Poulan 163022 User Manual

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OWNER'S MANUAL

MODEL NO. HD145H42H

14.5 HP 42 Inch Lawn Tractor

Assembly

• Operation

• Customer Responsibilities

• Service and Adjustments

• Storage

• Troubleshooting

• Repair Parts

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

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

HLE

COPY

Poulan

163022 11.13.97 RD

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 THROWING OBJECTS.

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

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 mower 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 pot 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 stow 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, and then, 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 aiert 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 under the 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 cari^ 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 other fuels. 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, or other 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 ^

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 repair this tractor.

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

MODEL NUMBER

HD145H42H SERIAL NUMBER DATE OF PURCHASE. THE MODELANDSERIALNUMBERSWILL BE FOUND

ON A PLATE UNDER THE SEAT. YOU SHOULD RECORD BOTH SERIAL NUMBER AND

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

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and observe the safety rules.

• Followa regular schedule in maintaining, caring forand using your tractor.

• Follow the instructions under “Customer Responsibili

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

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

HORSEPOWER: 14.5 GASOLINE CAPACITY

AND TYPE: OIL TYPE (API-SF/SG/SH): SAE 30 (above 32°F)

OIL CAPACITY: SPARK PLUG:

(GAP: .030“)

VALVE CLEARANCE:

GROUND SPEED (MPH): FORWARD: 4.7

TIRE PRESSURE:

CHARGING SYSTEM: 3 AMPS BATTERY

BATTERY:

BLADE BOLT TORQUE:

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 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 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.

2 GALLONS UNLEADED REGULAR

SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F)

3.0 PINTS

CHAMPION RJ19LM

INTAKE: .005" - .007“ EXHAUST: .009"-.011"

REVERSE: 2.2 FRONT: 14PSI

REAR: 12 PSI

5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS AMP/HR: 25

MIN. CCA: 190 CASE SIZE; U1R

27-35 FT. LBS.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

................................................ 3

........

.......................

3. 15-19

WARRANTY......................................................................... 50

ASSEMBLY OPERATION

..........

.................................................................

.......................................................................

6-9

10-14

INDEX

Adjustments;

Brake.................................................22

Carburetor Mower

Throttle Control Cable Air Filter, Engine Air Screen, Engine Assembly

......................................

Front-To-Back Side-To-Side

.................................................

............................

...............................

.....................

......................................

...................................

Battery:

Charging

Cleaning............................................17

Starting with Weak Battery

Storage..............................................26

Terminals Belt:

Motion Drive

Mower Belt(s)

Biade:

Sharpening

Replacement.....................................16

Brake Adjustment

.............................................

..........................................

Rem ovat/Replacem ent Removal/Replacement

......................................

....................................22

Carburetor Adjustment Controls, Tractor Customer Responsibilities

Engine:

Air Filter........................................

Air Screen Cooling Fins

Engine Oil................................13,17

Fuel Filter......................................19

Spark Plug(s).............................. 19

T ractor:

Battery

..........................................

Blade

............................................

Lubrication Chart.........................15

Maintenance Schedule Tire Care Transaxle

Cutting Height, Mower

............................

.....................................

................

.....................................

.................................

................

...............................

......................................

.............................

Electrical:

Interlocks and Relays Schematic

Wiring Diagram............................... 30

.........................................

......................

.............

...............

15-19

7,16,23

21 21

24 18 18

6-9

23 17

22 22

18 18 18

17 12

24 29

Engine:

Air Filter

Air Screen....................................... 18

Cooling Fins................................. 18

Oil Change.....................................

Oil Level............................................13

Oil Type...........................;.. 13,17

Preparation Starting Storage

Filter:

Air Filter............................................18

Fuel

Fuel:

Type Storage

Fuse..........................................................

Hood Removal/lnstallation

Leveling Mower Deck Lubrication:

Chart

Engine...............................................17

Maintenance Schedule

Mower:

Adjustment, Front-to-Back

Adjustment, Side-to-Side

Blade Replacement Blade Sharpening

Cutting Height

Installation........................................20

Operation..........................................13

Removal............................................20

Mowing Tips.............................................14

Muffler.......................................................19

Spark Arrester...............................3,40

Oil:

Cold Weather Conditions

Engine...............................................17

Storage

Operation.............................................11-14

Operating Mower

.........................................

.............................................

...........................................

...........

..................................................

.........................

.................................................

.............................................

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE....................................

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS

STORAGE................................................................... 26

TROUBLESHOOTING

REPAIR PARTS - TRACTOR

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

......................................

.....................................

i....

.......... 26

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...........................

............

...............

.........................

............................

..................................

..........

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:i9

21 21

13,17

13 14

16 12

............................

..........................................

.................................

Options:

Spark Arrester............................. 3,40

20-25

27-28

30-47

Parking Brake Parts Bag

Parts, Replacement/Repair................30-47

Product Specifications

...................................

.............................................

.............................

11-12

Repair Parts

....................................

30-47

Safety Rules Seat

...........................................................

Service and Adjustments .................

Carburetor

Tire Care

Slope Guide Sheet

Spark Plug(s) Specifications Starting the Engine Steering Wheel Stopping the Tractor

Storage....

Throttle Control Cable Adjustment Tires

Troubleshooting Chart.......................27-28

T ransaxle............................................30-47

Warranty Wiring Diagram Wiring Schematic

...............................................

Fuse Hood Removal/1 nstallation Motion Drive Belt

Mower Belt(s)

Mower Adjustment

Mower Removal/lnstallation

....................

................................................

Removal/Replacement Removal/Replacement

Front-to-Back.............................21

Side-to-Side

...................................

..................................

...........................................

............................................

............................

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...............................................

1..................25

...........

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...........

...............................

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20-25

24 22 22

7,16,23

13-14

6,23

........

7,16,23

CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK

Parts Bag contents shown full size

(1) Hex Bolt

3/8-16 X 1

(1) Large Flat Washer '' ' ^ (1) Lockwasher 3/8

(1) Locknut

5/16-18

(1) Hex Bolt 5/16-18 X 1-1/4

Parts packed separately in carton

Seat

Steering

Sleeve

Steering Wheel

(1) Shoulder Bolt 5/16-18 (1) Hex Bolt 1/2-13 x 1

(1) Lock Washer 1/2

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

(2) Hex Bolts 1/4-20 x 3/4

(2) Hex Nuts 1/4-20

(2) Lock Washers 1/4

Manual

Parts Bag

Parts bag contents not shown full size

(2) Shoulder Bolts

(2) Washers 17/32

X 15/16 X 12 Gauge

Steering

i ^ I Ipgg^

Wheel

(2) Gauge Wheels

Steering Extension Shaft

(2) Center-

lock Nuts

(2) Washers 3/8

X 7/8 X 14 Gauge

—1 —,3—

Steering Wheel

Adapter

(2) Washers 9/32 x 5/8 x 16 Gauge

(2) Keys

Slope Sheet

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

(2) 7/16" wrenches (2) 1/2" wrenches (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.

Utility knife Tire pressure gauge

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 so cross bars are horizontal (left to right) and slide inside boot and 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 materials 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 plunger and raise attachment lift (ever to 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 BATTERY (See Figs. 2 and 3)

CAUTION: Do not short battery termi nals 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 first to prevent sparking from acciden tal grounding.

• Remove cardboard packing from seat pan and lift seat pan to raised position,

• Open battery box door.

• 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-tO amps.

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

• Connect BLACK grounding cable to negative (-) termi nal with remaining hex bolt, flat washer, lock washer and hex nut. Tighten securely.

• Close battery box door.

Open battery box door for:

• Inspection for secure connections (to tighten hard

ware).

• Inspection for corrosion.

• Testing battery.

• Jumping (if required).

• Periodic charging .

DISCARD TERMINAL PROTECTIVE CAPS

BATTERY BOX DOOR

RG.3

INSTALL SEAT (See Fig. 4)

Adjust seat before tightening adjustment bolt.

• Remove cardboard packing on seat pan.

• Place seat on seat pan and assemble shoulder bolt.Tighten shoulder bolt securely.

• Assemble adjustment bolt, lock washer and flat washer loosely. Do not tighten.

• 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 bolt securely.

POSITIVE (RED) CABLE

LOCK WASHER

FLAT WASHER

NEGATIVE

(BLACK) CABLE

FIG. 2

FIG. 4

ASSEMBLY

ASSEMBLE GAUGE WHEELS TO MOWER DECK (See Fig. 5)

The gauge wheels are designed to keep the mower deck in

proper position when operating mower. Be sure they are properly adjusted to ensure optimum mower performance.

• Assemble 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, 17/32 washer, 3/8 washer, and 3/8-16

' locknut and tighten securely.

• Repeat for opposite side installing gauge wheel in

same adjustment hole.

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 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 figures that are shown for replacing motion and

mower blade drive belts in the Service and Adjustments section 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

TRACTOR, WE WISH TOASSURE THAT YOU RECEIVE THE BEST PERFORMANCE AND SA TISFACTION FROM THIS QUALITY PRODUCT.

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 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.

WHILELEARNING HOWTO USE YOUR TRACTOR, PA Y

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-

Op-

eration section of this manual).

OPERATION

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

Q A

BATTERY

CAUTION OR REVERSE

WARNING

STOP

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE CLUTCH LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP

FUEL

l\l mif ^

CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT DIFFERENTIAL PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED

FORWARD FAST SLOW

a| ©1

LIGHT

LOCK LOCKED

R N H L (®)|I

ÎL

REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH

MOWER LIFT

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH ENGAGED

LOW

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

PARKING BRAKE

IGNITION

....

4-is

HYDROSTATIC FREE WHEEL

(Hydro Models only)

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 adjustments. Save this manual for 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.

THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL - Used for starting and

controlling 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 lower the

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.

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.

HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR

TO SET PARKING BRAKE (See Fig. 7)

Your tractor 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.

STOPPING (See Fig. 7J

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.

CAUTION: Always stop tractor com pletely, as describe 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 offers the best bagging and mower perfor mance.

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD (See Fig. 7)

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.

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT (See Fig. 6)

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 first cut relatively high; the second to desired height.

OPERATION

TO OPERATE MOWER (See Fig. 8)

Yourtractor 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.

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

CAUTION: Do not drive up or down

• 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.

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

TO TRANSPORT (See Figs. 9 and 6 )

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

OPERATION

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE

CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL (See Fig. 12)

• The engine in your tractor has been shipped, from the factory, already filled with summer weight oil.

• Check engine oil with tractor on level ground.

• Remove oil fill 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 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 valve 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 darnage 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, spill or use gasoline near an open flame.

TO START ENGINE (See Fig. 7)

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 choke position.

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, 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 starts, allow engineto 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 perature.

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 also be used during the engine warm-up period afterthetransmission has been warmed up.

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 section of this manual.

OPERATION

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 YOURTRANSMISSION REQUIRE

REMOVAL FOR SERVICE OR REPLACEMENT, IT SHOULD BE PURGED AFTER REINSTALLATION 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 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 will be no movement of drive wheels. The air is being removed from hydraulic drive system.

• Move motion control lever to 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.

ning.

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 will 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 Shatpen/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 - Sen/ice more often when operating in dirty or dusty conditions. 3 - If equipped with oil fiiter, change oii every 50 hours. 4 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil.

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SERVICE DATES

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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 fL-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

VVHICH 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.

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

TRACTOR

Always observe safety rules when performing any mainte nance.

BRAKE OPERATION

If tractor requires more than six (6) feet stopping distance at high speed in highest gear, then brake must be adjusted. (See ‘TO ADJUST BRAKE” in the Service and Adjust ments section of this manual).

TIRES

• Maintain proper air pressure in all tires (See “PROD UCT SPECIFICATIONS” on page 3 of this manual).

• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect control chemi

cals which can harm rubber.

• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp objects and other hazards that may cause tire damage.

NOTE; To seal tire punctures and prevent flat tires due to slow leaks, tire sealant may be purchased from your local

parts dealer. Tire sealant also prevents tire dry rot and

corrosion.

BLADE CARE

For best results mower blades must be kept sharp. Re

place bent or damaged blades.

TO SHARPEN BLADE (See Fig. 12)

Care should be taken to keep the blade balanced. An unbalanced blade will cause excessive vibration and even tual damage to mower and engine.

• The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen while on the mower.

• To check blade balance, you will need a 5/8“ diameter steel bolt, pin, or a cone balancer. (When using a cone

balancer, follow the instructions supplied with bal

ancer).

• Slide blade onto an unthreaded portion of the steel bolt

or pin and hold the bolt or pin parallel with the ground. If blade is balanced, it should remain in a horizontal position. If either end of the blade moves downward, sharpen the heavy end until the blade is balanced.

NOTE: Do not use a nail for balancing blade. The lobes of

the center hole may appear to be centered, but are not.

BLADE REMOVAL (See Fig. 11)

• Raise mower to highest position to allow access to blades.

• Remove hex bolt, lock washer and flat washer securing

blade.

» Install new or resharpened blade with trailing edge up

towards deck as shown.

• Reassemble hex bolt, lock washer and flat washer in

exact order as shown.

• Tighten bolt securely (30-35 Ft. Lbs. torque).

IMPORTANT: BLADE BOLT IS GRADE 8 HEATTREATED.

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening blade - but if you

do, be sure the blade is balanced.

BATTERY

Your tractor has a battery charging system which is suffi cient for normal use. However, periodic charging of the battery with an automotive charger will extend its life.

• Keep battery and terminals clean.

• Keep battery bolts tight.

• Keep small vent holes open.

• Recharge at 6-10 amperes for 1 hour. TO CLEAN BATTERY AND TERMINALS

Corrosion and dirt on the battery and terminals can cause the battery to “leak” power.

• Open battery box door.

• Disconnect BLACK battery cable first then RED bat tery cable and remove battery from tractor.

• Rinse the battery with plain water and dry.

• Clean terminals and battery cable ends with wire brush

until bright.

• Coat terminals with grease or petroleurti jelly.

• Reinstall battety (See “CONNECT BATTERY" in the Assembly section of this manual).

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