Poulan Pro 270451 User Manual

OWNER'S MANUAL

MODELNO.270451

13.5HP38INCH

LAWNTRACTOR

• Assembly

• Operation

For Parts and Service, contact our authorized distributor:

call 1-800-849-1297 For Technical Assistance: call 1-800-829-5886

Maintenance

• Service and Adjustments

• Troubleshooting

• Repair Parts

174207 Rev. 3 5.15.02 RD/SV/MH

PRINTED IN U.S.A.

Safety Rules ......................................... 2

Product Specifications .......................... 5

Assembly .............................................. 7

Operation ............................................ 10

Maintenance Schedule ...................... 16

Maintenance ....................................... 16

Service and Adjustments .................... 20

Storage ............................................... 25

Troubleshooting ................................. 26

Repair Parts ........................................ 30

Warranty ............................................. 46

IMPORTANT- This cutting machine is ca- pable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the

following safety instructions could result

in serious injury or death.

GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual and on the

machine before starting.

• Only allow responsible adults, who are

familiar with the instructions, to operate the machine.

• Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc., which could be

picked up and thrown by the blade.

• Be sure the area is clear of other

people before mowing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

• Never carry passengers.

• Do not mow in reverse unless abso-

lutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing.

• Be aware of the mower discharge

direction and do not point it at anyone. Do not operate the mower without

either the entire grass catcher or the guard in place.

• Slow down before turning.

• Never leave a running machine

unattended. Always turn off blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and remove keys before dismounting.

• Turn off blades when not mowing.

• Stop engine before removing grass catcher or unclogging chute.

• Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.

• Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or

drugs.

• Watch for traffic when operating near

or crossing roadways.

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

truck.

• 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 themselves and others from serious injury.

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. Tall grass can hide ob- stacles.

• 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 recommen-

dations for wheel weights or counter- weights to improve stability.

• Use extra care with grass catchers or

other attachments. These can change the stability of the machine.

• Keep all movement on the slopes slow

and gradual. Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction.

• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction, disengage the

blades and proceed slowly straight

down the slope.

DO NOT:

• Do not turn on slopes unless neces- sary, and then, turn slowly and

gradually downhill, if possible.

• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or

embankments. The mower could suddenly turn over if a wheel is over

the edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.

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

• Do nottry to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on the ground.

• Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.

CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children.

Children are often attracted to the machine and the mowing activity. Never

assume that children will remain where you last saw them.

• Keep children out of the mowing area and 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.

SERVICE

• Use extra care in handling gasoline

and other fuels. They are flammable and vapors are explosive.

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

with the engine running. Allow en-

gine to cool before refueling. Do not smoke. Never refuel the machine indoors.

Never store the machine or fuel

container inside where there is an

open flame, such as a water heat-

er.

• Never run a machine inside a closed

area.

• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment bolts, tight and keep

equipment in good condition.

• Never tamper with safety devices.

Check their proper operation regularly.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or

other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel spillage. Allow machine to cool before

storing.

• Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object. Repair, if necessary, before restarting.

• Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine running.

• Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage, and deterioration,

which could expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. Frequently

check components and replace with

manufacturer's recommended parts,

when necessary.

• 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.

• 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 abso-

lutely necessary. Always 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 overtum the machine. Tall grass can hide obsta-

3 cles.

• 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 neces-

sary, and then, turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.

_Look for this symbol to point out

important safety precautions. It means CAUTION!!! BECOMEAWARE!!!YOUR

_FETY IS INVOLVED.

CAUTION; In order to prevent

accidental starting when setting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs

always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark

CAUTION: Do not coast down a hill in

neutral, you may lose control of the tractor.

_CAUTION: Tow only the attachments

that are recommended by and comply with specifications of the manufacturer 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 dangerous. "]3res can lose traction with the ground and cause you to lose control

,_YwAOur tractor.

RNING: The engine exhaust from

this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer,

birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

GASOLINE 1.25 GALLONS CAPACITY UNLEADED AND TYPE: REGULAR

OILTYPE SAE 30(ABOVE 32°F

API-SF/SG/SH): SAE 5W-30

(Below 32°F)

OILCAPACITY: 3 PTS

_PARK PLUG: CHAMPION

GAP: .030") RJ19LM OR J19LM VALVE INTAKE: .005"-.007" CLEARANCE: EXHAUST:.009"-.011"

GROUND SPEEDFORWARD: (MPR): 1ST 1.1

2ND 2.2 3RD 3.4 4TH 4.3

5TH 5.5

REVERSE: 1.7

TIRE FRONT: 14 PSI PRESSURE: REAR: 12 PSI

CHARGING 9 AMPS@3600 RPM SYSTEM:

BATTERY: AMP/HR: 25

MIN.CCA: 190 CASE SIZE:U1R

BLADE BOLT 27-35 FT. LBS TORQUE:

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and observe the safety rules.

