DR Walk-behind 12.5 HP Tecumseh with 42 Lawn Deck User Manual

DR® WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER

SAFETY & OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

Serial No. ________________

Order No. ________________

READ AND UNDERSTAND THIS MANUAL AND ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE OPERATING THIS MOWER.

Congratulations on your purchase of a new DR WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER!

We have done our utmost to ensure that your DR WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER will be one of the most troublefree and satisfying pieces of equipment you have ever owned. Please let us know of any questions you may have. We want to answer them as quickly as possible. When you do call, please have your order number handy. For technical assistance, please visit our website at www.DRPower.com or call Toll-Free: 1-800-DR-OWNER (376-9637) and one of our Technical Support Representatives will be happy to help you. We also hope to hear from you on how much you like your new helper.

In addition, please tell your friends about your new DR WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER! Having DR Owners spread the word about our products and our way of doing business is the best advertising we can have, and the best way to help us provide even better service in the years to come.

Thanks once again!

for all of us at DR Power Equipment

SALES MANAGER

DR Power Equipment

A division of Country Home Products®

75 Meigs Road Vergennes, VT 05491

Toll-free phone: 1-800-DR-OWNER (376-9637) Fax: 1-802-877-1213 Website

www.DRPower.com

ii DR® WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER

Table of Contents

CHAPTER 1............................................................................................................................. 1

INTRODUCING THE DR WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER .................................................. 1

Conventions used in this manual ................................................................................... 1

CHAPTER 2............................................................................................................................. 3

GENERAL SAFETY RULES............................................................................................... 3

Labels ............................................................................................................................... 3

Protecting Yourself and Those Around You ................................................................... 5

Operating the Mower Safely............................................................................................ 5

Slope Operation............................................................................................................... 7

Safety for Children ........................................................................................................... 7

Safety with Gasoline-Powered Machines........................................................................ 8

A Note to All Users.......................................................................................................... 9

Additional Information and Potential Changes.............................................................. 9

CHAPTER 3........................................................................................................................... 10

SETTING UP YOUR DR WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER .................................................. 10

DR WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER Controls and Features............................................... 10

Unpacking the Mower ................................................................................................... 13

Assembling the Lawn Mower Deck............................................................................... 14

Installing the Lawn Deck ............................................................................................... 15

Connecting the Battery Wire ......................................................................................... 16

Adding Oil and Gasoline ............................................................................................... 17

Check the Tire Pressures ............................................................................................... 17

CHAPTER 4........................................................................................................................... 19

OPERATING YOUR DR WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER................................................... 19

The Pre-Start Safety Check ............................................................................................ 19

Before Starting the Engine............................................................................................. 20

Starting........................................................................................................................... 20

Engaging the Wheel Drive ............................................................................................. 20

Engaging the Blades ...................................................................................................... 21

Stopping the Blades....................................................................................................... 21

Stopping the Engine ...................................................................................................... 21

Adjusting the Cutting Height ........................................................................................ 22

Obstacle Tips ................................................................................................................. 23

Slopes............................................................................................................................. 23

If the machine gets hung up ......................................................................................... 23

Turns .............................................................................................................................. 24

Reverse........................................................................................................................... 24

Cutting in Wet and Heavy Growth ................................................................................ 24

CHAPTER 5........................................................................................................................... 25

MAINTAINING THE DR WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER ................................................. 25

Regular Maintenance Check List................................................................................... 25

Battery Care.................................................................................................................... 26

Charging the Battery ...................................................................................................... 26

Disposing of the Battery Responsibly ........................................................................... 27

Recycling a Used Battery ............................................................................................... 27

Lubrication ..................................................................................................................... 28

Removing and Replacing the Belts ............................................................................... 30

To Replace the Deck Belt............................................................................................... 30

To Replace the Drive Belt .............................................................................................. 31

Removing and Replacing the Blades............................................................................. 32

Leveling the Lawn Mower Deck .................................................................................... 33

Adjusting the Wheel Clutch Cable................................................................................. 35

Removing and Replacing the Drive Chain .................................................................... 36

Removing the Wheels.................................................................................................... 37

Adjusting the Parking Brake .......................................................................................... 37

Transmission ................................................................................................................. 38

