Simplicity 1693473, 1693469, 1693471, 1693290, 1693480 Operator's Manual
...
How to use this file...(Operators Manuals)
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and should NOT be printed.
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THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY BLANK
OPERATOR’S
MANUAL
ZT Series
14HP Riders
Mfg. No. Description
1693467 Zero Turn, 14HP Hydro
1693469 Zero Turn, 14HP Hydro
1693471 Zero Turn, 14HP Hydro
1693290 Zero Turn, 14HP Hydro (Export)
16HP Riders
Mfg. No. Description
1693473 Zero Turn, 16HP Hydro
1693475 Zero Turn, 16HP Hydro
1693477 Zero Turn, 16HP Hydro
1693480 Zero Turn, 16HP Hydro (Export)
1694083 Zero Turn, 16HP Hydro
1694084 Zero Turn, 16HP Hydro
1694085 Zero Turn, 16HP Hydro
18HP Riders
Mfg. No. Description
1693230 Zero Turn, 18HP Hydro
1693232 Zero Turn, 18HP Hydro
1693234 Zero Turn, 18HP Hydro
1693294 Zero Turn, 18HP Hydro (Export)
38” Mower Decks
Mfg. No. Description
1692912 38” Mower Deck
1692913 38” Mower Deck
1693719 38” Mower Deck (Export)
1693825 38” Mower Deck
1693826 38” Mower Deck
1694086 38” Mower Deck
44” Mower Decks
Mfg. No. Description
1692914 44” Mower Deck
1692915 44” Mower Deck
1693720 44” Mower Deck (Export)
1693827 44” Mower Deck
1693828 44” Mower Deck
1694087 44” Mower Deck
50” Mower Decks
Mfg. No. Description
1693235 50” Mower Deck
1693236 50” Mower Deck
1693721 50” Mower Deck (Export)
1694088 50” Mower Deck
1719527-07
(Supercedes 1719528 & 1719529)
Rev 4/2003
TP 100-2200-07-ZT-SMA
MANUFACTURING, INC.
500 N Spring Street / PO Box 997
Port Washington, WI 53074-0997
www.simplicitymfg.com
© Copyright 2001 Simplicity Manufacturing, Inc.
All Rights Reserved. Printed in USA.
1
Table of Contents
Troubleshooting, Adjustments & Service .......21
Troubleshooting the Rider.....................................21
Troubleshooting the Mower ..................................22
Seat Adjustment....................................................23
Top Speed Adjustment .........................................23
Brake Adjustment..................................................23
Mower Adjustments ..............................................24
Blade Brake Check ...............................................26
Mower Belt Replacement......................................26
Rider Drive Belt Replacement...............................27
Battery Service......................................................28
Checking the Battery Voltage ...........................28
Charging A Completely
Discharged Battery .......................................28
Jump Starting with
Auxiliary (Booster) Battery ............................28
Specifications ....................................................30
Parts & Accessories..........................................32
Lawn Care & Mowing Information .............LC—1
International Symbols ................................LC—8
Technical Manuals ......................................LC—8
NOTE: In this manual, “left” and “right” are referred to as
seen from the operating position.
Identification Numbers........................................2
Safety Rules & Information.................................3
Features & Controls ............................................6
Control Functions....................................................6
Safety Interlock System ..........................................7
Operating the Zero Turn Rider ...........................8
General ...................................................................8
Checks Before Starting ...........................................8
Starting The Engine ................................................9
Stopping the Rider ..................................................9
Pushing the Rider by Hand ....................................9
Zero Turn Driving Practice ....................................10
Mower Installation & Removal ..............................12
Adjusting Mower Cutting Height............................14
Storage .................................................................15
Regular Maintenance ........................................16
Maintenance Schedule .........................................16
Checking Tire Pressures.......................................16
Checking/Adding Fuel...........................................17
Fuel Filter ..............................................................17
Oil & Filter Change................................................17
Check / Change Air FIlter......................................17
Replace Spark Plug ..............................................17
Check Transmission Oil Level ..............................17
Lubrication ............................................................18
Battery Maintenance .............................................19
Checking Battery Fluid..................................19
Cleaning the Battery and Cables ..................19
Servicing the Mower Blades .................................20
WARNING
Engine exhaust from this product contains
chemicals known, in certain quantities, to cause
cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
2
Identification
Numbers
Mower Deck
Identification Tag
Unit
Identification Tag
SSAAMMPPLLEE
When contacting your Authorized
Dealer for replacement parts, service,
or information Y
OU MUST HAVE
THESE NUMBERS.
IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS
Record your model name/number, unit and mower deck
manufacturer numbers and engine serial number in the
space provided for easy reference.
• The Unit I.D. tag is located on the left-side, of the
frame, as shown below.
• The Mower Deck I.D. tag is also on the left side, on
top of the mower deck.
• For location of Engine Serial Number, refer to the
Engine Owner’s Manual.
Be sure to fill out and return the Warranty Registration
Card supplied with your unit.
IDENTIFICATION TAG LOCATIONS
ENGINE REFERENCE DATA
Model Description Name/Number
Unit MFG Number
PRODUCT REFERENCE DATA
Unit SERIAL
Number
Dealer Name
Date Purchased
Engine Make
Engine Type/Spec
Engine Model
Engine Code/Serial Number
Mower Deck MFG Number
Mower Deck SERIAL
Number
Simplicity Manufacturing, Inc.
Port Washington, WI 53074-0997 U.S.A.
MFG
169XXXX
SERIAL
XXXXX
3
GENERAL OPERATION
• Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual and on
the unit before starting.
• Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the instructions, to operate the unit (local regulations can restrict operator
age).
• Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc., which
could be picked up and thrown by the blade(s).
• Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop unit
if anyone enters the area.
• Never carry passengers.
• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always look
down and behind before and while travelling in reverse.
• 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 deflector in place.
• Slow down before turning.
• Never leave a running unit unattended. Always disengage the
PTO, set parking brake, stop engine, and remove keys before dismounting.
• Turn off the PTO switch to disengage the 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 unit 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 unit into a trailer or
truck.
• Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above, are
involved in a large percentage of riding mower-related injuries.
These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the riding
mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from injury.
• Keep in mind the operator is responsible for accidents occurring to
other people or property.
• All drivers should seek and obtain professional and practical
instruction.
• Always wear substantial footwear and trousers. Never operate
when barefoot or wearing sandals.
• Before using, always visually check that the blades and blade hardware are present, in-tact, and secure. Replace worn or damaged
parts.
• Never operate the machine with defective guards, or without safety
protective devises in place.
• Disengage attachments before: refuelling, removing an attachment,
making adjustments (unless the adjustment can be made from the
operator’s position).
• When the machine is parked, stored, or left unattended, lower the
cutting means unless a positive mechanical lock is used.
• Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for wheel weights or
counterweights.
SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and tip-over accidents,
which can result in severe injury or death. All slopes require extra caution.
If you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not operate
on it.
Control of a ride-on machine sliding on a slope will not be regained by the
application of the brake. The main reasons for loss of control are: insufficient tire grip on the ground, speed too fast, inadequate braking, the type
of machine is unsuitable for it’s task, lack of awareness of the ground conditions, incorrect hitching and load distribution.
Read these safety rules and follow them closely. Failure to obey these rules could result in loss of control
of unit, severe personal injury or death to you, or bystanders, or damage to property or equipment.
This mowing deck is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects.
The triangle in text signifies important cautions or warnings which must be followed.
Safety Rules & Information
WARNING
Never operate on slopes greater than 17.6 percent
(10°) which is a rise of 3-1/2 feet (106 cm) vertically in
20 feet (607 cm) horizontally.
When operating on slopes use additional wheel
weights or counterweights. See your dealer to
determine which weights are available and
appropriate for your unit.
Select slow ground speed before driving onto slope.
In addition to front and rear weights, use extra caution
when operating on slopes with rear-mounted grass
catcher.
Mow UP and DOWN the slope, never across the
face, use caution when changing directions and DO
NOT START OR STOP ON SLOPE.
Do
• See your authorized dealer for recommendations of wheel weights
or counterweights to improve stability.
• 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
unit. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
• Use slow speed. Tires may lose traction on slopes even through
the brakes are functioning properly. Choose a low gear so that you
will not have to stop or shift while on the slope.
• Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments. These
can change the stability of the unit.
• Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual. Do not make
sudden changes in speed or direction.
• Always keep unit in gear especially when traveling downhill. When
clutching, release clutch slowly.
Do Not
• Do not start or stop on a slope. If tires lose traction, disengage the
blade(s) and proceed slowly straight down the slope.
• Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn slowly and
gradually downhill, if possible.
• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. The mower
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 unit by putting your foot on the ground.
• Do not use grass catchers on steep slopes.
• Do not mow slopes you cannot back up.
• Do not shift to neutral and coast down hill.
4
Safety Rules
Slope Operation Continued
Children
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of
children. Children are often attracted to the unit and the mowing activity.
Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them.
• Keep children out of the mowing area and under the watchful care
of another responsible adult.
• Be alert and turn unit off if children enter the area.
• Before and during reverse operation, look behind and down for
small children.
• Never carry children. They may fall off and be seriously injured or
interfere with safe unit operation.
• Never allow children to operate the unit.
• Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or
other objects that may obscure vision.
TOWING
• Never allow children or others in or on towed equipment.
• Tow only with a machine that has a hitch designed for towing. Do
not attach towed equipment except at the hitch point.
• Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for weight limit for
towed equipment and towing on slopes.
• On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment may cause loss of
traction and loss of control.
• Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop.
• Do not shift to neutral and coast down hill.
TRANSPORTING AND STORAGE
• Always observe safe refueling and fuel handling practices when
refueling the tractor after transportation or storage.
• Always follow the engine manual instructions for storage preparations before storing the tractor for both short and long term periods.
• Always follow the engine manual instructions for proper start-up
procedures when returning the unit to service.
• Never store the unit or fuel container inside where there is an open
flame or pilot light, such as in a water heater. Allow unit to cool
before storing.
EMISSIONS
• Engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known, in
certain quantities, to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
• Look for the relevant Emissions Durability Period and Air Index
information on the engine emissions label.
WARNING
When transporting this tractor on an open trailer,
make sure unit is facing forward, toward the direction
of travel. If tractor is facing backward, wind lift could
cause damage to the hood.
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
• Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They are flammable and vapors are explosive.
a) Use only an approved container.
b) Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the
engine running. Allow engine to cool before refueling. Do not
smoke.
c) Never refuel the unit indoors.
• If fuel is spilled, do not attempt to start the engine but move the
machine away from the area of spillage and avoid creating any
source of ignition until petrol vapors have dissipated.
• Replace all fuel tank caps and fuel container caps securely.
• Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck bed with a plastic
bed liner. Always place containers on the ground away from your
vehicle before filling.
• Remove gas-powered equipment from the truck or trailer and refuel
it on the ground. If this is not possible, then refuel such equipment
on a trailer with a portable container, rather than from a gasoline
dispenser nozzle.
• Keep nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or container
opening at all times until fueling is complete. Do not use a nozzle
lock-open device.
• If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing immediately.
• Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels as necessary.
• Never run a unit in an enclosed 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 and make necessary repairs if they are not functioning
properly.
• Keep unit free of grass, leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean up
oil or fuel spillage.
• Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object. Repair, if
necessary, before restarting.
• Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine running unless
specified otherwise in the engine manufacturer’s manual.
• 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 necessary.
• Mower blades 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.
• Use only factory authorized replacement parts when making
repairs.
• Always comply with factory specifications on all settings and
adjustments.
• Only authorized service locations should be utilized for major service and repair requirements.
• Never attempt to make major repairs on this unit unless you have
been properly trained. Improper service procedures can result in
hazardous operation, equipment damage and voiding of manufacturer’s warranty.
• On multiple blade mowers, take care as rotating one blade can
cause other blades to rotate.
• Do not change engine governor settings or over-speed the engine.
Operating the engine at excessive speed can increase the hazard
of personal injury.
• Disengage drive attachments, stop the engine, remove the key,
and disconnect the spark plug wire(s) before: clearing attachment
blockages and chutes, performing service work, striking an object,
or if the unit vibrates abnormally. After striking an object, inspect
the machine for damage and make repairs before restarting and
operating the equipment.
• Never place hands near the hydro pump cooling fan when the tractor is running. Cooling fan is located on top of the transaxle
5
Safety Decals
SAFETY DECALS
This unit has been designed and manufactured to provide you with the safety and reliability you would expect
from an industry leader in outdoor power equipment
manufacturing.
Although reading this manual and the safety instructions
it contains will provide you with the necessary basic
knowledge to operate this equipment safely and effectively, we have placed several safety labels on the unit to
remind you of this important information while you are
operating your unit.
All DANGER, WARNING, CAUTION and instructional
messages on your rider and mower should be carefully
read and obeyed. Personal bodily injury can result when
these instructions are not followed. The information is for
your safety and it is important! The safety decals below
are on your rider and mower.
If any of these decals are lost or damaged, replace them
at once. See your local dealer for replacements.
These labels are easily applied and will act as a constant
visual reminder to you, and others who may use the
equipment, to follow the safety instructions necessary for
safe, effective operation.
Decal - Danger
Part No. 1704276
Decal - Danger
Part No. 1704277
Decal - Operating Instructions
Part No. 1715993
DANGER
ROTATING BLADES
CUT OFF ARMS
AND LEGS
STOP MOWER WHEN
CHILDREN ARE NEAR.
NO RIDERS
— THEY FALL OFF.
DANGER
OPERATING ON
SLOPES CAN BE
DANGEROUS
SEE OPERATOR'S
MANUAL.
IF YOU CANNOT
BACK-UP A HILL
—DO NOT DRIVE ON IT.
WARNING
AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH
• READ OPERATOR'S MANUAL(S).
• KNOW LOCATION AND FUNCTION OF ALL CONTROLS.
• KEEP SAFETY DEVICES (GUARDS, SHIELDS, &
SWITCHES) IN PLACE AND WORKING.
• REMOVE OBJECTS THAT COULD BE THROWN BY
THE BLADE.
• DO NOT MOW WHEN CHILDREN OR OTHERS
ARE AROUND.
• NEVER CARRY CHILDREN.
• LOOK DOWN AND BEHIND—BEFORE AND WHILE
BACKING.
• AVOID SUDDEN TURNS.
• IF YOU CANNOT BACK UP A HILL
— DO NOT OPERATE ON IT.
• GO UP AND DOWN SLOPES, NOT ACROSS.
• IF MACHINE STOPS GOING UPHILL, STOP BLADE
AND BACK DOWN SLOWLY.
• BE SURE BLADE(S) AND ENGINE ARE STOPPED
BEFORE PLACING HANDS OR FEET NEAR BLADE(S).
• WHEN LEAVING MACHINE, SHUT OFF ENGINE,
REMOVE KEY, AND SET PARKING BRAKE.
DO NOT TOW UNIT!
Damage may result to
drive mechanism.
To Start Engine
• Seat must be occupied.
• Clutch/Brake pedal must
be depressed.
• PTO switch must be off.
When Operator Leaves Seat
• Engine will shut off if Parking Brake is
not engaged.
• Engine will shut off if PTO switch is on.
To Operate PTO clutch
• The operator must be in seat.
• To engage PTO, pull switch up.
• To disengage PTO, push switch down.
Parking Brake
To Set Parking Brake
• Pull knob up while Clutch/Brake
pedal is depressed.
• Release Clutch/Brake pedal
while holding knob.
To Release Parking Brake
• Depress Clutch/Brake pedal.
• Push knob down while
Clutch/Brake pedal is depressed.
To Adjust Top Speed of Wheels
COLUMN KNOBS INDEPENDENTLY
CONTROL TOP SPEED OF
EACH WHEEL
• Turn knob clockwise to lower
top speed of a wheel.
• Turn knob counter-clockwise to
raise top speed of a wheel.
Lower speed of faster wheel until
vehicle travels in straight line when
both levers are in the MAXIMUM
forward position.
OPERATION
DANGER
Ignition Switch
OFF
RUN
START
PTO Switch
Parking
Brake
Knob
Clutch/Brake
Pedal
1715993
ROTATING CUTTING BLADE
Do not put hands or feet
under mower deck while
blade is rotating.
DANGER
ROTATING CUTTING BLADE
Do not operate mower
without deflector or entire
grass catcher in place.
1704276
1704277
F
R
F
R
6
00
Features & Controls
of the Zero Turn Rider
A. Ground Speed Control Levers
These levers control the ground speed of the rider. The
left lever controls the left rear drive wheel and the right
controls the right rear drive wheel.
Moving a lever forward increases the FORWARD speed
of the associated wheel, and pulling back on a lever
increases the REVERSE speed.
Note: The further a lever is moved away from the neutral
position the faster the drive wheel will turn.
B. Top Speed Adjustment Knobs
These knobs independently control the top speed of the
left and right drive wheels, and are used to balance the
maximum forward lever positions. Turn a knob CLOCKWISE to lower the top speed of a wheel, and COUNTERCLOCKWISE to increase the top speed of a wheel.
C. Seat Adjustment Lever
The seat can be adjusted forward and back. Move the
lever to the LEFT, position the seat as desired, and
release the lever to lock the seat in position.
D. Ignition Switch
The ignition switch starts and stops the engine, it has
three positions:
OFF Stops the engine and shuts off the
electrical system.
RUN Allows the engine to run and powers the
electrical system.
START Cranks the engine for starting.
NOTE: Never leave the ignition switch in the RUN position with the engine stopped–this drains the battery.
CONTROL FUNCTIONS
Please take a moment and familiarize yourself with the name, location, and function of these controls so that
you will better understand the safety and operating instructions provided in this manual.
The information below briefly describes the function of individual controls. Starting, stopping, driving, and mowing
require the combined use of several controls applied in specific sequences. To learn what combination and sequence
of controls to use for various tasks see the OPERATION section.
Figure 1. 14HP & 16HP Rider & Mower Controls
(Seen from Operator’s Position)
A. Ground Speed Control Levers
B. Top Speed Adjustment Knobs
C. Seat Adjustment Lever
D. Ignition Switch
E. Parking Brake Knob
F. Clutch/Brake Pedal
G. PTO (Electric Clutch) Switch
H. Mower Height Adjuster
I. Throttle Control
J. Choke Control (18HP Only)
K. Headlight Switch (18HP Only)
A
D
C
B
E
F
G
I
H
14HP & 16HP Models
F
R
F
R
A
D
C
B
E
F
G
I
H
J
K
18HP Models
Figure 2. 18HP Rider & Mower Controls
(Seen from Operator’s Position)
7
00
E. Parking Brake Knob
The parking brake is applied by fully depressing the
clutch/brake pedal and then pulling UP on the parking
brake knob. To release the parking brake, fully depress
the clutch/brake pedal, and push the knob DOWN.
F. Clutch/Brake Pedal
Depressing the clutch/brake pedal disengages the transmissions and applies the brake.
G. PTO (Power Take Off) Switch
The PTO switch engages and disengages the mower.
Pull OUT on the switch to engage, and push IN to disengage.
H. Mower Height Adjuster
This controls the cutting height of the mower deck.
Later 14HP & 16HP Models: Pull back on the lift lever
and depress release button. Move the lever to the
desired height and release the lever.
Early 14HP & 16HP Models: Move this lever to the
LEFT and then into the desired cutting height position.
Moving the lever FORWARD decreases the cutting
height, and BACK increases the cutting height.
18HP Models: Turn the knob clockwise to raise the cutting height and counter clockwise to lower it.
I & J. Throttle / Choke Control
14HP & 16HP Models have a combined throttle / choke
control (I, see Figure 1). Moving the throttle / choke control fully forward chokes the engine for cold starts. (A
warm engine may not require choking.) The first “notch”
position back from choke position is FULL throttle.
Always operate the unit at FULL throttle.
18HP Models have separate throttle and choke controls
(I & J, see Figure 2). Pulling the round choke control
knob (J) out fully chokes the engine for cold starts. (A
warm engine may not require choking.) Moving the
throttle control (I) fully forward is FULL throttle position.
Always operate the unit at FULL throttle.
K. Headlight Switch
18HP Models Only: Turn the switch ON to light the front
headlight.
Features & Controls
SAFETY
INTERLOCK SYSTEM
This unit is equipped with safety interlock switches
and other safety devices. These safety systems are
present for your safety, do not attempt to bypass
safety switches, and never tamper with safety
devices. Check their operation regularly.
Operational SAFETY Checks
Your unit is equipped with a seat switch safety system. Check the seat switch operation every fall and
spring with the following tests.
Test 1 — Engine should NOT crank if any of the
following conditions exist:
• PTO switch is engaged (ON), OR
• Clutch/brake pedal is NOT fully depressed.
Test 2 — Engine SHOULD crank if ALL of the
following conditions are met:
• PTO switch is NOT engaged, AND
• Clutch/brake pedal IS fully depressed.
Test 3 — Engine should SHUT OFF if any of the
following conditions exist:
• Operator rises off seat with transmission control
levers out of the neutral gate AND clutch/brake
pedal NOT depressed, OR
• Operator rises off seat with clutch/brake pedal
NOT fully depressed, OR
• Operator rises off seat with PTO engaged.
Test 4 — Blade Brake Check
Mower blades and mower drive belt should come to
a complete stop within five seconds after electric
PTO switch is turned off (or operator rises off seat).
If mower drive belt does not stop within five seconds, see your dealer.
NOTE: Once the engine has stopped, PTO switch
must be turned off after operator returns to the seat
in order to start the engine.
WARNING
If the unit does not pass a safety test, do not
operate it. See your authorized dealer. Under
no circumstance should you attempt to defeat
the purpose of the safety interlock system.
8
00
GENERAL OPERATING SAFETY
Before first time operation:
• Be sure to read all information in the Safety and
Operation sections before attempting to operate this
rider and mower.
• Become familiar with all of the controls and how to
stop the unit.
• Drive in an open area without mowing to become
accustomed to the unit.
Operating
the Zero Turn Rider
DANGER
OPERATING ON SLOPES
CAN BE DANGEROUS
Never operate on slopes greater than 17.6% (10°)
which is a rise of 3-1/2 feet vertically in 20 feet
horizontally.
Operate the rider at a slow ground speed when
driving onto slope.
This unit is equipped with standard rear
counterweights - DO NOT OPERATE THE UNIT
WITHOUT THESE COUNTERWEIGHT IN PLACE.
In addition to counterweights, use extra caution
when operating on slopes with rear-mounted
grass catcher. Mow UP and DOWN the slope,
never across the face, use caution when
changing directions and DO NOT START OR
STOP ON SLOPE.
WARNING
Never allow passengers to ride on the unit.
Before leaving the operator’s position for any
reason, engage the parking brake, disengage the
PTO, stop the engine and remove the key.
To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine, rider and
mower free of grass, leaves and excess grease.
Do not stop or park rider over dry leaves, grass or
combustible materials.
Gasoline is highly flammable and must be
handled with care. Never fill the tank when the
engine is still hot from recent operation. Do not
allow open flame, smoking or matches in the
area. Avoid over-filling and wipe up any spills.
CHECKS BEFORE STARTING
• Check that crankcase is filled to full mark on dipstick.
See the engine Operator’s Manual for instructions
and oil recommendations.
• Make sure all nuts, bolts, screws and pins are in
place and tight.
• Adjust the seat position, and make certain you can
reach all controls from operator’s position.
• Fill the gasoline tank with fresh gasoline. Refer to
engine manual for gasoline recommendations.
• Make certain rear counterweights (see Figure 3) are
installed at all times, and use extra caution if you will
be operating the unit on sloping ground.
Figure 3. Engine Access & Rear Weights
A. Fuel Tank
B. Rear Counterweights (ALL Models)
C. Outer Counterweights (18HP Models Only)
Lift Deck
to access
Engine
A
B
C
NOTE: All models use two block-shaped rear weights
mounted under the rear frame (see bottom of Figure 3).
18HP models use two additional wrap-around weights
(see top of Figure 3) bolted into the back of the transmission carrier.
9
00
Operating the Zero Turn Rider
Figure 4. 14HP & 16HP Rider & Mower Controls
STARTING THE ENGINE
1. While sitting in the operator seat, fully depress the
clutch/brake pedal or set the parking brake.
2.
NOTE: A warm engine may not require choking.
14HP & 16HP Models — Set engine throttle control
(H, Figure 4) all the way up to CHOKE.
18HP Models — Set engine throttle control (H,
Figure 5) to FULL throttle position. Then fully close
the choke (J, Figure 5) by pulling the knob OUT fully.
3. Disengage the PTO by pushing the PTO switch all
the way down (G, Figure 3)
4. Insert the key into the ignition switch (D, Figure 4)
and turn it to START.
14HP & 16HP Models
5. 14HP & 16HP Models — After the engine starts,
move the engine throttle control (H, Fig. 4) to SLOW.
18HP Models — After the engine starts, gradually
open the choke (push knob down fully).
Warm up the engine by running it for at least a minute before
engaging the PTO switch or driving the rider.
6. After warming up the engine, ALWAYS operate
the unit at FULL THROTTLE when mowing.
In the event of an emergency the engine can be stopped by
simply turning the ignition switch to STOP. Use this
method only in emergency situations. For normal engine shut
down follow the procedure given in STOPPING THE RIDER.
Figure 5. 18HP Rider & Mower Controls
A. Ground Speed Control Levers
B. Top Speed Adjustment Knobs
C. Seat Adjustment Lever
D. Ignition Switch
E. Parking Brake Knob
F. Clutch/Brake Pedal
G. PTO (Electric Clutch) Switch
H. Throttle/Choke Control
I. Mower Height Adjuster
A. Ground Speed Control Levers
B. Top Speed Adjustment Knob
C. Seat Adjustment Lever
D. Ignition Switch
E. Parking Brake Knob
F. Clutch/Brake Pedal
G. PTO (Electric Clutch) Switch
H. Throttle Control
I. Mower Height Adjuster
J. Choke Control
F
R
F
R
A
D
C
B
E
F
G
I
H
F
R
F
R
J
A
D
C
B
E
F
G
I
H
Figure 6. Hydro Transmission Release Levers
A. Left Lever (shown in DRIVE position)
B. Right Lever (shown in PUSH position)
A
B
14HP & 16HP Models
18HP Models
PUSHING THE RIDER BY HAND
1. Disengage the PTO, engage the parking brake, turn
the ignition OFF, and remove the key.
2. Disengage the transmissions by moving both release
levers from engaged position(A, Figure 6) to released
position (B). The release levers are located in the
back of the unit between the rear weights (see Figure
4). BOTH release levers must be pulled fully rear-
ward and down to push the rider by hand.
NOTE: To drive the rider BOTH release levers must be moved
completely forward to engage the transmissions.
DO NOT TOW RIDER
Towing the unit will cause transmission damage.
Do not use another vehicle to push or pull this unit.
STOPPING THE RIDER
1. Returning the ground speed control levers (A, Figure 3)
to the middle positions will stop rider movement. For
emergency stopping depress the clutch/brake
pedal (see F, Figures 4-5).
2. Disengage the PTO by pushing down on the PTO
switch (See G, Figures 4-5).
3. Set engine throttle control (H, Figures 4-5) to midthrottle position and turn the ignition key to OFF.
Remove the key.
NOTE: Stopping the engine at any speed other than MIDto-FULL positions can cause engine damage. Do NOT stop
the engine with the throttle control in the IDLE position.
10
Operating the Zero Turn Rider
ZERO TURN
DRIVING PRACTICE
The lever controls of the Zero Turn rider are
responsive
,
and learning to gain a
smooth
and
efficient
control of the
rider’s forward, reverse, and turning movements will take
some practice.
Spending some time going through the maneuvers
shown and becoming familiar with how the unit accelerates, travels, and steers — before you begin mowing —
is absolutely essential to getting the most out of the Zero
Turn rider.
Locate a smooth, flat area of your lawn — one with
plenty of room to maneuver. (Clear the area of objects,
people and animals before you begin.) Operate the unit
at mid-throttle during this practice session (ALWAYS
operate at full throttle when mowing), and turn slowly to
prevent tire slippage and damage to your lawn.
We suggest you begin with the Smooth Travel procedure to the right, and then advance through the forward,
reverse, and turning maneuvers.
Smooth Travel
The lever controls of the
Zero Turn rider are
RESPONSIVE
.
The BEST method of
handling the ground
speed control levers is in
three steps — as shown
in Figure 7.
FIRST place the palms of
your hands onto the
levers as shown.
SECOND, to go forward
gradually push the levers
toward the console with
your palms.
THIRD, to speed up
move the levers farther
forward. To slow down
smoothly, loosen your
grip on the console and
allow the levers to return
toward neutral.
Figure 8. Forward Travel
Figure 9. Reverse Travel
Figure 7. Move Control
Levers Gradually.
Forward Travel Practice
Gradually move both ground speed control levers —
evenly FORWARD from neutral. Slow down and repeat.
NOTE: Straight forward travel takes practice. If necessary, top speed can be balance-adjusted — see the Top
Speed Adjustment Knobs in the Adjustments section
near the back of this manual.
Reverse Travel Practice
LOOK DOWN & BEHIND, then gradually move both
ground speed control levers evenly BACK from neutral.
Slow down and repeat.
NOTE: Practice backing up for several minutes before
attempting to do so near objects. The rider turns sharply
in reverse as well as forward, and backing up straight
takes practice.
WARNING
Make certain the area of operation, and especially
the direction of travel is clear of objects, people
and animals.
Always look DOWN AND BEHIND before backing!
BASIC DRIVING
F
R
F
R
❶
F
R
F
R
❷
F
R
F
R
❸
F
R
F
R
Forward
Travel
Reverse
Travel
F
R
F
R
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