Safety Instructions & Operator’s Manual for
73” FINISHING MOWER
CATAGORY ONE
3 POINT HITCH
MODEL
FM7300
Thank you for buying a SNAPPER Product! Before operating your finishing mower, read this manual carefully
and pay particular attention to the “IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS” on Pages 2 & 3. The “IMPORTANT
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS” on pages 2 & 3 of this manual provide general saf e operating practices and w arnings
for operating powered lawn mowers. You must refer to your tractor manual for specific operating instructions
and warnings for your tractor. 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 © 1998
SNAPPER INC.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
MANUAL No. 7-2074 (I.R. 11/16/98)
2
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING: This finishing mower is capable of amp ut atin g h ands an d f e et and can throw object s th at 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 finishing mower must understand these instructions
and must allow only persons who understand these instructions to operate the finishing mower. Each person
operating the finishing mower 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 the
finishing mower 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). Follow the SAFETY
instructions provided with your tractor and contact your dealer or the tractor manufacturer if you have any
questions pertaining to its safe use.
PROTECTION FOR CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occu r if the operator is not alert
to the presence of children. Children are often
attracted to the mower and the mowing act ivity. Never
assume that children w ill 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 mower is
operated (even with the blade OFF).
3. DO NOT allow children or ot her p assenge rs t o rid e
on mower (even with the blade OFF). They may fall
and be seriously injured.
4. DO NOT allow pre-teenage children to operate
mower.
5. ALLOW only adults or responsible teenagers with
mature judgment under close adult supervision to
operate mower.
6. BE SURE the area is clear of others before
mowing and turn mower OFF if anyone enters the
area.
7. DO NOT mow in reverse unless absolutely
necessary. LOOK BEHIND and down for small
children before and when backing.
8. 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
it, DO NOT mow it. Use extra care when using the
finishing mower; it can change the stability of the
tractor.
1. DO NOT operate mower on slopes exceeding 15
degrees (27% grade).
2. Exercise EXT REME CAUTION on slopes abov e 10
degrees (18% grade). Turn blade OFF when
traveling uphill. Use first speed and avoid sudden
or sharp turns.
3. DO NOT mow back and forth across face of
slopes. Mow up and down.
PROTECTION AGAINST TIPOVERS
(Continued From Previous Column)
4. AVOID uphill starts. If you stop mowing while
going uphill or tires lose traction, turn bl ade OFF
and back slowly down the slope.
5. STAY ALERT for holes and other hidden hazards.
Tall grass can hide obstacles. Keep away from
ditches, washouts, culverts, fences and
protruding objects.
6. KEEP A SAFE DISTANCE (at least 3 feet) away
from edge of ditches and other drop offs. The
mower could turn over if an edge caves in.
7. Always begin forward motion slowly.
8. This mower attach ment can affect the handling a nd
stability of the tractor. Counter weights may be
required. Contact the tractor dealer or tractor
manufactur er for recom mend ed saf e pr actic e befo re
operating.
9. DO NOT mow on wet grass. Reduced traction
could cause sliding.
10. DO NOT mow under any condition where traction,
steering or stability is doubtful without first test
driving over the terrain with blade OFF.
11. Operator Protective Structure may be required
when this mower attachment is mounted to your
tractor. Contact the tractor dealer or tractor
manufacturer for Safe Operation instructions
before operating.
PREPARATION
1. Read this manual and tractor manual. Get to know
where all controls a re located and practice ho w to
use them before starting for the first time, and at
the beginning of each se ason. Read and follow all
Warnings and Instructions
2. Only mature, responsible persons shall operate
the machine and only after proper instruction.
3. Handle fuel with extra care. Fuels are flammable
and vapors are explosive. Use only an approved
fuel container. Never re move 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.
4. Practice operation of mower with BLADE OFF to
learn controls and develop skills.
(Continued on Next Page)
3
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
PREPARATION
(Continued From Previous Page)
5. Check the area to be mowed and remove all
objects such as to ys, wire, rocks, limb s and other
objects that could cause injur y if thrown by blade
or interfere with mowing.
6. Keep people and pets a safe distance from
machine.
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.
10. Know how to STOP blade and engine quickly in
preparation for emergencies.
11. Use extra care when loading or unloading the
mowing equipment into a trailer or truck.
12. Check grass catcher components frequently, if
applicable, for signs of wear or deterioration and
replace as needed to prevent injury from thrown
objects going through weak or worn spots.
13. Attach mower to tractor hitch using proper hitch
pins and retainers. If mower separates from
tractor during operation, serious injury or death
can result.
14. Adjust stabilizer bars on tractor hitch to prevent
driveline contact with tires during turns and keep
mower in proper position behind tractor.
15. Mower caster wheels mu st be on the ground and
support mower before turning blades on. DO NOT
operate mower at any time with casters off the
ground. Blades must stop rotating before lifting or
transporting mower to avoid dangerous driveline
condition.
OPERATION
1. Follow Tractor Manual Instructions for proper
tractor operation.
2. STOP BLADE and ENGINE and make sure blade
has stopped before removing grass catcher, if
applicable, or unclogging mower to prevent loss
of fingers or hand.
3. Blade must be OFF except wh en cu tt ing grass. Set
blade in highest position when mowing over
rough ground.
4. Keep hands and feet away from rotating blade
underneath deck. NEVER place foot on ground
while BLADE is ON or machine is in motion.
5. Deflector or entire grass catcher, if applicable,
must be in place. NEVER point discharge at
people, passing cars, windows or doors.
6. Slow down before turning.
7. Watch out for traffic when near or crossing
roadways.
8. STOP engine immediately after striking an
obstruction. Inspect mower and repair damage
before resuming operation.
9. Mow only in daylight or with good artificial light.
OPERATION
(Continued From Previous Column)
9. DO NOT pull loads when mower is attached to
tractor.
10. This mower attachment can affect the handling
and stability of the tractor it is mounted on. Refer
to your tractor manual or contact your tractor
dealer or tractor manufacturer for SAFETY
information and requirements for counter weights.
11. DO NOT operate mow er unless all guards, sh ields
and defectors are in place.
12. Rotating driveline contact can cause injury or
death. DO NOT operate mower without all driveline
& mower shields in place and functioning
properly.
13. DO NOT operate mower if driveline shielding is
damaged or does not rotate freely.
14. Make sure all motion has stopped (traction,
blades, etc.) and mower is parked in position to
prevent movement before approaching mower for
any reason.
15. DO NOT transport mower with mower blades
rotating.
16. DO NOT exceed the recommended operating
speed of mower driveline.
17. DO NOT stand on mower or driveline.
18. DO NOT exceed the safe working angle of the
driveline. Make sure blades have stopped rotating
before lifting mower.
19. DO NOT ent er th e area be t ween the tractor and the
mower until all rotating parts have stopped. STOP
tractor. STOP engine. STOP blades. Set brake.
Remove key.
20. DO NOT allow children or others to stand sit or
ride on finishing mower.
21. DO NOT lift people or objects with the finishing
mower.
MAINTENANCE
1. Keep all bolts, nuts and screws properly tight.
Check that all cotter pins are in proper position.
2. Lubricate mower at intervals specified in manual.
3. Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the
blades or wear heavy leather gloves and use
CAUTION when handling them.
4. Have mower serv iced by an authorized SNAPPER
dealer at least once a year and have the dealer
install any new safety devices.
5. Use only genuine SNAPPER replacement parts on
finishing mower to assure that original safety
standards are maintained.
6. DO NOT work under the mower when lifted unless
it has been securel y blo c ked t o p r ev ent th e mower
from falling or moving. Disconnect driveline from
tractor before doing any work on mower.
4
TABLE OF CONTENTS
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS................................................2-3
TABLE OF CONTENTS............................................................................4
SECTION 1 - FAMILIARIZATION............................................................. 5
SECTION 2 - SET-UP INSTRUCTIONS.................................................6-7
SECTION 3 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS.........................................8-9
Mower Preparation ........................................................................................................ 8
Tractor Preparation ....................................................................................................... 8
Mower Attachment ........................................................................................................ 8
Setting Cutting Height................................................................................................ 8-9
Starting & Stopping Mower .......................................................................................... 9
SECTION 4 - MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS ................................... 10
Service - After First 5 Hours.......................................................................................10
Checking Mower Blade......................................................................................... 10
Checking Mower Drive Shaft ............................................................................... 10
Lubricating Mower Components................................................................................ 10
Mower Gear Box Lubrication ............................................................................... 10
Service - Every 25 Hours ............................................................................................ 10
Service - Annually ....................................................................................................... 10
SECTION 5- ADJUSTMENTS AND REPAIR.....................................11-13
Mower Belt Replacement ............................................................................................ 11
Mower Blade Replacement/Sharpening .................................................................... 11
Mower Spindles Bearing Replacement ..................................................................... 12
Driveline Repair ...................................................................................................... 12-13
WARRANTY............................................................................................ 14
IMPORTANT
The IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS on pages 2 & 3 of this manual provide
safe operating instructions and warnings for powered lawn mowers. You must
refer to your tractor manual for safe operating instructions and warnings for your
tractor.
