Troy-Bilt ZT42 User Manual

Safe Operation Practices • Set-Up • Operation • Maintenance • Service • Troubleshooting • Warranty

Operator’s Manual

RZT Series Tractor — Colt ZT42

WARNING

READ AND FOLLOW ALL SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS MANUAL

BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE THIS MACHINE.

FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THESE INSTRUCTIONS MAY RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY.

TROY-BILT LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019

Printed In USA	Form No. 769-06682
	(November 18, 2010)

To The Owner

Thank You

Thank you for purchasing a RZT series tractor manufactured by Troy-Bilt LLC. It was carefully engineered to provide excellent performance when properly operated and maintained.

Please read this entire manual prior to operating the equipment.

It instructs you how to safely and easily set up, operate and maintain your machine. Please be sure that you, and any other persons who will operate the machine, carefully follow the recommended safety practices at all times. Failure to do so could result in personal injury or property damage.

All information in this manual is relative to the most recent product information available at the time of printing. Review this manual frequently to familiarize yourself with the machine, its features and operation. Please be aware that this Operator’s

Manual may cover a range of product specifications for various models. Characteristics and features discussed and/or illustrated in this manual may not be applicable to all models.

1

Troy-Bilt LLC reserves the right to change product specifications, designs and equipment without notice and without incurring obligation.

If you have any problems or questions concerning the machine, phone a authorized Troy-Bilt service dealer or contact us directly.

Troy-Bilt’s Customer Support telephone numbers, website address and mailing address can be found on this page. We want to ensure your complete satisfaction at all times.

Throughout this manual, all references to right and left side of the machine are observed from the operating position

The engine manufacturer is responsible for all engine-related issues with regards to performance, power-rating, specifications, warranty and service. Please refer to the engine manufacturer’s Owner’s/Operator’s Manual, packed separately with your machine, for more information.

Table of Contents

Safe Operation Practices.........................................	3	Service.....................................................................	28
Assembly & Set-Up...................................................	9	Troubleshooting.....................................................	33
Controls & Features................................................	12	Replacement Parts ................................................	34
Operation................................................................	15	Attachments & Accessories...................................	36
Maintenance & Adjustment.................................	22	Warranties..............................................................	38

Record Product Information

Model Number

Before setting up and operating your new equipment, please

locate the model plate on the equipment and record the

information in the provided area to the right. Pivot the seat

assembly forward to locate the model plate on the underside of

Serial Number

the seat pivot bracket. This information will be necessary, should

you seek technical support via our web site, Customer Support

Department, or with a local authorized service dealer.

Customer Support

Please do NOT return the machine to the retailer or dealer without first contacting our Customer Support Department.

If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation, or maintenance of this machine, you can seek help from the experts. Choose from the options below:

◊Visit us on the web at www.troybilt.com

◊Call a Customer Support Representative at [phone] or [phone]

◊Write us at Troy-Bilt LLC • P.O. Box 361131 • Cleveland, OH • 44136-0019

2

Important Safe Operation Practices	2

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. HEEDITSWARNING!

California Proposition 65

WARNING!Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

WARNING!Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling

DANGER!This machine was built to be operated according to the safe operation practices in this 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.

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 of age to operate this machine. Children 14 and over should read and understand the instructions and safe operation practices in this manual and on the machine and should be trained and supervised by an adult.

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 close-fitting 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.

3

12.A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause blade 29. If situations occur which are not covered in this manual, use

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.Back up slowly. Always look down and behind before and while backing to avoid a back-over accident. Be aware and pay attention to the safety system function that stops power to the blades when driving in reverse. If not

fuctioning properly, contact an authorized dealer for safety system inspection and repair.

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 drive control levers 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 machine should not be driven up or down ramp(s), because the machine could tip over, causing serious personal injury. The machine 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 machine, which could result in serious injury.

25.Disengage all attachment clutches, set the parking brake to the ‘on’ position and move the RH and LH drive control levers to the neutral position before attempting to start the 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.

care and good judgment. Contact your customer service representative 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 machine on a sloped or hilly area. If the slope is greater than 15 degrees as

shown on the slope gauge, do not operate this machine on that area or serious injury could result.

Do:

1.Mow across slopes, not up and down. 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 so that you will not have to stop while on the slope. Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If the tires are unable to maintain traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly and carefully straight down the slope.

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 acceleration or deceleration could cause the front of the machine to lift and rapidly roll over backwards, which could cause serious injury.

Do Not:

1.Do not turn on slopes unless necessary; then turn slowly uphill and use extra care while turning.

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 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).

4		Section 2 — Important Safe Operation Practices

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.To avoid back-over accidents, always 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 path of the machine.

f.Keep children away from hot or running engines. They can suffer burns from a hot muffler.

g.Remove key when machine is unattended to prevent unauthorized operation.

2.Never allow children under 14 years of age to operate this machine. Children 14 and over should read and understand the instructions and safe operation practices in this manual and on the machine and should be trained and supervised by an adult.

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.

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).

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” 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 machine 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 five 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 machine should be serviced professionally by an authorized dealer.

4.Regularly check the safety interlock system for proper function, as described later in this manual. If the safety interlock system does not function properly, have your machine serviced professionally by an authorized dealer.

Section 2 — Important Safe Operation Practices		5

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 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.

15.According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), this product has an Average Useful Life of seven (7) years,

or 270 hours of operation. At the end of the Average Useful Life have the machine inspected annually by an authorized service dealer to ensure that all mechanical and safety systems are working properly and not worn excessively. Failure to do so can result in accidents, injuries or death.

Do not modify engine

To avoid serious injury or death, do not modify engine in any way. Tampering with the governor setting can lead to a runaway engine and cause it to operate at unsafe speeds. Never tamper with factory setting of engine governor.

Notice Regarding Emissions

Engines which are certified to comply with California and federal

EPA emission regulations for SORE (Small Off Road Equipment) are certified to operate on regular unleaded gasoline, and may include the following emission control systems: Engine

Modification (EM) and Three Way Catalyst (TWC) if so equipped.

Spark Arrestor

Warning! This machine is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brushcovered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrestor meeting applicable local or state laws (if any).

If a spark arrestor 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 arrestor 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.

6		Section 2 — Important Safe Operation Practices

Safety Symbols

This page depicts and describes safety symbols that may appear on this product. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine before attempting to assemble and operate.

Symbol

Description

READ THE OPERATOR’S MANUAL(S)

Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual(s) before attempting to assemble and operate

WARNING— ROTATING BLADES

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

WARNING—THROWN OBJECTS

This machine may pick up and throw and objects which can cause serious personal injury.

WARNING—THROWN OBJECTS

This machine may pick up and throw and objects which can cause serious personal injury.

BYSTANDERS

Keep bystanders, helpers, children and pets at least 75 feet from the machine while it is in operation.

WARNING— SLOPE OPERATION

Do not operate this machine on a slope greater than 15 degrees.

DANGER — ROTATING BLADES

To reduce the risk of injury, keep hands and feet away. Do not operate unless discharge cover or grass catcher is in its proper place. If damaged, replace immediately.

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.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!

Section 2 — Important Safe Operation Practices		7

racticesP perationO afeS — 2 ectionS 8

Use this page as a guide to determine slopes where you may not operate safely.

WARNING!Do not operate your lawn mower on such 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).

Operate zero turn tractors across the face of slopes rather than up and down. Begin with the first pass across the bottom of the slope and turn uphill at the end of each pass whenever possible.

Assembly & Set-Up	3
Contents of Crate

•	One Lawn Tractor	•	One Oil Drain Tube	•	One Deck Wash Hose Coupler
•	One RZT Operator’s Manual	•	One Engine Operator’s Manual

Tractor Preparation

Remove the upper crating material from the shipping pallet, and cut any bands or tie straps securing the tractor to the pallet.

Use the lift handle to raise the deck to its highest position. Engage the transmission bypass rods on each side of the tractor; then carefully roll the tractor off the shipping pallet.

The transmission bypass rods (one for each the RH and LH transmission) are located beneath the frame platform, just inside each rear wheel. Disengage the bypass rods. See Fig. 3-1.

RH Transmission	Pull Out Bypass
	Rod Then Lower
Bypass Rod	Into Slot

Keyhole Slot

Figure 3-1

Lower Deck Discharge Chute Deflector

WARNING! Never operate the mower deck without the chute deflector installed and in the down position.

The discharge chute deflector must be installed before operating the mower.

1.Remove the keys that are attached with a zip tie to the chute bracket.

2.Remove the flange lock nuts from the deck. Do not remove the push nuts or carriage bolts, leaving them in place will aid in installing the chute. See Fig. 3-2.

Flange Lock Nuts

Push Nuts

Carriage Bolts

Remove the deck wash system nozzle adapter and oil drain tube from the manual bag and store for future use.

Figure 3-2

9

3.Install the discharge chute deflector using the carriage bolts, push nuts and flange lock nuts as shown in Fig. 3-3 and securely tighten the hardware.

Flange Lock Nuts

Chute

Deflector

Push Nuts Carriage Bolts

Figure 3-3

Install Operator’s Seat

To install the seat proceed as follows:

NOTE: The seat is shipped with the seat switch and seat pan attached.

1.Cut any straps securing the seat assembly and the drive control levers to the tractor. Remove any packing material.

NOTE: Be careful not to cut the wiring harness connecting the seat and the seat switch.

2.Remove the two shoulder bolts and lock nuts in the seat pan as shown in Fig. 3-4.

3.Rotate the seat into position and secure the seat into place with the previously removed shoulder bolts and lock nuts. Be careful not to crimp or damage the wire harness while installing the seat. See Fig. 3-5.

Lock

Nuts

Wire Harness

Seat Bracket

Shoulder

Bolts

Figure 3-5

Position Drive Control levers

The drive control levers of the tractor are lowered for shipping purposes. The flange lock nuts, hex screws, and flat washers that normally secure the control levers in their operating position are unfastened and installed in the slotted holes of the control levers for shipment. The control levers must be repositioned to

operate the tractor. To reposition the control levers for operation, proceed as follows:

1.Remove the hex screw, flat washer, and flange lock nut from the slot of one of the drive control levers.

2.Lift and swing that control lever upward until the slotted hole in the lever bracket aligns with one of the holes in the pivot bracket. See Fig. 3-6.

	Seat Pan	Control Lever
			Flange
Shoulder
			Lock Nut
Bolt

Slotted Hole	Lift Control
Lock	Lever Upward
Nuts
Hex Screw	Pivot
	Bracket

Wire Harness
Shoulder	Washer
Bolt
Figure 3-4

Figure 3-6

10 Section 2— Assembly & Set-Up

3.Slide the flat washer onto the hex screw. From the outside, insert the hex screw with washer through the control lever slot and the hole of the pivot bracket. Secure with the flange lock nut. See Fig. 3-6.

3.Position the red rubber boot over the positive battery terminal to help protect it from corrosion.

NOTE: If the battery is put into service after the date shown on top/side of battery, charge the battery as instructed in the

4.Note the relative position of the control lever to the pivot Maintenance section your Operator’s Manual prior to operating

bracket, then repeat the previous steps to reposition the other control lever in approximately the same position.

5.Refer to “Adjusting the Drive Control Levers” in the

Maintenance & Adjustments section for instructions on final adjustment of the levers.

Connecting the Battery Cables

California Proposition 65 Warning! Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.

Caution: When attaching battery cables, always connect the POSITIVE (Red) wire to its terminal first,

followed by the NEGATIVE (Black) wire.

For shipping reasons, both battery cables on your equipment may have been left disconnected from the terminals at the factory. To connect the battery cables, proceed as follows:

NOTE: The positive battery terminal is marked Pos. (+). The negative battery terminal is marked Neg. (–).

NOTE: If the positive battery cable is already attached, skip ahead to step 2.

1.Remove the plastic cover, if present, from the positive battery terminal and attach the red cable to the positive battery terminal (+) with the bolt and hex nut. See Fig. 3-7.

the tractor.

Adjusting the Seat

To adjust the position of the seat, pull up and hold the seat adjustment lever. Slide the seat forward or rearward to the desired position; then release the adjustment lever. Make sure seat is locked into position before operating the tractor. See Fig. 3-8.

Figure 3-8

Figure 3-7

2.Remove the plastic cover, if present, from the negative battery terminal and attach the black cable to the negative battery terminal (–) with the bolt and hex nut. See Fig. 3-7.

Section 2 — Assembly & Set-Up		11

Controls & Features	4

	Deck Height	Deck Lift
		Handle
	Index
Parking Brake
Throttle/Choke Control
or Throttle Control
Choke Control			PTO Switch
	LH Drive	RH Drive
Hour Meter/			Ignition Switch
	Control Lever	Control Lever
Indicator Panel
Seat Adjustment Lever			Cup Holder

Fuel Tank Cap

Storage Tray

Figure 4-1

NOTE: References to LEFT, RIGHT, FRONT, and REAR indicate that									RH and LH Drive Control Levers
position on the tractor when facing forward while seated in the									The RH and LH control levers are located on each side of the
operator’s seat.
Deck Height Index									operator’s seat. These hinged levers pivot outward to open
									space to permit the operator to either sit in the tractor seat, or to
The deck height index consists of six index notches									dismount the tractor. The levers must be fully opened out and in
									the neutral position to start the tractor engine.
located on the front/right of the seat box frame. Each
									Each lever controls the respective RH or LH transmission.
notch corresponds to a 1⁄2” change in the deck height
position ranging from 1-1⁄2” at the lowest notch to 4									Consequently, these levers control all of the movements of the
inches at the highest notch.									tractor. Driving and steering utilizing these control levers is
Deck Lift Handle									quite different from conventional tractors, and will take some
									practice to master. Refer to Operation for instructions on using
The deck lift handle is located on the front/right of									the control levers.
the seat box frame, and is used to raise and lower the
mower deck.
Pull the handle to the left out of the index notch and
push downward to lower the deck, or pull upward to
raise the deck. When the desired height is attained,
move the lift handle to the right until fully in the index
notch.

12

Ignition Switch

The ignition switch is located on the RH console to the right of the operator’s seat. The ignition switch has three positions.

STOP — The engine and electrical system is turned off.

RUN — The tractor electrical system is energized.

START — The starter motor will turn over the engine. Release the key immediately when the engine starts

NOTE: To prevent accidental starting and/or battery discharge, remove the key from the ignition switch when the tractor is not in use.

Power Take-Off (PTO) Switch

The PTO switch is located on the RH console to the right of the operator’s seat.

The PTO switch operates the electric PTO clutch mounted on the bottom of the engine crankshaft. Pull the switch knob upward to engage the PTO clutch, or push the knob downward to disengage the clutch.

The PTO switch must be in the “disengaged” position when starting the engine.

Transmission Bypass Rods

The transmission bypass rods (one for each the RH and LH transmission) are located beneath the frame platform, just inside each rear wheel.

When engaged, the two rods open a bypass within the hydrostatic transmissions, which allows the tractor to be pushed short distances by hand. Refer to the Assembly & Set-Up section for instructions on using the bypass feature.

Caution: Never tow your tractor. Towing the tractor with the rear wheels on the ground may cause severe damage to the transmissions.

Cup Holder

The cup holder is located toward the rear of the RH console to the right of the operator’s seat.

Storage Tray

The storage tray is located at the rear of the RH console.

Seat Adjustment Lever

The seat adjustment lever is located below the front/left of the seat. The lever allows for adjustment of the fore to aft position of the operator’s seat. Refer to Maintenance & Adjustments for instructions on adjusting the seat position.

Fuel Tank Cap

The fuel tank cap is located near the middle of the LH console.

Turn the fill cap approximately 1⁄4 turn and pull upward to remove. The fuel cap is tethered to the tractor to prevent its loss. Do not attempt to remove the cap from the tractor.

Push the cap downward on the fuel tank fill neck and turn approximately 1⁄4 turn clockwise to tighten Always re-install the fuel cap tightly onto the fuel tank after removing.

Warning! Never fill the fuel tank when the engine is running. If the engine is hot from recently running, allow to cool for several minutes before refueling. Highly flammable gasoline could splash onto the engine and cause a fire.

Hour Meter / Indicator Panel

The hour meter/indicator panel is located on the LH console to the left of the operator’s seat.

Hour Meter Features

The hour meter records the hours that the tractor has been operated in the digital display (tenths of an hour - right most digit).

BATT.

OIL

HOURS 1/10

PTO /	PARK
BLADE	BRAKE

NOTE: The hour meter is activated whenever the ignition switch is turned to the “ON” position. Keep a record of the actual hours of operation to assure all maintenance procedures are completed according to the instructions in this manual and the engine manual.

When key is turned to the “ON” position, the battery indicator light briefly illuminates and the battery voltage is briefly displayed. The display then changes to the accumulated hours.

The Indicator Monitor will also remind the operator of maintenance intervals for changing the engine oil. The LCD will alternately flash, “CHG” ; “OIL” and the recorded hours for five minutes after every 50 hours of recorded operation. The maintenance interval lasts for two hours (from 50-52, 100-102, 150-152, etc.). The LCD will flash as described for five minutes

every time the tractor’s engine is started during this maintenance interval. Follow the oil change intervals provided in the engine manual.

Section 4 — Controls & Features		13

Indicator Panel Features

Battery Indicator

Illuminates and the battery voltage is displayed briefly when the ignition switch it turned to the “ON” position.

Illuminates to indicate the battery voltage has dropped below

11.5 (+0.5/-1.0) volts, and the voltage is displayed on the hour meter. If this indicator and display come on during operation, check the battery and charging system for possible causes and/ or contact your Troy-Bilt dealer.

Oil Pressure Indicator (If Engine So Equipped)

This warning lamp indicates low engine oil pressure. If the indicator comes on while the engine is running, stop the engine immediately and check for possible causes. Do not run the engine while this indicator is illuminated. Contact your Troy-Bilt dealer to have the tractor and engine inspected.

NOTE: The oil pressure indicator may illuminate when the ignition switch is in the ON position, but should turn off when the engine is started.

PTO Engaged Indicator

This indicator illuminates when the PTO switch is pulled upward in the “ENGAGED” position and the ignition switch is turned

to the “START” position. Check this indicator if the engine will not crank with the ignition switch in the “START” position. If necessary, move the PTO switch to the “DISENGAGED” position.

Parking Brake Engaged Indicator

This indicator illuminates when the parking brake is in the DISENGAGED position and the ignition switch is turned to the

“START” position. Check this indicator if the engine will not crank with the ignition switch in the “START” position. If necessary, move the parking brake to the ENGAGED position.

This indicator also illuminates when the ignition switch is turned to the “START” position and the RH and/or LH drive control levers are in a position other than the fully out in neutral position. Move the control levers fully outward.

Throttle/Choke Control

The throttle/choke control is located on the LH console to the left of the operator’s seat. When set

in a given position, a uniform engine speed will be

maintained.

FAST

•Push the throttle/choke control handle forward to increase the engine speed. The tractor is

designed to operate with the throttle/choke control in the fast position (full throttle) when the tractor is being driven and the mower deck is engaged.

•Pull the throttle/choke control handle rearward to decrease the engine speed.

•	When starting the engine, push the control	SLOW
	handle fully forward into the “CHOKE” position.

•After starting and warming the engine, move the control handle rearward until you feel it move past the choke detent.

Parking Brake Engagement Lever

The parking brake engagement lever is located on the front/left of the seat box frame, and is used to engage the parking brake.

Pull the lever fully upward and to the left; then lower into the short “J” slot to engage the brake.

Pull the lever up out of the “J” slot and to the right; then lower completely to disengage the parking brake.

NOTE: If the LH and RH drive control levers are not fully opened out in the neutral position when engaging the parking brake, the engine will stop. The parking brake must be placed in the engaged position when starting the tractor engine.

Transmission Oil Expansion Reservoir

The transmission oil expansion reservoir is connected by hoses to the RH and LH transmission assemblies, and is located beneath the seat box. The function of the reservoir is to hold the natural expansion of transmission oil that occurs as the transmission warms up during operation. DO NOT FILL THE RESERVOIR.

Under normal operating conditions, no oil should be added to the reservoir. The COLD oil level should be no higher than

approximately 1⁄4” (the “Full Cold” mark) above the bottom of the reservoir.

NOTE: Prior to the initial operation of the tractor, the oil level in the reservoir may be slightly higher than the maximum due to air in the oil lines. Operation of the tractor will eventually purge the air from the lines and the oil level will settle to the maximum.

14 Section 4— Controls & Features

Operation

General Safety

•RECEIVE INSTRUCTION — Entirely read this operator’s manual. Learn to operate this machine SAFELY. Do not risk

INJURY or DEATH. Allow only those who have become competent in its usage to operate this tractor.

•Before starting the engine or beginning operation, be familiar with the controls. The operator should be in the operator’s seat. The PTO switch must be in the disengaged position, the parking brake engaged, and the RH and LH drive control levers moved fully outward in the neutral position.

•Keep all shields in place. Keep away from moving parts.

•NO RIDERS! Keep all people and pets a safe distance away.

Look behind and down to both sides of the tractor before and while backing up.

•DO NOT direct the mower discharge at people.

•Avoid slopes where possible. Never operate on slopes greater than 15°. Slopes with a greater incline present dangerous operating conditions. Tractors can be rolled over.

•Before leaving the operator’s seat: Shut off the PTO, move the RH and LH drive control levers fully outward in the neutral position, engage the parking brake, shut off the engine and remove the ignition key. Wait for all movement to stop before servicing or cleaning.

•Operate the drive control levers smoothly and avoid any sudden movements of the levers when starting and stopping. Keep a firm grip on the control levers.

•Be careful when operating near roadways. Stop the tractor motion and wait for vehicles to pass before operating along the road.

•Do not operate the tractor with the mower deck removed. Removal of the deck will change the balance of the tractor, and could contribute to a tractor rollover.

•Avoid operation on traction surfaces that are unstable; use extreme caution if the surface is slippery.

•Slow down before turning and come to a complete stop before any zero turn maneuver.

•Do not stop the tractor or park the tractor over combustible materials such as dry grass, leaves, debris, etc.

•Do not fill the fuel tank when the engine is running or while the engine is hot. Allow the engine several minutes to cool before refueling. Tighten the fuel cap securely.

5

Before Operating Your Tractor

•Before you operate the tractor, study this manual carefully to familiarize yourself with the operation of all the instruments and controls. It has been prepared to help you operate and maintain your tractor efficiently.

•This engine is certified to operate only on clean, fresh, unleaded regular gasoline. For best results, fill the fuel tank with only clean, fresh, unleaded gasoline with a pump sticker octane rating of 87 or higher.

•Unleaded gasoline is recommended because it leaves less combustion chamber deposits and reduces harmful exhaust emissions. Leaded gasoline is not recommended and must not be used where exhaust emissions are regulated.

NOTE: Purchase gasoline in small quantities. Do not use gasoline left over from the previous season, to minimize gum deposits in the fuel system.

•Gasohol (up to 10% ethyl alcohol, 90% unleaded gasoline by volume) is an approved fuel. Other gasoline/alcohol blends are not approved.

•Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether (MTBE) and unleaded gasoline blends (up to a maximum of 15% MTBE by volume) are approved fuels. Other gasoline/ether blends are not approved.

•Check the engine oil level.

•Clean the air cleaner element if necessary.

•Check the tire inflation pressures.

•Adjust the seat for operator’s maximum comfort, visibility and for maintaining complete control of the tractor.

Safety Interlock System

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 your authorized Troy-Bilt Dealer.

•The safety interlock system prevents the engine from cranking or starting unless the RH and LH drive control levers are moved fully outward in the neutral position, the parking brake is engaged, and the PTO is disengaged.

•To avoid sudden movement when disengaging the parking brake, the safety interlock system will shut off the engine if the RH and/or LH drive control levers are moved to a position other than the fully out in the neutral position when the parking brake is engaged.

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

15

•The safety interlock system will shut off the engine if the operator leaves the seat with the PTO engaged, regardless of whether the parking brake is engaged.

NOTE: The PTO switch must be moved to the “OFF” position to restart the engine.

•The safety interlock system will shut off the PTO and the mower blades will stop if both drive control levers are moved into the reverse position. The PTO will re-engage when one or both of the levers are moved back to the neutral or forward position.

Starting the Engine

Warning! This tractor is equipped with a safety interlock system designed for the protection of the operator. Do not operate the tractor if any part of the interlock system is malfunctioning. Periodically check the functions of the interlock system for proper operation.

Warning! For personal safety, the operator must be sitting in the tractor seat when starting the engine.

1.Operator must be sitting in the tractor seat.

2.Engage the parking brake. Refer to Fig. 5-1.

LH Control Lever

RH Control Lever

Out in Neutral

Parking Break Out in Neutral

Engaged

Throttle Control
Fully Forward to		PTO Switch in Down
“Choke” Position		(Disengaged) Position

Figure 5-1

3.Make certain the PTO switch is in the disengaged (down) position. Refer to Fig. 5-1.

4.Move the throttle/choke control lever fully forward into the

“CHOKE” position.

NOTE: If the engine is warmed up, it may not be necessary to place the throttle/choke control in the choke position.

5.Turn the ignition key clockwise to the “START” position and release it as soon as the engine starts; however, do not crank the engine continuously for more than 5 seconds at a time. If the engine does not start within this time, turn the key to “OFF” and wait at least 15 seconds to allow the engine’s starter motor to cool. Try again after waiting. If after a few attempts the engine fails to start, do not keep trying to start it with the choke closed as this will cause flooding and make starting more difficult.

6.As the engine warms up, gradually pull the throttle/choke control lever rearward past the choke detent position. Do not use the choke position to enrich the fuel mixture, except as necessary to start the engine.

7.Allow the engine to run for a few minutes at mid throttle before putting the engine under load.

8.Observe the hour meter / indicator panel. If the battery indicator light or oil pressure light come on, immediately stop the engine. Have the tractor inspected by your Troy-

Bilt dealer.

Cold Weather Starting

When starting the engine at temperatures near or below freezing, ensure the correct viscosity motor oil is used in the engine and the battery is fully charged. Start the engine as follows:

1.Be sure the battery is in good condition. A warm battery has much more starting capacity than a cold battery.

2.Use fresh winter grade fuel. Winter grade gasoline has higher volatility to improve starting. Do not use gasoline left over from summer.

3.Follow the previous instruction for Starting the Engine.

Using Jumper Cables To Start Engine

Warning! Batteries contain sulfuric acid and produce explosive gasses. Make certain the area is well ventilated, wear gloves and eye protection, and avoid sparks or flames near the battery.

If the battery charge is not sufficient to crank the engine, recharge the battery. If a battery charger is unavailable and the tractor must be started, the aid of a booster battery will be necessary. Connect the booster battery as follows:

1.Connect the end of one cable to the disabled tractor battery’s positive terminal; then connect the other end of that cable to the booster battery’s positive terminal.

2.Connect one end of the other cable to the booster battery’s negative terminal; then connect the other end of that cable to the frame of the disabled tractor, as far from the battery as possible.

3.Start the disabled tractor following the normal starting instructions previously provided; then disconnect

the jumper cables in the exact reverse order of their connection.

4.Have the tractor’s electrical system checked and repaired as soon as possible to eliminate the need for jump starting.

16 Section 5— Operation

Stopping the Engine

1.Place the PTO switch in the “OFF” position.

2.Move the RH and LH drive control levers fully outward in the neutral position.

3.Engage the parking brake.

4.Move the throttle/choke control to midway between the

SLOW and FAST positions.

5.Turn the ignition key to the “OFF” position and remove the key from the ignition switch.

NOTE: Always remove the key from the ignition switch to prevent accidental starting or battery discharge if the equipment is left unattended.

Practice Operation (Initial Use)

Operating a zero-turn tractor is not like operating a conventional type riding tractor. Although and because a zero turn tractor is more maneuverable, getting used to operating the control levers takes some practice.

We strongly recommend that you locate a reasonably large, level and open “practice area” where there are no obstructions, pedestrians, or animals. You should practice operating the tractor for a minimum of 30 minutes.

Carefully move (or have moved) the tractor to the practice area.

When performing the practice session, the PTO should not be engaged. While practicing, operate the tractor at approximately 1⁄2-3⁄4 throttle and at less than full speed in both forward and reverse.

Carefully practice maneuvering the tractor using the instructions in the following section “Driving the Tractor.” Practice until you are confident that you can safely operate the tractor.

Driving the Tractor

Warning! Avoid sudden starts, excessive speed and sudden stops.

1.Adjust the operator’s seat to the most comfortable position that allows you to operate the controls. See seat adjustment in the Adjustments section.

2.Release the parking brake.

3.Move the RH and LH drive control levers inward in the neutral position. Refer to Figure 5-2.

Control Lever Moved

Inward and in Neutral

Figure 5-2

NOTE: If the control levers are not even in the neutral position, refer to Maintenance & Adjustments for instructions to adjust the levers so that they are even.

4.Move the throttle/choke control lever forward to the full throttle position (3300-3500 RPM).

NOTE: Although the tractor’s engine is designed to run at full throttle, when performing a practice session the tractor must be operated at less than full throttle (approximately

2500-3000 RPM). This only applies to practice.

Warning! Always maintain a firm grip on the control levers. DO NOT release the control levers to slow or stop the tractor; move levers to neutral position using your hands.

5.To drive the tractor, firmly grasp the respective drive control levers with your right and left hands and continue with Driving the Tractor Forward on the following page.

Section 5 — Operation		17

Driving the Tractor Forward

Warning! Keep all movement of the drive control levers slow and smooth. Abrupt movement of the control levers can affect the stability of the tractor and could cause the tractor to flip over, which may result in serious injury or death to the operator.

1.Slowly and evenly move both drive control levers forward. The tractor will start to move forward. See Fig. 5-3.

Driving Forward	Faster

Slower

Neutral

Position

Figure 5-3

2.As the control levers are pushed farther forward the speed of the tractor will increase.

3.To slow the tractor move the controls lever rearward to attain the desired speed, or move the levers to the neutral position to stop the tractor.

WARNING! Always maintain your grasp on the drive control levers. Do not release the levers to slow

the tractor or to return to neutral.

Turning the Tractor While Driving Forward

WARNING! When reversing the direction of travel, we recommend performing gradual ‘U’ turns where possible. Sharper turns increase the possibility of turf defacement, and could affect control of the tractor. ALWAYS slow the tractor before making sharp turns.

To turn the tractor while driving forward, move the control levers as necessary so that one lever is rearward of the other. The tractor will turn in the direction of the rearward control lever.

1.To turn to the left, move the left drive control lever rearward of the right lever. See Fig. 5-4.

Forward Left Turn

Figure 5-4

2.To turn to the right, move the right drive control lever rearward of the left lever. See Fig. 5-5.

Forward Right Turn

Figure 5-5

3.The greater the fore-to-aft distance between the two levers, the sharper the tractor will turn.

4.To execute a “pivot turn,” move the turn side drive control lever to the neutral position, while moving the other control lever forward.

NOTE: Making a “pivot turn” on grass will greatly increase the potential for defacement of the turf.

18 Section 5— Operation

Driving the Tractor In Reverse

WARNING! Always look behind and down on both sides of the tractor before backing up. Always look behind while traveling in the reverse direction.

1.Slowly and evenly move both drive control levers rearward. The tractor will start to move in the reverse direction. See

Fig. 5-6.

Neutral

Position

Slower

Faster

Figure 5-6

2.As the control levers are pushed farther rearward the speed of the tractor will increase.

3.To slow the tractor move the controls lever forward to attain the desired speed, or move the levers to the neutral position to stop the tractor.

Turning While Driving Rearward

To turn the tractor while driving rearward, move the control levers as necessary so that one lever is forward of the other. The tractor will turn in the direction of the forward control lever.

1.To turn to the left while traveling in reverse, move the left drive control lever forward of the right lever. See Fig. 5-7.

Rearward Left Turn

Figure 5-7

2.To turn to the right while traveling in reverse, move the right drive control lever forward of the left lever. See Fig. 5-8.

Rearward Right Turn

Figure 5-8

3.The greater the fore-to-aft distance between the two levers, the sharper the tractor will turn.

4.To execute a “pivot turn,” move the turn side drive control lever to the neutral position, while moving the other control lever rearward.

NOTE: Making a “pivot turn” on grass will greatly increase the potential for defacement of the turf.

Section 5 — Operation		19

Executing a Zero Turn

Warning! When executing a zero turn, the tractor

MUST BE STOPPED. Executing a zero turn while the tractor is moving can significantly reduce your control of the tractor and will cause severe turf defacement to occur.

1.Stop the forward or reverse motion of the tractor by moving the two drive control levers to neutral.

2.To turn clockwise, move the left control lever forward while simultaneously moving the right control lever rearward.

See Fig. 5-9.

Clockwise Zero Turn

Figure 5-9

3.To turn counterclockwise, move the right control lever forward while simultaneously moving the left control lever rearward. See Fig. 5-10.

Counterclockwise

Zero Turn

Stopping the Tractor

1.Move both drive control levers to the neutral position to stop the motion of the tractor.

2.Push the PTO switch downward to the disengaged position.

3.Use the deck lift handle to raise the deck to its highest position.

4.If dismounting the tractor, move the drive control handles fully outward in the neutral position, engage the parking brake, move the throttle/choke control lever to the fast position, turn the ignition switch to “OFF’” and remove the key from the switch.

Warning! Do not leave the seat of the tractor without disengaging the PTO, moving drive control levers fully outward in the neutral position, and engaging the parking brake. If leaving the tractor unattended, turn the ignition key off and remove key.

Driving On Slopes

Refer to the slope gauge in the Safe Operation Section to help determine slopes where you may not operate safely.

Warning! Do not operate 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.

1.Always drive across slopes, never up and down. Control the speed and direction of the tractor using primarily the control lever on the downhill side of the tractor, with the uphill control lever remaining essentially in a fixed position.

2.Avoid turning downhill if possible. Start at the bottom of a slope and work upward. Always slow down before turning.

3.Use extra care and go slowly when turning downhill.

Operating The Pto

Operate the PTO clutch as follows:

1.Move the throttle/choke control lever to approximately the mid throttle position.

2.Pull the PTO switch upward to the “ENGAGED” position.

3.Advance the throttle/choke lever to the operating speed (full engine speed).

4.The operator must remain in the tractor seat at all times. If the operator should leave the seat without turning off the power take-off switch, the tractor’s engine will shut off.

5.The PTO clutch cannot be operated when the tractor is driving in the reverse direction. The PTO will disengage when both drive control levers are moved to the reverse position, and will re-engage when one (or both) control lever(s) is moved to the neutral or forward position.

Figure 5-10

20 Section 5— Operation

Using the Mower Deck

Warning! Make certain the area to be mowed is free of debris, sticks, stones, wire or other objects that can be thrown by the rotating blades.

NOTE: Do not engage the mower deck when lowered in grass.

Premature wear and possible failure of the ‘V” belt and PTO clutch will result. Fully raise the deck or move to a non grassy area before engaging the mower deck.

1.Mow across slopes, not up and down. If mowing a slope, start at bottom and work upward to ensure turns are made uphill.

2.On the first pass pick a point on the opposite side of the area to be mowed.

3.Engage the PTO clutch using the PTO switch and move the throttle/choke control to the fast position.

4.Lower the mower deck to the desired height setting using the lift handle.

5.Slowly and evenly push the RH and LH drive control levers forward to move the tractor forward, and keep the tractor headed directly toward the alignment point.

NOTE:The speed of the tractor will affect the quality of the mower cut. Mowing at full speed will adversely affect the cut quality. Control the ground speed with the control levers.

6.When approaching the other end of the strip, slow down or stop before turning. A U-turn is recommended unless a pivot or zero turn is required.

7.Align the mower with an edge of the mowed strip and overlap approximately 3”.

8.Direct the tractor on each subsequent strip to align with a previously cut strip.

9.To prevent rutting or grooving of the turf, if possible, change the direction that the strips are mowed by approximately 45° for the next and each subsequent mowing.

WARNING! Be careful when crossing gravel paths or driveways. Disengage the PTO and raise the deck to the highest position before crossing.

NOTE: When stopping the tractor for any reason while on a grass surface, always:

•Place the shift lever in neutral,

•Engage the parking brake,

•Shut engine off and remove the key.

•Doing so will minimize the possibility of having your lawn

‘‘browned’’ by hot exhaust from your tractor’s running engine.

Checking the Safety Interlock Circuits

Periodically check the safety interlock circuits to ensure they are working properly. If a safety circuit is not working as designed, contact you Troy-Bilt dealer to have the tractor inspected. DO NOT operate the tractor if any safety circuit is not functioning properly. To check the safety circuits, proceed as follows:

1.Sitting in the tractor seat with both drive control levers opened fully outward, disengage the parking brake and momentarily turn the ignition switch to the start position. The engine should not crank.

2.Engage the parking brake and pull the PTO switch upward to the engaged position. Momentarily turn the ignition switch to the start position; the engine should not crank.

3.Push the PTO switch downward to the disengaged position and engage the parking brake. Start the engine and move one of the drive control levers from the fully outward neutral position. The engine should stop running. Repeat the procedure with the opposite control lever.

4.Move both control levers fully outward in the neutral position and disengage the parking brake; then lift upward from the operator’s seat. The engine should stop.

5.With both control levers fully outward in the neutral position and the parking brake engaged, engage the PTO. Lift upward from the operator’s seat; the engine should stop.

6.Start the tractor, disengage the parking brake, and move the control levers inward to the neutral operating position.

Engage the PTO and move both control lever slowly into the slow reverse position; the PTO should disengage and the mower deck should stop until one or both of the control levers is moved to the neutral or forward position.

Section 5 — Operation		21

Maintenance & Adjustments	6
Maintenance Schedule

Before	Every	Every	Every	Every	Prior
Each use	10 Hours	25 Hours	50 Hours	100 Hours	to Storing

Check Engine Intake Screen/Cover	P
Clean Battery Terminals	P	P
Lube Front Pivot Axle and Caster Axles	P	P
Clean Engine Cooling Fins	P	P
Lube Deck Wheels	P	P

Maintenance

Warning! Before performing any maintenance or repairs, disengage the PTO, move the drive control levers fully outward in the neutral position, engage the parking brake, stop the engine and remove the key to prevent unintended starting.

Engine

Refer to the Kohler Owner’s Manual for all engine maintenance intervals, procedures, specifications and instructions.

Draining the Engine Oil

1.Locate the oil drain port on the left side of the engine.

2.Pop open the protective cap on the end of the oil drain valve to expose the drain port. Refer to Figure 6-1. Remove the oil fill cap/dipstick from the oil fill tube.

3.Push the oil drain hose (packed with this manual) onto the oil drain port. Route the opposite end of the hose into an appropriate oil collection container with at least a 2.0 quart capacity, to collect the used oil.

4.Turn the oil drain valve 1⁄4-turn, then pull outward to begin draining oil. After the oil has finished draining, push the end of the oil drain valve back in and turn 1⁄4-turn to secure it back in place. Re-cap the end of the oil drain valve to keep debris from entering the drain port.

6.After the oil has finished draining, push the end of the oil drain valve back in, until the tabs click into place. Re-cap the end of the oil drain valve to keep debris from entering the drain port and refer to the Engine Operator’s Manual for refilling instructions, oil type and amount.

NOTE: Maintenance, repair, or replacement of the emission control devicesandsystemswhicharebeingdoneatowner’sexpensemay be performed by any engine repair establishment or individual.

Warranty repairs must be performed by a Troy-Bilt Dealer.

Dipstick

Oil Fill Cap

Oil Fill

Tube

Oil Filter

Hydrostatic Transmission

The zero turn tractor is equipped with dual integrated hydrostatic pumps/transaxles that are sealed and are maintenance-free. Fluid levels cannot be checked and fluid cannot be added or changed.

Figure 6-1

22

General Battery Information

Warning!

•Should battery acid accidentally splatter into

the eyes or onto the skin, rinse the affected area immediately with clean cold water. If there is any further discomfort, seek prompt medical attention.

•If acid spills on clothing, first dilute it with clean water, then neutralize with a solution of ammonia/ water or baking soda/water.

•NEVER connect (or disconnect) battery charger clips to the battery while the charger is turned on, as it can cause sparks.

•Keep all sources of ignition (cigarettes, matches, lighters) away from the battery. The gas generated during charging can be combustible.

•As a further precaution, only charge the battery in a well ventilated area.

•Always shield eyes and protect skin and clothing when working near batteries.

•Batteries contain sulfuric acid and may emit explosive gases. Use extreme caution when handling batteries. Keep batteries out of the reach of children.

Battery Maintenance

•The battery is filled with battery acid and then sealed at the factory. However, even a “maintenance free” battery requires some maintenance to ensure its proper life cycle.

•Spray the terminals and exposed wire with a battery terminal sealer, or coat the terminals with a thin coat of grease or petroleum jelly, to protect against corrosion.

•Always keep the battery cables and terminals clean and free of corrosion.

•Avoid tipping. Even a sealed battery will leak electrolyte when tipped.

Warning! Batteries contain sulfuric acid and may emit explosive gases. Use extreme caution when handling batteries. Keep batteries out of the reach of children.

Tire Maintenance

Check the tire air pressure after every 50 hours of operation or weekly. Keep the tires inflated to the recommended pressures. Improper inflation will shorten the tire service life. See the tire side wall for proper inflation pressures. Observe the following guidelines:

•Do not inflate a tire above the maximum pressure shown on the sidewall of the tire.

•Do not reinflate a tire that has been run flat or seriously under inflated. Have a qualified tire mechanic inspect and service the tire.

Lubrication

•Using a pressure lubricating gun, lubricate the front castor wheel axles and the front pivot axle with No. 2

multipurpose lithium grease after every 10 hours of service.

•Periodically lubricate all other pivot points with a quality lubricating oil.

Using the Deck Wash System

Warning! When using the deck wash system, never engage the deck from any position other than the operator’s seat of the tractor. Do not use an assistant or engage deck in the presence of any bystanders.

1.Attach the nozzle adapter to a standard garden hose connected to a water supply.

2.Move the tractor to an area within reach of the hose where the dispersal of wet grass clippings is not objectionable to you. Disengage the PTO, engage the parking brake, and stop the engine.

3.Pull back the lock collar of the nozzle adapter and push the adapter onto the deck wash nozzle at the left end of the mower deck. Release the lock collar to lock the adapter on the nozzle. Refer to Fig. 6-2.

Pull Lock

Nozzle Collar Back

Adapter

Adapter

Lock Collar

Deck Wash

Nozzle

Figure 6-2

4.Turn on the water supply.

5.From the tractor operator’s seat, start the engine and engage the PTO. Allow to run as needed. Disengage the PTO and stop the engine.

6.Turn off the water supply.

7.Pull back the lock collar of the nozzle adapter to disconnect the adapter from the nozzle.

Cleaning the Spindle Pulleys

Once a month remove the belt covers to remove any accumulation of grass clippings from around the spindle pulleys and V-belt. Clean more often when mowing tall, dry grass.

Section 6 — Maintenance & Adjustments		23