Craftsman EZ3 917.251520 User manual

®
MODEL NUMBER 917.251520 _,OWNER'SMANUAL
o Assembly
Operation
Customer Responsibilities
oService and Adjustments
Repair Parts
CAUTION: Read and follow all safety rules and instructions before operating this equipment.
FOR CONSUMER ASSISTANCE HOT LINE, CALL THIS TOLL FREE NUMBER: 1-800-659-5917

SAFETY RULES
Safe Operation Practices for Ride_On Mowers &
IMPORTANT: THIS CUTTING MACHINE tS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OBJECTS
FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH
LGENERAL OPERATION
• Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual
and an the machine before starling
,Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the
lnslructions, to operate the machine
. Clear the area of objects such as rooks, Ioys, wire, ele,
which could be picked up and thrown by the blade
• Besure 1hearea fs clearer otherpeople before mowtng Stop
machine if anyone enters the area
• Never carry passengers.
• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary Always
look down and behind before and wht!e backing
• Be aware of lhe mower discharge direcUon and do not point
il at anyone Do not operate the mower witheul ellher the
entire grass catcher or lhe guard in place
•Stow down before turning
, Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn off
b_ades, set parking brake, slop engine, and remove keys
before dismounting
• Turn off blades when not mewing
• Stop engine before removing grass catcher or unc!ogging
chute.
• Mow only in daylight or good edifictet tight
• Do not operate the machine while under lhe Inliuence of
alcohol or drags.
• Watctl for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways
, Use extra care when loading or unloadlng the machine into
a trailer or truck
Ilo SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major lector 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 feet 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
ovedum the machine Tall grass can hide obstacles
• Use slow speed Choose a _owgear so that you witl not have
to stop or shill whi]e on the slope,
•Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for wheel
weights or counterweights to improve stability
• Use extra care with grass calchers or other attachments
These can change the stability of the machine
• Keep all movement on the slopes stowand gradua_ Do not
make sudden changes in speed or direolion..
• Avoid starting or slopping on a slope. If tires lose tracl}on
disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down lha
slope
00 NOT:
•Donottumonslopesunlessnecessery, andthen, tumstowly
and gradually downhill, i{ posstble
•Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankmenls. The
mower could suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the edge
el a clilt or diloh_ or if an edge caves in
•Do not mow on wel grass Reduced traction could cause
slid{ng
•Do not try to slabi_ize the machine by pulling your foot on the
ground
,Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes
IlL CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur {fthe operator is not alert to the
presence of children. Children are often atlracted to the
machine and the mowing aelivity. Never assume that
children wilt remain where you tast saw them.
- Keep children out el the mowing area and under the watchful
care of enolher responsible adult
o Be alert and turn machine off it children enter the area
• Before and when backing, look behind and down {or small
children
• Never carry children. They may fall off and be seriously
injured or inleffere with safe maohlne operation
, Never allow children to operate the machine.
• Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs,
lrees, or other objects lhal may obscure vision
IV. SERVICE
• Use extra care in handling gasoline and olher luels They are
tlemmable and vapors are explosive
Use only an approved container,
Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine
running. Allow engine to coot before refuefing Do not
smoke
Never refuel the machine indoors.
Never slots the machine or luel container inside where
there is an open llama, such as a water healer
° Never run a machine inside a closed area,
•Keep nuls and bolts, especially blade attachment bolls, tight
and keep equipment in good condition
. Never lamper with safety devtces Check lheir proper
operation regularly.
, Keep machine free of grass_ leaves, or other debds build-up,
Clean oil or fuel spillage Allow machtne to cool belore
storlng
• Stop and Inspect the equipment if you stdke an objeel.
Repair, {fnecessary, before restarting.
. Never make adjuslments or repairs with ihe engine running..
', Grass calcher componenls are subject to wear, damage, and
detedoration_ which could expose moving pads or alIow
objects to be thrown. Frequenlly check components and
replace with manufacturer's recommended paris, when nec-
essary
• Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or
wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them
• Check brake operalion frequently Adjust and service as
required.
Look for this symbol to point out important
safety precautions, it means
CAUT!ONIll BECOME ALERT[II YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED,
CAUTION; Always disconnect spark plug
wire and plaoewtre wherelt oannotcontact
spark plug In order to prevent accidental
starting when setting up, transporting,
adjusting or making repairs,,
g WARNING
The engine exhaust from this product contain s
chemicals known to the State of California to
cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproduc-
tive harm,

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a Sears
Tractor [t has been designed, engineered and manufac-
lured to give you the best possible dependability and
performance
Should you experience any problem you cannot easily
remedy, please contact your nearest Sears Authorized
Service Center/Department Department We havecom-
petenl, well-trained technicians and the proper too_s to
servtce or repair this tractor
Please read and retain this rnanual The instructions will
enabie you to assemble and maintain your tractor properly
Atways observe the "SAFETY RULES",
NUMBER 917251520
SERlAL
NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
THE MODELAND SERIAL NUMBERS WtLLBE FOUND
OH A PLATE UNDER THE SEAT
YOU SHOULD RECORD BOTH SERIAL NUMBER AN D
])ATE OF PURCHASE AND KEEP SNA SAFE PLACE
-'OR FUTURE REFERENCE,
MAINTENANCE AGREEIVIENT
A Sears Ma}ntenance Agreement Is available on this prod.,
ucf Contact your nearest Sears store for details.
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
• Read and observe the safety rules
, Follow a regutar schedule in maintaining, caring for and
using your tractor
• Follow the instructions under "Customer Responsibi]i-
ties" and "Storage" sections of this owner's manual
PRODUCT SPECiFiCATIONS
HORSEPOWER: 20.5
GASOLINE CAPACITY 3 5 GALLONS
AND TYPE: UNLEADED REGULAR
OIL TYPE (AP!-SFiSG): SAE 10W30 (above 32_F "}
SAE 5W-30 (below 32'F)
OILCAPACtTY; W/FILTER: ,12 PINTS
W/O FILTER: 3 7 PINTS
SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION RC12YC
(GAP: ,030")
VALVE CLEARANCE: HOT ADJUSTABLE
GROUND SPEED (MPH): FORWARD: 58
REVERSE: 30
TiRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI
REAR: 10 PSI
CHARGING SYSTEM: 15 AMPS @ 3600 RPM
BATTERY: AMP/HR: 35
MIN CCA: 280
CASE SIZE: UIR
BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 30-35 FT LBS
WARNING: This lractor is equipped wilh an inlernal
combustion engine and should not be used on or near any
un[rnproved forest-covered, brush-covered or grass-cov-
ered land unless the engine's exhausl system is equipped
with a spark arrestor meeting applicable local or stale laws
(ifany) If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained
in effective wofldng order by _he operator
In the state of California the above is required by law
(Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code),,
O_her states may have stmilar[aws, Federal laws apply on
Iedera[ lands. A spark arrestor for file muffler is available
through your nearesl Sears Authorized Service Center/
Departmenl (See REPAIR PARTS section of this manual
LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT
For two (2) years lrom the da_.eof purchase_ if this C_a_tsman Riding Equipment is maintained, _ubricated and luned up acco_ding
to the Instructions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair or replace, free el charge, any parts found lo be de_eclive in material
or workmanship
Titis Warranly does not cover,
• Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as blades_ spark plugs, air cteane_'s, belts, elc
• Tire replacement or repalr caused by punctures from oulsida ebtecls, such as nails. _homs. slumps, or glass
• Repairs necessary because of 0parader abuse, neg!tgence, improper slorage or accident or the Iailure Io mainlain Ihe
equipment accordlng lo the i_'_s_.ruct}onscon'[ained in the owner's manual
• Riding equipment used for commerciaI or rental purposes
LIMITED 90 DAY WARRANTY ON BATTERY
For ninety {90} days from date et puccSase, il any battery included w[fh Ibis riding equipment proves detective in malarial o_"
workmanship and our lestSng determines the battery wil_ not ho_d a charge, Sears will _eplaee lhe battery at no charge
1N-HOME WARRANTY SERVICE ON YOUR CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT IS AVAILABLE AT NO-CHARGE FOR 30
DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PURCHASE. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR NEAREST SERVICE CENTER. AFTER 30 DAYS
FROM THE DATE OF PURCHASE, WARRANTY SERVICE IS AVAILABLE BY TAK3NG YOUR CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIP-
MENT TO YOUR NEAREST SEARS SERVICE CENTER. (IN-HOME WARRANTY SERVICE W_LL STILL BE AVAILABLE
AFTER 30 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PURCHASE BUT A STANDARD TRIP CHARGE WILL APPLY ) THIS WARRANTY
APPLIES ONLY WHILE THIS PRODUCT tS 1N THE UNITED STATES
Th_s Warranly gives you specific Iegat rights, and you may also have olher rights which may vary I_'om slate lo stale
SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO , Di817WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, IL 60179

TABLE OF CONTENTS
SAFETY RULES ............................................................... 2
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS .................................................3
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ...........................3, 17-20
WARRANTY ................................................................................3
TRACTOR ACCESSORIES ..................................................5
ASSEMBLY ..............................................................................7-10
OPERATION ......................................................................11-16
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ........................................................17
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS .......................................21-27
STORAGE .....................................................................................2B
TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................. 29-30
REPAIR PARTS- TRACTOR ................................... 32-49
REPAIR PARTS - ENGINE ..................................... 50-59
PARTS ORDERING/SERVICE .....................BACK COVER
INDEX A
Accessories .................. 5
Adjuslments:
Brake ......................... 23
Carburetor ....................... 27
Ciulch Pu!ley ..................... 23
Gauge Wheels ........... 14
Mower
Front-To-Back .................22
Side,.To-Side ......................... 21
Throtlle Control Cable .27
Air niter, Engine ......................... 20
AIr Screen, Engine ............ 19
Assembly ................... 7-I0
B
Battery:
Charging ..................... 8
Cleaning .............................. 20
Starting wi_h Weak Batter,./ .......... 25
S!orage ....................... 28
Terminals ........................ 18
Belt: Motion Drive
Remova!IReplacement . . 22
Mower Drive
Removal/Replacement ......... 22
Mower Blade Drive
RemovaltReplacemen! ......... 23
Blade:
Sharpening ............... t8
Replacement ............... t8
Brake Adjustment ................ 23
C
Carburetor Adiuslmenl ........... 27
Clulch Pulley ....................... 23
Controls, Tractor ............... 12
Customer Responsibilities ..... 17..20
Engine:
Air Filter ..................... 20
Air Screen ........... 19
Confine Fins ................ 19
Engine Oi_ ............ 15,!9
Fuel Filler ..................... 20
Spark Plug(s) ....... 20
Tractor:
Baltery ................. 18
Blade ............... 18
Lubrication Chart ............. 17
Maintenance Schedule .......... t 7
Tire Care ..................... 8,18,25
Transaxle ................... 19
Cutiing Height, Mower ............... 13
E
Electrical:
Interlocks and Relays ....... 26
Schemallc ....................... 3I
Wiring Diagram .................. 32
Engine:
Air Filter ....................... 20
Aft Screen ........................ 1g
Coollng Fins ................. I g
OI1 Change ............ 17
Oil Level .................... 17
Oil Type ................... 13,17
Preparation ...................... t 5
Repair Pads ...................... 48-59
Starling ...................... 15
Storage ....................... 2B
F
Filler:Air Filter .............................. 20
Fuel ..................................20
Oil ............................ 20
Fuel:Storage ............................ 2B
Type ..................... 15
Fuse ................ 26
H
Headlights ......................... 26
Hood Removathnslallatlon ..... 26
L
Leveiing Mower Deck ......... 21
Lubrication:
Chad ............................ t7
Engine ........................ 19
Mainlenance Schedule ............ 17
Mower:
Adiuslmenl, Front-to-Back .22
Adjustment, Side-to-Side ......... 21
Blade Replacement ............... 18
B_ade Sharpening .................. !8
Culling Heighl ................ t3
Installation ............... 21
Operation ................ t4
Removal .............. 21
Mowing Tips ................. t6
Muffler ............................... 20
Spark Arrestor ..................... 3,40
Oil: O
Cold Weather Condilions ....... 15,1 g
Engine ........................ 17
Storage ......... 28
4
Operation ............. 11 -16
Operating Mower .............. 14
Oplions:
Accessories ........................ 5
Spark Arrestor ...... 3,40
P
Parking Brake ................ 13
Parts Bag ............... 6
Paris, Replacemenl/Repair .... 32-4g
Produc| Specitications ...... 3
R
Repair Pads ................. 32-49
S
Salary Rules ....................... 2
Seat ............................. 8
Sew!co and Adjustments .... 21-27
Carburetor ................... 27
Clutch Pulley .................... 23
Fuse ............................... 26
Hood Removal/installaiion .... 26
Motion Drive Belt
RemovaVReplacement .22
Mower Drive Belt
Removat/Reptacemenl ,, 22
Mower Blade Drive Belt
Removat!Replacemenl 23
Mower Adiustment
Fronl-lo-Baek .......... 22
Side-to-Side ........... 2t
Mower Removalllnstailaliun ....... 21
Tire Care ........... B,18,25
Slope Guide Sheet ................ 63
Spar]{ Plug(s) ...................... 20
Speciltcations ......................... 3
Starting the Engtne ............... 15
Sleeting Wheel .......... 7,24
Slopping the Traclor .... 13
Storage ......... 28
T
Throllle Control Cable AdJustmenl. 27
Tires ....................... 8.18,25
Troubleshooting Char! 2g-30
Transaxle ........................ 19
W
Warranty ...................... 3
Wiring Diagram . 32
Wiring Schemalic ............. 31

ACCESSORIES AND ATTACH[WENTS
These accessories and attachmenls were available through most Sears telail autlels and service centers when Ihe tractor was purchased
Mosl Sears stores can order these _lems for you when you provide the mode} number of your lractor
ENGINE
SPARK PLUG GAS CAN ENGINE OIL FUEL STABILIZER AIR FILTER
MAINTENANCE
BLADES BELTS
PERFORMANCE
Sears offers a wide variety o! attachments lhaf fit your tractor Manyof these are Itsted below with brief explanations of how [hey can help
you_ This list was current a{ lhe lime el pubJicalton; however, It may change in future years -more attachments may be added, changes
may be made in lhese attachments, or some may no longer be available or tiI your model Contact your nearest Sears store for the
accessories and attachments that are available for your Iractor,
Most oi these aItachments de not require addiIionai hitches or conversion kits (these that do are indicated) and are designed lor easy
attaching and detaching
AERATOR promeles deep reel growth tora heaHhy lawn Tapered
2 5-Inch s_'eet spikes mounled on t04nch diameter d_scs punclure
holesin soil at close intervals to let moisture soak in Slee! weight ltay
tar Increased penetration
BUMPER prolecls Ireful end of tractor from damage
CARTS make hauling easy Variety el sizes available, plus accesso_
ties such as side panel kits, 1oolcaddy, cart cover, protective mat and
dol_y
CORING AERATOR lakes small plugs ou_ o1 soil to allow moislure
and eulrJents {0 reach grass roofs 36-inch swalh 24 hardened steel
co_ng tips f50 lb capacity weight lray
DISC HARROW has 2 gangs of 4 stee! blades that angle from 10 to
20 degrees, 40 inches wide Can hook 2 un!ts intandem (Requires
sleeve hitch )
DOZER BLADE removes snow; grades dirt, sand and gravel 48
Incheswide, 17tnchesh{gh,clears444nchpathwhenangled Master
_il(control lever for operator ease Spdng ldp for snow removal on
uneven pavemenl; built.in float tor btade to _ollow ground contour.
Revarsibfe, replaceable scraper bar (Use with t_irechains and wheel
weights and/or rear drawbar weighl )
EASY OIL DRAIN VALVE makes oil changes easier, faster
FRONT NOSE ROLLER canlers in front ot mower deck to reduce
chances e{ "scalping" on uneven terrain
GANG BITCH (e_s you low 2 or 3 pelt*bed}ted attachmep.ls al
once, such as sweepers,, delhatchers, aerators (nel for use wlth
rolters, ca_s or other heavy a_tachmenls)
MULCH RAKFJDETHATCRER Ioosens sol{ and flips lhatch and
malted leaves _o lawn surface for easy pickup Twenly spdng line
teeth Useful Ioprepare bare areas [or seed}rig. Available for {ron_or
rear mount{no. HIGH PERFORMANCE REEL-ACTION SPRING
T;NE DETHA_TCHER covers 36-inch wide path end tosses lhatch tr,l.o
large hopper Mounts behind tractor
PLOW {urns soil 6 inches deep. cuts 104nch furrow Crank adjust-
meet controls depth, 3_pesilion yoke sets width. Heaw steel landside
for straight furrowing (Requires s_eeve hilch }
RAMP TOPS AND FEET Iel you lead and un_oad tractor {tom a
pickup truck Use with 2 x 8 or 2 x 10 lumber
REAR GRADER BLADEis 42_ncheswide and operaled from dhver's
seat Reversible sleet blade can be angled at 30 degrees {orgrading
Reverses for pushing snow backwards (Requires sleeve hitch )
ROLLER for smoother lawn surface. 36-inch wide. 18-inch diameter
walerqight drum holds up to 390 Ibs oI weight. Rounded edges
prevent harm to tud Ad}ustabIe scraper aufomaticaily cleans drum
SLEEVE CULTIVATOR is 43 inches wide, Prepares ground tor
seeding, helps weed control Steel t_'ameholds 5 ._djuslable sweeps.
Adiusls verlically, hodzonlal_y (Requires sleeve bi_ch ) Optiona; _
accessory: steet lurrow opener _or wider openings tot potatoes.
corn, and other deep.seeded crops.
SLEEVE HITCH _or use with master till syslem SirLcle pin couples/
uncouples
SNOWTHROWER has 42..inch swalh Drumdype auger handtr.,s
powdery and wet/heavy snow Mounts eesilywith simpSepin arrange*
mont. Discharge chute adjusts from tractor seal 64nch diameter
spaul discharges snow 10 to 50 teet Lift controlled al tractor seat
(Use wi_h chains and wheel weights and, or rear drawbar weight )
SPRAYERS use f 2-volt DC electric motor lhai eonnecls _othe tractor
battery or olher t2woll source Includes booms for automatic
spraying and hand held wand for spot spraying Wand has adjuslable
spray pattern For applying herbicides, insecticides, lung[cities and
liquid fert$1izers
SPREADER/SEEDERS make seeding, fedtlizing, and weed Sdlling
easy. Broadcast spreaders ere also uselu_ for granular de-icers and
sand
SWEEPERS let you collect grass dlpp_ngs and leaves
"rILL ER has 8 hp engine [o prepare seed beds, cullivate and compost
garden residue Chain-drive transmission. Six 1t-inchdiameter one
piece heat-treated stee_ tines. Tit[s 30-inch path (Requires sleeve
hitch } Or use 5 hp !ow_behind'TILLER wi_h 36-inch swafl_ to prepare
seed beds, cultivate and compost garden residue, Tiller has ils own
buitt-tn lill and depth conlrcl system and does NO-t require a sleeve
hitch. Fits any lawn, yard or garden tt_actor_ Simply hook up Io Ihe
#actor drawba_'and go! Op_tanal accessories lor 5 !_ptiller convert
unit ]or dethatching aerating, hilling without toOlS
TIRE CHAINS are heavy duty; closely spaced exlra-targe c:oss _inks
glue smoolh ride. oulstanding Iraclion
TRACTOR CAB has heavy duty vinyl tabdc over tubular steel Irame.
ADS plastic top; croat plastic windshield oilers 360 degree visibility
Hinged metal doors with catch Keeps operalor warm and dry
Remove vinyl sides end windshields [or use as sun protector in
summer Optional accessories Include: tinled/lempered solid
safely glass windshield with hand operated wiper;, 12-volt ember
caution iighl !or mounting on cab lop
VACS for powerful cotleclion el heavy grass clippings and leaves
Optfonalwand attachment to pick u_ debris in hard-lo..reach places
VACICHIPPER includes a eh{pper_shredder
WEIGHT BRACKET for drawbar tot snow removal applications. Can
be mounted on trent of Iracter tot plowing applications Uses (t) 55
{b weigh_
WHEEL WEIGHTS for rear wheels provide needed traction for snow
removal e; dozing heavy materials

CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK
Parts Bag contents shown full size
r----
r
(I) Knob
(1) Shoulder
Bolt 5!16-18
(!) Washer 17/32 x I-3/16 x 12 Gauge
3) etainer Springs(double loop)
(4) Retainer Springs (single loop)
(2) Screws #10 x 5t8 (2) Lock Washers #10
(2) Weld Nuts ;H0
(2) Washers 3/t6 x 3/4 x I6 Gauge
(2) Hex Bo_ts t14_20 x 3/4
(2) Washers 9/32 x
5/8 x 16 Gauge (2) Lock Washers 114
@
(2) Hex Nuts 1/4-20
Parts packed separately in carton
Steering
Wheel
Manual
Seat
Video
Cassette
Mutcher
Plate
i i
i I
i I
t
Pads Bag
Parts bag conlents not shown full size
(2) Washers 3/8
,"'-_" x 7/8 x 14 Gauge
(2) Sh°ulder (// C.(_.(Bolls 2) Gauge
\"-,.._J'::_._ Wheel_ (2) Center-
lock Nuts
_] (2) Front Link Assemblies
Sleedng
Wheel
Insert
Slope Sheet
(2) Keys Steering
Sleeve
_ook Assemblys
6

ASSEMBLY
Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes.
To ensure safe and proper operation of your tractor all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely Use
the correct tools as necessary to insure proper tightness
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY
A socket wrench set will make assembly easier, Standard
wrench sizes are listed.
(2) 7/16" wrenches (t) Tire pressure gauge
(1) 9/16" wrench (t) Utility knife
(1) tt2" wrench (1) 3/4" socket w!drive ratchet
When right or left hand is mentioned In this manual, it
means when you are in the operating position (sealed
behind the steering wheel)
TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON
UNPACK CARTON
.Remove all accessible loose parts and paris cartons
from carton (See page 6)
° Cut, from top 1obottom, aIong lines on all four corners
of carton, and tay panels fiat.
• Remove mower and packing materials
° Check for any additional foose parts or cations and
remove,
BEFORE ROLLING TRACTOR OFF SK|D
ATTACH STEERING WHEEL (See Fig. 1)
- Remove hex boit, lock washer and Iarge flat washer
from steering shaft
• Position front wheels of the tractor so they are pointing
straight forward
• Slide steering sleeve over steering shaft.
" Position steering whee_ so cross bars are horizonlal
(left to right) andsllde onlo steering wheel adapter
, Secure steedng wheel to steering shaft with hex boit,
rock washer and large fiat washer previousfy removed
Tighten securely.
•Snap steering wheel insert into center el steering
wheel.
•Remove protective plastic from tractor hood and grill
IMPORTANT: CHECK FOR AND REMOVE ANY STAPLES
tN SKID THAT MAY PUNCTUR E TIRES WHERE TRACTOR
tS TO ROLL OFF SKID
TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Fig, 7)
,, Raise attachment lift lever to its highest position
•Release parking brake by depressing clulchibrake
pedal
• Place freewhee{ conlret in (reewheeiing position to
disengage transmission (See "TO TRANSPORT" in
Operation section of this manual)
• Roll tractor backwards off skid,
STEERING WHEEEL
I_._._......---REXBOLT
l'i _..,,,,.LOCK
_i_ WAs.ER
FLAT
STE_A_NG //_"'----_:"r" \'\
STEERING /{t_" _,._, _HA_-_r
WHEEL ./ ...._"/.....
ADAPTER ,;, '_,"_
/I_ _ i"// t
/Il/ I
_" _ _ _._ I"_
FIG,. 1
7

CONNECT BATTERY (See Fig_ 2)
CAUTION: Do not short batten,/termF
nals. Before connecting battery, re-
move metal bracelets, wristwatch
bands, rings, etc.
Positive terminal must be connected
first to prevent sparking from acciden-
tal grounding.
. Lift hood to raised position
. Open terminal access doors, remove lermlnaf protec-
tive caps and discard,
• If this battery is put into service a{ter month and year
indicated on tabeI (label _ocated between terminals)
charge battery for minimum of one hour at 6-t0 amps
• First connect RED battery cable to positive (+) battery
terminaI with hex bolt, flat washer, lockwasher and hex
nut as shown Tighten secureIy
• Connect BLACK groundingcabte to negative (-)battery
terminal wtth remaining hex bolt, flat washer, lock
washer and he× nut Tighten securely
,Close terminat access doors
Use terminal access doors for:
• inspection for secure connections tic tighten hard°
ware).
• inspection for corrosion
• Testing battery
• Jumping (if required),
Periodic charging.
LOCK FLAT
HE:( NUT WASHER WASHER
DISCARD TERMINAL HEX
PROTECTIVE CAPS BOLT
ASSEMBLY
INSTALL SEAT (See Fig. 3)
Adjust seat before tightening adjustment knob
• Remove cardboard packing on seat pan,
.PIace seat on seal pan and assemble shoulder bolt.
• Assemble adjustment knob and flat washer loosely
Do not tighten
. Tighten shoblderbelt securely
,, Lower seat into operating position and sit on seat
,, Slide seat until a comfortable position is reached which
allows you to press clutchforake pedal ai! the way
down
. Get off seat without moving its adjusled position
• Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob securely
NEGATIVE
(RLACK)
CABLE
POSITIVE
{RED)
CABLE
SEAT
SEAT PAN __
_'_'_ FLAT
ADJUSTMENT WASHER
KNOB
FIG., 3
CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
The tires on your tractor were overinflated at the factory for
shipping purposes Correct ttre pressure is impoilant for
best culling pedoi'mance
• Reduce tire, pressure to PSI shown in "PRODUCT
SPECIFICATIONS" On page 3 of this manual
CHECK BRAKESYSTEM
After you learn how to operate your tractor, check to see
that the brake is properiy adjusted See "TO ADJUST
BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments section of this
manual
FIG. 2

ASSEMBLY
INSTALL MOWER AND DRIVE BELT
(See Figs_ 4 and 7)
Be sure tractor is on level surface and mower suspension
arms are raised with attachment lift control Engage park-
ing brake
• Cut and remove tie down securing anti-sway bar
Swing anti-sway bar 1otell side of mower deck
,, Slide mower under tractor with discharge guard to right
side of tractor
IMPORTANT: CHECK BELT FOR PROPER ROUTING iN
ALL MOWER PULLEY GROOVES. INSTALL BELT INTO
ELECTRIC CLUTCH PULLEY GROOVE
• Install one front link in top hole o! the R.H, front mower
bracket and R H front suspension bracket, Retain with
two single foop retainer springs as shown
° Install second tronf link _nL H front suspension bracket
only and retain with single loop retainer spring as
shown
• Turn height adjustment knob counterclockwise unit! it
stops
• Lower mower linkage with attachment lift control
• Place the LH suspension arm on inward pointing deck
pin if necessary, rock and raise front of mower to align
deck pin with the hole in suspension arm
-Slide lelt side of mower deck back and Install the
unattached front link tn top hole or the LH. front mower
bracket Retain wilh singte _oop retainer spring as
shown
,, Place the R H. suspension arm on inward pointing
deck pin, If necessary, rock and raise front of mower
tO align deck pin with the hole in suspension arm
. Connect anti-sway bar to chassis bracket under left
footrest and retain with doubte loop retainer spdng
• Relain both suspension arms to deck pins with doubie
loop retainer springs
. Turn height adjustment knob clockwise to remove
slack from mower suspension
• Raise deck to highest position
,, Assemble gauge wheats (See "TO ADJUST GAUGE
WHEELS" in the Operation section of this manual)
CHECK DECK LEVELNESS
For best cutting results, mower housing should be properly
leveled See "TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in 1he
Service and Adjustments seclion of this manual
CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF ALL
BELTS
See thefigures that areshownforreplacing motion, mower
drive, and mower biade drive belts In the Service and
Adiustments section o{ this manual, Verify thal the bel_s
are routed correctly
ELECTRIC
CLUTCH
FRONT
.SUSPENSION
BRACKETS
DOUt_LE LOOP
RETAINER SPRING
CHASSfS {lnv,_er d pointing
BRACKET d_ck pins)
SUSPENSION
ARMS FRONT
MOWER
BRACKET
FRONT
SHOULDER
BOLT
GAUGE
WHEEL
3tB WAStlER
3,t8-16
CENTER
LOCKNU/_
DOUBLE LOOP
RETAINER
SPRING
ANTI-SWAY
BAR
IDLER
PULLEY
FIG,, 4
SINGLE
LOOP
RETAINER
SPRI',NGS
DISCHARGE GUARD
9

ASSEMBLY
INSTALL MULCHER PLATE
(See Figs° 5 and 6)
•install two latch hooks to mulcher plate using screw,
washer, fock washer, and weld nut as shown,
NOTE: Pro-assemble weld nut to latch hook by inserting
weld nut from the top with hook pointing down
- Tighten hardware securely
. Raise and hold defIector shield in upright position,
.Place front of mulcher plate over front of mower deck
opening and stide into place, as st_own.
• Hook front latch into hole on front of mower deck,.
• Hook rear Iatch into hoie on back of mower deck
&CAUTION: Do not remove discharge
guard from mower,, Raise and hold
guard when attaching mulcher plate
and allow It to rest on plate while In
operation.
TO CONVERT TO BAGGING OR
DISCHARGING
Simply remove mutcher plate and store in a safe place.
Your mower isnow ready for discharging or installation of
optional grass catcher accessory
NOTE: It is not necessary to change blades The mulcher
blades are designed for discharging and bagging also
WELD NUT HOOK POINTS
FROM THE TOP DOWN
LATCH
NUT
LATCH LOOK
HOOK WASHER
WASHERS
PLATE
DEFLECTOR
SHIELD
HOOKS
FIG, 6
10
,/CHECKLIST
BEFORE YOU OPERATE AND ENJOY YOUR NEW
TRACTOR, !'VEWISH TOASSURE THAT YOU RECEIVE
THE BEST PERFORMANCE AND SA TISFA CTION FROM
THIS QUALITY PRODUCT,
PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING CHECKLIST:
./ Atl 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 tighfened securely
#' AItlires are properly inflated. (For shipping purposes,
the tires were ovennffaled 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 botts. Be sure they are fouled
properly around pulleys and inside all belt keepers
/Checkwtring See that a!r connections are still secure
and wires are properly clamped.
,/ Before driving tractor, be sure freewheel control is in
driveposition.
WHtLE LEARNING HOWTO USE YOUR TRACTOR, PAY
EXTRA ATTENTION TO THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT
ITEMS:
V' Engine oil is at proper level
/Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean, regular unleaded
gasoline,
/Become familiar with alt controls - their location and
function Operate them before you stad the engine
v" Be sure brake system is in safe operating condition
v" It tsImportant to purge the transmission before operat-
Ing your tractor for the first time. Follow proper starting
and transmission purging tnst ructions (See "TO START
ENGINE" and "PURGE TRANSMISSION" in Opera-
tion section of this manual).

OPERATION
These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with Ihe producL Learn and understand lhetr meaning
C3
BATTERY
ENGINE ON
CAUTION OR
WARNING
ENG1NE OFF
REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW
OIL PRESSURE CLUTCH LIGHTS ON LIGHTS OFF
FUEL. H\
CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT DIFFERENTIAL PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED
LOCK LOCKED
k!
MOWER LIFT
R N
REVERSE NEUTRAL
ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH ENGAGED
H L
HIGH LOW PARKING BRAKE
ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH DISENGAGED IGN1TION
DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY
HYDROSTATIC FREE WHEEL
(Hydro lvlodels only)
'1t

OPERATNON
KNOW YOUR TRACTOR
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR TRACTOR.
compare the illustrations with your tractor Io famllia dze yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments, Save
this manual for tulure reference
CHOKE CONTROL
CLUTCH/BRAKE
PEDAL
HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
KNOB
AMMETER THROTTLE CONTROL ATFACHMENT
.... CLUTCH SWITCH LIFT LEVER
L;FT LEVER
IGNITION SWITCH
PARKING BRAKE
LEVER
MOTION
CONTROL
LEVER
FREE WHEEL CONTROL
FIG. 7
Our tractors conform to the satoty standards of the American NatIonaI Standards lnslitute
ATTACHMENT CLUTCH SWITCH- Used toengage mower
blades or ofl'_er a_.tachments mounted to your tractor
LIFTLEVER - Used to raise and lower mowerdeck or othe_
attachments mounted 1oyour tractor_
CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL - Used for declutchlng and
braking the tractor and starling the engine
MOTION CONTROL - Selects the speed and direction of
tractor
CHOKE CONTROl.,, - Used when starling a cold engine
LIGHT SWITCH - Turns the headlights on and off,
THROTTLE CONTROL - Used to contro; engine speed 12
FREEWHEEL CONTROL -Disengages transmission lor
pushing or slowly towing the tractor with the engine off,
IGNITION SWITCH - Used to start and stop tile engine
AMMETER - lndicales battery charging (+) or discharging
(-).
LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to release attachment li!_
tever when changing its position
PARKING BRAKE LEVER -Locks clutch!brake pedal into
the brake position
HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB - Used to adjust the mower
height

OPERATKON
The operation of any tractor can result in foreign oblecls thrown into the eyes, which can result
in severe eye damage Always wear safety glasses or eye shields while operating your tractor
or performing any adjustments or repairs We recommend a wide vision safety mask over the
spectacles or standard safety glasses_
HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR NOTE: Under certain conditions when unit is slanding 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
TO SET PARKING BRAKE (See Fig. 8)
Your tractor isequipped 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
• Depress clutch/Drake pedal into lull "BRAKE' posWon
and hold
.Place parking brake lever in "ENGAGED" position and
release pressure from clutch/brake pedal Pedalshould
remain In "BRAKE" position Make sure parking brake
wilt holdtracfor secure
PUSH IN TO A'ITFACHMENT CLUTCH
THROTTLE "DISENGAGE" SWITCH PULL OUT TO
CONTROL LEVER
CLUTCH/BRAKE !
_OSITtON IGNITION
KEY
MOTION
CONTROL
LEVER
HEIGHT
"ORIVE "_ ADJUSTMENT PARtr, tNG
POSITION KNOB BRAKE
"DISENGAGED" "ENGAGED'"
POSITION POSITiON
FIG, 8
STOPPING (See Fig, 8)
MOWER BLADES -
* Move attachment clutch switch to DISENGAGED"
position
GROUND DRIVE -
. Depress clutc!_tbrake 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
CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL IS DEPRESSED
ENGINE -
. Move throttle control 1ostow (_) position
NOTE: Failure to move throtlle control 1o slow (._)
posilion and aIIowing engine _o idle before stopping may
cause engine to 'backfire"
. Turn ignition key to "OFF' position and remove key.
Always remove key when leaving lractor to prevent
unauthorized use
, Never use choke to slop engine
CAUTION: Always stop tractor com-
pletely, asdescribed above, before leav-
ing the operator's position; to empty
grass catcher, etc
TO USE CHOKE CONTROL (See Fig. 8)
Use choke control whenever you are starting aco_d engine
Do not use to stad a warm engine
• To engage choke control, pull knob out Slowly push
knob in to disengage,
TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL (See Fig. 8)
Aiways operate engine at ful_ throttle
• Operating engine at less Ihan lull lhrotlte reduces the
battery charging rate
•Full throttle offers the best bagging and mower perfoF
marco,
TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD
(See Ftg. 8)
The direclton and speed ot movement is controlled by the
motion eontrot lever
• Stud tractor with motion control lever in neutral (N)
position
• Release parking brake and clutchforake pedal
. Slowly move motion control lever to desired position
TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT (See
Fig, 9)
The cutting height is controlled by turning Ihe heigh_ adjust-
ment knob in desired direction
• Turn knob clockwise (f4 } to raise cutting height
- Turn knob counlerclockwise (_'_'_} to lower cutting
height
The cutting height range is approximately 1-1/2" to 4-1/2",
The heighls are measured from Ihe ground to the blade tip
wi_h 1he engine not running These helghls are approxi-
male 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 during the cool season and Io over 3 inches
during hot months For healthier and better looking
lawns, mow often and after moderate growth,
,, For best cutling performance, grass over 6 inches in
height should be mowed lwice Make lhe first cut
relatively high; the second to desired heigh[
13

OPERATION
TO OPERATE ON HILLS
TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS (See Fig. 9)
Adjust gauge wheels with tractor on a fiat level surface
• Adjust mower to desired cutting height (See 'q'O AD-
JUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT" in the Operation
section of this manual).
, With mower in desired height of cut position, gauge
wheels should be assembled so they are slightly off the
ground. Instatl gauge wheel in appropriate hole with
shoulder bolt, 3/8 washer, and 3!8..16 Iocknut and
tighten securely.
• Repeat for opposite side installing gauge wheel in
same adjustment hole
LOOKNUT-'-'-'
318 WASHER _'t_. __1 SHOULDER eOLT
FIG. 9
TO OPERATE MOWER (See Figs. 7 and 8)
Yourtractor is equipped with an operator presence sensing
switch, Any attempt by tf_e operator _oleave the seat with
the engine running and the attachment clutch engaged will
shut off the engine.
- Select desired height of cul
• Lower mower with attachment lilt conlrol
• Slart mower blades by engaging atlachment clutch
control.
- TO STOP MOWER BLADES- disengage attachment
clutch control
& CAUTION: Do not drive up or down /
1
hills with slopes greater than 15° and 1
do not drive across any slope.
• Choose the slowest speed before starling up or down
htIls
• Avoid stopping or changing speed on hitls
• if slow}ng is necessary, move throttle control lever to
slowerposition.
• If slopptng is absofutely necessary, push clutch/brake
edal quickly to brake position and engage parking
rake
, Move motion control lever to neutral (N) position.
IMPORTANT: ]'HE MOTION CONTROL LEVER DOES
NOT RETURN TO NEUTRAL (N) POSITION WHEN THE
CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL iS DEPRESSED
,' To restart movement, stowly reiease parking brake and
clutch/brake pedal,
, Stowly move motion control lever to slowest setting
• Make al! turns slowly
TO TRANSPORT (See Figs. 7 and tl)
When pushing or lowing youz lractor, be sure 1odisengage
transmission by placing freewheel control in treewheeting
position. Free wheet centrot is located at the rear drawbar
of traclor
•Raise attachment !ill Io highest position with attach _
ment lift control.
• Remove retainer spring from freewheel cont_'ol rod
• Push conffoI rod in lo disengage transmission and
reinsed retainer spring into controf rod hole now on
back side of the bracket
• Do not push or tow tractor at more than two (2) MPH
To reengage transmission, reverse above procedure
NOTE: To protect hood from damage when transporting
your Iracloron a truck or a trailer, besure hood is c_osed and
secured to traclor:. Use an appropriate means of tying hood
to tractor (rope, cord, etc),
CAUTION: Do not operale the mower
without either tile entire grass catcher,
on mowers so equipped, or the dis_
charge guard in place..
FIG,. 10 14 FIG. 11

OPERATUON
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE
CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL (See Fig, t2}
,, The engine lnyour tractor has been shipped, from the
factory, already filled with summer weight oil
•Check engine oil with tractor on level ground.
.Unthread and remove otl fill cap/dipstick; wipe oil off
Reinsert the dipstick into the tube and resl oil fill cap on
the tube. Do net thread the cap onto the Lube, 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 o11for
easier starting (See "OIL VISCOSITY CHART' in the
Customer Responsibilities section of this manua0
• To change engine oil, see the Customer Responsibt{i-
ties section in this manual
FIG. t2
ENGINE OIL FiLL
CAPIDfPSTiCK
ADD GASOLINE
. Fitl fuel tank Use fresh, clean, regular untended
gasorine with a minimum of 87 octane (Use of leaded
gasoline witl increase carbon and Iead oxide deposits
and reduce valve life) Do not mix oii with gasoline.
Purchase fuel in quantities that 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
GASOL1NE TO HELP INSURE GOOD COLD WEATHER
STARTING
WARNING: Experience indicates that aicohet blended
fuels (ca!{ed 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 whiie in storage To avoid engine
problems, the fuel system should be emptied before stor-
age of 30 days or longer. Drain the gas tank, start the
engine and let it run until the fuel ltnes and carburetor are
empty. Use fresh fuel next season See Storage Instruc-
tions for additional informalion Never use engine or
carburetor cIeaner products in the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur
CAUTION; Fill to bottom el gas tank
filler neck,, Do not overfill Wipe off any
spllled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or
use gasoline near an open flame,, 15
TO START ENGINE (See Fig. 8)
When s_arting engine lor the first time or if engine has run
out of fuet, it will take extra cranking time to move tuel from
the tank Io the engine
,, Depress clutch/brake pedal and set parking brake
*Place motion control tever in neutral (N] position.
. Move attachment clutch to "DISENGAGED" position
,, Pull choke control out to choke (1\) position for cold
engine start For warm engine slat[ do not use c'_o_e
control
.Move throttle conlrot 1omidway between tast (z__)and
slow (._.) positions,
. Insert key into _gni[tonand turn key clockwise to "START"
position and release key as soon as engine starts, Do
not run starter conllnuously lor more than fifleen
seconds per minute,, If engine does not slam after
several attempts, move throttle control to !as! (_)
position, wait a few minutes and lry again
. When engine starts, sEowly push choke control in
,, Move throttle conlrol to fast (,,_) position
. Allow engine to warm up for a low minutes before
engaging drive or attachments,
Ir4PORTANT: COLD STARTING FOR HYDRO (BELOW
40_'F) _ AFTER STARTING ENGINE AND BEFORE
DRIVING, LET TRANSMISSION WAR# UP FOR (1)
MINUTE BY PLACING MOTION CONTROL LEVER _N
NEUTRAL AND RELEASING CL,UTCH/BRAKE PEDAL
NOTE: it at a high altitude [above 3000 feet) or in cold
temperatures [below 32"F), Lhe carburetor luel mixture
may need to be adjusted for best engine performance See
"TO ADJUST CARBURETOR" in 1he Service and Adjusl-
ments section of this manual.
PURGE TRANSMISSION
freewheel lever while the engine is run-
ning.
To ensure proper operation and performance, il is recom-
mended that the transmission be purged beJare operating
tractor for the first time This procedure will remove any'
trapped air inside the lransmission which may have deveF
aped during sl)ipping of youJ"Iraclor
IMPORTANT: SHOULD YOURTRANSMISSION REQUIRE
REMOVAL FOR SERVICE OR REPLACEMENT, IT
SHOULD BE PURGED AFTER REINSTALLATION
BEFORE OPERATING THE TRACTOR
• Place tractor safely on levef surtace with engine off and
parking brake set
Disengage transmission by placing freewheel control
in freewheeling position (See "TO TRANSPORT" in
this section ofmanual)
• Si_tinginthetractor seal, sladengine After!he engine
is running, move throttle control _oslow (,.'_) position
With mohon controt Iever in neutrat iN) position, slowly
disengage clulchibrake pedal
. Move motion control lever to full Iorward posilion and
hold for five (5) seconds, Move lever Io full reverse
position and hold for five (5) seconds Repeal this
procedure three (3) times

OPERATnON
P
NOTE: Dudng this procedure there will be no movement of
drive wheefs, The air isbeing removed from hydraulic drive
system
,, Move motion control lever to neutral (N) posilion. ShuF
off engine and set parking brake..
• Engage transmission by p_acing freewheel control in
driving position (See "TO TRANSPORT' in this section
of manuat)
,Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine, After the engine
is running, move throttle control to half (1/2) speed
With motion contrei lever in neutral (N) position, slowly
disengage clutch/brake pedal,
•Slowly move molten control iever 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 controI lever three (3)
times
•Your tractor is now purged and now ready for normal
operation
MOWING TIPS
• Tire chains cannot be used when lhe mower housing is
attached to tractor.,
• Mower should be properly leveled for best mowing
performance. See"TO LEVELMOWER HOUSING"in
the Service and Adjustments section Of lhis manual
. The left hand side of mower should be used for trim-
ming
• Drive so thai clippings are discharged onto the area
that has been cut Have lhe cut area to the right of the
tractor- This wiI_ result in a more even distribution of
clippings and more uniform culting
. When mowing large areas, start by turning to the fight
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
linished (See Flg 13)
• If grass is extremely tai!, it should be mowed twice to
reduce load and possible fire hazard from dried clip-
ings,, Make first cut relalbely high; the second to the
esired height
f
FIG., 13
Do not mow grass when it is wet Wet grass will plug
mower and leave undesirable clumps Allow grass to
dry be!ore mowing.
Always operate engtne at full throttle when mowing to
assure betler mowing peflormance and proper dis-
charge of material. Regulate ground speed by select-
ing a low enough gear to give lhe mower cutting
performance as well as the quality of cut desired
When operating atlachments, select a ground speed
that will suit the terrain and give best pedormance of
the aflachmenl being used
I_IULCHING IVIOWING TIPS
IMPORTANT: FOR BEST PERFORMANCE, KEEP
MOWER HOUSING FREE OF BUILT-UP GRASS AND
TRASH CLEAN AFTER EACH USE
• The special mulching blade will recur the grass clip-
pings many times and reduce fhem in size so that as
lhey fall onto the lawn they wit!disperse into the grass
and not be noticed. Also, the mulched grass will
biodegrade quickly to provide nutrients for the lawn,
Atways mulch with your highesl engine (blade) speed
as this wilt provide the best recuUing action of the
blades,
o Avoid culling your lawn when il is wet, Wet grass lends
1oform clumps and Interferes with the mulching action
The best time lo mow your lawn is the early afternoon
At this time the grass has dried and the newly cut area
wilt not be exposed to 1he direct sun,
. For best results, adjust the mower cuffing height so that
the mower cuts off only the lop one4hird of the grass
blades (See Fig. 14) For extremely heavy mulching,
reduce your width ofcut on each pass and mow slowly,
FtG. 14
• Cedatn types of grass and grass conditions may re-
quire that an area be mulched a second time Io com-
pletely htde the clippings When doing a second cut,
mow across or perpendicular to the first cut path
" Change your cutting pattern from week to week, Mow
norlh to soulh one week then change to east towe st the
next week, This will help prevent matting and graining
of ti_elawn
16

CUSTOMER RESPONSIIB LJT ES
'I., ChangQ rr,o_e otten when opm,atFn9 undl_r_,h0_,vy toad or i_*i_t{tt'ternbi.,ar,t tompera._uiD_
2-S_.RCa mole ell0n wi_ee epe_riltng tnd_tly of dusly condl;ions
3 - It equ]ppl)_ wl_t_,oll filler, change OEInvnri 50 hoL_l,_,
4"Rept_:ta btado.s mole _l{]rt whe_ i:_owing tf_sandy so,it
5 It eql_ppe{l wilh _d_uslable system,
6t'tol roquI__UIt eqo_ppecl w_r,h ma_len0f_c[)÷/r_e l_Iter/
7- 'Tighler_ liD.n'{ a_lo pivbt boil Io 35 It .Ib+ m_:=i+mim
D_ nol OvOr_l(jllten
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this tractor does not cover items that have
been subjected to operator abuse or negligence, 30
receive fullvafua from lhewarranty, opera[or must maintain
tractor as instructed in this manual
Some adjustments wifl need to be made periodically to
properly maintain your tractor
All adjustments in the Service and Adjustments section o!
this manual shouid 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 Jiller assure
proper air-luel mixture and help your engine run better
and last longer
BEFORE EACH USE
- Check engine oil level,
• Check brake operation
• Check life pressure
• Check for loose fasteners
IMPORTANT: DO NOT OIL OR GREASE THE PIVOT PO_NTS
WHICH HAVE SPECIAL NYLONBEARtNGS VISCOUSLUBRI-
CANTS WILL ATTRACT DUST AND DIRT THAT WILL SHO RTEN
THE LIFE OF THE SELF,LUBRICATING BEARINGS, SF YOU
FEELTHEY MUST BE LUBRICATED, USE ONLY A DRY. POW-.
DERBD GRAPHITE TYPE LUBRICANT SPARINGLY
LUBRICATION CHART
(I"_TIE ROD BALL .JOINTS
(_) SPINDLE ZERK
(_)FRONTWHEEL
BEAR[NG ZERK
(_STEERIr
SECTOR GEAR
TEETH
SPRAY SILICONE LUBRICANT (MOVE BOOTS TO LUBRICATEJ
(_ GENERAL PURPOSE GREASE
I_) REFER TO CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES -ENGINE" SECTtOH
17

CUSTO[ ER RESPONSIBILiTiES
TRACTOR
Aiways observe safety rules when performing any mainte-
nance
BRAKE OPERATION
tf tractor requires more than six (6) feet stopping distance
at high speed in highest gear, then brake must be adjusted
(See "TO ADJUST BRAKE" in the Service and Adjust-
ments section o! this manual)
TIRES
• Maintain proper air pressure in all tires (See "PROD-
UCT SPECIFICATIONS" on page 3 of this manual)
• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect controt chemi-
cals which can harm rubber
• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp objects and
olher hazards that may cause tire damage
BLADE CARE
For best resufts mower blades must be kept sharp Re-
place bent or damaged blades
BLADE REMOVAL (See Fig. 15)
• Raise mower to tlighest position to aflow access to
blades,
• Remove hex boll, fock washer and flat washersecuring
btade
. Install new or resharpened blade with traiIing edge up
towards deck as shown
•Reassemble hex boil, lock washer and flat washer in
exact order as shown
• Tighten bolt securely (30_35 Ft Lbs torque)
IMPORTANT: BLADE BOLT IS GRADE BHEATTREATED
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening blade - but ifyou
do, be sure the blade is balanced
BLADE _ MANDREL
•X.__ .ASSEMBLY
x_ "_, EDGE UP
"i ,,. %,.. 1
FLAT WASHERs..._ :_ <,_,!'__%,... /
LOOK WASHER,_ ". "_. "_'b.
•AGRADE 8 HEAT TREATED BOLT CAN BE
IOENTfFIED BY SIX LINES ON THE BOLT HEAD,
FIG., 15
TO SHARPEN BLADE (See Fig. 16)
Care should be taken to keep the blade balanced An
unbalanced blade wiil cause excessive vibration and even*
tual damage to mower and engine,
. The blade can be sharpened with a file or on agrinding
wheel Do not attempt to sharpen while on the mower
. To check blade balance, you wi!l need a 5/8" diameter
steel boll, pin, or a cone balancer (When using a cone
balancer, follow the instructions supplied with bal-
aRcer)
• Slide blade on to an unthreaded portion ofthe sleel bolt
or pin and hold the bolt or pin parailel with lhe ground.
If blade is balanced, it should remain in a horizontal
position 11either end of the blade moves downward,
sharpen the heavy end until the blade is balanced,
NOTE: Do not use a nail for balancing blade The lobes of
the center hole may appear Io be centered, but are not.
CENTER HOLE / , ."
BOLT ..... B'ADE
FIG 16
BATTERY
Your tractor has a battery charging syslem which is suffi-
cient for normal use. However, periodic charging of the
battery with an automotive charger will extend its life
• Keep battery and terminals clean
', Keep battery bolts tight
•Keep smaIlvent holes open.
• Recharge at 6-10 amperes Ior 1 hour..
TO CLEAN BATTERY AND TERMINALS
Corrosion and did on the battery and terminals can cause
the battery [o "leak" power,,
• Remove terminal guard,
. Disconnect BLACK battery cable first lhen RED
battery cable and remove battery from traclor.
,, Rinse the battery with plain water and dry.
• Cleanterminatsandbatterycable endswithwire brush
until brtghL
• Coat terminals with grease or petroleum jelly,
° Reinstall battery (See "CONNECT BATTERY" in the
Assembly section of this manual)
18

CUSTOMER RESPONSgBllLaT ES
TRANSAXLE COOLING
The fan and cooiing fins of transmission should be kept
clean to assure proper coofing
Do not attempt to clean fan or transmission while engine is
running or while 1he transmission Is hot To prevent
possible damage to seals, no not use high pressure water
or steam to clean transax_e
. Inspect cooling fan to be sure fan blades are intact and
clean,
. Inspect cooling fins for dirt, grass clippings and other
materials, To prevent damage to seals, do net use
compressed air or high pressure sprayer-
TRANSAXLE PUMP FLUID
The transaxle was sealed at the factory and fiuid mainte-
nance is not required for the life of the transaxle. Should
the transaxie ever leak or require servicing, contact your
nearest authorized service center/depadment
V-BELTS
Check V-bellsfordeteriorationand wear after100 hoursof
operationand replaceifnecessary The beltsare not
adjus{abte. Replace bells if they begin to slip from wear.
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Only use high quality detergent oil rated with API service
classification SF or SG Setect the olrsSAEvtscosity grade
according to your expected operating temperature
I sA, v,SCOS,TYGRAUES
FtGo 17
NOTE: Although multFviscosity oiIs (5W30, 10W30 etc.)
improve starting in cold weather, these multi-viscosity oils
will result in increased oil consumption when used above
32_F. Check your engine oil level more frequently to avoid
possible engine damage from running iow on oil.
Change the oil after the first two hours of operation and
every 25 hours thereafter or at least once a year if the
fractor is not used for 25 hours in one year
Check the crankcase oil level before starling the engine
and after each eight (8) hours of operalion. Tighten oil fitl
cap/dipstick securely each time you check the oil leveI,,
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL (See Fig. 18)
Determine temperature range expected before oil change
Atl oil must meet API service c_assification SF or SG
', Be sure tractor is on level sudace
o eli will drain more freely when warm,
• Catch oil in a suitable container,
• Remove oil fi!l cap/dipstick,, Be careful not to allow dirt
to enter the engine when changing oil
o Remove drain plug
,, After oil has drained completely, replace oil drain plug
and tighten securely
° Refill engine with oil through oil fiildipstick tube. Pour
slowly. Do not overfill, For approximate capacity see
"PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" on page 3 of INs
manual
,, Use gauge on o1! fill cap/dipstick for checking level,
Insert dipstick Into the tube and rest the oil fillcap on the
tube. Do not thread the cap onto the tube when faking
reading. Keep oil at "FULL" tine on dipstick Tighten
cap onto the tube securely when finished,
FIG_ 18
CAPfDIPSTICK
CLEAN AIR SCREEN
Air screen must be kep! free of dirt and chaff to prevenl
engine damage from overheating Clean with a wire brush
or compressed air to remove dirt and stubborn dried gum
tibers
CLEAN AIR 1NTAKFJCOOUNG AREAS
To insure proper cooling, make sure lhe grass screen,
coottng fins, and other e×temal sudaces of the engine are
kept ctean at all times
Every 100 hours of operation (more otten under extremely
dusty, dirty condilions), remove the blower ,housing and
other cooling shrouds Clean the cooling fins and external
sudaces as necessary Make sure Ihe cooling shrouds are
reinstalled..
NOTE; Qperaling the engine wilh a blocked grass screen,
dirty or piugged cooling fins. and/or cooling shrouds re-
moved will cause engine damage due to overheating..
19

CUSTOMER
AIR FILTER (See Fig. 19)
Your engine will not run properly using a dirty air filter.
Clean the foam pro-cleaner after every 25 hours of opera-
tion or every season Service paper cartridge every I00
hours o( operation or ever:/season, whichever occurs first
Service air cleaner more often under dusty conditions..
• Loosen knob and remove cover.
TO SERVICE PRE-CLEANER
, Slide foam pre-cfeaner off carlridge
• Wash t in tqutd detergent and water
° Squeeze it dry in a clean cloth.
• Saturate it in engine oil Wrap il in ctean, absorbent
cloth and squeeze to remove excess o1.
TO SERVICE CARTRIDGE
, Remove nut and cartridge ptale
• Gentty tap the fiat side of the paper cartridge 1o dis-
lodge dirt. Do not wash the paper cartridge or use
pressurized air, as this wtl damage the cartridge
Replace a dirty, bent, or damaged cartridge
• Reinstall the pro-cleaner (cteaned and oiled) over the
paper cartridge
• Check rubber seal for damage and proper position
around stud Replace if necessary.
• Reassemble air cIeaner, cartridge plate, and nut
• Reinstall air cleaner cover and secure by tightening
knob,
CARTRIDGE i_
FoA,,
, __--NUT
FIG° 19
RESPONSIBILITIES
MUFFLER
Inspect and replace corroded muffler and spark arrester (if
equipped) as it could create a fire hazard and/or damage
SPARK PLUGS
Replace spark plugs at the beginning of each mowing
season or after every t00 hours of operation, whichever
occurs first. Spark plug type and gap selling are shown In
"PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" on page 3 of this manual
IN-LINE FUEL FILTER (See Fig. 20)
The fuel filer should be replaced once each season Iffuel
filer becomes clogged, obstucting fuel flow to carbure[or,
replacement is required.
• With engine cool, remove filter and piug {uel line
sections
• Place new fuel filter in position in fuel line with arrow
pointing towards carburetor.
, Be sure there are no luel ine leaks and clamps are
properly positioned
tmmedialely wipe up any sptlled gasoline
FIG. 20
CLEANING
• Clean engine, battery, seat, finish, elc of al foreign
metier
• Keep finished surfaces and wheels free of all gasoline,
oil eto
• Protect painled surfaces with automotive type wax
We do not recommend using a garden hose to clean your
tractor unless the electrical syslem, muffler, air filer and
carburetor are covered to keep water out.. Waler In engine
can result tn a shortened engine life
ENGINE OIL FILTER
Replace the engine oil filer every season or every other oil
change I the tractor is used more than t00 hours in one
year.
20