5
SECTION 1 - FAMILIARIZATION
BELT/SPINDLE
TOP HITCH
PIVOTING
COUPLING
CUTTING
CASTER
MOWER
FRONT HITCH
DEFLECTOR
DECK
1.1 INTRODUCTION
This manual has been prepar ed for the operator s of the
SNAPPER 73” Finishing Mower. Its purpose, aside
from recommending s tand a rd oper at ing procedures and
routine service requirements, is to promote SAFETY
through the use of accepted operat ing practices. Read,
Understand and Follow the IMPORTANT SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS on Pages 2 and 3 of this m anual, ALL
Safety messages on the 73” Finishing Mower and all
Safety messages which accompany and are attached
to your tractor.
COVER
LYNCH PIN
WHEEL
DRIVESHAFT GUARD
REAR HITCH BARS
GEAR BOX
LINKS
BARS
HITCH
DRIVELINE
HEIGHT
SPACERS
RING
1.2 NOMENCLATURE
The nomenclature information above, shows specific
components of the SNA PP ER 73” Fin is hing Mo wer. It is
recommended that all operators of this equipment
become thoroughly familiar with the controls,
components, and operation of the mowing equipment
before operating the mower. Driveline information is
also found in the separate driveline owner’s manual.
Study all equipment manuals before operating the
mower and keep all manuals handy for future
reference.
6
SECTION 2 - SET-UP INSTRUCTIONS FOR SNAPPER 73” FINISHING MOWER
GREASE
IDLER ARM
IDLER
SPINDLE
DRIVESHAFT
GEAR BOX
REMOVE BREATHER/FILLER
FRONT
BARS
Set-Up Instructions
The following instruc tions cover the initial set up of the
SNAPPER 73” Finishing M ower. Read and follow each
step carefully.
PLUG TO CHECK FLUID LEVEL
WARNING
Read entire manual before attempting to set up or
operate this mower.
This mower is designed for a Category 1 hitch and
540 rpm Power Take Off (PTO). Only attach this
mower to tractors compatible with Category 1 hitch
requirements.
DO NOT modify mower attachment in any way.
STOP tractor. STOP engine. SET Brake. REMOVE key.
Allow all moving parts t o stop before attempting an y
adjustments, maintenance or service to the mower.
STEP 1: Remove the m ower and components fr om the
shipping carton.
STEP 2: Assem ble front & rear hitc h bars and hitch link
as shown in Figure 1. Tighten all hardware securely.
NOTE: When assembled properly, hitch link should
pivot on hitch bolt sleeve.
REAR HITCH BARS
TOP HITCH LINKS
HITCH
GUARD (SERVICE
POSITION)
FIGURE 2
WARNING
Driveshaft guard must be down and securely attached
before operating mower.
B. Mower Spindle Housings. Locate the grease
fitting on the front of each of the three spindle
housings. Add grease ( Kendall NLGI No. 2 Lithium
grease) using grease gun u ntil gr eas e p urges ou t of
spindle housing vent. NOTE: The spindle housing
vent is located on the housing below the mower
deck surface. See Figure 3.
C. Idler Arm Pivot. Locate grease fitting on idler
arm. Add 1 to 3 shots of grease as needed fr om the
grease gun. See Figure 3.
STEP 3: Check all lubric ation points and gear box fluid
level.
A. Gear Box Fluid. The gear box holds 20 fluid
ounces of SAE 90 EP ge ar lubricant. To chec k the
level, remove th e breather/filler plug located o n the
top of the gear box. If lubricant is needed, the
driveshaft guard co vering the gear box will have to
be removed. Add fluid as needed to fill. Install
breather/filler plu g and dri veshaf t guard. See F igure
2.
FIGURE 1
PIVOT
HOUSING
FITTING
ARM
FIGURE 3
7
SECTION 2 - SET-UP INSTRUCTIONS FOR SNAPPER 73” FINISHING MOWER
CASTER
CASTER
HUB
FITTING
TWIST COUPLING
DRIVESHAFT GUARD NOT SHOWN
D. Caster Bushings & Wheel Bearings. Locate
the four caster bushin g grease fittings. Add 1 to 3
shots of grease as needed from the grease gun.
Locate grease fittings in hub of caster wheels. Add
1 to 3 shots of grease as needed from the grease
gun. See Figure 4.
BUSHING
GREASE
FITTING
GEAR BOX
COUPLING RING
WHEEL
GREASE
FIGURE 4
STEP 4. Remove driveline from shipping carton.
Carefully inspect dr iveline for an y signs of dam age.
Driveline shields must turn freely.
The driveline is s upplied with a n Operator’s and Safety
Instruction Manual. Read this manual carefully.
Lubricate U-joint bear ings, shield bearings, teles coping
tubes, and locking collars as described in driveline
manual before attaching to mower.
STEP 5. Attach driveline to mower gear box.
A. Twist the knurled coupling ring on the U-joint.
See Figure 5.
RING & SLIDE ONTO
GEAR BOX SHAFT
DRIVELINE
FIGURE 5
IMPORTANT: The tractor end of the driveline is
identified on the driveline shield. DO NOT install
tractor end of driveline to mower.
B. With the coupling ring twisted, slide the drive-
line onto the gear box shaft. Release coupling ring.
C. Tug aggressively on drive line to insure it is fully
seated and securely locked onto gear box shaft.
STEP 6. Inspect the mower to insure that all guards
and shields have been installed. Check all
hardware to insure that it has been securely
tightened. The discharge deflector must be
attached and in the down or closed position before
operating.
WARNING
DO NOT attempt to operate driveline without all
guards and shields in pl ace and functioning p roperly
on tractor, driveline & mower.
8
SECTION 3 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
The operator m ust be familiar with the contents of this
manual before attempting to attach or operate this
mower. There may be specific operating and safety
instructions with the trac tor that are not covered in this
manual. Read and fol low the Instr uctions a nd W arnings
in the tractor manual before operating mower.
2.1 MOWER PREPARATION
Read and follow mower set up instructions and
inspect mower to insure mower has been
properly set up.
2.1.1. Check guards, shields, covers and
deflectors to mak e sure all are in place, sec urely
tightened and functioning properly.
2.1.2. Check lubrication points and gear box
fluid level for proper lubrication.
2.1.3. Inspect driveline. Driveline must be
securely attached to the mower gear box. All
driveline shields must be in place and rotate
freely.
2.1.4. Inspect mower blades for damage and
wear. Replace damaged or worn blades before
operating.
2.1.5. Verify that the discharge deflector is
attached and in the down/closed operating
position.
2.2 TRACTOR PREPARATION
The following are general guidelines.
Refer to the tractor manual or the tractor
manufacturer for specific instructions about the
preparation and operation of the tractor.
WARNING
The tractor may require counter weights and the
addition of an Oper a tor Pro tec t i ve Str uct ure whe n this
mower is attached. Follow the Safety Instructions
provided by the tractor manufacturer.
2.2.1. Remove tractor drawbar , if necessary, to
prevent interference and damage to the driveline.
2.3 ATTACHING MOWER TO TRACTOR
This mower is designed to attach to a tractor
equipped with a standard Category 1 three (3)
point hitch and 540 rpm Power Take Off (PTO).
2.3.1. Place tractor and mower on level s ur f ac e.
Lower tractor 3 point hitch.
2.3.2. STOP tractor. STO P engine. Set parking
brake. REMOVE key.
WARNING
DO NOT get between the tractor and mower when
the engine is running. STOP tractor. STOP engine.
Set Brake. REMOVE ke y. Allow all moving parts to
stop before leaving the operators position.
2.3.3. Attach lower tractor h itch arms to the pins
on the mower pivoting hitch. Secure with Lynch
pins.
2.3.4. Attach the top hitch link to the top hitch
link on the mower. Adjust the length of the link
and insert the pin. Secure pin with Lynch pin.
Tighten locking device on top hitch link.
2.3.5. Adjust stabilizer bars on lower hitch arms.
Refer to tractor manual for proper adjustment
procedure.
2.3.6. Attach driveline to trac tor Power T ake Off
(PTO). Twist coupling ring and slide driveline onto
tractor PTO shaft. Tug aggressively on driveline
yoke and insure that it is securely locked into
position.
Tractor Power Take Off (PTO) shield must be in place
before operating mower. Driveline must be securely
locked to tractor and mower to prevent dangerous
disconnect condition.
2.3.7. Verify the minimum and maximum
working lengths of the driveline. The telescoping
tubes must overlap at least 1/3 of the length whi le
in use. The driveline must not bottom out or
disengage during tr ans port . Verify drivelin e length
before engaging Power Take Off (PTO).
DO NOT attempt any adjustments, maintenance or
service to mower with engine running. STOP tractor.
STOP engine. Set Brake. REMOVE key. Allow all
moving parts to stop before approaching mower.
2.4 SETTING THE CUTTING HEIGHT.
2.4.1. Use tractor hitch to lift mower until all f our
casters are off the ground.
2.4.2. STOP engine. Remove key. Make sure
all moving parts have stopped. Support mower
securely to prevent it from falling.
2.4.3. Adjust cutting height by moving the
spacers located on the mower casters. Placing
more spacers on the bottom will increase the
cutting height. Removing spacers from the bottom
will lower the cutting height. Each caster has a
total of 6 (1/2”) slotted spacers to adjust the
height of the deck. There must always be 6
spacers installed.
A. To rem ove spacers, first remove th e Lynch
pin and washer from the top of the caster.
B. Raise cutting height b y sliding spacer(s) off
of top and installing on bottom. Align slotted
end of spacer with the two flats on the caster
shaft. Slide spacer across flats. Repeat as
needed to raise height.
WARNING
WARNING
9
SECTION 3 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
C. Push up on caster t o remove slac k between
spacers. Install washer and Lynch pin.
D. Reverse procedure to lower cutting height.
NOTE: All casters should have the same
number of spacers instal led below the caster
tube when the cutting height adjustment is
completed.
2.5 STARTING & OPERATING THE MOWER
Refer to the tractor Operator’s Man ual for star ting
and operating instructions for the tractor. Be
familiar with all controls. Know how to stop the
tractor & mower quickly in case of an emergency.
WARNING
DO NOT operate mower in transport position. All
mower caster wheels must be in contact with the
ground before blades are engaged.
2.5.1. Transport tractor & m ower with blades of f
to area to be cut.
2.5.2. Lower m ower until all four caster wheels
are on the ground.
2.5.3. Select a slow ground speed until you
become familiar with the operation of the mower.
Adjust forward speed, if desired, within safe
cutting conditions.
2.5.4. Engage tractor Power Take Off (PTO)
slowly to engage mower blades. 540 rpm Power
Take Off (PTO) speed is required.
WARNING
DO NOT exceed 540 RPM Power Take Off (PTO)
speed.
2.6 STOPPING MOWER
Refer to tractor manual for details on the
operation of the PTO.
2.6.1. Stop tractor. Bring engine to idle.
2.6.2. Disengage tractor PTO.
WARNING
DO NOT leave machine with engine running. STOP
engine. STO P blades. Set brake. REM OVE key. Allow
all moving parts to stop before leaving operator’s
position. Place mower on ground. DO NOT leave in
transport position.
2.6.3. Stop engine. Set tractor brake. Remove
key. Allow all machinery to stop before leaving
the operators position.
WARNING
DO NOT park mowing equipment on slopes.
10
SECTION 4 - MAINTENANCE
WARNING
DO NOT attempt any maintenance, adjustments, or
service with the engine or blades running. STOP
engine. STOP b lades . SET br ake. REM OVE ke y. Allo w
all machinery to stop before leaving operators
position or approaching mower.
3.1 INTRODUCTION
Proper maintenance is extremely important.
Failure to perf orm the following maintenance ca n
adversely affect the performance of the mower,
decrease the life of the mower, and can cause
the mower to be unsaf e to operate. Perform the
following steps at the recommended intervals.
Inspect the mower frequently for loose, missing,
damaged and worn components. Fix or replace
those components immediately. To retain the
original quality of the FM7300 Finishing Mower,
use only genuine SNAPPER replacement parts.
Contact a local SNAPPER Dealer for parts &
service assistance. SNAPPER recommends
returning the mower to an author ized SNAPPER
Dealer annually for ins pec tion a nd add ition of any
new devices which might upgrade the safety of
the mower.
3.2 SERVICE - AFTER FIRST 5 HOURS
3.2.1. Inspect mower. Carefully inspect entire
mower for loose, missing, damaged and worn
components. All guards, shields and deflectors
must be in place. Repair and replace as required.
3.2.2. Inspect mower blades. Check blades
for flatness, sharpness, wear and damage. See
section “Mower Blade Repair/Replacement” for
blade wear limits, sharpening and replacement
instructions.
3.2.3. Inspect mower belt. The mower belt
does not require adjustment. Visually check belt
for signs of deterioration. Replace as required.
See section "Mower Belt Replacement” for
instructions.
3.2.4. Inspect and lubricate driveline.
WARNING
Contact with rotating driveline can cause death. A
high percentage of driveline injuries occur when
safety shielding is missing or not functioning
properly. Frequent inspections and proper
maintenance is essential for the safet y o f t he operator
and others. STOP engine. STOP blades. REMOVE key.
Allow all machi nery to stop be fore ap proach ing.
3.2.4.1. Inspect driveline, tractor and mower
shields. All shielding must be in place and
functioning properly. Be sure the driveline
shielding is not dam aged and that shields rotate
freely on the driveline. See section “Driveline
Repair” for instructions.
3.2.4.2. Lubricate U-joint bearings. Rotate
flexible cone shield to align access hole with
grease fitting. Apply 2 to 3 shots of General
Purpose grease from a grease gun.
3.2.4.3. Lubricate driveline shield bearings.
Locate grease fitting on flexible cone shield.
Apply 2 to 3 shots of General Purpose grease
from a grease gun.
3.2.4.4. Lubricate driveline telescoping tubes.
Slide driveline apart. Wipe male surface of tube
with grease. Carefully insert tubes, making sure
that the driveline shields are aligned and not
binding.
3.2.5. LUBRICATE MOWER COMPONENTS
3.2.5.1. Mower spindle housings. Apply 2 to 3
shots of grease (Kendall NLGI No. 2 Lithium
grease).
NOTE: The spindle housings are equipp ed with a
grease purge valve. The valve is located on the
housing below the dec k. The spin dle housing h as
been properly lubricated when grease exits the
purge valve.
3.2.5.2. Mower Caster Bushings. Apply 1 to 2
shots at each of the four locations.
3.2.5.3. Mower Caster Wheel Bearing. Apply 1
to 2 shots at each of the four locations.
3.2.5.4. Mower Belt Idler Arm. Apply 1 to 2
shots of grease at idler arm pivot.
3.2.5.5. Mower Gear Box. Check fluid level in
gear box. Remove br eather/filler plug located on
top of gear box. T he ge ar box holds 20 ounces of
SAE 90 EP gear lube. Reinstall plug. DO NOT
over tighten.
3.3 SERVICE - EVERY 25 HOURS
Perform all inspections, and lubr icate all item s as
specified in the section “Service - After First 5
Hours”. The 25 hour service interval is the
maximum interval recommended between
services. Certain applications will require more
frequent service intervals. Inspect mower before
each use.
3.4 SERVICE - ANNUALLY
In addition to the regular maintenance the
following components of the finishing mower
should be carefully inspected for wear or
damage. Replace worn or damaged parts with
genuine SNAPPER replacement parts available
from an authorized SNAPPER Dealer.
3.4.1. Caster Bushings
3.4.2. Caster wheel bearings.
3.4.3. Mower spindle housing bearings.
3.4.4. Driveline U-joint bearing.
3.4.5. Driveline rotating shield bearings.
11
SECTION 5 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR
FOUR
BLADE
BLADE
DANGEROUS CONDITION!
WEAR LIMIT
WARNING
DO NOT attempt any maintenance, adjustments, or
service with the engine or blades running. STOP
engine. STOP b lades . SET br ake. REM OVE ke y. Allo w
all machinery to stop before leaving operators
position or approaching mower.
4.1 MOWER BELT REPLACEMENT
1. Remove belt cover from mower.
NOTE: Belt routing diagram is located on the deck.
2. Carefully roll belt out of groove and of f left spindle
pulley.
3. Remove old belt.
WARNING
Use CAUTION removing old belt. Belt is under spring
tension.
4. Route new belt as shown in Figur e 4.1, l eaving b elt
off of left spindle pulley.
5. Remove all slack from belt and pull towards left
pulley. At sam e time, rotate clock wise allowin g belt
to roll onto the groove on the pulley.
FIGURE 4.1
4.2 MOWER BLADE SHARPENING &
REPLACEMENT
4.2.1. Blade Wear Limits
1. Inspect blades before each use for signs of
excessive wear or damage. See Figure 4.2.
WARNING
DO NOT use a blade that has worn beyon d the wear
limit. Blad es are sharp and c an cause severe in jury.
Wear heavy gloves when handling or working around
blades.
NEW BLADE
(NOTCH STARTS)
DO NOT USE ON MOWER!
REPLACE WITH NEW BLADE.
FIGURE 4.2
4.2.2 Blade Sharpening.
1. Inspect blades. If the blade has not been
damaged and it has not worn beyond the wear
limit it may be sharpened. See Figure 4.2.
2. Remove blade by removing the nut from
the blade bolt. Allow the blade bolt, blade
washer, blade and four blade spacers to drop
down out of the spindle housing. See Figure
4.3.
BLADE
SPACERS
3. Remove bolt, washer and spacers from
blade. Sharpen existing c utting edge onl y at an
angle of 22 to 28 degrees. DO NOT sharpen
beyond existing cutting edge. See Figure 4.4.
4. Check the balance of the blade after
sharpening. Correct as required by removing
material from the e nd (not cutting edge) of the
blade.
5. Install blade paying close attention to the
assembly sequence shown in Figure 4.3.
6. Torque blade bolt and nut to 60 to 75 ft. lbs.
4.2.3. MOWER BLADE REPLACEMENT
1. If blades are worn beyond the lim it or have
been damaged, they must be replaced. See
Figure 4.2.
2. Remove blade as instructed in “Mower
Blade Sharpening” abov e.
3. Install new blade following assembly
sequence carefully. See Figure 4.3.
4. Torque blade bolt and nut to 60 to 75 ft. lbs.
WASHER
BOLT
FIGURE 4.3
22º - 28º
ORIGINAL CUTTING EDGE
FIGURE 4.4
12
SECTION 5 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR
REMOVE BLADE
REMOVE BELT
PULLEY
BEARING
SPINDLE
BEARING
SPINDLE
BE
ARING
SEAL UP
BEARING SEAL
DOWN
3 LOCKING TABS
FLEXIBLE
TRACTOR
4.3 MOWER SPINDLES (Field Serviceable
Spindles) BEARING REPLACEMENT
In the event that a spindle bearing requires
replacement, the SNAPPER Field Serviceable
Spindles have been designed so that no special
tools or presses are required.
1. Remove belt. Loosen blade nut and remove.
Allow blade bolt, washer, blade and four spacers
to drop down out of the spindle housing. See
Figure 4.5.
REMOVE NUT
FROM SPINDLE
BOLT
FIGURE 4.5
2. Remove spindle pulley from spindle shaft.
3. Locate circul ar retaining r ing on spindl e shaft at
top bearing. Rem ove retaining ring. Allow spindle
shaft to drop out of housing.
4. Top and bottom bearings are now removable.
Pull out on inner race to slide bearing from
housing. See Figure 4.6.
RETAINING RING
HOUSING
INNER RACE
NOTE: The bearing is s ealed/shi elded o n one side
only. The bottom bearing must be installed with
the sealed/shielded side DOWN.
7. Insert spindle shaft up through the bottom
bearing. Slide spacer down over spindle shaft.
8. Install new top bearing. Install the top bearing
with the seal/shield UP.
9. Slide circular retaining ring down spindle shaft
until it fully locks into groove on shaft.
10. Place spindle pulley and spacer on top of
spindle shaft.
11. Reinstall blade bolt, washer, blade and four
spacers.
12. Torque blade bolt and nut to 60 to 75 ft. lbs.
IMPORTANT: Spindle housing must be filled
with grease before oper ating mow er. Failure to
fill housing will cause premature bearing
failure.
13. Pump grease into spindle hous ing until grease
purges from vent on housing.
14. After the first 5 hours of operation, grease
spindle housing to insure it is full, then every 25
hours.
4.4 DRIVELINE REPAIR
The driveline shielding system is critical to the
safety of the operator and others. Inspect the
driveline shield and mower shield. If the driveline
guard does not rotate freely from the shaft,
displays signs of deterioration or damage, or the
safety signs are m issing or illegib le, parts m ust be
repaired or replaced.
4.4.1. Driveline Shield.
The driveline shields will have to be removed to
replace shield com ponents, shield bearings, or Ujoint bearings.
1. Disconnect driveline from tractor and mower.
Slide driveline apart. Work on one end at a time.
NOTE: Tractor end flexible cone, shield bearings
and plastic tubes are different from those on the
mower end.
2. Locate three l oc king tabs in flexibl e c o ne. While
pushing down on cone, pr ess in the three locking
tabs. Slide cone down on plastic tube when
unlocked. See Figure 4.7.
SHIELD BEARING
PLASTIC TUBE
LOCATED AROUND
SMALL END OF CONE
5. Thoroughly clean all parts removing all old
6. Install new bottom bearing first.
SHAFT
FIGURE 4.6
contaminated grease.
END
FIGURE 4.7
CONE
(Continued on next page)
13
SECTION 5 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR
4.4 DRIVELINE REPAIR
(Continued from previous page)
3. Remove cone, tube, and the shield bearing
from the yoke. Discard worn or damaged
components. Replace with new genuine
SNAPPER replacement parts.
4. Apply liberal amount of grease to the shield
bearing and place in groove on yoke.
5. Slide plastic tu be over drive shaf t. Align slots in
plastic tube with tabs on plastic bearing.
6. Slide flexible cone onto plastic tube. Carefully
align cone with plastic bearing while keeping
bearing in yoke groove and be aring tabs in plastic
tube slots.
7. Pull up and tap on cone until all three locking
tabs have locked.
8. Verify that locking tabs are fully seated and
locked.
9. The shield should rotate freely from shaft.
IMPORTANT: When replacing a driveline guard,
make sure that it has the “DANGER ROTATING
DRIVELINE” safety label in place before operating.
See Figure 4.8.
10. Lubricate after re-assembly.
FIGURE 4.8
14
1 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY
For one (1) year from purchase date for the original purchaser's commercial or other non-residential use,
SNAPPER, through any SNAPPER dealer will replac e, free of charge (exc ept for taxes where app licable), any
part or parts found upon examination by the factory at McDonough, Georgia, to be defective in material or
workmanship or both.
All transportation costs incurred by the purchaser in submitting material to a SNAPPER dealer under this
warranty must be paid by the purchaser.
This warranty does not cover any mower or component part that has been dam aged as a result of accident,
alteration, abuse, im proper lubr ication, norm al wear, or any other cause be yond the contr ol of SNAPPER. This
warranty does not cover any machine or component that has been altered or modified, changing safety,
performance, or durability.
There is no other express warranty.
DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTY
Implied warranties, including those of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, are limited to
one (1) year from pu rchase date for the o riginal pu rchaser's use, and up to t he extent perm itted b y law
and all implied warranties are excluded. This is the exclusive remedy. Liabilities for consequential
damages, under any and all warranties are excluded.
Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, or do not allow the
exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion
may not apply to you.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.
WARNING: THE USE OF REPLACEMENT PARTS OTHER THAN GENUINE SNAPPER PARTS MAY
IMPAIR THE S AFETY OF SNAPPER PROD UCTS AND WILL VOI D ANY LIABILITY AND WARRANTY BY
SNAPPER ASSOCIATED WITH THE USE OF SUCH PARTS.
IMPORTANT: Please fill out the attached SNAPPER Product Registration Card immediately and mail to:
Snapper ’s P r od uct Regis tra t i on C e n te r, P.O. Box 777, McDonough, Georgia. 30253
15
Safety Instructions & Operator’s Manual for
73” FINISHING MOWER
CATEGORY ONE
3 POINT HITCH
WARNING:
The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State
of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.
COPYRIGHT © 1998
SNAPPER INC.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
MANUAL No. 7-2074 (I.R. 11/16/98)
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