Poulan Pro PE12538LT User Manual

OWNER'S MANUAL

MODEL NO. PE12538LT(96011019600)

12.5 HP38 Inch LawnTractor

Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Service and Adjustments

• Storage

• Troubleshooting

• Repair Parts

403391 Rev.1 05.24.06 TRNB

Printed in U.S.A.

Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers

SAFETY RULES &

DANGER: THIS CUTTINGMACHINEIS CAPABLEOF AMPUTATINGHANDSAND FEETANDTHROWINGOBJECTS. FAILURE

TO OBSERVETHE FOLLOWINGSAFETYINSTRUCTIONSCOULD RESULTINSERIOUSINJURYOR DEATH.

• Disengage blades when not mowing, Shut off engine

WARNING: In order to prevent ac- cidental starting when setting up,

transporting, adjusting or making re- pairs, always disconnect spark plug

wire and place wire where it cannot

contact spark plug.

I_ WARNING: Do not coast down a hill I

in neutral, you may lose control of the tractor.

WARNING: Tow only the attachments that are recommended by and com-

fply with specifications of the manu-

acturer 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.

I. GENERAL OPERATION

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

• 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 operat- ing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area,

• Never carry passengers,

• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while back-

ing,

• Never direct discharged material toward anyone, Avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction, Ma- terial may ricochet back toward the operator, Stop the blades when crossing gravel surfaces,

• Donot operate machine without theentire 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,

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 road- ways.

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

• Always wear eye protection when operating ma- chine,

• Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above, are involved in a large percentage of riding mower-re-

lated 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,

• 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 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, 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 or shift while on the slope,

• Do not mow on wet grass, Tires may lose traction, Always keep the machine in gear when going down slopes, Do not shift to neutral and coast downhill.

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

• Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual.

Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction,

which could cause the machine to roll over,

• Use extra care while operating machine with grass catchers or other attachments; they can affect the

stability of the machine, Do no use on steep slopes,

• Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on the ground,

• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. The machine could suddenly roll over ifa wheel isover

the edge or if the edge caves in.

Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers

SAFETY RULES &

II1. CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to

the machine and the mowing activity. Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them,

• Keep children outof the mowing area and inthe 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 your view of a

child,

IV. TOWING

• Tow only with a machine that has a hitch designed for towing. Do not attach towed equipment except at the

hitch point,

• Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for weight

limits for towed equipment and towing on slopes.

• Never allow children or others in or on towed equip-

ment.

• On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment may cause loss of traction and loss of control.

• Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop,

V. SERVICE

SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE Toavoid 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 run-

ning. Allow engine to cool before refueling,

• Never fuel the machine indoors.

• Never store the machine or fuel container where there

isan open flame, spark, or pilot light such as on a water heater or other appliances,

• Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer bed with plastic liner, Always place containers

on the ground away from your vehicle when filling,

• Remove gas-powered equipment from thetruck ortrailer and refuel it on the ground, If this is not possible, then

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 atall times untilfueling is complete,

Do not use a nozzle lock-open device,

• If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing immedi- ately.

• Never overfill fuel tank. Replace gas cap and tighten

securely.

GENERAL SERVICE

• Never operate machine in a closed are,

• 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 build-up. Clean oil or fuel spillage and remove any fuel-

soaked debris, Allow machine to cool before storing.

• If you strike 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 rec-

ommended 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,

• Be sure the area is clear of bystanders before operat- ing, Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

• Never carry passengers.

• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary, Always look down and behind before and while back-

ing,

• 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 beengiven rides in the past may suddenly appear in the mowing

area for another ride and be run over or backed over by the machine,

• Keep children out ofthe mowing area and inthe 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.

• Mow up and down slopes (15° Max), not across,

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

• Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a slope. If the 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.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Gasoline Capacity 1.25 Gallons

and Type: Unleaded Regular

Oil Type (API-SG-SL): SAE 30 (above 32°F)

SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F)

Oil Capacity: 3.0 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

Charging System: 3 Amps Battery

5 Amps Headlights

Battery: AMP/FIR: 28

Min. CCA: 230 Case Size: U1R

Blade Torque: 45-55 FT. LBS.

