Snapper RT User Manual
OPERATOR’S
MANUAL
16HP Hydro Tractors
Mfg. No. Description
1694315 Baron, 16HP Hydro (CE)
1694329 Baron, 16HP Hydro (CE)
1694346 2416H, 16HP Hydro (CE)
17HP Hydro Tractors
Mfg. No. Description
1694482 Baron, 17HP Hydro (CE)
1694485 2417H, 17HP Hydro (CE)
1694505 RD1740, 17HP Hydro (CE)
18HP Hydro Tractors
Mfg. No. Description
1694328 Baron, 18HP Hydro (CE)
1694347 2418H, 18HP Hydro (CE)
1694375 Rapid 2003, 18HP Hydro (CE)
1694384 RD1840, 18HP Hydro (CE)
20HP Hydro Tractors
Mfg. No. Description
1694481 Baron, 20HP Hydro (CE)
1694483 2420H, 20HP Hydro (CE)
1694484 RD2040, 20HP Hydro (CE)
40” Mower Decks
Mfg. No. Description
1694331 40” Mower Deck (CE)
1694338 40” Mower Deck (CE)
1694385 40” Mower Deck (CE)
Baron / 2400 / RD Series
1724585-06
Rev 9/2003
TP 100-3765-06-BR-SMN
1
Troubleshooting, Adjustment & Service .........22
Troubleshooting the Tractor..................................22
Troubleshooting the Mower ..................................23
Seat Adjustment....................................................24
Hopper Latch Adjustment .....................................24
Steering Gear Adjustment.....................................25
Brake Adjustment..................................................25
Catcher-Full Alarm Adjustment .............................26
Mower Lift Adjustment ..........................................26
Battery Charging ...................................................26
PTO Clutch Adjustment ........................................27
Transmission Purging ...........................................28
Mower Adjustments ..............................................29
Cutting Height Adjustment ............................29
Leveling the Mower.......................................29
PTO Belt Replacement .........................................30
Arbor Drive Belt Replacement ..............................30
Specifications ....................................................31
Parts & Accessories..........................................32
NOTE: In this manual, “left” and “right” are referred to as
seen from the operating position.
Safety Rules & Information.................................2
Identification Numbers........................................5
Safety Decals .......................................................6
Safety Icons .........................................................7
Safety Interlock System......................................7
Features & Controls ............................................8
Control Functions....................................................8
Operating the Tractor ........................................10
General Operating Safety .....................................10
Adding Fuel...........................................................10
Starting the Engine ...............................................10
Stopping the Tractor & Engine..............................11
Driving the Tractor ................................................11
Mowing..................................................................11
Pushing the Tractor by Hand ................................11
Parking Brake Functions.......................................12
Emptying the Catcher ...........................................12
Mulching Plug .......................................................12
Attaching a Trailer.................................................13
Storage .................................................................13
Mower Deck Removal & Installation .....................14
Catcher Installation & Removal.............................15
Regular Maintenance ........................................16
Maintenance Schedule .........................................16
Check Tire Pressures ...........................................17
Transmission Maintenance ...................................17
Battery Maintenance .............................................17
Lubrication ............................................................18
Lubricate Rear Axle Shafts ...................................19
Servicing the Mower Blades .................................20
Check Mower Blade Timing ..................................20
Set Mower Belt Tension........................................21
Safety Interlock System Check .............................21
Blade Brake Check ...............................................21
PTO Clutch Adjustment Check .............................21
Engine Maintenance .............................................21
Table of Contents
2
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 riding
mower-related injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the riding mower 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, 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.
28. It is a violation of California Public Resource Code
Section 4442 to use or operate the engine on or near
any forest-covered, brush-covered, or grass-covered
land unless the exhaust system is equipped with a
spark arrester meeting any applicable local or state
laws. Other states or federal areas may have similar
laws.
Read these safety rules and follow them closely. Failure to obey these rules could result in loss of control
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 signifies important cautions or warnings which must be followed.
Safety Rules & Information
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 tractor 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.
4. Always follow the engine manual instructions for
storage preparations before storing the tractor 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.
TP 600-2459-05-UV-SMA
3
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.
Safety Rules and Information
SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and tipover 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 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 attachment; they can affect the stability of the unit.
9. Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your
foot on the ground.
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.
13. See your authorized dealer 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.
TOWED EQUIPMENT
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 to
determine which weights are available and
appropriate for your unit.
Select slow ground speed before driving onto slope.
In addition to front and rear weights, use extra caution
when operating on slopes with rear-mounted grass
catcher.
Mow UP and DOWN the slope, never across the
face, use caution when changing directions and DO
NOT START OR STOP ON SLOPE.
4
Safety Rules & Information
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
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. Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels as
necessary.
2. Never run the unit in an enclosed area where carbon
monoxide fumes may collect.
3. Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment
bolts, tight and keep equipment in good condition.
4. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper
operation regularly and make necessary repairs if
they are not functioning properly.
5. Keep unit free of grass, leaves, or other debris buildup. Clean up oil or fuel spillage.
6. Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an
object. Repair, if necessary, before restarting.
7. Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine
running unless specified otherwise in the engine manufacturer’s manual.
8. 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.
9. Do not use gasoline containing METHANOL, gasohol
containing more than 10% ETHANOL, gasoline additives, or white gas because engine/fuel system damage could result.
10. If the fuel tank must be drained, it should be drained
outdoors.
11. Replace faulty silencers/mufflers.
12. Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage, and deterioration, which could expose moving
parts or allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check
components and replace with manufacturer’s recommended parts, when necessary.
13. Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the
blade(s) or wear gloves, and use extra caution when
servicing them.
14. Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service
as required.
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 overspeed 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).
5
Identification Numbers
Tractor ID Tag
Mower ID Tag
When contacting your authorized dealer for replacement parts, service, or information you MUST have
these numbers.
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.
NOTE: For location of engine identification numbers,
refer to the engine owner’s manual.
CE Models: Place the extra copy of the identification tag
in the manual
Mfg. No.: 169XXXX
Serial No.: XXXXX
kW: XXX
Engine RPM XXXX
LpA: XXX dB(A)
Vibration @ Wheel: XXX m/s²
Vibration @ Seat: XXX m/s²
2002
dB(A)
Port Washington, WI USA 53074-0997
Simplicity Mfg. Inc.
SSAAMMPPLLEE
SSAAMMPPLLEE
North American
Models
CE Models
ENGINE REFERENCE DATA
Model Description Name/Number
Unit MFG Number
PRODUCT REFERENCE DATA
Unit SERIAL Number
Dealer Name
Date Purchased
Engine Make
Engine Type/Spec
Engine Model
Engine Code/Serial Number
Mower Deck MFG Number
Mower Deck SERIAL
Number
Mfg. No.: 169XXXX
Serial No.: XXXXX
kW: XXX
Engine RPM XXXX
LpA: XXX dB(A)
Vibration @ Wheel: XXX m/s²
Vibration @ Seat: XXX m/s²
2002
dB(A)
Port Washington, WI USA 53074-0997
Simplicity Mfg. Inc.
CE IDENTIFICATION TAG MARKINGS
A. Manufacturer’s Identification Number
B. Manufacturer’s Serial Number
C. Power Rating in Kilowatts
D. Maximum Engine Speed in Rotations per Minute
E. Manufacturer’s Address
F. Year of Manufacture
G. CE Compliance Logo
H. Mass of Unit in Kilograms
I. Sound Power in Decibels ***
J. Sound Pressure at Operator’s Position in Decibels **
K. Vibration at the Steering Wheel *
L. Vibration at the Seat *
This unit complies with European Harmonized Lawn Mower
Standard EN 836, European Machinery Directive 98/37/EC,
and European EMC Directive 89/336/EC
* Tested according to EN 836:1997/A2:2001, EN 1032:
1996, EN 1033:1995
** Tested according to EN836:1997/A2:2001
*** Tested according to 2000/14/EC
A
B
C
D
J
K
L
E
F
G
H
I
CE Models:
Place copy of
Identification Tag here.
Identification Numbers
6
Safety Decals
SAFETY DECALS
This unit has been designed and manufactured to provide you with the safety and reliability you would expect
from an industry leader in outdoor power equipment
manufacturing.
Although reading this manual and the safety instructions
it contains will provide you with the necessary basic
knowledge to operate this equipment safely and effectively, we have placed several safety labels on the unit to
remind you of this important information while you are
operating your unit.
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 your local 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.
Decal - Danger
Part No. 1720660
Decal Transmission
Release
Part No. 1723425
Decal - Ignition
Positions
Part No. 1722806
Decal - Cutting
Height
Part No. 1723470
Decal - Operating Instructions, North
American Models, Part No. 1722814
1723425
3
3
DANGER
OPERATING ON SLOPES CAN BE
DANGEROUS
SEE OPERATOR'S MANUAL. IF YOU CANNOT
BACK-UP A HILL, DO NOT DRIVE ON IT.
ROTATING BLADES CUT OFF
ARMS AND LEGS
STOP MOWER WHEN CHILDREN ARE NEAR.
NO RIDERS — THEY FALL OFF.
DANGER
AVOID SERIOUS
INJURY OR DEATH
• READ OPERATOR'S MANUAL(S).
• KNOW LOCATION AND FUNCTION OF ALL CONTROLS.
• KEEP SAFETY DEVICES (GUARDS, SHIELDS, &
SWITCHES) IN PLACE AND WORKING.
• REMOVE OBJECTS THAT COULD BE THROWN BY
THE BLADE.
• DO NOT MOW WHEN CHILDREN OR OTHERS
ARE AROUND.
• NEVER CARRY CHILDREN.
• LOOK DOWN AND BEHIND BEFORE AND WHILE
BACKING.
• AVOID SUDDEN TURNS.
• IF YOU CANNOT BACK UP A HILL,
DO NOT OPERATE ON IT.
• GO UP AND DOWN SLOPES, NOT ACROSS.
• IF MACHINE STOPS GOING UPHILL, STOP BLADE
AND BACK DOWN SLOWLY.
• BE SURE BLADE(S) AND ENGINE ARE STOPPED
BEFORE PLACING HANDS OR FEET NEAR BLADE(S).
• WHEN LEAVING MACHINE, SHUT OFF ENGINE,
REMOVE KEY, AND SET PARKING BRAKE.
WARNING
1722814-00
DO NOT TOW TRACTOR! Damage may result to transmission
Decal - Operating Instructions, CE
Models, Part No. 1723175
1723175
Decal - Hopper
Control
Part No. 1723310
Decal - Cruise
Control / Lift
Part No. 1723713
1723310
1723470
Decal - Hopper Pedal
Part No. 1723317
1723317
Decal - Hopper
Release
Part No. 1724680
NORTH AMERICAN MODELS
ALL MODELS
CE MODELS
Decal - Danger,
Rotating Blades
Part No. 1720389
Decal - Danger,
Thrown Objects
Part No. 1720391
Decal - Danger,
Thrown Objects
Part No. 1721107
Decal - Danger,
Thrown Objects
Part No. 1720390
Decal - Drawbar
Limits
Part No. 1721141
1721141
7
CE Safety Icons / Directive Compliance
Warning: Read Operator’s Manual.
Read and understand the Operator’s
Manual before using this machine.
Danger: Thrown Objects.
This machine is capable of throwing
objects and debris. Keep
bystanders away.
Warning: Remove Key Before
Servicing.
Remove the key and consult technical literature before performing
repairs or maintenance.
Danger: Machine Rollover.
Do not use this machine on slopes
greater than 10°.
Danger: Thrown Objects.
Do not operate with hopper open.
Danger: Thrown Objects.
Do not operate the with the hopper
removed, or without the deflector
Danger: Thrown Objects.
Do not operate without first connecting the discharge tube.
Danger: Dismemberment.
This machine can amputate limbs.
Keep bystanders and children away
when engine is running.
Danger: Dismemberment.
This mower deck can amputate
limbs. Keep hands and feet away
from blades.
SAFETY ICONS
SAFETY INTERLOCK
SYSTEM TESTS
This unit is equipped with safety interlock switches and
other safety devices. These safety systems are present for your safety: do not attempt to bypass safety
switches, and never tamper with safety devices. Check
their operation regularly.
Operational SAFETY Checks
Your unit is equipped with a seat switch safety system.
Check the seat switch operation every fall and spring
with the following tests.
Test 1 — Engine should NOT crank if:
• PTO switch is ON, OR
• Brake pedal is NOT fully depressed (parking brake
OFF), OR
• The cruise control lever is NOT in NEUTRAL.
Test 2 — Engine SHOULD crank if:
• PTO switch is OFF, AND
• Brake pedal is fully depressed (parking brake ON),
AND
• The cruise control lever is in NEUTRAL.
Test 3 — NORTH AMERICAN MODELS —
Engine should SHUT OFF if:
• Operator rises off seat with PTO engaged, OR
• Operator rises off seat with brake pedal NOT fully
depressed (parking brake OFF).
Test 3 — CE MODELS —
Engine should SHUT OFF if:
• Operator rises off seat.
Test 4 — Blade Brake Check
Mower blades and mower drive belt should come to a
complete stop within five seconds after electric PTO
switch is turned OFF (or operator rises off seat). If
mower drive belt does not stop within five seconds,
readjust the PTO clutch as described in the ADJUSTMENTS section or see your dealer.
WARNING
If the unit does not pass a safety test, do not
operate it. See your authorized dealer. Under no
circumstance should you attempt to defeat the
purpose of the safety interlock system.
8
Features & Controls
Throttle/Choke Control
(Single Lever Models)
The throttle/choke lever controls engine speed and
choke. Move the throttle forward to increase engine
speed and back to decrease engine speed. Always
operate at FULL throttle. Move the control fully forward
(past the detent) to close the choke. Close the choke for
cold starting. Open the choke once the engine starts. A
warm engine may not require choking.
Throttle Control
The throttle controls engine speed. Move the throttle forward to increase engine speed and back to decrease
engine speed. Always operate at FULL throttle.
Choke
Close the choke for cold starting. Open the choke once
the engine starts. A warm engine may not require choking. Move the lever forward to close the choke.
Headlights
The light switch turns the tractor headlights on and off.
Hour Meter (Optional)
The hour meter registers hours of use.
Brake Pedal
Depressing the brake pedal applies the tractor brake.
CONTROL FUNCTIONS
The information below briefly describes the function of individual controls. Starting, stopping, driving, and mowing require the combined use of several controls applied in specific sequences. To
learn what combination and sequence of controls
to use for various tasks see the OPERATION sec-
tion.
Please take a moment and
familiarize yourself with
the name, location, and
function of these controls
so that you will better
understand the safety and
operating instructions provided in this manual.
Figure 1. Tractor and
Mower Controls
NOTE: Steering wheel
removed for clarity
PTO Switch
The PTO (Power Take-Off) switch engages and disengages attachments that use the PTO. To engage the
PTO, pull UP on the switch. Push DOWN to disengage.
Note that the operator must be seated firmly in the tractor seat for the PTO to function.
Ignition Switch
The ignition switch starts and stops the engine, it has
three positions:
OFF Stops the engine and shuts off the
electrical system.
RUN Allows the engine to run and powers the
electrical system.
START Cranks the engine for starting.
NOTE: Never leave the ignition switch in the RUN position with the engine stopped–this drains the battery.
Ground Speed Pedals
The tractor’s forward ground speed is controlled by the
forward ground speed control pedal. The tractor’s
reverse ground speed is controlled by the reverse
ground speed control pedal.
Depressing either pedal will increase ground speed.
Note that the further down the pedal is depressed, the
faster the tractor will travel.
Mower Height of Cut Adjustment
The cutting height adjustment knob controls the mower
cutting height. The cutting height is infinitely adjustable
between 1” and 3-3/4” (2.5cm-9.5cm).
Cutting Height Fine Tuning Adjustment
The cutting height fine tuning adjustment is used to set
the mower cutting height between two of the preset cutting positions.
Attachment Lift Control Lever
When using the mower deck, lift the deck off the ground
while transporting to and from the job site. DO NOT cut
with the mower in the raised, transport position.
The attachment lift control lever raises and lowers
attachments that utilize the tractor’s manual lift linkage.
Pushing the lever forward lowers the attachment while
pulling the lever back raises the attachment. You must
pull back slightly on the lever and depress the release
button to change lift positions. Be sure the lever is fully
forward when mowing.
9
Features & Controls
Catcher Removal Lock
After depressing the catcher dump lock pedal, pull this
knob forward to release the catcher for removal.
Cruise Control (Optional)
The cruise control is used to lock the ground speed control in forward. Move the lever forward until the desired
ground speed is reached. To disengage the cruise control move the lever back. In the event you need to stop
quickly, depressing the brake pedal will also return the
cruise control to neutral.
Seat Adjustment Lever
The seat can be adjusted forward and back. Move the
lever, position the seat as desired, and release the lever
to lock the seat into position.
Transmission Release Valve Lever
The transmission release valve lever deactivates the
transmission so that the tractor can be pushed by hand.
See PUSHING THE TRACTOR BY HAND for operational information.
Catcher-Full Alarm
The “catcher full” alarm sounds when the grass catcher
has been filled with cut grass. When the alarm sounds,
disengage the PTO, travel to the area in which you
desire to dump the grass, then empty the catcher. Note:
When using the unit for leaf collection, the alarm may not
be activated by dry leaves.
Fuel Tank / Fuel Gauge
The fuel gage indicates the amount of fuel in the fuel
tank. To add fuel, remove the filler cap. Be sure to
leave room for heat expansion.
Parking Brake
The parking brake knob is used to lock the parking brake
when the tractor is stopped. Fully depressing the brake
pedal and pulling up on the knob engages the parking
brake. Refer to page 12 for a full explanation of parking
brake functions.
Catcher Dump Lock Pedal
The catcher dump lock pedal unlocks the catcher so that
it can be opened to dump out collected grass.
3
10
Features & Controls
Operating the Tractor
GENERAL OPERATING SAFETY
Be sure to read all information in the Safety and
Operation sections before attempting to operate this unit.
Become familiar with all of the controls and how to stop
the unit.
ADDING FUEL
To add fuel:
1. Remove the fuel cap (A, Figure 2).
2. Fill the tank. Do not overfill. Leave room in the tank
for fuel expansion. Refer to your engine manual for
specific fuel recommendations.
3. Install and hand tighten the fuel cap.
WARNING
Gasoline is highly flammable and must be
handled with care. Never fill the tank when the
engine is still hot from recent operation. Do not
allow open flame, smoking or matches in the
area. Avoid over-filling and wipe up any spills.
Do not use gasoline containing METHANOL,
gasohol containing more than
10% ETHANOL, gasoline additives, or white
gas because engine/fuel system damage
could result.
Catcher Open/Close Lever
The catcher open/close lever opens the catcher so that it
may be emptied and closes it for mowing. To empty the
catcher, depress the catcher dump lock pedal and pull
forward on the handle. To close, push the lever backward until the catcher closes and locks.
STARTING THE ENGINE
1. While sitting in the operator’s seat, fully depress the
brake pedal or set the parking brake.
2. Make sure that your feet are not depressing the
ground speed control pedals and that the cruise control lever is in neutral.
3. Disengage the PTO clutch.
4. Close the choke.
NOTE: A warm engine may not require choking.
5. Insert the ignition key and turn it to START.
6. After the engine starts, move the engine throttle control to SLOW. Warm up the engine by running it for at
least a minute.
7. Set throttle to FULL.
NOTE: In the event of an emergency the engine can be
stopped by simply turning the ignition switch to STOP.
Use this method only in emergency situations. For normal engine shut down follow the procedure given in
STOPPING THE TRACTOR.
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