Poulan PR16H42STB Owner’s Manual

IMPORTANT MANUAL Do Not Throw Away

OWNER'S MANUAL

MODEL:

PR16H42STB

Read this Owner's Manual and follow

all Warnings and Safety Instructions.
Failure to do so can result in serious

injury.

LAWN TRACTOR

ALWAYS WEAR EYE PROTECTION DURING OPERATION

279841 PR16H42STB

WARNING:

174754 4.26.00" JI-

Printed in U.S.A.

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. GENERAL OPERATION

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

• Only allow responsibleadults, who are familiar withthe
instructions,to operate the machine.

• Clearthe area ofobjectssuch as rocks,toys, wire, etc.,
which couldbe picked up and thrown by the blade.

• Be surethe areais clear ofother people before mowing.

Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

• Never carry passengers.

• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary.
Always lookdown and behind before and while backing.

• Be aware ofthe 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.

• Stowdownbefore turning.

• Never leavea runningmachine unattended. Alwaystum
oftblades, set parking brake, stop engine, and remove

keys beforedismounting.

• Turn oftblades when not mowing.

• Stop engine before removing grass catcher or unclog-

gingchute.

• Mow only in daylightor good artificial light.

• Donotoperate the machine while under the influenceof

alcoholor drugs.

• Watch for trafficwhen operating near or crossing read-

ways.

• Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine

intoa trailer or truck.

• Data indicatesthat operators, age 60 years and above,

are involved in a large percentage of dding mower-
related injuries. These operators should evaluate their

ability to operate the riding mower safely enough to
protectthemselves and others from serious injury.

II. SLOPEOPERATION
Slopesare a majorfactor related to loss-of-controland tipover

accidents,whichcan resultinsevere injuryor death. All slopes

requireextracaution,ifyoucannotbackuptheslopeorifyoufeel
uneasyon it,do notmowit.

DO:

• Mow upand down slopes, not across.

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

• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could
overturn the machine. Tal/ grass can hide obstacles.

• Use slowspeed. Choose a low gear so that you willnot

have to stop or shift while on the slope.
Followthe manufacturer's recommendations forwheel

weightsor counterweights to improve stability.

• Use extra care with grass catchers or other attach-

ments. These can change the stability ofthe machine.

• Keepallmovementontheslopesslowand gradual Do not

makesuddenchangesinspeed or direction.
Avoidstartingor stoppingon a slope. If tires lose traction,

disengagethebladesandproceedslowlystraightdownthe
slope,

DO NOT:

• Do not turn on slopesunless necessary, and then,turn

slowlyand gradually downhill, ifpossible.

• Do notmow near dmp-offs, ditches, or embankments.
The mowercouldsuddenlytum over ifa wheel isoverthe

edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.

Donotmow onwet grass. Reduced tractioncouldcause

sliding.

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

• Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.

lU. CHILDREN

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

machine and the mowing activity. Never assume that
childrenwill remain where you last saw them.

• Keep children out of the mowing area and under the
watchfulcare of another responsible adult.

• Be alert and turn machine oft if children enter the area.

• Before and when backing, look behind and down for

smallchildren.

• Never carrychildren. They may fall off and be seriously

injuredor interfere with safe machine operation.

• Never allow childrento operate the machine,

• Useextra carewhen approaching blind comers, 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 onlyan approved container.

- Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine
running. AIIowenginetocoolbefore refueling. Donot

smoke.

- Never refuel the machine indoors.

- Neverstore the machine orfuelcontainer insidewhere

there is an open flame, such as a water heater.

• Never run a machine inside a closed area.

• Keep nutsand bolts,especially blade attachment bolts,

tightand keep equipment in good condition.

• Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper

operationregularly.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris
build-up. Clean oilorfuelspillage. Allow machinetocool

before storing.

• Stop and inspect the equipment ifyou 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, anddeterioration,which couldexpose movingparts
orallow objects to bethrewn. Frequently checkcompo-

nents and replace with manufacturer's recommended

parts,when necessary.

• Mowerblades are sharp and can cut. Wrapthe blade(s)
or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing

them.

• Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and se.rvice

as required.

2

SAFETY RULES

Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers A(_

Be sum the area isclear of otherpeople 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 ofthe 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 over-
turn 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 stading 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, turnslowly
and gradually downhill, if possible.

I

Look for this symbol to point out important
safety precautions. It means CAUTION!!!

BECOME ALERT!!t YOUR SAFETY IS IN-
VOLVED.

neutral, you may lose control of the tractor.
CAUTION: Do not coast down a hill in

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.

,ll

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

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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

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

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ...................... 4, 1,5-18

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

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

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

WARNING A

The engine exhaust from this product contains

chemicals known to the State of California 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

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

GASOUNECAPACITY 2.0 GALLONS
ANDTYPE: UNLEADED REGULAR

OILTYPE(API-SF/SG/SH): SAE 10W30 (above 32°F)

SAE 5W-30 (below32°F)

OIL CAPACITY: W/FILTER: 4.0 PINTS

W/O FILTER: 3.5 PINTS

SPARKPLUG: CHAMPION RC12YC

3AP: .040")

GROUNDSPEED (MPH): FORWARD: 5.5

REVERSE: 2.4

TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI

REAR: 10 PSI

CHARGINGSYSTEM: 15 AMPS @ 3600 RPM
BA'n'ERY: AMP/HR: 25

MIN. CCA: 190
CASE SIZE: U1R

BLADEBOLTTORQUE: 27-35 FT, LBS.

CONGRATULATIONS onyourpurchaseof a newtractor. It
has been designed, engineered and manufactured to give

you the best possible dependability and performance.
Should you experience any problem you cannot easily

remedy, please contact your nearest authorized service

center/department. We have competent, well-trained tech-

nicians and the proper toolsto service or repair thistractor.
Please read and retain this manual. The instructions will

enable you toassemble and maintain yourtractor properly.
Always observe the "SAFETY RULES".

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and observe the safety rules.

• Follow a regularschedule in maintaining, caring for and
using your tractor.

• Follow the instructionsunder "Customer Responsibili-
ties" and "Storage" sections of this owner's manual.

WARNING: This tractor isequipped 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 system is equipped
with a spark arrester meeting applicable local orstate laws

(ifany). If a spark arrester is used, itshould be maintained
in effective working order by theoperator.

A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your
nearest authorized service center/department (See RE-

PAIR PARTS section of this manual).

4

UNASSEMBLED PARTS

i= i

Steering Wheel

(1) Lockwasher 3/8

Steering

I I Extension

Steering _O Shaft

Boot (1) Locknut

Flat

Wheel

Adapter

Steering

©

Steering

Wheel

Insert

5/16-18

(1) Hex Bolt

3/6-16 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) Hex Bolt

Blade

5

ASSEMBLY

Your new tractor hasbeen assembled at the factory withexception 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 propertightness.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

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

(1) 9/16" wrench Pliers
(2) 1/2"wrenches Tirepressuregauge

Utility knife

When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, itmeans
when you are in the operating position (seated behind the

steering wheel).

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON-

UNPACK CARTON

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

• Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on all four comers
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 steedng shaft. Align
mounting holesin extension and lower shaftsand 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 steering wheeladapter from steering wheeland
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, 3/8 lock washer, 3/8 hex
bolt and tighten securely.

Snap steering wheel insert into center of steering wheel.

• Remove protective materials ftom tractor hood and grill.

IMPORTANT: CHECK FOR AND REMOVE ANY STAPLES

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

_-_INSERT

_ 3/8 LOCKWASHER

_----LARGE FLAT

_ WASHER

STEERING

BOOT

TABS

ADAPTER _ EXTENSION SHAFT

LOCKNUT _ _._/_'_'-_ - 5116 HEX BOLT

5/16

LOWER I I

t I t

STEERINGF ] -.._ x_ ,
SHAFT _ "'- • _ _v'

"_-.. _. i. SLOTS

FIG. 1

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR

CHECK BATTERY (See Fig. 2)

• Lift seat pan to raised positionand open battery box

door.

• If this battery is put intoservice after month and year

indicated on label (label located between terminals)
charge battery for minimumof one hour at 6-10 amps.

(See"BATtERY" inCUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
section of this manual for charging instructions).

BATTERY
BOX

6 FIG. 2

LABEL

ASSEMBLY

INSTALL SEAT (See Fig. 3)

Adjust seat before tightening adjustment bolt.

• Remove adjustmentknoband flat washer secudng seat
tocardboard packingand setaside forassembly ofseat

to tractor.

• 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 flat washerloosely. 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 allthe way dowrL

• Get off seat without moving its adjusted position.

• Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob securely.

SEAT

SEAT PAN

SHOULDER

BOLT

WASHER

ADJUSTMENT

,KNOB

FIG. 3

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

TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Operation
section, page 10, for location and function of
controls)

• Press liftlever plungerand raise attachment liftlever to
its highest position.

• Release parking brake bydepressing clutch/brake pedal.

• Place freewheel control in freewheeling position to
disengage transmission (See "TO TRANSPORT" inthe
Operation section of this manual).

• Roll tractor forward off skid.

• Remove banding holding discharge guard up against

tractor.

TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Opera-

tion section, page 10, for location and func-

tion of controls)

_WARNING: Before starting,read, understand and follow

all instructionsinthe Operation section of this manual. Be

sure tractoris in a well-ventilated area. Be sure the area in
frontof tractoris clear of other people and objects.

• Be sure all the above assembly steps have been

completed.

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

• Place freewheel control in'transroission engaged" posi-
tion.

• 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 leverto
its highest position.

• Start the engine. After engine has started, move throttle
control to idle position.

• Release parking brake.

• Slowly move the motion control lever forward and slowly

drive tractor off skid.

• Apply brake to stop 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 install mulcher

blades, (see BLADE REMOVAL in the CUSTOMER
RESPONSIBILITY section of this manual).

TO INSTALL MULCHER PLATE (See Fig. 4)

NOTE: Ifyou installed the mulching blades you willneedto
installthe mulcher plate.

Place frontof mulcher plate over front of mower deck
openingand 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.

i Raise and hold deflector shield in upright position.

_ CAtlrrlON: I_ not reroove dMk_l_'sh_kt I

SHIELD PLATE

DEFLECTO_MULCHER

7

from mower. Raise and hold shield when
attaching mulcher plate and allow it to

rest on plate whi|e in operation.

HOOKS
LATCH

RG. 4

ASSEMBLY

DISCHARGING

NOTE: The mulcher blades willdischarge and bag grass, but

for best bagging and discharging install the high pedormance
blades.

• Remove mulcher plate and mulcher blades and install
high pedo rmance blades, (see BLADE REMOVAL in the

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITY section ofthi smanual).

• Store mulcher blades and mulcher plate in asafe place.

Your mower is now ready fordischarging or installation
of optional grass catcher accessory.

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

The tires on yourtractor were ovednflated atthe 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 cuttingresults, mower housing should be property
leveled. See"TO LEVEL MOWER HOU SING" 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, check tosee that
the brake is properly adjusted. See "TO ADJUST BRAKE"

in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

4"CHECKLISTTO CONVERT TO BAGGING OR

BEFORE YOU OPERA TEAND ENJOY YOUR NEW TRAC-

TOR, WE WISH TO ASSURE THAT YOU RECEIVE THE
BEST PERFORMANCE AND SATISFAC TION FROM THIS

QUALITY PRODUCT.
PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING CHECKLIST:

•f All assembly instructions have been completed.
,/ No <emaining loose parts in carton,

,# Battery is propedy prepared and charged. (Minimum1

hour at 6 amps).

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

the tires were ovednflated at the factory).

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

front-to-rear for best cutting results. (Tires must be
propedy inflated for leveling).

,/ Check mower and drive belts. Besure they are routed

properly around pulleys and inside all belt keepers.

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

and wires are propedyclamped.

