Poulan 191697 User Manual

MODEL NO. CO24H48STA

24.0 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

191697 03.01.04 TR

PRINTED IN U.S.A.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Warranty................................................ 2

Safety Rules .......................................... 3

Product Specifi cations ........................... 6

Assembly/Pre-Operation ....................... 8

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

Maintenance ....................................... 20

Maintenance Schedule........................ 20

Service and Adjustments..................... 24

Storage................................................ 31

Troubleshooting ................................... 32

Repair Parts......................................... 36

WARRANTY

LIMITED WARRANTY

The Manufacturer warrants to the original consumer purchaser that this product as
manufactured is free from defects in materials and work man ship. For a period of two
(2) years from date of purchase by the original consumer purchaser, we will repair or
replace, at our option, without charge for parts or labor incurred in replacing parts, any
part which we fi nd to be defective due to materials or workmanship. This Warranty is
subject to the following limitations and exclusions.

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

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

3. Battery Warranty: On products equipped with a Battery, we will replace, without
charge to you, any battery which we fi nd to be defective in manufacture, during the
fi rst ninety (90) days of ownership. After ninety (90) days, we will exchange the Bat­tery, charging you 1/12 of the price of a new Battery for each full month from the date
of the original sale. Battery must be maintained in accordance with the instructions
furnished.

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

5. This Warranty applies only to products which have been properly assembled, ad­justed, operated, and main tained in ac cor dance with the instructions furnished. This
Warranty does not apply to any product which has been subjected to alteration, mis­use, abuse, improper assembly or installation, delivery damage, or to normal wear of
the product.

6. Exclusions: Excluded from this Warranty are belts, blades, blade adapters, normal
wear, normal adjustments, stan dard hardware and normal maintenance.

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

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

Electrolux Home Products, Inc.
Outdoor Products Customer Service Dept.
250 Bobby Jones Expressway
Augusta, GA 30909 USA

In Canada contact:
Electrolux Canada Corp.
7075 Ordan Drive
Mississauga, Ontario
L5T 1K6

giving the model number, serial number and date of purchase of your product and the
name and address of the authorized dealer from whom it was purchased.
THIS WARRANTY DOES NOT APPLY TO INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES AND ANY IMPLIED WAR RAN TIES ARE LIMITED TO THE SAME TIME
PERIODS STATED HEREIN FOR OUR EXPRESSED WARRANTIES. Some areas do
not allow the limitation of consequential damages or limitations of how long an implied
Warranty may last, so the above limitations or exclusions may not apply to you. This
Warranty gives you specifi c legal rights, and you may have other rights which vary from
locale to locale.
This is a limited Warranty within the meaning of that term as defi ned in the Magnuson­Moss Act of 1975.

2

SAFETY RULES

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is ca pa ble of amputating hands and feet and throw-

ing objects. Failure to observe the fol low ing safety instructions could result in serious
injury or death.

WARNING: In order to prevent ac­cidental starting when setting up, trans­ port ing, ad just ing or making repairs,
always 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 lowest 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
constituents, and certain 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 defects or oth er re pro duc tive
harm.

WARNING: Battery posts, terminals
and related accessories contain lead and
lead compounds, chemicals 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.

I. GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow all instruc-

tions 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 ab so -

lute ly necessary. Always look down and
behind before and while back ing.

• Be aware of the mower discharge direc-

tion 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 un­ load ing 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 build­up 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 loss­of-control and tipover accidents, which can
re sult 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.

Tall grass can hide ob sta cles.

• Use slow speed. Choose a low gear
so that you will not have to stop or shift
while on the slope.

3

SAFETY RULES

• Follow the manufacturer’s rec om men d­a tions for wheel weights or coun ter ­weights 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 slow
and gradual. Do not make sudden
changes in speed or direction.

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

DO NOT:

• Do not turn on slopes unless nec es -

sary, and then, turn slowly and grad u al ly
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 op er a tor
is not alert to the presence of children.
Children are often attracted to the ma­ chine and the mowing activity. Never as-
sume 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 carry children. They may fall off
and be seriously injured or interfere with
safe machine operation.

• Never allow children to operate the
machine.

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

IV. SERVICE

• Use extra care in handling gasoline and
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.

4

SAFETY RULES

• 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 ab so ­lute ly 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 turn on slopes unless nec es sary,
and then, turn slowly and grad u al ly
downhill, if possible.

5

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Gasoline 4.0 Gallons
Capacity Unleaded
and Type: Regular

Oil Type SAE 30 (above 32°F)
(API-SF-SJ): SAE 5W-30

(Below 32°F)

Oil Capacity: W/Filter: 4.0 Pints

W/O Filter: 3.75 Pints

Spark Plug: Champion QC12YC
(GapP: .040")

Ground Speed Forward: 5.5
(MPH): Reverse: 2.4

Tire Pressure: Front: 14 PSI

Rear: 10 PSI

Charging 16 Amps @ 3600RPM
System:

Battery: Amp/Hr: 35

Min. CCA: 280
Case Size: U1R

Blade Bolt 45-55 Ft. Lbs.
Torque:

CONGRATULATIONS on your pur chase
of a new tractor. It has been designed,
en gi neered and man u fac tured to give
you the best pos si ble de pend abil i ty and
per for mance.
Should you experience any problem you
cannot easily remedy, please con tact
your nearest authorized service center/
department . We have competent, well­trained tech ni cians and the prop er tools to
service or repair this trac tor.
Please read and retain this manual. The
instructions will enable you to as sem ble
and maintain your tractor prop er ly. Always
observe the “SAFE TY RULES”.

CUSTOMER RE SPON SI BIL I TIES

• Read and observe the safety rules.

• Follow a regular schedule in main­ tain ing, caring for and using your tractor.

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

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-covered 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 op er a tor.
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. A spark ar­rester for the muffl er is available through
your nearest authorized service center/de­partment (See REPAIR PARTS section of
this manual).

6

UNASSEMBLED PARTS

Steering
Wheel
Adapter

(1) Large Flat Washer

Steering Wheel

Steering

Sleeve

Steering
Wheel
Insert

Steering

Extension

Shaft

(1) Locknut

1/2-20

Gauge Wheels

(4) Adjusting Bar

(4) Retainer Springs
(double loop)

(4) Locknut 3/8-16

(4) Washers

3/8 x 3/4 x 14 Ga.

(4) Clevis Pins

(4) Shoulder Bolt

Seat

(4) Wheels

Nose Roller

Retainer

Rod

(2) Hex Bolts 5/16-18 x 1

Spring

Mower

(5) Retainer Springs

(double loop)

(1)Front Plate
Assembly

(2) Locknuts
5/16-18

Nose Roller
Brackets

(2) Retainer Springs

(single loop)

(2)Flanged
Pins

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

(1) Knob

(1) Oil Drain Tube
For Future Use

Keys

(2) Keys

7

Slope Sheet

ASSEMBLY/PRE-OPERATION

0

2

143

02173

Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those parts left
unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your tractor
all parts and hardware you as sem ble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools
as nec es sary to in sure proper tightness. Review the video cassette before you begin.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

A socket wrench set will make assembly
easier. Stan dard wrench sizes you need
are listed below.
(1) 3/4" wrench (1) Pliers
(2) 7/16" wrench (1) Utility knife
(1) Tire pressure gauge
When right or left hand is mentioned in
this man ual, it means, from your point of
view, when you are in the op er at ing po si­tion (seat ed be hind the steer ing wheel).

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM
CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

1. Remove all accessible loose parts and
parts boxes from carton.

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

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

BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR
FROM SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL

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

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

3. Slide the steering sleeve over the
steering shaft.

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

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

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

7. Snap steering wheel insert into center
of steering wheel.

8. 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

Steering
Wheel
Adaptor

Tabs

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR

CHECK BATTERY

1. Lift hood to raised position.
NOTE: 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

8

INSTALL SEAT

Adjust seat before tightening adjustment
knob.

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

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

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

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

5. Pivot seat and pan forward and as­ sem ble adjustment knob and fl at
washer loosely. Do not tighten.

6. Lower seat into operating position and
sit in seat.

7. Slide seat until a comfortable position
is reached which allows you to press
clutch/brake pedal all the way down.

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

9. Raise seat and tighten adjustment
knob securely.

Seat

Seat Pan

Shoulder
Bolt

Flat Washer

02464

Adjustment Knob

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)

1. Press lift lever plunger and raise
attachment lift lever to its highest po­ si tion.

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

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

4. Roll tractor forward off skid.

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.

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

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

3. Place freewheel control in "trans­ mis sion engaged" position (see "TO
TRANSPORT" in Operation section of
this manual).

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

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

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

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

8. Release parking brake.

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

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

11.Turn ignition key to "STOP" position.

Continue with the in struc tions that follow.

9

TO ATTACH NOSE ROLLER

1. Assemble brackets "A" and "B" to the
inside of mower mounting brack ets as
shown. Tighten securely.

NOTE: Be sure bracket tabs are po si ­tioned in tab holes in mower brackets.

2. Position nose roller between brackets
and install rod and retainer spring.

Hex Bolt

Rod

"B"
Bracket

Nose Roller

Ta b
Hole

"A" Bracket

Lock
Nut

02612

Retainer Spring

ASSEMBLE GAUGE WHEELS TO
MOWER DECK

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.

1. 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.

2. For ease of mower to tractor as sem bly,
raise gauge wheels to highest position
and retain with clevis pins and spring
retainers.

NOTE: Adjust gauge wheels before op er ­at ing mower. See “TO ADJUST GAUGE
WHEELS” in the Operation sec tion of this
manual.

Retainer
Spring

Pin

Shoulder
Bolt

Gauge
Wheel

Ad just ing
Bar

3/8 Washer

3/8-16 Center
Locknut

10

INSTALL MOWER AND DRIVE
BELT

Be sure tractor is on level surface and
mower suspension arms are raised with
attachment lift control. Engage park ing
brake.

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

2. Slide mower under tractor with defl ec­tor shield to right side of tractor.

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

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

4. Lower mower linkage with attachment
lift control.

5. Be sure belt tension rod is in dis en ­gaged position.

6. Install belt into electric clutch pulley
groove.

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

8. Install front plate assembly to tractor
suspension brackets and retain with
single loop retainer springs as shown.

Belt Tension Rod
Disengaged Position

Chassis
Bracket

Gauge
Wheel

Lock Bracket

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

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.

10.Engage belt tension rod by pushing
rod into locking bracket.

CAUTION: Belt tension rod is spring
loaded. Have a tight grip on rod and en­gage slowly.

11.Connect anti-sway bar to chassis

bracket under left foot rest and retain
with double loop retainer spring.

12.If equipped, turn height adjustment

knob clock wise to remove slack from
mower sus pen sion.

13.Raise deck to highest position.

14.Adjust gauge wheels before op er at ing

mower as shown in the Operation sec­tion of this manual.

Electric Clutch
Pulley

Front
Mower
Bracket

Front
Suspension
Brackets

Front Plate
Assembly

Double
Loop Retainer
Springs

Flanged
Pin

Single
Loop
Retainer
Springs

Double Loop
Retainer
Spring

USE PLIERS FOR

RETAINER SPRINGS

Loop Up

Anti-Sway
Bar

Suspension Arms
Double Loop
Retainer Spring
(Outward pointing
deck pins)

02510

De fl ec tor Shield

11

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 cor rect ly.

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 your new trac tor, we
wish to as sure that you re ceive the best
performance and sat is fac tion from this
quality product.
Please review the following checklist:
✓ All assembly instructions have been

com plet ed.

✓ No remaining loose parts in carton.
✓ Battery is properly prepared and

charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps).

✓ Seat is adjusted comfortably and tight-

ened securely.

✓ All tires are properly infl ated. (For ship-

ping purposes, the tires were over in ­fl ated at the factory).

✓ Be sure mower deck is properly lev eled

side-to-side/front-to-rear for best cutting
results. (Tires must be properly in fl at ed
for leveling).

✓ Check mower and drive belts. Be sure

they are routed prop er ly around pul leys
and inside all belt keepers.

✓ Check wiring. See that all connections

are still secure and wires are properly
clamped.

✓ Before driving tractor, be sure free wheel

control is in “transmission engaged”
position (see “TO TRANS PORT” in the

Operation section of this man u al).
While learning how to use your tractor, pay
extra attention to the following im por tant
items:

✓ Engine oil is at proper level.
✓ Fuel tank is fi lled with fresh, clean, reg-

u lar unleaded gas o line.
✓ Become familiar with all controls - their

location and func tion. Operate them

be fore you start the engine.
✓ Be sure brake system is in safe op er -

at ing condition.
✓ It is important to purge the trans mis sion

before op er at ing your tractor for the fi rst

time. Follow proper starting and trans-

mis sion purg ing instructions (See “TO

START EN GINE” and “PURGE TRANS-

MIS SION” in the Op er a tion sec tion of

this man u al).

12

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

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

ENGINE ON

OIL PRESSURE

ATTACHMENT

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

P

FORWARD

KEEP AREA CLEAR

SLOW

PARKING BRAKE

LOCKED

MOWER HEIGHT

15

SLOPE HAZARDS

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

IGNITION

PARKING BRAKE

UNLOCKED

MOWER LIFT

15

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.

13

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.

Light Switch
Ignition
Switch

Hourmeter

Position

Attachment
Clutch Switch

Throttle Control

Clutch/Brake Pedal

Choke Control

Free Wheel
Control

Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the

Ammeter

Parking Brake Lever

American National Stan dards Institute.

Lift Lever
Plunger

Attachment
Lift Lever

Motion
Control Lever

02750

AMMETER - Indicates charging (+) or
discharging (-) of battery.
ATTACHMENT CLUTCH SWITCH - Used
to engage the mower blades, or other at­tachments mounted to your trac tor.
ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER - Used to
raise, lower, and adjust the mower deck or
other attachments mounted to your tractor.
CLUCTH/BRAKE PEDAL - Used for
declutching and brak ing the tractor and
starting the engine.
IGNITION SWITCH - Used for starting and
stopping the engine.
LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to re lease
attachment lift lever when chang ing its
position.

LIGHT SWITCH POSITION - Turns the
head lights on and off.
HOURMETER - Indicates hours of op­ er a tion.
PARKING BRAKE LEVER - Locks clutch/
brake pedal into the brake position.
CHOKE CONTROL - Used when starting
a cold engine.
THROTTLE CONTROL - Used to control
engine speed.
FREEWHEEL CONTROL - Disengagages
transmission for pushing or slowly towing
the tractor with the engine off.

MOTION CONTROL LEVER - Selects the
speed and di rec tion of the tractor.

14

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 ad just ments

00155

or repairs. We rec om mend standard safety glasses or a wide vision
safety mask worn over spectacles.

HOW TO USE YOUR TRAC TOR

TO SET PARKING BRAKE

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.

1. Depress clutch/brake pedal all the way
down and hold.

2. Pull parking brake lever up and re lease
pres sure from clutch/brake pedal.
Pedal should re main in brake position.
Make sure parking brake will hold trac­tor secure.

“Disengaged” Position

Choke
Control

Throttle
Control

Clutch/
Brake
Pedal

“Disengaged”
Position

02749

“Brake”
Position

STOPPING

MOWER BLADES -

• To stop mower blades, push at tach ment
clutch switch in to dis en gaged position.

GROUND DRIVE -

• To stop ground drive, depress clutch/
brake pedal all the way down.

• 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 de pressed.

ENGINE -

• Move throttle control to slow po si tion.

NOTE: Failure to move throttle control to
slow position to allow engine to idle before
stopping may cause engine to “back fi re”.

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

Attachment Clutch

Switch “Engaged”

Position

Ignition
Key

Motion Control
Lever

Parking Brake
“Engaged”
Position

• Never use choke to stop engine.
IMPORTANT: Leaving the ignition switch
in any position other than "STOP" will
cause the battery to discharge and go
dead.
NOTE: Under certain conditions when
tractor is standing idle with the engine
running, hot engine exhaust gases may
cause “browning” of grass. To elim i nate
this possibility, always stop en gine when
stopping tractor on grass areas.

CAUTION: Always stop tractor com­ plete ly, as de scribed above, before leav ing
the operator's position.

TO USE THROTTLE CON TROL

Always operate engine at full throttle.

• Operating engine at less than full

throttle reduces the battery charg ing
rate.

• Full throttle of fers the best bagging and

mower per for mance.

TO USE CHOKE CONTROL

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

• To engage choke control, pull knob out.

Slowly push knob in to dis en gage.

TO MOVE FORWARD AND
BACKWARD

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

1. Start tractor with motion control le ver in

neutral (N) position.

2. Release parking brake.

3. Slowly move motion control lever to

desired position.

TO ADJUST MOWER CUT TING HEIGHT

The po si tion of the at tach ment lift le ver
de ter mines the cut ting height.

• Grasp lift le ver.

• Press plunger with thumb and move

lever to desired position.
The cutting height range is ap prox i­ mate ly 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.

15

0266

1

• 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 de sired height.

TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS

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: Be sure tractor is on a fl at level
surface.

1. Lower mower and adjust mower to de-

sired cutting height(See “TO AD JUST
MOWER CUT TING HEIGHT” in this
sec tion of manual).

2. Remove retainer spring and clevis pin

which secure each gauge wheel bar.

3. 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.

4. Replace retainer spring into clevis pin.

5. 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.

TO OPERATE MOWER

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. You must
remain fully and centrally positioned in the
seat to prevent the engine from hesitating
or cutting off when operating your equip­ment on rough, rolling terrain or hills.

1. Select desired height of cut.

2. Start mower blades by engaging at­ tach ment clutch control.

TO STOP MOWER BLADES ­disengage at tach ment 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.

Attachment
Clutch Lever
“Engaged”
Position

“Disengaged”
Position

Attachemnt Lift Lever
High Position

Low
Position

Defl ector
Shield

Retainer
Spring

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

WARNING: Do not drive up or down

hills with slopes greater than 15° and do

019

77

not drive across any slope. Use the slope
guide provided at the back of this manual.

• Choose the slowest speed before start-

ing up or down hills.

• Avoid stopping or changing speed on

hills.

Clevis
Pin

• If slowing is necessary, move throt tle

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 de pressed.

16

• To restart movement, slowly re lease
parking brake and clutch/brake ped al.

• Slowly move motion control lever to
slowest setting.

• Make all turns slowly.

TO TRANSPORT

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

1. Raise attachment lift to highest posi-

tion with at tach ment lift control.

2. Pull freewheel control out and down

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 re-engage transmission, reverse
above procedure.

Transmission Engaged

02219

Transmission Disengaged

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 rec om ­mend ed by and comply with spec i fi ca tions
of the manufacturer of your tractor. Use
common sense when tow ing. 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.

1. Check engine oil with tractor on level
ground.

2. 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 nec es sary,
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 the
oil viscosity chart in the Main te nance
sec tion of this manual).

• To change engine oil, see the Main te -

nance section in this manual.

ADD GASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank to bottom of tank fi ller neck.

Do not overfi ll. Use fresh, clean, reg u lar
un lead ed gasoline with a min i mum of 87
octane. (Use of leaded gasoline will in­crease carbon and lead oxide de pos its
and reduce valve life). Do not mix oil
with gasoline. Purchase fuel in quan ti­ties 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 gas o line
near an open fl ame.
IMPORTANT: When operating in tem per a­ tures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh, clean
win ter grade gas o line to help in sure good
cold weather start ing.
CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels (called
gasohol or us ing ethanol or methanol) can
attract mois ture which leads to separa­tion and for ma tion of acids during storage.
Acid ic gas can damage the fuel system of
an en gine while in storage.
To avoid en gine prob lems, the fuel system
should be emp tied 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 emp ty. Use fresh fuel
next season. See Stor age In struc tions for
additional in for ma tion.
Never use engine or car bu re tor clean er
prod ucts in the fuel tank or per ma nent
dam age may occur.

17

TO START ENGINE

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.

1. Be sure freewheel control is in the
trans mis sion en gaged position.

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

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

4. Move attachment clutch to dis en gaged
po si tion.

5. Move throttle control to fast position

6. Pull choke control out for a cold engine
start attempt. For a warm engine start
attempt the choke con trol may not be
needed.

NOTE: Before starting, read the warm and
cold starting procedures below.

7. Insert key into ignition and turn key
clock wise to start position and release
key as soon as engine starts. Do
not run starter con tin u ous ly 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)

8. When engine starts, slowly push choke
control in until the engine begins to
run smoothly. If the en gine 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 en gine and
allow it to warm up for one minute using
the choke as de scribed above.

COLD WEATHER STARTING (50° F and
below)

8. 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 tem per a ture.

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WARM UP
Before driving the unit in cold weath er,

the trans mis sion should be warmed up as
follows:

1. Be sure the tractor is on level ground.

2. Place the motion control lever in
neu tral. Release the parking brake and
let the clutch/brake slowly return to
operating position.

3. Allow one minute for trans mis sion to
warm up. This can be done during the
en gine warm up period.

• The attachments can be used during

the engine warm-up period after the
trans mis sion has been warmed up 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 car bu re tor fuel mixture may need to
be adjusted for best engine performance
(see “TO ADJUST CARBURETOR” in the
Service and Ad just ments section of this
manual).

PURGE TRANSMISSION

CAUTION: Never engage or dis-

en gage freewheel lever while the engine
is run ning.
To ensure proper operation and per­ for mance, it is rec om mend ed that the
trans mis sion be purged before operating
trac tor for the fi rst time. This procedure will
remove any trapped air inside the trans­ mis sion which may have de vel oped dur ing
shipping of your tractor.
IMPORTANT: Should your transmission
require removal for service or re place ­ment, it should be purged after re in stal l­a tion before operating the tractor.

1. Place tractor safely on level surface
with engine off and parking brake set.

2. Disengage transmission by placing
freewheel control in disengaged posi­tion (See “TO TRANS PORT” in this
section of manual).

3. Sitting in the tractor seat, start en gine.
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.

4. Move motion control lever to full
for ward 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.

18

00272

NOTE: During this step there will be no
movement of drive wheels. The air is being
removed from hydraulic drive sys tem.

5. Move motion control lever to neutral
(N) position. Shutoff engine and set
parking brake.

6. Engage transmission by placing free­ wheel control in engaged position (See
“TO TRANSPORT” in this sec tion of
manual).

7. Sitting in the tractor seat, start en gine.
After the engine is running, move
throttle control to half (1/2) speed.
With motion control lever in neutral (N)
position, slowly dis en gage clutch/brake
pedal.

8. Slowly move motion control lever for­ward, after the tractor moves ap prox i­ mate ly fi ve (5) feet, slowly move motion
control lever to reverse po si tion. After
the tractor moves ap prox i mate ly fi ve
(5) feet return the motion control lever
to the neutral (N) position. Repeat this
pro ce dure with the motion control lever
three (3) times.

Your transmission is now purged and now
ready for normal operation.

MOWING TIPS

• Mower should be properly leveled for

best mowing performance. See “TO
LEVEL MOWER HOUSING” in the
Service and Adjustments sec tion of this
manual.

• The left hand side of mower should be

used for trim ming.

• Drive so that clippings are dis charged

onto the area that has already 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.

• 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 throt tle
when mowing to assure better mow ing

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, se lect a
ground speed that will suit the terrain
and give best performance of the at­ tach ment being used.

19

MAINTENANCE

02500

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

FILL IN DATES
AS YOU COMPLETE
REGULAR SERVICE

Check Brake Operation

Check Tire Pressure

Check Operator Presence and
Interlock Systems

T

Check for Loose Fasteners

R
A

Sharpen/Replace Mower Blades

C

Lubrication Chart

T

Check Battery Level

0

Clean Battery and Terminals

R

Check Transaxle Cooling

Check V-Belts

Check Engine Oil Level

Change Engine Oil (with oil filter)

Change Engine Oil (without oil filter)

E

Clean Air Filter

N
G

Clean Air Screen

I

Inspect Muffler/Spark Arrester

N

Replace Oil Filter (If equipped)

E

Clean Engine Cooling Fins

Replace Spark Plug

Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge

Replace Fuel Filter

1 - Change more often when operating under a heavy load or

in high ambient temperatures.

