Craftsman Z6800 User manual

115867827 Rev. B
Model No.
917.277790
Z6800
Operator’s Manual
For answers to your questions
about this product, call:
1-888-331-4569
Craftsman Customer Help Line
Sears Brands Management Corporation, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.
Visit our Craftsman website: www.craftsman.com
* The power rating as declared by the engine manufacturer is the
average gross power output at the specied RPM of a typical
production engine for the engine model measured using SAE
Standards for engine gross power. Please refer to the engine
manufacturer for details.
IMPORTANT:
Read and follow all Safety Rules
and Instructions before operating
this equipment.
* La potencia nominal declarada por el fabricante del motor es
la salida media de potencia bruta a las RPM especicadas
de un motor de serie típico para el modelo de motor, medida
según las normas SAE sobre potencia bruta de motor. Para
más información, consulte al fabricante del motor del.
ZERO TURN MOWER
23 HP*54"
WITH SMART LAWN TECHNOLOGY

©2016 All rights reserved.
Orangeburg, SC Printed in U.S.A.
CONFORMITY CERTIFICATES
USA requirements
Labels are placed on the engine and/or in the engine compartment stating that the machine
will fulll the requirements. This is also applicable to special requirements for any of the states,
(California emission rules etc.). Do not remove these labels. Certicates can also be supplied
with the machine at delivery or written in the Engine manual. Take care of them as they are
valuable documents.
When this product is worn out and no longer
used, return it to the reseller or other party for
recycling.
To implement improvements, specications
and designs can be altered without prior
notication.
Note that no legal demands can be placed
based on the information contained in these
instructions.
Use only original parts for repairs. The use of
other parts voids the warranty.
Do not modify or install non-standard
equipment to the unit without consent from the
manufacturer. Modications to the unit may
cause unsafe operations or damage the unit.
WARNING! Failure to follow cautious
operating practices can result in dangerous
injury to the operator or other persons. The
owner must understand these instructions,
and must let only approved persons who
understand these instructions to operate the
mower.
Each person operating the mower must be of
sound mind and body and must not be under
the inuence of mind altering substances.
WARNING! Engine exhaust, some of its
constituents, and certain vehicle components
contain or emit chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer and birth defects or
other reproductive harm.
WARNING! Battery posts, terminals
and related accessories contain lead and lead
compounds, chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer and birth defects
or other reproductive harm. Clean your hands
after handling.
WARNING! Engine exhaust and certain
vehicle components contain or emit chemicals
considered to cause cancer, birth defects,
or other reproductive system damage. The
engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide,
which is an odorless, colorless, poisonous gas.
Do not use the machine in enclosed spaces.

INTRODUCTION .......................................................4
Driving and Transport on Public Roads ...............4
Towing.................................................................. 4
Operating .............................................................4
SYMBOLS AND DECALS..........................................6
SAFETY .....................................................................7
Protecting Children ..............................................7
Personal Safety Equipment .................................8
Slope Operation...................................................8
Safe Handling of Gasoline ...................................9
Transport............................................................ 10
Towing................................................................ 10
Spark Arrestor.................................................... 11
CONTROLS .............................................................12
Motion Control Levers........................................13
Park Brake .........................................................13
Throttle Control ..................................................13
Choke Control....................................................14
Blade Switch ......................................................14
Ignition Switch....................................................14
Service Meter.....................................................14
Seat Adjustment Lever.......................................14
Fuse ...................................................................15
Cutting Height Lever ..........................................15
Fuel Shut Off Valve ............................................15
Tracking .............................................................15
Hydro Release Levers .......................................16
Fuel Tank............................................................16
OPERATION ............................................................17
Training ..............................................................17
Smart Lawn App................................................. 17
Operating on Hills ..............................................19
Moving Machine By Hand.................................. 20
MAINTENANCE.......................................................21
Battery................................................................ 23
Safety System....................................................24
Park Brake .........................................................24
Cutting Blades.................................................... 24
Caster Wheels ................................................... 25
Anti-scalp Rollers ...............................................25
V-belts ................................................................25
Adjusting the Mower Deck .................................26
Cleaning.............................................................27
LUBRICATION .........................................................28
Engine oil ...........................................................29
Wheel and Deck Zerks....................................... 29
Transmission...................................................... 29
TROUBLESHOOTING.............................................30
STORAGE................................................................31
SCHEMATIC ............................................................32
TECHNICAL DATA................................................... 33
SERVICE JOURNAL................................................35
WARRANTY.............................................................38
INTRODUCCIÓN .....................................................41
Conducción y transporte en vías públicas .........41
Remolque........................................................... 41
Funcionamiento .................................................41
SÍMBOLOS Y RÓTULOS.........................................43
SEGURIDAD............................................................ 44
Seguridad infantil ...............................................44
Equipo de seguridad personal ...........................45
Funcionamiento en pendientes..........................45
Manipulación segura de la gasolina................... 46
Transporte.......................................................... 48
Remolque........................................................... 48
Parachispas .......................................................48
CONTROLES........................................................... 49
Palancas de control de la dirección ...................50
Freno de estacionamiento .................................50
Interruptor de arranque......................................50
Control del acelerador........................................ 51
Interruptor de la cuchilla..................................... 51
Estrangulador..................................................... 51
Medidor de servicio............................................51
Palanca de ajuste del asiento............................52
Fusibles.............................................................. 52
Ajuste de la altura de corte ................................52
Válvula de corte de combustible........................ 52
Palancas de liberación hidrostática ................... 53
Botón de seguimiento .......................................53
Depósito de combustible.................................... 53
OPERACIÓN ...........................................................55
Capacitación ......................................................55
Trabajo en pendientes .......................................57
Mover la máquina manualmente........................ 58
MANTENIMIENTO...................................................59
Batería ...............................................................61
Sistema de seguridad ........................................62
Discos de corte ..................................................62
Freno de estacionamiento .................................62
Ruedecillas ........................................................63
Ruedas de apoyo...............................................63
Correas en V......................................................63
Ajuste del equipo de corte ................................. 64
Limpieza............................................................. 65
LUBRICACIÓN ........................................................66
Cambio de aceite del motor............................... 67
Engrasadores de rueda y equipo.......................67
Transmisión........................................................67
SOLUCIÓN DE PROBLEMAS.................................68
ALMACENAMIENTO ...............................................69
ESQUEMA ...............................................................70
DATA TÉCNICOS.....................................................71
REGISTRO DE SERVICIO...................................... 73
GARANTÍA............................................................... 76
CONTENTS

Congratulations
Thank you for purchasing a Craftsman ride-
on mower. This machine is built for superior
efciency to rapidly mow primarily large areas.
A control panel easily accessible to the operator
and a hydrostatic transmission regulated by
steering controls both contribute to the machine’s
performance.
This manual is a valuable document. Read the
contents carefully before using or servicing the
machine. The following of instructions (use,
service, maintenance) by all who operate this
machine is important for the safety of the operator
and others. It can also considerably increase the
life span of the machine and increase its resale
value.
If you sell your machine, be sure to give the
operator manual to the new owner.
The nal chapter of this operator manual provides
a Service Journal. Make sure that service and
repair work are documented. A correctly kept
service journal reduces service costs for the
maintenance and affects the machine’s resale
value. Please contact your dealer for more
information. Take the operator manual along
when the machine is taken to your dealer for
service.
General
In this operator manual, left and right, backward
and forward are used in relation to the machine’s
usual driving direction.
Continuous dedication to improve our products
require that specications and design are subject
to change without notice.
Driving and Transport on Public Roads
Check applicable road trafc regulations before
transporting on public roads. If the machine is
transported, you must always use approved
fastening equipment and make sure that the
machine is correctly attached. DO NOT operate
this machine on public roadways.
Towing
If machine is equipped with a tow hitch, use much
more caution when towing. Do not let children or
others in or on the towed equipment. Make wide
turns to avoid jack-kning. Travel slowly and leave
more distance to stop.
Do not tow on sloped ground. The weight of the
towed equipment may cause loss of traction and
loss of control.
Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for
weight limits for towed equipment. Do not tow
near ditches, canals, and other hazards.
Operating
This machine is constructed only for mowing
grass on lawns and even ground without
obstacles such as stones, tree stumps, etc. The
machine can also be used for other tasks when
equipped with special accessories provided by
the manufacturer. Operating instructions for the
accessories are provided with delivery. All other
types of uses are incorrect. The manufacturer’s
directions concerning operation, maintenance,
and repairs must be carefully followed.
Lawn mowers and all power equipment, can
be potentially dangerous if used improperly.
Safety requires good judgement, careful use in
accordance with these instructions and common
sense.
The machine must only be operated, maintained,
and repaired by persons familiar with the
machine’s special characteristics and who are
also knowledgeable about the safety instructions.
Use only approved repair parts to maintain this
machine.
Accident prevention regulations, other general
safety regulations, occupational safety rules, and
trafc regulations must be followed without fail.
Unauthorized modications to the design of the
machine may absolve the manufacturer from
liability for resulting personal injury or property
damage.
4
INTRODUCTION

Good Service
Craftsman's products are sold only in specialized
retail stores with complete service. This ensures
that you as a customer receive only the best
support and service. Before the product is
delivered, the machine has, for example, been
inspected and adjusted by your retailer. See the
certicate in the Service Journal in this operator
manual.
When you need spare parts or support in
service questions, warranty issues, etc., consult
the following professional:
Manufacturing Number
The machine’s manufacturing number can be
found on the printed plate afxed to the engine
compartment.
Stated on the plate, from the top are:
• The machine’s type designation (I.D.).
• The manufacturer’s type number (Model).
• The machine’s serial number (Serial no.)
Please have the type designation and serial
number available when ordering spare parts.
This manual belongs to the machine with the
manufacturing number:
Engine Transmission
The engine’s manufacturing number is stamped
on one of the valve covers.
The plate states:
• The engine’s model.
• The engine’s type.
• Code
Please have these available when ordering spare
parts.
The wheel motors and hydrostatic pumps have a
barcode decal afxed at the rear.
5
INTRODUCTION

R N
These symbols are found on the machine and in
the operator manual.
Study them carefully so that you know what they
mean.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION Xxxx xxxxxx
xxxxx xxxx xxxxxxxxx xxxxxx xxxxxxxxx.
WARNING! Xxxx xxxxxx xxxxx xxxx
xxxxxxxxx xxxxxx xxxxxxxxx.
Used in this publication to notify the reader of a
risk of personal injury or death, particularly if the
reader neglects to follow the instructions in the
manual.
Reverse Neutral Fast Slow Choke Fuel Park Brake
Danger Use protective
glasses
Use protective
gloves
Wear hearing
protection
Do not
stand here
Read Operator
Manual
Shut off engine,
remove key before
maintenance
or repair
Keep a safe
distance from
the machine
Use on slopes no
greater than 10° No passengers
Whole body
exposure to
thrown objects
Severing of ngers
and toes
Do not open or
remove safety
shields wIth engine
running
Careful backing up,
watch for
other people
Careful going
forward, watch for
other people
Warning!
Battery acid is
corrosive, explosive
and ammable
Warning!
Do not touch parts
Warning!
Keep away from the
discharge deck
Warning!
Do not use without
deector
or grass catcher
Used in this publication to notify the reader of a
risk of material damage, particularly if the reader
neglects to follow the instructions in the manual.
Used also when there is a potential for misuse or
misassembly.
6
SYMBOLS AND DECALS

General Operation
• Read, understand,
and follow all
instructions on the
machine and in
the manual before
starting.
• It is recommended
that someone be
aware that you are mowing and can provide
help in case of injury or accident.
• Anyone who operates, maintains, and/or
services this machine must rst read and
understand this Operator Manual. Local laws
may regulate the age of the user. The owner
is responsible for training the users of this
equipment.
• The owner and operator of this equipment
can prevent accidents and is responsible for
accidents or injuries occurring to themselves,
other people and/or property.
• Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or
under the machine. Keep clear of the discharge
opening at all times.
• Only let responsible adults, who are familiar
with the instructions, to operate the machine.
• Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys,
wire, etc., which
could be picked up
and thrown by the
blades.
• Be sure the area is
clear of bystanders
before operating.
Stop machine if
anyone enters the area.
• Do not mow in reverse unless fully necessary.
Always look down and behind before and while
backing.
• Do not direct discharged material toward
anyone. Avoid discharging material against a
wall or obstruction. Material may ricochet back
toward the operator. Stop the blades when
crossing gravel surfaces.
• Do not operate machine without the full grass
catcher, discharge guard, or other safety
devices in place and working.
Protecting Children
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is
not alert to the presence of children. Children
are frequently attracted to the machine and the
mowing activity. Do not assume that children will
stay where you last saw them.
• Keep children out
of the mowing area
and in the watchful
care of a responsible
adult other than the
operator.
• Be alert and turn
machine off if a child
enters the area.
• Before and while backing, look behind and
down for small children.
• Do not carry children, even with the blades
shut off. They may fall off and be seriously
injured or interfere with safe machine operation.
Children who have
been given rides
in the past may
suddenly come into
the mowing area for
another ride and be
run over or backed
over by the machine.
• Do not let children to operate the machine.
• Use extreme care when going near blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may
block your view of a child.
Safety Instructions
These instructions are for your safety. Read them
carefully.
WARNING! THIS CUTTING MACHINE
IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS
AND FEET AND THROWING OBJECTS.
FAILURE TO OBEY THE FOLLOWING
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN
DANGEROUS INJURY OR DEATH.
WARNING! CHILDREN CAN BE
SERIOUSLY INJURED OR KILLED BY THIS
EQUIPMENT. Carefully read and follow all the
safety instruction that follow.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION The American
Academy of Pediatrics recommends that
children be a minimum of 16 years of age
beforeoperating a riding lawn mower.
WARNING! The engine must not
be started when the driver’s oor plate or
protective plates for the mower deck’s drive
belt is removed.
• Slow down before turning.
7
SAFETY

• Always turn off blades, move the steering
control lever out to the park brake position, stop
engine and remove keys before dismounting.
• Do not carry passengers. The machine is only
intended for use by one person.
• Disengage blades when not mowing. Shut
off engine and wait for all parts to come to a
complete stop before cleaning the machine,
removing the grass catcher or unclogging the
discharge guard.
• Operate the machine only in daylight or good
articial light.
• Do not operate the machine while under the
inuence of alcohol or drugs.
• Watch for trafc when operating near or
crossing roadways.
• Use extra care when loading or unloading the
machine into a trailer or truck.
• Always wear eye protection when operating
machine.
Do not use the
machine when
barefoot.
Always wear
protective shoes or
boots, preferably with
steel toe caps.
Always wear approved protective glasses or a full
visor when assembling or driving.
Always wear gloves when handling the blades.
Do not wear loose clothing that can get caught in
moving parts.
Use ear protectors to avoid damage to hearing.
Slope Operation
Slopes are a major factor related to loss of control
and tip-over accidents, which can result in severe
injury or death. Operation on slopes requires
much more caution. If you cannot back up the
slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not mow it.
• Mow up and down
slopes (10 degrees
maximum), not
across.
• Watch for holes,
ruts, bumps, rocks,
or other hidden
objects. Uneven
terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass
can hide obstacles.
• Choose a low ground speed so that you will not
have to stop while on the slope.
• Do not mow on wet grass. Tires may lose
traction.
• Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a slope. If
the tires lose traction, disengage the blades and
proceed slowly straight down the slope.
• Keep movement
on the slopes slow
and gradual. Do
not make sudden
changes in speed
or direction, which
could cause
machine to roll over.
• Use extra care while operating machine with
grass catchers or other attachments; the
stability of the machine can be effected.
• Do not use on steep slopes.
• Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting a
foot on the ground.
WARNING! When using the machine,
approved personal protective equipment must
be used. Personal protective equipment cannot
eliminate the risk of injury but it will reduce the
degree of injury if an accident does happen.
Ask your retailer for help in choosing the right
equipment.
• Wear proper Personal Protective Equipment
(PPE) while operating this machine, including
(at a minimum) sturdy footwear, eye protection,
and hearing protection. Do not mow in shorts
and/or footwear with open toes.
• Data indicates that operators age 60 years and
above are involved in a large percentage of
riding mower-related injuries. These operators
must evaluate if they can safely operate the
riding mower sufciently to protect themselves
and others from serious injury.
• Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for
wheel weights or counterweights.
• Keep machine free of grass, leaves or other
debris buildup which can touch hot exhaust or
engine parts and burn. Do not let the mower
deck plow leaves or other debris that can cause
a buildup to occur. Clean oil or fuel spillage
before operating or storing the machine.
• Let machine cool before storage.
Personal Safety Equipment
Make sure that rst aid equipment is close at hand
when using the machine.
WARNING! Do not drive up or down hills
with slopes greater than 10 degrees. Do not
drive across slopes.
8
SAFETY

• Check the fuel level before each use and leave
space for the fuel to expand, as the heat from
the engine and the sun may otherwise cause
the fuel to expand and overow.
General Maintenance
• Do not use the
machine indoors or
in spaces lacking
proper ventilation.
The exhaust
fumes contain
carbon monoxide,
an odorless and
poisonous lethal gas.
WARNING! The engine and the exhaust
system become very hot during operation.
There is a risk for burns if touched. Let engine
and exhaust system to cool before refueling.
• Make sure that the equipment is in good
condition and that all nuts and bolts, especially
those fastening the blade attachments, are
properly tightened and torqued.
• Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels
as necessary.
• Do not interfere with the intended function of a
safety device or reduce the protection provided
by a safety device. Check their proper operation
regularly. NEVER operate a machine with a
safety device that does not function properly.
• Check grass catcher components and the
discharge guard frequently and replace with
manufacturer’s recommended parts when
necessary.
WARNING! The engine must not
be started when the driver’s oor plate or
protective plates for the mower deck’s drive
belt is removed.
• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or
embankments. The machine could suddenly
roll over if a wheel is over the edge or the edge
caves in.
Safe Handling of Gasoline
To avoid personal injury or property damage, use
much more care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is
very ammable and the vapors are explosive.
• Do not fuel the
machine indoors.
• Extinguish all
cigarettes, cigars,
pipes, and other
sources of ignition.
• Use only approved
gasoline containers.
• Do not remove gas cap or add fuel with
the engine running. Let engine cool before
refueling.
• Do not keep the machine or fuel container
where there is an open ame, spark or pilot light
such as on a water heater or other appliance.
• Before you begin refueling, minimize the risk of
static electricity by touching a metal surface.
• Do not ll containers inside a vehicle or on a
truck or trailer bed with plastic liner. Always
place containers on the ground away from the
vehicle when lling.
• Do not overll fuel tank. Replace gas cap and
tighten securely.
• Remove gas-powered equipment from the truck
or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not
possible, refuel such equipment with a portable
container, rather than from a gasoline dispenser
nozzle.
• Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the
fuel tank or container opening at all times until
fueling is complete. Do not use a nozzle lock-
open device.
• If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing
immediately.
• Do not start the engine near spilled fuel.
• Do not use gasoline as a cleaning agent.
• If leaks arise in fuel system, the engine must
not be started until problem has been resolved.
CAUTION! Use protective glasses
for maintenance work.
• Do not change the settings of governors and
avoid running the engine with overly high
engine speeds. If you run the engine too fast,
machine components could be damaged.
• To reduce the risk of re, keep machine free of
grass, leaves or other debris buildup. Clean oil
or fuel spills and remove fuel-soaked debris. Let
machine cool before storing.
• Stop to inspect the equipment if you run over or
into anything. If necessary, make repairs before
starting.
• Do not make adjustments or repairs with the
engine running.
• The blades are sharp and can cause cuts and
gashes. Wrap blades or use protective gloves
when handling them.
9
SAFETY

Towing
If machine is equipped with a tow hitch, use much
more caution when towing. Do not let children or
others in or on towed equipment.
Make wide turns to avoid jack-kning. Travel
slowly and leave more distance to stop. Do not
tow on sloped ground. The weight of the towed
equipment may cause loss of traction and loss of
control.
Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for
weight limits for towed equipment. Do not tow
near ditches, canals, and other hazards.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION The park brake
is not sufcient to lock the machine in place
during transport. Ensure that the machine is
well fastened to the transport vehicle. Always
reverse the machine onto the transport vehicle
to avoid tipping it over.
• Check the park brake’s functionality regularly.
Adjust and service as necessary.
• Do not work with the starter circuit if there is
spilled fuel.
• Make sure that the fuel ller cap is mounted
tightly and no ammable substances are kept in
an open vessel.
• Sparking can occur
when working with
the battery and the
heavy cables of
the starter circuit.
This can cause
battery explosion,
re or eye injury.
Sparking will not occur after the grounding
cable (normally negative, black) is removed
from the battery.
• Disconnect the grounding cable from the battery
rst and reconnect it last.
• Do not make a bridge short circuit across the
starter relay to run the starter.
• Be very careful when handling battery acid.
Acid on skin can cause serious corrosive burns.
If you spill battery acid on your skin, rinse
immediately with water.
• Acid in the eyes can cause blindness, contact a
doctor immediately.
• Be careful when servicing the battery. Explosive
gases form in the battery. Do not perform
maintenance on the battery when smoking or
near open ames or sparks. The battery can
explode and cause serious injury or damage.
• The machine is tested and approved only
with the equipment originally provided or
recommended by the manufacturer. Only use
approved repair parts for the machine.
• The mulch blades
must only be used
in familiar areas
when higher quality
mowing is desired.
• Regularly clean
the deck and the
underside of the
deck. Avoid spraying engine and electrical
components with water.
Transport
• The machine is heavy and can cause serious
crushing injuries. Be extra cautious when it is
loaded on or unloaded from a vehicle or trailer.
• Use full width ramps for loading machine into a
trailer or truck.
• Use an approved trailer to transport the
machine. Operate the park brake by securing
the steering controls in the outboard position
with elastic or ratchet straps. Turn off the fuel
supply. Fasten the machine down with approved
devices such as bands, chains or straps.
• Both front and rear tie down straps must be
used and directed down and out from the
machine.
• Do not operate this machine on public
roadways.
• Check and abide by local trafc regulations
before transporting the machine on roads.
• Do not tow this machine, it may cause damage
to the drive system.
• Do not tow trailers, etc. with this mower. They
may jackknife or overturn, causing damage to
the mower and possible serious injury to the
operator.
• Load the unit onto truck or trailer by driving up
ramps of suitable strength using a slow speed.
Do not lift! The machine is not intended to be
lifted by hand.
• When loading or unloading this machine, do
not use more than the maximum recommended
operation angle of 10 degrees.
WARNING! Use extreme caution when
loading the machine into a truck or trailer using
ramps. There is the possibility of serious injury
or death if the machine falls off the ramps.
10
SAFETY

Spark Arrestor
This mower is equipped with an internal
combustion engine and must not be used on
or near unimproved forested, bush covered
or grassy lands unless the engine’s system is
equipped with a spark arrestor meeting applicable
local or state laws. Federal laws apply on federal
lands.
If a spark arrestor is used, it must be maintained
in effective working order by the operator.
A spark arrestor for the mufer is available
through your authorized Craftsman dealer.
11
SAFETY

2
3
4
5
14
13
12
11
10
9
8
7
1
6
This operator manual describes the Craftsman
Zero Turn Rider. The rider is tted with a four-
stroke overhead valve engine.
Transmission from the engine is made via
belt-driven hydraulic pumps. Using the left and
right steering controls, the ow is regulated and
thereby the direction and speed.
1. Motion control levers
2. Park brake
3. Tracking knob
4. Fuse
5. Bypass Linkages
6. Fuel shut off
7. Fuel tank
8. Blade switch
9. Ignition switch
10. Throttle
11. Choke
12. Service meter
13. Seat adjustment lever
14. Deck lift
12
CONTROLS

Forward
Neutral
Reverse
Neutral
Lock
Motion Control Levers
The machine’s speed and direction are
continuously variable using the two steering
controls. The steering controls can be moved
forward or backward about a neutral position.
There is a neutral position, which is locked if the
steering controls are moved out.
When both controls are in the neutral position (N),
the machine stands still.
By equally moving both controls forward or
backward, the machine moves in a straight line
forward or backward.
WARNING! The machine can turn very
rapidly if one steering control is moved much
further forward than the other.
Park Brake
IMPORTANT INFORMATION The machine
must stand still when applying the park brake.
Always set the park brake before dismounting.
Release the park brake before moving the
mower.
The park brake is found on the left of the
machine. Pull the lever backward to operate the
brake and push forward to release it.
Throttle Control
The throttle control regulates the engine speed
and the rate of rotation of the blades, assuming
the blade switch is pulled out.
To increase or decrease the engine speed, the
control is moved forward or back respectively.
Avoid idling the engine for long periods, as there
is a risk of fouling the spark plugs. USE FULL
THROTTLE WHEN MOWING, for best mower
performance and battery charging.
For example, to turn right while moving forward,
move the right control towards the neutral
position. The rotation of the right wheel is reduced
and the machine turns to the right.
Zero turn can be achieved by moving one control
backward (behind the neutral position) and
carefully moving the other steering control forward
from its neutral position. The rotation direction
when zero turning is determined by which
steering control is moved backward behind the
neutral position. If the left steering control is pulled
backward, the machine turns to the left. Use more
care when using this maneuver.
If the steering controls are in uneven positions
when standing still or do not t in the slots for
moving the controls out, they can be adjusted.
13
CONTROLS

Blade Switch
Ignition Switch
To engage the mower deck blades, pull the knob
up; the blades are disengaged when the knob is
pressed down.
The ignition switch is placed on the control panel
and is used to start and stop the engine. On
models equipped with headlights, turn the key
clockwise to ACCESSORY for headlight use.
Service Meter
The service meter displays the total number of
hours the engine has run and indicates when the
engine and mower need servicing.
After every 50 hours of operation, an oil can icon
will appear and stay on for two hours, before
an automatic reset occurs. To manually reset
the meter, turn the key off and on ve times at
one second intervals. To service the engine and
mower, see the Service Journal of this manual.
NOTE: The service meter operates (clocks hours)
only when the engine is running. Be sure to turn
the key off when the unit is not in use, to prevent
meter hours from accumulating.
Choke Control
The choke control is used for cold starts to
provide the engine with a richer fuel mixture.
For cold starts, pull the control up.
Seat Adjustment Lever
The seat can be adjusted lengthways. When
making adjustments, the lever under the right side
of the seat is pulled up, after which the seat can
be moved backward or forward.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION The seat must
not be adjusted while unit is in motion.
14
CONTROLS

The 20 amp primary fuse is located on the left
hand side of the machine. It is accessed by tilting
the seat forward. The fuse is a at pin type used
in automobiles.
Fuel Shut Off Valve
The fuel shut off valve is located at the left rear of
the seat. The valve is off when the handle tab is
turned perpendicular to the fuel line.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION Always raise the
deck to the highest position for transport.
Cutting Height Lever
To set the desired deck cutting height, press the
release button and move the lever forward to the
cutting height pin. See Before Starting in the
Operation section to change the cutting height.
The cutting height range is from 1-1/2" (38 mm)
to 4" (102 mm) in 1/2" (13 mm) increments. The
heights are measured from the ground up to the
blade tip with the engine not running.
Tracking
If the mower is not tracking straight, check the
air pressure in both rear tires. Recommended air
pressure for the rear tires is 15 psi (1 bar).
1. Tracking adjustments are made using the
tracking bolt and tracking knob. The tracking
bolt and tracking knob act as limiting devices
for the motion control levers when in the full-
forward position.
2. For preliminary tracking adjustment, move
unit to an open, unobstructed area such as an
empty parking lot or open eld.
3. Back the tracking bolt out until ush with nut.
4. Loosen tracking knob out until ush with nut.
5. Test operate unit by driving it at full throttle and
the full forward position on both motion control
levers. Gradually turn in the tracking bolt on
the right hand side until the unit noticeably
starts drifting right.
6. Drive forward at full throttle with both motion
control levers in the full forward position.
Gradually turn in the tracking knob (left side)
until unit tracks straight.
Fuse
WARNING! Do not make adjustments
unless the engine is stopped and the park
brake is activated.
15
CONTROLS

Fuel Tank
WARNING! Gasoline is highly ammable.
Observe caution and ll the tank outdoors (see
the Safety section).
WARNING! Fill to bottom of ller neck.
Do not overll. Wipe off spilled oil or fuel. Do
not store, spill or use gasoline near an open
ame.
Read the safety instructions before refueling. The
capacity for the tank is 3 gallons.
Regularly check the gas cap gasket for damage
and keep the cap properly tightened.
The engine will run on a minimum of 87-octane
unleaded gasoline (no oil mix). Environmentally
adapted alkylate gasoline can be used. See
Technical Data concerning ethanol fuel.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION Experience
indicates that alcohol blended fuels (called
gasohol, 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 must 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 the next
season. See Storage for more information. Do
not use engine or carburetor cleaners in the
fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.
WARNING! The engine and the exhaust
system, become very hot during operation.
There is a risk for burns if touched. Let engine
and exhaust system to cool before refueling.
Hydro Release Levers
Transaxle bypass linkages must be engaged
when pushing or pulling the mower. The release
levers are located on each side of the rear of the
unit below the rear engine plate. See Moving
Machine By Hand in the Operation section.
WARNING! Bypass linkages are located
close to the mufer. To prevent burns, the
engine should be shut off and allowed to cool
before the bypass linkage levers are handled.
Methanol fuel is not allowed. Do not use E85
alcohol based fuel. Damage to the engine and
components may occur.
When operating in temperatures below 32°F, use
fresh, clean winter grade gasoline to help insure
good cold weather starting.
16
CONTROLS

Read the Safety section and following pages, if
you are unfamiliar with the machine.
Training
Due to unique steering capabilities, zero turn
mowers are far more maneuverable than typical
riding mowers.
This section must be reviewed in its entirety
prior to attempting to move the mower under its
own power. When rst operating the mower or
until becoming comfortable with controls, use
a reduced throttle speed and reduced ground
speed. DO NOT move control levers to the
furthest forward or reverse positions during initial
operation.
First time users must become familiar with the
mower’s movement on a hard surface, such
as concrete or blacktop PRIOR to attempting
to operate on turf. Until the operator becomes
comfortable with the mower controls and zero
turning capability, overly aggressive maneuvers
may damage turf.
Steering
To move forward and backward
The direction and speed of the mower’s
movements are effected by the movement of the
control lever(s) on each side of mower. The left
control lever controls the left wheel. The right
control lever controls the right wheel.
For rst time use, push the mower (see Moving
Machine By Hand in the Operation section) to
an open, at area without other people, vehicles
or obstacles nearby. To move the unit under
its own power, the operator must sit in the seat
and start the engine (see Before Starting in the
Operation section). Adjust the engine speed to
idle, disengage the park brake but do not engage
the blades at this time. Rotate control levers
inward. As long as the control levers have not
been moved forward or backwards, the mower
will not move.
Slowly move both control levers forward slightly.
This will let the mower start moving forward in a
straight line. Pull the control levers back to the
neutral position and the mower will stop moving.
Pull back slightly on control levers, allowing the
mower to move backwards. Push the control
levers forward to the neutral position and mower
will stop moving.
To turn to the right
While moving in a forward direction, pull the right
lever back towards the neutral position while
maintaining the position of the left lever, this will
slow the rotation of the right wheel and cause the
machine to turn in that direction.
To turn to the left
While moving in a forward direction pull the left
lever back towards the neutral position while
maintaining the position of the right lever, this will
slow the rotation of the left wheel and cause the
machine to turn in that direction.
To zero turn
While moving in a forward direction, rst pull both
control levers back until the mower stops or slows
dramatically.
Then by alternating one lever slightly to the
forward position and the other in the reverse
position, complete the turn.
WARNING! Make sure the work area is
free from objects that could be thrown by the
rotating blades Clear the lawn of stones and
other objects.
Smart Lawn App
The app’s automated maintenance dashboard
and log will help you keep your machine running
at peak performance and protect your investment
by tracking total hours across the lifetime of your
equipment.
Receive alert notications when it’s time to
perform essential maintenance tasks. Your
dashboard provides real time monitoring and
indicates when it’s time for you to check or
change the oil, air lter, blades or battery. The
app also enables you to locate and contact
service centers, access step-by-step instructions
to perform routine maintenance and purchase
replacement parts directly from your mobile
device.
17
OPERATION

3. Activate the park brake by pushing the release
button in and pulling the lever fully upwards.
4. Disengage the mower blades by pressing the
blade switch down.
5. Move the steering controls outward to the
locked (outer) neutral position.
6. Move the throttle to the middle position. If the
engine is cold, the choke control should be
pulled up.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION Do not run the
starter for more than ve seconds each time. If
the engine does not start, wait approximately
ten seconds before retrying.
7. Press in and turn the ignition key to the start
position.
Starting the Engine
1. Sit on the seat.
2. Raise the mower deck by pushing the release
button on the top of the lifting lever. Pull the
lifting lever backward to the locked (transport)
position.
The following conditions must be fullled before
the engine can be started:
• The blade switch must be pressed downward
into the disengaged position.
• The park brake must be up into the activated
position.
• Both steering controls must be in the locked
(outer) neutral position.
Before Starting
1. Read the sections on Safety and Controls
before starting the machine.
2. Perform the daily maintenance before
starting (see Maintenance Schedule in the
Maintenance section).
3. Check that there is sufcient fuel in the fuel
tank.
4. Adjust the seat to the desired position.
5. Set the deck cutting height by inserting the lift
pin into the desired cut height.
18
OPERATION

8. When the engine starts, immediately release
the ignition key back to the run position.
Push the choke control in gradually when the
engine has started.
9. Set the engine speed with the throttle. Allow
the engine to run at a moderate speed,
approximately mid throttle, for a short time
before use. USE FULL THROTTLE WHEN
MOWING.
Running
1. Release the park brake by moving the lever
downward.
NOTE: The mower is equipped with an
operator presence system. If the engine is
running and the operator tries to leave the
seat without rst setting the park brake, the
engine will shut off.
2. Move the steering controls inwards, out of the
neutral position (N).
3. Push the release button on the cutting height
lever, move lever to the pin and then release
the button.
4. Move throttle control to full throttle.
5. Engage the mower deck by pulling the blade
switch up.
WARNING! Make sure that no one is
near mower when engaging blade switch.
6. Rotate control levers inward and slowly move
both control levers slightly forward to move
forward in a straight line.
Stopping the Engine
1. Move the throttle to the minimum position
(tortoise symbol).
2. Move the steering controls outward.
3. Disengage the mower deck by pressing the
blade switch down.
4. Raise the mower deck by pressing the release
button on the lever and pulling the lever
upward to the transport position.
5. When the machine is standing still, activate
the park brake by pushing the lever release
button and pulling the lever upward.
If the engine has been worked hard, allow it
to idle at least 60 seconds to attain a normal
operating temperature before stopping. To
prevent fouling the spark plugs, avoid idling
the engine for longer periods.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION Leaving the
ignition switch in a position than OFF will cause
the battery to be discharged.
Operating on Hills
Read the Safety Instructions Driving on Slopes
in the Safety section.
• Use the slowest speed possible before starting
up or down hills.
• Avoid stopping or changing speed on hills.
• If stopping is necessary, pull drive levers into
the neutral position and push outward. Engage
the park brake.
• To restart movement, release the park brake.
• Pull the control levers back to the center of the
mower and press forward to regain forward
motion.
• Make all turns slowly.
WARNING! Do not drive the mower on
terrain that slopes more than 10 degrees. Mow
slopes up and down, never side to side. Do not
drive across slopes. Avoid sudden directional
changes.
6. Turn the ignition key to the stop position and
remove the key. Always remove the key when
leaving the mower to prevent unauthorized
use.
Mowing Tips
• Observe and ag rocks and other xed objects
to avoid collisions.
• Begin with a high cutting height and reduce
it until the desired mowing result is attained.
Cut the average lawn to 2-1/2" during the cool
season and over 3" during the hot months. For
healthier and better looking lawns, mow often
after moderate growth.
• For best cutting performance, mow grass over
6" in height twice. Make the rst cut relatively
high; the second to the desired height.
• The mowing result will be best with a high
engine speed (the blades rotate rapidly) and
low speed (the rider moves slowly). If the grass
is not too long and dense, the driving speed can
be increased without negatively affecting the
mowing result.
• The nest lawns are obtained by mowing
often. The lawn becomes more even and the
grass clippings more evenly distributed over
the mown area. The total time taken is not
increased as a higher operating speed can be
used without poor mowing results.
19
OPERATION

• When mowing large areas, start by turning to
the right so that clippings will discharge away
from shrubs, fences, driveways, etc. After one
or two rounds, mow in the opposite direction
making left hand turns until nished.
WARNING! Use extreme caution when
loading the machine into a truck or trailer using
ramps. There is the possibility of serious injury
or death if the machine falls off the ramps.
WARNING! Bypass linkages are located
close to the mufer. To prevent burns, the
engine should be shut off and allowed to cool
before the bypass linkage levers are handled.
Moving Machine By Hand
When pushing or pulling the mower, engage the
EZT bypass linkages. The EZT bypass linkages
are located on the rear of the frame, below the
rear engine guard.
1. Raise the deck into the highest cutting
position.
2. Engage the park brake.
3. Pull the EZT bypass linkages up and out of
the keyhole slots. Release the levers with the
head outside the frame and held in the bypass
position.
4. To reengage the EZT’s to drive, reverse the
above procedure.
Load the machine into truck or trailer by driving
slowly up the ramps. DO NOT LIFT! The machine
is not intended to be lifted by hand.
• Avoid mowing wet lawns. The mowing result
is poorer because the wheels sink into the soft
lawn, clumps build, and grass clippings fasten
under the cowling.
• Hose the mower deck underside with water
after each use. When cleaning, raise the mower
into the transport position. Make sure the
mower is cooled and the engine is off.
• Use compressed air to clean top surface of
the deck. Avoid ooding water on top surface,
engine and electrical components.
• When the mulching kit is used, it is important
that the mowing interval is frequent.
20
OPERATION