Grasshopper SL98 Series Installation and operation manual

OPERATOR’S
MANUAL & PARTS LIST
THE GRASSHOPPER COMPANY
Moundridge, Kansas 67107 U.S.A.
Phone [phone]
Fax [phone]
Rev. 11-00
Form 172422
Printed in U.S.A.
SL98 MOWER DECK
MODELS 9852 and 9861

2
INTRODUCTION
Congratulations on your selection of Grasshop-
per equipment. We believe you have exercised
excellent judgment in the purchase of Grasshop-
per equipment. We are most appreciative of
your patronage.
We recommend that you carefully read this en-
tire manual before operating the unit. Time
spent becoming fully acquainted with its perfor-
mance features, adjustments and maintenance
will add a longer and more satisfactory life to
your Grasshopper.
The Grasshopper equipment you have pur-
chased has been carefully engineered and
manufactured to provide dependable and satis-
factory use. Like all mechanical products it will
require cleaning and upkeep. Lubricate it as
specified in the manual. Observe all safety in-
formation in this manual and all safety decals on
the tractor and attachments.
The illustrations and data used in this manual
were current at the time of printing, but due to
possible in-line production changes your ma-
chine may vary slightly in detail. The
manufacturer reserves the right to make changes
or add improvements to its products at any time
without incurring any obligation to make such
changes to products manufactured previously.
As with all lawn and grounds equipment, if
handled carelessly this machine is a dangerous
piece of equipment. If used incorrectly this
machine can cause severe injury. You, the op-
erator, are responsible when operating it.
Therefore, safety is of the utmost importance.
Copyright © 2000 by The Grasshopper Company. All rights reserved.
ATTENTION:
Read the instructions and warnings care-
fully before using this machine.
Read your Grasshopper warranty, en-
closed with the tractor manual. To
validate warranty, fill in the required in-
formation and return the warranty form
within 10 days of purchase to:
THE GRASSHOPPER CO.
P.O. Box 637
Moundridge, Kansas 67107
Use only genuine Grasshopper service parts.
Substitute parts will void the warranty and may
not meet standards required for safe and satis-
factory operation. Record the model and serial
number of your mower.
MODEL:
SERIAL NUMBER:
(Serial tag is located on the right back side of
the deck.)
Provide this information to your dealer to obtain
correct repair parts.

3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
SAFETY SYMBOLS 5
SAFETY DECALS 6
SAFETY INFORMATION
Training .................................................................................................................................... 7
Preparation ................................................................................................................................ 7
Operational Safety ................................................................................................................. 7-8
Maintenance Safety .................................................................................................................. 8
Storing Safely ........................................................................................................................... 8
GENERAL INFORMATION
General Information ................................................................................................................. 9
Measurement Conversion ....................................................................................................... 10
Bolt Size and Tightening Recommendations ......................................................................... 10
OPERATION
Mower Setup Instructions ....................................................................................................... 11
Converting Deck from Down Discharge Mulching to Side Discharge .................................. 11
Converting Deck from Side Discharge to Down Discharge Mulching .................................. 12
When Installing SL98 Series Mower on 600 Series Tractor .................................................. 12
When Installing SL98 Series Mower on 700 or 900 Series Tractor .................................. 12-13
Attaching Mower to Tractor .............................................................................................. 13-14
To Set Deck in Upright Position ............................................................................................ 15
Adjusting Slant of Deck .........................................................................................................15
Pre-Mowing Check List.......................................................................................................... 15
Blades ..................................................................................................................................... 15
Cutting Height Adjustment..................................................................................................... 15
Mowing Techniques ...............................................................................................................16
Mowing Tips - Down Discharge Mulching Option................................................................ 16
Mowing Tips - Side Discharge and Vacuum Attachment Option ..................................... 16-17
Uneven Terrain ....................................................................................................................... 17
Transporting Mower on Trailer .............................................................................................. 17
LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE
Lubrication.............................................................................................................................. 18
Deck Cleaning ........................................................................................................................ 18
Blade Inspection ..................................................................................................................... 18
Blade Sharpening.................................................................................................................... 19
Blade Removal ....................................................................................................................... 19
Blade Installation .................................................................................................................... 19
Belt Adjustment ...................................................................................................................... 19

4
(continued)
ADJUSTMENTS AND TROUBLE SHOOTING
Belt Replacement .................................................................................................................... 20
Gearbox Removal ................................................................................................................... 21
Blade Spindle Assembly Removal ......................................................................................... 21
Blade Spindle Repair .............................................................................................................. 21
PARTS LISTS AND ILLUSTRATIONS
Mower Assembly - Model 9852 ........................................................................................ 22-23
Mower Assembly - Model 9861 ........................................................................................ 24-25
Lift Arm Assembly ............................................................................................................ 26-27
Landing Gear Assembly ......................................................................................................... 28
Stabilizer Rod Assembly ........................................................................................................ 29
Traction Kit Adapter ............................................................................................................... 30
Wheel Lift Assembly .............................................................................................................. 31
Blade Spindle Assembly......................................................................................................... 32
Right Angle Gearbox .............................................................................................................. 33
Gearbox - 9861 ....................................................................................................................... 34
TABLE OF CONTENTS - (CONTINUED)

5
SAFETY SYMBOLS
This Safety Alert Symbol means ATTENTION!
BECOME ALERT! YOUR SAFETY IS IN-
VOLVED!
Throughout this manual, the term IMPORTANT
is used to indicate that failure to observe can cause
damage to equipment. The terms CAUTION,
WARNING and DANGER are used in conjunc-
tion with the Safety Alert Symbol [a triangle with
an exclamation mark] to indicate the degree of haz-
ard for items of personal safety.
CAUTION
WARNING
Is used for general reminders of good
safety practices or to direct attention
to unsafe practices.
Denotes a specific potential hazard.
Denotes the most serious specific
potential hazard.
DANGER

6
SAFETY DECALS
Replace Immediately If Damaged
Part No. 165565
Part No. 165142
Part No. 165133
Fig. 1
Part No. 165033
1 . R E A D O P E R A T O R ' S M A N U A L &
F O L L O W A L L S A F E T Y P R E C A U T I O N S .
2 . K E E P S H I E L D S & G U A R D S I N P L A C E .
K E E P C L E A R O F D R I V E S & B E L T S .
3 . K N O W H O W T O S T O P T R A C T O R &
E Q U I P M E N T Q U I C K L Y I N A N
E M E R G E N C Y .
4 . B L O C K U P M O W E R B E F O R E W O R K I N G
U N D E R N E A T H .
. D O N O T O P E R A T E M O W E R I N
V I C I N I T Y O F O T H E R P E R S O N S .
W A R N I N G
$##$#
6 . S T O P E N G I N E B E F O R E D I S M O U N T I N G .
R E M O V E K E Y B E F O R E D O I N G S E R V I C E
O R M A I N T E N A N C E W O R K .
7 . A L L O W N O C H I L D R E N O R U N Q U A L I F I E D
P E R S O N S T O R U N E Q U I P M E N T .
8 . C L E A R M O W I N G A R E A O F D E B R I S .
9 . B E C A R E F U L W H E N O P E R A T I N G O N
U N E V E N T E R R A I N . D E C R E A S E S P E E D
W H E N T U R N I N G .
1 0 . D O N O T O P E R A T E I N T R A N S P O R T
P O S I T I O N . N O R I D E R S .
S E R I O U S I N J U R Y C A N R E S U L T F R O M F A I L U R E T O F O L L O W .
W ARNING
1 6 5 1 4 2
D O N O T O P E R A T E T H I S M O W E R
W I T H O U T T H E D I S C H A R G E O P E N I N G
R E S T R I C T I O N P L A T E , D I S C H A R G E
S H I E L D O R T H E V A C U U M B L O W E R
A S S E M B L Y I N P L A C E .
W A R N I N G
S E C U R E D E C K T O T R A C T O R W I T H D E C K
S T A B I L I Z E R R O D W H E N E V E R T H E M O W E R
D E C K I S I N U P R I G H T P O S I T I O N .
R E F E R T O O P E R A T O R ' S M A N U A L .
1 6 0 3 3
K E E P A W A Y !
D A N G E R
$#!!
T O A V O I D S E R I O U S I N J U R Y O R
D E A T H F R O M T H R O W N O B J E C T S
O R B L A D E C O N T A C T ;
N E V E R O P E R A T E W I T H O U T D I S C H A R G E
C H U T E O R S I D E S H I E L D S I N P L A C E .
00035

7
WORK SAFELY - FOLLOW THESE RULES
CAUTION
accessory installation instructions).
Inspect area to be cut and remove stones,
branches and other debris that might be
thrown causing injury or damage.
Never permit any person, other than the op-
erator, to ride or board the tractor or
implements at any time.
Operate only in daylight or good artificial
light.
OPERATIONAL SAFETY
Read “Operation” section of this manual be-
fore attempting to operate this unit.
Fenders serve as shields. Do not operate
without them.
Keep bystanders away from equipment
while it is in operation.
Keep children and pets a safe distance away.
Never direct discharge toward anyone if dis-
charge shield is installed.
Start engine from operator’s seat after disen-
gaging tractor power takeoff and placing
steering levers into the neutral swing-out
position.
Keep hands and feet away from underneath
mower while engine is running. Stay clear of
all moving parts on tractor and attachments.
If your tractor is equipped with a ROPS
(Roll-Over Protective Structure), you must
wear your seat belt.
Protect against noise. Wear suitable hearing
protection devices to protect against objec-
tionable noise.
Never allow anyone behind tractor or in
front of implements when operating.
Do not operate in reverse unless absolutely
necessary and then only after careful obser-
vation of the entire area behind you.
If operator must dismount to make adjust-
ments the engine must not be running.
Do not move steering levers from forward to
reverse or reverse to forward position rap-
idly. The sudden change could cause loss of
control and/or damage to equipment.
Do not operate on steep slopes.
Do not stop, start or change directions sud-
denly on slopes.
The designed and tested safety of this
equipment depends on it being
operated within the limitations as
explained in this manual. Read
manual before operating.
TRAINING
Safety instructions are important! READ
THIS MANUAL AND ALL SAFETY
RULES.
Know your equipment’s controls and how to
stop tractor, engine and attachments quickly
in an emergency.
To avoid accident or injury, do not allow
anyone to operate this equipment without
proper instruction. Any person who operates
this equipment MUST be instructed in and
capable of the safe operation of the unit, its
attachments and all controls.
Do not allow children or unqualified indi-
viduals to operate equipment.
PREPARATION
Always wear relatively tight and belted
clothing to avoid entanglement in moving
parts. Wear sturdy, rough soled work shoes.
Never operate tractor or implements in bare
feet, sandals or sneakers.
Ensure attachments are properly mounted,
adjusted and in good operating condition.
Make sure driveline spring-activated lock-
ing collar slides freely and is seated firmly in
the tractor PTO groove.
Remove accumulated debris from attach-
ment and tractor to avoid fire hazard.
Ensure all safety shielding is in good condi-
tion and properly installed.
Ensure either the discharge opening restric-
tion plate, discharge shield or complete
vacuum attachment is installed.
Ensure all safety decals are installed and in
good condition.
Use correct counterweights when certain at-
tachments are installed (see specific

8
Use extreme care and maintain minimum
ground speed when traveling or operating on
a hillside, over rough ground, or when oper-
ating close to ditches and fences.
Reduce speed on slopes and sharp turns to
minimize tipping and avoid loss of control.
Be careful when changing directions on
slopes.
Stay alert for holes, rocks, roots and other
hidden hazards in the terrain. Keep away
from drop-offs.
Stop mower or other attachment and tractor
immediately upon striking an obstruction.
Turn engine off, inspect attachment and trac-
tor and repair damage before resuming
operation.
Disengage power to attachment, stop en-
gine, remove key and wait for all movement
to stop before dismounting, making adjust-
ments, removing grass catcher, or
unclogging any attachments.
Never transport attachments with PTO run-
ning.
Watch for traffic when operating near or
crossing roadways.
This unit is not equipped for highway use,
especially when safety lighting and marking
is required. It is not a recreational vehicle.
This unit is not equipped with a drawbar. Do
not pull loads.
Handle fuel carefully it is highly flammable.
Always use an approved container. Never
remove fuel cap or add fuel while engine is
running. Allow engine to cool two minutes
before refueling. Do not spill fuel on hot en-
gine parts.
Take all possible precautions when leaving
tractor unattended: disengage PTO, lower
attachment, place controls in neutral, set
parking brake, stop engine and remove key
from ignition.
Move very slowly when attachment is re-
moved. Never carry passengers.
MAINTENANCE SAFETY
Disconnect battery ground cable (-) before
performing maintenance or service if start-
ing engine could cause injury.
Never work under equipment without safety
blocks.
Keep engine free of grass, leaves, or excess
grease to reduce fire hazard and minimize
engine overheating.
Do not change engine governor settings.
Keep tractor and attachments in good oper-
ating condition and all safety devices in
place.
Periodically tighten all bolts, nuts and
screws. Check that all cotter pins are prop-
erly installed to ensure equipment is in a safe
condition.
STORING SAFELY
Never store equipment with gasoline in the
tank inside a building where fumes may
reach an open flame, spark or pilot light as
on a furnace, water heater, clothes dryer, or
other gas appliance. Allow engine to cool
before storing in an enclosure.
Always provide adequate ventilation when
running engine indoors. Exhaust gases con-
tain carbon monoxide, an odorless and
deadly poison.
Remove attachments from tractor. Remove
all accumulated debris from attachments and
tractor .
Sand areas where paint is chipped and re-
paint to prevent rust. Lubricate all locations
to prevent moisture damage during storage.

9
GENERAL INFORMATION
The purpose of this manual is to assist the operator
in maintaining and operating GRASSHOPPER
tractors. Read it carefully. It furnishes informa-
tion and instructions that will help you achieve
years of dependable performance.
These operating and maintenance instructions
have been compiled from extensive field experi-
ence and engineering data. Some information
may be general in nature due to unknown and
varying conditions. However, through experi-
ence and these instructions you should be able to
develop operating procedures suitable to your
particular situation.
The illustrations and data used in this manual were
current at the time of printing, but due to possible
in-line production changes your machine may vary
slightly in detail. GRASSHOPPER reserves the
right to redesign and change the machine as neces-
sary without notification.
Some illustrations in this manual show
the equipment with safety shields
removed to provide a better view. The
mower should never be operated with
any safety shielding removed.
WARNING
Throughout this manual, references are made to
right and left directions. These are determined
by standing at the rear of the equipment and fac-
ing the direction of forward travel.
Mower blade rotation is clockwise as viewed
from the top of mower.
Fig. 2
L E F T
F O R W A R D
R I G H T
00036

10
Bolt Head Markings
SAE Grade 2
(no dashes)
SAE Grade 5
(3 radial dashes)
SAE Grade 8
(6 radial dashes)
MEASUREMENT CONVERSION
Measurements expressed in this manual are
decimal values. Use the chart below if you are
unsure of a measurement to obtain the fractional
equivalent.
BOLT SIZE AND TIGHTENING
RECOMMENDATIONS
The chart below lists the correct tightening
torque for bolts used on Grasshopper equip-
ment. When bolts are to be tightened or replaced
refer to this chart to determine the grade of bolt
and proper torque (except when specific torque
values are assigned in the manual text).
D e c i m a l
C o n v e r s i o n T a b l e - I n c e s
D e c i m a l F r a c t i o n
0 . 0 6 2
0 . 1 2 5
0.187
0 . 2 5 0
0.312
0.375
0.437
0.500
1 / 1 6
1 / 8
3 / 1 6
1 / 4
5 / 1 6
3 / 8
7 / 1 6
1 / 2
0 . 5 6 2
0 . 6 2 5
0 . 6 8 7
0 . 7 5 0
0 . 8 1 2
0 . 8 7 5
0 . 9 3 7
1 . 0 0 0
9 / 1 6
5 / 8
1 1 / 1 6
3 / 4
1 3 / 1 6
7 / 8
1 5 / 1 6
1
F r a c t i o n
R e c o m m e n d e d T o r q u e i n F o o t P o u n d s
F r a c t i o nD e c i m a l S A E G r a d e 2 S A E G r a d e 5 S A E G r a d e 8
B o l t D i a m e t e r i n I n c e s
0.250
0.312
0.375
0.437
0.500
0.562
0.625
0.750
0.875
1.000
1 / 4
5 / 1 6
3 / 8
7 / 1 6
1 / 2
9 / 1 6
5 / 8
3 / 4
7 / 8
1
6
1 3
2 3
3 7
5 7
8 2
1 1 1
200
280
350
1 1
2 1
3 8
5 5
8 5
125
175
3 0 0
450
680
1 4
2 5
5 5
8 0
1 2 0
1 8 0
2 3 0
4 4 0
7 2 0
1035

11
MOWER SETUP INSTRUCTIONS
Refer to corresponding parts illustrations for
your mower in the parts section.
Install gauge wheels as shown, making sure
spacers are in correct location and tighten
axle bolt locknut.
Check the bearings by spinning each wheel
to make sure it turns freely. Loosen axle bolt
nut slightly if they do not.
If mower is equipped with heavy duty fork
housings the forks have two sets of wheel
mounting holes. To obtain the lower cutting
range, position the axle bolt in the upper
holes. Use lower holes for the higher cutting
range.
Install mount arm assemblies to lift arm.
Remove one retainer from .75" pin and re-
move pin from mount arm assembly while
keeping torsion spring in position. Place in
brackets on lift arm and reinstall pin and re-
tainer (refer to fig. 3).
OPERATION
WARNING
Fig. 4
Fig. 3
Install the discharge opening restriction plate
or the discharge shield to deck and secure.
Model SL9861 requires a 50 pound weight on
the rear of the tractor unless the tractor has an
optional grasscatcher or dual tail wheels. For
700 series tractors a weight mount kit (part num-
ber 503220) and weight (part number 503218)
may be purchased.
A rear weight must be installed on
tractor without grasscatcher or dual
tail wheel option when operated with a
Model SL9861 mower deck.
CONVERTING DECK FROM DOWN
DISCHARGE MULCHING TO SIDE
DISCHARGE
(refer to Fig. 4)
Remove the two belt shields from the top of
the mower deck.
Remove the discharge restriction plate from
the right side of the deck. Remove the hitch
pin from the clevis shaft, rotate the discharge
restriction plate away from the deck, and lift
it out of the pivot mount.
Remove the left and right front shrouds by
removing the two carriage bolts on each
shroud from underneath the deck.
There is only one part, the discharge shield,
that attaches to the mower deck converting it to
a side discharge mower.
Attach the discharge shield by sliding its
pivot shaft into the pivot mount.
Rotate the discharge shield to bring the clev-
is on the shield into contact with the clevis
shaft on the mower deck.
Secure shield in place with the .375 inch
hitch pin.
Install the two belt shields on top of the deck.
L i f t
A s s e m b l
y
00037
M o u n t A r m A s s e m b l y
T o r s i o n S p r i n g
R e t a i n e r
. 7 5 P i n
R i g t F r o n t
S r o u d
L e f t F r o n t
S r o u d
00039
D i s c a r g e
P i v o t
M o u n t
C l e v i s
S a f t
H i t c
P i n
R e s t r i c t i o n P l a t e
H i t c
P i n
D i s c a r g e
S i e l d
P i v o t
M o u n t C l e v i s
S a f t
00040
Rev. 09-00

12
Fig. 5
CONVERTING DECK FROM SIDE
DISCHARGE TO DOWN DISCHARGE
MULCHING
(refer to Fig. 4)
Clean the bottom side of the mower deck re-
moving all debris to ensure secure attachment
of the front shrouds when they are installed.
Remove the two belt shields from the top of
the mower deck.
Remove the hitch pin locking the discharge
shield in place.
Rotate the shield away from the clevis shaft
and lift it out of the pivot mount.
There are three parts that attach to the mower deck
converting it to down discharge mulching; a dis-
charge restriction plate and a right and a left front
shroud. The front lip of each shroud fits against the
inside of the mower deck’s front flange.
Attach the front shrouds to the bottom side
of the deck through holes in the deck and se-
cure each with two .312-18 x .75 carriage
bolts and nuts (bolts will be inserted into the
bottom of the deck and extend into the inside
of the deck).
Attach the discharge restriction plate sliding
its pivot shaft into the pivot mount.
Rotate the discharge restriction plate bringing
the clevis on the restriction plate into contact
with the clevis shaft on the mower deck.
Secure discharge restriction plate in place
with the .375 inch hitch pin.
Install the two belt shields on top of the deck.
WHEN INSTALLING SL98 SERIES
MOWER ON 600 SERIES TRACTOR
(refer to Fig. 5)
Remove the rocker arms (item 1) from the
rockers (item 2).
Remove the lift chain (item 3) from the
rocker arm.
Install lift straps (item 4) in the rocker secur-
ing with clevis pin (item 5) and cotter pin
(item 6).
Install lift chain (item 3) between lift straps
and secure with clevis pin (item 7) and cotter
pin.
Rev. 11-00
1
2
3
6
4
4
5
7
6
00092
1 . R o c k e r A r m 5 . C l e v i s P i n
2 . R o c k e r 6 . C o t t e r P i n
3 . L i f t C a i n - 5 l i n k s 7 . C l e v i s P i n
4 . L i f t S t r a p
WHEN INSTALLING SL98 SERIES
MOWER ON 700 OR 900 SERIES
TRACTOR
(refer to Fig. 6)
Locate and mount the right and left chain
guide brackets (item 6 and 7) to the lower
tractor frame as shown and secure each
bracket with two .375-16 x 1 whiz bolts
(item 1).
The bolts (item 4) securing the traction
springs to the rocker pivot arms should be
.375 x 1.375 carriage bolts. Older tractors
were equipped with a shorter clevis pins and
must be replaced.
Install the .25 inch spacer (item 2) on the car-
riage bolt.
Slide chain mount brackets (item 5) through
the slots in the chain guide brackets and se-
cure to .375 x 1.375 carriage bolt with lock
nut (item 3).
Mount the lift chains (item 8) to the mount
brackets and secure with cotter pins (item 9).

13
Fig. 6
Fig. 7
Rev. 11-00
1
1
2
2
3
3
5
5
7
6
8
9
98
00093
4
ATTACHING MOWER TO TRACTOR
(refer to Fig. 7)
Place the tractor and the mower on a level
surface with the deck stand (see illustration
page 28) in the down position.
Raise the deck arm mount clevises (item 3)
to their highest position using the deck lift
lever.
Pull out on the spring loaded deck mount
latch pins (item 1) and rotate 90° so that they
are in an open position.
Attach mower to tractor by placing the deck
arm mount clevises (item 3) over the attach-
ment mount bushings (item 2) bolted in the
attachment brackets. Optional flotation in-
serts (part no. 282576) can be installed in the
attachment bracket in place of attachment
mount bushings (item 2) to provide con-
trolled flotation from left to right. Refer to
your tractor manual illustration for addi-
tional information.
1
1
2
3
4
5
6
6
5
00094
1 . D e c k M o u n t L a t c P i n
2 . A t t a c m e n t M o u n t B u s i n g
3 . D e c k A r m M o u n t C l e v i s
4 . A t t a c m e n t B r a c k e t
5 . L i f t C a i n - 5 L i n k
6 . M o u n t i n
g
P i n
NOTE: Install bushings in the bracket holes
that measure closest to 8.25 inches from the
floor if the axle bolt is in the lower hole of the
front fork. If the axle bolt is in the upper hole
this measurement should be 7.50 inches. This
should allow the front of the deck to slant .125
inch lower than the rear (refer to Fig. 10).
Normally this is the bracket hole listed in the
chart below. This may vary due to tractor
tire size and model. The measurement should
be made while the unit is setting on a smooth
flat surface with the operator sitting on the
seat.

14
Fig. 9
00046
T r a c t i o n K i t
T o o l
L i n c
P i n
Mower mounting hole locations
Fig. 8
Rev. 11-00
Tractor Axle Bolt in Axle Bolt in
tire size lower hole upper hole
18" tires 4th hole* 3rd hole*
(600 series)
20" tires 3rd hole* 2nd hole*
(600 & 700
series)
21" tires 3rd hole* 2nd hole*
(700 series)
21" tires 2nd hole* Bottom hole
(700 & 900
G2series)
* from bottom hole
Rotate the deck mount latch pins 90° to a
closed position to lock the deck arm mount
clevises in place.
Raise the deck to the upright position (see
section "To Set Deck In Upright Position")
and attach the Lift Assist Spring (item 8, fig.
7) to the Spring Bracket (item 9). DO NOT
attempt to attach spring bracket with the
deck in the mowing (down) position.
Return deck to the mowing (down) position.
The spring will assist in lowering the deck.
Raise the deck stand to the up position.
Connect the PTO shaft ensuring the quick
disconnect is securely locked onto the
splined power shaft.
Attach the lift chains (item 5), from the trac-
tion kit, to the .375 x 2 clevis pins (item 6)
installed on deck. Use the traction kit tool to
extend the traction springs for easy installa-
tion. Refer to figure 9 and follow steps
below:
1. Position the notched end of the traction
kit tool over the hook on the chain guide
bracket.
2. Position tool so that the notched edges are
facing forward and the chain mount
bracket fits inside the notches.
3. Apply forward pressure on the upper end
of the traction kit tool. This will enable
you to extend traction springs to attach
lift chains to deck.
0 0 0 4 7 A
T r a c t i o n K i t
T o o l
H o o k
On 600 series tractor raise deck to upright
position to attach lift chain to mounting pin
(item 6, fig.7).
The pin (item 6) may need to be repositioned
to give proper traction kit chain alignment.
If this is necessary remove pushon retainer
and reverse pin position and reinstall re-
tainer.

15
Fig. 11
BLADES
Fig. 10
A
A + 1 / 8 "
00048
M E D I U M L I F T B L A D E
C O N T O U R B L A D E
H I G H L I F T N O T C H E D B L A D E
M e d i u m l i f t b l a d e s a r e r e c o m m e n d e d w i t h t h e
d i s c h a r g e r e s t r i c t i o n p l a t e a n d f r o n t s h r o u d s
i n s t a l l e d ( d o w n d i s c h a r g e m u l c h i n g o p t i o n ) .
T h e s e b l a d e s a r e r e c o m m e n d e d w h e n t h e
o p t i o n a l v a c u u m a t t a c h m e n t i s i n s t a l l e d .
C o n t o u r b l a d e s a r e d e s i g n e d f o r o p e r a t i o n w i t h
t h e s i d e d i s c h a r g e s h i e l d a n d m a y b e u s e d
w h e n t h e o p t i o n a l v a c u u m a t t a c h m e n t i s
H i g h l i f t n o t c h e d b l a d e s s h o u l d b e u s e d w h e n
t h e s i d e d i s c h a r g e s h i e l d h a s b e e n i n s t a l l e d .
T h e s e b l a d e s a r e r e c o m m e n d e d f o r m o w i n g
i n s t a l l e d .
t a l l a n d / o r l u s h a r e a s .
TO SET DECK IN UPRIGHT
POSITION
Disengage PTO, stop engine and remove
key.
Raise deck to its highest setting.
Lower the deck stand and secure in position.
Disconnect power shaft from tractor and
fold to secure into latch on rear of deck.
Lower deck setting until deck is supported
by deck stand.
Unlatch tilt lever latch arm (item 38, page
27) and fold deck lift lever forward level to
deck.
Unlatch both latches (item 40, page 27) on
lift arms to enable deck to be tilted up.
Lift up on the front of the deck and set on
end.
Rotate stabilizer rod (item 7, page 29),
which is mounted on deck's front channel,
and latch to clevis pin between left fender
and seat and secure with hair pin (item 8,
page 29).
ADJUSTING SLANT OF DECK
(refer to Fig. 10)
If it is not possible to obtain a 1/8 inch (3.18mm)
slant from rear to front of deck, use the holes that
give the nearest dimension to 1/8 inch
(3.18mm). It is important to have the rear of the
deck slightly higher than the front.
PRE-MOWING CHECK LIST
Check to ensure blades are sharp and secure;
the cutting edge should be positioned in the
direction of blade rotation (clockwise as
viewed from top of mower).
Check to ensure all safety shielding is prop-
erly installed and is in good condition.
Be certain either the discharge opening re-
striction plate, the discharge shield, or the
complete vacuum attachment is installed.
CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
Cutting height is changed by moving the lever
forward to lower the cut and backward to raise
the cut. There are upper and lower cutting
height ranges as indicated by the decal on the
height adjustment bracket. To obtain a lower
cutting range:
Lower the mower mounting position one
hole on the mounting bracket.
The two forks have two sets of wheel mount-
ing holes. Position the axle bolt in the upper
holes. Use lower holes for the higher cutting
range.

16
WARNING
DANGER
DANGER
MOWING TECHNIQUES
Proper ground speed for mowing will depend on
the height, type and density of grass to be cut.
Normally, ground speed will range from two to
five miles per hour. Tall dense grass should be
mowed at a low speed, while thin medium
height grass can be cut at a faster ground speed.
Always operate tractor engine at full governed
rpm when mowing. This is necessary to main-
tain proper blade speed to produce a clean cut.
MOWING TIPS - DOWN DISCHARGE
MULCHING OPTION
The Grasshopper Down Discharge Mulching
Mower is designed to discharge grass clippings
down into the grass. The minimum recom-
mended cutting height is 2.5 inches (6.35 cm).
Do not remove more than one-half of the grass
blade. If the grass is too tall, you may need to
cut the lawn twice to hide the clippings down in
the grass. Cut the grass higher on the first pass
and on the second pass cut at the desired height
and 90° to the first pass.
Allow time for suspended grass clippings to be
discharged before driving over paved areas such
as sidewalks and driveways. Stopping the
mower should be done while the mower is still
on the mowing surface.
Remember, sharp blades produce cleaner cuts
and use less power.
When mowing heavy grass, periodically stop
tractor, disengage PTO, and check for grass
around PTO shaft.
The Down Discharge Mulching Mower is not
recommended for lawns less than one growing
season old. The Grasshopper Side Discharge
Mower with vacuum attachment is recom-
mended to prevent buildup of mulch on young
grass plants.
Before mowing, analyze the area to determine
the best mowing procedure. Consider height,
type of grass and terrain type (rolling, level or
rough).
To avoid serious injury or death from
thrown objects or blade contact,
NEVER operate mower without
discharge restriction plate installed.
Do not put hands and feet under or
into mower when engine is running.
Walk area before mowing picking up
all rocks, twigs and other debris.
Enter new area carefully. Cut grass
higher the first time to allow mower to
clear unseen objects. Never assume
an area is clear, always check!
Clear mowing area of all people when
operating mower. Thrown objects
could injure bystanders.
MOWING TIPS - SIDE DISCHARGE
OR VACUUM ATTACHMENT
OPTION
Follow local recommendations for the suitable
cutting height in your area. Avoid mowing grass
too short to increase mowing interval. This may
stress the grass during hot weather and encour-
age weed growth during the growing season.
Mow with uncut grass to the left. This will dis-
tribute the clippings over the cut area.
Discharging clippings over the uncut area will
cause a grass buildup and may prevent uniform
cutting.
Remember, sharp blades produce cleaner cuts
and use less power.
Extremely tall grass should be mowed twice.
Cut grass higher on first pass. Cut the second
time at desired height and 90° to the first pass.

17
WARNING
WARNING
WARNING
WARNING
DANGER
When mowing heavy grass, stop tractor, disen-
gage PTO, turn off key and check for grass wrap
around PTO shaft every 30 minutes of opera-
tion.
Remove spark plugs wires or fuel
solenoid wire (diesel) to prevent
accidental engine starting before
attempting to remove grass wrap from
PTO.
Before mowing, analyze the area to determine
the best mowing procedure. Consider height,
type of grass and terrain type (rolling, level or
rough).
To avoid serious injury or death from
thrown objects of contact with blade,
NEVER operate mower without
discharge chute or vacuum
attachment installed.
Keep hands and feet away from
discharge opening.
Walk area before mowing picking up
all rocks, twigs and other debris.
Enter new areas carefully. Cut grass
higher the first time to allow mower to
clear unseen objects. Never assume
an area is clear, always check!
Clear mowing area of all people when
operating mower. Thrown objects
could injure bystanders.
UNEVEN TERRAIN
Be careful when operating tractor and
mower on uneven ground.
Slow down on sharp turns and slopes to prevent
tipping or loss of control.
Do not operate on steep slopes.
Operation on a steep slope could cause
loss of control, tractor to overturn and
personal injury or death.
TRANSPORTING MOWER ON
TRAILER
When transporting SL98 mower on a trailer in a
down position always lower mower to its lowest
position. This allows the weight of the mower to
rest directly on the front fork supports rather
than on a single tooth of the height adjustment
bracket. If mower is left in a higher position the
teeth on the height adjustment bracket could be
broken due to trailer movement and bouncing.
When transporting SL98 mower on a trailer in
an upright position always secure mower to trac-
tor with stabilizer rod.

18
DECK CLEANING
After each use remove grass buildup
from under the mower deck. Excessive
grass buildup will interfere with the
operation and performance of the
mower deck. Excessive grass buildup
may also cause component failure.
BLADE INSPECTION
Do not handle mower blades with bare
hands. Use heavy leather gloves or
wrap blade with protective material
and block securely when removing
blades. Careless or improper handling
may result in serious injury.
Inspect blades before each use to determine that
they are mounted securely and are in good condi-
tion. Replace any blade that is bent, excessively
nicked, worn, or has any other damage. Small
nicks can be ground out when sharpening.
LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE
CAUTION
WARNING
IMPORTANT
WARNING
Fig. 12
Always wear safety glasses and ear
protection when performing any
maintenance function that could
cause injury to eyes or ears.
Read all safety information on pages 5 through 8.
Shut off tractor engine, remove key
and wires to spark plug or fuel
solenoid (diesel) before performing
any maintenance.
LUBRICATION
(refer to Fig. 12)
Do not let excess grease collect on or around parts,
particularly when operating in sandy areas. The
chart gives the frequency of lubrication in operat-
ing hours based on normal operating conditions.
The accompanying illustration shows the lubrica-
tion points. Severe or unusual conditions may
require more frequent lubrication.
In addition to these lubrication points, lightly oil
all linkage pivot points.
Use an SAE multipurpose type grease for all lo-
cations shown. Be sure to clean fitting
thoroughly before using grease gun.
Lubricate Every Lubricate Every
8 Hours of Usage 40 Hours of Usage
Front Gage Wheel Mower Blade Spindles
(two fittings - item 2) (three fittings - item 1)
Power Shaft
(three fittings - item 3)
1
3
2
2
00043

19
BLADE SHARPENING
When sharpening blades be sure to
balance them. Unbalanced blades will
cause excessive vibration that can
damage blade spindle bearings.
Vibrations may also cause structural
cracks in mower housings.
Follow original sharpening pattern. Do not
sharpen back side of blade. Do not sharpen blade
to a razor edge, but leave approximately 1/64 inch
(.4 mm) blunt edge.
BLADE REMOVAL
(refer to Fig. 13)
Remove bolt (A) which has right hand threads.
Remove lock washer (B), flat washer (C), fiber
washer (D), blade and fiber washer (D).
BLADE INSTALLATION
Your dealer can supply Grasshopper
replacement blades. They are made of
special steel alloys and subjected to
rigid heat-treat and inspection
requirements. Substitute blades may
not meet these rigid specifications and
MAY BE DANGEROUS.
Reverse the removal procedure. Be sure fiber
washers are installed as shown.
When installing a blade, the lift of the
blade must be toward blade spindle
housing (refer to Fig. 13). Tighten bolt
(A, Fig. 13) into blade spindle housing
to 50-55 ft-lbs (7.0-7.6 kg/m).
BELT ADJUSTMENT
(refer to Fig. 14)
Stop engine and remove key. The belt tension is
set at the factory, but may need adjustment after
first hour of initial use. Periodically belt should
be checked for proper tension, following the
procedure below.
1. Loosen locknut and back-off as needed to
adjust spring.
2. Tighten draw nut until spring has expanded to
approximately 5.75 inches (14.6 cm) as
shown.
3. Tighten locknut.
IMPORTANT WARNING
IMPORTANT
Fig. 14
Fig. 13
B l a d e
S p i n d l e
H o u s i n g
D
D
C
B
A
L i f t o f B l a d e
00027
5 . 7 5 "
(
1 4 . 6 c m
)
0 0 0 5 3
L o c k N u t
D r a w N u t

20
ADJUSTMENTS AND TROUBLESHOOTING
WARNING
When completing a maintenance
function, make sure all shields are in
good condition and are installed
before placing unit back into use.
BELT REPLACEMENT
(refer to Fig. 15)
Major causes of belt failure are improper instal-
lation and tension. Before installing a new belt,
check spindle shafts and bearings for excessive
end play and wear by moving each spindle shaft
side to side and up and down. Be sure they turn
smoothly and freely. Make sure idlers are still
aligned with spindle sheaves. Check sheave
grooves for cleanliness and wear. If grooves re-
quire cleaning use a cloth moistened a with
nonflammable nontoxic degreasing agent or
commercial detergent and water.
Avoid excessive force during installation. Do
not use tools to pry belt on or roll belt over
sheaves. This can cause hidden damage and pre-
mature belt failure.
Fig. 15
S L 9 8 5 2 / S L 9 8 6 1 D e c k
00044
1. Loosen the lock nut and back-off the draw
nut until tension is released from the old belt
and it can be lifted off the deck sheaves.
2. Install the new belt following the illustration
for proper belt routing.
3. Reset the belt tension using the procedure in
the “Belt Adjustment” section on the previ-
ous page.