Husqvarna YTH2454T, 917279220 Owner’s Manual

Husqvarna

91 7.279220

(YTH2454T)

Owner's Manual

Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers

SAFETY RULES &

DANGER: THIS CUTTINGMACHINEIS CAPABLEOF AMPUTATINGHANDSAND FEETAND THROWINGOBJECTS. FAILURE

TO OBSERVETHE FOLLOWINGSAFETY INSTRUCTIONSCOULDRESULTIN SERIOUS INJURYOR DEATH.

• Donot operate machine without the entire grass catcher,

WARNING: In order to prevent ac- cidental starting when setting up,

transporting, adjusting or making re- pairs, always disconnect spark plug

wire and place wire where it cannot

contact spark plug.

I_ WARNING: Do not coast down a hill I

in neutral, you may lose control of the tractor.

WARNING: Tow only the attachments that are recommended by and com-

fply with specifications of the manu-

acturer of your tractor. Use common sense when towing. Operate only at the lowest possible speed when on a slope. Too heavy of a load, while on a slope, is dangerous. Tires can lose

traction with the ground and cause you to lose control of your tractor.

WARNING

Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and cer- tain 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.

I. 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 ofobjects 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 operat- ing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area,

• Never carry passengers.

• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while back-

ing,

• Never direct discharged material toward anyone. Avoid discharging material against awall or obstruction, Ma- terial may ricochet back toward the operator, Stop the

blades when crossing gravel surfaces,

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 artificial light.

• Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing road- ways.

• Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into a trailer or truck,

• Always wear eye protection when operating ma- chine.

• Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above, are involved in a large percentage of riding mower-re- lated 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,

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves or other debris build-up which can touch hot exhaust / engine parts and burn, Do not allow the mower deck to plow leaves

or other debris which can cause build-up to occur, Clean any oil or fuel spillage before operating or storing the machine. Allow machine to cool before storage,

II. 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, 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 or shift while on the slope.

• Do not mow on wet grass. Tires may lose traction. Always keep the machine in gear when going down

slopes, Do not shift to neutral and coast downhill,

• Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a slope, If the tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed

slowly straight down the slope.

• Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual.

Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction,

which could cause the 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 no use on steep slopes,

• Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your 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.

Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers

SAFETY RULES &

II1. 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 inthe 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,

IV. TOWING

• Tow only with a machine that has a hitch designed for towing. Do not attach towed equipment except at the

hitch point,

• Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for weight

limits for towed equipment and towing on slopes.

• Never allow children or others in or on towed equip-

ment.

• On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment may cause loss of traction and loss of control.

• Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop,

V. SERVICE

SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE Toavoid personal injury or property damage, use extreme

care in handling gasoline, Gasoline isextremely flammable 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 run-

ning. Allow engine to cool before refueling,

• Never fuel the machine indoors.

• Never store the machine or fuel container where there

isan open flame, spark, or pilot light such as on a water heater or other appliances,

• Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer bed with plastic liner, Always place containers

on the ground away from your vehicle when filling,

• Remove gas-powered equipment from the truck ortrailer and refuel it on the ground, If this is not possible, then

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 atall times untilfueling iscomplete,

Do not use a nozzle lock-open device,

• If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing immedi- ately.

• Never overfill fuel tank. Replace gas cap and tighten

securely.

GENERAL SERVICE

• 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 build-up. 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 rec-

ommended 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,

• Be sure the area is clear of bystanders before operat- ing, Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

• Never carry passengers.

• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary, Always look down and behind before and while back-

ing,

• 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,

• Keep children out ofthe mowing area and inthe 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.

• Mow up and down slopes (15° Max), not across,

• Choose a low ground speed so that you will not have to stop or shift while on the slope.

• Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a slope. If the tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed

slowly straight down the slope,

• If machine stops while going uphill, disengage blades, shift into reverse and back down slowly.

• Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Gasoline Capacity 4 Gallons and type: Unleaded Regular

Oil Type (API-SG-SL): SAE 30 (above 32°F)

SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F)

Oil Capacity: W/Filter: 64 oz.

W/O Filter: 60 oz.

Spark Plug: Champion QC12YC (Gap: .040")

Ground Speed (MPH): Forward: 0 - 5.8

Reverse: 0 - 2.1

Charging System: 16 AMPS @ 3600 RPM Battery: AMP/HR: 35

MIN. CCA: 280 Case Size: U1R

Blade Bolt Torque: 45-55FT. LBS.

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new tractor,

Ithas been designed, engineered and manufactured to give

you the best possible dependability and performance.

Should you experience any problem you cannot easily rem- edy, please contact your nearest authorized servicecenter/ department We have competent, well-trained representa- tives and the proper tools to service or repair this tractor.

Please read and retain this manual. The instructions will enable you to assemble and maintain your tractor properly.

Always observe the "SAFETY RULES",

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and observe the safety rules,

• Follow a regular schedule in maintaining, caring for and using your tractor.

• Followtheinstructionsunder"Maintenance"and"Stor- age" sections of this owner's manual,

WARNING: This tractor isequipped with an internal com- bustion engine and should not be used on or near any un- improved forest-covered, brush-covered 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,

In the state of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws, Federal laws apply

on federal lands, A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your

nearest authorized service center/department (See RE- PAIR PARTS section of this manual),

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SAFETY RULES ......................................................... 2-3

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS ....................................... 4

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ................................. 4

ASSEMBLY ................................................................. 6-9

OPERATION ........................................................... 10-16

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ...................................... 17

MAINTENANCE ..................................................... 17-20

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS ............................ 21-25

STORAGE .................................................................... 26

TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................ 27-28

REPAIR PARTS ...................................................... 30-50

WARRANTY ................................................................. 44

UNASSEMBLED PARTS

Mower M_er Front Wheel

(_) I__e Fi'e_,Jner

3prings-7/16

(2) 3rr_.ller RetaJner

3prir_s - _16

(1) 31# O.D. W_shers

(5-)1-3/t60.D. _'ashers

RearUft Unk

,kssentlie_

(1) W I'eel

(1) Shoulder Bolt

For Future U_a

Keys

(2) I,.te__

(t) t- t/40.D. '_=_sher

(1)Locknut

3_-16

Slope Sheet

ASSEMBLY

Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping pur-

poses.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

A socket wrench set will make assembly easier. Standard wrench sizes are listed.

(1) 3/4" wrench (1) Utility knife (1) 9/16" wrench (1) Pliers

(1) Tire Pressure Gauge

When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, it

means from your point of view, when you are in the operat- ing position (seated behind the steering wheel).

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM

CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

• Remove all accessible loose parts and parts cartons from carton.

• Cut along dashed lines on all four panels of carton. Remove end panels and lay side panels flat.

• Remove mower and packing materials.

• Check for any additional loose parts or cartons and remove.

CHECK BATTERY (See Fig. 1)

• Lift hood to raised position.

NOTE: Ifthis battery isput into service after month and year indicated on label (L) (label is located between terminals)

charge battery for minimum of one hour at 6-10 amps.

(See "BATTERY" in Maintenance section of this manual

for charging instructions).

NOTE: You may now roll or drive your tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate instruction below to remove the

tractor from the skid.

_, WARNING: Before starting, read, understand and follow

all instructions in the Operation section of this manual. Be sure tractor is in a well-ventilated area. Be sure the area in

front of tractor is clear of other people and objects.

TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Op- eration section for location and function of

controls)

• Raise attachment lift lever to its highest position.

• Release parking brake by depressing brake pedal.

• Place freewheel control in disengaged position to dis- engage transmission (See "TO TRANSPORT" in the Operation section of this manual).

• Roll tractor forward off skid.

FIG. 2

FIG. 1

ADJUST SEAT (See Fig. 2)

• Sit in seat.

• Lift up adjustment lever (A) and slide seat until a com- fortable position is reached which allows you to press clutch/brake pedal all the way down.

• Release lever to lock seat in position.

TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Op- eration section for location and function of

controls)

• Be sure all the above assembly steps have been com- pleted.

• Check engine oil level and fill fuel tank with gasoline.

• Place freewheel control in "transmission engaged" position (see "TO TRANSPORT" in Operation section

of this manual).

• Sit on seat in operating position, depress brake pedal and set the parking brake.

• Raise attachment lift lever to its highest position.

• Remove key from bag and start the engine (see "TO START" in the Operation section of this manual). After engine has started, move throttle control to idle (slow) position.

• Release parking brake.

• Slowly depress forward drive pedal and drive tractor off skid.

• Apply brake to stop tractor and set parking brake.

• Turn ignition key to "STOP" position.

Continue with the instructions that follow.

ASSEMBLY

ASSEMBLE FRONT WHEEL TO MOWER (See Fig. 3)

• Using shoulder bolt, washer and Iocknut from parts bag, assemble front wheel to mower as shown, Tighten

securely.

FIG. 5

FIG. 3

INSTALL MOWER AND DRIVE BELT

(See Figs. 4-12)

See MOWER AND DRIVE BELT ASSEMBLY Supplement Sheet for additional guidance on this assembly.

Be sure tractor is on level surface and engage parking brake,

• Lower attachment lift lever to it's lowest position.

I& CAUTION: Liftlever is spring loaded. Have

• Turn steering wheel to the left as far as it will go and position mower on right side of tractor with deflector shield to the right,

a tight grip on lift lever, lower it slowly and engage in lowest position,

NOTE: Be sure mower side suspension arms (A) are point- ing forward before sliding mower under tractor,

• Slide mower under tractor until it is centered under tractor,

• FIRST INSTALL ANTI-SWAY BAR (S),

- From right side of mower, insert anti-sway bar into

hole in transmission bracket (T).

FIG. 6

- Pivot bar towards you and insert other end of bar

into hole in rear mower bracket (D), Move mower as needed to insert bar.

- Secure with washer and retainer spring as shown

using small 5/16 retainer spring.

FIG. 4

Remove plastic tie securing belt, bring belt forward

and check belt for proper routing in all mower pulley grooves.

FIG. 7

ASSEMBLY

• ATTACH MOWER SIDE SUSPENSION ARMS (A) TO • CHASSIS - Position hole in arm over pin (B) on outside

of tractor chassis and secure with washer and retainer • spring. Repeat on opposite side of tractor.

FIG. 8

• ATTACH REAR LIFT LINKS (C) - Insert rod end of lift link assembly into hole in tractor lift shaft suspension arm (L) and pivot link down to mower. Lift rear corner

of mower and position slot in link assembly over pin on rear mower bracket (D) and secure with washer and retainer spring.

• Repeat on opposite side of tractor.

Turn steering wheel to position wheels straight for- ward.

ATTACH FRONT LINK (E) - Work from left side of tractor. Insert rod end of link assembly through front hole in tractor front suspension bracket (F) and secure with7/16 retainer spring (G) through hole in link located

behind the bracket.

Insert other end of link (E) into hole in front mower bracket (H) and secure with washer and 5/16 retainer spring (J).

FIG. 10

• Disengage belt tension rod (K) from locking bracket (L).

• Install belt onto engine clutch pulley (M).

IMPORTANT: Check belt for proper routing in all mower pulley grooves.

FIG. 9

02937

FIG. 11

ASSEMBLY

FIG. 12

Engage belt tension rod (K) on locking bracket (L),

CAUTION: Belt tension rod is spring

loaded, Have a tight grip on rod and en-

gage slowly.

Raise attachment lift lever to highest position. If necessary, adjust gauge wheels before operating

mower as shown in the Operation section of this manual,

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

The tires on your tractor were overinflated at the factory for shipping purposes, Correct tire pressure is important

for best cutting performance.

• Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown on tires,

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS

For best cutting results, mower housing should be properly leveled, See "TOLEVEL MOWER HOUSING" inthe Service

and Adjustments section of this manual,

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF ALL BELTS

See the figures that are shown for replacing motion and mower blade drive belts in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual, Verify that the belts are routed correctly.

,/CHECKLIST

BEFORE YOU OPERATE YOUR NEW TRACTOR, WE

WISH TO ASSURE THATYOU RECEIVE THE BEST PER-

FORMANCE AND SATISFACTION FROM THIS QUALITY PRODUCT.

PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING CHECKLIST:

,/ All assembly instructions have been completed. ,/ No remaining loose parts in carton.

,/ Battery is properly prepared and charged. ,/ Seat is adjusted comfortably and tightened securely. ,/ All tires are properly inflated. (For shipping purposes,

the tires were overinflated at the factory).

,/ Be sure mower deck is properly leveled side-to-side/

front-to-rear for best cutting results. (Tires must be properly inflated for leveling).

,/ Check mower and drive belts. Be sure they are routed

properly around pulleys and inside all belt keepers.

,/ Check wiring. See that all connections are still secure

and wires are properly clamped.

,/ Before driving tractor, be sure freewheel control is in

"transmission engaged" position (see "TO TRANS- PORT" in the Operation section of this manual).

