MODEL DESIGNATION ENGINE TYPE
DRIVE SYSTEM TYPE SERIES DESIGNATION
MOWER ORIENTATION MOWER DECK SIZE
ENGINE HP *
POWER UNIT
N – Model Designation 23 – Engine Horse Power 2 – Series Designation KH – Kohler Engine
Z – Zero Turning – Hydro Drive 25 – Engine Horse Power
M – Mid Mount Mower 52 – 52” Mower Width
J – Joystick Control 61 – 61” Mower Width
Thank you for buying a SNAPPER Product! Before operating your machine, 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.
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.
2. DO NOT allow children in yard when machine is
operated (even with the blades OFF).
3. DO NOT allow children or others to ride on
machine, attachments or towed equipment (even
with the blades OFF). They may fall and be
seriously injured.
4. DO NOT allow pre-teenage children to operate
machine. Local regulations may restrict the age of
the operator.
5. ALLOW only adults or responsible teenagers with
mature judgment under close adult supervision to
operate machine.
6. DO NOT operate blades in reverse. STOP
BLADES. LOOK and SEE behind and down for
children, pets and hazards before and while
backing.
7. 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
the slope, DO NOT mow it. Use extra care w ith grass
catchers or other attachments; these and turf
conditions affect the handling and the stability of the
machine.
1. DO NOT operate machine on slopes exceeding 15
degrees (27% grade).
2. Exercise EXTREME CAUTION on slopes above 10
degrees (18% grade). Turn blades OFF when
traveling uphill. Use a slow speed and avoid
sudden or sharp turns.
3. DO NOT operate machine back and forth across
face of slopes. Operate up and down. Practice on
slopes with blades off.
PROTECTION AGAINST TIPOVERS
(Continued From Previous Column)
4. AVOID starting, stopping or turning on slopes. If
machine stops going uphill or tires lose traction,
turn blades OFF and back slowly straight 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. DO NOT operate machine near drop offs, ditches,
embankments, washouts, culverts, fences and
protruding objects. KEEP A SAFE DISTANCE (at least
3 feet) away from edge of ditches and other drop offs.
The machine could turn over if an edge caves in.
7. Always begin forward motion slowly and with
caution.
8. Use weights or a weighted load carrier in accordance
with instructions supplied with a grass catcher. DO
NOT operate machine on slopes exceeding 10
degrees (18% grade) when equipped with grass
catcher.
9. DO NOT put your foot on the ground to try to stabilize
the machine.
10. DO NOT operate machine on wet grass. Reduced
traction could cause sliding.
11. Chose a low enough ground speed setting so that
you will not have to stop or shift on a slope. Tires may
lose traction on slopes even though the brakes are
functioning properly.
12. DO NOT operate machine under any condition where
traction, steering or stability is doubtful.
13. Always keep machine in gear when going down
slopes. DO NOT shift to neutral (or actuate hydro roll
release) and coast downhill.
14. Operator Protective Structures are available for this
machine through your local SNAPPER dealer.
PREPARATION
1. Read, understand and follow instructions and
warnings in this manual and on the machine, engine
and attachments. Know the controls, the safety signs
and the proper use of the machine before starting. If
the operators or mechanics cannot read English, it is
the owner’s responsibility to explain this material to
them.
2
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
PREPARATION
(Continued From Previous Page)
2. Only mature, responsible persons shall operate or
service the machine and only after proper
instruction and training. The owner is responsible
for training the operators. Further, the
owner/operator can prevent and/or is responsible
for accidents or injuries occurring to themselves,
other people or property.
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 or drain fuel
outdoors only with engine stopped and cool.
Clean spilled fuel from machine. DO NOT
smoke.
5. Practice operation of machine with BLADES
OFF to learn controls and develop skills.
6. 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 blades or interfere with mowing.
7. Evaluate the terrain to determine what
accessories and attachments are needed to
properly and safely perform the job. Only use
accessories and attachments approved by
SNAPPER.
8. Keep people and pets out of mowing area.
Immediately, STOP blades, STOP engine, and
STOP machine if anyone enters the area.
9. DO NOT operate machine unless all shields,
deflectors, switches, blade controls and other
safety devices are in place and functioning
properly.
10. Make sure all safety decals are clearly legible.
Replace if damaged.
11. Protect yourself when mowing and wear
appropriate clothing including safety glasses,
long pants, ear protection, hardhat and
substantial footwear with good traction. Long
hair, loose clothing or jewelry may get tangled
in moving parts.
12. Know how to STOP blades and engine quickly
in preparation for emergencies.
13. Use extra care when loading or unloading the
machine into a trailer or truck.
14. 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 worn 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.
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 lockopen 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. Mount and dismount machine from left side.
2. Start engine from operator's seat. Make sure
blades are OFF and parking brake is set. Use
seat belts if provided.
3. DO NOT leave machine with engine running.
Stop engine. Stop blades. Set brake. Remove
key.
4. DO NOT operate machine unless properly
seated with feet on foot rests or pedal(s).
5. DO NOT operate machine while under the
influence of alcohol or drugs.
6. STOP MACHINE on level ground, lower deck,
engage parking brake and make sure engine
and blades have stopped before removing
grass catcher or unclogging mower to prevent
injury to hands or feet.
7. Blades must be OFF except when cutting grass.
Set blades in highest position when mowing
over rough ground.
3
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
OPERATION
(Continued From Previous Page)
8. Keep hands and feet aw ay from rotating blades
underneath deck. DO NOT place foot on ground
while BLADES are ON or machine is in motion.
9. DO NOT operate machine without entire grass
catcher or guards in place. DO NOT point
discharge at people, passing cars, windows or
doors.
10. Slow down before turning.
11. Watch out for traffic when near or crossing
roadways.
12. STOP engine immediately after striking an
object or if an abnormal vibration occurs.
Remove key. Remove and disconnect the
sparkplug wire. Make necessary repairs before
resuming operation.
13. Mow only in daylight or with good artificial light.
14. Move motion control levers SLOWLY to
maintain control during speed and directional
changes.
15. Exercise CAUTION w hen pulling loads. DO NOT
pull loads greater than 300 pounds. Avoid jack
knifing. DO NOT turn sharply. Attach loads to
approved hitch point only following
manufacturer’s instructions.
16. On slopes, the w eight of towed equipment may
cause loss of traction and loss of control. When
towing travel slowly and allow extra distance to
stop.
17. DO NOT operate engine in enclosed areas.
Engine exhaust gases contain carbon
monoxide, an odorless and deadly poison.
MAINTENANCE
1. DO NOT store machine 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 the reach of
children in a well ventilated, unoccupied building.
Shut off fuel (when equipped with valve) while
storing or transporting machine.
2. Clean grass and debris from engine, mufflers,
drives and cutting units to help prevent
overheating and fires. Clean up fuel, oil and
excess grease.
3. When draining fuel tank, drain fuel into an
approved container outdoors and away from
open flame.
4. Check brakes frequently; adjust, repair or replace
as needed.
5. Keep all bolts, nuts and screws properly tight.
Check that all cotter pins are in proper position.
MAINTENANCE
(Continued From Previous Column)
6. Always provide adequate ventilation when
running engine. Engine exhaust gases contain
carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly
poison.
7. Disconnect battery before performing
maintenance or service. Cranking engine could
cause injury. Disconnect negative (black) cable
from battery first and positive (red) cable last.
Reconnect positive first and negative last. Charge
battery in an open, well ventilated area away from
spark and flames. Unplug charger before
connecting or disconnecting from battery. Wear
protective clothing and insulated gloves.
8. Park machine on level ground. DO NOT work
under machine without safety blocks.
9. Service engine and clean, adjust or repair only
when engine and blades are stopped. Remove
spark plug wire(s) from spark plug(s) and secure
wire(s) away from spark plug(s).
10. DO NOT change engine governor speed settings
or overspeed engine. DO NOT make adjustments
with the engine running.
11. Lubricate machine at intervals specified in
manual to prevent controls from binding.
12. Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the
blades or wear heavy leather gloves and use
CAUTION when handling them. Never straighten
or weld blades, only replace them.
13. DO NOT test for spark by grounding spark plug
next to spark plug hole; spark plug could ignite
gas exiting engine.
