Poulan 966681801, 461ZX User Manual

Operator Manual
461ZX / 966681801
Form Number 115 394327 Rev B 2011-09-15
541ZX / 966681901
Please read the operator’s manual carefully and make sure you
Gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol (E10) is acceptable for
use in this machine. The use of any gasoline exceeding 10%
ethanol (E10) will void the product warranty.
To implement improvements, specifications and designs can be altered without prior notification.
Note that no legal demands can be placed based on the information contained in these instructions.
Use only original parts for repairs. The use of other parts voids the warranty.
Do not modify or install non-standard equipment to the unit without consent from the manufacturer. Modifications to the unit may cause unsafe operations or damage the unit.
When this product is worn out and no longer used, it should be returned to the reseller or other party for recycling.
©2011 HTC. All rights reserved.
Orangeburg, SC. Printed in U.S.A.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION .................................................................5
Driving and Transport on Public Roads .........................5
Towing ............................................................................ 5
Operating .......................................................................5
Good Service ................................................................. 6
Manufacturing Number .................................................. 6
SYMBOLS AND DECALS ...................................................7
SAFETY ...............................................................................9
Safety Instructions .........................................................9
Personal Safety Equipment .......................................... 11
Slope Operation ........................................................... 11
Safe Handling of Gasoline ........................................... 13
General Maintenance ..................................................14
Transport ...................................................................... 16
Towing .......................................................................... 16
Spark Arrestor .............................................................. 16
CONTROLS ......................................................................17
Control Locations .........................................................17
Motion Control Levers .................................................. 18
Parking Brake ..............................................................19
Throttle Control ............................................................. 19
Blade Switch ................................................................ 19
Ignition Switch .............................................................. 20
Choke Control .............................................................. 20
Hour Meter ................................................................... 20
Fuel Tank ...................................................................... 21
Fuses ...........................................................................22
Cutting Height Adjuster ...............................................22
Fuel Shut Off Valve ....................................................... 22
Seat Adjustment Lever ................................................. 23
Bypass Linkages .........................................................23
OPERATION .....................................................................24
Training ........................................................................24
Steering ........................................................................ 24
Before Starting ............................................................. 25
Starting the Engine ......................................................25
Weak Battery ................................................................ 28
Running ........................................................................ 29
Operating On Hills ....................................................... 30
Mowing Tips ................................................................. 31
Stopping the Engine .................................................... 32
Moving Machine By Hand ...........................................33
MAINTENANCE ................................................................ 34
Maintenance Schedule ................................................ 34
Battery .......................................................................... 36
Safety System .............................................................. 37
Parking Brake ..............................................................37
Anti-scalp Rollers ......................................................... 38
Caster Wheels .............................................................. 38
Deck Belt .....................................................................39
Cutting Blades ............................................................. 40
Blade replacement ................................................ 40
Adjusting the Mower Deck ........................................... 41
Deck Leveling .......................................................41
Tire Pressures .............................................................. 42
Cleaning ....................................................................... 42
Hardware ..................................................................... 42
LUBRICATION .................................................................. 43
Wheel and Deck Zerks ................................................44
Front Wheel Mount ................................................44
Front Wheel Bearings ............................................ 44
Deck Spindles .............................................................. 44
TROUBLE SHOOTING .....................................................45
Winter Storage ............................................................. 47
Service ......................................................................... 47
SCHEMATIC .....................................................................48
TECHNICAL DATA ............................................................ 49
Torque Specifications...................................................49
CONFORMITY CERTIFICATES ......................................... 52
SERVICE JOURNAL .........................................................53
WARNING!
Failure to follow cautious operating practices can result in serious injury to the operator or other persons. The owner must understand these instructions, and must allow only trained persons who understand these instructions to operate the mower.
Each person operating the mower must be of sound mind and body and must not be under the influence of any mind altering substance.
WARNING!
Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
WARNING!
Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.

INTRODUCTION

Congratulations
Thank you for purchasing a PoulanPRO ride-on mower. This machine is built for superior efficiency to rapidly mow primarily large areas. A control panel easily accessible to the operator and a hydrostatic transmission regulated by steering controls both contribute to the machine’s performance.
This manual is a valuable document. Read the contents carefully before using or servicing the machine. The following of instructions (use, service, maintenance, etc.) by all who operate this machine is important for the safety of the operator and others. It can also considerably increase the life span of the machine and increase its resale value.
If you sell your machine, be sure to give the operator’s manual to the new owner.
The final chapter of this operator’s manual provides a Service Journal. Ensure that service and repair work are documented. A well-kept service journal reduces service costs for the maintenance and affects the machine’s resale value. Please contact your dealer for more information. Take the operator’s manual along when the machine is taken to your dealer for service.
General
In this operator’s manual, left and right, backward and forward are used in relation to the machine’s normal driving direction.
Continuous dedication to improve our products require that specifications and design are subject to change without notice.

Driving and Transport on Public Roads

Check applicable road traffic regulations before transporting on public roads. If the machine is transported, you must always use approved fastening equipment and ensure that the machine is well anchored. DO NOT operate this machine on public roadways.

Towing

If machine is equipped with a tow hitch, use extreme caution when towing. Never allow children or others in or on the towed equipment. Make wide turns to avoid jack-knifing. Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop.
Do not tow on sloped ground. The weight of the towed equipment may cause loss of traction and loss of control.
Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for weight limits for towed equipment. Do not tow near ditches, canals, and other hazards.

Operating

This machine is constructed only for mowing grass on lawns and even ground without obstacles such as stones, tree stumps, etc. The machine can also be used for other tasks when equipped with special accessories provided by the manufacturer. Operating instructions for the accessories are provided with delivery. All other types of uses are incorrect. The manufacturer’s directions concerning operation, maintenance, and repairs must be carefully followed.
Lawn mowers and all power equipment, can be potentially dangerous if used improperly. Safety requires good judgement, careful use in accordance with these instructions and common sense.
The machine must only be operated, maintained, and repaired by persons familiar with the machine’s special characteristics and who are also knowledgeable about the safety instructions. Use only approved repair parts to maintain this machine.
Accident prevention regulations, other general safety regulations, occupational safety rules, and traffic regulations must be followed without fail.
Unauthorized modifications to the design of the machine may absolve the manufacturer from liability for any resulting personal injury or property damage.
5
INTRODUCTION

Good Service

PoulanPRO's products are sold only in specialized retail stores with complete service. This ensures that you as a customer receive only the best support and service. Before the product is delivered, the machine has, for example, been inspected and adjusted by your retailer. See the certificate in the Service Journal in this operator’s manual.
When you need spare parts or support in service questions, warranty issues, etc., please consult the following professional:
This Operator Manual belongs to the machine with the manufacturing number:

Manufacturing Number

The machine’s manufacturing number can be found on the printed plate affixed to the engine compartment.
Stated on the plate, from the top are:
The machine’s type designation (I.D.).
The manufacturer’s type number (Model).
The machine’s serial number (Serial no.)
Please have the type designation and serial number available when ordering spare parts.
The engine’s manufacturing number is stamped on one of the valve covers.
The plate states:
The engine’s model.
The engine’s type.
Code
Please have these available when ordering spare parts.
The wheel motors and hydrostatic pumps have a barcode decal affixed at the rear.
Engine Transmission
6

SYMBOLS AND DECALS

These symbols are found on the machine and in the operator’s manual.
Study them carefully so that you know what they mean.
WARNING!
Xxxx xxxxxx xxxxx xxxx xxxxxxxxx xxxxxx xxxxxxxxx. xx xxxxxxxx xxxx xxxxxx.
Used in this publication to notify the reader of a risk of personal injury or death, particularly if the reader should neglect to follow instructions given in the manual.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Xxxx xxxxxx xxxxx xxxx xxxxxxxxx xxxxxx xxxxxxxxx. xx xxxxxxxx xxxx xxxxxx.
Used in this publication to notify the reader of a risk of material damage, particularly if the reader should neglect to follow instructions given in the manual. Used also when there is a potential for misuse or misassembly.
R N
Reverse Neutral Fast Slow Choke Fuel
Warning! Parking Brake CE conformity
marking. Only for European market
Use protective glasses
Noise emissions to the surroundings in accordance with the European Union’s directive. The machine’s emission is stated in the chapter TECHNICAL DATA and on the decals.
Only machines for European market
Use protective gloves
Do not stand here
Electromagnetic
Compatibility (EMC)
Compliance
Australia and
New Zealand only
7
Read Operator’s
Manual
SYMBOLS AND DECALS
Shut off engine and
remove key before
performing any
maintenance or repair
work
Keep a safe
distance from the
machine
Use on slopes no
greater than 10° No passengers
Whole body exposure to
thrown objects
Moving sharp blades under cover
Severing of fingers
and toes
Do not open or
remove safety
shields while
engine is running
Battery acid is corrosive, explosive and flammable
Careful backing up,
watch for other
people
Warning! Rotating blades,
keep away from the
discharge deck
Careful going
forward, watch for
other people
Do not touch parts
8

Safety Instructions

These instructions are for your safety. Read them carefully.

SAFETY

WARNING!
THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE 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 on the machine and in the manual before starting.
It is recommended that someone be aware that you are mowing and can provide help in case of injury or accident.
Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the machine. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times.
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 blades.
Be sure the area is clear of bystanders before operating. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.
Never carry passengers. The machine is only intended for use by one person.
Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing.
Never direct discharged material toward anyone. Avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction. Material may ricochet back toward the operator. Stop the blades when crossing gravel surfaces.
Do not operate machine without the entire grass catcher, discharge guard, or other safety devices in place and working
Slow down before turning.
Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn off blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and remove keys before dismounting.
WARNING!
This symbol means that important safety instructions need to be emphasized. It concerns your safety.
8011-512
Read the operator’s manual before starting the machine
Clear the area of objects before mowing
8011-513
9
SAFETY
Disengage blades when not mowing. Shut off engine and wait for all parts to come to a complete stop before cleaning the machine, removing the grass catcher, or unclogging the discharge guard.
Operate machine 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.
Always wear eye protection when operating machine.
Wear proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) while operating this machine, including (at a minimum) sturdy footwear, eye protection, and hearing protection. Do not mow in shorts and/or footwear with open toes.
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.
Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for wheel weights or counterweights.
Anyone who operates this machine must first read and understand this Operation Manual. Local laws may regulate the age of the user.
Keep machine free of grass, leaves or other debris buildup which can touch the hot exhaust or engine parts and burn. Do not allow the mower deck to plow leaves or other debris, causing buildup to occur.
Clean any oil or fuel spillage before operating or storing the machine.
Allow machine to cool before storage.
8011-520
Never take passengers
WARNING!
Engine exhaust and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals considered to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive system damage. The engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, which is a odorless, colorless, poisonous gas. Do not use the machine in enclosed spaces.
10
SAFETY

Personal Safety Equipment

WARNING!
When using the machine, approved personal protective equipment (shown in illustrations) shall be used. Personal protective equipment cannot eliminate the risk of injury but it will reduce the degree of injury if an accident does happen. Ask your retailer for help in choosing the right equipment.
Make sure that you have first aid equipment close at hand when using the machine.
Never use the machine when barefoot.
Always wear protective shoes or boots, preferably with steel toe caps.
Always wear approved protective glasses or a full visor when assembling or driving.
Always wear gloves when handling the blades.
Never wear loose clothing that can get caught in moving parts.
Use ear protectors to avoid damage to hearing.
0000-000a
Personal protective equipment

Slope Operation

Slopes are a major factor related to loss of control and tip-over accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. Operation on all slopes requires extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not mow it.
Mow up and down slopes (10 degrees maximum), not across.
Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden objects. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
Choose a low ground speed so that you will not have to stop while on the slope.
Do not mow on wet grass. Tires may lose traction.
Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a slope. If the tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope.
Keep movement on the slopes slow and gradual. Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction, which could cause machine to roll over.
Use extra care while operating machine with grass catchers or other attachments; they can affect the stability of the machine.
WARNING!
Do not drive up or down hills with slopes greater than 10 degrees. And do not drive across any slopes.
0000-000
Mow up and down, not side to side
11
SAFETY
Do not use on steep slopes.
Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting a foot on the ground.
Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. The machine could suddenly roll over if a wheel is over the edge or if the edge caves in.
WARNING!
CHILDREN CAN BE INJURED BY THIS EQUIPMENT. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children be a minimum of 16 years of age before operating a riding lawn mower. Keep children out of the mowing area and in the watchful care of a responsible adult other than the operator.
0000-000
Be extra cautious when driving on 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 out of the path of danger.
Keep children out of the mowing area and in the watchful care of a responsible adult other than the operator.
Be alert and turn machine off if a child enters the area.
Before and while backing, look behind and down for small children.
Never carry children, even with the blades shut off. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine operation. Children who have been given rides in the past may suddenly appear in the mowing area for another ride and be run over or backed over by the machine.
Never allow children to operate the machine.
Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may block the view of a child.
8011-518
Keep children away from work area
12
8011-517
Never allow children to operate the machine
SAFETY

Safe Handling of Gasoline

WARNING!
The engine and the exhaust system become very hot during operation.
There is risk for burns if touched.
Allow engine and exhaust system to cool before refueling.
To avoid personal injury or property damage, use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive.
Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other sources of ignition.
Use only approved gasoline container.
Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow engine to cool before refueling.
Never fuel the machine indoors.
Never store the machine or fuel container where there is an open flame, spark, or pilot light such as on a water heater or other appliance.
Before beginning to refuel, minimize the risk of static electricity by touching a metal surface.
Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer bed with plastic liner. Always place containers on the ground away from the vehicle when filling.
Remove gas-powered equipment from the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible, refuel such equipment with a portable container, rather than from a gasoline dispenser nozzle.
Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or container opening at all times until fueling is complete. Do not use a nozzle lock-open device.
If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing immediately.
Never overfill fuel tank. Replace gas cap and tighten securely.
Do not start the engine near spilled fuel.
Never use gasoline as a cleaning agent.
If leaks arise in fuel system, engine must not be started until problem has been resolved.
Check the fuel level before each use and leave space for the fuel to expand, as the heat from the engine and the sun may otherwise cause the fuel to expand and overflow.
8011-516
Never fill the fuel tank indoors
WARNING!
The engine must not be started when the driver’s floor plate or any protective plate for the mower deck’s drive belt is removed.
13
SAFETY

General Maintenance

Never operate machine in a closed area.
Keep all nuts and bolts tight to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition.
Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly.
Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris buildup. Clean oil or fuel spillage and remove any fuel-soaked debris. Allow machine to cool before storing.
If the machine strikes a foreign object, stop and inspect the machine. Repair, if necessary, before restarting.
Never make any adjustments or repairs with the engine running.
Check grass catcher components and the discharge guard frequently and replace with manufacturer’s recommended parts, when necessary.
Mower blades are sharp. Wrap the blade or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.
Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service as required.
Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as necessary.
Do not modify safety equipment. Check regularly to be sure it works properly. The machine must not be driven with defective or unmounted protective plates, protective cowlings, safety switches, or other protective devices.
Do not change the settings of governors and avoid running the engine with overly high engine speeds. If the engine runs too fast, there is risk for damaging the machine components.
Be very careful when handling battery acid. Acid on skin can cause serious corrosive burns. If battery acid is spilled on skin, rinse immediately with water.
Acid in the eyes can cause blindness, contact a doctor immediately.
Be careful when servicing the battery. Explosive gases form in the battery. Never perform maintenance on the battery when smoking or near open flames or sparks.
The battery can explode and cause serious injury or damage.
Make sure that the equipment is in good condition and that all nuts and bolts, especially those fastening the blade attachments, are properly tightened and torqued.
14
8011-515
Never drive the machine in an enclosed space
CAUTION!
Use protective glasses for maintenance work.
WARNING!
The battery contains lead and lead compounds, chemicals that are considered to cause cancer, birth defects, and other reproductive system damage. Wash your hands after handling the battery.
SAFETY
Sparking can occur when working with the battery and the heavy cables of the starter circuit. This can cause battery explosion, fire or eye injury. Sparking in this circuit can not occur after the chassis cable (normally negative, black) is removed from the battery.
WARNING!
Avoid electrical sparking and its consequences by the following routines:
Use protective goggles.
Ensure that the fuel filler cap is mounted tightly and no flammable substances are stored in an open vessel.
Never work with the starter circuit if there is spilled fuel.
Disconnect the negative cable from the battery first and reconnect it last.
Do not make a bridge short circuit across the starter relay to run the starter.
6003-009
Do not smoke when performing maintenance on the battery. The battery can explode and cause serious injury/damage.
Never use the machine indoors or in spaces lacking proper ventilation. The exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide, an odorless, poisonous, and lethal gas.
Stop to inspect the equipment if the machine runs over or into anything. If necessary, make repairs before starting.
Never make adjustments with the engine running.
The machine is tested and approved only with the equipment originally provided or recommended by the manufacturer. Only use approved repair parts for the machine.
The blades are sharp and can cause cuts and gashes. Wrap the blades or use protective gloves when handling them.
Check the parking brake’s functionality regularly. Adjust and service as necessary.
The mulch blades should only be used in familiar areas when higher quality mowing is desired.
Reduce the risk of fire by removing grass, leaves, and other debris that may have accumulated on the machine.
Allow the machine to cool before putting it in storage.
Regularly clean deck and underside of deck, avoid spraying engine and electrical components with water.
8009-728
Risk of sparking
8011-514
Regularly clean deck
15
SAFETY

