Poulan 271491 User Manual

MODEL NO. 271491

14.5 HP 38 INCH
LAWN TRACTOR

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Ser vice and Adjustments

• Troubleshooting

• Repair Parts

For Parts and Service, contact our authorized distributor:

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

182989 Rev. 1 7.30.02 RD

PRINTED IN U.S.A.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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

Product Specifi cations........................... 5

Assembly/Pre-Operation ....................... 7

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

I. GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow all instruc­tions in the manual and on the machine
before starting.

• Only allow responsible adults, who are
familiar with the in struc tions, to operate
the machine.

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

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

• Never carry passengers.

• Do not mow in reverse unless ab so ­lute ly necessary. Always look down and
behind before and while back ing.

• Be aware of the mower discharge direc­tion and do not point it at anyone. Do
not operate the mower without either
the entire grass catcher or the guard in
place.

• Slow down before turning.

• Never leave a running machine un at ­tend ed. 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
build-up to occur. Clean any oil or fuel
spillage before operating or storing the
machine . Allow machine to cool before
storage.

II. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to 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.

• 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

gradual

and
changes in speed or direction.

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

DO NOT:

Do not

•

sary, and then, turn slowly and grad­ u al ly downhill, if possible.

. Do not make sudden

straight

turn on slopes unless nec es -

slow

2

•

Do not

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

traction could cause sliding.

Do not

•
putting your foot on the ground.

Do not

•
slopes.

mow near drop-offs, ditches,

mow on wet grass. Reduced

try to stabilize the machine by

use grass catcher on steep

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-

Never

chine and the mowing activity.
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

down

and

• 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.

for small children.

as-

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.

• 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.

3

SAFETY RULES

• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If
tires lose traction, dis en gage 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.

Look for this symbol to point out
im por tant safety precautions. It means
CAU TION!!! BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR
SAFE TY IS INVOLVED.

CAUTION: 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.

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

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 duc­tive 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.

CAUTION: Tow only the attachments

4

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Gasoline 1.25
Capacity and Unleaded and
Type: Regular

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

Oil Capacity: 3 Pints
Spark Plug: Champion RC12YC

(Gap: .030")
Ground Speed (MPH):

Forward: 1st 1.1
2nd 2.2
3rd 3.4
4th 4.3
5th 5.5
Reverse: 1.7

Tire Pressure: Front: 14 PSI
Rear: 12 PSI

Charging 3 Amps Battery
System: 5 Amps Headlights

Battery: Amp/Hr: 28
Min. CCA: 230
Case Size: U1R

Blade Bolt Torque: 27-35 Ft. Lbs.

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).

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. We
have competent, well-trained 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”.

5

UNASSEMBLED PARTS

Steering Wheel

Steering

Wheel Insert

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

Steering Wheel

Adapter

(1) Hex nut 1/2-20

(1) Locknut

1/4-28

Seat

(1) Washer

17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge

(1) Large Flat Washer

Steering
Extension

Steering

Boot

Shaft

(1) Oil Drain Tube
For Future Use

Keys

(1)Knob

Slope Sheet

(2) Keys

6

02

599

ASSEMBLY/PRE-OPERATION

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, from top to bottom, along lines
on all four corners of carton, and lay
panels fl at.

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

BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR
FROM SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL

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

8. Remove protective materials from trac­ tor hood and grill.

IMPORTANT: Check for and remove any
staples in skid that may puncture tires
where tractor is to roll off skid.

1/2 Hex Nut

Insert

Steering
Wheel

Adapter

1/4 Locknut

Large Flat
Washer

Steering
Boot

Tabs

Extension
Shaft

1/4 Hex
Bolt

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND
BOOT

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

IMPORTANT: Tighten bolt and nut se­curely to 10-12 ft. lbs torque.

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

INSTALL STEERING WHEEL

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

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

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

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

Lower
Steering
Shaft

Ta b
Slots

CHECK BATTERY

1. Lift seat pan 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).

7

Seat pan

Label

Terminal

Terminal

02602

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 shoul der
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

02466

Flat Washer

Shoulder
Bolt

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
at tach ment lift lever to its highest po­ si tion.

