Poulan 954569677, 184433 User Manual

MODEL NO. POGT20T48STA

20.0 HP 48 Inch Lawn Tractor

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

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

184433 Rev. 2 2.10.03 JH

PRINTED IN U.S.A.

SAFETY RULES

Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers

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

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

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 in struc tions, to operate the machine.

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

• Be sure the area is clear of other people before mow ing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

• Never carry passengers.

• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while back ing.

• 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 un clog ging chute.

• Mow only in daylight or good artiﬁ cial light.

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

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

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

• Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above, are involved in a large percentage of riding mower-related injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the riding mower safely enough to protect them selves and others from serious injury.

• Keep machine free of grass , leaves or other debris build-up which can touch hot exhaust / engine parts and burn. Do not allow the mower deck to plow leaves or other debris which can cause build-up to occur. Clean any oil or fuel spillage before operating or storing the machine. Allow machine to cool before storage.

II. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and tipover accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. 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.

• 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 at tach ments. These can change the stability of the machine.

• Keep all movement on the slopes 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 down the slope.

Tall grass can hide obstacles.

slow

and

gradual

straight

DO NOT:

•

Do not

turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.

•

Do not

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

cause sliding.

•

Do not

on the ground.

•

Do not

turn on slopes unless necessary, and then,

mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments.

mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could

try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot

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 ma chine and the mowing activity. 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 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.

Never

IV. SERVICE

• Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They are ﬂ ammable 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 ﬂ ame, 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 op er a tion 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 run ning.

• Grass catcher components are subject to wear, dam age, and deterioration, which could expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check com po nents and replace with manufacturer's rec om mend ed parts, when nec es sary.

• 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.

assume that

down

for

SAFETY RULES

Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers

• Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

• Never carry passengers or children even with the blades off.

• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Al ways look down and behind before and while backing.

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

• 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.

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

• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.

• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could overtur n the machine. Tall 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.

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

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

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

WARNING: In order to prevent ac ci den tal starting when setting up, trans port ing, ad just ing or making repairs, al ways dis con nect spark plug wire and place wire where it can not contact spark plug.

WARNING: Do not coast down a hill in neutral, you may lose control of the tractor.

WARNING: Tow only the attachments that are rec om mend ed by and comply with spec i ﬁ ca tions of the man u fac tur er of your tractor. Use common sense when towing. Operate only at the low est possible speed when on a slope. Too heavy of a load, while on a slope, is dan ger ous. Tires can lose trac tion with the ground and cause you to lose control of your tractor.

WARNING

Engine exhaust, some of its con stit u ents, and cer tain vehicle com po nents contain or emit chem i cals known to the State of Cal i for nia to cause can cer and birth de fects or oth er re pro duc tive harm.

WARNING

Battery posts, terminals and related ac ces so ries contain lead and lead compounds, chem i cals known to the State of Cal i for nia to cause can cer and birth defects or oth er re pro duc tive harm. Wash hands after handling.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

GASOLINE CAPACITY 5.0 GALLONS AND TYPE: UNLEADED REGULAR

OIL TYPE (API-SF-SJ): SAE 30 (above 32°F) SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F)

OIL CAPACITY: 5.0 PINTS W/ FILTER

SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION RN4C (GAP: .030")

GROUND SPEED (MPH): FORWARD: 1st 1.2 2nd 1.5 3rd 2.4 4th 3.5 5th 4.8 REVERSE: 1.5

TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI REAR: 10 PSI

CHARGING SYSTEM: 16 AMPS @ 3600 RPM BATTERY: AMP/HR: 35 MIN. CCA: 280 CASE SIZE: U1R BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 45–55 FT. LBS.

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

Should you experience any problem you cannot easily remedy, please contact your nearest authorized service center/ department. We have competent, well-trained tech ni cians 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 prop erly. Always observe the “SAFETY RULES”.

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and observe the safety rules.

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

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

WARNING: This tractor is equipped with an internal com bus tion engine and should not be used on or near any un im proved forest-covered, brush-covered or grass-cov ered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.

A spark arrester for the mufﬂ er is available through your nearest authorized service center/depar tment (See RE PA I R PARTS section of this manual).

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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

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

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

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

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

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

MAINTENANCE ...................................................... 16-19

SERVICE AND AD JUST MENTS ............................20-25

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

TROU BLE SHOOT ING ............................................27-28

REPAIR PARTS - TRACTOR ..................................30-45

WARRANTY................................................................. 46

UNASSEMBLED PARTS

Steering Wheel

Steering

Wheel Adapter

Steering

Wheel Insert

Seat

Steering Sleeve

Extension

Steering Sleeve

Gauge Wheel

(2) Adjusting Bar

(2) Locknut

3/8-16

(2) Wheels

(2) Retainer Springs (double loop)

(2) Clevis Pins

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

(1) Knob

(2)Flanged Pins

(1)Front Plate Assembly

(2) Retainer Springs

(single loop)

Mower

(4) Retainer Springs (double loop)

(2) Shoulder Bolt

(1) Oil Drain Tube For Future Use

Keys

(2) Keys

(2) Washers

3/8 x 3/4 x 14 Ga.

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. Stan dard wrench sizes are listed.

(1) 3/4" wrench Utility knife

(2) 7/16" wrenches Tire pressure gauge

(1) 3/4" socket with Pliers

drive ratchet

When right or left hand is mentioned in this man ual, it means when you are in the operating po si tion (seated be hind the steer ing wheel).

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

• Remove all accessible loose parts and parts cartons from carton .

• Cut along dotted lines on all four panels of carton. Remove end panels and lay side panels ﬂ at.

• Remove mower and packing materials.

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

BEFORE REMOVING TRAC TOR FROM SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL (See Fig. 1)

• Remove locknut and large ﬂ at wash er from steering shaft.

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

• Slide the steering sleeve over the steering shaft.

• Align tabs and press steering sleeve ex ten sion into bottom of steering wheel.

• Position steering wheel so cross bars are horizontal (left to right) and slide onto steering wheel adapter.

• Secure steering wheel to steering shaft with locknut and large ﬂ at wash er pre vi ous ly removed. Tight en securely.

• Snap steering wheel insert into cen ter 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.

STEERING WHEEL INSERT

LOCK NUT

LARGE FLAT WASHER

STEERING WHEEL

STEERING WHEEL EXTENTION

STEERING SHAFT

STEERING SLEEVE

FIG. 1

STEERING WHEEL ADAPTOR

TABS

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR

CHECK BATTERY (See Fig. 2)

• Lift hood to raised position.

• If this battery is put into service after month and year indicated on label (label located between terminals) charge battery for minimum of one hour at 6-10 amps. (See "BATTERY" in MAINTENANCE section of this manual for charging instructions).

LABEL

FIG. 2

ASSEMBLY

INSTALL SEAT (See Fig. 3)

Adjust seat before tightening adjustment knob.

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

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

• Place seat on seat pan so head of shoulder bolt is positioned over large slotted hole in pan.

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

• Pivot seat and pan forward and assemble adjustment knob and ﬂ at 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 ad just ed position.

• Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob securely.

SEAT

SEAT PAN

SHOULDER BOLT

FLAT WASHER

NOTE: You may now roll or drive your tractor off the skid.

Follow the ap pro pri ate instruction below to remove the tractor from the skid.

TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Op er a tion section for location and function of con trols)

• Press lift lever plunger and raise at tach ment lift lever to its highest po si tion.

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

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

• Roll tractor forward off skid.

TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Op er a tion section for location and func tion of con trols)

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

all in struc tions in the Operation section of this manual. Be sure tractor is in a well-ventilated area. Be sure the area in front of tractor is clear of other people and objects.

• Be sure all the above assembly steps have been com plet ed.

• Check engine oil level and ﬁ ll fuel tank with gasoline.

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

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

• Press lift lever plunger and raise at tach ment lift lever to its highest position.

• Start the engine. After engine has star ted, move throttle control to idle position.

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

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

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

• Turn ignition key to "STOP" position.

Continue with the instructions that follow.

ADJUSTMENT KNOB

FIG. 3

ASSEMBLE GAUGE WHEELS TO MOWER DECK (See Fig. 4)

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 per for mance.

• Slide gauge wheel bar down into bracket channel, Be sure that gauge wheel bar aligning holes are on top. As sem ble gauge wheels as shown using shoulder bolts, 3/8 washers and 3/8-16 center locknuts and tighten securely.

• For ease of mower to tractor assembly, raise gauge wheels to highest position and retain with clevis pins and spring retainers.

• Adjust gauge wheels before operating mower. See “TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS” in the Operation sec tion of this manual.

ASSEMBLY

RETAINER SPRING

3/8-16 CENTER LOCKNUT

SHOULDER BOLT

GAUGE WHEEL

AD JUST ING BAR

3/8 WASH ER

FIG. 4

INSTALL MOWER AND DRIVE BELT (See Figs. 5 and 6)

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 deﬂ ector shield to right side of tractor.

IMPORTANT: Check belt for proper routing in all mower pulley grooves.

• If equipped, turn height ad just ment knob coun ter clock wise until it stops.

• Lower mower linkage with attachment lift control.

• Install belt into electric clutch pulley groove.

• Place the suspension arms on outward pointing deck pins. Retain with double loop re tain er spring with loops up as shown.

• Install front plate assembly to tractor suspension brack ets and retain with single loop retainer springs as shown.

• Position front plate assembly between front mower brack ets. Raise deck and plate assembly to align holes and insert ﬂ anged pins. Secure pins with double loop retainer springs between the plate and mower brackets.

NOTE: To assist in locating hole in ﬂ anged pin, the hole in pin is inline with notch on head of pin. If necessary, move mower side-to-side to give space between plate and mower brackets.

IMPORTANT: Check belt for proper routing in all mower pulley grooves.

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

• If equipped, turn height adjustment knob clock wise to remove slack from mower sus pen sion.

• Raise deck to highest position.

• Adjust gauge wheels before op er at ing mower as shown in the Operation section of this manual.

CHASSIS BRACKET

GAUGE WHEEL

DOUBLE LOOP RETAINER SPRING

USE PLIERS FOR

RETAINER SPRINGS

LOOP UP

ANTI-SWAY BAR

SUSPENSION ARMS DOUBLE LOOP RETAINER SPRING (OUTWARD POINTING DECK PINS)

FRONT MOWER BRACKET

FIG. 5

ELECTRIC CLUTCH PULLEY

FRONT SUS PEN SION BRACKETS

FRONT PLATE AS SEM BLY

SINGLE LOOP RETAINER SPRINGS

DOUBLE LOOP RE TA IN ER SPRING

FLANGED PIN

DE FLEC TOR SHIELD

ASSEMBLY

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

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

• Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in “PRODUCT SPEC I FI CA TIONS” section of this manual.

CHECK 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 ﬁ gures that are shown for replacing motion, mower drive, and mower blade drive belts in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual. Verify that the belts are routed correctly.

✓

CHECKLIST

BEFORE YOU OPERATE AND ENJOY YOUR NEW TRAC TOR, WE WISH TO ASSURE THAT YOU RECEIVE THE BEST PERFORMANCE AND SATISFACTION 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 inﬂ ated. (For shipping purposes,

the tires were overinﬂ ated at the factory).

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

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

✓ Check mower and drive belts. Be sure they are routed

properly around pulleys and inside all belt keepers.

✓ Check wiring. See that all connections are still secure

and wires are properly clamped.

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

✓ Engine oil is at proper level. ✓ Fuel tank is ﬁ lled 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.

OPERATION

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

REVERSE

ENGINE OFF

OVER TEMP

LIGHT

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH ENGAGED

FREE WHEEL

(Automatic Models only)

NEUTRAL

LIGHTS ON

FUEL

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

ENGINE ON

OIL PRESSURE

HIGH

LOW

ENGINE START

BATTERY

DANGER, KEEP HANDS

AND FEET AWAY

CHOKE

PARKING BRAKE

REVERSE

DANGER indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

WARNING indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

CAUTION indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, might result in minor or moderate injury.

FAST

FORWARD

KEEP AREA CLEAR

SLOW

PARKING BRAKE

LOCKED

MOWER HEIGHT

SLOPE HAZARDS

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

IGNITION

PARKING BRAKE

UNLOCKED

MOWER LIFT

Failure to follow instructions could result in serious injury or death. The safety alert symbol is used to identify safety information about hazards which can result in death, serious injury and/or property damage.

CAUTION when used without the alert symbol, indicates a situation that could result in damage

to the tractor and/or engine.

HOT SURFACES indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, could result in death, serious injury and/or property damage.

FIRE indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, could result in death, serious injury and/or property damage.

OPERATION

KNOW YOUR TRACTOR

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR TRACTOR.

Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments. Save this man ual for future reference.

THROTTLE CONTROL

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL

CHOKE CON TROL

AMMETER

IGNITION SWITCH

LIGHT SWITCH POSITION

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH SWITCH

LIFT LEVER PLUNGER

LIFT LEVER

PARKING BRAKE LEVER

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

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH SWITCH - Used to engage mow er blades or other attachments mounted to your trac tor.

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

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

GEAR SHIFT L LEVER - Selects the speed and di rec tion of tractor.

CHOKE CONTROL - Used when starting a cold engine. LIGHT SWITCH POSITION- Turns the headlights on and

off.

GEAR SHIFT LEVER

02734

FIG. 6

LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to release attachment lift

lever when changing its position.

THROTTLE CONTROL - Used to control engine speed.

IGNITION SWITCH - Used to start and stop the engine.

AMMETER - Indicates battery charging(+) or discharg-

ing(-).

PARKING BRAKE LEVER - Locks brake pedal into the brake position.

OPERATION

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

HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR

TO SET PARKING BRAKE (See Fig. 7)

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

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

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

AT TACH MENT CLUTCH

THROTTLE CONTROL LEVER

CLUTCH/ BRAKE PEDAL “BRAKE” POSITION

“DRIVE” PO SI TION

CHOKE CON TROL

“DISENGAGED” PO SI TION

STOPPING (See Fig. 7)

MOWER BLADES -

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

GROUND DRIVE -

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

• Move gearshift lever to neutral (N) position.

ENGINE -

• Move throttle control to slow po si tion.

NOTE: Failure to move throttle control to slow position and allowing engine to idle before stopping may cause engine to “back ﬁ r e ” .

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

• Never use choke to stop engine.

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

SWITCH PULL OUT TO “ENGAGE”

IGNITION KEY

PARKING BRAKE “EN GAGED” PO SI TION

FIG. 7

PUSH IN TO “DISENGAGE”

GEAR SHIFT LEVER

NOTE: Under certain conditions when tractor is standing

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

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

TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL (See Fig. 7)

Always operate engine at full throttle.

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

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

TO USE CHOKE CONTROL (See Fig. 7)

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

• knob in to disengage.

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD (See Fig. 7)

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

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

• Move gearshift lever to desired position.

• Slowly release clutch/brake pedal to start movement.

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

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT (See Fig. 7)

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

• Grasp lift lever.

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

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

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

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

OPERATION

TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS (See Fig. 8)

Gauge wheels are properly adjusted when they are slightly off the ground when mower is at the desired cutting height in operating position. Gauge wheels then keep the deck in proper position to help prevent scalping in most terrain conditions.

NOTE:Adjust gauge wheels with tractor on a ﬂ at level surface.

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

• Remove retainer spring and clevis pin which secure each gauge wheel bar.

• Lower gauge wheels to ground. Raise gauge wheels slightly to align holes in bracket and gauge wheel bar and insert clevis pin. Gauge wheels should be slightly off the ground.

• Replace retainer spring into clevis pin.

• Be sure all gauge wheels are in the same setting.

IMPORTANT: BE SURE TO READJUST GAUGE WHEELS IF YOU CHANGE THE CUTTING HEIGHT OF THE MOWER DECK.

RE TA IN ER SPRING

ATTACHEMNT CLUTCH SWITCH PULL OUT TO "ENGAGE"

PUSH IN TO "DISENGAGE"

FIG. 9

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

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

LIFT LEVER HIGHEST POSIITON

LOWEST POSITION

DE FLEC TOR SHIELD

CLEVIS PIN

FIG. 8

TO OPERATE MOWER (See Fig. 9)

Your tractor is equipped with an operator presence sensing switch. Any attempt by the operator to leave the seat with the engine running and the attachment clutch engaged will shut off the engine.

• Select desired height of cut.

• Start mower blades by engaging attachment clutch control.

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

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

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

• Avoid stopping or changing speed on hills.

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

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

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

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

• Make all turns slowly.

TO TRANSPORT

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

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

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

NOTE: To protect hood from damage when transporting your tractor on a truck or a trailer, be sure hood is closed and secured to tractor. Use an appropriate means of tying hood to tractor (rope, cord, etc.).

OPERATION

TOWING CARTS AND OTHER AT TAC H MENTS

Tow only the attachments that are recommended by and comply with speciﬁ cations of the manufacturer of your tractor. Use common sense when towing. Too heavy of a load, while on a slope, is dangerous. Tires can lose traction with the ground and cause you to lose control of your tractor.

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE

CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL

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

• Check engine oil with tractor on level ground.

• Remove oil ﬁ ll cap/dipstick and wipe clean, reinsert the dipstick and screw cap tight, wait for a few seconds, remove and read oil level. If necessary, add oil until “FULL” mark on dipstick is reached. Do not overﬁ ll.

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

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

ADD GASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank to bottom of ﬁ ller neck. Do not overﬁ ll. Use fresh, clean, regular un lead ed gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane. (Use of leaded gasoline will increase carbon and lead oxide deposits and reduce valve life). Do not mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in quan ti ties that can be used within 30 days to assure fuel freshness.

CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open ﬂ ame.

IMPORTANT: WHEN OPERATING IN TEMPERATURES

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

CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels (called gas o hol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to sep a ra tion and for ma tion of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be emptied before stor age of 30 days or longer. Drain the gas tank, start the engine and let it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next sea son. See Storage In struc tions for additional information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.

TO START ENGINE (See Fig. 6)

When starting the engine for the ﬁ rst time or if the engine has run out of fuel, it will take extra cranking time to move fuel from the tank to the engine.

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

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

• Move attachment clutch to “DISENGAGED” position.

• Move throttle control to fast 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 ﬁ fteen 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.

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 sec onds to several minutes, depending on the temperature.

• The attachments can be used during the engine warmup period and may require the choke con trol be pulled out slight ly.

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

MOWING TIPS

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

• 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 dis tri bu tion 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 ﬁ nished (See Fig. 10).

FIG. 10

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

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

• Always operate engine at full throttle when mow- ing to assure better mowing performance and proper dis charge of material. Regulate ground speed by se lect ing a low enough gear to give the mower cut ting per for mance as well as the quality of cut de sired.

• When operating attachments, select a ground speed that will suit the terrain and give best performance of the at tach ment being used.

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