Snapper 216517B, P216517B, P217017BV, P217017BVE, P215517HC User Manual

Safety Instructions & Operator’s Manual for

21” STEEL DECK

WALK MOWERS

SERIES 17

MODEL NUMBER EXPLANATION

P 21 70 17 B V E

SELF-PROPELLED ENGINE OPTION CUTTING WIDTH ENGINE DESIGNATION ENGINE HORSE POWER SERIES DESIGNATION

W – Model Designation P – Self Propelled Model 17 - Series Designation

21 – 21” Cutting Width B – Briggs & Stratton H – Honda Engine

55 – 5.5 HP (Engine Horse Power) 65 – 6.5 HP (Engine Horse

70 – 7.0 HP (Engine Horse Power) E – Electric Start

Thank you for buying a SNAPPER Product! Before operating your Walk Behind, read this manual carefully and pay particular attention to the “IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS” on Pages 2 & 3. Remember that all power equipment can be dangerous if used improperly. Also keep in mind that SAFETY requires careful use in accordance with the operating instructions and common sense.

V – Overhead Valve C –Overhead Cam

MANUAL No. 7-5508 (I.R. 4/22/03)

MODELS

216517B

P216517B

P217017BV

P217017BVE

P215517HC

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING: This powerf ul cutting machine is capab le of amputating hand s and feet and can throw objects that can cause injury and damage! Failure to comply with the follow ing SAFETY instru ctions could resu lt in serious injury or death to the operator or other persons. The owner of the machine must understand these instructions and must allow only persons who understand these instructions to operate machine. Each person operating the machine must be of sound mind and body and must not be under the influence of any substance, which might impair vision, dexterity or judgment. If you have any questions pertaining to your machine which your dealer cannot answer to your satisfaction, call or write the Customer Service Department at SNAPPER, McDonough, Georgia 30253. Phone: (1-800-935-2967).

PROTECTION FOR 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. Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them.

1. KEEP children out of the mowing area and under the watchful care of a responsible adult.

2. DO NOT allow children in yard when mach ine is operated and turn machine OFF if anyone enters the area.

3. DO NOT allow pre-teenage children to operate machine.

4. ALLOW only responsible adults & teenagers with mature judgment under close adult supervision to operate machine.

5. DO NOT pull mower backwards unless absolutely necessary. LOOK and SEE behind and down for children, pets and hazards before and while backing.

6. USE EXTRA CARE when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other object s that may obscure vision.

SLOPE OPERATION

1. Slopes are a major facto r related to slip and fall accidents, which can result in severe injury. All slopes require extra cau tion. If you feel uneasy on a slope, DO NOT mow it.

2. Mow across slopes, never up-and-down. Exercise extreme CAUTION when changing directions on slopes. DO NOT mow steep slopes or other areas where stability or traction is in doubt.

3. Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments; these affect the handling and the stability of the machine.

PREPARATION

1. Read, understand, and follow instructions and warnings in this manual and on the mower, engine and attachments. Know the controls and the proper use of the mower before starting.

2. Only mature, responsible persons shall operate the machine and only after proper instruction.

PREPARATION

(Continued From Previous Column)

3. Data in dicates that o perators age 60 and abov e, are involved in a large percentage of mowerrelated injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from serious injury.

4. Handle fuel wit h ext ra care. Fuels are flammabl e and vapors are explosive. Use only an approved fuel container. DO NOT remove fuel cap or add fuel with engine running. Add fuel outdoors only with engine stopped and cool. Clean spilled fuel and oil from machine. DO NOT smoke.

5. Check the area to be mowed and remove all objects such as toys, wire, rocks, limbs and other objects that could cause injury if thrown by blade or interfere with mo win g. Also note the location of holes, stumps, and other possible hazards.

6. Keep people and pets out of the mowing area. Immediately, STOP Blade, Stop engine and Stop mower if anyone enters the area.

7. Check shields, deflectors, switches, blade controls and other safety dev ices frequently for proper operation and location.

8. Make sure all safety decals are clearly legible. Replace if damaged.

9. Protect yourself when mow ing and wear safety glasses, long pants and substantial footwear. DO NOT mow barefooted or with sandals.

10. Know how to STOP blade and engine quickly in preparation for emergencies.

11. Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into a trailer or truck.

12. Check grass catcher components frequently for signs of wear or deterioration and replace as needed to prevent injury from thrown objects going through weak or torn spots.

SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE

To avoid personal injury or property damage , use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive

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

2. Use only an approved fuel container.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE

(Continued From Previous Page)

3. DO NOT remove fuel cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow the engine to cool before refue ling.

4. DO NOT refuel the machine indoors.

5. DO NOT store the machine or fuel cont ainer inside where there is an open flame, spark or pilot light such as on a water heater or other appliances.

6. DO NOT fill f uel containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer bed w ith a plast ic liner. Always place the containers on the ground away from the vehicle before filling.

7. Remove gas-powered equipment from the vehicle or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible, then refuel equipment using a portable container, rather than a gasoline dispenser nozzle.

8. DO NOT start gas pow ered equipment in enclosed vehicles or trailers.

9. Keep the nozzle in contact w ith the rim of the fuel tank or container opening at all times until fueling is complete. DO NOT use a nozzle lock-open device

10. If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing immediately.

11. DO NOT overfill a fuel tank. Replace fuel cap and tighten securely.

OPERATION

1. DO NOT put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep clear of discharg e area while engine is running.

2. STOP engine when crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads, and under any conditions where thrown objects might be a hazard.

3. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.

4. DO NOT operate mower while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

5. After striking a foreig n object or if mower vibrates abnormally, STOP the engine, disconnect and secure spark plug wire. Inspect t he mower for any damage and repair the damage.

6. DO NOT mow near drop offs, ditches or embankments. Operator could lose footing or balance.

7. STAY ALERT for holes and other hidden hazards. Tall grass can hide obstacles. Keep away from ditches, washouts, culverts, fences and protruding objects.

8. DO NOT mow on wet grass. Always be sure of your footing. Keep a firm hold on the handle and walk, never run. Slipping could cause injury.

9. DO NOT leave the machine with the engine running. STOP BLADE and STOP ENGINE before leaving the operators position for any re ason.

10. Before cleaning, repairing or inspecting make certain engine, blade and all moving parts have STOPPED. Disconnect and secure spark plug wire away from plug to prevent accidental starting.

OPERATION

(Continued From Previous Column)

11. STOP engine and wait until the blade comes to complete STOP before removin g grass bag and/or clearing grass.

12. DO NOT operate mower without the entire grass catcher or guards in place. DO NOT point discharge at people, passing cars, windows or doors.

13. Slow down before turning.

14. Watch out for traffic when near or crossing roadways.

15. DO NOT operate engine in enclosed areas. Engine exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, a deadly poison.

MAINTENA NCE A ND STORA GE

1. DO NOT store mower or fuel container inside where fumes may reach an open flame, spark or pilot ligh t such as in a water heater, f urnace, clothes dryer or other gas appliance. Allow engine to cool before storing machine in an enclosure. Store fuel container out of reach of children in a well ventilated, unoccupied building.

2. Keep mower and engine free of grass, leaves or excess grease to reduce fire hazard and engine overheating.

3. When draining fuel tank, drain fuel into an appr oved container outdoors and away from open fla me.

4. Keep all bolts, especially blade bolts, nuts and screws properly tight. Check that all cotter pins are in proper position.

5. Always provide adequate ventilation when running engine. Engine exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, a deadly poison.

6. Service engine and make adjustments only when engine is stopped. Removed spark plug wire from spark plug and secure wire away from spark plug to prevent accidental starting.

7. DO NOT change engine governor speed settings or overspeed engine.

8. Check grass bag assembly frequently for wear or deterioration to avoid thrown objects and exposure to moving parts. Replace with new bag if loose seams or tears are evident. Replace slider or bag adapter if broken or cracked.

9. Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blades or wear heavy leather gloves and use CAUTION when handling them.

10. DO NOT test for spark by grounding spark plug next to spark plug hole; sp ark plug could ignite gas exiting engine.

11. Have machine serviced by an autho rized SNAPPER dealer at least once a year and have the dealer install any new safety devices.

