Craftsman 917.270613 User manual

Owner's Manual
CRRFT$I4nH"
15.5 HP
ELECTRIC STAR_
42" MOWER
6 SPEED TRANSA_LE
LAWN TR. f TX3R
Model No.
917.270613
•Safety
•Assembly
•Operation
•Maintenance
•Repair Parts
_,-- .............. r' "" ........i II r
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equipment.
For answers to your questions
about this product, Call:
1-800-659-5917
Sears Craftsman Help Une
5 am - 5 pro, Mon- Sat
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

W_ .................................. ,,,.,..°,.*..°.2
Safety Rules...........................................2
Productspec _..O.n_s............................5
Assembly..................:.............................8
Operation............................................. 11
MaintenanceSchedule.........................17
Maintenance.........................................17
ServiceandAdjustments......................21
Storage.................................................27
Troubleshooting....................................28
RepairParts.........................................32
PartsOrdering.......................BeckCover
LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTYON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT
Fortwo(2) yearsfrom thedateofpurchase,ifthisCraftsmanRidingEquipmentismain-
tained,lubricatedandtunedupaccordingtotheinstructionsintheowner'smanual,
Searswillrepairor-rsplsce,free ofcharge,anypartsfound tobedefectivein materialor
worla'nanship.
ThisWarrantydoesnotcover:.
•Expendableitemswhichbecomeworndudngnormaluse,suchas blades,spark
plugs,air cleaners,belts,etc.
•Tiro replacementorrepaircausedbypuncturesfrom outsideobjects,suchas nails,
thorns,stumps,or glass.
•Repairsnecessarybecauseof operatorabuse,negligence,improperstorageoracci-
dent orthefailureto maintaintheequipmentaccordingtotheinstructionscontainedin
theowner'smanual.
•Ridingequipmentusedfor commsrciaior rentalpurposes.
LIMITED 90 DAYWARRANTYON BATTERY
Forninety(90) days fromdateofpurchase,ifany batteryincludedwiththisridingequip
mentprovesdefectivein materialorworkmanshipand ourtestingdeterminesthe bat-
terywillnotholda charge,Searswillreplacethebatteryat nocharge.In-homewarranty
serviceon yourCraftsmanridingequipment is availableat no chargefor 30 daysfrom
thedateofpumhese.Pleasecontactyournearestservicecenter.After30 daysfromthe
dataofpurchase,warrantyservice isavailablebytakingyourCraftsmanridingequip-
menttoyournearestSears ServiceCenter.(In-homewarrantyservicewillstillbeavail-
ableafter 30 days from thedate ofpurchasebuta standardtripchargewillapply).This
warrantyappliesonlywhilethis productisinthe UnitedStates.ThisWarrantygivesyou
specificlegalrights, and youmayalsohave otherrightswhichmay varyfromstateto
state.
Sears, RoebuckandCo., D/817 WA,HoffmanEstates,IL 60179
GENERAL OPERATION
•Read,understand,and followail instruc-
tionsinthemanuai andon the machine
beforestarting.
•Onlyallowresponsibleadults,whoare
familiarwiththe instructions,tooperate
the machine.
•Clearthearea ofobjectssuchas rocks,
toys,wire, etc., whichcouldbepicked
up andthrownbytheblade.
•Be surethe areais clearofotherpeople
before.mowing"Stop machineifanyone
entersthe area.
• Nevercarrypassengers.
•Do notmowinreverseunlessabsolute-
lynecessary.Alwayslookdawn and
behindbeforeand whilebacking.
•Beawareofthemowerdischargedirec-
tionanddo notpoint it at anyone. Do
notoperatethe mowerwithouteither
the entiregrasscatcher orthe guardin
place.
•Slowdawn beforetuming.
•Neverleavea running machine unat-
tended.Alwaystum offblades,set park-
ingbrake,stopengine,and remove
keysbeforedismounting.
2

•Tum otf blades when not rnowing.
•Stop engine before removing grass
catcher or unclogging chute;
•Mowonly indeylight orgeed arlir_al
Ikjht.
•Do not operate the machine while under
. the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Watch for treffic when operating near or
crossing roadways.
•Use extra care when loading or unload-
ing the machine intoa trailer or truck.
SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are amajor factor related to Ioas-
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 ifyou 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 overtum the machine. Taft
grass can hide obstacles.
•Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so
that you wifl not have to stop or shift
while on the slope.
•Follow the manufacturer's recommen-
dations for wheel weights or counter-
weights to improve stability.
•Use extra care with grass catchers or
other attachments. These can change
the stability ofthe machine.
•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 inse traction, disengage the blades
and proceed slowly strsight.down the
slope.
DO NOT:
•Do nottum on slopes unless necessary,
and then, turn slowly and gradually
downhill, if possible.
•Do notmow near dropoffs, ditches, or
embankments. The mower could sod-
denly tum over if a wheel isover the
edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge
caves in.
•Do nog__mowon wet grass. Reduced
traction could cause sliding.
•Do nottryto stabUizethe mach_e by
putting your foot on the ground.
•Do not ose grees catcher on 8tesp
slopes.
CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator
is not alert to the presence of children.
Children are oftefl a_ to the
machine and the mowing activity. Never
assume that children will remain where
you last saw them.
•Keep children out of the mowing area
and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult.
•Be alert and turn machine off if children
enter the area.
•Before and when backing, look behind
and down for small children.
•Never carry children. They may fall off
and be seriously injured or interfere with
safe machine operation.
•Never allow children to operate the
machine.
•Use extra care when approaching blind
comers, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.
SERVICE
•Use extra care In handling gasoline and
other fuels. They are flammable and
vapors are explosive.
Use only an approved container.
Never remove gas cap or add fuel
with the engine running. Allow en-
gine 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.
•Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade
attachment bolts, tight and keep equip
ment in good condition.
•Never tamper with safety devices.
Check their proper operation reguledy.
•Keep machine free of grass, leaveS, or
other debds build-up. Clean oil or fuel
spillage. Allow machine to cool before
stodng.
•Stop and inspect the equipment if you
strike an object. Repair, If necesssPJ,
before restarting.
3

• Never makeadjustmentsorrepairswith
theenginerefining.
• Grasscatchercomponentsam subject
towear,damage,and deterioration,
whichcouldexposemovingpartsor
allowobjectstobethrown. Frequently
checkcomponents and replacewith
reanufacturer's recommendedpads,
when necessary.
•Mower blades are sharp and can cut.
Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and
use extra caution when servicing there.
• Check brake operation frequently.
Adjust and service as required.
•Mow up and down slopes (15°Max), 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 alow gear so
that you will not have to stop or shift
while on the slope.
•Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If
tires lose traction, disengage the blades
and proceed slowly straight down the
slope.
•Do nottum on slopes unless necessary,
and then, tam slowly and gradually
downhi,, if poseible.
•Besurethearea is clear ofotherpeople
beforemowing. Stopmachine ifanyone
entemthe area.
•Never carrypassangem.
•Do notmowin reverseunlessabsolute-
lynecessary.Alwayslookdown and
behindbeforeandwhile backing.
•Never carrychildren.They mayfall off
and beseriouslyinjuredorinterferewith
safe machineoperation.
• Keepchildren outofthe mowingarea
and underthewatchfulcare ofanother
respor,sib_eadutt.
•Be alertandturnmachineoffifchildren
enterthearea.
•Beforeand whenbecking, lookbehind
and downforsmallchildren.
ALook forthissymboltopointoutimpor-
tantsafetyprecautions.It meansCAU-
TIONI!! BECOMEAWAREIIIYOUR SAFE-
TY IS iNVOLVED.
_,WARNING: The engine exhaust from
this product contains chemicals known to
the State of Callfomia to cause cancer,
birthdefects, or other reproductive harm.
_,CAUTION: In ordertopreventacciden-
talstartingwhensetting up,transpo_ng,
adjustingor makingrepairsalwaysdiscon-
nectsparkplugwireand placewirewhere
itcannotcontaCtsparkplug.
4

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
GASOU_ 1.25 GALLONS
CAPACITY UNLEADED
AND TYPE: REGULAR
OIL'WPE SAE30 (above32_F)
_,PI-SF/SG/SH): SAE5W-30
(below32"F)
OILCAPACITY: 3.0 PINTS
3PARKPLUG: ChampionRC12YC
_AP:;030")
_/ALVE INTAKE: .003"-.057'
3LEARANCE: EXHAUST:.005"-.00"/"
3ROUND SPEED FORWARD:
VIPH): 1ST 1.1
2ND 1.4
3RD 2.2
4TM 3.3
5TM 4.4
6TM 4.9
REVERSE: 1.4
]'IRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI
REAR: 12 PSI
3HARGING 3AMPS BA'I-I'ERY
SYSTEM: 5AMPS HEADLIGHTS
E3ATTERY: AMP/HR: 25
MIN. CCA: 190
CASE SIZE: U1R
BLADE BOLT 27-35 FT. LBS.
TORQUE:
CONGRATULATIONS on your pumhase
of a Craftsman Tractor. It has been
designed, engineered and manufactured
to give you the best possible dependability
and performance.
Should youexpedenceanyproblemyou
cannoteasilyremedy,please contactyour
nearestSearsAuthorizedSewloe Center.
We havecompetent, welt-trainedtechni-
ciansandthepropertoolstoservice or
repairthistractor.
Pleaseread and retainthis manual.The
instructionswillenableyoutoassemble
andmaintainyourtractorproperly.Always
observethe =SAFETYRULES'.
MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT
ASeara _ Agreementisavail-
able onthisproduct.Cent=rotyournearest
Searestore fordetails.
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
• Read and observe the safety roles.
•Follow a regular schedule in maintain-
ing, cadng for and using your tractor.
•Follow the instructions under "Malnta-
nance" and "Storage" sections ofthis
owner's manual.
,_WARNING: This tractor is equipped
with an internal combustion engine and
should not be used on or near any unim-
proved forest*covered, bnJsh-covered or
grass-covered 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 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 (See REPAIR PARTS section of
this manual).
5

(1) Large Flat Washer
Parts Bag contentsshownfull size ®
(1) Lockwasher 3/8
(1) Hex Bolt
3/8o16x 1 @
(1) Locknut 5/16-18
_x 1-1/4
(2) Screws #10 x 5/8 (2) LockWashers #10
(2) Weld Nuts 010 I_
(2) Washers 3/16 x 3/4 x 16 Gauge
m
i
i
(1) Knob ©
(1)Washer
17/32x 1-3/16x12 Gauge
(1) Shoulder
Bolt 5/16-18

Seat
Partspacked separatelyin carton
J
Muk:her Video
Plate Cassette Steor;ng
Wheel
Manual
Steering
Boot
Parts Bag contentsnotshown fullsize
Parts Bag
I
Shaft
12)Keys
Siope Sheet
Steering
Wheel
Insert
Steodng Wheel
, , Adapter
7

Yournowtractorhasbeenassembledatg_efactorywithexceptionofthosepadsleft
unassembledforshippingpurposes.Toensuresafeandproperoperationofyourtractor
allparts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools
as necessary to insure proper tightness. Review the video cassette before you begin.
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR
ASSEMBLY
" Asocketwrenchsetwillmakeassembly
easier.Standardwrenchsizesyouneed
are listedbelow.
(1) 9/16"wrench (1) Utilityknife
(2) 1/2"wrench (1) Pliers
(1) _re pressure gauge
(1) PhillipsScrewdriver
When rightor lefthandismentionedin
thismanual,itmeans fromyourpointof
view,whenyou arein theoperatingposi-
tion(seatedbehindthesteeringwheel).
TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM
CARTON
UNPACK CARTON
•Remove all accessible loose pads and
parts boxes from shipping carton (See
page 6).
• Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on
all four comers of shipping carton, and
lay panels flat.
•Check for any additional loose parts or
boxes and remove.
BEFORE ROLUNG TRACTOR OFF
SKID
ATrACH STEERING WHEEL
ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFTAND
BOOT
•Slideextensionshaftontolowersteer-
ingshaft.Alignmountingholesin exten-
sionand lowershaftsand install5/16
hexboltand IncknuL_ghten securely.
IMPORTANT:Tightenboltand nutsecure-
lyto 18-22ft. Ibs.torque.
•Placetabsofsteeringbootovertab
slotsin dashandpushdowntosecure.
INSTALLSTEERING WHEEL
•Positionfront wheelsofthe tractorso
they arepointingstraight forward.
•Slidesteeringwheel adapterontosteer-
ingshaftextension.
•Positionsteeringwheel socrossbars
arehorizontal(leftto dght)andslide
ir_e bootand ontoadapter.
•Assemble large flatwasher, 3/8 lock
washer, 3/8 hex belt and tighten securely.
•Snap steering wheel insert into center
of steering wheel.
•Remove protective materials from trac-
tor hood and grill.
IMPORTANT: Check for and remove any
staples in skid that may puncture tires
where tractor isto roll off skid.
Insert
'_ F'_ 3/8 Hal Bolt
_3/8 I.._asher
Stee_teedng
Wheel _t
Extension _JF Adapter
Shaft "'"---,...,.,_ i_ Hex
5/16 Lonlm_o__ /
LowerSteedng......_/ _, "%'_--.
•• _ J i
t_. , t
TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See
Operation soctlon for location and
function of controls)
•Press liftlever plunger and raise attach-
ment liftlover to its highest position.
•Release parking brake by depressing
clutch/brake pedal.
•Place gearshift lever in neutral (N) posi-
tion.
•Roll tractor forward off skid.
•Remove banding holding discharge
guard up against tractor.

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR
CHECK BATTERY
•Liftseat pan toraisedpos_dionandopen
battelyboxdoor.
• It thisbatteryisput into se_ice after
monthandyear indicatedonlabel(label
iocated between termi_ls) chargebat-
teryforminimumofonehourat 6-10
amps.(See "BA'I-rERY=in MAINTE-
NANCE sectionofthismanual for
charginginstructions).
Seat Pan Label
Battery
Be
INSTALL SEAT
Adjust seat before tightening adjustment
knob.
•Remove cardboard packing on seat
pan,
•Place seat on seat pan and assemble
shoulder boll -Rghten shoulder bolt
securely.
•Assemble adjustment knob and flat
washer loosely. Do not tighten.
•Lower seat into operating position and
sit on seat.
•slide seat un_l a comfortable position is
reached which allows you to press
clutch/brake pedal all the way down.
•Get off seat without moving its adjusted
,position.
•R_,_e seat and tighten adjustment knob
securely. - Seat
Seat Pan
Shoulder
Belt
INSTALL MULCHER PI.ATE
•instafltwolatch boolw tomusher plata
using screw,washer,lockwasher,and
weld nutas shown.
NOTE: pre-aasembleweld nutto latch
hookbyinsertingweldnutfromthetop
withhookpointingdown.
•Tightenhardwaresecurely.
•Raiseandholddeflectorshieldinup-
rightpos'_on.
•Placefrontofmuicherplateoverfrontof
mowerdeckopeni_Jandslideinto
place,as shown.
•Hookfrontlatchintoholeonfrontof
mowerdeck.
•Hookrear latch intoholeon backof
mowerdeck.
,_CAUTION: De notremovedischarge
guardfrom mower.Raiseand holdguard
whenattachingmuicherplate andallow it
toreston platewhilein operation.
Weld Nut From Hoot( Points
The Top _o'_
Lock [_J
Weld Washer _ "_
Nut'x_ Screw _X_ tch
D\\ \weld.ut
Washer
M_cher '_ Screw
Plate
Deflector __
Shield
Adjustment Knob
Washer

TO CONVERT TO BAGGING OR DIS-
CHARGING
Simplyremovemulcherplateandstorein
asafe place.Yourmowerisnowreadyfor
dischargingor installationofoptional
grasscatcheraccessory.
NOTE: It is notnecessarytochange
blades.The mulcherbladesaredesigned
for dischargingand baggingalso.
_HECK TIRE PRESSURE
The tireson yourtractorwere overinflated
atthefactory forshippingpurposes.
Correcttire pressureisimportantfor best
cu_ingperformance.
•Reducetirepressureto PSI shownin
=PRODUCTSPECIFICATIONS"on
page 5 ofthismanual.
CHECK DECK LEVELNESS
Forbestcuttingresults,mowerhousing
shouldbe propedyleveled.See "TO
LEVELMOWER HOUSING"inthe
ServiceandAdjustmentssectionofthis
manual.
CHECK FOR PROPER PosmoN OF
ALL BELTS
See thefiguresthatareshownforreplac-
ingmotionand mowerbladeddvebelts in
the ServiceandAdjustmentssectoinof
thismanual.Verifythatthe beltsare mut-
ed correctly.
CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM
Afteryoulearnhowto operateyourtrac-
tor,checktosee thatthe brakeispropedy
adjusted.See "TOADJUST BRAKE"in
the Serviceand Adjustmentssectionof
this manual.
/ CHECKLIST
PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING
CHECKLIST:
/All assembly instructionshave been
completed.
/No remaining loose pads in carton.
,/ Battery is properly prepared and
charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps).
,/ Seat is adjusted comfortably and
tightened securely.
•/" All tires are properly inflated. (For
shipping purposes, the tires were
ovednflated at the factory).
,/ Be sure mower desk is propedy leveled
side-to-side/front-to-rear for best
cutting results. ('Rres must be propedy
inflated for leveling).
4" Check mower and drive belts. Be sure
they are muted propedy around pulleys
and inside all belt keepers.
,/ Check widng. See that all connections
are still secure and wires are properly
clamped.
WHILE LEARNINGHOW TO USE YOUR
TRACTOR, PAYEXTRAATTENTION TO
THE FOLLOWINGIMPORTANTITEMS:
/Engineoilisat properlevel.
,/ Fueltankisfilled withfresh, clean,
regularunleadedgasoline.
,/ Becomefamiliarwithall controls- their
locationand function. Operatethem
beforeyoustarttheengine.
4" Besurebrakesystemisin safe
operatingcondition.
10

These symbolsmayappearonyourtractororin literaturesuppliedwiththeproduct.
Leamand understandtheir meaning.
&
BATTERY CAUTION ON REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW
WARNINQ
ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON OVELRTEMP t
FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED MOWER LIFT
LOCKED
r_'_ R N H L
ATTACHMENT REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW pARKING BRAKE
CLUTCH ENGAGED
KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS
ATTACHMENT
IGNmON CLUTCH DISENGAGED
DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY
(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)
FREEWHEEL
11

KNOW YOUR TRACTOR
R_D THIS OWNER'S MANUALAND SAFETY RuLEs BEFORE OPERATING YOUR
TRACTOR
Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of
various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
Attachment
Ammeter ClutchLever Light
Ignition
ThrottleChoke Switch
Control LiftLever
Plunger
Clutch/Brake
Pedal
Attachment Uft
Height
Adjustment
Indicator
Brake
Gearshift
Lever
Ourtractorsconformto thesafetystandardsoftheAmerican
NationalStandardsInstitute.
A'r'rA_3HMENT CLUTCH LEVER: Used
to engage the mower blades, or other
attachments mounted to your tractor.
LIGHT SWITCH: Tums the headlights on
and off.
THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL: Used
for starting and controlling engine speed.
CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL: Used for
declutching and braking the tractor and
starting the engine.
PARKING BRAKE: Locks clutch/brake
ped_LJntothe brake position.
GEARSHIFT LEVER: Selects the speed
and direction of tractor.
ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER: Used to
raise, lower, and adjust the mower deck or
other attachments mounted to your tractor.
LIFT LEVER PLUNGER: Used to release
attachment liftlever when changing its
position.
IGNITION SWITCH: Used for starting and
stopping the engine.
AMMETER: Indicates battery charging (+)
or discharging (-).
12

HOWTOUSEYOURTRACTOR
Yourtractorisequippedwithan operator
presence sensing switch. When engine
is running, any attempt by the operator to
leave the seat without first setting the
parking brake will shut off the engine.
TO SET PARKING BRAKE
iepress clutch/brake pedal into full
=BRAKE" position and hold.
Place par.kingbrake lever in
ENGAGED position and release pres-
sure from clutch/brake pedal. Pedal
should remain in "BRAKE" position.
Make sure parking brake will hold trac-
tor secure.
Throttle/Choke AttachmentClutchLever
Controllever "Engaged"Position
Clutc_rake
Pedal "Ddve"
Position
|
The operation of any tractor can result in foreige objects thrown intothe |
eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glass- I
es or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any adjust-
manta or repairs. We recommend awide vision safety mask over specta-
clse, or standard safety glasses.
"Disengaged"
Position
Brake
Position
STOPPING
Position
Position Lever
MOWER BLADES-
• Tostopmowerblades,moveattach-
mentclutchloverto "DISENGAGED"
position.
GROUND DRIVE-
•-To stopgrounddrive,depress
clutch/brakepedalintofull "BRAKE"
pusition.
•Movegearshiftlevertoneutral(N) posi-
tion.
ENGINE -
•Move throttle control to slow position.
NOTE: Failure to move throttle control to
slow position and allowing engine to idle
before stopping may cause engine to
"back/ira'.
•Tum ignition key to "OFF" position and
r,,move key. Always remove key when
leaving tractor to prevent unauthodzed
use.
•Never use choke to stop engine.
IMPORTANT: Leaving the ignitionswitch
in any position other than =OFF" will cause
the battery to be discharged, (dead).
NOTE: Under certain conditions when
tractor is standing idlewith the engine run-
ning, hotengine exhaust gases may
cause =browning" of grass. To eliminate
this possibility,always stop engine when
stopping tractor on grass areas.
ACAUTION: Always stop tractor com-
pletely, as described above, before leaving
the operator's position; to empty grass
catcher, etc.
THROTrLE CONTROL
Always operate engine at full throttle.
•Operating engine at less than full throt-
tle reduces the battery charging rate.
•Full throttle offers the best bagging and
mower performance.
TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD
The direction and speed of movement is
controlled by the gearshift lever.
Start tractor with clutch/brake pedal
depressed and gearshift lever in neutral
(N) position.
•Move gearshift lever to desired posi-
tion.
•Slowly release clutch/brake pedal to
start movement.
IMPORTANT: Bdng tractor to a complete
stop before shifting or changing gears.
Failure to do so will shorten the useful life
ofyour transaxle
TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT
The position ofthe attachment lilt lever
determines the cuffing height.
•Grasp lilt lever.
Press plunger with thumb and move
lever to desired position.
The cutting height range is approximately
1-1/2 to 4.'. The heights are measured
from the ground tothe blade tip with the
engine not running. These heights are
approximate and may vary depending
upon soilconditions, height ofgrass and
types of grass being mowed.
•The average lawn should be cut to
approximately 2-1/2 inches dudng the
cool season and to over 3 Inches dudng
hotmonths. For healthier and better
lookinglawns, mow often and after
moderate growth.
13

• Forbestcuttingperformance,grass
over6inchesInheightshouldbe
mewedtwice.Makethefirstcutrelative-
ly high;the second to desired height.
TO OPERATE MOWER
Your tractor is equipped with an operator
t_msenca sensing switch. Any attempt by
e operator to leave the seat with the
engine running end the attachment clutch
-engaged will shut off the engine.
• Select desired height ofcut.
• Start mower blades by engaging attach-
ment clutchcontrol.
• TO STOP MOWER BLADES -disen-
gage attachment clutch control.
_.CAUTION: Do not operate the mower
without either the entire grass catcher, on
mowers so equipped, or the discharge
guard in place.
AttachmentLiftLever AttachmentLiftLever
Hig HighPosition
Low
Position Position
• Do not push or tow tractor at mere than
five (5) MPH.
NOTE: To protect hood from damage
when transporting your tractor on a truck
or a trailer, be sure hood is closed and
secured to tractor. Use an appropriate
means of tying hood to tractor (rope, cord,
etc.).
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE
CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL
•The engine in your tractor has been
shipped, from the factory, already filled
with summer weight oil.
•Check engine oil with tractor on level
ground.
•Remove oil fill cap/dipstick and wipe
clean, reinsert the dipstick and screw
cap tight, wait for afew seconds,
remove and read oil level. If necessary,
add oil until "FULL" mark on dipstick is
reached. Do not overfill.
•For cold weather operation you should
change oil for easier starting (See =OIL
VISCOSITY CHART" in the Mainten-
ance section of this manual).
•To change engine oil, see the Mainten-
ance section in this manual.
/Guard
TO OPERATE ON HILLS
ACAUTION: DO not drive up or down
hills with slopes greater than 15= and do
not drive across any slope. A slope guide
at the back of your manual isprovided for
your use.
•Choose the slowest speed before start-
ing up or down hills.
•Avoldstopping or changing speed on
hills.
If slowing is necessary, move throttle
corltrollever to slower position.
If stopping is absolutely necessary,
push clutch/brake pedal _uickly to brake
position end engage perking brake.
Move gearshift lever to I st gear. Be
sure you have allowed room for tractor
to ronslighgy as you restart movement.
iTo restart movement, slowly release
parking brake end clutcfVbrake pedal.
Make all turns slowly.
TO TRANSPORT
•Raise attachment liftto highest position
with attachment liftcontrol.
•When pushing or towing your tractor, be
surf"gearshift lever is in neutral (N)
position.
ADD GASOLINE
•Fillfuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasoline with a minimum of
87 octane. (Use of leaded gasoline will
increase carbon and lead oxide
deposits and reduce valve life). Do not
mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in
quantities that can be used within 30
days to assure fuel freshness.
IMPORTANT: When operating in tempera-
tures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh, clean
winter grade gasoline to help insure good
cold weather starting.
AWARNING: Experience indicates that
alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or
using ethanol or methanol) can attract
moisture which leads to separation and
formation of acids dudng storage. Acidic
gas can damage the fuel system of an
engine while in storage. To avoid engine
problems, the fuel system should be emp-
tied before storage of 30 days or longer.
Drain the gas tank, start the engine end
lot it run until_fuel lines and carburetor
are empty. Use fresh fuel next season.
See Storage Instructionsfor additional
information. Never use engine or carbure-
tor cleaner products in the fuel tank or
permanent damage may occur.
14

_,CAUTION: Figto bottom of gas tank
filler neck. Do not ovedgl. Wlpe off any
spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use
gasoline near an open flame.
TO START ENGINE
When starting the engine for the flint time
or if the engine has run out of fuel, it will
take extra cranking time to move fuel from
the tank to the engine.
-- Sit on seat in operating position,
depress clutch/brake pedal and set
perking brake.
• Place gear shift lever in neutral (N) posi-
tion.
•Move attachment clutch to "DISEN-
GAGED" position.
•Move throttle control to choke position.
NOTE: Before starting, read the warm
and cold starting procedures below.
• Insert key into ignition and tum 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. Ifthe
engine does not start after several
attempts, move throttle control to fast
position, wait a few minutes and try
again. If engine stilldoes not start,
move the throttle control back to the
choke position and retry.
WARM WEATHER STARTING (50 °Fand
above)
•When engine starts, move the throttle
control to the fast position.
•The attachments and ground drive can
now be used. If the engine does not
accept the load, restart the engine and
allow it to warm up for one minute using
the choke as described above.
COLDWEATHERSTARTING ( 50° FAND
BELOW)
• Whenenginestarts,allowenginetorun
with.th.eJhrottlecontrolinthechoke
positionuntiltheenginerunsroughly,
thenmovethrottle controltofast posi-
tion.Thismay requireanenginewarm-
upperiodfrom severalsecondsto sev-
eralminutes,dependingon thetemper-
ature.
•The attachmentscanalsobe useddur-
ingthe enginewarm-upperiod.
NOTE: Ifat a highaltitude(above3000
feet) or incoldtemperatures(below32 F)
the carburetor fuel mixturemay needtobe
adjustedfor bestenginepedormance.
See "TOADJUSTCARBURETOR"In the
Se_and Adjustmentssectionofthis
manual.
15
NOTE: Ata highelUtude(above3000
feet) orIn coldtemperatures(below32 F)
the carburetor fuelmixturemay needtobe
adjustedforbestengineperformance.
See "TOADJUSTCARBURETOR"inthe
ServiceandAdjustmentssectionofthis
manual.
MOWING TIPS
•Tim chains cannot be used when the
mower housing is attached to tractor.
•Mower should be pmpedy leveled for
best mowing pedormance. See "TO
LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the
Service and Adjustments section ofthis
manual.
•The left hand side of mower should be
used for trimming.
•Drive so that clippings are discharged
onto the area that has been cut. Have
the cut area to the right of the machine.
This will result in a more even distribu-
tion of clippings and more uniform cut-
ting.
•When mowing large areas, stad by turn-
ing to the right so that clippings will dis-
charge away from shrubs, fences, drive-
ways, etc. After one or two rounds,
mow in the opposite direction making
left hand turns untilfinished
•Ifgrass is extremely tall, it should be
mowed twice to reduce load and possi-
ble fire hazard from dried clippings.
Make first cut relatively high; the second
to the desired height.
•Do not mow grass when it is wet. Wet
grass will plug mower and leave unde-
sirable clumps. Allow grass to dry
before mowing.
•Always operate engine at full throttle
when mowing to assure better mowing
performance and proper discharge of
material. Regulate ground speed by se-
lecting a low enough gear to give the
mower the best cutting pedormance as
well as the quality ofcut desired.
•When operating attachments, select a
ground speed that will suit the terrain
and give best pedormance of the at-
tachment being used.

MULCHINGMOWING TIPS
IMI_DRTAI/T: Forhest perlormance,
keepmowerhousingfreeofbuilt-upgrass
andtrash. Cleanafter eachuse.
•The specialmulchingbladewillrecut
thegrassclippingsmany timesand
reducethem in sizesothatastheyfall
ontothe lawnthey willdisperseintothe
grassand notbe noticed.Also,the
mulchedgrasswillbiodegradequickly
to providenutdantsforthelawn.
Alwaysmulchwithyourhighestengine
(blade)speedas this willprovidethe
bestrecuttingactionoftheblades.
•Avoidcuttingyourlawnwhenitiswet.
Wet grasstendstoform clumpsand
interfereswiththemulchingaction. The
besttimeto mowyourlawnis theearly
afternoon.Atthis timethegrasshas
driedandthe newlycutarea willnotbe
exposedtothe directsun.
•Forbestresults,adjustthemowercut-
tingheightsothat themowercutsoff
onlythetopone-thirdofthegrass
blades.Forextremelyheavymulching,
reduceyourwidthofcutoneachpass
and mow slowly.
•Certaintypasofgressandgresscondi-
tionsmay requirethatan area he
mulched a secondtime to completely
hidetheclippings.Whendoinga Sac"
ondcut, mowacrossorperpendicularto
thefirstcutpath.
•Changeyourcuttingpatternfromweek
toweek. Mownorthtosouthoneweek
thenchange toeast towestthe next
week. Thiswillhelp preventmatting
andgrainingofthe lawn.
16

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
FILL IN DATES
AS YOU COMPLETE
REGULAR SERVICE ATES
_o P_, iV' V"
Check Operator PzeS(n_ _
T_ede_ _ V'
R_ _orLee_ Fat=._== I/ V', It/
Sharpen/Replace Mower Blades IIf4
T_bri_ _ I/' I/
O Check Battely Lm/el
RClean Batter/and Terrnlnats _I_
Check Trar,.saxla Cooling ik_
Adjust Blade Belt(s) Tension (l_l
Ad)u=t Motion Drive Belt(s) Tension Ks
Check Engine O11Level ti_ V_
Change Engine Oil V*t._ _1_
E Claan Air Filter V*=
N Claan_r Screen I/=
G Inspect Muffier/_ark Nrester
Rep4ace Oil Filter Of equipped) I1_1.=
N CieenEnglneCoolingFins I,/=
Replace Spark Plug I_
Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge , V*=
ReplaceFuelRlter
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this tractor does not cover
items that have bonn subjected to operator
abuse or negligence. To receive full value
from the warranty, operator must maintain
tractor as instructed in this manual. Some
adjustments will need to be made pedodi-
cally to properly maintain your tractor.
All adjustments in the Service and
Adju_stmentssection ofthis manual should
be c'hecked at least once each season.
• Once a year you should replace the
spark plug, clean or replace air filter, and
check blades and belts for wear. A new
spark plug and clean air filter assure
proper air-fuai mixture and help your
engine run better and last longer.
BEFORE EACH USE
•Check engine oil level.
•Check brake operation.
•Check tire pressure.
•Check operator presence and intedeck
.,s_'tems for proper operation.
•Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION CHART
Zerk Zerk
• Front Wheel Wheel
Beadng
Beating Zerk Zerk
0Atta_hrrm_t_
_tch !
Pivot(s) i:
• SAE_0 or 10w30MotorOIL
• GeneralPurposeGrease
RefertoM&_ntenance"Engine"Secl_n
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease the
pivot points which have special nylon bear-
ings. Viscous lubricants will attract dust
and dirt that will shorten the r_feofthe self-
lubricating bearings. If you feel they must
be lubricated, use only a d_, powdered
graphite type lubricant spanngly.
17

TRACTOR
Alwaysobeervesafelyruleswhenper-
forminganymaintenance.
BRAKEOPERATION
Iftractorrequiresmerethansix(6)feet
stoppingdistanceathighspeedinhighest
gear,thenbrakemustbeadjusted.(See
"TO ADJUST BRAKE" in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual).
"TIRES
• Maintain proper air pressure in all tires
(See "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS"
on page 3 of this manual).
•Keep tires free of gasoline, oil,or insect
control chemicals which can harm rub-
ber.
•Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp
objects and other hazards that may
cause tire damage.
NOTE: To seal tire punctures and prevent
flat tires due to slow leaks, tire sealant
may be purchased from your local parts
dealer. Tire sealant also prevents tire dry
rot and corrosion.
OPERATOR PRESENCE SYSTEM
Be sure that operator presence and inter-
lock systems are working properly. Ifyour
tractor does not function as descdbed
below, repair the problem immediately.
•The engine should not start unless the
clutch/brake pedal is fully depressed
and attachment clutch control is in the
disengaged position.
•When the engine is running, any
attempt by the operator to leave the
seat without first setting the perking
brake should shut off the engine.
•When the engine is running and the
attachment clutch is engaged, any
attempt by the operator to leave the
ee_;tshould shut off the engine.
•The attachment clutch should never
operate unless the operat6r is in the
seat.
BLADE CARE
Forbestresultsmowerbladesmusthe
keptsharp. Replacebentor damaged
blades.
BLADE REMOVAL
•Raisemowerto highestpositiontoallow
accesstoblades.
• Removehex bolt,lockwasherand fiat
w_r securingblade.
•Installnowor resharpenedbladewith
trailingedgeuptowardsdeckas shown.
IMPORTANT:Toensureproperassembly,
centerholeInblademustalignwithstar
on mandrelassembly.
•Reassemblehexbelt,lockwasherand
flatwasherinexactorderas shown.
•Tightenboltsecurely(27-35 Ft. Lbs.
torque).
IMPORTANT:BladeboltisGrade8 heat
treated.
18
I EdgeUp MandrelAssembly
Blade
CenterHole;
Lock Washel
Star
/Hex Bolt(Grade8)*
*AGrade 8 heattreatedboltcan be
identifiedby sixlinesonthebolthead.
TO SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening
blade, but if you do, be sure the blade is
balanced.
Care should be taken to keep the blade
balanced. An unbalanced blade will cause
excessive vibration and eventual damage
to mower and engine.
•The blade can be sharpened with afile
or on a gdnding wheel. Do not attempt
to sharpen while it is on the mower.
•To check blade balance, you will need a
5/8" diameter steel belt, pin, or a cone
balancer. (When using a cons balancer,
follow the instructions supplied with bal-
ancer).
NOTE: Do not use a nail for balancing
blade. The lobes of the center hole may
appear to be centered, but are not.
•Slide blade onto an unthreaded portion
of the steel boltor pin and hold the bolt
or pin parallel with the ground. If blade
is balanced, it should remain in a hod-
zontai position. If either end ofthe blade
moves downward, sharpen the heavy
end untilthe blade is balanced.

BATTERY
Yourtractorhas8batterychargingsystem
whichissufficientfornormaluse.
However,periodicchargingofthebattery
withanautomotivechargerwillextendits
life.
• Keepbattery and terminals clean.
• Keep battery bolts tigM.
•Keep small vent holes open.
•Recharge at 6-10 amperes for I hour.
TO CLEAN BATTERY AND TERMINALS
Corrosion and dirt on the battery and ter-
minale can cause the battery to "leak"
power.
•Remove terminal guard.
• Disconnect BLACK battery cable first
then RED battery cable and remove
battery from tractor.
•Rinse the battery with plain water and
dry.
•Clean terminals and battery cable ends
with wire brush until bdght.
•Coat terminals with grease or petroleum
jelly.
•Reinstall battery (See "REPLACING
BATTERY" in the SERVICE AND
ADJUSTMENTS section of this manu-
al).
V-BELTS
Check V-belts for deterioration and wear
after 100 hours of operation and replace if
necessary. The belts are not adjustable.
Replace baits if they begin to slip from
wear.
TRANSAXLE COOLING
Keep transaxlefreefrombuild-upofdirt
andchaffwhichcanrestdctcooling.
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Only use high quality detergent oil rated
with API service classirmation SF, SG or
SH. Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade
according to your expected operating tem-
perature.
SAEVl,SCQ6_YGRN)ES
119&qERAI_REP.;_QE_*rrlOPAIF.DBEFORENE.x"rOILCI.L'_GE
NOTE: Although multi-vlecosity oils
(5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve starling in
cold weather, these mulU-viscosifyoilswill
result in increased oil consumption when
used above 32°R Check your engine oil
level-hi'orefrequenUy to avoid possible
engine damage from running low on ell.
Change the oil after every 25 hours of
operatinnor at leeetonoee yearIfthe
trantoris not usedfor25 hoursin one
year.
Checkthe crankcaseoltlevelboforestart-
ingthe engineendaftereachelgM (8)
hoursofoperation.Tightenoafilleap/dip-
sticksecurelyeachtimeyouchecktheoil
level.
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
Determine temperature range expected
before oil change. All oil must meet API
service classification SF, SG or SH.
•Be sure tractor is on level surface.
• Oil will drain more freely when warm.
•Catch oil in a suitable container.
•Remove oil fill cap/dipstick. Be careful
notto allow dirt to enter the engine
when changing oil.
•Remove drain plug.
•After oil has drained completely, replace
oil drain plug and tighten securely.
•Refill engine with oil thmugh oil fill dip-
stick tube. Pour slowly.Do not overfill.
For approximate capacity see "PROD-
UCT SPECIFICATIONS" on page 5 of
this manual.
•Use gauge on oil fill cap/dipstick for
checking level. Be sure dipstick cap is
tightened securely for accurate reading.
Keep oil at "FULL" line on dipstick.
OilRII
Cap/D]ps_.k
OilDrain
Plug
AIR FILTER
Your engine will not runpropedy using a
dirty airftlter. Clean the foam pre-cleaner
after every 25 hours of operation or every
season. Service paper cartridge every 100
hours of operation or every season,
whichever occurs first.
Service air cleaner more often under dusty
conditions.
•Remove knob(s) and cover.
TO SERVICE PRE-CLEANER
Slide foam pre-cleaner off cartridge.
Wash It in liquid detergent and water.
Squeeze if dry in a clean cloth.
Saturate it in engine oil. Wrap it in clean,
absorbent cloth and squeeze to remove
excess oil.
•If very dirty or damaged, replace pre-
cleaner.
•Reinstall pre-cteaner over cartridge.
Reinstall cover and secure with knob(s).
TO SERVICE CARTRIDGE
19

• Removecartridge nut.
• Carefully remove cartridge to prevent
debds from entedng carburetor. Clean
base carefully to prevent dabds from
entedng carburetor.
•Clean cartridge by tapping gently on fiat
surface. If very dirty or damaged,
replace cartridge.
•Reinstall cartridge, nut, precleaner,
cover and secure with knob(s).
IMPORTANT: Petroleum solvents, such as
kerosene, are notto be used to clean the
cartddge. They may cause deterioratian of
the cartridge. Do not oil cartridge. Do not
use pressurized air to clean or dry car-
tddge.
CLEAN AIR SCREEN
Air screen must be kept free of dirt and
chaff to prevent engine damage from over-
heating. Clean with a wire brush or com-
pressed air to remove dirt and stubbom
dried gum fibers.
Cover
Knob Cartridge
Cartddge
ENGINE COOUNG RNS
Remove any dust, dirt or oil from engine
cooling fins to prevent engine damage
from overheating.
•Remove screws from blower housing
and lift housing and dipstick tube
assembly off engine.
•Cover oil fill opening to prevent entry of
dirt.
•Use compressed air or stiffbristle brush
to thoroughly clean engine cooling fins.
• To reassemble, reverseabove proce-
dure.
Sc% Blower r_
o_: T
EngineCoolingRns '_ Rug
MUFFLER
Inspect and replace corroded muffler and
spark armster (if equipped) as itcould cre-
ate a fire hazard and/or damage.
SPARK PLUGS
Replace spark plugs at the beginning of
each mowing season or after every 100
hours of operation, whichever occurs first.
Spark plugtype and gap setting are
shown in "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS"
on page 5 ofthis manual.
IN-LINE FUEL FILTER
The fuel filter should be replaced once
each season. If fuel filter becomes
clogged, obstructing fuel flow to carbure-
tor, replacement is required.
•With engine cool, remove filter and plug
fuel line sections.
• Place new fuel filter in position in fuel
line with arrow pointingtowards carbu-
retor.
•Be sure there are no fuel line leaks and
clamps are properly positioned.
•Immediately wipe up any spilled gaso-
line.
CLEANING
•Cleanengine,battery,seat,finish,etc.
ofallforeignmatter.
•Keepfinishedsurfacesandwheelsfree •
ofallgasoline,oil, etc.
•Protectpaintedsurfaceswith automo-
tivetypewax.
We do not recommendusinga garden
hosetocleanyourtractorunlessthe elec-
tricalsystem,muffler,air filterandcarbure-
torare coveredtokeepwaterout.Water
inenginecanresultin a shortenedengine
life.
2O