Snapper SPE131KW, SPE151KW, SPE381 User Manual

Safety Instructions and Operator’s Manual for

PRO GEAR EXPRESS

WALK BEHIND MOWERS

MID-SIZE

SERIES 1

POWER UNIT

MODEL

SPE131KW SPE151KW

MOWER UNIT

MODEL

SPE361 SPE481

MODEL NUMBER EXPLANATION

S P E 13 1 KW

MODEL DESIGNATION ENGINE TYPE MODEL TYPE SERIES DESIGNATION MODEL OPTION ENGINE HP

S – Snapper Commercial Model ENGINE HORSE POWER CUTTING DECK WIDTH 1 - Series Designation KW – Kawasaki Engine P – Pro Mid Size Model 13 – 13 Engine HP 361 – 36” Cutting Deck E – Express Model 15 – 15 Engine HP 481 – 48” Cutting Deck

Thank you for buying a SNAPPER Product! Before operating your PRO GEAR WALK BEHIND, 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!

* Actual sustained equipment horsepower will likely be lower due to operating limitations and environmental factors.

MANUAL No. 7-4324 (I.R. 8/04/04)

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 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 or service the 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.

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 and slow speed. If you feel uneasy on a slope, DO NOT mow it.

2. Mow across slopes, never up and dow n. Exercise extreme CAUTION when changing directions on slopes. Practice operation of machine on slopes with blades off.

3. Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments: these affect the handling and the stability of the machine.

4. DO NOT use tow behind attachments on slopes.

5. AVOID uphill starts.

6. Turf conditions can affect the machine’s stability. DO NOT operate machine under any condition where traction, steering or stability is doubtful.

7. 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.

SLOPE OPERATION

(Continued From Previous Column)

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

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. If the operators or mechanics cannot read English, it is the owner’s responsibility to explain this material to them.

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

6. Check the area to be mow ed 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. 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.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

PREPARATION

(Continued From Previous Page)

11. Protect yourself when mowing and w ear 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 lock-open 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. DO NOT put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep clear of the discharge area while the engine is running.

2. BEFORE STARTING ENGINE, blades must be OFF and Traction Levers LOCKED in the Traction Lock position.

OPERATION

(Continued From Previous Column)

3. Stop Blades w hen crossing gravel drive, walks, and under any conditions where thrown objects might be a hazard.

4. DO NOT raise deck with the blades running.

5. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.

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

7. DO NOT operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

8. After striking a foreign object or if the mower vibrates abnormally, STOP the blades and engine. Remove the key. Disconnect and secure the spark plug wire. Inspect the mower for any damage and repair the damage.

9. DO NOT operate machine near drop offs, ditches, embankments, washouts culverts, fences and protruding objects. STAY ALERT for holes and other hidden hazards. Tall grass can hide obstacles.

10. DO NOT operate machine on w et grass. Always be sure of your footing while operating machine, especially while backing up. Keep a firm grip on the handle. Walk: never run. Slipping and falling could cause injury.

11. DO NOT leave the machine with the engine running. STOP BLADES, STOP ENGINE and REMOVE KEY before leaving the operator position for any reason.

10. Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting make certain blades, engine and all moving parts have STOPPED. Remove key and secure spark plug wire away from spark plug key to prevent accidental starting.

12. STOP MACHINE on level ground, engage parking brake (if equipped) and make sure engine and blades have stopped before leaving the operator’s position for any reason including removing grass catcher or unclogging mower to prevent injury to hands or feet.

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

14. Keep hands and feet away from rotating blades underneath deck.

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

16. Slow down before turning.

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

18. Move motion control levers SLOWLY to maintain control during speed and directional changes.

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

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

MAINTENANCE

1. Shut off fuel while storing or transporting. 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. Clean grass and debris from engine, mufflers, drives and cutting units to help prevent 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 (if equipped); adjust, repair or replace as needed.

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

6. Always provide adequate ventilation when running 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) last. Reconnect positive first and negative last. Charge battery in an open well ventilated area, free 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 key. 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. DO NOT 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. DO NOT allow untrained personnel to service the machine.

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

TABLE OF CONTENTS

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS..................................................................................2-4

TABLE OF CONTENTS ...............................................................................................................5

SECTION 1 - FAMILIARIZATION................................................................................................6

SECTION 2 - SAFETY MESSAGES & SYMBOLS...................................................................7-8

Controls.................................................................................................................9

SECTION 3 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS.......................................................................10-16

Before Operating..........................................................................................................10

Stopping Machine........................................................................................................10

Safety Interlock System Checks.................................................................................10

Pre-Start Checklist.......................................................................................................11

Starting and Operating...........................................................................................11-13

Reverse Operation....................................................................................................... 13

Traction Lock Operation .............................................................................................14

Turning Mower .............................................................................................................14

Mowing and Turning on Hillsides ..............................................................................14

Cutting Height Adjustment (Fixed Decks).................................................................15

Adjusting Caster Wheels.............................................................................................15

Adjusting Blade on Cutter Spindle .......................................................................15-16

Adjusting Fixed Deck Attachment .............................................................................16

SECTION 4 - TROUBLESHOOTING....................................................................................17-18

Engine Troubleshooting..............................................................................................17

Mower Troubleshooting.........................................................................................17-18

Transmission Troubleshooting..................................................................................18

Service & Lubrication.................................................................................................. 18

SECTION 5 - ADJUSTMENTS..............................................................................................19-20

Steering and Brakes....................................................................................................19

Traction Levers & Rods...............................................................................................19

Handle Height...............................................................................................................20

Transmission Shift Lever Adjustment.......................................................................20

SECTION 6 - POWER UNIT SERVICE......................................................................................21

Replacement Parts.......................................................................................................21

Transmission Parts & Service....................................................................................21

General Transmission Servicing................................................................................21

Transmission/Lube......................................................................................................21

SECTION 7 - MOWER ATTACHMENT SERVICE ...............................................................22-24

Transmission Belt Removal/Installation....................................................................22

Traction Belt Removal/Installation.............................................................................22

Cutter Deck Belt Removal/Installation....................................................................... 22

Cutting Blade Service: Removal, Sharpening, Balancing & Replacement............23

Mower Spindles (Field Serviceable Spindles) Bearing Replacement ....................24

ELECTRICAL ........................................................................................................................25-26

WARRANTY AND PRODUCT REGISTRATION..................................................................27-28

PRIMARY MAINTENANCE...................................................................................................29-32

SECTION 1 - FAMILIARIZATION

TRANSMISSION SHIFT

OPERATOR’S PRESENCE CONTROL (OPC)

R.H. TRACTION

TRACTION

LOCK

LEVER

KEY SWITCH

OPERATOR’S PRESENCE CONTROL (OPC)

ENGINE SPEED CONTROL

The figures and illustrations in this manual

IMPORTANT

are provided for reference only and may differ from your specific model. Contact your Snapper dealer if you have questions.

L.H. TRACTION LEVER

BELT COVER

COVER RETAINING KNOBS

REAR TIRES

DISCHARGE DEFLECTOR

FUEL CAP

CASTER WHEEL ASSEMBLY

STARTER ROPE

AIR FILTER

MUFFLER

DECK COVER

DECK (36” SHOWN)

DECK HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT SPACERS

FIGURE 1.1

1.1 INTRODUCTION

This manual has been prepared for the operator’s of the SNAPPER PRO GEAR WALK BEHIND MOWER. 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 PRO GEAR WALK BEHIND MOWER and its attachments before operating. SNAPPER recommends returning the MACHINE to an authorized SNAPPER dealer annually for inspection and addition of any new devices which might upgrade the safety of the mower.

FRONT TIRES

1.2 NOMENCLATURE

It is recommended that all operator’s 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.

SECTION 2 - SAFETY MESSAGES AND SYMBOLS

CHOKE

FAST

ENGINE

SPEED

LEFT TRACTION LEVER

SQUEEZE FOR LEFT TURN

DANGER! ROTATING BLADES

KEEP CHILDREN AND OTHERS

OUT OF THE MOWING AREA

SLOW

BLADES ENGAGED“ON”

BLADES DISENGAGED“OFF”

ENGINE “STOP”

KEYSWITCH

RIGHT TRACTION LEVER

SQUEEZE FOR RIGHT TURN

DANGER! ROTATING BLADES

ENGINE

“RUN”

SECTION 2 - SAFETY MESSAGES AND SYMBOLS

IMPORTANT SAFETY AND OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

SECTION 2 - CONTROLS

BLADE CLUTCH SWITCH

KEY SWITCH SHOWN IN

OPERATOR’S PRESENCE CONTROL (OPC)

“STOP” POSITION

ENGINE SPEED CONTROL

TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER

RIGHT HAND TRACTION LEVER

TRACTION LOCK

FIGURE 2.1

NOTE: TRACTION LOCK SHOWN IN THE TRACTION LEVER “LOCKED” POSITION

WARNING

To avoid sudden and unexpected turning, both Traction Levers must be moved the same way when stopping or starting machine motion.

SECTION 3 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING

DO NOT allow operation of the machine by untrained personnel.

3.1 BEFORE OPERATING

Be thoroughly familiar with all controls and how to use them before how to STOP the Traction Wheel Drives, Mower Blades and Engine in preparation for possible emergencies.

3.2 STOPPING MACHINE

1. To STOP forward or reverse motion, firmly squeeze

both Traction Levers towards the handle and hold. Using your index fingers, pull right and left Traction Locks back until both Traction Levers lock in Traction Locked position. See Figure 3.1.

2. Make sure that both Traction Locks are in the Traction Locked position.

3. Release both Traction Levers slowly and with caution.

4. Move Transmission Shift Lever to “Neutral”.

5. Pull Blade Clutch Switch rearward to the OFF

position. See Figure 3.1.

6. Move Engine Speed Control Lever to SLOW (turtle) position. See Figure 3.1.

7. STOP ENGINE by turning Key Switch to “Stop” position. Remove key. See Figure 3.1.

RIGHT HAND TRACTION LEVER

TRACTION LOCK SHOWN IN TRACTION LOCKED POSITION

operating the machine. Know beforehand

ENGINE SPEED

BLADE CLUTCH SWITCH SHOWN IN OFF POSITION

FIGURE 3.1

CONTROL

WARNING

When the Operator’s Presence Control (OPC) is released, the machine will continue to operate a few feet. DO NOT use this Operator’s Presence Control (OPC) to routinely stop the machine.

3.3 SAFETY INTERLOCK SYSTEM CHECKS

This machine is equipped with an electrical safety interlock system that is provided for the safety of the operator and others. All safety devices must be in place and functioning properly before operating the machine. Perform the following interlock system checks periodically during the operating season. Contact your authorized Snapper dealer if you have questions.

WARNING

DO NOT operate machine if any safety interlock or safety device is not in place and functioning properly. DO NOT attempt to defeat, modify or remove any safety device.

1. Place right and left Traction Levers in the Traction

Locked position. Place Transmission Shift Lever in “Neutral”. Pull the Blade Clutch Switch back to the “Off” position. Refer to Section “Starting and Operation”. Start engine.

2. Depress right and left Operator’s Presence Controls against handle. DO NOT move the Traction Levers to the “Unlocked” position.

3. Move Blade Clutch Switch to the “On” position. Release right and left Operator’s Presence Controls. The engine and blades must begin to stop. Depress both Operator’s Presence Controls before engine and blades come to a complete stop.

4. Move Blade Clutch Switch to the “Off” position.

5. Move Transmission Shift Lever to “First”. Release

right and left Operator’s Presence Controls. The engine must begin to stop. Depress both Operator’s Presence Controls before engine comes to a complete stop.

6. Return Transmission Shift Lever to “Neutral” position.

7. Turn Key Switch to “Stop” poison. Engine must die.

SECTION 3 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

3.4 PRE-START CHECK LIST

Make the following checks and perform the services as required before each start-up:

1. If required, make cutting height adjustments. Refer to Section “CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT”.

2. Check tires and add air as needed to bring pressure to 25 psi in front and 12-15 psi in rear tires.

3. Check Guards, Deflector, and Belt Covers to make sure all are in place and secure.

4. Check Condition of Cutter Deck Belt(s). If damaged, replace before operating machine. Refer to Section “CUTTER DECK BELT REMOVAL”.

5. Clean Interior and Exterior Surfaces of cutting deck and clean Engine of any accumulation of dirt, grass, oil, etc. Keep Engine air intake screens and cooling fins clear at all times.

6. Check Engine Oil and add oil as needed to bring level up to (but not over) the FULL mark. (Refer to Engine manual for oil specifications).

7. Add Fuel to tank after pushing the Mower outside where fumes can be dissipated. Make sure Fuel Tank Cap is tightened after refueling. (Refer to Engine manual for fuel specifications).

: DO NOT add fuel while engine is running or hot.

NOTE

Use fresh, clean, lead-free gasoline. DO NOT use gasoline that has been stored for long periods. Leaded gasoline or gasohol is NOT recommended.

3.5 STARTING & OPERATING

3.5.1. ENGINE: START ENGINE AS FOLLOWS:

1. Turn Fuel Shut-Off Valve ON. See Figure 3.2.

2. Squeeze both Traction Levers toward the Handle

while pulling right and left Traction Locks rearward until BOTH Traction Levers are LOCKED in the Traction Locked position. See Figure 3.2.

3. Place Transmission Shift Lever in NEUTRAL(N) position. See Figure 3.3.

4. Pull Blade Clutch Switch rearward to the OFF position. See Figure 3.4.

BLADE CLUTCH SWITCH SHOWN IN OFF POSITION

TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER

FIGURE 3.3

RIGHT HAND TRACTION LEVER

TRACTION LOCK SHOWN IN TRACTION LOCKED POSITION

FUEL SHUT OFF VALVE SHOWN IN CLOSED POSITION (ROTATE HANDLE 90 DEGREES TO OPEN)

FIGURE 3.2

FIGURE 3.4

(Continued on next page)

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