McCulloch MC17542STA, MC17542ST User Manual

MODEL NO. MC17542ST (MC17542STA)

17.5 HP 42 Inch Lawn Tractor

For Parts and Service, contact our authorized distributor: call 1-800-849-1297

For Technical Assistance: call 1-800-829-5886

193190 Rev. 1 09.21.04 MH/TR

PRINTED IN U.S.A.

SAFETY RULES

Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers

IMPORTANT: THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROW ING OBJECTS. FAILURE

TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

• Disengage blades when not mowing. Shut off engine

WARNING: In order to prevent ac ci den tal starting when setting up, trans port ing, ad just ing or making repairs, al ways dis con nect spark plug wire and place wire where it can not 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 rec om mend ed by and comply with spec i ﬁ ca tions of the man u fac tur er of your tractor. Use common sense when towing. Operate only at the low est possible speed when on a slope. Too heavy of a load, while on a slope, is dan ger ous. Tires can lose trac tion with the ground and cause you to lose control of your tractor.

I. GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the manual before starting.

• Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the machine. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times.

• Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the in struc tions, to operate the machine.

• Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc., which could be picked up and 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 back ing.

• 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 machine without the entire grass catcher, discharge guard, or other safety devices in place and working.

• Slow down before turning.

• Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn off blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and remove keys before dismounting.

and wait for all parts to come to a complete stop before cleaning the machine, removing the grass catcher, or unclogging the discharge guard.

• Operate machine only in daylight or good artiﬁ cial light.

• Do not operate the machine while under the inﬂ uence of alcohol or drugs.

• Watch for trafﬁ c when operating near or crossing road ways.

• Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into a trailer or truck.

• Always wear eye protection when operating machine.

• Data indicates that operators, age 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 them selves and others from serious injury.

• Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for wheel weights or counterweights.

• 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 tip-over accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. Operation on all slopes requires extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not mow it.

• Mow up and down slopes, not across.

• 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 that you will not have to stop or shift while on the slope.

• Do not mow on wet grass. Tires may lose traction.

Always keep the machine in gear when going down

slopes. Do not shift to neutral and coast downhill.

• 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 the 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 grass catchers or other at tach ments; they can affect the stability of the machine. Do no use on steep slopes.

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

• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. The machine could suddenly roll over if a wheel is over the edge or if the edge caves in.

SAFETY RULES

Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers

III. CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to

Never

the ma chine and the mowing activity. children will remain where you last saw them.

• Keep children out of the mowing area and in the watchful care of a responsible adult other than the operator.

• Be alert and turn machine off if a child enters the area.

• Before and while backing, look behind and down for small children.

• Never carry children, even with the blades shut off. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine operation. 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.

• Never allow children to operate the machine.

• Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may block your view of a child.

assume that

IV. TOWING

• Tow only with a machine that has a hitch designed for towing. Do not attach towed equipment except at the hitch point.

• Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for weight limits for towed equipment and towing on slopes.

• Never allow children or others in or on towed equipment.

• On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment may cause loss of traction and loss of control.

• Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop.

V. SERVICE

SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE

To avoid personal injury or property damage, use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely ﬂ ammable and the vapors are explosive.

• Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other sources of ignition.

• Use only approved gasoline container.

• Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow engine to cool before refueling.

• Never fuel the machine indoors.

• Never store the machine or fuel container where there is an open ﬂ ame, spark, or pilot light such as on a water heater or other appliances.

• Never ﬁ ll containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer bed with plastic liner. Always place containers on the ground away from your vehicle when ﬁ lling.

• Remove gas-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 gasoline dispenser nozzle.

• Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or container opening at all times until fueling is complete. Do not use a nozzle lock-open device.

• If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing immediately.

• Never overﬁ ll fuel tank. Replace gas cap and tighten securely.

GENERAL SERVICE

• Never operate machine in a closed are.

• Keep all nuts and bolts tight 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 oil or fuel spillage and remove any fuelsoaked debris. Allow 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 run ning.

• Check grass catcher components and the discharge guard frequently and replace with manufacturer's recommended parts, when necessary.

• Mower blades are sharp. Wrap the blade or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.

• Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service as required.

• Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as necessary.

• 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. Al ways look down and behind before and while backing.

• Keep children out of the mowing area and in the watchful care of a responsible adult other than the operator.

• Be alert and turn machine off if a child enters the area.

• Before and while backing, look behind and down for small children.

• Mow up and down slopes (15° Max), not across.

• Choose a low ground speed so that you will not have to stop or shift while on the slope.

• Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a slope. If the tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

• If machine stops while going uphill, disengage blades, shift into reverse and back down slowly.

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

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

GASOLINE CAPACITY 2.0 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 3.5 PINTS

W/O FILTER 3.0 PINTS

SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION RC12YC

(GAP: .030")

GROUND SPEED (MPH): FORWARD:

1st 1.2

2nd 1.5

3rd 2.4

4th 3.5

5th 4.8

6th 5.3

REVERSE: 1.5

TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI

REAR: 10 PSI

CHARGING SYSTEM: 3 AMPS BATTERY

5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS

BATTERY: AMP/HR: 28

MIN. CCA: 230

CASE SIZE: U1R

BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 27-35 FT. LBS.

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new tractor. It has been designed, engineered and manu fac tured to give you the best possible dependability and performance.

Should you experience any problem you cannot easily remedy, please contact your nearest authorized service center/ department. We have com pe tent, well-trained tech ni cians and the proper tools to ser vice or repair this tractor.

Please read and retain this manual. The instructions will enable you to assemble and maintain your tractor prop erly. Always observe the “SAFETY RULES”.

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and observe the safety rules.

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

• Follow the instructions under “Maintenance” and “Stor age” sec tions of this own er’s manual.

WARNING: This tractor is equipped with an internal com bus tion engine and should not be used on or near any un im proved forest-covered, brush-covered or grass-cov ered 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 mufﬂ er is available through your nearest authorized service center/depar tment (See RE PA I R PARTS section of this manual).

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SAFETY RULES ......................................................... 2-3

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS ....................................... 4

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES................................. 4

ASSEMBLY ................................................................. 6-8

OPERATION ............................................................. 9-14

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ...................................... 15

MAINTENANCE ..................................................... 15-18

SERVICE AND AD JUST MENTS ............................19-23

STORAGE .................................................................... 24

TROU BLE SHOOT ING ............................................ 25-26

REPAIR PARTS ...................................................... 28-41

CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK

Steering Wheel

Seat

Steering

Boot

(1) Large Flat

Washer

Steering

Wheel

Adapter

Steering

Wheel

Insert

Steering Extension Shaft

(1) Locknut 1/2-20

(1) Washer 17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge

(1) Knob

Key

(2) Keys

(1) Oil Drain Tube

(1) Locknut 1/4-28

(1) Hex Bolt 1/4-28 x 1-1/4

Slope Sheet

ASSEMBLY

02601

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. Stan dard wrench sizes are listed.

(2) 7/16" wrenches Utility knife (2) 3/4" wrench Tire pres sure gauge Pliers When right or left hand is mentioned in this man ual, it means

when you are in the operating po si tion (seated be hind the steer ing wheel).

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CAR TON

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 ﬂ at.

• Check for any additional loose parts or cartons and remove.

STEERING WHEEL

ADAPTER

INSERT

1/2 HEX NUT

LARGE FLAT WASHER

STEERING BOOT

TABS

EXTENSION SHAFT

BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR FROM SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL (See Fig. 1)

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND BOOT

• Slide extension shaft onto lower steering shaft. Align mount ing holes in extension and lower shafts and install 1/4 hex bolt and lock nut. Tighten securely.

IMPORTANT: TIGHTEN BOLT AND NUT SECURELY TO 10-12 FT. LBS TORQUE.

• Place tabs of steering boot over tab slots in dash and push down to secure.

INSTALL STEERING WHEEL

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

• Remove steering wheel adapter from steering wheel and slide adapter onto steer ing shaft ex ten sion.

• Position steering wheel so cross bars are hor i zon tal (left to right) and slide inside boot and onto adapt er.

• Assemble large ﬂ at washer, 1/2 hex nut and tighten se cure ly.

• Snap steering wheel insert into center of steer ing wheel.

• Remove protective materials from tractor hood and grill.

IMPORTANT: CHECK FOR AND RE MOVE ANY STA PLES IN SKID THAT MAY PUNC TURE TIRES WHERE TRACTOR IS TO ROLL OFF SKID.

1/4 HEX BOLT

1/4 LOCKNUT

LOWER STEERING SHAFT

TAB SLOTS

FIG. 1

INSTALL SEAT (See Fig. 2)

Adjust seat before tightening adjustment knob.

• Remove adjustment knob and ﬂ at washer securing seat to cardboard packing and set aside for assembly of seat to tractor.

• Pivot seat upward and remove from the cardboard packing. Remove the cardboard packing and discard.

• Place seat on seat pan so head of shoulder bolts are positioned over the large slotted holes in pan.

• Push down on seat to engage shoulder bolts in slots and pull seat towards rear of tractor.

• Pivot seat and pan forward and as sem ble adjustment knob and ﬂ at washer loosely. Do not tighten.

• Lower seat into operating position and sit in seat.

• Slide seat until a comfortable position is reached which allows you to press clutch/brake pedal all the way down.

• Get off seat without moving its ad just ed position.

• Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob securely.

SEAT PAN

02602

ASSEMBLY

SEAT

SEAT PAN

LABEL

SHOULDER

02617

BOLTS

FIG. 4

FLAT WASHER

ADJUSTMENT KNOB

02615

FIG. 2

CONNECT BATTERY (See Figs. 3 and 4)

CAUTION: Do not short battery terminals by allowing a wrench or any other object to contact both terminals at the same time. Before connecting battery, remove metal bracelets, wristwatch bands, rings, etc.

Positive terminal must be connected ﬁ rst to prevent sparking from accidental ground ing.

• Lift seat pan to raised position.

• Remove terminal protective caps and discard.

• 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 the Maintenance section of this manual for charg ing in struc tions).

• First connect RED battery cable to positive (+) terminal with hex bolt and keps nut as shown. Tighten securely. Slide terminal cover over terminal.

• Connect BLACK grounding cable to negative (-) terminal with remaining hex bolt and keps nut. Tighten securely.

DISCARD TER MI NAL PROTECTIVE CAPS

TERMINAL COVER

02604

KEPS NUT

NEGATIVE (BLACK) CABLEPOSITIVE (RED) CABLE

FIG. 3

HEX BOLT

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 Op er a tion section for location and func tion of con trols)

• Press lift lever plunger and raise attachment lift lever to its highest po si tion.

• Release parking brake by depressing clutch/brake ped al.

• Place gearshift lever in neutral (N) po si tion.

• Roll tractor forward off skid.

• Remove banding holding deﬂ ector shield up against tractor.

TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Op er a tion sec tion for lo ca tion and func tion of con trols)

WARNING: Before starting, read, un der stand and follow

all in struc tions 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 ﬁ ll fuel tank with gasoline.

• Sit on seat in operating position, depress clutch/brake pedal and set the parking brake.

• Place gear shift 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.

• Depress clutch/brake pedal into full “BRAKE” position and hold. Move gearshift lever to 1st gear.

• Slowly release clutch/brake pedal and slowly drive tractor off skid.

• Apply brake to stop tractor, set parking brake and place gearshift lever in neutral position.

• Turn ignition key to “OFF” position.

Continue with the instructions that follow.

ASSEMBLY

INSTALL MULCHER PLATE (See Fig. 5) (If previously removed)

• Raise and hold deﬂ ector shield in up right po si tion.

• Place front of mulcher plate over front of mower deck open ing and slide into place, as shown.

• Hook front latch into hole on front of mower deck.

• Hook rear latch into hole on back of mower deck.

CAUTION: Do not remove deﬂ ector shield from mow er.

TO CONVERT TO BAGGING OR DISCHARGING

Simply remove mulcher plate and store in a safe place. Your mower is now ready for discharging or installation of optional grass catcher accessory.

NOTE: It is not necessary to change blades. The mulcher blades are designed for discharging and bagging also.

DEFLECTOR SHIELD

0123

FIG. 5

MULCHER PLATE

LATCH HOOKS

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

The tires on your tractor were overinﬂ ated at the factory for shipping purposes. Correct tire pressure is important for best cutting performance.

• Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in “PRODUCT SPEC I FI CA TIONS” 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 ﬁ gures that are shown for replacing motion and mower blade drive belts in the Service and Adjustments sec tion 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

BEFORE YOU OPERATE AND ENJOY YOUR NEW TRAC TOR, WE WISH TO ASSURE THAT YOU RECEIVE THE BEST PER FOR MANCE AND SATISFACTION FROM THIS QUALITY PROD UCT.

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 inﬂ ated. (For shipping purposes,

the tires were overinﬂ ated at the factory).

✓ Be sure mower deck is properly leveled side-to-side/

front-to-rear for best cutting results. (Tires must be properly inﬂ ated 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.

WHILE LEARNING HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR, PAY EX TRA ATTENTION TO THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT ITEMS:

✓ Engine oil is at proper level. ✓ Fuel tank is ﬁ lled with fresh, clean, regular unleaded

gas o line.

✓ 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.

OPERATION

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

REVERSE

ENGINE OFF

OVER TEMP

LIGHT

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH ENGAGED

(Automatic Models only)

LIGHTS ON

FREE WHEEL

NEUTRAL

FUEL

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

HIGH

ENGINE ON

OIL PRESSURE

LOW

ENGINE START

BATTERY

DANGER, KEEP HANDS

AND FEET AWAY

CHOKE

PARKING BRAKE

REVERSE

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.

FAST

FORWARD

KEEP AREA CLEAR

SLOW

PARKING BRAKE

LOCKED

MOWER HEIGHT

SLOPE HAZARDS

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

IGNITION

PARKING BRAKE

UNLOCKED

MOWER LIFT

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.

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.

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 locations of various controls and ad just ments. Save this manual for future reference.

THROTTLE/ CHOKE CONTROL

CLUTCH/ BRAKE PEDAL

AMMETER

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER

IGNITION SWITCH

GEAR SHIFT LEVER

LIGHT SWITCH POSITION

LIFT LEVER PLUNGER

ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER

HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT INDICATOR

PARKING BRAKE

Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the American National Standards Institute.

AMMETER - Indicates charging (+) or discharging (-) of battery.

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER - Used to engage the mower blades, or other attachments mounted to your tractor.

ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER - Used to raise, lower, and adjust the mower deck or other attachments mounted to your tractor.

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL - Used for declutching and brak ing the tractor and starting the engine.

GEARSHIFT LEVER - Selects the speed and di rec tion of the tractor.

FIG. 6

IGNITION SWITCH - Used for starting and stopping the

engine. LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to release attachment lift

lever when changing its position. LIGHT SWITCH POSITION - Turns the headlights on and

off. THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL - Used for starting and

con trol ling engine speed. PARKING BRAKE - Locks clutch/brake pedal into the

brake position.

OPERATION

The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye dam age. Always wear safety glass es or eye shields while operating your tractor or per form ing any adjustments or repairs. We rec om mend a wide vision safety mask over spectacles or stan dard safety glasses.

HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR

TO SET PARKING BRAKE (See Fig. 7)

Your tractor is equipped with an operator presence sens ing switch. When engine is running, any attempt by the op er a tor to leave the seat without ﬁ rst setting the parking brake will shut off the engine.

• Depress clutch/brake pedal into full “BRAKE” position and hold.

• Place parking brake lever in “ENGAGED” position and re lease pressure from clutch/brake pedal. Pedal should re main in “BRAKE” position. Make sure parking brake will hold tractor secure.

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER "ENGAGED" POSITION

THROT TLE/ CHOKE CONTROL LEVER

"BRAKE" POSITION

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL "DRIVE" POSITION

PARKING BRAKE "DISENGAGED" POSITION

FIG. 7

STOPPING (See Fig. 7)

MOWER BLADES -

• To stop mower blades,move attachment clutch lever to “DIS EN GAGED” po si tion.

GROUND DRIVE -

• To stop ground drive, depress clutch/brake pedal into full “BRAKE” po si tion.

• Move gearshift lever to neutral (N) po si tion.

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 stop ping may cause engine to “back ﬁ r e ” .

• Turn ignition key to “STOP” position and remove key. Always remove key when leaving tractor to prevent un au tho rized use.

• Never use choke to stop engine.

IMPORTANT: LEAVING THE IGNITION SWITCH IN ANY POSITION OTHER THAN "STOP" WILL CAUSE THE BATTERY TO BE DIS CHARGED, (DEAD).

IGNITION KEY

"DIS EN GAGED" POSITION

PARKING BRAKE "EN GAGED" POSITION

GEAR SHIFT LEVER

NOTE: Under certain conditions when tractor is standing

idle with the engine running, hot engine exhaust gases may cause “browning” of grass. To eliminate this possibility, always stop engine when stopping tractor on grass areas.

CAUTION: Always stop tractor com plete ly, as described above, before leav ing the operator's position; to empty grass catcher, etc.

TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL (See Fig. 7)

Always operate engine at full throttle.

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

• Full throttle of fers the best bagging and mower per for mance.

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD (See Fig. 7)

The direction and speed of movement is controlled by the gearshift lever.

• Start tractor with clutch/brake pedal depressed and gearshift lever in neutral (N) position.

• Move gearshift lever to desired position.

• Slowly release clutch/brake pedal to start movement.

IMPORTANT: BRING TRACTOR TO A COMPLETE STOP BEFORE SHIFTING OR CHANGING GEARS. FAILURE TO DO SO WILL SHORTEN THE USEFUL LIFE OF YOUR TRANSAXLE.

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT (See Fig. 7)

The position of the attachment lift lever determines the cutting height.

• Grasp lift lever.

• Press plunger with thumb and move lever to desired position.

The cutting height range is approximately 1-1/2 to 4". The heights are measured from the ground to the blade tip with the engine not running. These heights are approximate and may vary depending upon soil conditions, height of grass and types of grass being mowed.

• The average lawn should be cut to approximately 2-1/2 inches during the cool season and to over 3 inches during hot months. For healthier and better looking lawns, mow often and after moderate growth.

• For best cutting performance, grass over 6 inches in height should be mowed twice. Make the ﬁ rst cut relatively high; the second to desired height.

OPERATION

TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS (See Fig. 8)

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 ﬂ at level surface.

• Adjust mower to desired cutting height (See “TO AD JUST MOWER CUT TING HEIGHT” in the Operation sec tion of this manual).

• With mower in desired height of cut po si tion, gauge wheels should be assembled so they are slightly off the ground. In stall gauge wheel in appropriate hole with shoulder bolt, 3/8 washer, and 3/8-16 locknut and tighten se cure ly.

• Repeat for opposite side installing gauge wheel in same adjustment hole.

GAUGE WHEEL MOUNTING BRACKET

014

3/8-16 LOCKNUT

3/8 WASH ER

GAUGE WHEEL

FIG. 8

SHOULDER BOLT

"ENGAGED" POSITION

ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER HIGH PO SI TION

LOW POSITION

AT TACH MENT CLUTCH LEVER "DISENGAGED" PO SI TION

DEFLECTOR SHIELD

FIG. 9

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

WARNING: Do not drive up or down hills with slopes great er than 15° and do not drive across any slope.

• Choose the slowest speed before starting up or down hills.

• Avoid stopping or changing speed on hills.

• If slowing is necessary, move throttle control lever to slower position.

• If stopping is absolutely necessary, push clutch/brake pedal quickly to brake position and engage parking brake.

• Move gearshift lever to 1st gear. Be sure you have allowed room for tractor to roll slightly as you restart movement.

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

• Make all turns slowly.

TO OPERATE MOWER (See Fig. 9)

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.

• Start mower blades by engaging attachment clutch control.

• TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disengage attachment clutch con trol.

CAUTION: Do not operate the mower without either the en tire grass catcher, on mowers so equipped, or the deﬂ ector shield in place.

TO TRANSPORT

• Raise attachment lift to highest position with at tach ment lift control.

• When pushing or towing your tractor, be sure gearshift lever is in neutral (N) position.

• Do not push or tow tractor at more than ﬁ ve (5) MPH.

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 AT TAC H MENTS

Tow only the attachments that are recommended by and comply with speciﬁ cations 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.

OPERATION

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE

CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL

The engine in your tractor has been shipped, from the factory, already ﬁ lled with sum mer weight oil.

• Check engine oil with tractor on level ground.

• Remove oil ﬁ ll 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 overﬁ ll.

• For cold weather operation you should change oil for easier starting (See “OIL VISCOSITY CHART” in the Maintenance sec tion of this manual).

• To change engine oil, see the Maintenance section in this manual.

ADD GASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank to bottom of ﬁ ller neck. Do not overﬁ ll. Use fresh, clean, regular un lead ed 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 quan ti ties 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 ﬂ ame.

IMPORTANT: WHEN OPERATING IN TEMPERATURES

BELOW32°F(0°C), USE FRESH, CLEAN WINTER GRADE GAS O LINE TO HELP INSURE GOOD COLD WEATHER START ING.

• Inser t 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 ﬁ fteen sec onds per minute. If the engine does not start after several attempts, move throttle control to fast position, wait a few minutes and try again. If engine still does not start, move the throttle control back to the choke (

) position and retry.

WARM WEATHER STARTING (50° F and above)

• When engine starts, move the throttle control to the fast position.

• 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 star ts, allow engine to run with the throttle control in the choke ( ) position until the engine runs roughly, then move throttle control to fast position. This may require an engine warm-up period from several seconds to several minutes, depending on the tem per a ture.

• The attachments can also be used during the engine warm-up period.

NOTE: If at a high altitude (above 3000 feet) or in cold tem per a tures (below 32 F) the carburetor fuel mixture may need to be adjusted for best engine performance. See “TO ADJUST CAR BU RE TOR” in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels (called gas o hol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to sep a ra tion and for ma tion 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 stor age 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 sea son. See Storage In struc tions 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 ﬁ rst 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.

• Sit on seat in operating position, depress clutch/brake pedal and set parking brake.

• Place gear shift lever in neutral (N) position.

• Move attachment clutch to “DISENGAGED” position.

• Move throttle control to choke (

NOTE: Before starting, read the warm and cold starting pro ce dures below.

) position.

OPERATION

MOWING TIPS

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

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

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

• When mowing large areas, start by turning to the r ight so that clippings will discharge away from shrubs, fences, drive ways, etc. After one or two rounds, mow in the opposite direction making left hand turns until ﬁ nished (See Fig. 10).

MULCHING MOWING TIPS

IMPORTANT: FOR BEST PERFORMANCE, KEEP MOWER

HOUSING FREE OF BUILT-UP GRASS AND TRASH. CLEAN AFTER EACH USE.

• The spe cial mulch ing blade will recut the grass clip pings many times and reduce them in size so that as they fall onto the lawn they will disperse into the grass and not be noticed. Also, the mulched grass will biodegrade quick ly to provide nutrients for the lawn. Always mulch with your highest engine (blade) speed as this will pro vide the best recutting action of the blades.

• Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet. Wet grass tends to form clumps and interferes with the mulch ing action. The best time to mow your lawn is the early afternoon. At this time the grass has dried, yet the newly cut area will not be exposed to direct sunlight.

• For best results, adjust the mower cutting height so that the mower cuts off only the top one-third of the grass blades (See Fig. 11). For ex tremely heavy mulch ing, re duce your width of cut on each pass and mow slow ly.

MAX 1/3

FIG. 10

• If grass is extremely tall, it should be mowed twice to reduce load and possible ﬁ re hazard from dried clip pings. Make ﬁ rst 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 mow- ing to assure better mowing performance and proper dis charge of ma te ri al. Regulate ground speed by se lect ing a low enough gear to give the mower cutting per for mance 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.

FIG. 11

• Certain types of grass and grass con di tions may re quire that an area be mulched a second time to com pletely hide the clippings. When doing a sec ond cut, mow across (perpendicular) to the ﬁ rst cut path.

• Change your cutting pattern from week to week. Mow north to south one week then change to east to west the next week. This will help prevent matting and graining of the lawn.

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