Poulan 184581 User Manual

IMPORTANT MANUAL Do Not Throw Away

02478

OWNER'S MANUAL

WARNING:

MODEL:

Read this Owner's Man u al and follow all Warnings and Safety Instructions. Fail ure to do so can re sult in serious in ju ry.

PD18H42STA

LAWN TRACTOR

ALWAYS WEAR EYE PROTECTION DURING OPERATION

184581 Rev. 1 02.12.03 RH

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

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.

• 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 overturn 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, tur n slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.

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: 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

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 2.0 GALLONS AND TYPE: UNLEADED REGULAR

OIL TYPE (API-SF-SJ): SAE 10W30 (above 32°F)

SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F) OIL CAPACITY: 4.0 PINTS SPARK PLUG: CHAM PI ON RC12YC

(GAP: .040") GROUND SPEED (MPH): Forward: 0-5.5

Reverse 0-2.4 TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI

REAR: 10 PSI CHARGING SYSTEM: 15 AMPS @ 3600 RPM BATTERY: AMP/HR: 28

MIN. CCA: 230 CASE SIZE: U1R

BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 27–35 FT. LBS.

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

Should you experience any problem you cannot easily remedy, please contact your nearest authorized service center/ department. We have 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).

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.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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

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

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

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

OPERATION .............................................................9-15

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 Sleeve

Steering

Wheel Insert

Steering Extension Shaft

Seat

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

(1) Knob

Gauge Wheel

(4) Adjusting Bar

(4) Locknut 3/8-16

(4) Wheels

(4) Clevis Pins

(1) Large Flat Washer

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

Steering Adapter

(1) Locknut 1/2-20

(1) Locknut 1/4-28

(4) Retainer Springs (double loop)

(4) Shoulder Bolt

Slope Sheet

(1) Oil Drain Tube

(2) Mulch Blades

(4) Washers

3/8 x 3/4 x 14 Ga.

(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. Stan dard wrench sizes are listed.

Utility knife Pliers (1) 3/4" wrenches Tire pressure gauge (2) 7/16" wrenches Utility knife When right or left hand is mentioned in this man ual, it means

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

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CAR TON

UNPACK CARTON

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

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

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

BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR FROM SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL (See Fig. 1)

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND BOOT

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

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

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

INSTALL STEERING WHEEL

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

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

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

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

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

• Remove protective materials from tractor hood and grill.

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

INSERT

1/2 HEX NUT

LARGE FLAT WASHER

STEERING WHEEL

ADAPTER

EXTENSION SHAFT

1/4 LOCKNUT

LOWER STEERING SHAFT

STEERING BOOT

TABS

1/4 HEX BOLT

TAB SLOTS

FIG. 1

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR

INSTALL SEAT (See Fig. 2)

Adjust seat before tightening adjustment knob.

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

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

• Place seat on seat pan so head of shoulder 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.

ASSEMBLY

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

• Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob securely.

SEAT

SEAT PAN

SHOULDER BOLT

FLAT WASHER

ADJUSTMENT KNOB

FIG. 2

CHECK BATTERY (See Fig. 3)

• Lift seat pan 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).

SEAT PAN

LABEL

FIG. 3

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 attachment lift lever to its highest po si tion.

• Release parking brake by de press ing clutch/brake ped al.

• Place freewheel control in "trans mis sion dis en gaged position" (See “TO TRANS PORT” in the Op er a tion section of this manual).

• Roll tractor forward off skid.

• Remove banding holding the deﬂ ector shield up against tractor.

TO DRIVE TRAC TOR OFF SKID (See Op er a tion section for location and function of con trols)

WARNING: Before start ing, read, un der stand and fol low

all in struc tions in the Op er a tion section of this man u al. Be sure tractor is in a well-ventilated area. Be sure the area in front of tractor is clear of other peo ple and objects.

• Be sure all the above assembly steps have been completed.

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

• Place freewheel control in "trans mis sion en gaged" po si tion (see "TO TRANSPORT" in Op er a tion section of this manual).

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

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

• Press lift lever plunger and raise attachment lift lever to its highest position.

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

• Release parking brake.

• Slowly move the mo tion control lever for ward and slowly drive tractor off skid.

• Apply brake to stop trac tor, set park ing brake and place motion con trol lever in neutral po si tion.

• Turn ignition key to "STOP" position.

Continue with the in struc tions that follow.

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

The gauge wheels are de signed to keep the mower deck in proper position when operating mower. Be sure they are properly adjusted to ensure optimum mower perfor-

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.

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

RETAINER SPRING

AD JUST ING BAR

SHOULDER BOLT

GAUGE WHEEL

3/8 WASH ER

FIG. 4A

3/8-16 CENTER LOCKNUT

ASSEMBLY

IMPORTANT: FOR SHIPPING PURPOSES, THE MULCHER

PLATE WAS PREATTACHED TO YOUR MOWER. THE MULCHER PLATE MUST ONLY BE USED WITH THE MULCHING BLADES THAT CAME PACKED SEPARATELY IN THE CARTON.

YOUR MOWER CAME FACTORY EQUIPPED WITH HIGH PERFORMANCE BLADES, WHICH ARE THE BEST BLADES FOR BAGGING AND DISCHARGING. TO USE YOUR MOWER WITH THE HIGH PERFORMANCE BLADES THE MULCHER PLATE MUST BE REMOVED FROM THE MOWER (SEE FIG. 4B).

TO SET UP YOUR MOWER FOR MULCH ING

• Remove high performance blades and install mulcher blades, (see BLADE RE MOV AL in the MAINTENANCE sec tion of this manual).

TO INSTALL MULCHER PLATE (See Fig. 4B)

NOTE: If you installed the mulching blades you will need

to install the mulcher plate.

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

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

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

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

CAUTION: Do not remove deﬂ ector shield from mower.

DEFLECTOR SHIELD

MULCHER PLATE

LATCH HOOKS

FIG. 4B

TO CONVERT TO BAGGING OR DISCHARGING

NOTE: The mulcher blades will dis charge and bag grass,

but for best bagging and discharging install the high per for mance blades.

• Remove mulcher plate and mulcher blades and install high performance blades, (see BLADE REMOVAL in the MAINTENANCE sec tion of this man u al).

• Store mulcher blades and mulcher plate in a safe place. Your mower is now ready for dis charg ing or installation of optional grass catcher accessory.

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

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

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

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS

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

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF ALL BELTS

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

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM

After you learn how to operate your tractor, check to see that the brake is properly adjusted. See “TO ADJUST BRAKE” in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

✓

CHE CKLIST

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.

✓ Before driving tractor, be sure freewheel control is in

drive position.

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. ✓ It is important to purge the transmission before op er -

at ing your tractor for the ﬁ rst time. Follow proper starting and transmission purging instructions (See “TO START ENGINE” and “PURGE TRANSMISSION” in the Op er a tion section of this manual).

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

CLUTCH/ BRAKE PEDAL

HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB

FREE WHEEL CONTROL

THROTTLE/ CHOKE CONTROL

AMMETER

AT TAC H MENT CLUTCH LEVER

IGNITION SWITCH

LIGHT SWITCH POSITION

LIFT LEVER PLUNGER

ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER

PARKING BRAKE

MOTION CONTROL LEVER

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 POSITION: Turns the headlights on and off.

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

THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL: Used for starting and controlling engine speed.

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

PARKING BRAKE: Locks clutch/brake pedal into the brake position.

FIG. 5

FREEWHEEL CONTROL: Disengages transmission for

pushing or slowly towing the tractor with the engine off. MOTION CONTROL LEVER: Selects the speed and

di rec tion of tractor. ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER: Used to raise, lower, and

adjust 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.

HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB - Used to adjust the mow er cutting height.

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. 6)

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

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

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

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER "ENGAGED" POSITION

THROTTLE/ CHOKE CONTROL LEVER

"BRAKE" POSITION

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL "DRIVE" POSITION

HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB

PARKING BRAKE "DISENGAGED" POSITION

FIG. 6

STOPPING (See Fig. 6)

MOWER BLADES -

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

GROUND DRIVE -

• To stop ground drive, depress clutch/brake pedal into full “BRAKE” 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 between half and full speed (fast) position.

NOTE: Failure to move throttle control between half and full speed (fast) position, before stop ping may cause engine to “backﬁ re”.

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

IGNITION KEY

"DIS EN GAGED" POSITION

PARKING BRAKE "ENGAGED" POSITION

MOTION CONTROL LEVER

• 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).

NOTE: Under certain conditions when tractor is standing idle with the engine running, hot en gine 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. 6)

Always operate engine at full throttle.

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

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

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD (See Fig. 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.

• Slowly move motion control lever to desired position.

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT (See Fig. 6)

The cutting height is controlled by turning the height ad just ment knob in desired direction.

• Turn knob clockwise (

) 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 ap proxi mate 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.

OPERATION

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

TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS (See Fig. 7)

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.

RETAINER SPRING

CLEVIS PIN

"ENGAGED" PO SI TION

ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER HIGH PO SI TION

AT TAC H MENT CLUTCH LEVER "DIS EN GAGED" PO SI TION

LOW POSITION

DEFLECTOR SHIELD

FIG. 8

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

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

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

• Avoid stopping or changing speed on hills.

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

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

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

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

FIG. 7

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 con trol.

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

TO TRANSPORT (See Figs. 5 and 9)

When pushing or towing your tractor, be sure to disengage transmission by placing freewheel control in free wheel ing po si tion. Free wheel control is located at the rear drawbar of tractor.

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

• Pull freewheel control out and into the slot and release so it is held in the disengaged position.

• Do not push or tow tractor at more than two (2) MPH.

• To reengage transmission, reverse above procedure.

OPERATION

Transmission Engaged

Transmission Disengaged

FIG. 9

NOTE: To protect hood from damage when transporting

your tractor on a truck or a trailer, be sure hood is closed and secured to tractor. Use an appropriate means of tying hood to tractor (rope, cord, etc.).

TOWING CARTS AND OTHER AT TACH 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.

• Unthread and remove oil ﬁ ll cap/dipstick; wipe oil off. Reinsert the dipstick into the tube and rest oil ﬁ ll 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 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. 5)

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.

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

WARM WEATHER STARTING (50° F and above)

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

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

COLD WEATHER STARTING ( 50° F and below)

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

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WARM UP

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

• Be sure the tractor is on level ground.

• Place the motion control lever in neutral. Re lease 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.

OPERATION

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

PURGE TRANSMISSION

CAUTION: Never engage or disengage freewheel lever while the engine is run ning.

To ensure proper operation and performance, it is rec om mend ed that the transmission be purged before operating tractor for the ﬁ rst time. This procedure will remove any trapped air inside the transmission which may have de vel oped during shipping of your tractor.

IMPORTANT: SHOULD YOUR TRANSMISSION RE QUIRE 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. After the engine is running, move throttle control to slow position. With motion control lever in neutral (N) po si tion, slowly disengage clutch/brake pedal.

• Move motion control lever to full forward position and hold for ﬁ ve (5) seconds. Move lever to full reverse position and hold for ﬁ ve (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. Shutoff engine and set parking brake.

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

• Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine. After the 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 ﬁ ve (5) feet, slowly move motion control lever to reverse position. After the tractor moves approximately ﬁ ve (5) feet return the motion control lever to the neutral (N) position. Repeat this procedure with the motion control lever three (3) times.

• Your transmission is now purged and now ready for normal op er a tion.

MOWING TIPS

• 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 machine. 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 desired.

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

OPERATION

MULCHING MOWING TIPS

IMPORTANT: FOR BEST PERFORMANCE, KEEP MOWER

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

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

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

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

MAX 1/3

FIG. 11

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

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

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