12. Use only genuine SNAPPER replacement parts to assure that original standards are maintained.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS .....................................................................2 & 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS .....................................................................................................4

SECTION 1 - FAMILIARIZATION ......................................................................................5

SECTION 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ...............................................................6-12

Pre-start Checklist ............................................................................................... 6

Starting & Stopping Engine & Blade............................................................... 6-7

Starting & Stopping Wheel Drive ....................................................................... 7

Handle Height Adjustment.................................................................................. 8

Cutting Height Adjustment ................................................................................. 8

Recycling Operation............................................................................................ 9

Installation of Grass Bag................................................................................ 9-10

Installation of Discharge Deflector................................................................... 11

Installation of Recycling Cover ........................................................................11

SECTION 3 - MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS ........................................................ 12-13

Change Engine Oil............................................................................................. 12

Check Transmission Grease........................................................................12-13

Check Mower Blade........................................................................................... 13

Check Engine Drive Belt ................................................................................... 13

Check Transmission Poly-V Belt...................................................................... 13

Service - Annually.............................................................................................. 13

Engine.............................................................................................................. 13

Air Filter........................................................................................................... 13

Engine Oil........................................................................................................ 13

Storage Procedure............................................................................................. 13

SECTION 4 - ADJUSTMENTS AND REPAIR.............................................................14-21

Mower Blade Replacement ............................................................................... 14

Blade Sharpening .........................................................................................14-15

Wheel Drive Control Adjustment...................................................................... 15

Driven and Drive Disc Service.......................................................................... 16

Cleaning Drive Disc and Driven Disc............................................................ 16

Drive Spring Repair/Replacement................................................................. 16

Driven Disc Adjustment............................................................................ 16-17

Driven Disc Replacement..........................................................................17-18

Driven Disc Bearing Replacement................................................................ 18

Hex Shaft Bearing Replacement ...................................................................19

Belt Service ........................................................................................................ 19

Engine Drive Belt Replacement ...............................................................19-20

Transmission Poly-V Belt Replacement....................................................... 20

Battery Service................................................................................................... 21

TROUBLESHOOTING ..................................................................................................... 22

SERVICE SCHEDULE...................................................................................................... 23

Maintenance/Replacement Parts...................................................................... 23

WARRANTY..................................................................................................................... 24

PRIMARY MAINTENANCE......................................................................................... 25-28

PRODUCT REGISTRATION FORM ................................................................................ 29

! IMPORTANT ! The figures and illustrations in this manual are provided for reference only and may differ from your specific model. Contact your local SNAPPER dealer if you have questions.

Section 1 - FAMILIARIZATION

CONTROL

LATCHES

AND DIPSTICK

ROPE START HANDLE

GRASS BAG

REAR HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT LATCH

1.1 INTRODUCTION

This manual has been prepar ed for the operators of the SNAPPER WALK BEHIND MOWERS. Its purpose, aside from recommending operating and routine service requirements, is to promote safety through the use of accepted operating practices. Read, Understand and Follow the “IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS” on Pages 2 & 3 of this manual and all safety messages on the mower and attachments before operating the mower.

WHEEL DRIVE CONTROL

GRASS BAG ADAPTER

BLADE

GROUND SPEED

OIL FILL CAP

FIGURE 1.1

FUEL FILLER CAP

FRONT HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT

1.2 NOMENCLATURE

The nomenclature drawing above, Figure 1.1, shows the essential parts of the SNAPPER WALK BEHIND MOWERS. It is recommended that all operators of the mower become thoroughly familiar with the controls, parts and operation of the mower before operating. Specific details involving the engine are found in the separate engine owner’s manual. Study these manuals befor e operating and keep both handy for future reference.

BRIGGS ENGINE

SPEED

CONTROL

FAST

SLOW

ENGINE PRIMER

HONDA

ENGINE

SPEED

CONTROL

“CHOKE

“FAST”

SLOW

”

Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

POSITION, FIGURE 2.1)

PRIMER

CAP

2.1 PRE-START CHECK LIST

Make the following checks and perform the service required before each start-up.