CONGRATULATIONS onyour purchase of a new tractor. Ithas been designed, engineered andmanufactured togive

you the best possible dependability and performance.

Should you experience any problem you cannot easily rem- edy, 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",

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and observe the safety rules,

• Follow a regular schedule in maintaining, caring for

and using your tractor.

• Follow the instructions under "Maintenance" and "Stor- age" sections of this owner's manual.

WARNING: This tractor is equipped with an internal com- bustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush-covered orgrass-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.

A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest authorized service center/department,

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SAFETY RULES ......................................................... 2-3

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS ....................................... 4

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ................................. 4

ASSEMBLY ................................................................. 6-8

OPERATION ............................................................. 9-14

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ...................................... 15

MAINTENANCE ..................................................... 15-18

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS ............................ 19-23

STORAGE .................................................................... 24

TROU BLESHOOTING ............................................ 25-26

REPAIR PARTS ...................................................... 28-43

CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK

Steering Extension

Shaft

Steering Wheel

Steering

Boot

Steering Wheel

Adapter

Steering

Wheel Insert

(1)5/16

Lock Washer

Seat

(1) Washer (_)

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

(1) Knob I_

(1) Oil Drain Tube

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

/Lar(_ g_Flat

Battery

(2) Hex Bolts

1/4-20 x 3/4

@(2) Hex Nuts

Slope Sheet

Key

(2) Keys

1/4-20

ASSEMBLY

Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes, To ensure safe and proper operation of your tractor all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely, Use

the correct tools as necessary to insure proper tightness.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

A socket wrench set will make assembly easier. Standard wrench sizes are listed.

(2) 7/16" wrench (1) 1/2" wrench

When right orleft hand is mentioned in this manual, it means when you are inthe operating position (seated behind the

steering wheel),

Utility knife

Tire pressure gauge

Pliers

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM

CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

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

• Cut along dashed lines on all four panels of carton, Remove end panels and lay side panels flat.

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

STEERING / WASHER WHEEL "_ \

LOWER i

STEERING _. _

_z ......5/16 HEX BOLT

_ INSERT

WASHER

LARGE FLAT

SHAFT

BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR FROM

SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL (See Fig. 1)

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND BOOT

• Slide extension shaft onto lower steering shaft.

• Place tabs of steering boot over tab slots in dash and push down to secure,

INSTALL STEERING WHEEL

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

• Remove steering wheel adapter from steering wheel and slide adapter onto steering shaft extension.

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

• Assemble large flat washer, 5/16 lock washer, 5/16 hex bolt and tighten securely.

• Snap steering wheel insert into center of steering wheel,

• Remove protective materials from tractor hood and grill,

IMPORTANT: CHECK FOR AND REMOVE ANY STAPLES IN SKID THAT MAY PUNCTURE TIRES WHERE TRACTOR IS TO

ROLLOFF SKID.

FIG. 1

INSTALL SEAT (See Fig. 2)

Adjust seat before tightening adjustment knob,

• Remove adjustment knob and flat washer securing seat to cardboard packing and set aside for assembly

of seat to tractor,

• Pivot seat upward and remove from the cardboard pack- ing, Remove the cardboard packing and discard,

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

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

• Pivot seat and pan forward and assemble adjustment knob and flat washer loosely, Do not tighten.

• Lower seat into operating position and sit on seat,

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

• Get off seat without moving its adjusted position.

• Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob securely,

ASSEMBLY

SHOULDER BOLT

FLAT WASHER

ADJUSTMENTKNOB

FIG. 2

CONNECT BATTERY (See Figs. 3 and 4)

TERMINAL i

POSITIVE(RED)

CABLE

SEAT

..--- DISCARD TERMINAL

PROTECTIVE CAPS

FIG. 3

NEGATIVE(BLACK) CABLE

HEX BOLT

LABEL

CAUTION: Do not short battery termi-

nals byallowing a wrench or any other

object to contact both terminals at the same time. Before connecting battery,

remove metal bracelets, wristwatch bands, rings, etc.

Positive terminal must be connected

first to prevent sparking from accidental grounding.

• Lift seat pan to raised position,

• Remove terminal protective caps and discard.

• 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 the Maintenance section of this manual for charging instructions).

• First connect RED battery cable to positive (+) terminal

with hex bolt and keps nut as shown, Tighten securely,

Slide terminal cover over terminal,

• Connect BLACK grounding cable to negative (-) ter- minal with remaining hex bolt and keps nut. Tighten

securely.

FIG. 4

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

tractor from the skid, _&WARNING: Before starting, read, understand and follow

all instructions in the Operation section of this manual. Be

sure tractor is in a well-ventilated area, Be sure the area in

front of tractor is clear of other people and objects,

TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Op- eration section for location and function of

controls)

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

• Release parking brake by depressing clutch/brake pedal.

• Place gearshift lever in neutral (N) position,

• Roll tractor forward off skid,

• Remove banding holding deflector shield up against tractor.

TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Op- eration section for location and function of

controls)

• Be sure all the above assembly steps have been com- pleted.

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

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

ASSEMBLY

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

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

• Remove key from bag and start the engine (see "TO START" in the Operation section of this manual). After

engine has started, move throttle control to idle (slow) position,

• Depress clutch/brake pedal into full "BRAKE" position and hold, Move gearshift lever to 1st gear,

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

• Apply brake to stop tractor, setparking brake and place gearshift lever in neutral position,

• Turn ignition key to "OFF" position,

Continue with the instructions that follow,

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

The tires on your tractor were overinflated at the factory for shipping purposes, Correct tire pressure is important for best cutting performance.

• Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown on tires,

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS

For best cutting results, mower housing should be properly leveled, See "TO LEVEL MOWER" in the Service and

Adjustments section of this manual,

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF ALL BELTS

See the figures that are shown for replacing motion and mower blade drive belts in the Service and Adjustments

section of this manual, Verify that the belts are routed

correctly.

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM

Afteryou learn how to operate your tractor, check to see that the brake is operating properly, See "TO CHECK BRAKE"

in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual,

,/CHECKL IS T

BEFORE YOU OPERATE YOUR NEW TRACTOR, WE WISH TO ASSU RETHATYOU RECEIVE THE BEST PER-

FORMANCE AND SATISFACTION FROM THIS QUALITY PRODUCT.

PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING CHECKLIST: ,/ All assembly instructions have been completed. ,/ No remaining loose parts in carton, ,/ Battery is properly prepared and charged,

,/ Seat is adjusted comfortably and tightened securely. ,/ All tires are properly inflated, (For shipping purposes,

the tires were overinflated at the factory),

,/ Be sure mower deck is properly leveled side-to-side/

front-to-rear for best cutting results, (Tires must be properly inflated for leveling),

,/ Check mower and drive belts, Be sure they are routed

properly around pulleys and inside all belt keepers,

,/ Check wiring. See that all connections are still secure

and wires are properly clamped,

WHILE LEARNING HOWTO USEYOURTRACTOR, PAY EXTRA ATTENTION TO THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT

ITEMS: ,/ Engine oil is at proper level, ,/ Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean, regular 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 operating condition. ,/ Be sure Operator Presence System and Reverse Op-

eration System (ROS) are working properly (See the Operation and Maintenance sections in this manual).

OPERATION

These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product, Learn and understand their mean- ing,

ENGINE OFF REVERSE ENGINE ON ENGINE START PARKING BRAKE MOWER HEIGHT

LIGHTS ON FUEL BATTERY CRUISE CONTROL

OPERATION

SYSTEM (ROS)

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

FREE WHEEL

(Automatic Models only)

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH ENGAGED

H L I',,I

CHOKE FASTREVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW SLOW

REVERSE FORWARD CLUTCH/BRAKE

®@@@@

DANGER, KEEP HANDS

AND FEET AWAY

& &

DANGER indicates a hazard which, if not avoided,

will result in death or serious injury.

WARNING indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

CAUTION indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, might result in minor or moderate injury.

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

IGNITION SWITCH

MOWER LIFT

PEDAL

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.

,JlJllfitINtlJ.

CAUTION when used without the alert symbol, indicates a situation that could result in damage

to the tractor and/or engine.

HOT SURFACES indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, could result in death, serious injury

and/or property damage.

FIRE indicates a hazard which, if not avoided,

could result in death, serious injury and/or property damage.

OPERATION

KNOW YOUR TRACTOR

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

Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER

CHOKE CONTROL ,- LIFT LEVER

LIGHT ,_

THRq

CLUTCH/BRAKE o HEIGHT PEDAL ADJUSTMENT

/ /

IGNITION SWITCH POSITION

ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER

INDICATOR

PARKING BRAKE

GEAR SHIFT

LEVER

PLUNGER

Our tractors conform to the applicable safety standards of the American National Standards Institute.

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER - Used to engage the

mower blades, or other attachments mounted to your

tractor, ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER - Used to raise, lower, and

adjust the mower deck or other attachments mounted to your tractor,

CHOKE CONTROL - Used when starting a cold engine, CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL- Used for declutching and brak-

ing the tractor and starting the engine.

GEARSHIFT LEVER - Selects the speed and direction of the tractor,

IGNITION SWITCH - Used for starting and stopping the engine, LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to release attachment lift

lever when changing its position. LIGHT SWITCH - Turns the headlights on and off. PARKING BRAKE - Locks clutch/brake pedal into the

brake position. REVERSE OPERATION SYSTEM (ROS) "ON" POSI-

TION - Allows operation of mower deck or other powered

attachment while in reverse,

THROTTLE CONTROL - Used to control engine speed.

OPERATION

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 awide vision safety mask over spectacles or standard safety glasses.

HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR

TO SET PARKING BRAKE (See Fig. 6)

Your tractor is equipped with an operator presence sens- ing 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.

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

• Place parking brake lever in "ENGAGED" position and

release pressure from clutch/brake pedal, Pedal should remain in "BRAKE" position, Make sure parking brake

will hold tractor secure.

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER"ENGAGED"

CHOKE CONTROL LEVER

THROTTLE CONTROL

"BRAKE .... ENGAGED"

POSITION POSITION

CLUTCH/BRAKE PARKING BRAKE PEDAL "DRIVE" "DISENGAGED" POSITION POSITION

FIG. 6

STOPPING (See Fig. 6)

MOWER BLADES -

• To stop mower blades,move attachment clutch lever to "DISENGAGED" position,

GROUND DRIVE -

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

• Move gearshift lever to neutral (N) position.

ENGINE -

• Move throttle control between half and full speed (fast)

position.

NOTE: Failure to move throttle control between half and full speed (fast) position, before stopping may cause engine

to "backfire",

• Turn ignition key to "OFF" position and remove key, Always remove key when leaving tractor to prevent

unauthorized use.

• Never use choke to stop engine,

IMPORTANT: LEAVING THE IGNITION SWITCH IN ANY

POSITION OTHERTHAN "OFF"WILL CAUSETHEBATTERY TO BE DISCHARGED, (DEAD).

POSITION

IGNITION KEY

"DISENGAGED"

POSITION

iBRAKE

GEAR

LEVER

NOTE: Under certain conditions when tractor is standing

idle with the engine running, hot engine exhaust gases may cause "browning" of grass, Toeliminate this possibility, al- ways stop engine when stopping tractor on grass areas,

CAUTION: Always stop tractor com-

pletely, as described above, before leav- ing the operator's position; to empty

grass catcher, etc.

TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL (See Fig. 6)

Always operate engine at full speed (fast).

• Operating engine at less than full speed (fast) reduces

engine's operating efficiency.

• Full speed (fast) offers the best mower performance.

TO USE CHOKE CONTROL (See Fig. 6)

Use choke control whenever you are starting a cold engine,

Do not use to start a warm engine,

• To engage choke control, pull knob out, Slowly push

knob in to disengage.

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD

(See Fig. 6)

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

• Start tractor with clutch/brake pedal depressed and

gearshift lever in neutral (N) position.

• Move gearshift lever to desired position,

• Slowly release clutch/brake pedal to start move-

ment,

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

(See Fig. 6)

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 approximately 1-1/2 to 4", The heights are measured from the ground to the blade tip

with the engine not running, These heights are approximate and may vary depending upon soil conditions, height of grass and types of grass being mowed,

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

inches during the cool season and to over 3 inches during hot months, For healthier and better looking lawns, mow often and after moderate growth,

• For best cutting performance, grass over 6 inches

in height should be mowed twice. Make the first cut

relatively high; the second to desired height,

OPERATION

TO OPERATE MOWER (See Fig. 7)

Your tractor isequipped with an operator presence sensing

switch, Any attempt by the operator to leave the seat with the engine running and the attachment clutch engaged will shut off the engine,You must remain fully and centrally

positioned in the seat to prevent the engine from hesitating or cutting off when operating your equipment on rough,

rolling terrain or hills,

• Select desired height of cut,

• Start mower blades by engaging attachment clutch

control.

• TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disengage attachment

clutch control.

CAUTION: Do not operate the mower

without either the entire grass catcher,

on mowers so equipped, or the deflector shield in place.

"ENGAGED" POSITION

_,HMENT

LIFT LEVER HIGH POSITION

LOW

POSITION

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH LEVER " "DISENGAGED"

POSITION -_

f-- -\\

/ /

SHIELD

Move gear shift lever to reverse (R) position and slowly release clutch/brake pedal to start movement.

When use of the ROS is no longer needed, turn the ignition key clockwise to engine "ON" position,

ROS "ON" POSITION ENGINE "ON" POSITION

(NORMAL OPERATING)

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

I _lb WARNING: Do not drive up or down

• Choose the slowest speed before starting up or down hills.

• Avoid stopping or changing speed on hills.

• If stopping is absolutely necessary, push clutch/brake pedal quickly to brake position and engage parking

brake,

• Move gearshift lever to 1st gear, Be sure you have allowed room for tractor to roll slightly as you restart

movement,

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

• Make all turns slowly.

hills with slopes greater than 15° and do not drive across any slope.

FIG. 7

REVERSE OPERATION SYSTEM (ROS)

Your tractor is equipped with a Reverse Operation System

(ROS), Any attempt by the operator to travel in the reverse

direction with the attachment clutch engaged will shut off the engine unless ignition key is placed in the ROS "ON"

position,

Aqh,WARNING: Backing up with the attachment clutch en- gaged while mowing is strongly discouraged, Turning the

ROS "ON", to allow reverse operation with the attachment clutch engaged, should only be done when the operator

decides it is necessary to reposition the machine with the attachment engaged, Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary,

USING THE REVERSE OPERATION SYSTEM -

• Depress clutch/brake pedal all the way down and hold,

• With engine running, turn ignition key counterclockwise to ROS "ON" position,

• Look down and behind before backing,

TO TRANSPORT

• Raise attachment lift tohighest position withattachment lift control,

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

• Do not push or tow tractor at more than five (5) MPH,

NOTE: To protect hood from damage when transporting

your tractor on a truck or a trailer, be sure hood is closed

and secured to tractor. Use an appropriate means of tying hood to tractor (rope, cord, etc,).

TOWING CARTS AND OTHER ATTACH- MENTS

Tow only the attachments that are recommended by and comply with specifications of the manufacturer of your trac- tor. Use common sense when towing. 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,

OPERATION

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE

CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL

The engine in your tractor has been shipped, from the factory, already filled with summer weight oil.

• Check engine oil with tractor on level ground,

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

remove and read oil level, If necessary, add oil until

"FULl" mark on dipstick is reached. Do not overfill,

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

Maintenance section of this manual).

• To change engine oil, see the Maintenance section in this manual.

ADD GASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank to bottom of filler neck, Do not overfill, Use fresh, clean, regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane, (Use of leaded gasoline will

increase carbon and lead oxide deposits and reduce

valve life), Do not mix oil with gasoline, Purchase fuel

in quantities that can be used within 30 days to assure

fuel freshness,

I& CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or I

IMPORTANT: WHEN OPERATING IN TEMPERATURES BELOW32°F(0°C), USE FRESH, CLEAN WINTER GRADE

GASOLINE TO HELP INSURE GOOD COLD WEATHER STARTING.

CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels (called

gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can at- tract moisture which leads to separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas

can damage the fuel system of an engine while

in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel

system should be emptied before storage of 30 days or longer. Drain the gas tank, start

the engine and let it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See Storage Instructions for additional

information. Never use engine or carburetor

cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.

fuel, Do not store, spill or use gasoline

near an open flame.

TO START ENGINE (See Fig. 5)

When starting the engine for the first time or ifthe engine

has run out of fuel, it will take extra cranking time to move

fuel from the tank to the engine.

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

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

• Move attachment clutch to "DISENGAGED" position.

• Move throttle control to choke (N) position.

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

• Insert key intoignition and turn keyclockwise to"START" position and release key as soon as engine starts,

Do not run starter continuously for more than fifteen seconds per minute. If the engine does not start after several attempts, move throttle control to fast position, wait a few minutes and try again, If engine still does not start, move the throttle control back to the choke (

I\1) position and retry.

WARM WEATHER STARTING (50° F and above)

• When engine starts, move the throttle control to the fast position,

• The attachments and ground drive can now be used, If the engine does not accept the load, restart the engine and allow it to warm up for one minute using the choke

as described above,

COLD WEATHER STARTING ( 50° F and below)

• When engine starts, allow engine to run with the throttle control in the choke (1\1)position until the engine runs

roughly, then move throttle control to fast position. This may require an engine warm-up period from several seconds to several minutes, depending on the tem- perature,

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

NOTE: If at a high altitude (above 3000 feet) or in cold

temperatures (below 32 F) the carburetor fuel mixture may

need to be adjusted for best engine performance, See "TO

ADJUST CARBURETOR" in the Service and Adjustments

section of this manual.

OPERATION

MOWING TIPS

• Mower should be properly leveled for best mowing per- formance, See "TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the

Service and Adjustments section of this manual,

• The left hand side of mower should be used for trim- ming.

• Drive so that clippings are discharged onto the area that has been cut, Have the cut area to the right of the

machine, This will result in a more even distribution of clippings and more uniform cutting,

• When mowing large areas, start byturning to the rightso that clippings will discharge away from shrubs, fences, driveways, etc. After one or two rounds, mow in the opposite direction making left hand turns until finished (See Fig. 8).

(

FIG. 8

• If grass is extremely tall, it should be mowed twice to reduce load and possible fire hazard from dried clip-

pings. Make first cut relatively high; the second to the desired height.

• Do not mow grass when it is wet. Wet grass will plug

mower and leave undesirable clumps, Allow grass to dry before mowing,

• Always operate engine at full throttle when mow-

ing to assure better mowing performance and proper discharge of material, Regulate ground speed by se- lecting a low enough gear to give the mower cutting

performance as well as the quality of cut desired,

• When operating attachments, select a ground speed

that will suit the terrain and give best performance of the attachment being used,

+ 30 hidden pages