Poulan 159759 User Manual

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OWNER'S MANUAL

MODEL NO. HD185H46B

18.5 HP 46 Inch

Tractor

Assembly

• Operation

• Customer Responsibilities

• Service and Adjustments

• Storage

• Troubleshooting

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

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

• Repair Parts

Poulan

159759 2.15.97 TR

PRINTED IN U.S.A.

SAFETY RULES

IMPORTANT: THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OBJECTS.

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

Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers

I. GENERAL OPERATION

Read, understand, and follow.all instructions in the manual

and on the machine before starting. Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the

instructions, to operate the machine. Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc.,

which could be picked up and thrown by the blade. Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop

machine if anyone enters the area. Never carry passengers. Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always

look down and behind before and while backing. Be aware of the mov/er discharge direction and do not point

it at anyone. Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass catcher or the guard in place.

Slow down before turning.

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

Turn off blades when not mowing. Stop engine before removing grass catcher or unclogging

chute. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light. Do not operate the machine while under the influence of

alcohol or drugs. Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways. Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into

a trailer or truck.

II. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and tipover accidents, which can result in severe injury ordeath. All slopes require extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not mow it.

DO:

Mow up and down slopes, not across.

Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc. Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could

overturn the machine. Ta// grass can hide obstacles. Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so that you will not have

to stop or shift while on the slope. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for wheel

weights or counterweights to improve stability. Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments.

These can change the stability of the machine. Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual. Do not

make sudden changes in speed or direction. Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction,

disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

DO NOT:

• Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, andthen, turn slowly

and gradually downhill, if possible.

• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. The

mower could suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.

• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could cause

sliding.

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

ground,

• Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.

III. CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to the machine and the mowing activity. Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them.

• Keep children out of the mowing area and underthe watchful care of another responsible adult,

• Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area.

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

• Never carry children. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine operation.

• Never allow children to operate the machine.

• Use extra care when .approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.

IV. SERVICE

• Use extra care in handling gasoline and otherfuels. They are flammable and vapors are" explosive.

Use only an approved container. Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine

running. Allow engine to cool before refueling. Do not smoke.

Never refuel the machine indoors. Never store the machine or fuel container inside where

there is an open flame, such as a water heater.

• Never run a machine inside a closed area.

• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment bolts, tight and keep equipment in good condition.

• Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, orother debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel spillage. Allow machine to cool before storing,

• Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object.

Repair, if necessary, before restarting.

• Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine running.

• Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage, and deterioration, which could expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check components and

replace with manufacturer's recommended parts, when nec

essary.

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

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

Look for this symbol to point out im portant safety precautions. It means

CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

CAUTION: Always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark plug in order to prevent accidental starting when setting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs.

A WARNING A

The engine exhaust from this product con tains chemicals known to the State of Califor

nia to cause cancer, birth defects, or other

reproductive harm.

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new tractor. It has been designed, engineered and manufactured 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 competent, well-trained tech

nicians and the proper tools to service or repairthis tractor.

Please read and retain this manual. The instructions will enable you to assemble and maintain yourtractor properly. Always observe the “SAFETY RULES”.

MODEL NUMBER

HD185H46B SERIAL NUMBER DATEOFPURCHASE.

THE MODELANDSERIALNUMBERSWILLBE FOUND ON A PLATE UNDER THE SEAT.

YOU SHOULD RECORD BOTH SERIALNUMBER AND

DATE OF PURCHASE AND KEEP IN A SAFE PLACE FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and observe the safety rules.

• Followaregularschedule in maintaining, caring forarid using your tractor.

• Follow the instructions under “Customer Responsibili

ties” and “Storage” sections of this owner’s manual.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

HORSEPOWER: 18.5 GASOLINE CAPACITY

AND TYPE; OIL TYPE (API-SF/SG/SH);

OIL CAPACITY: 3.5 PINTS

SPARK PLUG: (GAP: .030")

VALVE CLEARANCE:

GROUND SPEED (MPH): FORWARD; 0.0 - 5.5

TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI

CHARGING SYSTEM: 3 AMPS BATTERY

BATTERY;

BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 30-35 FT. LBS.

3.5 GALLONS UNLEADED REGULAR

SAE 30 (above 32° F) SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F)

3.0 PINTS CHAMPION RJ19LM

INTAKE; ,004" - .006" EXHAUST: .007" - .009"

REVERSE: 0.0 - 2,3

REAR; 10 PSI

5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS AMP/HR: 25

MIN. CCA: 190 CASE SIZE; U1R

WARNING; This tractor is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any

unimproved forest-covered, brush-covered or grass-cov ered land unless theengine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws

(if any), if a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained

in effective working order by the operator. A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your

nearest authorized service center/department (See RE

PAIR PARTS section of this manual).

In the state of California the above is required by law

(Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands.

SAFETY RULES ........................................................ 3

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS .................................... 3

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES .....................3, 16-20

WARRANTY.................................................................. 4

ASSEMBLY ...............................................................6-9

OPERATION........................................................... 10-15

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ..................................... 16

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS............................ 21-26

STORAGE ....................................................................27

TROUBLESHOOTING............................................28-29

REPAIR PARTS - TRACTOR.................................32-47

PARTS ORDERING/SERVICE................ BACK COVER

LIMITED WARRANTY

The Manufacturer warrants to the original consumer purchaser that this product as manufactured is tree from detects in materials and workmanship. For a period of two (2) years from date of purchase by the original consumer purchaser, we will

repair or replace, at our option, without charge tor parts or labor incurred in replacing parts, any part which we find to be

defective due to materials or workmanship. This Warranty is subject to the following limitations and exclusions.

1. This warranty does not apply to the engine, other than AYR manufactured transaxle/transmission components, battery (except as noted below) or components parts thereof. Please refer to the applicable manufacturer's warranty on these items.

2. Transportation charges for the movement of any power equipment unit or attachment are the responsibility of the purchaser. Transportation charges for any parts submitted for replacement under this warranty must be paid by the purchaser unless such return is requested by American Yard Products.

3. Battery Warranty: On products equipped with a Battery, we will replace, without charge to you, any battery which we find

to be detective in manufacture, during the first ninety (90) days of ownership. After ninety (90) days, we will exchange the Battery, charging you 1/12 of the price of a new Battery tor each full month from the date of the original sale. Battery must be maintained in accordance with the instructions furnished.

4. The Warranty period tor any products used tor rental or commercial purposes is limited to 90 days from the date of

original purchase.

5. This Warranty applies only to products which have been properly assembled, adjusted, operated, and maintained in

accordance with the instructions furnished. This Warranty does not apply to any product which has been subjected to alteration, misuse, abuse, improper assembly or installation, delivery damage, or to normal wear of the product.

6. Exclusions: Excluded from this Warranty are belts, blades, blade adapters, normal wear, normal adjustments, standard

hardware and normal maintenance.

7. In the event you have a claim under this Warranty, you must return the product to an authorized service dealer.

Should you have any unanswered questions concerning this Warranty, please contact:

American Yard Products In Canada contact: Service Department American Yard Products

P.O. Box 1687 1580 Trinity Drive, Units 5-8

Orangeburg, SC 29116 USA Mississauga, Ontario

L5T 1L6

giving the model number, serial number and date of purchase of your product and the name and address of the authorized dealer from whom it was purchased.

THIS WARRANTY DOES NOT APPLY TO INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES AND ANY IMPLIED WARRAN TIES ARE LIMITED TO THE SAME TIME PERIODS STATED HEREIN FOR OUR EXPRESSED WARRANTIES. Some areas do not allow the limitation of consequential damages or limitations of how long an implied Warranty may last, so the above

limitations or exclusions may not apply to you. This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may have other rights

which vary from locale to locale. This is a limited Warranty within the meaning of that term as defined in the Magnuson-Moss Act of 1975.

CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK

Parts packed separately in carton

Seat

Steering Wheel

. Sieering

Sleeve

Manual

Parts Bag

Parts bag contents not shown full size

(2) Gauge

(2) Shoulder

Bolts

P)\ (2) Center-

lock Nuts

Steering Wheel Insert

Steering Extension Shaft

(2) Front Link Assemblies

Wheels

(2) Washers 3/8

X 7/8 X 14 Gauge

Steering Wheel

Adapter

(2) Keys

ASSEMBLY

Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your tractor all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools as necessary to insure proper tightness.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

A socket wrench set will make assembly easier. Standard wrench sizes are listed.

(1) 3/4" Socket w/drive rächet Utility knife (2) 7/16" wrenches Tire pressure gauge

(2) 1/2" wrenches , Pliers

(1) 9/16" wrench

When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, it

means when you are in the operating position (seated behind the steering wheel).

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

• Remove all accessible loose parts and parts cartons from carton (See page 5).

• Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on all four corners of carton, and lay panels flat.

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

BEFORE ROLLING TRACTOR OFF SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL (See Fig. 1)

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND BOOT

• Slide extension shaft onto lower steering shaft. Align mounting holes in extension and lower shafts and install 5/16 hex bolt and locknut. Tighten securely.

IMPORTANT: TIGHTEN BOLT AND NUT SECURELY TO

18-22 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.

• Slide steering wheel adapter onto steering shaft exten

sion.

• Position steering wheel and sleeve assembly so cross

bars are horizontal (left to right) and slide onto adapter.

• Assemble large flat washer, 3/8 lock washer, 3/8 hex bolt and tighten securely.

• Snap steering wheel insert into center of steering wheel.

• Remove protective plastic from tractor hood and grill.

IMPORTANT: CHECK FOR AND REMOVE ANY STAPLES IN SKID THAT MAY PUNCTURE TIRES WHERE TRACTOR IS TO ROLL OFF SKID.

TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Opera tion section for location and function of con trols)

• Press lift lever plungerand raise attachment lift leverto its highest position.

• Release parking brake by depressing clutch/brake pedal.

• Place freewheel control in freewheeling position to disengage transmission (See ‘TO TRANSPORT” in the Operation section of this manual).

• Roll tractor backwards off skid.

• Remove banding holding discharge guard up against

tractor.

ASSEMBLY

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR

CONNECT BATFERY (See Fig. 2)

CAUTION: Do not short battery termi nals. Before connecting battery, re move metal bracelets, wristwatch

• Lift hood to raised position.

• Open terminal access doors, remove terminal protec tive 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.

• First connect RED battery cable to positive (-i-) battery terminal with hex bolt, flat washer, lock washer and hex nut as shown. Tighten securely.

• Connect BLACK grounding cable to negative (-) bat tery terminal with remaining hex bolt, flat washer, lock washer and hex nut. Tighten securely.

• Close terminal access doors.

Use terminal access doors for.

• Inspection for secure connections (to tighten hard ware).

• Inspection for corrosion.

• Testing battery.

• Jumping (if required).

• Periodic charging.

bands, rings, etc. Positive terminal must be connected

first to prevent sparking from acciden tal grounding.

INSTALL SEAT (See Fig. 3)

Adjust seat before tightening adjustment knob.

• Remove cardboard packing on seat pan.

• Place seat on seat pan and assemble shoulder bolt.

• Assemble adjustment knob and flat washer loosely. Do not tighten.

• Tighten shoulder bolt securely.

• Lower seat into operating position and sit on 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 adjusted position.

• Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob securely.

ASSEMBLY

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

The tires on your tractor were overinflated at the factory for shipping purposes. Correct tire pressure is important for

best cutting performance.

• Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in “PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS” on page 3 of this manual.

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM

After you learn how to operate your tractor, check to see that the brake is property adjusted. See “TO ADJUST

BRAKE” in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

^CHECKLIST

BEFORE YOU OPERATE AND ENJOY YOUR NEW TRACTOR, WE WISH TO ASSURE THAT YOU RECEIVE

THE BEST PERFORMANCE AND SA TISFA CTION FROM THIS QUALITY PRODUCT

PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING CHECKLIST:

/ All assembly instmctions have been completed. / No remaining loose parts in carton. / Battery is properly prepared and charged. (Minimum

1 hour at 6 amps). / Seat is adjusted comfortably and tightened securely. / All tires are properly inflated. (For shipping purposes,

the tires were overinflated at the factory). / Be sure mower deck is properly leveled side-to-side/

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

properly inflated for leveling). / Check mower and drive belts. Be sure they are routed

properly around pulleys and inside all belt keepers. / Check wiring. See that all connections are still secure

and wires are properly clamped. / Before driving tractor, be sure freewheel control is in

drive position.

WHILE LEARNING HOWTO USE YOUR TRACTOR, PAY EXTRA ATTENTION TO THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT ITEMS:

/ Engine oil is at proper level. / Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean, regular unleaded

gasoline.

/ Become familiar with all controls - their location and

function. Operate them before you start the engine. / Be sure brake system is in safe operating condition. / It is important to purge the transmission before operat

ing yourtractorforthe first time. Follow proper starting

and transmission purging instructions (See ‘TOST ART

ENGINE” and “PURGE TRANSMISSION” in the Op

eration section of this manual).

ASSEMBLY

INSTALL MOWER AND DRIVE BELT (See Figs. 4 and 5)

Be sure tractor is on level surface and mower suspension

arms are raised with attachment lift control. Engage park

ing brake.

• Cut and remove ties securing anti-sway bar and belts. Swing anti-sway bar to left side of mower deck.

• -Slide mower under tractor with discharge guard to right side of tractor.

IMPORTANT: CHECK BELT FOR PROPER ROUTING IN

ALL MOWER PULLEY GROOVES. INSTALL BELT INTO

ENGINE PULLEY GROOVE.

• Install one front link in top hole of the L.H. front mower

bracket and L.H. front suspension bracket. Retain with

two single loop retainer springs as shown.

• Install second front link in R.H. front suspension bracket and retain with single loop retainer spring as shown.

• Slide right side of mower back and install linkintop hole of R.H. front mower bracket. Retain with single loop

retainer spring as shown.

• Turn height adjustment knob counterclockwise until it stops.

• Lower mower linkage with attachment lift control.

Place the suspension arms on outward pointing deck

• Connect anti-sway bar to chassis bracket under left footrest and retain with double loop retainer spring.

• Install clutch rod in clutch lever. Secure with retainer spring.

• Turn height adjustment knob clockwise to remove slack from mower suspension.

• Raise deck to highest position.

• Assemble gauge wheels as shown using long shoulder bolts, 3/8 washers, and 3/8-16 center locknuts. Tighten securely.

• Adjust gauge wheels before operating mower as shown in the Operation section of this manual.

CHECK MOWER LEVELNESS

For best cutting results, mower should be properly leveled, See “TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING” in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF ALL

BELTS

See the figures that are shown for replacing motion, mower drive, and mower blade drive belts in the Service and Adjustments section ofthis manual. Verifythat the belts are routed correctly.

OPERATION

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

ea A

BATTERY

CAUTION OR

WARNING

STOP

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF

FUEL

CHOKE

it;

REVERSE FORWARD

.4,

FAST

OIL PRESSURE CLUTCH LIGHTS ON

¿if

MOWER HEIGHT

DIFFERENTIAL

LOCK

PARKING BRAKE

LOCKED

SLOW

LIGHTS OFF

UNLOCKED

R i H L (®)|I

REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH

MOWER LIFT

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH ENGAGED

LOW

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

HYDROSTATIC FREE WHEEL

(Hydro Models only)

PARKING BRAKE

OPERATION

KNOW YOUR TRACTOR

READ TH!S OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR TRACTOR

Compare the illustrations with yourtractorto familiarize yourself with the locations of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual tor future reference.

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

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

LIGHT SWITCH: Turns the headlights on and off. AMMETER - Indicates charging (+) or discharging (-) of

battery.

CHOKE CONTROL - Used when starting a cold engine. THROTTLE CONTROL - Used to control engine speed. CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL - Used for declutching and

braking the tractor and starting the engine. PARKING BRAKE - Locks clutch/brake pedal into the

brake position.

MOTION CONTROL LEVER - Selects the speed and

direction of tractor. ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER- Used to raise and lowerthe

mower deck or other attachments mounted to your tractor. LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to release attachment lift

lever when changing its position. IGNITION SWITCH - Used for starting and stopping the

engine.

FREEWHEEL CONTROL - Disengages transmission for pushing or slowly towing the tractor with the engine off.

HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB - Used to adjustthe mower

cutting height.

OPERATION

The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recommend a wide vision

safety mask over the spectacles or standard safety glasses.

HOWTO USE YOUR TRACTOR

TO SET PARKING BRAKE (See Fig. 6)

Yourtractor is equipped with an operator presence sensing switch. When engine is running, any attempt by the operator to leave the seat without first setting the parking

brake will shut off the engine.

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

• Place parking brake lever in “ENGAGED” position and release pressure from clutch/brake pedal. Pedal should remain in “BRAKE” position. Make sure parking brake

will hold tractor secure.

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER “ENGAGED” POSITION

THROTTLE CONTROL,

“BRAKE” POSITION

CLUTCH/

BRAKE

PEDAL “DRIVE POSITION

FIG. 6

“DISENGAGED” POSITION

PARKING BRAKE “ENGAGED” POSITION

MOTION CONTROL

LEVER,

“DISENGAGED” POSITION

CAUTION: Always stop tractor com pletely, as described above, before leav

ing the operator's position; to empty grass catcher, etc.

TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL (See Fig. 6)

Always operate engine at full throttle. ® Operating engine at less than full throttle reduces the

battery charging rate.

• Full throttle offers the best bagging and mower perfor mance.

TO USE CHOKE CONTROL (See Fig. 6)

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

• To engage choke control, pull knob out. Slowly push knob in to disengage.

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD (See

Fig. 6)

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

• Start tractor with motion control lever in neutral (N) position.

• Release parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.

• Slowly move motion control lever to desired position.

STOPPING (See Fig. 6J

MOWER BLADES -

• Move attachment clutch lever to “DISENGAGED” po sition.

GROUND DRIVE -

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

• Move motion control lever to neutral (N) position.

IMPORTANT; THE MOTION CONTROL LEVER DOES NOT RETURN TO NEUTRAL (N) POSITION WHEN THE CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL IS DEPRESSED.

ENGINE -

• Move throttle control to slow (•#*) position. NOTE: Failure to move throttle control to slow (*^)

position and allowing engine to idle before stopping may cause engine to “backfire”.

• Turn ignition key to “OFF” position and remove key. Always remove key when leaving tractor to prevent unauthorized use.

• Never use choke to stop engine.

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.

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT (See

Fig. 6)

The cutting height is controlled by turning the height adjustment knob in desired direction.

• Turn knob clockwise ( ty ) to raise cutting height.

• Turn knob counterclockwise (^) to lower cutting height.

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 inchesduringthe cool season and to over3 inches during hot months. For healthier and better looking lawns, mow often and after moderate growth.

• For best cutting performance, grass over 6 inches in height should be mowed twice. Make the first cut

relatively high; the second to desired height.

OPERATION

TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS (See Fig. 7)

Adjust gauge wheels with tractor on a flat level surface.

• Adjust mower to desired cutting height (See “TO AD JUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT” in the Operation section of this manual).

• With mower in desired height of cut position, gauge wheels should be assembled so they are slightly off the ground. Install gauge wheel in appropriate hole with shoulder bolt, 3/8 washer, and 3/8-16 locknut and

tighten securely.

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

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

CAUTION: Do not drive up or down hills

with slopes greater than 15° and do not drive across any slope.

TO OPERATE MOWER (See Fig. 8)

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.

• Select desired height of cut.

• Lower mower with attachment lift control.

• Start mower blades by engaging attachment clutch control.

• TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disengage attachment

clutch control.

CAUTION: Do not operate the mower

without either the entire grass catcher,

on mowers so equipped, or the dis

charge guard in place.

• 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 motion control lever to neutral (N) position.

IMPORTANT: THE MOTION CONTROL LEVER DOES NOT RETURN TO NEUTRAL (N) POSITION WHEN THE CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL IS DEPRESSED.

• To restart movement, slowly release parking brake and

clutch/brake pedal.

• Slowly move motion control lever to slowest setting.

• Make all turns slowly.

OPERATION

TO TRANSPORT (See Figs. 9 and 5)

When pushing or towing your tractor, be sure to disengage transmission by placing freewheel control in freewheeling

position. Free wheel control is located at the rear drawbar of tractor.

® Raise attachment lift to highest position with attach

ment lift control.

® Pull freewheel control knob out and hold in position by

inserting retainer spring into forward hole of control

rod. ® Do not push or tow tractor at more than two (2) MPH. ® To reengage transmission, reverse above procedure.

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.).

FIG. 9

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE

CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL (See Fig. 16)

® The engine in yourtractor has been shipped, from the

factory,' already filled with summer weight oil. ® Check engine oil with tractor on level ground. ® Unthread and remove oil fill cap/dipstick; w/ipe oil off.

Reinsert the dipstick into the tube and rest oil fill cap on

the tube. Do not thread the cap onto the tube. Remove

and read oil level. If necessary, add oil until “FULL”

mark on dipstick is reached. Do not overfill. ® For cold weather operation you should change oil for

easier starting (See “OIL VISCOSITY CHART” in the Customer Responsibilities section of this manual).

® To change engine oil, see the Customer Responsibili

ties section in this manual.

ADD GASOLINE

® Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular unleaded

gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane. (Use of leaded gasoline will increase carbon and lead oxide deposits and reduce vaive life). Do not mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in quantities that can be used within 30 days to assure fuel freshness.

IMPORTANT: WHEN OPERATING IN TEMPERATURES

BELOW 32°F(0°C), USE FRESH, CLEAN WINTER GRADE GASOLINE TO HELP INSURE GOOD COLD WEATHER STARTING,

WARNING; Experience indicates that alcohol blended

fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can

attract moisture which leads to separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be emptied before 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 season. See Storage Instruc tions for additional information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent

damage may occur.

CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spili or

use gasoline near an open flame.

TO START ENGINE (See Fig. 6)

When starting the engine for the first time or if the engine

has run out of fuel, it will take extra cranking time to move fuel from the tank to the engine.

• Be sure freewheel control is in the transmission en

gaged position.

® Sit on seat in operating position, depress clutch/brake

pedal and set parking brake.

• Place motion control lever in neutral (N) position.

• Move attachment clutch to “DISENGAGED” position.

• Move throttle control to fast (4») position

• Pull choke control out for a cold engine start attempt.

For a warm engine start attempt the choke control may not be needed.

Note: Before starting, read the warm and cold starting

procedures below.

• Insert key into ignition and turn key clockwise to “START”

position and release key as soon as engine starts. Do not run starter continuously for more than fifteen sec onds per minute. If the engine does not start after several attempts, push choke control in, wait a few minutes and try again. If engine still does not start, pull the choke control out and retry.

WARM WEATHER STARTING (50° F and above)

• When engine starts, slowly push choke control in until

the engine begins to run smoothly. If the engine starts

to run roughly, pull the choke control out slightly for a few seconds and then continue to push the control in slowly.

• The attachments and ground drive can now be used. If the engine does not accept the load, restart the engine and allow it to warm up for one minute using the choke as described above.

OPERATION

COLD WEATHER STARTING (50° F and below)

• When engine starts, slowly push choke control in until the engine begins to run smoothly. Continue to push the choke control in small steps allowing the engine to accept small changes in speed and load, until the choke control is fully in. If the engine starts to run

roughly, pull the choke control out slightly for a few seconds and then continue to push the control in slowly. This may require an engine warm-up period from several seconds to several minutes, depending on the temperature.

HYDROSTATIC TRANSMISSION WARM UP

• Before driving the unit in cold weather, the transmis sion should be warmed up as follows:

• Be sure the tractor is on level ground.

• Place the motion control lever in neutral. Release the parking brake and let the clutch/brake

slowly return to operating position.

• Allow one minute for transmission to warm up.

This can be done during the engine warm up period.

• The attachments can be used during the engine warm up period after the transmission has been warmed up

and may require the choke control be pulled out slightly.

NOTE: If at a high altitude (above 3000 feet) or in cold temperatures (below 32 F) the carburetor fuel mixture may need to be adjusted for best engine performance. See “TO ADJUST CARBURETOR” in the Service and Adjustments

PURGE TRANSMISSION

CAUTION: Never engage or disengage

freewheel lever while the engine is run

To ensure proper operation and performance, it is recom

mended that the transmission be purged before operating tractor for the first time. This procedure will remove any trapped air inside the transmission which may have devel oped during shipping of your tractor.

IMPORTANT: SHOULD YOUR TRANSMISSION REQUIRE

REMOVAL FOR SERVICE OR REPLACEMENT, IT

SHOULD BE PURGED AFTER R EIN STALLATIO N

BEFORE OPERATING THE TRACTOR.

• Place tractor safely on level surface with engine off and

parking brake set.

• Disengage transmission by placing freewheel control

in freewheeling position (See “TO TRANSPORT’ in

this section of manual).

• Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine. Afterthe engine

is running, move throttle control to slow (*A) position.

With motion control lever in neutral (N) position, slowly

disengage clutch/brake pedal.

• Move motion control lever to full forward position and

hold for five (5) seconds. Move lever to full reverse position and hold for five (5) seconds. Repeat this procedure three (3) times.

NOTE: During this procedure there wili be no movement of drive wheels. The air is being removed from hydraulic drive system.

ning.

• Move motion control leverto neutral (N) position. Shut off engine and set parking brake.

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

• Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine. Afterthe engine is running, move throttle control to half (1/2) speed.

With motion control lever in neutral (N) position, slowly disengage clutch/brake pedal.

• Slowly move motion control lever forward, after the tractor moves approximately five (5) feet, slowly move

motion control lever to reverse position. After the

tractor moves approximately five (5) feet return the

motion control lever to the neutral (N) position. Repeat this procedure with the motion control lever three (3) times.

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

MOWING TIPS

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

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

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

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

• When mowing large areas, start by turning to the right so that clippings will discharge away from shrubs, fences, driveways, etc. After one or two rounds, mow in the opposite direction making left hand turns until

finished (See Fig. 10).

• If grass is extremely tall, it should be mowed twice to reduce load and possible fire hazard from dried clip pings. Make first cut relatively high; the second to the desired height.

• Do not mow grass when it is wet. Wet grass wili plug mower and leave undesirable clumps. Allow grass to dry before mowing.

• Always operate engine at full throttle when mowing to assure better mowing performance and proper dis charge of material. Regulate ground speed by select ing a low enough gear to give the mower cutting performance as well as the quality of cut desired.

• When operating attachments, select a ground speed that will suit the terrain and give best performance of

the attachment being used.

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

FILL IN DATES

AS YOU COMPLETE ' REGULAR SERVICE

Check Brake Operation

Check Tire Pressure Check for Loose Fasteners Sharpen/Replace Mower Blades Lubrication Chart Check Battery Level/Recharge Clean Battery and Terminals Check Transaxle Cooling Adjust Blade Belt(s) Tension Adjust Motion Drive Belt(s) Tension

Check Engine Oil Level Change Engine Oil Clean Air Filter Clean Air Screen Inspect Muffler/Spark Arrester Replace Oil Filter (If equipped) Clean Engine Cooling Fins Replace Spark Plug Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge Replace Fuel Filter

1 - Change more often when operating under a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures. 2 - Service more often when operating in dirty or dusty conditions. 3 - If equipped with oil filter, change oil every 50 hours. 4 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil.

✓

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^2,3

✓ 2

✓

SERVICE DATES

✓ 7

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t/s

✓ 5

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1/ 2

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5 - If equipped with adjustable system. 6 - Not required if equipped with maintenance-free battery. 7 - Tighten front axle pivot bolt to 35 ft.-lbs. maximum.

Do not overtighten.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this tractor does not cover items that have

been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To receive full value from the warranty, operator must maintain

tractor as instructed in this manual.

Some adjustments will need to be made periodically to

properly maintain your tractor. All adjustments in the Service and Adjustments section of

this manual should be checked at least once each season.

• Once a year you should replace the spark plug, clean or replace air filter, and check blades and belts for

wear. A new spark plug and clean air filter assure

proper air-fuel mixture and help your engine run better and last longer.

BEFORE EACH USE

• Check engine oil level.

• Check brake operation.

• Check tire pressure.

• Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION CHART

IMPORTANT: DO NOT OIL OR GREASE THE PIVOT POINTS

WHICH HAVE SPECIAL NYLON BEARINGS. VISCOUS LUBRI CANTS WILL ATTRACT DUST AND DIRT THAT WILL SHORTEN THE LIFE OF THE SELF-LUBRICATING BEARINGS. IF YOU FEEL THEY MUST BE LUBRICATED, USE ONLY A DRY, POW DERED GRAPHITE TYPE LUBRICANT SPARINGLY,

+ 36 hidden pages

Poulan 159759 User Manual

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Parts packed separately in carton

Parts bag contents not shown full size

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON

BEFORE ROLLING TRACTOR OFF SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL (See Fig. 1)

INSTALL SEAT (See Fig. 3)

CHECK MOWER LEVELNESS

TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL (See Fig. 6)

TO USE CHOKE CONTROL (See Fig. 6)

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD (See

STOPPING (See Fig. 6J

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT (See

TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS (See Fig. 7)

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

TO OPERATE MOWER (See Fig. 8)

TO START ENGINE (See Fig. 6)

PURGE TRANSMISSION

MOWING TIPS

BEFORE EACH USE

LUBRICATION CHART