14. Carefully release pressure from components with
stored energy.
15. Have machine serviced by an authorized
SNAPPER dealer at least once a year and have
the dealer install any new safety devices. Never
allow untrained personnel to service machine.
16. Use only genuine SNAPPER replacement parts to
assure that original standards are maintained.
4
TABLE OF CONTENTS
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ........................................................................2-4
TABLE OF CONTENTS ..................................................................................................... 5
PRODUCT REGISTRATION FORM ................................................................................37
IMPORTANT
NOTICE: Operator Protective Structures are available as optional kits for the Mid-Mount and Out-Front Z-Rider
machines. These structures, when installed and used properly can offer additional security to the operator
against serious injury in the event of a tip over accident. Operator Protective Structures may be required by local
ordinances. Discuss your mowing application and ordinances with your local Snapper Dealer.
5
Section 1 - FAMILIARIZATION
HOUR
METER
CHOKE
MOTION CONTROL
LEVER
RIGHT HAND
FUEL TANK
DECK LIFT
LEVER
DISCHARGE
DEFLECTOR
1.1 INTRODUCTION
This manual has been prepared for the operator’s of
the SNAPPER MID MOUNT Z-RIDER. Its purpose,
aside from recommending standard operating
procedures 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
thru 4 of this manual and All SAFETY messages on the
MID MOUNT Z-RIDER and its attachments before
operating. SNAPPER recommends returning the MID
MOUNT Z-RIDER to an authorized SNAPPER dealer
annually for inspection and addition of any new devices
which might upgrade the safety of the mower.
CHOKE
CONTROL
DECK LIFT PEDAL
BLADE
SWITCH
ENGINE
SPEED
OPERATOR’S
SEAT
KEY
SWITCH
ENGINE SPEED
CONTROL
LEFT HAND
FUEL TANK
PARKING
BRAKE LEVER
CONTROL PANEL
(SEE INSET)
IMPORTANT
The figures and illustrations in this manual
are provided for reference only and may
differ from your specific model. Contact
your Snapper dealer if you have questions
1.2 NOMENCLATURE
The nomenclature information above shows the
essential parts of the SNAPPER MID MOUNT ZRIDER. It is recommended that all operators of this
equipment become thoroughly familiar with the
controls, components, and operation of this machine
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. For the nearest SNAPPER
dealer in your area, check the yellow pages under the
heading LAWN MOWERS. For engine parts and
service, look for the engine manufacturer’s dealers
under the heading, ENGINES - gasoline.
6
Section 2 – SAFETY MESSAGES AND SYMBOLS
DANGER ! ROTATING PARTS
KEEP AWAY FROM MOVING PARTS
MOTION CONTROL LEVER (JOYSTICK)
MULTI-DIRECTIONAL
PARKING BRAKE LEVER OPERATION
WEAR HEARING PROTECTION
WARNING ! AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH
STARTING, OPERATION & STOPPING OF MACHINE
FORWARD
REVERSE
7
Section 2 – SAFETY MESSAGES AND SYMBOLS
HOUR METER
CONTROL PANEL IDENTIFICATION
DANGER! ROTATING BLADES
PULL SWITCH “UP” TO
ENGAGE BLADES
PUSH SWITCH “DOWN” TO
DISENGAGE BLADES
CHOKE
CONTROL
DANGER! ROTATING BLADES
KEEP CHILDREN AND OTHERS OUT OF MOWING AREA
OFF/STOP
FAST
SLOW
ENGINE
SPEED
CONTROL
STOP RUN START
IGNITION SWITCH
RUN
KEYSWITCH
START
8
Section 3 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
G
3.1 PRE-START CHECK LIST
Make the following checks and perform the service
required before each start-up.
3.1.1. Check tires and add or release air as needed
to bring pressure to 12 psi in drive tires. Pressure in
front caster wheels should be 25 psi.
3.1.2. Check guards, deflectors and covers to make
sure all are in place and securely tightened.
3.1.3. Check engine oil and add oil as needed to
bring level up to the FULL mark. Refer to engine
owner’s manual for oil specifications. See Figure 3.1.
SAFE LEVEL
AREA
FIGURE 3.1
3.1.4. Check Blade Switch to insure it works freely.
1. Pull the Blade Switch up to the “ON” position to
engage or turn “ON” the mower blades.
2. Push Blade Switch down to the “OFF” position to
disengage (or turn “OFF”) the blades.
BLADE SWITCH
FIGURE 3.2
3.1.5. Clean exterior surfaces of cutting deck,
engine and pumps of any accumulation of dirt,
grass, oil, etc. Keep engine and pump air intake
screens and cooling fins clear at all times.
3.1.6. Add fuel to both tanks of the machine
outside where fumes can safely dissipate. Make
sure both fuel filler caps are tight. Note the fuel tank
selector valve. Refer to engine owner’s manual for
fuel specifications.
3.1.7. Adjust position of operator’s seat. The seat
is mounted on slides. Locate latch lever beneath
the seat. Move lever towards the left and slide seat
to the desired position. Release latch.
3.1.8. Place mower in desired cutting height
setting. Grasp deck lift lever and depress release
latch located underneath the lever. Move lever to
desired cutting height setting and release latch.
Insert stop pin to desired cutting height.
IMPORTANT: There is a foot assist pedal located
to the right front side of the footrest. Always use
this assist pedal to raise or lower the deck to the
desired cutting height. See Figure 3.3.
DECK LIFT
LEVER
FOOT
ASSIST PEDAL
INSERT STOP PIN
INTO HOLES FOR
DESIRED CUTTING
HT
HEI
IMPORTANT: This machine is equipped with
hydrostatic drive. The direction of motion and the
speed of motion are controlled by the motion control
lever (joystick). A small movement of this control can
cause the machine to move instantly. DO NOT attempt
to operate the machine until you read this manual and
become familiar with its operation. Practice with the
blades “OFF” disengaged, engine speed at a slow
setting and in an open area away from obstacles.
DO NOT allow operation of the machine by
untrained personnel.
RELEASE
LATCH
FIGURE 3.3
WARNING
9
Section 3 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
ROLL RELEASE: To roll the machine without the
engine running, pressure within the hydraulic pumps
must be released. There is a hydraulic pressure relief
valve on the upper side of each pump that is used to
release the pressure. Use a wrench to rotate both relief
valves counter clockwise two full turns to open. After
rolling machine, both relief valves must be rotated
clockwise to close valves and tighten securely before
operating machine. Machine will not move if relief
valves are open. See Figure 3.3.
ROTATE RELIEF VALVE
COUNTERCLOCKWISE
TO RELIEVE PRESSURE
RELIEF VALVE
FIGURE 3.3
WARNING
DO NOT disengage the hydro transmission and coast
down slopes. DO NOT use Roll Release Control to
disengage the hydro transmission unless machine
motion can be controlled and engine is off.
This machine is equipped with dual hydraulic pumps and
wheel drive motors. Each pump is controlled by a single
motion control lever or joystick. This single control lever
(joystick) controls the direction of motion, Forward and
Reverse, and the speed of motion. Move the joystick
forward to propel the machine forward. Move the control
rearward to propel the machine in reverse. The speed of
motion is continuously variable from neutral (zero) to
maximum. Moving the joystick farther from the neutral
position will cause the speed of motion to increase. To
turn, move the joystick towards the side you want to turn
to. DO NOT make sudden changes in speed or
direction. Always slow machine motion before turning.
To stop the motion of the machine, bring the joystick
back to the neutral position. Engage parking brake.
3.2.1. STARTING ENGINE
When the ignition key is turned the engine will not
start or turn over unless, the blade switch is pushed
in to the “OFF” position, the motion control lever is
in the neutral position with the parking brake
engaged.
1. Complete pre-start checklist.
2. Sit in operator’s seat.
3. Push blade switch in to “OFF”, blades
disengaged position and engage parking brake.
See Figures 3.2 and 3.7.
4. Move choke control forward to choke position to
start a cold engine. See Figure 3.5.
5. Move engine speed control to the Rabbit “FAST”
position. See Figure 3.5.
6. Turn key to the start position until engine starts.
See Figure 3.6.
CHOKE
CONTROL
SHOWN FROM OPERATOR’S VIEW POINT
ENGINE
SPEED
CONTROL
FIGURE 3.5
KEY
SWITCH
10
Section 3 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
3.2.1. STARTING ENGINE
NOTE:
does not start, release the key. Attempt starting
again after waiting for approximately 20 seconds.
7. After engine starts, move the choke control to
the “OFF” or no choke position. Allow a brief
warm-up until engine runs smooth.
3.2.2. STOPPING ENGINE
1. Stop engine by turning key to “STOP” position.
Move engine speed to the Turtle “SLOW” position
and turn key to “STOP”. See Figure 3.6.
If after 5 seconds of cranking the engine
KEYSWITCH
SHOWN FROM OPERATOR’S VIEW POINT
FIGURE 3.6
WARNING
DO NOT operate blades in reverse. STOP blades.
LOOK and SEE behind and down for children, pets,
and hazards before and while backing.
3.2.3. STARTING MOWER BLADES
1. Start engine and set engine speed control to
the Rabbit “FAST” position. See Figure 3.5.
2. Pull the Blade Switch up to the “ON” position to
engage or turn “ON” the mower blades.
See Figure 3.2.
3.2.4. STOPPING MOWER BLADES
1. Push Blade Switch down to “OFF” position to
disengage or turn “OFF” the blades.
2. Move engine speed control to the Turtle
“SLOW” position. Turn key to “STOP” position.
WARNING
Once blades are disengaged, they should come to a
complete stop in 7 seconds. If the blades continue
to rotate after 7 seconds, the electric clutch should
be checked. Adjustment or replacement of electric
clutch may be necessary. Return the machine to an
authorized Snapper dealer for replacement. DO
NOT CONTINUE to operate mower if blades fail to
stop in 7 seconds.
3.2.5. PARKING BRAKE
1. Engage parking brake by pulling the parking brake
lever back to the engaged position. See Figure 3.7.
: To engage the parking brake, the joystick
NOTE
control must first be placed in the center neutral
position.
2 Release parking brake by pushing parking brake
lever forward to the released position. See Figure 3.8.
DO NOT park the machine on slopes. DO NOT leave
machine with engine running. Stop engine. Stop
blades. Engage parking brake. Remove key.
PARKING BRAKE
LEVER IN ENGAGED
“ON” POSITION
FIGURE 3.7
PARKING BRAKE
LEVER IN RELEASED
“OFF” POSITION
FIGURE 3.8
WARNING
11
Section 3 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
3.3 CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
1. Adjust cutting height, as desired, to any position,
using deck lift lever. The release latch should be
pulled up when lowering the deck. When raising the
deck, the release latch does not have to be pulled
up. IMPORTANT: There is a foot assist pedal
located to the right front side of the footrest. Always
use this assist pedal to raise or lower the deck to the
desired cutting height. See Figure 3.9 & 3.10.
2. If a specific deck height is desired each time the
machine is used, insert the stop pin to desired
cutting height. See Figure 3.11.
NOTE: The engine does not have to be running to adjust
cutting height.
DECK LIFT
LEVER SHOWN IN
HIGH CUTTING
HEIGHT
PULL RELEASE
LATCH UP WHEN
CHANGING THE
DECK HEIGHT
FIGURE 3.9
DECK LIFT LEVER
SHOWN IN LOW
CUTTING HEIGHT
POSITION
DECK LIFT
ASSIST PEDAL
FIGURE 3.10
3.4 OPERATION- MOTION CONTROLS
3.4.1. DRIVING MACHINE
1. Start engine. Release parking brake.
2. Move motion control lever gently and with
caution in desired direction.
FORWARD - Move control lever forward.
REVERSE - Move control lever rearward.
LEFT TURN - Move control towards left.
RIGHT TURN – Move control towards right.
ZERO RADIUS TURN - Move control diagonally
from neutral in desired direction.
DO NOT make turns at high speed. Slow machine
motion. Move motion control lever gently and with
caution. DO NOT make sudden changes in speed or
direction.
Zero-turning the machine at any speed can result in
operator disorientation, or in operator being thrown
from the machine. Exercise extreme caution when
executing a zero-turn.
6 HOLE POSITIONS
FOR STOP PIN
FIGURE 3.11
WARNING
WARNING
12
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