Troy-Bilt TB2246 User Manual

Important Safe Operation Practices • Assembly & Set-Up • Controls & Operation • Product Care

OperatOr’s Manual

Lawn Tractor & Garden Tractor

Table of Contents

Important Safe Operation Practices ..................... 2

Assembly & Set-Up .................................................. 7

Controls & Operation .............................................10

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.

NOTE: This Operator’s Manual covers several models. Features may vary by model. Not all features in this manual are applicable to all
models and the model depicted may differ from yours.

Product Care ...........................................................15

Parts/Warranty .............. See Separate Supplement

Form No. 769-11537A

(October 18, 2016)

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. HEED ITS WARNING!

WARNING

California Proposition 65

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.

Batter y posts, term inals, and rela ted accessorie s contain lead an d lead compound s, chemicals k nown to the State of Ca lifornia to cau se cancer and re productiv e harm. Wash hands af ter
handling.

DANGER

This mac hine was built to be o perated accor ding to the safe op eration prac tices in this man ual. As with any ty pe of power equip ment, carele ssness or error o n the part of the o perator can
result in serious injury. This machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing object s. 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.

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

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

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

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

16. Mow only in daylight or good artificial
light.

17. Never carry passengers.

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

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

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

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

22. Use extra care when loading or
unloading the machine into a trailer
or truck. This 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,
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.

2

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

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

29. If situations occur which are not covered
in this manual, use care and good
judgment. Contact 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 up and down slopes, not across.
Exercise extreme caution when
changing direction on slopes.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Do Not:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Children

1. Tragic accidents can occur if the
operator is not alert to the presence of
children. Children are often attracted to
the machine and the mowing activity.
They do not understand the dangers.
Never assume that children will remain
where you last saw them.

a. Keep children out of the mowing

area and in watchful care of a
responsible adult other than the
operator.

b. Be alert and turn machine off if a

child enters the area.

c. Before and while backing, look

behind and down for small
children.

d. Never carry children, even with

the blade(s) shut off. They may
fall off and be seriously injured
or interfere with safe machine
operation.

e. Use extreme care when

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

f. To avoid back-over accidents,

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

g. Keep children away from hot or

running engines. They can suffer
burns from a hot muffler.

h. Remove key when machine is

unattended to prevent
unauthorized operation.

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.

Towin g

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 manufacturer’s
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. Always use extra caution when towing
with a machine capable of making tight
turns (e.g. “zero-turn” ride-on mower).
Make wide turns to avoid jack-knifing.

6. Travel slowly and allow extra distance
to stop.

7. Do not shift to neutral and coast
downhill.

3Sectio n 2 — important Safe oper ation practiceS

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 the 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
this time frame, your machine should be
serviced professionally by an authorized
service dealer.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. Grass catcher components and the
discharge cover are subject to wear and
damage which could expose moving
parts or allow objects to be thrown.
For safety protection, frequently check
components and replace immediately
with original equipment 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 390 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), Oxidizing
Catalyst (OC), Secondary Air Injection (SAI) and
Three Way Catalyst (TWC) if so equipped.

When required, models are equipped with
low permeation fuel lines and fuel tank s for
evaporative emission control. California models
may also include a carbon canister. Please contact
Customer Support for information regarding the
evaporative emission control configuration for
your model.

Spark Arrestor

WARNING

This machine is equipped with an internal combustion
engine a nd should not be us ed on or near any
unimproved forest-covered, brushcovered or grass­covered la nd unless the eng ine’s exhaust sy stem is
equipped with a spark arrestor meeting applicable
local or s tate 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 -0 019.

4 Sectio n 2 — important Safe oper ation 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

DANGER — ROTATING BLADES
Never carry passengers. Never carry children, even with the blades off.

DANGER — ROTATING BLADES
Mowing in reverse is not recommended.

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.

DANGER — ROTATING BLADES
Look down and behind before and while backing to avoid a back-over accident.

WARNING — THROWN OBJECTS
This machine may pick up and throw and objects which can cause serious personal injury.

max10"

DANGER — SAFETY DEVICES
Keep safety devices (guards, shields, switches, etc.) in place and working.

WARNING — 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. Do not mow across slopes. Mow up
and down slopes no greater than 15 degrees. Avoid sudden turns. Use low speed. If machine stops
going uphill, stop blades and back down slowly.

WARNING — HOT SURFACE
Engine parts, especially the muffler, become extremely hot during operation. Allow engine and muffler
to cool before touching.

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 — FIRE HAZARD
Allow machine to cool before fueling or storing.

WARNING — FIRE HAZARD
Do not drive through piles of dry leaves or tall grass.

WARNING — FIRE HAZARD
Do not allow debris to accumulate. The build up of debris can lead to a fire.

5Sectio n 2 — important Safe oper ation practiceS

USE THIS SLOPE GAUGE TO DETERMINE

IF A SLOPE IS TOO STEEP FOR SAFE OPERATION!

To check the slope, proceed as follows:

1. Remove this page and fold along the dashed line.

2. Locate a vertical object on or behind the slope (e.g. a pole, building, fence, tree, etc.)

3. Align either side of the slope gauge with the object (See Figure 1 and Figure 2 ).

4. Adjust gauge up or down until the left corner touches the slope (See Figure 1 and Figure 2).

5. If there is a gap below the gauge, the slope is too steep for safe operation (See Figure 2 above).

15° Slope

Figure 2Figure 1

Slope Gauge

15° Slope

(OK) (TOO STEEP)

15° dashed line

Do not operate machine on slopes in excess of 15 degrees. All slopes require extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on

it, do not mow it. Always mow up and down slopes, never across the face of slopes.

WARNING! Slopes are a major factor related to tip-over and roll-over accidents which can result in severe injury or death.

6 Sectio n 2 — important Safe oper ation practiceS

Assembly & Set-Up

(a)

(a)

(b)

(b)

Thank You

2

Thank you for purchasing this product. 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. 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. We reserve the right to change
product specifications, designs and equipment without notice and without
incurring obligation.

If applicable, the power testing information used to establish the power rating of
the engine equipped on this machine can be found at www.opei.org or the engine
manufacturer’s web site.

If you have any problems or questions concerning the machine, phone your
local authorized service dealer or contact us directly. We want to ensure your
complete satisfaction at all times.

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

Contents of Crate

• Tractor (1) • Operator’s Manual (1) • Engine Operator’s Manual (1)

• Hood Topper (1) † • Dash Cap (1) † • Steering Wheel Asm. (1) †

• Front Bumper (1) †

NOTE: This Operator’s Manual covers several models. Tractor features may vary by model. Not all features in this manual are applicable to all tractor models and
the tractor depicted may differ from yours.

NOTE: All references in this manual to the left or right side and front or back of the tractor are from the operating position only. Exceptions, if any, will be
specified.

Tractor Preparation

Manually Moving the Tractor

CAUTION

Never tow you r tractor. Towing the tr actor with the r ear
wheels o n the ground may ca use severe damag e to the
transmission.

1. Engage the transmission bypass rod to move
the tractor manually without starting it. The
transmission bypass rod is located on the
rear of the tractor, on the frame. Engage the
bypass rod by pulling out. See Figure 2-1.

NOTE: The transmission will NOT engage
when the hydrostatic bypass rod is pulled
out. Return the rod to its normal position
prior to operating the tractor. If the tractor
will not move when pushing on the forward/
reverse pedals, or moves slowly, check to see
if the bypass valve is on.

2. Disengage the bypass rod by pushing the rod
back in after moving the tractor. See Figure 2-1.

Install Operator’s Seat (If necessary)

WARNING

Before operating the tractor, make sure the seat is engaged
in the seat-stop. Engage the parking brake. Stand behind
the mach ine and pull back o n seat until it cli cks into place.

