Troy-Bilt LTX-2146, LTX-1842 User Manual
Operator’s Manual
Pedal Drive Lawn Tractor
Models LTX-1842
LTX-2146
IMPORTANT: Read safety rules and instructions carefully before operating equipment.
Warning:
brush-covered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state
laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator. In the State of California the
above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply
on federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest engine authorized service dealer or contact the service
department, P.O. Box 361131 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019.
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered,
TROY-BILT LLC. P.O. BOX 361131, CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019
FORM NO.
770-10490B.fm
(2/2003)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Content Page
Important Safe Operation Practices...................................................................3
Slope Gauge......................................................................................................7
Tractor Set-up....................................................................................................8
Know Your Lawn Tractor ...................................................................................10
Operating Your Lawn Tractor ............................................................................13
Making Adjustments ..........................................................................................16
Maintaining Your Lawn Tractor..........................................................................18
Service ..............................................................................................................20
Off-Season Storage...........................................................................................25
Attachments & Accessories...............................................................................25
Troubleshooting.................................................................................................26
Models LTX-1842 & LTX-2146 Parts List...........................................................27
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 equipme nt, please locate the model plate on the
equipment and copy the information from it in the space provided below. The information on the
model plate is very important if you need help from our Customer Support Department or an
authorized dealer.
• You can locate the model number by looking beneath the seat. A sample model plate is explained
below. For future reference, please copy model number and serial number of the equipment in the
space below.
(Model Number)
www.troybilt.com
(Serial Number)
TROY-BILT LLC
P. O. BOX
CLEVELAND, OH 44136
330-558-7220
866-840-6483
361131
Copy the model number here:
Copy the serial number here:
ENGINE INFORMATION
The engine manufacturer is responsible for all engine-related issues with regards to performance, powerrating, specifications, warranty and service. Please refer to the engine manufacturer’s Owner’s/Operator’s
Manual packed separately with your unit for more information.
CALLING CUSTOME R SUPPORT
If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation or
maintenance of this unit, please call the Customer Support Department.
Call 1-866-840-6483 or 1-330-558-7220 to reach a Customer Support representative. Please
have your unit’s model number and serial number ready when you call. See previous section to
locate this information. You will be asked to enter the serial number in order to process your call.
For more details about your unit, v isit our website a t www.troybilt.com
2
SECTION 1: IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES
WARNING:
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.
WARNING:
This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, could endanger
The Battery and Engine Exhaust contai ns chemicals known to the S tate of California
to cause cancer , birth def ects or ot her reproducti ve harm. The battery and post s cont ain lead;
wash hands after han dling
WARNING:
manual. 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.
This machine was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this
.
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 caus e serious pe rsonal i njury.
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 ricoch et can cause seri ous 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 mo wer withou t the disc harge cove r 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 int o a trailer or truck. Thi s unit shou ld 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.
3
23. Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a
burn. Do not touch.
24. Check overhead clearances carefully before driving
under low 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 accessory or attachment.
28. Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and
above, are involved in a large percentage of tractorrelated injuries. These operators should evaluate
their ability to operate the tractor 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 your
Yard-Man dealer for assistance.
Slope Operation
Slopes are a major factor related to loss of control and
tip-over a ccident s which can resu lt in se vere in jury or
death. All slopes require extra caution. If you cannot
back up the slope or if you feel uneasy, 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.
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 of the machine. Use extra care with grass
catchers or other attachments. These can change
stability of the machine.
5. 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 seriou s injur y.
6. 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 t he gr ound.
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 ch ildren.
d. Never carry children, even with the blade(s)
shut off. They may fall off and be seriously
injured or int erfer e wit h safe machi ne
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. Disengage the cutting blade(s) before
shifting in reverse. The “No-Cut-In Reverse”
4
feature emphasises not to cut in reverse and
to avoid back-over accidents; do not defeat it.
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.
9. 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 vehicl e before fil ling.
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 t he nozzle in contac t with the rim of the
fuel tank or container opening at all times
until fuelin g is complet e. Do not use a no zzle
lock-open device.
e. Exting uish all ci garett es, cigar s, 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 White Outdoor Products 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.
5
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
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
777S30145
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF INJURY, DO NOT
OPERATE UNLESS DISCHARGE COVER OR
GRASS CATCHER IS IN ITS PROPER PLACE.
IF DAMAGED, REPLACE IMMEDIATELY.
777S30503
777S30018
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.
Y our 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.
WARNING
TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH
• 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 & BEHIND BEFORE AND WHILE
BACKING.
• KEEP SAFETY DEVICES (GUARDS, SHIELDS, AND
SWITCHES, ETC.) 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 PARKING BRAKE,
SHUT OFF AND REMOVE KEY.
READ OPERATOR'S MANUAL
6
SECTION 2: SLOPE GAUGE
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 caus e seriou s injury . If operatin g a walk-be hind mo wer on suc h a slope , it is extr emely dif ficul t to mainta in
your footing and you could slip, resulting in serious injury.
F
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A CORNER OF A BUILDING
SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH A VERTICAL TREE
A POWER POLE
WARNING
15°
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5
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OR A FENCE POST
7
SECTION 3: TRACTOR SET-UP
IMPORTAN T:
starting the engine and operating. Refer to the separate Briggs & Stratton Operator/Owner Manual packed with
your tractor. Read instructions carefully.
Your tractor is shipped with motor oil in the engine. However, you MUST che ck the oil leve l before
NOTE: Any reference in th is manual to the RIGHT or
LEFT side of the tractor is observed from operator’s
position.
Attaching the Battery Cables
NOTE: The positive battery terminal is marked Pos. (+).
The negative battery terminal is marked Neg. (–).
• The positiv e cabl e (hea vy re d wir e) is s ecur ed to
the positive battery terminal (+) with a carriage
screw and hex nut at the factory. Make certain that
the rubber bo ot covers the te rminal to hel p protect it
from corros ion.
• Remove the shoulder 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 the wing nut.
• Make certain the hold-down strap is in position over
the battery, securing it in place. See Figure 1.
Rubber
Boot
Wing
Nut
• Locate the shipping brace and warning tag found
on the right side of the mower, between the
discharge chute and the cutting deck. See Figure 2.
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:
packaging purposes only, must be removed
and discarded before operating your riding
mower.
The shipping brace, used for
Shoulder Bolt
Figure 1
NOTE: If the battery is put into s ervice after the date
shown on top of battery, charge the battery as
instructed on page 20 of this ma nual pri or to operat ing
the tractor.
Shipping Brace Removal
WARNING:
engine is off, remove the ignition key, and set
the parking brake before removing the
shipping brace
Make sure the riding mower’s
.
WARNING:
throwing objects. Fail ure to ope ra te th e rid ing
mower without the discharge cover in the
proper operating position could result in
serious personal injury and/or property
damage.
The mowing deck is capable of
Tire Pressure
WARNING:
any circumstances is 30 psi. Equal tire
pressure should be maintained at all times.
The tires on your unit may be over-inflated for shipping
purposes. Reduce the tire pressure before operating
the tractor. Recommended operating tire pressure is
approximately 10 p.s.i for the rear tires & 14 p.s.i. for
the front tires. Check sidewall of tire for maximum p.s.i.
8
Maximum tire pressure under
Gas and Oil Fill-up
(if equipped)(if equipped)
(if equipped)
The gasoline tank is located under the hood and has a
capacity of either two or three gallons. Do not overfill.
WARNING:
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 Briggs & Stratton Operator/Owner Manual
packed with your tractor. Read instructions carefully.
Use extreme care when
mulching, simply remove the mulch plug by
unthreading the plastic wing nut which fastens it to the
cutting deck. This will allow the clippings to discharge
out of the discharge opening during operation. See
Figure 3.
IMPORT ANT :
engine. However, you MUST check the oil level befo re
operating. Be careful not to overfill.
Your tractor is shipped with motor oil in the
Identifying the Mulch Plug
On tractor models LTX-1842, a mulch plug can be
found within the cutting deck’s discharge opening.
NOTE:
information.
If you’d prefer to operate the cutting deck without
Refer to Mulching on page 15 for more detailed
Plastic Wing Nut
Figure 3
NOTE: On tracto r models LTX-2146, the mulch kit is
packed separately within the tractor’s crate.
Mulch Plug
9
SECTION 4: KNOW YOUR LAWN TRACTOR
A
F
G
H
C
D
B*
I
+
/
1
1
0
P
J
K
L
M
E
NOTE:
Figure 4
A PTO (Power Take- off) Lever H Cruise Co ntrol Butt on
B Choke Cont rol I Ignition Switch
C Parking Brak e But ton J Brake Pedal
D Shift Lever K Drive Pedal
E Cup Holder L Cargo Net (not shown)
F Systems Indicator Monitor/ Hour Meter M Deck Lift Lever
G Throttle Control Lever
10
Steering Wheel not shown for clarity.
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 model LTX-1842, 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 1.
Choke
Position
Fast
Position
Fast
Position
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
F (FORWARD) or R (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.
IMPORT ANT :
leaving the tractor unattended.
Always set the parking brake when
Ignition Switch
Slow
Position
Figure 1
IMPORT ANT :
deck engaged, be certain that the throttle lever is
always in the FAST (rabbit) position.
When operating the tractor with the cutting
Slow
Position
Choke Control
On model LTX-1842, moving the
throttle lever all the way forward
activates the engine’s choke
control. On model LTX-2146, 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 on page 13 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:
be fully depressed t o ac tiv at e the
safety interlock switch when
starting the tractor
The brake pedal must
.
WARNING:
machine unattended. Always disengage PTO,
move shift lever into neutral position, set
parkin g bra k e, s top eng ine an d re move 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 ON position once en gine has
fired. See Figure 5.
Off
Refer to Starting The Engine on page 13 of this manual for
detailed starting instructions
The ignition switch is also used to operate the tractor’s
headlights. Refer to Operating The Headlights on page 16
of this manual for detailed instructions.
Never leave a running
On/Lights
On
Start
Figure 5
11
Systems Indicator Monitor / Hour Meter
Your tractor is equipped with four indicator lights and an
hour meter located on the left side of the dash panel.
See Figure 2.
PTO (Power T ake-off) Lever
Battery
+
Hour
Meter
1/10
P
PTO
Figure 2
If the Brake light or PTO light illuminates when
attempting to start the unit, proceed as follows:
Brake — Engage the parking brake.
PTO — Move the PTO lever into the disengaged
(OFF) position.
It is normal for the Oil light and the Battery light to
illuminate while the engine is cranking, but if either
illuminates while the engine is running, proceed as
follows:
Oil— Stop the tractor immediately and check the
crankcase oil level as inst ructed in the
Briggs & Stratton Operator /Owner Manual
included with your unit. Add oil as required.
Battery— If this light illuminate’s while the engine is
running, it indicates that the battery is in
need of a charge OR that the engine’s
charging system is not generating
sufficient amperage. Refer to Battery on
page 20 of this manual for the proper
battery charging procedure or have the
engine’s charging system checked by an
authorized service dealer.
The hour meter operates whenever the engine is
running and records the actual hours of tractor
operation.
Oil
Brake
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.
The PTO lever is located on the left side of the
dashboard next to the steering wheel. Move the PTO
lever forward to engage the power to the cutting deck or
other (separately available) attachments; move the
PTO lever rearward to disengage the power to the
attachments.
NOTE:
(OFF) position when starting the engine, when traveling
in reverse and if the operator leaves the seat.
The PTO lever must be in the disengaged
Parking Brake Button
To set the parking brake, fully
depress the brake pedal and
push the park ing brak e butto n 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:
leaves the seat with the en gine running or the engine
will automatically shut off.
IMPORT ANT :
leaving the tractor unattended.
The parking brake must be set if the operat or
Always set the parking brake when
P
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 i n, rel ease pres sure f rom
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 Setting the Cru ise
Control on page 14 this manual for detailed instructions
regarding the cruise control feature.
12
NOTE:
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.
Cargo Net
Conveniently located on the tractor’s dash panel, the
cargo net can be used to store personal items while
operating the lawn tractor.
Cruise control c an NOT be engaged at the
Shift Lever
The shift lever is located on the left side of the fender
and has three positions, F (FORWARD), N (NEUTRAL)
and R (REVERSE). The brake pedal must be
depressed and the tractor must not be in motion when
the moving the shift lever.
IMPORT ANT :
result in serious damage to the tractor’s transmission.
SECTION 5: OPERATING YOUR LAWN TRACTOR
Never force the shift lever. Doing so may
WARNING:
all instructions and warnings on the machine
and in this manual before operating.
Read, understand, and follow
WARNING
AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH
• 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.
READ OPERATOR’S MANUAL
Safety Interlock Switches
This tractor is equipped with a safety interlock system
for the protection of the operator. If the interlock 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 lever is in the disengaged (OFF) position.
• The engine will automatically shut off if the operator
leaves the seat before engaging the parking brake.
• The engine will automatically shut off if the operator
leaves the tractor’s seat with the PTO lever in the
engaged (ON) position, regardless of whether the
parking brake is engaged.
• The engine will automatically shut off if the PTO
lever is moved into the engaged (ON) position with
the shift lever in position for reverse travel.
WARNING:
interlock system is malfunctioning. This
system was designed for your safety and
protection.
Do not operate the tractor if the
Setting the Cutting Height
Select th e hei ght pos ition of t he cu tting deck b y pl acing
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:
from the discharge opening of the cutting
deck.
NOTE:
the deck and are n ot d es ig ned to su ppo rt the we igh t o f
the cutting deck.
Refer to Leveling the Deck on page 17 of this manual for
more detailed instructions regarding various deck
adjustments.
The deck wheels are an anti-scalp feature of
Keep hands and feet away
Starting the Engine
WARNING:
interlock system is malfunctioning. This
system was designed for your safety and
protection.
NOTE:
manual for Gasoline and Oil fill-up instructions.
• Insert the tractor key into the ignition switch.
• Place the PTO lever in the disengaged (OFF)
• Engage the tractor’s parking brake.
• Activate the choke control.
• Turn the ignition key clockwise to the START
Refer to the TRACTOR SET-UP on page 8 of this
position.
position. After the engine starts, release the key. It
will return to the ON position.
Do not operate the tractor if the
13
IMPORT ANT :
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:
operating the tractor. Doing s o wil l res ult in a "ric h" fuel
mixture and cause the engine to run poorly.
Do NOT hold the key in the START
Do NOT leave the choke control on while
Stopping the Engine
WARNING:
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 lever in
the disengaged (OFF) position.
• Turn the ignition key counterclockwise to the OFF
position.
• Remove the key fro m the ignit ion sw itch t o pr event
unintended starting.
If you strike a foreign object,
Driving The Tractor
WARNING:
cessive speed and sudden stops.
WARNING:
tractor without first placing the PTO 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 th e br ake pe dal t o rele ase t he pa rking
brake and let the pedal up.
• Move the throttle lever into the FAST (rabbit)
position.
IMPORT ANT :
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 re verse, plac e the s hift lever in the
REVERSE position, check that the area behind is
clear then slowly depress the drive pedal.
Do NOT use the shift lever to change the
Avoid sudden starts, ex-
Do not leave the seat of the
Engaging the Parking Br ake
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 pa rkin g brak e but ton i n whi le r emovi ng
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.
NOTE:
operator leaves the sea t wi th th e en gin e r unn ing or the
engine will automatically shut off.
The parking brake must be engaged if the
Driving On Slopes
Refer to the SLOPE GAUGE on page 7 to help determine
slopes where you may operate the tractor safely.
WARNING:
slope in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of
approximately 2-1/2 feet eve ry 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 hi de obsta cles.
• 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.
Do not mow on inclines with a
Setting The Cruise Contr ol
• 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.
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.
NOTE:
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.
14
Cruise control can not be engaged at the
Disengage the cruise control using one of the following
methods:
• Depress th e brak e pe dal t o dis engage the cruis e
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 plac e the s hift lever in th e REVER SE
position and depress the drive pedal.
Engaging the PTO
Engaging the PTO transfers power to the cutting deck
or other (separately available) attachments. To engage
the PTO, proc eed as follo ws:
• Move the throttle control lever to the FAST (rabbit)
position.
• Grasp the PTO lever and pivot it all the way forward
into the engaged (ON) position.
• Keep the throttle lever in the FAST (rabbit) position
for the most efficient use of the cutting deck or other
(separately available) attachments
IMPORT ANT :
PTO is engaged with the shift lever in position for
reverse travel. Refer to Safety Interlock Switches on page
13.
The engine will automatically shut off if the
WARNING:
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 on page 20 of this
manual for proper blade sharpening instructions.
Plan your mowing pattern to
Operating The He adlights
To turn the tractor’s headlights on:
• Start the engine following the instructions earlier in
this section.
• Turn the key one notch counterclockwise into the
On/Lights position of the ignition switch. Refer to
Figure 5.
To turn the tractor’s headlights off:
• Turn the key ei ther into the On posit ion (to leav e the
engine running) or the Off position (to shut the
engine off). Refer to Figure 5.
NOTE:
while the engine is running. Doing so may cause
damage to your engine’s electric starter.
Never move the key into the Start position
Mowing
WARNING:
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.
To help avoid blade c onta ct or
Mulching
Your tractor is equipped with a mulch kit which
incorporates special blades, already standard on your
tractor, in a process of recirculating grass clippings
repeatedly beneath the cutting deck. The ultra-fine
clipping s are then for ced back into the law n where they
act as a natural fertilizer. Observe the following points
for the best results when mulching.
• Never atte mpt to mulc h if t he law n is d amp. We t
grass tends to stick to the underside of the cutting
deck preventing proper mulching of the clippings.
• Do NOT attempt to mulch more than 1/3 the total
height of the grass or approximately 1-1/2 inches.
Doing so will cause the clippings to clump up
beneath the deck and not be mulched effectively.
• Maintain a slow ground speed to allow the grass
clippings more time to effectively be mulched.
• Always position the throttle control lever in the
FAST (rabbit) position and allow it to remain there
while mowing. Failing to keep the engine at full
throttle places strain on the tractor’s engine and
does not allow the blades to properly mulch grass.
NOTE:
chute to operate the mower with the mulch kit installed.
Do NOT remove the discharge chute when mulching.
It is not necessary to remove the discharge
15
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