POTENTIAL HAZARD
♦ This product is a piece of power equipment.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
♦ Failure to follow safe operating pr actices can result in serious
operator injury or even death.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
♦ Keep all shields, guards and safety devices (especially the grass
discharge system) in place and in proper working condition.
♦ Stop engine and wait for all moving parts to stop. Remove spark
plug wire(s) or remove key before adjust ing, servicing, or
performing maint enance.
♦ If mower deck or blower becomes clogg ed, st op engine and wait
for all moving parts to stop. Remove spark plug wire(s) or
remove key before cleaning blockage.
♦ Keep hands, feet and clothing away from power driven parts.
♦ Keep off mower unless seat platf orm is provided.
♦ Keep others off mower.
WARNING
Exmark reserves the right to make changes or add improvements to its
products at any time without incurring any obligation to make such changes
to products manufactured pr eviously. Exmark , or its distributors and dealers,
accept no responsibility for variations which may be evident in the actual
specifications of its products and t he st atements and descriptions contained
in this publication.
ii
EXMARK PARTS PLUS® PROGRAM
EFFECTIVE DATE: September 1, 1995
Program
If your Exmark dealer does not have the Exmark part in stock,
Exmark will get the parts to the dealer the next business day or the
part will be FREE* Guaranteed!!
How the Program Works
1. If dealer does not have part in stock for a "down" unit at
the time of request by customer, the dealer contacts his
distributor by 1:00 p.m., local time, and requests Exmark
Parts Plus
®
shipment of six (6) line items or less.
2. Distributor ships part(s) to dealer or customer, as
requested by dealer, same day, overnight UPS Distributor
3. If distributor does not have the part(s) in stock to satisfy
bills dealer for part and freight charges where applicable.
Exmark Parts Plus
p.m., central time, with an Exmark Parts Plus
®
order, he contacts Exmark by 3:00
®
order of six
(6) line items or less.
4. If order is received by 3:00 p.m. central time, Exmark ships part(s) direct to dealer or customer, as requested by
distributor, same day, overnight UPS Exmark bills the distributor for parts and shipping charges, where
applicable.
5. The customer pays for the part and freight if it is shipped under the Exmark Parts Plus® and if it arrives in
6. Who pays for the part and freight if it fails to arrive overnight in accordance to the program?
A. Under any circumstance the customer does not pay.
accordance to the program.
B. If the part does not arrive overnight due to:
®
1. The dealer not submitting the Exmark Parts Plus
dealer pays for the part and freight.
order to his Exmark distributor by 1:00 p.m., the
2. The Distributor being unable to ship the part the same day or not submitting the Exmark Parts Plus®
order to Exmark by 3:00 p.m., central time, the Distributor pays for the part and freight.
3. Exmark being unable to ship the part and the Exmark parts order is received by 3:00 p.m., central time,
Exmark pays for the part and freight.
4. If the part does not arrive overnight due to the shipper (UPS), the shipper pays for the freight and
Exmark pays for the part.
The following restrictions apply -- The Exmark Parts Plus® Program is available only through participating
Exmark Dealers and applies only to orders submitted on this program Monday through Thursday. Parts Plus service is
available only in the 48 contiguous United States. UPS has initiated a Saturday delivery program to many areas of the
continental United States and can be requested for an overnight shipment on Friday to be delivered Saturday. The next
day air charge, plus the Saturday delivery fee will be the responsibility of the purchaser. Exmark Mfg. will assume no
responsibility for Saturday delivery shipments. To qualify, all Exmark Parts Plus® orders must be received by Exmark by
3:00 p.m., central time. Orders must be six (6) line items or less. Exclusions from the Exmark Parts Plus
®
Program are:
Any wholegood or accessory in its entirety, engines and engine replacement parts, 5-speed Peerless transmissions and
5-speed transaxles, hydraulic or hydrostatic wheel motors, cutter decks and engine decks or any item exceeding United
Parcel Service size and weight restrictions.
Due to UPS restrictions, aerosol spray paint is considered a hazardous material and cannot be shipped via UPS next day
or Second Day Air.
Exmark Manufacturing stocks a limited supply of parts for transaxles, pumps and wheel motors. These parts can be
ordered for Next Day Air shipment but will not be guaranteed per the Parts Plus Program.
iii
OPERATOR'S MANUAL
This manual contains assembly, operating, maintenance, adjustment and safety instructions
for your Exmark Ultra Vac Q DS.
BEFORE OPERATING YOUR ULTRA VAC QDS, CAREFULLY READ AND UNDERSTAND
THIS MANUAL AND THE OPERATOR’S MANUAL FOR YOUR MOWER IN THEIR ENTIRETY.
By following the operating, maintenance and safety instructions, you will prolong the lif e of
your Ultra Vac QDS, maintain its maximum efficiency and promote safe operation.
If additional information is needed, or should you require trained mechanic ser vice, cont act
your authorized Exmark equipment dealer or dist r ibut or .
All Exmark equipment dealers and dist r ibut or s ar e kept informed of t he latest methods of
servicing and are equipped to provide prompt and ef ficient service in the field or at their ser vice
stations. They carry ample stock of ser vice part s or can secure them promptly for you from t he
factory.
