Dixon RAM 50KZ, RAM 50ZT, RAM 61KZ, ZTR RAM 48ZT, RAM 48KZ Operator's Manual
...
Operator Manual
RAM 48ZT / 965882601 RAM 50ZT / 965882701
RAM 50KZ / 965882801 RAM 50KZ / 965882901
RAM 61KZ / 965883001
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.
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION ...................................................... 5
Driving and Transport on Public Roads ................5
Towing ..................................................................5
Operating ..............................................................5
Good Service ........................................................6
SYMBOLS AND DECALS ........................................7
SAFETY ....................................................................9
Safety Instructions ................................................9
Personal Safety Equipment ................................ 11
Slope Operation .................................................11
Safe Handling of Gasoline ..................................13
General Maintenance .........................................14
Transport ............................................................16
Customer responsibilities ...................................16
CONTROLS ............................................................17
Motion Control Levers ........................................18
Tracking ..........................................................18
Cutting Height Adjuster .......................................19
Throttle Control ...................................................19
Choke Control ....................................................19
Ignition Switch ....................................................20
Hour Meter .........................................................20
Blade switch .......................................................20
Fuses ..................................................................21
Fuel Shut Off Valve.............................................21
Parking Brake .....................................................21
Fuel Tank ............................................................22
Seat Adjustment Lever .......................................22
OPERATION ...........................................................23
Training...............................................................23
Steering ..............................................................23
Before Starting ...................................................24
Starting the Engine .............................................24
Weak Battery ......................................................28
Jumper Cables ................................................28
Running ..............................................................29
Operating On Hills ..............................................30
Mowing Tips ......................................................31
Stopping the Engine ...........................................32
Manual Transport ...............................................33
ZT-2800 Models Bypass Linkages ..................33
Pump Model Release Valves ..........................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
Briggs & Stratton Engine .................................39
Kohler Engine ..................................................40
Kawasaki Engine .............................................41
Fuel Filter ...........................................................42
Fuel Pump Air Filter ............................................42
Tire Pressures ....................................................42
Parking Brake .....................................................43
V-belts ................................................................43
Pump Belt ........................................................44
Cutting Blades ....................................................45
Blade replacement ..........................................45
Adjusting the Mower Deck ..................................46
Leveling deck ..................................................46
Anti-scalp rollers ..............................................47
Cleaning .............................................................48
Caster Wheels ....................................................48
Hardware ............................................................48
Parking Brake Adjustment ..................................49
Tracking Adjustment ...........................................49
LUBRICATION ........................................................50
Lubrication Schedule ..........................................50
Front Wheel Mount .............................................51
Front Wheel Bearings .........................................51
Deck Spindle ......................................................51
Deck Outer Spindle ............................................51
Engine Oil ...........................................................52
Engine Oil Levels ............................................52
Changing the Engine Oil .................................53
Transaxle (Transmission) Fluid Change .............54
ZT2800 Models ...............................................54
Hydraulic Pump Fluid Change ............................55
Kansaki Models ...............................................55
Purging ...............................................................56
TROUBLE SHOOTING GUIDE .............................. 57
Winter Storage ...................................................59
Service ...............................................................59
SCHEMATICS ........................................................60
TECHNICAL DATA .................................................61
Accessories ........................................................61
Torque Specications .........................................61
SERVICE JOURNAL ..............................................69
WARNING!
Failure to follow cautious operating practices can result in serious injury to the
operator or other persons. The owner must understand these instructions, and must
allow only trained persons who understand these instructions to operate the mower.
Each person operating the mower must be of sound mind and body and must not be
under the inuence of any mind altering substance.
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 birth defects or other
reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.
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
If machine is equipped with a tow hitch, use extreme
caution when towing. Never allow children or others in
or on the towed equipment. Make wide turns to avoid
jack-kning. Travel slowly and allow extra distance to
stop.
Do not tow on sloped ground. The weight of the towed
equipment may cause loss of traction and loss of
control.
Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for weight
limits for towed equipment. Do not tow near ditches,
canals, and other hazards.
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.
Dixon-5
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 right 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
6-Dixon
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
Dixon-7
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
8-Dixon
Moving sharp blades under cover
SAFETY
Safety Instructions
These instructions are for your safety. Read them carefully.