WHILE LEARNING HOWTO USE YOUR TRACTOR, PAY

EXTRA ATTENTION TOTHE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT ITEMS:

,/ Engine oil is at proper level. ,/ Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean, regular unleaded

gasoline.

,/ Become familiar with all controls, their location and

function. Operate them before you start the engine. ,/ Be sure brake system is in safe operating condition. ,/ Be sure Operator Presence System and Reverse Op-

eration System (ROS) are working properly (See the

Operation and Maintenance sections in this manual). ,/ It is important to purge the transmission before oper-

ating your tractor for the first time. Follow proper start-

ing and transmission purging instructions (See "TO

START ENGINE" and "PURGE TRANSMISSION" in

the Operation section of this manual).

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM

After you learn how toope rate you rtractor, check to see that the brake is operating properly. See "TO CHECK BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual,

OPERATION

These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product, Learn and understand their mean-

ing,

REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH SLOW

L I\l

LOW CHOKE FAST

ENGINE OFF REVERSE ENGINE ON PARKING BRAKE MOWER HEIGHT

LIGHTS ON FUEL BATTERY REVERSE FORWARD CRUISE CONTROL

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

(Automatic Models only)

OPERATION

SYSTEM (ROS)

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH ENGAGED

FREE WHEEL

ENGINE START

DANGER, KEEP HANDS

AND FEET AWAY

DANGER indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

WARNING indicates a hazard which, if not avoided could result in death or serious injury.

CAUTION indicates a hazard which, if not avoided might result in minor or moderate injury.

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

IGNITION SWITCH

MOWER LIFT

CLUTCH/BRAKE

PEDAL

Failure to follow instructions

could result in serious injury or death. The safety alert symbol

is used to identify safety inform- ation about hazards which can

result in death, serious injury and/or property damage.

,_hllll_I!_£1,,

CAUTION when used without the alert symbol, indicates a situation that could result in damage

to the tractor and/or engine.

HOT SURFACES indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, could result in death, serious injury and/or property damage.

FIRE indicates a hazard which, if not avoided,

could result in death, serious injury and/or

property damage.

OPERATION

KNOW YOUR TRACTOR

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR TRACTOR

Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of various controls and adjustments, Save this manual for future reference,

Our tractors conform to the applicable safety standards of the American National Standards Institute.

(A) ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER - Used to raise and lower the mower or other attachments mounted to your tractor.

(B) BRAKE PEDAL - Used for braking the tractor and starting the engine. (C) PARKING BRAKE - Locks clutch/brake pedal into the brake position.

(D) THROTTLE CONTROL - Used to control engine speed. (E) ATTACHMENT CLUTCH SWITCH - Used to engage the mower blades, or other attachments mounted to your tractor. (F) IGNITION SWITCH - Used for starting and stopping the engine.

(G) REVERSE OPERATION SYSTEM (ROS) "ON" POSITION

- Allows operation of mower or other powered attachment while in reverse.

03005

FIG. 13

(H) LIGHT SWITCH -Turns the headlights on and off. (J) CRUISE CONTROL LEVER - Used to set forward

movement of tractor at desired speed without holding the forward drive pedal. (K) FORWARD DRIVE PEDAL - Used for forward movement

of tractor. (L) REVERSE DRIVE PEDAL - Used for reverse movement of

tractor. (M) FREEWHEEL CONTROL - Disengages transmission for

pushing or slowly towing the tractor with the engine off. (N) CHOKE CONTROL - Used when starting a cold engine.

(P) SERVICE REMINDER / HOUR METER - Indicates when service is required for the engine and mower.

(Q) 12-VOLT POWER PORT - Used for 12-volt acces-

sories.

OPERATION

The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result

in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recommend standard safety glasses or a wide vision safety mask worn over spectacles.

HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR

TO SET PARKING BRAKE(See Fig. 14)

Your tractor is equipped with an operator presence sens-

ing switch, When engine is running, any attempt by the

operator to leave the seat without first setting the parking

brake will shut off the engine.

• Depress brake pedal (B) all the way down and hold,

• Pull parking brake lever (C) up and hold, release pres- sure from brake pedal (B), then release parking brake lever, Pedal should remain in brake position, Make

sure parking brake will hold tractor secure,

FIG. 14

STOPPING

MOWER BLADES

• To stop mower blades, push attachment clutch switch in to disengaged position (O),

IMPORTANT: Leaving the ignition switch in any position other than "STOP" will cause the battery to discharge and

go dead, NOTE: Under certain conditions when tractor is standing

idle with the engine running, hot engine exhaust gases may cause "browning" of grass, To eliminate this possibility, al-

ways stop engine when stopping tractor on grass areas.

I_IL CAUTION: Always stop tractor com- I

pletely, as described above, before

reaving the operator's position.

FIG. 16

TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL (See Fig. 16)

Always operate engine at full speed (fast).

• Operating engine at less than full speed (fast) reduces engines operating efficiency.

• Full speed (fast) offers the best bagging and mower performance,

(I) ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH SWITCH) PULL OUT TO "ENGAGE"

FIG. 15

GROUND DRIVE -

• To stop ground drive, depress brake pedal all the way down.

ENGINE -

• Move throttle control (D) between half and full speed (fast) position.

NOTE: Failure to move throttle control between half and

full speed (fast) position, before stopping, may cause en- gine to "backfire".

• Turn ignition key (F) to "STOP" position and remove key. Always remove key when leaving tractor to prevent

unauthorized use.

• Never use choke (N) to stop engine.

(O) PUSH-IN TO "DISENGAGED"

TO USE CHOKE CONTROL -D (See Fig. 16)

Use choke control whenever you are starting a cold engine, Do not use to start a warm engine,

• To engage choke control, pull knob out. Slowly push knob in to disengage.

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD -N

(See Fig. 17)

The direction and speed of movement is controlled by the forward and reverse drive pedals.

• Start tractor and release parking brake,

• Slowly depress forward (K) or reverse (L) drive pedal to begin movement. Ground speed increases the further down the pedal is depressed.

OPERATION

FIG. 17

TO USE CRUISE CONTROL-J (See Fig. 17)

The cruise control feature can be used for forward travel only.

SYSTEM CHARACTERISTICS The cruise control should only be used while mowing or

transporting on relatively smooth, straight surfaces. Other conditions such as trimming at slow speeds may cause the cruise control to disengage. Do not use the cruise control on slopes, rough terrian or while trimmimg or turning.

• With forward drive pedal depressed to desired speed, pull cruise control lever (J) up and hold while lifting

your foot off the pedal, then release the lever.

To disengage the cruise control, depress the brake pedal or tap on forward drive pedal.

The average lawn should be cut to approximately 2-1/2

inches during the cool season and to over 3 inches during hot months. For healthier and better looking lawns, mow often and after moderate growth.

For best cutting performance, grass over 6 inches in height should be mowed twice. Make the first cut relatively high; the second to desired height.

TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS (See Fig. 19)

Gauge wheels are properly adjusted when they are slightly

off the ground when mower is at the desired cutting height

in operating position. Gauge wheels then keep the deck in proper position to help prevent scalping in most terrain

conditions.

NOTE: Adjust gauge wheels with tractor on a flat level surface.

• Adjust mower to desired cutting height (See "TO AD- JUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT" in this section of

manual).

• With mower in desired height of cut position, gauge wheels should be assembled so they are slightly off the ground. Install gauge wheel in appropriate hole. Tighten securely.

• Repeat for all, installing gauge wheel in same adjust- ment hole.

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT

(See Fig. 18)

The position of the attachment lift lever (A) determines the cutting height.

FIG. 18

• Put attachment lift lever in desired cutting height slot. The cutting height range is approximately 1" to 4". The

heights are measured from the ground to the blade tip with the engine not running. These heights are approximate and

may vary depending upon soil conditions, height of grass and types of grass being mowed.

FIG.19

TO OPERATE MOWER

Your tractor is equipped with an operator presence sensing

switch. Any attempt by the operator to leave the seat with the engine running and the attachment clutch engaged will shut off the engine.You must remain fully and centrally

positioned in the seat to prevent the engine from hesitating or cutting off when operating your equipment on rough,

rolling terrain or hills.

1. Select desired height of cut with attachment lift lever.

2. Start mower blades by engaging attachment clutch

control.

TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disengage attachment clutch control.

CAUTION: Do not operate the mower

without either the entire grass catcher, on mowers soequipped, or the deflector shield (S) in place.

OPERATION

02940

FIG. 20

REVERSE OPERATION SYSTEM (ROS)

Your tractor is equipped with a Reverse Operation System

(ROS), Any attempt by the operator to travel in the reverse direction with the attachment clutch engaged will shut off the engine unless ignition key is placed in the ROS "ON"

position, _WARNING: Backing up with the attachment clutch en-

gaged while mowing is strongly discouraged, Turning the

ROS "ON", to allow reverse operation with the attachment clutch engaged, should only be done when the operator decides it is necessary to reposition the machine with the attachment engaged, Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary.

USING THE REVERSE OPERATION SYSTEM -

Only use ifyou are certain no children or other bystanders will enter the mowing area,

• Depress brake pedal all the way down,

• With engine running, turn ignition key counterclockwise

to ROS "ON" position.

• Look down and behind before and while backing.

• Slowly depress reverse drive pedal to start move-

ment,

• When use of the ROS is no longer needed, turn the

ignition key clockwise to engine "ON" position,

ROS "ON" POSITION ENGINE "ON" POSITION

(NORMAL OPERATING)

• To restart movement, slowly release parking brake and brake pedal.

• Slowly depress appropriate drive pedal to slowest set- ting,

• Make all turns slowly.

TO TRANSPORT (See Figs. 13 and 21)

When pushing or towing your tractor, be sure to disengage transmission by placing freewheel control in freewheeling position, Free wheel control is located at the rear drawbar

of tractor,

• Raise attachment lift to highest position with attachment lift control,

• Pull freewheel control out and down into the slot and

release so it is held in the disengaged position.

• Do not push or tow tractor at more than two (2)

MPH.

• To reengage transmission, reverse above procedure.

NOTE: To protect hood from damage when transporting

your tractor on a truck or a trailer, be sure hood is closed

and secured to tractor, Use an appropriate means of tying hood to tractor (rope, cord, etc.).

Transmission Engaged

Transmission Disengaged

FIG. 21

SERVICE REMINDER/HOUR METER

Service reminder shows the total number of hours the engine has run and flashes to indicate that the engine

or mower needs servicing, When service is reguired, the service reminder will flash for two hours. Toservice engine

and mower, see the Maintenance section of this manual. NOTE: Service reminder runs when the ignition key is in

any position but STOP, For accurate reading., be sure key remains in the "STOP" position when engine is not

running.

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

I_ CAUTION: Donotdriveupordownhills

• Choose the slowest speed before starting upor down hills,

• Avoid stopping or changing speed on hills,

• If stopping is absolutely necessary, push brake pedal quickly to brake position and engage parking brake,

with slopes greater than 15°and do not

drive across any slope.

TOWING CARTS AND OTHER ATTACHMENTS

Tow only the attachments that are recommended by and comply with specifications of the manufactu rer ofyour trac- tor, Use common sense when towing,Too heavy of a load,

while on a slope, is dangerous,Tires can lose traction with the ground and cause you to lose control of your tractor,

OPERATION

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE

CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL

The engine in your tractor has been shipped, from the factory, already filled with summer weight oil.

• Check engine oil with tractor on level ground,

• Remove oil fill cap/dipstick andwipe clean, reinsert the

dipstick and screw cap tight, wait for a few seconds,

remove and read oil level. If necessary, add oil until

"FULl" mark on dipstick is reached, Do not overfill,

• For cold weather operation you should change oil for easier starting (See "OIL VISCOSITY CHART" in the

Maintenance section of this manual).

• To change engine oil, see the Maintenance section in this manual,

ADD GASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank to bottom of filler neck. Do not overfill, Use

fresh, clean, regular unleaded gasoline with aminimum of 87 octane, (Use of leadedgasoline will increasecarbon and lead oxide deposits and reduce valve life). Do not

mix oil with gasoline, Purchase fuel in quantities that can be used within 30 days to assure fuel freshness,

I& CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or I

IMPORTANT: WHEN OPERATING IN TEMPERATURES BELOW32°F(0°C), USE FRESH, CLEAN WINTER GRADE

GASOLINE TO HELP INSURE GOOD COLD WEATHER STARTING.

CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or

using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to separation and formation of acids during

storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of anengine while instorage. 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 next season. See Storage

Instructions for additional information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.

TO START ENGINE (See Fig. 13)

When starting the engine for the first time or if the engine

has run out of fuel, it will take extra cranking time to move fuel from the tank to the engine.

• Be surefreewheel control is inthe transmission engaged

position,

• Sit on seat in operating position, depress brake pedal and set parking brake.

• Move attachment clutch to "DISENGAGED" position.

• Move throttle control to fast position

• Pull choke control out for a cold engine start attempt.

Fora warm engine start attempt the choke control may not be needed,

NOTE: Before starting, read the warm and cold starting procedures below.

fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline

near an open flame.

