Snapper SPEL150KH, SPE361, SPE481 User Manual
Safety Instructions and Operator’s Manual for
PRO GEAR EXPRESS
WALK BEHIND MOWERS
MID-SIZE
SERIES 0
POWER UNIT
MODEL
SPEL150KH
MOWER UNIT
MODEL
SPE361
SPE481
MODEL NUMBER EXPLANATION
S P EL 15 0 KH
MODEL DESIGNATION ENGINE TYPE
MODEL TYPE SERIES DESIGNATION
MODEL OPTION ENGINE HP
S – Snapper Commercial Model ENGINE HORSE POWER CUTTING DECK WIDTH 0 - Series Designation KH – Kohler Engine
P – Pro Mid Size Model 15 – 15.0 Engine HP 361 – 36” Cutting Deck
E – Express Model 481 – 48” Cutting Deck
L – Loop Traction Controls
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!
COPYRIGHT © 2000
SNAPPER INC.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
MANUAL No. 7-3316 (I.R. 8/29/00)
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING: This powerf ul cutting machine is capab le of amputating hand s and feet and can throw objects that
can cause injury and damage! Failure to comply with the follow ing SAFETY instru ctions could resu lt 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 occu r 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 or on attachments (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. STO P BLADES.
LOOK and SEE behind an d 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 down. 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.
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 instruct ion. 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 mowerrelated 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.
6. Check the area to be mowed and remove all
objects such as toys, wire, rocks, limb s and other
objects that could cau se injury if thrown by blade
or interfere with mowing.
7. Evaluate the terrain to det ermine what accessories
and attachments are needed to prop erly 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 wear
appropriate clothing including safety glasses, long
pants, ear protection, hardhat and substantial
footwear with good traction. Long hair, loose
clothing or jewelry may get tangled in moving
parts.
12. Know how to STOP blades and engine quickly in
preparation for emergencies.
13. Use extra care when loading or unloading the
machine into a trailer or truck.
14. Check grass catcher components frequently for
signs of wear or deterioration and replace as
needed to prevent injury from thrown objects
going through weak or worn spots.
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. BEFO RE STARTING ENGINE, blades must be OFF
and Traction Levers LOCKED in the Traction Lock
position.
3. Stop Blades when 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 o perate 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.
OPERATION
(Continued From Previous Column)
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.
11. 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.
12. Blades must be OFF except when cutting
grass. Set blades in highest position when
mowing over rough ground.
13. Keep hands and feet away from rotating
blades underneath deck.
14. DO NOT operate machine without entire grass
catcher or guards in place. DO NOT point
discharge at people, passing cars, windows or
doors.
15. Slow down before turning.
16. Watch out for traffic when near or crossing
roadways.
17. Move motion control levers SLOWLY to
maintain control during speed and directional
changes.
18. DO NOT operate engine in enclosed areas.
Engine exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, a
deadly poison.
MAINTENANCE
1. Shut off fuel while storing or transporting. DO
NOT store machine or fuel container inside w here
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 machin e 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.
3
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
MAINTENANCE
(Continued From Previous Page)
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, ad just 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. Mow er 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.
4
TABLE OF CONTENTS
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS...................................................................................2-4
TABLE OF CONTENTS................................................................................................................5
SECTION 1 - FAMILIARIZATION.................................................................................................6
SECTION 2 - SAFETY MESSAGES & SYMBOLS ...................................................................7-9
Controls...............................................................................................................10
SECTION 3 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS........................................................................11-17
Before Operating..........................................................................................................11
Stopping Machine ........................................................................................................11
Pre-Start Checklist .......................................................................................................11
Starting and Operating ...........................................................................................11-14
Reverse Operation........................................................................................................14
Traction Lock Operation..............................................................................................15
Turning Mower..............................................................................................................15
Mowing and Turning on Hillsides...............................................................................15
Cutting Height Adjustment (Fixed Decks) .................................................................16
Adjusting Caster Wheels.............................................................................................16
Adjusting Blade on Cutter Spindle.............................................................................16
Adjusting Fixed Deck Attachment ..............................................................................17
SECTION 4 - TROUBLESHOOTING.....................................................................................18-19
Engine Troubleshooting..............................................................................................18
Mower Troubleshooting .........................................................................................18-19
Transmission Troubleshooting...................................................................................19
Service & Lubrication...................................................................................................19
SECTION 5 - ADJUSTMENTS ..............................................................................................20-21
Steering and Brakes.....................................................................................................20
Traction Levers & Rods...............................................................................................20
Handle Height ...............................................................................................................21
Transmission Shift Lever Adjustment........................................................................21
SECTION 6 - POWER UNIT SERVICE ......................................................................................22
Replacement Parts.......................................................................................................22
Transmission Parts & Service.....................................................................................22
General Transmission Servicing ................................................................................22
Transmission/Lube ......................................................................................................22
SECTION 7 - MOWER ATTACHMENT SERVICE................................................................23-25
Transmission Belt Removal/Installation ....................................................................23
Traction Belt Removal/Installation .............................................................................23
Cutter Deck Belt Removal/Installation .......................................................................23
Cutting Blade Service: Removal, Sharpening, Balancing & Replacement.............24
Mower Spindles (Field Serviceable Spindles) Bearing Replacement.....................25
SECTION 8 – ELECTRICAL SCHEMATIC ................................................................................26
WARRANTY................................................................................................................................27
PRIMARY MAINTENANCE....................................................................................................28-31
5
SECTION 1 - FAMILIARIZATION
R.H. TRACTION
KEY
SWITCH
TRANSMISSION SHIFT
LEVER
FUEL
CAP
BELT
COVER
OIL DIPSTICK
REAR TIRES
DISCHARGE
DEFLECTOR
CASTER
WHEEL
ASSEMBLY
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 requir ements , is to prom ote
SAFETY through the use of ac cepted 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.
TRACTION
LOCK
OPERATOR’S
PRESENCE
CONTROL (OPC)
FIGURE 1.1
L.H. TRACTION
LEVER
ENGINE SPEED
CONTROL
STARTER ROPE
AIR FILTER
MUFFLER
DECK
(36” SHOWN)
DECK COVER
COVER
RETAINING
KNOBS
DECK HEIGHT
ADJUSTMENT SPACERS
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 k eep both handy for future
reference. For the nearest SNAPPER dealer in your
area, check the yellow pages under the heading LAWN
MOWERS. For engine parts and service, look for the
engine manufacturer’s dealers under the heading,
ENGINES - gasoline.
6
SECTION 2 - SAFETY MESSAGES AND SYMBOLS
SPEEDS
5TH - FASTEST
1ST - SLOWEST
NEUTRAL
REVERSE
BLADE SWITCH
BLADES ENGAGED
–
“ON”
BLADES DISENGAGED
–
“OFF”
CONTROL
“STOP
”
LEVERS IN THE TRACTION “LOCKED” POSITION
LOCKED
UNLOCKED
CHOKE
FAST
ENGINE
SPEED
SLOW
FORWARD
READ OPERATOR’S MANUAL BEFORE
TRACTION
LEFT TRACTION LEVER
SQUEEZE FOR LEF T TURN
ENGINE
TRACTION LOCK LEVER – USE TO LOCK TRACTION
RIGHT TRACTION LEVER
SQUEEZE FOR RIGHT TURN
ENGINE
“RUN”
7
SECTION 2 - SAFETY MESSAGES AND SYMBOLS
IMPORTANT SAFETY AND OPERATING INSRUCTIONS
8
SECTION 2 – SAFETY MESSAGES AND SYMBOLS
DANGER! ROTATING BLADES. KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY.
KEEP CHILDREN AND OTHERS OUT OF THE MOWING AREA
DANGER! ROTATING BLADES
9
SECTION 2 - CONTROLS
RIGHT HAND
TRACTION LEVER
TRANSMISSION
SHIFT LEVER
KEY SWITCH
SHOWN IN “STOP”
POSITION
NOTE: TRACTION LOCK SHOWN IN THE
TRACTION LEVER “LOCKED” POSITION
TRACTION
LOCK
FIGURE 2.1
OPERATOR’S
PRESENCE
CONTROL
(OPC)
BLADE CLUTCH
SWITCH
ENGINE SPEED
CONTROL
WARNING
To avoid sudden and unexpected turning, both T raction Levers must be moved the same way when starting or
stopping machine motion.
10
SECTION 3 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
STOP POSITION
3.1 BEFORE OPERATING
Be Thoroughly familiar with all controls and how to use
them before
operating the machine. Know beforehand
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 m otion, firmly squeeze
both Traction Levers towards the handle and hold.
Using your right thumb, push Traction Lock forward
to the “Locked” position and hold. See Figure 3.1.
2. Make sure that the Tr action Lock has fully engaged
both the right and left Traction Levers.
3. Release Traction Levers slowly and with caution.
Remove thumb from Traction Lock.
4. Move Transmission Shift Lever to “Neutral”.
5. Move Blade Clutch Switch down 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.
ENGINE
SPEED
CONTROL
RIGHT HAND
TRACTION
LEVER
BLADE CLUTCH
SWITCH
SHOWN IN OFF
POSITION
TRACTION LOCK
SHOWN IN TRACTION
LOCKED POSITION
KEY SWITCH
SHOWN IN
FIGURE 3.1
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 PRE-START CHECK LIST
Make the following checks and perform the services as
required before each start-up:
1. If required, mak e cutting height adjustments. Refer
to Section “CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT”..
2. Check tires and adjus t inflation pressure as needed.
Inflate front tires to 25 psi and rear tires to 12-15 psi.
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 with original part. Refer to Section
“CUTTER DECK BELT REMOVAL”.
5. Inspect condition of cutter blades. If worn or
damaged, replace before operating machine. Refer
to Section “Cutter Blade Service”.
6. Clean Interior and Exterior Surf aces of cutting deck
and clean Engine of any accumulation of dirt, grass,
oil, etc. Keep Engine air intak e screens and cooling
fins clear at all times.
7. 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).
8. 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).
NOTE
: DO NOT add fuel while engine is running or hot.
Use fresh, clean, lead-free gasoline. DO NOT use
gasoline that has been stored for long per iods. Leaded
gasoline or gasohol is NOT recommended.
3.4 STARTING & OPERATING
3.4.1. ENGINE: START ENGINE AS FOLLOWS:
1. Turn Fuel Shut-Of f Valve to the OPEN position. See
Figure 3.2.
2. Pull both Traction Levers f irm ly rearward towards the
handle. Using the Traction Lock Lever, lock both
Traction Levers in the Traction “Locked” position.
Make sure that the Trac tion Lock has fully engaged
both Traction Levers. See Figure 3.2.
3. Place Transmission Shift Lever in NEUTRAL (N)
position. See Figure 3.3
4. Move Blade Clutch Switch down to the OFF position.
See Figure 3.1.
5. Move Engine Speed Control Lever to the CHOKE
position. See Figure 3.4.
6. Turn Key Switch to RUN position.
11
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