Safety Instructions & Operator's Manual for
21" STEEL DECK
WALK MOWERS
SERIES 17
MODELS
2167517BV
P2167517BV
P2167517BVE
WP216517B
P215517HC
MODEL NUMBER EXPLANATION
I P I 21
SELF-PROPELLED
CUTTING WIDTH
ENGINE HORSE POWER
W - Model Designation P - Self Propelled Model
21 - 21" Cutting Width
56 - 6.6 HP (Engine Horse Power) G5 - G.5 HP (Engine Horse
G75 - G.75 HP (Engine Horse Power)
Thank you for buying a SNAPPER Product! Before operating your Walk Behind, read this manual carefully and pay
particular attention to the "IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS" on Pages 2 & 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.
I 675 I 1TI BIVIEI
17 - Series Designation
B - Briggs & Stratton
V - Overhead Valve
E - Electric Start
ENGINE OPTION
ENGINE DESIGNATION
SERIES DESIGNATION
H - Honda Engine
C -Overhead Cam
8NAPPER.coonou0.,o,..
COPYRIGHT © 2002
SNAPPER INC.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
MANUAL No. 7-4941 (I.R. 6/07/02)
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 grass catchers or other
attachments; these affect the handling and the
stability of the machine.
PREPARATION
1. Read, understand, and follow instructions and
warnings in this manual and on the mower,
engine and attachments. Know the controls and
the proper use of the mower before starting.
2. Only mature, responsible persons shall operate
the machine and only after proper instruction.
PREPARATION
(Continued From Previous Column)
3. Data indicates that operators age 60 and above,
are involved in a large percentage of mower-
related injuries. These operators should
evaluate their ability to operate the mower
safely enough to protect themselves and others
from serious injury.
4. Handle fuel with extra care. Fuels are flammable
and vapors are explosive. Use only an approved
fuel container. DO NOT remove fuel cap or add
fuel with engine running. Add fuel outdoors
only with engine stopped and cool. Clean
spilled fuel and oil from machine. DO NOT
smoke.
5. Check the area to be mowed and remove all
objects such as toys, wire, rocks, limbs and
other objects that could cause injury if thrown
by blade or interfere with mowing. Also note the
location of holes, stumps, and other possible
hazards.
6. Keep people and pets out of the mowing area.
Immediately, STOP Blade, Stop engine and Stop
mower if anyone enters the area.
7. Check shields, deflectors, switches, blade
controls and other safety devices frequently for
proper operation and location.
8. Make sure all safety decals are clearly legible.
Replace if damaged.
9. Protect yourself when mowing and wear safety
glasses, long pants and substantial footwear.
DO NOT mow barefooted or with sandals.
10. Know how to STOP blade and engine quickly in
preparation for emergencies.
11. Use extra care when loading or unloading the
machine into a trailer or truck.
12. Check grass catcher components frequently for
signs of wear or deterioration and replace as
needed to prevent injury from thrown objects
going through weak or torn spots.
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.
13. If battery is removed, DO NOT operate engine
without insulating Positive + battery cable
terminal with electrical tape, or sparking from
battery cables can result.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ..................................................................... 2 & 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS ..................................................................................................... 4
SECTION 1 - FAMILIARIZATION ...................................................................................... 5
SECTION 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ............................................................... 6-11
Pre-start Checklist ............................................................................................... 6
Starting & Stopping Engine & Blade ............................................................... 6-7
Starting & Stopping Wheel Drive ....................................................................... 7
Handle Height Adjustment .................................................................................. 8
Cutting Height Adjustment ................................................................................. 8
Recycling Operation ............................................................................................ 9
Installation of Grass Bag ................................................................................ 9-10
Installation of Discharge Deflector ................................................................... 11
Installation of Recycling Cover ........................................................................ 11
SECTION 3 - MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS ........................................................ 12-13
Change Engine Oil ............................................................................................. 12
Check Transmission Grease ........................................................................ 12-13
Check Mower Blade ........................................................................................... 13
Check Engine Drive Belt ................................................................................... 13
Check Transmission Poly-V Belt ...................................................................... 13
Service - Annually .............................................................................................. 13
Engine .............................................................................................................. 13
Air Filter ........................................................................................................... 13
Engine Oil ........................................................................................................ 13
Storage Procedure ............................................................................................. 13
SECTION 4 - ADJUSTMENTS AND REPAIR ............................................................. 14-21
Mower Blade Replacement ............................................................................... 14
Blade Sharpening ......................................................................................... 14-15
Wheel Drive Control Adjustment ...................................................................... 15
Driven and Drive Disc Service .......................................................................... 16
Cleaning Drive Disc and Driven Disc ............................................................ 16
Drive Spring Repair/Replacement ................................................................. 16
Driven Disc Adjustment ............................................................................ 16-17
Driven Disc Replacement .......................................................................... 17-18
Driven Disc Bearing Replacement ................................................................ 18
Hex Shaft Bearing Replacement ................................................................... 19
Belt Service ........................................................................................................ 19
Engine Drive Belt Replacement ............................................................... 19-20
Transmission Poly-V Belt Replacement ....................................................... 20
Battery Service ................................................................................................... 21
TROUBLESHOOTING ..................................................................................................... 22
SERVICE SCHEDULE ...................................................................................................... 23
Maintenance/Replacement Parts ...................................................................... 23
WARRANTY ..................................................................................................................... 24
PRIMARY MAINTENANCE ......................................................................................... 25-28
PRODUCT REGISTRATION FORM ................................................................................ 29
The figures and illustrations in this manual are provided for reference only and may differ from your specific
I !IMPORTANT !
model, Contact your local SNAPPER dealer if you have questions,
Section 1 - FAMILIARIZATION
ROPE
START
HANDLE
GRASS
BAG
WHEEL DRIVE
CONTROL
BLADE
CONTROL
GROUND SPEED
CONTROL
FUEL FILLER
CAP
BRIGGS
ENGINE
SPEED
CONTROL
OIL FILL CAP
AND DIPSTICK
FAST
SLOW
HONDA
ENGINE
SPEED
CONTROL
"CHOKE
SLOW
ENGINE
PRIMER
REAR HEIGHT
ADJUSTMENT
LATCH
GRASS BAG
ADAPTER
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.
FIGURE 1.1
1.2 NOMENCLATURE
FRONT HEIGHT
ADJUSTMENT
LATCHES
The nomenclature drawing above, Figure 1.1, shows
the essential parts of the SNAPPER WALK BEHIND
MOWERS. It is recommended that all operators of
the mower become thoroughly familiar with the
controls, parts and operation of the mower before
operating. Specific details involving the engine are
found in the separate engine owner's manual. Study
these manuals before operating and keep both handy
for future reference.
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
2.1 PRE-START CHECK LIST
Make the following checks and perform the service
required before each start-up.
2.1.1. Check guards, deflectors, grass bag, adapter
and covers to make sure all are in place and securely
tightened.
2.1.2. Check blade control and wheel drive control to
insure they work freely. See Figure 2.1.
BLADE
CONTROL
WHEEL
DRIVE
CONTROL
ENGINE SPEED
CONTROL
FIGURE 2.1
2.1.6. Clean exterior surfaces of cutting deck and
engine of any accumulation of spilled fuel, dirt, grass,
oil, etc. Keep engine air intake screen and cooling
fins clear at all times.
2.2 STARTING & OPERATION
2.2.1. ENGINE & BLADE
(Recoil Start Models)
1. Move engine speed control to the "Fast" (Rabbit)
position. See Figure 2.3.
1A. Fixed engine speed models go to Step 2.
NOTE: Stop the engine (and blade) by releasing the
blade control.
ROPE STAR'r
HANDLE
IGNITION
KEY
BLADE
2.1.3. Check cutting height. Adjust to desired height.
2.1.4. 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 2.2.
FIGURE 2.2
ENGINESPEED
CONTROL
(SHOWNIN FAST
FIGURE 2.3
2. Push primer bulb three times to start a cold
engine. NOTE: Primer should not be required to
restart a hot engine. See Figure 2.4.
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.
PRIMER
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.
FIGURE 2.4
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
2.2 STARTING & OPERATION
2.2.1. ENGINE & BLADE
(Choke Models)
1. Move fuel shut off valve to the "ON" position.
See Figure 2.5.
NOTE: Stop the engine (and blade) by releasing the
blade control.
FIGURE 2.5
2. Move engine speed control to the "Choke"
position. See Figure 2.6.
2.2.2. ENGINE & BLADE
(Electric Start Models)
When the ignition key (Electric Start Switch) isturned to
"START", the engine will not crank and will not start
unless the blade control isengaged!
1. Move engine speed control to the "Fast" (Rabbit)
position. See Figure 2.3.
2. Push primer button three times to start a cold
engine. NOTE: Primer should not be required to
restart a hot engine.
3. Pull blade control against handle.
4. Turn key to the start position until engine starts.
See Figure 2.3.
NOTE: If after 5 seconds of cranking the engine does not
start, release the key and attempt starting again after waiting
for approximately 20 seconds.
5. After engine starts, allow a brief warm-up until
engine runs smooth.
2.2.3. PROPELLING MOWER
(Self Propelled Models Only)
1. Start engine. Refer to Section "Starting &
Operation".
2. Move ground speed control to the desired speed
position. See Figure 2.7.
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 2.7.
MOVE TO
CHOKE
POSITION
ENGINE
SPEED
CONTROL
FIGURE 2.6
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.
GROUND
SPEED
CONTROL
SHOWN IN
FIRST/SLOW
WHEEL
DRIVE
CONTROL
FIGURE 2.7
2.3
STOPPING
Stop engine and blade by releasing the blade
control. Stop forward motion of mower by releasing
the wheel drive control.
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
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 2.8.
HIGHER
LOWER
HANDLE
LOWER
LOOSEN LOWER
NUTS ON EACH
LOWER HANDLE
J/
//
FIGURE 2.8
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.
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 2.10.
LATCH
POSITION
CUTTING HEIGHT SETTINGS
FIGURE 2.10
_IL WARNING _1_
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 2.9.
LOWEST CUTTING
, 'HE,GHT-------__--LATCH
r
FIGURE 2.9
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
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.
2.6 RECYCLING OPERATION
NOTE: For best recycling results, cut up to a maximum of 1/3
of grass blade length and recycle ONLY when grass is dry.
1. Set all wheels inthe highest cutting position(Notch 6).
2. Move engine speed control to "FAST" (Rabbit)
position.
3. Move ground speed control to slowest speed 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 INSTALLATION of GRASS BAG ADAPTER
STEP 1: Install the grass bag adapter and secure to the
side and top of the deck with the two nuts provided on the
machine. Slot in front edge of adapter must be under nut
located on top of deck. See Figure 2.11.
2.8 INSTALLATION of RECYCLING PLUG
(Optional Accessory on Some Models)
STEP 1: Once adapter has been installed, recycling may
be desired. Insert recycling plug completely and securely
into adapter. Installgrass bag. See Figure 2.12.
INSERT RECYCLING PLUG
PLUG
COMPLETELY AND SECURELY
INTO ADAPTER. INSTALL
GRASS BAG.
SECURE
WITH NUTS
ADAPTER
FIGURE 2.11
SECURE ADAPTER
TO DECK WITH NUTS
FIGURE 2.12
2.9
INSTALLATION of GRASS BAG
(Door Type Bag)
Instal grass bag by sliding connector over flange of
adapter. See Figure 2.13.
POSITION BAG
BETWEEN
SLIDE
CONNECTOR
DOWN OVER BAG
ADAPTER FLANGE
BAG
ADAPTER
FIGURE 2.13
(Continued on Next Page)
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
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.
2.9 INSTALLATION of GRASS BAG
(Continued From Previous Page)
Attach grass bag hooks over middle handle cross bar.
See Figure 2.14.
MIDDLE
HANDLE
CROSS
ATTACH BAG HOOKS
OVER MIDDLE HANDLE
CROSS BAR
FIGURE 2.14
2.10 INSTALLATION of GRASS CATCHER
(Slide Closure Type)
Position grass bag between handles. See Figure
2.15. Install grass catcher by sliding connector over
flange of adapter. Attach grass bag hooks over
middle handle cross bar. See Figure 2.15.
LOWER HANDLES
BAR
HOOK BAG HANDLE
OVER LOWER
HANDLES
SLIDE
OVER END OF
ADAPTER FLANGE
FIGURE 2.16
2.11 REMOVING and DUMPING GRASS CATCHER
1. Grasp bag connector and bag handle as shown.
See Figure 2.16.
2. First, lift up on bag handle, removing it from the
mower handle. Then lift up on bag connector
removing it from the adapter flange.
3. Dump bag by pulling bag slider off of Z-Fold at
rear of bag, opening bag.
4. To close bag, fold rear of bag into Z-shape,
keeping edges aligned. Note: an illustration of
folding the Z-shape is attached to the bag.
5. Grasp the edge of the Z-fold, and while holding
the slider, pull the Z-fold fully into the slider. See
Figure 2.17.
FIGURE 2.15
FLANGE
GRASP SLIDER.
PULL Z-FOLD INTO
FIGURE 2.17
10