Insert key into ignition and turn key clockwise to"START" position and release key as soon as engine starts, Do not

run starter continuously for more than fifteen seconds per minute. If the engine does not start after several attempts, push choke control in, wait a few minutes and

try again, If engine still does not start, pull the choke control out and retry.

WARM WEATHER STARTING (50° F and above)

• When engine starts, slowly push choke control in until the engine begins to run smoothly. If the engine starts to run roughly, pull the choke control out slightly for a

few seconds and then continue to push the control in slowly.

• The attachments and ground drive can now be used, If the engine does not accept the load, restart the engine and allow it to warm up for one minute using the choke

as described above.

COLD WEATHER STARTING (50° F and below)

• When engine starts, slowly push choke control in until the engine begins to run smoothly, Continue to push the choke control in small steps allowing the engine to accept small changes in speed and load, until the choke

control is fully in. Ifthe engine starts to run roughly, pull

the choke control out slightly for a few seconds and then continue to push the control in slowly.This may require an engine warm-up period from several seconds to

several minutes, depending on the temperature.

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WARM UP

Before driving the unit in cold weather, the transmission should be warmed up as follows:

• Be sure the tractor is on level ground,

• Release the parking brake and let the brake slowly return to operating position,

• Allow one minute for transmission to warm up,This

can be done during the engine warm up period,

• Theattachmentscan beused during the engine warm-up period after the transmission has been warmed up and

may require the choke control be pulled out slightly.

NOTE: If at a high altitude (above 3000 feet) or in cold temperatures (below 32 F) the carburetor fuel mixture may

need to be adjusted for best engine performance. See "TO ADJUST CARBURETOR" in the Service and Adjustments

section of this manual,

PURGE TRANSMISSION

freewheel lever while the engine is run-

I_ AUTION: Never engage or disengage I

To ensure proper operation and performance, it is recom- mended that the transmission be purged before operating tractor for the first time. This procedure will remove any trapped air inside the transmission which may have de- veloped during shipping of your tractor,

IMPORTANT: SHOULD YOUR TRANSMISSION REQUIRE

REMOVALFOR SERVICE OR REPLACEMENT,IT SHOULD BEPURGEDAFTER REINSTALLATIONBEFOREOPERATING

THE TRACTOR.

• Place tractor safely on level surface with engine off and parking brake set.

ning.

OPERATION

• Disengage transmission by placing freewheel control in freewheeling position (See "TOTRANSPORT" in this section of manual),

• Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine. After the en- gine is running, move throttle control to slow position,

Disengage parking brake

• Depress forward drive pedal to full forward position, hold for five (5) seconds and release pedal. Depress reverse drive pedal to full reverse position, hold for five

(5) seconds and release pedal, Repeat this procedure three (3) times,

NOTE: During this procedure there will be no movement

of drive wheels. The air is being removed from hydraulic drive system,

• Shut- off engine and set parking brake,

• Engage transmission by placing freewheel control in engaged position (See "TO TRANSPORT" in this sec-

tion of manual).

• Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine. After the engine is running, move throttle control to half (1/2) speed,

Disengage parking brake,

• Drive tractor forward for approximately five feet then backwards for five feet. Repeat this driving procedure

three times,

Your transmission is now purged and now ready for normal operation,

(

FIG. 22

• If grass is extremely tall, it should be mowed twice to reduce load and possible fire hazard from dried clip-

pings. Make first cut relatively high; the second to the desired height,

• Do not mow grass when it is wet. Wet grass will plug

mower and leave undesirable clumps, Allow grass to dry before mowing.

• Always operate engine at full throttle when mow-

ing to assure better mowing performance and proper discharge of material, Regulate ground speed by se-

lecting a low enough gear to give the mower cutting performance as well as the quality of cut desired,

• When operating attachments, select a ground speed

that will suit the terrain and give best performance of the attachment being used,

MOWING TIPS

• Mower should be properly leveled for best mowing per- formance, See"TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the

Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

• The left hand side of mower should be used for trim- ming.

• Drive so that clippings are discharged onto the area that has been cut, Have the cut area to the right of the

machine. This will result in a more even distribution of clippings and more uniform cutting.

• When mowing large areas, start byturning tothe rightso that clippings will discharge away from shrubs, fences,

driveways, etc, After one or two rounds, mow in the opposite direction making left hand turns until finished (See Fig. 22),

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