Poulan Pro PO18H42STA User Manual

OWNER'S MANUAL

MODEL NO, PO18H42STA 18,0 HP 42 Inch

LawnTractor

Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Service and Adjustments

• Storage

• Troubleshooting

• Repair Parts

For Parts and Service, contact our authorized distributor: call 1-800-849-1297

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

184523 02.03.03 TR

PRINTED IN U.S.A.

SAFETY RULES A

Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers "-

IMPORTANT:THIS CUTTING MACHINE ISCAPABLEOF AMPUTATINGHANDSAND FEET ANDTHROWING OBJECTS. FAILURE

TOOBSERVETHE FOLLOWINGSAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURYOR DEATH. I. GENERAL OPERATION

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

• Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the 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 mow- 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.

• Be aware of the mower discharge direction and do not

point it at anyone. Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass catcher or the guard in place.

• Slow down before turning.

• Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn off blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and

remove keys before dismounting.

• Turn off blades when not mowing.

• Stop engine before removing grass catcher or un- clogging 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 road-

ways.

• Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine

into a trailer or truck.

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

lated injuries. 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 majorfactor related to loss-of-control and tipover accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. All slopes requireextra caution. If you cannot back upthe slope or if you feel uneasy on it, donot mow it.

DO:

• Mow up and down slopes, not across.

• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.

• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Taflgrass 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 recommendations for wheel weights or counterweights 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. Iftireslosetrac- tion, disengage the blades and proceed slowlystraight down the slope.

DO NOT:

• Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, 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 machine and the mowing activity. Never assume that

children will remain where you _ast 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 orfuel 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 equipment in good condition.

• Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly. Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris

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

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

• Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine

running.

• Grass catcher components are subject to wear, dam- age, and deterioration, which could expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check

components and replace with manufacturer's recom-

mended parts, when necessary.

• Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing

them.

• Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service as required.

SAFETY RULES

Asafe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers A

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

Never carry children.They may fall off and be seriouslyinjured 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 recks, 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.

WARNING: In order to prevent ac-

A WARNING: Do not coast down a hill

I •

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.

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 low- est 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.

A WARNING

Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and cer-

tain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals

known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

A 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.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

GASOLINE CAPACITY 1.25GALLONS ANDTYPE: UNLEADED REGULAR

OILTYPE (API-SF-SJ): SAE 30 (above 32°F)

SAE 5W-30 (below32°F)

OIL CAPACITY: W/Filter: 3.5 Pints

W/OutFilter: 3.0 Pints

SPARKPLUG: CHAMPION RCI2YC

GAP: .030")

GROUND SPEED (MPH): FORWARD: 5.2

REVERSE: 2.7

TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSi

REAR: 12 PSI

CHARGING SYSTEM: 3 AMPSBATTERY

5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS

BATTERY: AMP/HR: 28

MIN.CCA: 230 CASESIZE: UlR

BLADE BOLTTORQUE: 27-35 FT.LBS,

(_ONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new tractor.

It has been designed, engineered and manufacturedtogive

you the best possible dependability and performance. Shouldyou experience any problem youcannoteasily 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 tractorproperly. 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 "Maintenace" 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 unimprovedforest-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

nearestauthorizedservicecenter/department (See REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).

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

TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................ 25-26

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

WARRANTY ................................................................. 46

UNASSEMBLED PARTS

(1) Lwarg_Flera_

Steering Wheel

Steering

Boot

Steering

Wheel

Adapter

Steering Shaft

Extension

Seat

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

(1) Lock (_

Washer 1/2

Steering

Wheel

Insert

Key

(2) Keys

(1) Locknut 1/4-28

(1) HexBolt 1/4-28 x 1-1/4

"Slope Sheet

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.

(1) 3/4" wrench Pliers (2) 7/16" wrenches Tire pressure gauge

Utility knife

When right or left hand is mentioned inthis manual, itmeans

when you are in the operating position (seated behind the

steering wheel).

_-_-1_ LOCKWASHER

_v_ "_'_y (_LARGEFLAT

STEERIN__ WASHER

INSERT

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM

CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

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

• Cut along dotted 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.

BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR FROM SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL (See Fig. 1)

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND BOOT

Slide extension shaft onto lower steering shaft. Align mountingholesin extensionand lowershaftsand install 1/4 hexboltand Iocknut.Tightensecurely.

