John Deere z425 User Manual
JOHN DEERE
WORLDWIDE COMMERCIAL & CONSUMER
EQUIPMENT DIVISION
M154566
H6
John Deere
Z225, Z425, Z445 EZtrak
OMM154566 H6
OMM154566 H6
OPERATOR’S MANUAL
North American Version
Litho in U.S.A.
INTRODUCTION
c WARNING: The Engine Exhaust
from this product contains chemicals known
to the State of California to cause cancer,
birth defects or other reproductive harm.
California Proposition 65 Warning
Table of Contents
Introduction................................................................................................ 1
Product Identification ................................................................................. 2
Safety Labels ............................................................................................. 2
Safety ........................................................................................................ 4
Assembly ................................................................................................... 7
Operating - Controls .................................................................................. 9
Operating................................................................................................. 10
Service Intervals...................................................................................... 18
Service Lubrication.................................................................................. 19
Service Engine ........................................................................................ 19
Service Transmission ............................................................................. 26
Service Mower......................................................................................... 30
Service Electrical..................................................................................... 36
Service Miscellaneous ............................................................................ 38
Troubleshooting ....................................................................................... 40
Storage .................................................................................................... 42
Specifications .......................................................................................... 42
Warranty .................................................................................................. 44
Getting Quality Service ........................................................................... 46
Service Record........................................................................................ 47
Introduction
Thank You for Purchasing a John Deere Product
We appreciate having you as a customer and wish you many years of safe
and satisfied use of your machine.
Using Your Operator’s Manual
This manual is an important part of your machine and should remain with
the machine when you sell it.
Reading your operator’s manual will help you and others avoid personal
injury or damage to the machine. Information given in this manual will
provide the operator with the safest and most effective use of the machine.
Knowing how to operate this machine safely and correctly will allow you to
train others who may operate this machine.
If you have an attachment, use the safety and operating information in the
attachment operator’s manual along with the machine operator’s manual to
operate the attachment safely and correctly.
This manual and safety signs on your machine may also be available in
other languages (see your authorized dealer to order).
Sections in your operator’s manual are placed in a specific order to help
you understand all the safety messages and learn the controls so you can
operate this machine safely. You can also use this manual to answer any
specific operating or servicing questions.
The machine shown in this manual may differ slightly fr om your machine,
but will be similar enough to help you understand our instructions.
RIGHT-HAND and LEFT-HAND sides are determined by facing in the
direction the machine will travel when going forward. When you see a
broken line (------), the item referred to is hidden from view.
Before delivering this machine, your dealer performed a predelivery
inspection to ensure best performance.
Special Messages
Your manual contains special messages to bring attention to potential
safety concerns, machine damage as well as helpful operating and
servicing information. Please read all the information carefully to avoid
injury and machine damage.
All information, illustrations and
specifications in this manual are based on
the latest information at the time of
publication. The right is reserved to make
changes at any time without notice.
COPYRIGHT© 2006
John Deere Worldwide Commercial and
Consumer Equipment Division
Deere & Co.
All rights reserved
Previous Editions
COPYRIGHT©
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! This symbol and text highlight
potential hazards or death to the operator or bystanders that may
occur if the hazards or procedures are ignored.
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! This text is used to tell the operator
of actions or conditions that might result in damage to the
machine.
NOTE: General information is given throughout the manual that may
help the operator in the operation or service of the machine.
Introduction - 1
PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION
Product Identification
Record Identification Numbers
Lawn Tractors
Z225, Z425 and Z445 PIN (010001-)
If you need to contact an Authorized Service Center for information on
servicing, always provide the product model and identification numbers.
You will need to locate the model and serial number for the machine and
for the engine of your machine and record the information in the spaces
provided below.
DATE OF PURCHASE:
_________________________________________
DEALER NAME:
_________________________________________
DEALER PHONE:
_________________________________________
PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION NUMBER:
__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __
ENGINE SERIAL NUMBER:
__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __
Register Your Product and Warranty Online
To register your product through the Internet, simply go to
www.JohnDeereWarrantyRegistration.com. Completing the information,
either online or with the product warranty card, will ensure the customer
that their product receives all post sales service and important product
information.
• If machine stops going uphill, stop blade and back down slowly.
• Read operator's manual.
• Keep safety devices (guards, shields, and switches) in place and
working.
• Remove objects that can be thrown by blade.
• When leaving machine: -Stop engine, -Lock park brake, -Remove key.
DANGER
M154909
ROTATING BLADES CUT OFF ARMS AND LEGS
• Do not mow when children or others are around.
• Do not mow in reverse.
• Look down and behind before and while backing.
• Never carry children even while blades are off.
DANGER
Safety Labels
Understanding The Machine Safety Labels
The machine safety labels shown in this section are placed
in important areas on your machine to draw attention to
potential safety hazards.
On your machine safety labels, the words DANGER,
WARNING, and CAUTION are used with this safety-alert symbol.
DANGER identifies the most serious hazards.
The operator’s manual also explains any potential safety hazards
whenever necessary in special safety messages that are identified with
the word, CAUTION, and the safety-alert symbol.
WARNING
M154909
AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH
• Drive across slopes, not up and down.
• Avoid sudden turns.
M89504
ROTATING BLADE
• Do not put hands or feet under or into mower when engine is running.
THROWN OBJECTS
• Before mowing, clear area of objects that may be thrown by blade.
• Do not operate mower without discharge chute or entire grass catcher in
place.
DANGER - CAUTION
M128699
Picture Note: Located on battery
• Shield eyes, explosive gases can cause blindness or injury.
• No sparks, flames, smoking.
• Sulfuric acid can cause blindness or severe burns.
Product Identification - 2
SAFETY LABELS
• Flush eyes immediately with water. Get medical help fast.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Do not tip.
• Keep vent caps tight and level.
WARNING
TCU51051
• To avoid injury from rotating belts, keep all shields and guards in place.
DANGER
To avoid injury from rotating blades and thrown objects:
Emission Control System Certification Label
NOTE: Tampering with emission controls and components by
unauthorized personnel may result in severe fines or penalties.
Emission controls and components can only be adjusted by EPA
and/or CARB authorized service centers. Contact your John Deere
Commercial and Consumer Equipment Retailer concerning emission
controls and component questions.
The presence of an emissions label signifies that the engine has been
certified with the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
and/or California Air Resources Board (CARB).
The emissions warranty applies only to those engines marketed by John
Deere that have been certified by the EPA and/or CARB; and used in the
United States and Canada in off-road mobile equipment.
Emission Compliance Period
If your engine has the emission compliance category listed on the
emission control system certification or air index label, this indicates the
number of operating hours for which the engine has been certified to meet
EPA and/or CARB emission requirements. The following table provides
the engine compliance period in hours associated with the category found
on the certification label.
Agency Category Hours
EPA C 250
EPA B 500
M139128
• Keep hands and feet away from rotating blades. Keep bystanders a safe
distance away. Do not operate mower without discharge chute or entire
grass catcher in place.
DANGER
M131748
To avoid injury from rotating blades and thrown objects, stay clear of deck
edge and keep others away. Do not mow without discharge chute or entire
grass catcher in place.
DANGER
ROTATING BLADE
EPA A 1000
CARB Moderate 125
CARB Intermediate 250
CARB Extended 500
M118610
• Do not put hands or feet under or into mower when engine is running.
Safety Labels - 3
SAFETY
Safety
Operating Safely
This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and
feet and throwing objects. Failure to obser ve the following
safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.
• Read, understand and follow all instructions on the
machine and in manuals provided, and view safety video, before starting.
Be thoroughly familiar with the controls and the proper use of the machine
before starting.
• The residential zero radius lawn mower drives differently than a
traditional riding mower. Learning to operate the controls smoothly and
safely will take some time.
• Practice operating the residential zero radius lawn mower in a large open
area with the blades off. Keep practicing until you feel confident in your
maneuvering and driving skills.
• Only allow responsible adults, who have practiced driving the residential
zero radius lawn mower and are familiar with the instructions to operate
the machine. Local restrictions may restrict the age of the operator.
• Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the machine. Keep
clear of the discharge opening at all times.
• Clear the area of objects such as rocks, wire and toys which could be
thrown by the blades.
• Be sure the area is clear of bystanders before operating. 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.
• Never direct discharged material toward anyone. Avoid discharging
material against a wall or obstruction. Material may ricochet back toward
the operator. Stop the blades when crossing gravel surfaces.
• Do not operate the machine without the entire grasscatcher, discharge
guard, or other safety devices in place and working. Never operate with
the discharge deflector raised, removed, or altered, unless using a
grasscatcher.
• Slow down before turning.
• Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn off blades, lock
park brake, stop engine and remove key before dismounting.
• Disengage blades when not mowing. Shut off engine and wait for all
parts to come to a complete stop before cleaning the machine, removing
the grasscatcher, or unclogging the discharge chute.
• Operate machine only in daylight or good artificial light.
• Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or
drugs.
• Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways. Stop blades
before crossing roads or sidewalks.
• Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into a trailer or
truck.
• Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields when
operating machine.
• Data indicates operators 60 years and above are involved in a large
percentage 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.
• Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for wheel weights or
counterweights.
• Inspect machine before you operate. Be sure hardware is tight. Repair or
replace damaged, badly worn, or missing parts. Be sure guards and
shields are in good condition and fastened in place. Make any necessary
adjustments before you operate.
• Before using, always visually inspect to see that the blades, blade bolts
and the mower assembly are not worn and damaged. Replace worn and
damaged blades and bolts in sets to preserve balance.
• Make sure spark plug, muffler, fuel cap and air cleaner are in place
before star ting the engine.
• Be sure all drives are in neutral and parking brake is locked before
starting engine. Only start engine from the operator’s position.
• Do not change the engine governor settings or overspeed the engine.
Operating the engine at excessive speed can increase the hazard of
personal injury.
• If you hit an object or if abnormal vibration occurs, stop the machine and
inspect it. Make repairs before you operate.
• Use only accessories and attachments approved by the manufacturer of
the machine. Keep safety labels visible when installing accessor ies and
attachments.
• Do not wear radio or music headphones. Safe ser vice and operation
requires your full attention.
• When machine is left unattended, stored, or parked, lower the mower
deck unless a positive mechanical lock is used.
Using a Spark Arrestor
The engine in this machine is not equipped with a spark arrestor muffler. It
is a violation of California Public Resource Code Section 4442 to use or
operate this engine on or near any forest-covered, brush-covered or
grass-covered land unless the exhaust system is equipped with a spark
arrestor meeting any applicable local or state laws. Other states or federal
areas may have similar laws.
A spark arrestor for your machine may be available from your authorized
dealer. An installed spark arrestor must be maintained in good working
order by the operator.
Checking Mowing Area
• Clear mowing area of objects that might be
thrown. Keep people and pets out of mowing
area.
• Low-hanging branches and similar obstacles
can injure the operator or interfere with
mowing operation. Before mowing, identify potential obstacles such as
low-hanging branches, and trim or remove those obstacles.
• Study mowing area. Set up a safe mowing pattern. Do not mow where
traction or stability is doubtful.
• Test drive area with mower lowered but not running. Slow down when
you travel over rough ground.
Parking Safely
1. Stop machine on a level surface, not on a slope.
2. Disengage mower blades.
3. Move motion control levers out to the Start/Shutdown position.
4. Lock the park brake.
5. Stop the engine.
6. Remove the key.
Safety - 4
SAFETY
7. Wait for engine and all moving parts to stop before you leave the
operator’s seat.
8. Disconnect the negative battery cable or remove the spark plug wire (for
gasoline engines) before servicing the machine.
Rotating Blades are Dangerous
HELP PREVENT SERIOUS OR FATAL ACCIDENTS:
• Rotating blades can cut off arms and legs,
and throw objects. Failure to observe safety
instructions could result in serious injury or
death.
• Keep hands, feet and clothing away from mower deck when engine is
running.
• Be aler t at all times, drive forward and in reverse carefully. People,
especially children can move quickly into the mowing area before you
know it.
• Before backing up, stop mower blades or attachments and look down
and behind the machine carefully, especially for children.
• Do not mow in reverse.
• Shut off blades when you are not mowing.
• Park machine safely before leaving the operator’s station for any reason
including emptying the grasscatchers or unplugging the chute.
• The mower blades should stop in approximately five seconds when the
mower is disengaged. If you believe that your blades may not be stopping
in that period of time, take your machine to your authorized dealer where
they can safely check and service your machine.
Protect Children
• Death or serious injury can occur when
young children associate having fun with
a lawn mowing machine simply because
someone has given them a ride on a
machine.
• Children are attracted to lawn mowing machines and mowing activities.
They don’t understand the dangers of rotating blades or the fact that the
operator is unaware of their presence.
• Children who have been given rides in the past may suddenly appear in
the mowing area for another ride and be run over or backed over by the
machine.
• Tragic accidents with children can occur if the operator is not alert to the
presence of children, especially when a child approaches a machine from
behind. Before and while backing up, stop mower blades and look down
and behind the machine carefully, especially for children.
• Never carry children on a machine or attachment, even with the blades
off. Do not tow children in a cart or trailer. They can fall off and be seriously
injured or interfere with safe machine operation.
• Never use the machine as a recreational vehicle or to entertain children.
• Never allow children or an untrained person operate the machine.
Instruct all operators not to give children a ride on the machine or in an
attachment.
• Keep children indoors, out of the mowing area, and in the watchful eye of
a responsible adult, other than the operator, when a mower is being
operated.
• Stay alert to the presence of children. Never assume that children will
remain where you last saw them. Turn the machine off if a child enters the
work area.
• Use extreme care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or
other objects that may block your view of a child.
Avoid Tipping
• Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and tip-over
accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. Operation on all
slopes requires extra caution.
• Mow across slopes, not up and down.
• Never mow on any slope that is more than 10 degrees, or a slope that
rises more than 3-1/2 feet within a distance of 20 feet of distance.
• Make a safe choice when operating on slopes. If you feel uncomfortable
on a hillside, or if you feel the front of the machine start to creep down the
slope, stop mowing immediately and proceed slowly and safely down the
slope.
• If steering direction cannot be maintained with slight steering corrections,
the slope is too steep to mow.
• Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden objects. Uneven
terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
• Choose a low ground speed so you will not have to stop or shift while on
a slope.
• Do not mow or operate machine on wet grass. Tires may lose traction.
Tires may lose traction on slopes even though the brakes are functioning
properly.
• Avoid starting, stopping or turning on a slope. If the tires lose traction,
disengage the blades and proceed slowly, straight down the slope.
• Keep all movement on slopes slow and gradual. Do not make sudden
changes in speed or direction, which could cause the machine to roll over.
• Use extra care while operating machine with grasscatchers or other
attachments, they can affect stability of the machine. Do not use on steep
slopes.
• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, embankments, or bodies of water.
The machine could suddenly roll over if a wheel goes over the edge or the
edge caves in.
• Leave at least the width of the machine as a safety area between the
machine and any safety hazard. Mow those areas with a hand-held
trimmer or walk-behind mower.
• Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for wheel weights or
counterweights for added stability when operating on slopes or using front
or rear mounted attachments. Remove weights when not required.
• Drive machine slowly and avoid quick stops if attachment has been
removed for servicing mower or machine.
Keep Riders Off
• Only allow the operator on the machine. Keep
riders off.
• Riders on the machine or attachment may be
struck by foreign objects or thrown off the
machine causing serious injury.
• Riders obstruct the operator’s view resulting in the machine being
operated in an unsafe manner.
Wear Appropriate Clothing
• Always wear eye protection when operating
the machine.
• Wear close fitting clothing and safety
equipment appropriate for the job.
Safety - 5
SAFETY
• While mowing, always wear substantial footwear and long trousers. Do
not operate the equipment when barefoot or wearing open sandals.
• Wear a suitable protective device such as earplugs. Loud noise can
cause impairment or loss of hearing.
Driving Safely on Public Roads
Avoid personal injury or death resulting from a
collision with another vehicle on public roads:
• Use safety lights and devices. Slow moving
machines when driven on public roads are
hard to see, especially at night.
• Whenever driving on public roads, use flashing warning lights and turn
signals according to local regulations. Extra flashing warning lights may
need to be installed.
Practice Safe Maintenance
• Only qualified, trained adults should service
this machine. Understand service procedure
before doing work.
• Never operate machine in a closed area
where dangerous carbon monoxide fumes can collect.
• Keep all nuts and bolts tight, especially blade attachment bolts, to be
sure the equipment is in safe working condition.
• Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly.
• Keep machine free of grass, leaves or other debris build-up. Clean up oil
or fuel spillage and remove any fuel-soaked debris. Allow the machine to
cool before stor ing.
• If you strike a foreign object, stop and inspect the machine. Repair, if
necessary, before restarting.
• Never make any adjustments or repairs with the engine running. Wait for
all movement to stop on machine before adjusting, cleaning or repairing.
• Check grasscatcher components and the discharge guard frequently and
replace with manufacturer’s recommended parts, when necessary.
Grasscatcher components are subject to wear, damage, and deterioration
which could expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown.
• Mower blades are sharp. Wrap the blade or wear gloves, and use extra
care when servicing them. Only replace blades. Never straighten or weld
them.
• Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service as required.
• Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as necessary.
• On multi-bladed machines, take care as rotating one blade can cause
other blades to rotate.
• Keep hands, feet, clothing, jewelry, and long hair away from any moving
parts, to prevent them from getting caught.
• Lower any attachments to the ground before cleaning or servicing
machine. Disengage all power and stop the engine. Lock park brake and
remove the key. Let machine cool.
• Securely support any machine elements that must be raised for service
work. Use jack stands or lock service latches to support components
when needed.
• Disconnect battery or remove spark plug wire (for gasoline engines)
before making any repairs. Disconnect negative terminal first and positive
last. Install positive terminal first and negative last.
• Before servicing machine or attachment, carefully release pressure from
any components with stored energy, such as hydraulic components or
springs.
• Keep all parts in good condition and properly installed. Fix damage
immediately. Replace wor n or broken parts.
• Charge batteries in an open, well-ventilated area, away from sparks.