End of Season and Storage ........................................................................................... 38

CHAPTER 6........................................................................................................................... 39

TROUBLESHOOTING................................................................................................... 39

Troubleshooting Table................................................................................................... 39

CHAPTER 7........................................................................................................................... 44

PARTS LISTS, SCHEMATIC DIAGRAMS AND WARRANTY........................................ 44

Parts List - Handlebar Assembly................................................................................... 44

Schematic - Handlebar Assembly ................................................................................. 45

Parts List - Frame and Drive Assembly......................................................................... 46

Schematic - Frame and Drive Assembly ....................................................................... 47

Parts List - Differential and Wheel Drive Assembly...................................................... 48

Schematic - Differential and Wheel Drive Assembly .................................................... 49

Parts List - Deck Frame Assembly................................................................................. 50

Schematic - Deck Frame Assembly............................................................................... 51

Parts List - Height Adjuster Assembly .......................................................................... 52

Schematic - Height Adjuster Assembly......................................................................... 53

Parts List - Deck Assembly ............................................................................................ 54

Schematic - Deck Assembly .......................................................................................... 55

Warranty......................................................................................................................... 59

iv DR® WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER

CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCING THE DR WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER



This manual will help you set up and safely operate your new DR adherence to the safety and operating instructions in this manual will ensure many years of productive use. Please let us know of any questions you may have. We want to answer them as quickly as possible. When you do call, please have your order number handy. For technical assistance, please visit out website at

www.DRPower.com or call Toll-Free 1-800-DR-OWNER (376-9637) and one of our Technical Support

Representatives will be happy to help you.

Conventions used in this manual

THIS INDICATES A HAZARDOUS SITUATION, WHICH, IF NOT AVOIDED, COULD RESULT IN DEATH OR SERIOUS INJURY.

WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER. Careful

THIS INDICATES A HAZARDOUS SITUATION, WHICH, IF NOT AVOIDED, COULD RESULT IN MINOR OR

MODERATE INJURY.

THIS INFORMATION IS IMPORTANT IN THE PROPER USE OF YOUR MACHINE. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THIS INSTRUCTION COULD RESULT IN DAMAGE TO YOUR MACHINE OR PROPERTY.

Tip:

This is a helpful hint to guide you in getting the most out of your DR WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER.

Tools Needed: This indicates you will need a special tool to perform a maintenance function on your Mower.

NOTE: This information may be helpful to you.

If you are ever unsure about an action you are about to take, don’t do it, visit our website at

www.DRPower.com or contact DR Power Equipments’ Toll-Free support at 1-800-DR-OWNER (376-9637)

for help or information.

2 DR® WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER

CHAPTER 2

GENERAL SAFETY RULES

• READ THIS SAFETY AND OPERATING MANUAL BEFORE YOU USE THE DR WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER.

BECOME FAMILIAR WITH THE SERVICE RECOMMENDATIONS TO ENSURE THE BEST PERFORMANCE FROM YOUR MOWER.

• THOROUGHLY INSPECT THE AREA IN WHICH YOU WILL BE WORKING AND REMOVE ALL FOREIGN

OBJECTS. CLEAR THE AREA OF OBJECTS SUCH AS ROCKS, TOYS, WIRE, BONES, STICKS ETC., WHICH COULD BE PICKED UP AND THROWN BY THE BLADES WHICH COULD DAMAGE THE MACHINE AND/OR CAUSE INJURY.

• THIS IS A HIGH-POWERED MACHINE, WITH MOVING PARTS OPERATING WITH HIGH ENERGY AT

HIGH SPEEDS. YOU MUST USE PROPER CLOTHING AND SAFETY GEAR WHEN OPERATING THIS MACHINE TO PREVENT OR MINIMIZE THE RISK OF SEVERE INJURY. THIS MACHINE CAN CUT AND SEVER PARTS OF YOUR BODY IF THEY CONTACT THE MOVING BLADES.

Labels

Your DR WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER carries prominent labels as reminders for its proper and safe use. Shown below are copies of all the labels that appear on the equipment. Take a moment to study them and make a note of their location on your DR WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER as you assemble and before the machine. Replace damaged or missing safety and information labels immediately.

Make sure you add oil before starting the Engine; the unit shipped without oil. Fill the oil reservoir slowly to make sure you don’t overfill it. (#127811)

Keep combustible substances away from the Engine when it is hot. (#136831)

you operate

To avoid injury, keep your hands and feet away from the spinning Blades. (#136491)

This label shows the proper routing of the Lawn Deck Drive Belt. (#164381)

Move the throttle to the CHOKE position to start the engine (to the RUN or IDLE position if the Engine is already warm). (#161541)

This label shows the different cutting heights available for the Lawn Deck. (#157641)

Safety and Operating Instructions Label (#240761)

4 DR® WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER

Protecting Yourself and Those Around You

THIS IS A HIGH-POWERED MACHINE, WITH MOVING PARTS OPERATING WITH HIGH ENERGY AT HIGH SPEEDS. YOU MUST OPERATE THE MACHINE SAFELY. UNSAFE OPERATION CAN CREATE A NUMBER OF HAZARDS FOR YOU, AS WELL AS ANYONE ELSE IN THE NEARBY AREA. ALWAYS TAKE THE FOLLOWING PRECAUTIONS WHEN USING THIS MACHINE:

• ALWAYS WEAR THE PROTECTIVE GOGGLES OR SAFETY GLASSES WITH SIDE SHIELDS WHILE

MOWING TO PROTECT YOUR EYES FROM POSSIBLE THROWN DEBRIS.

• WEAR SHOES WITH NON-SLIP TREADS WHEN USING YOUR DR WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER. IF YOU

HAVE SAFETY SHOES, WE RECOMMEND WEARING THEM. DO NOT USE THE MACHINE WHILE BAREFOOT OR WEARING SANDALS WITH EXPOSED TOES OR HEELS.

• AVOID WEARING LOOSE CLOTHING OR JEWELRY, WHICH CAN CATCH ON THE MOWER’S MOVING

PARTS.

• WE RECOMMEND WEARING GLOVES WHILE MOWING. BE SURE YOUR GLOVES FIT PROPERLY AND

DO NOT HAVE LOOSE CUFFS OR DRAWSTRINGS.

Operating the Mower Safely

• NEVER ALLOW PEOPLE WHO ARE UNFAMILIAR WITH THESE INSTRUCTIONS TO USE THE DR WIDE-

CUT LAWN MOWER.

• KEEP BYSTANDERS AT LEAST 100 FEET AWAY FROM YOUR WORK AREA AT ALL TIMES. THE MOWER

CAN THROW OBJECTS FAR AND AT GREAT SPEEDS. TO BE SAFE, DO NOT OPERATE THE MACHINE NEAR SMALL CHILDREN OR PETS, AND NEVER ALLOW CHILDREN TO OPERATE THE MOWER. DISENGAGE THE BLADES AND STOP THE ENGINE WHEN ANOTHER PERSON OR PET APPROACHES.

• CLEAR THE AREA OF OBJECTS SUCH AS ROCKS, TOYS, WIRE, BONES, STICKS ETC., WHICH COULD BE

PICKED UP AND THROWN BY THE BLADES.

• BE SURE ALL BLADE AND WHEEL CONTROLS ARE DISENGAGED BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO START THE

ENGINE. ENGAGE AND DISENGAGE THE BLADES A FEW TIMES TO GET USED TO IT BEFORE MOWING.

• KEEP YOUR HANDS AND FEET AWAY FROM THE BLADES, BELTS, CHAINS, BLADE PULLEYS, AND

CONCEALED AREAS WHILE THE ENGINE IS RUNNING. NEVER REACH UNDER THE DECK OR GRAB HOLD OF ANY PART OF THE DECK WHEN THE ENGINE IS RUNNING.

• NEVER USE THE MOWER WITH THE DISCHARGE CHUTE REMOVED.

• YOUR DR WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER IS A POWERFUL TOOL, NOT A PLAYTHING. EXERCISE EXTREME

CAUTION AT ALL TIMES. THE DESIGN OF THIS MACHINE IS TO CUT GRASS. DO NOT USE IT FOR ANY OTHER PURPOSE.

• IN AN EMERGENCY, TO QUICKLY STOP THE CUTTING BLADES AND SHUT OF THE ENGINE, REMOVE

YOUR HAND FROM THE OPERATOR PRESENCE LEVER ON THE LEFT HANDLEBAR.

• ALWAYS SHUT OFF THE ENGINE WHENEVER YOU LEAVE THE MACHINE. ALLOW THE ENGINE TO

COOL FIVE (5) MINUTES AND REMOVE THE SPARK PLUG WIRE BEFORE ADJUSTING THE MACHINE. IF YOU HAVE TO STOP TO REMOVE GRASS OR DEBRIS FROM THE UNDERSIDE OF THE DECK, ALWAYS DISCONNECT THE SPARK PLUG WIRE FIRST.

• THE EXHAUST AREA ON THE ENGINE BECOMES VERY HOT WITH USE. ALLOW THE ENGINE TO

COOL BEFORE DOING MAINTENANCE OR MAKING ADJUSTMENTS.

• KEEP COMBUSTIBLE SUBSTANCES AWAY FROM THE ENGINE WHEN IT IS HOT.

• WHEN OPERATING OVER UNEVEN TERRAIN AND SLOPES, USE EXTREME CAUTION TO ENSURE

SOLID AND FIRM FOOTING. KEEP A FIRM HOLD ON THE HANDLEBARS AND WALK, NEVER RUN.

• STOP THE BLADES WHEN CROSSING GRAVEL DRIVES, WALKS, OR ROADS.

• USE EXTRA CAUTION WHEN MOWING IN WET OR SLIPPERY CONDITIONS.

• ALWAYS OPERATE THE MOWER FROM BEHIND. NEVER PASS OR STAND ON THE DISCHARGE

(RIGHT) SIDE OR IN FRONT OF MACHINE WHEN THE ENGINE IS RUNNING.

• DO NOT PULL THE MOWER BACKWARDS UNLESS ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY. LOOK DOWN, AND

BEHIND BEFORE, AND WHILE MOVING BACKWARDS.

• DO NOT, UNDER ANY CONDITIONS, REMOVE, BEND, CUT, FIT, WELD, OR OTHERWISE ALTER

STANDARD PARTS ON THE DR WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER. THIS INCLUDES ALL SHIELDS AND GUARDS. MODIFICATIONS TO YOUR MACHINE COULD CAUSE PERSONAL INJURIES AND PROPERTY DAMAGE AND WILL VOID YOUR WARRANTY.

• IF THE MACHINE STARTS TO MAKE AN UNUSUAL NOISE OR VIBRATION, IMMEDIATELY SHUT OFF

THE ENGINE AND WAIT FIVE (5) MINUTES FOR ALL MOVING PARTS TO COME TO A COMPLETE STOP AND COOL, AND THEN DISCONNECT THE SPARK PLUG WIRE. VIBRATION IS GENERALLY A WARNING OF TROUBLE. INSPECT FOR CLOGGING OR DAMAGE. CLEAN AND REPAIR AND/OR REPLACE DAMAGED PARTS.

• WHILE USING THE DR

WHEN IN DOUBT ABOUT THE EQUIPMENT OR YOUR SURROUNDINGS, STOP THE MACHINE AND TAKE THE TIME TO LOOK THINGS OVER. MAKE SURE THAT YOU HAVE 100% CONTROL OF THE MOWER AT ALL TIMES.

WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER, DON'T HURRY OR TAKE THINGS FOR GRANTED.

• DO NOT OPERATE THE MACHINE WHEN UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF DRUGS, ALCOHOL, OR

MEDICATION.

• WATCH FOR TRAFFIC WHEN MOWING NEAR ROADWAYS.

• USE THE MACHINE ONLY IN DAYLIGHT.

6 DR® WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER

Slope Operation

SLOPES ARE A MAJOR FACTOR RELATED TO SLIP AND FALL ACCIDENTS, WHICH CAN RESULT IN SEVERE INJURY. ALL SLOPES REQUIRE CAUTION. IF YOU FEEL UNEASY ON A SLOPE, DO NOT MOW IT. ALWAYS TAKE THE FOLLOWING PRECAUTIONS WHEN USING THIS MACHINE ON SLOPES:

ALWAYS:

• ALWAYS MOW ACROSS THE FACE OF SLOPES, NEVER UP AND DOWN. EXERCISE EXTREME CAUTION

WHEN CHANGING DIRECTION ON SLOPES.

