OWNER'S MANUAL
MODEL NO. CO18542STC
18.5 HP 42 INCH
LAWN TRACTOR
• Assembly
• Operation
• Maintenance
• Service and Adjustments
• Storage
• Troubleshooting
• Repair Parts
)
i
For Parts and Service, contact our authorized distributor:
call 1-800-849-1297 For Technical Assistance: call 1-800-829-5886
Poulan
193008 6.3.04 MH
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
Warranty ................................................ 2
Safety Rules .......................................... 3
Product Specifications ........................... 6
Assembly/Pre-Operation ....................... 8
Operation ............................................. 11
Maintenance Schedule ........................ 17
Maintenance ........................................ 17
Service and Adjustments ..................... 20
Storage ................................................ 25
Troubleshooting ................................... 26
Repair Parts ......................................... 30
LIMITED WARRANTY
The Manufacturer warrants to the original consumer purchaser that this product as
manufactured is free from defects in materials and workmanship. For a period of two
(2) years from date of purchase by the original consumer purchaser, we will repair or
replace, at our option, without charge for parts or labor incurred in replacing parts, any
part which we find to be defective due to materials or workmanship. This Warranty is
subject to the following limitations and exclusions.
1. This warranty does not apply to the engine, other than EHP manufactured transaxle/
transmission components, battery (except as noted below) or components parts
thereof. Please refer to the applicable manufacturer's warranty on these items.
2. Transportation charges for the movement of any power equipment unit or attachment
are th6 responsibility of the purchaser. Transportat on charges for any parts submit-
ted 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 find to be defective in manufacture, during the
first ninety (90) days of ownership. After ninety (90) days, we will exchange the Bat-
tery, charging you 1/12 of the price of a new Battery for each full month from the date
of the original sale. Battery must be maintained in accordance with the instructions
furnished.
4. The Warranty period for any products used for rental or commercial purposes is
limited to 90 days from the date of original purchase.
5. This Warranty applies only to products which have been properly assembled, ad-
justed, operated, and maintained in accordance with the instructions furnished. This
Warranty does not apply to any product which has been subjected to alteration, mis-
use, _buse, improper assembly or installation, delivery damage, or to normal wear of
the product.
6. Exclusions: Excluded from this Warranty are belts, blades, blade adapters, normal
wear, normal adjustments, standard hardware and normal maintenance.
7. In the event you have a claim under this Warranty, you must return the product to an
authorized service dealer.
Should you have any unanswered questions concerning this WarrantY, please contact:
ElectroluxHomeProducts,Inc. In Canada contact:
OutdoorProductsCustomer Service Dept. ElectroluxCanada Corp.
250 BobbyJonesExpressway 7075 Ordan Drive
Augusta,GA 30909 USA Mississauga,Ontario
giving the model number, serial number and date of purchase of your product and the
name and address of the authorized dealer from whom it was purchased.
THIS WARRANTY DOES NOT APPLY TO INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES AND ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES 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 specific 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 defined in the Magnuson-
Moss Act of 1975.
L5T "1K6
2
IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throw-
ing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious
injury or death.
,_WARNING: In order to prevent ac-
cidental starting when setting up, trans-
porting, adjusting or making repairs,
always disconnect spark plug wire and
place wire where itcannot contact spark
plug.
,_WARNING: Do not coast down a
hill in neutral, you may lose control of the
tractor.
,_WARNING: Tow only the attachments
that are recommended by and comply with
specifications of the manufacturer of your
tractor. Use common sense when towing.
Operate only at the lowest possible speed
when on a slope. Too heavy of a load,
while on a slope, is dangerous. Tires can
lose traction with the ground and cause
you to lose control of your tractor.
,_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 reproduc-
tive 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.
I. GENERAL OPERATION
• Read, understand, and follow all instruc-
tions in the manual and on the machine
before starting.
• Only allow responsible adults, who are
familiar with the instructions, to operate
the machine.
• Clear the area of objects such as rocks,
toys, wire, etc., which could be picked
up and thrown by the blade.
• Be sure the area is clear of other people
before mowing. Stop machine if anyone
enters the area.
• Never carry passengers.
• Do not mow in reverse unless abso-
lutely necessary. Always look down and
behind before and while backing.
• Be aware of the mower discharge direc-
tion and do not point it at anyone. Do
not operate the mower without either
the entire grass catcher or the guard in
place.
• Slow down before turning.
• Never leave a running machine unat-
tended. Always turn off blades, set
parking brake, stop engine, and remove
keys before dismounting.
• Turn off blades when not mowing.
• Stop engine before removing grass
catcher or unclogging chute.
• Mow only in daylight or good artificial
light.
• Do not operate the machine while under
the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Watch for traffic when operating near or
crossing roadways.
• Use extra care when loading or un-
loading 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 in-
juries. These operators should evaluate
their ability to operate the riding mower
safely enough to protect themselves and
others from serious injury.
• Keep machine free of grass, leaves or
other debris build-up which can touch
hot exhaust / engine parts and burn. Do
not allow the mower deck to plow leaves
or other debris which can cause build-
up to occur. Clean any oil or fuel
spillage before operating or storing the
machine. Allow machine to cool before
storage.
II. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to loss-
of-control and tipover accidents, which can
result in severe injury or death. All slopes
require extra caution. If you cannot back
up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do
not mow it.
DO:
• Mow up and down slopes, not across.
• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree
limbs, etc.
3
• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Un-
even 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.
• Follow the manufacturer's recommend-
ations for wheel weights or counter-
weights to improve stability.
• Use extra care with grass catchers or
other attachments. These can change
the stability of the machine.
• Keep all movement on the slopes slow
and gradual Do not make sudden
changes in speed or direction.
• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If
tires lose traction, disengage the blades
and proceed slowly straight down the
slope.
DO NOT:
• Do not turn on slopes unless neces-
sary, and then, turn slowly and gradually
downhill, if possible.
• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches,
or embankments. The mower could
suddenly turn over if a wheel is over
the edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge
caves in.
• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced
traction could cause sliding.
• Do not try to stabilize the machine by
putting your foot on the ground.
• Do not use grass catcher on steep
slopes.
III. CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator
is not alert to the presence of children.
Children are often attracted to the ma-
chine and the mowing activity. Neveras-
sume that children will remain where you
last saw them.
• Keep children out of the mowing area
and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult.
• Be alert and turn machine off if children
enter the area.
• Before and when backing, look behind
and down for small children.
• Never carry children. They may fall off
and be seriously injured or interfere with
safe machine operation.
• Never allow children to operate the
machine.
• Use extra care when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.
IV. SERVICE
• Use extra care in handling gasoline and
other fuels. They are flammable 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 flame, such as a water heater.
• Never run a machine inside a closed
area.
• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade
attachment bolts, tight and keep equip-
ment in good condition.
• Never tamper with safety devices.
Check their proper operation regularly.
• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or
other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel
spillage. Allow machine to cool before
storing.
• Stop and inspect the equipment if you
strike an object. Repair, if necessary,
before restarting,
• Never make adjustments or repairs with
the engine running.
• Grass catcher components are subject
to wear, damage, and deterioration,
which could expose moving parts or
allow objects to be thrown. Frequently
check components and replace with
manufacturer's recommended parts,
when necessary.
• Mower blades aresharp and can cut.
Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and
use extra caution when servicing them.
• Check brake operation frequently. Ad-
just and service as required.
4
• Be sure the area is clear of other people
before mowing. Stop machine if anyone
enters the area.
• Never carry passengers or children
even with the blades off.
• Do not mow in reverse unless abso-
lutely necessary. Always look down and
behind before and while backing.
• Never carry children. They may fall off
and be seriously injured or interfere with
safe machine operation.
• Keep children out of the mowing area
and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult.
• Be alert and turn machine off if children
enter the area.
• Before and when backing, look behind
and down for small children,
• Mow up and down slopes (15 ° Max), not
across.
• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree
limbs, etc.
• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven
terrain could overturn the machine. Tall
grass can hide obstacles.
• Use slow speed. Choose a low gear
so that you will not have to stop or shift
while on the slope.
• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If
tires lose traction, disengage the blades
and proceed slowly straight down the
slope.
• If machine stops while going uphill,
disengage blades, shift into reverse and
back down slowly.
• Do not turn on slopes unless necessary,
and then, turn slowly and gradually
downhill, if possible.
5
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Gasoline 4.0
Capacity and Unleaded
Type: Regular
Oil Type SAE 30 (above 32°F)
API-SG-SL): SAE 5W-30(below 32°F
Oil Capacity: W/Filter: 3.5 Pints
W/O Filter: 3.0 Pints
Spark Plug: Champion RC12YC
(Gap: .030")
Ground Speed (MPH):
Forward: 1st 1.2
2nd 1.5
3rd 2.4
4th 3.5
5th 4.8
6th 5.3
Reverse: 1.5
Tire Pressure: Front: 14 PSI
Rear: 10 PSI
Charging 9 Amps @ 3600 RPM
System:
Battery: Amp/Hr: 28
Min. CCA: 230
Case Size: U1R
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
• Read and observe the safety rules.
• Follow a regular schedule in main-
taining, caring for and using your tractor.
• Follow the instructions under"Mainte-
nance" and "Storage" sections of this
_wner's manual.
WARNING: This tractor is equipped
with an internal combustion engine and
should not be used on or near any unim-
proved 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 operator.
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 ar-
rester for the muffler is available through
your nearest authorized service center/de-
partment (See REPAIR PARTS section of
this manual).
Blade Bolt Torque: 27-35 Ft. Lbs.
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase
of a new tractor. It has been designed,
engineered and manufactured to give
you the best possible dependability and
performance.
Should you experience any problem you
cannot easily remedy, please contact
your nearest authorized service center/
department We have competent, well-
trained technicians and the proper tools to
service or repair this tractor.
Please read and retain this manual. The
instructions will enable you to assemble
and maintain your tractor properly. Always
observe the "SAFETY RULES".
6
Steering
Wheel Insert
(1) Hex Bolt 1/4-28 x 1-1/4
Steering Wheel
(1) Large Flat Washer
Steering Sleeve
Extension
_ Steering Wheel
Adapter
(1) Hex nut 1/2-20
Seat
(1) Washer
17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge
(1) Knob
Steering Sleeve
Slope Sheet
For Future Use
Keys
_IUl (2) Keys
7
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 assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools
as necessary to insure proper tightness. Review the video cassette before you begin.
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR
ASSEMBLY
A socket wrench set will make assembly
easier. Standard wrench sizes you need
are listed below.
(t) 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 manual, it means, from your point of
view, when you are in the operating posi-
tion (seated behind the steering wheel).
TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM
CARTON
UNPACK CARTON
1. Remove all accessible loose parts and
parts boxes from carton.
2. Cut along dotted lines on all four pan-
els of carton. Remove end panels and
lay side panels flat.
3. Check for any additional loose parts or
cartons and remove.
BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR
FROM SKID
ATTACH STEERING WHEEL
1. Remove Iocknut and large flat washer
from steering shaft.
2. Position front wheels of the tractor so
they are pointing straight forward.
3. Slide the steering sleeve over the
steering shaft.
4. Align tabs and press steering sleeve
extension into bottom of steering
wheel.
5. Position steering wheel so cross bars
are horizontal (left to right) and slide
onto steering wheel adapter.
6. Secure steering wheel to steering
shaft with Iocknut and large flat washer
previously removed. Tighten securely.
7. Snap steering wheel insert into center
of steering 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.
Steering Wheel
i"_-- Lock Nut
_---,_nse rt
LargeFlat
Washer
Steering Wheel@ Steering
_.-.-------Wheel
Steering II AdapTM
Wheel Extention _ _c:=====.--Tabs
Steering
Shaft
Steerin_
Sleeve =-I-- _-_
/
_,j., ,
,;,,',' ,,' / ;:I
P_ t i
%,,,
HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR
CHECK BATTERY
1. Lift hood to raised position.
NOTE: If this battery is put into service
after month and year indicated on label
(label located between terminals) charge
battery for minimum of one hour at 6-10
amps. (See "BATTERY" in Maintenance
section of this manual for charging instruc-
tions).
• o oo,
o_° / f
d -- _abel
°.
INSTALL SEAT
Adjust seat before tightening adjustment
knob.
1.. Remove adjustment knob and flat
washer securing seat to cardboard
packing and set aside for assembly of
seat to tractor.
8
2. Pivot seat upward and remove from
the cardboard packing. Remove the
cardboard packing and discard.
3. Place seat on seat pan so head of
shoulder bolt is positioned over large
slotted hole in pan.
4. Push down on seat to engage shoulder
bolt in slot and pull seat towards rear of
tractor.
5. Pivot seat and pan forward and as-
semble adjustment knob and flat
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-
justed position.
9. Raise seat and tighten adjustment
knob securely.
Seat
Seat Pan
Bolt
TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See
Operation section for location and
function of controls)
_I_WARNING: Before starting, read, un-
derstand and follow all instructions in the
Operation section of this manual. Be sure
tractor is in a well-ventilated area. Be sure
the area in front of tractor is clear of other
people and objects.
1. Be sure all the above assembly steps
have been completed.
2. Check engine oil level and fill 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
attachment lift lever to its highest posi-
tion.
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.
NOTE; You may now roll or drive your
tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate
instruction below to remove the tractor
from the skid.
TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See
Operation section for location and
function of controls)
1. Press lift lever plunger and raise
attachment lift lever to its highest po-
sition.
2. Release parking brake by depressing
clutch/brake pedal.
3. Place gearshift lever in neutral (N)
position.
4, Roll tractor forward oft skid.
5. Remove banding holding deflector
shield up against tractor.
INSTALL MULCHER PLATE
(If previously removed)
1. Raise and hold deflector shield in
upright position.
2. Place front of mulcher plate over front
of mower deck opening and slide into
place, as shown.
3. Hook front latch into hole on front of
mower deck.
4. Hook rear latch into hole on back of
,_ower deck.
AUTION: Do not remove deflector
shield from mower.
Deflector
Shield
Mulcher Plate
Hooks
9
TO CONVERTTO BAGGING OR
DISCHARGING
Simply remove mulcher plate and store in
a safe place. Your mower is now ready for
discharging or installation of optional grass
catcher accessory.
NOTE; It is not necessary to change
blades. The mulching blades are designed
for discharging and bagging also.
REPOSITION RIGHT REAR GAUGE
WHEEL
For shipping purposes, the right rear
gauge wheel assembly is mounted upside
down on the mower. Remove the gauge
wheel assembly and reinstall from the
bottom as shown. To adjust gauge wheels,
see the Operation section in this manual.
CHECKTIRE PRESSURE
The tires on your tractor were overin-
flated at the factory for shipping purposes.
Correct tire pressure is important for best
cutting performance.
• Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in
"PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" section
of this manual.
CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION
OF ALL BELTS
See the figures that are shown for replac-
ing motion and mower blade drive belts
in the Service and Adjustments section
of this manual. Verify that the belts are
routed correctly.
CHECK DECK LEVELNESS
For best cutting results, mower hous-
ing 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 trac-
tor, 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 tractor, we
wish to assure that you receive the best
performance and satisfaction from this
Quality Product.
Please review the following checklist:
,/All assembly instructions have been
completed.
/ No remaining loose parts in carton.
4' Battery is properly prepared and
charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps).
,/Seat is adjusted comfortably and tight-
ened securely.
,/All tires are properly inflated. (For ship-
ping purposes, the tires were overin-
flated at the factory).
€" Be sure mower deck is properly leveled
side-to-side/front-to-rear for best cutting
results. (Tires must be properly inflated
for leveling).
,I Check mower and drive belts. Be sure
they are routed properly around pulleys
and inside all belt keepers.
•/ Check wiring. See that all connections
are still secure and wires are properly
clamped.
While learning how to use your tractor, pay
extra attention to the following important
items:
,/Engine oil is at proper level.
,/" Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean, regu-
lar unleaded gasoline.
,I 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.
10
These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product.
Learn and understand their meaning.
R N H L Ikl
REVERSE NEUTRAL HtGH LOW CHOKE FAST SLOW iGNITION
ENGINE OFF LIGHTS ON ENGINE ON ENGINE START PARKING BRAKE PARKING BRAKE PARKING BRAKE
OVER TEMP FUEL OIL PRESSURE BATTERY REVERSE FORWARD MOWER HEIGHT MOWER LIFT
LIGHT
ATTACHMENT ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH ENGAGED CLUTCH DISENGAGED
FREE WHEEL
(Automatic Models only)
&
Failure to follow instructions
could result in serious injury or
death. The safety alert symbol
is used to identify safety inform-
ation about hazards which can
result in death, serious injury
and/or property damage.
DANGER, KEEP HANDS
AND FEET AWAY
&
_HOT SURFACES indicates a hazard which,
,_ FIRE Indicates a hazard which, if notavoided,
DANGER indicatesa hazard which, if not avoided,
will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING indicates a hazard which, if not avoided,
&
could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION indicates a hazard which, if not avoided,
&
might result in minor or moderate injury.
CAUTION when used without the alert symbol,
indicates a situationthat could result in damage
to the tractor and/or engine.
if not avoided, could result in death, serious injury
and/or property damage.
could result in death, serious Injury and/or
property damage.
KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE H/_.ARDS
(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)
LOCKED UNLOCKED
11
KNOW YOUR TRACTOR
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR
TRACTOR
Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of
various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
Throttle/Choke
Control _
Clutch/Brake
Pedal _
Hour meter
Ignition Switch
Parking Brake Lever
ght Switch Position
Clutch Switch
- Lift Lever
Plunger
Attachment
Lift Lever
Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the
American National Standards Institute.
ATTACHMENT CLUTCH SWITCH - Used
to engage the mower blades or other at-
tachments mounted to your tractor.
ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER - Used to
raise, lower, and adjust the mower deck or
other attachments mounted to your tractor.
CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL - Used for
declutching and braking the tractor and
starting the engine.
GEARSHIFT LEVER - Selects the speed
and direction of tractor.
IGNITION SWITCH - Used for starting and
stopping the engine.
LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to release
attachment lift lever when changing its
position.
LIGHT SWITCH POSITION - Turns the
headlights on and off.
PARKING BRAKE LEVER - Locks clutch/
brake pedal into the brake position.
THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL - Used
for starting and controlling engine speed.
AMMETER - Indicatescharging(+) or discharg-
ing (-) of battery.
HOURMETER - Indicates hours of op-
eration.
12
The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into the
eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses
or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any adjustments
or repairs. We recommend a wide vision safety mask over spectacles or
standard safety glasses.
HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR
TO SET PARKING BRAKE
Your tractor is equipped with an operator
presence sensing switch. When engine
is running, any attempt by the operator
to leave the seat without first setting the
parking brake will shut off the engine.
1. Depress clutch/brake pedal all the way
down and hold.
2. Pull parking brake lever up and
release pressure from clutch/brake
pedal. Pedal should remain in brake
position. Make sure parking brake will
hold tractor secure.
Push in to
"Disen
Throt
Choke
Control
"Brake"
Position
"Disengaged" Parking Gearshift
Position Brake Lever
STOPPING
MOWER BLADES -
• To stop mower blades, push attach-
ment clutch switch in to disengaged
position.
GROUND DRIVE -
• To stop ground drive, depress clutch/
brake pedal all the way down.
• Move gearshift lever to neutral (N)
position.
ENGINE -
• Move throttle control to slow position.
NOTE: Failure to move throttle control
to slow position to allow engine to idle
before stopping may cause engine to
"backfire".
• Turn ignition key to "STOP" position and
remove key. Always remove key when
leaving tractor to prevent unauthorized
use.
• Never use choke to stop engine.
Attachment Clutch Switch
Pull out to "Engage"
"Engaged"
Position
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.
_LCAUTION: Always stop tractor
completely, as described above, before
leaving the operator's position.
TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL
Always operate engine at full throttle.
• Operating engine at less than full
throttle reduces the battery charging
rate.
• Full throttle offers the best bagging and
mower performance.
TO MOVE FORWARD AND
BACKWARD
The direction and speed of movement is
controlled bythe gearshift lever.
1. Start tractor with clutch/brake pedal
depressed and gearshift lever in neu-
tral (N) position.
2. Move gearshift lever to desired position.
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 approxi-
mately 1-1/2 to 4". The heights are
measured from the ground to the blade
tip with the engine not running. These
heights are approximate and may vary
depending upon soil conditions, height of
grass andtypes of grass being mowed.
13
• The average lawn should be cut to ap-
proximately 2-1/2 inches during the cool
season and to over 3 inches during hot
months. For healthier and better looking
lawns, mow often and after moderate
growth.
• For best cutting performance, grass over
6 inches in height should be mowed
twice. Make the first cut relatively high;
the second to desired height.
TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS
Gauge wheels are properly adjusted
when they are slightly off the ground when
mower is at the desired cutting height in
operating position. Gauge wheels then
keep the deck in proper position to help
prevent scalping in most terrain conditions.
NOTE: Be sure tractor is on a flat level
surface.
1. Lower mower and adjust mower to de-
sired cutting height(See "-Á-ÙADJUST
MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT" in this
section of manual).
2. Remove retainer spring and clevis pin
which secure each gauge wheel bar.
3. Lower gauge wheels to ground. Raise
gauge wheels slightly to align holes
in bracket and gauge wheel bar and
insert clevis pin. Gauge wheels should
be slightly off the ground.
4. Replace retainer spring into clevis pin.
5. Be sure all gauge wheels are in the
same setting.
IMPORTANT: Be sure to readjust gauge
wheels if you change the cutting height
of the mower deck.
TO STOP MOWER BLADES -
disengage attachment clutch control.
h_CAUTION: Do not operate the mower
without either the entire grass catcher,
on mowers so equipped, or the deflector
shield in place.
Attachment Clutch Switch
Pull Out To "Engage"
Push'
in to -f-_/
/.,_. Attachemnt
Lift Lever High
Position
"Disengage" _-._
TO OPERATE ON HILLS
_WARNING: Do not drive up or down
hills with slopes greater 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 throttle
control lever to slower position.
clutch/brake pedal quicklyto brake posi-
i f stoppingis absolutely necessary, push
tion and engage parking brake.
Move gearshift lever to 1st gear. Be
sure you have allowed room for tractor
to rol/slightly as you restart movement.
Retainer
spring
Pin
TO OPERATE MOWER
Your tractor is equipped with an operator
presence sensing switch. Any attempt
by the operator to leave the seat with the
engine running and the attachment clutch
engaged will shut off the engine. You must
remain fully and centrally positioned in the
seat to prevent the engine from hesitating
or cutting off when operating your equip-
ment on rough, rolling terrain or hills.
1. Select desired height of cut.
2. Start mower blades by engaging at-
tachment clutch control.
parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.
i o restart movement, slowly release
Make all turns slowly.
TO TRANSPORT
• Raise attachment liftto highest position
with attachment lift control.
• When pushing or t0wing your tractor,
be sure gearshift lever isin neutral (N)
!_osition.
• Do not push or tow tractor at more than
five (5) MPH.
NOTE: To protect hood from damage when
transporting your tractor on a truck or a
trailer, be sure hood is closed and secured
to tractor. Use an appropriate means of
tying hood to tractor (rope, cord, etc.).
14