IMPORTANT:TIGHTEN BOLTANDNUTSECURELYTO 10-12 FT.LBSTORQUE.

Placetabs of steeringbootovertab slotsin dashandpush downtosecure.

INSTALL STEERING WHEEL

• Positionfrontwheelsofthetractorsotheyarepointing straight forward.

Remove steedng wheel adapter from steering wheel and slide adapter onto steering shaftextension.

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

Assemble large flat washer, 1/2 hex nut and tighten se-

curely. Snap steeringwheel insert into center of steeringwheel.

• Remove protective materials fromtractor hood and grill.

IMPORTANT: CHECK FOR AND REMOVE ANY STAPLES

IN SKID THAT MAY PUNCTURE TIRES WHERE TRACTOR ISTO ROLL OFF SKID.

WHEEL _ STEERING

ADAPTER

EXTENSION SHAFT

114LOCKNUT ,,_ _ 1/4 HEX BOLT

LOWER ___ _;' i

STEERING_ : '- ___/\ /'

_-,.,_._.•IdI SLOTS

FIG. 1

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR

INSTALL SEAT (See Fig. 2)

Adjust seat before tighteningadjustment bolt.

• Remove adjustment bolt, lock washer and flat washer securing seat to cardboard packing and set aside for

assembly of seat to tractor.

• Pivotseat upwardand removefromthecardboardpack- 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 adjust- ment bolt, Iockwasher 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.

ASSEMBLY

Get off seat without moving its adjusted position,

• Raise seat and tighten adjustment bolt securely.

SHOULDER BOLT

FLAT WASHER

LOCKWASHER_

ADJUSTMENT BOLT

FIG. 2

CHECK BATTERY (See Fig. 3)

• Liftseat pan to raised position.

• 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 "BA'I-rERY" in MAINTENANCE section of this manual for charging instructions).

LABEL

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

controls)

• Press liftlever plunger and raise attachment liftlever to its highest position.

• Release parking brake by depressing clutch/brake

pedal.

- Place freewheel control in "transmission disengaged

position" (See "TO TRANSPORT" in the Operation section of this manual).

• Roll tractor forward off skid.

• Removebandingholdingthedeflectorshieldupagainst

tractor.

TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Op-

eration section for location and function of controls)

,_WARNING: Beforestarting, read, understand and follow

all instructionsin the Operation section of this manual. Be sure tractoris in a well-ventilated area. Be sure the area in

front of tractor isclear of other people and objects.

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

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

• Place freewheel control in "transmission engaged"

position (see "TO TRANSPORT" in Operation section of this manual).

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

• Place motion control lever in neutral (N) position.

• Press lift lever plunger and raise attachment lift lever

to its highest position. Start the engine.After engine hasstarted, move throttle

control to idle position.

• Release parkingbrake.

• Slowlymovethe motioncontrolleverforward and slowly

drive tractor offskid. Apply brake to stoptractor,set parking brake and place

motion control lever in neutral position.

• Turn ignition keyto "STOP" position.

Continue with the instructionsthat follow.

FIG. 3

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

tractorfrom the skid.

ASSEMBLY

CHECKTIRE 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 in "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" section of this manual.

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS For best cutting results, mower housing should be properly

leveled. See"TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

CHECK 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

After you learn howto operate your tractor, checkto seethat the brake is properly adjusted. See "TO ADJUST BRAKE"

in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

#'CHECKLIST

BEFORE YOU OPERATE AND ENJOY YOUR NEW TRAC-

TOR, WE WISH TO ASSURE THAT YOU RECEIVE THE

BEST PERFORMANCEAND SATISFACTION FROMTHIS 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. (Minimum

1 hour at 6 amps).

,/ Seat is adjusted comfortably and tightened securely. ,/ Alltires 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.

,/ Before driving tractor, be sure freewheel control is in

drive position.

WHILE LEARNING HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR, PAY

EXTRA ATTENTION TO THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT ITEMS:

,I Engine oil is at proper level.

,/ Fuel tank is fi!led with fresh, clean, regular unleaded

gasolihe.

,f Become familiar with all controls - their location and

function. Operate them before you start the engine.

4 Be sure brake system is in safe operating condition. ,/ It is important to purge the transmission before oper-

ating your tractor for the first time. Follow proper start-

ing and transmission purging instructions (See "TO START ENGINE" and "PURGE TRANSMISSION" in

the Operation section of this manual).

OPERATION

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

R N H L I',,I

REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW CHOKE PAST SLOW IGNITION

ENGINE OFF LIGHTS ON ENGINE ON ENGINE START PARKING BRAKE

PARKING BRAKE PARKING BRAKE

LOCKED UNLOCKED

N m

OVER TEMP FUEL OIL PRESSURE BATTERY REVERSE FORWARD

LIGHT

MOWER HEIGHT MOWER LIFT

®@@@@

ATTACHMENT ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH ENGAGED CLUTCH DISENGAGED

DANGER, KEEP HANDS

AND FEET AWAY

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

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 J_

and/or property damage.

& & &

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.

CAUTION when used without the ale_t 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, ifnot 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.

THRO'n'L_CHOKE ATTACHMENT CONTROL LIFT LEVER

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL

FREEWHEEL CONTROL

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER

IGNITION SWITCH

LIGHT

SWITCH POSITION

LIFT LEVER

PARKING

BRAKE

MOTION CONTROL

LEVER

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

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER: Used to engage the mower blades, or other attachments mounted to your

tractor. LIGHT SWITCH POSITION: Turns the headlights on and

off. THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL: Used for starting and

controling engine speed. CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL: Used for declutching and brak- ing the tractor and starting the engine.

PARKING BRAKE: Locksclutch/brake pedal into the brake

position.

FIG. 4

FREEWHEEL CONTROL: Disengages transmission for pushing or slowly towing the tractor with the engine off.

MOTION CONTROL LEVER: Selects the speed and direction of tractor.

ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER: Used to raise and lower the mower deck or other attachments mounted to your

tractor.

LIFT LEVER PLUNGER: Used to release attachment lift

lever when changing its position.

IGNITION SWITCH: Used for starting and stopping the

engine.

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 a wide vision safety mask over spectacles or standard safety glasses.

HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR

TO SET PARKING BRAKE (See Fig. 5)

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.

CONTROL

"BRAKE" POSI_ON

CLUTCH/BRAKEPEDAL "BSENGAGED"

"DRIVE"POrTION

I POS_ION

FIG. 5

STOPPING (See Fig. 5)

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 motion control lever to neutral (N) position. IMPORTANT: THEMOTIONCONTROL LEVER DOESNOT

RETURN TO NEUTRAL (N) POSITION WHEN THE CLUTCH/ BRAKE PEDALIS DEPRESSED.

ENGINE -

• Move throttle control to slow position. NOTE: Failure to move throttle control to slow position and

allowing engineto idle before stopping may cause engine to =backfire".

• Turn ignition key to "OFF" position and remove key.

Always remove key when leaving tractor to prevent

unauthorized use.

• Never use choke to stop engine. IMPORTANT: LEAVING THE IGNITION SWITCH IN ANY

POSITION OTHER THAN "OFF"WILL CAUSE THE BATTERY

TO BE DISCHARGED, (DEAD).

CLUTCH LEVER

"ENGAGED"

POSITION

MOTION CONTROL

LEVER

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, al-

ways stop engine when stopping tractor on grass areas.

pletely, as described above, before leav-

ing the operator's position; to empty

I_ AUTION: Always stop tractor com- I

grass catcher, etc.

TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL (See Fig. 5)

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 perfor- mance.

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD (See Fig. 5)

The direction and speed of movement is controlled bythe

motion control lever,

• Start tractor with motion control lever in neutral (N)

position.

• Release parking brake.

• Slowly move motion control lever to desired position.

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT

(See Fig. 5)

The position of the attachment lift lever determines the cutting height.

• Grasp liftlever.

• 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 groundto the blade tip

withthe engine notrunning.These heightsare approximate

and may vary depending upon soil conditions, height of grass and types of grass being mowed.

• The average lawnshould be cutto approximately2-1/2

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 (See Fig. 6)

Gauge wheels are properly adjusted when theyare slightly offthe 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.

OPERATION

NOTE:Adjust gauge wheels with tractor on a flat level surface.

• Adjust mower to desired cutting height (See "TO AD- JUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT" in the Operation

section of this manual). With mower in desired height of cut position, gauge

wheels should be assembled so they are slightly off

the ground. Install gauge wheel in appropriate hole with shoulder bolt, 3/8 washer, and 3/8-16 Iocknut and

tighten securely.