• ALWAYS REMOVE OBJECTS SUCH AS ROCKS, TREE LIMBS, ETC., FROM THE WORK AREA.

• ALWAYS WATCH OUT FOR HOLES, RUTS, OR BUMPS. TALL GRASS CAN HIDE OBSTACLES.

NEVER:

• NEVER MOW NEAR DROP-OFFS, DITCHES, OR EMBANKMENTS. YOU COULD LOSE YOUR FOOTING

OR BALANCE.

• NEVER MOW ON SLOPES GREATER THAN 20 DEGREES OR ANY EXCESSIVELY STEEP SLOPES.

• NEVER

MOW ON WET SLOPES. REDUCED TRACTION COULD RESULT IN SLIPPING.

Safety for Children

TRAGIC ACCIDENTS CAN OCCUR IF THE OPERATOR IS NOT ALERT TO THE PRESENCE OF CHILDREN. CHILDREN ARE OFTEN ATTRACTED TO THE MOWER AND THE MOWING ACTIVITY. NEVER CHILDREN WILL REMAIN WHERE YOU LAST SAW THEM.

ASSUME THAT

• KEEP CHILDREN OUT OF THE MOWING AREA AND UNDER THE WATCHFUL CARE OF A RESPONSIBLE

ADULT.

• BE ALERT AND TURN THE MOWER OFF IF CHILDREN ENTER THE WORK AREA.

• BEFORE AND WHILE MOVING BACKWARDS, LOOK BEHIND, AND DOWN

FOR SMALL CHILDREN.

• NEVER ALLOW CHILDREN TO OPERATE THE MOWER.

• USE EXTRA CARE WHEN APPROACHING BLIND CORNERS, SHRUBS, TREES, OR OTHER OBJECTS THAT

MAY OBSCURE YOUR VISION.

Safety with Gasoline-Powered Machines

GASOLINE IS A HIGHLY FLAMMABLE LIQUID. GASOLINE ALSO GIVES OFF FLAMMABLE VAPOR THAT CAN BE EASILY IGNITED AND CAUSE A FIRE OR EXPLOSION. NEVER OVERLOOK THE HAZARDS OF GASOLINE. ALWAYS FOLLOW THESE PRECAUTIONS:

• NEVER RUN THE ENGINE IN AN ENCLOSED AREA OR WITHOUT PROPER VENTILATION AS THE

EXHAUST FROM THE ENGINE CONTAINS CARBON MONOXIDE, WHICH IS AN ODORLESS, TASTELESS, AND DEADLY POISONOUS GAS.

• STORE ALL FUEL AND OIL IN CONTAINERS SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED AND APPROVED FOR THIS

PURPOSE AND KEEP AWAY FROM HEAT AND OPEN FLAME, AND OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN.

• FILL THE GASOLINE TANK OUTDOORS WITH THE ENGINE OFF AND ALLOW THE ENGINE TO COOL

COMPLETELY. DON'T HANDLE GASOLINE IF YOU OR ANYONE NEARBY IS SMOKING, OR IF YOU'RE NEAR ANYTHING THAT COULD CAUSE IT TO IGNITE OR EXPLODE. REPLACE THE FUEL TANK AND FUEL CONTAINER CAPS SECURELY.

• IF YOU SPILL GASOLINE, DO NOT ATTEMPT TO START THE ENGINE. MOVE THE MACHINE AWAY

FROM THE AREA OF THE SPILL AND AVOID CREATING ANY SOURCE OF IGNITION UNTIL THE GAS VAPORS HAVE DISSIPATED. WIPE UP ANY SPILLED FUEL TO PREVENT A FIRE HAZARD AND PROPERLY DISPOSE OF THE WASTE.

• ALLOW THE ENGINE TO COOL COMPLETELY BEFORE STORING IN ANY ENCLOSURE. NEVER STORE

THE MACHINE WITH GAS IN THE TANK OR A FUEL CONTAINER, NEAR AN OPEN FLAME OR SPARK SUCH AS A WATER HEATER.

• NEVER MAKE ADJUSTMENTS OR REPAIRS WITH THE ENGINE RUNNING. DISCONNECT THE SPARK

PLUG WIRE AND KEEP THE WIRE AWAY FROM THE SPARK PLUG TO PREVENT ACCIDENTAL STARTING.

• NEVER TAMPER WITH SAFETY DEVICES. CHECK THEIR PROPER OPERATION REGULARLY.

• DO NOT CHANGE THE ENGINE GOVERNOR SETTINGS OR MODIFY THE ENGINE SPEED.

• TO REDUCE FIRE HAZARD, KEEP THE ENGINE AND MUFFLER FREE OF DEBRIS BUILD-UP.

• REPLACE RUBBER FUEL LINES AND GROMMETS WHEN WORN OR DAMAGED, BUT DO NOT USE

OVER FIVE (5) YEARS.

8 DR® WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER

THE MOWER MUST BE OPERATED SAFELY TO PREVENT OR MINIMIZE THE RISK OF MINOR OR MODERATE INJURY. UNSAFE OPERATION CAN CREATE A NUMBER OF HAZARDS FOR YOU. ALWAYS TAKE THE FOLLOWING PRECAUTIONS WHEN OPERATING THIS MOWER:

• KEEP IN MIND THAT THE OPERATOR OR USER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR ACCIDENTS OR HAZARDS

OCCURRING TO OTHER PEOPLE, THEIR PROPERTY, AND THEMSELVES.

• USE EAR PROTECTORS OR EAR PLUGS RATED FOR AT LEAST 20 DBA TO PROTECT YOUR HEARING.

• WEAR LONG PANTS WHILE MOWING.

• USE CAUTION WHEN MOWING CLOSE TO FENCES, BUILDINGS, TREES, ETC.; SO AS NOT TO HIT THE

HANDLE BAR. DOING SO, YOU MAY INJURE YOUR HAND OR LOSE CONTROL OF THE MACHINE.

• SEE MANUFACTURER’S INSTRUCTIONS FOR PROPER OPERATION AND INSTALLATION OF

ACCESSORIES. ONLY USE PARTS AND ACCESSORIES APPROVED BY DR POWER EQUIPMENT.

• KEEP ALL NUTS AND BOLTS TIGHT, ESPECIALLY THE BLADE ATTACHMENT BOLTS, AND KEEP THE

EQUIPMENT AND ATTACHMENTS IN GOOD OPERATING CONDITION.

• THE MOWER BLADES ARE SHARP AND CAN CUT. WRAP THE BLADES OR WEAR GLOVES, AND USE

EXTRA CAUTION WHEN SERVICING.

• NO LIST OF WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS CAN BE ALL-INCLUSIVE. IF SITUATIONS OCCUR THAT ARE

NOT COVERED BY THIS MANUAL, THE OPERATOR MUST APPLY COMMON SENSE AND OPERATE THIS MOWER IN A SAFE MANNER. VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.DRPOWER.COM OR CALL 1(800) DR-OWNER (376-9637) FOR ASSISTANCE.

A Note to All Users

Under California law, and the laws of some other states, you are not permitted to operate an internal combustion Engine using hydrocarbon fuels without an Engine Spark Arrester. This also applies to operation on US Forest Lands. We provide all DR WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWERS shipped to California and Washington State with Spark Arresters. Failure of the owner/operator to maintain this equipment in compliance with state regulations is a misdemeanor under California law and may be in violation of other state and/or federal regulations. Contact your local Fire Marshal, Forest Service, State Park Association, or the appropriate state organization for specific information in your area.

Additional Information and Potential Changes

DR Power Equipment reserves the right to discontinue, change, and improve its products at any time without notice or obligation to the purchaser. The descriptions and specifications contained in this manual were in effect at printing. Equipment described within this manual may be optional. Some illustrations may not be applicable to your machine.

CHAPTER 3

SETTING UP YOUR DR WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER

This chapter outlines a few simple steps you will need to follow to set up your new machine before you use it. It may be helpful to familiarize yourself with the controls and features on your new Mower by reviewing Figure 1 below, and the descriptions on the next page, before beginning the steps outlined in this chapter.

If you have any questions at all, please feel free to visit our website at www.DRPower.com or contact our Customer Service Representatives at our Toll-Free number 1-800-DR-OWNER (376-9637).

DR WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER Controls and Features

NOTE: The model shown in Figure 1 may look slightly different from your machine.

Off

Fuel Tank

Control Panel

Figure 1

10 DR® WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER

1. Ignition Switch - Located on the Control Panel. The Ignition Switch has three positions: OFF, RUN, and START. To Start the Engine, turn the Key all the way to START. Release the Key when the Engine Starts and it will automatically return to the RUN position. Turn the Switch to the OFF position to stop the Engine.

2. Blades Control Knob - Located on the Control Panel. Pull up to rotate the Cutting Blades. Push in to stop the Cutting Blades from rotating. Operator Presence Safety Switches on the Mower will not allow you to start the Engine or leave the Mower with the Engine running when the Blades Control Knob in the pulled up position.

3. Operator Presence Lever - Located on the Left Handlebar. Squeeze and hold the Operator Presence Lever down against the Handlebar to operate the Mower when the Cutting Blades are rotating. This Operator Presence Lever is designed for your safety. The switch it actuates will shut down the Blades and the Engine if you leave the Mower’s Operating Position when the Cutting Blades are rotating.

4. Wheel Clutch Lever - Located on the Left Handlebar.

the Wheel Drive and release the Wheel Clutch Lever if you need to slow down or stop.

Gently squeeze the Wheel Clutch Lever to engage

5. Parking Brake Lever w/Lock - Located on the Right Handlebar. Set the Parking Brake by squeezing the Lever and lifting up on the Lock pin when you leave the Mower. To release the Brake, simply squeeze and release the Lever.

6. Fuel Tank - Located at the top rear of the Mower behind the Engine. Use unleaded fuel only.

7. Oil Fill/Dipstick - Located on the right side of the Engine.

8. Throttle/Choke Control Handle - Located on the Control Panel. Move the Throttle/Choke Control

Handle forward to the CHOKE position to start a cold Engine (to the RUN position if the Engine is warm). After the Engine has started, move the Lever to the RUN position to operate the Mower. Move the Throttle/Choke Control Lever to the IDLE position and turn OFF the Key to shut the Engine OFF.

9. Shift Lever - This Lever selects up to four-speeds Forward and a single-speed Reverse.

10. Fuel Shut-Off Valve - Located on the bottom right of the Fuel Tank and accessed from the rear. The

Valve is OPEN with the Lever in the vertical position and CLOSED with the Lever in the horizontal position.

11. Discharge Deflector - Located on the right side of the Mower Deck. This is a spring loaded Deflector and must ALWAYS be in place during operation.

12. Cutting Height Adjustment Lever - Located on the right side of the Mower Deck. You can adjust the cutting height of the Mower Deck in 1/2" increments by repositioning this Lever.

13. Belt Access Cover - This is an access cover to the Blades Drive Belt.

14. Retaining Knob - This is the Belt Cover Retaining Knob; loosen to remove the Cover.

12 DR® WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER

Unpacking the Mower

Tools & Supplies Needed:

• Eye Protection

• Side Cutters & Box Cutter

• Hammer

• Gloves

Corner Support

Front

Right

• THE BANDING IS UNDER TENSION AND MAY SNAP

AND CUT YOU. ALWAYS STAND TO ONE SIDE WHEN CUTTING THE BAND.

• WEAR GLOVES AT ALL TIMES. BE VERY CAREFUL OF

THE STAPLES. ALSO, BE VERY CAREFUL WHEN HANDLING THE DECK. THE BLADES ARE VERY SHARP, AND MAY SPIN AS YOU MANEUVER THE DECK.

1. Stand to one side, cut the carton banding, and

remove the top of the carton.

2. Remove the Small Parts/Product Package, Caster

Wheels, and Mulching Kit from the Right Front Corner Support (Figure 2a).

3. Pry open the Left Seam and pull the Panels

outward as shown (Figure 2b). Repeat for the Right Seam and pull the Sides down.

4. Cut the Ties holding the Lawn Deck to the Pallet

and Wood Supports (Figure 2c) and remove the two (2) Wood Cross Pieces that retain the Lawn Deck Caster Arms.

5. Cut the Right Cardboard Connectors at the base

of the Wood Supports (Figure 2c) and tip the Supports up and over to the Left side of the Pallet.

6. Cut the Left Cardboard Connectors and remove

the Supports from the Pallet.

Left

Rear

Figure 2a

Left Right

Figure 2b

Cross Pieces

Supports

Connector

Figure 2c

7. Carefully move the Lawn Deck off the Pallet and

rest it on the Rear Casters. Move behind the Deck and, using the Caster Arms, roll the Deck away (Figure 2d).

8. Cut the Ties holding the Machine to the Pallet,

move the Shift Lever to Neutral, release the Parking Brake (Figure 1 on page 11) and roll the Machine off the Pallet. Do not discard the Cardboard and Pallet until you are fully satisfied with your new DR WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER.

Figure 2d

Assembling the Lawn Mower Deck

Tools Needed:

• Pliers

• Soft Head Mallet or Hammer

Mounting the Caster Wheels

To mount the Caster Wheels on the Front Arms of the Deck Frame as shown in Figure 3:

Figure 3

Figure 4

Cotter

Bushing

1. Insert two (2) black Castor Wheel Spindle Bushings (one on top and one on the bottom) into a Front Arm of the Lawn Deck Frame. You may need to tap the Bushings in with a Hammer (Figure 4).

2. Insert the Caster Wheel Spindle into the Bushings from the bottom. Push the Cotter Pin into the Hole in the Spindle as far as it will go (Figure 5).

3. Hold the Tire with one hand to keep the Axle from turning while bending the legs of the Cotter Pin with Pliers. Bend the long leg first, then the shorter leg (Figure 5).

4. Repeat the previous steps for the remaining Caster Wheel.

IF YOU REMOVE THE COTTER PINS, REPLACE THEM WITH NEW ONES 1/4" IN DIAMETER AND 1-1/2" LONG. REPEATED STRAIGHTENING AND BENDING WILL BREAK THE COTTER PINS AT THE BEND, AND MAY CAUSE THE CASTER WHEELS TO COME OFF DURING OPERATION CAUSING SEVERE DAMAGE OR POSSIBLE INJURY.

Figure 5

14 DR® WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER

Installing the Lawn Deck

BEFORE INSTALLING THE LAWN DECK, BE SURE TO DISCONNECT THE SPARK PLUG WIRE.

Your Lawn Deck shipped with the Belt in place on the two Blade Drive Pulleys. However, occasionally the Belt comes off during shipping. If this occurs, remove the two smaller Belt Covers with a 7/16" Wrench or Socket and place the Belt back on the Pulleys as shown in

30.

1. Remove the black rectangular Belt Cover. Remove the two smaller black Covers if necessary.

2. With the help of another person to steady the machine, line up the Lawn Deck with the Attachment Pin and slide the Lawn Deck onto the Pin (Figure 6).

Figure 7. See To Replace the Deck Belt on page

Slide

3. Attach the Collar and insert the Retaining Pin (

Figure 6).

4. Mount the Belt on the Engine Pulley. If necessary, place the Belt around the other Pulleys as shown

Figure 7 except for the Pulley attached to the Belt Release Lever.

5. Push the Belt Release Lever and set the outside of the Belt against the flat Idler Pulley on the Release Lever (

Figure 7).

Tip: Some people push the Lever with their foot.

6. Replace the Belt Covers.

Engine Pulley

Belt Release Lever

Retaining Pin

Collar

Attachment

Slide

Idler Pulley

Belt Release Lever

Figure 6

Figure 7

Connecting the Battery Wire

We ship all Electric-Starting Mowers with the negative terminal Battery wire disconnected. This prevents the Battery from discharging during shipment. Before using your Mower, you must connect the Battery wire.

Tools Needed:

• Phillips Screwdriver and a 5/16" Wrench or Socket

• Two (2) 5/16" Wrenches or Sockets

Connect the Green Ground Wire to the Negative Terminal on the Battery (

Negative Terminal

Green Ground Wire

Battery

Figure 8)

Figure 8

16 DR® WIDE-CUT LAWN MOWER

+ 44 hidden pages

DR Walk-behind 12.5 HP Tecumseh with 42 Lawn Deck User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual