Page 1
91
GAssembly
o Operation
° Customer Respensibilities
oService and Adjustments
_,Repair Pa_s
OWNER'S MANUAL
CAUTION: Read and follow atl safety ruses and _nstructlons before operating this equipment.
Page 2
SAFETY RULES
Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers
iMPORTANT: TH_S CUTTING MACHINE _S CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING
OBJECTS, FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT _N SERIOUS
NJURY OR DEATH
l, GENERAL OPERATION
Read, understand_ and foilow al_instractio_s in the manua!
and on the machine before sta_ing.
Only alIow responsiMe adutts who are familiar with the
instructions, to operate the machine
* C_ear the area ot objects such as recks, toys wire, etc.
which could be picked _:_pand thrown by the b_ade,
Be sure the area isctear of other people before mewing Stop
mace Re if anyor_e enters the area
_, Never carry passengers.
_' Do r_otmow in _everse unless absolutely necessary Aways
took down and behind before and whiie backing.
. Be aware of the mower discharge direction and do not point
}t at anyone. De not operate the mower without either the
eeti_e grass catche_ or the guard in piace.
SI@_ down before taming.
bdore dismounting
Turn off biades when not mowing_
. Stop engine before removing grass catehe_ or unclogging
chute
. Mow on_yin daylight or good a_tficial lighL
. Do not operate the machine whi_e under the influence of
alcohol or drugs
*, Watch for traffic when operating near or eros ing roadways_
_, Use extra care when loading or unloading the mace ne into
a trailer or truck.
tL SLOPE OPERATION
t[_L CHILDREN
and the mowing activity Nevetassume that children wfi remain
were you last s_w them
Keep children out of the mowing area and under the watchful
care of another responsible aci]_Jtt.
o Be aie_ and turn machine off if ehildre_ enter he area
. Before and when backing _oekbehnd and down for small
cMIdren
. Never carry children They may fali off and be sedously
iniured or ir'_tedere with safe machine operation.
- Never allow children to operate the mace no,
• Use extra care when approaching blind corners shrubs,
trees, or other objects that may ob_cure vision.
SERVICE
Use extra care in haedling gasoine and other fuels. They are
fiammable and vapors are exp!osive_
Use on_yan approved container
Never remove gas cap or add faei with the engine
ruenir g_ Allow engine to coo_ before iefue_ir_g. Do no!
smoke
Never _'efuel the machine indoors
Never tore the reacttins or rue! container nsde where
there is an open fin he, such as a water _eater
Never ren a machine inside a closed area
Keep nu_s and bolts., especiaf_y binds attachment bolts, tight
and keep eq_iprnen_ in good condition
Never tamper with safety devices. Check thor proper
req_ire extra caution If you cannot back up the stops or if you fee_
uneasy on it, do not mow ii,
DO_
Mow up and down s_opes, not across
. Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.
,, Watch for hoIes, ruts or bumps. Uneven terrain could
ove_lurn the machine. Taft gr_:_sscan hide obstacle&
Use s_owspeed Choose a k_wgear so that you w ; not have
to atop or shift while on the slope.
Follow the manufacturers recommendations for whee_
weights or counterweights to reprove stability
. Keep all movement on the s;opes stow and graduat De not
make sudden changes ;r_speed or direction_
'_ Avoid starling or stopping on a slope If tires lose traction,
disengage the Mades am:] proceed s_ow_ystraight down the
DO NOT:
Do net mow near drep..offs, ditches, or embankments The
mower co_._ldsuddenly turn over if a whee_ is over the edge
of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.
Do net mow on wet grass Reduced traction could cause
. Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on the
Keep machine free of grass teaves, or other debrs bu td_ap.
C!ean oi or tue_ spiI_age_ Allow machine to cod before
Stop and inspect the equ{pment if you strike an obiect.
Repair, f necessary, before resta£ing.
Never make adi_._stmerdsor repa rs wth the engne runnii'_g
Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage, and
deterioration which could expose moving pa_s or show
objects to be throws Frequently check components arid
repines wth manufacturers r¢_ommended parts, when hoe
essaq/
_' Mower blades are sharp and carl euL Wrap the Made(s) or
wear g_oves, and use extra caution when serv;cieg them
,_ Check brake operation freqaently. Adjust and service as
Look for this symbof to point out impor-
tant safety precautions, It means
CAUTiON!i! BECOME ALERT!i! '/OUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED,
CAUTION: Always disconnect spark
plug wire and place wire where it cannot
transporting, adjusting or making
Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.
2
Page 3
tured to give you the best possble dependabitty and
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
150
GASOLINE CAPAC TY 5 QUARTS
AND TYPE: UNLEADED REGULAR
tedDepa£ment We have cor'npetent wetbtraned tech.,
nicians _nd the prape_ too_s to sewice or repair this unt
P_ease read and retain this manual, }he instructions wli
enable you to assemble and maintain your unit properly_
Atways observe the 'SAFETY RULES',
MODEL
NUMBER 917,257590
SERIA{
NUMBER
DA'TEOF PURCHASE
THE MODELAND SERIAL NUMBERSW_LL BE FOUND
ON A PLATE UNDER THE SEAT
YOU SHOULD RECORD BOTH SERIAL NUMBER AND
DATE OF PURCHASE AND KEEP iN A SAFE PLACE
FOR FUTURE REFERENCE_
MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT
A Sears maintenance agreement s ava tabte on this prod-
uct. Cot tact your nearest Sears store fer deta Is.
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
O_L TYPE (AP/ SG} SAE 30 above 32'_ )
SAE 5W-30 (beow 32F}
eL CAPACITY: 3.0 PNTS
SPARK PLUG: CHAMP}ON RJ19LM
(GAP: 030")
NTAKE: _005 -. 007'
EXHAUSTs .009 011 _
GROUND SPEED MPH>: FORWARD: 5.00
REVERSE; 2.40
TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PS}
REARI 12 PSI
CHARGING SYSTEM: 3 AMPS BATTERY
5 AMPS HEADLtG qTS
BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 30-35 _sT'.LBS
Read and obsewe the safety rules.
Folow a regular schedule inmaintainin 9,caring for and
fttrough yeur nearest "
(See REPAIR PARTS section of i'_s manua }.
Sears Aathor zed Servce Centel
using your unit.
Fo/ow the instructions unde_ 'Customer Responsibili-
ties" and "Storage" sections of this owner's manua
L{M{TED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON ELECTRIC START RIDING EQUIPMENT
For two (2) years from the date of purchase, if this riding equipment is maintained _ubiieated and tuned up accord nq ta the
instructions in the owners manual, Sears wil repair o rep/_ce free of ch_trge ary pa_ls found to be defective n matera_ or
This Warranty does not cover:
" Expendable items which become warn during normal use, such as blades spa'k pl;gs air c_eaners and belts
" Tie replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside obiects, such as hats, thorns stumps, or glass.
,_ Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, negligence, improper .storage or accident or the faiure ta mair tan the
equipment accarding to the instructions conlained in the ewr_er's manua_
,, R}ding e%ipment used for commercial or rents} purposes
L{MITED 90 DAY WARRANTY ON BAKERY
Far ninety (g0} days trom date of purchase, if any battery included with this riding equipment prowls defectiw:_ n materia_ or
workmanship and our testing determines the battery will not hold a charge, Sears will replace the batte_ at na charge.
WARRANTY SERVICE S AVAILABLE BY RETURNING THE RIDING EQU PMENT TO THE NEAREST SEARS SERVICE
CENTERJDEPARTMENT IN THE UNITED STATES
This Warranty gives you specific iegsl rights, arid you may also have ether rights which may vary fl_omstate to state.
SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO., D/817 WA HOFFMAN ESTATES, _LL[NO[S 60179
3
Page 4
iNDEX
A
Accessories 5
Brake 20
Cal'burete_ .........................23
Mower
FrontoT@Back .................19
S de-To-Side ............................19
Throttb Centrol Cable ..................23
A_ Fi!ter, Enghe. ............................16
Air Screen, Engine ............................t7
Assembly ............................................79
Charging 8
Cleaning 15
inetaiiat}en 9
Levee &t5
Preparation 8
Start ng wth Weak Battery ...... 22
Slorage ...................................24
Term nals.....................................15
Belt:
MotionD(we
RemowWReplacoment ............21
Mower Be_f(e)
Removai/Replacement 20
Blade:
Sharpening 1S
Reptacernent ..................15
B_'ake Adjustment .........................20
C
Carburetor Adiustment ..................23
Contr@s,Tractor.........................I0
Customer Responsibilities ...........3,15o17
Air Filter .............................16
Air Screen ...........................17
CoolingFins...........................17
Engine Oil ...............................2!6
FuelFilter..................................17
Span Plug(s)..........................t7
Tractor:
Balte_y ............................15
Biade .......................................!5
Lubrication Char ....................14
Maintenance Schedule ............! 4
Tire Care !5
Transa?xte ................................16
Curt ng Height, Mower .......................11
E
Electrical:
Interlocks and Relays ............ 22
Schen' eric 27
Wdng Diagram 28
Air Fi_ter 16
Air Screen 1'7
Coo_ing Fins 17
Oi_Char_ge .................. 16
OilLever.......................................16
OilType ...................................12 t6
P_eparation ..................................12
Repair Parts ...........................4851
Starting ..........................................13
Storage ..........................................24
F
FtJter:
Ar FIter ................................16
Fuet ...............................17
Fuel:
Type .............................12
Stora9e. ..........................................24
Fuse .....................................................?2
H
Hood Remeva[/fnstsI/ation .................22
L
Leve_ing Mower Deck ...................19
Lubrication:
Cha_l t 4
Engine 16
M
Maintenance Schedule 14
Mowers
Adiustment Front Io*Back ..........19
Adiustment Side4o-Side .........I9
Blade Replacement ...............15
Blade Sharpening ......................15
Cutting Height ............................. 11
Installation .............................18
Operation ................................11-12
Removal .......................................18
Mowing Tips ....................................t3
Muffler..........................................."I7
Spark Attester ...........................340
0
OiL
Cotd Weather Cendit ons ......12,16
Engine ...................................16
Storage 24
Operation t 0-13
OperatbE_ Mower .......................11-.12
Acceseedes 5
Spark Attester ............................3,40
P
Parking B_ake 18-11
Pads Bag ..........................................6
Parts, Replacement/Repair .............28-45
Product Specifications ............................3
R
Repair Pa_l ..............................28_45
S
Safety Ru_es 2
Seat 8
Sewce and Adiustments 18-23
Carburetor 23
F_,_ce................................22
Hoed RemovaV_nstallagon ...........22
Moton Driw_Belt
Removat/Repk_cemont ............2,I
Mower Belt(s)
Remova!/Rep_acement ........ 20
Mewer Adiustment
Front to-Back ..................1g
Side4o Side .......................t9
Mower Remow_l/Instelfation ........ t 8
Tire Care ...............................51
Sbpe Guide Shee.t .............................55
Spark Pug(s} ........................................17
Specifications .........................................8
StaMing the Engine .............................18
Steering Wheel ................................7,2"t
StoppingtheTractor............................!
Storage .................................................24
T
Throttle Control Cable Adiustment 23
Tires ...........................515,2'1
Trouble Shooting Cha_t ............ 25..26
Transax_e ...............................!6,44o45
W
Warranty 3
Wiring Diagram ...................25
Widng Schematic ...............................27
Page 5
These accessories and attactanents were avai_aMe thro sgh most Sears retail outlets and senrice centers when the tractor was purchased
Most Sears stores cars order these terns for you when you provide the modeJ numl er of your tract(y.
SPARK PLUG GAS CAN ENGINE OiL FUEL STABiLiZER
BLADES BELTS
Sears offers a wide variety of att_ chments that fit your tractor_ Many of these are %ted below with brief explanations of how they (;an help
you This _istwas current at the tree of publication; however, t may change in future years - r'nore attachreents may be added changes
may be made }n these attachments er some may _o beget be ave }abie or fit your _odeL Contact your nearest Sears store for the
accessories and attachments that are available for year tractor.
Most of these attachments do not reqaire additional h tches or conversion kits (those iha_ do are indicated} and are designed for easy
attaching and detaching.
AERATOR promotes deep root growth for a healthy lawn. 'Ta_
pored 2.54rich stee_ spikes mounted on 10 inch diameter discs
punctare hobs in soii at cone inter,vals to _et moisture soak in
Stee_ weight tray for increased penetration
SNOW BLADE forsnow removat say 14qnch high424nch wide
Made ciears 38qnch path when angled _eftor dght Raises, b,aers
with side bver Adiustab!e skds rep_aceaMe, reversiMe scraper
bar (Use with tire chains and wheel we ghts andor rear drawbar
BAGGER lets you collect grass clippings and bares for a
healthier, nearer looking lawn. 'Two Permaeex containers hotd
30_ga_lon plastic bag&
BUMPER protects front end of tractor from damage
DARTS make hauiing easy Vade!i_ of szes availabie, pk_s
accessories such as side panei kits, too_ caddy, cad cover,
pratective mat and doly
CORING AERATOR takes small plugs out of soil to allow mo}s
ture and nutrients to reach grass _oots. 36inch swath. 24
SNOWTRROWER has 40._rich swath Drum_type auger h_ndles
powdery and weVheavy snow Mounts easily wit'_ simple pn
arrangement. Discharge chute adjusts from tractor seat. 6qnch
diameter spout discharges snow !0 to 50 feet. Lft contro_bd at
tractor seat (Use with chains and whe®_ weghts anWor rear
SPRAYERS use 12-volt DC e_eetdc motor that connects to the
tractor battery sr other 12ovott source nciudes booms for
hardened steel coring tips 150 _b.capac ty weight tray
EASY O_L DRAIN VALVE makes o;_changes easier_ faster.
FRONT NOSE ROLLER canters ir front of mower deck to reduce
chances of scalping '_on uneven terrain
GANG H_TCN iets you taw 2 or 3 pui. behind attachments at once
such as sweepers dethatchers, aerators (not for use w}th tel}era,
caps or other heavy attachments)
GAUGE WHEELS on both sides of the mower deck _educe
SPREADER/SEEDERS make seed ng fert Izing and weed ki_l._
ng easy. Broadcast spreaders a_e abe useful _or granular d@
_:els and sand.
SWEEPERS _etyou collect grass clippings and teaves.
T_LLER has 5 hp engine and 36- nch swath to prepare seed beds,
cultivate and compost garden residue. Titler has its own builtoin
chances d '°sca_ping"on uneven terrain For mower decks not so
MULCH RAK_DETHATCHER loosens aoi! and flips thatch and
MULCH|NG CLOSE_OUT PLATE K_T, once insta_ed, lets you
manual
RAMP TOPS AND FEET let you bad and unload tractor from a
pickup truck. Use with 2 x 8 or 2 x 10 _umber
ROLLER for smeother _awn sudace. 364nch wide, 18.cinch
diameter water4ight drum holds up to 390 tbs_ofweight Rounded
edges prevent harm to tad. Adjustable scraper autoraaticat_y
cleans dram
drawbar and go! Optiona_ accessories conved unit for
dethatching_ aerating, hilling ,without tools,
T_RE CHAINS are heavy duty; closely spaced extraqarge cross
_inksgive smooth ride, outstanding traction.
visibility, Hinged metal doors with catch Keeps operator warm
and d_, Remove vinyl eden and windshields for use as sun
protector n summer Opt_ona! accessories I_cl_de, tinteW
tempered solid salety glass windshield with hand operated wiper
12_volt amber caution Hght for mounting on cab top.
VAC$ for powedui coi/ection of heavy grass clippings and ieaves,
Opt_oaa! wand attachment to pick up debris in hard to-reach
p_aces, VAC/CHIPPER includes a chipper shredder
WEIGHT BRACKET tot drawbar for snow removal applications
Uses (1) 55/b, weight,
WHEEL WEIGHTS for rear wheels provide needed traction for
snow removal or dozing heavy mateda}s.
Page 6
OF
Parts Bag contents shown fuji size
(2) Sheet
Metal
Screws
1/2
(1) 2o3/8_'Diameter Washer (I) Locknut 3/8o.24
Wheel
ii
Ji
I
I
/
(1) Shoulder Bolt 5/16d8
(1) Washer
17/32 x I.-3/16 x 12 Gauge
(2) He× Boits 1/4-20 × 3/4
(I) Hex Bolt 1/2-13 x !
(1) Lock Washer i/2
(2) Hex Nuts !/4-20
Boot
Owner's ManuaI
Pads bag contests not shown full size
_,........................................................../ Whee
x.............................................../ /r_Ser_
Steerir_g Wheet
(2) Keys
(2} Washers
9/32 x 5/8 x 16 Ga, (2) LockWashers 1/4
Battery Caps
15 Slope Sheet and Instructions
6
Page 7
Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception of those parts bft 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 necessapj to insure proper tightness
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY
A socket wrench set wiii make assembly easier. Standard
wrench sizes are listed
(!) 9/16" wrench (2) W16" wrench
(1) 1/2" wrench (1) 3/4" wrench
Utility knife
Tire pressure gauge
When nght and/eft hand is mentioned in ths manual, it
means when you are in the operat ng position (seated
behind the steering whee0,
TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON
UNPACK CARTON
Remove aH accessible bose pa_s and parts cartons
from carton (See page 6}.
CuL from top to bottom along ires on all four corners
of caPon, and lay paneis fiat
o Check for any additiona_ loose parts or cartons and
remove,
STEERtNG
WHEEL
ADAPTER
STEERING
BOOT
STEERING SHAFT
TABS
BEFORE ROLLING TRACTOR OFF SKiD
A_ACH STEERING WHEEL (See Fig, 1)
o Slide the steering bushing over the steering shaft.
o Raise steering shaft forward untif screw holes in dash
Iine up with steering bushing Instal two (2} sheet
meta! screws and tighten securely,
o Position steedng boot over steering shaft.
o Place tabs of steering boot over tab slots in dash and
push down to secure
Slide steering wheel adapter onto upper steering shaft,
Position front wheets of the tractor so they are pointing
, Position steering wheel: so cross bars are horizontal
(left to right) and slide onto adapter.
Assemble large fiat washer and 3/8_24 Iocknut and
, Snap steering wheel insert into center of steering
wheel,
o Remove protective plastic from tractor hood and gr/I
IMPORTANT;CHECK FOR AND REMOVE ANY STAPLES
iN SKID THAT MAY PUNCTURETIRES WHERE TRACTOR
IS TO ROLL OFF SKID,
TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Fig, 8)
o Raise attachment lift lever to ts highest position
o Release parking brake by depressing clutch/brake
_' Place freewheel control in freewheeling position to
disengage transmission (See "TO TRANSPORT" in
Operation section of this manual}_
o Ro_ttractor backwards off skid.
, Remove banding holding discharge guard up against
tractor,
7
Page 8
HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR
PREPARE BAKERY (See Fig, 2)
CAUTION: Wear eye and face shiol&
Do not smoko_ Fumes from cha_ged
bakery acid are exp[osive_
Read the instructions included with the
battery vent caps, Always wear gloves,
clothing and goggles to protect your
hands, skin and Byes,
Your tractor has a battery charging system which is suffio
cient for normal use However periodic charging of the
batter;/with an automotive charger wilt extend ts life
, See instructions paek÷d with vent caps in pa_s bag.
o Fill battery with ac{& Fill each cell until it reaches the
bottom of the vent wells. DB not ovedilt.
correct level is reached_
Whiie battery is standing (after adding acid) and later, whiIe
batteG_s being charged, continue wth assembiy of tractor
IMPORTANT: TO MAXIMIZE THE LIFE: OF YOUR
BATTERY T/S NECESSARY THAT THE BATTERY BE
CHARGED BEFORE USE FAILURE TO CHARGE
BATTERY CAN RESULT IN A SHORTENED BATTERY
LiFE
o Charge batteD, at a rate of 6 amperes for 1 hour Use
a 12 vBtt battery charger Observe a_lsafety precau.
tions required for battery charg ng
o Cheek the acid evet after the battery is charged If the
acid has faIIen below the corroct eveL add distif ed or
iron frBe water.
o Install the vent caps to cover the vent wels_ Wash the
top of tisebattery with water to romove any acid, then
wpe dry_
Check batteq¢ case for teakage to make sure that no
damage has occurred in handling.
- Dispose of excess battery acid NeutraIize acid for
paddle whi_eaddng baking: soda unti! the addition of
more soda causes no more foaming.
Follow instructions on how to insta
INSTALL BATTERY (See Figs,4 and 5)
CAUTtON: Do not shoA batte_'y termi_
nats_ Before instsIHn 9 baAery_ remove
meta_ bracetets_ wristwatch bands_
Positive terminat must be connected
first to prevent sparking from accideno
tat 9_oundtng,
Lift seat to raised position,
o Open battery box dDor.
o Be sure battery drain tube is attached to battehf box
o Lower batten/ into battery box wth battery term hats
toward front of tractor.
, First connect RED battery cable to positive (+) terminal
with hex bo}t, flat washer, lock washer and hex nut as
shown, T ghten securely°
o Connect BLACK grounding cab e to negatwe (_)termio
nai wth remaining hex [_olt, flat washer, bck washer
and hex nut. Tighten securely
, Close batteP/box dOBr.
Open battery box door for:
o hspection foi secure connectons (to tighten hard
Test ng battery.
o ,Jumping (if required)
Periodic charging,
BATTERY
BOX DOOR
NEGATIVE
(BLACK)
CABLE
LOCK
WASHER
FLAT
HE×
BOLT
BATTERY
DOOR
VENTS CAPS
FtG, 5
BEFORE YOU OPERATE: Ak_ LT'qJOY YOUR NEW
TRACTOR, WE W/St:_'TOASSURE THAT YOU RECEIVE
%H\EBESTP_R NCE AND SA TISF74CTION FROM
7HtS QUAUT Y PRODUCX
PLEASE REVfEW THE FOLLOWING CHECKLIST:
/ Ali assembly instruc'Iions have been completed
/ No remaining tDBSBparts in cartDn
v" Battery is properly prepared and charged. (Minimum
1 hour at 6 amps)_
v" Seat is adjusted comfortably and tightened securely.
v" All tires are properly infiated_ (For shipping purposes_
the tires were overinflated at the factory)
/ Be sure mower deck is properly Ieve/ed side.4o_sidd
frontqo._rear for best cutting resu}ts_ (Tires must be
property inflated for bveiing).
/ Check mower and drive belts, Be sure they are routed
prBpedy around pulleys and inside all be_tkeepers.
/ Check wiring See that aI!connections are stll secure
and wires are properly clamped,
/ Before driving tractor, be sure freewheel control is in
WHILE LEARNffqG HOW 70 USE YOUR 'TRACTOR, PAY
EXTRA A TT_NTION TO "THEFOLLOWtNG JMPOR
TANT ITEMS.:
/ Engine oH is at proper level,
/ Fuel tank is filled with fresh, ciean, regular unleaded
POSTmVE (÷) TERMSNAL NEGATIVE (-) TERMINAL
FIG, 4
_/ Become famiiiar with ail contn_ls _ their location and
function, Operate them before you sta_ the engine.
¢ Be sure brake system is in safe operating condition,
,/ It is imporlant to purge the transmission before you
operate your new tractor for the first time. Follow
9
S_ON" inOperation section of this manual),
Page 10
KNOW YOUR TRACTOR
READ THIS OWNER'S _IANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR TRACTOR
Compare the illustrations with you rtractor to familiarize yourself with the eLations of various controls and ad ustrRents. Save
this manual for future reference
UGHT SWITCH
CLUTCH!
BRAKEPEDAL
THROTTLE/
CHOKE
CONTROL
FREEWHEEL
CONTROL
ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER
IGNiTiON SWITCH
PARKING DRAKE
LEVER
MOT}ON CONTROL LEVER
Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the Amer can National Standards hstitute,
A_ACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER; Used to engage the
mower btades, or other attachments mounted to your
tractor.
LIGHT SWITCH: Turns the headlights on and offi
THRO_L_CHOKB CONTROL: Used for starting and
controlling engine speed,
CLUTCHTBRAKE PEDAL: Used fordec/utchingand brako,
ing the tractor and sta_ing the eng Re,
PARKING BRAKE LEVER: Locks clutch/brake pedal rite
the brake position°
F_G. 6
MOTION CONTROL LEVER: Selects the speed and
direction of tractor.
U_ LEVER PLUNGER: Used to re,ease attachment Iift
lever when changing its position,
A_ACH_gENT LIFT LEVER: Used to raise, lower, and
adiust the mower deck or other attachments mounted to
IGNITION SWITCH: Used for stading and stopping the
FREEWHEEL CONTROL; Disengages transmssion for
pushing or slowly towing the tractor with the engine oil
10
Page 11
HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR
TO SET PARKING BRAKE (See Fig, 7)
Your tractor is equipped with an operate rpresence sensing
switch When engine is running, any attempt by the
ope_tDr to leave the seat without first setting the parking
brake wili shut off the engine
Depress clutch/brake pedal into full 'BRAKE '_positior_
and hold.
Place parking brake lever in 'ENGAGED _position and
release p_essure from ciutchibrake pedal Pedal should
remain in"BRAKE '_pos tion Make sure park ng biake
wil! hold vehicle secure.
_GNtT{ON
MOT}ON
CONTROL
LEVER
CLUTCH/DRAKE
PEDAL"DmVE*'POSmON
STOPPING (See Fig, 7)
MOWER BLADES -
° Move attachment dutch iever to "DISENGAGED" po.*
sitios.
GROUND DRIVE
Depress clutch/brake pedal into fuII "BRAKE*' pDsitiOn.
, Move motion control lever to neutral (N) position.
_IPaPORTANT; THE MOTION CONTROL LEVER DOES
NOT RETURN TO NEUTRAL (N) POSITION WHEN THE
CLUtCH/BRAKE PEDAL 1SDEPRESSED
ENGINE -
Move throttle control to sbw (_) position.
NOTE: Failure to move throttle contrel to sbw (_}
position and allowing engine to idle before stopping may
cause engine to "backfire*'.
o Turn ign tion key to 'OFF" position and remove key
Always remove key when leaving tractor to prevent
unauthorized use.
, Never use choke to stop engine,
NOTE: Under ce_ain conditions when tractor is standing
idle with the engine running, hot engine exhaust gases may
cause "browning' of grass, To eliminate this possibility,
always stop engine when stopping tractor on grass areas.
PABKfNG DRAKE
'DISENGAGED' POS_T_ON
FIG, 7
TO USE THRO_LE CONTROL (See Fig° 7)
Always operate engine at fut! throttle,
Operating engine at _essthan fun thmttb reduces the
batleq_,charging rate_
Fu!! thmttte offers the best bagging and mower pedor_
mance
TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD
(See Fig, 7)
The direction and speed of movement is contrelted by the
motion cDntrDI !ever.
- Stad tractor wth motion control lever n neutral (N)
, Release pa_king brake and c!utch/brake pedal.
S_owiy move motion co_trO lever to desired post on.
TO ADJUST MOWER CU_[NG HEIGHT
(See Figo7}
The pestion of the attachmer_t iift /ew_r determi_es the
cutting heght
, Grasp Ift lever
, Press plunger with thumb and move ever to des red
The cutting height range is approx mately t -1/2 to 4. The
heights are measured from the ground to the blade tip wit/_
the engine nDt runn[ng_ These heights are approximate
and may vary depending upon soil conditions, height of
grass and types of grass being mowed.
° The average _awnshould be cut tD approximately 21/2
inches during the cool season and to over 3 inches
durng hot months. For healthier and better IDDk_ng
lawns, mow often and after moderate growth_
° For best cutting pedDrmance, grass over 6 inches in
height should be mowed twicD. Make the first cut
relatively high; the second to desired heighL
TO OPERATE MOWER (See Fig, 8)
Your tractDr is equipped witi_an operator presence sensing
switch. Any attempt by the operator to leave the seat with
the engine running and the attachment clutch engaged wl/
shut off the engine.
, Select desired height of cut
, Stad mower blades by engaging a_tachment clutch
control.
° TO STOP MOWER BLADES odisengage attachment
dutch control.
11
Page 12
CAUTION: Do not operate the mower
without e_ther the entire grass catcher,
on mowers so equipped, or the dis-
charge guard tn place,
"ENGAGED" ATTACHMENT
POSITION LEVER
HiGH POntoON
LOW
POS_T_ON
FIG 8
TO OPERATE ON HILLS
o Choose the slowest speed before stading up or down
hills.
Avod stepping or changing speed on Mils
o If slowing is necessary, move th_oltte con' rol tever to
slower position.
If stoppin 9 is absok.ltely necessary push clutch/brake
pedal quickly to brake position and engage parking
brake
o Move motion control ever Io neutra_ (N) position_
iMPORTANT: THE MOTION CONTROL LEVER DOES
NOT RETURN TO N UTRAL (N) POSITION WHEN THE
CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL _SDEPRESSED.
o To testa dmovement, slowly r*e_easeparking brake and
c_utch/brake pedal.
o Sfow/y move motion controi lever to slowest setting.
, Make all turns siowly.
TO TRANSPORT (See Figs. 6 and 9)
When pushing or towing your tractor be sure to disengage
transmission by placing freewheel control in freewheeling
position Free wheel control is located at the rear drawbar
d tractor
, Raise attachment lift to highest position with attacho_
meat lift contret.
F_G,9
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE
CHECK ENGINE O}L LEVEL (See Fig, 14 & 15)
o The eng nen your"tractor has been sh pped, from the'
factoryl aiready fIed wth sum_'_er wei{ii:_t ol.
o Check engine el wth tractor on tevel ground
o Unthread and remove oi fill cap/dipstick; wipe oil off.
Reinsert the dipstick into the tJbe and rest el fii/cap on
the tube. Do not Ihread the cap onto the tube. Rernove
and read oii ieveL ff necessary, add oi unti FULL'*
mark on dipstick is reached. Do not oved l/.
o For coid weaiher operation you should change oi for
easier sta£ing (See OIL. VISCOSITY CHART' in the
Customer Respons b Ities secl or_ of ths manuat}
o To change engine el, see the Cus omer Responsib i
tes section in ths man al
ADD GASOUNE
'_ FI fu_}I tank Use fresh, clean re _xb:_.luneaded
gasefine (Use of leaded gasoline wlI ncrease cal_bon
and bad oxide deposits and reduce rave ire}.
_MPORSANT: WHEN OPERATING IN TEM_:_ERATURES
BELOW 32"F(@CX USE P:_ESH CLEAN WINTER GRADE
GASOL NE TO HELP NSURE GOOD COL[:} WEATHER
START NG
WARN_NG; Experence indcates that a_coho blended
fueB (caNed gasoho or using ethanol or methanol) can
attract moisture whch leads to separat}on and format on of
acids during storage. Acidc gas can damage the fuel
system of an engine whie in storage. To avoid engine
prob/ems, the fuel system shouId be emptied before stor-
age of 30 days or Ionger_ Drain the gas tank, sta_l the
engine and Iet t run untit the fuel fees and carburetor are
em_y Use fresh fuel next season. See Storage _nstruc
tions for addtonal information. Never use engne or
carburetor cleaner products n the rue tank or permanent
damage may occur.
Donor push or taw tractor at more than twe (2) MPH.
To reengage transmission reverse above procedure.
NOTE: Te protect hood from damage when transporling
your tractor on atruck or atrailer, be sure hood isclosed and
secured to tractor. Use an appropriate means of tying hood
to tractor (rope, cord, etc).
12
Page 13
OPE
TO START ENGIINE (See Fig_ 7)
When sta_ing engine for'the frst time or f engine has rur'l
out of fue!, it wiff take extra cranking tree to move fuet fcom
the tank to the engine,
o Depress dutch/brake pedaI and set parking brake,
- Place motion control lever in neutra_ (N) pos tion.
o Move attachment clutch to "DISENGAGED" posit on.
Move throttle control lever to choke (i's!) position for
cold engine start. For warm engine star1, move thrott e
centre! to fast (@) posit;on.
o InseRkey into ignition arid turn keyc!ockwiseto"START"
seconds per minute, ff engine does not sta_ after
several attempts_ move throttle contro_ to fast (@)
position, wait a few minutes and try again
When engine starts, slowly move throttle control ever
to desired running speed,
o Aiow engine to warm up for a few minutes before
engaging drive or attachments
NOTE: if at a hfgh altitude (above 3000 feet) or in cetd
temperatures (below 32{F), the carburetor fuel mxture
may need to be adjusted for best engine pedormance, See
"TO ADJUST CARBURETOR" in the Service and Adjust
merits section of ths manua_
PURGE TRANSMISS_ON
To ensure preper operation and pedormance, t is recom_,,
mended that the transmiss on be p Jrged before operating
tractor for the first trne. Ths precedure wtl remove any
trapped a{r nside the transmission which may have devel_
oped during shipping of you_ t_sctor,
IMPORTANT: SHOULD YOUR TRANSMISSION REQUIRE
REMOVAL FOR SERVICE OR REPLACEMENT, T
SHOULD BE PURGED AFTER REINSTALLATION
BEFORE OPERATING THE TRACTOR_
o Place tractor safely on level sudace with engne off and
parking brake seL
o Sitting in the tractor seat, stalt engine. After the engine
Sitting inthetraclor seat, start engine, Aftertheengine
is running, move throttle contro_ to half (1/2) speed,
With motion contrei lever in neutral (N) position, s!owly
disengage clutch/brake pedaI,
o Slowly move motion cont_)l _ever fo_dard after the
traCtOr moves appmxmately five (5) feet return the
moton control _ever to the neutraI (N) position, Repeat
ths procedure with the rnotion contre_ iever three (3)
tmes.
Your tractor is now purged and now ready for normai
MOWING TiPS
o Tre chains cannot be used when the mower housing
is attached to tractor.
o Mower should be properly leveled for best mowing
performance See TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING"i
the Ser_..,iceand Adjustments section of this manuai
o The ieft hand side of mower shou}d be used for trim
° Drive so t_at c/ppings are discharged onto the area
that has been cut Have the cut area to the dght of the
machine This w_i result in a more even distribution of
clippings and more uniform cutting
o When mow _g fa,rge areas, stail by turning to the right
so that clippii'_gs' witi discharge away friJm shrubs
fences, driveways, ete,_After one or two rounds, mow
in the opposite d rection making teft hand turns until
finished (See Fif_. i0 )
o is extremely tail, it should be mowed twice to
load and possible fire hazard from dried cIip-
pings. Make first cut relatively high; the second to the
desired heig!' t.
o Do not mow grass when it is wet, Wet grass will plug
mower and leave undesirable clumps, Allow grass to
dry before mowing.
• Always operate engine at full throttle when mewing to
assure better mowing performance and proper dis
charge of material, Regulate greund speed by select
ing a _ow enough gear to give the mower cutting
pedormanee as well as the quality of cut desired.
When operating attachments, select a ground speed
that wil! suit the terrain and give best performance of
the attachment being used
disengage clutch/brake pedal
Move motion control lever to fut! forward position and
hold for five (5) seconds, Move lever to full reverse
position and hold for five (5) seconds, Repeat this
procedure three (3) times.
NOTE: During this procedure there wil! be no movement of
drive wheels. The air is being removed from hydraulic drive
Move motion control Ieverto neutral (N) position. Shut
off engine and set parking brake
of manual). 13
l
F_G. 10
Page 14
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this tractor does not cover items that have
been subjected to operator abuse or neg[igence ]o
receive flf[I vat_e from the warranty_ operater must maintain
tractor as instructed in this manual
Some adiustments wiil need to be made periodicaly to
properly ma r_tainyour tractor
All aqustrnents in the Service and Adjustments section of
this mant_a_should be checked at least once each season.
Once a year you shoud replace the spark pk_g ciean
or replace air filter, and check btades and beets _or
wear A new spark plu9 and c_ean air fi_ter assure
proper airquel mixture and help your engine run bette_
BEFORE EACH USE
,, Check engine oil levet,
o Check b_ake operation
o Check tire pressure.
,, Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICAT_ON CHART
CLUTCH PIVOT
(_SAE 3(} MOTOR OIL APi., 5G
_GENERAL PURPOSE GREASE
@REFER TO CUSTOMER R_SPONSIBIL[TtES "ENGINE" SECTION
tMPORTANT: DO NO'}" O{L OR GREASE THE PSVOT PO}NTS
WHICH HAVE SPECALNYLON BEARINGS VISCOUS LUBRb
CANTS WiLL ATTRACT DLJ_STAND DIRT 'THAT WILL SHORTEN
THE IFE OF THE SELF LUBRICATING BEARINGS IF YOU
FEEL THEY MUST' BE LUBRICATED, USE ONLYADRY POW-
14 DERED GRAPHITE TYPF L JBRICANT SPARING.Y,
Page 15
AIways observe safety rules when pedormieg any mainteo
nance
BRAKE OPERATION
if tractor requires more than six (6) feet stopping distance
at high speed in highest gear, then brake must be adiusted
(See "TO ADJUST BRAKE" in the Sewice and Adiusb
meets section of this manual)
Maintain proper' ar pressure in all tires (See 'PROD°
UCT SPECIFICATIONS '_or page 3 of this manuai)
Keep tires free of gaso/ine_ oil or insect control chemi_
ca/s which can harm rubber
o Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp objects and
other hazards that may cause tire damage.
BLADE CARE
For best results mowe blades must be kept sharp, Re
p_ace bent or damaged blades_
BLADE REMOVAL (See Fig, 11)
Rase mower to highest position to atiow access to
blades
. Remove hex bolt, lock washer and flat washer secudng
blade.
Install new or resharpened blade with traiiing edge up
towards deck as shown
o Reassemble hex bolt, fock washer and flat washer n
exact order as shown
o Tighten bo_t securely (30G5 Ft Lbs torque)_
IMPORTANT: BLADE BOLT IS GRADE 8 HEATTREATED,
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening Made-. but if you
do, be sure the btade is ba arced,
MANDREL
BLADE
_ REX BOLT (GRADE 8)_
_AGRADE 8 HEAT TREATED BOLT CAN BE
iDENTIFIED BY SiX LINES ON THE BOLT HEAD,
FIG, 11
ASSEMBLY
o To check blade balance, you will need a 5/8" diameter
S_ideblade on to an unthreaded po_ion of the steeI bet
or pin and hold the bolt or pin paral/et with the ground
If blade is balanced, it shoWd remain in a horizontal
position, If either end of the blade moves downward
sharpen the heavy end until the blade is balanced
NOTE: Do not use anai! for balancing blade. The lobes of
the center hole may appear to be centered, but are not,
5/8" BOLT BLADE
OR PIN
F_G. !2
BATTERY (See Fig. 13)
Your tractor has a battery charging system which is suffi.-
cient for _orma} use. However periodic chac:_ing of the
batten! with an ¢_utomotw; charger will e×tend ts fife
o Acid soiut on ievel in each battery cell shoud be ew:_n
wilh bottoms of vent weIIs_ Add only distilled or i_onfree
water if necessarj. Do not ovediit
o Keep batte_ and terminals clean.
o Keep battery bolts tight
o Keep vent caps tght and small vent holes in caps open.
Recharge at 6 amperes for 1 hour°
TO CLEAN BATTERY AND TERMINALS
Corrosion and d_l on the batte_'7and termina s can cause
the battery to 'teak!' power.
Open battery' box doer.
o Disconnect BLACK batter! came first then RED bat-.
teq/cable and remove battery from tractor
o Wash battery with solution of four tablespoons d
baking soda to one gallon of water. Be careful not to get
the soda solution into the ceils.
o Rinse the batten/with plain water and dry,
Clean terminals and battery cable ends with wire brush
until bright.
o Coat terminais with grease or petroleum ieHy.
• Reinstall batter,/ (See "INSTALL BATTERY" in the
Assembly secti6n of this manual),
CUT AWAY VIEW VENT CAP
TO SHARPEN BLADE (See Fig, 12)
Care should be taken to keep the blade bafance& An
unbalanced blade wili cause excessive vibration and even°
tual damage to mower and engine,
o The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a grinding
wheel, Do not attempt to sharpen while on the moweh
15
VENT
WELL
BATTERY
CELL ACID
LEVEL
FiG. 13
Page 16
TRANSAXLE COOLING
The fan and cooiing fins of transmission sho._ld be kept
ctean to assure proper cooling
Do not attempt to clean fan or transmiss on white engine is
runn ng or while the transmission is hot.
o Inspect cooling fan to be sure fan blades are intact and
clean.
- inspect cooting fins for di_t grass clippings and other
materials To prevent damage to seals, do not use
compressed air or high pressure sprayer to clean
TRANSAXLE PUMP FLUID
The transaxie was sealed at the factory and fiuid ma nteo
nance is not required for the/fe of the transaxle Shoutd the
transax/e ever _eakor require servicing, contact your near
est authorized service centeffdepadment.
manual.
O_L F_LL
CA[_IPSTlCK
OiL DRAIN
PLUG
Cheek V.-beits for deterioration and wear after 'i00 hours of
operation and replace if necessary The belts are not
adjustable_ Replace beits if they begin to slip from wear.
Only use high qual ty deterge_ t oi rated with API sewice
ciassification SG SeIect the ols SAE viscosity grade
accord ng to your expected operating temperature
SAE VISCOSiS Y GRADES
_'_ 28 0" 3:} 82 4;}' _3 B0 10 '[_'
'C 59* -2g" ,i0" i0 20 30 40
] EMPERA_T JRB RANGI:[ AN]° C PA' _;;} BE _'©RE t,,iEX'[ el, C ¢#NG_I
FIG, 14
NOTE; Aithough mu/tioviscosity oits (5W30_ 10W30 etc)
mprove starling in cad weather, these multioViSCOsityois
wilt result in increased oil consumptior_ when used above
32_'F. Check your engine oil level more frequently to avo d
possible engine damage frorn running _owon oii.
Change the oil after the first two hours of operat on and
every 50 hours thereafter or at least once a year if the tractor
is not used for 50 hours in one year.
Check the crankcase oil ievel before sta rting the engine and
after each eight (8) hours of operation. Tighten oii filf cap/
dipstick securely each time you check the oil ievel.
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL (See Fig. 14 and !5)
Determine temperature range expected before oil change.
All oi! must meet APi sewice classification SG.
- Be sure tractor s on levei sudace
o Oil wi_/drain more freely when warm.
o Catch oii in a suitable container.
, Remove oil fii/cap/dipstick. Be careful not to allow dirl
to enter the engine when changing oil
, Remove drain pk_g.
After ot has drained completely, replace oil drain plug
and tighten securely.
F_G. 15
AR HLTER (See Fig, 16)
Your engine wil not tun propedy using a d_y air fi!te_
Clean the foam pro-cleaner after every 25 hours of opera.-
ties or every season. Sewice paper ca_ridge ever}, 100
hours of operation or every season, wh chever occurs first.
Service air c!eaner more often under dusty conditions
Remove knob and cever_
Remove wing nut and air cIeaner from base.
TO SERVICE PRE._CLEANER
o Slide foam preo.cleaner off ca_ridge.
Wash it n liquid detergent and water_
Squeeze t dry in a clean cloth.
o Saturate it in engine oit. Wrap t in clean, absorbent
cloth and squeeze to remove excess oil
TO SERVICE CARTRIDGE
o Gently tap the flat side of the paper cartridge to dis°
todge dirt. Do not wash the paper cadddge or use
pressurized air, as this wiii damage the ca_ddge.
Replace a dffly, bent or damaged cartridge.
Reinstall the pro cleaner (cleaned and o/ed) over the
paper ea£_idge.
o Reassembie air ctesner wing nut cover and tighten
knob securely.
COVEI
CARTR_DGENUT
PAPER
CARTRIDGE
BASE
FIG, 16
16
Page 17
CLEAN A_R SCREEN (See Fig, 15)
Ar screen must be kept free of dirt and chaff to prevent
engine damage from overheatin G C_ean with a wire brush
or compressed air to remove did and stubborn dded gum
fibers.
ENGINE COOLING FINS (See Fig, 17)
Remove any dust, di_ or oil frem engine cooling fns to
prevent engine damage from overheating°
o Remove screws from blower housing and iifl housing
and dipstick tube assembly off engine
o Cover oi{ fill opening to prevent entry d did
o Use compressed air or stiff br stle brush to tt_o_eugMy
clean engine cooiing fins_
To reassembie, reverse above pracedure
SCREWS BLOWER ROUSING
}N-LINE FUEL F}LTER (See Fig, 18)
The fueI %er shoud be replaced once each season. _ffuet
filter becomes clogged, obstructing fuel flow to carburetor,
replacement is required
, With engine coo_, remove fiiter and plug fuel Iine
sections.
Ptace new fuei fiiter in position in fuel Ine with arrew
pc nting towards carburetor
Be sure there are no rue! iine _eaks and c_amps are
properly positioned.
o Immediately wipe up any spilled gasoline
CLAMP
NG, 18
SPARK
PLUG
ENGINE COOUNG F_NS
F_G. 17
Inspect and replace co_roded muffter and spark arrester (f
equipped) as it could create a fire hazard and/or damage.
SPARK PLUGS
first. Spark p_ug type and gap setting is shown in "PROD°
UCT SPECIFICATIONS" on page 3 of this manual
• Ciean engine, battery, seal finish, etc. of all foreign
matter_
o Keep finished sudaces and wheels free of all gasoline,
oil, elc_
o Protect painted sudaces with automotive type wax.
We do not recornmend using a garden hose to e_eanyour
tractor unless the eiectricaJ system, muffler, air filter and
carburetor are covered to keep wa£er ouL Water inengine
can result in a shodened engine ire.
17
Page 18
CAUTION: BEFORE PERFORMING ANY SERV|CE OR ADJUSTMENTS:
- Depress clutchtbrake pedal fully and set parking brake.
o P_ace motion contro_ _ever tn neutral (N) position,
, Place attachment clutch in "DtS,ENGAGED" position,
, Turn ignition key "OFF" and remove key,
o Make sure the b|ades and all moving parts have completely stopped,
o Disconnect spark plug wire from spark ptug and place wire where it cannot come tn contact with
TO REMOVE MOWER (See Fig° I9)
Mewer wilt be easier to remove from the rght sde of tractor.
o Place attachment clutch _n DISENGAGE poe t on
• Move attachment lift tever forward to lower mower to its
_, Roll belt off engir_e putiey
o D _ssonr_ectc_utch rod from clutch _ever by removiR_
retainer spring.
o Disconnect anti._sway bar frem chassis bracket by
removing retafner spr}ng_
o Disconnect suspension arms from rear deck brackets
by removing retainer spdngs.
o Disconnect front links from deck by removing retainer
• ' D" i
E
CLUTCH LEVER
CLUTCH ROD
SPR_NG
SUSPENSION ENGINE
ARMS PULLEY
o Raise lift _ever to raise suspens on arms_ Side mower
out from under tractor,
_MPORTANT: IF AN ATTACHMENT OTHER THAN THE
MOWER _S TO BE M©UNTED 1O _HE _RACTOR, THE
R,H AND LH, SUSPENSION ARMS MUST BE REMOVED
FROM TRACTOR,
TO _NSTALL MOWER (See Fig, 19)
o Rafse attachment lift lever to ts highest position.
o S_kJemower under tractor with d scharge guard to right
side af tractor_
o Lower lift lever to its lowest position.
o Insta_i mower in reverse order of removal instruct ors
ANTe-SWAYBAR
RETAINER
SPRINGS
(BOTH SfBES)
F_G, 19
t8
Page 19
TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING
Adiust the mower whle tractor is parked on fevet ground or
Make sure tires are propedy inflated (See
'PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" on page 3 ofthis manual).
If tires are over or undednfiated, you wil not proper_y adi Jst
your mower,
SIDE,.TO_SIDE ADJUSTMENT (See Figs 20 and 21}
o Raise mower to its highest position.
At the midpoint of both sides of mower_ measure height
from bottom edge of mower to ground Distance'A'on
both sides of mower should be the same or within 1/4"
of each other,
• If adjustment is necessary, make adiustrTent on one
side of mower oniy.
To raise one side of mower, tighten tiff rink adjustment
nut on that side.
o To lower one side d mower, loosen iift link adjustment
nut on that side.
NOTE: Three fut_ turns of adjustment nut wifl change
mower height about 1/8'
o Recheck measurements after adjusting
FRONT TO-BACK ADJUSTMENT (See Fig& 22 and 23)
IMPORTANT: DECK MUST BE LEVEL StDE_T'O_SiDE iF
THE FOLLOWING FRONT-TO.BACK ADJUSTMENT IS
NECESSARY BE SURE TO ADJUST BOTH FRONTUNKS
EQUALLY SO MOWER W_LL STAY LEVEL SIDE-TOo
SIDE
To obtain the best cutting results, the mower housing
should be ad}usted so that the front is approximately I/4," to
3/4' Iower than the rear when the mower is in its highest
Check adjustment on right side of tractor, Measu e dis.-
tance "D' directly n front and behind the mandrel at bottom
edge of mower housing as shown
o if Inks are not equa_ n length, adiust one tink to same
_ength as other link
To tower fn:>ntof mower bosen nut 'E" on both front
/inks an equal number of tums_
When distance 'D' s 1/4' to 3/4,'_lower at front than
rear tighten nuts "F' aga nst trunnion on both fi_ont
links.
o "10raise front d mower, loosen nut"F' from trunn on on
both front links. T ghten nut 'E_on both front links an
equal number of turns
o When distance D" is 1/4' to 3/4 ' lower at front than
rear, tig _tennut _F'_against trunnion or' both front links.
Recheck sideqo.,s de adjustment
FiG 20
FIG, 21
FIG, 22
BOTH FRONT LINKS MUST BE EQUAL IN LENGTH
LIFT LINK
ADJUSTMENT NUT
NUT "E'
NUT "F"
FRONT LINKS TRUNNION
19 FIG, 23
Page 20
TO REPLACE MOWER BLADE DRIVE BELT
(See Fig. 24)
The mower Made drive belt rnay be replaced withoL_ttools_
Park the tractor on leve_ surface. Er_gage parking brake°
BELT REMOVAL
o Remove mower from t@_ctor (See "TO REMOVE
MOWER" in this section of this manual
o Work belt off both mandrel pulleys and id{er pulley.
, Pull belt away from mower
BELT INSTALLATION ..
, Instaii new belt in reverse order of removal
o Make sure belt is in ali puItey grooves and inside a}l belt
MANDREL
_DLER
PULLEY
TO ADJUST BRAKE (See Fig. 25)
Your tractor is equipped with an adjustable brake system
which is mounted on the fight side of the transaxte.
if tractor requffes mere than six (6) feet stopping distance
at high speed in highest gear, then brake must be adiusted
, Depress ciutch/brake pedal and engage parking brake.
o Measure distance between brake operating arm and
nut "A" on brake rod.
o _fdistanceisotherthant_3/4" !oosen jam nut andtum
nut "A" until distance becomes 1_3/4L Retighten iam
nut against nut 'W'.
still greater ttsan six (6) feet in highest gear further
maintenance is necessa_ Contact your r earest au_
thorized sewice center.
W_TN PARKtNG BRAKE "ENGAGED"
FIG, 24
DO NOT" TOUCH THiS NU_ _F FURTHER
BRAKE ADJUSTMENT _S NECESSARY
CONTACT YOUR NEAREST AUTHORIZED
SERVICE CENTER!DEPARTMENT
F_G. 25
2O
Page 21
TO REPLACE MOTION DRIVE BELT
(See Fig. 26)
Park the tractor on Ievei su#ace. Engage park ng b_ake_
For assistance, there is a beit insta/ation guide decal on
bottom side of left footrest
, Remove mower (See 'TO REMOVE MOWER" in tMs
section of this manual)
, Remove upper belt keeper.
o Remove beit from stationary idler and clutching idler.
Pull belt slack toward rear of tractor. Carefully remove
belt upwards from transmission input pulley and over
cooling fan blades.
o Pull belt toward front of tractor and remove downward
from around engine pulley,
o Install new belt by rever:s ng above procedure.
IMPORTANT; MAKE SURE UPPER BELT KEEPER iS
POSiTiONED PROPERLY BETWEEN LOCATER TABS.
\
ADJLtS _ MFN'f
,,OCKNU'_
F_G. 27
TRANSMISSION REMOVAUREPLACEMENT
Should you_ transmission require removal for service or
replacemenL t shoutd be purged after reinstal/atioe and
before operating the tractor. See _PURGE TRANSM/S
SION '_'in Operat on sect on of this manual
TO ADJUST STEERING WHEEL AUGNMENT
_[steering wheei crossbars are not horizontal (!eft to right)
when wheels are positioi'sed straight forward remove steer.
ing wheel ard reassemble per insb uctions in the Assembly
sect on of this manual.
FiG, 26
TO ADJUST MOTION CONTROL LEVER
(See Ftg, 27)
The motion control lever tx_sbeen preset at the factory and
adiustment should not be necessary
if for any reason the motion control/ever will not hold its
position while at a selected speed, it may be ad)usted at the
friction pack tocated on the right side of transmission,
Park tractor oR leve_ su_ace, Stop tractor by turning
ignition key to "OFP position, and engage parking
brake,
, Adiust motion control lever by tightening adjustment
iocknut one half (1/2) turn.
NOTE: If for any reason the dfo_ to move the motion
control lever becomes too excessive, reverse the above
adjustment procedure by loosening Iocknut 1/4 to 1/2 turn.
Road test tractor after adiustment and repeat procedure if
necessaB_,
FRONT WHEEL TOE4N/CAMBER
The frort whee! toeqn and camber are not adjustable on
your tractor If damage has occ_._rredto affect the front
wheef toein or camber contact your nearest author zed
sew}ce center/depadment
TO REMOVE WHEEL FOR REPAIRS
(See Fig, 28}
, Block up axle securely,
o Remove axle cover, retaining rungand washers to allow
wheel removal (rear wheet contains a square key _Do
o Repair tire and reassemble
o On rear wheels onIy: align grooves in rear whee_ hub
and axle. hse_ square key.
, Replace washers and snap retaining ring securely ir_
axle groove
, Replace axle cover
1
AXLE COVER
_S@UARE KEY
(REAR WHEEL ONLY)
FIG, 28
21
Page 22
TO START ENGINE W_TH A WEAK BAKERY TO REPLACE HEADLIGHT BULB
(See Fig, 29) • Raise hood.
o Putt bulb holder out of the tote n the backside of the
, Repiace bulb n holder and push bulb holder securely
back into the hole n the backside of the grE
o Close hood.
If your batteR' is too weak to stad the engine, t should be
if 'jumper cables' are used for emergency
starling, follow this procedure:
IMPORTANT: YOUR TRACTOR }S EQUPPEDWTH A !2
VOLT NEGATIVE GROUNDED SYSTEM THE OTHER
VEHICLE MUST ALSO BE A 12 VOLT NEGATIVE
GROUNDED SYSTL:M_ DO NOT USE YOUR TRAC'TOR
BATTERY TO START OTHER VEH_CL.ES
TO ATTACH JUMPER CABLES
Connect each end of the RED cable to the POSITIVE
(+) terminal of each batlery taking care not to shod
against chassis.
, Connect one end of the BLACK cable to the NEGAo
TIVE (.) terminal ol fully charged battery.
o Connect the other end of the BLACK cable to good
CHASSIS GROUND_ away from fuel tank and batter},.
TO REMOVE CABLES REVERSE ORDER
BLACK cable first from chass s and then from the fuiy
RED cabe last from both batteries
POSiTiVE TERMINAL NEGATIVE TERMINAL
INTERLOCKS AND RELAYS
[..BOSeor damaged wiring may cause your tractor to run
poorly, stop running, or prevent it from sta4ing
Check wring See electricai wiring diagram n the
Repair Pads section of this manual
TO REPLACE FUSE
Replace with 30 amp automofive4ype plugo n fuse The
fuse holder is located behind the dash.
TO REMOVE HOOD AND GRILL ASSEMBLY
(See Fig. 30)
o Raise hood.
o Unsnap headlight wre connector.
" Stand in frent d tractor, Grasp hood at sides, t ftreward
engine and ft off of tracton
o To mp_ace reverse above procedures_
FI_G,29
CHARGED
BATTERY
HOOD
HEADLIGHT
WIRE
CONNECTOR
FIG, 30
Page 23
TO ADJUST THRO_LE CONTROL CABLE
(See Fig, 31)
The throttie control has been preset at the factohi and
adjustment should Rot be necessaPy. Check adiustment as
described below before !oosening cab{e_ If adjustment is
necessary, proceed as fotfows:
o With engine not running, move throttte contre/_ever
from slow (_) to choke (/',.) position Siowly move
lever from choke (/'_.i)to fast (@) position.
o Check that holes "A°' in governor control _everand hole
GOVERNOR
CONTROL LEVER
GOVERNOR
CONTROLPLATE
FINAL S£'TTtNG --
o Sta_l engne and anew to warm for five minutes Make
fina_adjustments with engine running and sh ftimotion
control lever in neutraI (N) pos tion
Move throttle control _ever to stow (_) position. With
o WMle still holding throttle lever against idle speed
screw, turn idle mixture vatve in (clockwise) until en
gee begns to die and then turn out (countercbckwise)
unt_ engne runs rough. Turn vaive to a point midway
between those two positions. Retease throttie iever_
ACCELERATION TEST _-
o Move thrott e contrnl Iever from skwv (_) to fast (@)
position_ If engine hesitates or dies, turn idle m xture
valveout(counterdockwse) t!8tum Repeat test and
cont Rue to adiust if necessary_ until engine acceIeb
High speed stop is factory adiusted Do not adiust
damage may resutt
_MPORTANT: NEVER TAMPER WITH THE ENGINE
GOVERNOR, WHICH S FACTORY SET FOR PROPER
ENGINE SPEED OVERSPEED/NGTHEENG_NEABOVE
"THE FACTORY HiGH SPEED SETT!NG CAN BE
DANGEROUS, IF YOU TH_NK THE ENGINE GOVERNED
H_GH SPEED NEEDS ADJUSTING, CONTACT YOUR
NEAREST AUTHORIZED SERV!CE CENTER/
DEPARTMENT, WHiC _,,_HAS PROPER EQUIPMENT AND
EXPERIENCE TO MAKE ANY NECESSARY
ADJUSTMEN'TS
F}G. 31
TO ADJUST CARBURETOR (See Fig, 32)
The carburetor has been preset at the factory and adiusb
meet shouid ROt be necessary, However, minor adiust
ment may be required to compensate for differences in fuel
temperature, altitude or iead ff the carburetor does need
adjustment, proceed as fo{fows:
In general, turning idle mixture valve in (clockwise) de_
creases the supply of fuet to the engine giving a fearer fueti
air mixture, Turning the idle mixture valve out (counter
clockwise) increases the supply of fuel to the engine giving
a dcher fuel/air mixture,
fMPORTANT,, DAMAGE 'TO THE NEEDLE VALVE AND
THE SEAT IN CARBURETOR MAY RESULT IF SCREW/S
TURNED _NTOO TIGHT
PREUMINARY SETTING ..
Air clearer assembly must be assembled to the carbu--
retor when making carburetor adjustments
o Be sure the throttle control cable is adiusted propedy
(see above)
, With engine off turn idie mixture valve in (clockwise)
ctosing it finger tight and then turn out (counterclock-
wise) 1 fuli turn.
tDLE MIXTURE
VALVE
FiG. 32
23
Page 24
Immed ately prepare your tractor for storage at the end of
the season or if the tractor wilt not be used for 30 days or
more_
Remove mower from tractor for winter storage When
mower is to be stored for a period of time, clean t thor°
ough/y, remove aHdid, grease, _eaves etc, Store n a
c_ean, dry area.
, C/can entire tractor (See "CLEAN ING*'in the Customer
Responsibil ties section of this manua ).
o Inspect and replace belts, if necessary (See belt re_
placement instructior_s inthe Sewee and Adjustments
section of this manuai}.
° Lubricate as shown in the Customer Responsibilties
section of this manual
- Be sure that alt nuts, bo}ts and screws are, securety
fastened Inspect moving pa£s for damage, breakage
and wear. Replace if necessary
Touch up ail rusted or chipped pant sudaees; sand
Ightly before painting.
• Fully charge the battery for storage
o After a period _f tirne n sto age battery rnay require
To heip prevent corros on and powe_' }eakage during
k_ng periods of storage battery cabtes should be
tomer Responsibi! ties section of this manual)
After cleaning, leave cables d sconnected and place
cables where they cannot come in contact with batte_y
terminais_
• Be sure battery dran tube is securely attached.
° if ba£teEyis removed from tractor for storage, do not
store battery directiy on concrete or damp surfaces.
FUEL SYSTEr'_
_MPORTANT: T IS iMPORTANT TO PREVENT GUM
DEPOSITS FROM FORMING iN ESSENTIAL FUEL
SYSTEM PARTS SUCH AS CARBURETOR, FUEL FILTER,
FUEL HOSE, OR TANK DURING STORAGE_ ALSO,
EXPER ENCE _ND/CATES THAT ALCOHOL BLENDED
FUELS (CALLED GASOHOL OR USING ETHANOL OR
METHANOL1 CAN ATTRACT MOISTURE WHICH LEADS
TO SEPARATION AND FORMATION OF ACIDS DURING
STORAGE. ACIDIC GAS CAN DAMAGE THE FUEL.
SYSTEM OF AN ENGINEWHLE N STORAGE
Drain the _uei tank.
, Sta_ the engine and iet it run until the fueJ ines and
carburetor are empty.
, Never use engine or carburetor c eanet products n the
fuei tank or permanent damage may occur.
Use fresh fuel next season.
NOTE: Fuei stabi_zer is an acceptaMe altematve in
m nimizing the formation of fue_ gum deposits durng stor
age. Add stabilizel to gasoline in rue! tank or storage
container Always fo_Iow the mx ratio found on 5'iabil zer
contaner Run engine at east 10 mnutes after adding
stabilizer to atlow the stab lize' to reach the carburetor_ Do
not drain the gas tank and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.
ENGINE OIL
Oran oi{ (wth engne warm) and eplace ,_4thck_n eng_e
oil, (See 'ENGINE' in the Customer Responsiblities
section of this manual)
Remove spark plug(s}.
Pour one ounce of oii through spark plug hole(s) nto
f urn gnt on key t_ START pos tfon for a few second_
to distribute oL
Replace with new spark pfug(s}_
- Do not store gasoline from one season to another.
Replace your gasoline can if your can sta_s to rust.
Rust and/or di_ in your gasoline will cause problems.
f possib!e, store your tractor ndoors and cover it to
give protection from dust and did.
, Cover your tractor with a suitable protective cover that
does not retain moisture. Do not use p{ast{c_ Pfastic
cannot b_eathe which aitows condensation to form and
wiil cause your tractor to n.4st.
iMPORTANT: NEVER COVER TRACTOR WHfLE ENGINE
AND EXHAUST AREAS ARE ST{LL WARM.
24
Page 25
PROBLEM
CAUSE
CORRECTION
W_J|not Start
Ha_d _o a_ar_
Engine wI{Inot _tumover
1 Oat of tue.
2 Engine net 'CHOKED" propedy
3 Engine fooded_
4 Bad spark peg_
5_ Didy a_rfiter
6 Drtyf_e liter.
7, Water is fuei
8. Loose o darnaged wiring
9 Carbu efer out ol adustmenl
10 Er gins raves eat of ad ustme_t
I. Di_ty air filte_
2 Badspa_kpug
3 Weak or dead bal_ery
4 Dr_y fuel fitter.
5 Stale or d}f_y fuel
6 Loose or damaged wineg.
7 Carburetor out of adiustment
8 Engine valves out d ed _slmeet
1 C_utsh/Prake peda_ not dep_essed_
2 Attachment dutch is engaged.
3 Weak or dead b_teh!
4 %own fuse
5. Corraded batte_ylermee}s
6 Loose or damaged wring
7_ Pasty g_iflon swtch
8. Fauity se}eneid or starter
9_ Faui_y operat/_r presence switch(as}
1 Ftl fi.;e ark.
2. See 'tO START NG{NE' in Operation section
3. War severn minutes before atlemphng to start
4 Rap ace spek p_ug
5 Cea[Frepaee a}r fter
6. Repass fuel f/ter_
7 Dra}n f_e/lank and cad_uretor rafif tank wit_" freer
gasol ne and replace fl_el fi_ter_
8 Cheek a_ wi ing_
9. Contact an authorzed service oenter/_epartment
10. Contact an auIhorzed service cenler!depadment
1 OlearFrep_ec÷ air fte_
2 Replace spark plug_
3 Recharge or repla se batleL/_
4. Replace fee f}!ter.
5. Dr_n fuei tank and refii/wth fresh gasoline
& C_eckal wrng
7 Co_tacl an euthohzed sewce eenteddepartment
8 Contact an nut _o zed sewee center/depadmel t_
1. Depresse!_ehf{}take peda
2. Dseagage a_taehment ddLh.
3 Recharge or _ep_acebee W
4 Repines R_se
!'_ Cean ballery len ne_s
6. Checkaif wrin%
7, ChecW_epiaceignIen sw}_ch,
8 C ec!repacesobnodorstarter
g Ce_}tac_ an author}zed servce eenteddepartn ant.
Engine e#¢ks but writ mot
_ta_
Loss of power
Excessive vibration
1 Weak or dead ba_sery.
2. Co,reded bakery termna!s.
3. Loose or damaged wring
4 Fauty solenoid o starter
1 Cull ng tcx) much grass/too fast
2_ Thretfle in "CHOKE" p_asitor_
3. Ba#d up of grass _eaves and reeh under rrower.
4 Di_y ar flter
5 Lrx_ oi bvei/d_y o_
6 Faulty spark pfu%
7. Ddyfl_af fi!te_
8 State st dirty fuel
g. Water in fuel.
I0 Spark pk_g wre toese.
1i. Dirty engine air screen/fins
12 Di£yielogged muffler.
13 Loose or deranged wring.
I4. Carburetor auf of adiustment.
I5. Engine valves out of adiustment.
1_ Worn bent or _oose Made
2. Bent blade mandrel
3 Loose/damaged pad(s},
1 Rechag or r_p/aee battery
2. Clean baits 9 term _a_s
3. Cfeeka w_r ig
4. ChecW_ep}aea s-_eneid or etader
1, Set n Higi_e Cul'_post_on/redasespas&
2_ Adiust throttle centre
3 Clean _nderside of mower housing.
4. CeerJrep_ac_ ar f_er
5. Check oi_ tarsi/change o
6. Cear_ and regap or change spark ptug_
7 Rap!ace fuel flter.
8. Dra_e fuel tank ard refiit w_h fresh gasoline
9. O_sai[rue! tank and carburetor, refill tank with fish
ga_:_o_ineand repines f_._e_Hter
10 Cot nest and tighten spark pug wire
1 Cean engine air screen/lies.
12 C_ean/replace muff er_
13 Check all wfdn#_
I4 Contact an authorized service ce_feddepadmer_t.
Cer_tael an authorized service center/depa_meet.
'1_ Replace blade. Tighten biade her
2_ Repines blade ma_det,
3 Tghten loo!_e pari(s}_ Repass damaged pade_
Page 26
PROBLEM
CAUSE
Engine centia_es to run
when operator _eaves seat
withattachment clutch
engaged
Poo_utouneeen
Mower blades wfli net
rotate
1, Fairy eperater-szfety press_'oe coat otsystem
1 Worn bent or koss blade.
2 Mower deck not _evs
3. Buildup of grass leaves, arid fra_h under mower
4 Bent blade ma'_drs.
5. C_ogged mower deck vent ho_es from buiidup of
grass _aaves and trash around msrsdre s
1 Obsbuetic¢_ r_ clutch mecha_ism
2 Were/damaged mower drive bet
3 Frozen id!er p Iley.
4 Frozen blade mendeL
1 Engine speed too stow
2 Traw;_ speed toe fast
3, Wetgraee
4 Mower deck not [eve_
5 t ow/ur_even tre air pressure.
6, Worn bent or loose bade_
7. Bi idup d gass, leaves and trash under mower
8 Mower drve bet worn
9 Blades improperly installed.
10, Improper b_adestsed
1'i Ciogged mower :tack vent hoes fen buildup of
g_ss eaves, and trash around rnan@e_s.
t, Ch_ck wirir _ swtches aed conr_eations_ If not
corrected sea,act an euthor zed service canted
dsparlment
1 Replace biade Tghten biade bet.
2. Levai mower deck
3, Ciean unde;s}ds of mows houssg
4, Replace blade mandrel
5 Ciean around mandre s to open venf ho_ss
t Remove obstruct oe
2 Replace mower drive belt
3. Replace idler puey,
4_ Replace blade man#eL
1, Place throttle centrei "FAST' pasties.
2 Shft to slower speed
3, Alk_w grass to dry betsre mowing,
4. Levelmower deck
5 Cheek ires for p 'spar a_' press re.
6. Replaee/sharpe_ bade. Tighten bade bet.
7_ C_san underside ef mower housng,
& Rep_acemewe ddvs bet
9 Raisers i bades sharp edge down.
10, Rap ace wth blades tared n ths menus,
11. Clean around mandre s to open vent holes
Trecter"¢taeps_wi_h
met_on sont_offeser fn
Lose of drive
Eng_ee 'backfires _'
when turning engine
'OFF'
t. Switch s OFF"
2 Bulb(s} burned out
3 Faulty lght swtch
4. Loose or damaged wrng_
5 Blown fuse.
1 Bad belts W ca(s}
2 Poet' cable cannectiene_
3. Faulty regulate_ (if so equipped)
4 Yauty a_f®m tar
1, M )t_encontrol ever is o_t of adjustmer_t
1 Freewheel control in 'd sengeged _posit on.
2. Moron d_ve belt has worn damaged or broken
3. Air trapped in transmission dudsg shpment
or sew sing
t Engine throttle eontre_ not sat at "SLOW _'
position for 30 seeo -_dsbefore stopping sng se.
1. Tern swtch'*ON'.
2. Replace hub(s}
& ChecWrepaee _ght switch
4. Check wrng and cenneetons
5 Repfaee fee
f Replace baftery
2 Cheek/s_e_n a_ connect ons
3 Replace r®_._u_eteL
4. Replace e_terlater
1. Adiust motion centre Iever.
! Place ffeewk eel centre! engaged' pesif en
2 Replace moron eve belt
3 Purge transm ss_on
1, M:>va fhrett e control t( *S£OW' position and aliow
to ida for 30 seconds before stepping engine,
Page 27
CE
Page 28
SUGGESTED GUIDE FOR SiGHTiNG SLOPES FOR SAFE OPERATION
ONLY RiDE UP AND DOWN HILL,
NOT ACROSS HiLL
GUIDE
SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH
SKY LiNE OR TREE.
Page 29
MANUAL
MODEL NO.
15.0 HP
ELECTRIC START
42" MOWER
AUTOMATIC (HYDROSTATIC}
DRIVE
LAWN TRACTOR
917o257590
iF YOU NEED
REPAIR SERVWCE
OR PARTS:
FOR REPAIR SERVICE, CALL
THIS TOLL FREE NUMBER:
FOR REPLACEMENT PARTS
INFORMATION AND
ORDERING, GALL THiS
TOLL FREE NUMBER:
Each tractor has its own model number. Each engine has
its own model number.
The reodei number for your tractor wili be found on the
model plate located under the seat,
The model number for your engine wit! be found on the
blower housing of the engine.
Ail parts listed herein may be ordered from any Sears,
Roebuck and Co, Sewice Center/Depa£ment and most Re_.
tail Stores
WHEN ORDERING REPAIR PARTS, ALWAYS GLOVETHE
FOLLOWING INFORMATION:
PRODUCT - TRACTOR
MODEL NUMBER - 917.257590
ENGINE MODEL NO, - 28N7_7o0121 01
* PART NUMBER
'_ PART DESCRiPTiON
Your Sears merchandise has added value when you
consider Sears has service units nationwide staffed with
Sears trained technicians°_ professional technicians
specificaiiy trained to insure that we meet oar p_edge to
you, we sewice what we sell.
144617 032594 Printed in US.A.
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