S A/ S
®
MODEL
oAssembly
oOperation
Customer Responsibilities
oService and Adjustments
Repair Parts
917.257651 OWNER'S MANUAL
CAUTION: Read and follow all safety rules and instructions before operating this equipment.
_i_ ' , ......... _:_ ..............................................................
Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers
SAFETY RULES
IMPORTANT: THIS CUTTING MACHINE ISCAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OBJECTS.
FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH,
L GENERAL OPERATION
- Read, understand, and foltow all instructions in the manual
and on the machine before starting
• Only aliow responsible adults, who are familiar with the
instructions, to operate the machine
• Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys wire, etc,
which could be picked up and thrown by the blade.
• Besuretheareaisclearofotherpeoplebeforemowing Stop
machine if anyone enters the area
• Never carry passengers.
• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary Atways
look down and behind before and while backing
• Be aware of the mower discharge direction and do not point
it at anyone Do not operate the mower without either the
entire grass catcher or the guard in place..
* Stow clown before turning
* Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn off
blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and remove keys
before dismounting
o Turn off blades when not mowing
- Stop engine before removing grass catcher or unclogging
chute
. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light
• Do not operate the machine while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
° Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways..
• Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into
a trailer or truck
II. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-controt and tipover
accidents, which can result in severe injury or death_ All slopes
require extra caution, ifyou cannot back up the stope orif you feel
uneasy on it, do not mow iL
DO:
• Mow up and down slopes, not across.
• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.
• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could
overturn the machine_ Tafl grass can hide obstacles.
• Use slow speed.. Choose a low gear so that you wilt not have
to stop or shift while on the slope
. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for wheel
weights or counterweights to improve stability
• Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments
These can change the stability of the machine
° Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual. Do not
make sudden changes in speed or direction
• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction
d sengage the blades and proceed slowly sfraightdown the
slope.
DO NOT:
• Donotturnenslopesunlessnecessary,andthen turn slowly
and gradual y downh , if possibte.
• Do not mow near drop-offs ditches, or embankments. The
mower could suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the edge
of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in,
° Do not mow on wet grass.. Reduced traction could cause
sliding°
• Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on the
ground
• Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes
III. CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the
presence of children Children are often attracted to the machine
and the mowing activity Neverassume that children will remain
where you last saw them
° Keep children out ofthe mowing a|ea and under the watchful
care of another responsible adult
• Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area
• Before and when backing, look behind and down for smelt
children
• Never carry children. They may fall off and be seriously
injured or interfere with safe machine operation.
,, Never allow children to operate the machine
° Use extra care when approachirrg blind corners, shrubs,
trees, or other objects that may obscure vision
IV. SERVICE
• Use extra care in handting gasoline and other fuets. They are
flammable and vapors are explosive
Use only an approved container.
Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine
runnir_g Allow engine to cool before refueling. Do not
smoke
Never refuel the machine indoors.
Never store the machine or fuet container inside where
there is an open fIame, such as a water heater'
• Never run a machine inside a ctosed area
• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment bolts, tight
and keep equipment in good condition.
• Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper
operation regularly.
• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris build-up.
Clean oi_ or fuel spillage° Allow machine to cool before
storing
• Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object.
Repair, if necessary, before restarting
• Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine running
° Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage, and
deterioration, which could expose moving parts or allow
objects to be thrown, Frequently check components and
replace with manufacturer's recommended parts, when nec-
essary_
. Mower biades are sharp and can cut, Wrap the blade(s) or
wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them
• Check brake operation frequently Adjust and service as
required.
i NNHHIrHHI IIHI HI
Look for this symbol to point out impor-
tant safety precautions, it means
CAUTIONI!! BECOME ALERTHI YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
iii, ,,HIH H ,,,,,.,,,,,,,,,,,
CAUTION: Always disconnect spark
plug wire and place wire where it cannot
contact spark plug in order to prevent
accidental starting when setting up,
transporting, adjusting or making
repairs=
ii
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a Sears
Tractor° It has been designed, engineered and manufac-
tured to give you the best possible dependability and
performance..