• Follow a regular schedule in maintain- ing, caring for and using your tractor.

• Follow the instructions under "Mainte- nance" and "Storage" sections of this

owner'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 opera-

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 muffler is available

through your nearest authorized service center/Department (See REPAIR PARTS

section of this manual).

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a New Tractor. It has been designed, engineered and manufactured to give you the best possible dependability and performance. Should you experience any problem you cannot easily remedy, please contact your nearest authorized service center. We have competent, well-trained technicians and the proper tools to service or repair this tractor.

Please read and retain this manual. The instructions will enable you to assemble

and maintain your tractor properly. Always observe the "SAFETY RULES".

Steering

Wheel Insert

Steering Wheel

(1) Hex Bolt

3/8-16 x 1

(1) Large Flat Washer

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

_L Steering Wheel

Adapter

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

_(1)Knob

Keys

(1) Locknut 5/16-18

Seat

(1) Washer

_St_oeritg

(1) Lockwasher 3/8

Steering

Extension

Shaft

(1) Shoulder

Bolt 5/16-18

Slope Sheet

(2) Keys

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. Review the video cassette before you begin.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

A socket wrench set will make assembly easier. Standard wrench sizes you need

are listed below. (1) 9/16"wrench (1) Pliers (1) 1/2" wrench (1) Utility knife

(1) 5/16" wrench (1) Tire pressure

gauge

When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, it means, from your point of view, when you are in the operating

position (seated behind the steering

wheel).

• Assemble large flat washer, 3/8 lock

washer, 3/8 hex bolt and tighten securely.

• Snap steering wheel insert into center

of steering wheel.

• Remove protective materials from

tractor hood and grill.

IMPORTANT: Check for and remove any staples in skid that may puncture tires

where tractor is to roll off skid.

Steering Wheel Insert

o,t

,___./3/8 Lock Washer

TO REMOVETRACTOR FROM

CARTON

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

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

panels flat.

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

BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR FROM SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND

BOOT

• Slide extension shaft onto lower steering shaft. Align mounting holes

in extension and lower shafts and install 5/16 hex bolt and Iocknut.

Tighten securely.

• 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 steering shaft extension.

• Position steering wheel so cross bars

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

__e Flat Washer

Steering Wheel

Steering Boot_ _abs

Adapter _

j Extension Shaft

5/16 Locknut

"=_5/16 Hex Bolt

Lower Steering ,,_--_., _ Shaft _ "F_"""'-÷-',

_. '__,_ _ Tab

J "- " ' Slots

,.':;

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR CHECK BATTERY

• Lift seat pan to raised position and open battery box door.

• 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 "BAI-rERY" in Maintenance section of this manual for

charging instructions).

Ba_e_ Box

INSTALL SEAT

Adjust seat before tightening adjustment knob.

• Remove adjustment knob and flat 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 and assemble

shoulder bolt. Tighten shoulder bolt

securely.

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

• Lower seat into operating position and sit on seat.

• Slide seat until a comfortable position

is reached which allows you to press

clutch/brake pedal all the way down.

• Get off seat without moving its adjusted

position.

• Raise seat and tighten adjustment

knob securely.

Shoulder Seat Pan f_-f---_'_ II

Adjustment

Knob

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

instruction below to remove the tractor from

the skid.

TO ROLLTRACTOR OFF SKID (See

Operation section for location and

function of controls)

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

position.

• Release parking brake by depressing clutch/brake pedal.

• Place gearshift lever in neutral (N)

position.

• Roll tractor forward off skid.

• Remove banding holding discharge guard up against tractor.

TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID

(See Operation section for location

and function of controls)

,_ WARNING: Before starting, read,

understand and follow all instructions in

the Operation section of this manual. Be sure tractor is in a well-ventilated area.

Be sure the area in front of tractor is

clear of other people and objects.

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

• Check engine oil level and fill fuel tank with gasoline.

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

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

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

position.

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

• Depress clutch/brake pedal into full "BRAKE" position and hold. Move

gearshift lever to 1st gear.

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

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

• Turn ignition key to "OFF" position.

Continue with the instructions that follow.

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

The tires on your tractor were overin- flated at the factory for shipping pur-

poses. Correct tire pressure is important

for best cutting performance.

• Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in

"PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" section of this manual.

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF ALL BELTS

See the figures that are shown for

replacing motion and mower blade drive belts in the Service and Adjustments

section of this manual. Verify that the belts are routed correctly.

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS

For best cutting results, mower housing should be properly leveled. See 'q-o

LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the Service and Adjustments section of this

manual.

CHECKBRAKESYSTEM

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.

/CHECKUST

BEFORE YOU OPERATE AND ENJOY

YOUR NEW TRACTOR, WE WlSHTO ASSURE THAT YOU RECEIVE THE

BEST PERFORMANCE AND SATISFACTION FROM THIS QUALITY

PRODUCT. PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING

CHECKLIST:

,/All assembly instructions have been

completed. ,z No remaining loose parts in carton. / Battery is properly prepared and

charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6

amps). ,z Seat is adjusted comfortably and

tightened securely. ,/All tires are properly inflated. (For

shipping purposes, the tires were

overinflated at the factory). ,/Be sure mower deck is properly

leveled side-to-side/front-to-rear for

best cutting results. (Tires must be

properly inflated for leveling). ,/Check mower and drive belts. Be sure

they are routed properly around

pulleys and inside all belt keepers. / Check wiring. See that all connections

are still secure and wires are properly

clamped. WHILE LEARNING HOW TO USE YOUR

TRACTOR, PAY EXTRAATTENTION TO THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT ITEMS:

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

regular unleaded gasoline. J' 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.

These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product.

Learn and understand their meaning.

BATTERY CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP

FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED

WARNING

LOCKED

@l k

LIGHT

MOWER LIFT

R N H L

ATrACHMENT REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW PARKING BRAKE

CLUTCH ENGAGED

ATTACHMENT KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

IGNITION CLUTCH DISENGAGED (SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

FREEWHEEL

(Automatic Models only)

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

YOUR TRACTOR Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of

various controls and adjustments, Save this manual for future reference.

Attachment

Clutch Ignition Switch

Lever

•" ." Plunger

Throttle/Choke

Attachment

Lift Lever

Clutch/

Brake Pedal

o Height

Adjustment Indicator

Brake Lever

Gearshif

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. ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER - Used to

raise, lower, and adjust the mower deck

or other attachments mounted to your tractor.

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL - Used for declutching and braking the tractor and

starting the engine. GEARSHIFT LEVER - Selects the speed

and direction of tractor.

IGNITION SWITCH - Used for starting

and stopping the engine.

LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to release attachment lift lever when

changing its position. LIGHT SWITCH - Turns the headlights on

and off. PARKING BRAKE LEVER - Locks

clutch/brake pedal into the brake position.

THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL - Used

for starting and controlling engine speed.

The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into the

eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recommend a wide vision safety mask over spectacles or standard safety glasses.

HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR

TO SET PARKING BRAKE

Your tractor is equipped with an operator presence sensing switch. When engine

is running, any attempt by the operator to leave the seat without first setting the

parking brake will shut oft the engine.

• Depress clutch/brake pedal into full

"BRAKE" position and hold.

• Place parking brake lever in "EN- GAGED" position and release pres-

sure from clutch/brake pedal. Pedal should remain in =BRAKE" position.

Make sure parking brake will hold

tractor secure.

Attachment Clutch Lever "Engaged" Position

Throttle/Choke

Control

Clutch/ "Disengaged" Brake Position

Pedal Parking

Brake "Engaged"

Position

Gearshift Lever

"Brake" "Disengaged" Position Position

STOPPING

MOWER BLADES -

• TO stop mower blades,move attach- ment clutch lever to "DISENGAGED"

position.

GROUND DRIVE -

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

• Move gearshift lever to neutral (N)

position.

ENGINE -

• Move throttle control to slow position.

NOTE: Failure to move throttle control to

slow position and allowing engine to idle

before stopping may cause engine to "backfire".

• Turn ignition key to "OFF" position and

remove key. Always remove key when leaving tractor to prevent unauthorized

use.

• Never use choke to stop engine. IMPORTANT: Leaving the ignition switch in any position other than "OFF"

will cause the battery to be discharged, (dead).

NOTE: Under certain conditions when tractor is standing idle with the engine

running, hot engine exhaust gases may cause "browning" of grass. To eliminate this possibility, always stop engine when

stopping tractor on grass areas.

CAUTION: Always stop tractor completely, as described above, before leaving the operator's position; to empty grass catcher, etc.

TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL Always operate engine at full throttle.

• Operating engine at less than full

throttle reduces the battery charging

rate.

• Full throttle offers the best bagging

and mower performance.

TO MOVE FORWARD AND

BACKWARD

The direction and speed of movement is

controlled by the gearshift lever.

• Start tractor with clutch/brake pedal depressed and gearshift lever in

neutral (N) position.

• Move gearshift lever to desired position.

