Snapper ELP21702BV User Manual

Safety Instructions & Operator’s Manual for

EUROPEAN

21” CAST ALUMINUM DECK

WALK MOWERS

SERIES 2

MODEL NUMBER EXPLANATION

E L P 21 70 2 BV

MODEL DESIGNATION ENGINE OPTIONS SELF-PROPELLED SERIES DESIGNATION CUTTING WIDTH ENGINE HORSE POWER

E – European Model 70 – 7.0 HP (Engine Horse Power) L – Aluminum Deck 2 - Series Designation P – Self Propelled B – Briggs & Stratton 21 – 21” Cutting Width V - Over Head Valve 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!

SELF-PROPELLED

MODEL

ELP21702BV

MANUAL No. 7-5519 (I.R.3/11//03)

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING: This powerf ul cutting machine is capab le of amputating hand s and feet and can throw objects that can cause injury and damage! Failure to comply with the follow ing SAFETY instru ctions could resu lt 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 mach ine 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 object s 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 cau tion. 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 o perators age 60 and abov e, are involved in a large percentage of mowerrelated injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from serious injury.

4. Handle fuel wit h ext ra care. Fuels are flammab le 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 mo win g. 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 dev ices frequently for proper operation and location.

8. Make sure all safety decals are clearly legible. Replace if damaged.

9. Protect yourself when mowing and wear safety glasses, long pants and substantial footwear. DO NOT mow barefooted or with sandals.

10. Know how to STOP blade and engine quickly in preparation for emergencies.

11. Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into a trailer or truck.

12. Check grass catcher components frequently for signs of wear or deterioration and replace as needed to prevent injury from thrown objects going through weak or torn spots.

SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE

To avoid personal injury or property damage , use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive

1. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources of ignition.

2. Use only an approved fuel container.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE

(Continued From Previous Page)

3. DO NOT remove fuel cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow the engine to cool before refue ling.

4. DO NOT refuel the machine indoors.

5. DO NOT store the machine or fuel cont ainer inside where there is an open flame, spark or pilot light such as on a water heater or other appliances.

6. DO NOT fill f uel containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer bed w ith a plast ic 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 pow ered equipment in enclosed vehicles or trailers.

9. Keep the nozzle in contact w ith the rim of the fuel tank or container opening at all times until fueling is complete. DO NOT use a nozzle lock-open device

10. If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing immediately.

11. DO NOT overfill a fuel tank. Replace fuel cap and tighten securely.

OPERATION

1. DO NOT put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep clear of discharg e 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 t he 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 re ason.

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.

OPERATION

(Continued From Previous Column)

11. STOP engine and wait until the blade comes to complete STOP before removin g 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.

MAINTENA NCE A ND STORA GE

1. DO NOT store mower or fuel container inside where fumes may reach an open flame, spark or pilot ligh t such as in a water heater, f urnace, 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 appr oved container outdoors and away from open fla me.

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; sp ark plug could ignite gas exiting engine.

11. Have machine serviced by an autho rized 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

this manual are provided for reference only and

may differ from your specific model. Contact your Snapper dealer if you have

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 & Blades............................................................. 6-7

Starting & Stopping Wheel Drive .......................................................................7

Handle Height Adjustment.................................................................................. 7

Cutting Height Adjustment ................................................................................. 8

Recycling Operation............................................................................................ 8

Installation of Grass Catcher.............................................................................. 8

SECTION 3 - MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS..................................9-10

Service - After First 5 Hours................................................................................ 9

Change Engine Oil............................................................................................ 9

Check Transmission Grease ........................................................................... 9

Check Wheel Drive Control ............................................................................. 9

Check Mower Blade........................................................................................ 10

Check Engine to Transmission Drive Belt ................................................... 10

Service - Annually.............................................................................................. 10

Engine.............................................................................................................. 10

Air Filter........................................................................................................... 10

Engine Oil........................................................................................................ 10

Storage Procedure............................................................................................. 10

SECTION 4 - ADJUSTMENTS AND REPAIR....................................11-15

Mower Blade Replacement ............................................................................... 11

Blade Sharpening .........................................................................................11-12

Wheel Drive Control Adjustment...................................................................... 12

Belt Service ........................................................................................................ 13

Battery Service.............................................................................................. 14-15

TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................................................ 16

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE.................................................................. 17

Maintenance/Replacement Parts...................................................................... 17

DECAL IDENTIFICATION..................................................................18-20

WARRANTY............................................................................................ 21

The figures and illustrations in

questions.

IMPORTANT

Section 1 - FAMILIARIZATION

CONTROL

HANDLEBAR

WHEEL DRIVE

BLADE CONTROL

GROUND SPEED CONTROL

ENGINE SPEED CONTROL

ROPE START HANDLE

SINGLE POINT HEIGHT OF CUT ADJUSTING HANDLE

HANDLE BAR SUPPORT

GRASS CATCHER

DISCHARGE DOOR

OIL FILL/CHECK

FUEL CAP

MOWER DECK

1.1 INTRODUCTION

This manual has been prepar ed 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.

PRIMER

FIGURE 1.1

1.2 NOMENCLATURE

The nomenclature information 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

SLOW

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 mak e sure all are in place and securely tightened.

WARNING

DO NOT start or operate this machine without installing the recycling plug or the entire grass catcher.

2.1.2. Chec k blade control and wheel drive control to

insure they work freely. See Figure 2.1.

BLADE CONTROL

2.1.5. The battery should be removed fr om its carton

and filled with electrolyte. Refer to Section “BATTERY SERVICE” for battery preparation.

2.1.6. Add fuel to tank after pushing the mower outside where fumes can saf ely dissipate. Make sure cap is tightened after refueling. Refer to Engine Owners Manual for specifications.

2.1.7. 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 (Primer Models) (Recoil Start)

1. Move engine speed control to the “Fast” (Rabbit)

position. See Figure 2.3.

IMPORTANT: Stop the engine (and blade) by releasing the blade control.

TO START

BLADE CONTROL

WHEEL DRIVE CONTROL

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.

FUEL CAP

OIL FILL/CHECK

FIGURE 2.2

TO STOP

ENGINE SPEED CONTROL

FAST CHOKE (KAWASAKI)

PRIMER BUTTON

FIGURE 2.3

2. Push primer button three times to start a cold

engine. NOTE: Do not use primer button to start warm engine.

3. Pull blade control against handle.

4. Pull rope start handle to crank engine.

5. After engine starts, allow a brief warm-up until

engine runs smooth.

Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

CONTROL

2.2 STARTING & OPERATION

2.2.2. ENGINE & BLADE (Primer Models) (Electric Start)

When the ignition key is turned to “START”, the engine will not crank over and will not start unless the blade control is engaged!

1. Move engine speed control to the “Fast” (Rabbit) position. See Figure 2.4.

2. Push primer button three times to start a cold engine. NOTE: Do not use primer button to start warm engine.

3. Pull blade control against handle.

4. Turn key to the start position until engine starts.

See Figure 2.4.

NOTE: If after 5 seconds of cranking the engine does not start, release the key and attempt starting again af ter waiting for approximately 20 seconds.

5. After engine starts, allow a brief warm-up until engine runs smooth.

BLADE CONTROL

FAST

IGNITION KEY

FIGURE 2.4

2.2.2. ENGINE & BLADE (Choke Models) (Recoil Start)

1. Open fuel valve located at the top rear of engine

(Kawasaki engines).

2. Move engine speed control to the “CHOKE” position. See Figure 2.3. IMPORTANT: Stop the engine (and blade) by releasing blade control.

3. Pull blade control against handle.

4. Pull rope start handle to crank engine.

5. After engine starts , m ove engine speed contr ol to

the “FAST” (Rabbit) position and allow a brief warm up until engine runs smooth.

2.2.3. PROPELLING MOWER

1. Move ground speed control to the desired speed

position. See Figure 2.5.

2. Move wheel drive control against handle to engage wheel drive and propel mower forward.

IMPORTANT: Forward m otion of machine must be stopped before changing position of the ground speed control. See Figure 2.5.

WHEEL DRIVE

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 mo wer handle can be adjusted as follows:

1. Loosen the lower nuts on each lower handle as shown in Figure 2.6.

LOOSEN NUTS TO ADJUST HANDLE BAR

2. Move upper mower handle up or down until the

desired position is achieved.

3. Tighten the nuts on each lower handle bracket to maintain desired position. T orque nuts to 15 to 25 ft. lbs.

GROUND SPEED CONTROL

ENGINE SPEED CONTROL

FIGURE 2.5

FIGURE 2.6

Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

HANDLE

WARNING

DO NOT attempt any maintenance, adjustments or service with engine and blade running. STOP engine and blade. Remove key. Disconnect spark plug w ire and secure away from spark plug. Engine and components are HOT. Avoid serious burns, allow sufficient time for all components to cool.

2.5 CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT

1. Pull the cutting height adjusting handle outward

and move to desired cutting height. See Figure 2.7.

IMPORTANT: DO NOT flex the cutting height adjusting handle outward beyond what is required to change cutting height. Pulling outward too far may cause damage to the handle.

CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTING HANDLE

INSERT RECYCLING PLUG

2.7 INSTALLATION of GRASS CA TCHER

1. Follow WARNING statement found on this page.

2. Lift discharge door located at the rear of

machine. See Figure 2.9.

3. Install grass catcher onto the rear of machine. Position the rod ends of catcher f rame over the tabs located at the rear of deck. Releas e discharge door, which is spring loaded, onto top of grass catcher.

FIT ROD ENDS OVER TABS

LIFT DISCHARGE DOOR

FIGURE 2.8

LIFT DISCHARGE DOOR

TABS

FIGURE 2.7

2.6 RECYCLING OPERATION

Converting this mower to the recycling operation requires no tools. First, STOP engine. Raise discharge door located at rear of machine. Remove grass catcher. Insert recycling plug fully into discharge opening. Allow discharge door to close. See Figure 2.8.

NOTE: For best recycling results, cut up to a m axim um of 1/3 of grass blade length and recycle ONLY when grass is dry.

1. Set the cutting height at the highest cutting position.

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, raise cutting height to improve recycling performance.

CATCHER

GRASS CATCHER

FIGURE 2.9

WARNING

DO NOT operate mower without entire grass catcher, side chute or recycling plug in place. Grass Catcher components are subject to deterioration during normal use. Inspect frequently and replace worn or damaged components immediately.

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