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IMPORTANT MANUAL Do Not Throw Away
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TM
OWNER'S MANUAL
MODEL:
PR16H42STA
LAWN TRACTOR
ALWAYS WEAR EYE PROTECTION DURING OPERATION
Read this Owner's Manual and follow
all Warnings and Safety Instructions.
Failure to do so can result in serious
injury.
279840 PR16H42STA
WARNING:
173298 Rev. 1 2.10.00 TR/MH
Printed in U.S.A.
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SAFETY RULES
& Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers &
IMPORTANT: THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OBJECTS.
FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
I, GENERALOPERATION
• Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the
manual and on the machine before starting.
• Only allowresponsible adults, who are familiar withthe
instructions,to operate the machine.
• Clear thearea of objects such as recks, toys, wire, etc.,
whichcould be picked up and thrown by the blade.
• Besure thearea is clear ofother people before mowing.
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 backing.
• Be aware of the mower discharge direction and do not
point it at anyone. Do not operate the roower without
either the entire grass catcher or the guard in place.
• Slow down before tuming.
• Never leave a running machine unattended. Alwaysturn
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 unclog-
ging 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-
related injuries. These operators should evaluate their
ability to operate the riding mower safely enough to
protect themselves and others from serious injury.
I1. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopesare a majorfactor related to loss-of-controlandtipover
accidents,whichcan resultinsevere injuryordeath. Allslopes
requireextracaution.Ifyoucannotbackuptheslope orifyoufeel
uneasyon it,do notmowit.
DO:
• MOWup and down slopes, not across.
• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.
• Watch for holes, ruts,or bumps. Uneven terrain could
overturnthe machine. Ta/I grass can hide obstacles.
• Use slowspeed. Choose a low gear so that you willnot
have tostop or shift while on the slope.
• Followthe manufacturer's recommendations for wheel
weights orcounterweights to improve stability.
• Use extra care with grass catchers or other attach-
ments. These can change the stability of the machine.
Keepallmovementonthe slopesslowand gradual. Donot
makesuddenchangesin speed or direction.
Avoidstartingorstoppingon a slope. If tires losetraction,
disengagethebladesand proceedslowlystraightdownthe
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 couldsuddenly turnover ifawheeiis overthe
edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.
• Donotmowonwetgrass. Reduced tractioncouldcause
sliding.
• Donottrytostabilizethemachinebyputtingyourfoot
onthe ground.
• Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.
Ul. 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 out of the mowing area and under the
watchful care ofanother responsible adult,
• Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area.
• Before and when backing, look behind and down for
small chUdren.
• Never carry children. They may falloffand be sedously
injured or interfere with safe machine operation.
• Never allow children to operate the machine.
• Use extra care when approaching blindcomers, 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. AIIowenginetocoolbeforerefueling. Donot
smoke.
- Never refuel the machine indoors.
- Never storethe machine orfuelcontainer insidewhere
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 preper
operation regularly.
• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris
build-up. Clean oil or fuel spillage. Allow machine tocool
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 subjectto wear, dam-
age, and deterioration,whichcould exposemovingparts
orallowobjectstobethrown. Frequentlycheck compo-
nents and replace with manufacturer's recommended
parts, when necessary.
• Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap theblade(s)
or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing
them.
• Check brake operation frequently. Adjustand service
as required.
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SAFETY RULES
Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers &
Be sure the area isclearof 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 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 oft 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 over-
turn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so that you willnot 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 nottum onslopes unless necessary, and then, turn slowly
and gradually downhill, if possible.
I
I
&
Lock for this symbol to point out important
safety precautions. It means CAUTION!I!
BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR SAFETY IS IN-
VOLVED.
CAUTION: Do not coast down a hill in
neutral, you may lose control of the tractor.
CAUTION: 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.
CAUTION: In order to prevent accidental
starting when setting up, transporting, ad-
justing or making repairs, always discon-
nect spark plug wire and place wire where
it cannot contact spark plug.
I
I
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SAFETY RULES ........ 2-3
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS ....................................... 4
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ...................... 4, 15-18
ASSEMBLY ................................................................ 6-8
OPERATION ............................................................. 9-14
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ....................................... 15
,,..,. ,.,.., .,o... ,.H°. ,,==,, ...,,= ,..,.. ,*...,
A WARNING
The engine exhaust from this product.contains
chemicals known to the State of Califorma to
cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproduc-
tive harm.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS ............................. 19-23
STORAGE ................................................................... 24
TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................. 25-26
REPAIR PARTS - TRACTOR .................................. 28-41
WARRANTY . . 42
3
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PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
GASOLINE CAPACITY
AND TYPE:
OILTYPE (API-SF/SG/SH):
OIL CAPACITY: W/FILTER: 4.0 PINTS
SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION RC12YC
GAP: .040")
GROUND SPEED (MPH): FORWARD: 5.5
TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSi
CHARGING SYSTEM: 15 AMPS @ 3600 RPM
BA'I-FERY: AMP/HR: 25
BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 27-35 FT. LBS.
2.0 GALLONS
UNLEADED REGULAR
SAE 10W30 (above 32°F)
SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F)
W/OFILTER: 3,5 PINTS
REVERSE: 2.4
REAR: 10 PSi
MIN. CCA: 190
CASE SIZE: U1R
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
• Read and observe the safety rules.
• Follow a regular schedule inmaintaining, caring forand
using your tractor.
• Follow the instructionsunder =Customer Responsibili-
ties" and "Storage" sections ofthis owner's manual.
CONGRATULATIONS onyourpurchaseofanewtractor. 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
centre/department. We have competent, well-trained tech-
nicians and the proper toolsto service or repairthis tractor.
Please read and retain this manual. The instructions will
enable you to assemble and maintain yourtractor properly.
Always observe the "SAFETY RULES".
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 or grass-cov-
ered land unless the engine's exhaust systemis equipped
with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws
(ifany). If a spark arrester isused, itshould be maintained
in effective working order bythe operator.
A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your
nearest authorized service centre/department (See RE-
PAIR PARTS section of this manual).
4
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UNASSEMBLED PARTS
(1)Large Flat
Washer
Steering Wheel
(1) Lockwasher 3/8
Steering
Boot
E_ension
Shaft
t teedng
Steering
Wheel
Adapter
Steering
Wheel
Insert
(1) Locknut
5/16-18
(1) Hex Bolt
3/8-16 x 1
Seat
(1) Shoulder
Bolt 5/16-18
(1) Washer
17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge
(1) Bolt_
Slope Sheet
Key
(2) Keys
5/16-18 x 1-1/4
(1)HexBolt
Blade
5
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ASSEMBLY
Your newtractor has been assembled atthefactorywith exception ofthose parts left unassembled forshipping 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) 9/16" wrench Pliers
(2) 7/16" wrenches Tirepressuregauge
(2) 1/2"wrenches Utility knife
When rightor left hand is mentioned inthismanual, it means
when you are in the operating position (seated behind the
steeringwheel).
TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON
UNPACK CARTON
• Remove all accessible loose pads and parts cartons
from carton.
• Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on all fourcorners
of carton, and lay 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
mounting holes inextension and lower shafts and install
5/16 hex bolt and Iocknut. Tighten securely.
• 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
straightforward.
• Remove steedng wheel adapterfrom steeringwheeland
slide adapter onto steering shaft extension.
• Positionsteering wheel so crossbarsare horizontal(left
to right) and slide inside boot and onto adapter.
• Assemble large flat washer, 3/8 lock washer, 3/8 hex
bolt and tighten securely.
• Snap steering wheel insertintocenter ofsteeringwheel.
• Remove protective materials fromtractorhoodand gdll.
IMPORTANT: CHECK FOR AND REMOVE ANY STAPLES
IN SKID THAT MAY PUNCTURE TIRES WHERE TRACTOR
IS TO ROLL OFF SKID.
_='--_ INSERT
3/8 LOCK WASHER
STEERING_
WHEEL
5,,SLOCKNOT
LOWER _ _','
STEERING_ ! _ t,_ ,_.
(_-_ LARGE FLAT
_ BOOT
/_....._TABS
ADAPTER _ EXTENSION SHAFT
FIG. 1
7
I
"-." -. bJ SLOTS
WASHER
STEERING
BOLT
HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR
CHECK BA'I-FERY (See Fig. 2)
• Lift seat pan to raised positionand open battery box
door.
• If this battery is put into service after month and year
indicated on label (label located between terminals)
charge battery for minimum ofone hour at 6-10 amps.
(See "BATTERY" inCUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
section of this manual for charging instructions).
SEAT
BOX
6 FIG. 2
LABEL
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ASSEMBLY
INSTALL SEAT (See Fig. 3)
Adjust seat before tightening adjustment bolt.
• Remove adjustment knoband flatwasher securingseat
tocardboard packingand setaside for assembly ofseat
totractor.
• Pivot seat upward and remove from the cardboard
packing. Remove the cardboard packing and discard,
• Place seat on seat pan and assemble shoulder bolt.
Tighten shoulder bolt securely.
• Assemble adjustment knob and flatwasher loosely. Do
not tighten.
• Lower seat into operating positionand siton seat.
• Slide seat untila comfortable position is reached which
allowsyou to pressclutch/brake pedal allthe waydown,
• Get off seat without moving its adjusted position,
• Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob securely.
SEAT
SEAT PAN
SHOULDER
DOLT
WASHER
ADJUSTMENT
KNOB
FIG. 3
NOTE: You may now roll or drive your tractor offthe skid.
Follow the appropriate instruction below to remove the
tractorfrom the skid.
TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Operation
section for location and function of controls)
• Press liftlever plunger and raise attachment liftlever to
its highest position.
• Releaseparkingbrakebydepressingclutch/brakepedal,
• Place freewheel control in freewheeling position to
disengagetransmission (See "TO TRANSPORT" inthe
Operation sectionof this manual).
• Rolltractor forward offskid.
• Remove banding holding discharge guard up against
tractor.
TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Opera-
tion section for location and function of con-
trols)
_WARNING: Before starting, read, understand andfollow
all instructionsin the Operation section of this manual. Be
sure tractor is in a well-ventilated area. Be sure the area in
frontof tractor is clear of other people and objects.
• Be sure all the above assembly steps have been
completed.
• Check engine oil level and fillfuel tank with gasoline.
• Placefreewheel control in "transmissionengaged"posi-
tion.
• Siton seat in operating position, depress clutch/brake
pedal and set the parking brake.
• Place motion control lever in neutral (N) position.
Press liftlever plunger and raise attachment liftleverto
itshighest position.
• Starttheengine.Afterenginehasstarted, movethrottle
controlto idle position.
• Release parking brake.
• Slowlymove the motion controlleverforward and slowly
drive tractor off skid.
• Apply brake tostop tractor, set parking brake and place
motion control lever in neutral position.
• Turn ignition key to "OFF" position.
Continue with the instructions that follow.
IMPORTANT: FOR SHIPPING PURPOSES, THE
MULCHER PLATE WAS PREATTACHED TO YOUR
MOWER. THE MULCHER PLATE MUST ONLY BE USED
WITH THE MULCHING BLADES THAT CAME PACKED
SEPARATELY IN THE CARTON.
YOUR MOWER CAME FACTORY EQUIPPED WITH HIGH
PERFORMANCE BLADES, WHICH ARE THE BEST
BLADES FOR BAGGING AND DISCHARGING. TO USE
YOUR MOWER WITH THE HIGH PERFORMANCE BLADES
THE MULCHER PLATE MUST BE REMOVED FROM THE
MOWER (SEE FIG. 4).
TO SET UP YOUR MOWER FOR MULCHING
• Remove high performance blades and installmulcher
blades, (see BLADE REMOVAL in the CUSTOMER
RESPONSIBILITY section of this manual).
TO INSTALL MULCHER PLATE (See Fig. 4)
NOTE: If you installedthe mulching blades you willneed to
installthe mulcher plate.
• Raise and hold deflector shield in upright position.
• Place frontof mulcher plate over front of mower deck
opening and slide into place, as shown.
• Hook front latch into hole on front of mower deck.
• Hook rear latch into hole on back of mower deck.
from mower. Raise and hold guard when
I& CAUTION: Do not remove deflector shield
DEFLECTOR MULCHER
SHIELD PLATE
attaching mulcher plate and allow it to
rest on plate while in operation.
LATCH
HOOKS
FIG. 4
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ASSEMBLY
TO CONVERT TO BAGGING OR
DISCHARGING
NOTE: The mulcher blades willdischargeand bag grass, but
for best bagging and discharging install the high performance
blades.
• Remove mulcher plate and mulcher blades and install
high performance blades, (seeBLADE REMOVAL inthe
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITY section ofthis manual).
• Store mulcher blades and mulcher plate in a safe place.
Your mower is now ready for discharging or installation
of optional grass catcher accessory.
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 in "PRODUCT
SPECIFICATIONS" section of this manual.
CHECK DECK LEVELNESS
For best cutting results, mower housing shouldbe propedy
leveled. See "TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" inthe 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 you rtractor, check to see that
the brake is properly adjusted. See "TO ADJUST BRAKE"
in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.
•/ CHECKLIS T
BEFORE YOU OPERA TEAND ENJO YYOUR NEW TRAC-
TOR, WE WISH TO ASSURE THAT YOU RECEIVE THE
BEST PERFORMANCE AND SATISFACTION FROM THIS
QUALITYPRODUCT.
PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING CHECKLIST:
•/ All assembly instructionshave been completed.
,/ No remaining loose parts in carton.
J Batteryispropedypreparedandcharged. (Minimum1
hour at 6 amps).
,I Seat is adjusted comfortably and tightened securely.
,/ All tires are propedy inflated. (For shipping purposes,
the tires were overinflated at the factory).
J Be sure mower deck is properly leveled side-to-side/
front-to-rear for best cutting results. (Tires must be
propedy inflated forleveling).
,I Check mower and drive belts. Be sure they are routed
propedy around pulleysand insideall belt keepers.
,/ Check wiring. See that all connections are still secure
and wires are propedyclamped.
4" Before driving tractor, be sure freewheel control is in
drive position.
WHILE LEARNING HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR, PAY
EXTRA A TTENTION 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.
,/ Iris importantto purgethe transmission before operating
your tractor for the firsttime. Follow proper starting and
transmission purging instructions (See "TO START
ENGINE" and "PURGE TRANSMISSION" inthe Opera-
tion section of this manual).
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OPERATION
These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand theirmeaning.
BATFERY CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW
WARNING
ENG,NEONENG,NEOFFO,,PRESSURE,,GHTSONO%_MP t
FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED MOWER LIFT
LOCKED
N H L
ATTACHMENT REVERSE
CLUTCH ENGAGED
ATFACHMENT
IGNITION CLUTCH DISENGAGED (SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)
NEUTRAL HIGH LOW
KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS
PARKING BRAKE
DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY
FREEWHEEL
(Automatic Modelsonly)
9
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OPERATION
KNOW YOUR TRACTOR
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR TRACTOR
Compare the illustrationswith yourtractor to familiadzeyourself withthelocations of variouscontrols and adjustments. Save
this manual for future reference.
THROTTL_CHOKE
CLUTCHIBRAKE
PEDAL
FREE WHEEL
CONTROL
HEIGHT
ADJUSTMENT
KNOB
ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH LEVER IGNITION SWITCH
AMMETER
i CONTROL
SWITCH POSITION
LIGHT
LIFT LEVER
ATTACHMENT
_PARKING
BRAKE
LEVER
LEVER
Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the American National Standards Institute.
A'n'ACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER: Used to engage the
mower blades, orotherattachments mounted toyourtractor.
LIGHT SWITCH: Turns the headlights on and off.
THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL: Used for starting and
controling engine speed.
CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL: Used fordeclutching and brak-
ingthe tractor and starting the engine.
PARKING BRAKE: Locksclutch/brake pedal into the brake
position.
FREEWHEEL CONTROL: Disengages transmission for
pushing or slowly towing the tractor with the engine off.
FIG. 5
AMMETER: Indicates charging (+) or discharging (-) of
battery.
MOTION CONTROL LEVER: Selects the speed and
directionof tractor.
ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER: Used toraise and lower the
mower deck or other attachments mounted toyour tractor,
LIFT LEVER PLUNGER: Used to release attachment lift
lever when changing its position.
IGNITION SWITCH: Used for starting and stopping the
engine.
HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB: Used to adjust the mower
cutting height.
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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. 6)
Your tractor isequipped with an operator presence sensing
switch. When engine is running, any attempt bythe 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"
THROTTLE/CHOKE POSITION
CONTROL_ IGNITIONKEY
'DISENGAGED"
BRAKE
POSITION
CONTROL
LEVER
CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL
"DRIVE" POSITION
STOPPING (See Fig. 6)
MOWER BLADES -
To stop mower blades,move attachment clutchlever 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: THE MOTION CONTROL LEVER DOES
NOT RETURN TO NEUTRAL (N) POSITION WHEN THE
CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL IS DEPRESSED.
ENGINE -
• Move throttle control to slow position.
NOTE: Failure to move throttle control to slow position and
allowing engine to 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
unauthodzed use.
• Never use choke to stop engine.
PARKING BRAKE
"DISENGAGED" PosmoN
FIG. 6
IMPORTANT: LEAVING THE IGNITION SWITCH IN ANY
POSITION OTHER THAN "OFF" WILL CAUSE THE
BATTERY TO BE DISCHARGED, (DEAD).
NOTE: Under certainconditionswhentractorisstandingidle
with the engine running, hot engine exhaust gases may
cause "browning" of grass. To eliminate this possibility,
always stop engine when stoppingtractor on grass areas.
CAUTION: Always stop tractor com-
pletely, as described above, before leav-
I
TO USE THROTrLE CONTROL (See Fig. 6)
Always operate engine at fullthrottle.
• Operating engine at lessthan fullthrottle reduces the
battery charging rate.
• Fullthrottle offers the bestbagging and mower perfor-
mance.
ing the operator's position; to empty
grass catcher, etc.
TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD (See
Fig. 6)
The direction and speed ofmovement iscontrolled by the
motion control lever.
• Start tractor with motion control lever in neutral (N)
position.
• Release parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.
• Slowly move motion control lever to desired position.
TO ADJUST MOWER cUTrlNG HEIGHT (See
Fig. 6)
The cutting height is controlled byturningthe height adjust-
ment knob in desired direction.
• Turn knob clockwise (F_ ) to raise cutting height.
• Turn knob counterclockwise (P'_) to lower cutting
height.
The cutting height range isapproximately 1-1/2" to4". The
heights are measured fromthe groundtothe blade tip with
the engine not running. These heightsare approximate and
may vary depending upon soilconditions, height of grass
and types of grass being mowed.
• The average lawn shouldbe cuttoapproximately 2-1/2
inches during the cool season and to over 3 inches
dudng hot months. For healthier and better looking
lawns, mow often and after moderate growth.
• For best cuttingperforrnance, grass over 6 inches in
height should be mowed twice. Make the first cut
relatively high; the second todesired height.
11
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OPERATION
TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS (See Fig. 9)
Gauge wheels are propedy adjusted when they are slightly
offthe ground when mower isat the desired cutting height in
operating position, Gauge wheels then keep the deck in
proper position to help prevent scalping in most terrain
conditions.
• Adjust gauge wheels with tractor on a flat level surface.
• Adjust mower to desired cutting height (See '_ro AD-
JUST MOWER CUI-I-ING 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 for opposite side installing gauge wheel in same
adjustment hole.
GUAGE WHEEL ,_\ _ f_;,--_ I
MOUNTING " /_ \ _._,._/_
LGCKNUTf
I; P'_I SHOULDER
SWASHER/
GAUGE WHEEL"
FIG. 7
TO OPERATE MOWER (See Fig. 8)
Your tractorisequipped withanoperator 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.
• Select desired height of cut.
• Lower mower with attachment liftcontrol.
• Start mower blades by engaging attachment clutch
control
• TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disengage attachment
clutch control.