Should you experience any problem you cannot easily
remedy, please contact your nearest Sears Authorized
Service Center/Department, We have competent, well-
trained technicians and the proper tools to service or repair
this unit°
Please read and retain this manual, The instructions will
enable you to assemble and maintain your unit properly,
Always observe the "SAFETY RULES",
MODEL
NUMBER 917.25765I
SERIAL
NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
THE MODEL AND SERIAL NUMBERSWILL 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 REFERENCB
PRODUCT SPECIFiCATiONS
HORSEPOWER: 15.5
GASOLINE CAPACITY
AND TYPE:
OIL TYPE (API-SG):
OIL CAPACITY: W/FILTER: 4,0 PINTS
SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION RCt2YC
(GAP: ,030")
VALVE CLEARANCE:
GROUND SPEED (MPH):
TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI
CHARGING SYSTEM: 3 AMPS BATTERY
BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 30-35 FT'.,LBS
35 GALLONS
UNLEADED REGULAR
SAE 30 (above 32°F)
SAE 5W-30 (below 320F)
W/O FILTER: 3,5 PINTS
INTAKE: 0015" - 0030"
EXHAUST: 0020"- 0035"
FORWARD:
1st 1,14
2nd 149
3rd 2,34
4th 3,49
5th 4,45
6th 5 68
REVERSE: 1,75
REAR: 12 PSi
5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS
MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT
A Sears Maintenance Agreement is available on this prod-
ucL Contact your nearest Sears store for details.
WARNING: This unit is equipped with an internal combus-
tion engine and should not be used on or near any unim-
proved foresFcovered, brush-covered or grass-covered
land unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped with
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBIMTIES
• Read and observe the safety rules_
o Follow a regularschedule in maintaining, caring for and
using your unit.
• Follow the instructions under"Customer Responsibili-
ties" and "Storage" sections of this owner's manual,
a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state taws (if
any). tf 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 lawsapply on
federal lands.. A spark arrester for the muffler is available
through your nearest Sears Authorized Service Center/
Department (See REPAIR PARTS section of this manual)
LHVliTED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON ELECTRIC START RIDING EQUIPMENT
For two (2) years from the date of purchase, if this riding equipment is maintained, lubricated and tuned up according to the
instructions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair or replace, free of charge, any parts found to be defective _nmaterial or
workmanship..
This Warranty does notcover:.
. Expendableitems which becomeworn duringnormal use, such asblades, spark plugs,air cleanersand belts
• Tire replacementor repaircaused by punctures from outside objects, suchas nails, thorns, stumps, or glass
• Repairs necessary because ofoperator abuse,negligence, improperstorageor accident or the failure to maintain the
equipment according to the instructions contained inthe owner's manual
° Ridingequipment used for commercialor rentalpurposes
LIMITED 90 DAY WARRANTY ON BATTERY
For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery included with this riding equipment proves defective in matedal or
workmanship and ourtesting determines thebattery will not hold acharge, Searswill replace the battery at nocharge
WARRANTY SERVICE IS AVAILABLE BY RETURNING THE RIDING EQUIPMENT TO THE NEAREST SEARS SERVICE
CENTER/DEPARTMENT IN THE UNITED STATES,
This Warranty gives you specific legalrights,andyou may also haveother rights whichmay vary from state to state
SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179
3
TABLE OF
, i i
SAFETY RULES ................................ i ........................... 2
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS ...................................... 3
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ..................... 3, 15-18
WARRANTY .................. ;................................................ 3
TRACTOR ACCESSORIES ;.......................................... 5
ASSEMBLY .............................................................. 7-10
OPERATION ............................................................. 1t-14
UNDEX
A
Accessories .........................................................5
Adjustments:
Brake ............................................... 21
Carburetor ........................................ 23
Mower
Front*To-Back ............................20
Side-To-Side ............................. 20
Throttle Control Cable .....................23
Air Filter, Engine ............................. 17
Air Screen, Engine .............................. t8
AssembZy ......................................... 7-I0
B
Battery:
Charging ..................................................8
Cleaning ......................................... 16