Repeat foropposite side installing gauge wheel insame

adjustment hole.

3/8-16

GAUGEWHEEL MOUNTING BRACKE1

GAUGEWHEE_ BOLT

FIG. 6

TO OPERATE MOWER (See Fig. 7)

Yourtractor isequipped withan operatorpresence sensing switch. Any attempt bythe operator to leave the seat with the engine running and the attachment clutch engaged will

shut off the engine.

• Select desired height of cut.

• Start mower blades by engaging attachment clutch

control.

• TO STOP MOWER BLADES - 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.

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

I_ 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 slowing is necessary, move throttle control lever to

slower position.

• If stopping is absolutely necessary, push clutch/brake

pedal quickly to brake position and engage parking

brake.

• Move motion control lever to neutral (N) position.

iMPORTANT: THE MOTIONCONTROLLEVERDOESNOT

RETURNTO NEUTRAL (N) POSITION WHEN THE CLUTCH/ BRAKE PEDALIS DEPRESSED.

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

• Slowly move motion control lever to slowest setting. Make all turns slowly.

TO TRANSPORT (See Figs. 4 and 8)

When pushing or towing your tractor, be sure to disengage transmission by placing freewheel control in freewheeling

position. Free wheel control is located at the rear drawbar of tractor.

• Raise attachment lifttohighest positionwithattachment

liftcontrol. Pullfreewheel control out and down into the slot and

release so it is held in the disengaged position.

• Do not push or tow tractor at more than two (2)

MPH. To reengage transmission, reverse above procedure.

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 totractor (rope, cord, etc.).

hills with slopes greater than 15° and

Transmission Engaged

Ido not drive across any slope.

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER

SmON

"ENGAGED" POSITION

FIG. 7

A'n'ACHMENT

HIGH POSITIOI_

,%*

T LEVER

PosmoN

DEFLECTOR

Transmission Disengaged

FIG. 8

OPERATION

TOWING CARTS AND OTHER ATTACHMENTS

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.

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE

CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL

• The engine inyoul'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 thatcan be used within 30 days to assure

fuel freshness.

I_ CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or

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 attract moisture which leads to separation and formation of acids during

storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems,

the fuel system should be emptied before storage

of 30 days or longer. Drain the gas tank, start the

engine and letit 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. 4) When starting the engine for the first time or if the engine

has run out of fuel, itwill take extra crankingtime to move

fuel from the tank to the engine.

Be sure freewheel controlisin thetransmissionengaged

position. Sit on seat in operating position,depress clutch/brake

pedal and set parking brake.

• Place motioncontrol lever in neutral (N) position. Move attachment clutch to "DISENGAGED" position.

Move throttlecontrol to choke position.

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

Insertkeyintoignitionand turnkeyclockwiseto"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 throttlecontroltofast position, wait a few minutes and try again. If engine stilldoes

not start, move the throttle control back to the choke positionand 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

theengine does notaccept the load, restartthe engine and allow itto warm up for one minuteusingthe choke

as described above.

COLD WEATHER STARTING ( 50°'F and below)

When engine starts, allow engine to run with the throttle control in the choke position until the engine

runs roughly, then move throttle control to fast posi- tion.This may require an engine warm-up period from

several seconds to several minutes, depending on the temperature.

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WARM UP

• Before drivingthe unit incoldweather, the transmission

should be warmed up as follows:

• Be sure the tractor is on level ground.

• Place the motion control lever in neutral. Release the parking brake and let the clutch/ brake slowly return to operating position.

• Allow one minute for transmission to warm up.This can be done during the engine warm up period.

• The attachments can also be used during the engine warm-upperiod after thetransmission has been warmed

up.

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

PURGE TRANSMISSION

I _ CAUTION: Neverengageordisengage I

To ensure proper operation and performance, it is recom- mended that the transmission be purged before operating tractor for the first time. This procedure will remove any

trapped air inside the transmission which may have de- veloped during shipping of your tractor,

IMPORTANT: SHOULD YOUR TRANSMISSION REQUIRE

REMOVAL FOR SERVICE OR REPLACEMENT, IT SHOULD BE PURGED AFTER REINSTALLATIONBEFOREOPERATING THE TRACTOR.

Place tractor safely on level surface with engine off and

parking brake set.

• Disengage transmission by placing freewheel control

infreewheeling position (See"TOTRANSPORT" inthis section of manual).

• Sitting inthe tractor seat, start engine. After the engine

is running, move throttle control to slow position.With motion control lever in neutral (N) position, slowly dis-

engage clutch/brake pedal.

• Move motion control lever to full forward position and hold for five (5) seconds. Move lever to full reverse

position and hold for five (5) seconds. Repeat this procedure three (3) times.

NOTE: During this procedure there will be no movement

of drive wheels. The air is being removed from hydraulic drive system.

• Move motion control leverto neutral (N) position,Shut- offengine and set parking brake.

• Engage transmission by placing freewheel control in drivingposition (See "TO TRANSPORT" inthis section

of manual).

• Sittinginthe tractor seat, start engine. After the engine is running, move throttle control to half (1/2) speed.

With motion control lever inneutral (N) position,slowly disengage clutch/brake pedal.

• Slowly move motion control lever forward, after the tractormoves approximately five (5) feet, slowlymove motion control lever to reverse position. After the trac-

tor moves approximately five (5) feet return the mo- tion control lever to the neutral (N) position. Repeat

this procedure with the motion control lever three (3) times.

• Your transmission is now purged and now ready for normal operation.

freewheel lever while the engine is run-

ning.

MOWING TIPS

• Mower should be properlyleveled for best mowing per- formance. See"TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" inthe

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

clippingsand more uniformcutting. When mowing largeareas, start by turningtothe rightso

thatclippings will discharge away from shrubs, fences, driveways, etc. After one or two rounds, mow in the

opposite direction makingleft hand turns until finished

(See Fig. 9).

FIG. 9

Ifgrass 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.

MAINTENANCE

M.,NTE..NCESCHEDULE

AS YOU COMPLETE

REGULAR SERVICE J__ZERVICE DATE S

Chh:::

Check Operator Presence and

T Interlock Systems _1_

Check for Loose Fasteners V_5 ll_

Lubrication Chart l/

T Check Battery Level

A Sharpen/Replace Mower Blades _3

R Clean Battery and Terminals V _

Check Transaxle Cooling I/ Check V-Belts If

Check Engine Oil Level V' I_ # Change Engine Oil (with oil filter) 1_1,2 V'

E Change Engine Oil (without oil filter) I_1._ li/

N Clean Air Filter ql_2

G Clean Air Screen VF2

i_ Inspect Muffler/Spark Arrester V' E Replace Oil Filter (if equipped) li_1.2

Clean Engine Cooling Fins V' 2

Replace Spark Plug V' If Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge

Replace Fuel Filter

1 - Change more often when operating under a heavy load or

in high ambient temperatures.

2 - Service more often when operating in dirty or dusty conditions.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on thistractor does not cover items that have boon subjectedtooperator abuse ornegligence. Toreceive

full value from the warranty, operator must maintain tractor as instructed in this manual.

Some adjustments will need to be made periodically to

propedy maintain your tractor. All adjustments in the Service and Adjustments section

of this manual should be checked at least once each

season.

• Once a year you should replace the spark plug, clean or replace ai rfilter, and check blades and belts for wear. A new spark plug and clean air filter assure proper air-

fuel mixture and help your engine run better and last longer.

BEFORE EACH USE

• Check engine oil level.

• Check brake operation.

• Check tire pressure.

• Check operator presence and

interlocksystems for proper operation.

• Check for loose fasteners.

1/2

3 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil. 4 - Not required if equipped with maintenance-free battery.

5 - Tighten front axle pivot bolt to 35 ft.-Ibs, maximum.

Do not ove_ghten.

LUBRICATION CHART

ZERK _,_-:.

_FRONT !

BEARING ZERK

OGENERAL PURPOSE GREASE _)REFER TO MAINTENANCE "ENGINE" SECTION

IMPORTANT: DO NOT OIL OR GREASE THE PIVOT POINTS WHICH HAVE SPECIAL NYLON BEARINGS. VISCOUS LUBRICANTS WILL ATrRACT DUST AND DIRT THAT WILL SHORTEN THE LIFE OF THE SELF-LUBRICATING BEARINGS. IF YOU FEEL THEY MUST BE LUBRICATED, USE ONLY A DRY, POWDERED GRAPHITE TYPE LUBRICANT SPARINGLY.

ZERK

"OFRONTWHEEL

BEARING ZERK

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Poulan Pro PO18H42STA User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual