Gravely Pro-Walk 36 User manual

Operator’s Manual
Manuel de I’utilisateur
Pro-Walk
09176300A •5/20
Printed in USA
Models
988184 – Pro-Walk 36
(SN 000101 +)
988185 – Pro-Walk 48
(SN 000101 +)
988186 – Pro-Walk 52
(SN 000101 +)
988187 – Pro-Walk 60
(SN 000101 +)
™
E10
ENGLISH
FRANÇAIS

WELCOME . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Register Your Product!. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
SAFETY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Practices & Laws . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Emission Control System. . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Required Operator Training . . . . . . . . . . 2
Safety Alert Symbol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Signal Words . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Safety Rules. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
ASSEMBLY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
CONTROLS & FEATURES. . . . . . . . . . 12
Ignition Key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Choke Control Knob. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Engine Throttle Control Lever . . . . . . . . 13
Power Take-off (PTO) Switch . . . . . . . . 13
Operator Presence Lever. . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Neutral Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Drive Control Handles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Forward
Ground Speed Control Lever . . . . . . . . 14
Deck Lift Lever. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Height-of-Cut Adjustment System . . . . . 15
Parking Brake Lever . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Hour Meter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Transaxle Bypass Levers. . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Anti-scalp Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Safety Interlock System . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
BEFORE OPERATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Test Safety Interlock System . . . . . . . . . 16
Set Cutting Height . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
OPERATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Emergency Stopping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Start The Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Operate Unit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Stop the Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Move Unit Manually . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Transport Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
MAINTENANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Service Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Maintenance Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Service Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Check Safety Interlock System . . . . . . . 20
Check Hydraulic System . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Check Tire Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Check Mower Blades. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Check Parking Brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Clean Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Charge Battery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Check Fasteners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Lubricate Unit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Lubricate Caster Hubs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Lubricate Caster Wheel Bearings . . . . . 25
SERVICE & ADJUSTMENTS . . . . . . . . 25
Electrical Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Adjust Unit to Drive Straight. . . . . . . . . . 26
Adjust Drive Control Handles. . . . . . . . . 26
Adjust Parking Brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Replace PTO Belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Replace Transaxle Drive Belt . . . . . . . . 29
Adjust Anti-Scalp Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Remove / Install Mower Deck . . . . . . . . 31
Level and Pitch Mower Deck . . . . . . . . . 33
Level and Pitch Mower Deck . . . . . . . . . 33
Adjust Deck Lift . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Adjust clutch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
TROUBLESHOOTING . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
STORAGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Short-Term Storage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Long-Term Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Start-of-Season Preparation . . . . . . . . . 39
ACCESSORIES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
SPECIFICATIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
WARRANTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
TABLE OF CONTENTS

EN - 1
© 2020 • AriensCo • Brillion, WI 54110
WELCOME
Congratulations on your purchase and welcome to the Gravely family! Every machine in the
Gravely lineup is designed for long-lasting and unsurpassed performance. We are confident
your machine will be part of your family for many years to come.
Have Questions or Need Assistance?
www.gravely.com
A parts manual for your unit is available for free download
or purchase at www.gravely.com.
Manual del operador español está disponible para su descarga gratuita o
compra en www.gravely.com.
REGISTER YOUR PRODUCT!
It is extremely important to register your
product at time of purchase. Product
registration activates the warranty and
establishes a communication link from
AriensCo.
Locate the model and serial number decal on
your unit and register those numbers online at
www.gravely.com. See Figure 1 for decal
location. Be aware that the original selling
dealer may have already completed product
registration on behalf of the original
purchaser.
Record model number here.
Record serial number here.
Model & Serial Number Decal
Figure 1
MANUALS
Before operating or servicing the unit, carefully
and completely read the manuals provided with
the unit. They contain safety instructions and
important information about unit controls.
The engine on this unit is covered by a
separate manual. Refer to the engine manual
for engine service recommendations. Contact
the engine manufacturer for a replacement
manual if necessary.
Your dealer must review important information
in this manual with you before or upon delivery
of the unit. It is your responsibility to read and
understand all safety precautions and
instructions in the manuals. If you do not
understand or have difficulty following the
instructions, contact your Gravely dealer for
assistance. To locate your nearest Gravely
dealer, go to www.gravely.com.
DISCLAIMER
Gravely reserves the right to discontinue, make
changes to, and add improvements upon its
products at any time without public notice or
obligation. The descriptions and specifications
contained in this manual were in effect at
printing. Equipment described in this manual
may be optional. Some illustrations may not be
applicable to your unit.

EN - 2
Read these safety rules and follow them
closely. Failure to follow these rules could
lead to loss of control of unit, severe personal
injury or death to you or bystanders, or result
in damage to property or the unit.
PRACTICES & LAWS
Practice usual and customary safe working
precautions. Learn applicable rules and laws
in your area. ALWAYS follow the practices set
forth in this manual.
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM
This equipment and/or its engine may include
exhaust and evaporative emissions control
system components required to meet U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
and/or California Air Resources Board
(CARB) regulations. Tampering with emission
controls and components by unauthorized
personnel may result in severe fines or
penalties. Emission controls and components
can only be adjusted by an Gravely dealer or
an authorized engine manufacturer's service
center. Contact your Gravely Equipment
Retailer concerning emission controls and
component questions.
REQUIRED OPERATOR
TRAINING
Read and understand the
Operator's Manual and decals
on the unit. This information is
for your safety and the proper
use of your equipment.
Failure to follow these
instructions and warnings may cause death
or serious injury. If you have purchased this
product from an Gravely dealer, the dealer
can provide you with training.
Familiarize yourself and any other operators
with all controls and the safe use of the
features of this unit. If you loan, rent or sell
this product to others, provide them with all
manuals.
If you have any questions, please call our
customer support line at 920-756-4688 or
contact us at www.gravely.com. Do not use
this equipment if, after reading the Operator's
Manual and the on-board decals, you have
any questions about the safe use of this
product.
SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL
SIGNAL WORDS
The safety alert symbol above and signal
words below are used on decals and in this
manual. Read and understand all safety
messages.
1. Danger
2. Warning
3. Caution
SAFETY WARNING: AVOID INJURY.
This cutting machine is capable
of amputating body parts and
throwing objects. Failure to
observe the safety instructions in
the manuals and on decals
could result in serious injury or
death.
ALWAYS disengage blades,
stop unit and engine, remove
key, set parking brake and allow
moving parts to stop before
leaving operator’s position.
This is the safety alert symbol. It
means:
• ATTENTION!
• YOUR SAFETY IS
INVOLVED!
When you see this symbol:
• BECOME ALERT!
• OBEY THE MESSAGE!
WARNING: Indicates an
IMMINENTLY HAZARDOUS
SITUATION! If not avoided,
WILL RESULT in death or
serious injury.
WARNING: Indicates a
POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS
SITUATION! If not avoided,
COULD RESULT in death or
serious injury.
WARNING: Indicates a
POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS
SITUATION! If not avoided, MAY
RESULT in minor or moderate
injury. It may also be used to
alert against unsafe practices.

EN - 3
4. Notice
NOTICE: Indicates information or procedures
that are considered important but not hazard
related. If not followed, property damage
could result.
5. Important
IMPORTANT: Indicates general reference
information worthy of special attention.
Safety Decals Locations
ALWAYS replace missing or damaged Safety
Decals. See Figure 2 for safety decal
locations.
07801036
<20°
P
07801035
07808200
A
A
Figure 2
12
3
6
7
56
4
4
1. DANGER!
DANGER!
Read Operator’s Manual.
Keep children and others
away from unit while unit is
in operation.
NEVER direct discharge
toward people, pets or
property. Thrown objects can
cause injury or damage.
2. DANGER!
Avoid tipping hazard.
DO NOT operate on slopes.
Stop engine, engage parking
brake and remove key
before servicing unit.
<20°

EN - 4
3. WARNING!
Overfilling may cause
severe damage to
evaporative system.
NEVER fill fuel tank when
engine is running, hot, or
unit is indoors.
Reinstall fuel cap securely
and clean up spilled fuel.
No smoking.
Fill fuel tank to bottom of
filler neck – MAXIMUM.
4. HOT SURFACES!
DO NOT touch parts which
are hot from operation.
ALWAYS allow parts to cool.
5. DANGER!
Discharge Hazard – NEVER
operate unit without
discharge chute in operating
position. Thrown objects can
cause injury or damage.
DO NOT operate mower
unless all guards are in
operating position or bagger
is attached.
MAX. FILL
6. DANGER!
Discharge Hazard – NEVER
direct discharge toward
people, pets or property.
Thrown objects can cause
injury or damage.
Amputation Hazard –
NEVER stick hands or feet
under deck or shielded
areas.
Stop engine, remove key,
and read manual before
servicing or making
adjustments to unit.
Keep children and others
away from unit while unit is
in operation.
Keep hands and feet away
from all rotating or moving
parts.
DO NOT step or stand in
this area.
7. DANGER!
Keep hands and feet away
from all rotating or moving
parts.

EN - 5
SAFETY RULES
The following safety instructions are based
on the B71.4 specifications of the American
National Standards Institute and ISO 5395 in
effect at the time of production.
Training
Read, understand, and follow all instructions
on the machine and in the manuals before
starting.
Become familiar with the safe operation of
the equipment, operator controls, and safety
signs.
Be sure the area is clear of bystanders and
pets before operating. Stop machine if
anyone enters the area.
Improper use of power equipment can cause
serious permanent injury or death to the
operator or a bystander.
Understand:
• How to operate all controls
• The functions of all controls
• How to STOP in an Emergency
• Braking and steering characteristics
• Turning radius and clearances
Read the Operator’s Manual and other
training material. If the operator(s) or
mechanic(s) cannot read English, it is the
owner’s responsibility to explain this material
to them.
All operators and mechanics should be
trained. The owner is responsible for training
the users.
NEVER let children or untrained people
operate or service the equipment. Local
regulations may restrict the age of the
operator.
The owner/user can prevent and is
responsible for accidents or injuries
occurring to themselves, other people or
property.
Operator Age
DO NOT allow children under the age of 18
to operate or service any outdoor power
equipment.
Local regulations may restrict the age of the
operator.
Data indicates operators age 60 years and
above are involved in a large percentage of
mower-related injuries.
These operators should evaluate their ability
to operate the mower safely enough to
protect themselves and others from serious
injury.
Children
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is
not alert to the presence of children.
Children are often attracted to the machine
and the mowing activity. NEVER assume
that children will remain where you last saw
them.
Be alert and turn machine off if a child enters
the area.
Before and while backing, look behind and
down for small children.
NEVER carry children, even with the
blade(s) shut off. Children may fall off and
be seriously injured or interfere with safe
machine operation. Children who have been
given rides in the past may suddenly appear
in the mowing area for another ride and be
run over or backed over by the machine.
NEVER allow children to operate or service
the machine.
Use extreme care when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that
may block your view of a child.
Keep children out of the mowing area and in
the watchful care of a responsible adult
other than the operator.
Personal Protection
ALWAYS wear appropriate clothing including
hard hat, protective gloves, safety glasses
and hearing protection. Long hair, loose
clothing or jewelry may get tangled in
moving parts.
DO NOT wear loose clothing or jewelry and
tie back hair during operation.
Wear proper footwear to improve footing on
slippery surfaces. NEVER wear open
sandals or canvas shoes during operation.

EN - 6
Before Operating
Evaluate the terrain to determine what
accessories and attachments are needed to
properly and safely perform the job. Only
use accessories and attachments approved
by the manufacturer.
Inspect the area where the equipment is to
be used and remove all objects such as
rocks, toys and wire which can be thrown by
the machine.
Keep all nuts and bolts tight to be sure the
equipment is in safe working condition.
Maintain the machine to be in compliance
with the maintenance schedule.
Clean grass and debris from unit, especially
from around muffler and engine, to help
prevent fires.
Check parking brake operation frequently.
Adjust and service as required.
Inspect unit before each use for missing or
damaged decals and shields, correctly
operating safety interlock system, and
deterioration of grass catchers. Replace or
repair as needed.
Check that operator’s presence controls,
safety switches and shields are attached
and functioning properly. DO NOT operate
unless they are functioning properly.
Ensure safety interlock system is functioning
properly. DO NOT operate unit if safety
interlock is damaged or disabled.
Be sure all drives are in neutral, parking
brake is engaged and PTO is disengaged
before starting engine. Only start engine
from the operator’s position.
Operate unit only when standing in operator
zone.
Be sure the area is clear of bystanders and
pets before operating.
NEVER tamper with safety devices. Check
their proper operation regularly.
Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other
debris build-up. Clean up oil or fuel spillage
and remove any fuel-soaked debris.
Operation
NEVER operate machine in a closed or
poorly ventilated area. NEVER run an
engine in an enclosed area.
ALWAYS maintain unit in safe operating
condition. Damaged or worn out muffler can
cause fire or explosion.
This product is equipped with an internal
combustion-type engine. DO NOT use unit
on or near any unimproved, forest-covered
or brush-covered land unless exhaust
system is equipped with a spark arrester
meeting applicable local, state or federal
laws. A spark arrester, if it is used, must be
maintained in effective working order by
operator.
DO NOT operate machine while feeling
tired, ill or under the influence of alcohol or
other drugs.
DO NOT change the engine governor
setting or overspeed the engine.
Keep hands and feet away from the cutting
units. Do not put hands or feet near rotating
parts or under the machine. Keep clear of
the discharge opening at all times.
DO NOT touch parts which are hot. Allow
parts to cool.
NEVER operate with the discharge deflector
raised, removed or altered, unless using a
grass catcher. Make sure other safety
devices are in place and working.
ALWAYS keep hands and feet away from all
pinch points.
Avoid slippery surfaces. Be sure of your
footing while using pedestrian-controlled
equipment, especially when operating in
reverse. Walk, don’t run. Use extreme
caution if operating on wet grass; reduced
footing could cause slipping.
NEVER carry passengers and keep pets
and bystanders away. Stop machine if
anyone enters the area.
Be aware of the mower discharge direction
and DO NOT point it at anyone. NEVER
direct discharged material toward anyone.
Avoid discharging material against a wall or
obstruction. Material may ricochet back
toward the operator. Stop the blade(s) when
crossing gravel surfaces.
NEVER engage PTO when attachment,
including mower blades, is not in use.
ALWAYS turn off power to attachment when
not in active use such as traveling or
crossing driveways.
Slow down and use caution when making
turns and crossing roads and sidewalks.
Stop blades if not mowing.

EN - 7
Stop on level ground, lower implements,
disengage drives, engage parking brake (if
provided), disengage PTO, shut off engine
and allow moving parts to stop before
leaving the operator’s position for any
reason including emptying the catchers or
unclogging the chute.
NEVER engage PTO while raising the
attachment, including mower blades.
NEVER raise deck with the blades running.
NEVER operate with the PTO shield, or
other guards not securely in place. Be sure
all interlocks are attached, adjusted properly,
and functioning properly. NEVER modify or
remove safety devices.
DO NOT mow in reverse unless absolutely
necessary. ALWAYS look behind and down
before operating in reverse to be sure of a
clear path.
Stop equipment and inspect blades after
striking objects or if an abnormal vibration
occurs. Make necessary repairs before
resuming operations.
NEVER leave a running machine
unattended. ALWAYS turn off blade(s),
engage parking brake, stop engine and
remove key before leaving operator’s
position.
Disengage blade(s) when not mowing. Shut
off engine and wait for all parts to come to a
complete stop before cleaning the machine,
removing the grass catcher, or unclogging
the discharge guard.
Know the weight of loads. Limit loads to
those you can safely control and the unit can
safely handle.
Use care when loading or unloading the
machine into a trailer or truck.
Operating Conditions
Lightning can cause severe injury or death.
If lightning is seen or thunder is heard in the
area, DO NOT operate the machine; seek
shelter.
ALWAYS check overhead and side
clearances carefully before operation.
Watch for traffic when operating near or
crossing roadways.
Prior to operation, ensure the area is cleared
of objects such as rocks, wire, toys, etc.,
which could be thrown by the blades.
Check for weak spots on docks, ramps or
floors. Avoid uneven work areas and rough
terrain. Stay alert for hidden hazards or
traffic.
Use care when approaching blind corners,
shrubs, trees or other objects that may
obscure vision.
Dust, smoke, fog, etc. can reduce vision and
cause an accident.
Only operate in good light, keeping away
from holes and hidden hazards.
Slope Operation
Slopes are a major factor related to loss of
control and tip-over accidents, which can
result in severe injury or death. Operation on
all slopes requires extra caution. If you
cannot back up the slope or if you feel
uneasy on it, DO NOT mow it.
DO NOT operate on slopes of more than
20°. This maximum degree of operation is
without attachments.
Do not operate on slopes of more than 10°
with attachments such as grass catchers
installed.
Mow across slopes, not up and down.
DO NOT operate the mower on slopes at all
when the grass is wet.
DO NOT operate on slopes steeper than
you can feel secure about the traction of the
tires and the stability of the mower.
Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other
hidden objects. Uneven terrain could
overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide
obstacles.
Do not mow on moist or wet grass. Tires
may lose traction causing a loss of control.
Use extra care while operating machine with
grass catchers or other attachments; they
can affect the stability of the machine. Do
not use on steep slopes.
Slow down and use caution when making
turns and when changing directions on
slopes. Keep all movements on the slope
slow and gradual. Sudden changes in speed
or direction could cause the machine to roll
over.
Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a
slope. If the tires lose traction, disengage
the blade(s) and proceed slowly straight
down the slope.

EN - 8
Operation on slopes may lead to loss of
steering control. When operating on slopes
be prepared to react to an emergency
situation:
• Return drive control grip to neutral
position.
• Immediately engage parking brake.
• Turn off PTO and engine.
DO NOT park on slopes unless necessary.
When parking on slope ALWAYS chock or
block wheels. ALWAYS engage parking
brake.
Choose a slow ground speed so you will not
have to stop or shift while on a slope.
Slow down and use extra care on hillsides.
Be sure to travel in the recommended
direction on hillsides. Turf conditions can
affect the machine’s stability. Use caution
while operating near drop-offs.
DO NOT operate near drop-offs, ditches, or
embankments. Unit can suddenly turn over if
a wheel is over the edge of a cliff or ditch, or
if an edge caves in.
DO NOT bypass transmission or allow
transmission to free-wheel when on a slope.
Fuel
To avoid personal injury or property damage,
use extreme care in handling gasoline.
Gasoline is extremely flammable and the
vapors are explosive.
Ethanol blends must not exceed E10. Higher
ethanol content may cause your
machine to run hotter and damage your
engine.
Secure fuel cap and clean up spilled fuel
before starting engine.
Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and
other sources of ignition.
Use only an approved fuel container.
NEVER store the machine or fuel container
where there is an open flame, spark, or pilot
light such as on a water or space heater or
other appliances.
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.
NEVER refuel the machine indoors.
NEVER remove fuel cap or add fuel with the
engine running. Allow engine to cool before
refueling.
Fuel is highly flammable and its vapors are
explosive. Handle with care. Use only an
approved gasoline container with an
appropriately sized dispensing spout.
NO smoking, NO sparks, NO flames.
Remove equipment from the truck or trailer
and refuel it on the ground. If this is not
possible, then refuel such equipment with a
portable container, rather than from a
gasoline dispenser nozzle.
Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of
the fuel tank or container opening at all
times until the fueling is complete. DO NOT
use a nozzle lock-open device.
NEVER overfill fuel tank. Reinstall fuel cap
and tighten securely.
If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing
immediately.
DO NOT OVERFILL! This equipment and/or
its engine may include evaporative
emissions control system components,
required to meet EPA and/or CARB
regulations, that will only function properly
when the fuel tank has been filled to the
recommended level. Overfilling may cause
permanent damage to evaporative
emissions control system components.
Filling to the recommended level ensures a
vapor gap required to allow for fuel
expansion. Pay close attention while filling
the fuel tank to ensure that the
recommended fuel level inside the tank is
not exceeded. Use a portable gasoline
container with an appropriately sized
dispensing spout when filling the tank. DO
NOT use a funnel or other device that
obstructs the view of the tank filling process.
Towing
DO NOT attach towed equipment or
accessories, other than a sulky.This vehicle
is not designed to tow anything other than
sulkies.
Accessories
Attachments reduce the maximum operating
slope angle. DO NOT operate on slopes
over 10° when operating with attachments.
Check grass catcher components and the
discharge guard frequently and replace with
the manufacturer’s recommended parts,
when necessary.
Use only attachments recommended by
AriensCo that are appropriate to your use
and can be used safely in your application.

EN - 9
Batteries
Avoid Electric Shock. Objects contacting
both battery terminals at the same time may
result in injury and unit damage. DO NOT
reverse battery connections.
Reverse connections may result in sparks
which can cause serious injury. ALWAYS
connect positive (+) lead of charger to
positive (+) terminal, and negative (-) lead to
negative (-) terminal.
ALWAYS disconnect negative (-) cable
FIRST and positive (+) cable SECOND.
ALWAYS connect positive (+) cable FIRST,
and negative (-) cable SECOND.
Explosive gases from battery can cause
death or serious injury. Poisonous battery
fluid contains sulfuric acid and its contact
with skin, eyes or clothing can cause severe
chemical burns.
No flames, no sparks, no smoking near
battery.
Charge batteries in an open, well-ventilated
area, away from spark and flames. Unplug
charger before connecting or disconnecting
from battery. ALWAYS wear protective
clothing and safety glasses near battery and
use insulated tools.
ALWAYS keep batteries out of reach of
children.
Battery posts, terminals and related
accessories contain lead and lead
compounds, chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer and reproductive
harm. Wash hands after handling.
Service
The use of non-genuine replacement parts
or accessories could adversely affect
machine operation and safety.
DO NOT change engine governor setting or
overspeed the engine.
Park machine on level ground. NEVER allow
untrained personnel to service machine.
Disconnect battery or remove spark plug
wire before making any repairs. Disconnect
the negative terminal first and the positive
last. Reconnect positive first and negative
last.
Keep all parts in good working condition and
all hardware tightened. Replace all worn or
damaged decals.
Keep unit free of debris. Clean up oil or fuel
spillage.
ALWAYS block wheels and know all jack
stands are strong and secure and will hold
weight of unit during maintenance. Use jack
stands to support components when
required.
Carefully and slowly release any pneumatic
or hydraulic pressure from components with
stored energy.
ALWAYS keep body and hands away from
pin holes or nozzles which eject hydraulic
fluid under pressure.
NEVER attempt to make any adjustments or
repairs to unit while engine is running
(except where specifically recommended).
Disengage drives, lower implement, engage
parking brake, stop engine and remove key
or disconnect spark plug wire. Wait for all
moving parts to stop and for hot surfaces to
cool before adjusting, cleaning or repairing
unit.
Keep hands and feet away from moving
parts. If possible, DO NOT make
adjustments with the engine running.
Lower cutting deck unless a positive
mechanical lock is used.
Allow engine to cool before servicing.
Moving parts can cut or amputate fingers or
a hand. On multiblade mowers, rotation of
one blade will cause all blades to rotate.
Use care when checking blades. Wrap the
blade(s) or wear gloves and use caution
when servicing them. Replace damaged
blades. NEVER straighten or weld blades.

EN - 10
Transporting Unit
Use care when loading or unloading the
machine into a trailer or truck.
Use full-width ramps for loading machine
into trailer or truck.
Secure unit chassis to transport vehicle.
NEVER secure from rods or linkages that
could be damaged. Tie the machine down
securely using straps, chains, cable, or
ropes. Both front and rear straps should be
directed down and outward from the
machine.
DO NOT transport machine while engine is
running.
ALWAYS turn off power to attachment and
shut off fuel valve (if equipped) when
transporting unit.
Storage
NEVER store unit with fuel in fuel tank inside
a building where any ignition sources are
present.
Clean grass and debris from cutting units,
drives, mufflers, and engine to help prevent
fires. Clean up oil or fuel spillage. Let engine
cool before storing and DO NOT store near
flame.
Shut off fuel valve (if equipped) while storing
or transporting. DO NOT store fuel near
flames or natural gas appliances and DO
NOT drain fuel indoors.
For extended storage, shut off fuel valve (if
equipped) and clean unit thoroughly. See
engine manual for proper storage.

EN - 11
1. Remove packaging materials from unit.
2. Remove unit from shipping container.
See Move Unit Manually on page 18.
3. Cut packaging ties and discard.
4. Lift discharge chute up slightly and rotate
to operating position. See Figure 3.
5. Check tire pressures (see Check Tire
Pressure on page 22) and inflate to
recommended pressures (see
Specifications on page 40).
6. Remove battery from unit and charge.
See Charge Battery on page 24.
7. Check engine oil level and add oil if
needed. Refer to engine manual.
8. Check hydraulic oil level. See Check
Hydraulic System on page 21.
9. Make sure deck is level. See Level and
Pitch Mower Deck on page 33.
10. Ensure all hardware is tight.
11. Reinstall battery. See Install Battery on
page 24.
ASSEMBLY
WARNING: Read and
understand the Safety section
before proceeding.
Figure 3

EN - 12
1. Ignition Key
2. Choke Control Knob
3. Engine Throttle Control Lever
4. Power Take-off (PTO) Switch
5. Forward Ground Speed Control Lever
6. Neutral Lock (2)
7. Drive Control Handle (2)
8. Operator Presence Lever
9. Hour Meter
10. Fuel Tank and Cap
11. Hydraulic Oil Expansion Tank (2)
12. Oil Fill / Dipstick
13. Oil Drain
14. Engine Oil Filter
15. Air Filter
16. Deck Lift Lever
17. Height-of-Cut Adjustment System
18. Flip-up Discharge Chute
19. Battery
20. Parking Brake Lever
21. Transaxle Bypass Lever (2)
22. Tool-less Access Cover
23. Tool-less Belt Cover (2)
24. Fuse Block (Under Control Panel)
25. Anti-Scalp Wheel (6) (Models 988185,
988186, 988187)
CONTROLS & FEATURES
Figure 4
6
20
1
9
3
4
16
2
13
14
12
15
21
5
25
10
19
11
23
18
8
22
7
17
24

EN - 13
See Figure 4 for all controls and features
locations.
IGNITION KEY
See Figure 5.
Controls power to the engine. The key cannot
be removed when in on position.
CHOKE CONTROL KNOB
See Figure 6.
Controls air intake to the engine.
ENGINE THROTTLE CONTROL
LEVER
See Figure 7.
Controls engine speed.
POWER TAKE-OFF (PTO)
SWITCH
See Figure 8.
Controls power to mower blades. The engine
will not start with the PTO switch in the on
position.
WARNING: AVOID INJURY.
Read and understand the Safety
section before proceeding.
Figure 5
Off
On
Start
Choke On
Figure 6
Choke Off
Figure 7
Fast
Slow
Figure 8
PTO /
Blades Off
PTO /
Blades On

EN - 14
OPERATOR PRESENCE LEVER
See Figure 9.
Operator presence lever MUST be engaged
to operate speed control lever or PTO.
Engine will stop if operator presence lever is
not engaged when parking brake is released.
NEUTRAL LOCKS
See Figure 10.
Holds the drive control handles in the neutral
position.
DRIVE CONTROL HANDLES
See Figure 11.
Controls forward and reverse movement. To
stop unit, return levers to the neutral position.
FORWARD GROUND SPEED
CONTROL LEVER
See Figure 12.
Controls forward wheel speed of the unit.
NOTICE: When moving the lever forward, the
drive control handles pivot further away from
the handlebar.
Figure 9
Figure 10
Neutral Locks Engaged
Neutral Locks Disengaged
Figure 11
Figure 12

EN - 15
DECK LIFT LEVER
See Figure 13.
Raises mower deck to change height-of-cut
setting.
HEIGHT-OF-CUT ADJUSTMENT
SYSTEM
See Figure 14.
Sets the height of cut.
PARKING BRAKE LEVER
See Figure 15.
Controls the parking brake. The engine will
not start when parking brake lever is
released.
HOUR METER
See Figure 16.
Timer measures engine runtime and cannot
be reset.
TRANSAXLE BYPASS LEVERS
Engage and disengage transaxles so unit can
be moved with the engine off.
ANTI-SCALP WHEELS
Models 988185, 988186, 988187
Help prevent the deck from contacting the
ground and scalping the lawn when mowing
over high spots.
SAFETY INTERLOCK SYSTEM
Monitors the interaction of various unit
features for operator safety. See Test Safety
Interlock System on page 16.
Figure 13
Figure 14
Figure 15
Brake Released (Off)
Brake Engaged (On)
Figure 16

EN - 16
1. Know how to stop in an emergency. See
Emergency Stopping on page 17.
2. Check fuel level and add fuel if needed.
IMPORTANT: Use fresh unleaded fuel with
an octane rating of at least 87. DO NOT use
E85 blended fuels; the engine is not E20 /
E30 / E85 compatible. The maximum
recommended ethanol content is E10.
Gravely recommends using a quality fuel
stabilizer in all fuel. See Short-Term Storage
on page 39.
3. Check engine oil level and add oil if
needed. Refer to engine manual.
4. Check hydraulic oil level. See Check
Hydraulic System on page 21.
5. Check air filter. Refer to engine manual.
6. Check function of all controls.
7. Check function of the Safety Interlock
System by performing the tests below.
Contact your Gravely dealer for repair if
any of the tests fail.
TEST SAFETY INTERLOCK
SYSTEM
Starting
See Start The Engine on page 17.
• Engine will not start with parking brake
released.
• Engine will not start with PTO on.
• Engine will not start with the speed control
lever set outside the rearmost position.
Operation
See Operate Unit on page 17.
• Engine will stop if PTO is engaged while
operator presence lever is disengaged.
• Engine will stop if speed control lever is set
outside the rearmost position while parking
brake is engaged.
• Engine will stop if parking brake is released
while operator presence lever is
disengaged.
SET CUTTING HEIGHT
See Figure 17.
1. Pull deck lift lever completely backward.
2. Remove adjustment pin from height-of-
cut adjustment bracket.
3. Insert adjustment pin through desired
setting in height-of-cut bracket.
4. Slowly release deck lift lever until lever
contacts adjustment pin.
BEFORE OPERATION
WARNING: AVOID INJURY.
Read and understand the Safety
section before proceeding.
WARNING: AVOID INJURY.
Failure of Safety Interlock
System together with improper
operation can result in severe
personal injury.
WARNING: AVOID INJURY.
Stop the engine, engage parking
brake, and remove key before
changing height-of-cut. Unit
MUST be parked on a flat, level
surface.
Figure 17

EN - 17
IMPORTANT: All references to left, right, front
or rear are given from the perspective of
operator in operator’s position, facing the
direction of forward travel.
EMERGENCY STOPPING
1. Release operator presence control lever.
2. Engage parking brake.
3. Push PTO switch down to off position
4. Turn ignition key to off position and
remove key.
START THE ENGINE
1. Set speed control lever to the rearmost
position.
2. Engage parking brake.
3. Engage neutral locks.
4. Push PTO switch down to off position.
5. If engine is cold, pull choke knob up to the
on position. DO NOT use choke on a
warm engine.
6. Move throttle control lever to 3/4 fast
position.
7. Insert ignition key and turn to the start
position. Release key when engine starts.
NOTICE: Do not operate the starter for more
than 10 seconds per starting attempt. If the
engine does not start, allow a 60-second cool
down period between starting attempts.
8. Gradually move choke control knob to the
off position after engine starts.
OPERATE UNIT
1. Start the engine. See Start The Engine on
page 17.
2. Engage operator presence lever.
3. Release parking brake.
4. Set throttle control lever to fast position.
5. Release neutral locks.
6. Set speed control lever to the desired
speed setting.
IMPORTANT: Engaging the PTO knob with
the throttle lever set lower than fast position
can cause excessive belt wear. ALWAYS use
fast position when engaging the PTO.
7. Pull PTO knob up to on position.
NOTICE: Never engage the PTO if the
mower is plugged with grass or other
material. This may cause damage to the
electric clutch.
OPERATION
WARNING: AVOID INJURY.
Read and understand the Safety
section before proceeding.
WARNING: AVOID INJURY.
Operating on slopes may lead to
loss of steering control. Be
prepared to react.
WARNING: AVOID INJURY.
Move the speed control lever
slowly and keep the throttle at
slow speed until you learn how
to operate the unit.
Direction of Travel Lever Position
To move straight forward, release both drive
control handles to the outward position.
To stop unit in neutral, return levers to the
neutral position.

EN - 18
NOTICE: Aggressive turning can scuff or
damage lawns.
For Best Mowing Results
• Cut grass when it is dry.
• Keep mower blades sharp.
• Keep mower deck properly leveled.
•Models 988185, 988186, 988187 Only:
Adjust anti-scalp wheels to prevent
scalping.
• Do not set height of cut too low. For very
tall grass, mow twice.
• Do not travel too fast.
• Mow with engine at full throttle.
• When mulching, only remove 1/3 of grass
length per cutting. Do not cut more than 2.5
cm (1") at a time.
• Discharge clippings into areas already cut.
• Change cutting pattern with each mowing.
• Do not allow grass or debris to collect
inside mower deck. Clean after each use.
STOP THE ENGINE
1. Push PTO switch down to off position.
2. Reduce engine throttle to idle.
3. Set forward speed control lever to the
rearmost position to stop forward travel.
4. Engage neutral locks.
5. Engage parking brake.
6. Turn key to off position and remove from
ignition.
MOVE UNIT MANUALLY
See Figure 18.
Bypass the transaxles to move the unit with
the engine off.
1. Park unit on a flat, level surface and
engage parking brake.
2. Stop engine, remove key and wait for
moving parts to stop and for hot parts to
cool.
3. Pull both transaxle bypass levers into
bypass position. Move levers down
slightly to secure position.
4. Release parking brake and push unit to
desired location.
5. Engage parking brake.
6. Lift bypass levers up slightly and push
into operating position.
Direction of Travel Lever Position
To lock unit in neutral, engage neutral locks.
To turn left, engage left-hand lever.
To turn right, engage right-hand lever.
To reverse, engage both drive control
handles.
WARNING: AVOID INJURY.
Wait for all moving parts to stop
before leaving operator’s
position.