Dixon ZTR 3000 Series User manual

IMPORTANT READ CAREFULLY
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, and become completely familiar with the controls.
The information in this operator's manual applies to all Dixon
@
ZTR
@
3000 Series Model Mowers. Your
Dixon dealer will gladly provide a check-out ride, and answer any questions.
See your dealer for warranty service, parts and repairs. .
DIXON INDUSTRIES, INC
A BLOUNT COMPANY
AIRPORT INDUSTRIAL PARK
PO BOX 1569
COFFEYVILLE KS 67337 O945
316 251 200O
FAX [phone]

SAFETY........................................................
WARRANTY POLICY...................................
SPECIFICATIONS.......................................
SEAT ADJUSTMENT...................................
CONTROLS................................................
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS..................
CARE AND MAINTENANCE......................
STANDARD SERVICE PARTS LIST…….
TROUBLESHOOTING.................................
INDEX
Pages 1-6
Page 7
Pages 8-10
Page 11
Pages 12-15
Pages 16-21
Pages 22 -29
Page 30
Pages 31 -33
Part No. 8920
September 1996

ASAFETY
RIDING LAWNMOWERS, IF IMPROPERLY OPERATED, CAN
CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH
The most common causes of injury to the operator or bystander...
BLADE CONTACT
RUN
-
OVER
TIP
-
OVER
RUN
-
OVER
Page
1

SAFETY SYMBOLS:
SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL -
When you see this symbol,
BE ALERT to the 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
Page 2

SAFETY
This cutting mower is capable of amputating hands and feet, and throwing objects.
Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in
serious injury or death.
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.
Engine Exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State
of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.
Page 3

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.
Use slow speed.
Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments. These can change the stability of the
mower.
Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual. Do not make sudden changes in speed or
direction.
Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed
slowly down the slope.
DO NOT
Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.
Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. The mower could suddenly turn over if a
wheel 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.
Page 4

SAFETY
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.
• Keep children out of the mowing area and under the watchful care of another 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 mower
operation.
•Never allow children to operate the mower.
•Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may
obscure vision.
Page 5

SAFETY
SERVICE:
•Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They are flammable and vapors are
explosive.
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 run a mower inside a closed area.
•Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment bolts, tight 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. This statement applies to chain drive models 2301, 3000 & 4000
Series.
Page 6

DIXON PROTECTION PLUS TWO YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY POLICY
This warranty policy applies to all (30"), (36"), (42") mowers purchased on or after March 1, 1990.
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 w ith 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 warran
ties are excluded.
WARRANTY VALIDATION: At the time of sale, selling dealer must review each portion of this warranty document, complete the
information section below, secure customer's signature and send copy to Dixon Industries, Inc.
DM
-
S/N_
.Model
DATE OF PURCHASE
(Dealership)
(Owner's Name)
(Address)
(Address)
(Dealer's Signature)
(Owner's Signature)
Page
7

SPECIFICATIONS
Model ZTR 3303
CHASSIS: The monocoque design chassis of the 3000 Series Models incorporates CMC
Laser and CNC brake processes to form the twin 12 gauge side frames and 7
gauge transmission and engine base plate.
BODY: All body parts are made of rotational molded polyethylene. Front body contains
access panel for battery service. Seat tilts forward to allow transmission service.
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; hand lever engagement.
TRANSMISSION: Each rear wheel is independently driven by chain and sprockets through a friction
mechanical drive.
ENGINE: 10 HP Briggs & Stratton, 4-Cycle, Single Cylinder, Air-Cooled, Gasoline, Vertical
Shaft, Aluminum Head and Block.
STARTING SYSTEM: Electric by key switch operation with safety interlocks on parking brake and blade
drive.
TIRES: Front 410 X 3.50 X 4 ribbed tread.
Rear 16 X 6.50 X 8 Turf Trac R/S Tread.
CAPACITIES: Fuel -2.0 gallons total.
Engine: 1.25 quarts oil.
DIMENSIONS: Width 32.5" outside rear wheel measurement.
Height 32.0" to top edge of seat.
Length 65.5" hitch tab to front bumper.
Weight 430 lbs.
NOTE: Additionalinformationprovidedinserviceinstructionsunder theindividual
component.
SPECIFICATIONS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.
Page 8

SPECIFICATIONS
Model ZTR3304
CHASSIS: The monocoque design chassis of the 3000 Series Models incorporates CMC
Laser and CNC brake processes to form the twin 12 gauge side frames and 7
gauge transmission and engine base plate.
BODY: All body parts are made of rotational molded polyethylene. Front body contains
access panel for battery service. Seat tilts forward to allow transmission service.
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; hand lever engagement.
TRANSMISSION: Each rear wheel is independently driven by chain and sprockets through a friction
mechanical drive.
ENGINE: 13 HP Briggs & Stratton Diamond Plus, 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 blade
drive.
TIRES: Front 410X3.50 X 4 ribbed tread.
Rear 16 X 6.50 X 8 Turf Trac R/S Tread.
CAPACITIES: Fuel -2.0 gallons total.
Engine: 1.25 quarts oil.
DIMENSIONS: Width 32.5" outside rear wheel measurement.
Height 32.0" to top edge of seat.
Length 65.5" hitch tab to front bumper.
Weight 440 Ibs.
NOTE: Additional information provided in service instructions underthe individual
component.
SPECIFICATIONS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.
Page 9

SPECIFICATIONS
Model ZTR 3362
CHASSIS: The monocoque design chassis of the 3000 Series Models incorporates CNC
Laser and CNC brake processes to form the twin 12 gauge side frames and 7
gauge transmission and engine base plate.
BODY: All body parts are made of rotational molded polyethylene. Front body contains
access panel for battery service. Seat tilts forward to allowtransmission service.
MOWER DECK: 11 GA stamped steel construction.
36" Cut width. Cut height approximately 1" to 4" via 7 position lift
handle.
BLADE DRIVE: Electric clutch.
TRANSMISSION: Each rear wheel is independently driven by chain and sprockets through a friction
mechanical drive.
ENGINE: 13 HP Briggs & Stratton Diamond Plus, 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 blade
drive.
TIRES: Front 410 X 3.50 X 4 ribbed tread.
Rear 18 X 8.50 X 8 Multi Trac tread.
CAPACITIES: Fuel -2.0 gallons total.
Engine: 1.25 quarts oil.
DIMENSIONS: Width 43.0" outside rear wheel measurement.
Height 36.0" to top edge of seat.
Length 65.5" hitch tab to front bumper.
Weight 500 lbs.
NOTE: Additional information provided in service instructions underthe individual
component.
SPECIFICATIONS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.
Page 10

SEAT ADJUSTMENT INSTRUCTIONS
Models ZTR 3303 -ZTR 3304 -ZTR 3362
1. Raise and push seat assembly forward.
2. Model ZTR 3303 -loosen four seat bolts, P/N 3077, and slide seat forward or backward to
desired position.
Models ZTR 3304 & ZTR 3362 -Loosen five nuts, P/N 3205, and slide seat forward or
backward to desired position.
3. Re-tighten seat adjustment bolts, P/N 3077, or nuts, P/N 3205. DO NOT operate mower
without seat adjustments properly tightened.
4. Push seat assembly back to closed position.
Page 11

CONTROLS
Page12

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 and 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.
All controls are described from operators position:
PARKING BRAKE:
The parking brake used on the 3000 Series Models is designed to
hold the mower from moving and is not intended for use in stopping
the mower while it is in motion.
NOTE: Engine cannot be started unless the brake is applied.
Do not leave engine running for extended periods of time
without the parking brake engaged. Damage to the drive
system could result.
TO SET PARKING BRAKE:
The hand operated parking brake is located at right hand side of mower.
To engage brake, pull lever up and to the rear.
To release brake, move lever forward and 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.
A minimum of 1/2 hour should be spent simply driving the mower
without the blade drive engaged.
Page 13

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:
Turning is controlled by moving one drive lever slightly forward or rearward of the other.
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:
To brake mower, move both levers in direction opposite of travel, release levers to
neutral, set parking brake. Park only on level surfaces.
TWIN FUNCTION THROTTLE CONTROL LEVER:
Located on control panel to operators right.
Throttle control for engine speed.
Choking for engine starting.
Throttle Control should be set to the MAXIMUM or wide open setting to insure adequate
cooling of the engine and to maintain mower deck blade speed while mowing.
Page 14
CONTROLS:

CONTROLS:
BLADE DRIVE: Models ZTR 3303 -ZTR 3304
Located to left of operator.
To engage the mower blade, turn lever on floor
slowly to the "ON" position.
To disengage mower blade, turn lever to the
"OFF position.
BLADE DRIVE: Model ZTR 3362
Located on control panel, on operator's right.
To engage the mower blades, lift switch up
lightly and push forward.
To disengage blades, pull switch backward.
Switch is clearly marked "on and off".
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.
CIRCUIT BREAKER:
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.
Page 15

OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS
The safe and successful operation of the 3000 Series Models will depend upon the operator
having the correct knowledge of all controls used on the mower and making good judgements
about the terrain to be mowed.
NEVER allow anyone to operate the mower without complete knowledge of all controls and their
functions.
During initial operation, "learning to drive", set throttle at slow speed.
Sound judgement by the owner will prevent accidents.
BEFORE OPERATING MOWER:
1. Read engine manufacturer's operating and maintenance
instructions.
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. Check gas cap to be sure it is in place.
6. Be sure parking brake is on.
7. Mower blade drive is off.
8. Know how to stop engine. (Turn key to off position)
Page 16

OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS
PARKING BRAKE SWITCH TEST: With parking brake in the OFF position,
engine should not turn over or attempt to
start when the key switch is moved to
the start position.
BLADE DRIVE SWITCH TEST: (Electric Clutch or Manual Drive)
a. With either electric blade drive switch
turned on, or manual lever turned forward,
parking brake in On position, engine
should not turn over or attempt to start
when key switch is moved to the start
position.
b. In a SAFE AREA away from bystanders,
start the engine, place throttle setting at
maximum or full. Engage the blade drive
either through the electric clutch switch or
by turning the manual lever forward.
Raise weight slightly off of seat. Engine
shouldstop.
c. If any Safety Check fails, do not operate
the mower until the system has been
checked and repaired by an Authorized
Dixon ZTR Dealer.
Page 17
TESTING OF SAFETY INTERLOCK SYSTEMS: