Craftsman 486.24629 User manual

Owner's Manual
CRRFrSMRN
42-inch Universal
Tow Behind
ROUG CUT
DO NOT RETURN TO STORE
For Missing Parts or Assembly
Questions Call 1-866-576-8388
Model No. 486.24629
CAUTION:
Before using this product, read
this manual and follow all Safety
Rules and Operating Instructions.
• Safety
,, Assembly
,, Operation
,, Maintenance
,, Parts
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.
www.sears.com/craftsman
PRINTED IN U.S.A. FORM NO. 40811 (01/31/08)

WARRANTY ..................................................... 2
SAFETY RULES ............................................ 3-4
CARTON CONTENTS/PARTS BAG .............. 5-6
ASSEMBLY .................................................. 7-10
WIRING DIAGRAM ........................................ 11
OPERATION .............................................. 12-16
MAINTENANCE ........................................ 17-18
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENT ................. 19-20
STORAGE ...................................................... 21
REPAIR PARTS LISTS .............................. 22-26
SLOPE GUIDE ............................................... 27
PARTS ORDERING/SERVICE ......... Rear Cover
LIMITED WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWERED TRACTOR ATTACHMENTS
For one (1) year from the date of purchase, ifthis Craftsman Equipment is maintained,
lubricated and tuned up according to the instructions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair
or replace free of charge any parts found to be defective in material or workmanship. Warranty
service is available free of charge by returning your Craftsman equipment to your nearest Sears
Service Center. In-home warranty service is available but a trip charge will apply. This Warranty
applies only while this product is in the United States.
This Warranty does not cover:
• Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as spark plugs, air cleaners,
belts, and oil filters.
Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails, thorns,
stumps, or glass.
Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, including but not limited to, damage caused by
impacting objects that bend the frame or crankshaft, or over-speeding the engine.
Repairs necessary because of operator negligence, including but not limited to, electrical and
mechanical damage caused by improper storage, failure to use the proper grade and amount
of engine oil, or failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions contained in the
owner's manual.
Engine (fuel system) cleaning or repairs caused by fuel determined to be contaminated or
oxidized (stale). In general, fuel should be used within 30 days of its purchase date.
Equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.
LIMITED WARRANTY ON BATTERY
For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery included with the equipment proves
defective in material or workmanship and our testing determines the battery will not hold a
charge, Sears will replace the battery at no charge. Warranty service is available free of charge
by returning your Craftsman equipment to your nearest Sears Service Center. In-home warranty
service is available but a trip charge will apply. This Warranty applies only while this product is in
the United States.
TO LOCATE THE NEAREST SEARS SERVICE CENTER OR TO SCHEDULE SERVICE,
SIMPLY CONTACT SEARS AT 1-800-4-MY-HOME.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights, which vary from
state to state.

WARNING: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to
observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.
I°
®
®
GENERAL OPERATION
Read, understand and follow all instructions in the
manual and on the machine before starting.
Read this operator's manual carefully. Become
familiar with the controls and know how to operate
your mower properly.
*Only allow responsible adults who are familiar with
the instructions to operate the machine.
*Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire,
etc., which could be picked up and thrown by the
blade.
*Be sure the area is clear of other people before
mowing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.
*Never carry passengers.
*Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary.
Always look down and behind before and during
backing.
*Be aware of the mower discharge direction and do
not point it at anyone. Do not operate the mower
without the guard in place.
*Slow down before turning.
*Never leave a running machine unattended. Always
turn off blades and stop engine.
*Turn off blades when not mowing.
*Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
*Do not operate the machine while under the
influence of alcohol or drugs.
*Watch for traffic when crossing or operating near
roadways.
*Use extra care when loading or unloading the
machine into a trailer or truck.
*Do not attempt to operate your tractor or mower
when not in drivers seat.
*Disengage power to mower and stop engine when
transporting or when not in use.
*Exercise special care when mowing around fixed
objects in order to prevent the blades from striking
them. Never deliberately run tractor or mower onto or
over any foreign object.
*Use mower only as the manufacturer intended and
as described in this manual.
*Do not operate mower if it has been dropped or
damaged in any manner. Always have damage
repaired before using your mower.
*Always wear safety glasses or eye shields when
starting and while using your mower.
*Dress properly. Do not operate mower when barefoot
or wearing open sandals. Wear only solid shoes with
good traction when mowing.
*Always make cutting height adjustments before
starting your mower. Never attempt to do this while
the engine is running.
3
*Keep your eyes and mind on your mower and the
area being cut. Do not let other interests distract you.
*Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts.
Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times.
*Before cleaning, inspecting, or repairing your mower,
stop the engine and make absolutely sure the blade
and all moving parts have stopped. Then disconnect
the spark plug wire and keep it away from the spark
plug to prevent accidental starting.
*Do not operate your mower if it vibrates abnormally.
Excessive vibration is and indication of damage; stop
the engine, safely check for the cause of vibration
and repair as required.
*Never operate your mower without proper guards,
plates or other safety devices in place.
II. 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 feel uneasy
on it, do not mow it.
DO:
*Mow up and down slopes, not across.
*Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.
Watch for holes, ruts or bumps. Uneven terrain could
overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
*Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so that you will
not have to stop or shift while on the slope.
*Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for
wheel weights or counterweights to improve stability.
*Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual.
Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction.
*Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose
traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly
straight down the slope.
DO NOT:
*Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then
turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.
*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 or ditch, or if an
edge caves in.
*Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could
cause sliding.

III.CHILDREN
Tragicaccidentscanoccuriftheoperatorisnotalertto
thepresenceofchildren.Childrenareoftenattractedto
themachineandthemowingactivity.Neverassumethat
childrenwillremainwhereyoulastsawthem.
Keepchildrenoutofthemowingareaandunderthe
watchfulcareofanotherresponsibleadult.
Bealertandturnmachineoffifchildrenenterthe
area.
Beforeandwhenbacking,lookbehindanddownfor
smallchildren.
Nevercarrychildren.Theymayfalloffandbe
seriouslyinjuredorinterferewithsafemachine
operation.
Neverallowchildrentooperatethemachine.
Useextracarewhenapproachingblindcorners,
shrubs,treesorotherobjectsthatmayobscure
vision.
IV. SERVICE
Useextracareinhandlinggasolineandotherfuels.
Theyareflammableandvaporsareexplosive.
Useonlyanapprovedcontainer.
Neverremovegascaporaddfuelwiththe
enginerunning.
Allowenginetocoolbeforerefueling.Donot
smokenearorwhileoperatingmower.
•Never refuel the machine indoors.
Never store the machine or fuel container inside
a room where there is an open flame, such as
with a gas water heater.
Never run a machine inside a closed area.
Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment
nuts, tight and keep equipment in good condition.
Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper
operation regularly.
Keep machine free of grass, leaves or other debris
build-up. Clean oil or fuel spillage. Allow machine to
cool before storing.
Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an
object. Repair, if necessary, before restarting.
Never make adjustment or repairs with the engine
running.
Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the
blade(s) or wear gloves, and use extra caution when
servicing them.
Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service
as required.
Look for this symbol to point out
important safety precautions. It
means CAUTIONH! BECOME
ALERT!!! YOUR SAFETY IS
INVOLVED.
CAUTION: Always disconnect spark
plug wire and place wire where it
cannot contact spark plug in order
to prevent accidental starting when
setting up, transporting, adjusting or
making repairs.
4

PJease read and keep this manual. The instructions
will enabJe you to assembJe and maintain your power
mower properly. AJways observe the "safety rules."
Record serial number and date of purchase in space
provided below.
MODEL NUMBER:
SERIAL NUMBER:
DATE OF PURCHASE:
486.24629
The model and serial numbers will be found on the
plate attached to the left side of the drive housing.
You should record both serial number and date of
purchase and keep in a safe place for future reference.
WARNING: This unit is equipped
with an internal combustion engine
and should not be used on or near
any unimproved forest-covered
or grass-covered land unless the engine's
exhaust system is equipped with a spark
arrester and meeting applicable local or state
laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it
should be maintained in effective working
order by the operator.
In the state of California the above is required
by law (section 4442 of the California Public
Resources Code). Other states may have
similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal
lands. A spark arrester for the muffler
is available through your nearest sears
authorized service center.
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Horsepower: 15.5
Displacement: 31 CU IN.
Gasoline Type: Unleaded Regular
Oil Type SAE 30 (Above 32 F)
(API-SF/SG) SAE 5W-30 (Below 32 F
[Oil Capacity:
_Spark Plug:
[Tire Pressure:
_Width of Cut:
48 oz. (1.42 liters)
(GAP: .030")
14 psi max.
42 Inches
HITCH ASSEMBLY
REAR ROLLER
MOWER DECK REAR ROLLER BRACKET PARTS BAG (CONTENTS ON PAGE 6)

SHOWN FULL SIZE
A
G
jF
NOT SHOWN FULL SIZE
RER QT_
A 1
B 2
C 2
D 2
E 2
F 1
DESCRIPTION
Hex Bolt, 1/2" x 7"
Hex Bolt, 1/4" x 7-1/2"
Hex Bolt, 5/18" x 3/4"
Hex Bolt, 1/4" x 3/4"
Screw, Self Tapping #10 x 1/2"
Hex Nylock Jam Nut, 1/2"
RER QT_
G 2
H 2
I 2
J 2
K 1
DESCRIPTION
Hex Nylock Nut, 5/16"
Hex Nut (SEMS), 1/4"
Clip, 3/8"
Plastic Nut
Key

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY
(1) 5/16" Wrench
(2) 7/16" Wrenches
(2) 1/2" Wrenches
(2) 9/16" Wrenches
(2) 3/4" Wrenches or Adjustable Wrenches
UNPACKING
Enclosed in packing crate are (3) items:
1. Mower Deck
2. Tow Bar Hitch Assembly
3. Box of Parts consisting of:
• Rear Roller
• Rear Roller Bracket
•Bag of Parts (See page 6)
INSTALLTOWBARTUBETO REAR
QUADRANT
Place Towbar Tube into Rear Quadrant, align holes
and insert 3/8 x 2-3/4 Hex Bolt through quadrant and
rear hole of Tube.
Secure tightly with 3/8 Hex Lock Nut and then loosen
1/4 turn to allow Tube to pivot freely inside Rear
Quadrant.
Insert 3/8 X 2-3/4 Bolt and 3/8 Flat Washer into slot in
Rear Quadrant and into hole in Towbar Tube.
Secure Tightly with 3/8 Fiat Washer and 3/8 Hex Lock
Nut, then loosen 1/4 turn to allow Tube to pivot freely
inside Rear Quadrant.
NOTE: Towbar Tube must pivot freely inside Rear
Quadrant when Latch is pulled from notch.
ENGINE OIL
VERY IMPORTANT:
Engine must be filled with oil before operation. See OIL
& FUEL RECOMMENDATIONS in engine Owner's
Manual for correct filling instructions and oil fill capacity.
INSTALL BATTERY
INSTALL CLUTCH CABLE TO TOWBAR TUBE
Place Clutch Cable forward along Towbar Tube.
Spread ends of two Cable Clips and place around
Clutch Cable.
Place Clutch Cable on top of Towbar Tube and align
Cable Clips with bolt holes in Towbar Tube.
Secure with two #10 Screws.
Your Trail Mower requires a 12 volt battery to operate. The
battery is NOT included with the unit. It must be purchased
separately.
Remove four screws and the Battery Cover from the
Mower and set them aside.
Install two Plastic Nuts into the square holes in the
Mower Deck under the Battery Cover.
Place the Battery on the Mower Deck between the two
Plastic Nuts.
Place the Battery Hold Down on top of the Battery.
Secure the Battery to the Mower Deck with two
1/4 x 7-1/2 hex bolts.
Open the terminal access doors on the Battery Hold
Down.
Connect the Red Wire to the positive (+) battery
terminal using a 1/4 x 3/4 hex bolt and 1/4 SEMS nut.
Tighten securely.
Connect the Black Wire to the negative (-) battery
terminal using a 1/4 x 3/4 hex bolt and 1/4 SEMS nut.
Tighten securely.
Close the terminal access doors.
Replace Battery Cover and secure it with the four
screws.
INSTALL CLUTCH CABLE TO CLUTCH
LEVER
Remove outer 5/16 Nut from end of Clutch Cable
Housing. (See Fig. 1 on page 8)
Turn inner 5/16 Nut to bottom of thread.
Insert Cable and outer 5/16 Nut through slotted hole
in Cable Guide of Hitch Assembly. The outer 5/16 Nut
musts be cocked sideways to insert through slotted
hole of Cable Guide.
Reinstall outer 5/16 Nut to the cable housing to secure
Cable Harness to Cable Guide.
Install Mounting Anchor of Clutch Cable to Clutch
Lever using Clevis Pin and Hair Cotter Pin.
7

TERMINAL ACCESS DOORS
1/4 X 3/4 HEX BOLT &
1/4 HEX NUT (SEMS) BATTERY
BLACK WIRE SCREW (4)
BATTERY HOLD DOWN
1/4 X 7-1/2 HEX BOLT
PLASTIC NUT
RED WIRE
1/4 X 7-1/2
HEX BOLT
REAR QUADRANT
3/8 X 2-3/4 HEX BOLT
3/8 FLAT WASHER
#10 SCREW (2)
CABLE CLIP (2)
CLUTCH LEVER
3/8 FLAT WASHER
Y
3/8 HEX LOCK NUT j_
1/4 X 3/4 HEX BOLT_,_
HITCH ASSEMBLY....._,/ _
i' ,' "
\\\\\
FIG. 1
CLUTCH CABLE
5/16 HEX NUT (2)
MOUNTING ANCHOR 1/4" HEX LOCK NUT

/
/
/
INNER NUT
OUTER NUT
/
CLUTCH CABLE ADJUSTMENT
Remove four screws from Rear Drive Cover. Lay aside
cover and screws.
Place Clutch Lever in "DISENGAGED" position
The Cable should be under slight tension but should
not pull the Clutch Lever more than 1/8" away from the
Switch Body.
NOTE: If the Plunger extends more than 1/8" out from
the switch body, the cable tension is too tight and the
Engine will not start.
TO INCREASE CABLE TENSION
Place Blade Clutch Lever in the "DISENGAGED"
position.
Loosen the inner nut on the Clutch Cable.
Tighten the outer nut on the Clutch Cable.
SWITCH
BODY
TO DECREASE CABLE TENSION
Place Blade Clutch Lever in the "DISENGAGED"
position.
•Loosen the outer nut on the Clutch Cable.
•Tighten the inner nut on the Clutch Cable.
•Repeat the above procedure until you have the correct
tension.
PLUNGER
CLUTCH LEVER
REAR DRIVE ''''''''''_"
COVER
FOUR
SCREWS
ENGINE
PULLEY
BLADE
PULLEY ©
© ©
IDLER
PULLEY
CLUTCH LEVER
FIG. 29

iNSTALL REAR ROLLER TO DECK
Install Rear Roller Mounting Bracket to rear of deck
using two 5/16 x 3/4 Hex Bolts and two 5/16 Nylock
Nuts. (See Fig. 3.)
Install Roller to Rear Roller Bracket using 1/2 x 7 Hex
Bolt and 1/2 Nylock Jam Nut.
Make sure Roller turns freely on Bolt.
ROLLER REAR ROLLER
MOUNTING BRACKET
1/2 X 7 HEX BOLT 1/2 NYLOCK JAM NUT
FiG. 3
10

STARTER
SWITCH
BLUE WiRE-
BLACKWIRE
-RED WiRE
WiRE
SOLENOID
iNTERLOCK SWITCH _-_
BATTERY
+
RED WiRE
BATTERY CHARGE
GRAY WiRE TO AFTERFIRE SOLENOID
BLACK WiRE TO ENGINE GROUND
WHITE WiRE
iTEM PART NO. DESCRIPTION
1. 49193
2. 48097
3. 49196
4. 49192
5. 49244
6. HA23787
7. 49197
8. HA237888
9. HA237544
10. HA231999
11. HA237494
12. 2491545
13. 43012
14. 46978
WIRE HARNESS
WIRE RED CHARGE
WIRE BLACK BATTERY
WIRE INTERLOCK
WIRE GROUND (optional)
WIRE BLACK
WIRE RED BATTERY
WIRE RED STARTER
SOLENOID
SWITCH, INTERLOCK
SWITCH, STARTER
CONDUIT, FLEXIBLE
BOLT, HEX 1/4" x 3/4"
NUT, SIMS HEX 1/4"

KNOW YOUR MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR MOWER.
Compare the illustrations with your mower to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments,
Save the manual for future reference.
MOWER BLADE
CLUTCH LEVER
IGNITION
KEY SWITCH
TOW HITCH OFFSET
ADJUSTMENT
HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT STRAP
4------- HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
LIFT LEVER
TOW BAR HEIGHT
ADJUSTMENT
THROTTLE CONTROL
ADJUSTMENT
STRAP
FiG. 4
MOWER BLADE CLUTCH LEVER -- Starts and stops
mower blade rotation.
THROTTLE CONTROL -- Controls engine speed, engine
shut--off and engine choke.
IGNITION KEY SWITCH -- Used to start and stop
engine.
HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT LIFT LEVER -- Raise and lower
mower to different cutting heights.
HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT STRAP -- Controls cutting
height.
TOW BAR HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT-- To level mower
front to rear.
TOW HITCH OFFSET ADJUSTMENT -- To adjust mower
deck offset from tractor center.
12

The operation of any mower can result in foreign objects being thrown into the eyes,
which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields
before starting your mower and while mowing+ We recommend wide vision safety mask
for over the spectacles or standard safety glasses.
CHILDREN
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. Never
assume that children will remain where you last saw them.
HOW TO USE YOUR MOWER
STOPPING
MOWER BLADES-
= Move mower blade dutch switch to "DISENGAGED"
position.
ENGINE-
+ Move throttle control to "SLOW" position.
NOTE: Failure to move throttle control to "SLOW"
position or allowing engine to idle before stopping may
cause engine to "backfire".
+ Turn ignition key to "OFF" position and remove key.
AIv_ays remove key when leaving tractor to prevent
unauthorized use.
o Never use choke to stop engine.
TO USE CHOKE CONTROL
Use choke control whenever you are starting a cold
engine. Do not use to start a warm engine.
• To engage choke control, move throttle control to
choke position.
,After engine has started move throttle control to fult
+ throttle position.
TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL
Always operate engine at full throttle.
* Operating engine at less than full throttle reduces
the battery charging rate.
+ Full throttle offers the best mower performance.
TRANSPORTING
+ Shut off engine.
+ Place mower deck in the highest position directly
behind tractor.
ATTACHING MOWER TO TRACTOR
+ Place mower behind tractor and back tractor up to it
for attaching. (See Fig. 5)
+ Slide tow bar of mower over tractor draw bar so that
the hitch pin holes line up.
• Insert hitch pin until it extends through the bottom of
the tow bar.
• Insert hair cotter pin through hitch pin.
TRACTOF_
HITCH PIN
OR MOWER
CLEVIS PIN TRACTOR
DRAWBAR
HAiR COTTER PIN
FIG. 5
13

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
• Fill engine with oil. (See engine manual for proper
procedure and requirements.
• Add gasoline. Fill fuel tank using fresh clean
unleaded gasoline. (See tractor manual for safe
filling procedure and storage instructions)
CAUTION:
FILL TO BOTTOM OF FUEL TANK FILLER
NECK. DO NOT OVERFILL. WiPE OFF
ANY SPILLED OIL OR FUEL. DO NOT
STORE, SPILL OR USE GASOLINE NEAR
OPEN FLAME.
STARTING THE MOWER
+ Adjust mower cutting height.
+ Start mower engine.
+ Move throttle to fast position.
• Move mower blade lever to "ENGAGED" position.
BREAKING IN YOUR MOWER
Break in your belts, pulleys, and engine before you
actually begin mowing.
•Start engine, engage blade control to start blades
rotating and allow blades to rotate for approximately
five minutes to break in mower and engine.
TO START ENGINE
When starting engine for the first time or if engine has
run out of fuel, it will take extra cranking time to move
fuel from the tank to the engine.
+ Move mower blade clutch lever to "DISENGAGED"
position.
• Move throttle control to the choke position for cold
engine starts. For warm engine starts move throttle
control to midway between "FAST" and "SLOW"
positions.
+ Turn ignition key clockwise to "START" position and
release key as soon as engine starts. Do not run
starter continuously for more than fifteen seconds
per minute. If engine does not start after several
attempts, move throttle control to "FAST" position,
wait a few minutes and try again.
+ When engine starts, slowly move throttle control to
"FAST" position.
, Allow engine to warm up for a few minutes before
engaging mower blade clutch lever.
NOTE: If at a high altitude (above 3000 feet) or in cold
temperatures (below 32°F), the carburetor fuel mixture
may need to be adjusted for best engine performance.
See "TO ADJUST CARBURETOR" in your Engine
Owner's Manual
CAUTION:
CHECK AREA UNDER AND AROUND
MOWER FOR ANY OBJECTS THAT COULD
BE THROWN FROM UNDER MOWER.
MAKE SURE THAT MOWER DISCHARGE
AREA IS CLEAR.
MOWING PROCEDURES
CAUTION:
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. NEVER ASSUME THAT
CHILDREN WILL REMAIN WHERE YOU
LAST SAW THEM.
LCAUTION:
NEVER CARRY CHILDREN. THEY MAY
FALL OFF AND BE SERIOUSLY INJURED
OR INTERFERE WITH SAFE OPERATION
Mowing should be started with tow vehicle in low
gear and speed increased only as mowing conditions will
safely permit.
Mower will perform at its best when engine throttle
is set for full throttle.
Always operate mower engine at fu!l throttle when
mowing to assure better mowing performance and
proper discharge of material. Regulate ground speed by
selecting a low enough gear to give the mower cutting
performance as well as the quality of cut desired.
When operating any attachment select a ground
speed that will suit the terrain and give best
performance of the attachment being used.
iMPORTANT: Avoid prolonged mowing of ditches
with slopes greater than 15 degrees. Small engines
become starved for oil at angles greater than 15
degrees and should only be used for brief periods
on such slopes. Be sure the engine is filled to the
maximum oil level when mowing on slopes.
14

MOWER HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
CAUTION:
SHUT OFF MOWER ENGINE AND REMOVE
SPARK PLUG WIRE FROM SPARK PLUG
BEFORE MAKING ANY ADJUSTMENTS TO
THE MOWER
The cutting height range is approximately 1-1/2 to 5
inches. The heights are measured form the ground to
the blade tip with the engine not running. These heights
are approximate and may vary depending upon soil
conditions, height of brush and types of brush being
mowed.
CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENTS
• To adjust the mower cutting height remove hair
cotter pin from locating pin. (See Fig. 6)
=Apply down pressure to height adjustment lift lever.
• Remove the locating pin from the height adjustment
strap.
• Move height adjustment strap up or down to align it
with the desired hole in the height adjustment strap.
=Reassemble locating pin to the height adjustment
strap and secure with hair cotter pin.
= Make sure that both side height adjustment straps
are adjusted to the same height.
FRONT TO BACK RAKE ADJUSTMENT
To obtain the best cutting results, the mower housing
should be adjusted so that the front is approximately
1/4" to 3/4" lower than the rear. To check front to back
adjustment measure from the bottom edge of the deck
to the ground at both front and rear of the deck.
TO ADJUST MOWER FROM FRONT TO BACK
• Remove two hair cotter pinsfrom two clevis pins in
the tow bar adjustment. (See Fig. 6)
= Remove two clevis pins from tow bar adjustment.
Raise or lower the tow bar to obtain the proper front
to back adjustment.
Reassemble two clevis pins to tow bar adjustment
and secure with two hair cotter pins.
HAIR COTTER PIN
*_(j CLEVIS PIN
[
[
ADJUSTMENT
HAIR COTTER PIN
LOCATING PIN "_'_"t
HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT STRAP
HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
LIFT LEVER
\\\\
/
GROUND LEVEL -- CUTTING HEIGHT
FIG, 6
15

TOW HITCH OFFSET ADJUSTMENT
This mower has been designed to run offset from the
center of the tow vehicle. This allows the operator to drive
along side high brush with the tow vehicle while cutting
down the brush beside him. The adjustable hitch gives
you three offset cutting positions plus straight behind for
narrow paths.
MODEL 45-0362
The adjustable hitch of this mower can be set in seven
positions including straight and offsets of 9", 17" and 23"
on both sides. (See Fig. 7)
I
17" OFFSET ON MODEL 45-0362 I]__=1 _
FIG. 7
CAUTION:
SHUT OFF MOWER ENGINE AND REMOVE
SPARK PLUG WIRE FROM SPARK PLUG
BEFORE MAKING ANY ADJUSTMENTS TO
THE MOWER
TO ADJUST THE OFFSET HITCH
+ Pull back the pivot latch from the notch of the front
quadrant. Adjust the hitch tube to the desired
offset and release the pivot latch into the notch of
the quadrant. (See Fig. 8)
o Pull back the pivot latch from the notch of the rear
quadrant. Adjust the hitch tube to the
corresponding notch of the front quadrant and
release the pivot latch into the notch,
iMPORTANT: The hitch tube must be assembled to
the same offset notch in both the front and rear
quadrants,
,HT
OFFSET
OFFSET
ATCH
23"OFFSET
LATCH
STRAIGH'I _ I °
REAR QUADRANT
FIG, 8
16

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this Vehicle does not cover itemsthat
have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To
receive full value from the warranty, operator must
maintain unit as instructed in this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made periodically to
propedy maintain your unit.
All adjustments inthe Service and Adjustments section of
this manual should be checked at least once each season.
Once ayear you should replace the spark plug,
clean or replace air filter, and check blades and
belts for wear. Anew spark plug and clean air filter
assure proper air-fuel mixture and help your engine
run better and last longer.
BEFORE EACH USE
= Check engine oil level.
o Check blade operation
,, Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRiCATiON
Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRiCATiON CHART").
MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULE
FILL iN DATES
AS YOU COMPLETE
REGULAR SERVICE
Check Engine Oil Level
Change Engine eli
inspect Spark Arrester Muffler
Inspect Air Screen
Check and Clean Air Cleaner
RepJace Air Cleaner Cartridge
Clean Engine Cylinder Fins
Replace Spark Plug
Lubricate Spindle
SERVICE DATES
ll........................111_
1 - Change more often wnen operating unaer a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures.
2-S_,ioemoreo,enwhenoperatingin_i_or_u,_conditio.e. LUBRiCATiON CHART
WHEEL PIVOT ,_
(_) REFER TO ENGINE MANUAL
Q GENERAL PURPOSE GREASE
DRY LUBRICANT
SPINDLE L2j
IMPORTANT: DO NOT OIL OR GREASE PIVOT POINTS.
VISCOUS LUBRICANTS WILL ATTRACT DUST AND DIRT
THAT CAN CAUSE WEAR ON PIVOT POINTS. IF YOU
FEEL THEY MUST BE LUBRICATED, USE ONLY A DRY
POWERED GRAPHITE TYPE LUBRICANTS.
17
SWIVEL '_2_
QUADRANT _3_ WHEEL PIVOT _3_

BLADE CARE AND SERVICE
CAUTION:
DO NOT HANDLE MOWER BLADES WITH
BARE HANDS. CARELESS OR IMPROPER
HANDLING MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS
INJURY.
BLADE CARE
For best results mower blades must be kept sharp. The
blades can be sharpened with a file or on a grinding
wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen blades while they are
still on the mower.
BLADE SERVICE (Refer to fig. 9)
TO REMOVE BLADE ASSEMBLY FROM DECK
Remove cotter pin from the spindle shaft.
Remove nut and washer from the spindle shaft.
Pull blade assembly off the spindle shaft. (Watch for a
key in the spindle shaft.)
TO REMOVE BLADES FROM BLADE ASSEMBLY.
Remove cotter pin from the blade bolt.
Remove nut from the blade bolt.
Remove blade from the blade assembly.
BLADE SHARPENING
Blades can be sharpened with a file or grinding
wheel.
NOTE: When sharpening blades take care to maintain blade
balance. Sharpen both blades equally even ifone blade does
not need to be sharpened. Check balance by weighing each
blade to make sure they are equal in weight.
CAUTION:
IF YOUR BLADE BOLTS SHOW WEAR,
REPLACE THEM WITH FACTORY
REPLACEMENTS ONLY.
TO REINSTALL BLADES
Assemble a blade bolt through a flat washer, a blade
and then another flat washer.
Assemble the bolt through the hole in the stump plate
and the blade hub assembly.
Assemble a flat washer and nut onto the blade bolt.
Tighten nut, then loosen just until blade can pivot.
Install a cotter pin to secure the nut.
TO REINSTALL BLADE ASSEMBLY TO MOWER
Reinstall key in spindle shaft, if necessary.
Install the blade assembly onto the spindle shaft.
Secure with flat washer and nut.
Torque the spindle shaft and nut to 15 FT. LBS. and
secure with a hair cotter pin.
BLADE ASSEMBLY
FIG. 9
WARNING:
SHUT OFF MOWER ENGINE AND REMOVE
SPARK PLUG WIRE FROM SPARK PLUG
BEFORE MAKING ANY ADJUSTMENTS OR
REPAIRS TO THE MOWER.
CLEANING THE MOWER
Water pressure from a garden hose will remove fresh
clippings from the underside of the mower. Clean mower
after each mowing.
DAILY MAINTENANCE
Make sure all nuts and bolts are tight, cotter pins and
retainer springs are secure. Keep blades sharp. Observe
all Safety Precautions. Keep mower well lubricated.
REPAIR PARTS
Your rotary mower has been produced with components
designed for your unit. Although standard V-belts,
bearings, blades, pulleys, etc. may look like parts used on
your rotary mower, while similar in appearance many are
of a different construction and could in some cases cause
a malfunction in the operation of the machine.
For continued satisfactory performance use only repair
parts supplied by the manufacturer. See the dealer where
the mower was purchased for factory replacement parts.
18

/
/
INNER NUT
\
\\
\
\ J
,_ OUTER NUT
\ J
CLUTCH CABLE ADJUSTMENT
Remove four screws from Rear Drive Cover. Lay aside
cover and screws.
Place Clutch Lever in "DISENGAGED" position
The Cable should be under slight tension but should
not pull the Clutch Lever more than 1/8" away from the
Switch Body.
NOTE: If the Plunger extends more than 1/8" out from
the switch body, the cable tension is too tight and the
Engine will not start.
TO INCREASE CABLE TENSION
Place Blade Clutch Lever in the "DISENGAGED"
position.
Loosen the inner nut on the Clutch Cable.
Tighten the outer nut on the Clutch Cable.
SWITCH
BODY
TO DECREASE CABLE TENSION
Place Blade Clutch Lever in the "DISENGAGED"
position.
Loosen the outer nut on the Clutch Cable.
Tighten the inner nut on the Clutch Cable.
Repeat the above procedure until you have the correct
tension.
\ !
\\\\\\
PLUNGER
CLUTCH LEVER
REAR DRIVE '''''_
COVER
FOUR
SCREWS
\
, \o
/
/
/
/
ENGINE
PULLEY
BLADE
ILLEY
u
IDLER
PULLEY
/
CLUTCH LEVER /
19

V-BELT REPLACEMENT
V-belt must be replaced if it becomes stretched to the
point that it can no longer be adjusted, or if it becomes
frayed or otherwise can not function properly.
Move Blade Clutch Lever to the "DISENGAGED"
position.
[CAUTION:
DISCONNECT SPARK PLUG WIRE
REMOVING OLD V-BELT
Remove Rear Drive Cover.
Remove Front Drive Cover.
Remove Hair Pin and Clevis Pin from Clutch Cable.
Loosen two Rear Belt Guides and pivot them away
from Blade Pulley.
Remove V-belt from around Blade Pulley.
Remove one small Hair Pin from Belt Keeper Rod and
slide Belt Keeper Rod to the side.
Pull V-belt down from around Engine Pulley and
remove V-belt from Mower.
INSTALLING NEW V-BELT
Feed new V-belt between the two belt guides at the
Engine Pulley.
Place V-belt up and around the Engine Pulley. Check
to make sure the V-belt is seated properly in the
groove of the Engine Pulley.
Place V-belt along inside of Idler Pulley.
Wrap V-belt down around Blade Pulley, placing Belt
inside of Rear Belt Guides.
Reinstall V-belt Keeper Rod and secure with Small
Hair Pin. Check to make sure V-belt is over top of
Keeper Rod.
Reposition and retighten two Rear Belt Guides at the
rear of the Blade Pulley. Leave approximately 1/16"
between Guides and Pulley.
Reinstall Clevis Pin and Hair Pin into Clutch Cable.
Reinstall Front Drive Cover and Rear Drive Cover.
BELT GUIDES
HAIRPIN AND CLEVIS PIN
BLADE PULLEY
ENGINE PULLEY
o
o
2o
REAR BELT GUIDE_
BELT KEEPER ROD V-BELT
20