2 - Service more often when operating in dirty or dusty conditions.

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 main tain tractor as instructed in this
manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made
periodically to properly maintain your
tractor.
At least once a season, check to see if
you should make any of the adjustments
described in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual.

• At least once a year you should replace
the spark plug, clean or replace air fi lter,
and check blades and belts for wear.
A new spark plug and clean air fi lter
assure proper air-fuel mixture and help
your engine run better and last longer.

BEFORE EACH USE

1. Check engine oil level.

2. Check brake operation.

3. Check tire pressure.

4. Check operator presence and

interlock systems for proper operation.

5. Check for loose fasteners.

BEFORE EACH USE

BEFORE STORAGE

EVERY 8 HOURS

EVERY 25 HOURS

EVERY 50 HOURS

3

4

1,2

1,2

2

2

3 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil.
4 - Not required if equipped with maintenance-free battery.
5 - Tighten front axle pivot bolt to 35 ft.-lbs. maximum.

Do not overtighten.

EVERY SEASON

EVERY 100 HOURS

5

1

,

2

2

2

SERVICE DATES

LUBRICATION CHART

➀ Spindle

Zerk

➀ Front

Wheel
Bearing
zerk

➀ Spindle

Zerk

➀ Front

Wheel
Bearing zerk

➁ Engine

➀ Mandrel

Zerks

➀ General Purpose Grease
➁ Refer to Maintenance “ENGINE” Section

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease the
pivot points which have special nylon
bearings. Viscous lu bri cants will attract
dust and dirt that will short en the life of the
self-lu bri cat ing bearings. If you feel they
must be lu bri cat ed, use only a dry, pow­ dered graphite type lu bri cant spar ing ly.

20

maint_sch-tractore.new1

TRACTOR

02544

Always observe safety rules when per­ form ing any main te nance.

BRAKE OPERATION

If tractor requires more than six (6) feet
stopping distance at high speed in high est
gear, then brake must be ad just ed. (See
“TO ADJUST BRAKE” in the Ser vice and
Ad just ments section of this manual).

TIRES

• Maintain proper air pressure in all tires
(See “PROD UCT SPEC I FI CA TIONS”
section of this man ual).

• 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 pre vent
fl at tires due to slow leaks, tire sealant
may be purchased from your local parts
dealer. Tire sealant also prevents tire dry
rot and corrosion.

OPERATOR PRESENCE SYS TEM

Be sure operator presence and interlock
sys tems are working properly. If your trac­tor does not function as described, repair
the problem immediately.

• The engine should not start unless
the brake pedal is fully de pressed and
attachement clutch control is in the
disengaged po si tion.

• When the engine is running, any at­tempt by the op er a tor to leave the seat
without fi rst setting the parking brake
should shut off the engine.

• When the engine is running and the
at tach ment clutch is engaged, any at­tempt by the operator to leave the seat
should shut off the engine.

• The attachment clutch should nev er op­erate unless the operator is in the seat.

BLADE CARE

For best results mower blades must be
kept sharp. Re place bent or damaged
blades.

BLADE REMOVAL

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

NOTE: Protect your hands with gloves
and/or wrap blade with heavy cloth.

2. Remove blade bolt by turning coun ter ­clock wise.

3. Install new or resharpened blade with
stamped "THIS SIDE UP" facing deck
and mandrel assembly.

IMPORTANT: To ensure proper as sem bly,
center hole in blade must align with star
on mandrel assembly.

4. Install and tighten blade bolt securely
(45-55 Ft. Lbs. torque).

IMPORTANT: Special blade bolt is heat
treated.

Blade

Blade Bolt
(Special)

Center Hole

Mandrel
Assembly

Star

TO SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend sharp-

en ing blade - but if you do, be sure the
blade is balanced.
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 fi le

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 bal anc er,
follow the in struc tions supplied with

bal anc er.)
NOTE: Do not use a nail for balancing
blade. The lobes of the center hole may
appear to be centered, but are not.

• Slide blade on to 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 po si tion. If either end of the

blade moves downward, sharpen the

heavy end until the blade is balanced.

Blade

5/8” Bolt or Pin

Center Hole

BATTERY

Your tractor has a battery charging sys tem
which is suf fi cient for normal use. How­ ev er, periodic charging of the bat tery with
an automotive charger will ex tend its life.

• Keep battery and terminals clean.

• Keep battery bolts tight.

• Keep small vent holes open.

• Recharge at 6-10 amperes for 1 hour.
NOTE: The original equipment battery on
your tractor is maintenance free. Do not
attempt to open or remove caps or covers.
Adding or checking level of elec tro lyte is
not necessary.

21

TO CLEAN BATTERY AND TER MI NALS
Corrosion and dirt on the battery and termi-

nals can cause the battery to “leak” power.

1. Remove terminal guard.

2. Disconnect BLACK battery cable fi rst
then RED bat tery cable and remove
battery from tractor.

3. Rinse the battery with plain water and
dry.

4. Clean terminals and battery cable ends
with wire brush until bright.

5. Coat terminals with grease or pe tro ­leum jelly.

6. Reinstall battery (See “REPLACING
BATTERY" in the SERVICE AND AD­ JUST MENTS section of this manual).

TRANSAXLE COOLING

The transmission fan and cooling fi ns
should be kept clean to assure proper
cooling.
Do not attempt to clean fan or trans mis ­sion while engine is running or while the
transmission is hot. To prevent pos si ble
damage to seals, do not use high pres­ sure water or steam to clean transaxle.

• Inspect cooling fan to be sure fan blades

are intact and clean.

• Inspect cooling fi ns for dirt, grass clip-

pings and other materials. To prevent
damage to seals, do not use com­ pressed air or high pressure sprayer to
clean cool ing fi ns.

TRANSAXLE PUMP FLUID

The transaxle was sealed at the factory
and fl uid main te nance is not required for
the life of the transaxle. Should the trans­axle ever leak or require servicing, contact
our authorized service center/department.

NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils
(5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve starting in
cold weather, they will result in increased
oil consumption when used above 32°F.
Check your en gine oil level more frequent­ly to avoid pos si ble engine damage from
running low on oil.
Change the oil after every 50 hours of op­ er a tion or at least once a year if the trac tor
is not used for 50 hours in one year.
Check the crankcase oil level before start ing
the engine and after each eight (8) hours of
operation. Tighten oil fi ll cap/dipstick securely
each time you check the oil level.

TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
Determine temperature range expected

before oil change. All oil must meet API
service classifi cation SF-SJ.

• Be sure tractor is on level surface.

• Oil will drain more freely when warm.

• Catch oil in a suitable container.

1. Remove oil fi ll cap/dipstick. Be careful
not to allow dirt to enter the engine
when changing oil.

2. Remove yellow cap from end of drain
valve and install the drain tube onto the
fi tting.

Oil Drain Valve

Closed and
Locked
Position

Yellow
Cap

63

4

2

0

Drain
Tube

V-BELTS

Check V-belts for deterioration and wear
after 100 hours of operation and replace
if necessary. The belts are not ad just able.
Re place belts if they begin to slip from
wear.

ENGINE

LUBRICATION

Only use high quality detergent oil rated
with API service classifi cation SF-SJ.
Select the oil’s SAE viscosity grade
according to your expected operating
tem per a ture.

SAE VISCOSITY GRADES

5W-30

-20 0 30 40

F

C

-20 0

-30

TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE

32

-10

SAE 30

60

10

100

80

20 30 40

oil_visc_chart1_e

3. Un lock drain valve by pushing inward
slightly and turning counterclockwise.

4. To open, pull out on the drain valve.

5. After oil has drained completely, close
and lock the drain valve by pushing
inward and turning clock wise until the
pin is in the locked position as shown.

6. Remove the drain tube and replace the
cap onto the end of the drain valve.

7. Refi ll engine with oil through oil fi ll dip­stick tube. Pour slowly. Do not overfi ll.
For approximate capacity see “PROD­UCT SPEC I FI CA TIONS” section of this
man u al.

8. Use gauge on oil fi ll cap/dipstick for
checking level. For accurate reading,
tighten dipstick cap securely onto the
tube before removing dipstick. Keep oil
at “FULL” line on dipstick. Tighten cap
onto the tube securely when fi nished.

22

CLEAN AIR SCREEN

00667

Air screen must be kept free of dirt and
chaff to prevent engine dam age from
overheating. Clean with a wire brush or
compressed air to re move dirt and stub­ born dried gum fi bers.

AIR FILTER

Your engine will not run properly using
a dirty air fi lter. Service air cleaner more
often under dusty conditions. See Engine
Manual.

ENGINE OIL FILTER

Replace the engine oil fi lter every season
or every other oil change if the tractor is
used more than 100 hours in one year.

IN-LINE FUEL FILTER

The fuel fi lter should be replaced once
each season. If fuel fi lter becomes
clogged, ob struct ing fuel fl ow to car bu ­re tor, re place ment is re quired.

1. With engine cool, remove fi lter and
plug fuel line sec tions.

2. Place new fuel fi lter in position in fuel
line with arrow pointing towards carbu­retor.

3. Be sure there are no fuel line leaks
and clamps are properly positioned.

4. Immediately wipe up any spilled gaso­line.

Clamp

Clamp

CLEAN AIR INTAKE/COOL ING AREAS

To insure proper cooling, make sure the
grass screen, cooling fi ns, and other exter­nal surfaces of the engine are kept clean
at all times.
Every 100 hours of operation (more often
under extremely dusty, dirty conditions),
remove the blower housing and other cool­ing shrouds. Clean the cooling fi ns and
external surfaces as necessary. Make sure
the cooling shrouds are re in stalled.
NOTE: Operating the engine with a
blocked grass screen, dirty or plugged
cooling fi ns, and/or cooling shrouds
re moved will cause engine damage due to
overheating.

MUFFLER

Inspect and replace corroded muffl er and
spark arrester (if equipped) as it could cre­ate a fi re hazard and/or dam age.

SPARK PLUG(S)

Replace spark plug(s) at the beginning
of each mowing season or after every
100 hours of operation, whichever occurs
fi rst. Spark plug type and gap setting are
shown in “PROD UCT SPEC I FI CA TIONS”
section of this manual.

Fuel Filter

CLEANING

• Clean engine, battery, seat, fi nish, etc.

of all foreign matter.

• Keep fi nished surfaces and wheels free

of all gasoline, oil, etc.

• Protect painted surfaces with au to -

mo tive type wax.
We do not recommend using a garden
hose or pressure washer to clean your
tractor unless the engine and transmis­sion are covered to keep water out. Water
in engine or transmission will shorten the
useful life of your tractor. Use compressed
air or a leaf blower to remove grass,
leaves and trash from tractor and mower.

23

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS

WARNING: TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY, BEFORE PERFORMING ANY
SER VICE OR ADJUSTMENTS:

1. Depress clutch/brake pedal fully and set parking brake.

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

3. Place attachment clutch in “DISENGAGED” position.

4. Turn ignition key to “STOP” and remove key.

5. Make sure the blades and all moving parts have completely stopped.

6. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with plug.

TRACTOR

TO REMOVE MOWER

1. Place attachment clutch in “DIS EN ­GAGED” position.

2. If equipped, turn height adjustment
knob to low est setting.

3. Lower mower to its lowest position.

4. Disengage belt tension rod from lock
bracket.

CAUTION: Rod is spring loaded. Have

a tight grip on rod and release slowly.

5. Remove retainer spring holding
anti-swaybar to chas sis bracket and
dis en gage anti-sway bar from bracket.

6. Remove four retainer springs from
front plate assembly and remove plate.

7. Remove retainer springs from sus pen ­sion arms at deck and dis en gage arms
from deck.

8. Raise attachment lift to its highest
position.

9. Slide mower forward and remove belt
from electric clutch pulley.

10.Slide mower out from under right side
of tractor.

Belt Tension Rod
(Disengaged
Position)

Chassis
Bracket

Lock Bracket

Front Mower
Bracket

TO INSTALL MOWER

Be sure tractor is on level surface and
mower suspension arms are raised with
attachment lift control. Engage park ing
brake.

1. Swing anti-sway bar to left side of
mower deck.

2. Slide mower under tractor with defl ec­tor shield to right side of tractor.

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

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

4. Lower mower linkage with attachment
lift control.

5. Be sure belt tension rod is in dis en ­gaged position.

6. Install belt into electric clutch pulley
groove.

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

8. Install front plate assembly to tractor
suspension brackets and retain with
single loop retainer springs as shown.

Electric Clutch
Pulley

Double Loop
Retainer Springs

Front Plate
Assembly

Retainer
Spring

Anti-Sway
Bar

USE PLIERS FOR

RETAINER SPRINGS

Loop Up

Suspension Arms
Double Loop
Retainer Springs
(Outward pointing
deck pins)

24

02565

Single Loop
Retainer Springs

Flanged Pins

Front Mower
Bracket

Defl ector Shield

01553

9. Position front plate assembly between

02548

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

ets.
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.

10.Engage belt tension rod by pushing

rod into locking bracket.

CAUTION: Belt tension rod is spring
loaded. Have a tight grip on rod and en­gage slowly.

11.Connect anti-sway bar to chassis

bracket under left foot rest and retain
with double loop retainer spring.

12.If equipped, turn height adjustment

knob clock wise to remove slack from
mower sus pen sion.

13.Raise deck to highest position.

TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING

Adjust the mower while tractor is parked
on level ground or driveway. Make sure
tires are properly infl ated (See “PROD­ UCT SPECIFICATIONS” section of this
manual). If tires are over or underinfl ated,
you will not properly adjust your mower.

SIDE-TO-SIDE ADJUSTMENT

• Raise mower to its highest position.

• Measure height from bottom edge of

mower to ground level at front cor ners
of mower. Distance “A” on both sides of
mower should be the same.

• If adjustment is necessary, make adjust-

ment on one side of mower only.

• To raise one side of mower, tighten lift

link ad just ment nut on that side.

• To lower one side of mower, loosen lift

link ad just ment nut on that side.
NOTE: Each full turn of adjustment nut
will change mower height about 3/16".

• Recheck measurements after ad just ing.

Bottom Edge of
Mower to Ground

00598

Bottom Edge of

Mower to Ground

Suspension
Arm

Lift Link
Adjustment Nut

FRONT-TO-BACK ADJUSTMENT
IMPORTANT: Deck must be level side-

to-side. If the following front-to-back
ad just ment is necessary, be sure to adjust
both front links equally so mower will stay
level side-to-side.
To obtain the best cutting re sults, the
mower blades should be adjusted so the
front tip is ap prox i mate ly 1/8" to 1/2" lower
than the rear tip when the mower is in its
highest position.

CAUTION: Blades are sharp. Protect
your hands with gloves and/or wrap blade
with heavy cloth.
Check adjustment on right side of trac tor.
Position any blade so the tip is pointing
straight forward. Measure distance "B" at
front and rear tip of blade

• Before making any necessary ad just -

ments, check that both front plate links
are equal in length.

• If links are not equal in length, adjust

one link to same length as other link.

• To lower front of blade, loosen nut “C”

on both front links an equal number of

turns.
NOTE: Each full turn of nut “C” will
change distance “B” by approximately
3/16".

• When distance “B” is 1/8" to 1/2" lower

at front than rear, tighten nut “D” against

trunnion on both front links.

• To raise front of blade, loosen nut

“D” from trunnion on both front links.

Tighten nut “C” on both front links an

equal number of turns. The two front

links must remain equal in length.

• When distance “B” is 1/8" to 1/2" lower

at front than rear, tighten nut “D” against

trunnion on both front links.

• Recheck side-to-side adjustment.

