Husqvarna GTH2254XP User Manual

02139

GTH2254XP

Owner's Manual

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 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.

•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 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. 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.

•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 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.

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 use grass catcher on steep slopes.

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. Never assume that 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 down for 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 running. Allow engine to cool before refueling. Do not smoke.

-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 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 as required.

2

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.

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

WARNING: 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.

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

WARNING

Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain 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.

3

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Gasoline Capacity	5.0 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: 4.0 Pints
	W/O Filter: 3.5 Pints
Spark Plug:	Champion
(Gap: .040")	RCJ8Y
Ground Speed (MPH):	Forward:	0 – 5.8
	Reverse:	0 – 2.1
Tire Pressure:	Front:	14 PSI
	Rear:	10 PSI
Charging System:	16 AMPS @ 3600 RPM
Battery:	AMP/HR:	35
	MIN. CCA:	280
	CASE SIZE:	U1R
Blade Bolt Torque:	45–55 FT. LBS.

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new tractor. you the best possible dependability and performance.

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

•Read and observe the safety rules.

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

•Follow the instructions under “Maintenance” 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 centre/department (See REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).

It has been designed, engineered and manufactured to give

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”.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SAFETY RULES .........................................................	2-3
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS .......................................	4
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES.................................	4
ASSEMBLY .................................................................	6-9
OPERATION ...........................................................	10-15
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ......................................	16

MAINTENANCE ......................................................	16-19
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS ............................	20-25
STORAGE ....................................................................	26
TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................	27-28
REPAIR PARTS - TRACTOR ..................................	30-45

4

UNASSEMBLED PARTS

		Steering Wheel	Gauge Wheel
			(4) Adjusting Bar
					(4) Locknut
			(4) Wheels		3/8-16
		Steering
		Wheel Adapter	(4) Washers
				(4) Clevis Pins
			3/8 x 3/4 x 14 Ga.
		(4)	Retainer Springs
			(double loop)
		Steering Sleeve
			(4) Shoulder Bolt
Steering		Steering Sleeve	Nose Roller
Wheel Insert
		Extension
		Seat	Retainer Spring
					Rod
			(2) Hex Bolts 5/16-18 x 1
(4) Hex Bolts	5/16-18 x 3/4
			Nose Roller
			Brackets
			(2) Locknuts
					5/16-18
		(4) Lockwasher
		Mower	(1) Oil Drain Tube
			For Future Use
			Slope Sheet
(2)	Retainer Springs		Keys
		(double loop)
		(2)Flanged
		Pins	(2) Keys
		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)	Pliers	(1)	Tire pressure gauge
(2)	1/2" wrench	(1)	Utility knife
(1)	3/4" wrench	(1)	3/4" socket w/drive ratchet
(1)	9/16" wrench

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 along dotted 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.

BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR FROM SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL (See Fig. 1)

•Remove locknut and large flat washer from steering shaft.

•Position front wheels of the tractor so they are pointing straight forward.

•Slide the steering sleeve over the steering shaft.

•Align tabs and press steering sleeve extension into bottom of steering wheel.

•Position steering wheel so cross bars are horizontal (left to right) and slide onto steering wheel adapter.

•Secure steering wheel to steering shaft with locknut 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.

STEERING WHEEL

INSERT

LOCK NUT

LARGE FLAT WASHER

STEERING WHEEL

STEERING

WHEEL

ADAPTOR

TABS

STEERING

WHEEL EXTENTION

STEERING

SHAFT

STEERING

SLEEVE

02143

FIG. 1

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 MAINTENANCE section of this manual for charging instructions).

LABEL

02173

FIG. 2

INSTALL SEAT (See Fig. 3)

Seat position should be adjusted forward or backward so that the operator can comfortably reach clutch/brake pedal and safely operate the tractor.

6

ASSEMBLY

•Remove the two (2) bolts and flat washers securing the seat to cardboard packing. Keep the two (2) bolts only and place them with the two (2) identical bolts and four (4) washers in the parts bag. Discard the flat washers and cardboard packing.

•Release L.H. seat slide on seat pan by pulling out on adjustment handle and sliding it to the rear position exposing seat mounting holes from bottom. Slide R.H. slide to same rear position.