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

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

4. Roll tractor forward off skid.

5. Remove banding holding defl ector
shield guard up against tractor.

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

WARNING: Before starting, read, un-

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

1. Be sure all the above assembly steps

have been com plet ed.

2. Check engine oil level and fi ll fuel tank

with gasoline.

3. Sit on seat in operating position,

depress clutch/brake pedal and set the
parking brake.

4. Place gear shift lever in neutral (N)

position.

5. Press lift lever plunger and raise

at tach ment lift lever to its highest posi­tion.

6. Start the engine. After engine has

started, move throttle control to idle
position.

7. Depress clutch/brake pedal into full

"BRAKE" position and hold. Move
gearshift lever to 1st gear.

8. Slowly release clutch/brake pedal and

slowly drive tractor off skid.

9. Apply brake to stop tractor, set park-

ing brake and place gearshift lever in
neutral position.

10.Turn ignition key to "STOP" position.

Continue with the instructions that follow.

Adjustment
Knob

02464

NOTE: You may now roll or drive your
tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate
instruction below to remove the tractor
from the skid.

8

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

The tires on your tractor were over in ­fl ated at the factory for shipping pur pos es.
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 FOR PROPER POSITION
OF ALL BELTS

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

CHECK 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 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 assure that you receive the best
per for mance and sat is fac tion from this
Quality Prod uct.
Please review the following checklist:
✓ All assembly instructions have been

completed.

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

charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps).

✓ Seat is adjusted comfortably and tight-

ened securely.

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

ping purposes, the tires were overin­fl ated at the factory).

✓ Be sure mower deck is properly leveled

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

✓ Check mower and drive belts. Be sure

they are routed properly around pulleys
and inside all belt keepers.

✓ Check wiring. See that all con nec tions

are still secure and wires are properly

clamped.
While learning how to use your tractor, pay
extra attention to the following important
items:

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

lar unleaded gasoline.
✓ Become familiar with all controls, their

location and function. Operate them

before you start the engine.
✓ Be sure brake system is in safe operat-

ing condition.

9

OPERATION

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

BATTERY CAUTION OR

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE

FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH ENGAGED

WARNING

REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW

REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW

LIGHTS ON

PARKING BRAKE

LOCKED

OVER TEMP

LIGHT

UNLOCKED

PARKING BRAKE

15

MOWER LIFT

P

15

ATTACHMENT

IGNITION

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

FREE WHEEL

(Automatic Models only)

10

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.

Attachment
Clutch Lever

Throttle/Choke
Control

Clutch/Brake
Pedal

Ignition Switch

Light Switch Position

Lift Lever
Plunger

Attachment
Lift Lever

Height
Adjustment
Indicator

Gearshift Lever

Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the

American National Stan dards Institute.

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER - 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.
CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL - Used for
declutching and brak ing the tractor and
starting the engine.
GEARSHIFT LEVER - Selects the speed
and direction of tractor.

Parking Brake Lever

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.
PARKING BRAKE LEVER - Locks
clutch/brake pedal into the brake po si tion.
THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL - Used
for starting and controlling engine speed.

11

The op er a tion of any trac tor can result in foreign objects thrown into the
eyes, which can result in severe eye dam age. Al ways wear safety glass es
or eye shields while op er at ing your trac tor or per form ing any ad just ments

00155

or repairs. We rec om mend a wide vi sion safe ty mask over spec ta cles or
stan dard safety glass es.

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.

Throttle/Choke
Control

Clutch/
Brake Pedal

01995

“Brake”
Position

“Disengaged”
Position

Attachment Clutch

Lever “Engaged”

Position

Ignition Key

“Disengaged”
Position

Parking
Brake
“Engaged”
Position

Gearshift
Lever

STOPPING

MOWER BLADES -

• To stop mower blades, move at-

tach ment clutch lever to disengaged
po si tion.

GROUND DRIVE -

• To stop ground drive, depress clutch/

brake pedal all the way down.

• Move gearshift lever to neutral (N)

po si tion.

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
“backfi re”.

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

• Never use choke to stop engine.

IMPORTANT: Leaving the ignition switch
in any position other than "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 eliminate
this possibility, always stop engine when
stopping tractor on grass areas.

