Snapper RZT20420BVE2, RZT185380BVE, RZT20380KH User Manual

OPERATOR’S MANUAL

250 Z Series (Snapper)

Mfg. No.	Description
7800009	RZT185380BVE, 18.5HP Zero-Turn Rider with 38” Mower
7800010	RZT20420BVE2, 20HP Zero-Turn Rider with 42” Mower

Javelin Series (Simplicity)

Mfg. No. Description

2690476 RZT20380KH, 20HP Zero-Turn Rider with 38” Mower

Form No. 7100313

Revision 02

Rev.Date 7/2006

TP 100-5077-02-HZ-SN

Table of Contents

Safety Rules & Information.................................	2
Identification Numbers........................................	5
Safety Decals .......................................................	6
Safety Interlock System ......................................	7
Features & Controls ............................................	8
Control Functions....................................................	8
Operation ...........................................................	10
General Operating Safety .....................................	10
Checks Before Starting .........................................	10
Starting the Engine ...............................................	11
Stopping the Rider & Engine.................................	11
Mowing..................................................................	11
Pushing the Rider by Hand ...................................	11
Zero Turn Driving Practice.....................................	12
Attaching a Trailer..................................................	14
Mower Removal & Installation...............................	14
Regular Maintenance ........................................	16
Schedule ...............................................................	16
Lubrication ............................................................	17
Servicing the Mower Blades .................................	18
Checking Tire Pressures .......................................	19
Checking/Adding Fuel ...........................................	19
Fuel Filter ..............................................................	19
Engine Maintenance .............................................	19
Battery Maintenance .............................................	20
Storage..................................................................	20

Troubleshooting, Adjustments & Service	.......21
Troubleshooting the Rider .....................................	21
Troubleshooting the Mower ...................................	22
Seat Adjustments..................................................	23
Motion Control Lever Adjustment..........................	23
Speed Balancing Adjustment................................	23
Motion Control Lever Friction Adjustment .............	24
Cutting Height Adjustment ....................................	24
Roller Bar Adjustment ...........................................	24
Neutral Adjustments..............................................	25
Parking Brake Adjustment.....................................	26
Front Suspension Adjustment ...............................	26
PTO Clutch Adjustment.........................................	27
Blade Brake Check ...............................................	27
Mower Deck Leveling ............................................	28
Roller Bar Leveling................................................	29
Transmission Drive Belt Replacement ..................	30
Battery Charging ...................................................	30
Mower Belt Replacement ......................................	31
Fuse Replacement................................................	32
Specifications ....................................................	33
Parts & Accessories..........................................	34

NOTE: In this manual, “left” and “right” are referred to as seen from the operating position.

WARNING

You must read, understand and comply with all safety and operating instructions in this manual before attempting to set-up and operate your machine.

Failure to comply with all safety and operating instructions can result in loss of machine control, serious personal injury to you and / or bystanders, and risk of equipment and property damage. The triangle in the text signifies important cautions or warnings which must be followed.

WARNING

Engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known, in certain quantities, to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

This manual contains safety information to make you aware of the hazards and risks associated with the machine and how to avoid them. This machine is designed and intended to be used and maintained according to the manual for finish cutting of established lawns and is not intended for any other purpose. It is important that you read and understand these instructions thoroughly before attempting to start or operate this equipment.

1

Safety Rules & Information

!

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 Products Inc., McDonough, Georgia 30253. Phone: [phone]).

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. 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. 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 other than the operator.

2.DO NOT allow children in yard when machine is operated (even with the blade 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.

5.ALLOW only responsible adults & 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 with grass catchers or other attachments; these 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.

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.

PROTECTION AGAINST TIPOVERS

(Continued From Previous Column)

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.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 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 the machine in gear when going down slopes. DO NOT shift to neutral (or actuate hydro roll release) and coast downhill.

PREPARATION

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

2.Only mature, responsible persons shall operate the machine and only after proper instruction.

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 from machine. DO NOT smoke.

5.Practice operation of machine with BLADES OFF to learn controls and develop skills.

2

Safety Rules and Information

!

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

!

PREPARATION

(Continued From Previous Page)

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 blade or interfere with mowing.

7.Keep people and pets out of mowing area. Immediately STOP blades, STOP engine, and STOP machine if anyone enters the area.

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

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

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

11.Know how to STOP blades and engine quickly in preparation for emergencies.

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

13.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.

OPERATION

1.Mount and dismount machine from left side. Keep clear of discharge opening at all times.

2.Start engine from operator's seat, if possible. Make sure blades are OFF and parking brake is set.

3.DO NOT leave machine with engine running. STOP engine, STOP blades, SET brake, and Remove key before leaving operators position of any reason.

4.DO NOT operate machine unless properly seated with feet on feet rests or pedal(s).

5.STOP BLADES and ENGINE and make sure blades have stopped before removing grass catcher or unclogging mower to prevent loss of fingers or hand.

6.Blades must be OFF except when cutting grass. Set blades in highest position when mowing over rough ground.

7.Keep hands and feet away from rotating blades underneath deck. DO NOT place foot on ground while BLADES are ON or machine is in motion.

8.DO NOT operate machine without entire grass catcher or guards in place and working. DO NOT point discharge at people, passing cars, windows or doors.

9.Slow down before turning.

10.Watch out for traffic when near or crossing roadways.

11.STOP engine immediately after striking an obstruction. Inspect machine and repair damage before resuming operation.

12.Operate machine only in daylight or with good artificial light.

13.Move joystick (if equipped) SLOWLY to maintain control during speed and directional changes.

3.DO NOT remove fuel cap or add fuel with the engine running. 14. Exercise CAUTION when pulling loads. Limit loads to those

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 lock-open device

10.If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing immediately.

11.Never overfill a fuel tank. Replace fuel cap and tighten securely.

you can safely control and attach loads to hitch plate as specified with attachment instructions.

15.On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment may cause loss of traction and loss of control. When towing, travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop.

16.DO NOT operate engine in enclosed areas. Engine exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, a deadly poison.

17.DO NOT discharge material against a wall or obstruction. Material may ricochet back towards the operator.

18.Only use accessories approved by the manufacturer. See manufacturer's instructions for proper operation and installation of accessories.

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.

3

Safety Rules and Information

!

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

!

TOWING

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 recommendation for weight limits for towed equipment and towing on slopes.

3.DO NOT allow children or others 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.

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.

2.Keep 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.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. Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly poison.

7.Disconnect negative (black) cable from battery before performing maintenance or service. Cranking engine could cause injury.

8.DO NOT work under machine without safety blocks.

9.Service engine and make adjustments only when engine is 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.

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.

13.DO NOT test for spark by grounding spark plug next to spark plug hole; spark plug could ignite gas exiting engine.

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

15.Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels as necessary.

16.Use only genuine replacement parts to assure that original standards are maintained.

!

WARNING

!

Grass Catcher bags used on this product are made of woven fabric, and are subject to deterioration and wear during normal usage. Check condition of bags before each use. Immediately replace worn or damaged catcher bags with only bags recommended by the manufacturer. The Grass Catcher is optional equipment on some models.

4

Identification Numbers

	S
	A			Snapper
	M
				Models
	P
		LE
	S			Simplicity
	A
	M			Models
		P
		LE

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.

Identification Numbers

	Unit ID Tag
PRODUCT	REFERENCE DATA
Model Description Name/Number
Unit MFG Number	Unit SERIAL Number
Mower Deck MFG Number	Mower Deck SERIAL Number
Dealer Name	Date Purchased
ENGINE REFERENCE DATA
Engine Make	Engine Model
Engine Type/Spec	Engine Code/Serial Number

5

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 - Ignition

Switch

Part No. 7100467

Decal - Throttle

Control

Part No. 7100413

Decal - Park Brake Control

Part No. 7100332

Decal - Warning

Part No. 7100331

Decal - Cutting

Height Adjust

Part No. 7100340

Decal - Roll Release Rods

Part No. 7100341

Decal - Motion

Control Levers

Part No. 7100333

6

Safety Decals (Cont.) & Interlock System Checks

Decal - Danger - Cut Hands

Part No. 7013010

Decal - Mower Guard

Part No. 7046720

SAFETY INTERLOCK

SYSTEM

This unit is equipped with safety interlock switches. 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

TEST 1 — ENGINE SHOULD NOT CRANK IF:

•PTO switch is engaged, OR

•Motion control levers are not locked in their NEUTRAL LOCKED positions.

TEST 2 — ENGINE SHOULD CRANK IF:

•PTO switch is NOT engaged, AND

•Motion control levers are locked into their NEUTRAL LOCKED positions.

TEST 3 — ENGINE SHOULD SHUT OFF IF:

•Operator rises off seat with PTO engaged, OR

•Operator rises off seat with motion control levers not locked in their neutral locked positions, OR

•With operator seated, right motion control lever is moved out of its neutral locked position before left motion control lever.

TEST 4 — BLADE BRAKE CHECK

The mower blades and mower drive belt should come to a complete stop within five seconds after the electric PTO switch is turned off (or operator rises off seat). If mower drive belt does not stop within five seconds, see your dealer.

NOTE: Once the engine has stopped, the PTO switch must be turned off, and the motion control levers must be locked in their NEUTRAL LOCKED positions in order to start the engine.

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.

7

Features & Controls

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 section.

	Motion Control Levers	Engine Speed Control

These levers control the ground speed and direction of the rider. The left lever controls the left rear drive wheel and the right controls the right rear drive wheel.

Moving a lever forward increases the FORWARD speed of the associated wheel, and pulling back on a lever increases the REVERSE speed.

The further a lever is moved away from the neutral position the faster the drive wheel will turn.

See the OPERATION section for steering instructions.

The engine speed control controls engine speed. Move the engine speed control forward to increase engine speed and back to decrease engine speed. Always operate at FULL engine speed.

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. Move the lever back to open the choke.

8

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.

Hour Meter

The hour meter measures the number of hours the key has been in the RUN position.

Note: The hour meter will register the passage of time when the engine is running. The hour meter has a self contained power source so the total hours are always visible.

PTO Switch

The PTO (Power Take-Off) switch engages and disengages the mower blade clutch. To engage the PTO, pull UP on the switch. Push DOWN to disengage. Note that the operator must be seated firmly in the rider seat for the PTO to function.

Transmission Release Valves

The transmission release valves deactivate the transmissions so that the unit can be pushed by hand. See PUSHING THE UNIT BY HAND for operational information.

Seat Adjustment Knobs

The seat can be adjusted forward and backward. See SEAT ADJUSTMENTS for adjustment information.

Features & Controls

Fuel Tank Cap

To remove the cap, turn counterclockwise.

Mower Cutting Height Adjustment Lever

The mower cutting height is adjustable from 1-1/2” to 4”, in 1/2” increments. See CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT for adjustment information.

Parking Brake

The parking brake is incorporated into the left motion control lever. Locking the lever into the neutral locked position engages the parking brake; moving the lever out from the neutral locked position disengages the brake.

Note: Both motion control levers must be locked into the neutral lock position together, or the unit will stall.

IMPORTANT

The figures and illustrations in this manual are provided for reference only and may differ from your specific model. Contact your dealer if you have questions.

9

Operation

GENERAL OPERATING SAFETY

Before first time operation:

•Be sure to read all information in the Safety and Operation sections before attempting to operate this rider and mower.

•Become familiar with all of the controls and how to stop the unit.

•Drive in an open area without mowing to become accustomed to driving the unit.

CHECKS BEFORE STARTING

•Check that the crankcase is filled to full mark on dipstick. See the engine owner’s manual for instructions and oil recommendations.

•Make sure all nuts, bolts, screws and pins are in place and secure.

•Adjust the seat position, and make certain you can reach all controls from the operator’s position.

•Fill the fuel tank with fresh fuel. Refer to the engine owner’s manual for fuel recommendations.

WARNING

Never operate on slopes greater than 27 percent (15°).

Select slow ground speed before driving onto a slope. Use extra caution when operating on slopes with a rear-mounted grass catcher.

Mow up and down slopes, not across the face, use caution when changing directions and DO NOT START OR STOP ON SLOPE.

WARNING

Never allow passengers to ride on the unit.

Before leaving the operator’s position for any reason, lock the motion control levers in the neutral locked position, disengage the PTO, stop the engine and remove the key.

To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine, rider and mower free of grass, leaves and excess grease. Do not stop or park rider over dry leaves, grass or combustible materials.

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.

WARNING

If you do not understand how a specific control functions, or have not yet thoroughly read the FEATURES & CONTROLS section, do so now. Do NOT attempt to operate the rider without first becoming familiar with the location and function of ALL controls.

C	A
B

Figure 1. Pre-	Checks
A. Fuel Tank Cap
B. Crankcase	(Under Engine Cover)

C. Seat Adjustment Knobs

WARNING

Do not load this zero-turn rider on a trailer or truck using two separate ramps. Only use a single ramp that is at least one foot wider than the width of the rear wheels of this rider. This rider has a zero turning radius and the rear wheels could fall off the ramps, or the rider could tip over injuring the operator or bystanders.

10