TO OPERATE ON HILLS
& CAUTION: Donotdriveupordownhills I
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
slowerposition.
• 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 MOTION CONTROL LEVER DOES
NOT RETURN TO NEUTRAL (N) POSITION WHEN THE
CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL IS DEPRESSED.
• To restart movement, slowly release parking brake and
clutch/brake pedal.
• Slowly move motion control lever to slowest setting.
• Make all tums slowly.
with slopes greater than 15° and do not
drive across any slope.
TO TRANSPORT (See Figs. 5 and 9)
When pushingor towing your tractor, be suretodisengage
transmission by placing freewheel control in freewheeling
position.Free wheel control is located at the rear drawbar of
tractor.
• Raise attachment lift to highest position with attach-
ment liftcontrol.
• Pull freewheel control out and down into the slot and
release so it is held in the disengaged position.
• Do not push ortow tractor at more than two (2) MPH.
• To reengagetransmission, reverse above procedure.
NOTE: To protect hood from damage when transporting
yourtrectoron atruck ora trailer, be sure hoodisclosedand
securedto tractor. Use an appropriate means oftying hood
totractor (rope, cord, etc.).
CAUTION: Do not operate the mower
without either the entire grass catcher,
on mowers so equipped, or the dis-
charge guard in place.
/
/
CLUTCH LEVER __-
"DISENGAGED" .
POSITION "_ ill
"ENGAGED" POSITION
ATTACHMENT
": HIGH POSI-
,_ION
/ _ LOW
LEVER
POSITION
DISCHARGE
GUARD
/
FIG. 8 12
i
FIG. 9
TOWING CARTS AND OTHER ATTACHMENTS
Tow only the attachments that are recommended by and
comply with specifications of the manufacturer of your
tractor. Use common sense when towing. Too heavy ofa
load, while on a slope, isdangerous. Tires can lose traction
withthegroundand cause you tolosecontrolofyourtractor.
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OPERATION
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE
CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL (See Fig. 14)
• The engine in yourtractor has been shipped, from the
factory, already filled with summer weight oil.
• Check engine oilwithtractor on level ground.
• Unthread and remove oil fillcap/dipstick; wipe oil off.
Reinsert the dipstick intothe tube and restoilfill cap on
thetube. Do not thread the cap onto the tube. 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
Customer Responsibilities sectionof this manual).
• To change engine oil, see the Customer Responsibili-
ties section in this manual.
ADD GASOLINE
• Fill fuel tank. 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.
IMPORTANT: WHEN OPERATING IN TEMPERATURES
BELOW 32°F(0°C), USE FRESH, CLEAN WINTER GRADE
GASOLINE TO HELP INSURE GOOD COLD WEATHER
STARTING.
WARNING: Experience indicatesthatalcoholblended 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 storageof 30 days or
longer. Drain the gas tank, startthe engine and let it rununtil
the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next
season. See Storage Instructionsfor additionalinformation.
Never use engine or carburetor cleaner productsinthe fuel
tank or permanent damage may occur.
CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank I
&
filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any
spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or
use gasoline near an open flame.
Insertkey into ignition and turnkey clockwise to "START"
position and release keyas soon as engine starts. Do not
run starter continuously for more than fifteen seconds per
minute. If the engine does not start after several at-
tempts, 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 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 upfor 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
controlinthe chokepositionuntiltheengine runs roughly,
then move throttle control to fast position. This may
requirean engine warm-up period from several seconds
to several minutes, depending on the temperature.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WARM UP
• Before drivingthe unitincoldweather, the transmission
should bewarmed up as follows:
• Be sure the tractoris on level ground.
• Place the motioncontrol lever in neutral, Release
the parking brake and let the clutch/brake
slowly returntooperating position.
• Allow one minute for transmission towarm up. This
can be doneduringthe engine warm up period.
• The attachments can also be used during the engine
warm-up period afterthe transmission 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.
|
I
PURGE TRANSMISSION
]_1) AUTION: Neverengageordisengage ]
freewheel lever while the engine is run-
ning.
TO START ENGINE (See Fig. 5)
When starting the engine forthefirstUmeor ifthe engine has
run out of fuel, it will take extra crankingtime to move fuel
from the tank to the engine.
