Craftsman EZ3 917.272960 User manual

Owner's Manual
JCRRFTSMRN'J
20.0 HP
ELECTRIC START
46" MOWER
AUTOMATIC
GARDEN TRACTOR
Model No.
917.272960
EZ3
•Safety
•Assembly
•Operation
•Maintenance
•Repair Parts
This product has € low emission engine which Operates
differently from prey ous y built engines. Before you start the
engine, read and understand this Owner's Manual.
CAUTION:
Read and follow all Safety
Rules and Instructions before
operating this equipment.
For answers to your questions
about this product, Call:
1-800-659-5917
Sears Craftsman Help Line
5 am -5 pro, Mon- Set
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, II 60179
Visitour Craftsman website:www.sears.com/craftsman

Warranty............................................... 2
Safety Rules .........................................3
Product Specifications.......................... 5
Assembly .............................................. 7
Operation ............................................ 12
Maintenance Schedule...................... 19
Maintenance .......................................19
Serviceand Adjustments....................23
Storage ...............................................31
Troubleshooting .................................92
Repair Parts ........................................36
Parts Ordering .....................Back Cover
LIMITEDTWO YEAR WARRANTYON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENTPARTS
For two(2) years from the date of purchase, ifthis Craftsman Riding Equipment is
maintained, lubricated and tuned up according to the instructions in the owner's
manual, Sears willrepair or replace, free of charge, any parts found to be defective in
material or workmanship. Warranty serviceis available free of charge by taking your
Craftsman ddingequipmentto 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 whichbecome worn during normal use, such as blades, spark
plugs, air cleaners, belts and oilfilters,
•Tire replacementor repair causedby punctures from outside objects, such as nails,
thorns, stumps,or glass.
• Repairs necessarybecause of operator abuse, including but 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 speedingthe engine.
•Repairs necessarybecause of operator negligence, including but not limited to,
electricaland mechanical damage caused by improper storage, failure to use the
proper grade and amount of engineoil,failure to keep the deck clear of flammable
debris, or the failure to maintainthe equipment according to the instructions con-
tained in the owner's manual.
•Engine (fuel system)cleaningor repairs caused by fuel determined to be contami-
nated or oxidized (stale). In general, fuel shouldbe used within thirty (30) days of its
purchase date.
• Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.
LIMITED 90 DAYWARRANTY ON BATTERY
Forninety (90) daysfromdate ofpurchase,ifany batteryincludedwiththisriding
equipmentprovesdefectivein materialor workmanshipand ourtestingdeterminesthe
batterywillnot holda charge,Sears willreplacethe batteryat nocharge.Warranty
serviceis availablefree ofchargeby takingyourCraftsmanddingequipmenttoyour
nearestSears ServiceCenter. In-homewarrantyserviceisavailablebut atripcharge
willapply.Thiswarrantyappliesonlywhilethis productis inthe UnitedStates.
To locatethe nearestsears servicecenteror to schedulein-homewarrantyservice,
simplycontactsears at 1-800-4-my-home
ThisWarrantygivesyou specificlegalrights,and youmay alsohave otherrightswhich
mayvaryfrom statetostate.
Sears, Roebuck and Co., D/817 WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

IMPORTANT:Thiscuttingmachineis
capableof amputatinghands and feet
andthrowingobjects.Failureto observe
the following safetyinstructionscould
resultinseriousinjuryor death.
GENERAL OPERATION
•Read, understand,and follow all
instructionsin the manualand on the
machinebeforestarting.
•Only allowresponsibleadults,who are
familiar withthe instructions,tooperate
the machine.
•Clearthearea ofobjectssuchas recks,
toys,wire,etc., whichcouldbe picked
up and thrownby theblade.
•Besurethe areaisclear ofother
peoplebeforemowing.Stop machineif
anyoneentersthe area.
•Never carrypassengers.
•Do not mowin reverseunlessabsolute-
lynecessary.Alwayslookdownand
behindbeforeand while backing.
• "Be awareofthe mowerdischarge
directionand de notpointit at anyone.
Do not operatethemowerwithout
eithertheentiregrasscatcherorthe
guardin place.
•Slowdownbeforeturning.
•Never leave a runningmachine
unattended.Alwaysturnoffblades,set
parkingbrake,stop engine,and remove
keys beforedismounting.
•Turnoffbladeswhen not mowing.
•Stop enginebefore removinggrass
catcheror uncloggingchute.
•Mow onlyindaylightor goodartificial
light.
•Do not operate the machinewhile
underthe influenceof alcoholor drugs.
•Watchfor trafficwhenoperatingnearor
crossingroadways.
•Use extracarewhen loadingor
unloadingthe machineintoa traileror
truck.
•Data indicatesthatoperators,age 60
yearsand above,are involvedin a
largepercentage of ridingmower-
relatedinjuries.These operatorsshould
evaluatetheirabilityto operatethe
ridingmowersafelyenoughto protect
themselvesand othersfrom serious
injury.
SLOPEOPERATION
Slopesarea majorfactorrelatedto loss-
of-controland tipoveraccidents,which
can resultinsevereinjuryor death.All
slopesrequireextracaution.Ifyoucannot
backupthe slopeor ifyoufeel uneasyon
it,do notmowit.
DO:
•Mow upand downslopes,notacross.
•Removeobstaclessuchas rocks,tree
limbs,etc.
•Watchfor holes,ruts,or bumps.Uneven
terraincouldoverturnthemachine.Tall
grasscan hideobstacles.
•Useslowspeed.Choosea lowgear so
thatyouwillnothavetostopor shift
whileon the slope.
•Followthe manufacturer'srecommen-
dationsfor wheelweightsor counter-
weightsto improvestability.
•Useextracarewithgrasscatchersor
otherattachments.These canchange
the stabilityofthemachine.
•Keepall movementon the slopesslow
and gradual.Do not makesudden
changesin speed or direction.
•Avoidstartingor stoppingon a slope.If
tireslose traction,disengagethe blades
and proceedslowlystraightdownthe
slope.
DONOT:
• Do notturn on slopesunlessneces-
sary, and then,turnslowlyand gradual-
lydownhill,ifpossible.
•Do notmowneardrop-offs,ditches,or
embankments.The mowercould
suddenlyturnoverifa wheelis overthe
edgeofa cliffor ditch,or ifan edge
caves in.
•Do not mowon wet grass.Reduced
tractioncouldcause sliding.
•Donottrytostabilizethemachineby
puttingyourfoot on the ground.
•Do notusegrasscatcheron steep
slopes.
CHILDREN
Tragicaccidentscan occuriftheoperator
isnotalerttothepresenceofchildren.
Childrenareoften attractedtothe
machineand the mowingactivity.Never
assumethat childrenwillremainwhere
youlastsaw them.
•Keepchildrenout ofthe mowingarea
and underthe watchfulcare ofanother
responsibleadult.
•Be alertandtum machineoffifchildren
enterthe area.
3

• Beforeandwhenbacking,lookbehind
anddownforsmall children.
• Nevercarrychildren.They may fall off
and be seriouslyinjuredor interfere
withsafe machine operation.
•Never allowchildrentooperatethe
machine.
•Use extra care when approaching blind
corners,shrubs,trees, or otherobjects
thatmay obsGurevision.
SERVICE
•Use extracare in handlinggasoline
and otherfuels. They are flammable
and vaporsare explosive.
Use onlyan approvedcontainer.
- Never removegascap or add fuel
with theengine running.Allow
enginetocoolbeforerefueling.Do
notsmoke.
- Never refuelthe machineindoors.
- Never storethe machineor fuel
container inside where there is an
openflame, suchas awaterheater.
•Never runa machineinsidea closed
area,
•Keep nutsand bolts,especiallyblade
attachmentbolts,tightand keep
equipmentin good condition.
•Nevertamperwithsafetydevices.
Checktheirproperoperationregulady.
•Keep machinefree of grass,leaves,or
otherdebrisbuild-up.Cleanoil or fue_
spillage.Allowmachineto coolbefore
storing.
•Stopand inspect the equipment if you
strikean object.Repair,ifnecessary,
beforerestarting.
•Never make adjustments or repairs
withthe engine running.
•Grasscatchercomponentsare subject
to wear, damage,and deterioration,
whichcouldexposemovingpartsor
allowobjectsto bethrown.Frequently
checkcomponentsand replace with
manufacturer's recommendedparts,
when necessary.
•Mowerblades are sharpand cancut.
Wraptheblade(s) or wear gloves,and
use extra cautionwhenservicing
them.
• Check brake operationfrequently.
Adjustandserviceas required.
•Be sure the area is clear of other
people before mowing. Stop machine
if anyone enters the area.
•Never carry passengers or children
even with the blades off.
•Do not mow in reverse unless abso-
lutely necessary. Always look down
and behind before and while backing,
•Never carry chiktren. They may fall off
and be seriously injured or interfere
with safe machine operation.
•Keep children out of the mowing area
and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult.
• Be alert and turn machine off if
children enter the area.
•Before and when backing, look behind
and down for small children.
•Mow up and down slopes (15 ° Max),
not across,
• Removeobstaclessuchas rocks,tree
limbs,etc.
•Watchforholes,ruts,or bumps.
Uneventerraincouldoverturnthe
machine.TailgrasScan hideobsta-
cles.
•Use slowspeed.Choosea lowgear
sothatyouwillnothaveto stopor shift
whileonthe slope.
•Avoidstartingor stoppingonaslope.If
tireslosetraction,disengagethe
bladesand proceedslowlystraight
downthe slope.
•It machinestopswhilegoinguphill,
disengageblades,shiftintoreverse
and backdownslowly.
•Do notturn on slopesunlessneces-
saw, and then,turnslowlyand
graduallydownhill,if possible.
4

_lLLook for this symbol to point out
important safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!H BECOMEAWARE!!! YOUR
,_FETY IS INVOLVED.
CAUTION: In order to prevent
accidental starting when setting up,
transporting, adjusting or making repairs
always disconnect spark plug wire and
place wire where it cannot contact spark
g.
P_CAUTION: Do not coast down a hill in
neutral, you may lose control of the
tractor.
A_I,CAUTION: Tow only the attachments
that are recommended by and comply
with specifications of the manufacturer of
your tractor, Use common sense when
towing. Operate only at the lowest
possible speed when on a slope, Too
heavy of a load, while on a slope, is
dangerous, Tires can lose traction with the
ground and cause you to lose control of
Y_Uwrtractor.
ARNING: The engine exhaust from
this product contains chemicals known to
the State of California to cause cancer,
birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
GASOLINE 3.5 GALLONS
CAPACITY UNLEADED
AND TYPE: REGULAR
OILTYPE SAE 10W30
_PI-SF/SG/SH): (ABOVE 32°F)
SAE 5W-30
(BELOW 32°F)
OILCAPACITY: W/FILTER: 4.5PINTS
WiO FILTER: 4.0PINTS
SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION
.3AP: .030") RC12YC
GROUND SPEED FORWARD: 5.8
(MPH): REVERSE: 2.1
TIRE FRONT: 14 PSI
PRESSURE: REAR: 10 PSI
CHARGING 15AMPS @ 3600RPM
SYSTEM:
BATTERY: AMP/HR: 35
MIN. CCA: 280
CASE SIZE:U1R
BLADE BOLT 27-35 FT. LBS
TORQUE:
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase
of anew Tractor. It has been designed,
engineered and manufactured to give
you the best possible dependability and
performance.
5
Should you experience any problem you
cannot easily remedy, please contact
your nearest authorized service center/
department, We have competent, well-
trained technicians and the proper tools
to service or repair this tractor,
Please read and retain this manual, The
instructions will enable you to assemble
and maintain your tractor propedy, 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 maintain-
ing, caring for and using your tractor.
•Follow the instructions under =Mainte-
nance" and "Storage" sections of this
owner's rrtanual.
_WARNING: This tractor is equipped
with an internal combustion engine and
should not be used on or near any
unimproved forest-covered, brush-
covered or grass-covered land unless the
engine's exhaust system is equipped with
a spark arrester meeting applicable local
or state laws (if any). If a spark arraster is
used, it should be maintained in effective
working order by the operator.
In the state of California the above is
required by law (Section 4442 of the
California Public Resources Code). Other
states may have similar laws. Federal
laws apply on federal lands. A spark
arrester for the muffler is available
through your nearest authorized service
center/department (See REPAIR PARTS
section of this manual).

Steedng
Wheel Insert
Steering Wheel
Seat
(1) Washer
(_) 17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge (1) Shoulder
Bolt 5/16-18
i_(1) Knob
Mower
(4) Retainer Springs (single loop) (3) Retainer Springs (double loop)
Gauge Wheels
(2) Shoulder x 7/8 x 14 Gauge
Bolts
Q (2) Center-
lockNuts

VideoCeeee_e
_m
Keys
(2) Keys
Slope Sheet
Yournewtractorhas beenassembledat thefactorywithexceptionofthosepartsleft
unassembledfor shippingpurposes.To ensuresafe and properoperationof your
tractorallpartsand hardwareyouassemblemustbe tightenedsecurely.Use the
correcttoolsas necessaryto insurepropertightness.Reviewthe videocassettebefore
you begin.
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY
A socketwrenchsetwillmake assembly
easier. Standardwrenchsizesyou need
are listedbelow.
(1) 9/16"wrench (1) Pliers
(1) 1/2"wrench (1) Utilityknife
(1) 3/4"socketwith
driveratchet
(1) Tire pressure gauge
When rightor lefthandismentionedin
thismanual,itmeans,fromyourpointof
view,when youare inthe operating
position(seatedbehindthe steering
wheel).
TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM
CARTON
UNPACK CARTON
• Remove all accessible loose parts and
parts boxes from shipping carton,
• Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on
all four corners of shipping carton, and
lay panels flat.
•Remove mower and packing materi-
als.
•Check for any additional loose parts or
boxes and remove,
7

BEFOREREMOVINGTRACTOR
OFFSKID
ATTACHSTEERINGWHEEL
• Removehexbolt,lockwasherand
largeflatwasherfromsteeringshaft.
• Positionfrontwheelsofthetractorso
they are pointingstraightforward.
•Slidethesteedngsleeveover the
steeringshaft,
•Positionsteeringwheelso crossbars
are horizontal(leftto dght)and slide
ontosteeringwheel adapter,
•Secure steeringwheelto steering
shaftwithhexbolt,lockwasherand
largeflat washerpreviouslyremoved.
Tightensecurely.
•Snap steeringwheel insertintocenter
of steeringwheel.
• Removeprotectivematedalsfrom
tractorhoodand gdlL
IMPORTANT:Checkfor and removeany
staplesin skidthatmay puncturetires
wheretractoristo rolloffskid.
_Steering
_Wheel Insert
_F_-- Hex I_:_t
Lock Washer
_arge Flat
Washer
Steering
Wheel f _// Steering
_Wheel
, Adapter
Steering I
Shaft
Steering-
Sleeve
\ \
HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR
CHECK BATTERY
•Lifthoodto raisedposition.
•Ifthis battery isputinto serviceafter
monthand year indicatedon label
(label locatedbetween terminals)
chargebatteryfor minimumofone
hourat 6-10 amps. (See "BATTERY" in
Maintenance sectionof thismanual
for charginginstructions).
i
INSTALL SEAT
Adjustseat beforetighteningadjustment
knob.
•Removeadjustmentknoband flat
washersecuringseatto cardboard
packingand set aside for assemblyof
seatto tractor.
• Pivot seat upwardand remove from
the cardboardpacking.Remove the
cardboard packing and discard.
• Place seaton seat pan and assemble
shoulder bolt. Tighten shoulder bolt
SeCUrely.
• Assemble adjustment knob andflat
washer loosely. Do not tighten,
• Lower seat into operating position and
sit on seat.
• Slide seat until a comfortable position
is reached which allows you to press
clutch/brake pedal all the way down.
• Get off seatwithoutmoving its adjusted
position.
• Raise seat and tighten adjustment
knob securely.
SeatPan
Shoulder
Bctt
Adjustment Knob
8

NOTE: You may now roll or drive your
tractor offthe skid. Follow the appropriate
instructionbelow toremove the tractor from
the skid.
TO ROLLTRACTOR OFF SKID (See
Operation section for location and
function of controls)
• Press lift lever plunger and raise
attachment lift lever to its highest
position.
•Release parking brake by depressing
clutch/brake pedal.
•Place freewheel control in freewheel-
ing position to disengage transmission
(See TO TRANSPORT" in the Opera-
tion section of this manual).
•Roll tractor forward off skid.
TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID
(See Operation section for location
and function of controls)
WARNING: Before starting read,
understand and follow all instruct ons in
the Operation section of this manual. Be
sure tractor is in a well-ventilated area.
Be sure the area in front of tractor is clear
of other people and objects.
•Be sure all the above assembly steps
have been completed.
• Check engine oil level and fill fuel tank
with gasoline.
•Place freewheel control in "transmis-
sion engaged" position.
•Sit on seat in operating position,
depress clutch/brake pedal and set the
parking brake.
•Place motion control lever in neutral
(N) position.
•Press lift lever plunger and raise
attachment lift lever to its highest
position.
•Start the engine. After engine has
started, move throttle control to idle
position.
•Release parking brake.
•Slowly move the motion control lever
forward and slowly drive tractor off
skid.
•Apply brake to stop tractor, set parking
brake and place gearshift lever in
neutral position.
•Turn ignition key to "OFF" position.
Continue with the instructions that follow.
INSTALL MOWER AND DRIVE
BELT
Be sure tractoris on level surface and
mower suspensionarmsare raisedwith
attachment lift control. Engage parking
brake.
•Cut and remove ties securing anti-
sway bar and belts. Swing anti-sway
bar to left side of mower deck.
•Slide mower under tractor with dis-
charge guard to right side of tractor.
IMPORTANT: Check belt for proper
routing in all mower pulley grooves.
Install belt into electric clutch pulley
groove.

•Installone front linkin top holeofthe
R.H. front mowerbracketand R.H.
front suspensionbracket. Retainwith
twosingleloop retainerspringsas
shown.
•Installsecondfront linkin L.H. front
suspensionbracketonlyand retain
withsingleloop retainerspringas
shown,
•Tum heightadjustmentknobcounter-
clockwiseuntilitstops.
•Lowermowerlinkagewithattachment
liftcontrol.
•Placethe L.H. suspensionarm on
inwardpointingdeckpin. If necessary,
rockand raise front ofmowertoalign
deckpinwiththe holein suspension
arm. Retainwithdoubleloopretainer
springwith loopsdownas shown.
•Slideleftsideof mowerbackand
installthe unattachedfront linkin top
holeoftheL.H. front mowerbracket.
Retainwith singleloop retainerspring
as shown.
•Placethe R.H. suspensionarm on
inwardpointingdeck pin. If necessary,
rockand raisefrontof mowertoalign
deckpinwiththe holein suspension
arm. Retainwith doubleloopretainer
springwithloopsdownas shown.
•Connectanti-swaybar to chassis
bracketunderleftfootrest and retain
with doubleloop retainerspring.
•Tum height adjustment knob clock-
wise to remove slack from mower
suspension.
•Raise mower to highest position.
•Assemble gauge wheels (See "TO
ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS" in the
Operation section of this manual).
CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
The tires on your tractor were ovedn-
flated at the factory for shipping pur-
poses. Correct tire pressure is important
for best cutting performance.
•Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in
=PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS"
section of this manual.
CHECK MOWER LEVELNESS
For best cutting results, mower should be
propedy leveled. See _1"OLEVEL
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 ddve belts in the Service
and Adjustments section of this manual.
Verify that the belts are routed correctly.
CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM
After you learn how to operate your
tractor, check to see that the brake is
propedy adjusted. See '_1"OADJUST
BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual.
ShoulderBolt
Chassis
Bracket
Double Loop Retaier
Spring (Inward
pointing deck pins)
Suspension
Arms t
Front Mower
Bracket
3/8
3/8-16 Center Locknut
Use Pliersfor
RetainerSprings
y)/ Loop
_/// Down
Bar Idler
Pulley
10
Single Loop
Retaier Spring
Discharge Guard

l/CHECKLIST
BEFORE YOU OPERATE AND ENJOY
YOUR NEW TRACTOR, WE WISH TO
ASSURE THAT YOU RECEIVE THE
BEST PERFORMANCE AND
SATISFACTION FROM THIS QUALITY
PRODUCT.
PLEASEREVIEWTHE FOLLOWING
CHECKLIST:
,/ Allassemblyinstructionshave been
completed.
4"No remainingloosepartsin carton.
4"Batteryis properlypreparedand
charged. (Minimum1 hourat 6
amps).
4"Seat is adjusted comfortablyand
tightenedsecurely.
4Alltiresare properlyinflated. (For
shippingpurposes,the tireswere
overinflatedat thefactory).
,/' Besuremowerdeckis properly
•leveled side-to-sida/front-to-rearfor
bestcuttingresults. (Tiresmustbe
properlyinflatedfor leveling).
4Checkmowerand drivebelts. Besure
they are routedproperlyaround
pulleysand insideall belt keepers.
4"Checkwiring. Sea thatall connections
are stillsecure and wiresare properly
clamped.
4Beforedrivingtractor,be surefree-
wheel controlis in driveposition.
WHILE LEARNINGHOWTO USE YOUR
TRACTOR, PAYEXTRAATTENTIONTO
THE FOLLOWINGIMPORTANTITEMS:
,/Engine oi!isat properlevel.
4Fue!tankisfilled withfresh, clean,
regular unleaded gasoline.
4"Becomefamiliar with allcontrols- their
locationand function. Operatethem
beforeyou startthe engine.
€"Besurebrakesystemisin safe
operating condition.
4' Itisimportanttopurgethe transmis-
sionbeforeoperatingyourtractorfor
thefirst time. Followproperstarting
and transmissionpurginginstructions
(See "TO START ENGINE"and
"PURGE TRANSMISSION"inthe
Operationsectionof thismanual).
11

Thesesymbolsmayappearonyourtractororinliteraturesuppliedwiththe product,
Learnand understandtheirmeaning.
BATTERY CAUTION OR
WARNING
ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF
REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW
..=,...-
FUEL CHOKE
OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP
LIGHT
MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED MOWER LIFT
LOCKED
r 'l R N H L
ATTACHMENT REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW
CLUTCH ENGAGED PARKING BRAKE
KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS
ATTACHMENT
IGNITION CLUTCH DISENGAGED (SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)
DANGER, KEEPHANDSANDFEETAWAY FREE WHEEL
(A_Omat_ Models on_)
12

KNOWYOUR TRACTOR
READTHIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFOREOPERATING
YOUR TRACTOR
Comparethe illustrationswithyourtractortofamiliarizeyourselfwiththe locationsof
variouscontrolsand adjustments.Save thismanualfor futurereference.
Amme_r Ignition Switch Attachment
Clutch
Switch
Lever
Throttle Plunger
Clutch/
Brake Pedal
Attachment
LiftLever
Choke Control/
Brake Lever
Adjustment
Knob Lever
FreeWheel
Ourtractorsconformtothesafetystandardsofthe AmericanNationalStandards
Institute.
ATTACHMENT CLUTCH SWITCH -
Used to engage the mower blades, or
other attachments mounted to your
tractor.
LIGHT SWITCH - Turns the headlights on
and off.
THROTTLE CONTROL -Used to control
engine speed.
CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL -Used for
declutching and braking the tractor and
starting the engine.
CHOKE CONTROL -Used when starting
a cold engine.
HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB -Used to
adjust the mower cutting height.
IGNITION SWITCH -Used for starting
and stopping the engine.
ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER - Used to
raise, lower, and adjust the mower deck
or other attachments mounted to your
tractor.
LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to
release attachment lift lever when
changing its position.
AMMETER - Indicates charging (+) or
discharging (-) of battery.
PARKING BRAKE LEVER - Locks
clutch/brake pedal into the brake
position.
MOTION CONTROL LEVER - Selects the
speed and direction of tractor.
FREEWHEEL CONTROL - Disengages
transmission for pushing or slowly
towing the tractor with the engine off.
13

I_ he operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into I
the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety I
glasses or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any
adjustments or repairs. We recommend a wide vision safety mask
over spectacles or standard safety glasses.
HOW TO USEYOUR TRACTOR
TO SET PARKING BRAKE
Your tractor is equipped with an operator
presence sensing switch. When engine
is running, any attempt by the operator to
leave the seat without first setting the
parking brake will shut off the engine.
•Depress clutch/brake pedal into full
"BRAKE" position and hold,
•Place parking brake lever in "EN-
GAGED position and release pres-
sure from clutch/brake pedal. Pedal
should remain in "BRAKE" position,
Make sure parking brake will hold
tractor secure.
ParkingBrake Attachment
Choke =Engaged" ClutchSwitch
Control,.Position Push-Into .PullOutto
\\_Disengage "En,',a-,=
Throttle_X _..._ \- _._'_ uv
Control 5 y_
Brake_,_ _.._ _(_.7 .7
_o o _I_e_yy _._Lever
_I_. _Hei_ "Disengaged"
Clutch/Brake... Ad.='justment Position
Pedal Dnve Knob
PosiUon
STOPPING
MOWER BLADES-
•To stopmowerblades,moveattach-
mentclutchswitchto"DISENGAGED"
position.
GROUND DRIVE -
•To stopgrounddrive,depressclutch/
brake pedalintofull "BRAKE"position.
•Move motioncontrolleverto neutral
(N) posiUon.
IMPORTANT:The motioncontrollever
does not returnto neutral(N) position
when the clutch/brakepedalisde-
pressed.
ENGINE -
• Move throttlecontrolto slowposition.
NOTE: Failuretomovethrottlecontrolto
slow positionand allowingengine to
idlebefore stoppingmay cause engine
to"backfire'.
•Turnignitionkey to"OFF"positionand
removekey. Alwaysremovekey
when leavingtractorto prevent
unauthorizeduse.
•Never use choketo stopengine.
IMPORTANT: Leavingthe ignition
switchinany positionotherthan "OFF"
willcausethe batteryto bedischarged,
(dead).
NOTE; Under cedain 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
stopping tractor on grass areas.
CAUTION: Always stop tractor
completely, as described above, before
leaving the operator's position; to empty
grass catcher, etc.
TO USE THROI-FLE CONTROL
Always operate engine at full throttle.
•Operating engine at less than full
throttle reduces the battery charging
rate.
• Full throttle offers the best bagging
and mower performance.
TO USE CHOKE CONTROL
Use choke control whenever you are
starting a cold engine. Do not use to start
a warm engine.
•To engage choke control, pull knob
out. Slowly push knob in to disen-
gage.
TO MOVE FORWARD AND
BACKWARD
The direction and speed of movement is
controlled by the motion control lever.
•Start tractor with motion control lever in
neutral (N) position.
•Release parking brake and clutch/
brake pedal.
•Slowly move motion control lever to
desired position.
TO ADJUST MOWER CUl-I'ING
HEIGHT
The cutting height is controlled by
turning the height adjustment knob in
desired direction.
•Turn knob clockwise (F_) to raise
cutting height.
•Turn knob counterclockwise (If_) to
lower cutting height.
14

The cutting height range is approxi-
mately 1-1/2" to 4". The heights are
measured 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 during the
cool season and to over 3 inches
during hot months. For healthier and
better looking lawns, mow often and
after moderate growth.
•For best cutting performance, grass
over 6 inches in height should be
mowed twice. Make the first cut
relatively high; the second to desired
height.
TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS
Gauge wheels are properly adjusted
when they are slightly off the ground
when mower is at the desired cutting
height in operating position. Gauge
wheels then keep the deck in prober
position to help prevent scalping in most
terrain conditions.
•Adjust gauge wheels with tractor on a
flat level surface.
•Adjust mower to desired cutting height
(See "TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING
HEIGHT" in the Operation section of
this manual).
•With mower in desired height of cut
position, gauge wheels should be
assembled so they are slightly off the
ground. Install gauge wheel in
appropriate hole with shoulder bolt. 3/
8 washer, and 3/8-16 Iocknut and
tighten securely.
•Repeat for opposite side installing
gauge wheel in same adjustment hole.
3/8-16
Locknut \
Gauge
Wheel
Mounting
Bracke Shoulder
Gaug
TO OPERATE MOWER
Yourtractorisequippedwithan operator
presencesensingswitch. Anyattemptby
theoperatortoleavethe seat withthe
engine runningand the attachment
clutchengaged willshut offtheengine.
•Select desired height of cut.
•Lower mower with attachment lift
control,
•Start mower blades by engaging
attachment clutch control,
•TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disen-
gage attachment clutch control.
ACAUTION: Do not operate the mower
without either the entire grass catcher, on
mowers so equipped, or the discharge
_uard in place.
ttachmentClutch
SwitchPullOut to /, AttachemntLift
"Enaaaed" _,f_ _ Lever High
._ .'_',_, Position
Push-Into _-_,j_/_i_,_" _...Discharae
"Disengaged" _)_)_y---'_ Guard--
TO OPERATE ON HILLS
CAUTION: Do not drive up or down
hills with slopes greater than 15° and do
not drive across any slope.
•Choose the slowest speed before
starting up or down hills.
•Avoid stopping or changing speed on
hills.
•If slowing is necessary, move throttle
control lever to slower position.
•If stopping is absolutely necessary,
push clutch/brake pedal quickly to
brake position and engage parking
brake.
•Move motion control lever to slowest
setting.
IMPORTRANT: The motion control lever
does not return to neutral (N) position
when the clutch/brake pedal is de-
pressed.
•To restart movement, slowly release
parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.
•Slowly move motin control lever to
slowest setting.
•Make all turns slowly.
TO TRANSPORT
When pushing or towing your tractor, be
sure to disengage transmission by
placing freewheel control in freewheel-
ing position. Free wheel control is
located at the rear drawbar oftractor.
•Raise attachment liftto highest
position with attachment liftcontrol.
•Remove retainer spring from free-
wheel control rod.
•Push control rod in to disengage
transmission and reinsert retainer
spring into control rod hole now on
15 back side of the bracket.

•Do not pushor towtractorat more
thantwo(2) MPH.
•To reengagetransmission,reverse
above procedure.
NOTE: Toprotecthoodfrom damage
when transportingyourtractorona truck
or a trailer,be sure hoodisclosedand
securedtotractor. Use anappropriate
meansoftyinghoodtotractor(rope,
cord,etc.).
r
TOWING CARTS AND OTHER
ATI'ACHMENTS
Tow only the attachments that are
recommended by and comply with
specifications of the manufacturer of your
tractor. Use common sense when towing.
Too heavy of a load, while on a slope, is
dangerous, Tires can lose traction with
the ground and cause you to lose control
of your tractor.
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE
CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL
• The engine in your tractor has been
shipped, from the factory, already filled
with summer weight oil.
•Check engine oil with tractor on level
ground.
•Unthread and remove oil fill cap/
dipstick; wipe oil off. Reinsert the
dipstick into the tube and rest oil fill
cap on the tube. Do not thread the cap
onto the tube. Remove and read oil
level. If necessary, add oil until
"FULL" mark on dipstick is reached.
Do not overfill.
•For cold weather operation you should
change oil for easier starting (See "OIL
VISCOSITY CHART" in the Mainte-
nance section of this manual).
•To change engine oil, see the Mainte-
nance section in this manual.
ADD GASOLINE
•Fillfuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasoline with a minimum of
87 octane. (Use of leaded gasoline
will increase carbon and lead oxide
deposits and reduce valve life). Do
not mix oil with gasoline. Purchase
fuel in quantities that can be used
within 30 days to assure fuel fresh-
ness.
IMPORTANT: When operating in
temperatures below 32°F(0°C), use
fresh, clean winter grade gasoline to
help insure good cold weather starting.
AWARNING: Experience indicates that
alcohol blended fuels (called gasohof or
using ethanol or methanol) can attract
moisture which leads to separation and
formation of acids during storage. Acidic
gas can damage the fuel system of an
engine while in storage. To avoid engine
problems, the fuel system should be
emptied before storage of 30 days or
longer. Drain the gas tank, start the
engine and let it run until the fuel lines
and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel
next season. Sea Storage Instructions
for additional information. Never use
engine or carburetor cleaner products in
the fuel tank or permanent damage may
occur.
_CAUTION: Fillto bottom ofgas tank
filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any
spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or
use gasoline near an open flame.
TO START ENGINE
When starting the engine for the first time
or if the engine has run out of fuel, it will
take extra cranking time to move fuel
from the tank to the engine.
•Be sure freewheel control is in the
transmission engaged position.
•Sit on seat in operating position,
depress clutch/brake pedal and set
parking brake.
•Place motion control lever in neutral
(N) position.
•Move attachment clutch to "DISEN-
GAGED" position.
•Move throttle control to fast position
•Pull choke control out for a cold
engine start attempt. For a warm
engine start attempt the choke control
may not be needed.
NOTE: Before starting, read the warm
and cold starting procedures below.
16

•Insertkeyintoignitionand turnkey
clockwise to "START"positionand
releasekey as soonas enginestarts.
Do not runstartercontinuouslyfor
more than fifteensecondsper minute.
Iftheenginedoesnot startafter
severalattempts,pushchokecontrol
in,waita few minutesandtryagain. If
enginestilldoes notstart,pullthe
choke controloutand retry.
WARM WEATHERSTARTING (50° Fand
above)
• When enginestarts,slowlypush
choke controlin untilthe engine
beginsto runsmoothly,Ifthe engine
startstorunroughly,pullthechoke
controloutslightlyfor a few seconds
and thencontinueto pushthe control
in slowly.
•The attachmentsand grounddrivecan
nowbe used.If theenginedoes not
acceptthe load,restartthe engineand
allowitto warmupfor one minute
usingthechokeas descdbedabove.
COLD WEATHERSTARTING(50° Fand
below)
•When enginestarts,slowlypush
chokecontrolin untiltheengine
beginsto runsmoothly.Continueto
pushthechokecontrolin smallsteps
allowingthe engineto acceptsmall
changesin speedand load,untilthe
chokecontrolisfully in, Iftheengine
startsto runroughly,pullthechoke
controloutslightlyfor a few seconds
andthen continuetopushthecontrol
in slowly.This may requirean engine
warm-upperiodfrom severalseconds
to severalminutes,dependingon the
temperature.
AUTOMATICTRANSMISSIONWARMUP
•Beforeddvingthe unitincoldweather,
the transmissionshouldbe warmed up
as follows:
•Be surethetractorison level
ground.
•Placethemotioncontrollever in
neutral.Releasethe parkingbrake
and let theclutch/breke
slowlyretum tooperatingposition.
•Allowone minutefor transmissionto
warmup.Thiscanbe doneduring
the enginewarm up period.
•The attachments can be used dudng
the engine warm-up period after the
transmission has been warmed up
and may require the choke control be
pulled out slightly.
NOTE: If at a high altitude (above 3000
feet) or in cold temperatures (below 32
F) the carburetor fuel mixture may need
to be adjusted for best engine perfor-
mance. See "TO ADJUST CARBURE-
TOR" in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual.
PURGE TRANSMISSION
CAUTION: Never engage or disen-
gage freewheel lever while the engine is
running.
To ensure proper operation and perfor-
mance, it is recommended that.the
transmission be purged before operating
tractor for the firsttime. This procedure
will remove any trapped air inside the
transmission which may have developed
during shipping of your tractor.
IMPORTANT: Should your transmission
require removal for service or replace-
ment, it should be purged after reinstalla-
lion before operating the tractor.
•Place tractor safely on level surface
with engine off and parking brake set.
• Disengage transmission by placing
freewheel control in freewheeling
position (See "TO TRANSPORT" in
this section of manual).
•Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine.
After the engine is running, move
throttle control to slow position. With
motion control lever in neutral (N)
position, slowly disengage clutch/
brake pedal.
•Move motion control lever to full
forv_ard position and hold for five (5)
seconds. Move lever to full reverse
position and hold for five (5) seconds.
Repeat this procedure three (3) times.
NOTE: Dudng this procedure there will
be no movement of drive wheels. The air
is being removed from hydraulic drive
system.
•Move motion control lever to neutral
(N) position. Shut- off engine and set
parking brake.
•Engage transmission by placing
freewheel control in driving position
(See "TO TRANSPORT" in this section
of manual).
17

•Sittinginthetractor seat,startengine.
Afterthe engineis running,move
throttlecontroltohalf (t/2) speed.With
motioncontrollever in neutral(N)
position,slowlydisengageclutch/
brake pedal.
• Slowlymovemotioncontrollever
forward,afterthe tractormoves
approximatelyfive (5) feet, slowly
movemotioncontrollever to reverse
position.Afterthetractormoves
approximatelyfive (5) feet returnthe
motioncontrollever tothe neutral (N)
position.Repeat thisprocedurewith
themotioncontrollever three(3)
times.
• Yourtractoris nowpurgedand now
readyfor normaloperation.
MOWING TIPS
• Tirechainscannotbe usedwhen the
mowerhousingisattachedto tractor.
•Mower shouldbe properlyleveledfor
bestmowingperformance. See %0
LEVEL MOWER HOUSING"in the
Serviceand Adjustmentssectionof
this manual.
•The lefthandsideof mowershouldbe
usedfor trimming.
•Ddve so thatclippingsare discharged
ontothe area thathasbeen cut. Have
thecutareatothe rightofthe tractor.
Thiswillresultina moreevendistribu-
tionof clippingsand more uniform
cutting.
•When mowinglargeareas, startby
turningtothe rightsothatclippings
dischargeaway fromshrubs,fences
driveways, etc. Afterone ortwo
rounds,mow in the oppositedirectic
makinglefthandturnsuntilfinished.
•Ifgrassisextremelytall,it shouldbe
mowedtwiceto reduceloadand
possiblefire hazardfrom dried
clippings. Makefirst cutrelatively
high;thesecondto thedesiredheig
•Do notmow grasswhenit iswet, W
grasswillplugmowerand leave
undesirableclumps. Allowgrassto
dry beforemowing.
•Always operateengine at full throtl
when mowing toassurebettermowi
performanceand properdischargec
matedal. Regulategroundspeedb_
selectinga low enoughgear to give
the mowercuttingperformanceas w
asthe quality ofcutdesired.
•When operatingattachments,select
groundspeed thatwillsuittheterrai=
and givebestperformanceofthe
attachment being used.
f
18

FILL IN DATES
Check Brake operation
Check Tire Pressure _
Check Operator PreSence and
TInterlock Systems
RCheck for Loose Fasteners _(l_;' IS*
Sharpen/ReplaOe Mower BJedes VB4
TLubrication Chad I1_ lidd*
0 Check Battery Level
RClean Battery and Terminals I_
Check Transaxle Co_ing
A_ust Blade Belt(s) Tension _s
Adju_ Motion Drive Belt(s) TensiOn ll_s
Check Engine Oil Level ! _ I_
Change Engine Olt I_q=,:
E Clean Air Filter _=
N CleanAirScreen _2
IG InSpect Muffler/Spark Arre_ter I_
Replace Oil Filter (if equipped) _z
NClean Engine Co_ing Fins Ibm=
Replace Spark Rug ll_
Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge II_z
Replace Fue_ Filter I_
I . ChlPnge mo_ ofter_ whefl op,zml_l; _tldot ii healW load or bl hl,gfl anlDlenl _m| 5 - I f oquip_oe_ wl_l adju4tabie lytltem
2. S4m4ce more olten whet_ Qpera#n9 in dldy or dusty cor, dt6on_ S. NO t required if equlpped w_ malntena_.e.free batter_
3. If equipped wilh oil 1_4te_,chango oil ever_ 50 hours¸ 7 •Tighten fiont axle pivot boll to _5 ft -Ib=. maximum.
4 - R_lacl blades more Olttn when _k_ in w_ndy soil. CO not overtighte_.
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this tractor does not
cover items that have been subjected to
operator abuse or negligence. To
receive full value from the warranty,
operator must maintain tractor as
instructed in this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made
periodically to properly maintain your
tractor,
All adjustments in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual
should be checked at least once each
season.
•Once a year you should replace the
spark plug, clean or replace air filter,
and check blades and belts for wear.
A new spark plug and clean air filter
assure proper air-fuel mixture and
help your engine run better and last
longer.
BEFORE EACH USE
• Check engine oil level.
•Check brake operation.
•Check tire pressure.
•Check operator presence and
interlock systems for proper operation,
•Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION CHART
(_ Tie Rod Ball Joints
_) Spindle _ _ _ _) Spindle
_)Front Wheel_ _X_)Fro_t Wheel
Beadng =_.c._-..-_____, _,,I Bearing Zsrk
_Steering_ I _- IX >
Sector \ _ _-_ __/
Gear F_/ _ _---_'/X
Teeth _ _Engine
•Spray Silicone Lubriant (Move Boots to
Lubricate)
_Generat Purpose Grease
<_Rsferto Maintenance=ENGINE"Section
IMPORTANT: Donot oil or greasethe pivot
pointswhichhave specla_nylonbearings.
Viscous lubricants will attract dust and dirt
that will shorten the life of the self-lubricating
bearings. If you feel they must be lubricated,
use only a dry, powdered graphite type
19 lubricant sparingly.

TRACTOR
Always observe safety rules when
performing any maintenance.
BRAKE OPERATION
If 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 Adjustments section of
this manual).
TIRES
•Maintain proper air pressure in all tires
(See "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS"
section of this manual).
• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or
insect control chemicals which can
harm rubber,
• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp
objects and other hazards that may
cause tire damage.
NOTE; To seal tire punctures and
prevent flat tires due to slow leaks, tire
sealant may be purchased from your
local parts dealer. Tire sealant also
prevents tire dry rot and corrosion.
OPERATOR PRESENCE SYSTEM
Be sure operator presence and interlock
systems are working properly. If your
tractor does not function as described,
repair the problem immediately.
•The engine should not start unless the
clutch/brake pedal is fully depressed
and attachement clutch control is in
the disengaged position.
•When the engine is running, any
attempt by the operator to leave the
seat without first setting the parking
brake should shut off the engine.
•When the engine is running and the
attachment clutch is engaged, any
attempt by the operator to leave the
seat should shut off the engine.
•The attachment clutch should never
operate unless the operator is in the
seat,
BLADE CARE
For best results mower blades must be
kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged
blades.
BLADE REMOVAL
•Raise mower to highest position to
allow access to blades.
•Remove hex bolt, lock washer and flat
washer securing blade.
•Install new or resharpened blade with
trailing edge up towards deck as
shown
IMPORTANT: To ensure proper assem-
bly, center hole in blade must align with
star on mandrel assembly.
• Reassemble hex bolt, lock washer
and flat washer in exact order as
shown.
•Tighten bolt securely (27-35 R. Lbs.
torque).
IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is Grade 8 heat
treated. MandrelAssembly
Blade Center
Hole
Lock
_P-'--Hex Bolt (Grade)'
*A Grade 8 heat treatedboltcanbe identified
by sixlineson the bolthead.
TO SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpen-
ing blade -but if you do, be sure the
blade is balanced.
Care should be taken to keep the blade
balanced. An unbalanced blade will
cause excessive vibration and eventual
damage to mower and engine.
•The blade can be sharpened with a
file or on a grinding wheel. Do not
attempt to sharpen while on the
mower.
•To check blade balance, you will need
a 5/8" diameter steel bolt, pin, or a
cone balancer. (When using a cone
balancer, follow the instructions
supplied with balancer.)
NOTE: Do not use a nail for balancing
blade. The lobes of the center hole may
appear to be centered, but are not.
•Slide blade on to an unthraaded
portion of the steel bolt or pin and hold
the bolt or pin parallel with the ground.
If blade is balanced, it should remain
in a horizontal position. If either end of
the blade moves downward, sharpen
the heavy end until the blade is
balanced.
5/8"B_d e
Center Hole
2O