All Exmark parts are thoroughly tested and inspected before leaving the factory, however,
attention is required on your part if you are to obtain the fullest measure of satisfaction and
performance.
This SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL is used both in this m anual and on t he m achine to identify
important safety messages which must be followed to avoid accidents. This symbol means:
ATTENTION! BECOME ALERT!
YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED!
CAUTION: Black lettering / Yellow backgr ound. Indicates a potentially hazardous
1.2 TRAINING
1.2.1 Regard the Exmark Ultra Vac Q DS as a piece of power equipment and teach
1.2.2 Before operating your Ultra Vac QDS, carefully read and understand this manual
1.2.3 Do not allow operation of this machine by untrained personnel. Never allow
1.2.4 Avoid mowing while people, especially children, or pets, are nearby. Keep in
The safety alert symbol appears above information which alerts you to unsafe actions or
situations and will be followed by the word DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION.
DANGER: White lettering / Red background. Indicates an imminently hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, WILL result in death or serious injur y.
WARNING: Black lettering / Or ange background. Indicates a potent ially hazardous
situation which, if not avoided, COULD result in deat h or ser ious inj ury.
situation which, if not avoided, MAY result in minor or moderate injury.
this regard to all who operate this unit.
and the operator’s manual for your m ower in their entirety. Familiarize yourself with
the controls and the proper use of the equipment. If the operat or(s) or mechanic(s)
can not read English, it is the owner’s responsibility to explain this material to them.
children, teenagers, or people unfamiliar with these instructions to use the
mower. Local regulations may restrict the age of the operator.
mind that the operator or user is responsible for accidents or hazards occurring
to other people or their property.
1.3 PREPARATION
1.3.1 Evaluate the terrain to determine what accessories and attachment s ar e needed
to properly and safely perform the job. Only use accessories and attachments
approved by Exmark.
1.3.2 The use of personal protective equipment , such as (but not limited to) protect ion
for the eyes, ears, feet , and head is r ecom m ended.
CAUTION
POTENTIAL HAZARD
♦ This machine produces sound levels in excess of 85
dBA at the operator’s ear when in operation.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
♦ Exposure to sound levels of 85 dBA or above for
extended periods of time can cause hearing loss.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
♦ Wear hearing protection when operating this machine.
1.3.3 While mowing, always wear substantial f oot wear and long t r ousers. Do not
operate equipment when barefoot or when wearing open sandals.
1.3.4 Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is t o be used and r emove all
stones, sticks, wires, bones, and other foreign objects which may damage the
equipment or cause personal injury to the operat or or bystander s.
1
1.4 OPERATION
Although hazard control and accident prevention are partially dependent upon the
design and configuration of the equipment, t hese factors are also dependent upon
the awareness, concern, prudence, and proper training of t he personnel i nvol ved in
the operation, transport, maintenance, and st orage of t he equi pment . It is essential
that all Operator Safety Mechanisms be connect ed and i n operat i ng condi t ion prior
to use for mowing. Refer to the Operator’s Manual for the mower for additional
hazard control and accident prevention information.
POTENTIAL HAZARD
♦ An uncovered discharge opening will allow objects to
be thrown in operator’s or bystander’s direction. Also,
contact with blade could occur.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
♦ Thrown objects or blade contact can cause serious
injury or kill you or bystanders.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
♦ Never operate mower unless discharge deflector, or
entire grass collection system, or mulch kit is installed.
POTENTIAL HAZARD
♦ There are rotating blades in the blower and under the
mower deck.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
♦ Blade contact can cause serious operator or bystander
injury or even death.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
♦ Do NOT reach into Blower unless Rotation Indicator
has Stopped. Disengage PTO, stop engine, remove
key, WAIT FOR MOVING PARTS TO STOP
♦
Never operate mower unless discharge deflector, entire
grass collection system, or mulch kit is installed.
WARNING
DANGER
1.4.1 Use EXTREME caution when mowing and/or turning on slopes as loss of traction
and/or tip-over could occur. The operator is r esponsible for safe operation on slopes.
DANGER
POTENTIAL HAZARD
♦ Mowing on wet grass or steep slopes can cause
sliding and loss of control.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
♦ Wheels dropping over edges, ditches, steep banks,
or water can cause rollovers, which may result in
serious injury, death or drowning.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
♦ Do not mow slopes when grass is wet.
♦ Do not mow near drop-offs or near water.
♦ Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees.
♦ Reduce speed and use extreme caution on slopes.
♦ Avoid sudden turns or rapid speed changes.
2
• Use a walk behind mower and/or a hand trimmer near drop-offs, ditches, steep
banks or water. This area can be dangerous, see Figure 1.
FIGURE 1
SAFE ZONE FOR MOWING
• Progressively greater care is needed as the slope increases.
• Always avoid sudden starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction,
disengage the blades and proceed slowly off the slope.
• Avoid sudden starts when mowing uphill. Mower may tip backwards.
• Be aware that loss of traction may occur going downhill. Weight transfer to
the front wheels may cause drive wheels to slip and cause loss of braking
and steering.
• Watch for ditches, holes, rocks, dips, and r ises t hat change the operating
angle, as rough terrain could overtur n the machine.
• Remove or mark obstacles such as rocks, t r ee lim bs, et c. from the mowing
area. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
• The operating characteristics of the machine will change with the Ultra Vac
QDS installed. The stability and traction of the machine will change as the
Ultra Vac QDS hopper fills with grass clipping s. Use pr ogressively greater
care on slopes as the hopper fills.
• Always install and remove the Ultra Vac QDS, including counterweights, as
instructed. Failure to do so will cause a reduction in stability or tr act ion. Do
not operate the mower with only a portion of the Ultra Vac Q DS inst alled.
1.5 SAFETY SIGNS
1.5.1 Keep all safety signs legible. Remove all gr ease, dir t and debris from safet y
signs and instructional labels.
1.5.2 Safety signs must be replaced if they are missing or illegible.
1.5.3 When new components are installed, be sure that current safety signs are
affixed to the replaced components.
1.5.4 New safety signs may be obtained from your authorized Exmark equipment
dealer or distributor or fr om Exmar k Mfg. Co. Inc.
1.5.5 Safety signs may be affixed by peeling off the backing to expose the adhesive
surface. Apply only to a clean, dry surface. Smooth to remove any air bubbles.
1.5.6 Familiarize yourself with the following safety signs and instruction labels. They
are critical to the safe operation of your Exmark Ultra Vac QDS.
3
PART NO. 98-5954
LOCATION: Under Blower Cover
PART NO. 1-653558
LOCATION: Top of Idler Arm
PART NO. 1-653554
LOCATION: Rear of Bags
WARNING
PART NO. 103-3508
LOCATION: Top of Blower
PART NO. 103-6604
LOCATION: Top of Blower
PART NO. 103-6605
LOCATION: Top of Front Weight
103-6605
2. SPECIFICATIONS
2.1 MODEL NUMBERS AND REQUIRED ACCESSORIES
LHPUVD4448
44” Deck Drive Kit
LHPUVD52
2.2 DIMENSIONS
SN 220,000 & Higher 103-1315
48” Deck Drive Kit
SN 220,000 & Higher 103-1314
52” Deck Drive Kit
SN 220,000 & Higher 103-1317
2.2.1 Overall unit length w/ Ultra Vac Q DS:
2.2.2 Overall unit width w/ Ultra Vac QDS:
44" Deck
48" Deck
52" Deck
44" Deck
48" Deck
52" Deck
94.58" (240.2 cm)
94.58" (240.2 cm)
93.00" (236.2 cm)
58.47"(148.5 cm)
61.73"(159.8 cm)
66.47"(168.8 cm)
4
2.3 BAGGING SYSTEM
2.3.1 Weight: Lazer Z HP -220 lbs. (100 kg ) , including the front weight.
2.3.2 Collections bin: Commercial gr ade, steel & polyethylene hopper with rear
discharge door, commercial g r ade clot h mesh door panel.
Capacity: 6.7 bushels
2.3.3 Dump Mechanism: Single motion actuation from operator’s seat.
2.3.4 Blower tube: fixed, abrasion resistant m olded polyethylene
1 Ref Engine Guard 44,48 only
2 1 Bagger Mount Weldment
3 8 5/16 – 18 X 1.00 Hex Head Screw
4 1 Hood Assembly
5 1 Upper Tube
6 1 Lower Tube Assembly
7 3 #10 – 24 X .75 Hex Head Screw
8 3 #10 Flat Washer
KeyQty Description
9 3 #10 – 24 Nyloc Nut
10 1 Blower Assembly
11 Ref Rear Weight 52 only
12 Ref Spacer 52 only
13 8 5/16 – 18 X 1.75 Hex Head Screw
14 4 5/16-18 x 18 Whizlock Nut
15 2 Clevis Pin
16 2 Hair Pin
FIGURE 2
5
ULTRA VAC QDS DRIVE KIT
Key Qty Description
13 1
18 1 Pin, Chute Pivot
19 1 Pin, Hair
20 2 Knob, Belt Shield
21 1 Sheave, Blower Drive
22 1 Belt, Blower
23 1 Cover, Belt
24 1 5/16 – 18 X .62 Hex Head Screw
25 1 Plug
26 2 Asm, Weight with Decals
Spacer,
Counterweight (52” decks)(See Figure 2)
FRONT WEIGHTS (Included with Ultra Vac QDS)
Key Qty Description
27 1 Plate, Weight Mounting
28 4 5/16-18 x 1 Hex Head Screw
6
4 5/16-18 x 1 ½ Hex Head Screw
29 4 Hairpin, Cotter
6
52” units with standard weight plate bolted to the
front of the floor pan only.
FIGURE 3
3.2 INSTALL DRIVE KIT
Install drive kit (PN 103-1314, 103-1315, or 103- 1317 depending on deck size) per the
following instructions. See section 3.3 for instructions regarding installation of weight kit
103-5629.
NOTE: The original belt shield st ud must be removed for belt clearance.
3.2.1 Discharge Chute Replacement:
a) Position mower on a flat surface.
b) Stop engine, remove key, and wait for all moving par t s t o stop.
c) Remove two (2) capscrews connecting the discharge chute to the deck.
Remove the discharge chute.
d) Re-Install the discharge chute using the chute pivot pin (I t em 18) and hairpin
(Item 19) provided as shown in Figure 4.
6
3.2.2 Blower Drive Sheave Installation :
a) Remove the right side belt shield and the 5/16 x 3 1/4 bolt that secures the
shield to the deck.
b) Remove the deck drive belt from around the righ t sheave.
c) Support the right m ower blade so that it will not fall off when the right sheave nut
is removed.
d) Remove the right sheave nut, spring disk washer, and drive sheave from the
spindle shaft.
NOTE: On units w ith wrench flats on the spindle j ust above t he blade use
a 1-inch wrench on the flat sides of t he spi ndle shaft to prevent the
spindle from turning. On units t hat do not have a wrench flat, block the
blade rotation with a block of w ood bet ween the blade and baffles as
indicated in the blade service section of t he Lazer Z HP operat or’ s manual .
Do not use the blade bolt to prevent rotation.
e) Apply a light coat of Mobil HTS grease (or a f ood grade antisieze) to the top
portion of the spindle where the sheave mounts.
f) Install the double sheave (Item 21) onto the right spindle shaft. Install the spring
disk washer and nut removed in Step e). Make sure that the spring disk washer
cone is installed towards nut (See Figure 5). Tor que the sheave nut to:
NOTE: On units w ith wrench flats on the spindle j ust above t he blade use
a 1-inch wrench on the flat sides of t he spi ndle shaft to prevent the
spindle from turning. On units t hat do not have a wrench flat, block the
blade rotation with a block of w ood bet ween the blade and baffles as
indicated in the blade service section of t he Lazer Z HP operat or’ s manual .
Do not use the blade bolt to prevent rotation. Check blade bolt torque
after completing this install at i on ( 115 – 120 f t . lbs.).
FIGURE 4
7
FIGURE 5
g) Re-inst all t he deck drive belt in the lower groove of the double sheave.
Install plug (Item 25) int o bor e of double sheave.
h) Inst all 5/ 16- 18 x .62 scr ew (It em 24) into hole that 5/16 – 18 x 3 ¼ bolt
was removed from on the deck. Use the whizlock nut removed in step 1.
Install bolt with head to inside of deck.
i) Install the new belt cover (Item 23) secure with the two belt shield knobs
(Item 20) as shown in Figure 3.
NOTE: Do not re-install the 5/ 16 x 3 1/ 4 bolt that was removed in step 1.
3.3 INSTALL WEIGHT ASSEMBLY
3.3.1. Remove the hardware from the front of t he floor pan. Discard the screws and
retain the washer and whizlock nuts.
3.3.2. Assemble the weight mounting plate (Item 27) to the floor pan using (4) 5/16- 18
1 Hex Head Screws (Item 28) and the (4) washers and (4) whizlock nuts
removed in step 1.
Note: Some 52” units have a standard weight plate bolted t o the front of the
floorpan. Use the (4) 5/16-18 x 11/2 Hex Head Screws (It em 28) for this
application. and the (4) washers and (4) whizlock nuts removed in step 1
3.3.3 For unit s with SN 439,999 and lower without
weight plate assembly (Item 26) with the two center mounting holes and hook over
the top of the weight mounting plate. Secure with two hairpins (Item 29).
For units with SN 440,000 and higher (also required for units with SN 439,999
and lower with
(Item 26) with the outer mounting holes and hook over the top of the weight
mounting plate. Secure with four hair pins (Item 29).
a 2 post ROPS installed): Align two weight plate assemblies
a 2 post ROPS installed: Align one
FIGURE 6
WIEGHT ASSEMBLY INSTALLATION
3.4 INSTALL HOPPER ASSEMBLY
Remove the (12) bolts that retain the “HOT” eng ine guard shield (Item 1). Discard ( 8) of
44 and 48 inch units (52 inch units skip to st ep 3. 4. 5)
the bolts and retain (4). Keep all (12) nut s for reuse in Step 3.4.3.
3.4.1. Working from the front side of the bagger mount, slide the top end of the engine
guard up and into the mount. Pivot the lower end through the bagger mount and
slide it down into place until the holes align with the holes in the bagger mount
(See Figure 7).
8
FIGURE 7
HOT ENGINE GUARD INSTALLATION
3.4.2. Install the Bagger Mount Weldment (Item 2) and eng ine guard shield using the (8)
5/16-18 x 1 Screws provided (Item 3) and (8) whizlock nuts removed in step 3.4.1.
3.4.3. Align the side holes in the engine guard shield to holes in the frame on each side
of the unit. Reattach the sides of the engine guard shield using t he ( 4) bolts and
remaining (4) whizlock nuts retained in step 3.4.1. Continue at step 3.4.7.
52 inch units
3.4.4. Remove discard the (8) bolts that retain the rear weight ( Item 12). Keep the
whizlock nuts for use in step 3.4.6.
3.4.5. Install the Bagger Mount Weldment (Item 2) to t he r ear of the frame using (4)
5/16-18 x 1 screws (Item 3) and (4) 5/16 – 18 whizlock nuts (Item 14) . Use only
the bottom four holes on the Bagger Mount Weldm ent
3.4.6. Install the Rear Weight (Item 12) and spacer (Item 13) from the drive kit using the
(8) 5/16 – 18 X1.75 screws (Item 14) and whizlock nuts rem oved in step 3.4.4.
All units
3.4.7. Slide tube ends of Hopper Assembly (Item 4) into the t ubes of the mount
weldment. Install (2) clevis pins (Item 15) through holes in tubes. Retain with (2)
Hair Pins (Item 16).
3.5 ASSEMBLE TUBES
3.5.1. Assemble the Upper (Item 6) and Lower (Item 7) T ubes using the (3) #10-24 x
.75 Hex Washer Head Screws (It em 8) , (3) #10 washers (Item 9), and (3) #1024 Nyloc Nuts (Item 10). Screw head should be installed to the inside of the
tube to provide minimum obstruction to f low. Make sure the hole with the ar r ow
on the Upper Tube aligns with the dimple in the Lower Tube to place t he turnout
on the Upper Tube in the correct position.
For units with a 44” deck: Slide the upper tube over the lower tube until edge
of upper tube matches up with the dimple in lower tube labeled 44.
For units with a 48” deck: Slide Upper Tube over Lower Tube until edge of
Upper Tube matches up with the dimple in lower tube labeled 48.
For units with a 52” deck: Slide upper tube over Lower Tube until edge of
upper tube matches up with the dimple in the lower tube
3.6 INSTALL BLOWER ASSEMBLY
3.6.1. Remove the belt guide on the blower (Item 11). (See Fig ur e 8)
3.6.2. Install the belt (from the Dr ive Kit) ont o the Blower Assembly (Item 11) as shown.
9
FIGURE 8
BELT ROUTING
3.6.3. Reinstall the belt guide removed in Step 1.
3.6.4. Remove Discharge chute by pulling the hairpin and chute pivot pin (from the
Drive Kit installed in section 3.2).
3.6.5. Remove the Belt Cover on the right side of the deck . Install the Blower by
inserting the mounting pin int o t he tube welded to the rear corner of the deck .
Pivot the blower until the front pin engages the slot in the deck. Adjust t he
position of the front pin if necessary to engage the slot. Use t he lat c h t o lock the
blower in this position. Adjust tension on latch to draw blower up to deck, yet
allow release by hand.
3.6.6. Pull the idler release handle and install the belt in the upper groove of the deck
sheave.
3.6.7. Install the Belt Cover using the two knobs. Install t he dischar ge tube assembly by
slipping the upper end into the hood, then sliding the lower end over the blower
discharge opening. Use the latches to r etain the lower end to the blower.
3.6.8. Follow the operation instructions in Section 4 to run the unit. Run the unit with
the blades and blower engaged for 2 minutes. Disengage the blades, shut off
the motor, and remove the key.
3.6.9. Remove the belt cover and check to make sure that the belt is riding near the
center of the flat idler on the idler arm. If the belt is not riding near the center of
the idler, remove the blower, and bend the idler arm slightly. Reinstall the blower
and belt cover and perform steps 3.6.8 and 3.6.9 again to verify belt position.
3.7 ADJUSTMENTS:
Your Ultra Vac QDS was adjusted at the factory to operate properly. However, there are
two basic adjustments that can be made, should your unit require them:
3.7.1 Door closi ng: The closing of the door is controlled by the two hinge links (Figure
9 – A). The length of the hinge links can be changed to provide complete closing
of the door and reasonable forc e on t he handle t o lat ch or unlatch the door.
Lengthen the links to reduce the force. Shorten the links to increase the force.
The left and right sides m ust be appr oximat ely eq ual. With the door closed, bot h
links should be slightly tight t o minimize rattling.
3.7.2 Door openi ng: After adjusting the hing e links for door closing, t he hinge stops
(Figure 9 – B) can be adjusted to obtain m aximum door opening. The stop plates
should be adjusted so that the door link contact s t hem when the upper t ube of the
door frame is within .25” (6.4 mm) ± .125” (3.2 mm) from the lower lip of the
molded hood. Both left and right st ops m ust make contact when the door link arm
is at this position.
10
4. OPERATION
4.1 PRE-START
4.1.1 Read the operator’s manual for your mower and fam iliar ize yourself with all
controls before operating t he machine. Make sure that you understand the
controls, their locations, their functions, and their safety requirements.
4.1.2 Ensure the blower, belt cover, door m esh, tube and hopper are in good
condition, properly attached, and latched.
NOTE: When mowing in areas with sandy soil, use low lift blades on the cutting
deck and higher cutting heights to minimize wear on the blower component s.
4.2 MOWING
4.2.1 The Ult r a Vac QDS blower operates when deck drive is engaged. Be sure that
all persons are clear of the m ower deck bef ore engaging the cutting blades.
Set the throttle to “m idway” position. Pull out ward on t he PTO switch to the
“ROTATE” position. Accelerate to full throttle to begin mowing.
4.2.2 To disengage the PTO and blower, set the throttle to “midway” position. Push in
on the PTO switch to the “STOP” position to stop the cutting blades and blower.
The cutting blades will require a slightly longer amount of time t o com e to a
complete stop when the blower is installed on the deck. Verify that all rotation
indicators have stopped before clearing blower assembly or mower deck.
4.2.3 To em pt y the hopper , first shut off deck drive, Lift up on the handle to open the
door and empty the hopper. If the unit i s t o be dri ven onto a truck or t r ai ler
with the hopper full, always back the unit up the ramp. This will reduce the
chance of rearward tip up. See secti on 4. 4 Transporti ng f or addi t ional
information regarding loading a unit on a truck or t r ai l er.
FIGURE 9
11
4.2.4 Close and latch t he door before continuing mowing. Do not engage the cutt ing
blades while the door is in the open position.
4.3 BAGGER REMOVAL FOR SIDE DISCHARGE:
4.3.1 Disengage the PTO, stop engine and wait f or all moving parts to stop. Remove
spark plug wire(s) or remove key.
4.3.2 Remove the discharge tube by releasing the latch at the blower. Slide the tube
off the blower outlet and remove the upper end from the hopper.
4.3.3 Remove the Belt cover by loosening the knobs.
CAUTION
POTENTIAL HAZARD
♦ The deck sheave will become very hot
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
♦ Touching a hot deck sheave can cause severe burns.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
♦ Allow the deck sheave to cool completely before
removing the belt.
4.3.4. Pull the idler release handle and remove the belt from the upper groove of the
deck sheave.
4.3.5. Unlatch the front end of the blower. Pivot t he blower back and lift it off the deck.
4.3.6. Install the discharge chute using the chute pivot pin and hairpin ( See Figure 10).
22
21
FIGURE 10
DISCHARGE CHUTE INSTALLATION
4.3.7. Re-install the plastic belt cover and tighten the knobs.
4.3.8. Remove the hair pins and clevis pins holding the hopper assembly to the mount
weldment.
4.3.9. Lift the bag hopper assembly off t he mount.
4.3.10. Remove the hairpins and lift the fr ont weight(s) off of the mount plates.
Note: The portions of the Ul t r a Vac Q DS bagger t hat are not bol t ed t o t he mower
are designed to be installed or removed in their entirety. Do not operate the
mower wi t h only a portion of the Ultra Vac QDS installed.
4.3.11. The machine can now be used for side discharge mowing.
4.4 TRANSPORTING
4.4.1 Transporting a Unit: Use a heavy-duty trailer or truck t o transport the machine. Lock
brake and block wheels. Securely fasten the machine to the trailer or truck with
straps, chains, cable, or ropes. Be sure t hat t he trailer or truck has all necessary
lighting and marking as required by law. Secure a trailer with a safety chain.
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POTENTIAL HAZARD
♦ This unit does not have proper turn signals, lights, reflective
markings, or a slow moving vehicle emblem. These items
are required to drive on a public street or roadway.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
♦ Driving on a street or roadway without such equipment is
dangerous and can lead to accidents causing personal injury.
♦ Driving on a street or roadway without such equipment may
also be a violation of State laws and the operator may be
subject to traff ic tickets and/or fines.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
♦ Do not drive a unit on a public street or roadway.
CAUTION
POTENTIAL HAZARD
♦ Loading a unit on a trailer or truck increases the possibility of
backward tip-over.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
♦ Backward tip-over of the unit could cause serious injury or
death.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
♦ Use extreme caution when operating a unit on a ramp.
♦ Use only a single, full width ramp; DO NOT use individual ramps
for each side of the unit.
♦ If individual ramps must be used, use enough ramps to create
an unbroken ramp surface wider than the unit.
♦ DO NOT exceed a 15° angle between ramp and ground or
between ramp and trailer or truck.
♦ Avoid sudden acceleration while driving unit up a ramp to avoid
tipping backward.
♦ Avoid sudden deceleration while backing unit down a ramp to
avoid tipping backward.
Ramp should be long enough so that the angles between the ramp and t he ground
Loading a Unit: If the unit is to be dri ven onto a truck or t r ai ler with the hopper
full, always back the unit up the ramp. This will reduce the chance of rearward
tip up. Use extreme caution when loading units on trailer s or trucks. One f ull width
ramp that is wide enough to extend beyond the rear tires is requir ed instead of
individual ramps for each side of the unit. The lower rear section of the tractor frame
extends back between the rear wheels and serves as a stop for tipping backward.
Having a full width ramp provides a surface for the frame members to contact if the
unit starts to tip backward. If it is not possible to use one full width ramp, use enough
individual ramps to simulate a full width continuous ramp.
and the ramp and the trailer or tr uck do not exceed 15°. A steeper angle may cause
mower deck components to get caught as t he unit moves from ramp to trailer or
truck. Steeper angles m ay also cause the unit t o t ip backward. If loading on or near
a slope, position the trailer or truck so it is on the down side of the slope and the
ramp extends up the slope. This will minimize the ramp angle. The trailer or truck
should be as level as possible.
WARNING
DO NOT attempt to turn the unit while on the ramp, you may lose control and drive
off the side.
13
Avoid sudden acceleration when driving up a ramp and sudden deceleration when
backing down a ramp. Both maneuvers can cause the unit to tip backward. Dump
contents of hopper before t r anspor t. Do not transport the unit with the hopper full.
5. MAINTENANCE:
POTENTIAL HAZARD
♦ While maintenance or adjustments are being made,
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
♦ Accidental starting of the engine could seriously injure
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
♦ Remove the key from the ig nit ion switch and pull the
WARNING
someone could start the engine.
you or other bystanders.
wire(s) off the spark plug(s) before you do any
maintenance. Also push the wire(s) aside so it does
not accidentally contact the spark plug(s ) .
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
♦ The engine can become very hot.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
♦ Touching a hot engine can cause severe burns.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
♦ Allow the engine to cool completely before service or
making repairs around the eng ine area.
5.1 PERIODIC MAINTENANCE
5.1.3 Door cloth mesh: Service Interval: Daily. Inspect the cloth mesh for wear, tears or damage.
IMPORTANT: Before conducting any maintenance, disengage PTO, stop engine
and wait for all moving parts to st op. Remove spark plug wire(s) or remove key.
5.1.1 Blower Housing/Impeller: Service Interval: Daily.
Inspect for wear or damage daily. Replace or r epair worn part s as needed.
Note: When mowing in areas with sandy soil, use low lift blades on the cutting
deck and higher cutting heights to minimize wear on the blower component s.
5.1.2 Idler Bushings: Service Interval: 25 Hours.
Lubricate with 1-2 pumps of SAE No. 2 multi- pur pose grease.
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
♦ Under normal use the cloth mesh will deteriorate and
wear. Objects could exit through worn cloth mesh at
high speeds.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
♦ Thrown objects can cause serious injury or kill you or
bystanders.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
♦ Check the cloth mesh frequently for tears and holes.
Replace worn cloth mesh.
14
5.1.4 Belts. Service Interval: 50 Hours.
a) Inspect the belt position on the idler arm.
The idler arm may become bent dur ing use or transport. A bent idler ar m could
cause the belt to jump off of the idler and be damaged.
1) Make sure the belt cover is installed and run the blower for one to two minutes.
2) Shut of f t he deck dri ve, stop engine and wait for all moving parts to stop. Remove key. Remove the belt cover and check to make sure
that the belt is riding near the cent er of the flat idler on the idler ar m.
3) If the belt is not riding near the cent er of the idler, remove the blower,
and bend the idler arm slightly.
4) Reinstall t he blower and belt cover and r epeat steps 1-3 until the belt is
positioned near the center of the idler .
b) Inspect the belt for damage or wear. Replace belt with one of the following.
POTENTIAL HAZARD
♦ Operating engine parts, especially the muffler, become
extremely hot.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
♦ Severe burns can occur on contact.
♦ Debris, such as leaves, grass, brush, etc. can catch fire.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
♦ Allow engine parts, especially the muffler, to cool before
touching.
♦ Remove accumulated debris from muffler and engine area.
♦ Install and maintain in working order a spark arrester before
using equipment on forest-covered, grass-covered, brushcovered unimproved land.
Service Interval: Daily
5.2 ADJUSTMENTS
3.7.1 Door cl osing: The closing of the door is cont rolled by the two hinge links (Figure
3.7.2 Door openi ng: After adjusting the hing e links for door closing, t he hinge stops
15
Your Ultra Vac QDS was adjusted at the fact or y to oper at e pr operly. However, there are
two basic adjustments that can be made, should your unit require them:
9 – A). The length of the hinge links can be changed to provide complete closing
of the door and reasonable forc e on t he handle t o lat ch or unlatch the door.
Lengthen the links to reduce the force. Shorten the links to increase the force.
The left and right sides m ust be appr oximat ely eq ual. With the door closed, bot h
links should be slightly tight t o minimize rattling.
(Figure 9 – B) can be adjusted to obtain m aximum door opening. The stop plates
should be adjusted so that the door link contact s t hem when the upper t ube of the
door frame is within .25” (6.4 mm) ± .125” (3.2 mm) from the lower lip of the
molded hood. Both left and right st ops m ust make contact when the door link arm
is at this position.
6. Tips and Troubleshooting
Your Exmark Ultra Vac QDS has been designed to be t he m ost productive bagging system on
the market. The following tips have been collected to help you get the most out of your Ult r a
Vac QDS right from the st ar t.
6.1 When mowing in areas with sandy soil, use low lift blades on the cutting deck and
higher cutting heights t o minimize wear on the blower components.
6.2 When mowing in wet conditions, such as just af ter a rain or in heavy dew, use low
lift blades on the cutting deck to minimize plugging of t he blower.
6.3 When the bags g et full, the sound of the blower will change and there will be slight
blowout from the front right corner of the deck . Emptying the bags at this point will
minimize the potential for the tube to plug.
6.4 If there is excessive blowout from the deck, check t o make sure that the rear
screen in the hood is clear of grass build up. I t is recommended that the screen
and mesh portions of the bags be cleaned regularly to maintain proper air flow.
This is especially important in wet conditions.
6.5 During dry conditions check engine air cleaners and clean cooling f ins mor e
frequently. The Ultr a Vac QDS has been designed to minimize the impact of dust
and debris on the mower, but bagging can be a dir t y environment.
6.6 During dry conditions, switching to a lower lift blade may reduce blowout without
hurting quality of cut.
6.7 Maintaining a ground speed that does not pull down the engine RPM will allow for
the highest productivity and best quality of cut . Bogging the engine RPM down by
going too fast will cause plugg ing and quality of cut issues.
6.8 When storing t he Ult ra Vac QDS, it is recommended that any build up in the
blower be cleaned out. Dry grass build up may cause problems with the impeller
when the unit is put back into operation.
6.9 If the blower drive belt snaps or breaks frequently, check the alignment of the idler
arm per section 5. An arm that is bent out of position can cause the belt to jump
off of the idler and be cut by the sheaves.
6.10 If the idler pulley contacts the deck sheave, check the alignment of the idler arm
per section 5. Also check the mounting t ube on t he deck and the mounting pin on
the blower for bending or excessive wear. This condition is more lik ely to occur
with smaller deck sizes.
6.11 T he condit ion of the belt drive is critical to proper operat ion. A sticking idler arm or
worn belt may cause plugging or blowout. Replace the belt when the idler arm is
riding on or near the stop.
6.12 Anti- blowout k it s are available for leaf collection. They help to pr event “ chasing”
the leaves. To reduce “plowing” leaves, raise the deck slightly.
16
7. Limited Warranty
Exmark Turf Equipment
Conditions and Products Covered
Exmark Mfg. Co. Inc. and its affiliate, Exmark Warranty
Company, pursuant to an agreement between them, jointly
warrant on the terms and conditions herein, that we will repair,
replace or adjust any part manufactured by Exmark and found
by us (in the exercise of our reasonable discretion) to be
defective in factory materials or workmanship.
This warranty applies to Exmark turf equipment sold in the US
or Canada. This warranty may only be assigned or transferred
to a second (or third) owner by an authorized Exmark dealer.
The warranty period commences upon the date of the original
retail purchase.
Products
• All Products (except as noted below) 1 year (90 days for rental use)
• Peerless 5-speed transmission 1 year (extended beyond manufacturer’s warranty of 90 days)
• Frame, Hydrostatic Traction System,
Electric Clutch and Exmark supplied Mufflers 2 years
• Blade Spindle Assy and Deck Jackshaft Assy 3 years (1 year parts and labor, with additional 2 years parts only)
• Belts and Tires 90 days
• Battery Refer to the battery manufacturer’s
warranty in the literature packet
• Engine* Warranty is covered by engine manufacturer
*Please refer to the engine manufacturer’s warranty statement
that is included in the literature packet. We are not authorized
to handle warranty adjustments on engines.
This warranty only includes the cost of parts and labor.
This warranty does not cover the following:
• Pickup and delivery charges to and from any authorized
Exmark Service Dealer.
• Any damage or deterioration due to normal use, wear and
tear, or exposure.
• Cost of regular maintenance service or parts, such as
filters, fuel, lubricants, tune-up parts, and adjustments.
• Any product or part which has been altered or misused or
required replacement or repair due to normal wear,
accidents, or lack of proper maintenance.
• Any repairs necessary due to use of parts, accessories or
supplies, including gasoline, oil or lubricants, incompatible
with the turf equipment or other than as recommended in
the operator's manual or other operational instructions
provided by Exmark.
All warranty work must be performed by an authorized Exmark
Service Dealer using Exmark approved replacement parts.
1. Contact any Exmark Service Dealer to arrange service at
their dealership. To locate a dealer convenient to you,
access our website at www.exmark.com. U.S. Customers
may also call 402-223-6375.
2. Bring the product and your proof of purchase (sales
receipt) to the Exmark Service Dealer.
If for any reason you are dissatisfied with the Service Dealer’s
analysis or with the assistance provided, contact us at:
Warranty Period
Items and Conditions Not Covered
Instructions for Obtaining Warranty Service
Exmark Customer Service Department
The Exmark Warranty Company
2101 Ashland Avenue
Beatrice, NE 68310
402-223-6375 or
service@exmark.com
Owner’s Responsibilities
The Exmark turf equipment, including any defective part,
must be returned to an authorized Exmark service dealer
within the warranty period. This warranty extends only to
turf equipment operated under normal conditions. You
must properly service and maintain your Exmark product
as described in the operator’s manual. Such routine
maintenance, whether performed by a dealer or by you, is
at your expense.
As a condition to this warranty, customer shall have read
the operator's manual and shall have completed and
submitted to Exmark Warranty Company, within the
prescribed time, the Exmark warranty registration.
General Conditions
The sole liability of Exmark and Exmark Warranty Company
with respect to this warranty shall be repair and replacement
as set forth herein. Neither Exmark nor Exmark Warra n t y
Company shall have any liability for any other cost, loss
or damage, including but not limited to, any incidental
or consequential loss or damage.
In particular, we shall have no liability or responsibility for:
• Expenses related to gasoline, oil or lubricants.
• Travel time, overtime, after hours time or other
extraordinary repair charges or charge relating to repairs
or replacements outside of normal business hours at the
place of business of the authorized Exmark service
dealer.
• Rental of like or similar replacement equipment during
the period of any warranty, repair or replacement work.
• Any telephone or telegram charges or travel charges.
• Loss or damage to person or property other than that
covered by the terms of this warranty.
• Any claims for lost revenue, lost profit or additional cost
as a result of a claim of breach of warranty.
• Attorney's fees.
No Claim of breach of warranty shall be cause for
cancellation or rescission of the contract of sale of any
Exmark mower.
There are no understandings, agreements,
representations, or warranties, express or implied,
including but not limited to any regarding the
merchantability (that product is fit for ordinary use) or
fitness for use (that product is fit for a particular purpose),
not specified herein, respecting the equipment which is
the subject of this warranty.
Some states do not allow exclusions of incidental or
consequential damages, or limitations on how long an
implied warranty lasts, so the above exclusions and
limitations may not apply to you.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may
also have other rights which vary from state to state.