• Slowly release clutch/brake pedal to start movement.

IMPORTANT: Bring tractor to a complete

stop before shifting or changing gears.

Failure to do so will shorten the useful life of your transaxle.

TO ADJUST MOWER cu'n'ING

HEIGHT

The position of the attachment lift lever

determines the cutting height.

• Grasp lift lever.

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

The cutting height range is approxi-

mately 1-1/2 to 4". The heights are measured from the ground to the blade

tip with the engine not running. These

heights are approximate and may vary depending upon soil conditions, height

of grass and types of grass being mowed.

• The average lawn should be cut to approximately 2-1/2 inches during the

cool season and to over 3 inches during hot months. For healthier and

better looking lawns, mow often and after moderate growth.

• For best cutting performance, grass over 6 inches in height should be

mowed twice. Make the first cut relatively high; the second to desired

height.

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.

• Select desired height of cut.

• Start mower blades by engaging attachment clutch control.

• TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disen-

gage attachment clutch control. _,CAUTION: Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass catcher, on

mowers so equipped, or the deflector

shield in place. Attachment Clutch Lever

"Engaged" Position

_mnt

Lift Lever High Position

Low

Position

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

_JkCAUTION: 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 gearshift lever to 1st gear. Be sure you have allowed room for tractor

to roll slightly as you restart movement.

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

• Make all turns slowly.

TO TRANSPORT

• Raise attachment lift to highest position with attachment lift control.

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

position.

• Do not push or tow tractor at more than

five (5) MPH.

NOTE: To protect hood from damage when transporting your tractor on a truck

or a trailer, be sure hood is closed and secured to tractor. Use an appropriate

means of tying hood to tractor (rope, cord, etc.).

TOWING CARTS AND OTHER ATrACHMENTS

Tow only the attachments that are

recommended by and comply with specifications of the manufacturer of your

tractor. Use common sense when towing. Too heavy of a load, while on a slope, is

dangerous. -13res can lose traction with

the ground and cause you to lose control

of your tractor.

Position

Shield 13

BEFORE STARTING THE ENIGNE CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL

• The engine in your tractor has been

shipped, from the factory, already filled with summer weight oil.

• Check engine oil with tractor on level ground.

• Remove oil fill cap/dipstick and wipe clean, reinsert the dipstick and screw cap tight, wait for a few seconds,

remove and read oil level. If neces-

sary, add oil until "FULL" mark on

dipstick is reached. Do not overfill.

• For cold weather operation you should change oil for easier starting (See "OIL

VISCOSITY CHART" in the Mainte-

nance section of this manual).

• To change engine oil, see the Mainte-

nance section in this manual.

ADD GASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular

unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane. (Use of leaded gasoline

will increase carbon and lead oxide deposits and reduce valve life). Do

not mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in quantities that can be used within 30 days to assure fuel fresh-

Bess.

IMPORTANT: When operating in

temperatures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh, clean winter grade gasoline to

help insure good cold weather starting.

WARNING: Experience indicates that

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

problems, the fuel system should be emptied before storage of 30 days or

longer. Drain the gas tank, start the engine and let it run until the fuel lines

and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See Storage Instructions

for additional information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in

the fuel tank or permanent damage may

OCCUr.

_CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank

filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any

spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open flame.

TO START ENGINE

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

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

parking brake.

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

• Move attachment clutch to "DISEN- GAGED" position.

• Move throttle control to choke position.

NOTE: Before starting, read the warm

and cold starting procedures below.

• Insert key into ignition and turn key clockwise to "START" position and

release key as soon as engine starts. Do not run starter continuously for

more than fifteen seconds 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, depend- ing on the temperature.

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

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 perfor- mance. See "TO ADJUST CARBURE-

TOR" in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

MOWING TIPS

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

• Mower should be properly leveled for best mowing performance. See "TO

LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the Service and Adjustments section of

this manual.

• The left hand side of mower should be used for trimming.

• Drive so that clippings are discharged onto the area that has been cut. Have

the cut area to the right of the tractor. This will result in a more even distribu-

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 finished.

• If grass is extremely tail, it should be mowed twice to reduce load and

possible fire hazard from dried clippings. Make first cut relatively high; the second to the desired height.

• Do not mow grass when it is wet. Wet

grass will plug mower and leave undesirable clumps. Allow grass to dry before mowing.

• Always operate engine at full throttle when mowing to assure better mowing

performance and proper discharge of material. Regulate ground speed by selecting a low enough gear to give

the mower cutting performance as well

as the quality of cut desired.

• When operating attachments, select a

ground speed that will suit the terrain and give best performance of the attachment being used.

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