• Besure freewheelcontrolisin thetransmissionengaged
position.
• Sit on seat in operating position,depress clutch/brake
pedal and set parking brake.
• Place motion control lever in neutral (N) position.
• Move attachment clutchto "DISENGAGED" position,
• Move throttle control to choke position.
NOTE: Before starting, read the warm and cold starting
procedures below.
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 devel-
oped duringshipping ofyour tractor.
IMPORTANT: SHOULD YOUR TRANSMISSION REQUIRE
REMOVAL FOR SERVICE OR REPLACEMENT, IT
SHOULD BE PURGED AFTER REINSTALLATION BEFORE
OPERATING THE TRACTOR.
• Place tractor safelyonlevel surface with engine off and
parking brake set.
• Disengage transmissionby placingfreewheel control in
freewheeling position(See "TO TRANSPORT" in this
section of manual).
• Sitting in thetractor seat, start engine. After the engine
is running, move throttle control to slow position. With
motion control lever in neutral (N) position, slowly
disengage clutch/brake pedal.
13
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OPERATION
• Move motion control lever to full forward positionand
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
ddve wheels, The air is being removed from hydraulic ddve
system.
• Move motion control lever to neutral (N) position. Shut-
off engine and set parking brake.
• Engage transmission by placing freewheel control in
driving position (See "ro TRANSPORT" in this section
ofmanual).
• Sitting inthe tractor seat, start engine. After the engine
isrunning, move throttle control to half (1/2) speed. With
motion control lever in neutral (N) position, slowly
disengage clutch/brake pedal,
• Slowly move motion control lever forward, after the
tractor moves approximately five (5) feet, slowly move
motion controllever to reverse position. After the tractor
moves approximately five (5) feet return the motion
control lever to the neutral (N) position. Repeat this
procedure with the motion control lever three (3) times.
• Your tractor is now purged and now ready for normal
operation.
MOWING TIPS
• Mower should be propedy leveled for best mowing
performance. See "TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in
the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.
The left hand side ofmower should be used for trimming.
• Drive sothat clippings are discharged onto the areathat
has been cut. Have the cut area to the dght of the
machine. This will result in a more even distribution of
clippings and more uniform cutting.
• When mowing large areas, start by turning 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. 10).
• 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 andleave undesirable clumps. AIIowgrasstodry
before mowing.
• Always operate engine atfullthrottle when mowing
to assure better mowing performance and proper dis-
charge ofmaterial. Regulate ground speed by selecting
a low enough gear to give the mower cutting perfor-
mance as well as the quality of cut desired.
• When operating attachments, select a ground speed
thatwill suitthe terrain and give best performance ofthe
attachment being used,
f
P
f
(
FIG. 10
MULCHING MOWING TIPS
IMPORTANT: FOR BEST PERFORMANCE, KEEP MOWER
HOUSING FREE OF BUILT-UP GRASS AND TRASH.
CLEAN AFTER EACH USE.
• The special mulching blade will recut the grass clippings
many times and reduce them in size sothat as they fall
onto the lawn they will disperse into the grass and not be
noticed. Also, the mulched grass will biodegrade
quickly to provide nutdents for the lawn. Always mulch
with your highest engine (blade) speed as this will
provide the best recutting action of the blades.
• Avoid cutting your lawn when itis wet. Wet grass tends
to form clumps and interferes with the mulching action.
The best time to mow your lawn is the early afternoon.
At this time the grass has dried and the newly cut area
will not be exposed to the direct sun,
• For best results, adjust the mower cutting height so that
the mower cuts off only the top one-third of the grass
blades (See Fig. 11). For extremely heavy mulching,
reduce your width of cut on each pass and mow slowly.
• Certain types of grass and grass conditionsmay require
that an area be mulched a second time to completely
hide the clippings. When doing a second cut, mow
across or perpendicular to the first cut path.
Change your cutting pattern from week to week. Mow
north to south one week then change to east to west the
next week, This willhelp prevent matting and graining
of the lawn.
MAX 1i3
FIG. 11
14