•Mount rear of seat on slides using mounting bolts and lock washers as shown.

•Pull out on adjustment handle and slide seat all the way forward. Install front mounting bolts and lock washers. Tighten all mounting bolts securely.

•Lower seat into operating position and sit on seat.Press clutch/brake pedal all the way down. If operating position is not comfortable, adjust seat.

•To adjust seat: Grasp adjustment handle and pull out, slide seat to desired position and release adjustment handle.

L.H. SEAT
SLIDE	SEAT

ADJUSTMENT

HANDLE SEAT

PAN

LOCK

WASHERS

02521

R.H. SEAT SLIDE

MOUNTING

BOLTS

FIG. 3

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 for location and function of controls)

•Press lift lever plunger and raise attachment lift lever to its highest position.

•Release parking brake by depressing brake pedal.

•Place freewheel control in "transmission disengaged position" (See “TO TRANSPORT” in the Operation section of this manual).

•Roll tractor forward off skid.

TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Operation section for location and function of controls)

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.

•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 (see "TO TRANSPORT" in Operation section

of this manual).

7

•Sit on seat in operating position, depress 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 "STOP" position.

Continue with the instructions that follow.

ASSEMBLE GAUGE WHEELS TO MOWER DECK (See Fig. 4A and 4B)

The gauge wheels are designed to keep the mower deck in proper position when operating mower.

•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, set all the gauge wheels in the fourth hole from top. Retain with clevis pins and spring retainers.

RETAINER SPRING

PIN

SHOULDER

BOLT

ADJUSTING

BAR

	GAUGE	3/8-16 CENTER
	WHEEL
		LOCKNUT
		3/8 WASHER

FIG. 4A

SET ALL WHEELS

TO 4TH HOLE

FROM TOP

FIG. 4B

ASSEMBLY

TO ATTACH NOSE ROLLER (See Fig. 5)

•Assemble brackets "A" and "B" to the inside of mower mounting brackets as shown. Tighten securely.

NOTE: Be sure bracket tabs are positioned in tab holes in mower brackets.

•Position nose roller between brackets and install rod and retainer spring.

	LOCK	HEX BOLT
	NUT	ROD
	TAB	"B"
		BRACKET
	HOLE
	"A"
	BRACKET
	02612	NOSE ROLLER
	RETAINER SPRING

•Remove plastic tie strap from mower belt and check belt for proper routing in all mower pulley grooves.

•Slide mower under tractor until it is centered under tractor.DO NOT connect any pins.When properly centered the front mower brackets should be aligned so when the front suspension plate is lowered it should slide between the mower brackets.

•Lower attachment lift lever to lowest position.

•Cut plastic tie and lower front suspension plate.

•ATTACH FRONT PLATE - From right side of mower, position front plate assembly between front mower brackets, align holes, position flanged pin notch horizontally and insert the pin all the way. The notch is in line with the hole in pin.

•Secure pin with double loop retainer spring between the plate and mower bracket.If necessary, move mower side-to-side to give space between plate and mower bracket.

•Go to right hand side of mower and insert pin and retainer spring in the same manner.

FIG. 5

INSTALL MOWER AND DRIVE BELT (See Fig. 6 and 7)

Be sure tractor is on level surface and mower suspension arms are raised with attachment lift control. Engage parking brake.

•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.

•CONNECT REAR PINS - Connect right hand side first. Pull out and hold the spring loaded pin, align hole in suspension arm and release pin. Be sure pin returns to fully seated position and is attached to the suspension arm.

•Go to left side of mower and connect rear pin in the same manner.

•Disengage belt tension rod.

•From right side of tractor, install belt onto engine clutch pulley.

		LOCKING BRACKET
		ELECTRIC CLUTCH	FRONT PLATE
	BELT TENSION	PULLEY	ASSEMBLY
	ROD	SUSPENSION
	DISENGAGED
		ARMS	FRONT MOWER
	POSITION
			BRACKET
	GAUGE		DOUBLE LOOP
			RETAINER SPRINGS
	WHEEL
			FLANGED PIN -
			POSITION NOTCH
			HORIZONTALLY

REAR MOWER PINS

02	786

DEFLECTOR SHIELD

FIG. 6

8

ASSEMBLY

IMPORTANT: CHECK BELT FOR PROPER ROUTING IN ALL MOWER PULLEY GROOVES.

•Engage belt tension rod on locking bracket.

CAUTION: Belt tension rod is spring loaded. Have a tight grip on rod and engage slowly.

•Raise attachment lift lever 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.

•Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in “PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS” section of this manual.

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS

For best cutting results, mower housing 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 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.

CHECKLIST

BEFOREYOU OPERATE AND ENJOYYOUR NEW TRACTOR, WE WISH TO ASSURE THAT YOU RECEIVE THE BEST PERFORMANCE AND SATISFACTION FROMTHIS 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 Operation section of this manual).

9

OPERATION

These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand their meaning.

REVERSE	NEUTRAL	HIGH	LOW	CHOKE	FAST	SLOW	IGNITION
				P
ENGINE OFF	LIGHTS ON	ENGINE ON	ENGINE START	PARKING BRAKE		PARKING BRAKE	PARKING BRAKE
						LOCKED	UNLOCKED

OVER TEMP	FUEL	OIL PRESSURE	BATTERY REVERSE	FORWARD	MOWER HEIGHT		MOWER LIFT
LIGHT
						15	15
ATTACHMENT		ATTACHMENT	DANGER, KEEP HANDS	KEEP AREA CLEAR		SLOPE HAZARDS
CLUTCH ENGAGED	CLUTCH DISENGAGED
			AND FEET AWAY	(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

FREE WHEEL (Automatic Models only)

Failure to follow instructions could result in serious injury or death. The safety alert symbol is used to identify safety information about hazards which can result in death, serious injury and/or property damage.

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.

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.

10

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
			HOURMETER	POSITION
	AMMETER	IGNITION
		SWITCH		ATTACHMENT
	CHOKE			CLUTCH SWITCH
THROTTLE	CONTROL
CONTROL
BRAKE PEDAL				LIFT LEVER
				PLUNGER
			0
MOTION DRIVE		60	60
		TECH	AMPS
BELT TENSION				LIFT LEVER
HANDLE
				PARKING
				BRAKE LEVER
FREEWHEEL		HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT		MOTION
CONTROL				CONTROL
		KNOB		LEVER
				02711

FIG. 7

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.

BRAKE PEDAL - Used for braking the tractor and starting the engine.

MOTION CONTROL LEVER - Selects the speed and direction of tractor.

CHOKE CONTROL - Used when starting a cold engine.

LIGHT SWITCH POSITION- Turns the headlights on and off.

LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to release attachment lift lever when changing its position.

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.

AMMETER - Indicates battery charging(+) or discharg- ing(-).

PARKING BRAKE LEVER - Locks brake pedal into the brake position.

HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB - Used to adjust the mower height.

MOTION DRIVE BELT TENSION HANDLE - Used when changing motion drive belt and, if necessary, starting engine under extremely cold conditions.

HOURMETER - Indicates hours of operation.

11

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. 8)

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 brake pedal into full “BRAKE” position and hold.

•Place parking brake lever in “ENGAGED” position and release pressure from brake pedal. Pedal should remain in “BRAKE” position. Make sure parking brake will hold tractor secure.

		PUSH IN TO	ATTACHMENT
	CHOKE		CLUTCH SWITCH
		“DISENGAGE”
	CONTROL		PULL OUT TO
	THROTTLE		“ENGAGE”
	CONTROL
	LEVER
	BRAKE PEDAL
	“BRAKE”
	POSITION
	02149			MOTION
		IGNITION
		KEY		CONTROL
				LEVER
	“DRIVE”		PARKING BRAKE
	POSITION		“ENGAGED”
		“DISENGAGED”	POSITION
	HEIGHT
		POSITION
	ADJUSTMENT
	KNOB

FIG. 8

STOPPING (See Fig. 8)

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 between half and full speed (fast) position.

NOTE: Failure to move throttle control between half and full speed (fast) position, before stopping may cause engine to “backfire”.

•Turn ignition key to “STOP” 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 "STOP" WILL CAUSE THE BATTERY TO BE DISCHARGED, (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, 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. 8)

Always operate engine at full throttle.

•Operating engine at less than full throttle reduces the battery charging rate.

•Full throttle offers the best mower performance.

TO USE CHOKE CONTROL (See Fig. 8)

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

•knob in to disengage.

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD

(See Fig. 8)

CAUTION: Do not attempt to operate motion control lever when the parking brake is set or when the brake pedal is depressed. Doing so may result in misadjustment to the drive control system.

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.

•Slowly move motion control lever to desired position.

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT (See Fig. 8)

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.

12

OPERATION

•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. 9)

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 ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT” in the Operation section of this manual).

•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.

•Be sure all gauge wheels are in the same setting.

IMPORTANT:BE SURETO READJUST GAUGEWHEELS IFYOU CHANGE THE CUTTING HEIGHT OF THE MOWER DECK.

RETAINER

SPRING

CLEVIS

PIN

FIG. 9

TO OPERATE MOWER (See Fig. 10)

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.

•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.

CAUTION: Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass catcher, on mowers so equipped,or the deflector shield in place.

LIFT LEVER

HIGHEST

POSIITON

LOWEST

POSITION

ATTACHEMNT CLUTCH SWITCH PULL OUT TO

"ENGAGE"

PUSH IN TO "DISENGAGE"

DEFLECTOR

02142

SHIELD

FIG. 10

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

WARNING: 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 stopping is absolutely necessary, push brake pedal quickly to brake position and engage parking brake.

IMPORTANT: THE MOTION CONTROL LEVER RETURNS TO NEUTRAL (N) POSITION WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL IS FULLY DEPRESSED.

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

•Slowly move motion control lever to slowest setting.

•Make all turns slowly.

TO TRANSPORT (See Figs. 7 and 11)

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 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.

Transmission Engaged

Transmission Disengaged

FIG. 11

13

OPERATION

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.).

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.

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 and wipe 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 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.

CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open flame.

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 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.

TO START ENGINE (See Fig. 7)

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 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. 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.

NOTE:In extreme cold conditions, if engine will not start, you may need to disengage the motion drive belt as follows:

•Be sure parking brake is engaged.

•Remove retainer spring from the drive belt tension handle to relieve belt tension.

•Start engine and allow it to warm up for three (3) minutes.

•Shut-off engine and engage parking brake.

•Engage drive belt tension handle and replace the retainer spring.

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OPERATION

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 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.

PURGE TRANSMISSION

CAUTION: Never engage or disengage freewheel lever while the engine is run-

ning.

To ensure proper operation and performance, it is recommended 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 developed during shipping of your tractor.

IMPORTANT: SHOULD YOUR TRANSMISSION REQUIRE REMOVAL FOR SERVICE OR REPLACEMENT, IT SHOULD BE PURGED AFTER REINSTALLATION BEFORE OPERATING THE TRACTOR.

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

•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 engine is running, move throttle control to slow position. Disengage parking brake

•Move motion control lever to full forward position and hold for five (5) seconds. Move lever to full reverse position and hold for five (5) seconds. 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.

•Move motion control lever to neutral (N) position. Shutoff engine and set parking brake.

•Engage transmission by placing freewheel control in driving position (See “TO TRANSPORT” in this section 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.

•Slowly move motion control lever forward, after the tractor moves approximately five (5) feet, slowly move motion control lever to reverse position. After the tractor moves approximately five (5) feet return the motion control lever to the neutral (N) position. Repeat this procedure with the motion control lever three (3) times.

•Your tractor is now purged and now ready for normal operation.

MOWING TIPS

•Tire chains cannot be used when the mower housing is attached to tractor.

•Mower should be properly leveled for best mowing performance. See “TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING” in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

•The left hand side of mower should be used for trimming.

•Drive so that clippings are discharged onto the area that has been cut. Have the cut area to the right of the tractor. This will result in a more even distribution of clippings and more uniform cutting.

•When mowing large areas, start by turning to the right so 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. 12).

00272

FIG. 12

•If grass is extremely tall, it should be mowed twice to reduce load and possible fire hazard from dried clippings. 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 mowing to assure better mowing performance and proper discharge of material. Regulate ground speed by selecting 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.

15