John Deere z425 User Manual

4.3 (19)

JOHN DEERE

WORLDWIDE COMMERCIAL & CONSUMER

EQUIPMENT DIVISION

M154566

John Deere

H6

 

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

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

Deere & Co.

John Deere Worldwide Commercial and

Consumer Equipment Division All rights reserved Previous Editions

COPYRIGHT©

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 from 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.

cCAUTION: 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:

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

M118610

• Do not put hands or feet under or into mower when engine is running.

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

 

 

 

EPA

A

1000

 

 

 

CARB

Moderate

125

 

 

 

CARB

Intermediate

250

 

 

 

CARB

Extended

500

 

 

 

Safety Labels - 3

SAFETY

Safety

Operating Safely

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.

• 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 starting 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 accessories and attachments.

Do not wear radio or music headphones. Safe service 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 alert 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 storing.

If you strike a foreign object, stop and inspect the machine. Repair, if necessary, before restarting.

Never make any adjustments or repairs with the engine running. 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 worn 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 Department in Moline, Illinois, 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 necessary.

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 start 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.

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

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

cCAUTION: 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.

B

A

MX38104

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.

Assembly - 7

ASSEMBLY

Install Deck Height Pin

B

A

MX37775

1. Be sure mower is fully raised to the transport 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

 

C

C

 

A

D

 

E

 

MX38092

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.

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

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.)

Assembly - 8

OPERATING - CONTROLS

Operating - Controls

Operator Station Controls

C F

B E G

D

A

L

M

K

J

I

N

H

MX37885

Key

Description

Key

Description

A

Left Motion Control Lever

H

Fuel Tank Cap

B

Headlight (If equipped) Left available for Z225, Left and

I

Choke (Z425 and Z445)

 

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

Operating - Controls - 9

OPERATING

Operating

Daily Operating Checklist

Test safety systems.

Check fuel level.

Check engine oil level.

Remove grass and debris from engine compartment 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

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.

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

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 transport position cutting height is approximately 100 mm (4 in.).

1. Check tire pressure and adjust as needed.

Operating - 10

OPERATING

A

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

cCAUTION: 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).

B

A

MIF

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.

C D

MX4896

b.Turn left blade (C) as shown. 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).

D

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 - 11

John Deere z425 User Manual

OPERATING

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

J

I

MX37887

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.

Adjusting Mower Wheels

cCAUTION: 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

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

A

C

B

E

D

F

G

MX36202

Position 1 (A) Disables anti-scalp feature (should not be used)

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

H

I

K

J

L

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

cCAUTION: 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 start 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.

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 start engine.

Result: Engine must not crank. If engine cranks, there is a problem with your safety interlock circuit.

Testing Seat Switch

1.Park machine safely. (See Parking Safely in the SAFETY Section.)

2.First test:

a.Start 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.Start 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

cCAUTION: 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.

Operating - 13

OPERATING

Using Key Switch

B

A C

MX31338

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.

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

cCAUTION: 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, steers and stops.

The functions of the motion control levers are:

Dual function neutral position.

Steering.

Acceleration.

Braking.

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

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.

Operating - 14

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