Craftsman 917.275020 User manual

Owner's Manual
I(RRFTSMRH°I
23.0 HP
ELECTRIC START
48" MOWER
AUTOMATIC
GARDEN TRACTOR
Model No.
917.275020
•Safety
• Assembly
• Operation
•Maintenance
•Repair Parts
CAUTION:
Read and follow all Safety
Rules and Instructions before
operating this equipment.
For answers to your questions
about this product, Calh
1-800-659-5917
Sears Craftsman Help Line
5 am - 5 pro, Mon- Sat
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, II 60179
Visit our Craftsman website:www.sears.com/craftsman

Warranty ............................................... 2
Safety Rules ......................................... 3
Product Specifications .......................... 6
Assembly .............................................. 8
Operation ............................................ 13
Maintenance Schedule ...................... 20
Maintenance ....................................... 20
Service and Adjustments.................... 24
Storage ............................................... 32
Troubleshooting ................................. 33
Repair Parts........................................ 38
Parts Ordedng ..................... Back Cover
LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY 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 will repair or replace, free of charge, any parts found to be defective in
matedal 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 atrip 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, suchas 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, includingbut not limited to, damage
caused by towing objects beyond the capability of the dding 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 imp_'operstorage, failure to use the
proper grade and amount of engine oil, failure to keep the deck clear offlammable
debds, 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. Aproduct is "usedfor
commerdal purpose" if is used for any purpose other than singlefamily household
dwellingsor 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 will replace the battery at no charge. War-
renty service is available free of charge by returning your Craftsman ddleg 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 ORTO SCHEDULE IN-
HOME WARRANTY SERVICE, SIMPLY CONTACT SEARS AT 1-800-4-MY-HOME
This Warranty gives you specificlegal rights, and you may also have other rights
whichmay vary from state tostate.
Sears, Roebuck and Co., D/817 WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

IMPORTANT: This cuttingmachine is capable of amputating hands and feet and
throwingobjects. Failure to observe the followingsafety instructionscould result in
serious injuryor death.
I. GENERAL OPERATION
•Read, understand, and follow all
instructionsin 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., whichcould be
picked up and thrown by the blade.
• Be sure the area isclear of other
people before mowing. Stop machine
ff anyone enters the area.
• Never sam] passengers.
•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 itat 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 turnoff 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 daylightor good artificial
tight.
• 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 intoa trailer or
truck.
•Data indicates that operators, age 60
years and above, are involved in a
large percentage of riding mower-
related injudes. These operators
should evaluate their ability to operate
the ddieg mower safely enough to
protect themselves and othersfrom
sedous injury.
• Keep machine free of grass, leaves or
other debds build-up which san touch
hotexhaust /engine partsand bum.
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
operatingor storingthe machine.
Allow machine to cool before storage.
II. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a majorfactor related to loss-of-
control and tipover accidents, which can
result in severe injury or death. Allslopes
require extra caution. Ifyou cannot backup
the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not
mow it,
DO:
•Mow up and down slopes, not across.
•Remove obstacles suchas rocks, tree
limbs,etc.
•Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps.
Uneven terrain could overturn the
machine. Taftgrass can hide ob-
stacles.
•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-
datlens for wheel weights or counter-
weights to improve stability.
• Use extra care with grass catchers or
other attachments. These san change
the stabilityof the machine.
•Keep all movement on the slopes slow
and gradual Do not make sudden
changes in speed or direction.
•Avoid startingor stoppingon 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 turnover if a wheel is over
the edge of a cliffor ditch, or if an edge
saves in.
•Do notmow 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

IlL CHILDREN
Tragicaccidents can occur if the operator
is notalert to the presence of children.
Childrenare often attracted tothe
machineand the mowing activity. Never
assume that children will remain where
you last saw them.
• Keep chit{ben out of the mowing area
and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult.
• Be alert and turn machine off if children
enterthe 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 wben approaching blind
comers, 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
notsmoke.
-Never refuel the machine indoors
-Never store the machine or fuel
container inside where there is a_
open flame, such as awater heat
•Never run a machine inside a closq
area.
•Keep nuts and bolts, especially bl_
attachment bolts, tightand keep
equipment in good condition.
•Never tamper with safety devices.
Check their proper operation regul
•Keep machine free ofgrass, leave,,
other debds build-up. Clean oil or
spillage. Allow machine to cool b_
stodng.
•Stop and inspect the equipment if !
stdke an object. Repair, ifnecessz
before restarting.
• Never make adjustments or repair,'
with the engine running.
•Grass catcher components are sul
to wear, damage, and deterioratioi
which could expose moving parts
allow objects to be thrown. Frequ_
check components and replace wi
manufacturer'srecommended pad
when necessary.
•Mower blades are sharp and can (
Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves,
use extra caution when servicingt
•Check brake operation frequently.
Adjust and service as required.
•Be sure the area is clear ofother
people before mowing. Stop machine if
anyone enters the area.
• Never carry passengers or children
even with the blades off.
•Do notmow in reverse unless abso-
lutely necessary. Always look down
and behind before and while backing.
• Never carrychildren. They may fall off
and be sedously injured or interfere
with safe machine operation.
•Keep children out of the mowing area
and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult.
•Be alert and turn machine off ifchi
enter the area.
• Before and when hacking, look be
and down for small children.
•Mow up and down slopes (15 ° Ma
not across.
•Remove obstacles such as rocks,
limbs,etc,
•Watch for holes, ruts, orbumps.
Uneven terrain could overturn the
machine. Tall grass can hide obst
4

• Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so
that you willnot have tostop or shift
while on the slope.
• Avoid startingor stoppingon a slope. If
tires lose traction, disengage the
blades and proceed slowly straight
down the slope.
•If machine stops while going uphill,
disengage blades, shift into reverse
and back down slowly.
•Do not turnon slopes unless neces-
.sary,and then, turn slowlyand gradu-
ally downhill,if possible.
,_Look for this symbol to point out
importantsafety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!f BECOMEALERTII! YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
CAUTION: In orderto prevent
accidental starting when setting up,
transporting, adjusting or making repairs,
always disconnect spark plug wire end
place wire where it cannot contact spark
plug.
,_ CAUTION: Do not ccast down e 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
possiblespeed when on a slope. Too
heavy of a load, while on a slope, is
dangerous. Tires can lose tractionwith
the ground and cause you to lose control
of yourtractor.
_I, WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of
its constituents,and certain vehicle
components contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to cause
cancer and birth defects or other repro-
ductive harm.
_WARNING: Battery posts,terminals
and related accessories contain lead and
lead compounds, chemicals known to the
State of California to cause cancer and
birthdefects or other reproductive harm.
Wash hands after handling.
5

PRODUCTSPECIFICATIONS
GASOLINE
CAPACITY
AND TYPE:
OiL TYPE
API-SF-SJ):
OIL CAPACITY:
3.5 GALLONS
UNLEADED
REGULAR
SAE tOW30
(ABOVE 32°F)
SAE 5W-30
(BELOW 32°F)
WlFILTER: 4,5PINTS
W/O FILTER:4.0PINTS
SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION
IGAP: .030") RC_2YC
GROUND FORWARD: 5.8
SPEED(MPH): REVERSE: 2.1
TIRE FRONT: 14 PSi
PRESSURE: REAR: 10 PSi
CHARGING tSAMPS @3600RPM
SYSTEM:
BATTERY: AMP/HR: 35
MIN. CCA: 280
CASE SIZE:U1R
BLADE BOLT 45-55 FT. LBS
TORQUE:
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase
of a new trsctor. 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 a
Sears or other qualified service center.
We have competent, well-trained techni.
clans and the proper toolsto service or
repair this tractor,
Please road and retain this manual. The
instructionswill enable you to assemble
and maintain your tractor properly.
Always observe the "SAFETY RULES".
REPAIR AGREEMENT
ARepair 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 maintair
ing. caring for and using your !ractor.
•Follow the instructionsunder Mainte
nance" and "Storage" sections of this
owner's manual.
_IWARNING: Thistractor is equippec
with an internal combustion engine and
should not be used on or near any
unimproved forest-covered, brush-
covered or grass-coverod land unless tJ
engine's exhaust system is equipped w
a spark arrester meeting applicable Ioc.
or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester
used, it should be maintained Jneffecfi',
working order by the operator.
In the state of California the above is
reqairod by law (Sectlan 4442 of the
California Public Resources Code).
Other states may have similarlaws.
Federal laws apply on federal lands. A
spark arrester for the muffler is availabl
through your nearest Sears service
center (See REPAIR PARTS section of
this manual).
6

Steering Wheel
Steering Sleeve SteeringWheelInsert
Steering Sleeve
Extension
Seat
(1) Washer
17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge
(1) Knob
Mower
12) Retainer Springs (single loop)
(5) Retainer Springs
(double loop)
(2)Flanged
_Pins
(1)Front Plate
Assembly
Gauge Wheels
(2) AdjustingBars (2) Clevis Pins
_(2) Wheels _
(2) Locknuts 3/8-16
_"_ (2) Retainer Springs
2) Shoulder Bolts _k (_) (double loop)
(2) Washers
3/8 x 3/4 x 14 Ga.
7

Video Cassette Keys Slope Sheet
(1) Oil Drain Tube
Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception of those parts left
unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operaticn 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 you need
are listed below.
(1) 9/16"wrench (1) Pliers
(1) 1/2"wrench (1) Utility knife
(1) 3/4" socket with
ddve ratchet
(1) Tire pressure gauge
When dght 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 REMOVETRACTOR FROM
CARTON
UNPACK CARTON
1. Remove all accessible loose parts
and partscartons from carton.
2. Cut, from topto bottom, along lines on
all four comers of carton, and lay
panels fiat.
3. Remove mower and packing materi-
als.
4. Check for any additional loose parts
or cartons and remove.
BEFORE REMOVINGTRACTOR
FROM SKID
ATTACH STEERING WHEEL
1. Remove hex bolt, lockwasher and
large fiat washer from steeringshaft.
2. Positionfront wheels ofthe tractor so
they are pointingstraight forward.
3. Slide the steering sleeve over the
steedng shaft.
4. Align tabs and press steering sleeve
extension into bottom of steering
wheel.
5. Positionsteering wheel so cross bars
are horizontal (left to right) and slide
onto steedng wheel adapter.
6. Secure steedng wheel to steedng
shaft with hex bolt, leek washer and
large fiat washer previouslyremoved.
Tighten securely,
7. Snap steering wheel insert intocenter
of steedng wheel.
8. Remove protective materials from
tractor hood and gdll.
IMPORTANT: Check for and remove any
staples in skid that may puncture tires
where tractor is to roll off skid.
8

x Bolt
_-d--Lock Washer
Steedng _LargeFlat
Wheel__ Washer
_/Steerlng Wheel
_J Adapter
Steering_,
Sleeve _....._:=_- Tabs
Extension I
Steering
Shaft
Steermg_-_',_-. ,_ ',,,
seeve -,,' ",',
HOWTO SET UPYOURTRACTOR
CHECK BATTERY
1. Lifthoed to raised position.
NOTE: If this battery is put intoservice
after month and year indicated on label
(label located between terminals) charge
battery for minimum of one hour at 6-10
amp& (See "BATTERY" in Maintenance
section ofthis manual for charging
instructions),
.}._£{g:..-..._._-,,.
'_" "" " Label
• _';::_
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 totractor.
2. Pivot seat upward end remove from
the cardboard packing. Remove the
cardboard packing and discard.
3. Place seat on seat pan so head of
shoulder bolt is positioned over large
slotted hole in pan.
4. Push down on seat to engage
shoulder belt in slot and pull seat
towards rear of tractor.
5. Pivot seat and pan forward and
assemble adjustment knob and flat
washer loosely. Do not tighten.
6. Lower seat into operating position and
sit in seat.
7. Slide seat until a comfortable position
is reached which allows you to press
clutch/brake pedal all the way down.
8. Get off seat without moving its
adjusted position.
9. Raise seat and tighten ad)ustment
knob securely.
NOTE: You may now rollor drive your
tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate
instructionbelow to remove the tractor
from the skid. Seat
SeatP_
_'_. _ Shoulder
Bolt
FlatWasher_ _
Adjustm_n_tK'_ncb_

TOROLLTRACTOROFFSKiD(See
Operationsectionforlocationand
functionofcontrols)
1. Pressliftleverplungerandraise
attachment _lftlever to its highest
position.
2. Release parking brake by depressing
brake pedal.
3. Place freewheel control in freewheel-
ing position to disengage transmis-
sion(See =TOTRANSPORT" in the
Operation section of this manual).
4. Roll tractor forward off skid.
TO DRIVETRACTOR OFF SKID (See
Operation section for location and
function of controls)
,_WARNING: Before starting, read, .
understand and follow a_llestructtons in
the Operation section of this manual. Be
sure tractor is in a well-ventilated area. Be
sere 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 flUfuel
tank with gasoline.
3. Place freewheel control in "transmis-
sion engaged" position.
4. Sit on seat in operating position,
depress brake pedal and set the
parking brake.
5. Press liftlever plunger and raise
attachment lift lever to its highest
position.
6. Start the engine. After engine has
started, move throttle control to idle
position.
7. Release parking brake.
8. Slowly move the motion control lever
forward and slowly ddve tractor off
skid.
g. Apply brake to stop tractor and set
parking brake.
10.Turn Ignition key to "OFF" positien.
Continue with the instructionsthat follow.
ASSEMBLE GAUGE WHEELST,
MOWER DECK
The gauge wheels are designed to,
the mower deck in proper position w
operating mower. Be sure they are
propedy adjusted to ensure optimun
mower performance.
1. Slide gauge wheel bar down int¢
bracket channel, Be sure that gal
wheel bar aligning holes are on t
Assemble gauge wheels as sho'+
using shoulder bolts, 3/8 washer.
3/8-16 center lecknuts and tighte
securely.
2. For ease of mower to tractor ass_
bly, raise gauge wheels to hlghe:
positionand retain with clevis pit
and spdng retainers.
NOTE: Adjustgauge wheels before
operating mower. See %0 ADJUST
GAUGE WHEELS" in the Operation
section of this manual.
Retainer
Pin_
10

INSTALL MOWER AND DRIVE BELT
Be sure tractor is on level surface and
mower suspension arms are raised with
attachment lift control. Engage parking
brake.
1. Cut and remove ties securing anti-
sway bar and belts. Swing anti-sway
barto left side of mower deck.
2. Slide mower under tractor with
deflector shield to fight side of tractor.
IMPORTANT: Check belt for proper
routingin all mower pulley grooves.
3. Turn height adjustment knob counter-
clockwiseuntil it stops.
4. Lower mower linkage with attachment
liftcontrol.
5. Install belt intoelectric clutchpulley
groove.
6. Place the suspensionarms on
outward pointingdeck pins. Retain
with double loop retainer spring with
loops up as shown.
7. Installfront plate assembly totractor
suspensionbrackets and retain with
single loop retainer springs as shown•
8. Positionfront plate assembly between
front mower brackets. Raise deck and
plate assembly to align holes and
insert flanged pins. Secure pins with
double loop retainer springs between
the plate and mower brackets.
NOTE: To assist in locatinghole in
flanged pin, the hole in pin is inlinewith
notch on head of pin.
IMPORTANT: Check belt for proper
routingin all mower pulley grooves.
9. Connect anti-sway bar to chassis
bracket under leftfootrest and retain
with double loop retainer spring.
10.Turn height adjustment knob clock-
wise to remove slack from mower
suspension•
11.Raise deck to highest position.
12.Adjust gauge wheels before operating
mower as shown in the Operation
section of this manual•
Chassis
Gauge
Wheel .-
Double Loop
Retainer
Spring
USE PLIERS FOR
RETAINER SPRINGS
Electric Clutch Front
Pulley Suspention Front
Brackets Plate
Assembly
.Loop Retainer
Anti-Sway
Bar
Double Loop
Retainer Spring
(Outward pointing
deck pins)
Loop
Retainer
Springs
11

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
The fires on your tractor were ovefinflated
at the factory for shipping purposes.
Correct tire pressure is importantfor best
cutting performance.
• Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in
"PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" section
of this manual.
CHECK MOWER LEVELNESS
For best cuttingresults, mower should be
propedy 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 Adjustmentssection ofthis manual.
Verify that the beltsare routed correctly.
V'CHECKMST
Before you operate and enjoy your new
tractor,we wishto assure thatyou receive
the best performance and satisfaction
from this Quality Product.
Please review the following checklist:
,/All assembly instructionshave been
completed.
,/No remaining loose parts in carton.
,/Battery is preperly prepared and
charged. (Minimum 1 hourat 6 amps).
,/Seat is adjusted comfortablyand
tightened securely.
,/All tires are properly inflated. (For
shipping purposes, the tires were
ovednflated at the factory).
,/Be sure mower deck is properly leveled
side-to-side/front-to-rear for best cutting
results. (Tires must be propedy inflated
for leveling).
,/Check mower and ddve belts. Be sure
they are routed properly around pulleys
and inside all belt keepers.
,/Check wiring. See that all connecUons
are still secure and wires are prepedy
clamped.
,/Before ddving tractor,be sure free-
wheel control is in drive position.
While learning how to use your tractor,
pay extra attention to the following
important items:
,/ Engine oil is at proper level.
,/Fuel tank isfilled withfresh, clean,
regular unleaded gasoline.
,/Become familiar with all controls- their
location and function. Operate them
before you start the engine.
,/Be sure brake system is in safe
operating condition.
,/It is important to purge the transmission
before operating your tractor for the first
time. Follow proper starting and
transmission purging instructions (See
"TO START ENGINE" and "PURGE
TRANSMISSION" in the Operation
section of this manual).
12

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 LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP
LIGHT 1
FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED
LOCKED MOWER LIFT
_r_t R N H L
ATTACHMENT REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW
CLUTCH ENGAGED PARKING BRAKE
ATTACHMENT KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS
IGNmON CLUTCH DISENGAGED
DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY
(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)
FREE WHEEL
(AutomaticModels only)
13

KNOWYOURTRACTOR
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING
YOUR TRACTOR
Compare the illustrationswith your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of
various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
Choke
Control
Throttle
Ammeter Ignition
Switch
Light
Switch
Attachment
Clutch Lift
Plunger
Motion Ddve
Belt Tension
Alachment
Lift Lever
Parking Brake
Lever
Height
Adjustment
Knob _
Free
Wheel
Control
nControl
Lever
Our tractorsconform to the safety standards of the Amedcan National Standards
Institute.
ATTACHMENT CLUTCH SWITCH -
Used to engage the mower blades, or
other attachments mounted to your
tractor.
UGHT SWITCH - Turns the headlightson
and off.
THROTTLE CONTROL - Used tocontrol
engine speed.
BRAKE PEDAL - Used for brakingthe
tractor and starting the engine.
CHOKE CONTROL - Used when starting
a cold engine.
HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB - Used to
adjust the mower cuttingheight.
IGNITION SWITCH - Used for starting
and stoppingthe engine.
AI"rACHMENTUFT LEVER - Usedtoraise
and lowerthe mowerdeckorotherattach-
meritsmountedto yourtractor.
LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to
release attachment lift lever when
changing its position.
AMMETER - Indicatescharging (+) or
discharging (-) of battery.
PARKING BRAKE LEVER -Locks brake
pedal intothe brake position.
MOTION CONTROL LEVER - Selects the
speed and directionof tractor.
FREEWHEEL CONTROL -Disengages
transmissionfor pushing or slowly
towing the tractor with the engine off.
MOTION DRIVE BELTTENSION
HANDLE-Used when changing motion
ddve belt and, if necessary, starting
engine under extremely cold conditions.
14

The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into
u_=,=_ the eyes, whichcan result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety
glasses or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any
adiustments or repairs. We recommend a wide vision safety mask over
spectacles or standard safety glasses.
HOWTO USEYOURTRACTOR
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 brake pedal intofull "BRAKE"
position and hold.
2. Place parking brake lever in "EN-
GAGED" positionand release
pressure from brake pedal. Pedal
should remain in =BRAKE" position.
Make sure parking brake will hold
tractor secure.
Push-Into AttachmentClutch
Choke _._"Disengage" SwitchPullOutto
Control _< =Engage"
Throttle
Brake
--,_.T,:.?.-2___,T_\ ControlLever
P_]jus[rnen
BraiSeP__edaL I "Engaged"Position
"Drive"Posit_m7 "Disengaged"Posltion
STOPPING
MOWER BLADES -
•"re stop mower blades,move attach-
ment clutch switch to "DISENGAGED"
position.
GROUND DRIVE -
•To stop ground drive, depress brake
pedal into full "BRAKE" position.
IMPORTANT: The motion control lever
returnsto neutral (N) position when the
brake pedal is fully depressed.
ENGINE -
•Move throttle control to slow position.
NOTE: Failure to move throttle controlto
slow position and allowing engine to idle
before stopping may cause engine to
"backfire".
• Turn ignition key to =OFF" positionand
remove key. Always remove key when
leaving tractor to prevent unauthorized
use.
•Never use choke to stop engine.
IMPORTANT: Leaving the ignitionswitcl-
in any positionother than "OFF" will
cause the battery to be discharged,
(dead).
NOTE: Under certain conditionswhen
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
stoppingtractor on grass areas.
,_CAUTION: Alwaysstop tractor
completely, as described above, before
leaving the operator'sposition;to empty
grass catcher, etc.
TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL
Always operate engine at full throttle.
• Operating engine at less then full
throttlereduces the battery charging
rate.
•Full throttleoffers the best mower
performance.
TO USE CHOKE CONTROL
Use choke controlwhenever 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
A_LCAUTION: Do not attempt tooperate
motion control lever when the parking
brake is set or when the brake pedal is
depressed. Doing so may result in
misadjustmentto the drive controlsystem.
The direction and speed of movement is
controlled by the motion control lever,
1. Start tractor with motion controllever
in neutral (N) position.
2. Release parking brake.
3. Slowly move motion control lever to
desired position.
TO ADJUST MOWER CuI"rlNG HEIGHT
The cuttingheight is controlled by turning
the height adjustment knob in desired
direction.
•Turn knob clockwise (F'd )to raise
cuttingheight.
•Turn knob counterclockwise (F '_) to
lower cutting height.
15

The cuttingheight range is approximately
1-1/2" to4-1/2". The heights are mea-
sured from the ground to the blade tip
with the engine not running.
These heights are approximate and may
vary depending upon soil conditions,
height of grass and types of grass being
mowed.
•The average lawn should be cut to
approximately 2-1/2 inches dudng the
coolseason and to over 3 inches
duringhot months. For healthier and
better lookinglawns, mow often and
after moderate growth.
•For best cutting performance, grass
over 6 inches in height should be
mowed twice. Make the firstcut
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: Be sure tractor is on a flat level
surface.
1. Lower mower and adjust mower to
desired cutting height.
2. Remove retainer spdng and clevis pin
which secure each gauge wheel bar,
3. Lowergauge wheels to ground. Raise
gauge wheels slightly to align holes in
bracket and gauge wheel bar and
insert clevis pin. Gauge wheels
should be slightlyoff the ground,
4. Replace retainer spdng into clevis pin.
5. Be sure all gauge wheels are in the
same setting.
IMPORTANT: Be sure to readjust gauge
wheels if you change the cutting height
of the mower deck,
Retainer
Spring
Clevis
TO OPERATE MOWER
Your tractor is equipped with an operator
presence sensing switch. Any attempt by
the operator toleave the seat with the
engine running and the attachment clutch
engaged will shut off the engine.
1. Select desired height ofcut.
2. Lower mower with attachment lift
control.
3. Start mower blades by engaging
attachment clutchcontrel.
TO STOP MOWER BLADES -
disengage attachment clutch control.
,_CAUTION: Do not operate the mower
withouteither the entire grass catcher, on
mowers so equipped, or the deflector
shield in place.
AttachmentClutch AttachemntLil_
SwitchPullOutto LeverHighPosition
"Engage"
Position
"Disengage"
Deflector
Shield
TO OPERATE ON HILLS
_'CAUTION: Do not ddve up or down
hillswith slopes greater than 15°and do
notddve across any slope.
•Choose the slowest speed before
starting up or down hills.
•Avoid stoppingor changing speed on
hills.
•If stoppingis absolutely necessary,
push brake pedal quickly to brake
position and engage parking brake,
IMPORTANT: The motioncontrollever
returnsto neutral (N) positionwhen the
brake pedal is depressed.
•To restart movement, slowly release
parking brake and brake pedal.
•Slowly move motioncontrol lever to
slowest setting.
• Make all turns slowly.
16

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 liftto highest
position with attachment liftcontrol.
2. Pull freewheel control out and into the
slot and release so it is held in the
disengaged position.
• Do not push or towtractor at more than
two (2) MPH.
• To reengege transmission, reverse
above procedure.
NOTE: To protect hoodfromdamage
when transportingyour tractor on a truck
or a trailer, be sure hood is closed and
securedto tractor. Use an appropriate
means of tying hoodto tractor (rope, cord,
etc.).
TOWING CARTS AND OTHER ATTACH-
MENTS
Tow only the attachments that are
recommended by and complywith
specificationsof the manufacturer of your
tractor.Use common sense when towing.
Too heavy of a load, while on a slope, is
dangerous. ]]ros can lose traction with
the ground and cause you to lose control
of yourtractor.
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 notthread the
cap onto the tube. Remove and read
oil level. If necessary, add oil until
=FULL" mark on dipstick is roached.
Do not overfill.
•For cold weather operation you should
change oil for easier starting (See =OIL
VISCOSITY CHART" in the Mainte-
nance sectionof this manual).
•To change engine oil, 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
depositsand reduse valve life). Do not
mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in
quantitiesthat can be used within 30
days to assure fuel freshness.
IMPORTANT: When operating in
temperatures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh,
clean winter grade gasoline to help
insure good coldweather starting.
a_WhARNING: Experience indicatesthat
ol 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 he
emptied befere storage of 30 days or
longer. Drain the gas tank, start the
engine and let it run untilthe fuel lines
and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel
nextseason. See Storage Instructionsfor
additional information. Never use engine
or carburetor cleaner productsin the fuel
tank or permanent damage may occur.
_,CAUTION: Fillto bottom of gas tank
fillerneck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any
spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spillor
use gasoline near an open flame.
TO START ENGINE
Whenstartingtheenginefor_e timtlime orif
theenginehasrunout offuel, itwintakeextra
crank_ time tomovefuelfromthetankto
the engine.
1. Be sure freewheel control is in the
transmission engaged position.
2, Sit on seat in operating position,
depress brake pedal and set parking
brake.
3. Move attachment clutchto "DISEN-
GAGED" position.
4. Move throttle control to fast position
5. Pull choke control out for a cold
engine start attempt. For a warm
engine start attempt the choke control
may not he needed.
17

NOTE: Beforestarting,readthewarmand
coldstarlingproceduresbelow.
6. Insert key into ignitionand tum key
clockwise to "START" positionand
release key as soon as engine starts.
Do not run stader continuouslyfor
more than fifteen seconds per minute.
If the engine does notstad after
several attempts, push choke control
in, wait a few minutes and try again. If
engine stilldoes not start, pull the
choke control out and retry.
WARMWEATHER STARTING(50° F and
above)
7. When engine starts, slowly push
choke control in until the engine
begins to run smoothly. If the engine
starts to run roughly, pull the choke
control out slightly for afew seconds
and then continue to push the control
in slowly.
•The attachmentsand grounddrive can
nowbe used.Ifthe enginedoesnotaccept
theload,restartthe engineand allowitto
warm upfor one minute usingthechoke
as d_,cribed above.
COLDWEATHERSTARTING (50° F and
below)
7. When engine starts, slowly push
choke control in untilthe engine
begins to run smoothly. Continue to
push the choke control in small steps
allowing the engine to accept smart
changes in speed and load, until the
choke contro_isfully in. If the engine
startsto run roughly, pull the choke
controlout slightlyfor afew seconds
and then continue to push the control
in slowly. This may require an engine
warm-up periodfro m several seconds
to several minutes, depending on the
temperature.
NOTE: In extreme cold conditions,if
engine will not start you may need to
disengage the motion drive belt as
follows:
1. Be sure parking brake is engaged.
2. Remove retainer spring from the drive
belt tension handle to relieve belt
tension.
3. Start engine and allow it to warm up
for three (3) minutes.
4. Shut-off engine and engage parking
brake.
5. Engage drive belt tension handle and
replace the retainer spring.
AUTOMATICTRANSMISSION WARM UP
Before drivingthe unitin cold weather,
the transmissionshould be warmed up as
follows:
1. Be sure the tractor ison level ground.
2. Place the motioncontrol lever in
neutral. Release the parking brake
and let the brake slowlyretum to
operating position.
3. Allow one minute for transmissionto
warm up. This can be done duringthe
engine warm up period.
• The attachments can be used during
the engine warm-up period after the
transmissionhas been warmed up and
may require the choke control he
pulled out slightly.
NOTE: Ifat a high altitude (above 3000
feet) or in cold temperatures (below 32 F)
the carburetor fuel mixture may need to
be ad__ustedfor best engine performance.
See TO ADJUST CARBURETOR in the
Service and Adjustments section of this
manual.
PURGETRANSMISSION
_CAUTION: Never engage or disen-
gage freewheel lever while the engine is
running.
To ensure proper operation and perfor-
mance, itis recommendedthat the
transmissionbe purged before operating
tractorfor the firsttime.This procedurewill
remove any trapped sir insidethe trans-
mission which may have developed during
shipping ofyour tractor.
IMPORTANT: Should your trsnsmissise
require removal for serviceor replacement,
it should be purged after ralestallatiou
beforeoperatingthe tractor.
1. Place tractor safely on level surface
with engine off and parking brake set.
2. Disengage transmission by placing
freewheel control in freewheeling
position (See "TO TRANSPORT" in
this section of manual).
3. Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine.
After the engine isrunning, move
throttle control to slow position.
Disengage parking brake.
4. Move motion control lever to full
forward positionand 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 procedurethere will be
no movement of drive wheels. The air is
being removed from hydraulic drive
system.
18

5. Move motion control lever to neutral
(N) position. Shut- off engine and set
parking brake.
6. Engage transmission by placing
freewheel ceetrol in driving position
(See "TO TRANSPORT" in this section
of manual).
7. Sittingin the tractor seat, start engine.
After the engine is running, move
throttlecontrol tohaft (1/2) speed.
Disengage parking brake.
8. Slowly move motioncontrol 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 returnthe
motioncontrol 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.
MOWlNGTIPS
• Tire chains cannot be used when the
mower housing isattached to tractor,
• Mower should be propadyleveled for
best mowing performance. See "TO
LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the
Service and Adjustmentssection of this
manual.
•The left hand side of mower should be
used for trimming.
•Ddve so that clippings are discharged
onto the area that has been cut. Have
the cut area to the dght ofthe tractor.
This will result in a more even distribu-
tion of clippings and more uniform
cutting,
•'Whenmowing large areas, start by
turningto the rightso that clippingswill
discharge away from shrubs, fences,
driveways, etc. After one or two
rounds, mow in the opposite direction
making left hand turns untilfinished.
•If grass is extremely tall, it should be
mowed twice to reduce load and
possiblefire hazard from dded clip-
pings. Make firstcut relativelyhigh;the
second to the desired height.
• Do not mow grass when itis 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
matedal. Regulate ground speed by
selecting a low enough gear to give the
mower cuttingperformance as well as
the qualityof cut desired.
• When operating attachments, select a
ground speed that will suit the terrain
and give best performance of the
attachment being used.
J
19

AS YOU COMPLETE
.EOU .s .v.o o*T a
CheckBrake Operation _If
Check Tire Pressure fl_ I_/
Check Operator presence and
T!l r_dockSystems I1_
R Check for LOOSe Fasteners I1_ 1_7 If
CA SharpelVReplece Mower Blades I_,
T Lubrtcation Chart VtVw
0 CheCk BetteP/Level
R clean Battery and Tenmlnals ll_ (1_
Check Tranaaxle Cooling
Adjust Blade Belt(s) Tension [l_s
Adjust Motion Drive Belt(s) Tension _5
Check Engine Oil Level I_ ll_
Change Engine Oil I_t 2._ I_
E CleanAirFilter If=
a Clean A_rScreen I_=
G Inspect Muffler/Spark Arrester I_
Replace Oil Filter (If equipped) I_1.=
NClean Engine CCollng Fins I_=
Replace Spall_ Plug [1_ I_
Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge 1_2
ReplaCe Fuel Filter I_
1- Change r;"_rwoft m_v_ an opersJng undo" a h_'_ load _" Lnhd_ _t _a_ 5. ff _ilpped v_lh _Ul s,_t_.
2 - Sir, ice rr_ _n v.@_t _n;_g In _ly _" dusW cond_J _r4. 6. Not rJq_h_d ffe.quipped _mam_ce.;_e_ battery
3 - If_q_tpped v.lth cq _. chang_ C_l_e_3' 60 hOUr. 7. "rlght_ Ir_t _I_VOt b_l to 35 h 4_ rn_m_ m
4 - Rar_ blad_ nxxo _t_ v.t_m rr_v_O kl =andy soil DO n_ ov_lJght_.
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on thistractordons not cover
itemsthat have been subjectedto operator
abuse or negligence. To receive full value
from the warranty,operator must maintain
tractor as instructedin this manual.
Soma adjustmentswill need to be made
periodically to properly maintain your
tractor.
All adjustmentsin the Service and
Adjustmentssectionof this manual should
be checked at least once each season.
• Once a year yea should replace the
spark plug,clean or replace air filter, and
check blades and beltsforwear. A new
spark plug and clean air filter assure
proper air-fuelmixture 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
interlocksystems for proper operation.
5. Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION CHART
(T)Tie RodBallJoints
Zerk Zerk
_Fmnl
Bearing
Zerk
Gear
Teeth
Bearing Zerk
(]._SpraySilicone Lubdant (Move Boots to
Lubricate)
_General Purpose Grease
@Refer to Maintenance "ENGINE" Section
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease the pivot
pointswhich have special nylon bearings.
Viscous lubricants wifl attract dust and dirt
that will shorten the life ofthe self-lubricating
bearings. If you feel they must be lubricated,
use only a dry, powdered graphite type
20 lubricant sparingly