Husqvarna GTH225 User Manual
GTH225
Owner’s Manual
1
SAFETY RULES
Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers
IMPORTANT: THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OBJECTS.
FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
I. GENERAL OPERATION
• Read, understand, and follow all instructions 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, toys, wire, etc.,
which could be picked up and thrown by the blade.
• Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing.
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 backing.
• Be aware of the mower discharge direction and do not
point it at anyone. Do not operate the mower without
either the entire grass catcher or the guard in place.
• Slow down before turning.
• Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn
off blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and remove
keys before dismounting.
• 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 for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways.
• Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine
into a trailer or truck.
• Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above,
are involved in a large percentage of riding mowerrelated injuries. These operators should evaluate their
ability to operate the riding mower safely enough to
protect themselves and others from serious injury.
II. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and
tipover 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.
• Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so that you will not
have to stop or shift while on the slope.
• Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for wheel
weights or counterweights to improve stability.
• Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments. These can change the stability of the machine.
• Keep all movement on the slopes
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.
Tall grass can hide obstacles.
slow
and
gradual
. Do
DO NOT:
•
Do not
turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn
slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.
•
Do not
mow near drop-offs, 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 traction could cause
sliding.
•
Do not
try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot
on the ground.
•
Do not
III. 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.
children will remain where you last saw them.
• Keep children out of the mowing area and under the
watchful care of another responsible adult.
• Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area.
• Before and when backing, look behind and
small children.
• Never carry children. They may fall off and be seriously
injured or interfere with safe machine operation.
• Never allow children to operate the machine.
• Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs,
trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.
IV. SERVICE
• 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
- Never refuel the machine indoors.
- Never store the machine or fuel container inside
• 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 their proper
operation regularly.
• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris
build-up. 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 recommended
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
2
as required.
use grass catcher on steep slopes.
Never
assume that
running. Allow engine to cool before refueling. Do
not smoke.
where there is an open flame, such as a water heater.
down
for
SAFETY RULES
Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers
• 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 mow 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 responsible 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 (15° 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 slow speed. Choose a low gear so that you will not
have to stop or shift while on the slope.
• 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, 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.
Look for this symbol to point out important
safety precautions. It means CAUTION!!!
BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
CAUTION: Do not coast down a hill in
neutral, you may lose control of the tractor.
CAUTION: Tow only the attachments
that are recommended by and comply
with specifications of the manufacturer
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.
CAUTION: In order to prevent accidental starting when setting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs, always
disconnect spark plug wire and place
wire where it cannot contact spark plug.
WARNING
The engine exhaust from this product contains
chemicals known to the State of California to
cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
3
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
GASOLINE CAPACITY 3.5 GALLONS
AND TYPE: UNLEADED REGULAR
OIL TYPE (API-SF/SG): SAE 10W-30 (above 32°F)
SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F)
OIL CAPACITY: W/ FILTER: 4.2 PINTS
W/O FILTER: 3.7 PINTS
SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION RC12YC
(GAP: .030")
GROUND SPEED (MPH): FORWARD: 0 – 5.8
REVERSE: 0 – 2.1
TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI
REAR: 10 PSI
CHARGING SYSTEM: 15 AMPS @ 3600 RPM
BATTERY: AMP/HR: 35
MIN. CCA: 280
CASE SIZE: U1R
BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 27–35 FT. LBS.
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new tractor. 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 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.
• Follow the instructions under “Customer Responsibilities” and “Storage” sections of this owner’s manual.
WARNING: This tractor is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any
unimproved 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.
A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your
nearest authorized service center/department (See REPAIR
PARTS section of this manual).
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.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SAFETY RULES ........................................................ 2-3
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS....................................... 4
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ......................4, 18-21
ASSEMBLY.............................................................. 6-10
OPERATION............................................................11-17
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE....................................... 18
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS .............................22-27
STORAGE ................................................................... 28
TROUBLESHOOTING .............................................29-30
REPAIR PARTS ......................................................32-45
WARRANTY ................................................................ 47
4
CONTENTS OF HARDW ARE PACK
Steering Wheel
Steering
Wheel
Seat
(1) Washer
17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge
(1) Knob
Mower
Steering
Wheel Insert
Gauge Wheels
(4) Adjusting Bars
(4) Shoulder
Bolts
(4) Wheels
(1) Shoulder
Bolt 5/16-18
(4) Clevis Pins
(4) Washers
3/8 x 3/4 x 14 Ga.
(4) Retainer Springs
(double loop)
(4) Locknuts
3/8-16
(2) Front Link Assemblies
(3) Retainer Springs (double loop)
(4) Retainer Springs (single loop)
Bumper
Front
Bumper
(2) Extention Bracket
(4) Crownlock
Nuts 3/8-16
(2) End Caps
(4) Carriage Bolts
3/8-16 x 1-1/4
(2) Washers
17/32 x 7/8 x 16 Ga.
(2) Hex Bolts 3/8-16 x 1
Keys
(2) Keys
Nose Roller
Nose
Roller
Brackets
Slope Sheet
(2) Nylon
Locknuts
3/8-16
Nose Roller
(3) Mulching
Blades
(2) Washers
13/32 x 13/16 x 16 Ga.
5
ASSEMBLY
Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes. To
ensure safe and proper operation of your tractor all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct
tools as necessary to insure proper tightness.
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY
A socket wrench set will make assembly easier. Standard
wrench sizes are listed.
(1) Tire pressure gauge
(2) 9/16" wrenches (1) Utility knife
(1) 1/2" wrench (1) 3/4" socket w/drive ratchet
When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, it means
when you are in the operating position (seated behind the
steering wheel).
TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON
UNPACK CARTON
• Remove all accessible loose parts and parts cartons
from carton.
• Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on all four corners
of carton, and lay panels flat.
• Remove mower and packing materials.
• Check for any additional loose parts or cartons and
remove.
BEFORE ROLLING TRACTOR OFF SKID
ATTACH STEERING WHEEL (See Fig. 1)
• Remove hex bolt, lock washer and large flat washer from
steering shaft.
• Position front wheels of the tractor so they are pointing
straight forward.
• Position steering wheel so cross bars are horizontal (left
to right) and slide onto adapter.
• Secure steering wheel to steering shaft with hex bolt,
lock washer and large flat washer previously removed.
Tighten securely.
• Snap steering wheel insert into center of steering wheel.
• Remove protective materials from tractor hood and grill.
IMPORTANT: CHECK FOR AND REMOVE ANY STAPLES
IN SKID THAT MAY PUNCTURE TIRES WHERE TRACTOR
IS TO ROLL OFF SKID.
HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR
CHECK BATTERY (See Fig. 2)
• Lift hood to raised position.
• If this battery is put into service after month and year
indicated on label (label located between terminals)
charge battery for minimum of one hour at 6-10 amps.
(See "BATTERY" in CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
section of this manual for charging instructions).
LABEL
STEERING WHEEL
INSERT
HEX BOLT
LOCKWASHER
FLAT WASHER
STEERING
WHEEL
STEERING
SHAFT
STEERING
WHEEL
ADAPTER
FIG. 1
INSTALL SEAT (See Fig. 3)
Adjust seat before tightening adjustment knob.
• Remove adjustment knob and flat washer securing seat
to cardboard packing and set aside for assembly of seat
to tractor.
• Pivot seat upward and remove from the cardboard
packing. Remove cardboard packing and discard.
• Place seat on seat pan and assemble shoulder bolt.
Tighten shoulder bolt securely.
• Assemble adjustment knob and flat washer loosely. Do
not tighten.
• Lower seat into operating position and sit on seat.
• Slide seat until a comfortable position is reached which
allows you to press clutch/brake pedal all the way down.
• Get off seat without moving its adjusted position.
• Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob securely.
SEAT
SEAT PAN
SHOULDER
BOLT
FIG. 2
ADJUSTMENT
KNOB
FLAT
WASHER
FIG. 3
6
ASSEMBL Y
NOTE: You may now roll or drive your tractor off the skid.
Follow the appropriate instruction below to remove the
tractor from the skid.
TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Operation
section, page 12, for location and function of
controls)
• Press lift lever plunger and raise attachment lift lever to
its highest position.
• Release parking brake by depressing clutch/brake pedal.
• Place freewheel control in freewheeling position to
disengage transmission (See “TO TRANSPORT” in the
Operation section of this manual).
• Roll tractor forward off skid.
TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Operation section, page 12, for location and function of controls)
WARNING: Before starting, read, understand and fol-
low 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.
• Be sure all the above assembly steps have been
completed.
• Check engine oil level and fill fuel tank with gasoline.
• Place freewheel control in "transmission engaged" position.
• Sit on seat in operating position, depress clutch/brake
pedal and set the parking brake.
• Place motion control lever in neutral (N) position.
• Press lift lever plunger and raise attachment lift lever to
its highest position.
• Start the engine. After engine has started, move throttle
control to idle position.
• Release parking brake.
• Slowly move the motion control lever forward and slowly
drive tractor off skid.
• Apply brake to stop tractor, set parking brake and place
motion control lever in neutral position.
• Turn ignition key to "OFF" position.
Continue with the instructions that follow.
TO ATTACH FRONT BUMPER (See Fig. 4)
NOTE: For ease of assembly, you may wish to obtain the
assistance of another person for mounting bumper to tractor.
• Press or tap the end caps into ends of bumper tube.
• The existing top screw and the existing front screw must
be removed from both sides and discarded.
• On both sides of chassis, position extension bracket as
shown and loosely assemble to rear chassis hole with
supplied 3/8-16 x 1-1/4 bolt. Do not tighten the brackets.
Allow them to hang from the chassis.
• Position bumper and extension brackets so brackets
can be slid inside flattened ends of bumper.
• Slide bumper onto brackets and pivot upwards to align
center holes in extension brackets and tractor chassis.
• With holes aligned, install additional bolts.
• Tighten all four (4) bolts securely.
SUPPLIED
CARRIAGE
BOLT
SUPPLIED
CARRIAGE
BOLT
FRONT
SUSPENSION
BRACKET
WASHER
BUMPER
SUPPLIED LOCKNUT
EXTENSION
BRACKET
END CAP
Slide Onto Extension Brackets And
Pivot Upwards
FIG. 4
TO ATTACH NOSE ROLLER (See Fig. 5)
• Position brackets, 17/32 x 7/8 x 16 gauge washers, and
nose roller between deck mounting brackets as shown.
Be sure to position brackets on correct side, as shown.
• Install 3/8-16 x 1 hex bolts and 3/8-16 lock nuts as
shown. Tighten hardware securely.
NOTE: Be sure bracket tabs are positioned in tab holes in
deck brackets.
TAB
HOLE
NOSE ROLLER
HEX BOLT
“B”
BRACKET
TAB
“A” BRACKET
TAB
LOCK NUT
WASHER
FIG. 5
ASSEMBLE GAUGE WHEELS TO MOWER
DECK (See Fig. 6)
The gauge wheels are designed to keep the mower deck in
proper position when operating mower. Be sure they are
properly adjusted to ensure optimum mower performance.
• Slide gauge wheel bar down into bracket channel, Be
sure that gauge wheel bar aligning holes are on top.
Assemble gauge wheels as shown using shoulder bolts,
3/8 washers and 3/8-16 center locknuts and tighten
securely.
• For ease of mower to tractor assembly, raise gauge
wheels to highest position and retain with clevis pins and
spring retainers.
• Adjust gauge wheels before operating mower. See “TO
ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS” in the Operation section of
this manual.
