Snapper 216518B User Manual
Safety Instructions & Operator's Manual for
21" STEEL DECK
WALK MOWERS
SERIES 18
MODELS
216518B
P216518B
P217018BV
P217018BVE
P216018KWV
RP217018B V
RP217018BVE
RP216018KWV
MODEL NUMBER EXPLANATION
I P I 21
SELF-PROPELLED
CUTTING WIDTH
ENGINE HORSE POWER *
R - Recycling Model P - Self Propelled Model
21 - 21" Cutting Width 60 - 6.0 HP (Engine Horse Power)
65 - 6.5 HP (Engine Horse Power) 70 - 7.0 HP (Engine Horse Power)
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 - 4. 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.
NOTE: Specifications are correct at time of printing and are subject to change without notice.
* Actual sustained equipment horsepower will likely be lower due to operating limitations and environmental factors.
COPYRIGHT © 2004
SNAPPER -A DIVISION OF SIMPLICITY MFG. INC.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
I 70 I 18 I B IVlEI
18 - Series Designation
B - Briggs & Stratton
KW- Kawasaki Engine
ENGINE OPTION
ENGINE DESIGNATION
SERIES DESIGNATION
V - Overhead Valve
E - Electric Start
MANUAL No. 2-9756 (I.R. 8/5/04)
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING: This powerful cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and can throw objects that
can cause injury and damage! Failure to comply with the following SAFETY instructions could result 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 other than
the operator.
2. DO NOT allow children in yard when machine 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 objects that may
obscure vision.
SLOPE OPERATION
1. Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall
accidents, which can result in severe injury. All
slopes require extra caution. 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 indicates that operators age 60 and above, are
involved in a large percentage of mower-related
injuries. These operators should evaluate their
ability to operate the mower safely enough to
protect themselves and others from serious injury.
4. Handle fuel with extra care. Fuels are flammable
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 mowing. 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 devices frequently for proper
operation and location.
8. Make sure all safety decals are clearly legible.
Replace if damaged.
9. Protect yourself when mowing 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 refueling.
4. DO NOT refuel the machine indoors.
5. DO NOT store the machine or fuel container inside
where there is an open flame, spark or pilot light
such as on a water heater or other appliances.
6. DO NOT fill fuel containers inside a vehicle or on a
truck or trailer bed with a plastic 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, ratherthan a gasoline dispenser nozzle.
8. DO NOT start gas powered equipment in enclosed
vehicles or trailers.
9. Keep the 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
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 discharge 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 foreign object or if mower vibrates
abnormally, STOP the engine, disconnect and
secure spark plug wire. Inspect the mower for any
damage and repair the damage before starting.
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. ALWAYS stay behind handle when engine (motor) is
running.
10. DO NOT leave the machine with the engine running.
STOP BLADE and STOP ENGINE before leaving the
operators position for any reason.
OPERATION
(Continued From Previous Column)
11. 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.
12. STOP engine and wait until the blade comes to
complete STOP before removing grass bag and/or
clearing grass.
13. DO NOT operate mower without the entire grass
catcher, discharge guard, rear guard or other safety
devicesinplaceandworking.DO NOT point discharge
at people, passing cars, windows or doors.
14. DO NOT dischargematerialagainsta wall or obs_clion.
Materialmayricochetbacktowardstheoperator.
15. Slow down before turning.
16. Watch out for traffic when near or crossing
roadways.
17. DO NOT operate engine in enclosed areas. Engine
exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, a deadly
poison.
18. Only useaccessoriesapprovedby the manufacturer. See
manufacturer's instruclions for proper operation and
installa_onofaccessodes.
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE
1. DO NOT store mower or fuel container inside where
fumes may reach an open flame, spark or pilot light
such as in a water heater, furnace, 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 approved
container outdoors and away from open flame.
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.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE
(Continued From Previous Page)
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; spark plug could ignite gas
exiting engine.
11. Have machine serviced by an authorized 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 - 4
TABLE OF CONTENTS ...................................................................................................... 5
SECTION 1 - FAMILIARIZATION ....................................................................................... 6
SECTION 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ............................................................... 7-11
Pre-start Checklist ................................................................................................ 7
Starting & Stopping Engine & Blade .............................................................. 7-8
Starting & Stopping Wheel Drive ........................................................................ 8
Handle Height Adjustment .................................................................................. 8
Cutting Height Adjustment .............................................................................. 8-9
Installation of Grass Bag ............................................................................... 9-11
Installation of Discharge Deflector ................................................................... 11
Installation of Recycling Cover ......................................................................... 11
Recycling Operation ........................................................................................... 11
SECTION 3 - MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS ....................................................... 12-13
Change Engine Oil .............................................................................................. 12
Check Transmission Grease ............................................................................. 12
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 .................................................................... 16-19
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 ................................................................................................... 19-20
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
The figures and illustrations in this manual are provided for reference only and may differ from your specific
I ! IMPORTANT !
model. Contact your local SNAPPER dealer if you have questions.
I
Section 1 - FAMILIARIZATION
/
ENGINE
SPEED
CONTROL
ROPE /
START
HANDLE
WHEEL DRIVE
CONTROL
GRASS
BAG
REAR HEIGHT
ADJUSTMENT
LATCH
BLADE
CONTROL
/
GROUND SPEED
CONTROL
FUEL FILL
BRIGGS
ENGINE
SPEED
CONTROL
OIL FILL
AND DIPSTICK
FAST
SLOW
KAWASAKI
ENGINE
SPEED
CONTROL
FAST
3HOKE
SLOW
ENGINE
PRIMER
GRASS BAG
ADAPTER
1.1 INTRODUCTION
This manual has been prepared 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 - 4 of this
manual and all safety messages on the mower and
attachments before operating the mower.
FRONT HEIGHT
ADJUSTMENT
LATCHES
FIGURE 1.1
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 before operating and keep both
handy for future reference.
Section 2 -OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
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 make sure all are in place and securely
tightened.
2.1.2. Check blade control, wheel drive control, and
engine speed control to insure they work freely. See
Figure 2.1.
BLADE
CONTROL
2.2
/
WHEEL
DRIVE
CONTROL
PRIMER
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.
STARTING & OPERATION
2.2.1. ENGINE & BLADE (Briggs Engine)
1. Move engine speed control to "Fast" (Rabbit)
position. See Figure 2.4 and "FAMILIARIZATION".
2. Push primer bulb three times to start a cold
engine. See Figure 2.3. NOTE: Primer should not
be required to restart a hot engine.
ENGINE
SPEED
CONTROL
FIGURE 2.1
2.1.3. Check cutting height. Adjust to desired height.
Refer to Section "OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS -
CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT".
2.1.4. Check engine oil and add as needed to bring
level up to 'full' mark on dipstick. See Figure 2.2.
(Briggs 6.5hp engine shown, fuel and oil fill locations
may vary with engine.) Refer to Engine Owner's
Manual for oil specifications.
2.1.5. Add fuel to tank. See Figure 2.2. Fuel mower
outside where fumes can safely dissipate. Make sure
cap is tightened after refueling. Refer to Engine
Owners Manual for fuel specifications.
FIGURE 2.3
3. Pull blade control against handle.
4. Recoil Start: Pull rope start handle to crank
engine. Electric Start: Turn ignition key to 'Start'.
(NOTE: If after 5 seconds of cranking the engine does
not start, release the key and attempt starting again
after waiting for approximately 20 seconds.)
ROPE START
HANDLE
FIGURE 2.2
FIGURE 2.4
5. After engine starts, reduce engine speed and
allow a brief warm-up until engine runs smooth.
NOTE: Stop the engine (and blade) by releasing the
blade control.
Section 2 -OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
2.2 STARTING & OPERATION 2.3
2.2.1. ENGINE & BLADE (Kawasaki Engine)
1. Make sure fuel valve on engine is open. See
Figure 2.5.
2.4 HANDLE HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
CLOSE
FIGURE 2.5
2. Move engine speed control past "Fast" detent to
"Choke" position. See Figure 2.4 and
"FAMILIARIZATION".
3. Pull blade control against handle.
4. Pull rope start handle to crank engine.
5. After engine starts, turn off choke, reduce engine
speed, and allow a brief warm-up until engine runs
smooth.
NOTE: Stop the engine (and blade) by releasing the
blade control.
STOPPING
Stop forward motion of mower by releasing the
wheel drive control. Stop engine and blade by
releasing the blade control.
The height of the mower handle can be adjusted as
follows:
1. Loosen the lower nuts on each lower handle as
shown in Figure 2.7.
HIGHER
LOWER
HANDLE
I
LOOSEN LOWER
LOWER HANDLE
//
FIGURE 2.7
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.
WHEEL
DRIVE
CONTROL
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 2.6.
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 2.6.
ENGAGE
SLOWER
SPEED
GROUND
CONTROL
FASTER
FIGURE 2.6
WARNING
STOP engine and mower blade by 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 2.8.
D LOWEST CUTTING
HEIGHT _
FIGURE 2.8
LATCH
r---"-
HIGHEST IT]
CUTTING
HEIGHT
Section 2 -OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
STEP la (Kawasaki only): Attach Bag Adapter Standoff
2. Set all wheels at the same cutting height. The
highest cutting position is Notch 6. The lowest
cutting position is Notch 1. See Figures 2.8 & 2.9.
LATCH
POSITION
CUTTING HEIGHT SETTINGS
Fq
between rope guide pulley assembly and engine recoil.
See Figure 2.10a.
A. Remove right rear bolt from engine recoil cover.
B. Remove torx screw and nut securing rope guide
pulley to bracket on bag adapter.
C. Lay standoff between bolt holes in engine recoil
cover and bag adapter pulley bracket. NOTE:
position standoff so that bent end is toward engine
recoil cover.
D. Flip pulley over so that flange of steel bushing is
under pulley. (The bushing wilt act as a washer
between the pulley and standoff.)
E. Reassemble pulley to bag adapter, and reinstall
bolt into recoil cover. Tighten all hardware securely.
FIGURE 2.9
2.6 INSTALLATION of GRASS BAG ADAPTER
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.
STEP 1: Install the grass bag adapter and secure to the
side and top of the deck 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 2.10.
!
SECURE ADAPTER
TO DECK WITH NUTS
BOLT
STANDOFF
ROPE GUIDE PULLEY
FIGURE 2.10a
STEP 2: Route recoil rope around recoil rope pulley on
bag adapter. See Figure 2.10a. NOTE: Pulling Blade
control against upper handle will allow extra recoil slack.
2.7 INSTALLATION of RECYCLING PLUG
(Optional Accessory on Some Models)
STEP 1: Once adapter has been installed, recycling may
be desired. Insert recycling plug completely and securely
into adapter. See Figure 2.11. Install grass bag as a
safeguard.
INSERT RECYCLING PLUG
PLUG COMPLETELY AND SECURELY
INTO ADAPTER. INSTALL
GRASS BAG.
SECURE
WITH NUTS
ADAPTER
FIGURE 2.10
FIGURE 2.11
STEP 2: Refer to Section "OPERATING
INSTRUCTIONS - RECYCLING OPERATION".
Section 2 -OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
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.
2.8 INSTALLATION of GRASS BAG
(Door Type Bag)
Install grass bag by sliding connector over flange of
adapter. See Figure 2.12.
POSITION BAG
SLIDE
CONNECTOR
DOWN OVER BAG
ADAPTER FLANGE
HOOK BAG HANDLE
OVER LOWER
HANDLES
SLIDE BAG
CONNECTOR OVER
END OF ADAPTER
FLANGE
FIGURE 2.14
2.10 REMOVING and DUMPING GRASS CATCHER
(Slide Closure Type)
1. Grasp bag connector and bag handle as shown.
See Figure 2.15.
2. Lift up on bag handle, removing it from the
mower handle. Then lift up on bag connector
removing it from the adapter flange.
FIGURE 2.12
Attach grass bag hooks over middle handle cross
bar.
See Figure 2.13.
ATTACH BAG HOOKS
OVER MIDDLE HANDLE
CROSS BAR
FIGURE 2.13
MIDDLE HANDLE
CROSS BAR
2.9 INSTALLATION of GRASS CATCHER
(Slide Closure Type)
Position grass bag between handles. Install grass
catcher by sliding connector over flange of adapter.
Attach grass bag hooks over middle handle cross
bar. See Figure 2.14.
FIGURE 2.15
3. Dump bag by pulling bag slider off of Z-Fold at
rear of bag, opening bag. See Figure 2.16
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 2.16 (next page).
10
Loading...