Safety Instructions & Operator's Manual for
21" STEEL DECK
WALK MOWERS
COMMERCIAL MODEL
SERIES 12
MODEL DESIGNATION
SELF-PROPELLED
CUTTING WIDTH
C - Commercial Model I P - Self Propelled Model
21 - 21" Cutting Width I
40 - 4.0 HP (Engine Horse Power)
SO- S.0 HP (Engine Horse Power)
56 - 6.6 HP (Engine Horse Power)
65 - 6.5 HP (Encline Horse Power)
MODEL NUMBER EXPLANATION
12 - Series Designation
KW - Kawasaki Engine
R- Robin Engine
V - Over Head Valve Engine
MODELS
C216012RV
Nlvl
PUSH
I
PROPELLED
MODELS
CP214012R2
CP216012RV
CP216512RV
CP215512KWV
ENGINE OPTIONS
ENGINE TYPE
SERIES DESIGNATION
ENGINE HORSE POWER
I 2 - 2 Cycle Engine
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.
COPYRIGHT © 1999
SNAPPER INC.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
_lm_rr_n
_McDonough, GA,, 30253 U.S,A,
MANUAL No. 3-5725 (REV. 2, 9/2/99)
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 crass 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 repairthe 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
Section 1 - FAMILIARIZATION
-- WHEEL DRIVE
CONTROL
HANDLE
BAG
SLIDER
MID
HANDLE
GRASS
BAG
LOWER
HANDLE
REAR HEIGHT
ADJUSTMENT LATCH
ENGINE SPEED
CONTROL
BLADE
_CONTROL
\
GROUND
CONTROL
RELEASE TO STOP BLADE CONTROL-
FORWARD MOTION /.-RELEASE TO STOP
ENGINE
CONTROL
_--- ROPE START HANDLE
DRIVE CONTROL-
/BLADEAND ENGINE
SLOW
FILLER CAP
OIL FILL CAP &
OHV ENGINE
MUFFLER
GROUND
CONTROL
4-CYCLE
ENGINE
r--SPEE D
DECAL
=
"CHOKE"
"FAST"
D
l
I "SLOW"
GRASS BAG,
CONNECTOR
ENGINE MR
BREATHER COVER
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 & 3 of this
manual and all safety messages on the mower and
attachments before operating the mower.
CATCHER MODEL SHOWN
(ROPE START MOUNTED ON
LEFT SIDE OF HANDLE)
" FRONT HEIGHT
ADJUSTING LATCH
___ MOWER DECK
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 and wheel drive control
to insure they work freely. See Figure 2.1.
WHEEL DRIVE
[-- CONTROL BLADE
2.1.6. Clean exterior surfaces of cutting deck and
engine of any accumulation of spilled fuel, dirt,
grass, oil, etc. Keep engine air intake screen and
cooling fins clear at all times.
2.2 STARTING & OPERATION
2.2.1. ENGINE & BLADE
1. Move engine speed control
position. See Figure 2.3.
NOTE: Stop the engine (and blade) by releasing the
blade control.
CATCHER MODEL SHOWN
(ROPE START MOUNTED ON
to the "choke"
LE TS,DEOrHANDLE
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
FIGURE 2.2
BLADE
WHEEL DRIVE
CONTROL
ENGINESPEEDCONTROL
(SHOWN IN CHOKE POSITION)
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.
2.1.5. 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 specifications.
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. 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 2.4.
MOVE CONTROL
AGAINST HANDLE
TO ENGAGE (FAST) SPEED CONTROL
WHEEL DRIVE SIXTH SPEED TO DESIRED
POSITION POSITION 7
WHEEL DRIVE
CONTROL
BLADE
CONTROL
MOVE GROUND
/
FIRST SPEED
POSITION _-J_
/
2. Move upper mower handle up or down until the
desired position is achieved.
3. Tighten the lower nuts on each lower handle to
maintain desired position.
. WARNING
ei°_n_!i°_ _n1°rm°awd_rusbtli_;ecbutYirglehsiiggtth°:I
2.5 CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
1. Pull the height adjusting latch outward and
move to desired cutting height. See Figure 2.6.
LOWEST CUTTING
I '1 HE GHT
i
t
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.
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
LOWER
I NUTS ON EACH
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.
POSITIONS
I
CUTTING HEIGHT SETTINGS
FIGURE 2.7
/ "
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. SLIDE
NOTE: For best recycling results, cut up to a maximum ADAPTERFLANGE
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.
HOOK BAG
HANDLE OVER
OVER END OF
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.
FIGURE 2.9
WARNING
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.
HANDLE
FLANGE
FIGURE 2.8
ADAPTER
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.
IMPORTANT: DO NOT tip machine with carburetor or
spark plug down. 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
SERVICE - AFTER FIRST 5 HOURS
3.2.1. CHANGE ENGINE OIL
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.
(ROBIN ENGINES)
1. Refer to Eng ne Manual for proper oil
specifications and procedures.
2. For simplest/cleanest oil change, loosen lower
handle wing nuts and stand mower up on lower
handle as shown in Figure 3.1. Drain oil through
dipstick tube into a container.
(KAWASAKI ENGINES)
1. The items needed to perform oil change are:
cloth rags, (1) 24" long plastic hose and (1) 2 quart
shallow pan.
2. Tilt mower on its left wheels and place blocks
under the right wheels. See Figure 3.1.
3. Attach plastic hose over end of nipple on oil
drain plug and allow opposite end to lay in pan.
4. Using a wrench, turn oil drain plug counter
clockwise until oildrains freely from engine into pan.
NOTE: Check specific model engine owner's
manual for changing engine oil procedure.
KAWASAKI ENGINE SHOWN
FILTER "_,'
"_/_'. _'----"_" _I OIL DRAIN
I_ ,I
FIGURE 3.1
FIGURE 3.1
5. Retighten oil drain after oil has completely
drained from engine. Remove plastic hose. Wipe
up any spilled oil. Dispose of oil properly.
6. Place cloth underneath oil filter. Remove oil
filter and filter gasket. Wipe up any spilled oil.
7. Install new oil filter and filter gasket.
NOTE: Correct oil filter and filter gasket specified
in Engine Owner's Manual.
8. Fill engine with oil as specified in Engine
Owner's Manual. Thereafter, change oil after each
25 hours of use.