WARNING!
This symbol means that important safety instructions need to be emphasized. It concerns
your safety.
IMPORTANT: 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.
General Operation
Read, understand, and follow all instructions on •
the machine and in the manual before starting.
Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or •
under the machine. Keep clear of the discharge
opening at all times.
Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar •
with the instructions, to operate the machine.
Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, •
etc., which could be picked up and thrown by the
blades.
Be sure the area is clear of bystanders before •
operating. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.
Never carry passengers. The machine is only •
intended for use by one person.
Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely •
necessary. Always look down and behind before
and while backing.
Never direct discharged material toward 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 grass •
catcher, discharge guard, or other safety devices
in place and working
Slow down before turning.•
Never leave a running machine unattended. •
Always turn off blades, set parking brake, stop
engine, and remove keys before dismounting.
Disengage blades when not mowing. Shut off •
engine and wait for all parts to come to a complete
stop before cleaning the machine, removing the
grass catcher, or unclogging the discharge guard.
Operate machine only in daylight or good articial •
light.
Do not operate the machine while under the •
inuence of alcohol or drugs.
Read the operator’s manual before starting the machine
Clear the area of objects before mowing
8011-512
8011-513
Dixon-9
SAFETY
Watch for trafc when operating near or crossing •
roadways.
Use extra care when loading or unloading the •
machine into a trailer or truck.
Always wear eye protection when operating •
machine.
Data indicates that operators age 60 years and •
above are involved in a large percentage of riding
mower-related injuries. These operators should
evaluate their ability to operate the riding mower
safely enough to protect themselves and others
from serious injury.
Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for •
wheel weights or counterweights.
Anyone who operates this machine must rst read •
and understand this Operation Manual. Local laws
may regulate the age of the user.
Keep machine free of grass, leaves or other debris •
buildup which can touch the hot exhaust or engine
parts and burn. Do not allow the mower deck to
plow leaves or other debris, causing 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.
10-Dixon
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 maximum), •
not across.
Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other •
hidden objects. Uneven terrain could overturn the
machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
Choose a low ground speed so that you will not •
have to stop while on the slope.
Do not mow on wet grass. Tires may lose traction.•
Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a slope. If •
the tires lose traction, disengage the blades and
proceed slowly straight down the slope.
Keep movement on the slopes slow and gradual. •
Do not make sudden changes in speed or
direction, which could cause machine to roll over.
Use extra care while operating machine with grass •
catchers or other attachments; they can affect the
stability of the machine.
Do not use on steep slopes.•
Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting a foot •
on the ground.
Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or •
embankments. The machine could suddenly roll
over if a wheel is over the edge or if the edge
caves in.
8011-670a
Personal protective equipment
6003-004
Mow up and down, not side to side
WARNING!
Do not drive up or down hills with
slopes greater than 10 degrees. And
do not drive across any slopes.
Dixon-11
SAFETY
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
12-Dixon
8011-517
Never allow children to operate the machine
8011-518
Keep children away from work area
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.
Dixon-13
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 •
or damage.
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.
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.
14-Dixon
SAFETY
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.
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 to 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.
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.
6003-009
Do not smoke when performing maintenance on the battery.
The battery can explode and cause serious injury/damage.
8009-728
Risk of sparking
Dixon-15
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.
Customer responsibilities
Read and observe the safety rules.•
Follow a regular schedule in maintaining, •
caring for and using your mower.
Follow the instructions under “Maintenance” •
and “Storage” sections of this owner’s manual.
A spark arrester for the mufer is available through
your authorized Dixon dealer.
16-Dixon
WARNING!
This mower is equipped with an
internal combustion engine and
should not be used on or near any
unimproved forest-covered, bushcovered or grass-covered land unless
the engine’s exhaust system is
equipped with a spark arrester meeting
applicable local or state laws (if any).
If a spark arrester is used, it should be
maintained in effective working order
by the operator.
CONTROLS
This operator’s manual describes the Dixon Zero
Turn Rider. The rider is tted with a Kohler, Briggs
& Stratton or Kawasaki four-stroke overhead valve
engine developing 21-26* horse power.
Transmission from the engine is made via two belt-
*As rated by the engine manufacturer.
Control Locations
11
driven 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.
12
1
10 7
Motion control levers1.
