Snapper 500Z User Manual
00
5101453
Revision IR
Rev. Date: 1/2008
TP 100-7367-IR-ZT-N
26HP Zero-Turn Riders
Mfg. No. Description
5900731 500ZB2648 Snapper 26HP 500Z Zero-Turn Rider with 48” Mower
500Z Series
Safety Instructions & Operator's Manual for
ZERO-TURN RIDING MOWER
WARNING
Engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals
known, in certain quantities, to cause cancer, birth
defects, or other reproductive harm.
Thank you for purchasing this quality-built Snapper product. We’re pleased that you’ve
placed your confidence in the Snapper brand. When operated and maintained according
to the instructions in this manual, your Snapper product will provide many years of
dependable service.
This manual contains safety information to make you aware of the hazards and
risks associated with this machine and how to avoid them. This machine is designed and
intended to be used and maintained according to the manual for finish cutting of
established lawns and is not intended for any other purpose. It is important that you read
and understand these instructions thoroughly before attempting to start or operate this
equipment
ENGINE REFERENCE DATA
Unit Model Number
PRODUCT REFERENCE DATA
Unit SERIAL Number
Dealer Name
Date Purchased
Engine Make
Engine Model
Mower Deck Model Number
Mower Deck SERIAL Number
Engine Type/Spec.
Engine Code/Serial Number
DATE PURCHASED
See Features and Controls for the location of Identification Numbers
Copyright © 2008 Briggs & Stratton Corporation
Milwaukee, WI, USA. All rights reserved.
The Snapper logo is a trademark of Briggs & Stratton
Corporation Milwaukee, WI, USA.
Contact Information:
Snapper Products
535 Macon St.
McDonough, GA 30253
www.snapper.com
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Safety
Controls
Operation Maintenance Troubleshooting Specifications
Table of Contents
Operator Safety .....................................................2
Safety Rules and Information ...........................................2
Safety Decals....................................................................8
Safety Interlock System....................................................9
Features & Controls ..............................................10
Identification Numbers ...................................................10
Control Functions ...........................................................11
Operation...........................................................13
General ...........................................................................13
Checks Before Starting ...................................................13
Checking Tire Pressures.................................................14
Seat Adjustment .............................................................14
Mowing Height Adjustment ............................................15
Foot Pedal Adjustment....................................................15
Starting the Engine .........................................................16
Stopping the Rider..........................................................16
Pushing the Rider by Hand.............................................16
Zero Turn Driving Practice..............................................17
Mowing...........................................................................19
Mowing Reccomendations .............................................19
Mowing Methods............................................................20
Attaching a Trailer...........................................................21
Regular Maintenance ............................................22
Maintenance Schedule....................................................22
Checking/Adding Fuel .....................................................23
Fuel Filter........................................................................23
Oil & Filter Change..........................................................23
Lubrication......................................................................24
Check Transmission Oil Level .........................................25
Transmission Oil Filter Change .......................................25
Servicing the Mower Blades ...........................................26
Ground Speed Control Lever Adjustment .......................28
Speed Balancing Adjustment..........................................28
Neutral Adjustment.........................................................28
Parking Brake Adjustment ..............................................29
Return to Neutral Adjustment.........................................30
Deck Rod Timing Adjustment.........................................31
Deck Leveling Adjustment ..............................................31
Mower Belt Replacement................................................32
Hydraulic Pump Drive Belt Replacement ........................33
Battery Maintenance .......................................................34
Battery Service ...............................................................35
Storage ...........................................................................37
Starting After Long Term Storage...................................37
Troubleshooting ...................................................38
Troubleshooting the Rider ..............................................38
Troubleshooting the Mower............................................39
Troubleshooting Common Cutting Problems..................40
Specifications......................................................41
Slope Identification Guide.......................................42
NOTE: In this manual, “left” and “right” are referred to as seen
from the operating position.
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Safety
Operator Safety
OPERATING SAFETY
Congratulations on purchasing a superior-quality piece of lawn and
garden equipment. Our products are designed and manufactured to meet
or exceed all industry standards for safety.
Do not operate this machine unless you have been trained. Reading and
understanding this operator’s manual is a way to train yourself.
Power equipment is only as safe as the operator. If it is misused, or not
properly maintained, it can be dangerous! Remember, you are
responsible for your safety and that of those around you.
Use common sense, and think through what you are doing. If you are
not sure that the task you are about to perform can be safely done with
the equipment you have chosen, ask a professional: contact your local
authorized dealer.
READ THE MANUAL
The operator’s manual contains important safety information
you need to be aware of BEFORE you operate your unit as
well as DURING operation.
Safe operating techniques, an explanation of the product’s
features and controls, and maintenance information is
included to help you get the most out of your equipment
investment.
Be sure to completely read the Safety Rules and Information
found on the following pages. Also completely read the
Operation section.
CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur with children. Do not
allow them anywhere near the area of operation.
Children are often attracted to the unit and mowing
activity. Never assume that children will remain
where you last saw them. If there is a risk that
children may enter the area where you are mowing,
have another responsible adult watch them.
Operator Safety
Safety Rules and Information
3
Safety
Operator Safety
SLOPE OPERATION
Operation on slopes can be dangerous. Using the unit on a slope that is
too steep where you do not have adequate wheel traction (and control) can
cause sliding, loss of steering, control, and possible rollover. You should
not operate on a slope greater than a 5.4 foot rise over a 20 foot length (15
degrees).
Always mow across slopes, not up and down (to maintain traction on the
wheels) and avoid sudden turns or rapid speed changes. Reduce speed and
use extreme caution on ALL slopes.
Also, note that the surface condition you are on can greatly impact your
ability to safely operate this machine. Operating on wet or slippery slopes
can cause sliding and loss of steering and control. Do not operate on
slopes that are slippery, wet, or have soft soil conditions.
If you feel unsure about operating the unit on a slope, don’t do it. It’s not
worth the risk.
THROWN OBJECTS
This unit has spinning mower blades. These blades can pick up and throw
debris that could seriously injure a bystander. Be sure to clean up the area to
be mowed and remove objects that could be thrown by the blade BEFORE you
start mowing.
Do not operate this unit without the entire grass catcher or discharge guard
(deflector) in place.
Also, do not allow anyone in the area while the unit is running! If someone
does enter the area, shut the unit off immediately until they leave.
MOVING PARTS
This equipment has many moving parts that can injure you or
someone else. However, if you stay in the operator zone (stay
seated in the seat), and follow the safety rules in this operator’s
manual, the unit is safe to operate.
The mower deck has spinning mower blades that can amputate
hands and feet. Do not allow anyone near the unit while it is
running! Keep safety devices (guards, shields, and switches) in
place and working.
To help you, the operator, use this equipment safely, it is
equipped with an operator-present safety system. Do NOT
attempt to alter or bypass the system. See your dealer
immediately if the system does not pass all the safety interlock
system tests found in this manual.
FUEL AND MAINTENANCE
Always disengage all drives, shutoff the engine, and remove the
key before doing any cleaning, refueling, or servicing.
Gasoline and its vapors are extremely flammable. Do not smoke
while operating or refueling. Do not add fuel while engine is hot
or running. Allow engine to cool for at least 3 minutes prior to
adding fuel.
Do not add fuel indoors, in an enclosed trailer, garage, or any
other enclosed area that is not well ventilated. Gasoline spills
should be cleaned up promptly and before operation begins.
Gasoline should be stored only in sealed containers approved for
fuel.
Proper maintenance is critical to the safety and performance of
your unit. Keep the unit free of grass, leaves, and excess oil. Be
sure to perform the maintenance procedures listed in this
manual, especially periodically testing the safety system.
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Safety
RETAINING WALLS, DROP-OFFS, AND WATER
Retaining walls and drop-offs around steps and water are a common hazard. Give yourself a minimum of two mower widths
of clearance around these hazards and hand-trim with a walk behind mower or string trimmer. Wheels dropping over
retaining walls, edges, ditches, embankments, or into water can cause rollovers, which may result in serious injury, death, or
drowning.
Operator Safety
ENCLOSED AREAS
Only operate this unit outdoors and away from
unventilated areas such as inside garages or enclosed
trailers. The engine emits poisonous carbon
monoxide gas and prolonged exposure in an enclosed
area can result in serious injury or death.
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Safety
Operator Safety
GENERAL OPERATION
1. Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the
manual and on the unit before starting.
2. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the
machine. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all
times.
3. Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the
instructions, to operate the unit (local regulations can
restrict operator age).
4. Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc.,
which could be picked up and thrown by the blade(s).
5. Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing.
Stop the unit if anyone enters the area.
6. Never carry passengers.
7. Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary.
Always look down and behind before and while travelling
in reverse.
8. Never direct discharge material toward anyone. Avoid
discharging material against a wall or obstruction.
Material may ricochet back toward the operator. Stop
the blade(s) when crossing gravel surfaces.
9. Do not operate the machine without the entire grass
catcher, discharge guard (deflector), or other safety
devices in place and operational.
10. Slow down before turning.
11. Never leave a running unit unattended. Always disengage
the blades (PTO), set parking brake, stop engine, and
remove keys before dismounting.
12. Disengage blades (PTO) when not mowing. Shut off
engine and wait for all parts to come to a complete stop
before cleaning the machine, removing the grass
catcher, or unclogging the discharge guard.
13. Operate the machine only in daylight or good artificial
light.
14. Do not operate the unit while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
15 Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing
roadways.
16. Use extra care when loading or unloading the unit into a
trailer or truck.
17. Always wear eye protection when operating this unit.
18. Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above,
are involved in a large percentage of power equipmentrelated injuries. These operators should evaluate their
ability to operate the equipment safely enough to protect
themselves and others from injury.
19. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for wheel
weights or counterweights.
20. Keep in mind the operator is responsible for accidents
occurring to other people or property.
21. All drivers should seek and obtain professional and
practical instruction.
22. Always wear substantial footwear and trousers. Never
operate when barefoot or wearing sandals.
23. Before using, always visually check that the blades and
blade hardware are present, intact, and secure. Replace
worn or damaged parts.
24. Disengage attachments before: refueling, removing an
attachment, making adjustments (unless the adjustment
can be made from the operator’s position).
25. When the machine is parked, stored, or left unattended,
lower the cutting means unless a positive mechanical
lock is used.
26. Before leaving the operator’s position for any reason,
engage the parking brake (if equipped), disengage the
blades (PTO), stop the engine, and remove the key.
27. To reduce fire hazard, keep the unit free of grass, leaves,
& excess oil. Do not stop or park over dry leaves, grass,
or combustible materials.
28. It is a violation of California Public Resource Code
Section 4442 to use or operate the engine on or near
any forest-covered, brush-covered, or grass-covered
land unless the exhaust system is equipped with a spark
arrester meeting any applicable local or state laws.
Other states or federal areas may have similar laws.
29. OSHA regulations may require the use of hearing
protection when exposed to sound levels greater than 85
dBA for an 8 hour time period.
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.
TRANSPORTING AND STORAGE
1. When transporting the unit on an open trailer, make sure
it is facing forward, in the direction of travel. If the unit
is facing backwards, wind lift could damage the unit.
2. Always observe safe refueling and fuel handling
practices when refueling the unit after transportation or
storage.
3. Never store the unit (with fuel) in an enclosed poorly
ventilated structure. Fuel vapors can travel to an ignition
source (such as a furnace, water heater, etc.) and cause
an explosion. Fuel vapor is also toxic to humans and
animals.
4. Always follow the engine manual instructions for
storage preparations before storing the unit for both
short and long term periods.
5. Always follow the engine manual instructions for proper
start-up procedures when returning the unit to service.
6. 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.
CAUTION
This machine produces sound levels in
excess of 85 dBA at the operator’s ear and
can cause hearing loss through extended
periods of exposure.
Wear hearing protection when operating this
machine.
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Safety
Operator Safety
attaching a trailer under OPERATION.
3. Never allow children or others in or on towed
equipment.
4. On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment may
cause loss of traction and loss of control.
5. Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop.
6. Do not shift to neutral and coast down hill.
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.
1. Keep children out of the mowing area and under the
watchful care of another responsible adult.
2. Be alert and turn unit off if children enter the area.
3. Before and during reverse operation, look behind and
down for small children.
4. Never carry children, even with the blade(s) off. They
may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with
safe unit operation. Children who have been given rides
in the past may suddenly appear in the mowing area for
another ride and be run over or backed over by the
machine.
5. Never allow children to operate the unit.
6. Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs,
trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.
EMISSIONS
1. Engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals
known, in certain quantities, to cause cancer, birth
defects, or other reproductive harm.
2. Look for the relevant Emissions Durability Period and Air
Index information on the engine emissions label.
IGNITION SYSTEM
1. This spark ignition system complies with Canadian
ICES-002.
SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and tipover accidents, which can result in severe injury or death.
Operation on all slopes requires extra caution. If you cannot
back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not operate on
it.
Control of a walk-behind or 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 its task, lack of awareness of the
ground conditions, incorrect hitching and load distribution.
1. Mow across slopes, not up and down.
2. Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could
overturn the unit. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
3. Choose a slow speed so that you will not have to stop or
change speeds while on the slope.
4. Do not mow on wet grass. Tires may loose traction.
5. Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a slope. If tires
lose traction (i.e. machine stops forward motion on a
slope), disengage the blade(s) (PTO) and drive slow off
the slope.
6. Keep all movement on slopes slow and gradual. Do not
make sudden changes in speed or direction, which could
cause the machine to rollover.
7. Use extra care while operating machines with grass
catchers or other attachments; they can affect the
stability of the unit. Do not use on steeps slopes.
8. Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot
on the ground (ride-on units).
9. 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.
10. Do not use grass catchers on steep slopes.
11. Do not mow slopes if you cannot back up them.
12. See your authorized dealer/retailer for recommendations
of wheel weights or counterweights to improve stability.
13. Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.
14. Use slow speed. Tires may lose traction on slopes even
though the brakes are functioning properly.
15. Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn
slowly and gradually uphill, if possible. Never mow
down slopes.
TOWED EQUIPMENT (RIDE-ON UNITS)
1. Tow only with a machine that has a hitch designed for
towing. Do not attach towed equipment except at the
hitch point.
2. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for weight
limit for towed equipment and towing on slopes. See
WARNING
Never operate on slopes greater than 15° which is a
rise of 5.4 feet (1,6 m) vertically in 20 feet (6 m)
horizontally.
Select slow ground speed before driving onto slope.
Use extra caution when operating on slopes with rearmounted grass catchers.
Mow across the face of slopes, not up and down,use
caution when changing directions and DO NOT START
OR STOP ON SLOPE.
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Safety
Operator Safety
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
Safe Handling of Gasoline
1. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other sources
of ignition.
2. Use only approved gasoline containers.
3. Never remove the gas cap or add fuel with the engine
running. Allow the engine to cool before refueling.
4. Never fuel the machine indoors.
5. Never store the machine or fuel container where there is
an open flame, spark, or pilot light such as near a water
heater or other appliance.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing
immediately.
10. Never over-fill the fuel tank. Replace gas cap and tighten
securely.
11. Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They
are flammable and vapors are explosive.
12. 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 fuel vapors
have dissipated.
13. Replace all fuel tank caps and fuel container caps
securely.
Service & Maintenance
1. Never run the unit in an enclosed area where carbon
monoxide fumes may collect.
2. Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment bolts,
tight and keep equipment in good condition.
3. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper
operation regularly and make necessary repairs if they
are not functioning properly.
4. Keep unit free of grass, leaves, or other debris build-up.
Clean up oil or fuel spillage. and remove any fuel-soaked
debris. Allow machine to cool before storage.
5. If you strike an object, stop and inspect the machine.
Repair, if necessary, before restarting.
6. Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine
running.
7. Check grass catcher components and the discharge
guard frequently and replace with manufacturer’s
recommended parts, when necessary.
8. Mower blades are sharp. Wrap the blade or wear
gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.
9. Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service as
required.
10. Maintain or replace safety and instructions labels, as
necessary.
11. Do not remove the fuel filter when the engine is hot as
spilled gasoline may ignite. Do not spread fuel line
clamps further than necessary. Ensure clamps grip
hoses firmly over the filter after installation.
12. Do not use gasoline containing METHANOL, gasohol
containing more than 10% ETHANOL, gasoline additives,
or white gas because engine/fuel system damage could
result.
13. If the fuel tank must be drained, it should be drained
outdoors.
14. Replace faulty silencers/mufflers.
15. Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels as
necessary.
16. Use only factory authorized replacement parts when
making repairs.
17. Always comply with factory specifications on all settings
and adjustments.
18. Only authorized service locations should be utilized for
major service and repair requirements.
19. 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.
20. On multiple blade mowers, take care as rotating one
blade can cause other blades to rotate.
21. Do not change engine governor settings or over-speed
the engine. Operating the engine at excessive speed can
increase the hazard of personal injury.
22. 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.
23. Never place hands near the moving parts, such as a
hydro pump cooling fan, when the tractor is running.
(Hydro pump cooling fans are typically located on top of
the transaxle).
24. Units with hydraulic pumps, hoses, or motors:
WARNING: Hydraulic fluid escaping under pressure may
have sufficient force to penetrate skin and cause serious
injury. If foreign fluid is injected into the skin it must be
surgically removed within a few hours by a doctor
familiar with this form of injury or gangrene may result.
Keep body and hands away from pin holes or nozzles
that eject hydraulic fluid under high pressure. Use paper
or cardboard, and not hands, to search for leaks. Make
sure all hydraulic fluid connections are tight and all
hydraulic hoses and lines are in good condition before
applying pressure to the system. If leaks occur, have the
unit serviced immediately by your authorized dealer.
25. WARNING: Stored energy device. Improper release of
springs can result in serious personal injury. Springs
should be removed by an authorized technician.
26. Models equipped with an engine radiator: WARNING:
Stored energy device. To prevent serious bodily injury
from hot coolant or steam blow-out, never attempt to
remove the radiator cap while the engine is running.
Stop the engine and wait until it is cool. Even then, use
extreme care when removing the cap.
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Safety
Operator Safety
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.
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4
1
2
3
5
4
6
3
5
6
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6
Operator Safety
Safety Interlock System
This unit is equipped with safety interlock switches. 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
Test 1 — Engine should NOT crank if:
• PTO switch is engaged, OR
• Parking brake is not engaged, OR
• Ground speed control levers are not in the NEUTRAL
position.
Test 2 — Engine SHOULD crank if:
• PTO switch is NOT engaged, AND
• Parking brake is engaged, AND
• Ground speed control levers are locked in the NEUTRAL
position.
Test 3 — Engine should SHUT OFF if:
• Operator rises off seat with PTO engaged, OR
• Operator rises off seat with parking brake disengaged.
• Operator moves ground speed control levers out of
their neutral positions before disengaging parking
brake.
Test 4 — Blade Brake Check
Mower blades and mower drive belt should come to a
complete stop within seven (7) seconds after electric PTO
switch is turned off (or operator rises off seat). If mower
drive belt does not stop within seven (7) seconds, see your
dealer.
NOTE: Once the engine has stopped, PTO switch must be
turned off, parking brake must be engaged, and the motion
control handles must be locked in the NEUTRAL position
after the 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.
Safety Icons
The alert symbol is used to identity safety information
about hazards that can result in personal injury. A signal
word (DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION) is used with the
alert symbol to indicate the likelihood and the potential
severity of the injury. In addition, a hazard icon may be
used to represent the type of hazard. An explanation of
hazard levels and icons are as follows:
DANGER
This indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, will result in
serious injury or death.
WARNING
This indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, could result in
serial injury or death.
CAUTION
This indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, might result in
minor or moderate injury.
CAUTION or NOTICE
These messages presented without the alert symbol indicate
a situation where the unit or property could be damaged.
Hazard
Safety Icon
Alert
Toxic Fumes
Read the
Manual
Open Flame
Hazard
Fire Hazard
Amputation
Rotating
Parts
Amputation
Hand in
Blade
Hazard
Safety Icon
Amputation
Foot in Blade
Thrown
Objects
Maintain a
Safe
Distance
Keep
Children
Away
Hot Surface
Wear
Protective
Gear
Pinch Point
North American Safety Icons
Rollover
Hazard
Overhead
Obstacles
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Safety
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Controls
Features and Controls
Identification Numbers
SSAAMMPPLLEE
When contacting your authorized dealer for replacement
parts, service, or information you MUST have these
numbers.
Record your part number, serial number and engine serial
numbers in the space provided on the inside front cover for
easy access. These numbers can be found in the locations
shown in Figure 1.
NOTE: For location of engine identification numbers, refer to
the engine owner’s manual.
Figure 1. Identification Numbers
A. Identification Tag
A
Features and Controls
11
Controls
Control Functions
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.
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 lever
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.
See the Operation section for proper steering instructions.
Seat Adjustment Lever
The seat can be adjusted forward and back. Move the lever
towards the left, position the seat as desired, and release the
lever to lock the seat in position.
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.
Figure 2. Control Locations
Features and Controls
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Controls
Fuel Tank Cap
To remove the cap, turn counterclockwise.
Fuel Level Gauge
Displays the fuel level in the tank.
Transmission Oil Fill
This unit is equipped with two transmission oil reservoirs.
The transmission oil reservoirs are located beneath the
operator’s seat and in front of the engine. Transmission oil
is added through the transmission oil reservoirs. It also
serves as extra holding capacity as the transmissions heat
up and the oil expands. See CHECK TRANSMISSION OIL
LEVEL for oil level check and fill procedures.
Features & Controls
Parking Brake
DISENGAGE Releases the parking brake.
ENGAGE Locks the parking brake.
Pull the parking brake lever up to engage the parking brake.
Push the lever down to disengage the parking brake.
NOTE:
To start the unit the parking brake must be engaged.
PTO (Power Take Off) Switch
The PTO switch engages and disengages the mower. Pull UP
on the switch to engage, and push DOWN to disengage.
Deck Lift Pedal, Cutting Height
Adjustment Pin & Deck Lift Lock
Lever
These control the cutting height of the mower deck.
Depress the pedal until it locks into the 4-1/2” (11,47 cm)
position. Place the adjustment pin in the desired cutting
height and release the lift lock lever.
Throttle Control
The throttle controls engine speed. Move the throttle
forward to increase engine speed and back to decrease
engine speed. Always operate at FULL throttle.
Choke
Close the choke for cold starting. Open the choke once the
engine starts. A warm engine may not require choking. Pull
the knob UP to close the choke. Push to knob DOWN to
open the choke.
Hour Meter / Maintenance Reminder
Measures the time of the PTO being engaged. The hour
meter measures the number of hours the PTO has been
engaged. The hour meter will flash an initial oil change
indicator at 5 hours, and a lubrication reminder every 50
hours. These reminders display for approximately two
hours and will automatically reset themselves.
Note: The hour meter will register the passage of time only
when the PTO is engaged. The hour meter has a self
contained power source so the total hours are always
visible.
13
Operation
General Operating Safety
Before first time operation:
• Be sure to read all information in the Safety and
Operation sections before attempting to operate this
tractor 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.
Checks Before Starting
• Check that crankcase is filled to full mark on the engine
oil dipstick (A, Figure 3). See the engine Operator’s
Manual for instructions and oil recommendations.
• Fill the fuel tanks with fresh fuel. Refer to engine manual
for fuel recommendations.
• Make sure all nuts, bolts, screws and pins are in place
and tight.
• Make sure the fuel selector valve (B) is in the “ON”
position.
• Check the tire pressures. See
Check Tire Pressures
.
• Adjust the seat position, and make certain you can reach
all controls from operator’s position. See
Seat
Adjustment
• Adjust the height of the mower deck to the desired
position. See
Mowing Height Adjustment.
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, tractor and
mower free of grass, leaves and excess grease. Do not
stop or park tractor 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.
Do not load this zero-turn rider on a trailer or truck
using two separate ramps. Only use a single ramp that
is at least one foot wider than the width of the rear
wheels of this rider. This rider has a zero turning
radius and the rear wheels could fall off the ramps, or
the rider could tip over injuring the operator or
bystanders.
WARNING
Never operate on slopes greater than (15°) which is a
rise of 5.4 feet (1,6 m) vertically in 20 feet (607 cm)
horizontally.
Select slow ground speed before driving onto a slope.
Use extra caution when operating on slopes with a
rear-mounted grass catcher.
Mow across the face of slopes, not up and down, use
caution when changing directions and DO NOT START
OR STOP ON SLOPE.
WARNING
Operation
Operation
Figure 3. Checks Before Starting
A. Engine Oil Dipstick
B. Fuel Valve Selector
B
A
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