Thank you for purchasing this quality-built SNAPPER riding mower. We’re pleased that you’ve placed your confidence in the
SNAPPER brand. When operated and maintained according to the instructions in this manual, your SNAPPER product will
provide many years of dependable service.
This manual contains safety information to make you aware of the hazards and risks associated with riding mowers and
how to avoid them. This riding mower is designed and intended only for cutting grass and is not intended for any other purpose. It is important that you read and understand these instructions thoroughly before attempting to start or operate the
equipment. Save these original instructions for future reference.
Product Reference Data
Record your model name/number, manufacturer’s identification numbers, and engine serial numbers in the space provided for easy access. These numbers can be found in the
locations shown.
When contacting your authorized dealer for replacement parts, service, or information you MUST have
these numbers.
PRODUCT REFERENCE DATA
Model Description Name/Number
Unit MFG NumberUnit SERIAL Number
Mower Deck MFG NumberMower Deck SERIAL Number
Dealer NameDate Purchased
ENGINE REFERENCE DATA
Engine MakeEngine Model
CE Identification Tag
A. Manufacturer’s Identification Number
B. Manufacturer’s Serial Number
C. Manufacturer’s Name and Address
D. Maximum Engine Speed in Rotations per Minute
E. Power Rating in Kilowatts
F. Mass of Unit in Kilograms
G. CE Compliance Logo
H. Year of Manufacture
I. Guaranteed Sound Power in Decibels
A
MODEL NO. xxxxxxx
SERIAL NO. xxxxxxxxxx
B
C
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
D
xxxx min
E
x.x kW
xxx kg
F
G
20xx
-1
H
xxx
I
dB
Engine Type/SpecEngine Code/Serial Number
For an Illustrated Parts List, Setup Instructions, or other
publications for this model, please visit www.snapper.com.
“Vibration measurement uncertainty – machine vibration
was recorded using methods and procedures outlined in
the appropriate International Standards in eect at the time
of manufacture. The uncertainties due to the measurement
may result in a variance of up to 5% from the published value
shown in the Declaration of Conformity.”
Operator Safety
Not for
Reproduction
Important Safety Instructions
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS - This manual contains im-
portant instructions that should be followed during the initial
set-up, the operation, and the maintenance of the equipment.
Save these original instructions for future reference.
Safety Symbols and Meanings
Fire
Toxic Fumes
Wear Eye
Protection
Read
Manual
Moving PartsShock
Kickback
Chemical
Fast
Slow
Explosion
Hot SurfaceHazardous
Oil
Stop
Choke
Fuel
CAUTION indicates a hazard which, if not avoided,
could result in minor or moderate injury.
NOTICE indicates a situation that could result in damage
to the product.
WARNING
The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth
defects, or other reproductive harm.
WARNING
Certain components in this product and its related accessories contain chemicals known to the State of California
to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
Wash hands after handling.
WARNING
Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories
contain lead and lead compounds - chemicals known to the
State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other
reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.
• Keep exhaust gas from entering a conned area through
windows, doors, ventilation intakes, or other openings.
Fuel
The safety alert symbol is used to identify safety information about hazards that can result in personal injury. A signal word (DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION) is used with
the alert symbol to indicate the likelihood and the potential
severity of injury. In addition, a hazard symbol may be used to
represent the type of hazard.
DANGER indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, will
result in death or serious injury.
Roll-Over
Hazard
WARNING indicates a hazard which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury.
4
Amputation
Hazard
WARNING
Running engines produce heat. Engine parts, espe-
cially muer, become extremely hot.
Severe thermal burns can occur on contact.
Combustible debris, such as leaves, grass, brush, etc.
can catch re.
Allo
•
w muer, engine cylinder and ns to cool before
touching.
• Remove accumulated debris from muer area and
cylinder ar
• It is a violation of California Public Resource Code,
Section 4442, to use or oper
covered, brush-covered, or grass-covered land unless
the e
dened in Section 4442, maintained in eectiv
order. Other states or federal jurisdictions may have
similar la
er, retailer, or dealer to obtain a spark arrester de-
tur
signed f
ea.
ate the engine on any forest-
xhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester, as
e working
ws. Contact the original equipment manufac-
or the exhaust system installed on this engine.
Safe Operation Practices
Not for
Reproduction
Operating Safety
Power equipment is only as safe as the operator. If it is misused,
or not properly maintained, it can be dangerous! Remember, you are
responsible for your safety and that of those around you. Use common sense, and think through what you are doing. If you are not sure
that the task you are about to perform can be safely done with the
equipment you have chosen, ask a professional: contact your local
authorized dealer.
Read the Manual
The operator’s manual contains important safety information you
need to be aware of BEFORE you operate your unit as well as
DURING operation.
Safe operating techniques, an explanation of the product’s features
and controls, and maintenance information is included to help you get
the most out of your equipment investment.
Be sure to completely read the Safety Rules and Information found on
the following pages. Also completely read the Operation section.
Children
Tragic accidents can occur with children. Do not allow
them anywhere near the area of operation. Children are
often attracted to the unit and mowing activity. Never
assume that children will remain where you last saw them.
If there is a risk that children may enter the area where
you are mowing, have another responsible adult watch
them.
DO NOT GIVE CHILDREN RIDES ON THIS UNIT! This
encourages them to come near the unit in the future while
it is running, and they could be seriously hurt. They may
then approach the unit for a ride when you are not expecting it, and you may run over them.
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5
Reverse
Do not mow in reverse unless
absolutely necessary.
Always look down and
behind before and while
traveling in reverse even
with the mower blades disengaged.
Slope Operation
Not for
Reproduction
You could be seriously injured or even killed if you use this unit on too
steep an incline. Using the unit on a slope that is too steep or where you
don’t have adequate traction can cause you to lose control or roll over.
A good rule of thumb is to not operate on any slope you cannot back up
(in 2-wheel drive mode). You should not operate on inclines with a slope
greater than a 3.5 foot rise over a 20 foot length. Always drive up and
down slopes: never cross the face.
3.5 ft
(1,5 m)
20.0 ft (6,0 m)
Also note that the surface you are driving on can greatly impact stability
and control. Wet grass or icy pavement can seriously affect your ability to
control the unit.
If you feel unsure about operating the unit on an incline, don’t do it. It’s
not worth the risk.
Moving Parts
This equipment has many moving parts that can injure you or someone
else. However, if you are seated in the seat properly and follow all the rules
in this book, the unit is safe to operate.
The mower deck has spinning mower blades that can amputate hands and
feet. Do not allow anyone near the equipment while it is running!
To help you, the operator, use this equipment safely, it is equipped with an
operator-present safety system. Do NOT attempt to alter or bypass the system. See your dealer immediately if the system does not pass all the safety
interlock system tests found in this manual.
Thrown Objects
This unit has spinning mower blades. These blades can pick up and throw
debris that could seriously injure a bystander. Be sure to clean up the area to
be mowed BEFORE you start mowing.
Do not operate this unit without the entire grass catcher or discharge guard
(deflector) in place.
Do not allow anyone in the mowing area while the unit is running! If someone
does enter the area, shut the unit off immediately until they leave.
Fuel and Maintenance
Gasoline is extremely flammable. Its vapors are also extremely flammable
and can travel to distant ignition sources. Gasoline must only be used as a
fuel, not as a solvent or cleaner. Fuel should never be stored any place where
its vapors can build up or travel to an ignition source like a pilot light. Fuel
belongs in an approved, plastic, sealed gas can, or in the tractor fuel tank with
the cap securely closed. Spilled fuel needs to be cleaned up immediately.
Proper maintenance is critical to the safety and performance of your unit. Be
sure to perform the maintenance procedures listed in this manual and be sure
to periodically test the safety system.
6
Read these safety rules and follow them closely. Failure to obey these rules could result in loss of control
Not for
Reproduction
of unit, severe personal injury or death to you, or bystanders, or damage to property or equipment. This mowing deck is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects.
The triangle in text signies important cautions or warnings which must be followed.
GENERAL OPERATION
1. Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual and on the unit before starting.
2. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under
the machine. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all
times.
3. Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the
instructions, to operate the unit (local regulations can
restrict operator age).
4. Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc.,
which could be picked up and thrown by the blade(s).
5. Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing.
Stop the unit if anyone enters the area.
6. Never carry passengers.
7. Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary.
Always look down and behind before and while travelling
in reverse.
8. Never direct discharge material toward anyone. Avoid
discharging material against a wall or obstruction.
Material may ricochet back toward the operator. Stop the
blade(s) when crossing gravel surfaces.
9. Do not operate the machine without the entire grass
catcher, discharge guard (deflector), or other safety
devices in place.
10. Slow down before turning.
11. Never leave a running unit unattended. Always disengage the PTO, set parking brake, stop engine, and
remove keys before dismounting.
12. Disengage blades (PTO) when not mowing. Shut off
engine and wait for all parts to come to a complete stop
before cleaning the machine, removing the grass catcher, or unclogging the discharge guard.
13. Operate the machine only in daylight or good artificial
light.
14. Do not operate the unit while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
15. Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways.
16. Use extra care when loading or unloading the unit into a
trailer or truck.
17. Always wear eye protection when operating this unit.
18. Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above,
are involved in a large percentage of power equipmentrelated injuries. These operators should evaluate their
ability to operate the equipment safely enough to protect
themselves and others from injury.
19. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for wheel
weights or counterweights.
20. Keep in mind the operator is responsible for accidents
occurring to other people or property.
21. All drivers should seek and obtain professional and practical instruction.
22. Always wear substantial footwear and trousers. Never
operate when barefoot or wearing sandals.
23. Before using, always visually check that the blades and
blade hardware are present, intact, and secure. Replace
worn or damaged parts.
24. Disengage attachments before: refueling, removing an
attachment, making adjustments (unless the adjustment
can be made from the operator’s position).
25. When the machine is parked, stored, or left unattended,
lower the cutting means unless a positive mechanical
lock is used.
26. Before leaving the operator’s position for any reason,
engage the parking brake (if equipped), disengage the
PTO, stop the engine, and remove the key.
27. To reduce fire hazard, keep the unit free of grass, leaves,
& excess oil. Do not stop or park over dry leaves, grass,
or combustible materials.
TRANSPORTING AND STORAGE
1. When transporting the unit on an open trailer, make sure
it is facing forward, in the direction of travel. If the unit is
facing backwards, wind lift could damage the unit.
2. Always observe safe refueling and fuel handling practices when refueling the unit after transportation or storage.
3. Never store the unit (with fuel) in an enclosed poorly
ventilated structure. Fuel vapors can travel to an ignition
source (such as a furnace, water heater, etc.) and cause
an explosion. Fuel vapor is also toxic to humans and animals.
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7
4. Always follow the engine manual instructions for storage preparations before storing the unit for both short
and long term periods.
5. Always follow the engine manual instructions for proper
start-up procedures when returning the unit to service.
6. Never store the unit or fuel container inside where there
is an open flame or pilot light, such as in a water heater.
Allow unit to cool before storing.
SLOPE OPERATION
Not for
Reproduction
Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and tip-over
accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. Operation
on all slopes requires extra caution. If you cannot back up the
slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not operate on it.
Control of a walk-behind or ride-on machine sliding on a
slope will not be regained by the application of the brake. The
main reasons for loss of control are: insufficient tire grip on
the ground, speed too fast, inadequate braking, the type of
machine is unsuitable for its task, lack of awareness of the
ground conditions, incorrect hitching and load distribution.
1. Mow up and down slopes, not across.
2. Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could
overturn the unit. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
3. Choose a slow speed so that you will not have to stop or
change speeds while on the slope.
4. Do not mow on wet grass. Tires may loose traction.
5. Always keep unit in gear especially when traveling down
slopes. Do not shift to neutral and coast downhill.
6. Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a slope. If tires
lose traction, disengage the blade(s) and proceed slowly
straight down the slope.
7. Keep all movement on slopes slow and gradual. Do not
make sudden changes in speed or direction, which could
cause the machine to rollover.
8. Use extra care while operating machines with grass
catchers or other attachments; they can affect the stability of the unit. Do not use on steep slopes.
9. Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on
the ground (ride-on units).
10. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments.
The mower could suddenly turn over if a wheel is over
the edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.
11. Do not use grass catchers on steep slopes.
12. Do not mow slopes you cannot back up them.
13. See your authorized dealer/retailer for recommendations
of wheel weights or counterweights to improve stability.
14. Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.
15. Use slow speed. Tires may lose traction on slopes even
through the brakes are functioning properly.
16. Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn
slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.
1. Tow only with a machine that has a hitch designed for
towing. Do not attach towed equipment except at the
hitch point.
2. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for weight
limit for towed equipment and towing on slopes.
3. Never allow children or others in or on towed equipment.
4. On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment may
cause loss of traction and loss of control.
5. Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop.
6. Do not shift to neutral and coast down hill.
WARNING
Never operate on slopes greater than 17.6 percent
(10°) which is a rise of 3-1/2 feet (106 cm) vertically in
20 feet (607 cm) horizontally.
When operating on slopes use additional wheel
weights or counterweights. See your dealer/retailer
to determine which weights are available and
appropriate for your unit.
Select slow ground speed before driving onto
slope. In addition to front weights, use extra caution
when operating on slopes with rear-mounted grass
catchers.
Mow UP and DOWN the slope, never across the face,
use caution when changing directions and DO NOT
START OR STOP ON SLOPE.
CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the
presence of children. Children are often attracted to the unit
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 another responsible adult.
2. Be alert and turn unit off if children enter the area.
3. Before and during reverse operation, look behind and
down for small children.
4. Never carry children, even with the blade(s) off. They
may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with safe
unit operation. Children who have been given rides
in the past may suddenly appear in the mowing area
for another ride and be run over or backed over by the
machine.
5. Never allow children to operate the unit.
6. Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs,
trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.
EMISSIONS
1. Engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals
known, in certain quantities, to cause cancer, birth
defects, or other reproductive harm.
2. Look for the relevant Emissions Durability Period and Air
Index information on the engine emissions label.
IGNITION SYSTEM
1. This spark ignition system complies with Canadian
ICES-002.
8
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
Not for
Reproduction
Safe Handling of Gasoline
1. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other sources
of ignition.
2. Use only approved gasoline containers.
3. Never remove the gas cap or add fuel with the engine
running. Allow the engine to cool before refueling.
4. Never fuel the machine indoors.
5. Never store the machine or fuel container where there is
an open flame, spark, or pilot light such as near a water
heater or other appliance.
6. Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck bed
with a plastic bed liner. Always place containers on the
ground away from your vehicle before filling.
7. Remove gas-powered equipment from the truck or trailer
and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible, then
refuel such equipment on a trailer with a portable container, rather than from a gasoline dispenser nozzle.
8. Keep 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.
9. If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing immediately.
10. Never over-fill the fuel tank. Replace gas cap and tighten
securely.
11. Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They
are flammable and vapors are explosive.
12. If fuel is spilled, do not attempt to start the engine but
move the machine away from the area of spillage and
avoid creating any source of ignition until fuel vapors
have dissipated.
13. Replace all fuel tank caps and fuel container caps
securely.
Service & Maintenance
1. Never run the unit in an enclosed area where carbon
monoxide fumes may collect.
2. Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment bolts,
tight and keep equipment in good condition.
3. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper
operation regularly and make necessary repairs if they
are not functioning properly.
4. Keep unit free of grass, leaves, or other debris build-up.
Clean up oil or fuel spillage. and remove any fuel-soaked
debris. Allow machine to cool before storage.
5. If you strike an object, stop and inspect the machine.
Repair, if necessary, before restarting.
6. Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine running.
7. Check grass catcher components and the discharge
guard frequently and replace with manufacturer’s recommended parts, when necessary.
8. Mower blades are sharp. Wrap the blade or wear gloves,
and use extra caution when servicing them.
9. Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service as
required.
10. Maintain or replace safety and instructions labels, as
necessary.
11. Do not remove the fuel filter when the engine is hot as
spilled gasoline may ignite. Do not spread fuel line
clamps further than necessary. Ensure clamps grip
hoses firmly over the filter after installation.
12. Do not use gasoline containing METHANOL, gasohol
containing more than 10% ETHANOL, gasoline additives, or white gas because engine/fuel system damage
could result.
13. If the fuel tank must be drained, it should be drained outdoors.
14. Replace faulty silencers/mufflers.
15. Use only factory authorized replacement parts when
making repairs.
16. Always comply with factory specifications on all settings
and adjustments.
17. Only authorized service locations should be utilized for
major service and repair requirements.
18. Never attempt to make major repairs on this unit unless
you have been properly trained. Improper service procedures can result in hazardous operation, equipment damage and voiding of manufacturer’s warranty.
19. On multiple blade mowers, take care as rotating one
blade can cause other blades to rotate.
20. Do not change engine governor settings or over-speed
the engine. Operating the engine at excessive speed
can increase the hazard of personal injury.
21. Disengage drive attachments, stop the engine, remove
the key, and disconnect the spark plug wire(s) before:
clearing attachment blockages and chutes, performing
service work, striking an object, or if the unit vibrates
abnormally. After striking an object, inspect the machine
for damage and make repairs before restarting and operating the equipment.
22. Never place hands near the moving parts, such as a
hydro pump cooling fan, when the tractor is running.
(Hydro pump cooling fans are typically located on top of
the transaxle).
23. Units with hydraulic pumps, hoses, or motors:
WARNING: Hydraulic fluid escaping under pressure may
have sufficient force to penetrate skin and cause serious
injury. If foreign fluid is injected into the skin it must be
surgically removed within a few hours by a doctor familiar with this form of injury or gangrene may result. Keep
body and hands away from pin holes or nozzles that eject
hydraulic fluid under high pressure. Use paper or cardboard, and not hands, to search for leaks. Make sure
all hydraulic fluid connections are tight and all hydraulic
hoses and lines are in good condition before applying
pressure to the system. If leaks occur, have the unit serviced immediately by your authorized dealer.
24. WARNING: Stored energy device. Improper release of
springs can result in serious personal injury. Springs
should be removed by an authorized technician.
25. Models equipped with an engine radiator: WARNING:
Stored energy device. To prevent serious bodily injury
from hot coolant or steam blow-out, never attempt to
remove the radiator cap while the engine is running.
Stop the engine and wait until it is cool. Even then, use
extreme care when removing the cap.
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9
Safety Decals
5.25
Not for
Reproduction
All DANGER, WARNING, CAUTION and instructional
messages on your rider and mower should be carefully
read and obeyed. Personal bodily injury can result when
these instructions are not followed. The information is for
your safety and it is important! The safety decals below
are on your rider and mower.
If any of these decals are lost or damaged, replace them
at once. See an authorized dealer for replacements.
These labels are easily applied and will act as a constant
visual reminder to you, and others who may use the
equipment, to follow the safety instructions necessary for
safe, effective operation.
ANGLE
Decal - Transmission
Release
Part No. 1725776
1725776
Decal - Cutting
Height
Part No. 1717583
Decal - Ignition
Switch Positions
Part No. 1722806
Decal - Throttle
FLOAT
LOWER
LEFT
RAISE
Decal - Attachment
Lift Control
ANGLE
Part No. 1725603
RIGHT
1725603
Decal - Cutting
Height
Part No. 1721197
1725571
Positions
Part No.
1725571
Decal - PTO Selector
Positions
Part No. 1725574
1725618
1725574
Decal - Operating Instructions, CE
Models, Part No. 1723175