Snapper RP216012, RP215012T2, RP215012, R215012, NRP215012 Owner’s Manual

...

Safety Instructions & Operator's Manual for

21" STEEL DECK

WALK MOWERS

SERIES 12 & 14

MODELS

PUSH MODELS 215012 215014 R215012

N215012 NR215012 FR215012

FR215014

PROPELLED MODELS P216012 EP216012 NP216012

RP215012 RP216012 RP215012T2

FRP216012 NRP215012 NFRP216012

MODEL NUMBER EXPLANATION

I RI I

MODEL DESIGNATION SELF-PROPELLED CUTTING WIDTH.

ENGINE HORSE POWER

R - Recycling Model I F - Flange Type Deck

P - Self Propelled Model I N - California Model

E - European Model 21 - 21" Cutting Width

50 - 6.0 HP (Engine Horse Power)

GO- G.0 HP (Enaine 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 & 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. .....

11 _oll

ENGINE OPTIONS

ENGINE TYPE

SERIES DESIGNATION

12 - Series Designation 14 - Series Designation

T - Tecumseh Engine 2 - Two Cycle Engine

8NAPPERMcoonou.. o,,,_0_0_,

MANUAL No. 3-5743 (REV. 2, 9/2/99)

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING: This powerful cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and can throw objects that can cause injury and damage! Failure to comply with the following SAFETY instructions could result in serious

injury or death to the operator or other persons. The owner of the machine must understand these instructions and must allow only persons who understand these instructions to operate machine. Each person operating the machine must be of sound mind and body and must not be under the influence of any substance, which might

impair vision, dexterity or judgment. If you have any questions pertaining to your machine which your dealer cannot answer to your satisfaction, call or write the Customer Service Department at SNAPPER, McDonough, Georgia 30253. Phone: (1-800-935-2967).

PROTECTION FOR CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often

attracted to the machine and the mowing activity.

Never assume that children will remain where you

last saw them.

1. KEEP children out of the mowing area and under the watchful care of a responsible adult.

2. DO NOT allow children in yard when machine is

operated and turn machine OFF if anyone enters the area.

3. DO NOT allow pre-teenage children to operate machine.

4. ALLOW only responsible adults & teenagers with mature judgment under close adult supervision to operate machine.

5. DO NOT pull mower backwards unless absolutely necessary. LOOK and SEE behind

and down for children, pets and hazards before and while backing.

6. USE EXTRA CARE when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may

obscure vision.

SLOPE OPERATION

1. Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall

accidents, which can result in severe injury. All slopes require extra caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, DO NOT mow it.

2. Mow across slopes, never up-and-down.

Exercise extreme CAUTION when changing

directions on slopes. DO NOT mow steep slopes or other areas where stability or traction

is in doubt.

3. Use extra care with crass catchers or other attachments; these affect the handling and the

stability of the machine.

PREPARATION

1. Read, understand, and follow instructions and warnings in this manual and on the mower, engine and attachments. Know the controls and the proper use of the mower before starting.

2. Only mature, responsible persons shall operate

the machine and only after proper instruction.

PREPARATION

(Continued From Previous Column)

3. Data indicates that operators age 60 and above, are involved in a large percentage of mower- related injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from serious injury.

4. Handle fuel with extra care. Fuels are flammable and vapors are explosive. Use only an approved

fuel container. DO NOT remove fuel cap or add fuel with engine running. Add fuel outdoors

only with engine stopped and cool. Clean spilled fuel and oil from machine. DO NOT

smoke.

5. Check the area to be mowed and remove all objects such as toys, wire, rocks, limbs and

other objects that could cause injury if thrown by blade or interfere with mowing. Also note the

location of holes, stumps, and other possible hazards.

6. Keep people and pets out of the mowing area. Immediately, STOP Blade, Stop engine and Stop mower if anyone enters the area.

7. Check shields, deflectors, switches, blade controls and other safety devices frequently for proper operation and location.

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

9. Protect yourself when mowing and wear safety glasses, long pants and substantial footwear.

DO NOT mow barefooted or with sandals.

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

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

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

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

OPERATION

1. DO NOT put hands or feet near or under rotating

parts. Keep clear of discharge area while engine is running.

2. STOP engine when crossing gravel drives, walks, or

roads, and under any conditions where thrown

objects might be a hazard.

3. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.

4. DO NOT operate mower while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

5. After striking a foreign object or if mower vibrates abnormally, STOP the engine, disconnect and

secure spark plug wire. Inspect the mower for any damage and 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

reason.

10. Before cleaning, repairing or inspecting make

certain engine, blade and all moving parts have STOPPED. Disconnect and secure spark plug wire away from plug to prevent accidental starting.

11. STOP engine and wait until the blade comes to

complete STOP before removing grass bag and/or clearing grass.

12. DO NOT operate mower without the entire grass catcher or guards in place. DO NOT point discharge at people, passing cars, windows or

doors.

13. Slow down before turning.

14. Watch out for traffic when near or crossing

roadways.

15. DO NOT operate engine in enclosed areas.

Engine exhaust gases contain carbon

monoxide, a deadly poison.

MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE

1. DO NOT store mower or fuel container inside where fumes may reach an open flame, spark or

pilot light such as in a water heater, furnace, clothes dryer or other gas appliance. Allow engine to cool before storing machine in an

enclosure. Store fuel container out of reach of children in a well ventilated, unoccupied

building.

2. Keep mower and engine free of grass, leaves or excess grease to reduce fire hazard and engine

overheating.

3. When draining fuel tank, drain fuel into an approved container outdoors and away from open flame.

4. Keep all bolts, especially blade bolts, nuts and screws properly tight. Check that all cotter pins are in proper position.

5. Always provide adequate ventilation when running engine. Engine exhaust gases contain

carbon monoxide, a deadly poison.

6. Service engine and make adjustments only when engine is stopped. Removed spark plug wire from spark plug and secure wire away from spark plug to prevent accidental starting.

7. DO NOT change engine governor speed settings or overspeed engine.

8. Check grass bag assembly frequently for wear or deterioration to avoid thrown objects and exposure to moving parts. Replace with new bag if loose seams or tears are evident. Replace slider or bag adapter if broken or cracked.

9. Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blades or wear heavy leather gloves and use CAUTION when handling them.

10. DO NOT test for spark by grounding spark plug next to spark plug hole; spark plug could ignite

gas exiting engine.

11. Have machine serviced by an authorized SNAPPER dealer at least once a year and have the dealer install any new safety devices.

12. Use only genuine SNAPPER replacement parts to assure that original standards are

maintained.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ............................................. 2 & 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS ............................................................................ 4

SECTION 1 - FAMILIARIZATION .............................................................. 5

SECTION 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ......................................... 6-8

Pre-start Checklist ............................................................................................... 6

Starting & Stopping Engine & Blade ............................................................... 6-7

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

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

Cutting Height Adjustment

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

Baffle Adjustment ................................................................................................ 8

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

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

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

Check Transmission Grease .......................................................................... 9-10

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

Check Engine Drive Belt ................................................................................... 10

Check Transmission Poly-V Belt ...................................................................... 10

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

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

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

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

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

SECTION 4 - ADJUSTMENTS AND REPAIR .................................... 11-17

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

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

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

Driven and Drive Disc Service .......................................................................... 13

Cleaning Drive Disc and Driven Disc ............................................................ 13

Drive Spring Repair/Replacement ................................................................. 13

Driven Disc Adjustment ............................................................................ 13-14

Driven Disc Replacement .......................................................................... 14-15

Driven Disc Bearing Replacement ................................................................ 15

Hex Shaft Bearing Replacement ................................................................... 16

Belt Service ........................................................................................................ 16

Engine Drive Belt Replacement ............................................................... 16-17

Transmission Poly-V Belt Replacement ....................................................... 17

TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................................................ 18

SERVICE SCHEDULE ............................................................................ 19

Maintenance/Replacement Parts ...................................................................... 19

WARRANTY ............................................................................................ 20

PRIMARY MAINTENANCE ................................................................ 21-24

Section 1 - FAMILIARIZATION

SPEED CONTROL

HANDLE

BAG

LOWER HANDLE

GROUND SPEED

CONTROL--[

CONTROL

BLADE CONTROL-

RELEASE TO STOP

_--ROPESTART

HANDLE _OPESTARTMOUNTEDON

GRASS BAG CONNECTOR

ENGINE

SPEED ENGINE SPEED DECALS CONTROL

FAST

SLOW

E AND ENGINE

RIGHTSIDEOFHANDLE)

FILL CAP

AND DIPSTICK

FILLER

CAP

"FAST"

I "SLOW"

DRIVE CONTROL-

RELEASE TO STOP

FORWARD MOTION

PRIMER BULB

RE_ ADJUSTMENT LATCH

ENGINE AIR BREATHER COVER

RECYCLING

DEcKCOVE. _,_-r

RECYCLING DECK DETAIL /

1.1 INTRODUCTION

This manual has been prepared for the operators of the SNAPPER WALK BEHIND MOWERS. Its

purpose, aside from recommending operating and routine service requirements, is to promote safety

through the use of accepted operating practices.

