Dixon ZTR 3000 Series User manual

2000 Operator's Manual
30003000
30003000
3000
SERIESSERIES
SERIESSERIES
SERIES

Page 2
The Dixon® ZTR® Mower is both easy and fun to operate. However,
any power mower must be operated properly to be safe.
It is not a toy or a recreational vehicle.
Before you start to use the mower: read the operator's manual carefully,
andbecomecompletelyfamiliarwiththecontrols.
The information in this operator's manual applies to all
Dixon® ZTR® 3000 Series Model Mowers.
Your Dixon dealer will gladly answer any questions.
IMPORTANT: READ CAREFULLY
See your dealer for warranty service, parts and repairs.
DIXON INDUSTRIES, INC.
A BLOUNT International Inc. Co.
PO BOX 1569
COFFEYVILLE KS 67337 0945
316 251 2000

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SAFETY ............................................................Pages 2 - 7
WARRANTYPOLICY......................................Page 8
SPECIFICATIONS ...........................................Page 9 - 11
SEATADJUSTMENT ......................................Page 12
CONTROLS .....................................................Pages 13 - 16
OPERATIONINSTRUCTIONS......................Pages 17 - 22
CAREANDMAINTENANCE .........................Pages 23 - 30
STANDARD PARTS LIST................................Page 31
TROUBLESHOOTING ...................................Pages 32- 34
INDEX
3000 Series
Part No. 1855-0599

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SAFETY
BACK-OVER
RUN-OVER
BLADECONTACT TIP-OVER
RIDING LAWNMOWERS, IF IMPROPERLY OPERATED,
CAN CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH
The most common causes of injury to the operator or bystander...
...read and understand this manual to prevent injuries.

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SAFETY
Safety Alert Symbol
Whenyou seethis symbol,
BEALERT tothe potential for injury.
Follow recommended safety precautions and safe operating practices.
Danger
indicates an imminently hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, will result in death or
serious injury.
Warning
indicates a potentially hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, could result in death
or serious injury.
Caution
indicates a potentially hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, may result in minor
or moderate injury. It may also be used to
alert against unsafe practices.
SAFETY SYMBOLS

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SAFETY
WARNING:The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the
StateofCaliforniatocausecancer,birthdefectsorotherreproductiveharm.
Thiscuttingmoweriscapableofamputatinghands&feet,
andthrowingobjects.
Failuretoobservethefollowingsafetyinstructionscouldresultin
seriousinjuryordeath.
GENERAL OPERATION:
•Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual and on the mower before starting.
• Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the instructions, to operate the mower.
• Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc., which could be picked up and thrown by the blade.
• Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop mower if anyone enters the area.
• Never carry passengers.
• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing.
• Be aware of the mower discharge direction and do not point it at anyone. Do not operate the mower without either
the entire grass catcher or the deflector in place.
• Slow down before turning.
• Never leave a running mower unattended. Always turn off blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and remove key
before dismounting.
• Turn off blades when not mowing.
• Stop engine before removing grass catcher or unclogging chute.
• Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
• Do not operate the mower while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways.
• Use extra care when loading or unloading the mower into a trailer or truck.
Do not ride the mower when loading & unloading.
• Always wear safety goggles or safty glasses with side shields when operating mower.
• Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above, are involved in a large percentage of riding mower-related
injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the riding mower safely enough to protect
themselves and others from serious injury.
• Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for wheel weights or counterweights.

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SAFETY
SLOPE OPERATION:
Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and tip-over accidents,
which can result in severe injury or death.
All slopes require extra caution.
If you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not mow it.
DO
Mow across the slope with your Dixon ZTR - never up or down.
Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.
Watch for holes, ruts or bumps. Uneven terrain could overturn the mower. Tall grass can hide
obstacles.
Useslowspeed. Tiresmaylosetractiononslopeseventhough the brakes are functioningproperly.
Useextracarewithgrasscatchersorotherattachments. Thesecanchangethestabilityofthemower.
Keepallmovementontheslopesslowandgradual. Donotmakesuddenchangesinspeedordirection.
Avoidstartingorstopping onaslope. If tireslosetraction, disengagethebladesandproceed slowly
down the slope.
If front wheels lift off the ground, pull the levers back to stabilize the mower.
DO NOT
Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.
Donot mowneardrop-offs,ditches,orembankments. Themowercouldsuddenlyturnoverifawheel
is over the edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.
Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could cause sliding.
Do not try to stabilize the mower by putting your foot on the ground.
Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.

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CHILDREN:
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the
presence of children.
Children are attracted to lawn mowers and the mowing activity.
NEVER assume children will stay where they were last seen.
Be alert to avoid accidents.
•
Keepchildren outofthe mowingarea andunder the watchfulcare ofanother responsible
adult.
• Be alert and turn mower off if a child enters the area.
• Before and during backing, look behind and DOWN for small children.
• Never carry children. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with safe
moweroperation.
• Never allow children to operate the mower.
• Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that
mayobscurevision.
SAFETY

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SAFETY
SERVICE:
• Useextracareinhandlinggasolineandotherfuels. Theyareflammableandvaporsareexplosive.
Use only an approved container.
Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow engine to cool before refueling. Do not
smoke.
Never refuel the mower indoors.
Never store the mower or fuel container inside a building where there is an open flame.
Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place containers
on the ground away from your vehicle before filling.
When practical, remove gas-powered equipment from the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this
is not possible, then refuel such equipment on a trailer with a portable container, rather than from a gasoline
dispenser nozzle.
If a gasoline dispenser nozzle must be used, 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.
• Never run a mower inside a closed area. The exhaust fumes are toxic.
• Keep nuts and bolts tight, especially blade attachment bolts, and keep equipment in good condition.
• Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly.
• Keep mower free of grass, leaves, or other debris buildup. Clean up oil or fuel spillage. Allow mower to cool
before storing.
• Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object. Repair, if necessary, before restarting.
• Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine running.
• Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage, and deterioration, which could expose moving parts or
allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check components and replace with original equipment parts, when
necessary.
• Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing
them.
• Batteries contain sulfuric acid. To prevent burns avoid contact with skin, eyes and clothing. To prevent a fire or
explosion keep sparks and open flames away from battery.
Before disconnecting the negative (-) ground cable, make sure all switches are OFF.
• Check to assure that the drive chains are properly adjusted. A loose chain may come off causing loss of control.

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WARRANTY: The Dixon Protection Plus Warranty term is for a period of two (2 ) years from date of
purchase. DIXON ZTR MOWERS ARE WARRANTED AGAINST DEFECTS IN MATERIALS AND
WORKMANSHIP AND PROVIDES FOR REPLACEMENT OR REPAIR OF PARTS INCLUDING
LABOR COSTS. THIS WARRANTY IS SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS AND
LIMITATIONS:
1. Warranty applies only to original retail purchaser of new and unused mowers and accessories.
2. All Dixon warranty must be accomplished by authorized Dixon dealers and in accordance with Dixon
warranty policy and allowances. All warranty claims must be approved by Dixon Industries, Inc.
3. Mowers or accessories used for commercial applications are warranted for 30 days from date of purchase.
Commercial application is any use other than, or in addition to, mowing at owner's primary place of
residence.
4. Battery warranty: Limited to 90 days from date of purchase.
5. Accessories Warranty (Grass Catchers, Snow Blades, Covers, etc.): Limited to 90 days from date of purchase.
6. Warranty does not apply to damage in transit or incidents of misuse, negligence, accidents, or alteration. The
use of parts or components other than those supplied by Dixon Industries, Inc. VOIDS ALL WARRANTY.
7. The following items are not covered by this warranty policy:
(a) Pick up and delivery charges for transportation of mower to and from an Authorized Dixon dealer's place
of business.
(b) Transaxle adjustments.
(c) Belts/chains/sprockets/cutting blades.
(d) Engines -- All engines used on Dixon ZTR mowers are warranted by each individual engine
manufacturer.
(e) Any costs or expense of providing substitute equipment while repair work is being performed on a
warranted mower.
8. There is no other express warranty. Implied warranties, including those of merchantability and fitness for a
particular purpose, are limited to the same duration of the express warranty, and to the extent permitted by
law any and all implied warranties are excluded. Liabilities for consequential damages under any and all
warranties are excluded.
DIXON PROTECTION PLUSTWO YEAR LIMITED
WARRANTY POLICY
This warranty policy applies to all (30"), (36"), (42") mowers purchased on or after March 1, 1990.
DM-
WARRANTYVALIDATION:Atthetimeofsale,sellingdealermustrevieweachportionofthiswarrantydocument,
completetheinformationsectionbelow,securecustomer'ssignatureandsendcopytoDixonIndustries,Inc.
DATE OF PURCHASE__________________________Model ____________________S/N_________________
(Dealership)
(Address)
(Dealer'sSignature)
(Owner'sName)
(Address)
(Owner'sSignature)

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SPECIFICATIONS
Model ZTR 3303
CHASSIS: Twin 12 gauge side frames and 7 gauge transmission and engine base plate.
BODY: Allbodypartsaremadeofrotationalmoldedpolyethylene. Frontbodycontains
accesspanelforbatteryservice. Seat tiltsforwardtoallowtransmissionservice.
MOWER DECK: 11 GA stamped steel construction.
Single 30" cut blade.
Cut height approximately 1" to 4" via 7 position lift handle.
BLADE DRIVE: Mechanical;handlever engagement.
TRANSMISSION: Each rear wheel is independently driven by chain and sprockets through a
frictionmechanicaldrive.
ENGINE: 10.5HPI/CBriggs&Stratton,4-Cycle,SingleCylinder,Air-Cooled,Gasoline,
Vertical Shaft, Aluminum Head and Block.
STARTING SYSTEM: Electric by key switch operation with safety interlocks on parking brake and
bladedrive.
TIRES: Front 11 X 4.00-5 ribbed tread.
Rear 16 X 6.50 X 8 Turf Trac R/S tread.
RECOMMENDED Front 16-21 PSI
TIRE PRESSURE: Rear 8-14 PSI
CAPACITIES: Fuel 2.0gallons total.
Engine 1.25quartsoil.
DIMENSIONS: Width 32.5" outside rear wheelmeasurement.
Height 32.0" to top edge of seat.
Length 65.5" hitch tab to front bumper.
Weight 430 lbs.
NOTE: Additional information provided in service instructions under the individual
component.
SPECIFICATIONS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.

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SPECIFICATIONS
Model ZTR 3304
CHASSIS: Twin 12 gauge side frames and 7 gauge transmission and engine base plate.
BODY: Allbodypartsaremadeofrotationalmoldedpolyethylene. Frontbodycontains
accesspanelforbatteryservice. Seat tiltsforwardtoallowtransmissionservice.
MOWER DECK: 11 GA stamped steel construction.
Single 30" cut blade.
Cut height approximately 1" to 4" via 7 position lift handle.
BLADE DRIVE: Mechanical;handlever engagement.
TRANSMISSION: Each rear wheel is independently driven by chain and sprockets through a
frictionmechanicaldrive.
ENGINE: 14.5HPBriggs& Stratton I/C Quiet, 4-Cycle, Single Cylinder, Air-Cooled,
Gasoline, Vertical Shaft, Cast Iron Cylinder, Synchro-Balanced, Laminated
Shroud
STARTING SYSTEM: Electric by key switch operation with safety interlocks on parking brake and
bladedrive.
TIRES: Front 11 X 4.00-5 ribbed tread.
Rear 16 X 6.50 X 8 Turf Trac R/S tread.
RECOMMENDED Front 16-21 PSI
TIRE PRESSURE: Rear 8-14 PSI
CAPACITIES: Fuel 2.0 gallons total.
Engine 1.25 quarts oil.
DIMENSIONS: Width 32.5" outside rear wheelmeasurement.
Height 32.0" to top edge of seat.
Length 65.5" hitch tab to front bumper.
Weight 440 lbs.
NOTE: Additional information provided in service instructions under the individual
component.
SPECIFICATIONS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.

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SPECIFICATIONS
Model ZTR 3014
CHASSIS: Twin 12 gauge side frames and 7 gauge transmission and engine base plate.
BODY: Allbodypartsaremadeofrotationalmoldedpolyethylene. Frontbodycontains
accesspanelforbatteryservice. Seat tiltsforwardtoallowtransmissionservice.
MOWER DECKS: 36" Deck: 11 GA Laser Cut Fabricated - 36" Cut Width
42" Deck: 13 GA Stamped Steel Construction - 42" Cut Width
Cut height approximately 1" to 4" via 7 position lift handle.
BLADE DRIVE: Electricclutch.
TRANSMISSION: Each rear wheel is independently driven by chain and sprockets through a
frictionmechanicaldrive.
ENGINE: 14.5 HP Briggs & Stratton OHV I/C Quiet, 4-Cycle, Single Cylinder, Air-
Cooled, Gasoline, Vertical Shaft, Cast Iron Cylinder, Synchro-Balanced,
LaminatedShroud.
STARTING SYSTEM: Electric by key switch operation with safety interlocks on parking brake and
bladedrive.
TIRES: Front 11 X 4.00 -5 ribbed tread.
Rear 18 X 8.50 X 8 Multi Trac tread.
RECOMMENDED Front 16-21 PSI
TIRE PRESSURE: Rear 8-10 PSI
CAPACITIES: Fuel 2.0gallons total.
Engine 1.25quartsoil.
DIMENSIONS: Width 43.0" outside rear wheelmeasurement.
Height 36.0" to top edge of seat.
Length 65.5" hitch tab to front bumper.
Weight 36" Deck: 500 lbs. 42" Deck: 520 lbs.
NOTE: Additional information provided in service instructions under the individual
component.
SPECIFICATIONS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.

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1. Raise and push seat assembly forward.
2. Loosen five nuts, P/N 3205, and slide seat forward or backward to desired
position.
3. Re-tighten nuts, P/N 3205. DO NOT operate mower without seat adjustments
properlytightened.
4. Push seat assembly back to closed position.
SEAT ADJUSTMENT
INSTRUCTIONS
Models ZTR 3303 - ZTR 3304 - ZTR 3014

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CONTROLS

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CONTROLS
The Dixon ZTR has a unique transaxle that requires only two drive levers to control
braking, turning, speed, and direction.
On initial operation, set throttle speed on slow. Operate with mower blade "OFF".
To avoid "over-controlling" the mower, use a light touch on the drive levers.
Slight movements using fingertip control is all that is necessary.
PARKING BRAKE:
Theparkingbrakeisdesignedtoholdthemowerfrommovingandis
not intended for use in stopping the mower while it is in motion.
CAUTION Engage parking brake before starting
engine.
TO SET PARKING BRAKE:
The hand operated parking brake is located on the right end of the
mower.
To engage brake, pull lever up (to the rear).
To release brake, move lever forward (down).
NOTE: Always set parking brake before dismounting.
Release parking brake before moving mower.
TRANSMISSION DRIVE SYSTEM:
Allows the mower to turn on its own axis
"Zero Turning Radius"
Each lever controls one side of the mower.
NOTE: The pressure required to operate the mower is very light.

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CONTROLS
TO GO FORWARD:
From neutral position, gently push both drive levers forward.
To increase speed, move levers farther forward.
TO GO BACKWARD:
From neutral position, gently pull both drive levers toward you.
TURNING: Turningis controlledbymoving one driveleverslightly forwardorrearwardof theother.
To turn left, move left lever rearward of the right lever.
To turn "square corners" move lever of desired direction to neutral.
To turn on mower's own axis (zero turning radius) stop and move one lever to reverse
position and the other to forward position.
BRAKING: Tobrakemower,movebothleversindirectionoppositeoftravel,releaseleverstoneutral,
set parking brake. Park only on level surfaces.
THROTTLE CONTROL LEVER:
Located on control panel to operators right.
Throttle control for engine speed.
Choke for engine starting.
ThrottleControlshouldbesettotheMAXIMUMorwideopensettingtoinsureadequate
cooling of the engine and to maintain mower deck blade speed while mowing.
(Left turn opposite)

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BLADE DRIVE: Models ZTR 3303 & 3304
Located to left of operator.
Toengagethemowerblade,turnleveronfloor
slowly to the "ON" position.
To disengage mower blade, turn lever to the
"OFF" position.
BLADE DRIVE: Model ZTR 3014
Located on control panel, on operator's right.
To engage the mower blades, pull up on the
switch.
To disengage blades, push down.
CIRCUITBREAKER:
Protection of the electrical system is by
(1)15 amp circuit breaker.
If circuit breaker trips, push button to reset.
If this condition repeats, consult dealer for
inspection and repair.
MOWER DECK CUT HEIGHT LIFT LEVER:
Located to left of operator.
Controls the cutting height.
Seven positions of adjustment.
Move lever in and forward to lower.
Move lever in and back to raise.
NOTE: Always use high for transport.
CONTROLS

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OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS
Safeand successfuloperationwilldepend upontheoperator having thecorrect knowledgeof all controls
used on the mower and making good judgements about the terrain to be mowed.
NEVER allowanyonetooperatethemowerwithoutcompleteknowledgeofallcontrolsandtheirfunctions.
During initial operation, "learning to drive", set throttle at slow speed.
Sound judgement by the operator will prevent accidents.
Drink/Cup Holder located on the left rear fender is for transport or carrying only!
Mower usage requires that both hands be free to control individual levers.
DO NOT ATTEMPT operation of mower with any type
of container or other object in either hand.
Towing
Towing a trailer or other attachment that is too heavy could damage the drive or cause the mower to
become unstable. Limit loads to 250 pounds or less on this mower.
BEFORE OPERATING MOWER:
1. Readengine manufacturer's operating andmaintenanceinstructions.
2. Discuss proper maintenance with your dealer.
3. Read and observe all safety instructions on your mower and in the manual.
4. Check engine oil.
5. Be sure gas cap is in place.
6. Be sure parking brake is on.
7. Be sure mower blade drive is off.
8. Know how to stop engine. (Turn key to off position)

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OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS
PARKING BRAKE SWITCH TEST: a) Place Parking Brake in OFF position
b) Turn ignition switch to START
Engine should not turn over or attempt to start.
BLADE DRIVESWITCH TEST: a) Place Parking Brake in ON position
b) Engage blade drive switch
c) Turn ignition switch to START
Engine should not turn over or attempt to start.
SEAT SWITCH TEST: a) In a SAFE AREA away from bystanders,
starttheengine
b) Engage blade drive switch
c) Raise slightly off seat
ENGINESHOULD STOP
IfAnySafetyCheck FAILS: DoNotOperateTheMower until
the system has been checked and repaired
byan Authorized Dixon ZTR Dealer
TESTING OF SAFETY INTERLOCK SYSTEMS: