Cub Cadet 1515 User manual

FORM NO.
770-10586.fm
(12/2001)
IMPORTANT: READ SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
Warning: This nit is eq ipped with an internal comb stion engine and sho ld not be sed on or near any nimproved forest-covered,
br sh-covered or grass-covered land nless the engine’s exha st system is eq ipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state
laws (if any). If a spark arrester is sed, it sho ld be maintained in effective working order by the operator. In the State of California the
above is req ired by law (Section 4442 of the California P blic Reso rces Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply
on federal lands. A spark arrester for the m ffler is available thro gh yo r C b Cadet dealer or contact the service department, P.O. Box
361131 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019.
Hydrostatic Lawn Tractor
Models 1515
1517
CUB CADET LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLE ELAND, OHIO 44136-0019
Operator’s Man al
Series 1500

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Content Page
Important Safe Operation Practices ............................................................................... 3
Slope Ga ge .................................................................................................................. 7
Tractor Set- p ................................................................................................................ 8
Know Yo r Lawn Tractor ................................................................................................ 9
Operating Yo r Lawn Tractor ......................................................................................... 12
Making Adj stments....................................................................................................... 16
Maintaining Yo r Lawn Tractor....................................................................................... 19
Service ........................................................................................................................... 24
Off-Season Storage ....................................................................................................... 29
Maintenance Chart......................................................................................................... 29
Tro bleshooting ............................................................................................................. 30
Specifications................................................................................................................. 31
Attachments & Accessories............................................................................................ 32
Label Map ......................................................................................................................33
Warranty Information...................................................................................................... 34
FINDING MODEL NUMBER
This Operator’s Man al is an important part of yo r new lawn tractor. It will help yo assemble, prepare and
maintain the nit for best performance. Please read and nderstand what it says.
Before you start assembling your new equipment, please locate the model plate on the
eq ipment and copy the information from it in the space provided below. The information on the
model plate is very important if yo need help from yo r Cub Cadet dealer.
• Yo can locate the model n mber by looking beneath the seat. A sample model plate is explained below. For
f t re reference, please copy the model n mber and the serial n mber of the eq ipment in the space below.
CALLING CUSTOMER SUPPORT
If yo have diffic lty assembling this prod ct or have any q estions regarding the controls, operation or
maintenance of this nit, please call the C stomer Dealer Referral Line.
Call 1- [phone] to reach the C stomer Dealer Referral Line. Please have yo r nit’s model
n mber and serial n mber ready when yo call. See previo s section to locate this information.
Copy the model number here:
Copy the serial number here:
www.c bcadet.com
CUB CADET LLC
P. O. BOX 361131
CLEVELAND, OH 44136
DEALER LOCATOR PHONE NUMBER: 877-282-8684
For more details about your unit, visit our website at www.cubcadet.com

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SECTION 1: IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES
WARNING: This symbol points o t important safety instr ctions which, if not followed, co ld endanger
the personal safety and/or property of yo rself and others. Read and follow all instr ctions in this man al
before attempting to operate this machine. Fail re to comply with these instr ctions may res lt in personal
inj ry. When yo see this symbol—heed its warning.
DANGER: This machine was b ilt to be operated according to the r les for safe operation in this man-
al. As with any type of power eq ipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can res lt in
serio s inj ry. This machine is capable of amp tating hands and feet and throwing objects. Fail re to
observe the following safety instr ctions co ld res lt in serio s inj ry or death.
California Proposition 65 Warning:
WARNING: Engine exha st, some of its constit ents, and certain vehicle components contain
or emit chemicals known to the State of California to ca se cancer and birth defects or other
reprod ctive harm.
GENERAL OPERATION
1. Read, nderstand, and follow all instr ctions on the
machine and in the man al(s) before attempting to
assemble and operate. Keep this man al in a safe
place for f t re and reg lar reference and for
ordering replacement parts.
2. Be familiar with all controls and their proper
operation. Know how to stop the machine and
disengage them q ickly.
3. Never allow children nder 14 years old to operate
this machine. Children 14 years old and over
sho ld read and nderstand the operation
instr ctions and safety r les in this man al and
sho ld be trained and s pervised by a parent.
4. Never allow ad lts to operate this machine witho t
proper instr ction.
5. To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object
inj ry, keep bystanders, helpers, children and pets
at least 75 feet from the machine while it is in
operation. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.
6. Thoro ghly inspect the area where the eq ipment
is to be sed. Remove all stones, sticks, wire,
bones, toys, and other foreign objects which co ld
be picked p and thrown by the blade(s). Thrown
objects can ca se serio s personal inj ry.
7. Plan yo r mowing pattern to avoid discharge of
material toward roads, sidewalks, bystanders and
the like. Also, avoid discharging material against a
wall or obstr ction which may ca se discharged
material to ricochet back toward the operator.
8. Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles
d ring operation and while performing an
adj stment or repair to protect yo r eyes. Thrown
objects which ricochet can ca se serio s inj ry to
the eyes.
9. Wear st rdy, ro gh-soled work shoes and close-
fitting slacks and shirts. Loose fitting clothes and
jewelry can be ca ght in movable parts. Never
operate this machine in bare feet or sandals.
10. Be aware of the mower and attachment discharge
direction and do not point it at anyone. Do not
operate the mower witho t the discharge cover or
entire grass catcher in its proper place.
11. Do not p t hands or feet near rotating parts or
nder the c tting deck. Contact with the blade(s)
can amp tate hands and feet.
12. A missing or damaged discharge cover can ca se
blade contact or thrown object inj ries.
13. Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel drives,
walks, or roads and while not c tting grass.
14. Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing
roadways. This machine is not intended for se on
any p blic roadway.
15. Do not operate the machine while nder the
infl ence of alcohol or dr gs.
16. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
17. Never carry passengers.
18. Disengage blade(s) before travelling in reverse.
Back p slowly. Always look down and behind
before and while backing to avoid a back-over
accident.
19. Slow down before t rning. Operate the machine
smoothly. Avoid erratic operation and excessive
speed.
20. Disengage blade(s), set parking brake, stop engine
and wait ntil the blade(s) come to a complete stop
before removing grass catcher, emptying grass,
nclogging ch te, removing any grass or debris, or
making any adj stments.
21. Never leave a r nning machine nattended. Always
t rn off blade(s), place transmission in ne tral, set
parking brake, stop engine and remove key before
dismo nting.
22. Use extra care when loading or nloading the
machine into a trailer or tr ck. This nit sho ld not
be driven p or down ramp(s), beca se the nit
co ld tip over, ca sing serio s personal inj ry. The
nit m st be p shed man ally on ramp(s) to load or
nload properly.

4
23. M ffler and engine become hot and can ca se a
b rn. Do not to ch.
24. Check overhead clearances caref lly before driving
nder low hanging tree branches, wires, door
openings etc., where the operator may be str ck or
p lled from the nit, which co ld res lt in serio s
inj ry.
25. Disengage all attachment cl tches, depress the
brake pedal completely before attempting to start
engine.
26. Yo r machine is designed to c t normal residential
grass of a height no more than 10”. Do not attempt
to mow thro gh n s ally tall, dry grass (e.g.,
past re) or piles of dry leaves. Dry grass or leaves
may contact the engine exha st and/or b ild p on
the mower deck presenting a potential fire hazard.
27. Use only accessories and attachments approved
for this machine by the machine man fact rer.
Read, nderstand and follow all instr ctions
provided with the approved accessory or
attachment.
28. Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and
above, are involved in a large percentage of riding
mower-related inj ries. These operators sho ld
eval ate their ability to operate the riding mower
safely eno gh to protect themselves and others
from serio s inj ry.
29. If sit ations occ r which are not covered in this
man al, se care and good j dgment. Contact yo r
Cub Cadet dealer for assistance.
SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to loss of control and
tip-over accidents which can res lt in severe inj ry or
death. All slopes req ire extra ca tion. If yo cannot
back p the slope or if yo feel neasy on it, do not mow
it.
For yo r safety, se the slope ga ge incl ded as part of
this man al to meas re slopes before operating this
nit on a sloped or hilly area. If the slope is greater than
15 degrees as shown on the slope ga ge, do not
operate this nit on that area or serio s inj ry co ld
res lt.
DO:
1. Mow p and down slopes, not across. Exercise
extreme ca tion when changing direction on
slopes.
2. Watch for holes, r ts, b mps, rocks, or other
hidden objects. Uneven terrain co ld overt rn the
machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
3. Use slow speed. Choose a low eno gh speed
setting so that yo will not have to stop while on the
slope. Tires may lose traction on slopes even
tho gh the brakes are f nctioning properly. Always
keep machine in gear when going down slopes to
take advantage of engine braking action.
4. Follow the man fact rer’s recommendations for
wheel weights or co nterweights to improve
stability.
5. Use extra care with grass catchers or other
attachments. These can change the stability of the
machine.
6. Keep all movement on the slopes slow and grad al.
Do not make s dden changes in speed or direction.
Rapid engagement or braking co ld ca se the front
of the machine to lift and rapidly flip over backwards
which co ld ca se serio s inj ry.
7. Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose
traction, disengage the blade(s) and proceed
slowly straight down the slope.
DO NOT:
1. Do not t rn on slopes nless necessary; then, t rn
slowly and grad ally downhill, if possible.
2. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or
embankments. The mower co ld s ddenly t rn
over if a wheel is over the edge of a cliff, ditch, or if
an edge caves in.
3. Do not try to stabilize the machine by p tting yo r
foot on the gro nd.
4. Do not se a grass catcher on steep slopes.
5. Do not mow on wet grass. Red ced traction co ld
ca se sliding.
6. Do not coast downhill. Over-speeding may ca se
the operator to lose control of the machine res lting
in serio s inj ry or death.
7. Do not tow heavy p ll behind attachments (e.g.
loaded d mp cart, lawn roller, etc.) on slopes
greater than 5 degrees. When going down hill, the
extra weight tends to p sh the tractor and may
ca se yo to loose control. (e.g. tractor may speed
p, braking and steering ability are red ced,
attachment may jack-knife and ca se tractor to
overt rn).
CHILDREN
1. Tragic accidents can occ r if the operator is not
alert to the presence of children. Children are often
attracted to the machine and the mowing activity.
They do not nderstand the dangers. Never
ass me that children will remain where yo last
saw them.
a. Keep children o t of the mowing area and in
watchf l care of a responsible ad lt other
than the operator.
b. Be alert and t rn machine off if a child enters
the area.
c. Before and while backing, look behind and
down for small children.
d. Never carry children, even with the blade(s)
sh t off. They may fall off and be serio sly
inj red or interfere with safe machine
operation.

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e. Use extreme care when approaching blind
corners, doorways, shr bs, trees or other
objects that may block yo r vision of a child
who may r n into the machine.
f. Disengage the c tting blade(s) before
traveling in reverse. The “No-C t-In Reverse”
feat re is a reminder not to c t in reverse and
to help avoid back over accidents. Do not
defeat it.
g. Keep children away from hot or r nning
engines. They can s ffer b rns from a hot
m ffler.
h. Remove key when machine is nattended to
prevent na thorized operation.
9. Never allow children nder 14 years old to operate
the machine. Children 14 years old and over sho ld
read and nderstand the operation instr ctions and
safety r les in this man al and sho ld be trained
and s pervised by a parent.
TOWING
1. Tow only with a machine that has a hitch designed
for towing. Do not attach towed eq ipment except
at the hitch point.
2. Follow the man fact rers recommendation for
weight limits for towed eq ipment and towing on
slopes.
3. Never allow children or others in or on towed
eq ipment.
4. On slopes, the weight of the towed eq ipment may
ca se loss of traction and loss of control.
5. Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop.
6. Do not coast downhill.
SER ICE
SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE:
1. To avoid personal injury or property damage
se extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is
extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive.
Serio s personal inj ry can occ r when gasoline is
spilled on yo rself or yo r clothes which can ignite.
Wash yo r skin and change clothes immediately.
a. Use only an approved gasoline container.
b. Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a
tr ck or trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always
place containers on the gro nd away from
yo r vehicle before filling.
c. When practical, remove gas-powered
eq ipment from the tr ck or trailer and ref el
it on the gro nd. If this is not possible, then
ref el s ch eq ipment on a trailer with a
portable container, rather than from a
gasoline dispenser nozzle.
d. Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the
f el tank or container opening at all times
ntil f eling is complete. Do not se a nozzle
lock-open device.
e. Exting ish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and
other so rces of ignition.
f. Never f el machine indoors.
g. Never remove gas cap or add f el while the
engine is hot or r nning. Allow engine to cool
at least two min tes before ref eling.
h. Never over fill f el tank. Fill tank to no more
than three inches below the top of the filler
neck to allow space for f el expansion.
i. Replace gasoline cap and tighten sec rely.
j. If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine
and eq ipment. Move nit to another area.
Wait 5 min tes before starting the engine.
k. To red ce fire hazards, keep machine free of
grass, leaves, or other debris b ild- p. Clean
p oil or f el spillage and remove any f el
soaked debris.
l. Never store the machine or f el container
inside where there is an open flame, spark or
pilot light as on a water heater, space heater,
f rnace, clothes dryer or other gas
appliances.
m. Allow a machine to cool at least five min tes
before storing.
GENERAL SER ICE:
1. Never r n an engine indoors or in a poorly
ventilated area. Engine exha st contains carbon
monoxide, an odorless, and deadly gas.
2. Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make
certain the blade(s) and all moving parts have
stopped. Disconnect the spark pl g wire and
gro nd against the engine to prevent nintended
starting.
3. Periodically check to make s re the blades come to
complete stop within approximately (5) five
seconds after operating the blade disengagement
control. If the blades do not stop within the this time
frame, yo r nit sho ld be serviced professionally
by an a thorized Cub Cadet dealer.
4. Check brake operation freq ently as it is s bjected
to wear d ring normal operation. Adj st and service
as req ired.
5. Check the blade(s) and engine mo nting bolts at
freq ent intervals for proper tightness. Also,
vis ally inspect blade(s) for damage (e.g.,
excessive wear, bent, cracked).
Replace the blade(s) with the original eq ipment
man fact rer’s (O.E.M.) blade(s) only, listed in this
man al. “Use of parts which do not meet the
original eq ipment specifications may lead to
improper performance and compromise safety!”
6. Mower blades are sharp. Wrap the blade or wear
gloves, and se extra ca tion when servicing them.
7. Keep all n ts, bolts, and screws tight to be s re the
eq ipment is in safe working condition.

6
8. Never tamper with the safety interlock system or
other safety devices. Check their proper operation
reg larly.
9. After striking a foreign object, stop the engine,
disconnect the spark pl g wire(s) and gro nd
against the engine. Thoro ghly inspect the
machine for any damage. Repair the damage
before starting and operating.
10. Never attempt to make adj stments or repairs to
the machine while the engine is r nning.
11. Do not change the engine governor settings or
over-speed the engine. The governor controls the
maxim m safe operating speed of the engine.
12. Maintain or replace safety and instr ction labels, as
necessary.
13. Observe proper disposal laws and reg lations for
gas, oil, etc. to protect the environment.
14. Grass catcher components and the discharge
cover are s bject to wear and damage which co ld
expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown.
For safety protection, freq ently check components
and replace immediately with original eq ipment
man fact rer’s (O.E.M.) parts only, listed in this
man al. “Use of parts which do not meet the
original eq ipment specifications may lead to
improper performance and compromise safety!”
WARNING: YOUR RESPONSIBILITY Restrict the se of this power machine to persons who read,
nderstand and follow the warnings and instr ctions in this man al and on the machine.
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF INJURY, DO NOT
OPERATE UNLESS DISCHARGE COVER OR
GRASS CATCHER IS IN ITS PROPER PLACE.
IF DAMAGED, REPLACE IMMEDIATELY.
• GO UP AND DOWN SLOPES, NOT ACROSS.
• A OID SUDDEN TURNS.
• DO NOT OPERATE THE UNIT WHERE IT
COULD SLIP OR TIP.
• IF MACHINE STOPS GOING UPHILL, STOP
BLADE(S) AND BACK DOWNHILL SLOWLY.
• DO NOT MOW WHEN CHILDREN OR OTHERS
ARE AROUND.
• NE ER CARRY CHILDREN E EN WITH.
BLADES OFF.
• LOOK DOWN & BEHIND BEFORE AND WHILE
BACKING.
• KEEP SAFETY DE ICES (GUARDS, SHIELDS, AND
SWITCHES, ETC.) IN PLACE AND WORKING.
• REMO E OBJECTS THAT COULD BE
THROWN BY THE BLADE(S).
• KNOW LOCATION AND FUNCTION OF ALL
CONTROLS.
• BE SURE BLADE(S) AND ENGINE ARE STOPPED
BEFORE PLACING HANDS OR FEET NEAR BLADE(S).
• BEFORE LEA ING OPERATOR'S POSITION,
DISENGAGE BLADE(S), ENGAGE PARKING
BRAKE, SHUT OFF AND REMO E KEY.
WARNING
TO A OID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH
READ OPERATOR'S MANUAL

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SECTION 2: SLOPE GAUGE
15°
SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH A VERTICAL TREE
A POWER POLE
A CORNER OF A BUILDING
OR A FENCE POST
FOLD ON DOTTED LINE, REPRESENTING A 15° SLOPE
Do not mow on inclines with a slope in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10 feet). A riding mower co ld overt rn and ca se serio s inj ry. If operating a walk-behind mower on s ch a slope, it is extremely diffic lt to maintain yo r footing and yo co ld slip, res lting in serio s inj ry. Operate RIDING mowers p and down slopes, never across the face of slopes.
WARNING

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SECTION 3: TRACTOR SET-UP
Attaching the Batte y Cables
The positive battery terminal is marked Pos. (+). The
negative battery terminal is marked Neg. (–).
• The positive cable (heavy red wire) is sec red to
the positive battery terminal (+) with a hex bolt and
hex n t at the factory. Make certain that the r bber
boot covers the terminal to protect it from corrosion.
• Lift the tractor’s hood and remove the hex bolt and
wing n t from the negative cable (thick black wire).
• Remove the black plastic cover, if present, from the
negative battery terminal and attach the negative
cable to the negative battery terminal (–) with the
bolt and wing n t..
Figure 1
NOTE: If the battery is put into service after the date
shown on top of battery, charge as instructed on page
26 of this manual prior to operating the tractor.
Gas and Oil Fill-up
The gasoline tank is located nder the fender and has a
capacity of three gallons. Unthread the f el cap by
t rning it co nterclockwise. Use only clean, fresh
( nder 30 days old), nleaded gasoline. Fill tank to no
more than fo r inches below the top of the filler neck to
allow space for f el expansion. Do not overfill.
WARNING: Use extreme care when
handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely
flammable and the vapors are explosive.
Never f el machine indoors or while the
engine is hot or r nning. Exting ish
cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other so rces of
ignition.
IMPORTANT: Yo r tractor is shipped with oil in the
engine. However, yo MUST check the oil level before
operating. Refer to Checking the Oil Level on page 19 for
detailed instr ctions. Be caref l not to overfill.
Shipping B ace Removal
WARNING: Make s re the riding mower’s
engine is off, set the parking brake and
remove the ignition key before removing the
shipping brace.
• Locate the shipping brace and warning tag fo nd
on the right side of the c tting deck. See Fig re 2.
Figure 2
• While holding the discharge ch te with yo r left
hand, remove the shipping brace with yo r right
hand by grasping it between yo r th mb and index
finger and rotating it clockwise.
NOTE: Series 15 tractors come equipped with a
mulch plug installed inside the chute opening. Do NOT
discard it. Refer to Mulching on page 16 for detailed
information regarding your tractor’s mulching feature.
WARNING: The shipping brace, used for
packaging purposes only, must be removed
and discarded before operating your riding
mower.
WARNING: The mowing deck is capable of
throwing objects. Fail re to operate the riding
mower witho t the discharge cover in the
proper operating position co ld res lt in
serio s personal inj ry and/or property
damage.
Hex Bolt
Wing
Nut
Negative Cable
Positive Cable/
Rubber Boot
Warning Tag
Shipping Brace
Mulch Plug
NOTE: Model 1515 has a hairpin clip in place of a shipping brace

