Murray G4618000 Operator's Manual

Model G461 8000

339587A O_

OWNER'S INFORMATION

Record the following information about your unit so that you will be able to provide it in case of loss or theft.

DATE PURCHASED:

STORE WHERE PURCHASED: ADDRESS

CITY

MODEL NO: SERIAL NO:

STATE

TELEPHONE

WAIlU NTY

dURRAY, INC. equipment limited warranty policy.
Whan warranty repair is justified, MURRAY, INC. will welcome such repairs by any of its Authorized Service Centers.
MUR RAY, INC. warrants every new MURRAY, INC. product ("NEW UNIT") purchased for noncommercia] use against defectsin mateda] and

workmanship in any part or parts ofthe NEW UNIT (except for blades, shear pins, belts, grass catcher bags, blade hubs, impellers,
woodruff keys, pulleys, tires, shear bolts, due to the nature of thetr lunctlo ns are warranted for a period of 90 days, as they are subject

to normal wear and abuse), provided the purchaser returnsthe defective partor ports toone of MURRAY INC.'s Authorized Service Centers
within a periodof two (2) years from the date of purchase. NEW UNITS purchased for commercial use (including without limitation, NEW

UNITS purchased for rental sod commercial landscaping) are warranted inthe same manner and to the same extent EXCEPT such NEW

UNITS are warranted for a period of thirty (30) days from the date ofpurchase MURRAY, INC.'s liability and the purchaser's soleand exclusive

remedy is limited to the repfecament of thepart orparts found to be dafectJve. All transportation charges on parts submitted for replacement

under this warranty shall be paid by the purchaser.

This limited warranty applies only with respect to defects in material and workmanship under normal and proper use of the NEW UNIT in its

unmodified condition. This _imited warranty does not extend to the replacement ofparts which are not defective, but where normal usage has

exhausted the life of the part M URRAY, INC. shall have no obiigatlen hereunder to make repairs orcause replacements necessitated in whole

or inpart by _e fault or negligence of the uset, orimproper orunauthorized use, or use in amanner forwhich the NEW UNIT was not designed,

or by causes external to the equipment, components or parts.

EACH ENGINE IS WARRANTED BY THEIR RESPECTIVE MANUFACTURER, AND MURRAY, INC. ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBIUTY

WITH RESPECT TO SUCH ITEMS.

Warranty service can be arranged for by contacting either a MURRAY, INC. Authorized Service Center or MURRAY, INC. Customer Service

Department, PO Box 8000, Jackson, TN 38.308. Warranty service can only be performed by a MURRAY, INC. Authorized Service Center. At
the time of any WarTantyservice request, evidence must be presented as tothe date of the sale of the NEW UNIT, together with the unitmodel

number and the unit sedal nutuber contained onthe equipment. Any charges coved ngservice calls and/or tran sporfationofthe product to and
from the place of inspectJan will be borne by the Purchaser. Any damage incurred during transportation will be borne by the Purchaser.

MURRAY, INC.'S UMITED WARRANTY EXTENDS ONLY TO THE PURCHASER AND IS NOT TRANSFERABLE. ALL CLAIMS UNDER
THIS WARRANTY MUST ORIGINATE WITH THE ORIGINAL PURCHASER AND THE PURCHASER WILL INDEMNIFY AND HOLD

MURRAY INC. HARMLESS FROM ANY CLAIMS FOR BREACH OF WARRANTY ASSERTED AGAINST MURRAY, INC. BY ANY

PERSON OWNING THE NEW UNIT AFTER RESALE THEREOF BY THE PURCHASER.

THE EXPRESS WARRANTY SET FORTH IN THIS AGREEMENT IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES EXPRESSED OR IMPUED

INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, ANY WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE
AND ALL SUCH OTHER WARRANTIES ARE HEREBY DISCLAIMED AND EXCLUDED BY MURRAY, INC.. IN NO EVENT SHALL

MURRAY, INC. BE UABLE FOR ANY DAMAGES WHATSOEVER ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR OPERATION OF THE EQUIPMENT
(INCLUDING, WITHOUT RESTRICTION THE GENERALITY OF THE FOREGOING, ANY PERSONAL OR PROPERTY DAMAGES OR

DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF USE OR PROFIT).
MURRAY, INC. does not authorize any person (whether natural or corporate) to assume for MURRAY, iNC. any obligation or liability in

connection with or with respect to any part orparts of the NEW UNIT. The seller ordealer of any NEW UNIT manufactured by MURRAY, INC.
has no authority to make any representation or promises on behalf of MURRAY, INC. or to modify the terms or limitationsofthis warranty in
any way.

TO QUALIFY FOR THE ABOVE WARRANTY THIS CERTIFICATE AND YOUR RECEIPT MUST BE PRESENTED TO
YOUR AUTHORIZED SERVICE DEALER.

Date of Purchase Serial No. Where Purchased

MURRAY, INC.

PO Box 8000

Jackson, TN 38308

1-800-247-7464

TABLE OF €ONTENTS

WARRAN'[Y ........................................................................ 2

INTERNATIONAL SYMBOLS ............................................. 4

OWNER'S INFORMATION ................................................. 5

RESPONSIBILITY OF THE OWNER .................................. 5

SAFETY RULES .............................................................. 5-6

SAFE MOWING GUIDE ................................................... 7-9

STEPS TO FOLLOW ........................................................ 10

ASSEMBLY..................................................................11-14

OPERATION................................................................15-19

MAINTENANCE...........................................................20-26

ADJUSTMENTS...........................................................27-30

TROUBLESHOOTINGGUIDE.....................................31-32

STORAGE.........................................................................33

SLOPEGUIDE ..................................................................34

Fill in and mail the registration card packed with the unit. For service other than covered in this manual, contact an authorized
service dealer. A nationwide parts and service organization has been established to provide locally available parts and service. A

list of authorized parts distributors has been included in the Repair Parts manual.

IS NOTE 1

ome tractor models may require different instructions for assembly and/or repair than shown in this manual. The

apalr Parts manual (supplied with tractor) will contain these instructions if required on your model.

This lawn tractor Is equipped with an Internal combustion engine end should not be used on or near any

unimproved forest-covered, brush-covered, or grass-covered land unless the engine's exhaust system Is

equipped with s spark errester meeting applicable local or state laws (If any). If a spark arreeter Is used, It

should be maintained In effective working order by the operator.
In the State of California the above Is required by law (Secticn 4442 of the California Public Resources Code).

Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrsster for the muffler Is

available through an Authorized Service Center

References throughout this manual concerning the right or left side are determined as you face forward while
seated in operator's seat.

Photographsand illustrationsin this manual may notshow yourmodelbut are for reference.Theyare based on the latest
information.

California Proposition65 WARNING!

The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.

INTERNATIONAL SYMBOLS

IMPORTANT! These symbolsmay appear on your unitor In literature suppliedwith the product. Learn and understand
their meaning.

© O I I\1

ENGINE ENGINE ENGINE ENGINE STOP ON FAST SLOW CHOKE

START RUN STOP

O4L FUEL BAI"rERY LIGHTS/ LIGHTSOFF HOUR METER ALL- NEUTRAL FORWARD

pRESSURE LIGHTSON SYSTEMS-GO

REVERSE CLUTCH PARKING MOWER MOWER MOWER MOWER MOWER MOWER

BRAKE HEIGHT CUTTING CUTi'ING BLADE BLADE BLADE

HEIGHT RAISE HEIGHT CLUTCH ENGAGE DISENGAGE

LOWER

l

ARROW INCREASE DECREASE

l

,D(;])O

l

OFF

_4 AKE

• )

PARKING READOWNER'S/ HEARING CAUTION

BRAKE OPEEATOR'S PROTECTION

MANUAL

DANGERI KEEP DANGER! KEEP

HANO6 AND FEET HANDS AND FEET

AWAY AWAY

WARNING

THROWN OBJECTS. KEEP BYRTANDERS

AWAY. READ USERS INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE

OPERATING THIS MACHINE.

DO NOT USE THIS

AREAAS A STEP

DANGER WARNING WARNING

DISCONNECT DO NOT MOWWHEN GO UPAND DOWN

SPARK PLUG BEFORE CHILDREN & OTHERS SLOPES NOT

SERVICING UNIT. AREAROUND ACROSS. _ NOT

USE THB MACHtNE

ON SLOPES OF MORE

THAN 10_

WARNING

DO NOT TOUCH HOT SURFACE

MAX ig0N MAX±150N

WARNING

USE CAUTION WHEN CONNECTING OR

DISCONNECTING ACCESSORIES

SHIELD EYES

EXPLO_NE GASES

CAN CAUSE

BLINONESS OR

INJURY

NOSPARKS, FLAMES,

OR SMOKING

SULFURIC ACID CAN

CADSE BLINDNESS FLUSH EYES
OR SEVERE BURNS IMMEDIATELY WITH

WATER. GET

MEDICAL HELP FAST

4

OWNER'S INFORMATION

This Ownar's/Operatol's Manual isfor several differentmodels. The instructionsare writtenfora personwithsome mechanical abiitly.

Lke mostseMca books, not all the stepsare described. Stops on howto loosen or tighten fasteners are steps anyone can follow with
some mechanical ability. Read and followthese instructionsbefore you use the unit.

Know your product: Ifyou understand the unit and howthe unitoperates, you willgetthe best performance. Asyou reed this manual,
compare the illustrationstothe unit. Learn the iocat ion and thefunctionofthe controls.To help prevent an accident, followthe operating

instructionsand the safety rules. Keep this manual for future reference.
IMPORTANT: Many unitsam notassembled and am sold in cartons, it isthe responsibilityofthe owner to make sure the assembly
instructionsinthis manual are exactly followed. Other unitsare purchased in an assembled condition. On assembled units,it isthe

responsibility of the owner to make sure the unit is correctly assembled. The owner must carefully check the unit according to the
instructionsin this manual before it isfirst used.

RESPONSIBILITY OF THE OWNER

The responsibilityof the owner Is to followthe instructions
below.

1. Carefullyreadandfollowtherubesforsafeoperation.

2. Followallthe assemblyinstructions.

3. Inspectthe unit.
4, Makesuratheoparatoroftheunitknowshowtocorrectlyuse

allstandardandaccessoryequipment.

5. Operatetheunitonlywithguards,shields,andothersafety
items inplaceandworkingcorrectly.

6. Correctlyadjustthe unit,

•7. Servicethe unitonlywithauthorizedor approvedreplace-

meritparts.

8. Completeallmaintenanceontheunit.

EnvironmentalAwareness

• Do notfilltheengine'sfueltankcompletelyfull.

• Drainfuelforoff-seasonstorage.

• Useonlyunleadedgasoline.

• Servicethe aircleanerregularly.

• Changeoilregularly.Use30Woil insummer.

• Tune-uptheengineregularly.

• Keepequipmentinefficientoper_ingcondition,

• Disposeof usedengineoilpmpedy.

SAFETY RULES

Safe Operation Practices for Riding Vehicles

As Recommended by American National Standards Institute

WARNING: This cuffing machine Is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe
the following safety Inatructlona could result In serious Injury or death to the operator or bystanders.

GENERAL OPERATION:

1. Reed, understand and follow aU instructions in the Owner's/Operator's Manual, on the machine, the engine and with any
attachments before starting.

2. Only allow responsible adultsfamiliar withthe instructionsto operate the machine.

3. Clear the area ofobjects such as rocks, toys,wire, etc. which could be picked upand thrown by the blade.

4. Be sure the area isclear of other psople bafore mowing. Stop ths machine if anyone enters ths area.

5. Never carry passengers.

6. Disengagepowertothemoweroranyattachmentsbaforebackingup. Donotmowinreverseuniessabsclutelynecessary. Allays
lookdown and behind before and while backing.

7. Beawaraofthedirectionthemowerdischargas. Donotpointdischargefromthemoweratanyoneoratplaceswherepeopiemay
be. Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass bagger or the mower guard in place.

8. Slow down beforeturning.

9. Nevarieaveamschineunatlendedwiththeenginerunning. Alwaysdisengagetheblade(s),settheparkingbrake, stoptheengine
and remove the key before dismounting.

10. Disengagepowertoattachment(s)whentranspertingornotinuse. Disangaga the blade(s) when not mowing.

11. Stop the engine before removing the grass bagger or uncloggingthe chute.

12. Mow only in daylight or good artificiallight.

13. Do not operate the machine while underthe influence of alcohol or drugs or when very tired.

14. Do notoperate thismachine it youara taking drugsorother medication whichcen cause drowsiness oraffect your abilityto operate

this machine.

15. Do not use this machine it you are mentally or physically unable to operate this machine safely.

16. Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways.

17. Use extracaution when loading or unloading the machine when using a trailer or truckfor transporting.

18. Disengage all attachment clutches and shifl into Neutral before attemptingto start the engine (on gear drive models).

19. Disangageallattachmantclutchesbaforeattemptingtostarttheengine(onhydromodela).

20. Allaysw_arsafetyg_asses_r_neyeshie_dwh_ny_u_perateth_unitt_pr_tacty_ureyesfmmf_reign_bjectsthatcanbathr_wn

from the unit. Always wear eye pmtectldn when you make an adjustment or repair to the machine.

21. Use care when pullingloads or using heavy equipment.
a. Use only approved drawbar hitch points.

b. Limit loads to those you can safely control.
c. DOnot turn sharply. Use care when backing.

d. Use counterweights when suggested inthe Owner's/Operator's Manual.

5

SLOPE OPERATION:

Slopesand roughterrainare major factors relatedto lossofcontrolandtip overaccidentswhich canresult Insevereinjury
or death. ALL slopesrequireextra caution, if you cannot backupthe elope or Hyou feel uneasy onthe slope,do not mow

It. See the "Slope Guide"Inthe back ofthis book to check for safe operaticn.

DO

1. Mow up and down slopes, not across.

2. Remove obstacles such as rocks, limbs, etc...

3. Watch for holes, ruts or bumps. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. "Tall grass can hide obstacles."

4. Use slow speed. Choose a low enough gear sothat you will not have to stop or shiftwhile onthe slope (on gear drive models).

5. Use slow speed on slopes. Do notmake sudden speed changes (on hydro models).

6. Followthe manufacturer's recommendations for wheel weights or counterweights to improve stability.

7. Use extra care with grass baggers or other attachments, they can change the stabilityof the machine.

8. Ksap afl movement on the slopes slow end gradual. Do not make suddon changes in speed or direction.

9. Avoidstarting or stopping on a slope. H tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowlystraight down the slope.

DO NOT

1. DO Ilot tum en slopes unless absolutely necessary, then only turn slowlyand gradually downhill, ifpossible.

2. Donotmownsardmp-offs, ditchesorembankments. Awheelovertheedgeoranedgecavingincouldcauseasuddenoverturn

and an injury or death.

3. Do nct mow on wet grass. Reduced trastlon could cause sliding.

4. Do nct tryto stabilize the machine by puttingyour foot on the ground.

5. Do not use a grass catcher or other rear mounted accessories on steep slopes (greater than 10 degrees).

CHILDREN:

Tragic accidents can occur If the operator is not alart to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to the machine
and the mowing actlvify. NEVER assume that children witl remain where you last saw them.

1. Ksap children out of the mowing area and inthe watchfulcare of an edult other than the operator.

2. Be alert and turn the engine off it children enter the area.

3. Before and when backing, look behind and down for small children.

4. Never carry children or any passengers. They may fall off and be seriously injures or interfere with the safe operation of the

machine.

5. Never allow children to operate the machine. Instructchildren in the dangers of the machine.

6. Use extr_ care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees or other objects that may obscurevision.

SERVICE:

1. Use extra care when handling gasoline and other fuels. Fuels are flammable and the vapors are explosive.

e. Use only an approved container.
b. Never remove the gas cap or add fuel withthe engine running. Allowthe engine to coolfor several minutes before refueling.

Do not smoke.

c. Never refuel the machine indoors.
d. Never store the machine withfuel inthe tank or fuel container inside where there is an open flame, such as a water heater.

2. Never start or runthe engine inside a closed area.

3. Kaspaflnutsandboits, especiaily the blade attachment nuts tight. Frequentlycheckthebtade(a)forwearordamagesuchas

cracks and nicks. A blade that is bent or damaged must be immediately replaced with an original equipment blade(a) from an
authorized service dealer. For safety, replace the blade(s) every two years. Keep the equipment in good condition.

4. Nevertamperwiththesafetydevioes. Check their proper operatlonregutarly.

5. Toreducefirehazardskespthemachinefreeofgrass, leavasorotherdebrisbuild-up. Cleanupoilorfuelspills. Allowthemashine
to cool before storing.

6. Stop and inspect the equipment ifyour strike an object. Repair, if necessary, before restarting.

7. Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine running. The carburetor can be adjusted with the engine running. Do not

change the engine governor settings or over-speed the engine.

8. Grass begger components are subject to wear, damage and deterioration,which could expose moving partsor allow objects to

bathrown. Forstorage, always make surethe grass bag isempty. Frequently check components and replace withmanufacturer's
recommended parts when necessary.

9. Mower blade(s) are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) orwear gloves and use extracaution when servicingthem orthe mower

deck area.

10. Check the brake operation frequently. Adjust and service as required.

11. Wait for all movement to stop before servicing any part of the unit.

Look for thla symbol to Indicate important safety precautions. This symbol indicates: "Attention! Become Alert"

Your Safety Is At Rlak."

SAFE MOWING GUIDE

Each person that operates power equip-

ment must learn to use correct and safe
mowing procedures. To help you learn,

carefully read the followlng pages. Most
of the time the operator was not correctly

shown or did cot read the instructionson
theunitorinthe Ownar'siOperator's Manual

before using the unit. Also, some opera-
tots do not have enough experience. The

result is unsafe use, endangering the op-
erator, bystandersand the equipmant. An-
other result can be a poor appearance of

the area mowed.

Readthlsbook. Readthe instructionson

the unit.Operatethemoweraccordingto
theSafe MowingGuide. Followalls_ety

ruios,cautionsorwarningsinthisbookand
onthe unit. Makesureanyonethatuses

the unit readsthe instructionsand istold

howtosafelyoperatethemower.

The mower will give you good service and
durability, itoperatad innormalconditions.

Ifthe mower is not correctly serviced or is
used where the terrain is rough or unsuit-

able, product performance and safety will
be decreasad.

Correct clothingis an importantpartofsafe
mowing. Safety glasses will protect the
eyes from objectsdisohargedbythe mower.
Safety shoes with steel plates can protect
a footfrom injury by the blade. For protec-
tion from objects discharged from the
mower, wear ck?.thingthat will cover the

arms and legs.

Before you start cuttingthe grass, practice
usingthe mower ina large open and level

area. Learn the location of the controls on
the mower. Know the purpose of the
controls and how they work. In an emer-

gancy, how fast youcan stop the blade is
important. Learn howtocontrol the mower

at all times.
Many engines are startedby hand. When

youuse a pullstartorropestart, place your

feet apart and away from the blade(s).

Holdthe rope handle tight. Never wrap the
rope around your arm orfingersfor a"Bet-

ter grip". To startthe engine, follow the

instructionsonthe mower, inthis book and
inthe engine operating instructions.

For electric start engines, sit inthe seat to
startthe engine. The battary can be dan-

gerous. Follow the instructions on the

battery,the acid container, and inthisbook

when working withthe battery. Even small
batteries haveenough voltagetocause an

injury. Always be careful.

The mower is designed to be operated by
one person. Never let another person ride

withyouon the unitor on any accessories.
A passenger will make the unit harder to
control, block the visibilityor distract the
operatorand isdangerousto the operator,
the passengerand the equipment+Without
a passenger seat, the passenger can fall
fromthe mower orcootactdangerous parts.
A mower is not a toyfor showing off orfor

givingrides.

Never cutawet lawn. Wet grasscan cause
an accident, affect mower performance

and can cause problems with future lawn
growth and appearance. Wet grass is

slipperyand can cause the mower to slip.
Someone can get injured by touching the
blade(s). Wet grass tends to clog the

mower, causing poor discharge. Cut wet

grass willcollectonthe lawn, retardingthe
growth of the grass. Also, getting the

mower wet will cause parts to rust and

decrease the life of the unit.
When you look over the lawn, remember

obstacles that cannot be removad, like
pipes, stumps or racks. Keep away from

these obstacles thatcan cause damage to
the mower or injury to the operator or a

person near the mower. Clear the areaof
rocks, toys, wire or other loose objects.
These itemscan damage themower or can
be discharged by the mower blade.

The blade of power mower rotates very
fast. It can discharge rocks and other

objects over a long distance which can be
dangerous. The force of the objects can
break windows, cause injuries oreven put
an eye oat. Most of the time the injuryis to
a person, like a child. Keep avery person

completely away from the area to be
mowed. Make sure the grass is cot dis-

charged toward anyone. Planning your
mowing patternhas a double advantage. It
can decrease the possibility of an injury
and makethe clean up aftermowing easier.

Check the terrain ofthe area tobe mowed.
Mow inpatternthat willkeep you away from

dangerous areas. Check the distanceyou

need to stop and the distance available to

turn. Slopes and rough terrain must be

mowed carefully and some areas must cot

be mowed at all. With ridingmowers, mow

upand down the hill. When you mustmow
roughterrain or on slopes, never change

directions or change speeds and stop in
these areas only in and emergency.

Before you ride up or down a slope, try to

back straightupthe slope. Do not ride up
or down a slope that istoo steep to beck
straight up. See the "Guide "in the back of

this Owner's/Operator's Manual to check
any slopes.

SAFE MOWING GUIDE

Before you start cutting, make sure the
mowerwas completely assembled accord-

ingto the Owner's/Operator's Manual. If

the mower was completely assembled at
the store, you must stillcheck the mower

according to the assembly instructions.
Make sure the mower is correctly as-
sembled and that all fasteners are tight.

Make sure the engine has the correct
amount of oil. Check these items often

during the lifeof the mower.
Your mower hasagasoline engine. Gaso-

line is a dangerous fuel. Keep gasoline
only in an approved safety gasoline con-
tainer. Do not keep large amounts of
gasoline. When you add gasoline to the

fueltank, do notsmoke. Storethe gasoline
container and the mower in an area that

hasgoodventilation. Also, keep the gaso-
lineaway from any flameslikethe pilot light

of afurnace or anyother soume of ignition.

Ifthe mower isto be stored for more than a

few weeks, remove the gasoline from the

fuel tank. When inside an enclosure, do
not add gasoline to the fuel tank. Before

you add gasoline move the mower outside
and add gasoline carefully. Before your

start theengine,remove anygasolinefrom
the outside of the fuel tank or from the

mower. Warm gasolinewillexpand. Leave
somespace int_tefuel tankforthe gasoline

to expand. Also, the fuel cap has a vent

holefor fuelvapors. Always usethe correct
fuel cap. Failure to follow safety rules

aboutgasoline wigcause fires and explo-
sions, injury to you and damage to the

equipment and other property.

If you add gasoline to an engine that is
runningor hot, the resultcan be an explo-
sion. Before you add gasoline, stop the
engine and let the engine cootfor several

seconds. Remove dry grass and other
debris from the mower. Keep the mower
cleanto improvetbe performance, helpthe
engine and transmission run cooler,ex-

tendthe likeof movingparts, and decrease
the danger of a fire.

Fires and explosions are notthe onlydan-

gers when working around a mower. The

engine, transmission, and the muffler will

get hotinseveral minutes when the engine

isrunning. Do not touch these parts ofthe
mower. Stop the engine. Let the engine

and transmission cool before servicingthe
mower Remember, exhaust fumes aredan-

gerous. Never operate the engine insidea
building.

When you get anew mower, itcan be anew

experience for thefamily. Tell each person
how a mower can bedangerous. Remem-

ber, a mower isnot a toy. A mower is not
to be used by children or anyone not old
enough, strong enough or that does not
have experience.

Ifthe mower isnotcorrectlyassembled, not
operated correctly, or not regularly ser-
viced, the mower can be dangerous. The

most importantruletofollow is always use
goodjudgement and common sense. Mow

safely and carefully.

Your mower will easily cut thick grass.

Fingers, feet and other parts can also be

cut by the blade. Injuries occur when the

operator does not think and reaches into

the chute opening. Always operate the

mower as if the blade is rotating. Do not
service or make an adjustment, except to
thecarburetor,whilethe engine is running.

Use only accessories that are factory ap-
proved for your mower. The wrong acces-

sorycan decrease the safety of the mower
and can even damage the unit. Read and

follow the instructions included with the

accessory and the mower.

Use only original equipment or replace-
ment parts that are factory approved for
service, if you need service, select and
Authorized Service Center for your mower.

If you do the work on the unit, follow the
instructions in the Owner's/Operator's

Manual.

When you mow, remember that children
are attracted to the mower. Always use

caution when mowing around obstacles

like trees or shrubs or when movingback-

ward. Only mow in a forward direction if

passible. Your visibilityisdecreasad when
you mow backward. Also,the blades are

made to cut while the unit is moving for-
ward. If you mow backward, the cutting

performance decreases.

Before you leave the mower, stop the en-
gine. Remove the key. Disengage and

lower any attachment. Set the parking

brake. Never mount or dismountfrom the

seat while the engine is running. An acci-
dent can occurif you touchthe brake, shift

lever,throttle,clutch,ormowerclutch lever
while the engine is running. Mount and

dismount from the seat on the side oppo-
site the discharge chute.

Make sure you are in good condition when

you mow. When you mow for several

hours your reflexes willdecrease and your
mind willnotbe as alert. Take ashortbreak

or an accident can occur. Ifthe tempera-
ture ishot,use cautiontoprevent dehydra-

tion. If you are tired, angry or not com-
pletely alert, do not operate the mower. If
you use alcohol, medication or drugs, do

not use the mower or any type of power

equipment.

Engine speed is a key to safe mowing and

to a good looking lawn. The maximum

speed of the engine was set atthe factory.
Do not change the setting of the engine

governor.
Select the maximum engine and ground

speed that is rightfor the terrain and the

height of the grass. The blade cuts best

when the engine is operating at maximum

SAFE MOWING GUIDE

speed. Also, thegrasscatcher willfunction
better when the engine is operating at

maximum speed. On slopes,decrease the
ground speed and use care making sure
mower feels safe to operate.

ff the weather conditions are bad, do not
mow. ff weather conditions become bed,

stopcuttingand finish later. Itisdangerous
tocutgrass inthe rain. Always find protec-

tion in an electrical storm. If the weather
conditionsare extra dry, protectyour eyes

with safety glasses from the dust and from

the objectsdischargedbythemower. Also,

a dust or a pollen mask can help.

Your mower is equipped with a number of
safety devices which are important to the

safety ofthe operator and bystanders and

must never be changed or removed from
the mower. If a safety device is lost,
damaged or no longer functions, repair or
replace the device beforeyou operate the

mower.

it isbest to mow duringthe day. If you must
mow at night, make sure there is enough

lightfor safe operation.
Your mower will require regular mainte-

nance and service. The maintenance
schedule depends on the hours of use.

Also, mowing conditions can change the
schedule. Check the Owner's/Operator's

Manualformore information. Correct main-
tenance will helpthe mower function safely.

Do not service the mower
(except for the carburetor f/

adjustment) while the en-
gine is running. Beforeil_i

you servicethe unit,even _:i _
with the eng ne stopped, i_,-
alwaysdisconnectthewire

fromthe spark plugto pre-
ventthe engine from start-

ing.
If you hit a large object during operation,

stopthe engine. Remove the wirefromthe
sparkplug. Carefully inspectthe mowerfor
damage. Before youstartthe engineagain,
make the necessary repairs. If you feel
new or excessive vibration, immediately

stopthe engine andcheck for the problem.

Vibrationcanbe a warningofa problem,
Keepallnuts,belts and screwstight.

The blade isthe most dangerous pert ofthe

mower. Frequently check the blade and

the blade mounting fasteners. Keep the
fasteners tight. If the blade hits a solid

object, stopthe engine. Remove the wire

from thespark plug. Check forablade that

is bent, cracked or for other damages.
Before you start the engine, replace the
damaged blade. For safety, replace the

blade every two years.

A sharp blade decreases the work load on
the engine and more evenly cuts grass.

Frequently sharpen the blade for a better
lookingcut. Use the left sideof the mower

desk totrim near an object.
A grass catcher is a good a accessory for

your mower. For best performance and
safety, make sure the grass catcher is

approved for usewith your mower. Follow
the assembly and operation instructions

included with the grass catcher.
Some grass catchers require a special

blade for best performance. Before you
attach, check, or empty the grass catcher,
alwaysstopthe angina. Before each useof

thegrasscatcher,checkfor cracks,wearor
deterioration. Before you use the grass

catcher, replace a damaged part with a
replacement partapproved by the factory.

For you to have a good green lawn, follow

the mowing procedures below. Do notcut
the grass too short. Ifyou cut the grass to
short you can cause the grass to become

yellow or make the lawn look brown. Use

a lower height of cut in cool monthswhen

the grass isthicker. Raise the heightofcut

inhot dry periods. Ifyoucutthe grass with

9

abladethat is notsharpor at a slow engine
speed you can damage the grass. Move

the throttle control to the FAST position
when mowing and usingthe grass catcher.
Also, use a slower ground speed when

using the grass catcher.

Ifyouchange the direction orpatternofcut
slightlyevery time you mow will make the
grass grow stronger and thicker. Do not

add oilor gasoline to the mower while on
the lawn. Spilled oilor gasolinecan killthe

grass. In high orthick grass, do nottry to
cut all the grass the first time. Raise the

heightof cut on the first cuttingand lower
the heightfor the next cutting.Anotherway

isto cut only partofthe width ofthe mower

and decrease your ground speed (not the

engine) to move more slowly so that the

mower can dischargethegrassas itmoves

forward.

Understand the controls and how they
work. Learn the ground speed(s) of your
mower. Check the stopping distance re-

quired at different travel speeds. Check
the turning radius of the mower. The
controlson your ridingmower are different
from an automobile. The throttle is oper-
ated by hand and holds the engine speed

constant untilitischanged. The lo_tion of
the shiftleverand the shiftpattern isdiffer-
ent from that of an automobile. Also, the
brake and clutch systems are different.
Remember the procedures tofollow in an
emergency. Remember, turning off the
ignition switch will stop the blade and the

drive mechanism. If the traction of the
wheels is lostor does not feel safe, disen-

gage all systems and stop the engine.
Dismountfromthe mower. Pushthe unitto

a safe place before you begin mowing
again.

Your unit has an electrical system that
includes an seat switch in the seat. The

seat switchdetects if the operator is sitting

on the seat. The engine will stop If the
operator leaves the seat when the blade

engagement controlisengaged. This seat
switch isa safety device only. It must not
regularlybe used to stopthe engine orthe

blade. There are other control systemson

the mower for thispurpose. Always keep
the seat switch and other safety devices

andcontrols inplace and operating foryour
protection.

Remember, your mower is a toofthat can

be dangerous if it is not correctly used.

Follow the instructions in this Owner's/

Operator's Manual. Safe and careful use
ofthe mower willgive youmany safe hours
of problem free use.

STEPS TO FOLLOW

BEFORE MOWING

Be sure to dress correctly, Wear hard shoes, not sandals or tennis shoes.
Examine the blade. A blade that is bent, cracked or damaged must be replaced with a factory replacement blade,
Fillthe fuel tank outside. Clean off spitledfuel.
Reed and follow the Owner's/Operator's Manual, the instructions with the engine, and the instructionswith any attachments.

Owner's/Operator's Manual instructionsare for your safety and the safety of others.
Exhaust fumes are dangerous. Start the engine outside.

Make sure all safety devices are inplace and working correctly,
Operation of the mower is only for a person that has experience.

Wet grass can be dangerous. Let the grass dry.

Instruct children and others to keep away from the work area.
Never cut the grass without good light.
Pick up loose objects. Remove them from the mowing area,

WHILE MOWING

Watch for fixed objects and avoid them. They can damage the mower or cause injury.

A hot angina, muffler, and transmission willcause a burn. Do not touch.
Inclines and slopes must be carefulry mowed. Sea the *Guide" in the back ofthis book tocheck a slope.
Lack of daylight or good artificial lightis cause to stop mowing.
Examine the mower, the blade, and other parts for damage after hittinga foreign object or ifthe unitvibrates excessively.
Do cot make adjustments or repairswithout stopping the engine (except for carburetor). Disconnect the spark plug wire.

On or near roads, watch out fortraffic, Direct discharge away from roads.

\

When mow ng, avoid areas where traction s unsure. Look back before changingdirection of travel.
In heavy grass, raise the cutting height. Cut slower. Stop the engine to remove clogged grass from the mower.
Never remove any safety related parts.
Do not pour gasoline intoa engine that is hotor running.

AFTER MOWING

Always let the mower cool before storing in an enclosed area.

Foreign matedal on the mower is daagemus. Clean off grass, leaves, grease, and oil before storing.
Tighten all loose nuts, belts, and screws before you use the unit.

Empty and clean any grass catcher or other accessory.

Remove the key or disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent unauthorized use.

Make sure the mower is not kept near a source of ignition. Gas fumes can cause an explosion.

Only original parts or factory approved substitutescan be used to servicethe mower.

When storing the mower for an extended period, remove the fuel from the fuel tank,

Instruct children to leave the mower alone, if is cot a toy.

Never keep gasoline near a source of ignition. Always use an approved container. Keep gasoline away from children,

Lubricate according to the Owner's/operator's Manual. See "Lubrication'.

IMPORTANT- READ THE OWNER'S/OPERATOR'S MANUAL. KEEP THIS BOOK FOR FUTURE USE AND REFERENCE.

A_ WARNING: Look for this symbol to point out important safety precautions. It means: "Attention! Become Alert!

Your Safety Is involved."

10

ASSEMBLY

Your lawn tractor has a right side and left side as you face
forward while seated in operator's seat.

TO ACTIVATE BATTERY

IMPORTANT: : Before you attach the battery cables to the
battery,check the batterydate code. The batterydatecodetells
if the battery must be charged.

1. Check the battery date code on top of the battery.

2. If the battery is put into service before the battery date, the
batterycables can be attached withoutcharging the battery.

See Battery Instaifatlon paragraph in Maintenance sec-
tionof this manual.

3. If the battery is put into service after the battery date, the
battery must be charged. To charge proceed:

STEERING WHEEL INSTALLATION

(FIG.=-ASSY)

1. Position front wheels straightforward.

2. Placa spacer (If so equipped) on steering shaft.

3. Place steering shaft cover (If so equipped) over spacer.

4. Aligncross holesin stesring wheel and steeringshaft.Make
sure wheel single wheel spoke points down. NOTE: Use a
smallPhillipsscrewdriver witha 114inchshaftto alignholes.

5. Drivespring pin through holes with a hammer.

IA When you charge the battery, do not moks.'_

Keepthe battery away from anysparks. Ths_

fumes from the battery acid can cause anJ
explosion. ._

TO CHARGE THE "MAINTENANCE FREE"BATEERY

NOTE: Before you attach the battery cables, make sure the

batteryisful;y charged. This willextsndthe lifeofthe battery and
providethe necessary power to start the engine.

4. Removebatteryfromlawntractor(see Battery Removal
paragraph In Maintenancesection ofthis manual).

S. Removstheprotectivecapsfromthebattaryterminais.

6. Use a 12 volt battery charger tocharge the battery. Charge

at a rate of 6 amperes for one hour. If you do not have a
battery charger, have an authorized servicecenter charge
the battery. Complate assembly secticn ofthismanualwhile
waiting for battery to charge.

7. Reinstallbattery (see Battery Installation paragraph In
Maintenance section of this manual),

11