Swisher ZT2866-CA, ZT2866 User Manual

ZT2866 & ZT2866-CA

28 HP – 66” CUT

CELEBRATING 65 YEARS OF INNOVATION

SINCE 1945

1602 CORPORATE DRIVE, WARRENSBURG, MISSOURI 64093

PHONE [phone] FAX [phone]

Manufacturing quality lawn care equipment since 1945

OWNER’S MANUAL

17532 Rev. 10-361

STARTING SERIAL # L111-002001

Made In The

USA

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 two (2) years
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 difficulty 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 Hot-Line is 1-800-233-3723. The
Tecumseh Engine Service Hot-Line is 1-800-558-5402.

2) Commercial Use This product is not intended for commercial use and
carries no commercial warranty.

3) Limitation 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 transportati on of parts
submitted for replacement or repair under this warranty shall be borne by the purchaser. Should
you have any questions concerning this warranty, pl ease 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 I NCIDENTAL 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

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CONTENTS

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LIM IT ED WARRANT Y………

INTRODUCTION……………

General………………………

Before Operating……………

Uncrating & Assembly………

SYMBOLS & DECALS……

SAFETY INST RUCTIONS…

General use and safety rules

Children Safety……………. 8 Parking Brakes………………

Slope Operation…………….. 8 Deck Belt Replacement……

2

4 Features……………………… 13

4 Starting………………………

4 Grass Height of Cut……………16

5 Controls………...……..……… 17

6

7

7 Deck Level…………………… 18

OPERATION………………..

SERVICE & ADJUSTMENTS

djusti ng D eck Height…………18

13

16

18

18

19

CUSTOMER

RESPONSIBILITY…………

Operator Presence…………

Tires…………………………

Blade Maintenance…………

Battery………………………

V-belts………………………

Engine………………………

Overall Unit Care………….…

10

10

10

10

10

11

11

11

Hydro Belt Replacement……..20

Seat Adjustment……………… 21

WIRING SCHEM AT IC………

PARTS BREAKDOWN………

TROUBLESHOOTING………

MOWER IDENTIFICATION…

REPLACEMENT PARTS…

Warranty Rights……………..

22

23

33

35

36

37

Transporting Safety…………

SPECIFICATIONS…………

Mai ntenance……….………… 12

11

11

SWISHER HISTORY…………

3

3

38

INTRODUCTION

Congratulations

Thank you for purchasing a Swisher Zero Turn mower. This machine is built for the
greatest efficiency and rapid mowing of large areas. Conveniently located controls and
dual commercial grade hydrostatic transmissions regulated by steering levers, contribute to
the machine’s performance.

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

General

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

NOTE:

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 fuel caps to sure that they
are in place.

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

 Know how to set the parking brake.



Be sure mower blades are turned off –

PTO switch pushed down.



Know how to stop the engine – Turn key

to off



Know how to stop the unit – Return

control handles to neutral

4

4

INTRODUCTION

Uncrating & Assembly

TOOLS REQUIRED:

 2 - ½” Wrenches or ½” Socket with drive ratchet

 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.

 Disengage spark plug wire and place where it cannot make a connection.

 Raise the mower deck to its highest position.



Install steering levers. Remove the bolts from the control arms on the mower. Align

the holes in the lever with the holes in the control arms and attach with the bolts provided.

Make sure both bolts on both handles are tight.

 Disengage the parking brake by pushing the handles to their fully extended position.



Open the transmission valves at the rear of the unit by pulling the release rods and

locking them in place. SEE INSTRUCTION DECAL AT THE REAR OF THE UNIT.

 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



Check 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 1 hour, but no more than 2 hours at a rate of 6 to 10 amps.

 Attach battery cables to battery. Always attach the positive terminal first.



Close the transmission valves at the rear of the unit. SEE INSTRUCTION DECAL
AT THE REAR OF THE UNIT.

 Reconnect spark plug wire.

 Check tire pressure on all four wheels. REFER TO

5

5

UNIT SPECIF

ICATIONS TABLE

SYMBOLS & DECALS

OD45- Warning Decal

Swisher Flag U.S.A.– OD39

Flying Debris Decal – OD43

Triangle Danger Decal – OD55

Key/PTO Decal - 10273

Notice Do Not Alter Wiring Decal– OD74

Operator Must Be Seated Decal– OD73

No Step Decal – OD11

Hydro Release -

10280

Danger/Warning Decal - 10276

6

6

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

These instructions are for your safety. Read them carefully.

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.

General Use



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 drive, or run 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 and thrown out.

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.

 Shut down the mower deck 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.

NOTE:

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

 Beware of traffic when working near or crossing a road.



Never leave the machine unsupervised with the engine running.
Always shut down the blades, engage the parking brake, 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.

7

7

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

General Use Continued…



Always wear approved protective glasses or a full visor when

assembling or driving.

 Ear Protection is recommended

 Never wear loose clothing that can get caught in moving parts.

Remember

The operator is responsible for
avoiding dangers or accidents.

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.

 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

WARNING

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.

 Remove obstacles such as stones, tree branches, etc.



Mow up and down, not side to side. Never drive the rider on terrain that slopes

more than 10 degrees.



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.

 Drive slowly and use small movements of the steering controls.



Do not mow wet grass. It is slippery, and the tires can loose their grip, so that

the machine slides.

 Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting a foot on the ground.

Remember

The operator is responsible
for avoiding dangers or
accidents.

8

8

MOWING SAFETY

•WARNING – Petrol 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 petrol while the engine
is running or when the engine is hot.

- if petrol 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 petrol vapors have dissipated;

- replace all fuel tanks and container caps securely.

• Replace faulty silencers;

• before using, always visually inspect to see that the blades, blade bolts and cutter assembly are not worn

or 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 AND STORAGE

• Keep all nuts, bolts and screws tight to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition;

• never store the equipment with petrol in the tank inside a building 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, silencer, battery compartment and petrol storage area free of grass,

leaves, or excessive grease;

• check the grass catcher frequently for wear or deterioration;

• replace worn or damaged parts for safety;

• if the fuel tank has to be drained, this should be done outdoors.

• when machine is to be parked, stored or left unattended, lower the cutting means unless a positive mechanical

lock is used.

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 not be regained by the application of the brake. The main

reason for loss of control are:

i) insufficient wheel grip;
ii) being driven too fast;
iii) inadequate braking;
iv) the type of machine is unsuitable for its task;
v) lack of awareness of the effect of ground conditions, especially slopes;
vi) incorrect hitching and load distribution.

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 drive to attachments, stop the engine, and disconnect the spark plug wire(s) or 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 catcher;

- before making height adjustment unless adjustment can be made from the operator’s position

9

9

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

Operator Presence System

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



The engine should not start unless the parking brake is engaged and the PTO (Blade Engagement

– See OPERATION FEATURES section of this manual) switch is disengaged (pressed down).



When the engine is running, the operator should never leave the seat without first setting the parking

brake and shutting off the engine.



When the engine is running and the PTO switch is engaged, any attempt by the operator to leave

the seat without first disengaging the PTO switch, should shut off the engine.



When the engine is running and the control levers are rotated in, the operator should never attempt
to leave the seat without rotating the control levers out, shutting off the engine and engaging the
parking brake.

The PTO switch should never engage without the operator on the seat.

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

CAUTION

Stop engine 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.

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

 Safely raise front of mower. SEE WARNING

 Hold or block blade from turning.

 Loosen blade nut and remove blade.

 Replace blade, (SEE SPECIFICATIONS).

Battery

To clean battery and terminals

 Remove terminal guard.

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

Disconnect the BLACK battery cable first, then the RED battery cable and 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 grease or petroleum jelly

 Reinstall battery

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

WARNING

 Reconnect the battery cables

10

10

CHARGING TIPS

A

•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 hook-up 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

BA TTE RY

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

6.3 12.6 100%

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.

STATE

OF

CHARGE

PPROX. BA TTERY CHARGING TIME *

TO FULL CHARGE AT 80

MAXIMUM RATE AT

FULL CHARGE

o

F/27oC

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

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11

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES/SPECIFICATIONS

V-Belts

Check V-belts for deterioration and wear after 100 hours of operation and replace if necessary.
Replace belts if they begin to slip from wear. SEE SPECIFICATION for belt part numbers and
SERVICE section of this manual for instructions on how to replace the belt.

Engine

REFER TO YOUR ENGINE OWNERS MANUAL

Overall Unit Care



Reduce the risk of fire by removing grass, leaves, and other debris that may have accumulated on the

machine. Allow the machine time to cool before cleaning or putting it in storage.

Wash mower periodically. Clean above and below deck.

Keep all electrical connections clean and tight.

Driving and Transport on Public Roads

Check applicable road traffic regulations before driving and transporting on public roads.

If the machine is transported, you should always use approved fastening equipment and ensure that the

machine is well anchored.

The cutting deck should also be lowered to the lowest position and the parking brake engaged.

SPECIFICATIONS

GASOLINE CAPACITY
AND TYPE

OIL TYPE (SPI-SF-SJ): SEE ENGINE MANUAL

SPARK PLUG SEE ENGINE MANUAL

GROUND SPEED 0 – 6 mph

TIRE SIZE FRONT: 4.10x3.5-5 5/8 Bearing

TIRE PRESSURE FRONT: 50 psi Max

BATTERY 12V / Heavy Duty 275 CCA

HYDRO Bolt Torque 27 + - 3 ft. lbs

BLADE BOLT TORQUE 35 ft. lbs

CUTTING HEIGHT 1.5” – 5”

CUTTING WIDTH 66” – 3 Mulching Blade System

PARKING BRAKE Spring Assisted

FRONT AXLE Pivoting

DUAL 2.0 GAL TANKS
UNLEADED REGULAR

REAR: 18 X 9.5 X 8

REAR: 22 psi Max

Type U1L

SEAT 15” Back w/ Arm Rest

6” Adjustable Slide

TRANSMISSION Commercial Grade Eaton Hydrostatic

DECK LIFT Spring Assisted

UNIT MEASUREMENTS LENGTH: 70”

WIDTH: 66 ¼” “
Including Deck
WEIGHT: 600 lbs

12

12

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

Check Brake
Operation

Check Tire
Pressure

Check Operator
Presence

Parking Brake

Check for Loose
Fasteners

Sharpen/Replace
Mower Blades

Check Battery

Clean Battery &
Terminals

Before
Each
Use

8 Hours 25 Hours 50 Hours 100 Hours Season

X X

X X

X

X

X X X

X3

X X

X X

Before
Storage

Check Belts

Check Engine Oil

Change Engine Oil
w/ filter

Change Engine Oil
w/o filter

Replace Oil Filter

Clean Air Filter

Inspect Muffler

Clean Engine
Cooling Fins

Replace Spark Plug

Replace Fuel Filter

1 – Change more often when operating under a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures

X X

X1,2

X1,2

X2

X

X

X1,2

X2

X X

X

2 – Service more often when operating in dirty or dusty conditions

3 – Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil

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