2.1.1. Check guards, deflectors, grass bag, adapter and covers to mak e sure all are in place and securely tightened.

2.1.2. Check blade c ontr ol and wheel drive contr ol to insure they work freely. See Figure 2.1.

WHEEL DRIVE CONTROL

BLADE CONTROL

2.1.6. Clean exterior surfaces of cutting deck and

engine of any accumulation of spilled fuel, dirt, grass , oil, etc. Keep engine air intake screen and cooling fins clear at all times.

2.2 STARTING & OPERATION

2.2.1. ENGINE & BLADE (Recoil Start Models)

1. Move engine speed control to the “Fast” (Rabbit)

position. See Figure 2.3.

1A. Fixed engine speed models go to Step 2.

NOTE: Stop the engine (and blade) by releasing the

blade control.

ROPE START HANDLE

BLADE CONTROL

ENGINE SPEED CONTROL

FIGURE 2.1

2.1.3. Check cutting height. Adjust to desired height.

2.1.4. Check engine oil and add oil as needed to bring

level up to the full mark. Refer to Engine Owner’s Manual for oil specifications. See Figure 2.2.

OIL DIPSTICK

FUEL

FIGURE 2.2

2.1.5. Add fuel to tank after pushing the mower

outside where fumes can saf ely dissipate. Make sure cap is tightened after refueling. Refer to Engine Owners Manual for specifications.

IGNITION KEY

ENGINE SPEED CONTROL (SHOWN IN FAST

FIGURE 2.3

2. Push primer bulb three times to start a cold

engine. NOTE: Primer should not be required to restart a hot engine. See Figure 2.4.

3. Pull blade control against handle.

4. Pull rope start handle to crank engine.

5. After engine starts, allow a brief warm-up until

engine runs smooth.

FIGURE 2.4

Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

SIXTH

2.2 STARTING & OPERATION

2.2.1. ENGINE & BLADE (Choke Models)

1. Move fuel shut of f valve to the “ON” position.

See Figure 2.5.

NOTE: Stop the engine (and blade) by releasing the

blade control.

FUEL SHUT OFF VALVE SHOWN IN THE “ON” POSITION

FIGURE 2.5

2. Move engine speed control to the “Choke”

position. See Figure 2.6.

MOVE TO CHOKE POSITION

ENGINE SPEED CONTROL

FIGURE 2.6

3. Pull blade control against handle.

4. Pull rope start handle to crank engine.

5. After engine starts, allow a brief warm-up until

engine runs smooth.

2.2.2. ENGINE & BLADE (Electric Start Models)

When the ignition key (Electric Start Switch) is turned to “START”, the engine will not crank and will not start unless the blade control is engaged!

1. Move engine speed control to the “Fast” (Rabbit) position. See Figure 2.3.

2. Push primer button three times to start a cold engine. NOTE: Primer should not be required to restart a hot engine.

3. Pull blade control against handle.

4. Turn key to the start position until engine starts.

See Figure 2.3.

NOTE: If after 5 seconds of cranking the engine does not start, release the key and attempt starting again af ter waiting for approximately 20 seconds.

5. After engine starts, allow a brief warm-up until engine runs smooth.

2.2.3. PROPELLING MOWER (Self Propelled Models Only)

1. Start engine. Refer to Section “Starting &

Operation”.

2. Move ground speed control to the desired speed position. See Figure 2.7.

3. Move wheel drive control against handle to engage wheel drive and propel mower forward. Forward speed can be adjusted while the mower is moving by changing position of the ground speed control. See Figure 2.7.

ENGAGE

WHEEL DRIVE CONTROL

2.3 STOPPING

Stop engine and blade by releasing the blade control. Stop forward motion of mower by releasing the wheel drive control.

GROUND SPEED CONTROL SHOWN IN FIRST/SLOW

FIRST

FIGURE 2.7

Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

HEIGHT

2.4 HANDLE HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT

The height of the mo wer handle can be adjusted as follows:

1. Loosen the lower nuts on each lower handle as shown in Figure 2.8.

LOWER HANDLE

HIGHER

2. Set all wheels at the same cutting height. The

highest cutting position is Notch 6. The lowest cutting position is Notch 1. See Figure 2.10.

LATCH POSITIONS

LOWER

LOOSEN LOWER NUTS ON EACH LOWER HANDLE

FIGURE 2.8

2. Move upper mower handle up or down until the

desired position is achieved.

3. Tighten the lower nuts on each lower handle to maintain desired position.

WARNING

STOP engine and mow er b lade b y releasing the blade control before adjusting cutting height or handle height.

2.5 CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT

1. Pull the height adjusting latch outward and move

to desired cutting height. See Figure 2.9.

LOWEST CUTTING

FIGURE 2.9

LATCH

HIGHEST

CUTTING

CUTTING HEIGHT SETTINGS

FIGURE 2.10

Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

ADAPTER

CONNECTOR

ADAPTER

PLUG

WARNING

DO NOT attempt any maintenance, adjustments or service with engine and blade running. STOP engine and blade. Disconnect spark plug wire and secure away from spark plug. Engine and components are HOT. Avoid serious burns, allow sufficient time for all components to cool.

2.6 RECYCLING OPERATION NOTE: For best recycling results, cut up to a maxim um of 1/3

of grass blade length and recycle ONLY when grass is dry.

1. Set all wheels in the highest cutting position (Notch 6).

2. Move engine speed control to “FAST” (Rabbit)

position.

3. Move ground speed control to slowest speed setting.

4. Proceed mowing s lowly. If grass is very dense, lower

each rear wheel latch one notch lower than the front wheel latches to improve recycling performance.

2.7 INSTALLATION of GRASS BAG ADAPTER STEP 1: Install the grass bag adapter and secure to the

side and top of the dec k with the two nuts provided on the machine. Slot in front edge of adapter must be under nut located on top of deck. See Figure 2.11.

SECURE WITH NUTS

ADAPTER

FIGURE 2.11

SECURE ADAPTER TO DECK WITH NUTS

2.8 INSTALLATION of RECYCLING PLUG (Optional Accessory on Some Models) STEP 1: Once adapter has been inst alled, recycling may

be desired. Insert recycling plug completely and securely into adapter. Install grass bag. See Figure 2.12.

2.9 INSTALLATION of GRASS BAG (Door Type Bag)

Install grass bag by sliding connector over flange of adapter. See Figure 2.13.

POSITION BAG BETWEEN HANDLES

BAG

INSERT RECYCLING PLUG COMPLETELY AND SECURELY INTO ADAPTER. INSTALL GRASS BAG.

FIGURE 2.12

SLIDE CONNECTOR DOWN OVER BAG ADAPTER FLANGE

FIGURE 2.13

(Continued on Next Page)

Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING

2.9 INSTALLATION of GRASS BAG (Continued From Previous Page) Attach grass bag hooks over middle handle cross bar. See Figure 2.14.

MIDDLE HANDLE CROSS

ATTACH BAG HOOKS OVER MIDDLE HANDLE

BAR

FIGURE 2.14

2.10 INSTALLATION of GRASS CATCHER

(Slide Closure Type)

Position grass bag between handles. See Figure

2.15. Install grass catcher by sliding connector over flange of adapter. Attach grass bag hooks over middle handle cross bar. See Figure 2.15.

LOWER HANDLES

HANDLE

BAG CONNECTOR

ADAPTER FLANGE

SLIDE CONNECTOR OVER END OF ADAPTER FLANGE

FIGURE 2.15

HOOK BAG HANDLE OVER LOWER HANDLES

SLIDE CONNECTOR OVER END OF ADAPTER FLANGE

2.11 REMOVING and DUMPING GRASS CATCHER (Slide Closure Type)

1. Grasp bag connector and bag handle as shown.

See Figure 2.16.

2. First, lift up on bag handle, removing it from the mower handle. Then lift up on bag connector removing it from the adapter flange.

3. Dump bag by pulling bag slider off of Z-Fold at rear of bag, opening bag.

4. To close bag, fold rear of bag into Z-shape, keeping edges aligned. Note: an illustration of folding the Z-shape is attached to the bag.

5. Grasp the edge of the Z-fold, and while holding the slider, pull the Z-fold fully into the slider. See Figure 2.17.

FIGURE 2.16

GRASP SLIDER. PULL Z-FOLD INTO SLIDER

PULL

FIGURE 2.17

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