,/ 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:

,/ 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.

4" Be sure brake system is in safe operating condition.
,/ Itisimportant to purgethetransmission before operating

your tractor for the first time. Follow proper starting and
transmission purging instructions (See =TO START
ENGINE" and"PURGETRANSMISSION" inthe Opera-

tion section of this manual).

8

OPERATION

These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understandtheir meaning.

BATTERY CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW

WARNING

li

FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED MOWER LIFT

r 'l R N H

ATTACHMENT REVERSE

CLUTCH ENGAGED

IGNITION

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

ATTACHMENT

NEUTRAL HIGH LOW

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

LOCKED

PARKING BRAKE

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

FREE WHEEL

(AutomaticModels only)

9

OPERATION

KNOW YOUR TRACTOR

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

Compare the iUustrationswithyourtractortofamiliarize yourseit withthe locationsofvarious controls and adjustments. Save

this manual for future reference.

ATTACHMENT LIGHT

CLUTCH LEVER IGNITION SWITCH

AMMETER _ SWITCH

.'" ---_'-- LIFT LEVER

THROTTLE/CHOKE

CLUTOHIBRAKE
PEDAL

FREE WHEEL

CONTROL

ATTACHMENT

©

HEIGHT
ADJUSTMENT

KNOB

-PARKING

BRAKE

CONTROL

LEVER

FIG. 5

i

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

A'I-rACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER: Used to engage the
mower blades, or otherattachments mounted to yourtractor.

LIGHT SWITCH: Turns the headlights on and off.
THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL: Used for starting and

controlingengine speed.
CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL: Used for declutching and brak-

ing the tractor and starting the engine.

PARKING BRAKE: Locks clutch/brakepedal intothe brake

position.

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

AMMETER: Indicates charging (+) or discharging (-) of

battery.
MOTION CONTROL LEVER: Selects the speed and

direction of tractor.

A'R'ACHMENT 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 itsposition.
IGNITION SWITCH: Used for starting and stopping the

engine.

HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB: Used to adjust the mower
cutting height.

10

OPERATION

The operation ofany tractor can result in foreign objects thrown intothe eyes, which can

resu It 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)

Yourtractor isequipped with an operator presence sensing
switch. When engine isrunning, anyattempt bythe operator

to leave the seat without first setting the parking brake will

shutoff the engine.

Depress clutch/brake pedal intofull =BRAKE" position

and hold.

Place parking brake lever in"ENGAGED" positionand
release pressure from clutch/brake pedal. Pedalshould

remain in"BRAKE" position. Make sure parking brake
will hold tractor secure.

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH
LEVER "ENGAGED"

THROTTLE/CHOKE POSITION

CONTROL\ ,Gg.T,O.

"BRAKE" _._ \ _ \\ \ v/_/, "ENGAGED
POSITION "_ _ _ ___:_-- -_" POSITION

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 gase4; may
cause "browning" of grass. To eliminate this possibility,
always stop engine when stoppingtractoron grass areas.

i

I i_, CAUTION: Always stop tractor com- I
] A. plately,asdescribedabove, beforeleav- I

| _ ing the operator's position; to empty |
I_ grass catcher, etc. I

TO USE THROI-I'LE CONTROL (See Fig. 6)

Always operate engine at fullthrottle.

• Operating engine at lessthan fullthrottle reduces the
battery charging rate.

• Full throttle offers the bestbagging and mower perfor-
mar

mance.

TO M(

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD (See

Fig. 6)

T

The direction and Speed of movement is controlled by the

n

motion controllever.

Start tractor with motion control lever in neutral (N)

position.
Release parking brake and clutch/brakepedal.

Slowly move motion control leverto desired position.

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL PARKING BRAKE

/ LEVER

"DRIVE" POSITION "DISENGAGED" POSITION

FIG. 6

STOPPING (See Fig. 6)

MOWER BLADES -

• To stop mower blades,move attachment clutch leverto

"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

unauthorized use.

° Never use choke to stop engine.

TO ADJUST MOWER CU'I'RNG HEIGHT (See

Fig. 6)

The cutting height is controlled byturningthe height adjust-

ment knob in desired direction.

• Turn knob clockwise (F_) to raise cuttingheight.

• Turn knob counterclockwise (P-_) to lower cutting

height.

The cutting height range isapproximately 1-1/2" to4'. The
heights are measured from the groundto the blade tip with

the engine not running. These heightsare approximate and

may vary depending upon soil conditions, height of grass

and types of grass being mowed.

• The average lawn shouldbe cutto 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.

11

OPERATION

TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS (See Fig. 7)

Gauge wheels are properly adjusted when they are slightly
off the 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 flatlevel surface.

• Adjust mower to desired cutting height (See "TO AD-

JUST MOWER CU'I-I'ING HEIGHT" in the Operation
section of this manual).

• With mower in desired height of cut position, gauge
wheels shouldbe 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 foroppositesideinstallinggauge wheel insame

adjustment hole.

GUAGE WHEEL
MOUNTING " '_,_ _.

3/8-16

LOCKNU'I"

3/8 WASHER

GAUGE WHEEL"

FIG. 7

TO OPERATE MOWER (See Fig. 8)
Your tractor is equipped withan 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.

• 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

SHOULDER

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

I _ CAUTION: Donotdriveupordownhiils I

• Choose the slowest speed before starting up ordown
hills.

• Avoid stopping or changing speed on hills.

• If s(owing is necessary, move throttle control lever to
slower position.

• It 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 turns slowly.

TO TRANSPORT (See Figs. 5 and 9)

When pushingor towingyourtractor, be sure to disengage
transmission by placing freewheel control in freewheeling
position. Free wheel controlislocated at the rear drawbarof

tractor.

• Raise attachment lift to highest position with attach-

ment liftcontrol.

• Pullfreewheel control out and down into the slot and

release so itis held inthe disengaged position.

• Do not pushor tow tractor at more than two (2) MPH.

• To reengagetransmission, reverse aboveprocedure.

NOTE: To protect hood from damage when transporting

yourtractor ona truckoratrailer, besure hood is closedand

secured totractor. Use anappropriate means of tyinghood

to tractor (rope, cord, etc.).

with slopes greater than 15° and do not

drive across any slope.

CAUTION: 0o 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

"ENGAGED" POSITION

ATTACHMENT

LEVER

HIGH POSI-
TION

LOW
POSITION

DISCHARGE
GUARD

FIG. 8 12

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 of a

load, while on a slope, isdangerous. Tires can lose traction

with the ground and cause you to lose control ofyour tractor.

OPERATION

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE •

CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL (See Fig. 14)

• 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.

• Unthread and remove oil fill cap/dipstick; wipe oil off.
Reinsert the dipstick into the tube and rest oil fill cap on

the tube. 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 section ofthis 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 indicatesthat alcoholblended fuels
(called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract

moisture which leads to separation and formation ofacids
dudng storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of

an engine while in storage. To avoidengine problems, the
fuel system should be emptied before storageof 30 days or

longer. Drain the gas tank, start theengine and letitrununtil

the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next
season. See Storage Instructionsforadditional information.

Never use engine or carburetor cleaner productsinthe fuel

tank or permanent damage may occur.

Insert key intoignitionand turnkeyclockwiseto"START"
positionand release key as soonas engine starts. Do not

runstartercontinuouslyformorethanfifteen seconds per
minute. If the engine does not start alter several at-

tempts, move throttlecontrolto fast position, wait a few

rainutesand tryagain. Ifengine stilldoes notstart, move

the throttlecontrol back tothe choke position and retry.

WARM WEATHER STARTING (50° Fand above)

• When engine starts, move the throttle control tothe fast
position.

• The attachments and ground drive can now be used. If
the engine does not accept the load, restart the engine

and allow itto warm up for one minute using the choke as
described above.

COLD WEATHER STARTING ( 50° F and below)

• When engine starts, allow engine to runwith the throttle

controlinthe choke positionuntiltheengine runsroughly,

then move throttle control to fast position. This may
require an engine warm-up periodfrom several seconds

to several minutes, depending onthe temperature.

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WARM UP

• Beforeddving the 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-up period 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.

PURGE TRANSMISSION

filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any

I& CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank

spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or
use gasoline near an open flame.

TO START ENGINE (See Fig. 5)

When startingthe engine for thefirsttime or ifthe engine has

runout of fuel, it will take extra cranking time to move fuel

from the tank to the engine.

• Besure freewheel control isinthe transmission engaged
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 clutch to "DISENGAGED" position.

• Move throttle control to choke position.
NOTE: Before starting, read the warm and cold starting

procedures below.

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 devel-

oped during shipping of your tractor.
IMPORTANT: SHOULD YOUR TRANSMISSION REQUIRE

REMOVAL FOR SERVICE OR REPLACEMENT, IT
SHOULD BE PURGED AFTER REINSTALLATION BEFORE
OPERATING THE TRACTOR.

• Place tractor safely on level surface with engine off and

parking brake set.

• Disengage transmission by placing freewheel control in
freewheeling position (See "TO TRANSPORT" in this

section of manual).

• Sitting inthetractor seat, startengine.After the engine
is running, move throttle control to slow position._With

motion control lever in neutral (N) position, slowly

disengage clutch/brake pedal.

freewheel lever while the engine is run-
ning.

13

OPERATION

• 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
procedurethree (3) times.

NOTE: Duringthis procedure the re willbe no movement of
drivewheels. The air is being removed from hydraulic drive

system.

• Move motioncontrollever to neutral (N) position. Shut-
offengine and set parking brake.

• Engage transmission by placing freewheel control in
drivingposition(See"TOTRANSPORT" in this section

ofmanual).

• Siftingin thetractor seat, start engine. Afterthe engine

is running,movethrottlecontrolto half (1/2) speed.With
motion control lever in neutral (N) position, slowly-

disengageclutch/brake pedal.

• Slowly move motion control lever forward, after the

tractormoves approximately five (5) feet, slowly move

motioncontrollever to reverse position. After the tractor
moves approximately five (5) feet return the motion

control lever to the neutral (N) position. Repeat this
procedurewith the motioncontrol lever three (3) times.

• Your tractor is now purged and now ready for normal

operation.

MOWING TIPS

• Mower should be properly leveled for best mowing
performance. See '%0 LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in
the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

• The lefthand side of mower should be used for trimming.

• Drive sothat 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 by turoing to the right so
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).

• 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

mowerand leaveundesirable clumps. Allow grassto dry
beforemowing.

• Always operate engine at full throttle when mowing
to assure better mowing performance and proper dis-

chargeof material. 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
thatwillsuittheterreinand give best performance of the

attachment being used,

I

J

FIG. 10

MULCHING MOWING TIPS

IMPORTANT: FOR BEST PERFORMANCE, KEEP MOWER
HOUSING FREE OF BUILT-UP GRASS AND TRASH.
CLEAN AFTER EACH USE.

• Thespecial mulching blade wiUrecutthe grassclippings
many times and reduce them in size sothat as they fall

ontothe lawn they willdisperse intothe grass and notbe
noticed. Also, the mulched grass will biodegrade

quickly to providenutrients for the lawn. Always mulch
with your highest engine (blade) speed as this will

provide the best recutting action of the blades.

• Avoidcuttingyour lawn when itis wet. Wet grasstends
toform clumps and interferes with the mulchingaction.

The best time to mowyour lawn isthe early afternoon.

Atthis time the grass has dried and the newly cutarea

will not be exposed to the direct sun.

• Forbest results,adjust the mower cutting heightsothat

the mower cuts off only the top one-third of the grass
blades (See Fig. 11), For extremely heavy mulching,

reduceyour widthof cuton each pass and mowslowly.

• Certain types ofgrass and grass conditions may 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, Mew
north to south one week then change to east to west the

next week. This willhelp prevent matting and graining
of the lawn.

MAX 1/3

FIG. 11

14