Snapper EP217018BV, ERP217018BV User Manual

Safety Instructions & Operator’s Manual for

EUROPEAN

21” STEEL DECK

WALK MOWERS

SERIES 18

MODEL NUMBER EXPLANATION

E R P 21 70 18 B V

EUROPEAN MODEL RECYCLING MODEL ENGINE DESIGNATION SELF-PROPELLED SERIES DESIGNATION CUTTING WIDTH ENGINE HORSE POWER *

E – European Model R – Recycling Model 18 - Series Designation B – Briggs & Stratton P – Self Propelled Model 21 – 21” Cutting Width V – Overhead Valve 70 – 7.0 HP (Engine Horse Power)

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 - 4. 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.

NOTE: Specifications are correct at time of printing and are subject to change without notice. * Actual sustained equipment horsepower will likely be lower due to operating limitations and environmental factors.

MANUAL No. 2-9767 (I.R. 8/9/04)

MODELS

EP217018BV

ERP217018BV

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 follow ing 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 other than the operator.

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 mow er 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-dow n. 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.

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 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. 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 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 mow er for any damage and repair the damage before starting.

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. ALWAYS stay behind handle when engine (motor) is running.

10. DO NOT leave the machine with the engine running. STOP BLADE and STOP ENGINE before leaving the operators position for any reason.

OPERATION

(Continued From Previous Column)

11. 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.

12. STOP engine and wait until the blade comes to complete STOP before removing grass bag and/or clearing grass.

13. DO NOT operate mower without the entire grass catcher, discharge guard, rear guard or other safety devices in place and working. D O NOT point dischar ge at people, passing cars, windows or doors.

14. DO NOT discharge material against a wall or obstruction. Material may ricochet back towards the operator.

15. Slow down before turning.

16. Watch out for traffic when near or crossing roadways.

17. DO NOT operate engine in enclosed areas. Engine exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, a deadly poison.

18. Only use accessories approved by the manufacturer. See manufacturer’s instructions for proper operation and installation of accessories.

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. Remove 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.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE

(Continued From Previous Page)

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 - 4

TABLE OF CONTENTS......................................................................................................5

SECTION 1 - FAMILIARIZATION.......................................................................................6

SECTION 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS............................................................... 7-11

Pre-start Checklist................................................................................................7

Starting & Stopping Engine & Blade..................................................................7

Starting & Stopping Wheel Drive........................................................................8

Handle Height Adjustment ..................................................................................8

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

Installation of Grass Bag............................................................................... 9-10

Installation of Discharge Deflector...................................................................11

Installation of Recycling Cover.........................................................................11

Recycling Operation...........................................................................................11

SECTION 3 - MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS .......................................................12-13

Change Engine Oil..............................................................................................12

Check Transmission Grease.............................................................................12

Check Mower Blade ...........................................................................................13

Check Engine Drive Belt....................................................................................13

Check Transmission Poly-V Belt......................................................................13

Service - Annually ..............................................................................................13

Engine ..............................................................................................................13

Air Filter............................................................................................................13

Engine Oil.........................................................................................................13

Storage Procedure .............................................................................................13

SECTION 4 - ADJUSTMENTS AND REPAIR............................................................ 14-20

Mower Blade Replacement................................................................................14

Blade Sharpening......................................................................................... 14-15

Wheel Drive Control Adjustment......................................................................15

Driven and Drive Disc Service .................................................................... 16-19

Cleaning Drive Disc and Driven Disc............................................................16

Drive Spring Repair/Replacement.................................................................16

Driven Disc Adjustment............................................................................ 16-17

Driven Disc Replacement......................................................................... 17-18

Driven Disc Bearing Replacement ................................................................18

Hex Shaft Bearing Replacement....................................................................19

Belt Service................................................................................................... 19-20

Engine Drive Belt Replacement............................................................... 19-20

Transmission Poly-V Belt Replacement.......................................................20

TROUBLESHOOTING......................................................................................................21

SERVICE SCHEDULE......................................................................................................22

Maintenance/Replacement Parts......................................................................22

DECAL IDENTIFICATION AND VIBRATION INFORMATION.................................. 23-24

WARRANTY......................................................................................................................25

! IMPORTANT ! The figures and illustrations in this manual are provided for reference only and may differ from your specific model. Contact your local SNAPPER dealer if you have questions.

Section 1 - FAMILIARIZATION

WHEEL DRIVE CONTROL

ENGINE SPEED CONTROL

ROPE START HANDLE

GRASS BAG

REAR HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT LATCH

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 - 4 of this manual and all safety messages on the mower and attachments before operating the mower.

BLADE CONTROL

GROUND SPEED CONTROL

GRASS BAG ADAPTER

FIGURE 1.1

ENGINE

SPEED

CONTROL

FAST

SLOW

FUEL FILL

OIL FILL

ND DIPSTICK

ENGINE PRIMER

FRONT HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT LATCHES

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, wheel drive control, and engine speed control to insure they work freely. See Figure 2.1.

WHEEL DRIVE CONTROL

BLADE CONTROL

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 to “Fast” (Rabbit) position. See Figure 2.4 and “FAMILIARIZATION”.

2. Push primer bulb three times to start a cold

engine. See Figure 2.3. NOTE: Primer should not be required to restart a hot engine.

PRIMER

ENGINE SPEED CONTROL

FIGURE 2.1

2.1.3. Check cutting height. Adjust to desired height.

Refer to Section “OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS – CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT”.

2.1.4. Check engine oil and add as needed to bring level up to ‘full’ mark on dipstick. See Figure 2.2. Refer to Engine Owner’s Manual for oil specifications.

2.1.5. Add fuel to tank. See Figure 2.2. Fuel mower outside where fumes can safely dissipate. Make sure cap is tightened after refueling. Refer to Engine Owners Manual for fuel specifications.

OIL FILL/ DIPSTICK

FUEL FILL

FIGURE 2.2

FIGURE 2.3

3. Pull blade control against handle.

4. Pull rope start handle to crank engine.

BLADE CONTROL

ROPE START HANDLE

ENGINE SPEED CONTROL

FIGURE 2.4

5. After engine starts, reduce engine speed and

allow a brief warm-up until engine runs smooth.

NOTE: Stop the engine (and blade) by releasing the

blade control.

Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

2.2.2. PROPELLING MOWER

1. Start engine. Refer to Section “Starting &

Operation”.

2. Move ground speed control to the desired speed position. See Figure 2.6.

3. 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 2.6.

ENGAGE

WHEEL DRIVE CONTROL

FIGURE 2.6

2.3 STOPPING

Stop forward motion of mower by releasing the wheel drive control. Stop engine and blade by releasing the blade control.

2.4 HANDLE HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT

The height of the mower handle can be adjusted as follows:

1. Loosen the lower nuts on each lower handle as shown in Figure 2.7.

LOWER HANDLE

HIGHER

SLOWER

GROUND SPEED CONTROL

FASTER

STOP engine and mower blade by releasing the blade control before adjusting 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 2.8.

2. Set all wheels at the same cutting height. The highest cutting position is Notch 6. The lowest cutting position is Notch 1. See Figures 2.8 & 2.9.

LATCH POSITIONS

WARNING

LOWEST CUTTING

HEIGHT

FIGURE 2.8

LATCH

HIGHEST CUTTING HEIGHT

LOWER

LOOSEN LOWER NUTS ON EACH LOWER HANDLE

FIGURE 2.7

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.

CUTTING HEIGHT SETTINGS

FIGURE 2.9

Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

2.6 INSTALLATION of GRASS BAG ADAPTER

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.

STEP 1: Install the grass bag adapter and secure to the

side and top of the deck with the two nuts provided on the machine. Slot in front edge of adapter must be under nut located on top of deck. See Figure 2.10.

SECURE WITH NUTS

ADAPTER

FIGURE 2.10

2.7 INSTALLATION of RECYCLING PLUG (Optional Accessory on Some Models) STEP 1: Once adapter has been installed, recycling may

be desired. Insert recycling plug completely and securely into adapter. See Figure 2.11. Install grass bag as a safeguard.

STEP 2: Refer to Section “OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS – RECYCLING OPERATION”.

SECURE ADAPTER TO DECK WITH NUTS

PLUG

DAPTER

2.8 INSTALLATION of GRASS BAG (Door Type Bag)

Install grass bag by sliding connector over flange of

adapter. See Figure 2.12. Attach grass bag hooks over middle handle cross bar. See Figure 2.13.

HOOK TO MIDDLE HANDLE CROSS BAR

INSERT RECYCLING PLUG COMPLETELY AND SECURELY INTO ADAPTER. INSTALL GRASS BAG.

FIGURE 2.11

SLIDE CONNECTOR OVER FLANGE

FIGURE 2.12

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