For your safety and for proper operation and maintenance read
carefully and keep readily available for future reference.
Additional replacement owner’s manuals as well as illustrated parts lists are available from
your authorized Wright Dealer for a nominal charge. Also check www.wrightmfg.com
most up to date product literature. Please note the model number and serial number of your
Wright product.
For reference please note the following information at the time of purchase:
SERIAL #: ______________________________
MODEL #: ______________________________
DATE OF PURCHASE: ____________________
for the
Wright Manufacturing Inc.
Page 2
Foreword
Welcome to the progressive group of mowing professionals who use Wright mowers. We are focused
on giving you advanced engineering and quality construction in each mower we build.
This manual explains the features and promotes safer use of the mower. Please read it and follow the
instructions carefully so you can have many years of productive mowing.
For service, remember that your Wright dealer knows your mower best and is interested in your
satisfaction. He can provide you with quality maintenance and other assistance you may need.
Please give this manual to anyone who may use the mower for them to study before they operate it.
Give the manual to anyone to whom you may sell the mower in the future. It is important for the next
owner to receive this information also.
As Wright Manufacturing, Inc. is constantly seeking ways to improve its products, the mower you have
may differ slightly from the information and specifications in this manual. Because of our continuous
product improvement, Wright reserves the option to make changes at any time without notice.
Wright Manufacturing, Inc.
SAFETY ALERT
This is the safety alert symbol. It is used throughout this manual and on the mower’s
safety labels to alert you to potential personal injury hazards. Obey all safety messages
that follow this symbol to avoid possible injury or death. Read these instructions
carefully. It is essential that you read the instructions and safety precautions before you
attempt to work on or use this unit.
WARNING
This symbol with the word “WARNING” indicates a potentially hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION
This symbol with the word “CAUTION” indicates a potentially hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.
If you are not completely familiar with the Safety Instruction
Manual read it now before proceeding with the Pre-Delivery
WARNING
The Wright Mower is shipped completely assembled and has been adjusted and tested at the factory.
However, due to the jostling of the shipping process and the delivery time lapse, the following items
need to be repeated again before starting the mower. After you have uncrated the mower, follow these
procedures in the order indicated:
• Remove spark plug wire from spark plug(s).
• Inspect the mower for any damage, unusual conditions or missing parts.
• Inspect the mower for all of its decals, especially the warning decals. There should be one blade
warning decal on each side of the deck, the “shield missing” decal under the blade belt cover, and
the dash decal.
• Check to ensure belt guard is in place before operation.
• Check (and fill if necessary) engine oil level according to the engine manufacturer’s recommendation.
• Check (and fill if necessary) hydraulic fluid level. The level should be about 1-2” below the top of the
oil fill. Use fully SYNTHETIC oil: Mobil-1 15W-50.
• Check tire pressures. Adjust to recommended pressure. It should be even on both sides but the
recommended pressures are generally different for the front and rear tires. Higher pressures will
help keep the caster tires on their rims when impacted from the side but give a stiffer ride. Some
Front Casters are equipped with non-pneumatic tires and do not require any air.
• Remove the blade belt cover and check (and tighten if necessary) all belt tensions according to
specifications discussed later in this manual. DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN.
• Rotate the blade pulleys slightly to see if they all turn together. (Note: Clutch Brake will create some
resistance.)
• Lubricate all moving parts
• Reinstall the blade belt cover.
• Remove battery (if electric start version) from machine and fully charge (if necessary) in an open,
well-ventilated area according to the recommendations of the battery charger manual. The battery
is 12 volts. After fully charged, install on mower and attach battery cables, positive first (from
starter motor) and negative last (from ground).
• Fill fuel tank with regular unleaded gasoline. Open fuel valve under gas tank.
• DO NOT START THE ENGINE AT THIS TIME. FOLLOW THE NEXT PROCEDURE BEFORE
STARTING. The hydraulic system MUST be checked for proper operation before allowing wheels
to operate on the ground.
• Set the rear of the machine on jack stands or blocks to raise rear wheels off the ground two or three
inches and check to be sure that the mower will not fall off the supports you devise. The stand(s)
must be able to secure the mower from rolling off or away during the next procedures. Check
under the mower deck for any debris or unusual conditions.
• With hand controls and speed control in the neutral position, apply the parking brake.
• Open the manual bypass valve on top of each pump a half-of-a-turn counterclockwise.
• Reattach spark plug wires to spark plugs.
• Before starting the engine be ready to stop it if the wheels begin to turn with the brake on. (If this
happens, check that the manual bypass valve on top of each motor are open at least a half-of-aturn counterclockwise.)
• Start the engine according to the engine manufacturer’s recommendation. Let the engine run at low
RPM for several minutes to get the hydraulic fluid circulating through the pumps, etc. Release the
parking brake. Now gradually close the manual bypass valve on top of each pump one at a time,
Service of the mower. Only your authorized Wright Mower
dealer should perform the Pre-Delivery Service of the mower
1
Page 6
and see if the wheels start to move. If the wheels move when the hand controls are in neutral
position, adjust the neutral adjustment allen screw located on each pump until they stop. The
manual bypass valve on top of each pump should now be firmly closed. Now try moving the hand
control levers, one at a time, to make the wheels move in forward and backward rotation. Check
to see if the wheels move forward and backward according to position of the levers. If not, service
the hand control system. If the wheels stop when the hand controls are in the neutral position the
parking brake should now be applied. Now check if the parking brake locking system (if
applicable) prevents the unit from being driven while engaged. If not, service the parking brake
locking system.
• Before testing the blade clutch/brake operation, make sure the area is clear and there is nothing
vulnerable to possible thrown objects from under the mower. No one should be near the mower
deck or in its line of discharge at this or at any time. The discharge chute deflector should be in
the down position. Move the engine throttle control to its highest RPM speed setting.
• Turn on the blade clutch switch. Run blades for a minute or so. Try engaging and disengaging the
blades a few times about 10 seconds apart. If the blades do not start and stop in a few seconds
each time, service the blade brake system. With the blades on, now try disengaging the OPC
switch to test the Operator Presence Control switch (OPC). The engine should die and the blades
should stop in several seconds. If not, service the OPC system. Try this a couple of times.
• Disengage the blades, shut off the engine and remove the mower from the stand(s).
• Drive the mower around on a level parking lot. It is recommended that the slower setting of the Speed
Adjustment be used. (See further in this manual for information on Speed Adjustment.) Check that
the mower drives in a straight line when both hand controls are at the full speed position. If not,
see further in this manual for information on tracking adjustment.
• As you drive the mower, listen for any unusual noises and test for irregular operation and adjust or
service as necessary. Next, go over the safety information and operating procedures in this
manual with the customer. Instruct the customer in proper operation and observe the customer
during their initial operation on a level parking lot. Make sure the customer is familiar and
comfortable with the basic operation and use of the mower.
• Dealer: Please fill out and follow the instruction
the customer fill out his part of the form. After the Product Registration Card is filled out
and signed by the customer and a representative from your dealership, please mail or fax it
immediately (within 14 days from date of retail purchase) to your Wright Commercial
Products Distributor according to the directions on the Card. Then give the customer his
copy of the registration form and then keep your copy and mail the remaining copies of the
form to your Wright Manufacturing Products Distributor. The limited warranty is not valid
unless the mower is registered and all of the above steps are taken. Remember, the
purchaser is both your and our customer and his satisfaction is very important. Thank you
for supporting our products.
• The mower is now ready for delivery to your customer.
on the Product Registration Form and have
2
Page 7
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
or serious
esult
oderate
This symbol with the word “WARNING”
indicates a potentially hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, could result in death
The Velke Mower is built to the highest
standards in the industry. However,
carelessness or operator error may result in
serious bodily injury or death. Accident and
hazard prevention are dependent upon the
awareness, concern, wisdom, and proper
training of the personnel involved in the
operation, transport, maintenance, and storage
of the equipment. Make sure every operator is
properly trained and thoroughly familiar with all
of the information in this manual before
operating the equipment.
The Velke Mower is designed with your safety
in mind. It has the following safety systems with
which you should be familiar:
• The warning decals on the mower including
the instrument panel warning
• The blade switch must be “off” before starting
the engine
• You must engage the OPC switch in order to
engage the blades
• You must engage the OPC switch in order for
the engine to run if the blades are engaged
• If the OPC switch becomes disengaged while
the blades are running the engine will stop
and the blades will brake in seconds
• Spring loaded chute deflector helps reduce
trajectory of thrown objects
• Belt/pulley covers on cutter deck and at rear
under pump pulleys
WARNING
injury.
TO WRIGHT MOWER USERS & OWNERS: READ THIS
WARNING
MANUAL BEFORE USING. PLEASE BE CAREFUL!
Introduction
General Safety Instructions
CAUTION
This symbol with the word “CAUTION”
indicates a potentially hazardous
situation which, if not avoided, could
r
in minor or m
Owner/User Notice
The owner’s/user’s obligation is to instruct
themselves and all potential users in the safe
operation of this equipment and be sure they
read and follow the instructions in this safety
manual and other material provided by Wright
Manufacturing, Inc. before using or allowing
others to operate the equipment. Do not
operate this unit unless you carefully read,
understand and follow the assembly,
installation, and safety instructions contained in
this manual and the warning decals provided on
the unit. Do not allow other persons to use this
unit unless you make sure they carefully read,
understand and follow these instructions. Never
allow children to operate or play on the unit.
User Experience and
This product is designed for use by physically
fit, experienced, professional commercial
mower operators who have a minimum of 160
hours of experience operating twelve
horsepower and greater industrial mowers.
Operators must be 18 years or older. They
must have read and understood this manual.
DO NOT allow children to operate the mower.
Do not allow adults to operate the mower
without proper instruction mentioned above.
Never allow passengers on the mower.
injury.
WARNING
WARNING
Qualifications
3
Page 8
WARNING
User Clothing
DO NOT operate the mower while wearing
sandals, tennis shoes, sneakers or shorts.
Always wear long non-baggy pants. Wear hightop leather work boots with thick, textured tread,
soft-rubber soled at all times. Hard or smooth
soled shoes are too slippery for a good footing
the Velke™ or sulky. NEVER wear loose-fitting
clothing which could get caught in moving parts
or jacket pockets that can get caught to the
handlebars or control levers of any mower you
drive. Wearing safety glasses, ear protection
and safety shoes is advisable and required by
some local ordinances and insurance
regulations.
WARNING
Inspect Mower Before Each Use
DO NOT use the mower if any parts are not
maintained in good operating condition.
Examine the moving parts prior to each use.
Look for excessive wear, bald or worn tires,
cracks in parts, loose or missing bolts, cotter,
linchpin or “hair” pins or cable yoke pins and
replace before operating the mower. Make sure
all safety equipment provided with the mower is
in good operating order, including all the
warning decals and the required operatorpresence device which stops the engine and
blades when the hand-operated Operator
Presence Control (OPC) switch is released. (To
test the OPC, follow instructions in the
Operating Instructions section of this manual.)
Be sure that all parts of the hand-operated
transmission control system are tight and
secure. This is to reduce the possibility that the
mower could have a loss of control or safety.
WARNING
Regular Mower Safety
Maintenance
Replace worn tire(s) with less than 3/32” of any
tread groove left. Use tires with the tread
pattern specified by Wright Mfg., Inc. only.
4
Grease all fittings daily. DO NOT change the
engine governor settings or over-rev the engine
contrary to engine manufacturer specifications.
Keep the Wright mower in good operating
condition, and keep safety devices and shields
in place and in working condition. Keep all nuts,
bolts, and screws tight to be sure the equipment
is in safe working condition. Check the blade
mounting bolts for proper tightness every eight
(8) hours of operation. Check the blades for
excessive wear and sharpness every four to
eight (4-8) hours of operation. Replace
excessively worn blades. Sharpen dull blades.
The mower should not be used after the blades
or other part of the mower strikes a foreign
object, until conducting a thorough inspection
and any damage is repaired. See the
instructions in the Recommended Maintenance
section of this manual for other items of
required maintenance.
WARNING
Work Area Conditions &
Inspection
Prior to operating the unit, carefully inspect all
lawn/ground areas where you plan to use the
mower for hidden, hard-to-see objects or
uneven ground that may be hidden in the grass.
Clear the work area of movable objects such as
wires, rocks, glass, etc. that might be picked up
by the mower and dangerously thrown.
Remove, if possible, or mark the location of all
immovable objects or irregular areas and be
sure not to hit them with any part of the mower,
its deck or the blades. Obstacles such as holes,
abrupt changes in ground contour, tree trunks,
stumps or roots, stub pipes protruding from the
ground, paving edges, etc. in the path of
operation can abruptly turn or stop the mower.
This could throw you off the Velke™ or sulky or
into and possibly over the handles causing
serious injury or death. The faster you are
moving the more potential there is for injury.
Mow only in daylight or in good artificial light.
Keep away from drop-offs, the edges of ponds,
streams, pools, etc. especially at the bottom of
slopes. Do not mow when children or others are
around. When the Wright mower is in use,
never direct the grass discharge toward
bystanders, traffic, cars or buildings nor allow
anyone near the machine while in operation.
Page 9
Thrown objects can pass through glass
windows and some walls of buildings. There is
extreme risk of danger from thrown objects or
being cut by the blades of the mower or being
run over if you lose control. Never operate the
mower in an enclosed area without good,
approved ventilation. Exhaust fumes are
dangerous.
WARNING
Initial Operating Safety Guidelines
• Read and understand the warning on the
instrument panel of the mower.
• Keep a firm hold on the handles at all times.
• Know the controls and how to stop quickly.
• Before attempting to start the engine, follow
all starting instructions below and in the
engine operator’s manual.
• Look behind before backing up and STEP
OFF of the Velke sulky prior to backing
up. NEVER stand on the sulky while
backing up.
• Before leaving the operator’s position, even
momentarily, turn off the blade clutch
engagement switch, place the speed
control lever in the neutral position and
apply the parking brake. Keep others from
coming near the mower. Return to the
operator position as soon as possible.
• When leaving the Wright mower unattended,
turn off the blade clutch engagement
switch, place the speed control lever in
the neutral position, apply the parking
brake, stop the engine and remove the
key. Never leave the machine unattended
on a slope. If the parking brake becomes
disengaged, the mower could roll which
would be hazardous.
• When transporting, driving onto transport
vehicles, into buildings, across parking
lots or otherwise not mowing grass, turn
off the blade clutch engagement switch to
reduce risk of thrown objects and rotating
blade hazard. After coming to a stop place
the speed control lever in the neutral
position, apply the parking brake, stop the
engine and remove the key.
• Before performing any maintenance or repair
service, mowing height or other
adjustments, disengage power to blades,
place the speed control lever in the
neutral position, apply the parking brake,
stop the engine, remove ignition key and
spark plug wire from spark plug(s).
• DO NOT allow inexperienced people to
operate the mower until they have read
and understood these safety instructions.
Operate the mower at slower speeds
while becoming familiar with it.
• Speeding is dangerous for even an
experienced operator. Sudden stops from
excessive speeds may cause serious
injury.
• The grass discharge chute deflector must be
installed at all times and in the down
position except that it may be raised when
the grass catcher is completely installed.
• If the mower discharge clogs, turn off the
blade clutch switch, place the speed
control lever in the neutral position, apply
the parking brakes, stop the engine and
remove the key before removing
obstruction.
• Keep all shields and covers in place,
especially grass discharge chute
deflector, the blade belt cover, and the
pump belt/pulley cover.
• Keep hands, feet and clothing away from
rotating parts, especially the rear wheels,
blades, engine flywheel, belts and pulleys.
• Do not touch engine or muffler while engine is
running or soon after it is stopped. These
areas can be so hot as to cause severe
burns.
• Clean grass, leaves and lubricant spills from
surfaces after use to prevent fire hazard.
• Be alert for traffic when crossing roads or
operating near roadways.
• Before crossing gravel drives, sidewalks or
roads, turn off the blades and wait for
them to stop.
WARNING
Operation On Slopes
DO NOT operate on steep slopes. Do not
operate the mower on slopes steeper than you
can feel secure about the traction of the tires
and the stability of the mower. Do not operate
the mower on slopes at all when the grass is
wet. There is a danger of suddenly sliding
5
Page 10
sideways or down the hill. When operating on a
slope, travel across the grade whenever
possible, not in an up or down pattern. Reduce
speed and exercise extreme caution on slopes
and in sharp turns to prevent tipping or loss of
control. Be especially cautious when changing
direction on slopes.
The Wright mower is capable of greater traction
on slopes than typical riding mowers because
of the benefits of a lower center of gravity. It is
essential for you to know more about the
handling characteristics of the mower so that
you can enjoy more efficient mowing
techniques and for increasing your safety.
The Wright mower handles differently at
different angles of attack on a slope. It is
important to understand the following
differences so that you can use or avoid using
the mower at different angles for the best
advantage. Be aware that if the following
orientations to a slope and must handle the
mower accordingly. As you use the mower you
will gain the technique to mow more lawn than
ever before.
When pointing up a slope, the mower has the
most weight on the drive wheels and therefore
the most traction at the tires. However, this is
the angle that it has the most tendency to tip
back (“pop-a-wheelie.”) This is the preferred
angle for mowing small areas of steeper slopes.
Recommendations for this angle:
• Do not accelerate quickly to avoid “popping-awheelie.”
• If backing down the hill, do not stop suddenly
but slow down gradually and maintain an
upward force on the handles to keep the
front of the mower on the ground.
When pointing down a slope, the mower has
the least weight on the drive wheels and
therefore the least traction at the tires. This is
the angle that the mower has the most
tendency to slide. However, this is the angle
that it has the least tendency to tip back. Avoid
this angle, as it has the least advantage for the
mower.
Recommendations for this angle:
• Do not change speed suddenly to minimize
the tendency of going into a slide.
Accelerate and slow down gently. If you
ever go into an uncontrolled slide while
pointing down a slope, the recommended
procedure is to let go of the handles and
move up-hill from the mower. Otherwise,
control the mower gently and stay off
slopes that tend to make the wheels slide
at this orientation.
When crossing a slope sideways, the mower
has the average amount of weight on the drive
wheels versus the front wheels, similar to level
ground. However, this angle leaves the least
weight on the higher side drive wheel, tending
to make it slip. This is the preferred angle for
mowing large areas of gentle slopes.
Recommendations for this angle:
• Do not accelerate quickly to minimize the
tendency of “popping-a- wheelie”.
Accelerate gently.
Note: Excessively worn tire tread is dangerous.
Replace tire(s) with less than 3/32” of any tread
groove left. Use tires with the tread pattern
recommended by Wright Mfg., Inc. only. Keep
the tire pressure in the drive tires at the
recommended level. Higher pressures will
cause the tires to have less traction, which will
force you to go slower and with less safety.
WARNING
Operation in Reverse
Use extreme caution when operating in reverse.
DO NOT operate this mower in reverse while
standing on the Velke or other sulky. Always
keep a firm grip on the mower handles with
both hands. Operate the mower very slowly,
inching it backward until you become familiar
with how the mower operates. Always operate
slowly if in an awkward location or position.
While backing up never place your foot or feet
on the ground near the back edge of the mower
to prevent serious personal injury if mower were
to run over you. Look behind you before
backing to prevent injuring yourself or anyone
behind you. Operate at slow speeds in forward
and reverse if not completely familiar with
mower operation. See the “How to change the
Speed Adjustment” section of this manual.
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Page 11
WARNING
Operation In Forward Direction
Always keep a firm grip on the mower handles
with both hands. Operate the mower slowly until
you become familiar with how the mower
operates. Do not operate the mower faster than
conditions allow. For example, hills, wet or
bumpy ground, dim light or high grass would all
be conditions where you should work slower
than normal. Never operate the mower at the
highest speed unless you are on level, wide,
open areas of clearly visible ground or
transporting on paved areas. Speeding with any
mower is dangerous, and so is traveling faster
than conditions should permit on this mower.
Sudden stops from excessive speed or
becoming detached from the mower may cause
serious injury or death. See the “How to
change the Speed Adjustment” section of this
manual.
WARNING
Fuel Safety
Handle gasoline with care – it is HIGHLY
FLAMMABLE. Do not smoke while handling
gasoline. Use an approved gasoline container.
Never remove the fuel cap or add gasoline to a
running or hot engine or an engine that has not
been allowed to cool for several minutes after
running. Never fill the tank indoors and always
clean up spilled gas. NEVER store the
equipment with gasoline in the tank inside a
We want you to be as safe as possible. Please read the above again and again until you fully
understand the methods to promote the safest operation possible.
REMEMBER – YOUR MOWER CAN BE ONLY AS SAFE AS THE OPERATOR.
FAILURE TO FOLLOW SAFE OPERATING PRACTICES MAY RESULT IN
SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
building where fumes may reach an open flame
or spark. Allow the engine to cool before storing
in any enclosure. The quality of fuel will
diminish over time and can create problems
throughout the fuel delivery system. Always use
fresh and clean fuel.
WARNING
Hydraulic Safety
Keep body and hands away from pin-holes or
fittings that eject hydraulic fluid under high
pressure. Use paper or cardboard and not
hands to search for leaks. Hydraulic fluid
escaping under high pressure may have
sufficient force to penetrate skin and cause
serious injury. If foreign fluid is injected into the
skin, it must be surgically removed within a few
hours by a doctor familiar with this form of injury
or gangrene may result. Seek medical attention immediately. Make sure all hydraulic fluid
connections are tight and all hydraulic hoses
and lines are in good condition before starting
the Wright mower. Hydraulic fluid is under high
pressure. If you need service on your hydraulic
system, please see your authorized Wright
dealer.
Replacement Parts
Use of parts other than specified parts supplied
by Wright Manufacturing, Inc. may compromise
the safe use of the mower and are not
recommended. Please check with your Dealer
or our website for the latest Owner’s Manuals
and Parts Manuals.
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Page 12
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
If you are not completely familiar with the Safety Instruction
Manual, read it now before proceeding with the operation of
WARNING
Inspect Mower Before Each Use
Do not use the mower if any parts are not
maintained in good operating condition. Examine
all moving parts prior to each use. Look for
excessive wear, bald drive tires or worn out front
tires (normally smooth), cracks in parts, loose or
missing bolts, cotter, linchpin or “hair” pins and
replace before operating the mower. Make sure all
safety equipment provided with the mower is in
good operating order, including all warning decals
and the operator-presence device, which stops the
engine and blades when the hand-operated
Operator Presence Control (OPC) switch is
released. To test the OPC, follow the instructions
further down in this manual. Ensure that all parts
of the hand-operated transmission control system
are tight and secure. This is to reduce the
possibility that the mower could have a loss of
control or safety.
Basic Operation
The following procedures are to guide you through
the basic operation of the mower. You should be a
qualified mower operator according to the safety
section of this manual. If this is your first time,
operation should only be done with the assistance
of your dealer on a level area. You should go
through each step, in the order indicated, every
time you start the mower.
Unusual Noises or Irregular Operation
As you drive the mower listen for any unusual
noises and test for irregular operation and adjust
or service as necessary. It is normal for the clutch
to make noises and squealing sounds when
engaged and possibly when disengaged.
Mower Operation
Read and understand the safety instructions
before attempting to operate your machine.
Use caution when operating this piece of
equipment. Practice operating the mower at low
speeds and without the blades engaged until
familiar with the operation of the controls.
the mower. REMEMBER THERE ARE CERTAIN
PRECAUTIONS LISTED IN THIS MANUAL THAT YOU MUST
NOW TAKE BEFORE STARTING THE MOWER.
Before starting the engine:
• Check the oil level in the engine and the
hydraulic reservoir
• Fill the fuel tank with clean, fresh, unleaded
gasoline (use gasoline with an octane of 87
or greater)
• Ensure the fuel valve is in the full open
position.
• The blade clutch (PTO) switch must be in
the OFF position
• Position the speed adjustment lever to
NEUTRAL
• Position the neutral latches in the neutral
lock position
• Engage the parking brake
• Ensure the hydraulic pump bypass valves
are fully closed (turn clockwise until snug)
Start the engine – choke as needed
Engage the blades (parking brake must be off) by
first engaging the operator presence device and
then pulling up on the blade clutch (PTO) switch.
Push the switch down to disengage the cutting
blades. ** For best equipment life, engage the
blades between ¾ and full engine throttle.
Release the parking brake and move the speed
adjustment lever to the desired ground speed
setting.
While squeezing the steering brake levers with
both hands, release both neutral latches (one on
each handle). Slowly release the levers to travel
forward. To make a right turn, squeeze the right
hand lever. To make a left turn, squeeze the left
hand lever. To travel in reverse, squeeze the
levers up beyond the neutral point.
To STOP the mower, squeeze both levers up to
the neutral point, engage the neutral latches and
move the speed adjustment lever to the neutral
position.
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Page 13
How to Stop and Park the Mower
Come to a complete stop. Make sure the steering
brake levers are in the neutral position with the
neutral latches engaged with the levers. If the
blades are on, turn them off using the switch on
the instrument panel. Place the speed control
lever in the neutral position, set the parking brake,
reduce the engine speed to idle, shut off the
ignition switch to stop the engine and then remove
the key from the ignition switch. The mower is now
parked. Do not leave unit parked unattended
without engaging the parking brake and do not
leave the unit parked unattended on a sloped
surface.
How to Drive the Mower Over a Curb
To climb a curb, first see the Safety Instructions
section of this manual, especially the parts on:
• Initial Operating Safety Guidelines
• Operation In Reverse
• Operation In Forward Direction
To drive up and over a curb turn the blades OFF
and then proceed forward to the curb, lift the front
wheels off the ground by pushing down on the
handlebar and move slowly forward allowing the
front wheels to rest on the ground beyond the
curb. Then proceed slowly while driving the rear
wheels over the curb. To drive over and down a
curb proceed slowly forward to the curb and allow
the front wheels to slowly roll off of the curb and
down to the ground below the curb. Then move
slowly forward until the rear wheels roll over the
curb and down to the ground below. NEVER stand
on the Velke (sulky) while driving over a curb.
Mowing on Varying Terrain
See the Safety Instructions section of this manual,
especially the parts on:
• Initial Operating Safety Guidelines
• Operation On Slopes
• Operation In Reverse
• Operation In Forward Direction
• Operation During Zero-Radius Turns
How to adjust the Speed
Set the desired travel speed by moving the control
lever forward or backwards.
How to Perform the Neutral and
Tracking Adjustment
Find a secure location away from bystanders to
perform the drive adjustments (preferably face the
mower towards a wall).
Raise the drive wheels off the ground and stabilize
the mower.
Start the engine as described in the “Mower
Operation” section and let it warm up for a few
minutes.
Have a helper hold the OPC down so that both
your hands are free to make the adjustments.
Release the parking brake and set the speed
control lever to a forward speed greater than 2.
This ensures that the pump control bearing is not
contacting the speed adjustment cam.
The control levers should remain locked in the
neutral position via the thumb locks.
Observe the drive wheels.
If either wheel rotates, loosen the upper and lower
steering control rod jam nuts for that side and
adjust the rod longer or shorter until the wheel
stops. Find the midpoint adjustment in the range
that the wheel remains stopped. Retighten the rod
jam nuts.
Now set the speed control lever to neutral (first
pulled back position).
Release the control levers via the thumb locks.
If the right wheel rotates, loosen the upper and
lower speed control rod jam nuts and adjust the
rod in or out until the right wheel stops. Find the
midpoint of the range that the speed control rod
can be adjusted as the right wheel remains
stopped. Tighten the jam nuts.
Now if the left wheel rotates, adjust the tracking
control knob in or out until the left wheel stops.
The tracking control knob is located on the left
pump control plate.
The wheels should now go to a neutral position if
the steering control levers are locked using the
thumb locks and/or the speed control lever is in
neutral.
9
Page 14
Straight Line Tracking Adjustments
Verify that both rear tires are inflated to the proper
PSI.
Find a wide open flat area away from bystanders
and objects.
Drive the mower with the speed control set to the
most used position.
If the mower pulls to one side, return the speed
control lever to neutral and shut off the engine.
If the mower pulled to the left, turn the tracking
adjustment knob counterclockwise (left) ½ turn.
Repeat driving the mower and making incremental
adjustments after shutting the engine off until the
mower tracks straight.
Conversely, if the mower pulls right, turn the
tracking adjustment knob clockwise (right).
How to Test/Use the Blade
Clutch/Brake Switch
Before testing the blade clutch/brake operation,
make sure the area is clear and there is nothing
vulnerable to thrown objects from under the
mower. No one should be near the mower deck or
in its line of discharge. The discharge chute
deflector should be in the down position. Move
the engine throttle to ¾ speed setting. (When
mowing, the engine speed should always be at its
highest setting. The engine governor will regulate
the engine according to the different mowing
conditions at that setting.) Engage the OPC switch
and turn on the blade clutch switch. Run blades for
a minute or so. Try engaging and disengaging the
blades a few times about 10 seconds apart. If the
blades do not start and stop in a few seconds
each time, service the blade brake system or
contact your local Wright dealer. Under mowing
load, the clutch’s longevity will be the greatest at
the highest RPM setting.
