Swisher TWR10532BS, TWR10532BS-CA Owner's Manual

TWR10532BS, TWR10532BS-CA

10.5 HP (Briggs & Stratton) – 32” Deck

SWISHER ACQUISITION INC.

1602 CORPORATE DRIVE, WARRENSBURG MISSOURI 64093

PHONE: [phone] FAX: [phone]

TOLL FREE: 1-800-222-8183

Manufacturing quality lawn care equipment since 1945,

Celebrating over 70 years of innovation

20877 REV 16-315

OWNER’S MANUAL

STARTING SERIAL # L116-315001

LIMITED WARRANTY

The manufacturer’s warranty to the original consumer purchaser is:
This product is free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one (1) year
from the date of purchase by the original consumer purchaser.

As required by CFR § 1060.120, the fuel system related components, which have been
certified to this equipment by SAI are to be free of defects in material and workmanship for a
period of two (2) years from the date of purchase by the original consumer purchaser.

We will repair or replace, at our discretion, parts found to be defective due to materials or
workmanship. This warranty is subject to the following limitations and exclusions:

1) Engine Warranty All engines utilized on our products have a separate warranty
extended to them by the individual engine manufacturer. Any
engine service warranty is the responsibility of the engine
manufacturer and in no way is Swisher or its agents responsible
for the engine warranty. The Briggs & Stratton Engine Service
Hotline is 1-800-233-3723.

2) Commercial Use This product is not intended for commercial use and

carries no commercial warranty.

3) Limitations This warranty applies only to products which have been

properly assembled, adjusted, and operated in accordance
with the instructions contained within this manual. This
warranty does not apply to any product of Swisher that has
been subject to alteration, misuse, abuse, improper assembly

or installation, shipping damage, or to normal wear of the product.

4) Exclusions Excluded from this warranty are normal wear, normal adjustments,
normal maintenance, and battery*(see battery section).

In the event you have a claim under this warranty, you must return the product to an authorized service
dealer. All transportation charges, damage or loss incurred during transportation of parts submitted for
replacement or repair under this warranty shall be borne by the purchaser. Should you have any
questions concerning this warranty, please contact us toll-free at 1-800-222-8183. The model number,
serial number, date of purchase and the name of the authorized Swisher dealer from whom you
purchased the mower will be needed before any warranty claim can be processed.

THIS WARRANTY DOES NOT APPLY TO ANY INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES AND
ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES ARE LIMITED TO THE SAME TIME PERIODS STATED HEREIN FOR
ALL EXPRESSED WARRANTIES. Some states do not allow the limitation of consequential damages or
limitations on how long an implied warranty may last, so the above limitations or exclusions may not
apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may have other rights, which vary from
state-to-state. This is a limited warranty as defined by the Magnuson-Moss Act of 1975.

2

2

SYMBOLS & DECALS

PARTS BREAKDOWN

TABLE OF CONTENTS

LIMITED WARRANTY
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION

General 4 Grass Height of Cut 16
Before Operating 4 Deck Adjustment 16
Uncrating & Assembly 5 Drive Wheel Detent 16

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

General use & Safety Rules 7
Children Safety 8 Jackshaft Belt Replacement 18
Slope Operation 8 Deck Belt Replacement 19
General use & Safety Rules 9 Drive Belt Replacement 20

2
3 Features 14
4 Starting 15

6 Steering 17
7 Fuel Shut-Off Valves 17

OPERATION & FEATURES

SERVICE & ADJUSTMENTS

14

18

CUSTOMER WIRING SCHEMATIC
RESPONSIBILITY

Operator Presence 10
Tires 10
Blade Maintenance 10
Battery / Charging Tips 10 - 11
V-belts 12
Engine 12
Maintenance Schedule 13
Transporting Safety 12

SPECIFICATIONS

Maintenance 13

10

TROUBLESHOOTING
MOWER IDENTIFICATION
REPLACEMENT PARTS
NOTES
SWISHER HISTORY

13

21
22-30
31-32
33
34
35
36

3

3

INTRODUCTION

Congratulations!

Thank you for purchasing a Swisher Three Wheel Rider. This machine is built for the greatest
efficiency in smaller residential settings and is perfect for saving on storage space. Innovative
360° turning drive wheel coupled with a worm style gearbox contributes to the machine’s
performance and maneuverability.

This manual is a valuable document. Following the instructions for use, service,
maintenance, etc. can greatly increase the lifespan of your machine.

NOTE:

If you have never used a lawn mower before, refer to the Operation Controls section of
this manual before attempting to operate one for the first time.

General:

In this operator’s manual, left and right, backward and forward are used in relation to the normal
operator’s position.

Read Before Operating:

This machine is constructed only for mowing grass on lawns and other free and even ground without

obstacles. This machine is not intended for commercial use. The manufacturer’s directions concerning
operation, maintenance and repairs must be carefully followed.

This machine must only be operated, maintained and repaired by persons that are familiar with the

machine’s special characteristics and who are well versed in safety instructions.

Accident prevention regulations, other general safety regulations, occupational safety rules and traffic

regulations must be followed without fail.

Unauthorized modifications to the design of the machine may absolve the manufacturer from liability for

any resulting personal injury or property damage.

Read engine manufacturer’s operating and maintenance instructions.
Read and observe all safety instructions on your mower and in the manual.
Check engine oil.
Check the fuel cap to ensure that it is in place.
Know how to control the “drive” of the machine with the pedal.
Be sure mower blades are off – Lever in disengaged position.
Know how to stop the engine – Turn key to off.
Know how to allow the machine to mow in reverse – Key position.
Know how to stop the unit – Return pedal to disengaged position.

IMPORTANT:

This engine is not equipped with
a spark arrester muffler. It is a
violation of California Public
Resource Code Section 4442 to
use or operate the engine on any
forest-covered, brush-covered, or
grass-covered land. Other states
or federal areas may have similar
laws.

4

4

INTRODUCTION

Uncrating & Assembly:

Tools Required:

• Tire pressure gauge

• Nail bar or claw hammer

• Wire snips

To remove the mower from the crate:

Dispose of top and side panels of the crate.
Remove loose parts and packing material.
Cut any banding or strapping that may be holding the mower to the crate.
Disconnect the spark plug wire and place where it cannot make a connection.
Raise the mower deck to its highest position.
Disengage the drive wheel by detenting the pin from the drive sprocket on the wheel. SEE

INSTRUCTION ON PAGE 16.

Carefully push the mower off the crate to a safe and level area.
Check engine oil. All engines are filled with oil and tested at the factory. Verify oil level

and add if necessary before starting engine. SEE ENGINE OWNER’S MANUAL.

Prepare and install the battery. Follow the instructions provided with the battery. If the battery

is put into service after the “month & year” of the date on the battery, then it may need to be
charged with a 12 volt charger for a minimum of one hour, but no more than 2 hours at a rate
of 6 to 10 amps. SEE CHARGING TIPS ON PAGE 11.

Re-engage the pin into the drive wheel until you hear it click into position on the sprocket.

Check to make sure the pin is secure by pushing on the machine to see if it will roll. If the
machine does not roll freely then the pin is secure. SEE INSTRUCTION ON PAGE 16.

Reconnect spark plug wire.
Check tire pressure on all three wheels. REFER TO UNIT SPECIFICATIONS TABLE ON

PAGE 12.

Read all operating instructions, safety instructions, and customer responsibilities

before operating this machinery.

5

5

SYMBOLS & DECALS

21011 - Warning Decal

Operator Must Be Seated Decal - OD73

Notice Do Not Alter Wiring Decal - OD74

No Step Decal - OD11

Flying Debris Decal - OD43

Triangle Danger Decal - OD55

Serial # ID Tag

EPA / CARB Certification Decal

6

6

These instructions are for your safety. Read them carefully.

General Use:

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

This Safety Alert Symbol indicates important messages in this manual. When
you see this symbol, carefully read the message that follows and be alert to the
possibility of personal injury.

Read all instructions in this operator’s manual and on the machine

before starting it. Ensure that you understand them and then abide
by them.

Learn how to use the machine and its controls safely and learn how

to stop quickly. Also learn to recognize the safety decals.

Only allow the machine to be used by adults who are familiar with its

use.

Make sure nobody else is in the area of the machine when you start the engine, engage the blades, or drive the

machine.

Stop the machine if someone enters the work area.
Clear the area of objects such as stones, toys, steel wire, etc. that may become caught in the blades or thrown.
DO NOT use this machine without the Discharge Chute in place.
Stop the engine and disconnect the spark plug before cleaning the discharge deck.
Never take passengers. The machine is only intended for use by one person.
Always look around before and during reversing maneuvers.
Slow down before turning.

NOTE:

Refer to the Operation Controls
section of this manual before
attempting to operate the mower for
the first time.

Disengage the blades when not mowing.
Be careful when rounding fixed objects, so that the blades do not hit them.
Only operate the machine in daylight or other well-lit conditions.
Keep the machine a safe distance from holes or other irregularities in the ground.
Never use the machine if you are tired, if you have consumed alcohol or if you are taking other drugs or

medications that can affect your vision, judgment or coordination.

Beware of traffic when working near or crossing a road.
Never leave the machine unsupervised with the engine running.
Always shut down the blades, disengage the drive pedal, stop the engine and remove the ignition key before

leaving the machine.

Never allow children or other persons not trained in the use of the machine to use or service it. Local laws may

regulate the age of the user.

Make sure that you have first aid equipment close at hand when using the machine.
Never use the machine when barefoot. Always wear protective shoes or boots.
Always wear protective glasses or a full visor when assembling or driving.
Always wear ear protection.
Never wear loose clothing that can get caught in moving parts.

7

7

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

Children:

Serious accidents may occur if you fail to be on guard for

children in the area of the machine. Children are often attracted
to the machine and mowing work.

Never assume that children will stay put where you last saw

them.

Keep children away from the mowing area and under close

supervision by another adult.

Shut off the machine if children enter the work area.

Remember:

The operator is responsible for
avoiding dangers or accidents.

WARNING

Never allow a child to ride with you.
Never allow children to operate the machine.
Be extra cautious near corners, bushes, trees or other objects

that block your view.

Slope Operation:

Remove obstacles such as stones, tree branches, etc.
Mow up and down, not side to side. Never drive the mower on

terrain that slopes more than 15 degrees. SEE SLOPE GUIDE ON PAGE 35.

Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If the tires begin to slip,

shut down the blades and drive slowly down the slope.

Always drive evenly and slowly on slopes.
Make no sudden changes in speed or direction.
Avoid unnecessary turns on slopes, and if it proves necessary,

turn slowly and gradually downward, if possible.

Watch for holes, ruts or bumps. On uneven terrain, the machine

can tip more easily. Long grass can hide obstacles.

Remember:

When using the machine,
approved personal
protective equipment shall
be used. Personal
protective equipment
cannot eliminate the risk of
injury, but it will reduce the
degree of injury if an
accident does occur. Ask
your retailer for help in
choosing the right
equipment.

Drive slowly and use small movements of the steering wheel.
Do not mow wet grass. It is slippery, and the tires can lose

their grip, allowing the machine to slide.

Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting a foot on the

ground.

Never attempt to operate the machine while standing/walking next

to it or not being properly seated in the operators position. Doing
so could lead to injury or loss.

8

8

The operator is responsible for
avoiding dangers or accidents.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

General Use Continued…

Mowing Safety:

WARNING – Gasoline is highly flammable.

• Store fuel in containers specifically designed for this purpose.

• Refuel outdoors only and do not smoke while refueling.

• Add fuel before starting the engine. Never remove the cap of the fuel tank or add gasoline while the engine is

running or when the engine is hot. Allow the engine and exhaust to completely cool down before filling.

• If gasoline is spilled, do not attempt to start the engine but move the machine away from the area of spillage

and avoid creating any source of ignition until gasoline vapors have dissipated.

• Replace all fuel tanks and container caps securely.

Replace faulty or damaged muffler.
Before operating, always visually inspect to see that

damaged. Replace worn or damaged blades and bolts in sets to preserve balance.

On multi-bladed machines, take care as rotating one blade can cause other blades to rotate.

Maintenance & Storage:

Keep all nuts, bolts and screws tight to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition.
Never store equipment with gasoline in the tank inside a building(s) where fumes can reach an open flame or spark.
Allow the engine to cool before storing in any enclosure.
To reduce the fire hazard, keep the engine, muffler, battery compartment and gasoline in storage area free of grass,

leaves or excessive grease.

Check the grass chute frequently for wear or deterioration. Replace if necessary.
Replace worn or damaged parts for safety.
If the fuel tank has to be drained, this should be done outdoors in an approved gasoline container and properly

disposed of.

the blades, blade bolts and cutter assembly are not worn or

Training:

All drivers should seek and obtain professional and practical instruction. Such instruction should emphasize:

The need for care and concentration when working with ride-on machines.
Control of a ride-on machine sliding on a slope will n

reasons for loss of control are:

• Insufficient wheel grip.

• Being driven too fast.

• Inadequate braking.

• The type of machine is unsuitable for its task.

• Lack of awareness of the effect of ground conditions, especially slopes.

• Incorrect hitching and load distribution.

ot be regained by the application of the brake. The main

Operation:

Do not operate the engine in a confined space where dangerous carbon monoxide fumes can collect.
When using any attachments, never direct discharge of material toward bystanders nor allow anyone near the

machine while in operation.

Never operate the machine with defective guards or without safety protective devices in place.
Do not change the engine governor settings or over-speed the engine. Operating the engine at excessive speed can

increase the hazard of personal injury.

Disengage the mower blades, stop the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire(s) and remove the ignition key:

• Before clearing blockages or unclogging chute.

• Before checking, clearing or working on the machine.

• After striking a foreign object, inspect the machine for damage and make repairs before restarting and

operating the equipment.

• If the machine starts to vibrate abnormally (check immediately), stop the engine and disengage drive to

attachment.

• Before refueling.

• Before removing the grass chute.

• Before making height adjustment.

9

9

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

Operator Presence System:

Be sure to check that the operator presence and interlock systems are working properly before each use. If your
mower does not function as described, repair the problem immediately.

The engine should not start unless the drive pedal is disengaged, the blade lever is disengaged

(forward) and the operator is in the seat.

– See OPERATION FEATURES section of this manual.

When the engine is running any attempt by the operator to leave the seat will cause the engine to shut off,

regardless of the blades being engaged.

When the engine is running and the blades are engaged any attempt by the operator to mow in a generally

rearward direction will shut off the engine unless the key is first turned to the “mow in reverse” position.

– See OPERATION FEATURES section of this manual.

Tires:

Maintain proper air pressure in all tires (SEE SPECIFICATIONS section).
Keep tires free of gasoline, oil or insect control chemicals which can harm rubber.
Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp objects and other hazards that may cause tire damage.

Blade Maintenance:

For best results, mower blades must be kept sharp.
Replace bent or damage blades.

Safely raise front of mower and place on secure jack stands.
Hold or block blade from turning.
Loosen blade bolt and remove blade.
Replace blade (SEE SPECIFICATIONS).

Battery:

To clean battery and terminals

Remove the BLACK terminal guard.
Disconnect the BLACK battery cable and locate it where it

cannot come into contact with the battery.

Remove the RED terminal guard.
Disconnect the RED battery cable and locate it where it

cannot come into contact with the battery.

Remove the battery.
Rinse the battery with plain water and dry.
Clean terminals and battery cable ends with wire brush

until shiny.

Coat terminals with Dielectric Grease or Petroleum Jelly.

(This helps seal and prevent corrosion.)

Reinstall battery.
Reconnect the battery cables. Attach the RED cable first

then the BLACK cable.

CAUTION

Stop engine, disengage drive pedal, and
remove ignition key for safety.
Disconnect spark plug wire. Wear heavy,
thick gloves when holding onto blade.
Avoid the sharp edge of the blade.

WARNING

When it is necessary to raise the mower
for any repair or service, use jackstands
to provide adequate support. DO NOT
rely on hydraulic or mechanical jacks.

WARNING

The battery contains sulfuric acid and
electrolytes which are poisonous and
corrosive.

10

10

CHARGING TIPS

APPROX. BATTERY CHARGING TIME *

To avoid a battery explosion, never attempt to charge a frozen battery.
Warning: Gel and AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) batteries require a voltage-limited

charger. Charging a Gel or AGM battery on a typical shop charger, even one time, may
greatly shorten its life.

Important: Never overcharge batteries. Excessive charging will shorten battery life.
Prior to charging, read the manufacturer’s instructions for proper charger hook-up and

use.

Turn off charger prior to hookup to avoid dangerous sparks. PROTECT YOUR EYES!
Warning: If the electrolyte is accessible, verify that plates are covered before beginning

to charge. At the end of charge, add distilled water as needed to bring levels to the
proper height. If water is added, charge for an additional 30 minutes to mix. If electrolyte
levels are low but battery is not accessible, remove battery from service.

The maximum charge rate in amperes should be no more than 1/3 of the battery’s

reserve capacity minute rating. If the terminal voltage exceeds 16.0 volts while charging,
reduce the charge rate.

Continue charging and reduce the rate as needed until a 2 hour period results in no

increase in voltage or decrease in current.

If violent gassing or spewing of electrolyte occurs or the battery case feels hot to the

touch, temporarily reduce or halt charging.

VOLTAGE

STANDARD

STATE

OF

BATTERY

CHARGE

6 V 12 V 50 AMPS 30 AMPS 20 AMPS 10 AMPS

6.3 12.6 100%

TO FULL CHARGE AT 80oF/27oC

MAXIMUM RATE AT

FULL CHARGE

6.2 12.4 75% 20 MIN. 35 MIN. 48 MIN. 90 MIN.

6.1 12.2 50% 45 MIN. 75 MIN. 95 MIN. 180 MIN.
6 12 25% 65 MIN. 115 MIN. 145 MIN. 280 MIN.

5.9 11.8 0% 85 MIN. 150 MIN. 195 MIN. 370 MIN.

* Test wet batteries every 4-6 months and recharge if necessary.
Always test and charge if necessary before installation.

11

11