Snapper P216012, NP216012, WP221651BV User Manual

Safety Instructions & Operator’s Manual for

21” STEEL DECK

WALK MOWERS

SERIES 12 & 14

MODELS

PUSH MODELS PROPELLED MODELS 215012 215014 R215012 N215012 NR215012 FR215012 FR215014

MODEL NUMBER EXPLANATION

R P 21 50 12 T 2

MODEL DESIGNATION ENGINE OPTIONS SELF-PROPELLED ENGINE TYPE CUTTING WIDTH SERIES DESIGNATION ENGINE HORSE POWER

R – Recycling Model F – Flange Type Deck 12 - Series Designation P – Self Propelled Model N – California Model 14 – Series Designation E – European Model 21 – 21” Cutting Width T – Tecumseh Engine

50 – 5.0 HP (Engine Horse Power) 2 – Two Cycle Engine 60 – 6.0 HP (Engine Horse Power)

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 & 3. 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.

MANUAL No. 3-5743 (REV. 2, 9/2/99)

P216012 EP216012 NP216012 RP215012 RP216012 RP215012T2 FRP216012 NRP215012 NFRP216012

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 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 mach ine 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 object s that may obscure vision.

SLOPE OPERATION

1. Slopes are a major facto r related to slip and fall accidents, which can result in severe injury. All slopes require extra cau tion. 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 crass 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 in dicates that o perators age 60 and abov e, 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 wit h ext ra care. Fuels are flammabl e 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 mo win g. 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 dev ices frequently for proper operation and location.

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

9. Protect yourself when mow ing 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.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

OPERATION

1. DO NOT put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep clear of discharg e 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 foreig n object or if mower vibrates abnormally, STOP the engine, disconnect and secure spark plug wire. Inspect t he mower for any damage and repair the damage.

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

10. 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.

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

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

13. Slow down before turning.

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

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

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 mow er 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 cott er 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 p lu g an d secu re w ire 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 ev ident. Rep lace slider or bag adapter if broken or cracked.

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 & 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS............................................................................4

SECTION 1 - FAMILIARIZATION..............................................................5

SECTION 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS.........................................6-8

Pre-start Checklist ............................................................................................... 6

Starting & Stopping Engine & Blade............................................................... 6-7

Starting & Stopping Wheel Drive ....................................................................... 7

Handle Height Adjustment.................................................................................. 7

Cutting Height Adjustment

Recycling Operation............................................................................................ 8

Baffle Adjustment................................................................................................ 8

Installation of Grass Catcher.............................................................................. 8

SECTION 3 - MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS..................................9-10

Change Engine Oil............................................................................................... 9

Check Transmission Grease..........................................................................9-10

Check Mower Blade........................................................................................... 10

Check Engine Drive Belt ................................................................................... 10

Check Transmission Poly-V Belt...................................................................... 10

Service - Annually.............................................................................................. 10

Engine.............................................................................................................. 10

Air Filter........................................................................................................... 10

Engine Oil........................................................................................................ 10

Storage Procedure............................................................................................. 10

SECTION 4 - ADJUSTMENTS AND REPAIR....................................11-17

Mower Blade Replacement ............................................................................... 11

Blade Sharpening .........................................................................................11-12

Wheel Drive Control Adjustment...................................................................... 12

Driven and Drive Disc Service.......................................................................... 13

Cleaning Drive Disc and Driven Disc............................................................ 13

Drive Spring Repair/Replacement................................................................. 13

Driven Disc Adjustment............................................................................ 13-14

Driven Disc Replacement..........................................................................14-15

Driven Disc Bearing Replacement................................................................ 15

Hex Shaft Bearing Replacement ...................................................................16

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

Engine Drive Belt Replacement ...............................................................16-17

Transmission Poly-V Belt Replacement....................................................... 17

TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................................................ 18

SERVICE SCHEDULE ............................................................................19

Maintenance/Replacement Parts...................................................................... 19

WARRANTY............................................................................................ 20

PRIMARY MAINTENANCE................................................................21-24

Section 1 - FAMILIARIZATION

FIGURE 1.1

1.1 INTRODUCTION

This manual has been prepar ed for the operators of the SNAPPER 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 & 3 of this manual and all safety messages on the mower and attachments before operating the mower.

1.2 NOMENCLATURE

The nomenclature drawing above, Figure 1.1, shows the essential parts of the SNAPPER 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 befor e operating and keep both handy for future reference.

Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

POSITION)

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 mak e sure all are in place and securely tightened.

2.1.2. Check blade c ontr ol and wheel drive contr ol to insure they work freely. See Figure 2.1.

RECYCLING MODEL SHOWN (ROPE START MOUNTED ON RIGHT SIDE OF HANDLE)

BLADE CONTROL

WHEEL DRIVE CONTROL

FIGURE 2.1

2.1.3. Check cutting height. Adjust to desired height.

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.

FIGURE 2.2

2.1.5. Add fuel to tank after pushing the mower

outside where fumes can saf ely 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.

2.2 STARTING & OPERATION

2.2.1. ENGINE & BLADE (Primer Models)

1. Move engine speed control to the “Fast” (Rabbit)

position. See Figure 2.3.

NOTE: Stop the engine (and blade) by releasing the

blade control.

BLADE CONTROL

WHEEL DRIVE CONTROL

ENGINE SPEED CONTROL (SHOWN IN FAST

2. Push primer button three times to start a cold

engine. NOTE: Do not use primer button to start warm engine.

3. Pull blade control against handle.

4. Pull rope start handle to crank engine.

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

engine runs smooth.

CATCHER MODEL SHOWN (ROPE START MOUNTED ON LEFT SIDE OF HANDLE)

FIGURE 2.3

Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

POSITION

SIXTH

HEIGHT

5 6

2.2.2. PROPELLING MOWER (Self Propelled Models Only)

1. Move ground speed control to the desired speed

position. See Figure 2.4.

2. Start engine. Refer to Section “Starting & Operation”.

3. Move wheel drive control against handle to engage wheel drive and propel mower forward. Forward speed can be adjusted while the mower is moving by changing position of the ground speed control. See Figure 2.4.

MOVE GROUND SPEED CONTROL TO DESIRED POSITION

(FAST) SIXTH SPEED

FIRST

BLADE CONTROL

RECYCLING MODEL SHOWN (ROPE START MOUNTED ON RIGHT SIDE OF HANDLE)

(SLOW) FIRST SPEED POSITION

FIGURE 2.4

WHEEL DRIVE CONTROL

2.3 STOPPING

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

2.4 HANDLE HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT

The height of the mo wer handle can be adjusted as follows:

1. Loosen the lower nuts on each lower handle as shown in Figure 2.5.

HIGHER

LOWER HANDLE

2. Move upper mower handle up or down until the

desired position is achieved.

3. Tighten the lower nuts on each lower handle to maintain desired position.

STOP engine and mow er b lade b y releasing the blade control before adjusting cutting height or handle height.

2.5 CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT

1. Pull the height adjusting latch outward and move

to desired cutting height. See Figure 2.6.

2. Set all wheels at the same cutting height. The highest cutting position is Notch 6. The lowest cutting position is Notch 1. See Figure 2.7.

LATCH POSITIONS

WARNING

LOWEST CUTTING

LATCH

HIGHEST CUTTING

FIGURE 2.6

LOWER

CUTTING HEIGHT SETTINGS

LOOSEN LOWER NUTS ON EACH LOWER HANDLE

FIGURE 2.7

FIGURE 2.5

Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

BAFFLE

CONNECTOR

WARNING

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.

2.6 RECYCLING OPERATION NOTE: For best recycling results, cut up to a m axim um of

1/3 of grass blade length and recycle ONLY when grass is dry.

1. Set all wheels in the highest cutting position (Notch 6).

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.

2.7 ADJUSTING FRONT DECK BAFFLE (Models with an “F” prefix in model number) (Example: F

R215012)

The front of the cutting deck on these m odels has been modified with an open area. This allows the blade to have more direc t c ontact with the grass and allows more air flow into deck chamber. The adjustable baffle should be secured in the lowest position when using a grass bag. T he baffle should be secured in the highest position when mulching grass.

NOTE: Under certain conditions, when mulching, some grass may blow out from under front of baffle. This is normal but, the amount of grass blowing out can be reduced. Lower baffle slightly to reduce the amount of grass blow out.

1. Stop engine.

2. Loosen wing nuts that secure front deck baffle.

See Figure 2.8.

3. Lower the adjustable baffle to the lowest position when using a grass bag. Raise the baffle to its highest position when mulching grass. Take care to keep the baffle’s lower edge par allel to the bottom of the deck. See Figure 2.8.

4. Retighten wing nuts securely.

2.8 INSTALLATION of GRASS CATCHER

Install grass catcher by sliding connector over flange of adapter. See Figure 2.9. Attach grass bag hooks over middle handle cross bar. See Figure 2.10.

HOLE DESIGNATES TOP OF BAFFLE (ALWAYS KEEP HOLE IN UP POSITION)

FRONT DECK BAFFLE (SHOWN IN HIGHEST POSITION)

FRONT CUTOUT OF DECK

DO NOT operate without entire Grass Catcher or guard in place. Grass Catcher components are subject to deterioration during normal use. Inspect frequently and replace worn or damaged components immediately.

POSITION BAG BETWEEN HANDLES

BAG ADAPTER

ATTACH BAG HOOKS OVER MIDDLE HANDLE CROSS BAR

WING NUT

MOVE BAFFLE UP FOR MULCHING GRASS

MOVE BAFFLE DOWN FOR GRASS BAGGING

FIGURE 2.8

WARNING

FIGURE 2.9

FIGURE 2.10

FRONT DECK

WING NUTS

SLIDE CONNECTOR DOWN OVER BAG ADAPTER FLANGE

MIDDLE HANDLE CROSS BAR

Section 3 - MAINTENANCE

3.1 INTRODUCTION

To retain the quality of the mower, 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 mower, always mention model and serial number.

3.2 SERVICE - AFTER FIRST 5 HOURS

3.2.1. CHANGE ENGINE OIL

WARNING

1. Refer to Engine Manual for proper oil

specifications and procedures.

2. For simplest/cleanest oil change, loosen lower handle wing nuts and stand mower up on lower handle as shown in Figure 3.1. Drain oil through dipstick tube into a container.

FIGURE 3.1

3.2.2. CHECK GREASE LEVEL IN TRANSMISSION

1. Remove transmission fill plug. Roll machine

forward or backward while looking down into plug hole.

2. If liquid (the small gear below the plug hole), add an amount, to cover gear, of Snapper “ 00” grease. See Figure 3.2.

FILL PLUG

NOTE: Snapper “00” Grease (Part No. 2-9443) is available

at your SNAPPER dealer.

grease IS NOT visible on the input gear

FIGURE 3.2

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