Rover 1742 User Manual

Safe Operation Practices • Set-Up • Operation • Maintenance • Service • Troubleshooting • Warranty

Op e r a t O r ’s Ma n u a l

Rover Rancher 1742 Lawn Tractor

WARNING

READ AND FOLLOW ALL SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS MANUAL

BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE THIS MACHINE.

FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THESE INSTRUCTIONS MAY RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY.

MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019

Printed In USA

Form No. 769-05660

(January 25, 2010)

To The Owner

Thank You

Thank you for purchasing a Rover Lawn Tractor. It was carefully
engineered to provide excellent performance when properly
operated and maintained.

Please read this entire manual prior to operating the equipment.

It instructs you how to safely and easily set up, operate and

maintain your machine. Please be sure that you, and any other

persons who will operate the machine, carefully follow the
recommended safety practices at all times. Failure to do so could
result in personal injury or property damage.

All information in this manual is relative to the most recent
product information available at the time of printing. Review
this manual frequently to familiarize yourself with the machine,

its features and operation. Please be aware that this Operator’s

Manual may cover a range of product specifications for various
models. Characteristics and features discussed and/or illustrated
in this manual may not be applicable to all models. We reserve
the right to change product specifications, designs and
equipment without notice and without incurring obligation.

Table of Contents

Safe Operation Practices ........................................ 3

Assembly & Set-Up .................................................. 8

Controls ...................................................................12

Operation ................................................................15

Maintenance & Adjustment..................................19

1

If you have any problems or questions concerning the machine,
phone your local authorized Rover service dealer or contact us

directly. Rover’s Customer Support telephone numbers, website

address and mailing address can be found on this page. We want
to ensure your complete satisfaction at all times.

Throughout this manual, all references to right and left side of the
machine are observed from the operating position

The engine manufacturer is responsible for all engine-related
issues with regards to performance, power-rating, specifications,

warranty and service. Please refer to the engine manufacturer’s
Owner’s/Operator’s Manual, packed separately with your

machine, for more information.

Service .................................................................... 24

Troubleshooting .................................................... 29

Replacement Parts ................................................ 30

Attachments & Accessories .................................. 32

Warranty ..................................................Back Cover

Record Product Information

Before setting up and operating your new equipment, please

locate the model plate on the equipment and record the
information in the provided area to the right. You can locate the
model plate by looking beneath the seat. This information will
be necessary, should you seek technical support via our web site,
Customer Support Department, or with a local authorized service
dealer.

MO d e l nu M b e r

se r i a l nu M b e r

Customer Support

Please do NOT return the machine to the retailer or dealer without first contacting the Customer Support Department.

If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation, or maintenance of
this machine, you can seek help from the experts. Choose from the options below:

Visit us on the web at www.rovermowers.com.au◊

Call a Customer Support Representative at (1800) 803-537◊

Write to Rover Mowers c/o MTD Products Australia• 6 Zenith Rd • Dandenong South, VIC, 3175

2

Important Safe Operation Practices

WARNING! This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed,

could endanger the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow
all instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply
with these instructions may result in personal injury.
When you see this symbol. HEED ITS WARNING!

CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65

WARNING! Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components

contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and birth defects
or other reproductive harm.

WARNING! Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead

compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive
harm. Wash hands after handling

DANGER! This machine was built to be operated according to the safe operation practices in
this manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the
operator can result in serious injury. This 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.

2

General Operation

Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the 1.
machine and in the manual(s) before attempting to
assemble and operate. Keep this manual in a safe place for
future and regular reference and for ordering replacement
parts.

Be familiar with all controls and their proper operation. 2.
Know how to stop the machine and disengage them
quickl y.

Never allow children under 14 years of age to operate this 3.
machine. Children 14 and over should read and understand
the instructions and safe operation practices in this manual
and on the machine and should be trained and supervised
by an adult.

Never allow adults to operate this machine without proper 4.
instruction.

To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object injury, 5.
keep bystanders, helpers, children and pets at least 75 feet
from the machine while it is in operation. Stop machine if
anyone enters the area.

Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to be 6.
used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire, bones, toys, and other
foreign objects which could be picked up and thrown by
the blade(s). Thrown objects can cause serious personal
injury.

Plan your mowing pattern to avoid discharge of material 7.
toward roads, sidewalks, bystanders and the like. Also,
avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction
which may cause discharged material to ricochet back
toward the operator.

Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during 8.
operation and while performing an adjustment or repair
to protect your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can
cause serious injury to the eyes.

Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-fitting 9.
slacks and shirts. Loose fitting clothes and jewelry can be
caught in movable parts. Never operate this machine in
bare feet or sandals.

Be aware of the mower and attachment discharge direction 10.
and do not point it at anyone. Do not operate the mower
without the discharge cover or entire grass catcher in its
proper place.

Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the 11.
cutting deck. Contact with the blade(s) can amputate
hands and feet.

3

A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause blade 12.
contact or thrown object injuries.

Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel drives, walks, or 13.
roads and while not cutting grass.

Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing 14.
roadways. This machine is not intended for use on any
public roadway.

Do not operate the machine while under the influence of 15.
alcohol or drugs.

Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.16.

Never carry passengers.17.

Disengage blade(s) before shifting into reverse. Back up 18.
slowly. Always look down and behind before and while
backing to avoid a back-over accident.

Slow down before turning. Operate the machine smoothly. 19.

Avoid erratic operation and excessive speed.

Disengage blade(s), set parking brake, stop engine and wait 20.
until the blade(s) come to a complete stop before removing
grass catcher, emptying grass, unclogging chute, removing
any grass or debris, or making any adjustments.

Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn 21.
off blade(s), place transmission in neutral, set parking
brake, stop engine and remove key before dismounting.

Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into 22.
a trailer or truck. This machine should not be driven up or
down ramp(s), because the machine could tip over, causing
serious personal injury. The machine must be pushed
manually on ramp(s) to load or unload properly.

Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do 23.
not touch.

Check overhead clearances carefully before driving under 24.
low hanging tree branches, wires, door openings etc.,
where the operator may be struck or pulled from the
machine, which could result in serious injury.

Disengage all attachment clutches, depress the brake 25.
pedal completely and shift into neutral before attempting
to start engine.

Your machine is designed to cut normal residential grass of 26.
a height no more than 10”. Do not attempt to mow through
unusually tall, dry grass (e.g., pasture) or piles of dry leaves.
Dry grass or leaves may contact the engine exhaust and/
or build up on the mower deck presenting a potential fire
hazard.

Use only accessories and attachments approved for this 27.
machine by the machine manufacturer. Read, understand
and follow all instructions provided with the approved
accessory or attachment.

Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above, are 28.
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.

If situations occur which are not covered in this manual, use 29.
care and good judgment. Contact your customer service
representative for assistance.

Slope Operation

Slopes are a major factor related to loss of control and tip-over
accidents which can result in severe injury or death. All slopes
require extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you
feel uneasy on it, do not mow it.

For your safety, use the slope gauge included as part of this
manual to measure slopes before operating this machine on
a sloped or hilly area. If the slope is greater than 15 degrees as
shown on the slope gauge, do not operate this machine on that
area or serious injury could result.

Do:

Mow up and down slopes, not across. Exercise extreme 1.
caution when changing direction on slopes.

Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden 2.
objects. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall
grass can hide obstacles.

Use slow speed. Choose a low enough speed setting so 3.
that you will not have to stop or shift while on the slope.
Tires may lose traction on slopes even though the brakes
are functioning properly. Always keep machine in gear
when going down slopes to take advantage of engine
braking action.

Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for wheel 4.
weights or counterweights to improve stability.

Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments. 5.
These can change the stability of the machine.

Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual. Do 6.
not make sudden changes in speed or direction. Rapid
engagement or braking could cause the front of the
machine to lift and rapidly flip over backwards which could
cause serious injury.

Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction, 7.
disengage the blade(s) and proceed slowly straight down
the slope.

Do Not:

Do not turn on slopes unless necessary; then, turn slowly 1.
and gradually downhill, if possible.

Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or embankments. The 2.
mower could suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the edge
of a cliff, ditch, or if an edge caves in.

Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on 3.
the ground.

Do not use a grass catcher on steep slopes. 4.

Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could cause 5.
sliding.

Do not shift to neutral and coast downhill. Over-speeding 6.
may cause the operator to lose control of the machine
resulting in serious injury or death.

Do not tow heavy pull behind attachments (e.g. loaded 7.
dump cart, lawn roller, etc.) on slopes greater than 5
degrees. When going down hill, the extra weight tends
to push the tractor and may cause you to loose control
(e.g. tractor may speed up, braking and steering ability are
reduced, attachment may jack-knife and cause tractor to
overturn).

4 se c t i O n 2 — iM p O r t a n t sa f e Op e r a t i O n pr a c t i c e s

Children

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the 1.
presence of children. Children are often attracted to the
machine and the mowing activity. They do not understand
the dangers. Never assume that children will remain where
you last saw them.

Keep children out of the mowing area and in a.
watchful care of a responsible adult other than the
operator.

Be alert and turn machine off if a child enters the b.
area.

Before and while backing, look behind and down for c.
small children.

Never carry children, even with the blade(s) shut off. d.
They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere
with safe machine operation.

Use extreme care when approaching blind corners, e.
doorways, shrubs, trees or other objects that may
block your vision of a child who may run into the
path of the machine.

To avoid back-over accidents, always disengage f.
the cutting blade(s) before shifting into Reverse.
If equipped, the “Reverse Caution Mode” should
not be used when children or others are around.

Keep children away from hot or running engines. g.
They can suffer burns from a hot muffler.

Remove key when machine is unattended to h.
prevent unauthorized operation.

Never allow children under 14 years of age to operate this 2.
machine. Children 14 and over should read and understand
the instructions and safe operation practices in this manual
and on the machine and should be trained and supervised
by an adult.

Tow in g

Tow only with a machine that has a hitch designed for 1.
towing. Do not attach towed equipment except at the
hitch point.

Follow the manufacturers recommendation for weight 2.
limits for towed equipment and towing on slopes.

Never allow children or others in or on towed equipment.3.

On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment may cause 4.
loss of traction and loss of control.

Always use extra caution when towing with a machine 5.
capable of making tight turns (e.g. “zero-turn” ride-on
mower). Make wide turns to avoid jack-knifing.

Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop.6.

Do not shift to neutral and coast downhill.7.

Service

Safe Handling of Gasoline:

To avoid personal injury or property damage use extreme 1.
care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely
flammable and the vapors are explosive. Serious
personal injury can occur when gasoline is spilled on
yourself or your clothes which can ignite. Wash your skin
and change clothes immediately.

Use only an approved gasoline container.a.

Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck b.
or trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place
containers on the ground away from your vehicle
before filling.

When practical, remove gas-powered equipment c.
from the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground.
If this is not possible, then refuel such equipment on
a trailer with a portable container, rather than from a
gasoline dispenser nozzle.

Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel d.
tank or container opening at all times until fueling is
complete. Do not use a nozzle lock-open device.

Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other e.
sources of ignition.

Never fuel machine indoors.f.

Never remove gas cap or add fuel while the engine g.
is hot or running. Allow engine to cool at least two
minutes before refueling.

Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no more than ½ h.
inch below bottom of filler neck to allow space for
fuel expansion.

Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.i.

If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and j.
equipment. Move machine to another area. Wait 5
minutes before starting the engine.

To reduce fire hazards, keep machine free of grass, k.
leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean up oil or fuel
spillage and remove any fuel soaked debris.

Never store the machine or fuel container inside l.
where there is an open flame, spark or pilot light
as on a water heater, space heater, furnace, clothes
dryer or other gas appliances.

Allow a machine to cool at least five minutes before m.
storing.

General Service

Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area. 1.
Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless,
and deadly gas.

Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make certain the 2.
blade(s) and all moving parts have stopped. Disconnect the
spark plug wire and ground against the engine to prevent
unintended starting.

5se c t i O n 2 — iM p O r t a n t sa f e Op e r a t i O n pr a c t i c e s

Periodically check to make sure the blades come to 3.
complete stop within approximately (5) five seconds after
operating the blade disengagement control. If the blades
do not stop within the this time frame, your machine
should be serviced professionally by an authorized MTD
Service Dealer.

Check brake operation frequently as it is subjected to wear 4.
during normal operation. Adjust and service as required.

Check the blade(s) and engine mounting bolts at frequent 5.
intervals for proper tightness. Also, visually inspect blade(s)
for damage (e.g., excessive wear, bent, cracked). Replace

the blade(s) with the original equipment manufacturer’s
(O.E.M.) blade(s) only, listed in this manual. “Use of parts

which do not meet the original equipment specifications
may lead to improper performance and compromise
safety!”

Mower blades are sharp. Wrap the blade or wear gloves, 6.
and use extra caution when servicing them.

Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the 7.
equipment is in safe working condition.

Never tamper with the safety interlock system or other 8.
safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly.

After striking a foreign object, stop the engine, disconnect 9.
the spark plug wire(s) and ground against the engine.
Thoroughly inspect the machine for any damage. Repair
the damage before starting and operating.

Never attempt to make adjustments or repairs to the 10.
machine while the engine is running.

Grass catcher components and the discharge cover are 11 .
subject to wear and damage which could expose moving
parts or allow objects to be thrown. For safety protection,
frequently check components and replace immediately

with original equipment manufacturer’s (O.E.M.) parts only,

listed in this manual. “Use of parts which do not meet the
original equipment specifications may lead to improper
performance and compromise safety!”

Do not change the engine governor settings or over-speed 12.
the engine. The governor controls the maximum safe
operating speed of the engine.

Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as 13.
necessary.

Observe proper disposal laws and regulations for gas, oil, 14.
etc. to protect the environment.

According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission 15.
(CPSC) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA),

this product has an Average Useful Life of seven (7) years,
or 270 hours of operation. At the end of the Average Useful
Life have the machine inspected annually by an authorized
service dealer to ensure that all mechanical and safety
systems are working properly and not worn excessively.
Failure to do so can result in accidents, injuries or death.

Do not modify engine

To avoid serious injury or death, do not modify engine in any
way. Tampering with the governor setting can lead to a runaway
engine and cause it to operate at unsafe speeds. Never tamper
with factory setting of engine governor.

Notice Regarding Emissions

Engines which are certified to comply with California and federal

EPA emission regulations for SORE (Small Off Road Equipment)

are certified to operate on regular unleaded gasoline, and
may include the following emission control systems: Engine

Modification (EM), Oxidizing Catalyst (OC), Secondary Air

Injection (SAI) and Three Way Catalyst (TWC) if so equipped.

Spark Arrestor

WARNING! This machine is equipped with an

internal combustion engine and should not be used
on or near any unimproved forest-covered,
brushcovered or grass-covered land unless the

engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark

arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if
any).

If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective
working order by the operator. In the State of California the

above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California Public
Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws

apply on federal lands.
A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your
nearest engine authorized service dealer or contact the service

department, 6 Zenith Rd, Dandenong, VIC, 3175.

WARNING! Your Responsibility—Restrict the use of this power machine to persons who read, understand and

follow the warnings and instructions in this manual and on the machine.

6 se c t i O n 2 — iM p O r t a n t sa f e Op e r a t i O n pr a c t i c e s

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!

Safety Symbols

This page depicts and describes safety symbols that may appear on this product. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the
machine before attempting to assemble and operate.

Symbol Description

READ THE OPERATOR’S MANUAL(S)
Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual(s) before attempting to
assemble and operate

DANGER— ROTATING BLADES
Never carry passengers. Never carry children, even with the blades off.

DANGER— ROTATING BLADES
Always look down and behind before and while backing to avoid a back-over accident.

WARNING— ROTATING BLADES
Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the cutting deck. Contact with the
blade(s) can amputate hands and feet.

WARNING—THROWN OBJECTS
This machine may pick up and throw and objects which can cause serious personal injury.

WARNING—THROWN OBJECTS
This machine may pick up and throw and objects which can cause serious personal injury.

BY STA ND ERS

Keep bystanders, helpers, children and pets at least 75 feet from the machine while it is in
operation.

WARNING— SLOPE OPERATION
Do not operate this machine on a slope greater than 15 degrees.

WARNING— HOT SURFACE
Engine parts, especially the muffler, become extremely hot during operation. Allow engine
and muffler to cool before touching.

DANGER — ROTATING BLADES
To reduce the risk of injury, keep hands and feet away. Do not operate unless discharge cover
or grass catcher is in its proper place. If damaged, replace immediately.

WARNING— TOWING
Avoid jack-knifing when towing, go slow and make wide turns.

7se c t i O n 2 — iM p O r t a n t sa f e Op e r a t i O n pr a c t i c e s

Sight and hold this level with a vertical tree...

or a corner of a building...

or a fence post

Fold along dotted line (represents a 15° slope)

15°

8 se c t i O n 2 — iM p O r t a n t sa f e Op e r a t i O n pr a c t i c e s

WARNING! Do not operate your lawn mower on such slopes. Do not mow on inclines with a slope in excess of 15 degrees

(a rise of approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10 feet). A riding mower could overturn and cause serious injury. Operate riding

mowers up and down slopes, never across the face of slopes.

Use this page as a guide to determine slopes where you may not operate safely.

Assembly & Set-Up

Contents of Crate

One Lawn Tractor• One Oil Drain Tube• One Deck Wash Hose Coupler•

One Lawn Tractor Operator’s Manual• One Kohler Engine Operator’s •

Manual

3

Tractor Set-Up

Moving The Tractor Manually

To move the tractor manually, move the shift lever into the
neutral position.

Shipping Brace Removal

WARNING! Make sure the lawn tractor’s engine is

off, set the parking brake and remove the ignition
key before removing the shipping brace.

Locate the shipping brace, if present, and warning tag 1.
found on the right side of the cutting deck. See Fig. 3-1.

While holding the discharge chute with your left hand, 2.
remove the shipping brace with your right hand by
grasping it between your thumb and index finger and
rotating it clockwise.

WARNING! The shipping brace is used for

packaging purposes only. Remove and discard the
shipping brace before operating your lawn tractor.

WARNING! The mowing deck is capable of

throwing objects. Operating the riding mower

without the discharge cover in the proper operating
position could result in serious personal injury and/
or property damage.

Figure 3-1

9

Connecting the Battery Cables

Checking Tire Pressure

CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING!

Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories

contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known
to the State of California to cause cancer and
reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.

CAUTION: When attaching battery cables, always

connect the POSITIVE (Red) wire to its terminal first,
followed by the NEGATIVE (Black) wire.

To connect the battery cables, proceed as follows:

NOTE: The positive battery terminal is marked Pos. (+). The

negative battery terminal is marked Neg. (–).

Remove the plastic cover, if present, from the positive (+) 1.
battery terminal and attach the red cable to the positive

battery terminal (+) with the bolt and hex nut. See Fig. 3-2.

WARNING! Do not overinflate tires. Check sidewall

of tires for maximum psi. Equal tire pressure should
be maintained at all times.

The tires on your tractor may be over inflated for shipping
purposes. Reduce the tire pressure before operating the tractor.
Check sidewall of tires for maximum psi.

Setting the Deck Gauge Wheels

Move the tractor on a firm and level surface, preferably
pavement, and proceed as follows:

Select the height position of the cutting deck by placing 1.
the deck lift lever in the normally desired mowing height
setting (any of the six different cutting height notches on
the right fender).

Check the gauge wheels for contact or excessive clearance 2.
with the surface below. The deck gauge wheels should
have between ¼” and ½” clearance above the ground.

If the gauge wheels have excessive clearance or contact with the
surface, adjust as follows:

Raise the deck lift handle to its highest setting.a.

Remove the front and rear gauge wheels by b.
removing the lock nuts and shoulder screws which
secure them to the deck. See Fig. 3-3.

Figure 3-2

Remove the plastic cover, if present, from the negative (–)2.
battery terminal and attach the black cable to the negative
battery terminal (–) with the bolt and hex nut. See Fig. 3-2.

Position the red rubber boot over the positive battery 3.
terminal to help protect it from corrosion.

NOTE: If the battery is put into service after the date shown
on top/side of battery, charge the battery as instructed in the

Maintenance section your Operator’s Manual prior to operating

the tractor.

10 se c t i O n 2 — as s e M b l y & se t -up

Figure 3-3

Place the deck lift lever in the desired mowing c.
height setting.

Reinsert the shoulder screw (with each gauge d.
wheel) into the index hole that leaves approximately
½-inch between the bottom of the wheel and the
pavement.

Refer to Leveling the Deck in the Maintenance section of this
manual for more detailed instructions regarding various deck
adjustments.

Adjusting the Seat

To adjust the position of the seat, lift the seat forward and loosen
the seat adjustment knob. Slide the seat forward or rearward to
the desired position; then tighten the adjustment knob. Release
the seat. See Fig. 3-4.

Figure 3-4

Gas and Oil

The fuel tank is located under the hood and has a capacity of
two and three-fourths gallons. Remove the fuel cap by turning
it counterclockwise. Use only clean, fresh (no more than 30 days
old), unleaded gasoline. Do not overfill the tank.

WARNING! Use extreme care when handling

gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the
vapors are explosive. Never fuel the machine
indoors or while the engine is hot or running.
Extinguish cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other
sources of ignition.

NOTE: Your tractor is shipped with oil in the engine. However,

you MUST check the oil level before operating.

CAUTION: Always check the engine oil level before

each use as instructed in the Kohler Owner’s Manual.

Add oil as necessary. Failure to do so may result in
serious damage to your engine.

WARNING! Before operating the tractor, make sure

the seat is engaged in the seat-stop. Engage the
parking brake. Stand behind the machine and pull
back on seat until it clicks into place.

11se c t i O n 2 — as s e M b l y & se t -up

Systems Indicator

Monitor

Brake Pedal

Drive Pedal

Deck Lift Lever

Cup Holder

Fuel Tank Cap

Throttle/Choke

Control

Ignition Switch

Module

Parking Brake/

Cruise Control

Lever

PTO (Blade Engage)

Handle

Shift Lever

Fuel Level Indicator

Controls and Features

4

Lawn Tractor controls and features are illustrated in Fig. 4-1 and
described on the following pages.

WARNING! Read and follow all safety rules and

instructions in this manual, including the entire

Operation section, before attempting to operate

this machine. Failure to comply with all safety rules
and instructions may result in personal injury.

Throttle/Choke Control

The throttle/choke control is located on the right

side of the tractor’s dash panel. This lever controls

the speed of the engine and, when pushed all the
way forward, closes the choke for cold starting.
When set in a given position, the throttle will
maintain a uniform engine speed.

NOTE: When operating the tractor with the
cutting deck engaged, be certain that the
throttle/choke control is always in the FAST
(rabbit) position.

12

Figure 4-1

Brake Pedal

The brake pedal is located on the left

front side of the tractor along the

running board. The brake pedal can be
used for sudden stops or setting the
parking brake.

NOTE: The brake pedal must be fully
depressed to activate the safety
interlock switch when starting the tractor.

Seat Adjustment Knob (not shown)

The seat adjustment knob is located below the front/left of the
seat. The knob allows for adjustment of the fore to aft position of

the operator’s seat. Refer to the Assembly and Set-Up section of

this manual for more detailed instructions.

Deck Lift Lever

Found on your tractor’s right fender,

the deck lift lever is used to change
the height of the cutting deck. To
use, move the lever to the left, then
place in the notch best suited for
your application.

Ignition Switch Module

WARNING! Never

leave a running
machine unattended.
Always disengage

PTO, set parking

brake, stop engine
and remove key to
prevent unintended
starting.

To start the engine, insert the key
into the ignition switch and turn
clockwise to the S TAR T position.
Release the key into the NORMAL MOWING MODE position once
the engine has fired.

To stop the engine, turn the ignition key counterclockwise to the

STOP position.

CAUTION: Prior to operating the tractor, refer to

both Safety Interlock Switches and Starting The

Engine in the Operation section of this manual for

detailed instructions regarding the Ignition Switch
Module and operating the tractor in REVERSE
CAUTION MODE.

Drive Pedal

The drive pedal is located on the right side

of the tractor, along the running board. Press

the drive pedal forward to cause the tractor
to travel forward. Ground speed is also
controlled with the drive pedal. The further
forward that the pedal is pivoted, the faster
the tractor will travel. The pedal will return to

its original position when it’s not pressed.

Shift Lever

The Shift Lever is used to shift the tractor’s drive

from Forward, Reverse and Neutral.

Systems Indicator Monitor/Hour Meter LCD

When the ignition key is

rotated out of the STOP

position but not into
the START position, the

system’s indicator monitor
displays the battery’s

output, in volts, on its
LCD for approximately
five seconds, after which
it displays an hour glass
and the hours of tractor

operation. Once the

tractor is started, the
monitor continually displays an hour glass and the hours of
tractor operation on its LCD.

NOTE: Hours of tractor operation are recorded any time the
ignition key is rotated out of the STOP position, regardless of

whether the engine is started.

The Indicator Monitor will also remind the operator of
maintenance intervals for changing the engine oil. The LCD will

alternately flash the recorded hours, “CHG” and “OIL” for five

minutes, after every 50 hours of recorded operation elapse. The
maintenance interval lasts for two hours (from 50-52, 100-102,
150-152, etc.). The LCD will also flash as described above for five

minutes every time the tractor’s engine has been started during
this maintenance interval. Before the interval expires, change

the engine oil as instructed in the Maintenance section of this

Operator’s Manual.

Brake

If the Brake light illuminates when attempting to start the
tractor’s engine, depress the brake pedal.

PTO (Blade Engage)

If the PTO light illuminates when attempting to start the tractor’s
engine, move PTO lever into the disengaged (OFF) position.

Oil

It is normal for the Oil light to illuminate while the engine is

cranking during start-up, but if it illuminates during operation,
while the engine is running, stop the tractor immediately and

check the engine oil level as instructed in this Owner’s Manual.

Battery

It is normal for the Battery light to illuminate while the engine is

cranking during start-up, but if it illuminates during operation,
while the engine is running, the battery is in need of a charge

or the engine’s charging system is not generating sufficient

amperage. Charge the battery as instructed in the Service
section of this manual or have the charging system checked by
your authorized service dealer.

13se c t i O n 4 — cO n t r O l s a n d fe a t u r e s

Fuel Level Indicator

The Fuel Level Indicator is located on the left side of the

tractor’s dash and indicates the amount of fuel in the gas

tank.

PTO / Blade Engage Handle

Activating the PTO engages power to

the cutting deck or other (separately

available) attachments. Push forward

on the

PTO/Blade Engage handle to activate it.
Pull the PTO/ Blade Engage handle back

to disengage the power to the cutting
deck or other (separately available)
attachments.

NOTE: The PTO/Blade Engage handle must be in the disengaged
(OFF) position when starting the engine.

Parking Brake/ Cruise Control Lever

Located in the center of the tractor’s dash panel
below the steering wheel, the Parking Brake/

Cruise Control lever is used to engage the parking

brake and the cruise control Refer to the Operation

section of this manual for detailed instructions
regarding the parking brake.

NOTE: The parking brake must be set if the
operator leaves the seat with the engine running
or the engine will automatically shut off.

NOTE: Cruise control can NOT be engaged
at the tractor’s fastest ground speed. If the

operator should attempt to do so, the tractor will
automatically decelerate to the fastest optimal
mowing ground speed.

WARNING! Never leave a running machine

unattended. Always disengage PTO, set parking

brake, stop engine and remove key to prevent
unintended starting.

14 se c t i O n 4 — cO n t r O l s a n d fe a t u r e s

Operation

5

Safety Interlock Switches

This tractor is equipped with a safety interlock system for the
protection of the operator. If the interlock system should ever
malfunction, do not operate the tractor. Contact your authorized
service dealer.

The safety interlock system prevents the engine from •
cranking or starting unless the parking brake is engaged,

and the PTO (Blade Engage) lever is in the disengaged
(OFF) position.

The engine will automatically shut off if the operator leaves •
the seat before engaging the parking brake.

WARNING! Do not operate the tractor if the

interlock system is malfunctioning. This system was
designed for your safety and protection.

Starting the Engine

NOTE: Refer to the Assembly & Set-Up section of this manual for

Gasoline and Oil fill-up instructions.

Insert the tractor key into the ignition switch module.1.

Place the PTO (Blade Engage) lever in the disengaged (OFF) 2.
position.

Engage the tractor’s parking brake.3.

Activate the choke control by moving the throttle/choke 4.
control all the way forward into the choke position.

Turn the ignition key clockwise to the START position. 5.
After the engine starts, release the key. It will return to the

NORMAL MOWING position.

CAUTION: Do NOT hold the key in the START

position for longer than ten seconds at a time. Doing

so may cause damage to your engine’s electric

star ter.

After the engine starts, deactivate the choke control.6.

NOTE: Do NOT leave the choke control on while operating the

tractor. Doing so will result in a “rich” fuel mixture and cause the
engine to run poorly.

Stopping the Engine

WARNING! If you strike a foreign object, stop the

engine and disconnect the spark plug wire(s).
Thoroughly inspect the machine for any damage.
Repair the damage before restarting and operating.

If the blades are engaged, place the PTO/Blade Engage 1.
lever in the disengaged (OFF) position.

Place the throttle control near the SLOW position.2.

Turn the ignition key counterclockwise to the STOP 3.

position.

Remove the key from the ignition switch to prevent 4.
unintended starting.

15

Driving The Tractor

Indicator

Light

Reverse

Push Button

Stop

Position

Start

Position

Reverse

Caution Mode

Position

WARNING! Avoid sudden starts, excessive speed

and sudden stops.

Lightly press the brake pedal to release the parking brake. 1.
Move the throttle lever into the FAST (rabbit) position.

To travel FORWARD, slowly press the drive pedal forward 2.
until the desired speed is achieved. See Fig. 5-1.

Reverse Caution Mode

The REVERSE CAUTION MODE position of the key switch module
allows the tractor to be operated in reverse with the blades (PTO)

engaged.

NOTE: Mowing in reverse is not recommended.

WARNING! Use extreme caution while operating

the tractor in the REVERSE CAUTION MODE. Always

look down and behind before and while backing. Do
not operate the tractor when children or others are
around. Stop the tractor immediately if someone
enters the area.

To use the REVERSE CAUTION MODE:

NOTE: The operator MUST be seated in the tractor seat.

Start the engine as previously instructed on the previous 1.
page.

Turn the key from the NORMAL MOWING (Green) position 2.
to the REVERSE CAUTION MODE (Yellow) position of the

key switch module. See Fig. 5-2.

Press the REVERSE PUSH BUTTON (Orange, Triangular 3.
Button) at the top, right corner of the key switch module.

The red indicator light at the top, left corner of the key

switch module will be ON while activated. See Fig. 5-2.

Figure 5-1

To travel in REVERSE, check that the area behind is clear, 3.
and with your tractor parking break on, move the shift
lever into the reverse position. Lightly press the brake
pedal to release the parking break and then slowly press
the drive pedal until the desired speed is achieved.

CAUTION: Do NOT attempt to change the

direction of travel when the tractor is in motion.
Always bring the tractor to a complete stop before
moving the shift lever from forward to reverse or
vice versa.

WARNING! Do not leave the seat of the tractor

without first placing the PTO/Blade Engage lever in
the disengaged (OFF) position and engaging the

parking brake. If leaving the tractor unattended, also
turn the engine off and remove the ignition key.

Figure 5-2

Once activated (indicator light ON), the tractor can be 4.
driven in reverse with the cutting blades (PTO) engaged.

Always look down and behind before and while backing to 5.
make sure no children are around. After resuming forward

motion, return the key to the NORMAL MOWING position.

The REVERSE CAUTION MODE will remain activated until:

The key is placed in either the NORMAL MOWING a.
position or STOP position or

The operator leaves the seat.b.

16 se c t i O n 5— Op e r a t i O n

Driving On Slopes

Refer to the SLOPE GAUGE on page 7 to help determine slopes

where you may operate the tractor safely.

WARNING! Do not mow on inclines with a slope in

excess of 15 degrees (a rise of approximately 2-⁄
feet every 10 feet). The tractor could overturn and
cause serious injury.

Mow up and down slopes, NEVER across.•

Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on •
slopes.

Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden •
objects. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall
grass can hide obstacles.

Avoid turns when driving on a slope. If a turn must be •
made, turn down the slope. Turning up a slope greatly
increases the chance of a roll over.

Avoid stopping when driving up a slope. If it is necessary •
to stop while driving up a slope, start up smoothly and
carefully to reduce the possibility of flipping the tractor
over backward.

Engaging the Parking Brake/
Setting the Cruise Control

NOTE: The parking break and cruise control are controlled by
the same lever. If using the brake when engaging the parking
brake/cruise control lever, the parking brake will engage. If using
the drive pedal when engaging the parking brake/cruise control
lever, the cruise control will engage.

Cruise Control

WARNING! Never engage the cruise control lever

while traveling in reverse.

To set the cruise control:

Slowly press the upper portion of the drive pedal with your 1.
right foot until the desired speed is achieved.

Lightly press the parking brake/cruise control lever 2.
downward and hold it in that position.

Remove your foot from the drive pedal.3.

Release pressure from the parking brake/cruise control 4.
lever.

After completing step 3, the drive pedal should remain in the
down position and the tractor will maintain the same forward
speed. If it doesn’t, the cruise control is not engaged. Repeat
steps 1-4 to engage the cruise control.

To disengage the cruise control, lightly press the drive pedal or
the brake pedal.

NOTE: Cruise control can NOT be set at the tractor’s fastest

ground speed. If the operator should attempt to do so, the
tractor will automatically decelerate to the fastest optimal
mowing ground speed.

To change the direction of travel from forward to reverse when
cruise control is engaged, press the brake pedal to disengage the
cruise control and bring the tractor to a complete stop. Shift the
shift lever to the Reverse position. Then slowly press the drive
pedal with the ball of your foot to travel in reverse.

Parking Brake

NOTE: The parking brake must be set if the operator leaves the
seat with the engine running or the engine will automatically
shut off.

To set the parking brake:

Press the brake pedal completely down with your left foot 1.
and hold it in that position.

Push the parking brake/cruise control lever downward and 2.
hold it in that position.

Remove your foot from the brake pedal.3.

Release pressure from the parking brake/cruise control 4.
lever.

After completing step 3, the brake pedal should remain in the
down position. If it doesn’t, the parking brake is not engaged.
Repeat steps 1-4 to engage the parking brake.

To disengage the parking brake, lightly press the brake pedal.

WARNING! Never leave a running machine

unattended. Always disengage PTO, set parking

brake, stop engine and remove key to prevent
unintended starting.

Using the Deck Lift Lever

To raise the cutting deck, move the deck lift lever to the left, then
place it in the notch best suited for your application.

Operating the Headlights

The lamps are ON whenever the ignition key is rotated out of
the STOP position. The lamps turn OFF when the ignition key is
moved to the STOP position.

17se c t i O n 5 — Op e r a t i O n

Engaging the PTO

Engaging the PTO transfers power to the cutting deck or other
(separately available) attachments. To engage the PTO:

Move the Throttle/Choke control lever to the FAST (rabbit) 1.
position.

Push the PTO/Blade Engage lever forward into the engaged 2.
(ON) position.

NOTE: Always operate the tractor with the Throttle/Choke
control lever in the FAST (rabbit) position for the most
efficient use of the cutting deck or other (separately available)
attachments.

Mowing

WARNING! To help avoid blade contact or a

thrown object injury, keep bystanders, helpers,
children and pets at least 75 feet from the machine
while it is in operation. Stop machine if anyone
enters the area.

The following information will be helpful when using the cutting
deck with your tractor.

WARNING! Plan your mowing pattern to avoid

discharge of materials toward roads, sidewalks,
bystanders and the like. Also, avoid discharging
material against a wall or obstruction which may
cause discharged material to ricochet back toward
the operator.

Do not mow at high ground speed, especially if a mulch kit •
or grass collector is installed.

Do not cut the grass too short. Short grass is prone to weed •
growth and yellows quickly in dry weather.

Always operate the tractor with the throttle lever in the •
FAST (rabbit) position while mowing.

For best results, it is recommended that the first two laps •
be cut with the discharge thrown towards the center.
After the first two laps, reverse the direction to throw the
discharge to the outside for the balance of cutting. This will
give a better appearance to the lawn.

Do NOT attempt to mow heavy brush and weeds or •

extremely tall grass. Your tractor is designed to mow lawns,

NOT clear brush.

Keep the blades sharp and replace the blades when worn.•

18 se c t i O n 5— Op e r a t i O n

Maintenance & Adjustments

Maintenance Schedule

6

Clean Hood/Dash Louvers

Check Engine Oil Level

Check Air Filter for Dirty, Loose or Damaged Parts

Clean and Re-oil Air Filter’s Foam Precleaner

Replace Air Filter Element

Change Engine Oil and Replace Oil Filter

Clean Battery Terminals

Lube Front Axles and Rims

Clean Engine Cooling Fins

Lube Front Deck Wheels

Before

Each use

P
P

Every

10 Hours

Every

25 Hours

Every

50 Hours

Every

100 Hours

to Storing

P P

P

P

P

P P

P P
P P
P P

Prior

Lube Deck Spindles

Lube Pedal Pivot Points

Check Spark Plug Condition & Gap

Replace Fuel Filter

Maintenance

WARNING! Before performing any maintenance or

repairs, disengage PTO, set parking brake, stop

engine and remove key to prevent unintended
starting.

Engine

Refer to the Kohler Owner’s Manual for all engine maintenance

procedures and instructions.

NOTE: Maintenance, repair, or replacement of the emission

control devices and systems which are being done at owner’s

expense may be performed by any engine repair establishment
or individual. Warranty repairs must be performed by an
authorized service dealer.

P P

P P

P P
P

Changing the Engine Oil

WARNING! If the engine has been recently run, the

engine, muffler and surrounding metal surfaces will
be hot and can cause burns to the skin. Exercise
caution to avoid burns.

NOTE: The oil filter should be changed at every oil change
interval. To complete an oil change, proceed as follows:

Run the engine for a few minutes to allow the oil in the 1.
crankcase to warm up. Warm oil will flow more freely and
carry away more of the engine sediment which may have
settled at the bottom of the crankcase. Use care to avoid
burns from hot oil.

Open the tractor’s hood and locate the oil drain port on the 2.
left side of the engine.

19

Pop open the protective cap on the end of the oil drain 3.
valve to expose the drain port. See Fig 6-1.

Figure 6-1

Remove the oil fill cap/dipstick from the oil fill tube.4.

Push the oil drain hose (packed with this manual) onto the 5.
oil drain port. Route the opposite end of the hose into an
appropriate oil collection container with at least a 2.5 quart
capacity to collect the used oil.

The engine is equipped with either a twist-and-pull drain 6.
port or a tabbed drain port. If your engine has the twist­and-pull drain, go to step a. If your engine is equipped with
the tabbed drain, go to step b.

Turn the oil drain valve a. ⁄-turn, then pull outward to
begin draining oil. After the oil has finished draining,
push the end of the oil drain valve back in and turn
⁄turn to secure it back in place Re-cap the end of
the oil drain valve to keep debris from entering the
drain port.

Pinch the tabs on the oil drain valve, then pull b.
outward to begin draining oil. After the oil has
finished draining, push the end of the oil drain valve
back in, until the tabs click into place. Re-cap the end
of the oil drain valve to keep debris from entering
the drain port.

Replace the oil filter as instructed in the Kohler Owner’s 7.
Manual.

Refill the engine with new oil. Refer to the Kohler Owner’s 8.
Manual for information regarding the volume and weight
of engine oil.

Air Cleaner

Service the pre-cleaner and cartridge/air cleaner element as

instructed in the Kohler Owner’s Manual.

Transmission

The transmission is sealed at the factory and is maintenance­free. The fluid level cannot be checked and the fluid cannot be
changed.

Battery

CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING!

Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories

contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known
to the State of California to cause cancer and
reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.

The battery is sealed and is maintenance-free. Acid levels cannot
be checked and fluid cannot be added.

Always keep the battery cables and terminals clean and •
free of corrosive build-up.

After cleaning the battery and terminals, apply a light coat •
of petroleum jelly or grease to both terminals.

CAUTION: If removing the battery for cleaning,

disconnect the NEGATIVE (Black) wire from its
terminal first, followed by the POSITIVE (Red) wire.

When reinstalling the battery, always connect the

POSITIVE (Red) wire to its terminal first, followed by
the NEGATIVE (Black) wire. Be certain that the wires

are connected to the correct terminals; reversing
them could result in serious damage to your

engine’s alternating system.

Cleaning the Tractor

Any fuel or oil spilled on the machine should be wiped off

promptly. Do NOT allow debris to accumulate around the cooling
fins of the engine, the transmission’s cooling fan or on any other

part of the machine, especially the belts and pulleys.

Deck Wash

Your tractor’s deck is equipped with a water port on its surface as

part of its deck wash system.

Use the deck wash to rinse grass clippings from the deck’s

underside and prevent the buildup of corrosive chemicals.

Complete the following steps AFTER EACH MOWING:

Drive the tractor to a level, clear spot on your lawn, near 1.
enough for your garden hose to reach.

CAUTION: Make certain the tractor’s discharge

chute is directed AWAY from your house, garage,
parked cars, etc.

Disengage the PTO (Blade Engage), set the parking brake 2.
and stop the engine.

Thread the hose coupler (packaged with your tractor’s 3.
Operator’s Manual) onto the end of your garden hose.

Spark Plug

The spark plug should be cleaned and the gap reset once a

season. Refer to the Kohler Owner’s Manual for correct plug type

and gap specifications.

20 se c t i O n 6 — Ma i n t e n a n c e & ad j u s t M e n t s

Attach the hose coupler to the water port on your deck’s 4.
surface. See Fig. 6-2.

Figure 6-2

Turn the water on.5.

While sitting in the operator’s position on the tractor, start 6.
the engine and place the throttle lever in the FAST (rabbit)
position.

Move the tractor’s PTO (Blade Engage) into the ON position.7.

Remain in the operator’s position with the cutting deck 8.

engaged for a minimum of two minutes, allowing the
underside of the cutting deck to thoroughly rinse.

Move the tractor’s PTO (Blade Engage) into the OFF 9.

position.

Turn the ignition key to the STOP position to turn the 10.
tractor’s engine off.

Turn the water off and detach the hose coupler from the 11.

water port on your deck’s surface.

After cleaning your deck, return to the operator’s position and
engage the PTO. Keep the cutting deck running for a minimum

of two minutes, allowing the underside of the cutting deck to
thoroughly dry.

Lubrication

WARNING! Before lubricating, repairing, or

inspecting, always disengage PTO, set parking

brake, stop engine and remove key to prevent
unintended starting.

Front Wheels

Each of the front wheel axles and rims is equipped with a
grease fitting. See Fig. 6-3. Lubricate with a No. 2 multi-purpose
grease applied with a grease gun after every 25 hours of tractor
operation.

Figure 6-3

Pivot Points & Linkage

Lubricate all the pivot points on the drive system, parking brake
and lift linkage at least once a season with light oil.

Deck Wheels

Each of the tractor deck’s front gauge wheels is equipped with

a grease fitting. Lubricate with a No. 2 multi-purpose grease
applied with a grease gun after every 25 hours of tractor
operation.

21se c t i O n 6 — Ma i n t e n a n c e & ad j u s t M e n t s

Deck Spindle

Grease fittings can be found on each deck spindle. See Fig. 6-4.

Lubricate with 251H EP grease or an equivalent No. 2 multi-

purpose lithium grease. Using a grease gun, apply two strokes
(minimum) or sufficient grease to the spindle shaft.

Figure 6-4

Adjustments

WARNING! Shut the engine off, remove the

ignition key and engage the parking brake before

making adjustments. Protect your hands by using

heavy gloves when handling the blades.

NOTE: Check the tractor’s tire pressure before performing

any deck leveling adjustments. Refer to Tires on page 28 for
information regarding tire pressure.

Determine the approximate distance necessary for proper
adjustment and proceed, if necessary.

To 1. raise the front of the deck, tighten (thread inward) the
hex lock nut against the front hanger bracket. See Fig. 6-5.

Figure 6-5

To 2. lower the front of the deck, loosen (thread outward) the
hex lock nut, away from the front hanger bracket.
See Fig. 6-5.

Leveling the Deck (Front To Rear)

The front of the cutting deck is supported by a stabilizer bar that
can be adjusted to level the deck from front to rear. The front of
the deck should be between ⁄inch and ⁄inch lower than the
rear of the deck. Adjust if necessary as follows:

Park the tractor on a firm, level surface and place the deck 1.
lift lever in the middle position.

Rotate the blade nearest the discharge chute so that it is 2.
parallel with the tractor.

Measure the distance from the front of the blade tip to the 3.
ground and the rear of the blade tip to the ground. The
first measurement taken should be between ⁄” and ⁄” less
than the second measurement.

22 se c t i O n 6 — Ma i n t e n a n c e & ad j u s t M e n t s

Leveling the Deck (Side to Side)

Hex Bolt

Adjustment

Gear

Hex Nut

Drag Link

Ball Joint

If the cutting deck appears to be mowing unevenly, a side to side
adjustment can be performed. Adjust if necessary as follows:

With the tractor parked on a firm, level surface, place the 1.
deck lift lever in the middle position and rotate both blades
so that they are perpendicular with the tractor.

Measure the distance from the outside of the left blade 2.
tip to the ground and the distance from the outside of the

right blade tip to the ground. Both measurements taken

should be equal. If not, proceed to the next step.

Loosen, but do NOT remove, the hex bolt on the left deck 3.
hanger bracket. See Fig. 6-6.

Steering Adjustment

If the tractor turns tighter in one direction than the other, or if
the ball joints are being replaced due to damage or wear, the
steering drag links may need to be adjusted.

Adjust the drag links so that equal lengths of each are threaded
into the ball joint on the left side and the ball joint on the right
side:

Remove the hex nut below the ball joint. See Fig. 6-7.1.

Figure 6-6

Using a wrench, raise or lower the left side of the deck by 4.
turning the adjustment gear. See Fig. 6-6.

The deck is properly leveled when both blade tip measurements
taken in step 2 are equal. Retighten the hex bolt on the left deck
hanger bracket when proper adjustment is achieved.

Parking Brake Adjustment

If the tractor does not come to a complete stop when the brake

pedal is completely depressed, or if the tractor’s rear wheels

can roll with the parking brake applied, the brake is in need of
adjustment. See an authorized service dealer to have the brake
properly adjusted.

Adjusting the Seat

Refer to the Set-Up and Assembly section of this manual for seat
adjustment instructions.

WARNING! Before operating the tractor, make sure

the seat is engaged in the seat-stop. Engage the
parking brake. Stand behind the machine and pull
back on seat until it clicks into place.

Figure 6-7

Thread the ball joint inward to shorten the drag link. 2.
Thread the ball joint outward to lengthen the drag link.

Replace the hex nut after proper adjustment is achieved.3.

NOTE: Threading the ball joints too far onto the drag links

will cause the front tires to “toe-in” too far. Proper toe-in is

between ⁄” and ⁄”.

Front tire toe-in can be measured as follows:4.

Place the steering wheel in position for straight a.
ahead travel.

In front of the axle, measure the distance b.
horizontally from the inside of the left rim to the
inside of the right rim. Note the distance.

Behind the axle, measure the distance horizontally c.
from the inside of the left rim to the inside of the
right rim. Note the distance.

The measurement taken in front of the axle should be 5.
between ⁄” and ⁄” less than the measurement taken
behind the axle.

23se c t i O n 6 — Ma i n t e n a n c e & ad j u s t M e n t s

Deck Idler

Bracket

Service

7

Cutting Deck Removal

Place the PTO/Blade Engage lever in the disengaged (OFF) 1.
position and engage the parking brake.

Lower the deck by moving the deck lift lever into the 2.
bottom notch on the right fender.

Locate the engine pulley under the front of your tractor. 3.
See Fig. 7-1.

NOTE: If there is too much tension on the belt for it to be
easily removed from the engine pulley, carefully insert a
⁄” drive ratchet wrench (set to loosen) into the square hole
found in the deck idler bracket and pivot it toward the

tractor’s left side to relieve tension on the belt. See Fig. 7-2.

Figure 7-2

Remove the belt guard and belt as follows. Refer to Fig. 7-1:4.

Remove the hex screws.a.

Pull the belt keeper rod to the right and down to b.
remove.

Remove the deck belt from around the tractor’s c.
engine pulley.

Figure 7-1

WARNING! Avoid pinching injuries. Never place

your fingers on the idler spring or between the belt
and a pulley while removing the belt.

Looking at the cutting deck from the left side of the tractor, 5.
locate the deck support pin on the rear left side of the
deck.

24

Pull the deck support pin outward to release the deck from 6.

Deck Lift

Arm

Deck Support

Pin

Hex Washer Screws

Belt Cover

Deck Idler Pulley

Spindle Pulley

Belt Guard

the deck lift arm. See Fig. 7-3.

Figure 7-3

Repeat the above steps on the tractor’s right side.7.

Move the deck lift lever into the top notch to raise the deck 8.
lift arms up and out of the way.

Carefully remove the deck engage cable from the rear of 9.
the cutting deck by removing the bow-tie cotter clip that
secures it. Remove the spring from the deck idler bracket.
See Fig. 7-4.

Remove the cotter pin from the end of the stabilizer rod 10.
and slide the stabilizer out of the hanger bracket on the
deck. See Fig. 7-5.

Figure 7-5

Gently slide the cutting deck (from the right side) out from 11.
underneath the tractor.

Changing the Deck Belt

WARNING! The V-belts found on your tractor are

specially designed to engage and disengage safely.

A substitute (non-OEM) V-belt can be dangerous by

not disengaging completely. For a proper working
machine, use factory approved belts.

All belts on your tractor are subject to wear and should be
replaced if any signs of wear are present . To change or replace
the deck belt on your tractor, proceed as follows:

Remove the deck as instructed on page 24.1.

Remove the belt covers by removing the hex washer 2.
screws that fasten them to the deck. See Fig. 7-6.

Figure 7-4

Figure 7-6

25se c t i O n 7 — se r v i c e

It may also be necessary to loosen the hex nut on the left 3.

PTO Belt

Rotate

Pulley

idler pulley to get the belt off the pulley and around the
belt guard.

Carefully remove the deck belt from around the two 4.
spindle pulleys and the two deck idler pulleys. See Fig. 7-6.

To place the new belt, begin by routing the belt around the 5.
two outer spindle pulleys as shown in Fig. 7-7.

Place the belt into the engine pulley. See Fig. 7-8.11.

Figure 7-8

Replace the belt guard. See Fig. 7-1.12.

Cutting Blades

Then route the belt around the two deck idler pulleys as 6.
shown in Fig. 7-7.

Retighten the belt keeper rod loosened earlier.7.

Remount the belt guards removed earlier.8.

Reinstall the deck as follows:9.

With the deck beneath the mower frame, attach the a.
stabilizer rod. See Fig. 7-5.

Reconnect the deck lift arms. See Fig. 7-3.b.

Reattach the deck engage cable. See Fig. 7-4.c.

Figure 7-7

WARNING! Shut the engine off and remove

ignition key before removing the cutting blade(s) for

sharpening or replacement. Protect your hands by

using heavy gloves when grasping the blade

WARNING! Periodically inspect the blade and/or

spindle for cracks or damage, especially after you’ve

struck a foreign object. Do not operate the machine
until damaged components are replaced.

To remove the blades, proceed as follows.

Remove the deck from beneath the tractor, (refer to 1.
Cutting Deck Removal earlier in this section) then gently
flip the deck over to expose its underside.

26 se c t i O n 7— se r v i c e

Place a block of wood between the center deck housing 2.
baffle and the cutting blade to act as a stabilizer.

See Fig. 7-9.

Figure 7-9

Remove the hex flange nut that secures the blade to the 3.

spindle assembly. See Fig. 7-9.

To properly sharpen the cutting blades, remove equal 4.
amounts of metal from both ends of the blades along the
cutting edges, parallel to the trailing edge, at a 25°- 30°
angle. Always grind each cutting blade edge equally to
maintain proper blade balance. See Fig. 7-10.

CAUTION: If the cutting edge of the blade has

previously been sharpened, or if any metal
separation is present, replace the blades with new
ones.

WARNING! A poorly balanced blade will cause

excessive vibration, may cause damage to the
tractor and/or result in personal injury.

Test the blade’s balance using a blade balancer. Grind 5.
metal from the heavy side until it balances evenly.

NOTE: When replacing the blade, be sure to install the

blade with the side of the blade marked ‘‘Bottom’’ (or with

a part number stamped in it) facing the ground when the
mower is in the operating position.

CAUTION: Use a torque wrench to tighten the

blade spindle hex flange nut to between 70 ft-lbs
and 90 ft-lbs.

Battery

CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING:

Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories

contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known
to the State of California to cause cancer and
reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.

CAUTION: If removing the battery, disconnect the

NEGATIVE (Black) wire from its terminal first,
followed by the POSITIVE (Red) wire. When
reinstalling the battery, always connect the POSITIVE

(Red) wire its terminal first, followed by the

NEGATIVE (Black) wire.

Jump Starting

WARNING! Never jump start a damaged or frozen

battery. Be certain the vehicles do not touch and

ignitions are off. Do not allow cable clamps to touch.

Connect the positive (1. +) cable to positive (+) post of your

tractor’s discharged battery.

Connect the other end of the cable to the positive (2. +) post
of the jumper battery.

Connect the negative (3. –), cable to the other post of the
jumper battery.

Make the final connection on the engine block of the 4.
tractor, away from the battery. Attach to an unpainted part
to assure a good connection.

CAUTION: If the jumper battery is installed on a

vehicle (i.e. car, truck), do NOT start the vehicle’s

engine when jump starting your tractor.

Figure 7-10

Start the tractor (as instructed in the Operation section of 5.
this manual).

Set the tractor’s parking brake before removing the jumper 6.
cables, in reverse order of connection.

27se c t i O n 7 — se r v i c e

Charging

WARNING! Batteries give off an explosive gas

while charging. Charge the battery in a well
ventilated area and keep away from an open flame
or pilot light as on a water heater, space heater,
furnace, clothes dryer or other gas appliances.

CAUTION: When charging your tractor’s battery,

use only a charger designed for 12V lead-acid

batteries. Read your battery charger’s Owner’s
Manual prior to charging your tractor’s battery.

Always follow its instructions and heed its warnings.

If your tractor has not been put into use for an extended period
of time, charge the battery as follows:

Set your battery charger to deliver a max of 10 amperes.1.

If your battery charger is automatic, charge the battery 2.
until the charger indicates that charging is complete. If the
charger is not automatic, charge for no fewer than eight
hours.

Fuse

WARNING! Before servicing, repairing, or

inspecting, always disengage PTO, set parking

brake, stop engine and remove key to prevent
unintended starting.

A fuse is installed in your tractor’s wiring harness to protect the
tractor’s electrical system from damage caused by excessive

amperage.

If the electrical system does not function, or your tractor’s engine

will not crank, first check to be certain that the fuse has not
blown. It is located under the hood, mounted behind the top of
the dash panel on the support bar.

CAUTION: Always use a replacement fuse with the

same amperage capacity as the blown fuse.

Tires

WARNING! Never exceed the maximum inflation

pressure shown on the sidewall of the tire.

Refer to the tire sidewall for exact tire manufacturer’s

recommended or maximum psi. Do not overinflate.

Uneven tire pressure could cause the cutting deck to mow
unevenly.

Changing the Transmission Drive Belt

Several components must be removed and special tools used in

order to change the tractor’s transmission drive belt. See your

authorized service dealer to have the transmission drive belt
replaced.

28 se c t i O n 7— se r v i c e

Troubleshooting

Problem Cause Remedy

Engine fails to start PTO/Blade Engage lever engaged.1.

Engine runs erratic Tractor running with Throttle/Choke 1.

Engine overheats Engine oil level low. 1.

Engine hesitates at high

RPM

Engine Idles rough Spark plug fouled, faulty or gap too wide. 1.

Excessive vibration Cutting blade loose or unbalanced. 1.

Mower will not mulch grass Engine speed too low. 1.

Uneven cut Deck not leveled properly. 1.

Parking brake not engaged. 2.

Spark plug wire disconnected. 3.

Throttle/Choke control lever not in correct 4.
starting position.

Fuel tank empty, or stale fuel. 5.

Blocked fuel line. 6.

Faulty spark plug. 7.

Engine flooded. 8.

activated.

Spark plug wires loose. 2.

Blocked fuel line or stale fuel. 3.

Vent in gas cap plugged. 4.

Water or dirt in fuel system. 5.

Dirty air cleaner. 6.

Air flow restricted. 2.

Spark plug gap too close. 1. Remove spark plug and reset the gap. 1.

Dirty air cleaner. 2.

Damaged or bent cutting blade. 2.

Wet grass. 2.

Excessively high grass. 3.

Dull blade. 4.

Dull blade. 2.

Uneven tire pressure. 3.

Place lever in disengaged (OFF) position. 1.

Engage parking brake. 2.

Connect wire to spark plug. 3.

Place Throttle/Choke lever to FAST position. 4.

Fill tank with clean, fresh (less than 30 days 5.
old) gas.

Clean fuel line and replace fuel filter. 6.

Clean, adjust gap or replace plug. 7.

Crank engine with throttle in FAST position. 8.

Push Throttle/Choke control in. 1.

Connect and tighten spark plug wires. 2.

Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean, fresh 3.
gasoline and replace fuel filter.

Clear vent or replace cap if damaged. 4.

Drain fuel tank. Refill with clean, fresh 5.
gasoline.

Replace air cleaner paper element or clean 6.
foam precleaner.

Fill crankcase with proper amount and 1.
weight of oil.

Clean grass clippings and debris from around 2.

the engine’s cooling fins and blower housing.

Replace spark plug. Set plug gap. 1.

Replace air cleaner element and/or clean 2.
pre-cleaner.

Tighten blade and spindle. 1.

Replace blade. 2.

Place Throttle/Choke control in FAST (rabbit) 1.
position.

Do not mulch when grass is wet. 2.

Mow once at a high cutting height, then 3.
mow again at desired height or make a
narrower cutting swath.

Sharpen or replace blade. 4.

Perform side-to-side deck adjustment. 1.

Sharpen or replace blade. 2.

Check tire pressure in all four tires. 3.

8

29

Replacement Parts

Component Part Number and Description

9

759-3336 Spark Plug (Champion RC12YC)

KH-20-883-02-S1 Kohler Air Filter Element

KH-12-050-01-S Kohler Oil Filter

KH-25-050-21-S Kohler Fuel Filter

954-04219 Drive Belt (Mower Deck)

942-04290 2-in-1 Deck Blade

925-1707D Battery

918-04636A Deck Spindle

Call (1800) 803-537 to loctae an authorised Rover Dealership for supply of replacement parts or a complete Parts Manual. Be sure to have
your model number and serial number ready. Parts Manuals can also be downloaded free of charge at www.rovermowers.com.au.

30

Component Part Number and Description

734-04155 Deck Wheel

751-0603A Fuel Tank Cap

746-04364 Throttle/Choke Control Lever & Cable

925-1745A Ignition Key (Plastic)

631-04461 Discharge Chute Assembly

Call (1800) 803-537 to locate your nearest authorised Rover Dealer to supply replacement parts or a complete Parts Manual.
Be sure to have your model number and serial number ready. Parts Manuals can also be downloaded free of charge at
www.rovermowers.com.au.

31se c t i O n 9 — re p l a c e M e n t pa r t s

Attachments & Accessories

10

The following attachments and accessories are compatible with Rover Rancher 1742 lawn tractors. See the retailer from which you purchased

your tractor, an authorized Rover Service Dealer or phone [phone] for information regarding price and availability.

CAUTION: Rover Rancher 1742 Lawn Tractors are NOT designed for use with any type of ground-engaging attachments (e.g. tiller

or moldboard plow). Use of this type of equipment WILL void the tractor’s warranty.

Model Number Description

19A30005OEM Mulch Plug, 46”

OE M-19 0 -0 32 Snow Thrower, 42”

19A30003OEM Twin Bagger, 46” Twin Blade

OE M-19 0 -215 Wheel Weights

OE M-19 0 -6 79 Bumper

OE M-19 0 -8 33 46” Snow Blade

OE M-19 0 -6 58 Tire Chains, 20” x 8”

OE M-19 A-218 Rear Bracket Weight Kit

32

Notes

11

33