Safety Instructions & Operator's Manual for
21" STEEL DECK
WALK MOWERS
COMMERCIAL MODEL
SERIES 13
PUSH PROPELLED
MODELS MODELS
CP215013KWV
MODEL NUMBER EXPLANATION
Icll 12
MODEL DESIGNATION
SELF-PROPELLED
CUTTING WIDTH
C - Commercial Model I P - Self Propelled Model
21 - 21" Cutting Width
60 - 5.0 HP (Engine Horse Power)
I
I
Nlvl
I
SERIES DESIGNATION
ENGINE HORSE POWER
13 - Series Designation
KW - Kawasaki Engine
V - Over Head Valve Engine
ENGINE OPTIONS
ENGINE TYPE
I
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.
51tiAPPER McDonough, GA., 30253 U.S.A.
COPYRIGHT © 2000
SNAPPER INC.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
MANUAL No. 7-4129 (I.R. 11/10/00)
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.
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.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
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.
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 reason.
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.
11. STOP engine and wait until the blade comes to
complete STOP before removing 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.
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.
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 ................................................ 2-3
TABLE OF CONTENTS ............................................................................ 4
SECTION 1 - FAMILIARIZATION .............................................................. 5
SECTION 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ......................................... 6-8
Pre-start Checklist ............................................................................................... 6
Starting & Stopping Engine & Blade .................................................................. 6
Starting & Stopping Wheel Drive ....................................................................... 7
Handle Height Adjustment .................................................................................. 7
Cutting Height Adjustment ................................................................................. 7
Recycling Operation ............................................................................................ 8
Installation of Grass Catcher .............................................................................. 8
SECTION 3 - MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS .................................. 9-12
Change Engine Oil ............................................................................................... 9
Check Transmission Grease ............................................................................. 10
Check Mower Blade ........................................................................................... 10
Check Engine Drive Belt ................................................................................... 10
Check Transmission Poly-V Belt ...................................................................... 10
Service - Annually ............................................................................................. 11
Engine .............................................................................................................. 11
Air Filter ........................................................................................................... 11
Engine Oil ........................................................................................................ 11
Storage Procedure ............................................................................................. 11
SECTION 4 - ADJUSTMENTS AND REPAIR .................................... 12-18
Mower Blade Replacement ............................................................................... 12
Blade Sharpening .............................................................................................. 12
Wheel Drive Control Adjustment ...................................................................... 13
Driven and Drive Disc Service ..................................................................... 13-17
Cleaning Drive Disc and Driven Disc ............................................................ 14
Drive Spring Repair/Replacement ................................................................. 14
Driven Disc Adjustment ............................................................................ 14-15
Driven Disc Replacement .......................................................................... 15-16
Driven Disc Bearing Replacement ................................................................ 16
Hex Shaft Bearing Replacement ................................................................... 17
Belt Service ................................................................................................... 17-18
Engine Drive Belt Replacement ............................................................... 17-18
Transmission Poly-V Belt Replacement ....................................................... 18
TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................................................ 19
SERVICE SCHEDULE ............................................................................ 20
Maintenance/Replacement Parts ...................................................................... 20
WARRANTY ............................................................................................ 21
PRIMARY MAINTENANCE ................................................................ 22-25
!IMPORTANT !
The figures and illustrations in this manual are provided for reference only and may differ
slightly from your specific model. Contact your local SNAPPER dealer if you have
questions.
Section 1 - FAMILIARIZATION
WHEELDRIVE CONTROL
CONTROL
HANDLE
ENGINE SPEED CONTROL
SYMBOLS
SPEED
CONTROL
"FAST"
BAG
FUEL VALVE
ROPE GUIDE
FULL FILLER
CAP
BAG ADAPTER
ENGINE OIL
DIPSTICK
CLEANER
AIR
GROUND SPEED
ADJUSTING LATCH
NOTE: GROUND SPEED
CONTROL HIDDEN IN
THIS VIEW BY BAG
HEIGHT
;LOW
!
I
MUFFLER
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 & 3 of this
manual and all safety messages on the mower and
attachments before operating the mower.
FIGURE 1.1
1.2 NOMENCLATURE
The nomenclature figure 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 and wheel drive control
to insure they work freely. See Figure 2.1.
WHEEL DRIVE
CONTROL
BLADE
CONTROL
2.2 STARTING & OPERATION
2.2.1. STARTING ENGINE & BLADE
IMPORTANT! SELECT GROUND SPEED BEFORE
STARTING ENGINE. REFER TO SECTION,
"PROPELLING MOWER".
1. Turn fuel valve to on. See Figure 1.1. Move
engine speed control to the "choke" position. The
choke should not be required to restart a hot
engine. See Figure 2.3.
NOTE: Stop the engine (and blade) by releasing the
blade control.
CONTROL SYMBOLS
"SLOW"
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
! ,
!1 .OLLMARK
lip NOTOVERF,LLI
FIGURE 2.2
2.1.5. Add fuel to tank after pushing the mower
outside where fumes can safely dissipate. Make
sure cap is tightened after refueling. Refer to
Engine Owners Manual for fuel specifications.
ENGINE
SPEED
CONTROL
CHOKE
FIGURE 2.3
2. Pull blade control against handle.
3. Pull rope start handle to crank engine.
4. After engine starts, move engine speed control
away from the choke position to the "Fast" (Rabbit)
position. See Figure 2.3.
5. Allow a brief warm-up until engine runs smooth.
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.
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
2.2.2. PROPELLING MOWER
(Self Propelled Models)
1. Move ground speed control to the desired
speed position. See Figure 2.4.
2. Start engine. Refer to Section "Starting Engine
& Blade".
3. Move wheel drive control against handle to
engage wheel drive and propel mower forward. Do
Not adjust ground speed with engine running.
GROUND SPEED CONTROL-_
FAST
SLOW
IMPORTANT! Some models are equipped with braces
that attach to the lower handle brackets and must be
loosened before handle height can be adjusted.
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.
STOP engine and mower blade by releasi
blade control before adjusting r
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 2.6.
WARNING gound :gete hde.I
LOWEST CUTTING
, ''HE,GHT --LATCH
/
FIGURE 2.4
2.3
STOPPING
Stop engine and blade by releasing the blade
control. Stop forward motion of mower by releasing
the wheel drive control. Turn fuel valve off.
2.4
HANDLE HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
The height of the mower handle can be adjusted
as follows:
1. Loosen the nuts on each lower handle as
shown in Figure 2.5.
HIGHER
LOWER
HANDLE
NUTS ON EACH
LOWER HANDLE
FIGURE 2.6
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 2.7.
LATCH
I
POSITIONS
CUTTING HEIGHT SETTINGS
FIGURE 2.7
FIGURE 2.5
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. Wear
heavy leather gloves when handling or working
around cutting blades. Blades are extremely sharp
and can cause severe injury.
2.6 RECYCLING OPERATION - OPTIONAL
ACCESSORY
Recycling operation requires optional accessory.
NOTE: For best recycling results, cut up to a maximum
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 slowly. 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 CATCHER
Position grass bag between handles. See Figure
2.8. Install grass catcher by sliding connector over
flange of adapter. Attach grass bag hooks over
middle handle cross bar. See Figure 2.9.
LOWER
HOOK BAG
HANDLE OVER
LOWER HANDLES
SLIDE CONNECTOR
OVEREND OF
ADAPTER FLANGE
FIGURE 2.9
WARNING
DO NOT operate without entire Grass Catcher or
guard in place. Grass Catcher components are
subject to deterioration during normal use. Inspect
frequently and replace worn or damaged
components immediately.
2.8 REMOVING and DUMPING GRASS CATCHER
1. Grasp bag connector and bag handle as
shown. See Figure 2.8.
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 2.10.
FIGURE 2.8
GRASP SLIDER. PULL
Z-FOLD INTO SLIDER
ADAPTER
FLANGE
FIGURE 2.10
Section 3 - MAINTENANCE
3.1 INTRODUCTION
To retain the quality of the mower, use genuine
SNAPPER replacement parts only. Contact a local
SNAPPER dealer for parts and service assistance.
For the correct part or information for a particular
mower, always mention model and serial number.
Refer to section "SERVICE SCHEDULE" in this
manual and in the engine manual for correct
maintenance intervals
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. Wear
heavy leather gloves when handling or working
around cutting blades. Blades are extremely sharp
and can cause severe injury.
3.2 SERVICE - AFTER FIRST 5 HOURS
The oil can be drained from the Kawasaki engine using
one of the following methods. Dispose of all drain oil
properly. Fill engine to proper level. Do Not over fill.
Refer to Engine Owner's Manual for oil specifications.
3.2.1. SIDE DRAIN PLUG. An oil drain plug is
located on the left rear side of the engine. See
Figure 3.1. Before removing the plug, place an
open funnel or trough under the plug to keep oil off
of the deck and to channel the oil to a drain pan.
Torque drain plug to 180-190 in-lb.
Oil from crankcase will saturate the air filter and cause
the engine to be hard to start or not start at all. If
contamination does occur, the air filter will have to be
replaced.
3.2.2. BOTTOM DRAIN PLUG. An oil drain plug
is located on the bottom of the engine forward of
the crankshaft. See Figure 3.2. Gain access to the
plug by raising the front of the mower. Remove
plug and drain oil into pan. Torque drain plug to
180-185 in-lb.
3.2.3 OIL DIPSTICK TUBE. The oil may be
drained through the oil dipstick tube. Remove
grass bag. Loosen lower handle knobs. Raise front
of mower and stand mower up on the lower handle
brackets. Remove dipstick and allow oil to drain
into pan. See Figure 3.3.
FIGURE 3.2
FIGURE 3.1
IMPORTANT: Drain fuel tank before tipping machine.
DO NOT tip machine with carburetor or spark plug down.
REMOVE
DIPSTICK AND
DRAIN OIL
INTO PAN
FIGURE 3.3