Blade

A

GROUND LINE

A

25

“B”

“B”

02513

BOTH FRONT PLATE LINKS MUST BE

EQUAL IN LENGTH

02516

Nut “D”

Trunnion

Nut “C”

4. Remove screws from R.H. mandrel
cover and remove cover.

5. Remove any dirt or grass clippings
which may have accumulated around
mandrels and entire upper deck sur­face.

6. Disconnect R.H. suspension arm from
rear deck bracket by removing retainer
spring.

7. Carefully roll belt over the top of R.H.
mandrel pulley.

8. Remove belt from electric clutch pulley.

9. Remove belt from idler pulleys.

10.Check primary idler arm and two idlers
to see that they rotate freely.

11.Be sure spring is securely hooked to
primary idler arm and spring arm.

02517

Front Plate Assembly

TO REPLACE MOWER DRIVE BELT

MOWER DRIVE BELT REMOVAL

1. Park tractor on a level surface. En gage
parking brake.

2. Lower mower to its lowest position.

3. Disengage belt tension rod from lock
bracket.

CAUTION: Rod is spring loaded. Have

a fi rm grip on rod and release slowly.

R.H. Mandrel
Cover

Belt Tension Rod
(Disengaged
Position)

MOWER DRIVE BELT INSTALLATION

12.Install belt in both idlers.

13.Install new belt onto electric clutch pul­ley.

14.Carefully roll belt into upper groove of
R.H. mandrel pulley.

15.Carefully check belt routing making
sure belt is in the grooves correctly.

16.Reconnect R.H. suspension arm to
rear deck bracket with retainer spring.

17.Reassemble R.H. mandrel cover.

18.Engage belt tension rod by pushing
rod into locking bracket.

Electric Clutch
Pulley

Spring
Arm

R.H.
Suspension
Arm

Idler
Pulleys

R.H.
Mandrel

Primary
Idler Arm

26

TO REPLACE MOWER BLADE (SEC­ OND ARY) DRIVE BELT

Park the tractor on level surface. En gage
parking brake.

1. Remove mower (See “TO REMOVE
MOWER” in this section of manual).

2. Remove screws from R.H. and L.H.
mandrel covers and re move covers.

REMOVE MOWER DRIVE BELT
(Refer to “TO REMOVE MOWER DRIVE

BELT” illustration in this section of
manual).

3. Carefully roll belt over the top of R.H.
mandrel pulley.

4. Remove belt from idler pulleys.

5. Check primary idler arm and two idlers
to see that they rotate freely.

6. Be sure spring is securely hooked to
primary idler arm and spring arm.

REMOVE MOWER BLADE
(SECONDARY) DRIVE BELT

7. Carefully roll belt off L.H. mandrel pul­ley.

8. Remove belt from center mandrel
pulley, idler pulley, and R.H. mandrel
pulley.

9. Remove any dirt or grass which may
have ac cu mu lat ed around mandrels
and entire upper deck surface.

10.Check secondary idler arm and idler
pulley to see that they rotate freely.

11.Be sure spring is hooked in sec ond ary
idler arm and secondary spring arm.

INSTALL NEW MOWER BLADE
(SECONDARY) DRIVE BELT

12.Install new belt in lower groove of R.H.
mandrel pulley, idler pulley, and center
mandrel pulley as shown.

13.Carefully roll belt over L.H. mandrel
pulley. Make sure belt is in all grooves
properly.

REINSTALL MOWER DRIVE BELT
(Refer to “TO REMOVE MOWER DRIVE

BELT” illustration in this section of
manual).

14.Install belt into upper groove of R.H.
mandrel pulley and around both idlers.
Pull belt to front of mower to remove
slack.

15.Reinstall mandrel covers and securely
tighten all screws.

16.Carefully check belt routing making
sure belt is in all grooves correctly.

17.Reinstall mower to tractor (See “TO
INSTALL MOWER” in this section of
manual).

L.H.
Mandrel

Mower Blade
(Secondary)
Drive Belt

Secondary
Idler Arm

Idler
Pulley

R.H.
Mandrel

Spring

Secondary
Spring Arm

Center
Mandrel

02515

27

01511

TO CHECK AND ADJUST BRAKE

Your tractor is equipped with an ad just able
brake system which is mounted on the
right side of the transaxle.
If tractor requires more than fi ve (5) feet to
stop at highest speed in high est gear on a
level, dry concrete or paved surface, then
brake must be checked and ad just ed.

TO CHECK BRAKE

1. Park tractor on a level, dry concrete or
paved surface, depress clutch/brake
pedal all the way down and engage
parking brake.

2. Disengage transmission by placing
freewheel control in “transmission dis­engaged” position. Pull freewheel con­trol out and into the slot and release so
it is held in the disengaged position.

The rear wheels must lock and skid when
you try to manually push the tractor for­ward. If the rear wheels rotate, the brake
needs to be adjusted or the pads need to
be replaced.

TO ADJUST BRAKE

1. Depress clutch/brake pedal all the way
down and engage parking brake.

2. Measure distance between brake oper­ating arm and nut “A” on brake rod.

3. If distance is other than 1-9/16", loosen
jam nut and turn nut “A” until distance
becomes 1-9/16". Retighten jam nut
against nut “A”.

4. Engage transmission by placing
free wheel control in “trans mis sion
en gaged” position.

5. Road test tractor for proper stopping
distance as stated above. Readjust
if nec es sary. If stopping distance is
still greater than fi ve (5) feet in high est
gear, further main te nance is nec es ­sary. Replace brake pads or contact a
Sears or other qualifi ed service center.

With parking brake “Engaged”

1-9/16”

Nut “A”

Jam Nut

TO REPLACE MOTION DRIVE BELT

Park the tractor on level surface. En gage
parking brake. For as sis tance, there is a
belt installation guide decal on bottom side
of left footrest.

BELT REMOVAL -

1. Remove mower (See “TO RE MOVE
MOWER” in this section of manual).

NOTE: Observe entire motion drive belt
and position of all belt guides and keepers.

2. Disconnect clutch wire harness.

3. Remove clutch locator.

4. Remove belt from stationary idler and
clutching idler.

5. Remove belt downward from engine
pulley and around electric clutch.

6. Pull belt slack toward rear of trac tor.
Carefully remove belt up wards from
trans mis sion input pulley and over
cooling fan blades.

7. Remove belt from center span keeper
and pull belt away from tractor.

BELT INSTALLATION -

1. Carefully work new belt down around
transmission cooling fan and onto the
input pulley.

2. Slide belt into the center span keeper.

3. Pull belt toward front of tractor and roll
belt around electric clutch and onto
engine pulley.

4. Install belt through stationary idler and
clutch ing idler.

5. Reinstall clutch locator and tighten nut
securely.

6. Reconnect clutch harness.

7. Make sure belt is in all pulley grooves
and in side all belt guides and keep ers.

8. Install mower (See “TO IN STALL
MOWER” in this sec tion of manual).

Electric
Clutch

Clutching
Idler

Stationary
Idler

Clutch
Locator

Operating
Arm

01513

Do not touch this nut. If further brake
ad just ment is necessary contact a Sears or
other qualifi ed service center.

Center Span
Keeper

Transmission
Input Pulley

28

Clutch
Wire
Harness

00

663

TRANSAXLE MOTION CON TROL LE­VER NEUTRAL AD JUST MENT

The motion control lever has been pre set
at the factory and adjustment should not
be necessary.

1. Loosen adjustment bolt in front of the
right rear wheel, and lightly tight en.

2. Start engine and move motion con­ trol lever until tractor does not move
forward or backward.

3. Hold motion control lever in that posi­tion and turn engine off.

4. While holding motion control lever in
place, loosen the adjustment bolt.

5. Move motion control lever to the neu­tral (N) (lock gate) position.

6. Tighten adjustment bolt securely.

NOTE: If additional clearance is needed
to get to ad just ment bolt, move mower
deck height to the lowest position.
After above adjustment is made, if the
tractor still creeps forward or backward
while motion control lever is in neutral
position, follow these steps:

1. Loosen the adjustment bolt.

2. Move the motion control lever 1/4 to
1/2 inch in the direction it is trying to
creep.

3. Tighten adjustment bolt securely.

4. Start engine and test.

5. If tractor still creeps, repeat above
steps until satisfi ed.

Motion Control Lever

02239

Adjustment Bolt

Neutral
Lock
Gate

TRANSMISSION REMOVAL/
RE PLACE MENT

Should your transmission require re mov al
for service or re place ment, it should be
purged after reinstallation and before op­erating the tractor. See “PURGE TRANS­ MIS SION” in the Op er a tion section of this
manual.

TO AD JUST STEER ING WHEEL ALIGN­ MENT

If steering wheel crossbars are not
hor i zon tal (left to right) when wheels are
positioned straight forward, remove steer­ ing wheel and reassemble with crossbars
horizontal. Tighten securely.

FRONT WHEEL TOE-IN/CAM BER

The front wheel toe-in and camber are not
adjustable on your tractor. If dam age has
occurred to affect the front wheel toe-in
or camber, contact our authorized service
center/department.

TO REMOVE WHEEL FOR REPAIRS

1. Block up axle securely.

2. Remove axle cover, retaining ring and
washers to allow wheel removal (rear
wheels have a square key - Do not
lose).

3. Repair tire and reassemble.

NOTE: On rear wheels only: align grooves in
rear wheel hub and axle. Insert square key.

4. Replace washers and snap retaining
ring securely in axle groove.

5. Replace axle cover.

NOTE: To seal tire punctures and pre vent
fl at tires due to slow leaks, purchase and
use tire sealant from an authorized service
center/department. Tire sealant also pre­ vents tire dry rot and corrosion.

Washers

Retaining
Ring

Axle
Cover

Square Key
(Rear Wheel Only)

TO START ENGINE WITH A WEAK BAT­ TERY

WARNING: Lead-acid batteries

gen er ate ex plo sive gases. Keep sparks,
fl ame and smoking ma te ri als away from
bat ter ies. Always wear eye pro tec tion
when around batteries.
If your battery is too weak to start the
engine, it should be recharged. (See "BAT­TERY" in the MAINTENANCE section of
this man u al).
If “jumper ca bles” are used for emer gen cy
starting, follow this pro ce dure:
IMPORTANT: Your tractor is equipped
with a 12 volt system. The other vehicle
must also be a 12 volt system. Do not use
your tractor battery to start other vehicles.

TO ATTACH JUMPER CABLES -

1. Connect one end of the RED cable
to the POSITIVE (+) terminal of each
battery(A-B), taking care not to short
against tractor chassis.

2. Connect one end of the BLACK ca ble
to the NEGA TIVE (-) terminal (C) of
fully charged battery.

29

02141

3. Connect the other end of the BLACK
cable (D) to good chassis ground,
away from fuel tank and bat tery.

TO REMOVE CABLES, REVERSE
ORDER -

1. BLACK cable fi rst from chassis and
then from the fully charged battery.

2. RED cable last from both batteries.

TO REPLACE HEADLIGHT BULB

1. Raise hood.

2. Pull bulb holder out of the hole in the
backside of the grill.

3. Replace bulb in holder and push bulb
holder securely back into the hole in
the backside of the grill.

4. Close hood.

INTERLOCKS AND RELAYS

Loose or damaged wiring may cause
your tractor to run poorly, stop running, or
prevent it from starting.

• Check wiring. See electrical wiring

diagram in the Repair Parts section.

TO REPLACE FUSE

02614

Weak or Dead
Battery

Fully Charged
Battery

REPLACING BATTERY

WARNING: Do not short battery

ter mi 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

Replace with 20 amp automotive-type
plug-in fuse. The fuse holder is located
behind the dash.

TO REMOVE HOOD AND GRILL AS­ SEM BLY

1. Raise hood.

2. Unsnap headlight wire connector.

3. Stand in front of tractor. Grasp hood at
sides, tilt toward engine and lift off of
tractor.

4. When replacing hood, be sure to
reconnect the headlight wire con nec tor.

fi rst to prevent sparking from ac ci den tal
grounding.

1. Lift hood to raised position.

2. Remove terminal guard.

Hood

3. Disconnect BLACK battery cable
then RED battery cable and carefully
remove battery from tractor.

4. Install new battery with terminals in

Headlight Wire
Connector

same position as old battery.

5. Reinstall terminal guard.

6. First connect RED battery cable to
positive (+) battery terminal with hex
bolt and keps nut as shown. Tighten
securely.

7. Connect BLACK grounding cable to
negative (-) bat tery terminal with re­ main ing hex bolt and keps nut. Tight en
securely

8. Close terminal access doors.

9. Close hood.

Keps Nut

Hex
Bolt

ENGINE

TO AD JUST THROT TLE CON TROL
CABLE

The throt tle con trol has been pre set at the
fac to ry and ad just ment should not be nec­essary. Check adjustment as de scribed
below before loosening cable. If adjust­ment is necessary, see engine manual.

Terminal
Access
Door

0217

9

Terminal
Guard

Negative (Black)
Cable

Positive
(Red)
Cable

TO ADJUST CARBURETOR

Your carburetor is not adjustable. If your
engine does not operate properly due to
suspected carburetor problems, take your
tractor to an authorized service center/
department for repair and/or adjustment.

30

STORAGE

Immediately prepare your tractor for stor­ age at the end of the season or if the trac­tor will not be used for 30 days or more.

WARNING: Never store the trac tor
with gas o line in the tank inside a building
where fumes may reach an open fl ame
or spark. Allow the engine to cool before
storing in any en clo sure.

TRACTOR

Remove mower from tractor for winter
storage. When mower is to be stored for a
period of time, clean it thor oughly, remove
all dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Store in a
clean, dry area.

1. Clean entire tractor (See “CLEAN ING”

in the Maintenance section of this
manual).

2. Inspect and replace belts, if nec es sary

(See belt re place ment in struc tions in
the Service and Ad just ments section of
this manual).

3. Lubricate as shown in the Main te nance

section of this man ual.

4. Be sure that all nuts, bolts and screws

are securely fastened. In spect moving
parts for damage, break age and wear.
Replace if nec es sary.

5. Touch up all rusted or chipped paint

surfaces; sand lightly before paint ing.

BATTERY

• Fully charge the battery for storage.

• After a period of time in storage, battery

may require recharging.

• To help prevent corrosion and power

leakage during long periods of stor age,
battery cables should be dis con nect ed
and battery cleaned thor ough ly (see “TO
CLEAN BATTERY AND TER MI NALS” in
the Maintenance section of this man u al).

• After cleaning, leave cables dis con -

nect ed and place cables where they
cannot come in contact with battery
terminals.

• If battery is removed from tractor for

storage, do not store battery directly on
concrete or damp surfaces.

ENGINE

FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent

gum deposits from forming in essential
fuel system parts such as carburetor, fuel
hose, or tank during storage. Also, alcohol

blended fuels (called gasohol or using
ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture
which leads to separation and formation of
acids during storage. Acidic gas can dam­age the fuel system of an engine while in
storage.

• Empty the fuel tank by starting the en­gine and letting it run until the fuel lines
and carburetor are empty.

• Never use engine or carburetor clean er
products in the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.

• Use fresh fuel next season.

NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable
alternative in min i miz ing the formation of
fuel gum deposits during stor age. Add
stabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or stor­ age container. Always follow the mix ratio
found on stabilizer container. Run engine
at least 10 minutes after adding stabilizer
to allow the sta bi liz er to reach the car­buretor. Do not empty the gas tank and
carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.

ENGINE OIL

Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace
with clean engine oil. (See “ENGINE” in
the Maintenance section of this man ual).

CYLINDER(S)

1. Remove spark plug(s).

2. Pour one ounce of oil through spark

plug hole(s) into cylinder(s).

3. Turn ignition key to “START” po si tion

for a few seconds to distribute oil.

4. Replace with new spark plug(s).

OTHER

• Do not store gasoline from one sea son
to another.

• Replace your gasoline can if your can
starts to rust. Rust and/or dirt in your
gasoline will cause problems.

• If possible, store your tractor in doors
and cover it to give protection from dust
and dirt.

• Cover your tractor with a suitable pro­tective cover that does not retain mois­ture. Do not use plastic. Plas tic cannot
breathe which allows con den sa tion to
form and will cause your tractor to rust.

IMPORTANT: Never cover tractor while
en gine and exhaust areas are still warm.

31

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART:

PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION

Will not start 1. Out of fuel. 1. Fill fuel tank.

2. Engine not “CHOKED” 2. See “TO START ENGINE” in
properly. Operation section.

3. Engine fl ooded. 3. Wait several minutes before
attempting to start.

4. Bad spark plug. 4. Replace spark plug.

5. Dirty air fi lter. 5. Clean/replace air fi lter.

6. Dirty fuel fi lter. 6. Replace fuel fi lter.

7. Water in fuel. 7. Empty fuel tank and carbure­ tor, refi ll tank with fresh gas­ oline and replace fuel fi lter.

8. Loose or damaged wiring. 8. Check all wiring.

9. Carburetor out of adjustment. 9. See “To Adjust Carburetor”
in Service and Adjustments
section.

10. Engine valves out of 10. Contact an authorized
adjustment. service center/department.

Hard to start 1. Dirty air fi lter. 1. Clean/replace air fi lter.

2. Bad spark plug. 2. Replace spark plug.

3. Weak or dead battery. 3. Recharge or replace battery.

4. Dirty fuel fi lter. 4. Replace fuel fi lter.

5. Stale or dirty fuel. 5. Empty fuel tank and refi ll tank
with fresh, clean gasoline.

6. Loose or damaged wiring. 6. Check all wiring.

7. Carburetor out of adjustment. 7. See “To Adjust Car bu re tor” in
Service and Adjustments
section.

8. Engine valves out of 8. Contact an authorized
adjustment. service center/department.

Engine will not 1. Brake pedal not depressed. 1. Depress brake pedal.
turn over 2.

3. Weak or dead battery. 3. Recharge or replace battery.

4. Blown fuse. 4. Replace fuse.

5. Corroded battery terminals. 5. Clean battery terminals.

6. Loose or damaged wiring. 6. Check all wiring.

7. Faulty ignition switch. 7.

8. Faulty solenoid or starter. 8. Check/replace solenoid or
starter.

9. Faulty operator presence 9. Contact an authorized
switch(es). service center/department.

Engine clicks but 1. Weak or dead battery. 1. Re charge or replace battery.
will not start 2. Corroded battery terminals. 2. Clean battery terminals.

3. Loose or damaged wiring. 3. Check all wiring.

4. Faulty solenoid or starter. 4. Check/replace solenoid or
starter.

Loss of power 1. Cutting too much grass/too 1. Raise cutting height/reduce
fast. speed.

2. Throttle in “CHOKE” position. 2. Adjust throttle control.

3. Build-up of grass, leaves and 3. Clean underside of mower
trash under mower. housing.

4. Dirty air fi lter. 4. Clean/replace air fi lter.

5. Low oil level/dirty oil. 5. Check oil level/change oil.

At tach ment clutch is engaged.

2.

Disengage attachment clutch.

Check/replace ignition switch.

32

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART:

PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION

Loss of power 6. Faulty spark plug. 6. Clean and regap or change
(continued) spark plug.

7. Dirty fuel fi lter. 7. Replace fuel fi lter.

8. Stale or dirty fuel. 8.
with fresh, clean gas o line.

9. Water in fuel. 9. Empty fuel tank and carbure­ tor, refi ll tank with fresh gas­ oline and replace fuel fi lter.

10. Spark plug wire loose. 10. Connect and tighten spark
plug wire.

11. Dirty engine air screen/fi ns. 11. Clean engine air screen/fi ns.

12. Dirty/clogged muffl er. 12. Clean/replace muffl er.

13. Loose or damaged wiring. 13. Check all wiring.

14. Carburetor out of adjustment. 14. See “To Adjust Carburetor”
in Service and Adjustments
section.

15. Engine valves out of 15. Contact an authorized
adjustment. service center/department.

Excessive 1. Worn, bent or loose blade. 1. Replace blade. Tighten
vibration blade bolt.

2. Bent blade mandrel. 2. Contact an authorized
service center/department.

3. Loose/damaged part(s). 3. Tighten loose part(s).
Replace damaged parts.

Empty fuel tank and refi ll tank

Engine continues 1. Faulty operator-safety 1. Check wiring, switches and
to run when presence control system. connections. If not cor rect ed,
operator leaves contact an authorized
seat with service center/department.
attachment
clutch engaged

Poor cut - uneven 1. Worn, bent or loose blade. 1. Replace blade. Tighten

blade bolt.

2. Mower deck not level. 2. Level mower deck.

3. Buildup of grass, leaves, and 3. Clean underside of mower
trash under mower. housing.

4. Bent blade mandrel. 4. Contact an authorized
service center/department.

5. Clogged mower deck vent 5. Clean around man drels to

and trash around mandrels.

Mower blades will 1. Obstruction in clutch 1. Remove obstruction.
not rotate mechanism.

2. Worn/damaged mower drive 2. Replace mower drive belt.

belt.

3. Frozen idler pulley. 3. Replace idler pulley.

4. Frozen blade mandrel. 4. Contact an authorized
service center/department.

from build-up of grass, leaves,

open vent holes.

Poor grass 1. Engine speed too slow. 1. Place throttle control in
discharge “FAST” position.

2. Travel speed too fast. 2. Shift to slower speed.

33

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART:

PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION

Poor grass 3. Wet grass. 3. Allow grass to dry before
discharge mowing.
(continued) 4. Mower deck not level. 4. Level mower deck.

5. Low/uneven tire air pressure. 5. Check tires for proper air
pressure.

6. Worn, bent or loose blade. 6. Replace/sharpen blade.
Tighten blade bolt.

7. Buildup of grass, leaves and 7. Clean underside of mower
trash under mower. housing.

8. Mower drive belt worn. 8. Replace mower drive belt.

9. Blades improperly installed. 9. Reinstall blades sharp edge
down.

10. Improper blades used. 10. Replace with blades listed in
this manual.

11. Clogged mower deck vent 11. Clean around man drels to
holes from buildup of grass, open vent holes.
leaves, and trash around
mandrels.

Headlight(s) not 1. Switch is “OFF”. 1. Turn switch “ON”.
working 2.
(if so equipped) 3. Faulty light switch. 3. Check/replace light switch.

4. Loose or damaged wiring. 4.

5. Blown fuse. 5. Replace fuse.

Bulb(s) or lamp(s) burned out

. 2. Replace bulb(s) or lamp(s).

Check wiring and connections.

Battery will not 1. Bad battery cell(s). 1. Replace battery.
charge 2. Poor cable connections. 2. Check/clean all connections.

3. Faulty regulator 3. Replace regulator.
(if so equipped).

4. Faulty alternator. 4. Replace alternator.

Loss of drive 1. Freewheel control in 1. Place freewheel control in
“disengaged” position. “engaged” position.

2. Motion drive belt worn, 2. Re place motion drive belt.
damaged, or broken.

3. Air trapped in transmission 3. Purge transmission.
during shipment or servicing.

Engine “backfi res” 1. Engine throttle control not set 1. Move throttle control to
when turning at “SLOW” position for 30 “SLOW” position and allow
engine “OFF” 30 seconds before stopping to idle for 30 seconds before

engine. stopping engine.

34

15 DEGREES MAX.

ONLY RIDE UP AND DOWN HILL,

NOT ACROSS HILL

FOLD ALONG DOTTED LINE

THIS IS A 15 DEGREE SLOPE

WARNING: To avoid serious injury, operate your tractor up and

down the face of slopes, never across the face. Do not mow

slopes greater than 15 degrees. Make turns gradually to prevent

tipping or loss of control. Exercise extreme caution when

changing direction on slopes.

1. Fold this page along dotted line indicated above.

2. Hold page before you so that its left edge is vertically parallel to a tree

trunk or other upright structure.

3. Sight across the fold in the direction of hill slope you want to measure.

4. Compare the angle of the fold with the slope of the hill.

SUGGESTED GUIDE FOR SIGHTING SLOPES FOR SAFE OPERATION