Installation ......................................... 9
Levels ..................................................8,16
Preparation ..........................................8
Starting with Weak Battery .............22
Storage ............................................ 24
Terminals .......................................... 16
Belt:
Motion Drive
Removal/Replacement ...............2t
Mower Belt(s)
Removal/Replacement .................21
Blade:
Sharpening ..............................................16
Replacement ................. ................ 16
Brake Adjustment ......................................21
C
Carburetor Adjustment .......................... 23
Controls, Tractor, .................................... 11
Customer Responsibilities ................15-18
Engine:
Air Filter ................................................17
Air Screen ............................ 18
Cooling Fins ............................ 18
Engine Oil .............................. 13,17
Fuel Filter ..................................... 18
Spark Plug(s) .............................. 18
Tractor:
Battery ...................................... 16
Blade ........................................... 16
Lubrication Chart ..........................15
Maintenance Schedule ...............15
Tire Care ............................. 8,16,22
Transaxte .................................... 17
Cutting Height, Mower, ............................12
Electrical:
Interlocks and Relays .........................22
Schematic ........................................ 27
Wiring Diagram ...................................28
Engine:
Air' Filter ...................................... 17
Air Screen ................................................18
Cooling Fins ..........................................18
Oil Change .................................... 17
Oil Level ............................................13
Oil Type ...................................... 13,17
Preparation ................................. 13
Repair Parts ................................44-5t
Starting ......................................... 14
Storage ........................................ 24
Filter:
Air Filter ............................................ 17
Fuel ..........................................................18
Fuel:
Type .................................................. 13
Storage ..................................._.............24
Fuse ................................................... 22
Hood Removal/installation .................... 22
Leveling Mower Deck ........................... 20
Lubrication:
Chart .........................................................15
Engine ................................................17
Maintenance Schedule ............................15
Mower:
Adjustment, Front4o-Back ................20
Adjustment, Side-to-Side ........... 20
Blade Replacement ....................... 16
Blade Sharpening .............................16
Cutting Height ....... :........................12
Installation ..............................................19
Operation ................................................13
Removal ....................................... 19
Mowing Tips ........;.............................................14
Muftier ..................................................................18
Spark Airester ...............................3,36
CONTENTS
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ...................................... 15
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS ............................ 19-23
STORAGE .................................................................... 24
TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................ 25-26
REPAIR PARTS - TRACTOR ................................. 28-45
REPAIR PARTS - ENGINE ..................................... 44-51
PARTS ORDERING/SERVICE ................ BACK COVER
M
E
Oil:
Cold Weather Conditions .............13,17
Engine ........................................... 17
Storage .............................................. 24
Operation ..........................................................11-!4
Operating Mower .........................................13
Options:
Accessories ................................... 5
Spark Arrester .............................. 3,36
Parking Brake ................................... 1lq2
Parts Bag ............................................... 6
Parts, Replacement/Repair ............28-45
F
H
L
Product Specifications ..................................3
Repair Parts ..........................................28-45
Safety Rules ............................................... 2
Seat ........................................................... 8
Service and Adjustments .............. 19-23
Carburetor. ........................................23
Fuse ................................................... 22
Hood Removal!installation .......... 22
Motion Drive Belt
Removal/Replacement ............ 21
Mower Belt(s)
RemovaltReplacement ............. 21
Mower Adjustment
Front-to-Back ............................. 20
Side-to*Side ...................................20
Mower Remova]/fnsta]lation .......... 19
Tire Ca_e ....................................8,16,22
Slope Guide Sheet .................................. 55
Spark Plug(s) ........................................... t 8
Specifications .......................................... 3
Starting the Engine ......................... 13q4
Steering Wheel ..................................... 7,22
Stopping the Tractor .................................12
Storage ...................................................... 24
Throttle Control Cable Adjustment .......23
Tires ................................................. 8,16,22
Troubleshooting Chart .......................25_26
Transaxle ................................................ 17
O
P
R
S
T
W
Warr&nty ........................................... 3
Wiring Diagram ............................................28
Wiring Schematic .............................. 27
,,in,=lr
AOOESSOR ESAND ATTACH ENTS
, i , ,, i ,,rl,l,lU,,U,,,, '1' I
These accessories and attachments were available through most Sears retail outtets and service centers when the tractor was purchased,
Most Sears stores can order these items for you when you provide the model number of your tractor,
ENGINE
SPARK PLUG GAS CAN ENGINE OIL FUEL STABILIZER
MAINTENANCE
BLADES BELTS
PERFORMANCE
Sears offers a wide variety of attachments that fit your tractor. Many of these are listed below with brief explanations of how they can help
you. This list was current at the time of publication; however, it may change in future years - more attachments may be added, changes
may be made in these attachments, or some may no longer be avai]abfe or fit your model Contact your nearest Sears store for the
accessories and attachments that are available for your tractor.
Most of these attachments do not require additional hitches or conversion kits (those that do are indicated) and are designed for easy
attaching and detaching
AERATOR promotes deep root growth for a healthy lawn Ta-
pered 2 5-inch steel spikes mounted on !04nch diameter discs
puncture holes in soil at close intervals to let moisture soak in
Steei weight tray for increased penetration.
BAGGER lets you collect grass clippings and _eaves for a
healthier, nearer looking lawn Two Permanex containers held
30-gallon plastic bags..
BUMPER protects front end of tractor from damage
CARTS make hauling easy Variety of sizes availabFe, plus
accessories such as side panel kits, tool caddy, cart cover,
protective mat and dolly
CORING AERATOR takes small plugs out of soil to allow mois-
ture and nutrients to reach grass roots. 36-inch swath 24
hardened steel coring tips 150 Ib capacity weight tray.
EASY OIL DRAIN VALVE makes oil changes easier, faster
FRONT NOSE ROLLER canters in front of mower deck to reduce
chances of "scalping '_on uneven terrain.
GANG HITCH lets you tow 2 or 3 pull-behind attachments at once,
such as sweepers, dethatchers, aerators (not for use with rollers,
carts or other heavy attachments).
GAUGE WHEELS on both sides of the mower deck reduce
chances of "scalping" on uneven terrain For mower decks not so
equipped..
MULCH RAKE/DETHATCHER loosens soi! and flips thatch and
matted leaves to lawn surface for easy pickup. Twenty spring tine
teeth. Usefulto prepare bare areas forseedlng. Available for front
or rear mounting. HIGH PERFORMANCE REEL-ACTION
SPRING TINE DETHATCHER covers 36-inch wide path and
tosses thatch into large hopper Mounts behind tractor
MULCHING CLOSE-OUT PLATE KIT, once installed, lets you
mulch, discharge or bag clippings (bagger optional) wilhout
changing blades For models not equipped as 3-in-1 Convertible
mowers See "MOWER" in the Repair Pads section of this
manual
RAMP TOPS AND FEET tel you load and unload tractor from a
pickup truck. Use with 2 x 8 or 2 x t0 lumber
ROLLER for smoother lawn surface. 36-inch wide, 18-inch
diameterwater4ightdrumholdsupto3901bs ofweight Rounded
edges prevent harm to turf Adiustabfe scraper automatically
cleans drum
SNOW B LADE for snow removal only. 14-inch high, 42-inch wide
blade clears 38-inch path when angEedleft or right Raises, lowers
with side lever Adjustable skids; repfaceable, reversible scraper
bar (Use with tire chains and wheel weights and!or rear drawbar
weight. )
SNOWTHROWER has 40-inch swath Drumqype auger handles
powdery and wet/heavy snow. Mounts easily with simple pin
arrangement. Discharge chute adjusts from tractor seat. 6-inch
diameter spout discharges snow 10 to 50 feet Lift controlled at
tractor seat. (Use with chains and wheeI weights and/or rear
drawbar weight..)
SPRAYERS use !2-volt DC electric motor that connects to the
tractor battery or other 12-volt source. Includes booms for
automatic spraying and hand held wand for spot spraying Wand
has adjustable spray pattern For applying herbicides, insecti-
cides, fungicides and liquid fertilizers.
SPREADER/SEEDERS make seeding, fertilizing, and weed kilE-
ing easy. Broadcast spreaders are also useful for granular de-
icers and sand
SWEEPERS let you collect grass clippings and leaves.
TILLER has 5hp engine and 364nch swath to prepare seed beds,
cultivate and compost garden residue Tiller has its own builtqn
lift and depth control system and does NOT require a sleeve hitch
Fits anylawn, yard orgarden tractor Simply hook up to the tractor
drawbar and go! Optional accessories convert unit for
dethatching, aerating, hilling without tools
TIRE CHAINS are heavy duty; c_osely spaced extraqarge cross
links give smooth ride, outstanding traction
TRACTOR CAB has heavy duty vinyl fabric over tubular steel
frame, ABS plastic top; clear plastic windshield offers 360 degree
visibiJlty Hinged metal doors with catch_ Keeps operator warm
and dry Remove vinyl sides and windshie}ds for use as sun
protector in summer. Optional accessories include: tinted/
tempered solid safety glass windshield with hand operated wiper;
12-volt amber caution light for mounting on cab top.
VACS for powerful collection of heavy grass clippings and leaves
Optional wand attachment to pick up debris in hard-to-reach
places VAC/CHIPPER includes a chipper-shredder.
WEIGHT BRACKET for drawbar for snow removal applications.
Uses (1) 55 _b ,,_eight.
WHEEL WEIGHTS {or re_.,_wheels provide needed traction for
snow removal or dozing ,_,_,_vy maiedals
u, ,,, ,U,=lU-i. , n lU="M'I",IIIIr'Illl
CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK
,i i ,,, ,11,11,i,,111 ;.;;;_,_
Parts Bag contents shown full size
(1) Knob
(1) Shoulder Bolt
5/16-18
(1) Washer
17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gao
Parts packed separately in carton
Steering
Wheel
ii i ,ni ,,, nlHin,!,
Seat
Battery acid
Mulcher
Plate
Battery
H
@
(2) Screws #10 x 5/8
(2) Washers 3/16 x 3/4 x 16 Gauge
i
CP_!It!!lII!llU
(2) Lock Washers #10
(2) Weld Nuts #10
@
(2) Hex Bolts 1/4-20 x 3/4
(2) Hex Nuts 1/4-20
(¢
(2) Washers
9/32,,,,×,,5/8x 16 Ga. (2) Lock Washers 1/4
Owner's Manual
i i,u,,uu .........................
Parts bag contents not shown full size
..... n,u , ,ii,,u.....
,,, u i,, i Ull,,
Parts Bag
_ ©
(2) Shoulder' (2) Center-
Bolts lock Nuts
x 7/8 x 14 Gauge Sleeve
(2) Washers 3/8 Steering
Steering
Wheel
Insert
(2) Battery Carriage Bolts 1/4-20 x 7-1/2
(2) Keys
Terminal Guard
[ }'
r''i.........i'_I_..................
i[
@
(2) Wing Nuts 1/4-20
.............. lU,,,,,, i :, u,,
Battery Caps
15° Slope Sheet and Instructions
.... i...... i1,,i,,,,111
6
ASSEMBLY
Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes
To ensure safe and proper operation of your tractor all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely Use
the correct tools as necessary to insure proper tightness.
TOOLS REQU1RED FOR ASSEMBLY
A socket wrench set will make assembly easier Standard
wrench sizes are listed,
(2) 7/16" wrenches
(1) 1/2" wrench
(1) 9/16" wrench
Utility knife
When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, it
means when you are in the operating position (seated
behind the steering wheel).
3/4" Socket w/drive ratchet
Tire pressure gauge
Phillips Screwdriver
TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON
UNPACK CARTON
• Remove all accessible loose parts and parts cartons
from carton (See page 6).
• Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on all four corners
of carton, and lay panels flat,
o Check for any additional loose parts or cartons and
remove.
BEFORE ROLLING TRACTOR OFF SKID
STEERING WHEEL
-._ HEX LOCKNUT
1 FLAT WASHER
'_-- _ STEERING
TEERING
, , ,,, SHAFT
STEERING _, /WHEEL
ADAPTER _ / STEERING
• _ / //SLEEVE
/
FIG. 1
ATTACH STEERING WHEEL (See Fig. 1)
o Remove locknut and large flat washer from steering
shaft,,
• Position front wheels of the tractor so they are pointing
straight forward
• Slide the steering sleeve over the steering shaft
• Position steering wheel so cross bars are horizontal
(left to right) and slide onto adapter,
• Secure steering wheel to steering shaft with locknut
and large flat washer previously removed Tighten
securely.
• Snap steering wheel insert into center of steering
wheel,
o Remove protective ptastic from tractor hood and griFL
IMPORTANT: CHECK FOR AND REMOVE ANY STAPLES
IN SKID THAT MAY PUNCTURE TIRES WHERE
TRACTOR IS TO ROLL OFF SKID
TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Fig. 8)
o Raise attachment lift lever to its highest position,,
. Release parking brake by depressing clutch/brake
pedal,.
• Place gearshift lever in neutral (N) position
. Roll unit backwards off skid,
• Remove banding holding discharge guard up against
tractor
inl,lulu"n lu nu!l i i
ASSEMBLY
HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR
PREPARE BATTERY (See Fig. 2)
................ u,m,ull ilUll lUl u i
CAUTION: Wear eye and face shield.
Wash hands or clothing immediately if
accidentally in contactwith battery acid,
&
Your tractor has a battery charging system which is suffi-
cient for normal use,. However, periodic charging of the
battery with an automotive charger' witt extend its life,
o See instructions packed with vent caps in parts bag
o Fill battery with acid, Fill each cell until it reaches the
bottom of the vent wells Do not overfill,.
Allow battery to stand and settle for at least thirty
minutes After standing, check the battery cell acid
level If below the vent wells, add more acid until the
correct level is reached,,
While battery is standing (after adding acid) and later, while
battery is being charged, continue with assembly of tractoL
IMPORTANT: TO MAXIMIZE THE LIFE QF YOUR
BATTERY, IT 1SNECESSARY THAT THE BATTERY BE
CHARGED BEFORE USE FAILURE TO CHARGE
BATTERY CAN RESULT IN A SHORTENED BATTERY
LIFE
. Charge battery at a rate of 6 amperes for I hour Use
a 12 volt battery charger,. Observe all safety precau-
tions required for battery charging
- Check the acid level after the battery is charged, tf the
acid has fallen below the correct level, add distilled or
iron free water
o Install the vent caps to cover the vent wells,. Wash the
top of the battery with water to remove any acid, then
wipe dry.,
- Check battery case for' leakage to make sure that no
damage has occurred in handling.
- Dispose of excess battery acid. Neutralize acid for
disposal by adding it to two gallons of water in a five
gallon plastic container, Stir with a wooden or plastic
paddle while adding baking soda until the addition of
more soda causes no more foaming
- Follow instructions on how to install battery,
CUT AWAY VIEW VENT CAP
Do not smoke. Fumes from charged
battery acid are explosive,
Read the instructions included with the
battery vent caps, Always wear gloves,
clothing and goggles to protect your
hands, skin and eyes.
VENT WELL
INSTALL SEAT (See Fig. 3)
Adjust seat before tightening adjustment knob
° Remove cardboard packing on seat pan,
• Place seat on seat pan and assemble shoulder bolt
. Assemble adjustment knob and flat washer loosely,
Do not tighten,
o Tighten shoulder bolt securely
o Lower seat into operating position and sit on seat,
o Slide seat until a comfortable position is reached which
allows you to press clutch/brake pedal all the way
down_
° Get off seat without moving its adjusted position.
° Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob securely
SEAT
k
SEAT PAN
SHOULDER
BOLT
,FLAT WASHER
ADJUSTMENT
KNOB
FIG. 3
CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
The tires on your tractor were overinflated at the factory for
shipping purposes Correct tire pressure is important for
best cutting performance
- Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in "PRODUCT
SPECIFICATIONS" on page 3 of this manual.
CHECK DECK LEVELNESS
For best cutting results, mower housing should be properly
leveled See "TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the
Service and Adjustments section of this manual,
CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF ALL
BELTS
See the figures that are shown for replacing motion and
mower blade drive belts in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual Verify that the belts are routed
correctly,
BATTERY
CELL ACID
LEVEL
FIG, 2 8
CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM
After you learn how to operate your tractor, check to see
that the brake is properly adjusted. See "TO ADJUST
BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments section of this
manual
ASSEMBLY
INSTALL BATTERY (See Figs. 4 and 5)
H'H'I'HHHH'U'
CAUTION: Do not short battery termi-
nals, Before installing battery, remove
rings, etc.
metal bracelets, wristwatch bands,
Positive terminal must be connected
first to prevent sparking from acciden-
tal grounding.
o Lift hood to raised position.
o Be sure battery drain tube has not come loose and is
securely attached to drain in battery tray
o Lower battery into battery tray with terminals to front of
tractor.
• First connect RED battery cable to positive (+) battery
terminal with hex bolt, flat washer, lock washer and hex
nut as shown. Tighten securely
• Connect BLACK grounding cable to negative (-) battery
terminal with remaining hex bolt, flat washer, lock
washer and hex nut, Tighten securely
. Slide the two battery bolts through the terminal guard
and start the wing nuts onto the threads,
• Position terminal guard over battery as shown, lower
battery bolts into key holes and slide square shafts of
battery bolts into slots of key holes.
. Tighten wing nuts by hand making sure battery bolts
remain in slots of the key holes in the battery support.
. Be sure terminal access doors are closed,
Use terminal access doors for:
• Inspection for secure connections (to tighten hard-
ware).
. Inspection for corrosion.
. Testing battery.,
. Jumping (if required).
• Periodic charging,
WING NUTS _ TERMINAL
BATTERY _'_ _.._" / _'_TERMINAL
.... ___ACCESS
UUL, "-___ DOORS
. I It I! _ _ VENTCAPS
_" KEY HOLE
FIGo 5;
ASSEMBLE GAUGE WHEELS TO MOWER
DECK (See Fig. 6)
Assemble gauge wheels with tractor on a flat tevel surface,
. Adjust mower to desired cutting height (See 'q-O AD-
,JUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT" in the Operation
section of this manual).
• With mower in desired height of cut position, gauge
wheels should be assembled sothey are slightly off the
ground. Install gauge wheel in appropriate hole with
shoulder bolt, 3/8 washer and 3/8-16 Iocknut and
tighten securely.
° Repeat for opposite side installing gauge wheel in
same adjustment hole.
GAUGE WHEEL
MOUNTING
BRACKET
LOCK
WASHER
HEX NUT ,,.,._
(NEGATIVE)
BLACK CABLE
FIG_4
FLAT
WASHER
DRAIN TUBE
(POSITIVE)
BOLT
3_-16
LOCKNUT
3/8 WASHER
GAUGE WHEEL
FIG. 6
_SHOULDER
BOLT