7
SUPPLIED
LOCKNUT
ASSEMBL Y
RETAINER
SPRING
PIN
SHOULDER
BOLT
GAUGE
WHEEL
ADJUSTING
BAR
3/8 WASHER
3/8-16 CENTER
LOCKNUT
FIG. 6
IMPORTANT: FOR SHIPPING PURPOSES, THE
MULCHER PLATE WAS PREATTACHED TO YOUR
MOWER. THE MULCHER PLATE MUST ONLY BE USED
WITH THE MULCHING BLADES THAT CAME PACKED
SEPARATELY IN THE CARTON.
YOUR MOWER CAME FACTORY EQUIPPED WITH HIGH
PERFORMANCE BLADES, WHICH ARE THE BEST
BLADES FOR BAGGING AND DISCHARGING. TO USE
YOUR MOWER WITH THE HIGH PERFORMANCE BLADES
THE MULCHER PLATE MUST BE REMOVED FROM THE
MOWER (SEE FIG. 7).
TO SET UP YOUR MOWER FOR MULCHING
(See Fig. 7)
• Turn the mower over to allow access to blades.
• Remove hex bolt, lock washer and flat washer and
remove high performance blades. Store in safe place.
• Install mulcher blades with trailing edge up towards deck
as shown.
IMPORTANT: TO ENSURE PROPER ASSEMBLY, CENTER
HOLE IN BLADE MUST ALIGN WITH STAR ON MANDREL
ASSEMBLY.
• Reassemble hex bolt, lock washer and flat washer in
exact order as shown.
• Tighten bolt securely (27-35 Ft. Lbs. torque).
IMPORTANT: BLADE BOLT IS GRADE 8 HEAT TREATED.
• Install mulcher plate if previously removed.
TRAILING EDGE UP
BLADE
FLAT
WASHER
HEX BOLT
(GRADE 8)*
*A GRADE 8 HEAT TREATED BOLT CAN BE
IDENTIFIED BY SIX LINES ON THE BOLT HEAD.
CENTER
HOLE
LOCK
WASHER
FIG. 7
MANDREL
ASSEMBLY
STAR
TO INSTALL MULCHER PLATE (See Fig. 8)
NOTE: If you installed the mulching blades you will need to install
the mulcher plate.
• Raise and hold deflector shield in upright position.
• Place front of mulcher plate over front of mower deck
opening and slide into place, as shown.
• Hook front latch into hole on front of mower deck.
• Hook rear latch into hole on back of mower deck.
CAUTION: Do not remove discharge
guard from mower. Raise and hold guard
when attaching mulcher plate and allow
it to rest on plate while in operation.
DEFLECTOR
SHIELD
MULCHER
PLATE
LATCH
HOOKS
FIG. 8
TO CONVERT TO BAGGING OR
DISCHARGING
NOTE: The mulcher blades will discharge and bag grass, but
for best bagging and discharging install the high performance
blades.
• Remove mulcher plate and mulcher blades and install
high performance blades, (see BLADE REMOVAL in the
CUSTOMER RESPONSABILITY section of this manual).
• Store mulcher blades and mulcher plate in a safe place.
Your mower is now ready for discharging or installation
of optional grass catcher accessory.
INSTALL MOWER AND DRIVE BELT
(See Figs. 9 and 10)
Be sure tractor is on level surface and mower suspension
arms are raised with attachment lift control. Engage parking
brake.
• Cut and remove ties securing anti-sway bar and belts.
Swing anti-sway bar to left side of mower deck.
• Slide mower under tractor with discharge guard to right
side of tractor.
IMPORTANT: CHECK BELT FOR PROPER ROUTING IN
ALL MOWER PULLEY GROOVES. INSTALL BELT INTO
ELECTRIC CLUTCH PULLEY GROOVE.
• Install one front link in top hole of the L.H. front mower
bracket and L.H. front suspension bracket. Retain with
two single loop retainer springs as shown.
• Install second front link in R.H. front suspension bracket
only and retain with single loop retainer spring as shown.
• Slide right side of mower back and install link in top hole
of R.H. front mower bracket. Retain with single loop
retainer spring as shown.
8
ASSEMBLY
• Turn height adjustment knob counterclockwise until it
stops.
• Lower mower linkage with attachment lift control.
• Place the suspension arms on inward pointing deck
pins. If necessary, rock and raise front of mower to align
deck pins with the holes in suspension arms. Retain
with double loop retainer spring with loops down as
shown.
• Connect anti-sway bar to chassis bracket under left
footrest and retain with double loop retainer spring.
• Turn height adjustment knob clockwise to remove slack
from mower suspension.
• Raise deck to highest position.
• 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.
DOUBLE LOOP
RETAINER SPRING
(Inward pointing deck pins)
CHASSIS
BRACKET
• Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in “PRODUCT
CHECK MOWER LEVELNESS
For best cutting results, mower should be properly leveled.
See “TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING” in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual.
CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF ALL
BELTS
See the figures that are shown for replacing motion, mower
drive, and mower blade drive belts in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual. Verify that the belts are
routed correctly.
CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM
After you learn how to operate your tractor, check to see that
the brake is properly adjusted. See “TO ADJUST BRAKE”
in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.
SUSPENSION
ARMS
SPECIFICATIONS” section of this manual.
ELECTRIC
CLUTCH PULLEY
FRONT
MOWER
BRACKET
FRONT
SUSPENSION
BRACKETS
GAUGE
WHEEL
DOUBLE LOOP
RETAINER SPRING
USE PLIERS FOR
RETAINER SPRINGS
LOOP DOWN
ANTI-SWAY
BAR
IDLER PULLEY
FIG. 9
FRONT
LINK
SINGLE LOOP
RETAINER
SPRINGS
DISCHARGE
GUARD
9
ASSEMBLY
3
CHECKLIST
BEFORE YOU OPERATE AND ENJOY YOUR NEW TRACTOR, WE WISH TO ASSURE THAT YOU RECEIVE THE
BEST PERFORMANCE 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. (Minimum 1
hour at 6 amps).
✓ 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
drive position.
WHILE LEARNING HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR, PAY
EXTRA ATTENTION TO THE 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.
✓ It is important to purge the transmission before operating
your tractor for the first time. Follow proper starting and
transmission purging instructions (See “TO START
ENGINE” and “PURGE TRANSMISSION” in the Operation section of this manual).
10
OPERATION
These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand their meaning.
BATTERY CAUTION OR
WARNING
ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE
FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT
REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW
LIGHTS ON
PARKING BRAKE
LOCKED
OVER TEMP
LIGHT
UNLOCKED
MOWER LIFT
P
ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH ENGAGED
IGNITION
DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY
REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW
ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH DISENGAGED
PARKING BRAKE
15°
KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS
(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)
(Automatic Models only)
15°
FREE WHEEL
11
15°
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 location of various controls and adjustments. Save
this manual for future reference.
LIGHT SWITCH
CLUTCH/BRAKE
PEDAL
IGNITION SWITCH
HEIGHT
ADJUSTMENT
KNOB
ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH SWITCH
AMMETER
HOURMETER
LIFT LEVER
PLUNGER
LIFT LEVER
THROTTLE
CONTROL
CHOKE
CONTROL
PARKING BRAKE
LEVER
FREE WHEEL CONTROL
Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the American National Standards Institute.
ATTACHMENT CLUTCH SWITCH - Used to engage mower
blades or other attachments mounted to your tractor.
LIFT LEVER - Used to raise and lower mower deck or other
attachments mounted to your tractor.
LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to release attachment lift
lever when changing its position.
CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL - Used for declutching and braking the tractor and starting the engine.
MOTION CONTROL - Selects the speed and direction of
tractor.
CHOKE CONTROL - Used when starting a cold engine.
MOTION
CONTROL
LEVER
FIG. 10
LIGHT SWITCH - Turns the headlights on and off.
THROTTLE CONTROL - Used to control engine speed.
FREEWHEEL CONTROL - Disengages transmission for
pushing or slowly towing the tractor with the engine off.
IGNITION SWITCH - Used to start and stop the engine.
HOURMETER - Indicates hours of operation.
PARKING BRAKE LEVER - Locks clutch/brake pedal into
the brake position.
HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB - Used to adjust the mower
height.
AMMETER - Indicates charging (+) or discharging (-) of
battery.
12
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 a wide vision safety mask over spectacles
or standard safety glasses.
HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR
TO SET PARKING BRAKE (See Fig. 11)
Your tractor is equipped with an operator presence sensing
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 clutch/brake pedal into full “BRAKE” position
and hold.
• Place parking brake lever in “ENGAGED” position and
release pressure from clutch/brake pedal. Pedal should
remain in “BRAKE” position. Make sure parking brake
will hold tractor secure.
ATTACHMENT CLUTCH
SWITCH PULL OUT TO
“ENGAGE”
CHOKE
CONTROL
PUSH IN TO
“DISENGAGE”
IGNITION
KEY
CLUTCH/BRAKE
PEDAL
“BRAKE”
POSITION
“DRIVE”
POSITION
HEIGHT
ADJUSTMENT KNOB
“DISENGAGED”
POSITION
PARKING
BRAKE
“ENGAGED”
POSITION
FIG. 11
STOPPING (See Fig. 11)
MOWER BLADES -
• To stop mower blades,move attachment clutch switch
to “DISENGAGED” position.
GROUND DRIVE -
• To stop ground drive, depress clutch/brake pedal into
full “BRAKE” position..
• Move motion control lever to neutral (N) position.
IMPORTANT: THE MOTION CONTROL LEVER DOES
NOT RETURN TO NEUTRAL (N) POSITION WHEN THE
CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL IS DEPRESSED.
ENGINE -
• Move throttle control to slow position.
NOTE: Failure to move throttle control to slow position and
allowing engine to idle before stopping may cause engine to
“backfire”.
• Turn ignition key to “OFF” position and remove key.
Always remove key when leaving tractor to prevent
unauthorized use.
• Never use choke to stop engine.
IMPORTANT: LEAVING THE IGNITION SWITCH IN ANY
POSITION OTHER THAN "OFF" WILL CAUSE THE
BATTERY TO BE DISCHARGED, (DEAD).
THROTTLE
CONTROL
LEVER
MOTION
CONTROL
LEVER
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,
always stop engine when stopping tractor on grass areas.
CAUTION: Always stop tractor completely, as described above, before leaving the operator's position; to empty
grass catcher, etc.
TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL (See Fig. 11)
Always operate engine at full throttle.
• Operating engine at less than full throttle reduces the
battery charging rate.
• Full throttle offers the best bagging and mower performance.
TO USE CHOKE CONTROL (See Fig. 11)
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 (See
Fig. 11)
The direction and speed of movement is controlled by the
motion control lever.
• Start tractor with motion control lever in neutral (N)
position.
• Release parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.
• Slowly move motion control lever to desired position.
TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT
(See Fig. 11)
The cutting height is controlled by turning the height adjustment knob in desired direction.
• Turn knob clockwise ( ) to raise cutting height.
• Turn knob counterclockwise ( ) to lower cutting
height.
The cutting height range is approximately 1-1/2" to 4-1/2".
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.
• 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. 12)
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.
13
OPERATION
• Be sure tractor is on a flat level surface.
• Lower mower and adjust mower to desired cutting
height.
• Remove retainer spring and clevis pin which secure
each gauge wheel bar.
• Lower gauge wheels to ground. Raise gauge wheels
slightly to align holes in bracket and gauge wheel bar and
insert clevis pin. Gauge wheels should be slightly off the
ground.
• Replace retainer spring into clevis pin.
IMPORTANT: BE SURE TO READJUST GAUGE WHEELS
IF YOU CHANGE THE CUTTING HEIGHT OF THE MOWER
DECK.
RETAINER
SPRING
CLEVIS
PIN
FIG. 12
TO OPERATE MOWER (See Fig. 13)
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.
• Select desired height of cut.
• Lower mower with attachment lift control.
• Start mower blades by engaging attachment clutch
control.
• TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disengage attachment
clutch control.
TO OPERATE ON HILLS
CAUTION: Do not drive up or down hills
with slopes greater than 15° and do not
drive across any slope.
• Choose the slowest speed before starting up or down
hills.
• Avoid stopping or changing speed on hills.
• If slowing is necessary, move throttle control lever to
slower position.
• If stopping is absolutely necessary, push clutch/brake
pedal quickly to brake position and engage parking
brake.
• Move motion control lever to neutral (N) position.
IMPORTANT: THE MOTION CONTROL LEVER DOES
NOT RETURN TO NEUTRAL (N) POSITION WHEN THE
CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL IS DEPRESSED.
• To restart movement, slowly release parking brake and
clutch/brake pedal.
• Slowly move motion control lever to slowest setting.
• Make all turns slowly.
TO TRANSPORT (See Figs. 10 and 14)
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.
• Remove retainer spring from freewheel control rod.
• Push control rod in to disengage transmission and
reinsert retainer spring into control rod hole now on back
side of the bracket.
• 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.).
CAUTION: Do not operate the mower
without either the entire grass catcher,
on mowers so equipped, or the discharge guard in place.
ATTACHMENT CLUTCH
SWITCH PULL OUT TO
“ENGAGE”
PUSH IN TO
“DISENGAGE”
FIG. 13
LIFT LEVER
HIGHEST
POSITION
LOWEST
POSITION
DISCHARGE
GUARD
FIG. 14
TOWING CARTS AND OTHER ATTACHMENTS
Tow only the attachments that are recommended by and
comply with specifications of the manufacturer of your
tractor. 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.
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OPERATION
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE
CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL (See Fig. 15)
• 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.
• Unthread and remove oil fill cap/dipstick; wipe oil off.
Reinsert the dipstick into the tube and rest oil fill cap on
the tube. Do not thread the cap onto the tube. 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
Customer Responsibilities section of this manual).
• To change engine oil, see the Customer Responsibilities section in this manual.
OIL FILL
CAP/DIPSTICK
FIG. 15
ADD GASOLINE
• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular unleaded
gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane. (Use of leaded
gasoline will increase carbon 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.
IMPORTANT: WHEN OPERATING IN TEMPERATURES
BELOW 32°F(0°C), USE FRESH, CLEAN WINTER GRADE
GASOLINE TO HELP INSURE GOOD COLD WEATHER
STARTING.
WARNING: Experience indicates that 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
an engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, the
fuel system should be emptied before storage of 30 days or
longer. Drain the gas tank, start the engine and let it run until
the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next
season. See Storage Instructions for additional information.
Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel
tank or permanent damage may occur.
CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank
filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any
spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or
use gasoline near an open flame.
TO START ENGINE (See Fig. 11)
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 sure freewheel control is in the transmission engaged
position.
• Sit on seat in operating position, depress clutch/brake
pedal and set parking brake.
• Place motion control lever in neutral (N) position.
• Move attachment clutch to “DISENGAGED” position.
• Move throttle control to fast position
• Pull choke control out for a cold engine start attempt. For
a warm engine start attempt the choke control may not
be needed.
NOTE: Before starting, read the warm and cold starting
procedures below.
• 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. 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. 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.
• Place the motion control lever in neutral. Release
the parking brake and let the clutch/brake
slowly return to operating position.
• Allow one minute for transmission to warm up. This
can be done during the engine warm up period.
• The attachments can be used during the engine warmup 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.
15
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