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

TO 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 MOVE FORWARD AND
BACKWARD

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

1. Start tractor with clutch/brake pedal

depressed and gearshift lever in neu­tral (N) position.

2. Move gearshift lever to desired po-

si tion.

3. Slowly release clutch/brake pedal to

start movement.
IMPORTANT: Bring tractor to a complete
stop before shifting or changing gears.
Failure to do so will shorten the useful life
of your transaxle.

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT

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 ap prox i­ mate ly 1-1/2 to 4". The heights are mea-

12

sured 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 ap­ prox i mate ly 2-1/2 inches during the cool
season and to over 3 inches during hot
months. For healthier and better looking
lawns, mow often and after moderate
growth.

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

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.

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

Attachemnt
Lift Lever
High Position

Low
Position

“Disengaged”
Position

01931

Defl ector
Shield

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

CAUTION: Do not drive up or down

hills with slopes great er than 15° and do
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.

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

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

• Make all turns slowly.

TO TRANSPORT

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

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

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

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

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 “OIL
VISCOSITY CHART” in the Main te ­nance sec tion of this man u al).

• To change engine oil, see the Main te ­nance section in this manual.

13

ADD GASOLINE

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

CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or
fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline
near an open fl ame.
IMPORTANT: When operating in temper­atures below32°F(0°C), use fresh, clean
winter grade gas o line to help insure good
cold weather start ing.

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

TO START ENGINE

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

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

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

4. Move throttle control to choke po si tion.

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

5. Insert key into ignition and turn key
clockwise to start position and release
key as soon as engine starts. Do
not run starter continuously for more
than fi fteen sec onds per minute. If the
engine does not start after several
attempts, move throt tle 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)

6. When engine starts, move the throt tle
control to the fast position.

• 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)

6. When engine starts, leave throttle
control in choke position until engine
warms up and begins to run roughly.
Once rough running begins, im me ­di ate ly move the throttle control to the
fast position. Engine warm-up may
take from several seconds to several
minutes (the colder the tem per a ture,
the longer the warm-up).

• The attachments can also be used dur-

ing 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 performance
(see “TO ADJUST CARBURETOR” in the
Service and Adjustments section of this
manual).

14

MOWING TIPS

00272

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

• 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.

15

MAINTENANCE

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.

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

maint_sch-tractore.new1

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.
All adjustments in the Service and Adjust­ments section of this manual should be
checked at least once each season.

• Once a year you should replace the
spark plug, clean or replace air 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.

LUBRICATION CHART

➀ Spindle

Zerk

➀Front Wheel

Bearing
Zerk

01964

➀GENERAL PURPOSE GREASE
➁REFER 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.

➀ Spindle

Zerk

Front Wheel

➀

Bearing Zerk

➁Engine

16

0

1

2

1

4

01202

TRACTOR

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 al-

low access to blades.

2. Remove blade bolt, lock washer and

fl at washer securing blade.

3. Install new or resharpened blade

with trailing edge up towards deck as

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

4. Reassemble blade bolt, lock washer
and fl at washer in exact order as
shown.

5. Tighten blade bolt securely (27-35 Ft.
Lbs. torque).

IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heat
treated.

TO SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend sharp-

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

Trailing
Edge Up

Lock Washer

Blade Bolt
(Grade)*

*A Grade 8 heat treated bolt can be identifi ed by six
lines on the bolt head.

Center
Hole

Flat Washer

Mandrel
Assembly

Star

Blade

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.

5/8” Bolt or Pin

Center Hole

Blade

BATTERY

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

• Keep battery and terminals clean.

• Keep battery bolts tight.

• Keep small vent holes open.

• Recharge at 6-10 amperes for 1 hour.

17

NOTE: The original equipment battery on
your tractor is maintenance free. Do not
attempt to open or remove caps or cov ers.
Adding or checking level of elec tro lyte is
not necessary.

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

terminals can cause the battery to “leak”
power.

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

2. Rinse the battery with plain water and
dry.

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

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

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

TRANSAXLE COOLING

Keep transaxle free from build-up of dirt
and chaff which can restrict cooling.

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 tempera­ture.

SAE VISCOSITY GRADES

5W-30

-20 0 30 40

F

C

-20 0

-30

TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE

32

-10

NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils
(5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve starting in
cold weather, these multi-viscosity oils will
result in increased oil consumption when
used above 32°F. Check your engine oil
level more frequently to avoid possible
engine damage from running low on oil.
Change the oil after every 25 hours of op­eration or at least once a year if the tractor
is not used for 25 hours in one year.

SAE 30

60

10

100

80

20 30 40

oil_visc_chart1_e

Check the crankcase oil level before start­ing 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

63

4

2

0

Locked
Position

Drain

Yellow Cap

Tube

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.

CLEAN AIR SCREEN

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.

18

00667

AIR FILTER

Your en gine will not run prop er ly us ing a
dirty air fi l ter. Clean the foam pre-clean er
af ter ev ery 25 hours of op er a tion or ev ery
sea son. Ser vice pa per cartridge every
100 hours of operation or every season,
whichever occurs fi rst.
Service air cleaner more often under dusty
conditions.

1. Remove knob(s) and cover.
TO SERVICE PRE-CLEANER

2. Slide foam pre-cleaner off cartridge.

3. Wash it in liquid detergent and water.

4. Squeeze it dry in a clean cloth.

5. Saturate it in engine oil. Wrap it in
clean, absorbent cloth and squeeze to
remove excess oil.

NOTE: If very dirty or damaged, replace
pre-cleaner.

6. Reinstall pre-cleaner over cartridge.

7. Reinstall cover and secure with
knob(s).

TO SERVICE CARTRIDGE

1. Remove cartridge nut.

2. Carefully remove cartridge to pre vent
debris from en ter ing carburetor. Clean
base carefully to prevent de bris from
entering carburetor.

3. Clean cartridge by tap ping gen tly on
fl at surface.

NOTE: If very dirty or damaged, replace
cartridge.

4. Re in stall cartridge, nut, precleaner,
cover and secure with knob(s).

IMPORTANT: Petroleum solvents, such
as kerosene, are not to be used to clean
the cartridge. They may cause de te ri o ­ra tion of the cartridge. Do not oil cartridge.
Do not use pressurized air to clean or dry
cartridge.

Cover
Knob

Cover

Car tridge Nut

2. Cover oil fi ll opening to prevent entry of
dirt.

3. Use compressed air or stiff bristle
brush to thoroughly clean engine cool­ing fi ns.

4. To reassemble, reverse above pro­ ce dure.

Blower Housing

Screws

Dipstick Tube
Assembly

Engine
Cooling Fins

Air Screen

Screws

Spark
Plug

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.

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

1038

0

Paper
Cartridge

Foam Pre­Cleaner

Base

ENGINE COOLING FINS

Remove any dust, dirt or oil from engine
cooling fi ns to prevent engine damage
from overheating.

1. Remove screws from blower hous ing
and lift housing and dipstick tube as­sembly off engine.

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 to clean your tractor unless the
electrical system, muffl er, air fi lter and
car bu re tor are covered to keep water out.
Water in engine can result in a short ened
engine life.

19

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS

WARNING: TO AVIOD SERIOUS INJURY, BEFORE PERFORMING ANY SER­ VICE OR AD JUST MENTS:

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

2. Place gearshift 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

Mower will be easier to remove from the
right side of tractor.

1. Place attachment clutch in “DIS EN­GAGED” position.

2. Move attachment lift lever forward to
low er mower to its lowest po si tion.

3. Roll belt off engine pulley.

4. Remove small retainer spring, and lift
clutch spring off pulley bolt.

5. Remove large retainer spring, slide
col lar off and push housing guide out
of brack et.

6. Disconnect anti-sway bar from chas sis
bracket by re mov ing re tain er spring.

7. Disconnect suspension arms from rear
deck brackets by removing re tain er
springs.

8. Disconnect front links from deck by
re mov ing retainer springs.

9. Raise lift lever to raise suspension
arms. Slide mower out from under trac­tor.

IMPORTANT: If an attachment oth er than
the mower deck is to be mounted on the
trac tor, remove the front links and hook
the clutch spring Into square hole in frame.

TO INSTALL MOWER

1. Raise attachment lift lever to its high est
position.

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

3. Lower lift lever to its lowest po si tion.

4. Connect front links to mower deck and
secure with retainer springs.

5. Connect suspension arms to rear
deck brackets and secure with retainer
springs.

6. Connect anti-sway bar to chassis
bracket and secure with retainer spring.

7. Push clutch cable housing guide into
bracket, slide collar onto guide and
secure with large retainer spring.

8. Install belt onto engine pulley.

Clutch Spring

Retainer Spring

Anti-Sway Bar

Collar

Housing
Guide

Small Retainer
Spring

Large
Re tain er
Spring

Suspension
Arms

38

42

02373

Bracket

20

Square Hole

Engine
Pulley

Front Link

Retainer Springs
(Both Sides)

Defl ector
Shield

01156

01267

01268

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
man u al). If tires are over or underinfl ated,
you will not properly adjust your mower.

SIDE-TO-SIDE ADJUSTMENT

• Raise mower to its highest position.

• At the midpoint of both sides of mower,
measure height from bot tom edge of
mower to ground. Distance “A” on both
sides of mower should be the same or
within 1/4" of each other.

• If adjustment is necessary, make adjust­ment 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 1/8".

• Recheck measurements after ad just ing.

• Before making any necessary ad just ­ments, check that both front 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 mower loosen nut “E”
on both front links an equal number of
turns.

• When distance “D” is 1/8" to 1/2"
lower at front than rear, tighten nuts “F”
against trunnion on both front links.

• To raise front of mower, loos en nut “F”
from trunnion on both front links. Tighten
nut “E” on both front links an equal num­ber of turns. The two front links must
remain equal in length.

• When distance “D” is 1/8" to 1/2" lower
at front than rear, tighten nut “F” against
trun nion on both front links.

• Recheck side-to-side ad just ment.

Mandrel

Bottom edge of
mower to ground

00598

Ground Line

Suspension Arm

Lift Link Adjustment Nut

Bottom edge of
mower to ground

AA

01553

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

side. If the following front-to-back adjust­ment is necessary, be sure to adjust both
front links equally so mower will stay level
side-to-side.
To obtain the best cutting results, the
mower housing should be adjusted so
that the front is approximately 1/8" to 1/2"
lower than the rear when the mower is in
its highest position.
Check adjustment on right side of trac tor.
Measure dis tance “D” directly in front and
behind the mandrel at bottom edge of
mower housing as shown.

“D”

Both Front Links Should be Equal in Length

Nut “F”

Trunnion

Front Links

“D”

TO REPLACE MOWER BLADE DRIVE
BELT

The mower blade drive belt may be re­placed without tools. Park the tractor on
level surface. Engage parking brake.

BELT REMOVAL -

1. Place attachment clutch in “DIS EN -

GAGED” po si tion.

2. Move at tach ment lift lever forward to

lower mower to its lowest position.

21

Nut “E”

3. Roll belt off engine pulley.

00811

1-1/2"

00238

4. Disconnect R.H. suspension arm from
rear deck brack et by removing retainer
spring.

5. Work belt off both mandrel pulleys and
idler pulleys.

6. Pull belt away from mower.

BELT INSTALLATION -

1. Work new belt around both mandrel
pulleys and idler pulleys.

2. Install new belt into engine pulley
grove.

3. Reconnect R.H. suspension arm and
secure with retainer spring.

4. Make sure belt is in all pulley grooves
and inside all belt guides.

With Parking Brake “Engaged”

Nut “A”

Jam Nut

Operating
Arm

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.

R.H. Suspension

Arm
Mandrel
Pulley

38

42

Retainer
Spring

02373

Mandrel
Pulley

TO 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 six (6) feet
stopping distance at high speed in high­ est gear on a level dry concrete or paved
surface, then brake must be ad just ed.

1. Depress clutch/brake pedal and en­ gage parking brake.

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

3. If distance is other than 1-1/2", loos en
jam nut and turn nut “A” until dis tance
becomes 1-1/2". Retighten jam nut
against nut “A”.

4. Road test tractor for proper stopping
distance as stated above. Readjust if
necessary. If stopping distance is still
greater than six (6) feet in high est gear,
further maintenance is nec es sary.
Contact an authorized service center/
department.

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. Remove belt from stationary idler and
clutching idler.

3. Remove belt downward from around
en gine pulley.

4. Pull belt slack toward rear of trac tor.
Remove belt upwards from transaxle
pulley by de fl ect ing belt keepers.

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

BELT INSTALLATION -

1. Carefully work new belt down be tween
transaxle belt keepers and onto the
input pulley.

2. Slide belt into the center span keeper.

3. Pull belt toward front of tractor and roll
around the top groove of engine pulley.

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

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

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

Engine
Pulley

Clutching
Idler

Stationary
Idler

Center Span
Keeper

Transaxle
Pulley

22

TO AD JUST STEER ING WHEEL ALIGN-

02614

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 your nearest authorized
service center/de part ment.

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, tire sealant
may be purchased from your local parts
dealer. Tire sealant also pre vents tire dry
rot and corrosion.

Washers

Retaining
Ring

Axle
Cover

663

00

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.

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.

Weak or Dead
Battery

Fully Charged
Battery

REPLACING BATTERY

WARNING: Do not short bat tery

ter mi nals by al low ing a wrench or any
other object to contact both terminals at
the same time. Before con nect ing battery,
remove metal bracelets, wrist watch bands,
rings, etc.
Positive terminal must be connected
fi rst to prevent spark ing from ac ci den tal
grounding.

1. Lift seat pan to raised position.

2. Disconnect BLACK battery cable fi rst
then RED battery cable and carefully
remove battery from trac tor.

3. Install new battery with terminals in
same position as old battery.

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

5. Connect BLACK grounding cable to
negative (-) ter mi nal with remaining
hex bolt and keps nut. Tighten se cure ly.

23

Seat Pan

01041

02602

Terminal Cover

Positive
(Red)
Cable

02603

Keps Nut

Hex
Bolt

Negative
(Black) Cable

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

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

TO REMOVE HOOD AND GRILL AS­SEMBLY

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.

Hood

Headlight
Wire
Connector

ENGINE

TO AD JUST THROTTLE CON TROL
CABLE

The throttle control has been preset at the
factory and ad just ment should not be nec­essary. Check adjustment as described
below before loosening cable. If adjust­ment is necessary, proceed as follows:

1. With engine not running, move throt tle
control lever from slow to choke posi­tion. Slowly move lever from choke to
fast position.

2. Check that holes “A” in governor con­trol lever and hole in governor plate
line-up. If holes “A” are not aligned,
loosen clamp screw and move throttle
cable until holes are aligned. Tighten
clamp screw securely.

Holes “A”

Governor Control
Lever

Clamp
Screw

Governor Control
Plate

Throttle
Cable

TO AD JUST CARBURETOR

The carburetor has been preset at the
factory and ad just ment should not be nec­essary. However, minor ad just ment may
be required to compensate for dif fer enc es
in fuel, temperature, altitude or load. If
the carburetor does need ad just ment, see
engine manual.
High speed stop is factory adjusted. Do
not adjust - damage may result.
IMPORTANT: Never tamper with the
engine governor, which is factory set
for proper engine speed. Overspeeding
the engine above the factory high speed
setting can be dangerous. If you think
the engine-governed high speed needs
adjusting, contact an authorized service
center/department, which has proper
equip ment and experience to make any
nec es sary adjustments.

01536

24

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.

CAUTION: 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.

1. Drain the fuel tank.

2. Start the engine and let 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 drain 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 pro-

tective 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.

25

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION

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

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

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

• Bad spark plug. • Replace spark plug.

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

• Dirty fuel fi lter. • Replace fuel fi lter.

• Water in fuel. • Drain fuel tank and
carburetor, refi ll tank with
fresh gasoline and replace
fuel fi lter.

• Loose or damaged wiring. • Check all wiring.

• Carburetor out of adjustment. • See “To Adjust Car bu re tor”
in Service Ad just ments
section.

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

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

• Bad spark plug. • Replace spark plug.

• Weak or dead battery. • Recharge or replace
battery.

• Dirty fuel fi lter. • Replace fuel fi lter.

• Stale or dirty fuel. • Drain fuel tank and refi ll
with fresh gasoline.

• Loose or damaged wiring. • Check all wiring.

• Carburetor out of adjustment. • See “To Adjust Car bu re tor”
in Service Ad just ments
section.

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

Engine will not • Clutch/brake pedal not • Depress clutch/brake
turn over depressed. pedal.

• Attachment clutch is • Disengage at tach ment
engaged. clutch.

• Weak or dead battery. • Recharge or replace
battery.

• Blown fuse. • Replace fuse.

• Corroded battery terminals. • Clean battery terminals.

• Loose or damaged wiring. • Check/replace ignition
switch.

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

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

Engine clicks but • Weak or dead battery. • Recharge or replace battery.
will not start • Corroded battery terminals. • Clean battery terminals.

• Loose or damaged wiring. • Check all wiring.

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

26

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION

Loss of power • Cutting too much grass/too • Set in “Higher Cut” position/

fast. reduce speed.

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

• Build-up of grass, leaves • Clean un der side of mower
and trash under mower. housing.

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

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

• Faulty spark plug. • Clean and regap or change
spark plug.

• Dirty fuel fi lter. • Replace fuel fi lter.

• Stale or dirty fuel. • Drain fuel tank and refi ll with
fresh gasoline.

• Water in fuel. • Drain fuel tank and carbure­ tor, refi ll tank with fresh
gasoline and replace fuel
fi lter.

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

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

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

• Loose or damaged wiring. • Check all wiring.

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

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

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

• Bent blade mandrel. • Replace blade mandrel.

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

Engine continues • Faulty operator-safety • Check wiring, switches and
to run pres ence control system. connections. If not corrected,
when operator contact an authorized
leaves seat with service center/department.
with attachment
clutch engaged

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

blade bolt.

• Mower deck not level. • Level mower deck.

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

• Bent blade mandrel. • Replace blade mandrel.

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

27

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION

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

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

• Frozen idler pulley. • Replace idler pulley.

• Frozen blade mandrel. • Replace blade mandrel.

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

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

• Wet grass. • Allow grass to dry before
mowing.

• Mower deck not level. • Level mower deck.

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

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

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

• Mower drive belt worn. • Replace mower drive belt.

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

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

• Clogged mower deck vent • Clean around mandrels 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. Bulb(s) or lamp(s) burned out. 2. Replace bulb(s) or lamp(s).
(if so equipped) 3. Faulty light switch. 3. Check/replace light switch.

4. Loose or damaged wiring. 4. Check wiring and connec
tions.

5. Blown fuse. 5. Replace fuse.

Battery will not • Bad battery cell(s). • Replace battery.
charge • Poor cable connections. • Check/clean all connec-

tions.

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

• Faulty alternator. • Replace alternator.

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

stopping engine. stopping engine.

28

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 one (1) year 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 work man ship.
This Warranty is subject to the following limitations and exclusions.

1. This warranty does not apply to the engine, other than EHP manufactured
transaxle/trans mis sion components, battery (except as noted below) or com po ­nents parts thereof. Please refer to the applicable manufacturer's war ran ty 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 man u fac ture, 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 main tained in accordance
with the instructions furnished.

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

5. This Warranty applies only to products which have been properly as sem bled,
adjusted, op er at ed, and maintained in ac cor dance with the in struc tions fur­nished. This Warranty does not apply to any product which has been subjected
to alteration, misuse, abuse, improper as sem bly or in stal la tion, delivery damage,
or to normal wear of the product.

6. Exclusions: Excluded from this Warranty are belts, blades, blade adapters, nor­mal wear, nor mal adjustments, stan dard hardware and normal main te nance.

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
a division of WCI Outdoor Products, Inc.
Outdoor Products Customer Service Dept.
250 Bobby Jones Expressway
Augusta, GA 30909 USA

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 pur chased.
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 Mag­nuson-Moss Act of 1975.

In Canada contact:
Electrolux Home Products
a division of WCI Outdoor Products, Inc
7075 Ordan Drive
Mississauga, Ontario
L5T 1K6

46

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

47