owner's Name)
(Address)
(Dealership)
(Dealership)
(Address)
Page 10
(Dealer's Signature)(Owner's Signature)
SEE DEALER FOR DETAILS
SPECIFICATIONS
Model ZTR 5020
CHASSIS:11 G A - rectangular tube
BODY:Two piece - made of rotational molded polyethylene. Front body
contains access panels for battery service and engine to mower deck
belt removal. Rear body tilts up to allow service on the entire drive
system.
SEAT:Designed for operator comfort by use of high density closed cell foam
padded back rest and arm rests, upholstered with Cordura
repellent fabric. Seat is adjustable fore and aft.
MOWER DECK:2 Decks are available. 60" is made of stamped steel. 50" is made of
11 GA fabricated welded construction with external reinforcement
ribs. 3 blades combine for either a 50" or 60" cut width.
Cut height approximately 1.5" to 4.5" via 7 position lift handle.
BLADE DRIVE:Electric clutch
DRIVE SYSTEM:Each rear wheel is independently driven by a HydroGear BDU-10L
Series 70 hydrostatic transmission. The hydrostatic transmissions, in
turn, power a fully enclosed HydroGear gearbox.
ENGINE:20HP Briggs & Stratton Intek, overhead valves, replaceable oil filter,
full pressure lube system, dual element air cleaner, integral fuel pump.
STARTING SYSTEM:Electric by key switch operation with safety interlocks on parking brake
and blade drive clutch.
TIRES:Front11 X 4 X 5 smooth profile
Rear20 X 10 X 8 Multi Trac
RECOMMENDEDFront16 - 21 lbs.
TIRE PRESSURE:Rear 8 - 14 lbs.
TM
water-
CAPACITIES:Fuel - 4.8 gallons total (dual tanks)
Hydrostat oil tank - 3 quart with in-line 40 micron filter
Weight668 lbs. (50" Deck), 685 lbs. (60" Deck)
NOTE:Additional information provided in service instructions under the
individual component.
SPECIFICATIONS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE
11Page
SPECIFICATIONS
Model ZTR 5023
CHASSIS:11 GA - rectangular tube
BODY:Two piece - made of high-density polyethylene. Front body contains
access panels for battery service and engine to mower deck belt
removal. Rear body tilts up to allow service on the entire drive system.
SEAT:Designed for operator comfort by use of high density closed cell foam
padded back and arm rests, upholstered with Cordura
fabric. Seat is adjustable fore and aft.
MOWER DECK:2 Decks are available. 60" is made of stamped steel. 50" is made of
11 GA fabricated welded construction with external reinforcement
ribs. 3 blades combine for either a 50" or 60" cut width. Cut height
approximately 1.5" to 4.5" via 7 position lift handle.
BLADE DRIVE:Electric clutch
DRIVE SYSTEM:Each rear wheel is independently driven by a HydroGear BDU-10L
Series 70 hydrostatic transmission. The hydrostatic transmissions, in
turn, power a fully enclosed HydroGear gearbox.
ENGINE:23HP Kohler Command, 4-Cycle, V-Configuration, Overhead Valve, Air-
Cooled, Gasoline, Vertical Shaft, Aluminum Head, and Crankcase with
Cast Iron Liners, Full Pressure Lubrication/Full Flow Filter, Pulse-type
Additional information provided in service instructions under the individual
component.
SPECIFICATIONS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE
Page 12
SPECIFICATIONS
Model ZTR 5425
CHASSIS:11 G A - rectangular tube
BODY:Two piece - made of rotational molded polyethylene. Front body
contains access panels for battery service and engine to mower deck
belt removal. Rear body tilts up to allow service on the entire drive
system.
SEAT:Designed for operator comfort by use of high density closed cell foam
padded back rest and arm rests, upholstered with Cordura
repellent fabric. Seat is adjustable fore and aft.
MOWER DECK:13 ga stamped steel construction. 3 blades combine for a 42" cut width.
Cut height approximately 1.5" to 4.5" via 7 position lift handle.
BLADE DRIVE:Electric clutch
DRIVE SYSTEM:Each rear wheel is independently driven by a HydroGear BDU-10L
Series 70 hydrostatic transmission. The hydrostatic transmissions, in
turn, power a fully enclosed HydroGear gearbox.
ENGINE:17HP Briggs & Stratton Intek, overhead valves, replaceable oil filter,
full pressure lube system, dual element air cleaner, integral fuel pump.
STARTING SYSTEM:Electric by key switch operation with safety interlocks on parking brake
and blade drive clutch.
TIRES:Front11 X 4 X 5 smooth profile
Rear18 X 9.5 X 8 Multi Trac
RECOMMENDEDFront16 - 21 lbs.