Transport

The machine is heavy and can cause serious crushing injuries. Be extra cautious when it is loaded on or unloaded from a vehicle or trailer.
Use an approved trailer to transport the machine. Activate the parking brake, turn off the fuel supply, and fasten the machine with approved fastening devices, such as bands, chains, or straps, when transporting.
Do not operate this machine on public roadways.
Check and abide by local traffic regulations before transporting the machine on any road.
Do not tow this machine, it may cause damage to the drive system.
Load the unit onto truck or trailer by driving up ramps of suitable strength using a slow speed. Do not lift! The machine is not intended to be lifted by hand.
WARNING!
Use extreme caution when loading the machine into a truck or trailer using ramps. There is the possibility of serious injury or death if the machine falls off the ramps.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
The parking brake is not sufficient to lock the machine in place during transport. Ensure that the machine is well fastened to the transport vehicle. Always reverse the machine onto the transport vehicle to avoid tipping it over.

Towing

If machine is equipped with a tow hitch, use extreme caution when towing. Never allow children or others in or on towed equipment.
Make wide turns to avoid jack-knifing. Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop. Do not tow on sloped ground. The weight of the towed equipment may cause loss of traction and loss of control.
Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for weight limits for towed equipment. Do not tow near ditches, canals, and other hazards.

Spark Arrestor

A spark arrestor for the muffler is available through your authorized PoulanPRO dealer.
WARNING!
Escaping hydraulic oil under pressure can have sufficient force to penetrate the skin, causing serious injury. If injured by escaping fluid, see a doctor at once. Serious infection or reaction can develop if proper medical treatment is not administered immediately.
WARNING!
This mower is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forested, bush covered or grassy lands unless the engine's system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrestor is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.
16

CONTROLS

This operator’s manual describes the PoulanPRO Zero Turn Rider. The rider is fitted with a Briggs & Stratton, four-stroke overhead valve engine.

Control Locations

3
4
Transmission from the engine is made via two belt­driven hydraulic pumps. Using the left and right steering controls, the flow is regulated and thereby the direction and speed.
2
1
4
5
6 7 108
1. Motion Control Levers
2. Parking brake
3. Fuel shut off valve
4. Bypass Linkages
5. Fuel tank
6. Blade switch
9
7. Ignition switch
8. Throttle control
9. Choke control (varies by model)
10. Hour meter
11. Seat adjustment lever
12. Deck lift
11
12
17
CONTROLS

Motion Control Levers

The machine’s speed and direction are continuously variable using the two steering controls. The steering controls can be moved forward or backward about a neutral position. Furthermore, there is a neutral position, which is locked if the steering controls are moved outward.
When both controls are in the neutral position (N), the machine stands still.
By moving both controls an equal amount forward or backward, the machine moves in a straight line forward or backward respectively.
In order, for example, to turn right while moving forward, move the right control towards the neutral position. The rotation of the right wheel is reduced and the machine turns to the right.
Zero turn can be achieved by moving one control backward (behind the neutral position) and carefully moving the other steering control forward from its neutral position. The rotation direction when zero turning is determined by which steering control is moved backward behind the neutral position.
If the left steering control is pulled backward, the machine turns to the left. Use extra care when using this maneuver.
If the steering controls are in uneven positions when standing still or do not fit in the slots for moving the controls outward, they can be adjusted
8058-192
Steering controls
WARNING!
The machine can turn very rapidly if one steering control is moved much further forward than the other.
18
8011-79122
1. Forward
2. Neutral
3. Neutral slot, Neutral lock
4. Reverse
Motion control lever, right side
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