Toro 13AX60RG544, 13AX60RH544 Operator's Manual

l a

u n

a M

Form No. 3356-330 Rev A.

LX420 & LX460 Lawn Tractors

Model No. 13AX60RG544 Model No. 13AX60RH544

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772C0846

(06/2006)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Con

tent Page

Important Safe Operation Practices 3 Slope Gauge 7 Tr

actor Set-Up 8 Know Your Lawn Tractor 10 Operating Your Lawn Mower 14

Making Adjustments 18

Content Page

Service

21 Off-Season Storage 25 Troubleshooting 26

Maintenance Chart

27 Specifications 28 Warranty Information 29

Maintaining Your Lawn Tractor 20

FINDING MODEL NUMBER

This Operator’s Manual is an important part of your new lawn tractor. It will help you assemble, prepare and maintain the unit for best performance. Please read and understand what it says.

Before you start assembling your new equipment, please locate the model plate on the

uipment and copy the information from it in the space provided below. A sample model plate is

illustrated below. You can locate the moel plate by looking at the underside of the tractor’s seat.

also

information will be necessary to use the manufacturer’s web site and/or help from a Toro

This Service Dealer.

MODEL NUMBER SERIAL NUMBER DOM

Copy the model number here:

THE TORO COMPANY 8111

LYNDALE AVE. SOUTH

BLOOMING

TOLL FREE PHONE NUMBER: 1-888-384-9942 USA TOLL FREE PHONE NUMBER: 1-888-848-4073 Canada

TON, MINNESOTA 55420-1196

y the serial number here:

Cop

CUSTOMER SUPPORT

Please do NOT return the unit to the retailer without first contacting Customer Support.

you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation or maintenance

If of this unit, you can seek help from the experts. Choose from the options below:

SECTION 1: IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES

WARNING: This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, could endanger

the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow all instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal injury. When you see this symbol—heed its warning.

DANGER: This machine was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this man-

ual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can result in serious injury. This machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

GENERAL OPERATION

1. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the manual(s) before attempting to assemble and operate. Keep this manual in a safe place for future and regular reference and for ordering replacement parts.

2. Be familiar with all controls and their proper operation. Know how to stop the machine and disengage them quickly.

3. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate this machine. Children 14 years old and over should read and understand the operation instructions and safety rules in this manual and should be trained and supervised by a parent.

4. Never allow adults to operate this machine without proper instruction.

5. To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object injury, keep bystanders, helpers, children and pets at least 75 feet from the machine while it is in operation. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

6. Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to be used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire, bones, toys, and other foreign objects which could be picked up and thrown by the blade(s). Thrown objects can cause serious personal injury.

7. Plan your mowing pattern to avoid discharge of material toward roads, sidewalks, bystanders and the like. Also, avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction which may cause discharged material to ricochet back toward the operator.

8. Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during operation and while performing an adjustment or repair to protect your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can cause serious injury to the eyes.

9. Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and closefitting slacks and shirts. Loose fitting clothes and jewelry can be caught in movable parts. Never operate this machine in bare feet or sandals.

10. Be aware of the mower and attachment discharge direction and do not point it at anyone. Do not operate the mower without the discharge cover or entire grass catcher in its proper place.

11. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the cutting deck. Contact with the blade(s) can amputate hands and feet.

12. A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause blade contact or thrown object injuries.

13. Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads and while not cutting grass.

14. Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways. This machine is not intended for use on any public roadway.

15. Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

16. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.

17. Never carry passengers.

18. Disengage blade(s) before shifting into reverse. Back up slowly. Always look down and behind before and while backing to avoid a back-over accident.

19. Slow down before turning. Operate the machine smoothly. Avoid erratic operation and excessive speed.

20. Disengage blade(s), set parking brake, stop engine and wait until the blade(s) come to a complete stop before removing grass catcher, emptying grass, unclogging chute, removing any grass or debris, or making any adjustments.

21. Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn off blade(s), place transmission in neutral, set parking brake, stop engine and remove key before dismounting.

22. Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into a trailer or truck. This unit should not be driven up or down ramp(s), because the unit could tip over, causing serious personal injury. The unit must be pushed manually on ramp(s) to load or unload properly.

23. Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do not touch.

24. Check overhead clearances carefully before driving under low hanging tree branches, wires, door openings etc., where the operator may be struck or pulled from the unit, which could result in serious injury.

25. Disengage all attachment clutches, depress the brake pedal completely and shift into neutral before attempting to start engine.

26. Your machine is designed to cut normal residential grass of a height no more than 10”. Do not attempt to mow through unusually tall, dry grass (e.g., pasture) or piles of dry leaves. Dry grass or leaves may contact the engine exhaust and/or build up on the mower deck presenting a potential fire hazard.

27. Use only accessories and attachments approved for this machine by the machine manufacturer. Read, understand and follow all instructions provided with the approved accessory or attachment.

28. Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above, are involved in a large percentage of riding mower-related injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the riding mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from serious injury.

29. If situations occur which are not covered in this manual, use care and good judgment. Contact an authorized Service Dealer for assistance.

SLOPE OPERATION

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 it, do not mow it.

For your safety, use the slope gauge included as part of this manual to measure slopes before operating this unit on a sloped or hilly area. If the slope is greater than 15 degrees as shown on the slope gauge, do not operate this unit on that area or serious injury could result.

DO:

1. Mow up and down slopes, not across. Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on slopes.

2. Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden objects. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.

3. Use slow speed. Choose a low enough speed setting so that you will not have to stop or shift while on the slope. Tires may lose traction on slopes even though the brakes are functioning properly. Always keep machine in gear when going down slopes to take advantage of engine braking action.

4. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for wheel weights or counterweights to improve stability.

5. Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments. These can change the stability of the machine.

6. Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual. Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction. Rapid engagement or braking could cause the front of the machine to lift and rapidly flip over backwards which could cause serious injury.

7. Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction, disengage the blade(s) and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

DO NOT:

1. Do not turn on slopes unless necessary; then, turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.

2. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or embankments. The mower could suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the edge of a cliff, ditch, or if an edge caves in.

3. Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on the ground.

4. Do not use a grass catcher on steep slopes.

5. Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could cause sliding.

6. Do not shift to neutral and coast downhill. Overspeeding may cause the operator to lose control of the machine resulting in serious injury or death.

7. Do not tow heavy pull behind attachments (e.g. loaded dump cart, lawn roller, etc.) on slopes greater than 5 degrees. When going down hill, the extra weight tends to push the tractor and may cause you to loose control. (e.g. tractor may speed up, braking and steering ability are reduced, attachment may jack-knife and cause tractor to overturn).

CHILDREN

1. 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. They do not understand the dangers. Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them.

a. Keep children out of the mowing area and in

watchful care of a responsible adult other than the operator.

b. Be alert and turn machine off if a child enters

the area.

c. Before and while backing, look behind and

down for small children.

d. Never carry children, even with the blade(s)

shut off. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine operation.

e. Use extreme care when approaching blind

corners, doorways, shrubs, trees or other objects that may block your vision of a child who may run into the machine.

f. To avoid back-over accidents, always

disengage the cutting blade(s) before shifting into reverse. The “Reverse Caution Mode” should not be used when children or others are around.

g. Keep children away from hot or running

engines. They can suffer burns from a hot muffler.

h. Remove key when machine is unattended to

prevent unauthorized operation.

i. Never allow children under 14 years old to

operate the machine. Children 14 years old and over should read and understand the operation instructions and safety rules in this manual and should be trained and supervised by a parent.

TOWING

1. Tow only with a machine that has a hitch designed for towing. Do not attach towed equipment except at the hitch point.

2. Follow the manufacturers recommendation for weight limits for towed equipment and towing on slopes.

3. Never allow children or others in or on towed equipment.

4. On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment may cause loss of traction and loss of control.

5. Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop.

6. Do not shift to neutral and coast downhill.

SERVICE

SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE:

1. To avoid personal injury or property damage use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive. Serious personal injury can occur when gasoline is spilled on yourself or your clothes which can ignite. Wash your skin and change clothes immediately.

a. Use only an approved gasoline container. b. Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a

truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place containers on the ground away from your vehicle before filling.

c. When practical, remove gas-powered

equipment from the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible, then refuel such equipment on a trailer with a portable container, rather than from a gasoline dispenser nozzle.

d. 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 lock-open device.

e. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and

other sources of ignition.

f. Never fuel machine indoors. g. Never remove gas cap or add fuel while the

engine is hot or running. Allow engine to cool at least two minutes before refueling.

h. Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no more

than ½ inch below bottom of filler neck to

allow space for fuel expansion. i. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely. j. If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine

and equipment. Move unit to another area.

Wait 5 minutes before starting the engine. k. To reduce fire hazards, keep machine free of

grass, leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean

up oil or fuel spillage and remove any fuel

soaked debris. l. Never store the machine or fuel container

inside where there is an open flame, spark or

pilot light as on a water heater, space heater,

furnace, clothes dryer or other gas

appliances. m. Allow a machine to cool at least 5 minutes

before storing.

GENERAL SERVICE:

1. Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless, and deadly gas.

2. Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make certain the blade(s) and all moving parts have stopped. Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground against the engine to prevent unintended starting.

3. Periodically check to make sure the blades come to complete stop within approximately (5) five seconds after operating the blade disengagement control. If the blades do not stop within the this time frame, your unit should be serviced professionally by an authorized Service Dealer.

4. Check brake operation frequently as it is subjected to wear during normal operation. Adjust and service as required.

5. Check the blade(s) and engine mounting bolts at frequent intervals for proper tightness. Also, visually inspect blade(s) for damage (e.g., excessive wear, bent, cracked). Replace the blade(s) with the original equipment manufacturer’s (O.E.M.) blade(s) only, listed in this manual. “Use of parts which do not meet the original equipment specifications may lead to improper performance and compromise safety!”

6. Mower blades are sharp. Wrap the blade or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.

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

8. Never tamper with the safety interlock system or other safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly.

9. After striking a foreign object, stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug wire(s) and ground against the engine. Thoroughly inspect the machine for any damage. Repair the damage before starting and operating.

10. Never attempt to make adjustments or repairs to the machine while the engine is running.

11. Grass catcher components and the discharge cover are subject to wear and damage which could expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. For safety protection, frequently check components and replace immediately with original equipment

WARNING: YOUR RESPONSIBILITY Restrict the use of this power machine to persons who read,

understand and follow the warnings and instructions in this manual and on the machine.

manufacturer’s (O.E.M.) parts only, listed in this manual. “Use of parts which do not meet the original equipment specifications may lead to improper performance and compromise safety!”

12. Do not change the engine governor settings or over-speed the engine. The governor controls the maximum safe operating speed of the engine.

13. Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as necessary.

14. Observe proper disposal laws and regulations for gas, oil, etc. to protect the environment.

S30011

Safety labels found on your unit.

MAX 20

S30544

SECTION 2: SLOPE GAUGE

Use this page as a guide to determine slopes where you may not operate safely. Do not operate your lawn tractor on such slopes.

Operate WALK-BEHIND mowers across the face of slopes, never up and down slopes.

Operate RIDING mowers up and down slopes, never across the face of slopes.

Do not mow on inclines with a slope in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10 feet). A riding mower could

overturn and cause serious injury. If operating a walk-behind mower on such a slope, it is extremely difficult to maintain your footing

and you could slip, resulting in serious injury.

A CORNER OF A BUILDING

OR A FENCE POST

SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH A VERTICAL TREE

A POWER POLE

DANGER

15°

SECTION 3: TRACTOR SET-UP

NOTE: This owner’s manual covers various models of

lawn tractors. The units illustrated may vary slightly from your unit. Follow only those instructions which pertain to your model lawn tractor.

Attaching the Battery Cables

NOTE: The positive battery terminal is marked Pos.

(+). The negative battery terminal is marked Neg. (–).

• The positive cable (heavy red wire) is secured to the positive battery terminal (+) with a hex bolt and hex nut at the factory. Make certain that the rubber boot covers the terminal to help protect it from corrosion.

• Remove the hex bolt and wing nut from the negative cable.

• Remove the black plastic cover, if present, from the negative battery terminal and attach the negative cable (heavy black wire) to the negative battery terminal (–) with the bolt and wing nut.

• Make certain the retainer rod is in position over the battery, securing it in place. See Figure 1.

Rubber Boot

WARNING: Use extreme care when

handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive. Never fuel machine indoors or while the engine is hot or running. Extinguish cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other sources of ignition.

Service the engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in the separate engine manual packed with your tractor. Read instructions carefully.

IMPORTANT: Your tractor is shipped with motor oil in the

engine. However, you MUST check the oil level before operating. Be careful not to overfill.

Shipping Brace Removal

WARNING: Make sure the riding mower’s

engine is off, remove the ignition key, and set the parking brake before removing the shipping brace

• Locate the shipping brace, if present, and accompanying warning tag found on the right side of the mower, between the discharge chute and the cutting deck. See Figure 2.

Retainer Rod

Wing Nut

Hex Bolt

Figure 1

NOTE: If the battery is put into service after the date

shown on top of battery, charge the battery as instructed in the SERVICE section of this manual prior

to operating the tractor.

Gas and Oil Fill-up

The gasoline tank is located under the hood and has a capacity of either two or three gallons. Do not overfill.

Shipping Brace

Warning Tag

Figure 2

• While holding the discharge chute with your left hand, remove the shipping brace with your right hand by grasping it between your thumb and index finger and rotating it clockwise.

WARNING: The shipping brace, used for

packaging purposes only, must be removed and discarded before operating your riding mower.

WARNING: The mowing deck is capable of

Steering

Hex Bolt

Steering

Shaft

& Washer

Wheel Cap

throwing objects. Failure to operate the riding mower without the discharge cover in the proper operating position could result in serious personal injury and/or property damage.

Attaching the Steering Wheel

WARNING: Do NOT operate the tractor

without first attaching both the steering wheel AND the seat. Doing so could result in serious injury to the operator.

NOTE: There are two different styles of steering

wheel cap. See Figure 3. Styles vary by model.

• Using your hands, place the tractor’s front tires in position for straight-ahead travel.

• Remove the steering wheel cap from the center of the steering wheel. Be careful not to lose the hex screw and cupped washer found beneath it.

• Place the steering wheel (in position for straightahead travel) directly onto the steering shaft found in the center of the tractor’s dash.

• Place the cupped washer (cupped side DOWN) over the steering shaft.

• Thread the hex screw into the steering shaft and tighten securely.

• Reinsert the steering wheel cap in the center of the

steering wheel. Refer to Figure 3

Attaching the Seat

Refer to Figures 4 and 5 to identify your tractor’s seat style and follow applicable instructions.

NOTE: For shipping reasons, seats are either

fastened to the tractor seat’s pivot bracket with a plastic tie, or mounted backward to the pivot bracket. In either case, free the seat from its shipping position and remove the two hex screws (or knobs, on models so equipped) from the bottom of seat before proceeding with applicable instructions below

Quick Adjustment Seat

NOTE: If your seat was shipped mounted backwards

on the seat pivot bracket, pull out the tab found on the seat stop and hold it open while sliding the seat off the seat pivot bracket. See Figure 4.

• Line up the plastic seat spacers with the slots in seat pivot bracket.

• Slide seat in until front seat spacer engages the seat stop. See Figure 4.

QUICK ADJUSTMENT

Seat Stop

Tab

Pivot Bracket

Figure 3

Figure 4

WARNING: Before operating this machine,

make sure the seat is engaged in the seat stop, stand behind the machine and pull back on seat until fully engaged into stop

Knob Adjustment Seat

• Position the shoulder screws (found on the base of the seat) inside the slot openings in the seat pivot bracket. See Figure 5.

• Slide the seat slightly rearward in the seat pivot bracket, lining up the rear slots in the pivot bracket with the remaining two holes in the seat’s base.

• Select desired position for the seat, and secure with the two knobs removed earlier. See Figure 5.

KNOB ADJUSTMENT

Knobs

Shoulder Screws

Opening in Slot

Pivot Bracket

Figure 5

• GO UP AND DOWN SLOPES, NOT ACROSS.

• AVOID SUDDEN TURNS.

• DO NOT OPERATE THE UNIT WHERE IT COULD SLIP OR TIP.

• IF MACHINE STOPS GOING UPHILL, STOP BLADE(S) AND BACK DOWNHILL SLOWLY.

• DO NOT MOW WHEN CHILDREN OR OTHERS ARE AROUND.

• NEVER CARRY CHILDREN, EVEN WITH BLADES OFF.

• LOOK DOWN AND BEHIND BEFORE AND WHILE BACKING.

• KEEP SAFETY DEVICES (GUARDS, SHIELDS, AND SWITCHES) IN PLACE AND WORKING.

• REMOVE OBJECTS THAT COULD BE THROWN BY THE BLADE(S).

• KNOW LOCATION AND FUNCTION OF ALL CONTROLS.

• BE SURE BLADE(S) AND ENGINE ARE STOPPED BEFORE PLACING HANDS OR FEET NEAR BLADE(S).

• BEFORE LEAVING OPERATOR’S POSITION, DISENGAGE BLADE(S), PLACE THE SHIFT LEVER IN NEUTRAL, ENGAGE BRAKE LOCK, SHUT ENGINE OFF AND REMOVE KEY.

SECTION 4: KNOW YOUR LAWN TRACTOR

WARNING

AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH

READ OPERATOR’S MANUAL

Throttle Control Lever

The throttle control lever is located on the right side of the tractor’s dash panel. This lever controls the speed of the engine and, on some models, when pushed all the way forward, the choke control also. When set in a given position, the throttle will maintain a uniform engine speed. See Figure 6.

Choke

Position

Fast

Position

Slow

Position

Figure 6

IMPORTANT: When operating the tractor with the cutting

deck engaged, be certain that the throttle lever is always in the FAST (rabbit) position.

Fast

Position

Slow

Position

Choke Control

On some models, moving the throttle lever all the way forward activates the engine’s choke control. On all other models, the choke control can be found on the left side of the dash panel and is activated by pulling the knob outward. Activating the choke control closes the choke plate on the carburetor and aids in starting the engine. Refer to Starting The Engine in the OPERATION section of this manual for detailed starting instructions.

Brake Pedal

The brake pedal is located on the right front side of the tractor above the drive pedal along the running board. The brake pedal can be used for sudden stops or setting the parking brake.

NOTE: The brake pedal must be fully depressed to

activate the safety interlock switch when starting the tractor

W O L

Figure 7

A Systems Indicator Monitor/Hour Meter F Cup Holder B PTO (Blade Engage) Lever

PTO (Blade Engage) Knob

C Parking Brake Button I Brake Pedal D Cruise Control Button J Drive Pedal E Shift Lever K Deck Lift Lever

NOTE: Any reference in this manual to the RIGHT or LEFT side of the tracto r is observed from operator’s position. NOTE: Hood styles vary by model.

† G Throttle/Choke Control

† H Ignition Switch Module

Ignition Switch Module

{Ó°äÊ

WARNING: Never leave a running machine

unattended. Always disengage PTO, move shift lever into neutral position, set parking brake, stop engine and remove key to prevent unintended starting.

To start the engine, insert the key into the ignition switch and turn clockwise to the START position. Release the key into the NORMAL MOWING MODE position once the engine has fired.

To stop the engine, turn the ignition key counterclockwise to the STOP position. See Figure 8.

Normal

Driving

Stop

Position

Mode

Start

Position

Systems Indicator Monitor

LCD

Located in the center of the tractor’s console, the systems indicator monitor records, and displays on its LCD, hours of tractor operation whenever the ignition key is rotated out of the STOP position.

The indicator Monitor will also remind the oeprator of maintenacne intervals for chaning the engine oil. The LCD will alternately flash the recorded hours, “CHG” and “OIL” for five minutes, after every 50 hours of recorded operation elapse. The maintenance interval lasts for two hours (from 50-52, 100-102, 150-152, etc.). The LCD will also flash as described above for five minutes every time the tractor’s engine has been started during this maintenance interval. Befor the interval expires, change the crankcase oil level as instructed in this Operator’s Manual.

Figure 8

IMPORTANT: Prior to operating the tractor, refer to both

Safety Interlock Switches, page 14 and Starting The Engine, page 15 of this manual for detailed instructions regarding the

Ignition Switch Module and operating the tractor in REVERSE CAUTION MODE.

Drive Pedal

The drive pedal is located below the brake pedal on the right front side of the tractor along the running board. Depress the drive pedal with your right foot when the tractor shift lever is in either FORWARD or REVERSE to cause the tractor to move. Ground speed is also controlled with the drive pedal. The further down the pedal is depressed, the faster the tractor will travel. The pedal will return to its original position when it’s not depressed.

IMPORTANT: Always set the parking brake when

leaving the tractor unattended.

Figure 9

If the Brake light or PTO light illuminates when attempting to start the unit, proceed as follows:

BRAKE — Depress the brake pedal. PTO — Move PTO (Blade Engage) lever,

or PTO (Blade Engage) knob into the disengaged (OFF) position.

NOTE: It is normal for the Oil light and the Battery light

to illuminate while the engine is cranking, but if either illuminate’s while the engine is running, proceed as follows:

OIL— Stop the tractor immediately and check

the crankcase oil level as instructed in the Engine Operator/Owner Manual included with your tractor.

BATTERY— The battery is in need of a charge, or the

engine’s charging system is not generating sufficient amperage. Refer to the MAINTENANCE section of this manual

for the proper battery charging procedure or have the charging system checked by an authorized dealer.

On units so equipped, the ammeter (if so equipped) measures the electrical output of the engine’s charging system. Under normal operating conditions, with the engine at full throttle, the ammeter’s needle should measure a positive charge.

The hour meter (if so equipped) operates whenever the engine is running and records the actual hours of tractor operation.

Electric PTO (Blade Engage) Knob

To engage the power to the cutting deck or other (separately available) attachments on models equipped with an electric PTO, pull outward on the PTO (Blade Engage) knob. Push the PTO (Blade Engage) knob inward to disengage the power to the cutting deck.

NOTE: The PTO (Blade Engage) knob must be in the

disengaged (OFF) position when starting the engine, when traveling in reverse and if the operator leaves the seat.

Manual PTO (Blade Engage) Lever

MARCHE

OFF

ARRÊT

On models equipped with a manual PTO (Blade Engage), the PTO (Blade Engage) lever is located on the left side of the dashboard next to the steering wheel. Move the PTO (Blade Engage) lever forward to engage the power to the cutting deck or other (separately available) attachments; move the PTO (Blade Engage) lever rearward to disengage the power to the attachments.

NOTE: The PTO (Blade Engage) lever must be in the

disengaged (OFF) position when starting the engine, when traveling in reverse and if the operator leaves the seat.

PTO PDF

found, release the seat adjustment lever to lock the seat in place. Refer to Seat Adjustment of this manual for more detailed instructions.

Deck Lift Lever

Found on your tractor’s right fender, the deck lift lever is used to change the height of the cutting deck. To use, move the lever to the left, then place in the notch best suited for your application.

Parking Brake Button

To set the parking brake, fully depress the brake pedal and push the parking brake button in. Hold the button in while taking your foot off the brake pedal. Both the parking button and the brake pedal will then stay depressed. To release the parking brake, depress the brake pedal slightly. The parking brake button will then return to its original position.

NOTE: The parking brake must be set if the operator

leaves the seat with the engine running or the engine will automatically shut off.

IMPORTANT: Always set the parking brake when

leaving the tractor unattended.

Cruise Control Button

The cruise control button is located on the tractor dash panel to the left of the ignition switch. Push the cruise control button while traveling forward at a desired speed. While holding the button in, release pressure from the drive pedal. This will engage the cruise control and allow the tractor to remain at that speed without applying pressure to the drive pedal. Depress the brake pedal or the drive pedal to deactivate cruise control. Refer to OPERATION SECTION this manual for detailed instructions regarding the cruise control feature.

NOTE: Cruise control can NOT be engaged at the

tractor’s fastest ground speed. If the operator should attempt to do so, the tractor will automatically decelerate to the fastest optimal mowing ground speed.

Seat Adjustment Lever

To adjust the seat forward or backward on units equipped with a quick-adjust seat, slide the seat adjustment lever to the left and reposition the seat to the desired position. Once a comfortable position is

Cargo Net (optional)

Conveniently located on the tractor’s dash panel, the cargo net can be used to store personal items while operating the tractor.

Shift Lever

The shift lever is located on the left side of the fender and has three positions, FORWARD, NEUTRAL and REVERSE. The brake pedal must be depressed and the tractor must not be in motion when the moving shift lever. See Figure 10.

IMPORTANT: Never force the shift lever. Doing so may

result in serious damage to the tractor’s transmission.

SECTION 5: OPERATING YOUR LAWN TRACTOR

N R

Figure 10

Safety Interlock Switches

This tractor is equipped with a safety interlock system for the protection of the ope rator. If the inter lock system should ever malfunction, do not operate the tractor. Contact an authorized service dealer.

• The safety interlock system prevents the engine from cranking or starting unless the parking brake is engaged, and the PTO (Blade En gage) knob (or lever) is in the disengaged (OFF) position.

• The engine will automatically shut off if the operator leaves the seat before engaging the parking brake.

Models with Manual PTO (Blade Engage)

• The engine will automatically shut off if the operator leaves the tractor’s seat with the PTO (Blade Engage) lever in the engaged (ON) position, regardless of whether the parking brake is engaged.

• With the ignition key in the NORMAL MOWING position, the engine will automatically shut off if the PTO (Blade Engage) lever is moved into the engaged (ON) position with the shift lever in Reverse.

Models with Electric PTO (Blade Engage)

• The electric PTO (Blade Engage) clutch will automatically shut off if the operator leaves the tractor’s seat with the PTO (Blade Engage) knob in the engaged (ON) position, regardless of whether the parking brake is engaged.

• With the ignition key in the NORMAL MOWING position, the electric PTO (Blade Engage) clutch will automatically shut off if the PTO (Blade Engage) knob is moved into the engaged (ON) position with the shift lever in Reverse.

WARNING: Do not operate the tractor if the

interlock system is malfunctioning. This system was designed for your safety and protection.

Reverse Caution Mode

The REVERSE CAUTION MODE position of the key switch module allows the tractor to be operated in reverse with the blades (PTO) engaged.

IMPORTANT: Mowing in reverse is not recommended.

WARNING: Use extreme caution while

operating the tractor in the REVERSE CAUTION MODE. Always look down and

behind before and while backing. Do not operate the tractor when children or others are around. Stop the tractor immediately if someone enters the area.

To use the REVERSE CAUTION MODE:

IMPORTANT:The operator MUST be seated in the

tractor seat.

1. Start the engine as previously instructed in this Operator’s Manual.

2. Turn the key from the NORMAL MOWING (Green) position to the REVERSE CAUTION MODE (Yellow) position of the key switch module. See Figure 11.

3. Depress the REVERSE PUSH BUTTON (Orange,

Triangular Button) at the top, right corner of the key switch module. The red indicator light at the top, left corner of the key switch module will be ON while activated. See Figure 11.

4. Once activated (indicator light ON), the tractor can

be driven in reverse with the cutting blades (PTO) engaged.

5. Always look down and behind before and while backing to make sure no children are around.

6. After resuming forward motion, return the key to the

NORMAL MOWING position.

IMPORTANT: The REVERSE CAUTION MODE will

remain activated until:

a. The key is placed in either the NORMAL

MOWING position or STOP position.

b. The operator leaves the seat (Models with

Electric PTO ONLY).

c. The operator engages the parking brake by

fully depressing the brake pedal and holding it down while gently pushing the parking brake button inward (Models with Manual PTO ONLY).

NOTE: The parking brake must be engaged if the

operator leaves the seat with the engine running or the engine will automatically shut off.

Setting the Cutting Height

Select the height position of the cutting deck by placing the deck lift lever in any of the six different cutting height notches on the right side of the fender. Then adjust the deck wheels so that they are between ¼-inch and ½inch above the ground when the tractor is on a smooth, flat surface such as a driveway.

WARNING: Keep hands and feet away

from the discharge opening of the cutting deck.

NOTE: The deck wheels are an anti-scalp feature of

the deck and are not designed to support the weight of the cutting deck.

Refer to Leveling the Deck, in the MAKING ADJUSTMENTS section of this manual for more detailed instructions regarding various deck adjustments.

Reverse

Indicator

Light

Stop

Position

Figure 11

Push

Button

Reverse

Caution Mode

Position

Start

Position

Engaging the Parking Brake

To engage the parking brake:

• Fully depress the brake pedal and hold it down with

your foot while gently pushing the parking brake button inward.

• Hold the parking brake button in while removing

your foot from the brake pedal.

• Once engaged, the parking brake button and the

brake pedal will lock in the “down” position.

To disengage the parking brake:

• Slightly depress the brake pedal.

Starting the Engine

WARNING: Do not operate the tractor if the

interlock system is malfunctioning. This system was designed for your safety and protection.

NOTE: Refer to the TRACTOR SET-UP section of this

manual for Gasoline and Oil fill-up instructions.

• Insert the tractor key into the ignition switch.

• Place the PTO (Blade Engage) knob (or lever) in the disengaged (OFF) position.

• Engage the tractor’s parking brake.

• Activate the choke control.

• Turn the ignition key clockwise to the START position. After the engine starts, release the key. It will return to the ON position.

IMPORTANT: Do NOT hold the key in the START

position for longer than ten seconds at a time. Doing so may cause damage to your engine’s electric starter.

• After the engine starts, deactivate the choke control and place the throttle control in the FAST position.

NOTE: Do NOT leave the choke control on while

operating the tractor. Doing so will result in a "rich" fuel mixture and cause the engine to run poorly.

Stopping the Engine

WARNING: If you strike a foreign object,

stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug wire(s) and ground against the engine. Thoroughly inspect the machine for any damage. Repair the damage before restarting and operating

• If the blades are engaged, place the PTO (Blade Engage) knob (or lever) in the disengaged (OFF) position.

• Turn the ignition key counterclockwise to the OFF position.

• Remove the key from the ignition switch to prevent unintended starting.

Driving the Tractor

WARNING: Avoid sudden starts, ex-

cessive speed and sudden stops.

WARNING: Do not leave the seat of the

tractor without first placing the PTO (Blade Engage) knob (or lever) in the disengaged (OFF) position, depressing the brake pedal and engaging the parking brake. If leaving the tractor unattended, also turn the ignition key off and remove the key.

• Depress the brake pedal to release the parking brake and let the pedal up.

• Move the throttle lever into the FAST (rabbit) position.

IMPORTANT: Do NOT use the shift lever to change the

direction of travel when the tractor is in motion. Always use the brake pedal to bring the tractor to a complete stop before shifting.

• To move forward, place the shift lever in the FORWARD position, then slowly depress the drive pedal until the desired speed is achieved.

• To move in reverse, place the shift lever in the REVERSE position, check that the area behind is clear then slowly depress the drive pedal.

Driving On Slopes

Refer to the SLOPE GAUGE to help determine slopes where you may operate the tractor safely.

WARNING: Do not mow on inclines with a

slope in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10 feet). The tractor could overturn and cause serious injury.

• Mow up and down slopes, NEVER across.

• Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on slopes.

• Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden objects. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.

• Avoid turns when driving on a slope. If a turn must be made, turn down the slope. Turning up a slope greatly increases the chance of a roll over.

• Avoid stopping when driving up a slope. If it is necessary to stop while driving up a slope, start up smoothly and carefully to reduce the possibility of flipping the tractor over backward.

Setting the Cruise Control

• Place the shift lever in the FORWARD position, then slowly depress the drive pedal until the desired speed is achieved.

• Lightly depress the cruise control button.

• While continuing to hold the cruise button in, lift your foot from the drive pedal (you should feel the cruise latch engage).

• Once engaged, the cruise control button and the drive pedal will lock in the “down” position, and the tractor will maintain the same forward speed.

NOTE: Cruise control can not be engaged at the

tractor’s fastest ground speed. If the operator should attempt to do so, the tractor will automatically decelerate to the fastest optimal mowing ground speed.

Disengage the cruise control using one of the following methods:

• Depress the brake pedal to disengage the cruise control and stop the tractor.

• Lightly depress the drive pedal.

To change to the reverse direction when operating with cruise control, depress the brake pedal to disengage the cruise control and bring the tractor to a complete stop. Then place the shift lever in the REVERSE position and depress the drive pedal.

Engaging the Blades

Engaging the PTO (Blade Engage) transfers power to the cutting deck or other (separately available) attachments. To engage the blades, proceed as follows:

• Move the throttle control lever to the FAST (rabbit) position.

Models with Manual PTO

• Grasp the PTO (Blade Engage) lever and pivot it all the way forward into the engaged (ON) position.

Models with Electric PTO

• Pull the PTO (Blade Engage) knob outward into the engaged (ON) position. See Figure 12.

Front View

Pull Out

Push In

Mowing

WARNING: To help avoid blade contact or

a thrown object injury, keep bystanders, helpers, children and pets at least 75 feet from the machine while it is in operation. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

The following information will be helpful when using the cutting deck with your tractor.

OFF

Figure 12

• Keep the throttle lever in the FAST (rabbit) position for the most efficient use of the cutting deck or other (separately available) attachments

IMPORTANT: The engine (on models with a manual

PTO) or electric PTO clutch (on models with an electric PTO) will automatically shut off if the PTO is engaged with the shift lever in position for reverse travel with the ignition key in the NORMAL MOWING position. Refer to Safety Interlock Switches.

Using the Deck Lift Lever

To raise the cutting deck, move the deck lift lever to the left, then place it in the notch best suited for your application. Refer to Setting The Cutting Height earlier in this section.

Headlights

The lamps are ON whenever the switch is moved out of the STOP position, whether the engine is running or not.

The lamps turn OFF when the switch is moved to the STOP position.

WARNING: Plan your mowing pattern to

avoid discharge of materials toward roads, sidewalks, bystanders and the like. Also, avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction which may cause discharged material to ricochet back toward the operator.

• Do not mow at high ground speed, especially if a mulch kit or grass collector is installed.

• For best results it is recommended that the first two laps be cut with the discharge thrown towards the center. After the first two laps, reverse the direction to throw the discharge to the outside for the balance of cutting. This will give a better appearance to the lawn.

• Do not cut the grass too short. Short grass invites weed growth and yellows quickly in dry weather.

• Mowing should always be done with the engine at full throttle.

• Under heavier conditions it may be necessary to go back over the cut area a second time to get a clean cut.

• Do NOT attempt to mow heavy brush and weeds and extremely tall grass. Your tractor is designed to mow lawns, NOT clear brush.

• Keep the blades sharp and replace the blades when worn. Refer to Cutting Blades of this manual for proper blade sharpening instructions.

SECTION 6: MAKING ADJUSTMENTS

WARNING: Never attempt to make any

adjustments while the engine is running, except where specified in the operator’s manual.

Leveling the Deck

NOTE: Check the tractor’s tire pressure before

performing any deck leveling adjustments. Refer to

Tires section for information regarding tire pressure.

Front To Rear

The front of the cutting deck is supported by a stabilizer bar that can adjusted to level the deck from front to rear. The front of the deck should be between 1/4-inch and 3/8-inch lower than the rear of the deck. Adjust if necessary as follows:

• With the tractor parked on a firm, level surface, place the deck lift lever in the top notch (highest position) and rotate the blade nearest the discharge chute so that it is parallel with the tractor.

• Measure the distance from the front of the blade tip to the ground and the rear of the blade tip to the ground.

• The first measurement taken should be between 1/4" and 3/8" less than the second measurement. Determine the approximate distance necessary for proper adjustment and proceed, if necessary, to the next step.

• Loosen the jam nut(s),on the rear side of the deck stabilizer bracket.

• Locate the lock nut(s) on the front side of the stabilizer bracket. See Figure 13. Tighten the lock nut(s) to raise the front of the deck; loosen the lock nut(s) to lower the front of the deck.

• Retighten the jam nut(s) loosened earlier when proper adjustment is achieved.

Side to Side

If the cutting deck appears to be mowing unevenly, a side to side adjustment can be performed. Adjust if necessary as follows:

• With the tractor parked on a firm, level surface, place the deck lift lever in the top notch (highest position) and rotate both blades so that they are perpendicular with the tractor.

• Measure the distance from the outside of the left blade tip to the ground and the distance from the outside of the right blade tip to the ground. Both measurements taken should be equal. If they’re not, proceed to the next step.

• Loosen, but do NOT remove, the hex cap screw on the left deck hanger bracket. See Figure 14.

Adjustment Gear

• Balance the deck by using a wrench to turn the adjustment gear (found immediately behind the hex cap screw just loosened) clockwise/up or counterclockwise/down.

• The deck is properly balanced when both blade tip measurements taken earlier are equal.

• Retighten the hex cap screw on the left deck hanger bracket when proper adjustment is achieved.

Hex Bolt

Figure 14

,OOSEN

TOLOWERDECK

NOTE: 46-inch Deck Support Shown

Figure 13

4IGHTEN

TORAISEDECK

Parking Brake Adjustment

WARNING: Never attempt to adjust the

brakes while the engine is running. Always disengage PTO, move shift lever into neutral position, stop engine and remove key to prevent unintended starting.

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Toro 13AX60RG544, 13AX60RH544 Operator's Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual