Snapper YZ18425BVE, YZ20485BVE User Manual

Safety Instructions & Operator’s Manual for

SCRAMBLER

HYDRO DRIVE

SERIES 5

MODELS

YZ18425BVE YZ20485BVE

MODEL NUMBER EXPLANATION

Y Z 18 42 5 B V E

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

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!

18 – 16 HP Engine 20 – 20 HP Engine

42 - 42” Cutting Deck 48 - 48” Cutting Deck

5 - Series Designation B - Briggs Engine V – Over Head Valve

E - Electric Start

MANUAL No. 7-5556 (I.R. 8/06/03)

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: (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, 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 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 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) aw ay 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. 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 w ith 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 mow ed 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.

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.

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.

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 & Stopping Engine, Propelling Mower ............................................ 8-9

Starting & Stopping 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 ...................................................... 11-14

Service – After First Five 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 Engine............................................................................................. 12-13

Check Mower Components............................................................................13

Mower Blade Spindle – Lubrication ........................................................ 13-14

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

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

Front Caster Wheel Pivot Shaft .....................................................................14

Parking Brake Pivot Bushings.......................................................................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............................................................ 16-23

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

Mower Deck & Components Adjustments.......................................................16

Mower Drive Belt Adjustment ...........................................................................16

Mower Drive Belt Replacement.........................................................................16

Belt Removal & Replacement...................................................................... 16-17

Blade Brake.........................................................................................................17

Mower Deck Adjustment (Levelness - Side to Side 48” Deck)................ 17-18

Mower Deck Adjustment (Front to Rear Pitch 48” Deck)...............................18

Mower Deck Adjustment (Side to Side, 42” & 48” Decks) .............................19

Mower Deck Adjustment (Front to Rear Pitch, 42” Decks)............................20

Mower Deck Timing Rod – (42” Decks) ...........................................................20

Wheel Brake Adjustment...................................................................................20

Mower Blade Wear Limits..................................................................................21

Blade Sharpening...............................................................................................21

Blade Replacement ............................................................................................21

Battery Removal.................................................................................................22

Battery Installation.............................................................................................22

Battery Service & Charging...............................................................................22

New Battery Preparation.............................................................................. 22-23

Battery Testing ...................................................................................................23

TROUBLESHOOTING................................................................................................ 24-25

Maintenance/Replacement Parts......................................................................25

SERVICE SCHEDULE......................................................................................................26

WARRANTY......................................................................................................................27

PRIMARY MAINTENANCE ........................................................................................ 28-31

PRODUCT REGISTRATION FORM.................................................................................32

Section 1 - FAMILIARIZATION

OPERATOR’S SEAT

JOYSTICK CONTROL HANDLE

KEY SWITCH

PARKING

BRAKE RELEASE BUTTON

CONTROL PANEL: ENGINE SPEED ENGINE CHOKE BLADE SWITCH

DECK LIFT HANDLE

DISCHARGE DEFLECTOR

FIGURE 1.1

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK

SAFE LEVEL AREA

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: Disengagement stops the blades rotation.

PULL “OUT” TO ENGAGE

BLADE SWITCH

PUSH “IN” TO DISENGAGE

FIGURE 2.2

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

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

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.

START POSITION

RUN POSITION

STOP POSITION

PARKING BRAKE ENGAGED

JOYSTICK 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

(Continued on Next Page)

Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

2.2.2. 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.

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.

WARNING

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

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 STOPPING

2.3.1. ENGINE

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

position. See Figure 2.8.

TURN KEY TO STOP POSITION

DO NOT leave the machine with the engine running. STOP engine. STOP blades. Engage parking 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 repaired and functioning properly. Contact your SNAPPER dealer for assistance.

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 back to the “ON” position.

3. Release parking brake by pushing button at the top of lever and moving brake lever forward to the “OFF” position. Refer Figure. 2.7.

FIGURE 2.8

WARNING

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.

DECK LIFT HANDLE

RELEASE LEVER

CONNECTING BAR OMITTED IN THIS VIEW FOR CLARITY

DECK LIFT HANDLE SHOWN IN HIGHEST NOTCH.

FIGURE 2.9

DETENT PLATE

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

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