Read, Understand and Follow the "IMPORTANT

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS" on Pages 2 & 3 of this

manual and all safety messages on the mower and

attachments before operating the mower.

DECK

"IGHT

ADJUSTMENT LATCH

CATCHER MODELSHOWN

(ROPE START MOUNTED ON

LEFT SIDEOF HANDLE)

BAG ADAPTOR

SIDE DISCHARGE DETAIL

FIGURE 1.1

1.2 NOMENCLATURE

The nomenclature drawing above, Figure 1.1, shows the essential parts of the SNAPPER WALK BEHIND MOWERS. It is recommended that all operators of

the mower become thoroughly familiar with the controls, parts and operation of the mower before

operating. Specific details involving the engine are found in the separate engine owner's manual. Study these manuals before operating and keep both handy

for future reference.

Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

2.1 PRE-START CHECK LIST

Make the following checks and perform the service required before each start-up.

2.1.1. Check guards, deflectors, grass bag, adapter

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.

and covers to make sure all are in place and securely tightened.

2.1.2. Check blade control and wheel drive control to insure they work freely. See Figure 2.1.

2.2 STARTING & OPERATION

2.2.1. ENGINE & BLADE

(Primer Models)

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

RECYCLING MODEL SHOWN (ROPE START MOUNTED ON

RIGHT SIDE OF HANDLE)

BLADE -- CONTROL CONTROL

WHEEL DRIVE

J CONTROL

position. See Figure 2.3.

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

blade control.

FIGURE 2.1 WHEEL

DRIVE

2.1.3. Check cutting height. Adjust to desired height. CONTROL

2.1.4. Check engine oil and add oil as needed to bring ENGINESPEEDCONTROL

level up to the full mark. Refer to Engine Owner's (SHOWNIN FAST Manual for oil specifications. See Figure 2.2. POSITION)

FIGURE 2.3

CATCHER MODEL SHOWN

(ROPE START MOUNTED

ON LEFT SIDE OF HANDLE)

iiii iii!il!ilil ii i iiiil

FIGURE 2.2

2.1.5. Add fuel to tank after pushing the mower outside where fumes can safely dissipate. Make sure

cap is tightened after refueling. Refer to Engine Owners Manual for specifications.

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

2.2.2. PROPELLING MOWER (Self Propelled Models Only)

1. Move ground speed control to the desired speed

position. See Figure 2.4.

2. Start engine. Refer to Section "Starting & Operation".

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 2.4.

MOVE GROUND

SPEED CONTROL TO (ROPE START MOUNTED ON

DESIRED POSITION

! (FAST)

SIXTH SPEED POSITION

RECYCLING MODEL SHOWN

RIGHT SIDE OF HANDLE)

WHEEL DRIVE

2. Move upper mower handle up or down until the desired position is achieved.

3. Tighten the lower nuts on each lower handle to maintain desired position.

WARNING

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 2.6.

_ LOWEST CUTTING

I__L._IHEIGHT

)

BLADE -

CONTROL

FIGURE 2.4

2.3 STOPPING Stop engine and blade by releasing the blade

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

2.4 HANDLE HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT

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

1. Loosen the lower nuts on each lower handle as shown in Figure 2.5.

HIGHER

LOWER

H _

........-IGHESTIS I

CUTTING I I

HEIGHT

FIGURE 2.6

2. Set all wheels at the same cutting height. The

highest cutting position is Notch 6. The lowest cutting position is Notch 1. See Figure 2.7.

LATCH

POSITIONS

CUTTING HEIGHT SETTINGS

!i!

) NUTS ON EACH

LOWERH DLE

FIGURE 2.5

FIGURE 2.7

Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING

service with engine and blade running. STOP engine

DO NOT attempt any maintenance, adjustments or

_._.-% _:_, __ ..... _ _

and blade. Disconnect spark plug wire and secure HOLEDESIGNATEsTOP

BAFFLE (ALWAYS KEEP

away from spark plug. Engine and components are

HOT. Avoid serious burns, allow sufficient time for all FRONT

_FFLE (ALWAYS KEEP

HOLE IN UP POSITION)

,LE,NUPPOS,T,ON! T

components to cool.

2,6 RECYCLING OPERATION

IN HIGHEST POSITION) _ _ .....

__ W!NG NUT i NUTS

_OVE BAFFLE UP FOR

.__WING

NOTE: For best recycling results, cut up to a maximum of IIMULCH!NG GRASS

1/3 of grass blade length and recycle ONLY when grass is J __

dry.

1. Set all wheels in the highest cutting position (Notch 6). "MOVE BAFFLEDOWN

2. Move engine speed control to "FAST" (Rabbit) "1 FRONTCUTOUTOFDECK FORGRASSBAGG!NG position.

3. Move ground speed control to slowest speed FIGURE 2.8 setting.

4. Proceed mowing slowly. If grass is very dense, lower each rear wheel latch one notch lower than

the front wheel latches to improve recycling performance.

2.7 ADJUSTING FRONT DECK BAFFLE (Models with an "F" prefix in model number)

DO NOT operate without entire Grass Catcher or guard in place. Grass Catcher components are subject to deterioration during normal use. Inspect frequently and replace worn or damaged components immediately.

WARNING

(Example: FR215012)

The front of the cutting deck on these models has been modified with an open area. This allows the

POSITION BAG BETWEEN

blade to have more direct contact with the grass and allows more air flow into deck chamber. The

adjustable baffle should be secured in the lowest position when using a grass bag. The baffle should

be secured in the highest position when mulching grass.

NOTE: Under certain conditions, when mulching, some

SLIDE CONNECTOR

DOWN OVER BAG

ADAPTER FLANGE

grass may blow out from under front of baffle. This is

normal but, the amount of grass blowing out can be

reduced. Lower baffle slightly to reduce the amount of grass blow out.

BAG

1. Stop engine.

2. Loosen wing nuts that secure front deck baffle.

See Figure 2.8.

3. Lower the adjustable baffle to the lowest position

when using a grass bag. Raise the baffle to its

highest position when mulching grass. Take care to keep the baffle's lower edge parallel to the bottom of

the deck. See Figure 2.8.

4. Retighten wing nuts securely.

2.8 INSTALLATION of GRASS CATCHER

Install grass catcher by sliding connector over flange of adapter. See Figure 2.9. Attach grass bag hooks over middle handle cross bar. See Figure 2.10.

ATTACH BAG HOOKS OVER MIDDLE HANDLE

CROSS BAR

FIGURE 2.9

MIDDLE HANDLE

CROSS

BAR

FIGURE 2.10

Section 3 - MAINTENANCE

3.1 INTRODUCTION

To retain the quality of the mower, use genuine SNAPPER replacement parts only. Contact a local

SNAPPER dealer for parts and service assistance. For the correct part or information for a particular

mower, always mention model and serial number.

3.2 SERVICE - AFTER FIRST 5 HOURS

3.2.1. CHANGE ENGINE OIL

WARNING

DO NOT attempt any maintenance, adjustments or service with engine and blade running. STOP engine and blade. Disconnect spark plug wire and secure away from spark plug. Engine and components are

HOT. Avoid serious burns, allow sufficient time for all components to cool.

1. Refer to Engine Manual for proper oi

specifications and procedures.

2. For simplest/cleanest oi change, loosen lower handle wing nuts and stand mower up on lower handle as shown in Figure 3.1. Drain oil through

dipstick tube into a container.

3.2.2. CHECK GREASE LEVEL IN TRANSMISSION

1. Remove transmission fill plug• Roll machine

forward or backward while looking down into plug hole.

2. If liquid grease IS NOT visible on the input gear (the small gear below the plug hole), add an

amount, to cover gear, of Snapper "00" grease. See Figure 3.2.

FIGURE 3.1

FIGURE 3.2

NOTE: Snapper "00" Grease (Part No. 2-9443) is available

at your SNAPPER dealer.

(Continued on Next Page)

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