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 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 screws (a) and
flange lock nuts (b) in the seat pan as shown
in Figure 2-2.

Figure 2-2

NOTE: Be sure that the nylon flange bearings
(if equipped) remain in place on the seat
bracket mounting holes. If they come out
during the removal of the shoulder screws
and flange lock nuts make sure to replace
them before installing the seat.

† — If Equipped

Figure 2-1

NOTE: If the tractor will not move or does not
move freely when pushing check if the bypass
lever is fully open or the brake is engaged.

7

3. Rotate the seat into position and secure the

(a)

(b)

(a)

(b)

(a)

(b)

(b)

(b)

(b)

Hood Topper Not Shown for Clarity

(a)

(b)(b)

(b)(b)

(a)

(e)

(f)

(c)

(a)

(b)

(d)

(a) (a)

(b)

seat into place with the previously removed
shoulder screws (a) and flange lock nuts (b).
Be careful not to crimp or damage the wire
harness while installing the seat. See Figure 2-3.

Installing the Hood Topper (If necessary)

To install the hood topper (a), line up the holes on the
hood topper (a) up with the tabs (b) in the hood frame
as shown in Figure 2- 6. Insert the tabs (b) into the hood
topper and pull back to lock into place.

Installing the Steering Wheel (If necessary)

The hardware for attaching the steering wheel has
been packed within the steering wheel, beneath
the steering wheel cap. Carefully pry off the
steering wheel cap and remove the hardware.

IMPORTANT! Do not use impact tools to install or
remove the steering wheel. Doing so may cause
damage to critical power steering components.

1. With the wheels of the tractor pointing
straight forward, align the steering wheel (a)
by using the center-line (b) on the front of the
steering wheel (a) pointing straight ahead
and the flat section (c) of the steering
wheel (a) facing toward the seat, place the
steering wheel (a) over the steering shaft (d).
See Figure 2-9.

Figure 2-3

4. Using the harness clip attached to the
harness, secure the excess wire to the fender
by snapping the harness clip in place as
shown in Figure 2-4.

Figure 2-4

Lower Deck Discharge Chute Deflector

WARNING

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

1. Check the mower deck for a shipping brace
that may be holding the chute deflector
upward for shipment. If the brace is present,
it must be removed before operating the
tractor. Holding the chute deflector fully
upward, remove the shipping brace. Lower
the chute deflector and discard the shipping

brace. See Figure 2-5.

Figure 2-6

Once the hood topper is in place, the two locking
tabs (a) near the rear of the hood need to be
pushed upward to lock the hood topper in place.
See Figure 2-7.

Figure 2-7

Installing the Dash Cap (If necessary)

To install the dash cap (a), line up the tabs (b) on
the dash cap (a) with the holes in the upper dash
as shown in Figure 2-8. Slide the tabs (b) into the
holes in the upper dash and push forward (c) on
the dash cap (a) to lock into place.

Figure 2-9

2. Secure the steering wheel (a) with the hex bolt
(e) from under the steering wheel cap (f) and
torque to 18-22 ft.-lbs.

3. Place the steering wheel cap (f) over the
center of the steering wheel (a) and push
downward until it “clicks” into place.

NOTE: The hex bolt (e) securing the steering
wheel (a) has thread locker applied to it,
so if it is removed, it is recommended that
the hex bolt (a) be replaced or thread lock
re-applied.

Installing the Front Bumper (If necessary)

The hardware for attaching the front bumper is
shipped installed into the bumper.

1. Remove the four hex screws (a) from the
bumper (b).

2. Position the bumper brackets to the inside of
the tractor’s frame and secure it in place with
the four hex flange screws (a). See Figure 2-10.

8 Section 2 — ASSembly & Set-Up

Figure 2-5

Figure 2-8

NOTE: Be sure to press on the lower part
of the dash cap (a) facing the operator
position to ensure the lower tabs on the
dash cap are in place.

Figure 2-10

Adjusting the Seat

(b)

(b)

(a)

(a)

(c)

(a)

(b)

(c)

(d)

(d)

(c)

To adjust the position of the seat, lift the seat
adjustment lever up. 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 Figure 2-11.

Figure 2-11

Connecting the Battery Cables

WARNING

California PROPOSITION 65 Battery posts, terminals,
and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds,
chemic als known to the Sta te of Californi a to cause cance r
and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.

CAUTION

When att aching batte ry cables, al ways connect t he
POSITIVE (Red ) wire to its term inal first, f ollowed by the
NEGATIVE (Blac k) 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. (–).

3. Remove the plastic cover, if present, from the
positive battery terminal and attach the red
cable to the positive batter y terminal (+) with
the bolt (a) and hex nut (b). See Figure 2-12.

5. Position the red rubber boot (c) 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
Product Care section on page 8 prior to
operating the tractor.

Checking Tire Pressure

WARNING

Equal tire pressure should be maintained at all times. Refer
to the tire s idewall for pro per pressure.

The tires on your tractor may be over-inflated for
shipping purposes. Reduce the tire pressure before
operating the tractor. Check the sidewall of tire for
maximum p.s.i.

NOTE: Equal tire pressure is critical for level cutting
deck performance.

Setting the Deck Wheels

WARNING

Keep hand s and feet away fro m the discharge o pening of
the cutting deck.

NOTE: The deck wheels are an anti-scalp feature
of the deck and are not designed to support the
weight of the cutting deck.

Move the tractor on a firm and level surface,
preferably pavement, and proceed as follows:

1. Check the tire pressure, make sure the
pressure is correct and equal on all tires.

2. Make sure the deck is level, both front-to-back
and side-to-side. See the Product Care section
for deck leveling information and instructions.

3. Select the height position of the cutting deck
by placing the deck lift lever in the normally
desired mowing height setting.

4. Check the wheels for contact or excessive
clearance with the surface below. The deck
wheels should have between ¼” and ½”
clearance above the ground. Proceed as
follows to adjust the wheels:

a. Raise the deck lift handle to its

highest setting.

b. Remove the front (a) and rear (b)

deck wheels by removing the flange
lock nuts (c) and shoulder bolts (d)
that secure them to the deck. See
Figur e 2-13.

c. Place the deck lift lever in the desired

mowing height setting.

d. Reinsert the shoulder bolt (with

each deck wheel) into the index hole
that leaves approximately ½-inch
between the bottom of the wheel
and the pavement. Tighten the
flange lock nut and shoulder bolt to
between 25-30 ft-lbs using a torque
wrench.

NOTE: Refer to Adjusting the Deck in the
Product Care section of this manual for
more detailed instructions regarding
various deck adjustments.

Gas & Oil

The fuel tank is located at the outer/left of the
dash and holds 3 gallons of gas (EFI tractors hold

2.5 gallons) . Remove the fuel cap by turning it
counter-clockwise. Use only clean, fresh (no more
than 30 days old), unleaded gasoline. Fill the tank
no higher than the bottom of the fill neck to allow
space for fuel expansion.

WARNING

Use ext reme care when h andling gasol ine. Gasoline is
extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive. Never
fuel the machine indoors or while the engine is hot or
running. Extinguish cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other
sources of ignition.

NOTE: Your tractor is shipped with oil in the
engine. However, you MUST check the oil level
before operating. See the Product Care section for
instructions on checking, adding and changing oil.

CAUTION

Always ch eck the engine oi l level before ea ch use as
instructed in the engine operator’s manual. Add oil as
necess ary. Failure to do so may r esult in serio us damage to
your engine.

4. Remove the plastic cover, if present, from the
negative battery terminal and attach the black
cable to the negative battery terminal (–) with
the bolt (a) and hex nut (b). See Figure 2-12.

Figure 2-12

Figure 2-13

9Section 2 — ASSembly & Set-Up

Controls & Operation

(A)

(B)

(C)

(D)

(E)

(F)

(G)

(H)

(I)

(J)

(K)

(L)

(M)

(N)

(O)

(P)

(Q)

Figure 3-1

Note: This Operator’s Manual covers several
models. Tractor features may vary by model. Not
all features in this manual are applicable to all
tractor models and the tractor depicted may differ
from yours.

Note: References to LEFT, RIGHT, FRONT, and REAR
indicate that position on the tractor when facing
forward while seated in the operator’s seat.

WARNING

Read and follow all safet y rules and instructions in this
manual, including the entire Operation section, before
attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with
all safety rules and instructions may result in personal injury.

Forward Drive Pedal (A)

The forward drive pedal is located on the right side
of the machine, along the running board. Press the
forward drive pedal forward to cause the tractor
to travel forward. Ground speed is also controlled
with the forward drive pedal. The further forward
the pedal is pivoted, the faster the tractor will travel.
The pedal will return to its original/neutral position
when it’s not pressed.

Reverse Drive Pedal (B)

The reverse drive pedal is located on the right side of
the tractor along the running board. Ground speed
is also controlled with the reverse drive pedal. The
further downward the pedal is pivoted, the faster the
tractor will travel. The pedal will return to its original/
neutral position when it ’s not pressed.

Brake Pedal (C)

The brake pedal is located on the left side of the
tractor, along the running board. The brake pedal
can be used for stopping the tractor or setting the
parking brake.

Note: The brake pedal must be fully depressed to
activate the safety interlock switch when starting

the tractor.

Throttle/Choke Control Lever or Throttle
Control (D)

Throttle/Choke Control Lever (If
equipped)

The throttle/choke control lever is
located on the left side of the tractor’s
dash panel. This lever controls the
speed of the engine and, when
pushed all the way forward, past the
detent position closes the choke for
cold starting. When set in a given
position, the throttle will maintain a
uniform engine speed.

Note: When operating the tractor with
the cutting deck engaged, be certain
that the throttle/choke control is
always in the FAST position.

Throttle Control (If equipped)

The throttle control is located on the
left side of the tractor’s dash panel.
When set in a given position, a uniform
engine speed will be maintained.

Push the throttle control handle
forward to increase the engine speed.
The tractor is designed to operate with
the throttle control in the FAST
position (full throttle) when the mower
deck is engaged.

Pull the throttle control handle
rearward to decrease the engine
speed.

Choke Control (If equipped) (E)

3

The choke control is located on
the dash panel to the right of the
throttle/choke or throttle control
and controls the position of the
engine choke. Pull the knob out/
up to choke the engine; push the
knob in/down to open the choke.

Deck Lift Lever (F)

Electric PTO tractors

Manual PTO tractors

The lift lever is located in the right fender and is
used to raise and lower the 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.

Ignition Module (G)

Turn-Key Start

WARNING

Never leave a running machine unattended. Always
diseng age PTO, set parkin g brake, stop engi ne and remove
key to prevent unintended star ting

To start the
engine, insert
the key into
the ignition
switch and turn
clockwise to

the START
position. Release
the key into

the NORMAL

MOWING
MODE

position once
the engine has
fired.

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

CAUTION

Prior to operating the tractor, refer to both Safety Interlock
Switche s and Starting Th e Engine in the Ope ration sect ion
of this manual for detailed instructions regarding the
Ignition Switch Module and operating the tractor in
REVER SE CAUTION M ODE .

10

PBS (Push Button Start)/Service Minder & Hour

TO START: DEPRESS BRAKE, PUSH &

HOLD START/STOP BUTTON FOR 1.5 SEC.

TO OPERATE IN REVERSE WITH BLADES ENGAGED:
PUSH & HOLD ORANGE BUTTON FOR 3 SEC.

REVERSE CAUTION MODE

TO TURN OFF : PRESS

LIGHT WILL FLASH THEN STAY ON

TO STOP ENGINE: PUSH
START/STOP BUTTO N

(HOUR METER AND LIGHTS COME ON)

INSERT KEY AND PUSH START / STOP BUTTON

HOURS

Meter w/
Bluetooth® (If
equipped)

PBS tractors
come with
or without
Bluetooth®.
If equipped,
connect your
Bluetooth®
enabled
LCD service
minder & hour
meter to your
smartphone by
downloading the App for your Bluetooth® capable
Android or iOS device.

It is an innovative new way to interact with your
outdoor power equipment directly through your
mobile device.

The app’s automated maintenance dashboard and
log will help you keep your machine running at
peak performance and protect your investment
by tracking total hours across the lifetime of your
equipment.

Receive alert notifications when it’s time to perform
essential maintenance tasks. Your dashboard
provides real time monitoring and indicates when
it’s time for you to check or change the oil, air filter,
blades or battery. It also enables you to locate
and contact service centers, access step-by-step
instructions to perform routine maintenance and
purchase replacement parts directly from your
mobile device.

Simply download the app and follow the quick
step-by-step instructions on how to sync your
mobile device with your equipment.

WARNING

Never leave a running machine unattended. Always disengage
PTO, set par king brake, sto p engine and re move the key.

To start the engine, insert the ignition key and
depress for 1.5 seconds until the engine starts
cranking. If the engine does not start after 5
seconds, a 3 second delay will occur. Release the
key and press again to attempt to start.

Note: If the REVERSE CAUTION MODE button
is depressed during starting, the starting sequence
is aborted and needs to be restarted.

To stop the engine, press ignition key or remove
the ignition key.

CAUTION

Prior to operating the tractor, refer to both Safety Interlock
Switche s and Starting Th e Engine in the Ope ration sect ion
of this manual for detailed instructions regarding the
Ignition Switch Module and operating the tractor in
REVER SE CAUTION M ODE .

When the ignition key is inserted and depressed
for less than 1.5 seconds, the LCD Service Minder &
Hour Meter will briefly display the battery voltage,
followed by the tractor’s accumulated hours.

Note: Hours of tractor operation are recorded only
when the engine is running.

The LCD Service Minder will remind the operator
of maintenance intervals for changing the engine
oil, air filter service, low engine oil and low battery
warnings.

Change Oil

The LCD will display the letters “CHG”, followed
by the letters “OIL” for two hours after the meter
reaches 50 hours. This oil service minder interval
will occur every 50 hours. Before the interval
expires, change the engine oil as instructed in the
Engine Operator’s Manual.

Low Oil (If equipped)

The letters “LO” followed by the letters “OIL”,
then followed by the letters “PRESSURE” will
indicate the tractor is low on oil. When an engine
is not running and immediately after the engine
is started the oil pressure may be low. This can
trigger the “LO” “OIL” text. This is normal. If
the low oil indication persists stop the tractor
immediately and check the engine oil level as
instructed in the Engine Operator’s Manual.

Note: The “LOW OIL” function only works if the
engine is equipped with an oil pressure switch.

Low Battery/High Battery

At startup, the battery voltage is briefly displayed
then changes to accumulated hours. The battery
indicator will display, followed by the letters
“LO” will display followed by the letters “BATT”
is displayed on the LCD when the voltage drops
below 11.0 volts. When this occurs, the battery is in
need of a charge or the engine’s charging system
is not generating sufficient amperage. Charge the
battery as instructed in the Product Care section of
this manual or have the charging system checked
by your local service dealer.

At startup, the battery voltage is briefly displayed
then changes to accumulated hours. The battery
indicator will display, followed by the letters
“HI” will display followed by the letters “BATT”
is displayed on the LCD when the voltage raises
above 16.0 volts. When this occurs, have the
charging system checked by your local service
dealer.

Power Take-Off (PTO) Switch
(Electric PTO tractors) (H)

The PTO switch is located on
the dash panel to the right of
the LCD Service Minder & Hour
Meter (If equipped).

Activating the PTO engages
power to the cutting deck or
other (separately available)
attachments. See the Operation
section for information and
instructions on using the PTO.

PTO/Blade Engage Handle (Manual PTO
tractors) (I)

The PTO/blade engage handle is located on the
right fender. Activating the PTO engages power
to the cutting deck or other (separately available)
attachments. See the Operation section for
information and instructions on using the PTO.

Transmission Bypass Rod (J)

The transmission bypass rod is located at the rear of
the tractor on the lower right section of the frame.

When engaged, the rod opens 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.

Park Brake/Cruise Control Lever (K)

Located in the center of the tractor’s dash panel
below the steering wheel, the park brake/cruise
control lever is used to engage the parking
brake and the cruise control. Refer to the Driving
the Tractor section of this manual for detailed
instructions regarding the parking brake.

Note: The parking brake must be set if the
operator leaves the seat with the engine running
or the engine will automatically shut off.

Note: Cruise control can NOT be engaged at the
tractor’s fastest ground speed.

WARNING

Never leave a running machine unattended. Always
diseng age the PTO, set the par king brake, stop t he engine
and remov e the key to prevent uni ntended star ting.

Hour Meter (L)

LCD Service Minder & Hour Meter (If equipped)

When the
ignition key
is rotated out
of the STOP
position
but not into
th e STA RT
position, the
LCD Service
Minder and
Hour Meter
will briefly
display the
battery
voltage, followed by the tractor’s accumulated hours.

Note: Hours of tractor operation are recorded any
time the ignition key is rotated out of the STOP
position, regardless of whether the engine is started.

The LCD Service Minder will remind the operator
of maintenance intervals for changing the engine
oil, air filter service, low engine oil and low battery
warnings.

Change Oil

The LCD will display the letters “CHG”, followed by
the letters “OIL”, followed by the letters “SOON”,
then finally followed by the meter’s accumulated
time. “CHG/OIL/SOON/TIME” will alternate on
the display for 7 minutes after the meter reaches
50 hours. This oil service minder interval will
occur every 50 hours. Before the interval expires,
change the engine oil as instructed in the Engine
Operator’s Manual.

11Section 3 — controlS & operation

Low Oil (If equipped)

The letters “LO” followed by the letters “OIL”, then
followed by the meter’s accumulated time will
indicate the tractor is low on oil. When an engine
is not running and immediately after the engine
is started the oil pressure may be low. This can
trigger the “LO” “OIL” text. This is normal. If
the low oil indication persists stop the tractor
immediately and check the engine oil level as
instructed in the Engine Operator’s Manual.

Note: The “LOW OIL” function only works if the
engine is equipped with an oil pressure switch.

Low Battery

At startup, the battery voltage is briefly displayed
then changes to accumulated hours. The letters
“LO” will display followed by the letters “BATT” and
then followed by the meter’s accumulated time.
“LO/BATT/TIME” is displayed on the LCD when the
voltage drops below 11.5 volts. When this occurs,
the battery is in need of a charge or the engine’s
charging system is not generating sufficient
amperage. Charge the battery as instructed in the
Service section of this manual or have the charging
system checked by your local service dealer.

Air Filter Service

The letters “CLN” will display, followed by the
letters “AIR”, followed by “FILT”, then followed
by the meter’s accumulated time. “CLN/AIR/FILT/
TIME” will alternate on the display for 7 minutes
after the meter reaches 50 hours. This air filter
service minder time interval will be every 50 hours.
On intervals that are common with oil service, the
oil message will be displayed first followed by the
air filter message.

LCD Service Minder & Hour Meter w/ Bluetooth®
(If equipped)

Connect your
Bluetooth®
enabled
LCD service
minder & hour
meter to your
smartphone
by
downloading
the App
for your
Bluetooth®
capable
Android or iOS device.

The app’s automated maintenance dashboard and
log will help you keep your machine running at
peak performance and protect your investment
by tracking total hours across the lifetime of your
equipment.

Receive alert notifications when it’s time to perform
essential maintenance tasks. Your dashboard
provides real time monitoring and indicates when
it’s time for you to check or change the oil, air filter,
blades or battery. The App also enables you to
locate and contact service centers, access step-by­step instructions to perform routine maintenance
and purchase replacement parts directly from your
mobile device.

Simply download the app and follow the quick
step-by-step instructions on how to sync your
mobile device with your equipment.

Fuel Tank Cap (M)

The fuel tank cap is located to the left of the dash.
Turn the fill cap to remove. The fuel cap is tethered
to the tractor to prevent its loss. Do not attempt
to remove the cap from the tractor. Fill tank to the
bottom of the filler neck, allowing some space in
the tank for fuel expansion. Do not overfill the tank.

Push the cap downward on the fuel tank fill neck
and turn clockwise until it clicks to tighten. Always
re-install the fuel cap tightly onto the fuel tank
after removing.

WARNING

Never fi ll the fuel tank w hen the engine is r unning. If
the engi ne is hot from rec ently running, a llow to cool
for several minutes before refueling. Highly flammable
gasoli ne could splash o nto the engine and c ause a fire.

Storage Tray (N)

The storage tray is located to the left of the operator’s
seat.

Cup Holder (O)

The cup holder is located to the left of the operator’s
seat.

Differential Lock Pedal (If equipped) (P)

The differential lock pedal is located on the left
of the tractor to the rear of the running board
near the seat box. Activating the differential lock
increases traction by maintaining equal wheel
speed on the rear tires. See the Differential
Lock section for more information on using the
differential lock.

Seat Adjustment Lever (Q)

The seat adjustment lever is located below the
left of the seat. The lever allows for adjustment
forward or backward of the operator’s seat. Refer
to the Assembly & Set-Up section for instructions
on adjusting the seat position.

Operation

WARNING

Avoid serious injury or death. Go up and down slopes, not
across. Avoid sudden turns. Do not operate unit where it
could slip or tip. If machine stops going uphill, stop PTO and
back dow n the hill safel y. Keep safety dev ices (guards, sh ields
and swi tches) in place and wo rking. Remove ob jects that
could be thrown by the blades. Know location and function
of all cont rols. Be sure th e blades and the e ngine are stop ped
before placing hands or feet near blades. Before leaving
operator’s position, disengage PTO, engage brake lock, shut
off an d remove key.

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 trac tor. Contact your service dealer.

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

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

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

• With the ignition key in the NORMAL
MOWING position, the electric PTO

(Blade Engage) clutch will automatically
shut off if the PTO (Blade Engage) knob is
moved into the engaged (ON) position with
the drive pedal in position for Reverse travel.

WARNING

Do not ope rate the tracto r if the interloc k system is
malfunctioning. This system was designed for your safety
and protection.

Starting the Engine

Note: Refer to the Assembly & Set-up section of this
manual for Gasoline and Oil fill-up instructions.

Continue below for turn-key ignitions, skip ahead
to the PBS Ignition Section for Push-Button Start
ignitions.

Turn-Key Ignition

1. Insert the tractor key into the ignition module.

2. Place the PTO/Blade Engage lever to OFF
position.

3. Engage the tractor’s parking brake .

4. Push the choke control (if equipped)
upward into the choke on position.

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

5. Move the throttle control lever to midway
between the FAST and SLOW
positions.

Note: When operating the tractor be certain
that the throttle lever is always in the FAST

(rabbit) position. Operating with the
throttle at less than full throttle may lead to
shortened battery life.

6. Turn the ignition key clockwise to the
STA RT position. After the engine starts,

release the key. It will return to the NORMAL
MOWING position.

CAUTION

Do NOT hold t he key in the START position for longer
than ten se conds at a time. Doi ng so may cause dam age to
your engine’s electric starter.

6. After the engine starts, deactivate the choke
control (if equipped).

Note: Do NOT leave the choke control (if
equipped) on while operating the tractor.
Doing so will result in a “rich” fuel mixture
and cause the engine to run poorly.

12 Section 3 — controlS & operation