Craftsman 917.272160 User manual

Owner's Manual
CRRFTSMRNo
20.0 HP
ELECTRIC START
46" MOWER
AUTOMATIC
LAWN TRACTOR
Model No.
917.272160
, Safety
° Assembly
° Operation
°Maintenance
°Repair Parts
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equip-
mento
For answers to your questions
about this product, CalF:
1-800-659-5917
Sears Craftsman Help Line
5 am -5 pro, Mort -Sat
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
Visit our Craftsman website: www.searsocom/craftsman

Warranty ............................................... 2
Safety Rules ......................................... 3
Product Specifications .......................... 6
Assembly .............................................. 8
Operation ................................................... 13
Maintenance Schedule ...................... 20
Maintenance ....................................... 20
Service and Adjustments .................... 24
Storage ............................................... 31
Troubleshooting ................................... 32
Repair Parts ........................................ 36
Parts Ordering ..................... Back Cover
LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANT'( ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT PARTS
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 wilt 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 riding 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 blades, 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 towing objects beyond the capability of the riding equipment, 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, failure to keep the deck clear of flammable
debris, or the 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 contami-
nated or oxidized (stale). In general, fuel should be used within thirty (30) days of its
purchase date.
•Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes. A product is "used for
commercial purpose" if is used for any purpose other than single family household
dwellings or in usage where profit is made.
LIMITED 90 DAY WARRANTY ON BATTERY
For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery included with this riding
equipment proves defective in material or workmanship and our testing determines
the battery will not hold a charge, Sears wilt replace the battery at no charge. Warranty
service is available free of charge by returning your Craftsman riding 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 IN-
HOME WARRANTY 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 may vary from state to state.
Sears, Roebuck and Co., D/817 WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

IMPORTANT;Thiscuttingmachineiscapableof amputatinghandsandfeetand
throwingobjects.Failureto observethefollowingsafetyinstructionscouldresultin
seriousinjuryor death.
I. 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, 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.
o Do not mow in reverse unless abso-
lutely necessary. Always look down
and behind before and while backing.
° 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
lighL
o 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
unloading the machine into a trailer or
truck.
° Data indicates that operators, age 60
years and above, are involved in a
large percentage of riding mower-
related injuries. These operators
should evaluate their ability to operate
the riding mower safely enough to
protect themselves and others from
serious injury.
° Keep machine free of grass, leaves or
other debris build-up which can touch
hot exhaust /engine parts and burn.
Do not allow the mower deck to plow
leaves or other debris which can cause
build-up to occur.
Clean any oil or fuel spillage before
operating or storing the machine° Allow
machine to cool before storage.
I!. 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:
• 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 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 of the 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 lose traction, disengage the
blades and proceed slowly straight
down the slope.
DO NOT:
°Do not turn on slopes unless neces-
sary, and then, turn slowly and gradu-
ally 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.
°Do not try to stabilize the machine by
putting your foot on the ground.
°Do not use grass catcher on steep
slopes.
3

Ilh 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_
• 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
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.
IV. 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
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.
° Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade
attachment bolts, 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 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° Frequently
check components and replace with
manufacturer's recommended parts,
when necessary.
•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.
•Be sure the area is clear of other
people before mowing. Stop machine if
anyone enters the area.
°Never carry passengers or children
even with the blades off°
° Do not mow in reverse unless abso-
lutely necessary. Always took down
and behind before and while backing.
°Never carry children. They may fall off
and be seriously injured or interfere
with safe machine operation.
•Keep children out of the mowing area
and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult. 4
-Be alert and turn machine off if children
enter the area.
• Before and when backing, look behind
and down for small children.
•Mow up and down slopes (I5 ° 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.

o Useslowspeed.Choosea low gearso
thatyouwillnothaveto stoporshift
while on theslope.
° Avoidstartingorstoppingon aslope,if
tireslosetraction,disengagethe
bladesand proceedslowlystraight
downtheslope.
• If machinestopswhile goinguphill,
disengageblades,shift into reverse
and backdownslowly.
• Do notturn on slopesunlessneces-
sary,andthen,turnslowlyandgradu-
ally downhill,if possible.
,_Look forthissymbolto pointout
importantsafetyprecautions.Itmeans
CAUTIONHtBECOMEALERT!tfYOUR
SAFETYISINVOLVED.
_,CAUTION: Inordertoprevent
acciaenta!startingwhensettingup,
transporting,adjustingor makingrepairs,
alwaysdisconnectspark plugwire and
placewirewhereitcannotcontactspark
plug.
,_CAUTION: Do not coast down a hill in
neutral, you may lose control of the
tractor.
_CAUTION: Tow only the attachments
that are recommended by and comply
with specifications of the manufacturer of
your tractor. Use common sense when
towing. Operate only at the lowest
possible speed when on a slope. Too
heavy of a load, while on a slope, is
dangerous. Tires can lose traction with
the ground and cause you to lose control
of your tractor.
_t_sWAR_.ING.." Engine exh.aust,, s.ome of
constituents, and certain ventcle
components contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to cause
cancer and birth defects or other repro_
ductive harm.
,II_WABNING: Battery. posts,.terminals ,
and related accessories contain lead and
lead compounds, chemicals known to the
State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductive harm.
Wash hands after handling.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
GASOLINE 3.5GALLONS
CAPACITY UNLEADED
&NDTYPE: REGULAR
DILTYPE SAE10W30
(ABOVE32°F)
APt-SFiSG/SH):SAE5W-30
(BELOW32°F)
OILCAPACITY': W/FILTER:4.5PINTS
W/OFILTER:4.0PINTS
SPARKPLUG: CHAMPIONRC12YC
GAP:.030")
GROUND SPEED FORWARD:0-5.5
(MPH): REVERSE: 0-2.4
FIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI
REAR: I0 PSI
CHARGING
SYSTEM: 15 AMPS @ 3600 RPM
BATTERY: AMPiHR: 30
MINo CCA: 240
CASE SIZE: U I R
BLADE BOLT 27-35 FT, LBS,
TORQUE:
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase
of a new tractor° It has been designed,
engineered and manufactured to give you
the best possible dependability and
performance.
Should you experience any problem you
cannot easily remedy, please contact your
nearest authorized service center/
department. 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".
REPAIR AGREEMENT
A Repair Agreement is available on this
product. Contact your nearest Sears
store for details°
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
. Read and observe the safety rules.
. Follow a regular schedule in maintain-
ing, caring for and using your tractor.
° Follow the instructions under "Mainte-
nance" 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
unimproved forest-covered, brush-
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 authorized service
center/department (See REPAIR PARTS
section of this manual).
6

Steering Wheel
©
Steering
Wheel Insert Steering Sleeve
Steering Sleeve
Extension
Seat
(1) Washer
@ 17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge
(_(1) Knob
(1
!I
_J (1) Shoulder
Bolt 5/16-18
Mower
k Assemblies
(4) Retainer Springs (single loop) (3) Retainer Springs (double loop)
Gauge Wheels
(2) Shoulder
Bolts
(2) Washers 3/8
x 7/8 x 14 Gauge
(2) Center-
lock Nuts
7

'(ournewtractorhasbeenassembledatthefactorywithexceptionofthosepartsleft
unassembledfor shippingpurposes.Toensuresafeandproperoperationofyour
tractorallpartsand hardwareyou assemblemustbe tightenedsecurely°Usethe
correcttoolsasnecessaryto insurepropertightness.Reviewthevideocassettebefore
you begin.
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY
A socket wrench set will make assembly
easier. Standard wrench sizes you need
are listed below.
(t) 9/16" wrench (1) 3/4" Socket w/
(I) 1/2" wrench drive ratchet
(I) Utility knife (I) Pliers
(t) Tire pressure gauge
j,'_ .,,. Steering
_Wheel Insert
L&---_ Lock Nut
_4;-,__.__Large Flat
"--r" -Washer
When right or left hand is mentioned in
this manual, it means, from your point of
view, when you are in the operating
position (seated behind the steering
wheel).
TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM
CARTON
UNPACK CARTON
I. Remove all accessible loose parts
and parts cartons from carton.
2. Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on
all four corners of carton, and lay
panels flat.
3_ Remove mower and packing materi-
als.
4. Check for any additional loose parts
or cartons and remove.
BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR
FROM SKID
ATTACH STEERING WHEEL
1, Remove hex bolt, lock washer and
large flat washer from steering shaft.
2. Position front wheels of the tractor so
they are pointing straight forward.
3. Slide the steering sleeve over the
steering shaft.
4. Align tabs and press steering sleeve
extension into bottom of steering
wheel.
5. Position steering wheel so cross bars
are horizontal (left to right) and slide
onto steering wheel adapter.
6. Secure steering wheel to steering
shaft with hex bolt, lock washer and
large flat washer previously removed.
Tighten securely.
7. Snap steering wheel insert into center
of steering wheel.
Steering
Sleeve
Extension
Steenng - ,-__&=.-_--. ":_..,
Shaft _ //" / --_-->.-z. ",,,
Steering_;' _,_ t ,,,
_t, _ I I tt t
Sleeve (".'_3',' 3_:", ,,, ,,,
J
8. Remove protective materials from
tractor hood and grill.
IMPORTANT: Check for and remove any
staples in skid that may puncture tires
where tractor is to roll off skid.
HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR
CHECK BATTERY
1. Lift hood to raised position.
NOTE: If this battery is put into service
after month and year indicated on label
(label located between terminals) charge
battery for minimum of one hour at 6-10
amps. (See "BATTERY" in Maintenance
section of this manual for charging
instructions).
'÷ '"ii" i" ii+__ _ Lab el,_

INSTALL SEAT
Adjust seat before tightening adjustment
knob,
1, Remove adjustment knob and flat
washer securing seat to cardboard
packing and set aside for assembly of
seat to tractor°
2. Pivot seat upward and remove from
the cardboard packing, Remove the
cardboard packing and discard_
3. Place seat on seat pan and assemble
shoulder bolt. Tighten shoulder bolt
securely.
4. Assemble adjustment knob and flat
washer loosely. Do not tighten.
5. Lower seat into operating position and
sit on seat,
6, Slide seat until a comfortable position
is reached which allows you to press
clutch/brake pedal all the way down.
7. Get off seat without moving its
adjusted position.
8, Raise seat and tighten adjustment
knob securely,
Seat --_
Shoulder Seat Pan ,______-._ L
__ _ _RatWasher
Adjustment
Knob
NOTE: You may now roll or drive your
tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate
instruction below to remove the tractor
from the skid.
TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See
Operation section for location and
function of controls)
I. Press lift lever plunger and raise
attachment lift lever to its highest
position°
2. Release parking brake by depressing
clutch/brake pedal
3, Place freewheel control in freewheel-
ing position to disengage transmis-
sion (See "TO TRANSPORT" in the
Operation section of this manual).
4. Roll tractor forward off skid.
9
TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See
Operation section for location and
function of controls)
_lb WARNING: Before starting, read,
understand and follow all instructions in
the Operation section of this manual, Be
sure tractor is in a well-ventilated area, Be
sure the area in front of tractor is clear of
other people and objects.
1. Be sure all the above assembly steps
have been completed.
2, Check engine oil level and fill fuel
tank with gasoline.
3. Place freewheel control in "transmis-
sion engaged" position.
4o Sit on seat in operating position,
depress clutch/brake pedal and set
the parking brake.
5. Place motion control lever in neutral
(N) position.
6. Press lift lever plunger and raise
attachment lift lever to its highest
position.
7. Start the engine. After engine has
started, move throttle control to idle
position.
8. Release parking brake.
9. Slowly move the motion control lever
forward and slowly drive tractor off
skid.
10.Apply brake to stop tractor, set parking
brake and place motion control lever
in neutral position.
11 .Turn ignition key to "OFF" position.
Continue with the instructions that follow.
IMPORTANT: For shipping purposes, the
mulcher plate was preattached to your
mower. The mulcher plate must only be
used with the mulching blades that came
packed separately in the carton.
Your mower came factory equipped with
high performance blades, which are the
best blades for bagging and discharging.
To use your mower with the high perfor-
mance blades the mulcher plate must be
removed from the mower.
TO SET UP YOUR MOWER FOR
MULCHING
1. Turn the mower over to allow access
to blades,
2, Remove hex bolt, lock washer and flat
washer and remove high performance
blades. Store in safe place.
3. Install mulcher blades with trailing
edge up towards deck as shown,
IMPORTANT" To ensure proper assembly,
center hole in blade must align with star
on mandrel assembly.

4. Reassemblehex bolt, lockwasher
andflatwasherin exactorderas
shown.
5. Tightenboltsecurely(27-35Ft.Lbs.
torque).
IMPORTANT: Bladeboltis grade 8 heat
treated.
6_ Install mulcher plate if previously
removed. Mandrel
Assembly
Trailing Edge Up Center
Blade Hole
Washer-,
Hex Bolt
(Grade 8)* Star
(_ Lock
Washer
*A GRADE 8 HEAT TREATED BOLT CAN BE
IDENTIFIED BY SIX LINES ON THE BOLT
HEAD.
TO INSTALL MULCHER PLATE
NOTE: If you installed the mulching
blades you will need to install the
mulcher plate.
1. Raise and hold deflector shield in
upright position.
2. Place front of mufcher plate over front
of mower deck opening and slide into
place, as shown.
3. Hook front latch into hole on front of
mower deck.
4o Hook rear latch into hole on back of
mower deck.
_},CAUTION: Do not remove deflector
shield from mower. Raise and hold shield
when attaching mulcher plate and allow it
to rest on plate while in operation,
Deflector
Shield
)
Mulcher
Plate
Latch
Hooks
TO CONVERT TO BAGGING OR
DISCHARGING
NOTE: The mulcher blades will discharge
and bag grass, but for best bagging and
discharging install the high performance
blades.
1. Remove mulcher plate and mulcher
blades and install high performance
blades, (see BLADE REMOVAL in the
Maintenance section of this manual)
2. Store mulcher blades and mulcher
plate in a safe place. Your mower is
now ready for discharging or installa-
tion of optional grass catcher acces-
sory.
INSTALL MOWER AND DRIVE BELT
Be sure tractor is on level surface and
mower suspension arms are raised with
attachment lift control. Engage parking
braker
1. Cut and remove ties securing anti-
sway bar and belts. Swing anti-sway
bar to left side of mower deck.
2. Slide mower under tractor with
deflector shield to right side of tractor,
IMPORTANT: Check belt for proper
routing in all mower pulley grooves.
Install belt into electric clutch pulley
groove.
3. Install one front link in top hole of the
R.H. front mower bracket and R.H.
front suspension bracket, Retain with
two single loop retainer springs as
shown.
4. Install second front link in L.H. front
suspension bracket only and retain
with single loop retainer spring as
showm
5. Turn height adjustment knob counter-
clockwise until it stops.
6_ Lower mower linkage with attachment
lift control.
7,, Place the Loll, suspension arm on
outward pointing deck pin. If neces-
sary, rock and raise front of mower to
align deck pin with the hole in
suspension arm. Retain with double
loop retainer spring with loops down
as shown.
8. Slide left side of mower back and
install the unattached front link in top
hole of the LH. front mower bracket.
Retain with single loop retainer spring
as shown°
10

9. Place the R.H. suspension arm on
outward pointing deck pin,, If neces-
sary, rock and raise front of mower to
align deck pin with the hole in
suspension arm. Retain with double
loop retainer spring with loops down
as shown.
10.Connect anti-sway bar to chassis
bracket under left footrest and retain
with double loop retainer spring.
11 .Turn height adjustment knob clock-
wise to remove slack from mower
suspension,
12.Raise mower to highest position.
1&Assemble gauge wheels (See "TO
ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS" in the
Operation section of this manual).
CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
The tires on your tractor were overinflated
at the factory for shipping purposes.
Correct tire pressure is important for best
cutting performance.
o Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in
"PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" section
of this manual.
CHECK MOWER LEVELNESS
For best cutting results, mower should be
properly 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, mower drive, and
mower blade 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.
Double Loop
Chassis Retainer Spring
Bracket"_ (Outward pointing
_...deck pins) \
Shoulder
Bolt
\\\ Gauge
Wheel
Electric
Suspension Clutch
Arms Pulley
Front Mower
Bracket
Front"_, c. ;
Link i! '
318
Washer
3/8-16
Center
Locknut Double Loop
Retainer Spring
I Antil
Use Pliers for Bar
Retainer Springs
DowR
Idler
Pulley
Single Loop
Retainer
Spring
Deflector
Shield
11

V'CHECKLIST
BEFORE YOU OPERATEAND 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.
,/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
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)°
v" 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.
¢' Before driving tractor, be sure free-
wheel control is in drive position.
WHILE LEARNING HOW TO USE YOUR
TRACTOR, PAY EXTRAATTENTION TO
THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT ITEMS:
,/Engine oil is at proper level.
v' Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean,
regular unleaded gasoline.
v' Become familiar with all controls - their
location and function. Operate them
before you start the engine.
v' Be sure brake system is in safe
operating condition.
¢It is important to purge the transmis-
sion before operating your tractor for
the first timer Follow proper starting
and transmission purging instructions
(See "TO START ENGINE" and
"PURGE TRANSMISSION" in the
Operation section of this manual).
12

Thesesymbolsmayappearon yourtractororin literaturesuppliedwiththeproduct.
Learnandunderstandtheir meaning.
BA't-t'ERY
ENGINE ON
FUEL
÷
CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD FAST
WARNING
ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS Ol'4 OVER TEMP
LIGHT
CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED
LOCKED
SLOW
MOWER LIFT
ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH ENGAGED
IGNITION
REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH
ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH DISENGAGED
LOW PARKING BRAKE
KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS
(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)
DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY
13
FREE WHEEL
(Automatic Modelsonty)

KNOW YOUR TRACTOR
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND 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°
Throttle Control
Clutch!Brake
Control
Height
Adjustment
Ammeter
Choke Control
Ignition
Switch
Light Switch
Position
Attachment
Clutch Switch
Lift Lever
Plunger
Attachment
Lift Lever
Parking Brake
Freewhee!
Control
Motion
Control Lever
Approx.
Speed
3mph
2mph
lmph
Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the American
National Standards Institute.
ATTACHMENT CLUTCH SWITCH: Used
to engage the mower blades, or other
attachments mounted to your tractor.
LIGHT swrf'CH: Turns the headlights on
and off.
THROTTLE CONTROL - Used to control
engine speed.
CHOKE CONTROL - Used when starting
a cold engine.
CLUTCHtBRAKE PEDAL: Used for
declutching and braking the tractor and
starting the engine,
FREEWHEEL CONTROL: Disengages
transmission for pushing or slowly towing
the tractor with the engine off,
HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB: Used to
adjust the mower cutting height°
MOTION CONTROL LEVER: Selects the
speed and direction of the tractor,
ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER: Used to
raise and lower the mower deck or other
attachments mounted to your tractor.
LIFT LEVER PLUNGER: Used to release
attachment lift lever when changing its
position.
IGNITION SWITCH: Used for starting and
stopping the engine,
AMMETER: Indicates battery charging (+)
or discharging (-).
PARKING BRAKE: Locks clutch/brake
into the brake position.
14

Theoperationof anytractorcan resultinforeignobjectsthrownintothe
eyes,whichcanresultinsevereeyedamage.Alwayswearsafetyglasses
or eyeshieldswhileoperatingyourtractoror performinganyadjustments
or repairs.We recommendawidevisionsafetymaskoverspectacles,or
standardsafetyglasses.
HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR
TO SET PARKING BRAKE
Your tractor is equipped with an 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.
1. Depress clutch/brake pedal into full
"BRAKE" position and hold.
2. Place parking brake lever in "EN-
GAGED" position and release
pressure from clutch/brake pedal.
Pedal should remain in "BRAKE"
position° Make sure parking brake will
hold tractor secure.
Choke
Control
Push-In to Attachment Clutch
"Disengaged" Switch Pull Out To
\ Engage"
Throttle
"Brake"
Position
Clutch/Brake "Engaged" Motion
Pedal "Drive" Adjustment Position Control
Position Knob "Disengaged" Lever
Position
STOPPING
MOWER BLADES -
= To stop mower blades, move attach-
ment clutch switch to "DISENGAGED"
position.
GROUND DRIVE -
°To stop ground drive, depress clutch/
brake pedal into full "BRAKE" position.
° Move motion control lever to neutral (N)
position_
IMPORTANT: The motion control lever
does not return to neutral (N) position
when the clutchtbrake pedal is de-
pressed.
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
"backfire".
• Turn ignition key to "OFF" position and
remove key. Always remove key when
leaving tractor to prevent unauthorized
use.
° Never use choke to stop engine.
IMPORTANT: Leaving the ignition switch
in any position other than "OFF" will
cause the battery to be discharged,
(dead).
NOTE: Under certain conditions when
tractor is standing idle with the engine
running, hot engine exhaust gases may
cause "browning" of grass. To eliminate
this possibility, always stop engine when
stopping tractor on grass areas°
p_ICAUTIOI'_: Always stop tractor com-
ely, as aescnuea above, before
leaving the operator's position; to empty
grass catcher, etc.
THROTTLE CONTROL
Always operate engine at full throttle.
° Operating engine at tess than full
throttle reduces the battery charging
rate.
• Full throttle offers the best bagging and
mower performance.
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, pull knob out.
Slowly push knob in to disengage.
TO MOVE FORWARD AND
BACKWARD
The direction and speed of movement is
controlled by the motion control lever.
1. Start tractor with motion control lever
in neutral (N) position.
2. Release parking brake and clutch/
brake pedal.
3. Slowly move motion control lever to
desired position.
TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT
The cutting height is controlled by turning
the height adjustment knob in desired di-
rection.
oTurn knob clockwise (f'_) to raise cut-
ting height.
• Turn knob counterclockwise (F'_)to
lower cutting height.
15

Thecuttingheightrangeis approximately
1-1/2"to4", Theheightsaremeasured
fromthegroundto thebladetipwiththe
enginenotrunning. Theseheightsare
approximateand mayvary depending
uponsoilconditions,heightof grassand
typesof grassbeingmowed.
• Theaveragelawnshouldbecutto
approximately2-1/2 inchesduringthe
coolseasonandto over3 inches
duringhotmonths. Forhealthierand
betterlookinglawns,mowoftenand
aftermoderategrowth.
•For best cutting performance, grass
over 6 inches in height should be
mowed twice. Make the first cut
relatively high; the second to desired
height.
TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS
Gauge wheels are properly adjusted
when they are slightly off the ground
when mower is at the desired cutting
height in operating position. Gauge
wheels then keep the deck in proper
position to help prevent scalping in most
terrain conditions.
NOTE; Adjust gauge wheels with tractor
on a flat level surface°
1o Adjust mower to desired cutting height
(See "TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING
HEIGHT" in the Operation section of
this manual).
2. 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-t6 Iocknut and
tighten securely.
3. Repeat for opposite side installing
gauge wheel in same adjustment
hole.
Gauge Wheel
Mounting
Bracket
3/8-16
Locknut Shoulder Bolt
3/8 Washer Gauge Wheel
TO OPERATE MOWER
Your tractor is equipped with an operator
presence sensing switch. Any attempt by
the operator to leave the seat with the
engine running and the attachment clutch
engaged will shut off the engine.
1o Select desired height of cut.
2. Lower mower with attachment lift
control.
3, Start mower blades by engaging
attachment clutch control.
TO STOP MOWER BLADES -
disengage attachment clutch control,
_CAUTION: Do not operate the mower
without either the entire grass catcher, on
mowers so equipped, or the deflector
shield in placeo
Attachment Clutch Attachment Lift Lever
Switch Pull Out To High Position
/Low
0,_ Position
_:_ Deflector
y Shield
TO OPERATE ON HILLS
,_CAUTION: Do not drive up or down
hills with slopes greater than 15 °and do
not drive across any slope. Use the slope
guide provided at the back of this manual.
° Choose the slowest speed before
starting up or down hills.
• Avoid stopping or changing speed on
hills.
° If slowing is necessary, move throttle
control lever to slower position,
. If stopping is absolutely necessary,
push clutch/brake pedal quickly to
brake position and engage parking
brake,
• Move motion control lever to neutral (N)
position.
IMPORTANT; The motion control lever does
not return to neutral (N) position when the
clutch/brake pedal Is depressed,
° To restart movement, slowly release
parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.
° Slowly move motion control lever to
slowest setting.
° Make all turns slowly,
TO TRANSPORT
When pushing or towing your tractor, be
sure to disengage transmission by
placing freewheel control in freewheeling
position, Free wheel control is located at
the rear drawbar of tractor,
1. Raise attachment lift to highest
position with attachment lift control.
2. Put! freewheel control out and down
into the slot and release so it is held in
the disengaged position.
° Do not push or tow tractor at more than
two (2) MPHo
16

•To reengage transmission, reverse
above procedure°
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.).
TOWING CARTS AND OTHER ATTACH-
MENTS
Tow only the attachments that are
recommended by and comply with
specifications of the manufacturer of your
tractor, Use common sense when towing.
Too heavy of a load, while on a slope, is
dangerous_ Tires can lose traction with
the ground and cause you to lose control
of your tractor,
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.
1. Check engine oil with tractor on level
ground,
2, Unthread and remove oil fill cap/
dipstick; wipe oil off. Reinsert the
dipstick into the tube and rest oil fill
cap on the tube. Do not thread the
cap onto the tube. 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 Mainte-
nance section of this manual).
,, To change engine oi!, see the Mainte-
nance section in this manual.
ADD GASOLINE
• Fill fuel 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 tem-
peratures 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 during storage. Acidic
gas can damage the fuel system of an
engine while in storage. To avoid engine
problems, the fuel system should be
emptied before storage of 30 days or
longer. Drain the gas tank, start the
engine and let it run until the fuel lines
and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel
next season. See Storage instructions for
additional information. Never use engine
or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel
tank or permanent damage may occur.
,_CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank
filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe 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 first 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.
t. Be sure freewheel control is in the
transmission engaged position.
2. Sit on seat in operating position,
depress clutch/brake pedal and set
parking brake_
3. Place motion control lever in neutral
(N) position.
4. Move attachment clutch to "DISEN-
GAGED" position.
5. Move throttle control to fast position
6. Pull choke control out for a cold
engine start attempt. For a warm
engine start attempt the choke control
may not be needed.
NOTE: Before starting, read the warm and
cold starting procedures below.
7. Insert key into ignition and turn 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 the engine does not start after
several attempts, push choke control
in, wait a few minutes and try again. If
engine still does not start, pull the
choke control out and retry,
17

WARMWEATHERSTARTING(50°Fand
above)
8. Whenenginestarts,slowlypush
chokecontrolin untiltheengine
beginsto runsmoothly,if the engine
startsto run roughly,pullthechoke
controloutslightlyforafew seconds
andthencontinueto pushthecontrol
in slowly.
o Theattachmentsandgrounddrivecan
nowbeused.Iftheenginedoesnotaccept
theload,restarttheengineandallowitto
warmupforoneminuteusingthechoke
asdescribedabove.
COLDWEATHERSTARTING(50°Fand
below)
8. Whenenginestarts,slowlypush
chokecontrolin untiltheengine
beginsto runsmoothly.Continueto
pushthechokecontrolin smallsteps
allowingtheengineto acceptsmall
changesin speedandload,untilthe
chokecontrolisfully inoIf theengine
startsto run roughly,pullthe choke
controloutslightlyforafew seconds
andthencontinueto pushthecontrol
in slowly.Thismayrequirean engine
warm-upperiodfrom severalseconds
to severalminutes,dependingon the
temperature.
AUTOMATICTRANSMISSIONWARMUP
Beforedrivingthe unitin coldweather,
thetransmissionshouldbewarmedup as
follows:
1. Be surethe tractoris on levelground.
2. Placethemotioncontrolleverin
neutral,Releasethe parkingbrake
andlettheclutch/brakeslowly return
to operatingposition°
3. Allowoneminutefor transmissionto
warmup.Thiscan be doneduringthe
enginewarmup period.
° Theattachmentscanbe usedduring
theenginewarm-upperiodafterthe
transmissionhas beenwarmedup and
mayrequirethechokecontrolbe
pulledoutslightly.
NOTE:Ifat ahighaltitude(above3000
feet)orin coldtemperatures(below32 F)
thecarburetorfuel mixturemayneedto
be adjustedfor bestengineperformance°
See"TOADJUSTCARBURETOR"in the
Service and Adjustments section of this
manual.
PURGE TRANSMISSION
_,_CAUTION: Never engage or disen-
gage freewheel lever while the engine is
running.
To ensure proper operation and perfor-
mance, it is recommended that the
transmission be purged before operating
tractor for the first time. This procedure will
remove any trapped air inside the trans-
mission which may have developed during
shipping of your tractor_
IMPORTANT: Should your transmission
require removal for service or replacement,
it should be purged after reinstaltation
before operating the tractor.
I. Place tractor safely on level surface
with engine off and parking brake set.
2. Disengage transmission by placing
freewheel control in freewheeling
position (See '%0 TRANSPORT" in
this section of manual).
3. Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine.
After the engine is running, move
throttle control to slow position° With
motion control lever in neutral (N)
position, slowly disengage clutch/
brake pedal°
4, Move motion control lever to full
forward position and hold for five (5)
seconds. Move lever to full reverse
position and hold for five (5) seconds.
Repeat this procedure three (3) times.
NOTE: During this procedure there will be
no movement of drive wheels. The air is
being removed from hydraulic drive
system.
5. Move motion control lever to neutral
(N) position. Shut- off engine and set
parking brake.
6. Engage transmission by placing
freewheel control in driving position
(See "TO TRANSPORT" in this section
of manual).
7. Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine.
After the engine is running, move
throttle control to half (1/2) speed. With
motion control lever in neutral (N)
position, slowly disengage clutch/
brake pedal.
8. Slowly move motion control lever
forward, after the tractor moves
approximately five (5) feet, slowly
move motion control lever to reverse
position. After the tractor moves
approximately five (5) feet return the
motion control lever to the neutral (N)
position. Repeat this procedure with
the motion control lever three (3)
times_
Your tractor is now purged and now ready
for normal operation.
18

MOWING TIPS
•Mower should be properly leveled for
best mowing performance° See "TO
LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the
Service and Adjustments section of this
manual.
o The left hand side of mower should be
used for trimming.
o Drive so that clippings are discharged
onto the area that has been cut. Have
the cut area to the right of the tractor.
This wilt result in a more even distribu-
tion of clippings and more uniform
cutting.
• When mowing large areas, start by
turning to the right so that clippings will
discharge away from shrubs, fences,
driveways, etc. After one or two
rounds, mow in the opposite direction
making left hand turns until finished.
o If grass is extremely tall, it should be
mowed twice to reduce load and
possible fire hazard from dried clip-
pings. 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
undesirable 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
selecting a tow enough gear to give the
mower cutting performance as well as
the quality of cut desired.
° When operating attachments, select a
ground speed that will suit the terrain
and give best performance of the
attachment being used.
.
MULCHING MOWING TIPS
IMPORTANT: For best performance,
keep mower housing free of built-up
grass and trash. Clean after each use.
° The special mulching blade will recut
the grass clippings many times and
reduce them in size so that as they fall
onto the lawn they will disperse into the
grass and not be noticed. Also, the
mulched grass will biodegrade quickly
to provide nutrients for the lawn.
Always mulch with your highest engine
(blade) speed as this will provide the
best recutting action of the blades.
• Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet.
Wet grass tends to form clumps and
interferes with the mulching action.
The best time to mow your lawn is the
early afternoon, At this time the grass
has dried and the newly cut area will
not be exposed to the direct sun.
° For best results, adjust the mower
cutting height so that the mower cuts off
only the top one-third of the grass
blades. For extremely heavy mulching,
reduce your width of cut on each pass
and mow slowly.
o Certain types of grass and grass
conditions may require that an area be
mulched a second time to completely
hide the clippings. When doing a
second cut, mow across or perpendicu-
lar to the first cut path.
• Change your cutting pattern from week
to week. Mow north to south one week
then change to east to west the next
week. This will help prevent matting
and graining of the lawn.
MAX 1/3
19

MAINTENAN'CE'SCHEDULE _._
FILL IN DATES ,_O_==_
Check BrakeOperalion if If
Check Tire Pressure V_ If
Check Operator Presence and
T}nterlock Sysiem_ V_
aCheck far Loose Fasteners V_' V_,
(_ Sh_;e,_Rep!_,ceMo,_e'r"B1;,_e_........ V'. ...........
T Lubricationchart _ Sf ........................
0 Check Batter,i Level I_B
R Clean Battery and Terminais * ' ' _ '
CheckT,anS,xl,CQor!_g......................................V" ...............
Adjust Blade Belt(s) Tension V_s
Adj"stM0ti0.D.vaBa,(s)Tens_an _, ....
CheckEngtne0!*Lever............... V" V"
Change Engine Oit 1_t.2.= V_
E0,eon ,rF,,,er ' '.................... i i i...........'.....i
NCleanAir Screen _z
Inspect Muffler/Spark Arrester
Replace 0ii F{iter (if equipped) . . .
Replace Spark Plug If If
ReplacoAt,F,,orPaperco.,_d_e V'_ ...............
Replace Fuel Filter I_
I-Change mote olter_ when operating under a heavy bad Dr tn high _mhlanl temperalums., ,5,,1Ieq_}pped with adjuslabie syslem
2- Service more olden when operating In d_rtyo_ dusty conditions 6 -Hot mqu!_od tl _qulpped with maintenance*lee bal_enf,
3 - If equipped wllh ol tilter, change oil ovary SO hours 7-Tighten trent mdt_pivot bo!l Io 35 {I,-Ibs m_lmum
4- Replace blades more piton when mowing In s_ndy soil Do nat evertlghter_
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this tractor does not cover
items that have been 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
periodically to properly maintain your
tractor°
All adjustments in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual should
be checked 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-fuel mixture and help your
engine run better and last longer.
BEFORE EACH USE
1. Check engine oil level.
2. Check brake operation.
3. Check tire pressure.
4. Check operator presence and
interlock systems for proper operation.
5. Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION CHART
Spindle
Zerk
OWheel
Bearing
Zerk
Spindle
Zerk
_) Front
Wheel
Bearing
Zerk
O General Purpose Grease
® Refer to Maintenance "ENGINE" Section
(_ Engine
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease the
pivot points which have special nylon
bear-tags. Viscous lubricants will attract
dust and dirt that will shorten the life of
the self-lubricating bearings. If you feet
they must be lubricated, use only a dry,
powdered graphite type lubricant
sparingly.
2O