Unplug battery charger before connecting or disconnecting from the
battery. Wear protective clothing and use insulated tools.
• Do not strike the flywheel with a hammer or hard object because the
flywheel may later shatter during operation.
• If equipped with hydraulic lift - release hydraulic pressure by lowering
attachment or cutting units to the ground or to a mechanical stop and
move hydraulic control levers back and forth.
Avoid High Pressure Fluids
• Hydraulic hoses and lines can fail due to
physical damage, kinks, age, and exposure.
Check hoses and lines regularly. Replace
damaged hoses and lines.
• Hydraulic fluid connections can loosen due to physical damage and
vibration. Check connections regularly. Tighten loose connections.
• Escaping fluid under pressure can penetrate the skin causing serious
injury. Avoid the hazard by relieving pressure before disconnecting
hydraulic or other lines. Tighten all connections before applying pressure.
• Search for leaks with a piece of cardboard. Protect hands and body from
high pressure fluids.
• If an accident occurs, see a doctor immediately. Any fluid injected into
the skin must be surgically removed within a few hours or gangrene may
result. Doctors unfamiliar with this type of injury should reference a
knowledgeable medical source. Such information is available from Deere
& Company Medical Depar tment in Moline, I llinois, U.S.A. Information may
be obtained in the United States and Canada only by calling 1-800-822-
8262.
Prevent Fires
• Remove grass and debris from engine compartment and muffler area,
before and after operating machine, especially after mowing or mulching
in dry conditions.
• Empty the grasscatcher completely before storing.
• Always shut off fuel when storing or transporting machine, if the machine
has a fuel shutoff.
• Do not store machine near an open flame or source of ignition, such as a
water heater or furnace.
• Check fuel lines, tank, cap, and fittings frequently for cracks or leaks.
Replace if necessar y.
Handling Fuel Safely
To avoid personal injury or property
damage, use extreme care in handling fuel.
Fuel is extremely flammable and fuel
vapors are explosive:
• Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and
other sources of ignition.
• Use only an approved fuel container. Use
only non-metal, portable fuel containers
approved by the Underwriter’s Laboratory
(U.L.) or the American Society for Testing &
Materials (ASTM). If using a funnel, make sure
it is plastic and has no screen or filter.
• Never remove the fuel tank cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow
engine to cool before refueling.
Safety - 6
ASSEMBLY
• Never add fuel to or drain fuel from the machine indoors. Move machine
outdoors and provide adequate ventilation.
• Clean up spilled fuel immediately. If fuel is spilled on clothing, change
clothing immediately. If fuel is spilled near machine, do not attempt to star t
the engine but move the machine away from the area of spillage. Avoid
creating any source of ignition until fuel vapors have dissipated.
• Never store the machine or fuel container where there is an open flame,
spark, or pilot light such as on a water heater or other appliance.
• Prevent fire and explosion caused by static electric discharge. Static
electric discharge can ignite fuel vapors in an ungrounded fuel container.
• Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer bed with a
plastic liner. Always place containers on the ground away from your
vehicle before fueling.
• Remove fuel-powered equipment from the truck or trailer and refuel it on
the ground. If this is not possible, then refuel such equipment with a
portable container, rather than from a fuel dispenser nozzle.
• Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or container
opening at all times until the fueling is complete. Do not use a nozzle lockopen device.
• Never overfill fuel tank. Replace fuel tank cap and tighten securely.
• Replace all fuel container caps securely after use.
• For gasoline engines, do not use gas with methanol. Methanol is harmful
to your health and to the environment.
Tire Safety
Explosive separation of a tire and rim parts
can cause serious injury or death:
• Do not attempt to mount a tire without the
proper equipment and experience to perform
the job.
• Always maintain the correct tire pressure. Do not inflate the tires above
the recommended pressure. Never weld or heat a wheel and tire
assembly. The heat can cause an increase in air pressure resulting in a
tire explosion. Welding can structurally weaken or deform the wheel.
• When inflating tires, use a clip-on chuck and extension hose long enough
to allow you to stand to one side and NOT in front of or over the tire
assembly.
• Check tires for low pressure, cuts, bubbles, damaged rims or missing lug
bolts and nuts.
Checking Wheel Hardware
• A serious accident could occur causing serious injury if wheel hardware
is not tight.
• Check wheel hardware tightness often during the first 100 hours of
operation.
• Wheel hardware must be tightened to specified torque using the proper
procedure anytime it is loosened.
chemical products: physical and health hazards, safety procedures, and
emergency response techniques. The seller of the chemical products
used with your machine is responsible for providing the MSDS for that
product.
Assembly
Charge and Connect Battery
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! The battery produces a flammable
and explosive gas. The battery may explode:
• Do not smoke or have open flame near battery.
• Wear eye protection and gloves.
• Do not allow direct metal contact across battery posts.
• Remove negative cable first when disconnecting.
• Install negative cable last when connecting.
1. Raise seat.
2. Remove and discard the protective caps from the battery terminals.
3. Charge the battery. Battery is fully charged at 12.6 volts.
A
4. Connect positive (+) battery cable (A) to battery.
5. Connect negative (-) battery cable (B).
6. Apply general purpose grease or silicone spray to terminal to help
prevent corrosion.
7. Slide red cover over positive battery cable.
8. Lower seat.
B
MX38104
Handling Waste Product and Chemicals
Waste products, such as, used oil, fuel, coolant, brake fluid, and batteries,
can harm the environment and people:
• Do not use beverage containers for waste fluids - someone may drink
from them.
• See your local Recycling Center or authorized dealer to learn how to
recycle or get rid of waste products.
• A Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) provides specific details on
Assembly - 7
ASSEMBLY
Install Deck Height Pin
B
A
MX37775
1. Be sure mower is fully raised to the transpor t lock position, as shown,
and insert the pin (A) in the hole just below the mower deck lift lever (B).
Install Seat
1. Remove and discard four bolts and wood block holding seat onto foot
plate.
B
ENGINE section.)
Check Machine Safety System
Perform safety system check to make sure the electronic safety interlock
circuit is functioning properly. Perform all tests. (See Testing Safety
System in the OPERATING section.)
C
A
2. Raise seat platform (A), and install seat (B) onto platform. Secure with
washers and bolts (C).
3. Route harness connector (D) up and onto seat switch, and secure
harness plug (E) into hole in seat platform.
4. Lower seat.
D
E
C
MX38092
Check Tire Pressure
Check tire pressure. (See Checking Tire Pressure in the SERVICE
MISCELLANEOUS section.)
Adjust Mower Deck Level
Adjust mower deck level. (See Adjusting Mower Deck Level in the
OPERATING section.)
Check Engine Oil Level
Check engine oil level. (See Checking Engine Oil Level in the SERVICE
Assembly - 8
Operating - Controls
Operator Station Controls
OPERATING - CONTROLS
C
B
A
L
M
K
J
I
N
D
E
F
G
Key Description Key Description
A Left Motion Control Lever H Fuel Tank Cap
B Headlight (If equipped) Left available for Z225, Left and
Right available for Z425 and Z445
C Park Brake Lever J Ignition Key Switch
D Seat Adjustment Lever K Headlight Switch (If equipped)
E Height-of-Cut (HOC) Adjustment Pin L Mower Engagement Switch
F Mower Deck Lift Lever M Hourmeter
G Right Motion Control Lever N Throttle Control Lever
I Choke (Z425 and Z445)
H
MX37885
Operating - Controls - 9
OPERATING
Operating
Daily Operating Checklist
❏ Test safety systems.
❏ Check fuel level.
❏ Check engine oil level.
❏ Remove grass and debris from engine compar tment and muffler
area, before and after operating machine.
❏ Check transaxle oil level - sight bottle.
❏ Clean air intake screen.
❏ Check area below machine for leaks.
Avoid Damage to Plastic and Painted Surfaces
• Do not wipe plastic parts unless rinsed first.
• Insect repellent spray may damage plastic and painted surfaces. Do not
spray insect repellent near machine.
• Be careful not to spill fuel on machine. Fuel may damage surface. Wipe
up spilled fuel immediately.
Mounting and Dismounting Machine
Adjusting Seat
A
MX37772
1. Pull lever (A) upward.
2. Slide seat forward or rearward to desired position.
3. Release lever.
Adjusting Motion Control Levers
1. Park machine safely. (See Parking Safely in the SAFETY section.)
A
MX37771
• Do not step on the mower deck when mounting and dismounting the
machine.
• Mount the machine from the front using the foot plate (A).
• Park machine safely before dismounting (see Parking Safely in the
SAFETY section).
• Keep the foot plate clean.
A
D
C
B
MX37941
2. To adjust motion control lever height, remove two bolts and nuts and
raise or lower each control lever to your comfort level.
• For highest lever position, use holes (A).
• For medium lever position, use holes (B).
• For lowest lever position, use holes (C).
3. You can also adjust motion control levers slightly forward or rearward
(D) within slotted holes.
Adjusting Cutting Height
Cutting height can be adjusted from approximately 25-100 mm (1-4 in.).
When mower deck is in transpor t position cutting height is approximately
100 mm (4 in.).
1. Check tire pressure and adjust as needed.
Operating - 10
OPERATING
A
C
D
MX37775
2. Raise mower deck:
3. Insert the pin (A) in the proper hole for the desired height of cut.
4. Lower mower deck.
Adjusting Mower Level
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Rotating blades are dangerous.
Before adjusting or servicing mower:
• Disconnect spark plug wire(s) or battery negative (-) cable to
prevent engine from starting accidently.
• Always wear gloves when handling mower blades or working
near blades.
NOTE: Mower wheels should not contact the ground when leveling
the deck.
1. Park machine safely. (See Parking Safely in the SAFETY section.)
2. Inflate tires to the correct pressure.
3. Set mower to preferred cutting height, and lower deck into the mowing
position.
4. Measure mower level (side-to-side).
MX4896
b.Turn left blade (C) as show n. Hold drive belt and turn right blade (D) as
shown. Take measurement for both blades.
The difference between blade measurements must not be more than 3
mm (1/8 in.).
E
MX37773
c.Adjust mower level, if necessary, by turning rear nuts (E) clockwise to
raise the side of the mower deck, or counterclockwise to lower the
mower deck.
5. Measure mower level (front-to-rear).
B
A
Picture Note: A convenient leveling gauge (A) (AM130907) is
available from your dealer.
a.Position mower blades as follows and measure from each outside
blade tip (B) to the level surface.
Operating - 11
D
MIF
MX4896a
a.Turn right blade (D) so blade tip points straight forward.
b.Measure from blade tip to the surface. Take measurement for both
blades. The front blade tip must be 3 - 6 mm (1/8 - 1/4 in.) lower than
rear blade tip.
OPERATING
SAFETY section).
2. Inflate tires to correct pressure.
3. Raise mower deck lift lever, and lock in transport position.
4. Adjust mower wheels to correct height:
42 Inch Mower
F
G
MX37774
c.42 inch mower deck: Adjust mower level, if necessary, by loosening
rear nut (F) on front lift rod. Turn front nut (G) clockwise to raise front of
mower or counterclockwise to lower it. Tighten rear nut after adjustment
is complete.
H
J
I
d.48 and 54 inch mower decks: Adjust mower level, if necessary, by
loosening rear nuts (H) on front lift rod. Turn front nuts (I) clockwise to
raise front of mower or counterclockwise to lower it. Make sure front lift
rod contacts mower deck bracket on both sides (J) to maximize stability
of deck. Tighten rear nut after adjustment is complete.
NOTE: Verify that deck will latch in transport position. If it does not
latch, turn both rear adjusting nuts counter-clockwise equally to
lower rear of deck until deck latch will engage. Check front lift rod
adjustment, adjust if necessary.
J
MX37887
Adjusting Mower Wheels
A
B
F
Position 1 (A) Disables anti-scalp feature
Position 2 (B) 25 - 50 mm (1 - 2 in.) Height of Cut
Position 3 (C) 57 - 76 mm (2-1/4 - 3 in.) Height of Cut
Position 4 (D) 82 - 101 mm (3-1/4 - 4 in.) Height of Cut
• Remove shoulder bolt (E) and nut (F). Move wheel (G) to proper hole
position. Secure with shoulder bolt and nut. Tighten nut to 34 N•m (25 lbft).
48 and 54 Inch Mowers
D
G
(should not be used)
K
L
C
E
MX36202
H
I
J
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Rotating blades are dangerous.
Before adjusting or servicing mower:
• Disconnect spark plug wire(s) or battery negative (-) cable to
prevent engine from starting accidently.
• Always wear gloves when handling mower blades or working
near blades.
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! The mower deck can be damaged if
mower wheels are adjusted wrong:
• Wheels must not ride on ground supporting mower weight.
• Check wheel adjustment each time cutting height is changed.
1. Park machine safely on a level surface. (See Parking Safely in the
MX37884
Position 1 (H) 25 - 76 mm (1 - 3 in.) Height of Cut
Position 2 (I) 82 - 101 mm (3-1/4 - 4 in.) Height of Cut
• Remove shoulder bolt (J) and nut (K). Move wheel (L) to proper hole
position. Secure with shoulder bolt and nut. Tighten nut to 34 N•m (25 lbft).
Operating - 12
OPERATING
Testing Safety Systems
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Engine exhaust fumes contain
carbon monoxide and can cause serious illness or death.
Do not run an engine in an enclosed area, such as a garage, even
with doors or windows opened.
Move the machine to an outside area before running the engine.
The safety systems installed on your machine should be checked before
each machine use. Be sure you have read the machine operator manual
and are completely familiar with the operation of the machine before
performing these safety system checks.
Use the following checkout procedures to check for normal operation of
machine.
If there is a malfunction during one of these procedures, do not operate
machine. See your authorized dealer for service.
Perform these tests in a clear open area. Keep bystanders away.
Testing Park Brake Switch
1. Park machine safely. (See Parking Safely in the SAFETY section.)
2. Sit on seat.
3. Unlock the park brake.
4. Try to star t engine.
Result: Engine must not crank. If engine cranks, there is a problem with
your safety interlock circuit.
Testing Park Brake
1. Park machine safely. (See Parking Safely in the SAFETY section.)
2. Engage bypass valve lever.
3. Lock the park brake.
4. Try to push machine manually.
Result: Park brake must prevent machine from moving. If machine moves,
parking brake needs to be adjusted.
Result: Engine must not crank. If engine cranks, there is a pr oblem with
your safety interlock circuit.
Testing Seat Switch
1. Park machine safely. (See Parking Safely in the SAFETY Section.)
2. First test:
a.Star t engine.
b.Move throttle lever up to maximum engine speed.
c.Unlock park brake.
d.Engage mower.
e.Raise up off seat. Do not get off machine.
Result: Engine and mower blades should stop. If engine and mower
blades do not stop, there is a problem with your safety interlock circuit.
3. Second test:
a.Lock park brake.
b.Disengage mower.
c.Start engine.
d.Unlock park brake.
e.Raise up off seat. Do not get off machine.
Result: Engine should stop. If engine does not stop, there is a problem
with your safety interlock circuit.
4. Third test:
a.Disengage mower.
b.Star t engine.
c.Lock park brake.
d.Raise up off seat. Do not get off machine.
Result: Engine should continue to run. If engine stops, there is a problem
with your safety interlock circuit.
Using Park Brake
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Children or bystanders may
attempt to move or operate an unattended machine.
Always lock the park brake and remove the key before leaving the
machine unattended.
Setting Park Brake
1. Press button, and raise park brake lever to lock park brake.
Releasing Park Brake
1. Press button, and lower park brake lever to unlock park brake.
Testing Mower Engagement (PTO) Switch
1. Park machine safely. (See Parking Safely in the SAFETY section.)
2. Sit on seat.
3. Lock the park brake.
4. Engage the mower.
5. Try to star t engine.
Operating - 13
OPERATING
Using Key Switch
B
A
A - STOP (off) position - With key in the STOP position, all switched power
is off, and engine should not run.
B - Run (on) position - Turn key from STOP to this position, and all
switched power circuits will be on.
C - Start position - Turn key to start position to crank the engine. Release
key after engine has started and it will automatically return to the on
position. The engine will continue to run.
C
MX31338
Using Mower Engagement Switch
• To Engage Mower - Pull mower engagement knob up.
• To Disengage Mower - Push mower engagement knob down.
Using the Hour Meter
• The hour meter shows the number of hours the engine has run. The hour
meter does not accumulate hours with the engine off when the key is in
the run position. Use the hour meter to determine when your machine has
reached the recommended service intervals.
• Turn the key to STOP position when not using the machine.
• Hour meter cannot be reset.
Using the Motion Control Levers
Start/shutdown Position
B
A
MX37896
• Motion control levers must be in the start/shutdown position (A) and the
park brake locked (B) to start the engine.
• Forward and reverse movement of the motion control levers is prevented
when levers are moved to the start/shutdown position.
• Operator can exit mower with the engine running when the mower
engagement switch is disengaged, the motion control levers are in the
start/shutdown position and the park brake is locked.
• Motion control levers must be in the start/shutdown position to safely
enter and exit the operator seat.
Neutral Position
D
C
c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Learn use of the motion control
levers and practice at half throttle until becoming proficient and
comfortable with the operation of the machine.
Do not move motion control levers from forward to reverse or
reverse to forward position rapidly. Sudden direction changes
could cause loss of control or damage the machine.
Before using the machine, become familiar with the motion control levers
and how they respond. It is essential to know how the machine
accelerates, st eers and stops.
The functions of the motion control levers are:
• Dual function neutral position.
• Steering.
• Acceleration.
• Braking.
Operating - 14
MX37897
• Machine speed, motion, and direction can be controlled when the engine
is running, motion control levers are in the neutral position (C), and the
park brake is unlocked (D).
• To stop the machine for an emergency, move the motion control levers
quickly back to the neutral position.
Forward and Reverse Travel
Straight forward and reverse travel takes practice. If the machine does not
track in a straight line when going forward or reverse, the motion control
lever tracking may need adjusting.
1. Move throttle lever to the fast position.
2. Unlock park brake.
3. Move both motion control levers from the start/shutdown position inward
to the neutral position.
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