Seat adjustment lever2.
Cutting height adjuster3.
Throttle control4.
Choke control5.
Ignition switch6.
2
45689
3
Hour meter7.
Blade switch8.
Fuses 9.
Fuel shut off valve10.
Fuel tank cap11.
Parking brake12.
Dixon-17
CONTROLS
1
2
3
4
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.
If the steering controls are in uneven positions when
standing still or do not t in the slots for moving the
controls outward, they can be adjusted.
8058-022
Steering controls - neutral position
WARNING!
The machine can turn very rapidly if
one steering control is moved much
further forward than the other.
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 the unit still
does not track straight contact your Dixon workshop
for adjustments.
18-Dixon
8061-020
Steering controls - neutral locked position
8011-7912a
1. Forward
2. Neutral
3. Neutral slot, Neutral lock
4. Reverse
Motion control lever, right side
CONTROLS
Cutting Height Adjuster
The deck cutting height is obtained by pressing the
button on the lift lever and pulling backward to lift the
deck. To lower the deck, push button on the lift lever
and push forward allowing the deck to lower to the
correct cutting height. The cutting height range is from
1½" (38mm) to 4" (102mm) in ½ (13mm) 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
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).
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 forward or back respectively.
Avoid idling the engine for long periods, as there is a
risk of fouling the spark plugs.
USE FULL THROTTLE WHEN MOWING, for best
mower performance and battery charging.
8050-838
The mower deck’s cutting height adjuster
8050-839
Throttle control
Choke Control
The choke control is used for cold starts in order to
provide the engine with a richer fuel mixture.
For cold starts the control should be pushed to the on
position.
8050-839
Choke control
Dixon-19
CONTROLS
Ignition Switch
The ignition key is placed on the control panel and is
used to start and stop the engine.
Hour Meter
The hour meter displays the total operating time.
It will ash CHG OIL (Change Oil) at 50 hour intervals.
The ash duration is one hour before and one hour
after the interval. The CHG OIL icon will come on
and shut off automatically. The hour meter can not be
manually reset.
8050-839
Ignition switch
Blade switch
In order to engage the mower deck, pull the knob out;
the mower blades are disengaged when the knob is
depressed.
20-Dixon
8050-839
Hour meter
8050-839
Blade switch
CONTROLS
Fuses
Fuses are located on the left hand side of the machine.
They are accessed by tilting the seat forward. They are
at pin fuses of the same type used in automobiles.
There are two fuses with ratings and functions:
20 Amp Primary fuse
7.5 Amp Mower deck coupling
Fuel Shut Off Valve
The fuel shut off valve is located at the right rear of the
seat. The valve is off when the handle tab is turned
perpendicular to the fuel line.
8011-420
Fuses
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.
Parking Brake
The parking brake is found on the left of the machine.
Push the release button and pull the lever backward to
activate the brake—push forward 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
Do not rely solely on the parking brake to
when transporting the mower. Use straps to
secure.
8011-419
Fuel shut off valve in the CLOSED position
Dixon-21
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!
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.
Seat Adjustment Lever
The seat can be adjusted lengthways. When making
adjustments, the lever under the front edge of the
seat is moved to the left (as seen by the driver in the
seat), after which the seat can be moved backward or
forward.
8058-833
Fuel tank
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.
22-Dixon
8011-441
Seat adjustment
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
Dixon-23
OPERATION
Before Starting
Read the sections Safety Instructions and •
Controls before starting the machine.
Perform the daily maintenance before •
starting (see Maintenance Schedule in the
Maintenance section).
Check that there is sufcient fuel in the fuel •
tank.
Adjust the seat to the desired position.•
The following conditions must be fullled before the
engine can be started:
The blade switch for engaging the mower •
blades must be depressed.
The parking brake must be on.•
Both steering controls must be in the locked •
(outer) neutral position.
Starting the Engine
Sit on the seat. •
Raise the mower deck by pushing the release •
button on the top of the lifting lever. Pull the lifting
lever backward to the locked (transport) position.
Activate the parking brake by pushing the release •
button in and pulling the lever fully upwards.
8050-825
Cut height lift lever
Disengage the mower blades by depressing the blade
switch.
24-Dixon
8058-020
Released parking brake
8050-839
Disengage mower blades
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