9
SECTION 4: KNOW YOUR LAWN TRACTOR
Figure 3
NOTE: Any reference in this manual to the RIGHT or LEFT side of the tractor is observed from operator’s position.
ASystems Indicator Monitor/Ho r Meter HIgnition Switch
BThrottle Control Lever IBrake Pedal
CChoke Control JDrive Pedal
DParking Brake Lever KCr ise Control Lever
EF el Tank Cap LDeck Lift Lever
FSeat Adj stment Lever MC p Holder
GPTO (Power Take-off) Knob
H
B
A
G
C
D
E
L
K
J
F
I
M
NOTE: Steering Wheel not shown for clarity.
BRAKE

10
Th ottle Cont ol Leve
The throttle control lever is located on the left side of the
tractor’s dash panel. This lever controls the speed of
the engine. When set in a given position, the throttle will
maintain a niform engine speed. See Fig re 4.
Figure 4
IMPORTANT: When operating the tractor with the c tting
deck engaged, be certain that the throttle lever is
always in the FAST (rabbit) position.
Choke Cont ol
The choke control can be fo nd
on the left side of the dash panel
and is activated by p lling the
knob o tward. Activating the
choke control closes the choke
plate on the carb retor and aids
in starting the engine. Refer to
Sta ting The Engine on page 13 of
this man al for detailed starting
instr ctions.
B ake Pedal
The brake pedal is located on the
right front side of the tractor
above the drive pedal along the
r nning board. The brake pedal
can be sed for s dden stops or
setting the parking brake.
NOTE: The brake pedal must
be fully depressed to activate the
safety interlock switch when
starting the tractor.
Ignition Switch
WARNING: Never leave a running
machine unattended. Always disengage the
PTO, set parking brake, stop engine and
remove key to prevent unintended starting.
To start the engine, insert the key into the ignition
switch and t rn clockwise to the START position.
Release the key into the ON position once engine has
fired. See Fig re 5.
Figure 5
Refer to Sta ting The Engine on page 13 of this man al for
detailed starting instr ctions
The ignition switch is also sed to operate the tractor’s
headlights. Refer to Ope ating The Headlights on page 16
of this man al for detailed instr ctions.
D ive Pedal
The drive pedal is located below
the brake pedal on the right front
side of the tractor along the
r nning board. Depress the
pper portion of the drive pedal
forward to ca se the tractor to
travel forward. Depress the lower
portion of the drive pedal with the
ball of yo r right foot (NOT yo r
heel) to ca se the tractor to travel
in reverse. Gro nd speed is also
controlled with the drive pedal.
The f rther forward or rearward
that the pedal is pivoted, the
faster the tractor will travel. The
pedal will ret rn to its original
position when it’s not depressed.
IMPORTANT: Always set the
parking brake when leaving the tractor nattended.
Slow
Fast
Position
Position
Off
On/Lights
On
Start
STOP

11
Hou Mete
Located in the center of the tractor’s console, the ho r
meter operates whenever the engine is r nning and
records the act al ho rs of tractor operation. See
Fig re 6.
Figure 6
System Indicato Lights
Yo r tractor is eq ipped with fo r indicator lights in the
center of its dash panel. If the Brake light or PTO light
ill minates when attempting to start the nit, proceed
as follows:
Brake — Engage the parking brake.
PTO — Move the PTO knob into the disengaged
(OFF) position.
It is normal for the Oil light and the Battery light to
ill minate while the engine is cranking, b t if either
ill minates while the engine is running, proceed as
follows:
Oil— Stop the tractor immediately and check the
crankcase oil level as instr cted on page
19 of this man al. Add oil as req ired.
Battery— If this light ill minate’s while the engine is
r nning, it indicates that the battery is in
need of a charge OR that the engine’s
charging system is not generating
s fficient amperage. Refer to Batte y on
page 25 of this man al for the proper
battery charging proced re or have the
engine’s charging system checked by a
Cub Cadet dealer.
Cup Holde
The tractor’s c p holder is located on the fender to the
right of the seat, j st to the rear of the deck lift lever.
Elect ic PTO
(Powe Take-off) Knob
To engage the power to the
c tting deck or other (separately
available) attachments, p ll
o tward on the PTO knob. P sh
the PTO knob inward to
disengage the power to the c tting deck.
NOTE: The PTO knob must be in the disengaged
(OFF) position when starting the engine, when traveling
in reverse and if the operator leaves the seat.
C uise Cont ol
Leve
The cr ise control
lever is located on
the tractor dash
panel, below the
steering wheel. P sh the cr ise control lever downward
while traveling forward at a desired speed. While
holding the lever down, release press re from the drive
pedal.
This will engage the cr ise control and allow the tractor
to remain at that speed witho t applying press re to the
drive pedal. Depress the brake pedal or the drive pedal
to deactivate cr ise control. Refer to page 14 for
detailed instr ctions regarding the cr ise control
feat re.
NOTE: Cruise control can NOT be engaged at the
tractor’s fastest ground speed. If the operator should
attempt to do so, the tractor will automatically
decelerate to the fastest optimal mowing ground speed.
Pa king B ake
Leve
To set the parking
brake, f lly depress
the brake pedal and
p sh the parking
brake lever down. Hold the lever down while taking yo r
foot off the brake pedal. Both the parking lever and the
brake pedal will then stay depressed. To release the
parking brake, depress the brake pedal slightly. The
parking brake lever will then ret rn to its original
position.
NOTE: The parking brake must be set if the operator
leaves the seat with the engine running or the engine
will automatically shut off.
IMPORTANT: Always set the parking brake when
leaving the tractor nattended.

12
Seat Adjustment Leve
To adj st the seat forward or backward, slide the seat
adj stment lever to the left and reposition the seat to
the desired position. Once a comfortable position is
fo nd, release the seat adj stment lever to lock the
seat in place. Refer to Seat Adjustment on page 18 of this
man al for more detailed instr ctions.
Deck Lift Leve
Fo nd on yo r tractor’s right fender, the deck lift lever is
sed to change the height of the c tting deck. To se,
move the lever to the left, then place in the notch best
s ited for yo r application.
SECTION 5: OPERATING YOUR LAWN TRACTOR
WARNING: Read, nderstand, and follow
all instr ctions and warnings on the machine
and in this man al before operating.
Safety Inte lock Switches
This tractor is eq ipped with a safety interlock system
for the protection of the operator. If the interlock system
sho ld ever malf nction, do not operate the tractor.
Contact a Cub Cadet dealer. The safety interlock
system prevents the engine from cranking or starting
nless the parking brake is engaged, and the PTO knob
is in the disengaged (OFF) position.
• The engine will a tomatically sh t off if the operator
leaves the seat before engaging the parking brake.
• The engine will a tomatically sh t off if the operator
leaves the tractor’s seat with the PTO knob in the
engaged (ON) position, regardless of whether the
parking brake is engaged.
• The electric PTO cl tch will a tomatically sh t off if
the PTO knob is moved into the engaged (ON)
position with the drive pedal in position for reverse
travel.
WARNING: Do not operate the tractor if the
interlock system is malf nctioning. This
system was designed for yo r safety and
protection.
Setting the Gauge Wheels
Select the height position of the c tting deck by placing
the deck lift lever in any of the six different c tting height
notches on the right fender.
To adj st the deck wheels so that they are between ¼-
inch and ½-inch above the gro nd as follows.
WARNING: Keep hands and feet away
from the discharge opening of the c tting
deck.
NOTE: The deck wheels are an anti-scalp feature of
the deck and are not designed to support the weight of
the cutting deck.
Place the tractor on a firm and level s rface, preferably
pavement, refer to Fig re 7, and proceed as follows:
• Place the tractor’s deck lift handle in the normally
desired mowing height setting, then check the
ga ge wheels for contact or excessive clearance
with the s rface below.
• If the wheels contact the s rface adj st as follows:
a. Raise the deck lift handle to its highest
setting.
b. Remove the rear ga ge wheels by removing
the lock n ts, sho lder screws, and flat
washers which sec re them to the deck.
c. Remove the lock n ts, sho lder screws, and
bell washers which sec re the front ga ge
wheels to the deck.
d. Place the deck lift handle in the desired
mowing height setting.
e. Insert the sho lder screw and flat washer
with the rear ga ge wheel into the index hole
that leaves approximately 1/2" between the
bottom of the wheel and the pavement.
f. Note the position of the index hole sed; then
install the other rear ga ge wheel and the
front ball wheels into the corresponding index
hole of the other ga ge wheel brackets.
AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH
• GO UP AND DOWN SLOPES, NOT ACROSS.
• AVOID SUDDEN TURNS.
• DO NOT OPERATE THE UNIT WHERE IT COULD SLIP OR TIP.
• IF MACHINE STOPS GOING UPHILL, STOP BLADE(S) AND BACK
DOWNHILL SLOWLY.
• DO NOT MOW WHEN CHILDREN OR OTHERS ARE AROUND.
• NEVER CARRY CHILDREN, EVEN WITH BLADES OFF.
• LOOK DOWN AND BEHIND BEFORE AND WHILE BACKING.
• KEEP SAFETY DEVICES (GUARDS, SHIELDS, AND SWITCHES) IN
PLACE AND WORKING.
• REMOVE OBJECTS THAT COULD BE THROWN BY THE BLADE(S).
• KNOW LOCATION AND FUNCTION OF ALL CONTROLS.
• BE SURE BLADE(S) AND ENGINE ARE STOPPED BEFORE PLAC-
ING HANDS OR FEET NEAR BLADE(S).
• BEFORE LEAVING OPERATOR’S POSITION, DISENGAGE
BLADE(S), ENGAGE BRAKE LOCK, SHUT ENGINE OFF AND
REMOVE KEY.
READ OPERATOR’S MANUAL
WARNING

13
Figure 7
NOTE: The crowned (rounded) surface of the front
bell washers should be against the shoulder screw,
between the front ball wheel and deck gauge wheel
bracket. The cupped surface of the bell washer should
be against the deck.
• If the ga ge wheels have excessive clearance with
the s rface below, lower the wheels to the index
hole that provides the approximate 1/2" clearance
as described above.
Refer to Leveling the Deck on page 17 of this man al for
more detailed instr ctions regarding vario s deck
adj stments.
Sta ting the Engine
WARNING: Do not operate the tractor if the
interlock system is malfunctioning. This
system was designed for your safety and
protection.
NOTE: Refer to the TRACTOR SET-UP on page 8 of this
manual for Gasoline and Oil fill-up instructions.
• Insert the tractor key into the ignition switch.
• Place the PTO knob in the disengaged (OFF)
position.
• Engage the tractor’s parking brake.
• Place the throttle control in the FAST position
• P ll the choke control o tward.
• T rn the ignition key clockwise to the START
position. After the engine starts, release the key. It
will ret rn to the ON position.
IMPORTANT: Do NOT hold the key in the START
position for longer than ten seconds at a time. Doing so
may ca se damage to yo r engine’s electric starter.
• After the engine starts, deactivate the choke
control.
NOTE: Upon starting the engine, a metallic ticking
may occur. This is caused by the hydraulic lifter
leakdown during storage. Run the engine for five
minutes. The noise will normally cease in the first
minute. If noise continues, run the engine at mid-throttle
for twenty minutes. If noise persists, have the engine
serviced by your Cub Cadet dealer.
NOTE: Do NOT leave the choke control on while
operating the tractor. Doing so will result in a "rich" fuel
mixture and cause the engine to run poorly.
Stopping the Engine
WARNING: If you strike a foreign object,
stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug
wire(s) and ground against the engine.
Thoroughly inspect the machine for any
damage. Repair the damage before restarting
and operating
• If the blades are engaged, place the PTO knob in
the disengaged (OFF) position.
• Place the throttle control near the FAST position
• T rn the ignition key co nterclockwise to the STOP
position.
• Remove the key from the ignition switch to prevent
nintended starting.
Engaging the Pa king B ake
To engage the parking brake:
• F lly depress the brake pedal and hold it there
while gently p shing the parking brake lever
downward.
• Hold the parking brake lever down while removing
yo r foot from the brake pedal.
• Once engaged, the parking brake lever and the
brake pedal will lock in the “down” position.
To disengage the parking brake:
• Slightly depress the brake pedal.
NOTE: The parking brake must be engaged if the
operator leaves the seat with the engine running or the
engine will automatically shut off.
D iving The T acto
WARNING: Avoid s dden starts, ex-
cessive speed and s dden stops.
WARNING: Do not leave the seat of the
tractor witho t first placing the PTO knob in
the disengaged (OFF) position, depressing
the brake pedal and engaging the parking
brake. If leaving the tractor nattended, also
t rn the ignition key off and remove the key.
Lock nut
Shoulder Screws
Flat Washer
Bell Washer

14
• Briefly depress the brake pedal to release the
parking brake. Move the throttle lever into the FAST
(rabbit) position.
• To travel FORWARD, slowly depress the pper
portion of the drive pedal forward ntil the desired
speed is achieved. See Fig re 8.
Figure 8
• To travel in REVERSE, check that the area behind
is clear then slowly depress the lower portion of the
drive pedal with the ball of yo r foot (NOT yo r
heel) ntil the desired speed is achieved. See
Fig re 8.
IMPORTANT: Do NOT attempt to change the direction of
travel when the tractor is in motion. Always bring the
tractor to a complete stop before pivoting the drive
pedal from forward to reverse or vice versa.
D iving On Slopes
Refer to the SLOPE GAUGE on page 7 to help determine
slopes where yo may operate the tractor safely.
WARNING: Do not mow on inclines with a
slope in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of
approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10 feet). The
tractor co ld overt rn and ca se serio s
inj ry.
• Mow p and down slopes, NEVER across.
• Exercise extreme ca tion when changing direction
on slopes.
• Watch for holes, r ts, b mps, rocks, or other
hidden objects. Uneven terrain co ld overt rn the
machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
• Avoid t rns when driving on a slope. If a t rn m st
be made, t rn down the slope. T rning p a slope
greatly increases the chance of a roll over.
• Avoid stopping when driving p a slope. If it is
necessary to stop while driving p a slope, start p
smoothly and caref lly to red ce the possibility of
flipping the tractor over backward.
Setting The C uise Cont ol
NOTE: The cruise control feature should only be
utilized while traveling in the forward direction.
• Slowly depress the pper portion of the drive pedal
ntil the desired speed is achieved.
• Lightly depress the cr ise control lever.
• While contin ing to hold the cr ise lever down, lift
yo r foot from the drive pedal (yo sho ld feel the
cr ise latch engage).
• Once engaged, the cr ise control lever and the
drive pedal will lock in the “down” position, and the
tractor will maintain the same forward speed.
NOTE: Cruise control can not be engaged at the
tractor’s fastest ground speed. If the operator should
attempt to do so, the tractor will automatically
decelerate to the fastest optimal mowing ground speed.
Disengage the cr ise control sing one of the following
methods:
• Depress the brake pedal to disengage the cr ise
control and stop the tractor.
• Lightly depress the drive pedal.
To change the direction of travel to reverse when
operating with cr ise control, depress the brake pedal
to disengage the cr ise control and bring the tractor to a
complete stop. Then slowly depress the lower portion of
the drive pedal with the ball of yo r foot to travel in
reverse.
Using the Deck Lift Leve
To raise the c tting deck, move the deck lift lever to the
left, then place it in the notch best s ited for yo r
application. Refer to Setting The Cutting Height earlier in
this section.
Ope ating The Headlights
To t rn the tractor’s headlights on:
• Start the engine following the instr ctions earlier in
this section.
• T rn the key one notch co nterclockwise into the
On/Lights position of the ignition switch. Refer to
Fig re 5.
To t rn the tractor’s headlights off:
• T rn the key either into the On position (to leave the
engine r nning) or the Off position (to sh t the
engine off). Refer to Fig re 5.
NOTE: Never move the key into the Start position
while the engine is running. Doing so may cause
damage to your engine’s electric starter.
Brake Pedal
Drive Pedal

15
Moving The T acto Manually
Yo r tractor’s transmission is eq ipped with a
hydrostatic relief valve for occasions when it is
necessary to move the tractor man ally. Opening this
valve permits the fl id in the transmission to bypass its
normal ro te, allowing the rear tires to "freewheel." To
engage the hydrostatic relief valve, proceed as follows:
• Locate the hydrostatic bypass rod in the rear of the
tractor. See Fig re 9.
Figure 9
• P ll the hydrostatic bypass rod o tward, then
down, to lock it in place.
NOTE: The transmission will NOT engage when the
hydrostatic bypass rod is pulled out. Return the rod to
its normal position prior to operating the tractor.
IMPORTANT: Never attempt to move the tractor
man ally witho t first engaging the hydrostatic relief
valve. Doing so will res lt in serio s damage to the
tractor’s transmission.
Engaging the PTO
Engaging the PTO transfers power to the c tting deck
or other (separately available) attachments. To engage
the PTO, proceed as follows:
• Move the throttle control lever to the FAST (rabbit)
position.
• P ll the PTO knob o tward into the engaged (ON)
position. See Fig re 10.
• Keep the throttle lever in the FAST (rabbit) position
for the most efficient se of the c tting deck or other
(separately available) attachments
IMPORTANT: The electric PTO cl tch will a tomatically
sh t off if the PTO is engaged with the drive pedal in
position for reverse travel. Refer to Safety Inte lock
Switches on page 12.
Figure 10
Mowing
WARNING: To help avoid blade contact or
a thrown object inj ry, keep bystanders,
helpers, children and pets at least 75 feet
from the machine while it is in operation. Stop
machine if anyone enters the area.
This tractor is eq ipped with one of Cub Cadet’s q ality
c tting decks. The following information will be helpf l
when sing the c tting deck with yo r tractor.
WARNING: Plan yo r mowing pattern to
avoid discharge of materials toward roads,
sidewalks, bystanders and the like. Also,
avoid discharging material against a wall or
obstr ction which may ca se discharged
material to ricochet back toward the operator.
• Do not mow at high gro nd speed, especially if a
m lch kit or grass collector is installed.
• For best res lts it is recommended that the first two
laps be c t with the discharge thrown towards the
center. After the first two laps, reverse the direction
to throw the discharge to the o tside for the
balance of c tting. This will give a better
appearance to the lawn.
• Do not c t the grass too short. Short grass invites
weed growth and yellows q ickly in dry weather.
• Mowing sho ld always be done with the engine at
f ll throttle.
• Under heavier conditions it may be necessary to go
back over the c t area a second time to get a clean
c t.
• Do NOT attempt to mow heavy br sh and weeds
and extremely tall grass. Yo r tractor is designed to
mow lawns, NOT clear br sh.
• Keep the blades sharp and replace the blades
when worn. Refer to Cutting Blades on page 25 of this
man al for proper blade sharpening instr ctions.
Hydrostatic
Bypass Rod
ON OFF
Front iew Pull Out Push In

16
Mulching
Model 1515 & 1517 lawn tractors come eq ipped with a
m lch kit which incorporates special blades, already
standard on yo r tractor, in a process of recirc lating
grass clippings repeatedly beneath the c tting deck.
The ltra-fine clippings are then forced back into the
lawn where they act as a nat ral fertilizer. Observe the
following points for the best res lts when m lching.
• Never attempt to m lch if the lawn is damp. Wet
grass tends to stick to the nderside of the c tting
deck preventing proper m lching of the clippings.
• Do NOT attempt to m lch more than 1/3 the total
height of the grass or approximately 1-1/2 inches.
Doing so will ca se the clippings to cl mp p
beneath the deck and not be m lched effectively.
• Maintain a slow gro nd speed to allow the grass
clippings more time to effectively be m lched.
• Always position the throttle control lever in the
FAST (rabbit) position and allow it to remain there
while mowing. Failing to keep the engine at f ll
throttle places strain on the tractor’s engine and
does not allow the blades to properly m lch grass.
NOTE: It is not necessary to remove the discharge
chute to operate the mower with the mulch kit installed.
Figure 11
To operate the c tting deck witho t m lching, simply
remove the m lch pl g by nthreading the plastic wing
n t which fastens it to the c tting deck. This will allow
the clippings to discharge o t the side. See Fig re 11.
SECTION 6: MAKING ADJUSTMENTS
WARNING: Never attempt to make any
adjustments while the engine is running,
except where specified in the operator’s
manual.
WARNING: Disconnect the spark pl g
wire(s) and gro nd against the engine before
performing any adj stments, repairs or
maintenance.
Ca bu eto
NOTE: Carburetor adjustments should be made only
after the engine has warmed up.
The engines on Cub Cadet 1515 & 1517 are eq ipped
with a Walbro fixed main jet carb retor.
Walbro carb retors have a low idle speed screw and a
low idle f el adj sting needle.
The carb retor is designed to deliver the correct f el-to-
air mixt re to the engine nder all operating conditions.
The main f el jet is calibrated at the factory and is not
adj stable. The low idle f el adj sting needle is also set
at the factory and normally does not need adj stment.
If the engine is hard to start, r ns ro ghly, or stalls at
low idle speed, it may be necessary to adj st or service
the carb retor.
T rning the low idle adj sting needle in (clockwise)
decreases the s pply of f el to the carb retor. This
gives a leaner f el-to-air mixt re. T rning the adj sting
needle o t (co nterclockwise) increases the s pply of
f el to the carb retor. This gives a richer f el-to-air
mixt re. Setting the needle midway between the lean
and rich position will s ally give the best res lts.
Figure 12
Carriage Screw
Plastic Wing Nut
Bell
Washer
Mulch Plug
Low Idle
Fuel Adjustment Needle
Low Idle
Speed Adjustment Screw

17
T oubleshooting
If engine tro bles are experienced that appear to be
f el system related, check the following areas before
adj sting the carb retor.
• Make s re the f el tank is filled with clean, fresh
gasoline.
• Make s re the f el tank cap vent is not blocked and
that it is operating properly.
• If the f el tank is eq ipped with a sh t-off valve,
make s re it is open.
• Make s re that the in-line f el filter is clean and
nobstr cted. Replace the filter if necessary.
• Make s re f el is reaching the carb retor. Check
the f el lines and f el p mp for restrictions or fa lty
components, replace as necessary.
• Make s re the air cleaner element is clean and all
air cleaner element components are sec re.
If, after checking the items listed above, the engine is
hard to start, r ns ro ghly, or stalls at low idle speed, it
may be necessary to adj st or service the carb retor.
Adjustment
NOTE: Engines may have a fixed idle or limiter cap on
the idle fuel adjusting needle. Step 2 can only be
performed within the limits allowed by the cap.
1. Start the engine and r n at half throttle for five to 10
min tes to warm p. The engine m st be warm
before performing steps 2 and 3.
2. Low Idle Fuel Needle Setting: Place the throttle
into the “idle” or “slow” position. T rn the low idle
f el adj sting needle o t (co nterclockwise) from
the preliminary setting ntil engine speed
decreases (rich). Note the position of the needle.
Now t rn the adj sting needle in (clockwise). The
engine speed may increase, then it will decrease as
the needle is t rned in (lean). Note the position of
the needle. Set the adj sting needle midway
between the rich and lean settings. See Fig re 13.
Figure 13
3. Low Idle Speed Setting: Place the throttle control
into the “idle” or “slow” position. Set the low idle
speed to 1200 RPM* (± 75 RPM) by turning the low idle
speed adjusting screw in or out. Check the speed
using a tachometer.
NOTE: To ensure best results when setting the low
idle fuel needle, the low idle speed must not exceed
12 RPM (± 75 RPM).
Leveling the Deck
NOTE: Check the tractor’s tire pressure before
performing any deck leveling adjustments. Refer to
Ti es on page 24 for information regarding tire pressure.
F ont To Rea
The front of the c tting deck is s pported by a stabilizer
bar that can adj sted to level the deck from front to rear.
The front of the deck sho ld be between 1/4-inch and
3/8-inch lower than the rear of the deck. Adj st if
necessary as follows:
• With the tractor parked on a firm, level s rface,
place the deck lift lever in the top notch (highest
position) and rotate the blade nearest the discharge
ch te so that it is parallel with the tractor.
• Meas re the distance from the front of the blade tip
to the gro nd and the rear of the blade tip to the
gro nd.
• The first meas rement taken sho ld be between
1/4" and 3/8" less than the second meas rement.
• Determine the approximate distance necessary for
proper adj stment and proceed, if necessary, to the
next step.
• Loosen the two jam n ts on the rear side of the
deck stabilizer bracket. See Fig re 14.
Figure 14
Lean
Rich
Adjust to Midpoint
Jam
Deck
Stabilizer
Bracket
Nuts
Lock
Nuts
Deck

18
• Locate the two lock n ts on the opposite side of the
stabilizer bracket. See Fig re 14. Tighten the lock
n ts to raise the front of the deck; loosen the lock
n ts to lower the front of the deck.
• Retighten the two jam n ts loosened earlier when
proper adj stment is achieved.
Side to Side
If the c tting deck appears to be mowing nevenly, a
side to side adj stment can be performed. Adj st if
necessary as follows:
• With the tractor parked on a firm, level s rface,
place the deck lift lever in the top notch (highest
position) and rotate both blades so that they are
perpendic lar with the tractor.
• Meas re the distance from the o tside of the left
blade tip to the gro nd and the distance from the
o tside of the right blade tip to the gro nd. Both
meas rements taken sho ld be eq al. If they’re
not, proceed to the next step.
• Loosen, b t do NOT remove, the hex cap screw on
the left deck hanger bracket. See Fig re 15.
Figure 15
• Balance the deck by sing a wrench to t rn the
adj stment gear (fo nd immediately behind the hex
cap screw j st loosened) clockwise/ p or
co nterclockwise/down.
• The deck is properly balanced when both blade tip
meas rements taken earlier are eq al.
• Retighten the hex cap screw on the left deck
hanger bracket when proper adj stment is
achieved.
Pa king B ake Adjustment
WARNING: Never attempt to adj st the
brakes while the engine is r nning. Always
disengage PTO, stop engine and remove key
to prevent nintended starting.
If the tractor does not come to a complete stop when
the brake pedal is completely depressed, or if the
tractor’s rear wheels can roll with the parking brake
applied, the brake is in need of adj stment. The brake
disc can be fo nd on the right side of the transmission
in the rear of the tractor. Adj st if necessary as
follows.
• Looking at the transmission from the right side of
the tractor, locate the compression spring and
brake disc. See Fig re 16.
Figure 16
• Caref lly remove the cotter pin from the crown n t
on the right side of the brake assembly.
• Using a feeler ga ge, check the gap between the
brake disc and the brake p ck. Proper gap is .011".
• Tighten the crown n t ntil the proper gap is
achieved.
• Insert a replacement cotter pin (part # 714-0111)
into the crown n t.
Stee ing Adjustment
If the tractor t rns tighter in one direction than the other,
or if the ball joints are being replaced d e to damage or
wear, the steering drag links may need to be adj sted.
Adj st the drag links so that eq al lengths are threaded
into the ball joint on the left side and the ball joint on the
right side:
• Loosen the jam n t fo nd on the drag link at the
rear of the ball joint. See Fig re 17.
• Remove the hex n t and lock washer on the top of
ball joint. See Fig re 17.
• Thread the ball joint toward the jam n t to shorten
the drag link. Thread the ball joint away from the
jam n t to lengthen the drag link.
• Replace hex n t and lock washer and retighten the
jam n t after proper adj stment is achieved.
Hex Cap Screw
Adjustment Gear
Brake Rod
Crown Nut
Brake Disc
NOTE: View shown from beneath tractor.

19
Figure 17
NOTE: Threading the ball joints too far onto the drag
links will cause the front tires to "toe-in" too far. Proper
toe-in is between 1/16" and 5/16".
Front tire toe-in can be meas red as follows:
• Place the steering wheel in position for straight
ahead travel.
• In front of the axle, meas re the distance
horizontally from the inside of the left rim to the
inside of the right rim. Note the distance.
• Behind the axle, meas re the distance horizontally
from the inside of the left rim to the inside of the
right rim. Note the distance.
• The meas rement taken in front of the axle sho ld
be between 1/16" and 5/16" less than the
meas rement taken behind the axle.
• Adj st if necessary.
Seat Adjustment
WARNING: Before operating this machine,
make s re the seat is engaged in the seat
stop, stand behind the machine and p ll back
on seat ntil f lly engaged into stop.
To adj st the position of the seat, move the seat
adj stment lever (Refer to Fig re 3 on Page 9) to the
left and slide the seat forward or rearward. Make s re
seat is locked into position before operating the tractor.
SECTION 7: MAINTAINING YOUR LAWN TRACTOR
NOTE: Refer to Maintenance Cha t on page 29 for a
reference of recommended maintenance intervals.
WARNING: Before performing any
maintenance or repairs, disengage PTO, set
parking brake, stop engine and remove key to
prevent nintended starting.
Engine
Maintenance, repair, or replacement of the emission
control devices and systems, which are being done at
the c stomer’s expense, may be performed by any
engine repair establishment or individ al. Warranty
repairs must be performed by your Cub Cadet
Dealer.
Engine Oil
The engine-crankcase is filled with 10W-30 ship-away
oil at the factory. This oil may be sed for the first 24
ho rs of engine operation at temperat res between
0°F and 80°F. If temperat res are not within this range,
drain the oil from the oil filter and crankcase and
replace with new oil.
The engine oil m st be drained and replaced with new
oil after 24 ho rs of engine operation and every 100
ho rs thereafter. Refer to the Oil Viscosity Chart below
to determine the proper oil type.
NOTE: To aid starting, the selection of crankcase oil
should be based on the lowest anticipated
temperatures prior to the next scheduled oil change.
Checking the Oil Level
It is important to check the oil level at least every fo r
ho rs of operation. Reg lar checking d ring the first 24
ho rs of operation is especially important. Check the oil
level before each use as follows:
Ball Joint
Axle
Pivot Bar
Hex Nut and
Jam Nut
Lock Washer
.
*Use of synthetic oil having 5W-20 or 5W-30 rating is
acceptable, p to 40˚F
**Synthetic oils will provide better starting in extreme
cold (below -10˚F).
*
**

20
• Allow the engine a few min tes to rest after opera-
tion. This will give the oil time to drain into the crank-
case s mp and res lt in a more acc rate dipstick
reading.
• Clean the area aro nd the oil fill cap/dipstick to pre-
vent debris from entering the crankcase.
• Remove the oil fill cap/dipstick by nthreading it
(co nterclockwise) and lifting it o t of the oil fill t be.
• Wipe the dipstick clean before p shing it back into
the oil fill t be. Do NOT thread the cap back onto
the fill tube. Withdraw the dipstick to check the oil
level. Refer to Fig re 18.
• Always keep the oil level at or near the FULL mark
on the dipstick. If the oil is low, add oil of the proper
type p to the FULL mark. Always re-check the oil
level with the dipstick before adding more oil.
IMPORTANT: Never operate the engine with the oil level
below the ADD mark or above the FULL mark on the
dipstick.
• After checking the oil level (and adding oil, if neces-
sary), reinstall the oil fill cap/dipstick by inserting it
into the oil fill t be and threading (clockwise).
Figure 18
Adding Oil
If, after checking the oil level, yo find the dipstick reads
ADD, proceed as follows.
• Place the tractor on a level s rface and engage the
parking brake. Stop the tractor engine and remove
the ignition key.
• Clean the area aro nd the oil fill cap and fill t be to
prevent debris from entering the crankcase.
• Remove the oil fill cap/dipstick from the oil fill t be
and SLOWLY po r oil into the oil fill t be. Do NOT
po r more than 6 oz. of oil at a time witho t first
stopping and re-checking the oil level.
• Fill the crankcase ntil the oil level reaches the f ll
(F) mark on the dipstick. Refer to Fig re 18. Refer
to the viscosity oil chart earlier in this section for
information regarding the proper type of oil to add
to the crankcase.
IMPORTANT: The oil capacity (with oil filter) is 4 U.S.
pints (64 oz.). Never overfill the engine crankcase.
IMPORTANT: The engine may overheat and/or damage
may res lt if the oil level is below the ADD or over the
FULL on the dipstick.
• Reinstall the oil fill cap/dipstick sec rely onto the oil
fill t be.
IMPORTANT: The oil fill cap/dipstick must be installed
securely onto the tube at all times when the engine
is operating. Severe engine damage co ld res lt from
fail re to do so.
Changing the Engine OIl
The engine oil and oil filter sho ld be changed after the
first 24 ho rs of operation, and after every 100 ho rs of
operation thereafter.
WARNING: If the engine has been recently
r n, the engine, m ffler and s rro nding
metal s rfaces will be hot and can ca se
b rns to the skin. Allow the tractor to cool and
se ca tion when removing
IMPORTANT: The oil filter sho ld be changed at every
oil change interval.
To complete an oil change, proceed as follows:
Removing the Left-hand Side Panel
• Engage the tractor’s parking brake and raise the
hood.
• Loosen, b t do not remove, the rear wing n t and
pper front wing n t. See Fig re 19.
Figure 19
FULL
ADD
Operating
Range
Wing Nuts