Husqvarna 968999246-CZ4217 User Manual

Husqvarna

Operators Manual

Please read these instructions carefully and make

sure you understand them before using the machine.

MANUAL NO. 539110040 REV. IR (1/14/04)

Model:

968999245/ CZ3815 968999246/CZ4217

Congratulations on the purchase of your HUSQVARNA mower. This manual has been prepared

for the owners and operators of the models called out on the front cover of this manual. Read,

understand and follow the safety and operating instructions.

WARNING

Failure to follow cautious operating practices can result in serious injury to the operator or other per-

sons. The owner must understand these instructions, and must allow only trained persons who un- derstand these instructions to operate the mower. Each person operating the mower must be of sound mind and body and must not be under the influence of any mind altering substance.

CAUTION

1. Keep all shields, guards and safety devices in place and in proper working condition.

2. Stop engine and remove spark plug wires or remove key before adjusting, servicing, or performing maintenance.

GOOD SERVICE

Husqvarna products are sold all over the world and only in specialized retail stores with complete

service. This ensures that you as a customer receive only the best support and service. Before the

product is delivered, the machine has, for example, been inspected and adjusted by your retailer.

When you need spare parts or support in service questions, warranty issues, etc., please consult the following professional:

This Operator's Manual belongs to the Engine Transmission machine with manufacturing number:

WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of it's constituents, and certain vehicle components I

contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects I

or other reproductive harm. I

pounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and

I WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead com-

birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.

Continuous dedication to improve our products require that specifications and design are subject to change without notice.

Beatrice, NE. Printed in U.S.A.

CONTENTS

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS .................... 4

General use and safety rules ...... 4

Driving on slopes ........................ 4

Children safety ............................ 5

Service safety ............................. 5

Transportation ............................ 6

SPECIFICATIONS ................................. 7

ASSEMBLY ........................................... 8

Tools Required ............................ 8

Unpacking ................................... 8

Seat Attachment ......................... 8

Control Lever Attachment ........... 8-9

Check Tire Pressure .................. 10

V-Belts ........................................ 21

Engine ........................................ 21

Air Screen & Air Filter ................. 22

Oil Filter ...................................... 22

Spark Plugs ................................ 22

Fuel Filter .................................... 22

Cleaning ..................................... 22

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENT ............. 23

Mower ......................................... 23

Deck Level .................................. 23-24

Deck Belt Replacement ............. 24-25

EZT (E-Series Zeroturn

Transaxle) Belt Replacement ..... 25

Utility Box Installation .................. 10

Assembly Checklist .................... 10

OPERATION .......................................... 11

Controls ...................................... 11

Operation Instructions ................ 12-17

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ...... 18

Maintenance Schedule ............... 18

Lubrication Chart ........................ 19

Tires ........................................... 19

Operator Presence System ....... 19

Blade Care ................................. 19-20

Seat Adjustment ......................... 26

Control Levers Adjustment ......... 26

Wheel Removal .......................... 26

Jump Starting Engine ................. 26-27

Battery Replacement .................. 27

Park Brake .................................. 27

Tracking ...................................... 28

STORAGE ............................................. 29-30

TROUBLESHOOTING ......................... 31-32

Battery ........................................ 20-21

SAFETY RULES

SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES FOR RIDE-ON MOWERS

DANGER !

THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OFAMPUTATING HANDSAND FEETAND THROWING OBJECTS. FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD

RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

I. GENERAL OPERATION

Read, understand and follow all instruc-

tions in the manual and on the machine

before starting. Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the instructions, to operate the

machine. Clear the area of objects such as rocks,

stones, toys, wire, etc., which could be

picked up and thrown by the blades.

Be sure the area is clear of all people and

pets before mowing. Stop the 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 backing.

Be aware of the mower discharge direction and do not direct it towards anyone. Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass catcher or the guard in place.

Slow down before turning.

Never leave the machine unattended when the engine is running. Always turn off the

blades, set the parking brake, stop the engine and remove the key before leaving

the machine. Turn off blades when not mowing.

Stop engine before removing grass catcher or unclogging chute.

Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.

Do not operate the machine while under the

influence of alcohol or drugs. Watch out for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways.

Use extra care when loading and unloading the machine onto a trailer or truck.

Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above, are involved in a large percent- age of riding mower-related injuries. These

operators should evaluate their ability to operate the riding mower safely enough to

protect themselves and others from serious

injury.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves or other debris buildup which can touch hot exhaust/

engine parts and burn. Do not allow the mower deck to plow leaves or other debris

which can cause buildup to occur. Clean

any oil or fuel spillage before operating or storing the machine. Allow machine to cool

before storage.

I1. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of- control and tip-over accidents, which can result

in severe injury or death. All slopes require extra

caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not mow it.

DO:

Mow up and down slopes, not across. Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.

Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall

grass can hide obstacles.

Use a slow speed while on a slope. Use extra care with grass catchers or other

attachments. These can change the stability of the machine.

Keep all movement on the slopes slow and

gradual. Do not make sudden changes in

speed or direction. Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires

lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

SAFETY RULES

SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES FOR RIDE-ON MOWERS

DO NOT:

• Do not turn on slopes unless necessary,

and then, turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.

• Do not mow near drop-off, ditches, or embankments. The mower could suddenly

turn over if a wheel is over the edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.

Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced trac- tion could cause sliding.

Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on the ground.

Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.

Avoid starting up or down a slop or hill with

excessive ground speed. It is VERY difficult to reduce your speed or maintain control of mower once you are going too fast.

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.

NEVER allow children to operate the

machine.

Keep children out of the mowing area and under the watchful care of another respon-

sible adult.

Be alert and turn off the machine if children

enter the area.

Before and when backing, look behind and

down for small children.

Never carry children. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine operation.

Use extra care when approaching blind

corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that

may obscure vision.

IV. SERVICE

The operation of any mower 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 mower or performing any

adjustments or repairs. We recommend a wide vision safety mask over spectacles or

standard safety glasses.

• Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They are flammable and vapors are explosive.

- Use only an approved container.

- Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the

engine running. Allow engine to cool before

refueling.

- Do not smoke, when refueling or handling

fuel.

- Never refuel the machine indoors.

- Never store the machine or fuel container

inside where there is an open flame, such

as a water heater. Never run a machine inside a closed area. Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade

attachment bolts, tight and keep equipment

in good condition. Never tamper with safety devices. Check

there proper operation regularly.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris buildup. Clean oil or fuel spillage.

Allow machine to cool before storing.

Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike

an object. Repair, if necessary, before

restarting. Never make adjustments or repairs with the

engine running.

Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage, and deterioration, which could expose moving parts or allow objects

to be thrown. Frequently check components and replace with manufacturer's recom-

mended parts, when necessary.

Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and use extra

caution when servicing them.

Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service as required.

SAFETY RULES

SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES FOR RIDE-ON MOWERS

NEVER allow children to operate the machine.

Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop machine if anyone

enters the area.

Never carry passengers or children even

with the blades off.

Do not drive in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind

before and while backing. Never carry children. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine operation.

Keep children out of the mowing area and under the watchful care of another respon-

sible adult.

Be alert and turn machine off if children

enter the area.

Before and when backing, look behind and

down for small children.

Mow up and down slopes (10 ° Max), not

across.

Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.

Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall

grass can hide obstacles.

Use a slow speed while on slope or hill.

Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires

lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope. If machine stops while going uphill, disen-

gage blades, shift into reverse and back down slowly.

Do not turn on slopes unless necessary,

and then, turn slowly and gradually downhill,

if possible.

CAUTION

In order to prevent accidental starting when

setting up, transporting, adjusting or mak-

ing repairs, always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark plug.

CAUTION

Do not coast down a hill in neutral, you may lose control of the mower.

CAUTION

Look for this symbol to point out impor-

tant safety precautions. It means CAU- TIONIH BECOME ALERT[[[ YOUR SAFETY

IS INVOLVED.

SPECIFICATIONS

GASOLINE CAPACITY 3 GALLONS AND TYPE UNLEADED REGULAR

OIL TYPE (SPI-SF-SJ): SEE YOUR ENGINE

OWNERS MANUAL

SPARK PLUG: SEE ENGINE MANUAL

GROUND SPEED (MPH): FORWARD: 0-6 MAX.

REVERSE: 0-3.5

TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 15 PSI

REAR: 15PSI

CHARGING SYSTEM: BRIGGS & STRATTON: 9 AMPS

@3300 RPM

KOHLER: 15AMP@ 3300 RPM

BATTERY: MIN. CCA: 300

CASE SIZE: 51/4W X 7 3/4 L X 6 T

BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 27-35 FT./LBS.

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

Read and observe the safety rules. Follow a regular schedule in maintaining,

caring for and using your mower.

Follow the instructions under "Customer Responsibilities" and "Storage" sections of

this owner's manual.

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a

new mower. It has been designed, engineered and manufactured to give you the best possible dependability and performance. Should you experience any problem you cannot

easily remedy, please contact your nearest authorized service center/department. We

have competent, well-trained technicians and the proper tools to service or repair this mower.

Please read and retain this manual. The in- structions will enable you to assemble and

maintain your mower properly. Always observe the "SAFETY RULES".

A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest authorized engine service

center/department.

ASSEMBLY

Your new mower has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those parts left un-

assembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your mower, all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools as necessary to insure proper tightness.

Raise the seat pan up to the vertical

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

1. 7/16" wrench or 7/16" socket w/drive

ratchet

2. Tire pressure gauge

3. Nail bar or claw hammer

4. Wire snips

When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, it means when you are in the operating position (seated) or left is trim side and right is

discharge side.

TO REMOVE THE MOWER FROM CRATE

UNPACK CRATE

Place mower crate on fiat surface. Using the nail bar or hammer, remove the

top of the crate first. Then remove the sides of the crate and place these out of

the way. Be careful of any exposed nails or staples.

Remove the plastic bag that covers the

mower.

Using the wire snips, cut any plastic ties

that are holding the mower to the crate.

Remove the seat and literature bag from shipping position at front of the mower and place in a safe location, near by.

Adjustments may be required to position the seat in the desired position. Refer to the

"Service and Adjustment" section of this manual.

position so that the bottom can be easily accessed.

Locate and finger-tighten one of the three prong knobs by inserting it thru the seat pan slot and into the corresponding

threaded hole in the seat bottom.

Repeat for the other three holes. Tighten the three prong knobs in the

approximate position desired for the seat.

Connect the wiring harness to the seat switch.

BEFORE REMOVING THE MOWER FROM THE SKID

ATTACH SEAT (See Fig. 1)

Open parts bag(s) and locate the four (three prong) knob seat fasteners and four 1/4" hex

head bolts. Remove both control levers from bag(s) and place in a safe location, near by.

The seat position should be adjusted forward or backward so that the operator can comfortably

reach the deck lift pedal and safely operate the mower. See "Service and Adjustment" Section

of this manual.

Remove protective wrap from the seat.

FIGURE 1

ATTACH CONTROL LEVERS (See Fig. 2)

Locate 1/4" hex head bolts and control

levers.

Slide control lever over control arm with

handgrip facing inward.

Slide control lever to the approximate

height desired, align hole in control lever with threaded hole in control arm.

Start 1/4" bolt from the inside and finger-

tighten, add second bolt in second hole

on same side of mower.

Repeat on opposite side of mower for second control lever.

ASSEMBLY

Securely tighten bolt using a 7/16"

wrench or socket with ratchet.

Adjustments may be required to get uniform

positioning of the control lever. Refer to the

"Service and Adjustment" section of this manual.

NOTE: You may now roll or drive the mower off of the skid. Follow the appropriate instruction

below to remove the mower from the skid.

CONTROL LEVER

CONTROL ARM

FIGURE 2

TO ROLL THE MOWER OFF OF THE SKID (See Operation section for location and

function of controls)

Move to the rear of the mower, and place

the EZT (E-Series Zeroturn Transaxle)

bypass linkages into the bypass position

to disengage the EZT's (See "TO TRANSPORT" in the OPERATION

section of this manual).

Sitting on the mower, press the deck lift pedal in to the highest cutting position. Release park brake lever, and exit

mower.

While pushing on front or rear of mower,

roll the mower off of the skid.

TO DRIVE THE MOWER OFF OF THE SKID (See Operation section for location

and function of controls)

• Be sure all of the above assembly steps have been completed.

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

• Place the EZT(E-Series Zeroturn Transaxle) bypass linkages into the drive position (See "TRANSPORT" in

the OPERATION section of this manual).

• Sit on the seat in the operating position, set the park brake lever to the on or engaged position.

• Rotate the control levers outward into the neutral slot.

• Press forward on the deck lift pedal to raise the deck into the highest cutting position.

• Place the throttle control into the choke position.

• Insert ignition key (can be found in the parts/owners manual bag) start

the engine, allow engine to warm, move the throttle control to the idle

position.

• Release or disengage the park brake.

• Move the control levers into the

operate position.

• Slowly move the control levers forward and slowly drive the mower

off of the skid.

• Return the control levers back to the neutral position.

• Apply the park brake.

• Turn the ignition key to the "OFF"

position.

ASSEMBLY

CHECK THE TIRE PRESSURE

Correct tire pressure is important for best cutting

performance and proper straight-line tracking.

Check the tire pressure and adjust accordingly. Refer to the

"SPECIFICATIONS" section in this

manual.

UTILITY BOX INSTALLATION

Place utility box onto factory preinstalled brackets.

Insert clevis pins through holes in utility box and brackets as shown.

Insert hairpins through holes in clevis pins.

CHECKLIST

PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING CHECKLIST

All assembly instructions have been completed

No remaining loose parts in crate or parts bag(s)

Seat is adjusted properly and securely

fastened All tires are properly inflated

Check wiring. See that all connections are still secure, and wires are properly clamped.

Before driving the mower, be sure the

EZT(E-Series Zeroturn Transaxle)

bypass linkages are in the drive position.

Install tail gate into grooves in utility box, until seated.

NOTE: No riders and weight limited to less than

50 Ibs.

UTILITY BOX

CLEVIS PIN

HAIRPIN COTTER

PREINSTALLED FRONTBRACKET

WHILE LEARNING HOW TO USE

YOUR MOWER, PAY EXTRA ATTENTION TO THE FOLLOWING

ITEMS:

Engine oil is at proper level

Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean,

regular unleaded gasoline. Check your engine manual for fuel requirements.

Become familiar with all controls - their

location and function. Operate them

before you start the engine.

Become familiar with unit operation on a flat and level area with the mower deck

(blade PTO disengaged) shut off and engine at idle speed or partial throttle.

Be sure the brake system is in a safe operating condition. If adjustment is

needed see Service and Adjustment section.

REAR BRACKET

CONTROLS

OPERATION

1. PTO SWITCH - Used to engage (blades ON) or disengage (blades OFF) the deck

blades.

2. FOOT PEDAL- Used to raise, lower and select various cutting heights of the deck.

3. CONTROL LEVERS - In the outward

position, levers are in the neutral position.

When pulled inward and pushed forward, this controls the forward movement and

what speed the mower travels. The farther forward you push, the faster the mower will go. When control levers are pulled back, this

controls the reverse movement and at what speed the mower travels. The farther you

pull back, the faster the mower will go. By

combining the forward and backwards

movement of the control levers, you can

execute a turn or a zero-turn.

FIGURE 3

4. THROTTLE CONTROL - Used to control

engine speed, from slow (idle) to fast (full

throttle).

5. CHOKE CONTROL - Used when starting a cold engine, when throttle control is pushed beyond the fast (full throttle) stop.

6. EZT(E-SeriesZeroturn

Transaxle) BYPASS LINKAGES-

Allows for pushing or pulling of mower.

IGNITION SWITCH - Switch has four positions, Off (start), Run with headlights

(headlights may be optional), Run (headlights off) and Start (cranks engine).

8. PARKING BRAKE LEVER- Engages

(brake on) brake when in upper detent position and disengages (brake off) brake

when in the lower position.

9. HOUR METER- Black background with

white numbers indicates hours of operation.

White background with black numbers indicates tenths of hours.

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