Dixon ZTR 8000 Series User manual

8000 SERIES
ZTR® MOWERS
Operator's Manual

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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
familiarwiththecontrols.
The information in this operator's manual applies to all Dixon®ZTR®8000 Series
Commercial Mowers. Your Dixon dealer will gladly answer any questions.
See your dealer for warranty service, parts and repairs.
DIXONINDUSTRIES,INC.
ABLOUNTInternationalInc.Co.
PO BOX 1569
COFFEYVILLEKS 67337 0945
3162512000

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INDEX
8000 Series
Part No. 13092-0700
SAFETY ............................................Pages 4-9
WARRANTY POLICY..........................Page 10
SPECIFICATIONS .............................Page 11
SEAT ADJUSTMENT...........................Page 12
CONTROLS .......................................Pages 13-16
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS ............Pages 17-22
CARE AND MAINTENANCE ................Pages 23-33
STANDARD SERVICE PARTS LIST .....Page 34
TROUBLESHOOTING.........................Pages 35-36

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

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SAFETY
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.

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SAFETY
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
whilebacking.
• 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 safety 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.
•Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as necessary.

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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. Tiresmaylose traction on slopes eventhoughthebrakesarefunctioningproperly.
Useextracarewithgrasscatchersorotherattachments. Thesecanchangethestabilityofthemower.
Keepallmovementontheslopesslowandgradual. Donotmakesuddenchangesinspeedordirection.
Avoidstartingorstoppingona slope. Iftireslosetraction, disengagethebladesand proceedslowly
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.
SAFETY

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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 watch-
ful 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.
CHILDREN:
SAFETY

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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.
Never refuel the mower indoors.
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.
• 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 equip-
ment parts, when necessary.

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DIXON INDUSTRIES, INC.
a BLOUNT company
AIRPORT INDUSTRIAL PARK
PO BOX 1569
COFFEYVILLE KS 67337 0945
316 251 2000
FAX [phone]
DIXON LIMITED WARRANTY POLICY - COMMERCIAL MODELS
8000Series
WARRANTY: Home Owner Application: This Dixon Warranty term is for a period of three (3) years from date of
purchase. Commercial Application: Dixon mowers used for commercial application are warranted for one (1) year
from the date of purchase or 750 hours whichever comes first. 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 go here
CHASSIS: 11GA-rectangulartube
BODY: Folded sheet metal.
SEAT: Designedforoperatorcomfortwithpaddedbackandarmrests. Seatisadjustable
fore and aft.
MOWER DECK: 2 Decks are available. Both decks are made of 10 GA fabricated welded
constructionwith7-"GAreinforcementplate. 3bladescombineforeithera60"
or72"cutwidth. Cutheightapproximately1.5"to6"via11positionlifthandle.
BLADE DRIVE: Electricclutch
DRIVE SYSTEM: EachrearwheelisindependentlydrivenbyaHydroGearBDApumpandWhite
CE wheel motor.
ENGINE: 25HP Kohler Command, 4-Cycle, V-Configuration, Overhead Valve, Air-
Cooled,Gasoline,VerticalShaft,AluminumHead,andCrankcasewithCastIron
Liners,FullPressureLubrication/FullFlowFilter,Pulse-typeFuelPump,Fixed
Jet Carburetor w/Smart-Choke, Electronic Ignition, In-Line Fuel Filter, Dual
ElementAirCleaner.
STARTING SYSTEM: Electricbykeyswitchoperationwithsafetyinterlocksonparkingbrakeandblade
driveclutch.
TIRES: Front 13-6.5x6
Rear 23-10.5x12
RECOMMENDED Front 12 lbs.
TIRE PRESSURE: Rear 12 lbs.
CAPACITIES: Fuel - 11.5 gallons (approx)
Hydrostat oil tank - 4 quart with in-line 40 micron filter
Hydrostat oil recommendation, refer to page 36
Engine - 2 qts. SAE 10W30 (with filter)
DIMENSIONS: Width 73.5"(60" Deck), 85.5"(72" Deck)
Height 54"
Length 87"
Weight 1020 lbs.(60" Deck), 1054 lbs.(72" Deck)
NOTE: Additional information provided in service instructions under the individual
component.
SPECIFICATIONS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE
SPECIFICATIONS
8000Series

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SEAT ADJUSTMENT INSTRUCTIONS
8000 Series Models
FORE&AFTADJUSTMENT
1. Grasp seat slide adjuster and move it into adjustment position.
2. Slide seat forward or backward.
3. Release seat slide adjuster.
SEATBACKADJUSTMENT
1. Rotate knob clockwise to recline.
2. Rotateknobcounter-clockwisetoraise.

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CONTROLS
SHOW HOW TO REMOVE BOOT & RAISE
AND LOWER & ROTATE CONTROL
HANDLES
ADD INFO ON HEADLIGHT POSITION ON
START SWITCH

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CONTROLS
PARKING BRAKE:
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 upward.
To release brake, move lever downward.
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.
CAUTION Engage parking brake beforestartingengine

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CONTROLS
SHOW HOW TO REMOVE BOOT & RAISE
AND LOWER AND ROTTTE CONTROL
HANDLES.
ADD

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BLADE DRIVE:
Located on control panel, on operator's right.
To engage blades: Pull up on the switch.
To disengage blades: Push down.
MOWER DECK CUT HEIGHT LIFT LEVER:
Located to the right and front of operator.
Controlsthecuttingheight.
Elevenpositionsofadjustment.
NOTE: Always use high position for transport.
CONTROLS

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OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS
ThesafeandsuccessfuloperationoftheModelZTR8000Serieswilldependupontheoperator
havingthe correct knowledgeof allcontrols usedon themower andmaking goodjudgements
about the terrain to be mowed.
NEVER allowanyonetooperatethemowerwithoutcompleteknowledgeofallcontrolsandtheir
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)

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OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS
TESTING OF SAFETY INTERLOCK SYSTEMS:
Do not operate mower if safety switches are not operating properly.
YourZeroTurningRadiusMowerisequippedwith switches interlockedforyoursafety.
1. The mower blades must be disengaged before the engine will start.
2. The steering control levers must be in neutral "OUT" position before the
enginewillstart.
3. The engine will stop if the mower blade clutch is engaged when the
operator leaves the driver's seat.
4. The engine will stop if the brake is "SET" and the steering control levers
are moved to the "IN" position.
BLADE DRIVESWITCH TEST: (Electric Clutch)
a. Withtheelectric blade drive switchturnedon and
theparkingbrake in"ON"position, engineshould
not turn over or attempt to start when key switch is
moved to the start position.
b. In a SAFE AREAawayfrombystanders, start the
engine,placethrottle setting at maximumorfull.
Engage the blade drive through the electric clutch
switch. Raise weight slightly off of seat. Engine
should stop.
c. If any Safety Check fails, do not operate the mower
until the system has been checked and repaired by
anAuthorizedDixon ZTR Dealer.

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OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS
STARTINGINSTRUCTIONS: ColdEngine
1. Push throttle control lever to 1/2 setting.
2. Push choke control lever forward.
3. Insert ignition key and turn to "Start" position. When engine starts, release ignition
key. Key will return to "Run" position.
4. Once engine starts to warm up, slowly push choke control lever back to the fully
open position.
5. Move throttle control lever to the wide open or maximum setting for actual opera-
tion of the mower deck.
6. Engine must be operated at wide open or maximum setting to insure adequate
lubrication, cooling and cut quality of the mower deck.
NOTE: Model ZTR 8025 will
require a slightly longer
warm up period using
partial choke settings.

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OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS
STARTING INSTRUCTIONS: Engine has been operated.
1. Move throttle control lever to 1/4 to 1/2 setting.
2. Insert ignition key and turn to "Start" position. When engine
starts, release ignition key. Key will return to "Run" position.
3. Move throttle control lever to wide open or maximum setting for
actual operation of the mower deck.
NOTE: Model ZTR 8000 Series may require partial choke setting
to start even if the engine has been operated for a
period of time.
4. Engine must be operated at wide open or maximum setting to
insure adequate lubrication, cooling and cut quality of the
mower deck.
DO NOT operate the engine in an enclosed area
due to the harmful exhaust gas produced.
NOTE: On initial operation, set throttle at slow speed.
Engine cannot be restarted when blade is engaged.
Safety switches stop engine when operator leaves seat
while mower blade is engaged.
Always turn engine off when leaving mower.
CAUTION