Craftsman 917.256561 User manual

CROFI'X
MODEL NUMBER 917.256561 OWNER'SMANUAL
+Assembly
• Operation
• Customer Responsibilities
-Service and Adjustments
+Repair Parts
CAUTION: Read and follow all safety rules and instructions before operating this equipment.
FOR CONSUMER ASSISTANCE HOT LINE, CALL THtS TOLL FREE NUMBER: 1-800-659-59t7

SAFETY RULES
Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers
iMPORTANT: 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.
t. GENERAL OPERATION
-Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual
and on the machine before starting.
• Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the
instructions, to operate the machine.
-Clear the area of objects such as rocks, t6ys, wire; etc._
which could be picked up and thrown by the blade.
• Be sure the area is clear of other people before mewing, Stop
machine if anyone enters the area.
•Never carry passengers.
o Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always
look down and behind before and while hacking.
• Be aware of the mower discharge direction and do not point
it at anyone. Do not operate the mower without either the
entire grass catcher or the guard in place.
Slow down before turning.
= Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn off
blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and remove keys
before dismounting.
°Turn off blades when not mowing,
-Stop engine before removing grass catcher or unclogging
chute.
- 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 operating near or crossing roadways,
• Use extra care when loading or unToading the machine into
a trailer or truck.
I1. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and
tipover 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.
DO:
o 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.
Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments.
These can change the stability of the machine.
Keep all movement on the slopes sfowand gradual Do not
make sudden changes in speed or direction.
oAvoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction,
disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the
slope.
•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.
oDo not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could cause
sliding.
=Do not try to stabilize the roach ine by putting you rfoot on the
ground.
•Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.
ill. 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 wii remain where you last saw them.
Keep children out of the mowing ar¢a and Under the watchful
care of another responsible adult.
= Be alert and _urn machine off if children enter the area
Before and when backing, took behind and down for small
children.
•Never carry children. They may fall off and be seriously
injured or interfere with safe machine operation.
Never aItow children to ooerate the machine.
•Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs,
trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.
2
IV. SERVICE
-Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They are
flammable and vapors are e×ptosive.
USe only an approved container.
_lever remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine
°unning. Allow engine to cool before refueling. Do not
smoke.
Never refuel the machine indoors.
Never store the machine or fuel container inside where
there is an open flame, such as a water heater.
- Never run a machine inside a closed area.
oKeep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment bolts, tight
and keep equipment in good condition.
-Never tamper witi_ 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 adjustments or repairs with the engine running.
•Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage, and
deterioration, which could expose moving parts or allow
objects to be thrown. -requently check components and
replace with manufacturer's recommended parts, when nec-
essary.
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.
IA Look for this symbol to point out ira- i
I A A portent safety precautions. It means I
An CAUTION!!! BECOMEALERT!t! YOUR
CAUTION: Always disconnect spark plug
wire and place wire wh ere it cannot contact
spark plug in order to prevent accidental
starting when setting up, transporting,
adjusting or making repairs.
& WARNING A
The engine exhaust from this product con-
tains chemicals known to the State of Califor-
nia to cause cancer, birth defects, or other
reproductive harm. •
Q

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a Sears
Tractor. It has been designed, engineered and manufac-
tured to give you the best possible dependability and
performance.
Should you experience any problem you cannot easily
remedy, please contact your nearest Sears Authorized
Service Center/DepartmenL We have competent, well-
trained technicians and the proper tools to service or repair
this tractor_
Please read and retain this manual. The instructions will
enable you to assemble and maintain your tractor properly.
Always observe the "SAFETY RULES".
MODEL
NUMBER 917.25656!
SERIAL
NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
THE MODELAND SERIAL NUMBERSWtLL BE FOUND
ON A PLATE UNDER THE SEAT.
YOU SHOULD RECORD BOTH SERIAL NUMBER AND
DATE OF PURCHASE AND KEEP IN A SAFE PLACE
FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.
MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT
A Sears Maintenance Agreement is available on this prod-
uct. Contact your nearest Sears store for details.
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
Read and observe the safety rules,
Follow a regular schedule inmaintaining, caring for and using
your tractor.
o Folfow the instructions under "Customer Responsibilities"
and "Storage" sections of this owner's manual.
WARNING: This tractor is equipped with an internal
combustion engine and should not be used on or near any
ummproved forest-covered, brush-covered or grass-cow
ered land unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped
with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws
(if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained
neffective working'order by the operator.
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
HORSEPOWER: 19.0
GASOLINE CAPACITY 3_5GALLONS
AND TYPE: UNLEADED REGULAR
O(L TYPE (API-SF/SG): SAE 30 (above 32°F)
SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F)
OIL CAPACITY: 3.0 PINTS
SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION RJ-19LM
(GAP: .030 ) STD36t458
VALVE CLEARANCE: INTAKE: ,004" - .006"
EXHAUST: .007" - .009'
GROUND SPEED (MPH): FORWARD:
_st 1.13
2rid 1.44
3rd 2.33
4th 3.50
5th 4.46
6th 5.69
qEVERSE: 1.75
TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI
REAR: 10 PSI '°
CHARGING SYSTEM: 3 AMPS BATTERY
5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS
BATTERY: AMP/HR: 30
MIN. CCA: 240
CASE SIZE: UIR
BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 30-35 FT. LBS.
In the state of California the above is required bylaw.
(Section 4442 of the Catifornra Public Resources Code):
Other states may have simUar laws. Federal laws apply on
federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available
through your nearest Sears Authorized Service Center/
Department (See REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).
LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT
For two (2) years from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Riding Equipment is maintained, lubricated and tuned up according
to the instructions in the owner's manual, Sears will reeair or reo(ace, free of charge, any parts found ;o oe defective in material or
workmanship,
This Warranty does not cover:
Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as blades, spark plugs, air cleaners, belts, etc,
= Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails, thorns, stumps, or glass.
= Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, negligence, improper storage or accident or the failure to maintain the
equipment according to the instructions contained in the owner's manual
* Riding equipment used for commercia! or rental 3urposes,
LIMITED 90 DAY WARRANTY ON BATTERY
For ninety (90) days from date of ourchase, if any battery included with this riding equipment proves defective in materia) or
_w_rkma p_h_tma_.r4est_g4:4e4e- .r_Jaes4l:_,_batte_i.LLn _barg_ a_s_i_Lr_p_ac_tb_a_te_ne_eha,r_ e_
IN-HOME WARRANTY SERVtCE ON YOUR CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT 1S AVA(LABLE AT NO-CHARGE FOR 30
DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PURCHASE. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR NEAREST SERVICE CENTER. AFTER 30 DAYS FROM
THE DATE OF PURCHASE, WARRANTY SERVICE 1SAVAILABLE BY TAKING YOUR CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT TO
YOUR NEAREST SEARS SERVICE CENTER. (IN-HOME WARRANTY SERVICE WILL STILL BE AVAILABLE AFTER 30 DAYS"
FROM THE DATE OF PURCHASE BUT A STANDARD TRIP CHARGE WILL APPLY,) THIS WARRANTY APPLIES ONLY
WHILE THIS PRODUCT IS (N THE UNTIED STATES.
This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which may vary from state to state.
SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, IL 60179
3

TABLE OF CONTENTS
SAFETY RULES ............. ............................................... 2
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS ............................. ......... 3
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES .................... .3, 15-18
WARRANTY .................................................................. 3
TRACTOR ACCESSORIES .......................................... 5
ASSEMBLY ............................................................... 7-9
OPERATION .......................................................... 10-14
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ..................................... 15
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS ........................... 19-24
STORAGE ................ ....., .......... ................................... 25
TROUBLESHOOTING ........................................... 26-27
REPAIR PARTS -TRACTOR ............... ......... ;....... 30-47
REPAIR PARTS * ENGINE .................................... 48-53
PARTS ORDERING/SERVICE ............... BACK COVER
INDEX
A
Accessories ........................................... 5
Adjustments:
Brake ............................................ 21
Carburetor .................................... 24
Mower
Front-To-Back ........................ 20
Side-To_Side ........................... 20
Throttle Control Cable .................. 23
Air Filter- Engine ............................. 17-18
Air Screen_ Engme .............................. 18
Assembly ............................................ 7-9
B
Battery:
Charging ........................................ 8
Cleaning ....................................... 17
Starting with Weak Battery .......... 22
Storage ........................................ 25
Terminals ..................................... 17
Belt: Motion Drive
Removal/Replacement ........... 21
Mower Blade(s)
Removal/Replacement ........... 21
Blade:
Sharpening .................................. 16
Replacement ................................ 16
Brake Adjustment ................................ 21
C
Carburetor Adjustment ........................ 24
Controls, Tractor ................................. 1t
Customer Responsibilities ............. 15-! 8
Engine:
Air Filter ............................... 17-18
Air Screen, Engine ................... 18
Cooling =ins. Engine ................ 18
Engine Oil .............................. 17
Fuel Filter ................................. 18
Spark Plug(s) ........................... 18
Tractor:
Schematic ................................... 29
Wiring Diagram ............................ 30
Engine:
Air Filter ........................................ 18
Air Screen .................................... 18
Cooling Fins, Engine .................... 18
Oil Change .................................. 17
Oil Level .................................. 13,17
Oil Type ........................................ 17
Preparation .................................. 13
Repair Parts ............................ 30-47
Starting ......................................... 14
Storage .................................. : ..... 25
F
Fitter:
Air Filter................................... 17-18
Fuel ......................................... 17-18
Fuel:Type ............................................. 13
Storage ........................................ 25
Fuse .................................................. 23
H
Hood Removal!fnstallation .................. 23
L
Leveling Mower Deck .......................... 20
Lubrication:
Chart ............................................ 15
M
Maintenance Schedule ....................... 15
Mower:
Adjustment, Front-to-Back ........... 20
Adjustment, Side-to-Side ............. 20
Blade Sharpening ....................... 16
Blade Replacement ..................... 16
Cutting Height .............................. 12
Installation .................................... 19
Operation ..................................... 13
Removal ....................................... 19
Options:
Accessories ................................. 5
Spark Arrester ........................... 3.40
P
Parking Brake .................................... 12
Parts Bag ........................................... 6
Parts, Replacement!Repair ............. 30-47
Product Specifications .......................... 3
R
Repair Parts ................................... 30-47
S
Safety Rules .......................................... 2
Seat ................................................. :..... 8
Service and Adjustments ............... 19-24
Carburetor .................................... 24
Fuse ................................ _............ 23
Hood Removal/Installation ............ 23
Motion Drive Belt
Rein 3vaVRe;placement ....i.....'. 21
Mower Belt(s)
Removal/Replacement ........... 21
Mower Adjustment
Front-to-Back .......................... 20
Side4o-Side ............................ 20
Mower Removal ........................... 19
Tire Care .............................. 8,16,22
Slope Guide Sheet .............................. 55
Spark Plug(s) ...................................... 18
Specifications ........................................ 3
Starting the Engine ........................ 13-14
Steering Wheel ................................ 7,22
Stopping the Tractor ........................... 12
Storage ................................................ 25
T
Throttle Control Cable Adjustment ...... 23
Tires ............................................ 8,16,22
Battery ..................................... 17 Mowing Tips ........................................ t4 _Trouble Shqo.t.iO.qoCba_..............._ 26-27 ..................
BI-a-d6........................................ TB----_Td_-.:__ Transaxle ............................................. 17
Lubrication Chart ..................... !5 Spark Arrester ........................... 3,40
Maintenance Schedule ............ ! 5
Tire Care .......................... 8,16,22
Transaxle ................................. 17
Cutting Height, Mower ........................ !2
E
Electrical:
Interlocks and Relays .................. 23
O
Oil: Cold Weather Conditions ........ 13,17
Engine ..................................... 13,17
Storage ........................................ 25
Operation ....................................... 10-14
Operating Mower ................................ 13
Warranty ................................................ 3"
Wiring Diagram ................................... 29
Wiring Schematic ................................ 30

................................... i i
ACCESSO AN ATTACHMENTS
These accessories and attachments were available through most Sears retail outlets and service centers when the tractor was purchased.
Most Sears stores can order these items for you when you provide the model number of your tractor.
ENGINE
SPARK PLUG GAS CAN ENGINE OIL FUEL STABILIZER AIR FILTER
%
MAINTENANCE
BLADES 1BELTS
PERFORMANCE
Sears offers a wide variety of attachments thatfit :/ourtractor. Many of these are listed below with brief explanations of how they can help
you. This list was current at the time of publication; however, it may change in future years - more attachments may be added changes
may be made in these attachments, or some may no longer be available or fit your model. Contact your nearest Sears store for the
accessorms and attachments that are available for your tractor.
Most of these attachments do not require additional hitches or conversion kits _those that do are indicated) and are designed for easy
attaching and detaching.
AERATOR promotes deep root growth for a healthy lawn. Ta-
pered 2.5-inch steel spikes mounted on 10-inch diameter discs
puncture holes in soil at close intervals to let moisture soak in.
Steel weight tray for increased penetration.
BAGGER lets you collect grass clippings and leaves for a
healthier, heater looking lawn. Two Permanex containers hold
30-gallon plastic bags.
BUMPER protects front end of tractor from damage.
CARTS make hauling easy. Variety of s=zes available, ofus
accessories such as side panel kits, tool caddy, cart cover.
protective mat and dolly.
CORING AERATOR takes small pJugs out of soil to allow mois-
ture and nutrients to reach grass roots. 36-incl_ swath. 24
hardened steet coring tips. 150 ib. capacity weight tray.
EASY OIL DRAIN VALVE makes oil changes easier, faster.
FRONT NOSE ROLLER canters infront of mower deck to reduce
chances of "scalping" on uneven terrain.
GANG HITCH lets you tow 2 or 3 pu!l*behind attachments ate nce,
such as sweepers, dethatchers, aerators (net for use with rollers,
carts or other heavy attachments).
GAUGE WHEELS on both sides of the mower deck reduce
chances of"scalping" on uneven terrain. For mower decks net so
equipped.
MULCH RAKFJDETHATCHER loosens soil and flips thatch and
matted leaves to lawn surface for easy pickup. Twenty spring tine
teeth. Usefultopreparebareareasforseeding. Availablefor front
or rear mounting. HiGH PERFORMANCE REEL-ACTION
SPRING TINE DETHATCHER covers 36-inch wide path and
tosses thatch into large hopper, Mounts behind tractor.
MULCHING CLOSE-OUT PLATE KIT, once installed, lets you
mulch, discharge or bag clippings (bagger optienaf) without
changing blades. For models not equipped as 3-in-1 Convertible
SNOW BLADE forsnow removal only. 14-inch high, 48-inch wide
blade clears 42-inch path when angled left or right. Raises, lowers
with side lever, Adjustable skids; replaceable, reversible scraper
bar. (Use with tire chains and wheel weights and/or rear drawbar
weight.)
SNOWTHROWER has 40-inch swath, Drum-type auger handles
powdery and wet/heavy snow, Mounts easily with simple pin
arrangement. Discharge chute adjusts from tractor seat. 6-inch
diameter spout discharges snow 10 to 50 feet. Lift controlled at
tractor seat. (Use with chains and wheel weights and/or rear
drawbar weight.)
SPRAYERS use 12_volt DC efectric motor that connects-to thee
tractor battery or other 12-volt source, includes booms for
automatic spraying and hand held wand for spot spraying. Wand
has adjustable spray pattern. For applying herbicides, insecti-
cides, fungicides and liquid fertilizers.
SPREADEPJSEEDERS make seeding, fertilizing, and weed kiil-
!ng easy. Broadcast spreaders are also useful for granular de-
icers and sand.
SWEEPERS let you collect grass clippings and leaves.
TILLER has 5hp engine and 36-inch swath to prepare seed beds.
cultivate and compost garden residue. Tiller has its own built-in
liftand depth control system and does NOT require asleeve hitch,
Fits any lawn, yard or garden tractor, Simply hook up to the tractor
drawbar and got Optional accessories convert unit for
dethatching, aerating, hilling...without tools.
TIRE CHAINS are heavy duty; closely spaced extra-large cross
links give smooth ride, outstanding traction.
TRACTOR CAB has heavy duty vinyl fabric over tubular steel
frame, ABS plastic top; clear plastic windshield offers 360 degree
visibility. Hinged metal doors with catch. Keeps operator warm
and dry, Remove vinyl sides and windshields for use as sun
protector in summer. Optional accessories include: tinted/
..... mowers _.___e_e.._'='MQWEE{_..in._ther_Be I_ss.wi_dshietd._it hJ_an__-ip_ r_
manual. ! 2-volt amber caution light for mounting on cab top.
RAMP TOPS AND FEET let you load and unload tractor from a
pickup truck. Use with 2 x 8 or 2 x 10 [umber.
ROLLER for smoother tawn surface. 36-inch wide, !8-inch
diameterwater*tightdrum holdsupto3901bs, of weight, Rounded
edges prevent harm to turf. Adjustable scraper automatically
cleans drum,
VACS for powerful collection of heavy grass clippings and leaves.
Optional wand attachment to pick up debris in hard-to-reach
places. VAC/CHtPPER includes a chipper-shredcl'e_" " " "_
WEIGHT BRACKET for drawbar for snow remova! appl_catlons.
Uses (1) 55 Ib. weight.
WHEEL WEIGHTS for rear wheels provide needed traction for
snow removal or dozing heavy materials.
5

,, , • .............
CONTENTS OF HA
.......................... :1, i1,, !i iii PACK
Parts Bag contents shown full size
(1) Large
Flat Washer
(1) Locknut 3/8-24
(1) Hex Bolt 5/16:,18 x 1-1/4
L(1) Shoulder Bolt
5/16-18
(t) Locknut 5/16-18
(1) Hex Bolt 1/2-13x 1
(i) Washer
17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12
Gauge
Lock Washer 1/2
Screws #10 x 5/8 (2) Lock Washers #1_
0 (2) Weld Nuts #!0 L_
(2) Hex Bolts f_-_--\ /_
1/4-20x3/4 _ _ 1
(2) Washers _1_ _ _/
9/32 x 5/8 x 16 Gauge "_'_(2) Lock WaShers 1/4
Parts packed separately in carton
Seat _ Mulcher
• 'Plate
Steering
Wheel
Parts Bag
Cassette
Steering
Boot
Manual
Parts bagcontents not shown full size
/f-_-\ .
_' (2) Gauge
Wheels
(2) Shoulder (2) Washers 3/8
Bolts x 7/8 x 14 Gauge
_ Steering
Wheel
Adapter
Q(2) Center-
lock Nuts
(2) Keys
Assembiys
_f" "_ Steering Wheel
c::zz_ Insert
E¸ ,_
Slope Sheet
Steering
Extension
Shaft

ASSEMBLY
Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes.
To ensure safe and proper operation of your tractor, all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use
the correct tools as necessary to insure proper tightness.
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY
A socket wrench set will make assembly easier. Standard
wrench sizes are listed.
(1) 5/16"wrench (1) 9/16"-wrench
(2) 7/t6" wrenches (1) Phillips screwdriver
(2) 1/2" wrenches Utility knife
(!) 3/4" wrench Tire pressure gauge
(1) 3/4" socket with drive ratchet
When right and left hand is mentioned n this manual, t
means when you are in the operating position (seated
behind the steering wheel).
TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON
UNPACK CARTON
= Remove all accessible loose _arts and parts cartons
from carton (See page 6).
-Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on all four corners
of carton, and lay panels flat.
o Check for any additional loose parts or cartons and
remove.
BEFORE ROLLING TRACTOR OFF SKID
ATTACH STEERING WHEEL (See Fig. 1)
ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND BOOT
* Slide extension shaft onto lower steering shaft. Align
mounting holes inextention and lower shafts and install
5/16 hex bolt and locknut. Tighten securely.
IMPORTANT: TIGHTEN BOLT AND NUT SECURELY TO
18-22 FT. LBS TORQUE.
- Piace tabs of steering boot over tab slots in dash and
push down to secure.
INSTALL STEERING WHEEL
-Position front wheels of the tractor so they are pointing
straight forward.
° Slidesteeringwheeiadapterontosteeringshaftexten-
SlOn.
- Position steering wheel and sleeve assembly so cross
bars are horizontal (left to right) and slide onto adapter.
, Assemble large flat washer and 3/8-24 locknut and
tighten securely,
,Snap steering wheel insert into center of steering
wheel.
.............!___emo_veprQtect ve plastic from _r__ ro_J&o_3_._L&gritl
IMPORTANT: CHECK FOR AND REMOVE ANY STAPLES
IN SKID TH AT MAY PUNCTURE TIRES WHERE TRACTOR
IS TO ROLL OFF SKID.
INSERT
'_ 3_-24 LOCKNUT
L'_3 LARGE FLAT
WASHER
STEERING ---""----_--_ '_" '
- . .... r
WHEEL
ADAPTER
EXTENSION SHAFT
5/16 HEX BOLT
5116LOCKNUT jJ ._ _ _..
LOWER - _ -
STEERING "-.." -. _t,-
SHAFT """ "-C,_-_
FIG. 1
TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKiD (See Opera-
tion section for location and function of con-
trols)
°Press lift]everplunger and raise attachment lift Iever to
its highest position.
,Release parking brake by depressing clutch/brake
pedal.
- Place gearshift lever in neutral (N) position.
° Roll tractor backwards off skid
- Remove banding holding discharge guard up against
_Psetef_ ..........
CONNECT BATTERY (See Fig, 2) _ _ . .
CAUTION: Do not short battery termi-
nals. Before connecting battery, re-
move meta! bracelets, wristwatch
bands, rings, etc.
Positive terminal must be connected
first to prevent sparking from acciden-
tal grounding.
=r.........

ASSEMBLY
• 8
oLift hood to raised position.
Open terminal access doors, remove terminal protec-
tive caps and discard.
+ If this battery is put into service after month and year
indicated on rabei (label located between terminals)
charge battery for minimum of one hour at 6-10 amps+
+ First connect RED battery cable to positive(+) battery
terminal with hex bolt, fiat washer, lock washer and hex
nut as shown. Tighten securely.
- Connect BLACKgrounding cable to negative (-) battery
terminal with remaining hex bolt, fiat washer, lock
washer and hex nut. Tighten securely.
+ Close terminal access doors.
Use terminal access doors for:
•Inspection for secure confections (to tighten hard-
ware).
Slide seat until a Comfortable position isreached which
allows you to press clutch/brake pedal all the way
down.
Get off seat without mov+ng itsadjusted oosition.
Raise seat and tighten adjustment bott securely.
CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
The tires on your tractor Were overinflated at the factory for
shipping purposes. Correct tire pressure is _mportant for
best cutting performance.
= Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown fn "PRODUCT
SPECIFICATIONS" on page 3 of this manual
CHECK DECK LEVELNESS
For best cutting results, mower housing should be properly
+Inspection for corrosion.
° Testing battery.
- Jumping (if required).
= Periodic charging,
DISCARD HEX NUT
TERMINAL
PROTECTIVE
CAPS _. +J+
TERMINAL *"
ACCESS
DOOR j
LOCK WASHER FLAT
HEX
BOLT
POSITIVE
(RED) CABLE
NEGATIVE
(BLACK) CABLE
FIG. 2
iNSTALL SEAT (See Fig, 3)
Adjust seat before tightening adjustment bolt.
+ Remove cardboard packing on seat pan.
+ Place seat on seat pan and assemble shoutder bolt.
leveled. See "TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the
Service and Adjustments section of this manual.
CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF ALL
BELTS
See the figures that are shown for replacing motion and
mower btade drive belts in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual. Verify that the belts are routed
correctly.
CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM
After you learn how to operate your tractor, check to see
that the brake is properly adjusted. See '+TO ADJUST
BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments section of this
manual.
ASSEMBLE GAUGE WHEELS TO MOWER
DECK (See Fig. 4)
Assemble gauge wheels with tractor on a flat level surface.
+ Adjust mower to desired cutting height (See "TO AD+
JUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT" in the Operation
section of this manual).
+ With mower in desired height of cut position, gauge
wheels should be assembled so they are slightly off the
ground. Install gauge wheel in appropriate hole with
shoulder bolt, 3/8 washer and 3/8-16 Iocknut and
tighten securely.
,Assemble adjustment bott, lockwasher and flat washer
loosely. Do not tighten,
= Tighten shoulder bolt securely.
+ Lower seat into operating position and sit on seat,
SEAT
ggO LDER
Z
BOLT
"°_LARGE FLAT
WASHER
LOCK WASHER
Repeat for opposite side installing gauge wheel in
same adjustment hole,
GAUGE WHEEL \
MOUNTING
BRACKET
LOCKNUT
318WASHER _
FIG. 4
GAUGE WHEEL
BOLT
FiG+3 8

ASSEMBLY
INSTALL MULCHER PLATE
(See Figs. 5 and=6)
= Install two latch hooks to mulcher plate using screw,
washer, lock washer, and weld nut as shown.
NOTE: Pre-assemble weld nut to latch hook by inserting
weld nut from the top with hook pointing down,
• Tighte n hardware securely,
. Raise and hold deflector shield in upright position.
- Place front of mulcher plate over front of mowerdeck
opening and slide i'nto place, as shown.
• Hook front latch into hole on front of mower deck.
- Hook rear latch into hole on back of mower deck.
CAUTION: Do not remove discharge
guard from mower. Raise and hold
guard when attaching mulcher plate
and allow it to rest on plate while in
operation.
DEFLECTOR
SHIELD
HOOKS
FIG. 6
TO CONVERT TO BAGGING OR
DISCHARGING
Simply remove mulcher plate and store in a safe place.
Your mower is now ready for discharging or installation of
optional grass catcher accessory.
HOOK POINTS
-/_\ DOWN
WELD NUT /
FROM THE TOP /\
LOCK X
WASHER
SCREW
WASHER
i'_LOCK
WASHER
WASHER
MULCHER
PLATE _>"'_SCREW
HOOK
_NELD
NUT
F=TG.5
CHECKLIST
BEFORE YOU OPERATE AND ENJOY YOUR NEW
TRACTOR, WE WISH TO ASSURE THAT YOU RECEIVE
THE BEST PERFORMANCE AND SATISFACTION FROM
THIS QUALITY PRODUCT.
PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING CHECKLIST:
¢All assembly instructions have been completed.
¢' No remaining loose parts in carton.
¢" Batteryis properly prepared and charged. (Minimum
1 hour at 6 amps).
¢Seat is adjusted comfortably and tightened securely.
v" All tires are properly inflated. (For shipping purposes,
the tires were overinflated at the factory),
¢" Be sure mower deck is properly leveled side-to-side/
front-to-rear for best cutting results. (Tires must be
properly inflated for leveling).
¢Check mower and drive belts, Be sure they are routed
properly around pulleys and inside all belt keepers.
,/ Check wiring, See that all connections are still secure
and wires are properly clamped,
WHILE LEARNING HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR, PAY
EXTRA ATTENTION TO THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT
ITEMS:
¢" Engine oil _sa_ proper level.
,,/_.uef-.$ank=is=f, illed=wi_h-4resh-_-le_a_,regu.ta,r=ualeaded=-
gasoline.
¢' Become familiar with all controls - their location and
function. Operate them before you starttheengine:.
¢' Be sure brake system is n safe operating condition.

OPERATION
These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand their meaning.
BATTERY CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW
WARNING
ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE CLUTCH LIGHTS ON LIGHTS OFF
FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT DIFFERENTIAL PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED
LOCK LOCKED
R N H
MOWER LIFT
REVERSE NEUTRAL
ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH ENGAGED
HIGH LOW
ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH DISENGAGED
.
PARKING BRAKE
IGNITION
DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AwAY HYDROSTATIC FREE WHEEL
(Hydro Models only)
•10