How to Test the Operator Presence
Control (OPC) Switch
Before beginning this test, secure a large open
area that is free of obstacles or hazards.
To test the OPC switch start the engine using the
normal starting procedures, release the parking
brake and place the speed control in the slowest
speed setting. While engaging the OPC lever(s)
engage the blades by pulling up on the PTO blade
clutch switch. Allow the mower to start moving
forward and then release the mower handles. If
the engine doesn’t stop, then service the OPC
system.
WARNING
Service and Adjustments
Tire Maintenance and Pressure
Excessively worn tire tread is dangerous on all
hills. Replace drive tires with less than 3/32” of any
tread groove left. Use tires with the tread pattern
recommended by Wright Mfg., Inc. only. Keep the
tire pressure at the proper level. Higher pressures
will cause the tires to have less traction which will
force you to go slower, with less safety and give
you a harder ride. Higher pressures will help keep
the front caster tires on their rims when impacted
from the side but give a harder ride. They do not
have any tread but should be replaced when
excessively worn.
Hydraulic Motor Support Adjustment
The various holes in the mower frame and the
hydraulic motor supports may be used to make a
fine forward/rearward adjustment to the balance of
the all Velke Mowers except the 32” (the 32” only
moved up and down). This adjustment should
always be made in combination with the coarse
height-of-cut adjustment and anti-tip roller
adjustment as described below. When the motor
supports are set in the forward position, the Velke
Mower will be balanced lighter in the front than
when set in the rearward position, giving more
traction to the drive tires. Heavy operators (over
250 pounds) may find that the rearward position
(not available on the 32”) helps keep the front of
the mower down.
Blade Adjustments and Height-of-Cut
Before Adjusting the Height-of-Cut be sure of
proper air pressure in all four tires and check for
even tire wear. The height-of-cut can be adjusted
the following ways:
• Coarse Adjustment
the rear wheels, the front casters should be
adjusted at the same time. Adjust the rear
wheel motor supports equally in one of the
: For the coarse adjustment
10
Page 15
three settings up or down 0.75” each in a 1.5”
total range.
a. Use the highest holes in tractor frame
for cutting heights of 1.75”-3.0”.
b. Use the middle holes in tractor frame
for cutting heights of 2.5”-3.75”, factory
setting.
c. Use the lowest holes in tractor frame
for cutting heights of 3.25”-4.5”.
Adjust the front caster arms at their respective
support brackets equally in one of the
seven settings up or down 0.25” each
through a 1.5” total range.
a. This should be done with two shims (or
spacers) on the bottom and one shim
on the top of the caster support arm.
b. The front-to-rear leveling of the blades
should be between level (preferred) to
.25” lower at the front of the blades but
never higher at the front.
c. Use the lowest holes in tractor frame
for heights of 3.25”-4.5”.
• Temporary Height-of-Cut Adjustment:
the caster shims (or spacers) you can adjust
the blades downward temporarily .5” or 1”
below the original coarse setting as described
above. This assumes that the blades are level
with two shims (or spacers) on the bottom and
one shim on the top of the caster support arm.
With the blades level at this assumed starting
point, you should never move all of the shims
to the bottom since that would make the
blades higher at the front.
The angle of attack of the blades should
always be level or lower at the front. This
makes the blade cut the grass only once
and saves fuel and wear on the whole
mower. It also allows more efficient
mowing and grass catching or dispersal. If
you mow in an area of the country where
the lawn is very thick and spongy you may
have to set these two adjustments as they
would appear on the grass and not on a
hard surface due to the tires “floating” up
on or “sinking” down into the lawn.
• Fine Adjustment:
five settings up or down 0.25” each in a 1.25”
total range. The shims on the blade bolts are
moved from under the spindle to the top of the
spindle. If possible, leave at least one shim at
the top and the bottom of the spindle shaft.
Using the maximums and minimums of these
methods gives you a total range of 2.75” from
Adjust the blades equally in
Using
1.75” to 4.5” in eleven distinct settings. The
factory setting is 3” when measured to a hard
floor surface at the front of the deck.
Belt Tension Adjustment
The pump drive belt is self-adjusting, and normally
requires no adjustment, just replacement. It is
spring loaded to prevent strain on the pump
bearings.
Moving the Mower with the Engine Off
Rotate both of the manual bypass valve levers on
the top of each hydraulic pump about ½ turn
counterclockwise. This will release the pressure in
the pumps and allow the mower to more easily be
pushed or moved. Release parking brake to move
mower. Tighten the valves again before starting
the mower again. (Do not over tighten)
Bleeding Air from the Hydraulic System
Check (and fill if necessary) hydraulic fluid level.
The level should be about 1”-2” below the top of
the oil reservoir. Use fully synthetic oil: Mobil-1
15W-50. Whenever servicing the hydraulic
system, it is of the utmost importance to keep any
dirt or debris from getting into the system. Clean
off all parts before disassembly and assembly.
Due to the effects air has on efficiency in
hydrostatic drive applications, it is critical that air is
purged from the system.
These purge procedures should be implemented
anytime a hydrostatic system has been opened to
facilitate maintenance or any additional oil has
been added to the system.
Air creates inefficiency because it has
compression and expansion rates that are higher
than that of oil.
Entrained air in the oil may cause the following
symptoms:
• Noisy operation
• Lack of power or drive after short-term
operation
• High operation temperature and excessive
expansion of oil.
Before starting, make sure the reservoir is at the
proper oil level. If it is not, fill to the vehicle
manufacturer’s specifications.
11
Page 16
The following procedures should be performed
with the vehicle properly secured and the drive
wheels off the ground, then repeated under normal
operating conditions.
1. With the manual bypass valve open and the
engine running, slowly move the directional
control in both forward and reverse directions
(5 to 6 times), as air is purged from the unit,
the oil level will drop.
2. With the manual bypass valve closed and the
engine running, slowly move the directional
control in both forward and reverse directions
(5 to 6 times). Check the oil level, and add oil
as required after stopping engine.
3. It may be necessary to repeat Steps 1 and 2
until all the air is completely purged from the
system. When the mower moves forward and
reverse at normal speed purging is complete.
Battery Service (if electric start version)
Remove battery (if electric start version) from
machine and fully charge in an open, wellventilated area according to the recommendations
of the battery charger manual. The battery is 12
volts. After fully charged, install on mower and
attach battery cables, positive first (from starter
motor) and negative last (from ground).
Cleaning the Mower
The underside of the mower deck should be
checked and cleaned twice daily, and more often if
the grass being mowed is lush or wet. The entire
mower should be cleaned daily at the end of the
work day.
Cleaning should be done with a leaf blower or lowpressure compressed air. Wash with water only
when necessary and do not use a pressure
washer or nozzle as the water can enter electrical
connections causing an electrical short, rust and
corrosion. When washing with water, do so when
the unit has cooled down. Washing a hot machine
can cause various unseen system damage. If
water is used for cleaning, immediately dry it with
a leaf blower or low-pressure compressed air.
Once the wash is complete, always lubricate and
grease all applicable areas.
MAINTENANCE SERVICE INTERVALS (see chart on following page)
It is very important to keep good maintenance records. Use the hour meter
on the mower to record the hour reading of each maintenance service so
you will not forget how long it has been since you last did certain
maintenance. The more faithful and consistent you are, the longer the
mower will last and hold its value.
NOTE: THE FOLLOWING ITEMS ARE REQUIRED TO AVOID
INVALIDATING THE WARRANTY.
12
Page 17
Maintenance Interval Chart
NOTES
*Th
diti
*
MAINTENANCE ITEM
Inspect for cracks in frame, cutter deck or other steel parts
Inspect all belts for wear, adjustment and alignment
Check all bolts and nuts for tightness (tighten as necessary)
Lubricate hand control lever pivot shafts with waterproof grease
Check hydraulic oil reservoir level and fill as needed - Use SYNTHETIC oil - Mobil1
15W-50
Grease caster wheel bearings
Check tire pressure; Rear tires 18-22 psi-Front tires 30-40 psi. Some Front Casters
are equipped with non-pneumatic tires and do not require any air.
Check and clean engine cooling fins
Lubricate Operator Presence Control pivots and control rod with waterproof grease
Replace fuel filter
Lubricate choke control cable (if equipped) with W D-40
Check engine and add as needed
Check for fuel or oil leakage - correct as needed
Check and clean air intake screen
Clean engine blower screen and fins with com pressed air
Clean mower with compressed air-do NOT use a pressure washer
Check for loose hardware (e-clips, snap rings, nuts, etc.)
Check blades for wear and sharpness (sharpen and balance or replace as
necessary)
Check and adjust tire pressures to no more than maximum pressure listed on tire
and m a intaining good traction and comfort
Clean out debris under blade belt cover
Scrape clean underside of cutter deck
Check blade m ounting bolts for proper tightness
Check blade spindle mounting bolts for proper tightness
Cl ean air cleaner f oa m element
Inspect tires, replace as needed
Inspect and tighten all hydraulic hoses
Adjust parking brake shoes to firmly stop wheels when engaged
Cl ean air clea ner paper element
Clean and re-gap spark plug (replace as necessary)
Change engine oil
Change engine oil filter
Repla ce air cleaner pa per element
Replace hydraulic oil filter with Original W right filter
Completely inspect for excessive wear in all parts of mow er, including control
system (replace worn parts)
Inspect and replace (if necessary) worn main cutter deck idler pulleys or pulley
bearings (if applicable)
Replace (if necessary) excessively worn caster wheels and roller bearings
Remove battery an d clean battery, battery box and ba ttery cable ends (if applicable)
Clean combustion chamber
Ch eck and ad ju st val ve cl earance
Clean and lap valve seating surface
E
S
N
I
M
G
TE
I
EN
Engine*1
Engine*1
Engine*1
Engine*1
Engine*1
Engine*1
Engine*1
Engine*1
Engine*1
Engine*1
Engine*1
Engine*1
Engine*1
Engine*1
Engine*1
TE
O
N
E
B
SE
*3
*2
W
8
O
L
E
S
R
LY
U
ST
R
I
F
XX
XXX
XXX
XX
XXX
XXX
XXX
XXX
XXX
XX
XX
XX
I
O
A
H
D
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XX
XX
XX
5
2
Y
U
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V
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XX
XX
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00
1
S
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U
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EV
XX
00
S
2
R
Y
U
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EV
XX
XX
XX
XX
XX
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00
S
3
R
Y
R
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V
E
X
X
X
LY
S
L
R
A
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A
X
X
X
:
- Refer to Engine Manufacturers Owners Manual
*1
- Hydraulic fluid level should be 1"-2" below the top of the oil fill
*2
- Contact an authorized Dealer immediately if any cracks are found
*3
e service intervals indicated are to be used as a guide. Service should be performed more frequently as necessary by operating con
ons
13
Page 18
Maintenance Record
DateMaintenance/Service Performed
Unit
Hours
Shop/Technician
14
Page 19
WRIGHT MANUFACTURING, INC. POWER EQUIPMENT LIMITED WARRANTY
THIS WARRANTY SUPERSEDES ALL PREVIOUS ON UNITS WITH A RETAIL SALES DATE ON OR AFTER 04/01/05
Wright Manufacturing, Inc. (hereinafter: WM I) warrants to the original owner
that the new WMI mower accompanying this document will be free from
manufacturing defects in materials or work manship subject to the following
limitations and exclusions. Any part of the WMI commercial mower
manufactured by WMI and found, in the reas onable judgment of WMI, to be
defective in materials or workmanship, will be repaired or replaced by an
Authorized WMI Service Dealer without charge for parts and (except as
excluded below) labor. This Warranty is limited to the original Owner and the
mower this document was provided with and is not transferable. Deal er dem o
units with less than fifty hours when first retailed shall als o be covered by this
limited warranty. Proofs of Purchase, Authorized Dealer performed PreDeliver Service and the First Eight Hour Service will be required by the
Authorized WMI Service Dealer to substantiate any warranty claims. All WMI
warranty work must be performed by an Authorize d WMI Service Dealer and
item must be delivered to the dealer prior to the expiration of the warranty
period. This Warranty is limited to the following sp ecified periods from the
date of the original retail purchase for defec ts in materials or workmanship
and will commence upon the date of original retail pur chase. This warranty
shall apply only if the warranty registration form has been completed and
returned to Wright Manufacturing, Inc. within 30 days from the date of ori ginal
retail purchase. This warranty includes only the cost of parts an d labor (when
applicable).
• All parts and components (except as noted below) – 2 years
• Belts – 90 days
• Battery – 90 days
• Engine – warranty covered by engine manufacturer and handled
through the respective Authorized engine Dealers
Exclusions:
Any damage or deterioration due to normal use, wear and tear or exposure
All filters, engine oil, hydraulic oil, tires and tubes
Bent, fractured or broken parts occurring through impact or hard use
Clutch: linings, anti-rotation failure or other failure due to improper
replacement installation
Cost of regular maintenance service, parts or adjustments
Worn bearings (other than spindle bearings; see above)
Worn bushings, cotters, clips, pins and retainers
Grease fittings/zerks
Paint, paint fading, cosmetic imperfections and steel surface imperfections
Fabric, cushion and rubber grip wear or damage
Cutting blades, light bulbs, fuses
Damage due to loose pulleys on shafts
Damage due to loose wheel hubs on tapered hydraulic motor shafts
Fire Damage
Abrasion or corrosion wear or damage
Repair Parts Replaced During Original Warranty
All repair parts (excluding wear or otherwise excluded items) installed during
the warranty period are warranted until the end of the respective original
period according to the categories above except in the case that the
respective original warranty period expires in less than ninety (90) days after
the installation of the part(s). If this happens then the parts are warranted for
a total of ninety (90) days from the time of their installation.
Rental Use
The above warranty periods are limited to maximum of ninety (90) day for
mowers that are used for rental purposes.
This WMI mower, including any defective part, must be returned to an
Authorized WMI Service Dealer within the warranty p eriod. The expense of
lost production time and delivering the mower to t he Authorized WMI Servic e
Dealer for warranty work and the expense of returning it to the Owner a fter
repair will be paid for by the Owner. WMI’s responsibility is limited to mak ing
the required repairs and no claim of breach of warranty shall be cause for
cancellation or rescission of the contract of sale of any WMI mower. This
Warranty does not apply to any mower that was del ivered to an Owner prior
to the Pre-Delivery Service as specified in the Owner’s Manual. This
Warranty does not apply to any mower that was shipped in a crate to the
Owner or delivered to the Owner by non-employees of an Authorized D ealer.
For the Owner’s protection and a valid Warranty , please note: WMI does not
permit Authorized Dealers to make non-face-to-face deliveries of the mower
and any who are found doing so are subject to immediat e cancellation as
Authorized Dealers. This Warranty does not cover an y mower that has bee n
subject to misuse, neglect, negligence, burning in any fire, an accident, or that
has been operated or maintained in a ny way contrary to the operating and
maintenance instructions as specified in the Owner’s Manual. The Warranty
does not apply to any damage to the mower t hat is the result of improper
maintenance, or to any mower or parts that have not been assembled or
installed as specified in the Owner’s Manual. The W arranty does not cover
any mower that has been altered or modified changing performance or
durability. In addition, the Warranty does not extend to repairs made
necessary by normal wear, or by the use of parts or a ccessories which, in th e
reasonable judgment of WMI, are either inc ompatible with the W MI mower or
adversely affect its operation, performance or durabili ty. WMI reserves the
right to change or improve the design of any mower witho ut assuming any
obligation to modify any mower previously manufactured.
All other implied warranties are limited in duration to the two (2) year
warranty period or ninety (90) days for mowers used for rental purposes.
Accordingly, any such implied warranties including merchantability, fitness
for a particular purpose, or otherwise, are disclaimed in th eir entirety after
the expiration for the appropriate two (2) year or ninety (90) day warranty
period. WMI’s obligation under this Warranty is s trictly limited to the repair
or replacement of defective parts and WMI does not assume, or authorize
anyone to assume for them, any other obligation. So me states do not allow
limitations on how long an impl ied warranty lasts, so the above limitation
may not apply.
WMI assumes no responsibility for incidental, consequential or other
damages including, but not limited to, expense for gasoline, expense of
delivering the mower to an Authorized W MI Service Dealer and expe nse of
returning it to the Owner, damage by fire, mechanic’s travel time, telephone
charges, rental of a like product during the t ime warranty repairs are being
performed, travel, loss or damage to pers onal property, loss of revenue, loss
of use of the power equipment, loss of time or inconv enience. Some states
do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential
damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply.
This warranty gives you specific legal r ights, and you may also have other
rights which vary from state to state.
This Warranty applies to all WMI mowers sold in the United States of
America and Canada.
For the location of the Authorized WMI Service Dealer nearest you or
other information, such as, Parts Lists and Owners Manuals visit our
website at:
www.wrightmfg.com
Wright Manufacturing, Inc.
4600-X Wedgewood Blvd.
Frederick, MD 21703
15
Page 20
4600X Wedgewood Blvd
Frederick, MD 21703
www.wrightmfg.com
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