Safety Instructions & Operator's Manual for
LAWN TRACTOR
HYDROSTA TIC DRIVE
ELECTRIC CLUTCH
SERIES I
MODELS
L T180H421BV2
WL T180H4 21BV2
L T200H481BV2
WL T200H481BV2
MODEL NUMBER EXPLANATION
I LT 11801 H I 42 I I I B I v l 2 I
ENGINE OPTION
ENGJENEyH;TEM TYPE
OO'LO' 'ONAT'O I I I I I
CUTTING WIDTH
LT/WLT - Model Designation
180 - 18.0 HP (Engine Horse Power)
200 - 20.0 HP (Engine Horse Power)
H - Hydrostatic Transmission Drive System
42 - 42" Cutting Width Mower Deck
48 - 48" Cutting Width Mower Deck
Thank you for buying a SNAPPER producH Before operating the Lawn Tractor, read and follow the
"IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS" on pages 2 & 3, all other instructions contained in this manual and the
accompanying booklet "About Power Mower Safety". Lawn mowers and all power equipment can be potentially
dangerous if used improperly. REMEMBER: SAFETY REQUIRES CAREFULL USE IN ACCORDANCE WITH
INSTRUCTIONS AND COMMON SENSE!
I - Series Designation
B - Briggs & Stratton Engine
V - Over Head Valve Type Engine
2 - Twin Cylinder Engine
SERIES DESIGNATION
ENGINE TYPE
ENGINE MODEL
SNAPPERMcDonough,GA. 30253 U.S.A.
COPYRIGHT © 2002
SNAPPER INC
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
MANUAL No. 7-2344 (I.R. 6/28/02)
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.
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 or on attachments (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 uphill starts. If machine stops going uphill
or tires lose traction, turn blades OFF and back
slowly 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. 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.
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.
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.
2
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
PREPARATION
(Continued From Previous Page)
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.
OPERATION
1. Mount and dismount machine from left side.
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. 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.
OPERATION
(Continued From Previous Column)
14. Exercise CAUTION when pulling loads. Limit loads
to those you can safely control and attach loads to
hitch plate as specified with SNAPPER attachment
instructions.
15. DO NOT operate engine in enclosed areas. Engine
exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, a deadly
poison.
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.
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 SNAPPER
dealer at least once a year and have the dealer
install any new safety devices.
15. Use only genuine SNAPPER replacement parts to
assure that original standards are maintained.
16. If battery is removed, DO NOT operate engine
without insulating Positive + battery cable terminal
with electrical tape, or sparking from the battery
cables can result.
3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS .................. 2 - 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS .................................................. 4
SECTION 1 - FAMILIARIZATION ................................... 6
Components ........................................................ 6
Controls ................................................................ 6
SECTION 2 -
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ................................ 6-11
Pre-start Checklist .............................................. 6
Operator's Seat Adjustment ............................... 6
Starting & Stopping Engine ............................ 7-8
Starting & Stopping Wheel Drive ....................... 8
Starting & Stopping Mower Blades ................ 8-9
Parking Brake ....................................................... 9
Cutting Height Adjustment ................................. 9
Rolling Tractor with Engine Off ........................ 10
Reverse Lockout Mechanism ........................... 11
SECTION 3 -
MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS ......................... 12-16
Service -After First 5 Hours ............................. 12
Change Engine Oil .......................................... 12
Check Blade Brake ......................................... 12
Check Mower Blades ...................................... 12
Service - Every 26 Operating Hours ................ 13
Check Deck Drive Belt ................................... 13
Check Engine .................................................. 13
Mower Components ....................................... 14
Check Blade Brake ......................................... 14
Lubrication (Tractor) ................................... 14-16
Front Wheel Bearings .................................... 14
Axle Spindles .................................................. 14
Clutch/Brake Pivot .......................................... 14
Steering Sector Gear ...................................... 14
Steering Shaft ................................................. 14
Steering Drag Link .......................................... 16
Steering Tie Rod ............................................. 16
Park Brake Lever ............................................ 16
Deck Lift Mechanism ...................................... 16
Service - Annually .............................................. 16
Engine .............................................................. 16
Fuel Filter ......................................................... 16
Spark Plug ....................................................... 16
Hydrostatic Transmission Oil ........................ 16
SECTION 4 -ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR .............. 16-33
Engine Adjustments & Repair ............................. 16
Mower Deck & Component Adjustments ........... 16
Blade Brake Adjustment ...................................... 16
Blade Belt Adjustment .......................................... 16
42" Side To Side Deck Level Adjustment ........... 16
42" Front To Rear Deck Level Adjustment ......... 17
48" Side To Side Deck Level Adjustment ...... 18-19
48" Front To Rear Deck Level Adjustment ......... 19
Brake Adjustment ................................................. 20
Steering Adjustment ............................................. 20
Shifter Adjustment ........................................... 20-21
Traction Drive Belt Adjustment ........................... 21
Mower Blade Service ....................................... 21-24
Blade Wear Limit .......................................... 21-22
Blade Sharpening .............................................. 22
Mower Blade Replacement ............................... 23
Traction Drive Belt Removal/Replace ............ 23-26
Deck Belt Removal & Replacement ............... 27-28
Battery Service ................................................. 29-30
AVAILABLE ACCESSORIES ....................................... 31
SECTION 5 - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM ......................... 32
Schematics - Briggs & Stratton
(Twin Cylinder Engine) ..................................... 32
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE ................................ 33-34
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ....................................... 36
MAINTENANCE PARTS ............................................... 36
WARRANTY .................................................................. 36
PRIMARY MAINTENANCE ..................................... 37-40
PRODUCT REGISTRATION FORM ............................. 41
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
rou have questions.
4
Section 1 - FAMILIARIZATION
CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL
DOWN
BATTERY
(UNDER SEAT)
SEAT
ADJUSTMENT
KNOB
(UNDER SEAT)
SPEED
CONTROL
LEVER
SEAT
SLOW
STEERING
CHOKE
FAST
CONTROL
DASHBOARD CONTROLS
FUELTANK
(UNDER HOOD)
- LIGHT
SWITCH
IGNITION
KEY
OVERRIDE
LEVER
CUTTING
HEIGHT
ADJUSTMENT
LEVER
DISCHARGE
DEFLECTOR
MOWING DECK
(42"SHOWN)
FIGURE 1.1
COMPONENTS
The nomenclature drawings above, illustrate the
essential components of the SNAPPER Lawn Tractor. It
is recommended that all operators of this equipment
become thoroughly familiar with the components and
their operation BEFORE OPERATING. Specific details
involving the engine are found in the separate Engine
Owner's Manual.
ENGINE
Study the Important Safety Instructions, this Operator's
Manual and Engine Owner's Manual before operating
this machine. Keep these manuals available for future
reference.
CONTROLS
All operators should be acquainted with the operator's
controls before attempting start-up or operation of the
Lawn Tractor. See the Control Panel drawing above.
5
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
2.1 PRE-START CHECKLIST
Make the following checks and perform service as
required before each start-up.
2.1.1. Check tires and add air as needed to bring
pressure to 12 P.S.I. in front tires and 12 P.S.I. in
rear tires.
2.1.2. Check guards, deflectors and covers to make
sure all are in place and securely tightened. If guards
are missing or damaged, replace BEFORE using
mower.
FUEL TANK
2.1.3. Check engine oil and add oil as needed to
bring level up to, but not over, the FULL mark. Refer to
engine owner's manual for oil specifications. See Figure
2.1.
SAFE
LEVEL
AREA
FIGURE 2,1
2.1.4. Check blade switch to ensure it moves
freely. Manually pull switch out to the "ON" position
and push switch down to the "OFF" position.
2.1.6. Clean exterior surfaces of cutting deck, engine
and tractor of any accumulation of dirt, grass, oil, etc.
Keep engine air intake screens and cooling fins clean at
all times.
TIGHTEN CAP
AFTER
FILLING TANK
FIGURE 2,2
2,2 OPERATOR'S SEAT ADJUSTMENT
2,2,1. FRONT TO REAR ADJUSTMENT
1. With the engine "OFF", raise operator's seat and
loosen the two adjusting knobs on the seat support.
Lower the seat. Sit in the operator's seat and slide the
seat forward or backward until the clutchtbrake pedal
can be fully depressed comfortably. Raise seat and
tighten the adjusting knobs to secure seat in position.
See Figure 2.3.
LOOSEN ADJUSTING
TO ADJUST
SEAT
2.1.6. With engine "OFF" move the tractor outside
and add fuel to the fuel tank. Securely tighten fuel cap
after refueling. Refer to engine owner's manual for fuel
specifications. See Figure 2.2.
2.1.7. Check Reverse Lockout Mechanism. Refer to
Section "Reverse Lockout Mechanism".
FIGURE 2,3
6
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
2,3 STARTING & OPERATION
2,3.1. STARTING ENGINE
1. Take a comfortable position in seat of machine,
look around to make sure that the area you are going to
mow is clear of people, children and pets. Take note of
any stationary obstacles!
NOTE: The interlock system wilI prevent the engine from
starting if the blade switch is in the "ON" (up) position or if
the dutch/brake pedal is not fully depressed. If the interlock
system ever fails to work, DO NOT OPERATE the tractor
until the interlock has been repaired.
2. Push blade switch down to the "OFF" position. See
Figure 2.4. PUSH BLADE SWITCH "DOWN" TO
STARTMACHINE
BLADE
SWITCH
8. Choke engine for cold starting by moving engine
speed control to "CHOKE" position. NOTE: Some
models are equipped with a separate choke control,
located on the dash of the tractor. Pull the control
"OUT" to choke position to start a cold engine. Little
or no choking wilI be needed when restarting a warm
engine. Insert key in switch. Turn key to "START"
position to crank engine and hold until engine starts,
then release key to "RUN" position. See Figure 2.6.
NOTE: DO NOT crank engine for more than five
seconds at a time. This will help prevent the starter from
overheating and/or running down the battery. If cranking
time is more than five seconds, locate and correct cause
of starting problem.
6. After engine starts, release key, move the engine
speed control to "FAST" position and allow engine to
warm up before proceeding. See Figure 2.6.
FIGURE 2.4
3. Depress the clutch!brake pedal fully. See Figure 2.5.
4, Move speed control lever to neutral.
NOTE: The seat interlock will shut off the engine if the
operator gets off the seat without setting the parking
brake or if the blades are running. If the interlock ever
fails to work, DO NOT OPERATE the tractor until the
interlock has been repaired.
CLUTCH/BRAKE
PEDAL
L
PARK
BRAKE
DOWN
FAST
SLOW
\
ENGINE
SPEED
CONTROL
FIGURE 2.6
KEY
Ik WARNING AI
DO NOT leave machine with engine running, Stop[
engine. Stop blades. Set parking brake. Remove key. [
PUSH PEDAL ALL THE
WAYDOWNTOSTART
ENGINE
FIGURE 2,5
7
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
2,3 STARTING & OPERATION (Continued)
2,3.2, STARTING WHEEL DRIVE
1. Shift speed control lever to neutral.
2, Start engine. Refer to Section "STARTING
ENGINE".
3. Release clutch/brake pedal.
4. Slowly shift speed control lever forward for
forward motion or to the rear for reverse motion. See
Figure 2.7.
SPEED CONTROL LEVER
FIGURE 2,7
2,3.3 STARTING MOWER BLADE
1. Start engine. Refer to Section "STARTING
ENGINE".
2, Pull blade switch OUT to engage blade. See
Figure 2.8.
2,4 STOPPING ENGINE, BLADE, WHEEL DRIVE
2,4.1. STOPPING ENGINE
1. Stop engine by turning key to the "OFF" position.
See Figure 2.9.
KEY
FIGURE 2.9
2,4.2. STOPPING WHEEL DRIVE
1. Fully depress clutch/brake pedal to stop wheel
drive. See Figure 2.10.
CLUTCH/BRAKE
PEDAL
PUSH BLADE SWITCH IN TO
THE "OFF" POSITION
PULL BLADE
SWITCH OUT TO
THE "ON"
POSITION
FIGURE 2,8
Ik WARNING
DO NOT operate blades in reverse. STOP BLADES. I
LOOK and SEE behind and down for children, pets I
and hazards before and while backing. I
FULLY DEPRESS
CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL TO
STOP WHEEL MOTION
FIGURE 2.10
8
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
2.4 STOPPING
2,4,3, STOPPING MOWER BLADES
1. Stop mower blade by pushing blades switch IN to
disengage blades. See Figure 2.11.
ON
PUSH BLADE SWITCH IN TO
THE "OFF" POSITION
FIGURE 2.11
2.4.5. RELEASING PARK BRAKE
1. Fully depress clutch/brake pedal. Move park brake
lever "DOWN" to release park brake. Release
clutch/brake pedal. See Figure 2.13.
PARK
CLUTCH/BRAKE BRAKE
PEDAL LEVER
PULL BLADE
SWITCH OUTTO
THE"ON"
POSITION
FIGURE 2.13
WARNING
Once blades are disengaged, they should come to a
complete stop in 5 seconds or less. If the blades
continue to rotate after 5 seconds, the blade brake
must be repaired. Return machine to an authorized
SNAPPER dealer. DO NOT continue to operate
machine until blade brake has been repaired and
functioning properly.
2,4.4. SETTING PARK BRAKE
1. Fully depress clutch/brake pedal.
2. Move park brake lever up into slot. See Figure 2.12.
3. Release pedal.
PEDAL ALL PARK BRAKE
LEVER
2,5. CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
1, Depress lock button on cutting height adjustment
lever. See Figure 2.14.
DEPRESS
LOCK BUTTON
CUTTING
HEIGHT
ADJUSTMENT
LEVER
HIGHEST CUT
LOWEST CUT
FIGURE 2.14
2, Raise or lower deck to any of six positions as
desired. Release lock button.
MOVE PARK BRAKE
LEVER"UP'TO
ENGAGE PARK BRAKE
FIGURE 2.12
i WARNING
9
DO NOT parkmachine on slopes.
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
2,6. ROLLING TRACTOR WITH ENGINE OFF
2,6.1. Rolling Hydro Models
1. With engine "OFF", move to rear of tractor.
2, Pull the roll release control all the way out to
disengage the hydro transmission. See Figure 2.15.
PUSH ROLL RELEASE
IN TO ENGAGE HYDRO
TRANSMISSION
PULL ROLL RELEASE
CONTROL ALL THE WAY
OUT TO DISENGAGE
HYDRO TRANSMISSION
ROLL RELEASE
CONTROL
ROLL RELEASE
CONTROL
WARNING
DO NOT disengage the hydro transmission and coast
down slopes. DO NOT use Roll Release Control to
disengage hydro transmission unless machine motion
can be controlled and engine is off.
FIGURE 2.15
3. Move tractor to desired location.
4. Set park brake.
5, Push roll release control all the way
in to engage
hydro transmission. See Figure 2.15.
NOTE: The transmission will not propel the tractor if it is
left in the "ROLL" position.
10
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
2.7. REVERSE LOCKOUT MECHANISM
Data indicates that tragic back-over accidents occur
each year. These accidents usually involve unsupervised
children. Many times these children have been given
rides on the machine and have been trained to view this
potentially dangerous piece of machinery as fun rather
than being taught how to avoid danger.
This riding mower has a Reverse Lockout Mechanism.
This mechanism prevents the mower from being shifted
into reverse with the blades running. To shift into reverse
you must first stop the blades and then shift to reverse. It
is our recommendation that this mechanism remain
functional and the operator of this equipment develop the
habit of never backing up with the blades running. As the
Safety Instructions Indicate, DO NOT operate blades in
reverse. STOP BLADES, LOOK AND SEE BEHIND
AND DOWN for children, pets and hazards before
and while backing.
We realize that this could cause a change to your
previous mowing method but we encourage you to adjust
to this new system. Do not defeat the Reverse Lockout
Mechanism.
If you operate your mower near roadways or use
attachments that require quicker shifting to reverse,
there is an override lever provided. This lever can be
pushed and held before engaging the blades and will
allow reverse operation until the blade switch is pushed
in to the "OFF" position, at which time the system will
return to its Reverse Lockout mode. This feature should
never be selected unless you are absolutely sure that no
children or others are present in the mowing area and
that all children are away and supervised by a
responsible adult.
2.7.1. Reverse Lockout Mechanism Override
1. Stop machine. Stop blades.
2. Depress and hold Override Lever.
3. Pull blade switch "OUT" to engage blade.
4. Release Override Lever
LOOK and SEE behind and down for children,
and hazards before and while backing.
IMPORTANT! DO NOT use the Reverse Lockout
Mechanism Override as the normal operating mode. To
return to the Reverse Lockout Mechanism mode,
disengage (STOP) blades by pushing blade switch in to
the "OFF" position. The Override will reset to Reverse
Lockout.
2.7.2. Check the Reverse Lockout Mechanism
Before each use, check the Reverse Lockout
Mechanism for proper function. The following
procedure requires the operation of the engine and
blades. Before proceeding, Read, Understand, and
Follow all Safety Instructions and Warnings in this
manual and on the machine.
1. Complete Pre-Start Checklist.
2. Move machine to clear open area. DO NOT
allow children or others in area.
3. Start engine.
4. Pull blade switch "OUT" to engage blades.
5. Reverse Lockout Mechanism must prevent
speed control lever from going into reverse.
Ik WARNING
DO NOT operate machine if Reverse Lockout[
Mechanism is not functioning properly. Contact your [
SNAPPER dealer immediately for assistance. [
DANGER
LOOK and SEE behind and down for children, pets
and hazards before and while backing.
BLADES must be turned off before backing machine.
DO NOT allow children on machine (even with
blades off) or in yard when mowing.
11
Section 3 - MAINTENANCE
3.1 INTRODUCTION
To retain the quality of the Tractor, use genuine
SNAPPER replacement parts only. Contact a local
SNAPPER dealer for parts and service assistance. For
the correct part or information for a particular Tractor,
always mention the model and senal number. SNAPPER
recommends returning the Tractor to an authorized
SNAPPER dealer annually for inspection and addition
of any new devices, which might upgrade the safety of
the Tractor. 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.
3.2 SERVICE - AFTER FIRST 5 HOURS
WARNING
DO NOT attempt any adjustments, maintenance or service
with the engine or blades running. STOP blades. STOP
engine, Set brake. Remove key. Remove spark plug wire
from spark plug and secure wire away from spark plug.
Engine and components can be extremely hot.Avoidbums
byallowingengineand componentssufficient time to cool,
3.2.1. CHANGE ENGINE OIL
The engine is equipped with a Fastex TM oil drain.
1. Rotate drain body counterclockwise and pull out to
open drain. See Figure 3.1.
2. Drain oil into a 2 quart container placed beneath end
of oil drain.
3. After all oil has drained, push drain body "IN" and
rotate clockwise to close.
4, Fill engine with new motor oil as specified in engine
owner's manual.
4. Check blade for straightness. Refer to Section
"ADJUSTING MOWER BLADE".
5. Check torque of blade mounting bolts. Torque to:
42" deck - 30 to 40 ft Ibs. See Figure 3.2.
48" deck - 70 to 80 ft Ibs.
OIL
FILLER
-- TUBE
FASTEX TM
OIL DRAIN
ROTATE COUNTER-
CLOCKWISE AND PULL
OUT TO OPEN.
PUSH IN AND ROTATE
CLOCKWISE TO CLOSE.
FIGURE 3.1
TORQUE TO
30 TO 40 FT.LBS.
WARNING
The following procedure requires the engine and blades
to be operated. Exercise extreme caution. Clear area of
loose parts & tools first. Only operate blades when
seated in the operator's seat.
3.2,2, CHECK BLADE BRAKE
1. Check blade brake for proper function. Blades
should stop rotating in 5 seconds or less after pushing the
blade switch "IN" to the OFF disengaged position.
2. If blades continue to rotatelonger than 5 seconds do
not operate machine. Contact your SNAPPER dealer for
assistance.
3.2,3. CHECK MOWER BLADES
1. Remove deck from tractor.
2. Carefully position deck to access blade.
3. Check blade for sharpness, wear and damage.
Refer to Section "BLADE WEAR LIMFS'.
FIGURE 3.2
WARNING
Blades must stop rotating in 5 seconds or less after
blades have been turned off, DO NOT operate machine
until blade brake has been repaired and functionin(
properly. Contact your SNAPPER dealer for assistance.
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Section 3 - MAINTENANCE
WARNING
DO NOT attempt any adjustments, maintenance,
service or repairs with the engine running. Stop
engine. Stop blade. Engage parking brake. Remove
key. Remove spark plug wire from spark plug and
secure away from plug. Engine and components are
HOT. Avoid serious burns, allow all parts to cool
before working on machine.
3.2.4. CHECK DECK DRIVE BELT
1. The idler and spring provide proper belt tension and
require no adjustment. If belt is frayed, slit, severed or
belt strands exposed, replace belt before operating
mower.
SERVICE - EVERY 25 OPERATING HOURS
3.3.1. CHECK ENGINE
1. Engine Cooling System
The engine cooling system consists of an engine
shroud and engine fins. These should be kept clean
and free of debris as needed or cleaned.
2. Engine Oil
Change engine oil. See Section on CHANGE ENGINE
OIL. Refer to engine owner's manual for oil
specifications.
3. Oil Filter
Change engine oil filter. Refer to engine owner's
manual for filter specifications.
4. Fuel Filter
Refer to engine owner's manual for service
instructions.
NOTE: YELLOW TABS MUST BE
COMPLETELY INSERTED INTO SLOTS'
FIGURE 3.3
AIR PRE-
CLEANER
5. Air Filter
Refer to engine owner's manual for service
instructions.
a. Change air filter. Remove bolts that secure air
cleaner cover to the engine. See Figure 3.3.
IMPORTANT: When cover is removed, you are
viewing the carburetor side of the air filter, which will
appear clean. Remove filter and pre-cIeaner for
inspection.
b. Refer to engine owner's manual for cleaning
and service instructions. Remove and clean
engine air pre-cleaner. Remove and replace
engine air cleaner. See Figure 3.4. Install pre-
cleaner and air cleaner per engine owner's
manual.
AIR CLEANER
FIGURE 3.4
c. Reinstall air cleaner cover. Insert tabs located
on the engine cover into corresponding slots in
air cleaner cover. IMPORTANT: The yellow tabs
must be completely inserted into air cleaner
cover or the compartment will not be completely
sealed to prevent debris from entering into the
carburetor.
d. Reinstall bolts that secure air cleaner cover to
the engine. Tighten securely.
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