Snapper S21, SP21, SPV21, SPV21S, SPV21E User Manual

Safety Instructions & Operator’s Manual for

21” ‘EASY LINE’

WALK BEHIND

MOWERS

MODEL NUMBER EXPLANATION

S P V 21 E

MODEL DESIGNATION OPTION DESIGNATION SELF-PROPELLED CUTTING WIDTH VARIABLE SPEED

S – ‘Easy Line’ V – Variable Speed Model 21 – 21” Cutting Width S – Swivel Front Wheels P – Self Propelled Model E – Electric Start

Thank you for buying a SNAPPER Product! Before operating your Walk Behind, read this manual carefully and pay particular attention to the “IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS” on Pages 2 - 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.

NOTE: Specifications are correct at time of printing and are subject to change without notice. * Actual sustained equipment horsepower will likely be lower due to operating limitations and environmental factors.

MANUAL No. 7100490 (Rev. 1, 1/20/2006)

MODELS

S21

SP21

SPV21 SPV21S SPV21E

TP 100-5117-01-WB-N

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING: This powerful cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and can throw objects that can cause injury and damage! Failure to comply with the following SAFETY instructions could result in serious injury or death to the operator or other persons. The owner of the machine must understand these instructions and must allow only persons who understand these instructions to operate machine. Each person operating the machine must be of sound mind and body and must not be under the influence of any substance, which might impair vision, dexterity or judgment. If you have any questions pertaining to your machine which your dealer cannot answer to your satisfaction, call or write the Customer Service Department at SNAPPER, McDonough, Georgia 30253. Phone: (1-800-935-2967).

PROTECTION FOR CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to the machine and the mowing activity. Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them.

1. KEEP children out of the mowing area and under the watchful care of a responsible adult other than the operator.

2. DO NOT allow children in yard when machine is operated and turn machine OFF if anyone enters the area.

3. DO NOT allow pre-teenage children to operate machine.

4. ALLOW only responsible adults & teenagers with mature judgment under close adult supervision to operate machine.

5. DO NOT pull mower backwards unless absolutely necessary. LOOK and SEE behind and down for children, pets and hazards before and while backing.

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

SLOPE OPERATION

1. Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents, which can result in severe injury. All slopes require extra caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, DO NOT mow it.

2. Mow across slopes, never up-and-down. Exercise extreme CAUTION when changing directions on slopes. DO NOT mow steep slopes or other areas where stability or traction is in doubt.

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

PREPARATION

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

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

PREPARATION

(Continued From Previous Column)

3. Data indicates that operators age 60 and above, are involved in a large percentage of mower-related injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from serious injury.

4. Handle fuel with extra care. Fuels are flammable and vapors are explosive. Use only an approved fuel container. DO NOT remove fuel cap or add fuel with engine running. Add fuel outdoors only with engine stopped and cool. Clean spilled fuel and oil from machine. DO NOT smoke.

5. Check the area to be mowed and remove all objects such as toys, wire, rocks, limbs and other objects that could cause injury if thrown by blade or interfere with mowing. Also note the location of holes, stumps, and other possible hazards.

6. Keep people and pets out of the mowing area. Immediately, STOP Blade, Stop engine and Stop mower if anyone enters the area.

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

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

9. Protect yourself when mowing and wear safety glasses, long pants and substantial footwear. DO NOT mow barefooted or with sandals.

10. Know how to STOP blade and engine quickly in preparation for emergencies.

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

12. Check grass catcher components frequently for signs of wear or deterioration and replace as needed to prevent injury from thrown objects going through weak or torn spots.

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.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE

(Continued From Previous Page)

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 discharge area while engine is running.

2. STOP engine when crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads, and under any conditions where thrown objects might be a hazard.

3. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.

4. DO NOT operate mower while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

5. After striking a foreign object or if mower vibrates abnormally, STOP the engine, disconnect and secure spark plug wire. Inspect the mower for any damage and repair the damage before starting.

6. DO NOT mow near drop offs, ditches or embankments. Operator could lose footing or balance.

7. STAY ALERT for holes and other hidden hazards. Tall grass can hide obstacles. Keep away from ditches, washouts, culverts, fences and protruding objects.

8. DO NOT mow on wet grass. Always be sure of your footing. Keep a firm hold on the handle and walk, never run. Slipping could cause injury.

9. ALWAYS stay behind handle when engine (motor) is running.

10. DO NOT leave the machine with the engine running. STOP BLADE and STOP ENGINE before leaving the operators position for any reason.

OPERATION

(Continued From Previous Column)

11. Before cleaning, repairing or inspecting make certain engine, blade and all moving parts have STOPPED. Disconnect and secure spark plug wire away from plug to prevent accidental starting.

12. STOP engine and wait until the blade comes to complete STOP before removing grass bag and/or clearing grass.

13. DO NOT operate mower without the entire grass catcher, discharge guard, rear guard or other safety devices in place and working. DO NOT point discharge at people, passing cars, windows or doors.

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

15. Slow down before turning.

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

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

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

MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE

1. DO NOT store mower or fuel container inside where fumes may reach an open flame, spark or pilot light such as in a water heater, furnace, clothes dryer or other gas appliance. Allow engine to cool before storing machine in an enclosure. Store fuel container out of reach of children in a well ventilated, unoccupied building.

2. Keep mower and engine free of grass, leaves or excess grease to reduce fire hazard and engine overheating.

3. When draining fuel tank, drain fuel into an approved container outdoors and away from open flame.

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

5. Always provide adequate ventilation when running engine. Engine exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, a deadly poison.

6. Service engine and make adjustments only when engine is stopped. Removed spark plug wire from spark plug and secure wire away from spark plug to prevent accidental starting.

7. DO NOT change engine governor speed settings or overspeed engine.

8. Check grass bag assembly frequently for wear or deterioration to avoid thrown objects and exposure to moving parts. Replace with new bag if loose seams or tears are evident. Replace slider or bag adapter if broken or cracked.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE

(Continued From Previous Page)

9. Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blades or wear heavy leather gloves and use CAUTION when handling them.

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

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

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

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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

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

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

SECTION 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS............................................................... 7-10

Pre-start Checklist................................................................................................7

Starting & Stopping Engine & Blades ................................................................7

Propelling Mower .................................................................................................8

Handle Height Adjustment ..................................................................................8

Cutting Height Adjustment..................................................................................9

Recycling Operation.............................................................................................9

Installation of Side Discharge Deflector ..........................................................10

Installation of Grass Bag Adapter ....................................................................10

Installation of Grass Bag ...................................................................................10

SECTION 3 - MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS ....................................................... 11-12

Change Engine Oil..............................................................................................11

Check Mower Blade ...........................................................................................11

Check Engine Drive Belt....................................................................................11

Service - Periodic ...............................................................................................11

Engine ..............................................................................................................11

Air Filter............................................................................................................11

Engine Oil.........................................................................................................11

Wheel Drive Components...............................................................................12

Storage Procedure .............................................................................................12

SECTION 4 - ADJUSTMENTS AND REPAIR............................................................ 13-16

Mower Blade Replacement................................................................................13

Blade Sharpening...............................................................................................13

Wheel Drive Control Adjustment ......................................................................14

Ground Speed Control Adjustment..................................................................15

Belt Service .........................................................................................................16

Engine Drive Belt Replacement.....................................................................16

Battery Service ...................................................................................................17

Rear Cover Removal & Installation...................................................................18

TROUBLESHOOTING......................................................................................................19

SERVICE SCHEDULE......................................................................................................20

Maintenance/Replacement Parts ......................................................................20

WARRANTY......................................................................................................................21

PRIMARY MAINTENANCE ........................................................................................ 22-25

PRODUCT REGISTRATION FORM.................................................................................26

Section 1 - FAMILIARIZATION

(

)

BLADE CONTROL

ROPE START HANDLE

REAR HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT LATCH

RECYCLING COVER

1.1 INTRODUCTION

This manual has been prepared for the operators of the SNAPPER ‘EASY LINE’ WALK BEHIND MOWERS. Its purpose, aside from recommending operating and routine service requirements, is to promote safety through the use of accepted operating practices. Read, Understand and Follow the “IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS” on Pages 2 - 4 of this manual and all safety messages on the mower and attachments before operating the mower.

GROUND SPEED CONTROL

NOT ALL MODELS

WHEEL DRIVE CONTROL (NOT ALL MODELS)

FIGURE 1.1

(MODEL SPV21 SHOWN)

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

FUEL FILLER CAP

OIL FILL CAP AND DIPSTICK

ENGINE PRIMER

FRONT HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT LATCHES

1.2 NOMENCLATURE

The nomenclature drawing above, Figure 1.1, shows the essential parts of the SNAPPER ‘EASY LINE’ WALK BEHIND MOWERS. It is recommended that all operators of the mower become thoroughly familiar with the controls, parts and operation of the mower before operating. Specific details involving the engine are found in the separate engine owner’s manual. Study these manuals before operating and keep both handy for future reference.

Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

2.1 PRE-START CHECK LIST

Make the following checks and perform the service required before each start-up.

2.1.1. Check guards, deflectors, grass bag, adapter and covers to make sure all are in place and securely tightened.

2.1.2. Check blade control, wheel drive control, and ground speed control to insure they work freely. See Figure 2.1.

BLADE CONTROL

GROUND SPEED CONTROL

WHEEL DRIVE CONTROL

FIGURE 2.1

2.1.3. Check cutting height. Adjust to desired height.

Refer to Section ‘Cutting Height Adjustment’.

2.1.4. Check engine oil and add oil as needed to bring level up to the full mark. Refer to Engine Owner’s Manual for oil specifications. See Figure 2.2.

2.2 STARTING & OPERATION

2.2.1. ENGINE & BLADE

1. Push primer button three times to start a cold

engine. See Figure 2.3. NOTE: The primer should not be required to restart a warm engine.

PRIMER BUTTON (PUSH 3X)

2. Pull blade control against handle. See Figure

2.4.

3. Start Mower:

Manual Start Models: Pull rope start handle to crank engine. See Figure 2.4.

PULL ROPE START HANDLE

FIGURE 2.3

SQUEEZE BLADE CONTROL

FIGURE 2.2

2.1.5. Add fuel to tank after pushing the mower

outside where fumes can safely dissipate. Make sure cap is tightened after refueling. Refer to Engine Owners Manual for specifications.

2.1.6. Clean exterior surfaces of cutting deck and engine of any accumulation of spilled fuel, dirt, grass, oil, etc. Keep engine air intake screen and cooling fins clear at all times.

FIGURE 2.4

Electric Start Models: Insert key into ignition switch, located on right side of handle above rope guide. Turn key to crank engine. See Figure

2.5.

RUN

FIGURE 2.5

4. After engine starts, allow a brief warm-up until

engine runs smooth before beginning mower operation.

NOTE: To stop the engine (and blade), release the blade

control.

Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

(3)

2.2 STARTING & OPERATION

2.2.2. PROPELLING MOWER (Self Propelled Models Only)

1. Start engine. Refer to Section “Starting &

Operation – Engine & Blade”.

2. Move ground speed control to the desired speed position. See Figure 2.6.

3. Squeeze wheel drive control against handle to engage wheel drive and propel mower forward. Forward speed can be adjusted while mower is moving by changing position of ground speed control. See Figure 2.6.

GROUND SPEED CONTROL

FAST

WHEEL DRIVE CONTROL

DISENGAGE

SLOW

ENGAGE

FIGURE 2.6

2.3 STOPPING

Stop forward motion of mower by releasing the wheel drive control. Stop engine and blade by releasing the blade control.

2.3 LOCKING SWIVEL WHEELS (SPV21S ONLY)

The left front swivel wheel on the SPV21S can be locked to keep the mower traveling in a straight line:

1. Move mower straight forward to align caster stud pin with notches in swivel locking clip, located above left caster stud. See Figure 2.7.

LOCKING CLIP

ALIGN PIN WITH NOTCHES

SWIVEL CASTER ASSEMBLY

FIGURE 2.7

2. Move swivel caster lock lever, located on left side of handle assembly, to ‘LOCK’ position to lock clip down over caster stud. See Figure 2.8.

3. To release caster, simply move swivel caster lock lever back from locked position. See Figure

2.8.

UNLOCK CASTER

2.4 HANDLE HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT

The height of the mower handle can be adjusted as follows:

1. Remove T-knobs and carriage bolts securing lower handle to mounting brackets.

2. Align holes in handle assembly with one of three handle height adjustment holes in mounting bracket. See Figure 2.9.

3. Replace removed hardware, tightening securely.

DO NOT attempt any maintenance, adjustments or service with engine and blade running. STOP engine and blade. Disconnect spark plug wire and secure away from spark plug. Engine and components are HOT. Avoid serious burns, allow sufficient time for all components to cool.

FIGURE 2.8

HIGHER

LOWER

HANDLE HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT HOLES

FIGURE 2.9

WARNING

LOCK CASTER

SWIVEL CASTER LOCK LEVER

HANDLE ASSEMBLY

Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING

2.5 CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT

1. Pull the height adjusting latch outward and

move to desired cutting height. See Figure 2.10.

WARNING

Stop engine and mower blade by releasing the blade control before adjusting cutting height.

HIGHEST CUTTING HEIGHT

LOWEST CUTTING

HEIGHT

LATCH (IN NOTCH # 4)

FRONT WHEEL (EXCEPT SPV21S)

LATCH (IN NOTCH # 4)

LOWEST CUTTING HEIGHT

EACH NOTCH RAISES CUT 0.5”

LATCH POSITIONS

1.2”

2.6 RECYCLING OPERATION NOTE: For best recycling results, cut up to a maximum of 1/3

of grass blade length and recycle ONLY when grass is dry.

1. Set all wheels in the highest cutting position (Notch

7). Refer to Section “Cutting Height Adjustment”.

2. Move engine speed control to “FAST” (Rabbit) position.

3. Move ground speed control to slowest speed setting.

4. Proceed mowing slowly. If grass is very dense, lower each rear wheel latch one notch lower than the front wheel latches to improve recycling performance.

NOTE: The recycling cover should remain on the machine at all times, unless alternate discharge operations are desired, such as side discharging or bagging.

TO REMOVE RECYCLING COVER:

Remove knob nuts and internal/external tooth lock washers securing recycling cover to mower deck. Remove cover. See Figure 2.12.

CUTTING HEIGHT SETTINGS

FIGURE 2.11

4.2”

REAR WHEEL (SPV21S FRONT WHEEL SIMILAR)

FIGURE 2.10

2. Set all wheels at the same cutting height. The

highest cutting position is Notch 7. The lowest cutting position is Notch 1. See Figure 2.11.

REMOVE KNOB NUTS AND LOCK WASHERS

FIGURE 2.12

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