Snapper YZ16335BVE, YZ16385BVE User Manual

Safety Instructions & Operator’s Manual for

SCRAMBLER

HYDRO DRIVE

SERIES 5

MODELS

YZ16335BVE
YZ16385BVE

MODEL NUMBER EXPLANATION

Y Z 16 33 5 B V E

MODEL DESIGNATION ENGINE OPTIONS
DRIVE SYSTEM TYPE ENGINE TYPE
ENGINE HORSE POWER SERIES DESIGNATION
CUTTING WIDTH

Y – SCRAMBLER
Z – Zero Turning Radius

Thank you for buying a SNAPPER Product! Before operating your SCRAMBLER, 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 © 2003
SNAPPER PRODUCTS INC.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

16 – 16.0 HP Engine 33 - 33” Cutting Deck

38 - 38” Cutting Deck

5 - Series Designation B - Briggs Engine

V – Over Head Valve

MANUAL No. 7-5557 (I.R. 8/06/03)

E - Electric Start

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

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

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,
attachments or towed equipment (even with the blades
OFF). They may fall and be seriously injured.

4. DO NOT allow pre-teenage children to operate
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 tip­over 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 starting, stopping or turning on slopes. If
machine stops going uphill or tires lose traction, turn
blades OFF and back slowly straight down the slope.

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

PROTECTION AGAINST TIPOVERS

(Continued From Previous Column)

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 w eighted 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. Chose a low enough speed setting so that you will not
have to stop or shift on a slope. Tires may lose traction
on slopes even though the brakes are functioning
properly.

12. DO NOT operate machine under any condition where
traction, steering or stability is doubtful.

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

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 mow ing 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.

SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE

To avoid personal injury or property damage, use
extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is
extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive

1. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and
other sources of ignition.

2. Use only an approved fuel container.

3. DO NOT remove fuel cap or add fuel with the
engine running. Allow the engine to cool before
refueling.

4. DO NOT refuel the machine indoors.

5. DO NOT store the machine or fuel container
inside where there is an open flame, spark or
pilot light such as on a water heater or other
appliances.

6. DO NOT fill fuel containers inside a vehicle or
on a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner.
Always place the containers on the ground
away from the vehicle before filling.

7. Remove gas-powered equipment from the
vehicle or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If
this is not possible, then refuel equipment
using a portable container, rather than a
gasoline dispenser nozzle.

8. DO NOT start gas powered equipment in
enclosed vehicles or trailers.

9. Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the
fuel tank or container opening at all times until
fueling is complete. DO NOT use a nozzle lock­open device

10. If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing
immediately.

11. Never overfill a fuel tank. Replace fuel cap and
tighten securely.

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.

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. On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment
may cause loss of traction and loss of control.
When towing, travel slowly and allow extra
distance to stop.

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

3

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

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.

4

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 ........................................................................................... 7-8

Rolling Machine w/o Engine Running................................................................7

Starting Engine.....................................................................................................8

Starting & Stopping Engine, Mower Blades......................................................9

Starting & Stopping Wheel Drive........................................................................9

Setting & Releasing Parking Brake ....................................................................9

Cutting Height Adjustment................................................................................10

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

SECTION 3 - MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS ...................................................... 11-15

Service - After First 5 Hours..............................................................................11

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

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

Check Mower Drive Belt.................................................................................12

Check Transaxle Drive Belts..........................................................................12

Service - Every 25 Operating Hours.................................................................12

Check Mower Components...................................................................... 13-14

Mower Blade Spindle - Lubrication...............................................................13

Mower Deck Linkage – Lubrication...............................................................14

Front Wheel Bearings - Lubrication..............................................................14

Front Caster Wheel Pivot Shaft - Lubrication ..............................................14

Parking Brake Pivot Bushings - Lubrication................................................14

Service – Annually..............................................................................................15

Engine ..............................................................................................................15

Air Filter............................................................................................................15

Oil Filter............................................................................................................15

Engine Oil.........................................................................................................15

Transaxle..........................................................................................................15

Fuel Filter.........................................................................................................15

Storage - Out of Season ....................................................................................15

SECTION 4 - ADJUSTMENTS AND REPAIR............................................................ 16-24

Neutral Position Adjustments...........................................................................16

Engine Adjustments & Repair...........................................................................16

Mower Deck & Component Adjustments.........................................................16

Mower Drive Belt Adjustment ...........................................................................17

Mower Drive Belt Removal & Replacement............................................... 17-18

Blade Brake Adjustment....................................................................................18

Adjusting Mower Blade................................................................................ 18-19

Mower Deck Adjustment (Levelness) Side to Side.........................................20

Mower Deck Adjustment (Levelness) Front to Rear.......................................21

Mower Deck Timing Rod....................................................................................21

Wheel Brake Adjustment...................................................................................22

Mower Blade Replacement.......................................................................... 22-23

Blade Wear Limits...........................................................................................22

Blade Sharpening............................................................................................22

Blade Replacement ............................................................................................23

Battery Removal.................................................................................................23

Battery Installation.............................................................................................23

Battery Service & Charging...............................................................................23

Battery Storage...................................................................................................23

Battery Testing ...................................................................................................24

New Battery Preparation....................................................................................24

TROUBLESHOOTING................................................................................................ 25-26

SERVICE SCHEDULE......................................................................................................27

Maintenance/Replacement Parts......................................................................27

WARRANTY......................................................................................................................28

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

PRODUCT REGISTRATION FORM.................................................................................33

5

Section 1 - FAMILIARIZATION

JOYSTICK
CONTROL
HANDLE

KEY
SWITCH

OPERATOR’S SEAT

DECK
DISCHARGE
DEFLECTOR

1.1 INTRODUCTION

This manual has been prepared for the operator’s of the
SNAPPER SCRAMBLER. Its purpose, aside from
recommending standard operating procedures and routine
service requirements, is to promote SAFETY through the
use of accepted operating practices. Read, Understand
and Follow the IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
on Pages 2 - 4 of this manual and All SAFETY messages
on the SCRAMBLER and its attachments before operating.
SNAPPER recommends returning the SCRAMBLER to an
authorized SNAPPER dealer annually for inspection and
addition of any new devices, which might upgrade the
safety of the mower.

PARKING
BRAKE

FIGURE 1.1

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

BRAKE RELEASE
BUTTON

CONTROL PANEL:
ENGINE SPEED
ENGINE CHOKE
BLADE SWITCH

DECK LIFT
HANDLE

.

FOOT
REST

1.2 NOMENCLATURE

The nomenclature drawing above, Figure 1.1, shows the
essential parts of the SNAPPER SCRAMBLER. It is
recommended that all operators of this equipment
become thoroughly familiar with the controls,
components, and operation of this machine before
operating. Specific details involving the engine are
found in the separate engine owner’s manual. Study
these manuals before operating and keep both handy
for future reference. For the nearest SNAPPER dealer in
your area, check the yellow pages under the heading
LAWN MOWERS. For engine parts and service, look
for the engine manufacturer’s dealers under the
heading, ENGINES - gasoline.

6

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 tires and add or release air as needed
to bring pressure to 12 P.S.I. in front 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.

2.1.3. 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 2.1.

ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK

SAFE LEVEL
AREA

2.1.5. Clean exterior surfaces of cutting deck and

engine of any accumulation of dirt, grass, oil, etc.
Keep engine air intake screen and cooling fins clear
at all times.

2.1.6. Add fuel to tank of the SCRAMBLER outside
where fumes can safely dissipate. Refer to engine
owner’s manual for fuel specifications. Make sure
fuel filler cap is tight and vent is open after
refueling. See Figure 2.3. Open fuel valve located
in fuel line.

FUEL FILLER CAP
WITH VENT.
TIGHTEN CAP AND
OPEN VENT AFTER
REFUELING.

FIGURE 2.1

2.1.4. Check Blade switch to insure it works freely.

Switch is pulled “OUT” into the “ON” position for
blade engagement or pushed back “IN” into the
“OFF” position for blade disengagement. See
Figure 2.2. IMPORTANT: Blade rotation must stop
in 5 seconds or less after moving blade switch to
“OFF”. Refer to Section “Blade Brake Adjustment”.

PULL “OUT”
TO ENGAGE

BLADE
SWITCH

PUSH “IN” TO
DISENGAGE

FIGURE 2.2

FIGURE 2.3

IMPORTANT: To roll the machine without the engine
running, pressure within the hydraulic pumps must be
released. Tilt seat up and move control lever down to
release pressure. NOTE: Control lever must be in the
“UP” position to drive machine. See Figure 2.4.

DO NOT USE CONTROL TO RELEASE PRESSURE AND
COAST DOWN SLOPES. RELEASE PRESSURE ONLY WHEN
MACHINE MOTION CAN BE CONTROLLED AND ENGINE OFF.

MOVE CONTROL
LEVER UP TO
DRIVE MACHINE

CONTROL
LEVER

BATTERY

MOVE CONTROL LEVER
DOWN TO ROLL
MACHINE

FIGURE 2.4

7

Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

IMPORTANT: This SCRAMBLER is equipped with
hydrostatic drive. The forward, rearward and steering
movement of the machine is controlled by a joystick
lever. Joystick operations should be performed only
from the operator’s position in the seat. A small
movement of the joystick can cause the machine to
move instantly. Move joystick very carefully and slowly.

1. Always move the joystick to the center position to
“STOP” machine. IMPORTANT: To stop machine
always return the joystick with hand assistance to the
neutral position. Always engage parking brake when
leaving operator’s seat.

2. Move the joystick forward to propel the machine
forward.

3. Move the joystick rearward to propel the machine
backward.

4. Move the joystick to the right to rotate the front of
the machine in circular motion to the right, as in
turning around to go in a different direction.

5. Move the joystick to the left to rotate the front of the
machine in circular motion to the left, as in turning
around to go in a different direction.

2.2 STARTING & OPERATION

2.2.1. ENGINE (ELECTRIC START)
IMPORTANT: When the ignition key is turned to

“START”, the engine will not turn over and will
start

unless the Parking Brake is engaged and the

not

Blade Switch is in the “Off” position. The operator
should be in the seat. Start engine as follows:

1. Move joystick lever to (N) Neutral position. See
Figure 2.5.

2. Make certain the blade switch is in the “Off”
position. See Figure 2.6.

3. Make certain the parking brake is engaged. See
Figure 2.5.

4. Open vent on fuel cap by turning
counterclockwise. Open fuel valve located in fuel
line. IMPORTANT: Failure to open vent and fuel
valve will cause engine to stall or not to start.

5. Move choke control forward to the choke “ON”
position. See Figure 2.6.

6. Move engine speed control forward to the “Fast”
(Rabbit) position. See Figure 2.6.

7. Turn key to the “START” position until engine
starts. See Figure 2.5. NOTE: If after 5 seconds of
cranking the engine and it does not start, release the
key. Attempt starting again after waiting for
approximately 20 seconds.

8. After engine starts, move choke control rearward
to the “OFF” position. Move engine speed control to
the desired speed position. Allow a brief warm-up
until engine runs smooth.

WARNING

DO NOT leave machine with engine running. STOP
engine. STOP blades. Engage park brake. Remove
key. DO NOT park machine on slopes.

RUN
POSITION

STOP
POSITION

PARKING BRAKE
ENGAGED

START
POSITION

JOYSTICK IS IN
NEUTRAL POSITION

TURN KEY
TO START
POSITION

FIGURE 2.5

MOVE ENGINE
SPEED CONTROL
FORWARD TO FAST
(RABBIT) POSITION

MOVE CHOKE CONTROL
FORWARD TO “ON”

FIGURE 2.6

8

Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING

DO NOT operate blades in reverse. STOP BLADES.
LOOK and SEE behind and down for children, pets
and hazards before and while backing.

2.2.3. MOWER BLADE

1. With engine running, move engine speed control

to the Rabbit or “fast” position.

2. Pull the blade switch out into the “ON” position to
engage the mower blades. See Figure 2.7.

2.3 STOPPING

MOVE ENGINE
SPEED CONTROL
FORWARD, PULL
BLADE SWITCH
OUT AND
RELEASE PARK
BRAKE

FIGURE 2.7

3. Release the parking brake. See Figure 2.7.

4. Move joystick carefully in the desired direction to

propel the machine. A small movement of the joystick
can cause the machine to move instantly. Move
joystick carefully and slowly.

2.3.1. ENGINE

1. Stop engine by turning key to the “STOP”

position. See Figure 2.8.

WARNING

DO NOT leave machine with engine running. STOP
engine. STOP blades. Engage park brake. Remove
key. DO NOT park machine on slopes.

2.3.2. WHEEL DRIVE

1. Stop motion of riding mower by moving joystick

to neutral (N) position. See Figure 2.8.

2.3.3. MOWER BLADE

1. Push the blade switch in to “OFF” position to

disengage or stop the mower blades. See Figure 2.7.

Blades must stop rotating in 5 seconds or less after
blades have been turned off. DO NOT operate
machine until blade brake has been adjusted or
repaired and is functioning properly. Refer to
Section “Blade Brake Adjustment” or contact your
SNAPPER dealer for assistance.

TURN KEY
TO STOP
POSITION

2.3.4. PARKING BRAKE

1. Manually position joystick in the neutral position.

2. Engage parking brake by pushing button at the top

of lever and then pulling the parking brake lever
slowly back to the “ON” position.

3. Release parking brake by pushing button at the
top of lever and movi ng brak e lever forwar d to th e
“OFF” position. See Figure. 2.7.

DO NOT park machine on slopes.

FIGURE 2.8

WARNING

WARNING

9

Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

2.3.5. CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT

This machine has seven different cutting height
positions. IMPORTANT: When positioning the cutting
deck into a higher cutting position, pull up on the deck
lift handle only, it is not necessary to pull up on the
release lever at the same time. Use the release lever
when moving deck cutting height to a lower cutting
position.

1. Grasp both handles together to disengage

latch.

2. Raise or lower handles to desired height.

3. Release lower handle to engage latch.

See Figure 2.9.

CONNECTING BAR OMITTED

DECK LIFT
HANDLE

HIGHEST
NOTCH

RELEASE
LEVER

IN THIS VIEW FOR CLARITY

DETENT
PLATE

FIGURE 2.9

2.4 SAFETY INTERLOCK SYSTEM CHECKS

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

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

ENGINE MUST NOT START IF:

1) Park Brake not in engaged position, OR,

2) Blade Switch in the “ON” blades engaged

position.

ENGINE SHOULD START IF:

1) Blade Switch in the “OFF” blades disengaged
position AND,

2) Park Brake in engaged position.

ENGINE MUST BEGIN TO STOP IF:

1) Operator rises off of seat with Blade Switch in
“ON” blades engaged position OR,

2) Operator rises off of seat with Park Brake not in
engaged position.

IMPORTANT: Engine will continue to run if Operator

becomes seated prior to engine coming to a
complete stop. To restart the blades, first move the
Blade Switch to the “OFF” position and then back to
the “ON” position. After coming to a complete stop,
the blade switch must be moved to the “OFF”
position and the Park Brake engaged before engine
can be restarted. Engine and blades must come to a
complete stop within 5 seconds after the operator
rises off the seat or the blade switch is moved to the
“OFF” position.

WARNING

10

Section 3 - MAINTENANCE

3.1 INTRODUCTION

To retain the quality of the SCRAMBLER, 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 the model and serial number.

3.2 SERVICE - AFTER FIRST 5 HOURS

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. Fuel Filler Cap and vent
must be closed securely to prevent fuel spillage.

3.2.1. CHANGE ENGINE OIL

1. Place bricks or wooden blocks under the front

wheels to lower rear of engine.

2. Place a 4 quart minimum capacity container
under the end of the oil drain.

3. Loosen or remove oil fill cap on engine.

4. Install the drain hose (Supplied in hardware bag)

onto drain plug nipple and place hose into drain
container.

5. Rotate drain plug counter clockwise and pull out
to open and allow oil to drain out. See Figure 3.1.

3.2.2. CHECK MOWER BLADE

1. Close vent on fuel cap and make sure cap is

tight. Close fuel valve in fuel line. Start engine and
allow it to run until engine runs out of fuel.

2. Apply parking brake.

3. Turn key to “OFF” position and remove key from

ignition switch.

WARNING

Wear heavy leather gloves when handling or working
around cutting blades. Blades are extremely sharp and
can cause severe injury.

4. Carefully stand SCRAMBL ER on rear bumper. It

may be necessary to have help to stand unit up.

5. Check torque of blade mounting bolts. Torque to:
33” Deck - 30 to 40 ft. lbs.
38” Deck - 80 to 90 ft. lbs. See Figure 3.2.

6. Check blade for sharpness, wear and damage.
Refer to Section “BLADE WEAR LIMITS”.

TORQUE BLADE MOUNTING
BOLTS TO 30 TO 40 FT. LBS.

SINGLE BLADE DECK

INSTALL HOSE
ONTO OIL DRAIN
NIPPLE

ROTATE 1/4 TURN
COUNTERCLOCKWISE
AND PULL OUT TO DRAIN
ENGINE OIL

FIGURE 3.1

6. After all the oil has drained, close the drain by

pushing in and rotating clockwise to close. Wipe up
any oil that may have spilled. Dispose of drained oil
properly. See Figure 3.1.

7. Change oil filter at every oil change. Refer to your
engine owner’s manual for service instructions.

8. Fill engine crankcase with new oil. Refer to your
engine owner’s manual for oil specifications.

OIL DRAIN

TORQUE BLADE MOUNTING
BOLTS TO 80 TO 90 FT. LBS.

TWIN BLADE DECK

7. Check blade for straightness.

FIGURE 3.2

WARNING

DO NOT use a cutting blade that shows signs of
excessive wear or damage. Refer to Section
“MOWER BLADE REPLACEMENT” for proper blade
inspection and service procedures.

11

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. Fuel Filler Cap and Vent
must be closed securely to prevent fuel spillage.

3.2.3. CHECK MOWER DRIVE BELT

1. Footrest/Floor pan Removal

a. Pull deck lift handle to highest cutting position.

See Figure 3.3.
b. Remove the two knobs that secure the rear of the
floor pan.
c. Remove two bolts at front bottom edge of foot
rest. Lift up on footrest and slide rear of floor pan out
from under deck lift mechanism.

MOVE DECK LIFT HANDLE TO HIGH CUT
REMOVE TWO KNOBS AT REAR OF FLOOR PAN
REMOVE TWO BOLTS FROM BOTTOM OF FOOTREST

FIGURE 3.3

2. Checking Mower Belt Tension

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.

3.2.4. CHECK TRANSAXLE DRIVE BELTS

1. Checking Transaxle Belt Tension

The transaxle drive belts require no adjustment.
If belts are frayed, slit, severed or belt strands
exposed, replace belt before operating mower.

3.3 SERVICE - EVERY 25 OPERATING HOURS

3.3.1. 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. Refer to Section “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. Air Filter
Refer to engine owner’s manual for service
instructions.

5. Air Filter

1. Refer to engine owner’s manual for service

instructions. Change air filter. Pull up and rotate the
air cleaner latch to remove cleaner cover. See
Figure 3.4.

IMPORTANT: When cover is removed, you are
viewing the carburetor side of the air filter, which
will appear clean. Remove filter and pre-cleaner for
inspection.

AIR CLEANER
LATCH

FIGURE 3.4

(Continued On Next Page)

AIR CLEANER
COVER

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