Montgomery Ward TMO-33940A User manual

42" Lawn Tractors
Operating Manual
Model Nos. TMO-33940A
TMO-33941A
TMO-33942A
(Shown with Optional Grass Collector)
Montgomery Ward

INDEX
Slope Gauge.3
Contents of Hardware Pack.4
Rules for Safe Operation.5
Assembly Instructions.6
Controls.10
Operation.12
Adjustments.13
Lubrication.16
Maintenance. 1 6
Off-Season Storage.20
Trouble Shooting Guide. . .21, 22
Electrical System .23
Illustrated Parts for Lawn Tractor .24-35
Illustrated Parts for Transaxle.36, 37
Parts Information.Back Cover
Dear Customer,
So often throughout the year we are all in a
rush to meet our daily obligations.
However, we at Montgomery Ward are tak¬
ing a quick moment out to say.
“Thank you for your business."
Sincerely,
MONTGOMERY WARD
1 --———-. '
A
\ INSTRUCTIONS GIVEN WITH THIS SYM-
A BOL ARE FOR PERSONAL SAFETY. BE
SURE TO FOLLOW THEM.
NOTICE: A data plate with the model number and serial numbers of your unit is located on the frame, under
the seat. Record these number in the spaces provided on the back cover of this guide.
BEFORE YOU CALL SERVICE
Check Spark Plug Wire
• Firmly attached?
• Wire terminal clean?
Check Crankcase Oil Level
• Overfilled/underfilled?
Check Fuel Tank
• Fuel in tank?
• Fuel dirty or stale?
• If tank has been empty for a long period,
fill tank completely.
Check Air Cleaner
• Clean?
• Choke plate stuck?
• Governor spring free to move?
Check under Blade Housing (Disconnect Spark Plug First)
• Blade obstructed or bent?
Check Starting Instructions
• Read instruction manuals and labels for specific
instructions.
WARNING: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unim¬
proved forest-covered, brush-covered or grass-covered land unless the engine 1 s exhaust system is equipped with
a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained
in effective working order by the operator.
In the State of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code).
Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester tor the muffler is available
through your nearest engine authorized service center or contact the parts sales center of Montgomery Ward.
2

SLOPE GAUGE
(Keep this sheet in a safe place for future reference.)
Hi
LU
DC
<
O
a:
Hi
>
<
X
H
$
Hi
>
Ui
to
X
o
_l
o
X
o
z
<
X
o
CO
T
3
Do
not
mow
on
inclines
with
a
slope
in
excess
of
15
degrees
(a
rise
of
approximately
2Vi
feet
every
10
feet).
A
riding
mower
could
overturn
and
cause
serious
injury.
If
operating
a
walk-behind
mower
on
such
a
slope,
it
is
extremely
difficult
to
maintain
your
footing
and
you
could
slip,
resulting
in
serious
Injury.
Operate
RIDING
mowers
up
and
down
slopes,
never
across
the
face
of
slopes.
Operate
WALK-BEHIND
mowers
across
the
face
of
slopes,
never
up
and
down
slopes.

CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK
Remove this sheet from your owner’s manual and lay the hardware on the illustration lor identification purposes.
After assembly, keep the Slope Gauge which is on the reverse side of this sheet for future use.
(Hardware pack may contain extra items which are not used on your unit.)
A | ATTACHING THE STE E RING WHEEL [QJ INSTALLING THE BATTERY-
I (Black Plastic Battery Cover is Not Shown)
i—Hex Bolt
1/4-20 x
1-5/16" Long
Hex
Lock
—Nut
1/4-20
Thread
Push Nuts
Plastic_
Wing Nuts
Steering
Bellow —
Steering
Wheel Cap
Battery —
Hold-Down
Rods
Hex Lock Nut
5/16-24 Thread
Cupped
Washer
5/16" I.D
o
ATTACHING THE HITCH BAR
Self-Tapping
Screws 3/8-16
x 3/4" Long
Hex Bolt ■
5/16-18 x;
1" Long •
ATTACHING THE SEAT
m
C°X°;
Self-Tapping
Screws—»
3/8-16 x
3/4" Long
JTj IGNITION KEYS
Not Shown
(May Be Attached
to Tractor)
0
INCHES
1
I
2
3

IMPORTANT
RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION
A
THIS SYMBOL POINTS OUT IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS WHICH, IF NOT FOLLOWED, COULD ENDANGER THE PERSONAL SAFETY
AND/OR PROPERTY OF YOURSELF AND OTHERS. READ AND FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS MANUAL BEFORE ATTEMPTING
TO OPERATE YOUR UNIT. FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THESE INSTRUCTIONS MAY RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY. WHEN YOU SEE
THIS SYMBOL- HEED ITS WARNING.
DANGER
Your unit was built 1o be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this manual. As with any
type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can result in serious Injury.
If you violate any of these rules, you may cause serious injury to yourself or others.
1. READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL carefully in its entirety before at¬
tempting to assemble or operate this unit Keep this manual in
a safe place for future and regular reference and for ordering
replacement parts
2. This unit is a precision piece of power equipment, not a plaything.
Therefore exercise extreme caution at all times.
3 Know the controls and how to stop the machine quickly.
4. Do not allow children to operate vehicle. Do not allow adults to
operate it without proper instruction Only persons well acquainted
with these rules of safe operation should be allowed to use your
mower.
5. Wear sturdy, rough soled work shoes and close-fitting slacks and
shirts to avoid entanglement in the moving parts. Never operate
a unit in bare feet, sandals, or sneakers
6. To prevent injury, do not carry passengers or give rides. Keep
children, pets and bystanders out ot the area while mowing Only
the operator should ride on the unit and only ride in the seat.
7. Check overhead clearance carefully before driving under power
lines, guy wires, bridges or low hanging tree branches, before
entering or leaving buildings, or in any other situation where the
operator may be struck or pulled from the unit, which could result
in serious injury.
8 To maintain control of the unit and reduce the possibility of upset
or collision, operate the tractor smoothly. Avoid erratic operation
and excessive speed.
9. Keep the area of operation clear of ail persons, particularly small
children and pets. Stop engine when they are in the vicinity of
your mower. Although the area of operation should be complete¬
ly cleared of foreign objects, a small object may have been
overlooked and could be accidently thrown by the mower In any
direction and cause injury to you or a bystander.
10 Always wear safety glasses or eye shields during operation or while
performing an adjustment or repair, to protect eyes from foreign
objects that may be thrown from the machine in any direction.
11 Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel drives, walks or roads.
12. Disengage all attachment clutches and shift into neutral before
attempting to start engine.
13. Before leaving the operator's position, disengage blade(s). place
shift lever in neutral, engage parking brake, shut engine off and
remove key.
14. Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep clear
of the discharge opening at all times as the rotating blade(s) can
cause injury.
15. Disengage power to attachment(s) and stop engine before mak¬
ing any repairs or adjustments. Disconnect the spark plug wire
and keep the wire away from the plug to prevent accidental starling.
16. Before attempting to unclog the mower or discharge chute, stop
the engine. The mower btade(s) may continue to rotate for a few
seconds after the engine Is shut off. Therefore, be sure the blade(s)
have stopped completely. Disconnect the spark plug wire and keep
the wire away from the plug to prevent accidental starting.
17. Disengage power to atlachment(s) when transporting or not in use
18. For your safety, use the slope gauge included as part of this manual
to measure slopes before operating this unit on a sloped or hilly
area. If the slope is greater than 15® as shown on the slope gauge,
do not operate this unit on that area or serious injury could result
19. Do not stop or start suddenly when going uphill or downhill. Mow
up and down face of steep slopes; never across the face. Use
extreme caution If it is necessary to drive the tractor up an incline
or back the tractor down an incline because the front of the trac¬
tor could lift and rapidly flip over backward which could cause
serious injury.
20. Reduce speed on slopes and in sharp turns to prevent tipping or
loss of control. Always keep the tractor in low gear when going
down steep hills to take advantage ot engine braking action. Choose
a low enough gear so that yoj will not have to stop or shift while
on the slope.
21. Stay alert for holes in terrain and other hidden hazards which may
cause the unit to tip over.
22. Use care when pulling loads or using heavy equipment,
A Use only approved drawbar hitch points.
B. Limit loads to those you can safely control.
C. Do not turn sharply. Use care when backing
D. Use counterweight(s) or wheel weights when suggested in
owner's manual.
23. Watch out tor traffic when crossing or near roadways.
24. When using any attachments, never direct discharge ot material
toward bystanders nor allow anyone near vehicle while in operation.
25 Handle gasoline with care. It is highly flammable.
A. Use approved gasoline container.
B. Never remove cap or add gasoline to a running or hot engine
or fill fuel tank indoors. Wipe up spilled gasoline. Always use
original type vented cap
C. Open doors if engine is run in garage. Exhaust fumes are
dangerous. Do not run engine indoors.
26. Never store the machine with fuel in the fuel tank inside a building
where ignition sources are present, such as hot water and space
heaters, clothes dryers, and the like. Allow the engine to cool before
storing in any enclosure.
27. To reduce fire hazard, keep engine and cuffing deck free of grass,
leaves or excessive grease.
28. Keep the vehicle and attachments in good operating condition,
and keep safety devices in place. Use guards a<» instructed in
operator's manual.
29 Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the equipment
is in safe working condition.
30. The vehicle and attachments should be stopped and inspected for
damage after striking a foreign object. The damage should be
repaired betore restarting and operating the equipment.
31. Do not change the engine governor settings or overspeed the
engine
5

Rules for Safe Operation (continued)
32 When using the vehicle with mower, proceed as follows
(1) Mow only in daylight or in good artificial light.
(2) Never make a cutting height adjustment while engine is running
if operator must dismount to do so.
(3) Shut the engine off and wait until the blade comes to a complete
stop before removing the grass catcher
(4) Check blade mounting bolts for proper tightness at frequent in¬
tervals.
33. Check grass catcher bags frequently for wear or deterioration For
safety protection, replace only with new bag meeting original equip¬
ment specifications.
34 Look behind to make sure the area is clear before placing the
transmission in reverse anc continue looking behind while back
ing up. Disengage blades before shitting into reverse and backing
up.
35 This unit should not be driven up a ramp onto a trailer or truck
under power, because the unit could tip over, causing serious per¬
sonal injury The unit must be pushed manually to load properly
36 Check brake operation frequently Adjust and service according
to brake adjustment instructions in this manual
ASSEMBLY
IMPORTANT: This unit is shipped WITHOUT
GASOLINE or OIL; however, a small amount of oil
may be present from the factory. Do not overfill.
After assembly, service engine with gasoline and
oil as instructed in the separate engine manual
packed with your unit.
NOTE: Reference to right or left hand side of the
unit is observed from the driver’s seat, facing
forward.
OPTIONAL REAR BAGGING KIT:
Two mounting brackets and hardware are included in
a separate bag for use with the optional rear bagging
kit, stock number 89-35111R. Keep these parts in a
safe place for future use.
UNPACKING
1. Remove the lawn tractor from the carton as follows.
Open the top flaps. Remove all loose pads and car¬
ton inserts. Cut the front corners of the cadon.
Make cedain brake is released, and push the unit
out of the cadon.
2. Remove page four from this manual and lay the
contents of the hardware pack on the illustration
for identification
BATTERY INFORMATION
A WARNING
A. Battery acid must be handled with great care as
contact with it can burn and blister the skin. It is also
advisable to wear protective clothing (goggles, rub¬
ber gloves and apron) when working with it.*
B. Should battery acid accidentally splatter into the
eyes or onto the face, rinse the affected area im¬
mediately with clean cold water. If there is any
fudher discomfod, seek prompt medical attention.
C. If acid spills on clothing, first dilute it with clean
water, then neutralize with a solution of ammonia/
water or baking soda/water.
D. Since battery acid is corrosive, do not pour it into
any sink or drain. Before discarding empty elec¬
trolyte containers, rinse them with a neutralizing
solution.
E. NEVER connect or disconnect charger clips to bat¬
tery while charger is turned on as it can cause
sparks.
F. Keep all lighted materials (cigarettes, matches,
lighters) away from fhe battery as the hydrogen gas
generated during charging can be combustible.
G. As a further precaution, only charge fhe battery in
a well-ventilated area.
‘Always shield eyes, protect skin and clothing
when working near batteries.
6

Fill Caps
FIGURE 2.
A DANGER
Battery contains sulfuric acid. Refer to warning
on page 6. Antidote: EXTERNAL—Rush with water.
INTERNAL—Drink large quantities of water or milk.
Follow with milk of magnesia, beaten eggs or
vegetable oil. Call physician immediately. EYES:
Flush with cool water for at least 15 minutes, then
get prompt medical attention.
Since batteries produce explosive gases, keep all
lighted materials (cigarettes, lighters, matches,
etc.) away. Be sure to charge battery only in well-
ventilated areas. Make certain venting path of bat¬
tery (drain tube) is always open.
KEEP BATTERIES
OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN!
ACTIVATING THE BATTERY
Ho not activate battery (fill with battery acid) until
battery is actually placed in service. Be certain to
read previous warnings before activating the
battery.
1. Open the battery pack. Be careful not to puncture
the box. It contains the battery with a long plastic
tube attached, battery fluid (acid) in a plastic con¬
tainer, one short plastic tube and one hardware
pack (two hex bolts and nuts).
2. Place the battery on a table or workbench. Make
certain the long plastic drain tube is in place on
the vent elbow.
3. Remove the six fill caps from the top of the bat-
-tery. See figure 1.
4. Place the battery fluid container on the table or
workbench. Carefully cut off tip of the spout and
attach the short plastic tube provided. Do not
squeeze the container when cutting tip.
5. Fill each battery cell slowly and carefully to the UP-
-PER LEVEL line marked on battery. See figure 2.
Use caution as the acid level will rise rapidly after
the bottom of the cell is filled.
6. Allow battery to stand for 30 minutes with the fill
caps removed, while the plates absorb acid.
7. If acid level has fallen after the 30 minute standing
period, refill each cell with battery acid to the UP¬
PER LEVEL line on battery. Replace the fill caps.
8. Before discarding the empty container, neutralize
any residue with baking soda and rinse container
with water. Puncture container several times
before discarding.
9. Charge the battery alter the 30 minute standing
period. SLOW CHARGE THE BATTERY (DO NOT
FAST CHARGE) at a maximum bench rate of 2
amperes until the specific gravity reading is 1.265.
Charge for a minimum of 3 hours and a maximum
of 5 hours.
NOTE: This engine is equipped with an alternator. The
current for the battery charger alternator is unregulated.
During normal operation, it is only necessary to charge
the battery:
1. When it is activated tor the first time.
2. Before winter storage!.
3. Before using the lawn tractor after winter storage.
7
NOTE: After battery has been charged, add only
distilled water. Do not add acid.

ATTACHING THE STEERING WHEEL (Hardware A)
1. Open the hood of the lawn tractor by lifting up on
both sides of the hood.
2. For shipping purposes, the upper steering shaft is
pushed all the way down over the lower steering
shaft. Pull the upper steering shaft up. The holes
in the shaft provide steering wheel height adjust¬
ment. When securing the two halves of the steer¬
ing shaft, select one of the two lower holes in the
upper shaft as shown. Do not use the two upper
holes. Secure with hex bolt and hex lock nut. See
-figure 3.
FIGURE 4.
3. Attach one end of steering bellow to the steering
wheel as shown in figure 4, inset.
4. Position the front wheels of the tractor so they are
pointing straight forward.
5. Place the steering wheel and steering bellow over
the steering shaft, positioning steering wheel as
desired
6. Place the washer with the cupped side down over
the steering shaft. Secure with 5/16" hex lock nut.
—See figure 4.
7. Place the steering wheel cap over the center of the
steering wheel and seat it with your hand.
ATTACHING THE SEAT (Hardware B)
Place the seat in position against the seat pivot bracket,
lining up the slotted holes in the pivot bracket with the
holes in the seat. Select desired position for the seat,
—and secure with self-tapping screws. See figure 5.
FIGURE 5.
8

FIGURE 7.
\\u\
FIGURE 8.
INSTALLING THE BATTERY (Hardware C)
1. Open the hood of the lawn tractor by lifting up on
both sides of the hood.
2. Attach one push nut to each battery hold-down rod.
-See figure 6, inset. Hook one hold-down rod into
the holes in the battery plate which will be on each
end of the battery. Slide the push nut down the rod,
against the battery plate.
3. Place the battery in the awn tractor so that the
positive terminal is facing the right side of the unit.
See figure 6.
NOTE: Right and left hand sides of the unit are deter¬
mined from the operating position, facing forward.
4. Slide the hex nut (provided with battery hardware)
into the positive ( + ) terminal. Place the positive
cable on the positive terminal. Secure with bolt pro¬
vided. See figure 6.
5. Slide the hex nut (provided with battery hardware)
into the negative (-) terminal. Place the negative
cable on the negative terminal. Secure with bolt
provided.
6. P lace the black plastic battery cover in position
over the hold-down rods. Secure with wing nuts.
— See figure 7.
7. Route the battery drain tube down beside the
engine, then forward to the hole in the frame shown
— in figure 8. Insert end of drain tube through the hole
in the frame.
9

ATTACHING THE HITCH BAR (Hardware D)
1. Place the hitch bar (weld nuts up) above the edge
-of the hitch plate on the tractor. See figure 9.
Secure with two 3/4" long self-tapping screws and
cupped washers (cupped side of washers go
against the hitch plate).
2. Attach the hitch bar to the speed nut on the edge
of the fuel tank housing using hex bolt 1" long and
lock washer.
ATTACHING THE CHUTE DEFLECTOR
A WARNING: Do not operate your unit unless
the chute deflector has been properly in¬
stalled.
1. Remove the truss machine screws, cupped
washers and hex jam nuts which are attached to
the deck next to the chute opening.
2. Place the chute deflector in position as shown in
-figure 10. Secure with hardware just removed
CONTROLS
THROTTLE CONTROL
The throttle control is used to regulate the engine
speed. To get maximum efficiency from cutting, the
throttle should be in the FAST position when operating
the mower. See figure 11.
CHOKE CONTROL
The choke control is located on the dashboard and is
operated manually. Details for the choke operation are
covered in the separate engine manual packed with
your unit. See figure 11.
SHIFT LEVER
The shift lever is located in the center of the console
and has three positions, FORWARD, NEUTRAL and
REVERSE. See figure 11. The clutch-brake pedal must
be depressed and the lawn tractor must not be mov¬
ing when shifting gears. Do not force the shift lever.
Release the clutch-brake pedal slightly to line up the
shifting collar in the transmission Then try to shift
gears.
FIGURE 11.—Model TMO-33942A Shown
10

SPEED CONTROL LEVER
The speed control lever is located on the right fender.
It allows you to regulate the ground speed of the lawn
tractor. See figure 12. To select the ground speed,
depress clutch pedal. Push speed control lever outward
and move backward to slow lawn tractor, move forward
to increase speed. When desired speed has been ob¬
tained, release lever in that position. Whenever clutch
is engaged, unit will automatically go to the pre-set
speed.
IGNITION SWITCH
Turn the key to the START position to start the engine.
When the engine is running, let the key return to the
ON position. To stop the engine, turn the key to the left
to the OFF position and remove it to prevent acciden¬
tal starting. See figure 11.
LIGHT SWITCH
Push the light switch to turn on the lights. The lights
will only operate when the engine is running. See figure
11 .
AMMETER
The ammeter registers the rate of battery charge or
discharge. The ammeter will register on the discharg¬
ing side when starting the engine. It should register on
the opposite side (charging) when the engine is run¬
ning in the fast position until the battery is completely
charged. With a fully charged battery or with the engine
idling, the ammeter will not show a charge. See figure
11 .
CLUTCH-BRAKE PEDAL
The clutch-brake pedal is located on the left side of the
lawn tractor. Depressing the clutch-brake pedal part
way disengages the clutch. Pressing the pedal all the
way down disengages the clutch and engages the disc
brake. See figure 11.
NOTE: The clutch-brake pedal must be depressed to
start the engine.
PARKING BRAKE
The speed control lever is used to set the parking brake.
To set the parking brake, depress the clutch-brake
pedal. Press the speed control lever outward and all
the way to the rear of the unit. Release the speed con¬
trol lever and the clutch-brake pedal.
To release the parking brake, depress the clutch-brake
pedal, press the speed control lever outward and move
to desired position. Release the speed control lever and
the clutch-brake pedal.
NOTE: The parking brake must be set if the operator
leaves the seat with the engine running.
FIGURE 12.
INTERLOCKS (Not Shown)
Interlock safety switches are located by the clutch-brake
pedal, lift lever, the shift lever and under the seat.
Before the engine will start, the clutch-brake pedal must
be depressed all the way and the lift lever must be in
the disengaged position.
Before the unit can be shifted into reverse or if the
operator leaves the seat, lift lever must be in the disen¬
gaged position.
CUTTING CONTROLS
A. LIFT LEVER
The lift lever is used to raise and lower the cutting deck
and to engage and disengage the cutting blades. Pull¬
ing it all the way back and locking it disengages the
blades. The lift lever must be in the disengaged posi¬
tion when starting the engine, when shifting into reverse
or if the operator leaves the seat.
B. DECK LIFT INDICATOR
The deck lift indicator marks the position being used
for the lift lever. Select the lift lever position desired,
press the indicator lever outward, move it to the posi¬
tion immediately below the lift lever and release the in¬
dicator lever. See figure 12.
C. SETTING THE CUTTING HEIGHT
1. Select the position for the lift lever which gives the
desired cutting height. Move the deck lift indicator
so that the lift lever can be returned to the same
position after it is raised.
2. Move the deck wheels to the hole location so the
wheels are 14 to Vz inch above the ground.
11

OPERATION
CAUTION
• READ OPERATOR'S MAMUAL(S) . NEVER CARRY CHILDREN
• KNOW LOCATION AND FUNCTION OF ALL CONTROLS
• KEEP SAFETY DEVICES (GUARDS. SHIELDS AND SWITCHES)
IN PLACE AND WORKING
• REMOVE 08JECTS THAT COULD BE THROWN BY BLADE(S)
• DO NOT OPERATE THE UNIT WHEN CHILDREN AND OTHERS
ARE AROUND
• ALWAYS LOOK BEHIND THE UNIT BEFORE BACKING UP
• DO NOT OPERATE THE UNIT WHERE IT COULD SLIP OR TIP
• IF THE UNIT STOPS GOING UPHILL, STOP BLADE(S) AND BACK
SLOWLY DOWNHILL
• BE SURE BLAOE(S) AND ENGINE ARE STOPPED BEFORE PLAC¬
ING HANDS OR FEET NEAR BLADE(S)
• BEFORE LEAVING OPERATOR'S POSITION, DISENGAGE THE
BLADE(S), PLACE THE SHIFT LEVER IN NEUTRAL, ENGAGE THE
PARKING BRAKE, SHUT ENGINE OFF AND REMOVE THE KEY.
TIRE PRESSURE
The tires on your unit may be over-inflated for shipping
purposes. Reduce the tire pressure before operating
the unit. Recommended operating tire pressure is ap¬
proximately 12 p.s.i. (check sidewall of tire for tire
manufacturer's recommended pressure).
A WARNING: Maximum tire pressure under
any circumstances is 30 p.s.i. Equal tire
pressure should be maintained on all tires.
STARTING THE ENGINE
NOTE: To open the hood , simply lift up on both sides
of the hood.
1. S ervice the engine with oil and gasoline as de¬
scribed in the engine manual.
2. D epress the clutch-brake pedal and set the park¬
ing brake.
3. P l a ce the lift lever in the DISENGAGED position.
See figure 11.
IMPORTANT: This unit is equipped with a safety in¬
terlock system for your protection. The purpose of the
safety interlock system is to prevent the engine from
cranking or starting unless the clutch-brake pedal is
depressed and the lift lever is in the disengaged posi¬
tion. In addition, the lift lever must be in the disengaged
position when the unit is put into reverse or the engine
will shut off. If the operator leaves the seat with the lift
lever engaged and/or without setting the parking brake,
the engine will shut off.
A WARNING: Do not operate the lawn trac¬
tor if the interlock system is malfunction¬
ing because it is a safety device, designed
for protection.
4. Set the throttle control in the FAST position. See
figure 11.
5. Pull out choke knob to choke engine (a warm
engine may not require choking).
6. Turn the ignition key to the START position. When
the engine is running, let the key return to the ON
position. See figure 1 1 .
7. Push choke knob iri gradually Move the throttle
control to desired engine speed.
STOPPING THE ENGINE
Turn the ignition key to the left to the OFF position.
Remove the key to prevent accidental starting.
IMPORTANT: If you strike a foreign object, stop the
engine. Remove wire from spark plug, thoroughly in¬
spect the unit for any damage, and repair the damage
before restarting and operating the mower.
NOTE: If any problems are encountered, refer to the
Trouble Shooting Chart on page 27 .
OPERATING THE LAWN TRACTOR
1. Set the desired cutting height.
2. Start the engine as instructed on this page
3. Move throttle control to 3 A or full throttle to prevent
strain on the engine and to operate the cutting
blades.
4. Place the shift lever in either the FORWARD or
REVERSE position.
WARNING: Look to the rear before back¬
ing up.
5. R e lease the parking brake by depressing the
clutch-brake pedal, pressing outward on the speed
control lever and moving to desired position. Use
first speed position when operating the lawn trac¬
tor for the first time.
6. R elease clutch-brake pedal slowly to put unit into
motion.
7. T he lawn tractor is brought to a stop by depress¬
ing the clutch-brake pedal.
NOTE: When operating the unit initially, there will be little
difference between the highest two speeds until after
the belts have seated themselves into the pulleys dur¬
ing the break-in period.
Be sure that the lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire,
or other objects which could damage lawn mower or
engine. For best results arid to insure more even grass
distribution, do not mow when fawn is excessively wet.
12

WARNING: Before leaving the operator’s
position for any reason, disengage the
blades, place the shift lever in neutral,
engage the parking brake, shut engine off
and remove the key.
When stopping the unit to empty a grass bag, etc.,
follow the instructions above. This procedure will also
eliminate “browning” the grass, which is caused by hot
exhaust gases from a running engine.
If unit stalls with speed control in high speed, or if unit
will not operate with speed control lever in a low speed
position, proceed as follows.
1. Place shift lever in NEUTRAL.
2. Restart engine.
3. Place speed control lever in high speed position.
4. Release clutch-brake pedal fully.
5. Depress clutch-brake pedal.
6. Place speed control lever in desired position.
7. Place shift lever in either FORWARD or
REVERSE, and follow normal operating pro¬
cedures.
OPERATING THE CUTTING BLADES
The cutting blades may be engaged while the lawn trac¬
tor is moving or standing still. DO NOT engage the cut¬
ting blades abruptly as the sudden belt tension on the
pulley may cause the engine to stall.
WARNING: Keep feet and hands away from
the discharge opening, the blades or any
part of the deck. When the unit is used for
other than mowing operations, the blade
drive should be disengaged.
Move the lift lever into the DISENGAGED position to
raise the deck and disengage the blades.
GRASS COLLECTOR Stock Number 89-35111R is
available as optional equipment.
WARNING: The mower should not be
operated without the entire grass catcher
or chute deflector in place.
NOTE: Under normal usage bag material is subject to
wear, and should be checked periodically. Be sure any
replacement bag complies with the mower manufac¬
turer's recommendations.
For replacement bags, use only factory authorized
replacement bag.
ADJUSTMENTS
SEAT ADJUSTMENT
The seat may be adjusted to different positions. Refer
to “Attaching the Seat” in assembly instructions.
STEERING WHEEL ADJUSTMENT
There are two height positions for the steering wheel.
To adjust the height of the steering wheel, remove the
hex bolt and hex lock nut on the steering shaft. Place
the steering wheel in the position desired and secure
with hex bolt and hex lock nut. Refer to figure 5.
NOTE: When raising the height of the steering wheel,
stretch the steering bellow to cover the steering shaft.
DECK LEVELING ADJUSTMENT
If an uneven cut is obtained, the deck may be leveled
as follows.
With unit on hard, level surlace, measure the distance
from the bottom edge of the center of the left side of
deck to the ground. Measure the same distance on the
center of the right side of the deck, just behind the
chute area. Or, place the blades in a straight line, and
measure the distance from the outside edge of the
blade tips to the ground
Adjust the lift link on the left side of the deck as
necessary. See figure 13. Recheck the adjustment.
FIGURE 13.
SPEED CONTROL ADJUSTMENT {See figure 14)
NOTE: When operating the unit initially or after replac¬
ing the belts, there will be little difference between the
highest two speeds until after the belts have gone
through a break-in period and have seated themselves
into the pulleys.
13

First, adjust the speed control lever by pushing the
clutch-brake pedal forward until the stop on the brake
rod is against the frame. See figure 14. Have another
person hold the pedal in this position as you make the
following adjustment. Place the speed control lever in
parking brake position. Remove the hairpin clip and flat
washer, and adjust the ferrule on the rod so it is against
the back end of the slot. See figure 14. Replace the
flat washer and hairpin clip.
Next, adjust the speed control link as follows to obtain
the correct neutral adjustment.
1. Start the engine.
2. Place the shift lever in Neutral position.
3. Place the speed control lever in high speed
position.
4. Release the clutch-brake pedal completely, then
slowly depress the pedal all the way (to park posi¬
tion). Hold the pedal in this position.
5. Turn the engine off.
6. After engine stops completely, release the clutch-
brake pedal.
7. Place speed control lever in second position.
8. Remove the cotter pin and flat washer which
secures the speed control link to the variable speed
torque bracket assembly.
9. Push the clutch-brake pedal backward by hand as
far as it will go using light pressure. Hold it in this
position as you thread the speed control link in or
out of the ferrule until it lines up with the pin on
the variable speed torque bracket assembly.
10. S ecure speed control link to variable speed torque
bracket assembly with flat washer and cotter pin.
NEUTRAL ADJUSTMENT
1. Place the transmission in neutral. (The unit will
move freely when pushed forward and backward
with the parking brake released.)
2. Loosen the bolt which secures the shift lever
assembly to the shift lever link. See figure 15.
3. Place the shift lever in the netural slot. See fiaure
15.
4. Tighten the bolt to 13 loot pounds.
14

FIGURE 15.
WHEEL ADJUSTMENT
The caster (forward slant of the king pin) and the
camber (tilt of the wheels out at the top) require no ad¬
justment. Automotive steering principles have been
used to determine the caster and camber on the trac¬
tor. The front wheels should toe-in 1/8 inch.
To adjust the toe-in, follow these steps.
1. Remove the hex nut and lock washer, and drop
the tie rod end from the wheel bracket. See figure
16.
2. Loosen the hex jam nut on tie rod.
3. Adjust the tie rod assembly for correct toe-in.
FIGURE 16.
Dimension “B” should be approximately 1/8" less than
Dimension “A.” See figure 17.
A. ) To increase Dimension "B,” screw tie rod into tie
rod end.
B. ) To decrease Dimension “B,” unscrew tie rod from
tie rod end.
C. ) Reassemble tie rod. Check dimensions. Readjust
if necessary.
FIGURE 17.
CARBURETOR ADJUSTMENT
A WARNING: If any adjustments are made to
the engine while the engine is running
(e.g. carburetor), disengage all clutches
and blades. Keep clear of all moving parts.
Be careful of heated surfaces and muffler.
Minor carburetor adjustment may be required to
compensate for differences in fuel, temperature,
altitude and load. To adjust the carburetor, refer to the
separate engine manual packed with your unit.
NOTE: A dirty air cleaner will cause an engine to run
rough. Be certain air cleaner is clean and attached to
the carburetor before adjus ting carburetor. Refer to the
separate engine manual.
BRAKE ADJUSTMENT (See figure 18)
The brake is located by the right rear wheel inside the
frame. During normal operation of this machine, the
brake is subject to wear and will require periodic
examination and adjustment.
FIGURE 18.
15

To adjust the brake, remove the cotter pin. Adjust the
castle nut so the brake starts to engage when the brake
lever is W' to 5/16" away from the axle housing.
NOTE: Figure 18 is shown with the unit tipped up on
rear wheels for clarity only.
LUBRICATION
A WARNING: Always stop engine and
disconnect spark plug wire before clean¬
ing, lubricating or doing any kind of work
on lawn tractor.
STEERING GEARS
Lubricate teeth of steering gears with automotive multi¬
purpose grease after every 25 hours of operation or
once a season. See figure 19.
STEERING SHAFT
Lubricate steering shaft at least once a season with light
oil.
FIGURE 19.
VARIABLE SPEED PULLEY
Lubricate needle bearings inside the variable speed
pulley with light oil once a season. Also lubricate the
bearings inside the pulley putting a small amount of
light oil on the shaft. Then start the tractor, and with
the shift lever in neutral, move the speed selector for¬
ward and backward which will move the center sheave
and distribute the oil on the shaft. Be careful not to get
oil on the sheaves of the pulleys or on the belts, which
could cause the belts to slip.
TRANSAXLE
The transaxle is lubricated at the factory and does not
require checking. If disassembled for any reason,
lubricate with 10 oz. of Shell grease, part number
737-0148.
The rear axles may be lubricated once a season, us¬
ing the access hole on each side of the transaxle hous¬
ing. See figure 18. A push-type hand grease gun,
equipped with a special flush coupler is required. Use
Shell grease, part number 737-0148.
WHEELS
The front wheels are provided with grease fittings. The
rear wheels must be removed from the axle for lubrica¬
tion. Lubricate both front and rear wheels at least once
a season with automotive multi-purpose grease.
PIVOT POINTS
Lubricate all pivot points with light oil at least once a
season.
MAINTENANCE
A WARNING: Disconnect the spark plug wire
and ground against the engine before per¬
forming any repairs or maintenance.
TROUBLE SHOOTING
Refer to page 21 of this manual for trouble shooting
information.
CRANKCASE OIL
Check the oil level in the crankcase before each use
of the machine and after every five hours of operation.
Oil level should be maintained as instructed in the
separate engine manual.
After the first five hours of operating a new engine, drain
the oil from the crankcase while engine is still hot and
refill crankcase with new oil; thereafter change the oil
every 25 hours of operation. Refer to the engine
manual.
AIR CLEANER
Under normal operating conditions, the air cleaner,
located on top of the carburetor, must be serviced after
every ten hours of use. Under extremely dusty
operating conditions, the air cleaner must be serviced
after every hour of operation. To service the air cleaner,
refer to the separate engine manual packed with your
unit.
CLEANING ENGINE AND BLADE HOUSING
Any fuel or oil spilled on the machine should be wiped
off promptly. Grass, leaves, and other dirt must not be
left to accumulate around the cooling fins of the engine
or on any part of the machine
Clean the underside of the blade housing after each
mowing.
16

SPARK PLUGS
The spark plugs should be cleaned and the gap reset
once a season. Spark plug replacement is recommend¬
ed at the start of each mowing season; check engine
manual for correct plug type and gap specification.
CUTTING BLADES
A. Removal for Sharpening or Replacement
WARNING; Be sure to disconnect and
ground the spark plug wire and remove
ignition key before working on the cutting
blade to prevent accidental engine start¬
ing. Protect hands by using heavy gloves
or a rag to grasp the cutting blades.
1. Remove the large bolt and lock washer which holds
the blade and adapter to the blade spindle.
2. Remove the blade and adapter from the spindle.
3. If the blade or blade adapter needs replacing,
remove the two small bolts, lock washers and nuts
which hold the blade to the adapter.
B. Sharpening
Remove the cutting blades by following the directions
of the preceding section.
When sharpening the blades, follow the original angle
of grind as a guide. It is extremely important that each
cutting edge receives an equal amount of grinding to
prevent an unbalanced blade. An unbalanced blade will
cause excessive vibration when rotating at high speeds,
may cause damage to the mower and could break,
causing personal injury.
The blade can be tested for balance by balancing it on
a round shaft screwdriver. Remove metal from the
heavy side until it balances evenly.
NOTE: It is recommended that the blade always be
removed from the adapter for the best test of balance.
C. Reassembly
Before reassembling the blade and the blade adapter
to the unit, lubricate the spindle and the inner surface
of the blade adapter with light oil. Lubricating the bolt
holes, bolts and inner surface of the nuts with light oil
is also recommended. A 4 oz. plastic bottle of light oil
lubricant is available. Order part number 737-0170.
Engine oil may also be used.
When replacing blades, be sure to install the blade with
the side of the blade marked “Bottom” (or with part
number) facing the ground when the mower is in the
operating position.
Blade Mounting Torque
3/8” Dia. Bolt 375 in. lb. min., 450 in. lb. max
5/16" Dia. Bolt 150 in. lb. miri., 250 in. lb. max.
To insure safe operation of your unit, ALL nuts and bolts
must be checked periodically for correct tightness.
FUEL FILTER
Your unit is equipped with a replaceable in-line fuel
filter. Replace filter whenever contamination or
discoloration is noticed. Order replacement filter
through your engine authorized service dealer.
BELT REMOVAL AND REPLACEMENT
WARNING: Disconnect the spark plug wire
and ground it against the engine. Block the
wheels of the unit.
NOTE: Figures 20 and 24 through 26 are shown with
the unit tipped up for clarity. It is not necessary to tip
the unit to remove the belts.
However, if tipping the unit is desired, remove the bat¬
tery from the unit. To prevent gasoline leakage, drain
the gasoline, or remove the fuel tank cap, place a thin
piece of plastic over the neck of the fuel tank and screw
on the cap. Be certain to remove the plastic when
finished changing the belts. Block unit securely.
DECK BELT
1. Place the lift lever in the disengaged position.
2. Remove the hex bolts (belt keepers) from the
engine pulley belt guard. See figure 20.
NOTE: When reassembling , make certain hex bolts are
assembled in the same locations from which they were
removed. See figure 20.
3. Unhook the deck belt from the engine pulley.
4. Place the lift lever in the engaged (all the way for¬
ward) position.
5. Disconnect the spring which is attached to a
bracket on the transaxle, inside the left rear wheel.
Use a spring puller or other suitable tool.
6. Disconnect the six deck links by removing the hair¬
pin clips and flat washers.
17

7. Disconnect the stabilizer plate from the stabilizer
shaft assembly by removing the hairpin clips and
flat washers and sliding out the rod.
8. Place the lift lever in the disengaged position.
9. Slide the deck from beneath the lawn tractor.
10. R emove the belt guards at each deck pulley by
removing the self-tapping screws. See figure 21.
FIGURE 21.
11. R emove and replace the belt, reassemble follow¬
ing the instructions in reverse order.
REAR DRIVE BELT
1. Place shift lever in neutral position. Unscrew the
shift knob. Remove the two truss head screws
which secure the transmission cover. See fiqure
22 A.
2. Lift the transmission cover. Unplug the safety wire
from beneath the transmission cover. See figure
22B. Remove transmission cover.
3. Push the idler pulley toward the right side of the
unit. Lift the belt over the idler pulley. See figure 23.
4. Remove the belt from the variable speed pulley.
5. Remove the two bolts which hold the shift lever
bracket to the frame on the left side of the unit.
Swing the bracket toward the right so the belt can
be removed from the transmission pulley. See
figure 23
6. Replace belt, and reassemble in reverse order.
FRONT DRIVE BELT
1. To remove the front drive belt, first remove the rear
drive belt from the idler pulley and variable speed
pulley.
2. Place the lift lever in the disengaged position.
3. Remove the three hex bolts (belt keepers) from the
engine pulley belt guard. Refer to figure 20.
4. Unhook the deck belt from the engine pulley.
5. Remove the two bolts, lock washers and nuts on
each side of the frame which hold the engine pulley
belt guard to the frame. See figure 24.
FIGURE 24.
18

6. R emove the engine pulley belt guard by slipping
it back and to the right. See figure 25.
FIGURE 25.
7. Place the clutch-brake pedal in park position.
8. Push forward on the variable speed pulley, and lift
the belt off the engine and remove the belt from
the engine pulley.
9. Release the clutch-brake pedal. Using the pedal
to move the variable speed pulley as necessary,
lift the belt up and off the variable speed pulley.
NOTE: When reassembling, make certain belt is inside
the pins. See figure 26.
10. R eassemble with a new belt, following instructions
in reverse order.
BATTERY REMOVAL OR INSTALLATION
A WARNING: When removing the battery,
follow this order of disassembly to prevent
the screwdriver from shorting against the
frame.
1. Remove the Negative cable.
2. Remove the Positive cable.
To install a battery:
1. Attach the Positive cable.
2. Attach the Negative cable.
JUMP STARTING
1. Attach the first jumper cable from the Positive ter¬
minal of the good battery to the Positive terminal
of the dead battery.
2. Attach the second jumper cable from the Negative
terminal of the good battery to the FRAME OF THE
UNIT WITH THE DEAD BATTERY.
WARNING: Failure to use this starting pro¬
cedure could cause sparking, and the gas
in either battery could explode.
BATTERY MAINTENANCE
1. Check periodically (every two weeks or before and
after charging) to be sure electrolyte level is above
the lowest line on battery. Add only distilled water
or a good quality drinking water. NEVER add ad¬
ditional acid or other chemicals to battery after in¬
itial activation.
2. The battery should be checked with a hydrometer
after every 25 hours of operation. If the specific
gravity is less than 1.225, remove battery and
recharge.
3. Coat the terminals and exposed wiring with a thin
coat of grease or petroleum jelly for longer service
and protection against electrolyte corrosion.
4. The battery should be kept clean. Any deposits of
acid should be neutralized with soda and water.
Be careful not to get this solution in the cells.
BATTERY STORAGE
1. Charge battery using normal methods. NEVER
store discharged battery as it will not recover.
2. When storing battery for extended periods, discon¬
nect battery cables. Removing battery from unit is
recommended
3. Store in cold, dry place
4. Recharge battery whenever the specific gravity is
less than 1.225, before returning to service, or
every two months, whichever occurs first.
19

COMMON CAUSES FOR BATTERY FAILURE ARE:
1. Overcharging
2. Undercharging
3. Lack of water
4. Loose holds downs and/or corroded connections
5. Excessive loads
6. Battery electrolyte substitutes
7. Freezing of electrolyte
NOTE: THESE FAILURES DO NOT CONSTITUTE
WARRANTY.
TIRES
Recommended operating tire pressure is approximately
12 p.s.i. (check sidewall of tire for tire manufacturer's
recommended pressure). Maximum tire pressure under
any circumstances is 30 p.s.i. Equal tire pressure
should be maintained on all tires.
When installing a tire to the rim, be certain rim is clean
and free of rust. Lubricate both the tire and rim
generously. Never inflate to over 30 p.s.i. to seat beads.
A WARNING: Excessive pressure (over 30
p.s.i.) when seating beads may cause
tire/rim assembly to burst with force suffi¬
cient to cause serious injury.
OFF-SEASON STORAGE
If the machine is to be inoperative for a period longer
than 30 days, prepare lor storage as follows.
1 Clean the engine and the entire unit thoroughly.
2. Lubricate all lubrication points. Wipe the entire
machine with an oiled rag to protect the surfaces.
3. Refer to the engine section of this manual for cor¬
rect engine storage instructions.
4. Refer to battery storage instructions on page 19.
5. Store unit in a clean, dry area.
NOTE: When storing any type of power equipment in
an unventilated or metal storage shed, care should be
taken to rustproof the equipment. Using a light oil or
silicone, coat the equipment, especially any chains,
springs, bearings and cables.
At the time of manufacture of lawn tractor,
the optional accessories listed below are
available.
Description
Stock No.
36" Snow Thrower
89-33848R
42" Snow Blade
89-33879R
Grass Collector
89-35111R
38" Lawn Sweeper
89-37952R
30 Lb. Wheel Weights
89-33862R
Gang Reel
89-27R
20