Dixon ZTR 5000 Series User manual

1Page
5000 SERIES
ZTR®MOWERS
Operator's Manual
2001

Page 2
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
completelyfamiliarwiththecontrols.
The information in this operator's manual applies to all Dixon ZTR 5000 Series
Mowers. Your Dixon dealer will gladly answer any questions.
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
®®

3Page
INDEX
SAFETY ..................................................................Pages 4- 9
WARRANTYPOLICY............................................Page 10
SPECIFICATIONS .................................................Page 11-13
SEATADJUSTMENT ............................................Page 14
CONTROLS...........................................................Pages 15-18
OPERATIONINSTRUCTIONS ...........................Pages 19-25
CAREANDMAINTENANCE ...............................Pages 26-41
STANDARD SERVICE PARTS LIST.....................Page 42-43
TROUBLESHOOTING .........................................Pages 44-46
Part No. 13093-0600
5000 Series

Page 4
...read and understand this manual to prevent injuries.
TIP-OVER
BACK-OVER
RUN-OVER
BLADE CONTACT
SAFETY
RIDING LAWNMOWERS, IF IMPROPERLY OPERATED,
CAN CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH
The most common causes of injury to the operator or bystander...

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SAFETY
SAFETY SYMBOLS
Safety Alert Symbol
When you see this symbol,
BE ALERTto the potential for injury.
Follow recommended safety precautions and safe operating
practices.
Danger
indicatesanimminentlyhazardous situation which, if
not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
Warning
indicatesapotentiallyhazardoussituationwhich,if
not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
Caution
indicatesapotentiallyhazardoussituationwhich,if
not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.
It may also be used to alert against unsafe practices.

Page 6
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.
• Nevercarrypassengers.
• 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
removekeybeforedismounting.
• Turn off blades when not mowing.
• Stopengine beforeremovinggrass catcherorunclogging 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.
• Alwayswear safetygoggles orsafety glasseswith sideshields whenoperating 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
protectthemselvesandothersfromseriousinjury.
• Followthemanufacturer'srecommendationforwheelweightsorcounterweights.
•Maintain or replace safety & instruction labels, as necessary.
WARNING:The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the
StateofCaliforniatocausecancer,birthdefectsorotherreproductiveharm.
Thiscuttingmoweriscapableofamputatinghands&feet,
andthrowingobjects.
Failuretoobservethefollowingsafetyinstructionscouldresultin
seriousinjuryordeath.
SAFETY

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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. Tires maylosetraction onslopeseven though thebrakesare functioningproperly.
Useextracarewithgrasscatchersorotherattachments. Thesecanchangethestabilityofthemower.
Keepallmovementontheslopesslowandgradual. Donotmakesuddenchangesinspeedordirection.
Avoidstarting orstoppingonaslope. Iftireslosetraction,disengage theblades andproceedslowly
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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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.
12 VOLT UTILITY OUTLET
A utility outlet is provided for use with 12 volt DC attachments. It is located just ahead of the
instrumentpanel.
Output is limited to 5 amps.
We do not recommend the use of sound equipment (such as CD players with earphones) that
could interfere with the operators hearing. The operator may not hear impending hazards and
could be distracted from the safe operation of the mower.

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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.
Neverrefuelthemowerindoors.
Never store the mower or fuel container inside a building where there is an open flame,
If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing immediatley.
To prevent fire and explosion caused by static electricity:
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.
• Nevertamper withsafetydevices. Check theirproperoperation regularly.
• Keep mower free of grass, leaves, or other debris buildup. Clean up oil or fuel spillage. Allow mower to
coolbefore 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,whennecessary.
• Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and use extra caution when
servicingthem.
• 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.

Page 10
DIXONINDUSTRIES,INC.
aBLOUNTcompany
AIRPORTINDUSTRIALPARK
PO BOX 1569
COFFEYVILLEKS 67337 0945
316 251 2000
FAX [phone]
DIXON LIMITED WARRANTY POLICY - COMMERCIAL MODELS
Models 6000 & 7000
WARRANTY: Home Owner Application: This Dixon Warranty term is for a period of two (2) years from date of
purchase. Commercial Application: Dixon mowers used for commercial application are warranted for 1 year from
the date of purchase. Commercial use is specified as use other than, or in addition to, mowing at owner's primary
place of residence.
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. Battery warranty: Limited to 90 days from date of purchase.
4. Accessories Warranty (Grass Catchers, Snow Blades, Covers, etc.): Limited to 90 days from date of purchase.
5 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.
6. 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) Routine maintenance or adjustments.
(c) Belts/cutting blades/HydroGear filters.
(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.
7. 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.
Blue/Customer Yellow/Dealer White/Dixon Ind.
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 &send copy to Dixon Industries, Inc.
DATE OF PURCHASE MODEL S/N
Owner's Name Dealership
Address Address
Owner's Signature Dealer's Signature

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SPECIFICATIONS
Model ZTR 5020
CHASSIS: 11GA-rectangulartube
BODY: Twopiece-madeofrotationalmoldedpolyethylene. Front bodycontainsaccesspanelsfor
batteryserviceandenginetomowerdeckbeltremoval. Rearbodytiltsuptoallowserviceon
theentiredrivesystem.
SEAT: Designedforoperatorcomfortbyuseofhighdensityclosedcellfoampaddedbackrestand
armrests,upholsteredwithCorduraTM water-repellentfabric. Seatisadjustableforeandaft.
MOWERDECK: 2Decksareavailable. 60"ismadeofstampedsteel. 50"ismadeof 11GA fabricatedwelded
constructionwithexternalreinforcementribs. 3bladescombineforeithera50"or60"cut
width. Cutheight approximately1.5"to4.5"via7positionlifthandle.
BLADEDRIVE: Electricclutch
DRIVESYSTEM: EachrearwheelisindependentlydrivenbyaHydroGearBDU-10LSeries70hydrostatic
transmission. Thehydrostatictransmissions,inturn,powera fully enclosed HydroGear
gearbox.
ENGINE: 20HP Briggs & Stratton Intek, overhead valves, replaceable oil filter, full pressure lube
system,dualelementaircleaner,integralfuelpump.
STARTINGSYSTEM: Electric by key switch operation with safety interlocks on parking brake and blade drive
clutch.
TIRES: Front 11 X 4 X 5 Ribbed Tread
Rear 20 X 10 X 8 Multi Trac
RECOMMENDED Front 16 - 21 lbs.
TIREPRESSURE: Rear 8 - 14 lbs.
CAPACITIES: Fuel-4.8gallonstotal(dualtanks)
Hydrostatoiltank-3quartwithin-line40micronfilter
Hydrostatoilrecommendation,refertopage39
Engine-2qts.SAE30(withfilter)
DIMENSIONS: Width 60"(50"Deck),73"(60"Deck)
Height 45"
Length 72"
Weight 668lbs.(50"Deck),685lbs.(60"Deck)
NOTE: Additionalinformationprovidedinserviceinstructionsundertheindividualcomponent.
SPECIFICATIONS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE

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CHASSIS: 11 GA - rectangular tube
BODY: Two piece - made of high-density polyethylene. Front body contains access panels for
batteryserviceandenginetomowerdeckbeltremoval. Rearbodytiltsuptoallowserviceon
theentiredrivesystem.
SEAT: Designedforoperatorcomfortbyuseofhighdensityclosedcellfoampaddedbackandarm
rests,upholsteredwithCorduraTM water-repellentfabric. Seatisadjustableforeandaft.
MOWERDECK: 2Decksareavailable. 60"ismadeofstampedsteel. 50"ismadeof11GAfabricatedwelded
constructionwithexternalreinforcementribs. 3bladescombineforeithera50"or60"cut
width. Cutheightapproximately1.5"to4.5"via7positionlifthandle.
BLADEDRIVE: Electricclutch
DRIVESYSTEM: EachrearwheelisindependentlydrivenbyaHydroGearBDU-10LSeries70hydrostatic
transmission. Thehydrostatictransmissions,inturn,powera fully enclosed HydroGear
gearbox.
ENGINE: 23HPKohlerCommand,4-Cycle,V-Configuration,OverheadValve,Air-Cooled,Gasoline,
Vertical Shaft, Aluminum Head, and Crankcase with Cast Iron Liners, Full Pressure
Lubrication/FullFlowFilter,Pulse-typeFuelPump,FixedJetCarburetorw/Smart-Choke,
ElectronicIgnition,In-LineFuelFilter,DualElementAirCleaner.
STARTINGSYSTEM: Electric by key switch operation with safety interlocks on parking brake and blade drive
clutch.
TIRES: Front 11 X 4 X 5 Ribbed Tread
Rear 20 X 10 X 8 Multi Trac
RECOMMENDED Front 16 - 21 lbs.
TIREPRESSURE: Rear 8 - 14 lbs.
CAPACITIES: Fuel-4.8gallonstotal(dualtanks)
Hydrostatoiltank-3quartwithin-line40micronfilter
Hydrostatoilrecommendation,refertopage39
Engine-2 qts.SAE10W30(withfilter)
DIMENSIONS: Width 60"(50"Deck),72"(60"Deck)
Height 45"
Length 72"
Weight 680lbs.(50"Deck),685lbs.(60"Deck)
NOTE: Additional information provided in service instructions under the individual component.
SPECIFICATIONS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE
Model ZTR 5023
SPECIFICATIONS

13Page
SPECIFICATIONS
Model ZTR 5017Twin
CHASSIS: 11GA-rectangulartube
BODY: Twopiece-madeofrotationalmoldedpolyethylene. Front bodycontainsaccesspanelsfor
batteryserviceandenginetomowerdeckbeltremoval. Rearbodytiltsuptoallowserviceon
theentiredrivesystem.
SEAT: Designedforoperatorcomfortbyuseofhighdensityclosedcellfoampaddedbackrestand
armrests,upholsteredwithCorduraTM water-repellentfabric. Seatisadjustableforeandaft.
MOWERDECK: 2Decksareavailable. 42"isconstructedof13gastampedsteel.50"isafabricateddeck. 3
bladescombineforeithera42"or50"cutwidth. cutwidth. Cutheight approximately1.5"
to4.5"via7positionlifthandle.
BLADEDRIVE: Electricclutch
DRIVESYSTEM: EachrearwheelisindependentlydrivenbyaHydroGearBDU-10LSeries70hydrostatic
transmission. Thehydrostatictransmissions,inturn,powera fully enclosed HydroGear
gearbox.
ENGINE: 17HPBriggs&StrattonV-Twin,overheadvalves,replaceableoilfilter,fullpressurelube
system,dualelementaircleaner,integralfuelpump.
STARTINGSYSTEM: Electric by key switch operation with safety interlocks on parking brake and blade drive
clutch.
TIRES: Front 11 X 4 X 5 Ribbed Tread
Rear 18 X 9.5 X 8 Multi Trac
RECOMMENDED Front 16 - 21 lbs.
TIREPRESSURE: Rear 8 - 14 lbs.
CAPACITIES: Fuel-4.8gallonstotal(dualtanks)
Hydrostatoiltank-3quartwithin-line40micronfilter
Hydrostatoilrecommendation,refertopage39
Engine-2qts.SAE30(withfilter)
DIMENSIONS: Width 54"(42"Deck),60"(50"Deck)
Height 45"
Length 72"
Weight 615lbs(42"Deck),668(50"Deck)
NOTE: Additionalinformationprovidedinserviceinstructionsundertheindividualcomponent.
SPECIFICATIONS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE

Page 14
SEAT ADJUSTMENT
INSTRUCTIONS
5000 Series
1. Grasp seat slide adjuster and move it into adjustment position.
2. Slide seat forward or backward.
3. Release seat slide adjuster.
Seat Slide Adjuster

15Page
CONTROLS

Page 16
The parking brake is designed to hold the mower from moving and is
not intended for use in stopping the mower while it is in motion.
.
TO SET PARKING BRAKE:
The hand operated parking brake is located at left hand side
of 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.
HYDRO-GEAR 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.
CONTROLS
PARKING BRAKE:
CAUTIONEngage parking brake before starting engine

17Page
CONTROLS
TOGOFORWARD:
From neutral position, gently push both drive levers forward.
Toincreasespeed,moveleversfarther forward.
TOGOBACKWARD:
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.
Toturnonmower'sownaxis(zeroturningradius)stopandmoveonelevertoreversepositionand
the other to forward position.
BRAKING: Tobrakemower,movebothleversindirectionoppositeoftravel,releaseleverstoneutral,setparking
brake. Park only on level surfaces.
CHOKECONTROLLEVER:
Located on control panel to operator's right.
Used to start a cold engine.
THROTTLECONTROLLEVER:
Located on control panel to operator's right.
Controls engine speed, slow to maximum.
While mowing, 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.
(leftturn opposite)

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CONTROLS
BLADEDRIVE:
Located on control panel, on operator's right.
To engage blades: Pull up on the switch.
To disengage blades: Push down.
CIRCUITBREAKER:
Located on control panel, on operator's right.
Protection of the electrical system is by
(1)15ampcircuitbreaker.
If circuit breaker trips, push button to reset.
If this condition repeats, consult dealer for
inspectionandrepair.
MOWER DECK CUT HEIGHT LIFT LEVER:
Located to the right and front of operator.
Controlsthecuttingheight.
Seven positions of adjustment.
Depress trigger and move lever forward to
lower deck.
Depress trigger and pull lever back to raise
deck.
NOTE: Always use high position for transport.

19Page
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS
Safeandsuccessfuloperationwill dependupontheoperatorhaving thecorrect knowledgeof allcontrols
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 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 500 pounds or less on this mower.
BEFORE OPERATING MOWER:
1. Readengine manufacturer's operating and maintenanceinstructions.
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)

Page 20
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 DRIVE SWITCH 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, start the engine
b) Engage blade drive switch
c) Raise slightly off seat
ENGINE SHOULD STOP!
If Any Safety Check FAILS: Do Not Operate The Mower until
the system has been checked and repaired
by an Authorized Dixon ZTR Dealer!
TESTING OF SAFETY INTERLOCK SYSTEMS:
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS