Snapper RZT20420BVE2 (7800010), RZT185380BVE (7800009), 7800010 Owner’s Manual
Simplicilq
OPERATOR'S
MANUAL
250 Z Series (Snapper)
Mfg. No. Description
7800009 RZT185380BVE, 18.5HP Zero-Turn Rider with 38" Mower
7800010 RZT20420BVE2, 20HP Zero-Turn Rider with 42" Mower
Javelin Series (Simplicity)
Mfg. No. Description
2690476 RZT20380KH, 20HP Zero-Turn Rider with 38" Mower
Form No. 7100313
Revision 02
Rev.Date 7/2006
TP 100-5077-02-HZ-SN
TableofContents
Safety Rules & Information ................................. 2
Identification Numbers ........................................ 5
Safety Decals ....................................................... 6
Safety Interlock System ...................................... 7
Features & Controls ............................................ 8
Control Functions .................................................... 8
Operation ........................................................... 10
General Operating Safety ..................................... 10
Checks Before Starting ......................................... 10
Starting the Engine ............................................... 11
Stopping the Rider & Engine ................................. 11
Mowing .................................................................. 11
Pushing the Rider by Hand ................................... 11
Zero Turn Driving Practice ..................................... 12
Attaching a Trailer .................................................. 14
Mower Removal & Installation ............................... 14
Regular Maintenance ........................................ 16
Schedule ............................................................... 16
Lubrication ............................................................ 17
Servicing the Mower Blades ................................. 18
Checking Tire Pressures ....................................... 19
Checking/Adding Fuel ........................................... 19
Fuel Filter .............................................................. 19
Engine Maintenance ............................................. 19
Battery Maintenance ............................................. 20
Storage .................................................................. 20
Troubleshooting, Adjustments & Service ....... 21
Troubleshooting the Rider ..................................... 21
Troubleshooting the Mower ................................... 22
Seat Adjustments .................................................. 23
Motion Control Lever Adjustment .......................... 23
Speed Balancing Adjustment ................................ 23
Motion Control Lever Friction Adjustment ............. 24
Cutting Height Adjustment .................................... 24
Roller Bar Adjustment ........................................... 24
Neutral Adjustments .............................................. 25
Parking Brake Adjustment ..................................... 26
Front Suspension Adjustment ............................... 26
PTO Clutch Adjustment ......................................... 27
Blade Brake Check ............................................... 27
Mower Deck Leveling ............................................ 28
Roller Bar Leveling ................................................ 29
Transmission Drive Belt Replacement .................. 30
Battery Charging ................................................... 30
Mower Belt Replacement ...................................... 31
Fuse Replacement ................................................ 32
Specifications .................................................... 33
Parts & Accessories .......................................... 34
NOTE: In this manual, "left" and "right" are referred to as
seen from the operating position.
AWARNING
You must read, understand and comply with all safety
and operating instructions in this manual before
attempting to set-up and operate your machine.
Failure to comply with all safety and operating
instructions can result in loss of machine control,
serious personal injury to you and / or bystanders,
and risk of equipment and property damage. The
triangle in the text signifies important cautions or
warnings which must be followed.
ILWARNING
Engine exhaust from this product contains
chemicals known, in certain quantities, to cause
cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
This manual contains safety information to make you
aware of the hazards and risks associated with the
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.
SafetyRules& Information
A IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS A
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 per-
sons 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 Products Inc., 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. 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. Never assume that children will
remain where you last saw them.
1. KEEP children out of the mowing area and under the watch-
ful care of a responsible adult other thanthe operator.
2. DO NOT allow children in yard when machine is operated
(even with the blade OFF).
3. DO NOT allow children or others to ride on machine, attach-
ments or towed equipment (even with the blades OFF). They
may fall and be seriously injured.
4. DO NOT allow pre-teenage children to operate machine.
5. ALLOW only responsible adults & teenagers with mature
judgment under close adult supervision to operate machine.
6. DO NOT operate blades in reverse. STOP BLADES. LOOK
and SEE behind and down for children, pets and hazards
before and while backing.
7. USE EXTRA CARE when approaching blind corners, shrubs,
trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.
PROTECTION AGAINST TIPOVERS
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 the slope, DO
NOT mow it. Use extra care with grass catchers or other
attachments; these affect the handling and the stability of
the machine.
1. DO NOT operate machine on slopes exceeding 15 degrees
(27% grade).
2. Exercise EXTREME CAUTION on slopes above 10 degrees
(18% grade). Turn blades OFF when traveling uphill. Use a
slow speed and avoid sudden or sharp turns.
3. DO NOT operate machine back and forth across face of
slopes. Operate up and down. Practice on slopes with blades
off.
4. AVOID starting, stopping or turning on slopes. If machine
stops going uphill or tires lose traction, turn blades OFF and
back slowly straight down the slope.
PROTECTION AGAINST TIPOVERS
(Continued From Previous Column)
5. STAY ALERT for holes and other hidden hazards. Tall grass
can hide obstacles. Keep away from ditches, washouts, cul-
verts, fences and protruding objects.
6. KEEP A SAFE DISTANCE (at least 3 feet) away from edge of
ditches and other drop offs. The machine could turn over if
an edge caves in.
7. Always begin forward motion slowly and with caution.
8. Use weights or a weighted load carrier in accordance with
instructions supplied with a grass catcher. DO NOT operate
machine on slopes exceeding 10 degrees (18% grade) when
equipped with grass catcher.
9. DO NOT put your foot on the ground to try to stabilize the
machine.
10. DO NOT operate machine on wet grass. Reduced traction
could cause sliding.
11. Chose a low enough speed setting so that you will not have
to stop or shift on a slope. Tires may lose traction on slopes
even though the brakes are functioning properly.
12. DO NOT operate machine under any condition where trac-
tion, steering or stability is doubtful.
13. Always keep the machine in gear when going down slopes.
DO NOT shift to neutral (or actuate hydro roll release) and
coast downhill.
PREPARATION
1. Read, understand, and follow instructions and warnings in
this manual and on the machine, engine and attachments.
Know the controls and the proper use of the machine before
starting.
2. Only mature, responsible persons shall operate the machine
and only after proper instruction.
3. Data indicates that operators age 60 and above, are involved
in a large percentage of mower-related injuries. These opera-
tors 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 from machine. DO NOT smoke.
5. Practice operation of machine with BLADES OFF to learn
controls and develop skills.
SafetyRulesandinformation
A
PREPARATION
(Continued From Previous Page)
6. 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.
7. Keep people and pets out of mowing area. Immediately STOP
blades, STOP engine, and STOP machine if anyone enters
the area.
8. Check shields, deflectors, switches, blade controls and other
safety devices frequently for proper operation and location.
9. Make sure all safety decals are clearly legible. Replace if
damaged.
10. Protect yourself when mowing and wear safety glasses, long
pants and substantial footwear.
11. Know how to STOP blades and engine quickly in preparation
for emergencies.
12. Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into a
trailer or truck.
13. 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 worn spots.
SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE
To avoid personal injury or property damage, use extreme
care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flamma-
ble and the vapors are explosive
1. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources of
ignition.
2. Use only an approved fuel container.
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, rather than 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. Never overfill a fuel tank. Replace fuel cap and tighten
securely.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
OPERATION
1. Mount and dismount machine from left side. Keep clear of
discharge opening at all times.
2. Start engine from operator's seat, if possible. Make sure
blades are OFF and parking brake isset.
3. DO NOT leave machine with engine running. STOP engine,
STOP blades, SET brake, and Remove key before leaving
operators position of any reason.
4. DO NOT operate machine unless properly seatedwith feet on
feet rests or pedal(s).
5. STOP BLADES and ENGINE and make sure blades have
stopped before removing grass catcher or unclogging mower
to prevent loss offingers or hand.
6. Blades must be OFF except when cutting grass. Set blades in
highest position when mowing over rough ground.
7. Keep hands and feet away from rotating blades underneath
deck. DO NOT place foot on ground while BLADES are ON or
machine is in motion.
8. DO NOT operate machine without entire grass catcher or
guards in place and working. DO NOT point discharge at peo-
ple, passing cars, windows or doors.
9. Slow down beforeturning.
10. Watch out for traffic when near or crossing roadways.
11. STOP engine immediately after striking an obstruction.
Inspect machine and repair damage before resuming opera-
tion.
12. Operate machine only in daylight or with good artificial light.
13. Move joystick (if equipped) SLOWLY to maintain control dur-
ing speed and directional changes.
14. Exercise CAUTION when pulling loads. Limit loads to those
you can safely control and attach loads to hitch plate as
specified with attachment instructions.
15. On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment may cause
loss of traction and loss of control. When towing, travel slow-
ly andallow extra distanceto stop.
16. DO NOT operate engine in enclosed areas. Engine exhaust
gases contain carbon monoxide, a deadly poison.
17. DO NOT discharge material against a wall or obstruction.
Material may ricochet back towards the operator.
18. Only use accessories approved by the manufacturer. See
manufacturer's instructions for properoperation and installa-
tion of accessories.
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. ThissparkignitionsystemcomplieswithCanadianICES-002.
3
SafetyRulesandinformation
A
TOWING
1. Tow only with a machine that has a hitch designed for tow-
ing. DO NOT attach towed equipment except at the hitch
point.
2. Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for weight limits
for towed equipment andtowing on slopes.
3. DO NOT allow children or others 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.
MAINTENANCE
1. DO NOT store machine 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 the reach of children in a well ven-
tilated, unoccupied building.
2. Keep 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 contain-
er outdoors andaway from open flame.
4. Check brakes frequently; adjust, repair or replace as needed.
5. Keep all bolts, nuts and screws properly tight. Check that all
cotter pins are in proper position.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
MAINTENANCE
(Continued From Previous Column)
6. Always provide adequate ventilation when running engine.
Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, an odorless and
deadly poison.
7. Disconnect negative (black) cable from battery before per-
forming maintenance or service. Cranking engine could
cause injury.
8. DO NOTwork under machine without safetyblocks.
9. Service engine and make adjustments only when engine is
stopped. Remove spark plug wire(s) from spark plug(s) and
secure wire(s) away from spark plug(s).
10. DO NOT change engine governor speed settings or over-
speed engine.
11. Lubricate machine at intervals specified in manual to prevent
controls from binding.
12. Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blades or
wear heavy leather gloves and use CAUTION when handling
them.
13. DO NOT test for spark by grounding spark plug next to spark
plug hole; spark plug could ignite gas exiting engine.
14. Have machine serviced by an authorized dealer at least once
a year and have the dealer install any new safety devices.
15. Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels as neces-
sary.
16. Use only genuine replacement parts to assure that original
standards are maintained.
WARNING
Grass Catcher bags used on this product are made of woven fab-
ric, and are subject to deterioration and wear during normal
usage. Check condition of bags before each use. Immediately
replace worn or damaged catcher bags with only bags recom-
mended by the manufacturer. The Grass Catcher is optional
equipment on some models.
IdentificationNumbers
Snapper
Models
Simplicity
IdentificationNumbers
LJnitIDTag
Models
When contacting your authorized dealer for replace-
ment parts, service, or information you MUST have
these numbers.
Record your model name/number, manufacturer's identi-
fication numbers, and engine serial numbers inthe
space provided for easy access. These numbers can be
found in the locations shown.
NOTE: For location of engine identification numbers,
refer to the engine owner's manual.
Model Description Name/Number
Unit MFGNumber Unit SERIAL Number
Mower Deck MFG Number Mower Deck SERIALNumber
Dealer Name Date Purchased
Engine Make Engine Model
Engine Type/Spec Engine Code/Serial Number
5
SafetyDecals
SAFETY DECALS
This unit has been designed and manufactured to pro-
vide 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 effec-
tively, we have placed several safety labels on the unit to
remind you of this important information while you are
operating your unit.
Decal - Ignition
Switch
Part No. 7100467
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 - Throttle
Control
Part No. 7100413
Decal - Park Brake Control
Part No. 7100332
Decal - Cutting
Height Adjust
Part No. 7100340
Decal - Motion
Control Levers
Part No. 7100333
Decal - Warning
Part No. 7100331
R(P.JLREL_ RODSAREL_ATED UHD_
THE_E
M_ SURE_GINE IJSOFF!
TOROLL TO BR_
move_s_ _f_c_
Decal - Roll Release Rods
Part No. 7100341
SafetyDecals(Cont.)&InterlockSystemChecks
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 tamp-
er with safety devices. Check their operation regularly.
Operational SAFETY Checks
TEST 1 -- ENGINE SHOULD NOT CRANK IF:
• PTO switch is engaged, OR
• Motion control levers are not locked in their NEU-
TRAL LOCKED positions.
TEST 2 -- ENGINESHOULD CRANK IF:
Decal - Danger- Cut Hands
Part No. 7013010
GUARBORENTIREGMSSCATCHER
WSTBEIHSTALLEBB ORE
Decal - Mower Guard
Part No. 7046720
• PTO switch is NOT engaged, AND
• Motion control levers are locked into their
NEUTRAL LOCKED positions.
TEST 3 -- ENGINESHOULD SHUT OFF IF:
• Operator rises off seat with PTO engaged, OR
• Operator rises off seat with motion control levers
not locked in their neutral locked positions, OR
• With operator seated, right motion control lever is
moved out of its neutral locked position before left
motion control lever.
TEST4 -- BLADE BRAKE CHECK
The mower blades and mower drive belt should come
to a complete stop within five seconds after the 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, the PTO switch
must be turned off, and the motion control levers must
be locked in their NEUTRAL LOCKED positions 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.
7
Features& 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 appfied in specific sequences. To learn what combination and sequence
of controls to use for various tasks see the OPERATION section.
Motion Control Levers
These levers control the ground speed and direction 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.
The further a lever is moved away from the neutral posi-
tion the faster the drive wheel will turn.
See the OPERATION section for steering instructions.
The engine speed control controls engine speed. Move
the engine speed control forward to increase engine
speed and back to decrease engine speed. Always
operate at FULL engine speed.
Close the choke for cold starting. Open the choke once
the engine starts. A warm engine may not require chok-
ing. Move the lever forward to close the choke. Move the
lever back to open the choke.
Engine Speed Control
Choke
Features& Controls
Ignition Switch
The ignition switch starts and stops the engine; it has
three positions:
_OFF
_RUN
[_ START Cranks the engine for starting.
NOTE: Never leave the ignition switch in the RUN posi-
tion with the engine stopped-this drains the battery.
Stops the engine and shuts off the
electrical system.
Allows the engine to run and powers the
electrical system.
B Hour Meter
The hour meter measures the number of hours the key
has been in the RUN position.
Note: The hour meter will register the passage of time
when the engine is running. The hour meter has a self
contained power source so the total hours are always
visible.
_PTO Switch
The PTO (Power Take-Off) switch engages and disen-
gages the mower blade clutch. To engage the PTO, pull
UP on the switch. Push DOWN to disengage. Note that
the operator must be seated firmly in the rider seat for
the PTO to function.
Fuel Tank Cap
To remove the cap, turn counterclockwise.
Mower Cutting Height Adjustment Lever
The mower cutting height is adjustable from 1-1/2" to 4", in
1/2" increments. See CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
for adjustment information.
Parking Brake
The parking brake is incorporated into the left motion con-
trol lever. Locking the lever into the neutral locked position
engages the parking brake; moving the lever out from the
neutral locked position disengages the brake.
Note: Both motion control levers must be locked into the
neutral lock position together, or the un# will stall.
I IMPORTANT
The figures and illustrations in this manual are
provided for reference only and may differ
from your specific model. Contact your dealer
if you have questions.
Transmission Release Valves
The transmission release valves deactivate the transmis-
sions so that the unit can be pushed by hand. See
PUSHING THE UNIT BY HAND for operational informa-
tion.
Seat Adjustment Knobs
The seat can be adjusted forward and backward. See
SEAT ADJUSTMENTS for adjustment information.
9
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
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 driving the unit.
r ,WARNING
Never operate on slopes greater than 27 percent
05°).
Select slow ground speed before driving onto a
slope. Use extra caution when operating on
slopes with a rear-mounted grass catcher.
Mow up and down slopes, not across the face,
use caution when changing directions and DO
NOT START OR STOP ON SLOPE.
CHECKS BEFORE STARTING
Check that the crankcase is filled to full mark on dip-
stick. See the engine owner's manual for instructions
and oil recommendations.
• Make sure all nuts, bolts, screws and pins are in
place and secure.
• Adjust the seat position, and make certain you can
reach all controls from the operator's position.
• Fill the fuel tank with fresh fuel. Refer to the engine
owner's manual for fuel recommendations.
AWARNING
Never allow passengers to ride on the unit.
Before leaving the operator's position for any
reason, lock the motion control levers in the
neutral locked position, 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.
WARNING
If you do not understand how a specific control
functions, or have not yet thoroughly read the
FEATURES & CONTROLS section, do so now.
Do NOT attempt to operate the rider without first
becoming familiar with the location and function
of ALL controls.
Figure 1. Pre-Start Checks
A. Fuel Tank Cap
B. Crankcase Oil Fill (Under Engine Cover)
C. Seat Adjustment Knobs
WARNING
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.
10
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