MTD 130-432E000 User manual

$ 1 .
TRANSMATIC
FRONT
ENGINE
LAWN
TRACTORS
Model Numbers
130-432E000
130-435E000
130-437E000
130-442E000
130-445E000
130-447E000
130-452E000
130-455E000
130-457E000
130-432F000
130-435F000
130-437F000
130-442F000
130-445F000
130-447F000
130-452F000
130-455F000
130-457F000
Important: Read Safety Rules and Instructions Carefully
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
FORM NO. 770-7044E

INDEX
Slope Gauge.3
Contents of Hardware Pack.4
Rules for Safe Operation.5
Assembly Instructions.6
Controls.10
Operation.11
Adjustments.13
Lubrication.15
Maintenance.16
Off-Season Storage.19
Trouble Shooting Chart.20, 21
Illustrated Parts for Lawn Tractor.22-23
Electrical System .30
Illustrated Parts for Transaxle.34, 35
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 MTD Products Inc are tak¬
ing a quick moment out to say. . .
“Thank you for your business.’’
Sincerely,
MTD PRODUCTS INC
A INSTRUCTIONS GIVEN WITH THIS SYM¬
BOL ARE FOR PERSONAL SAFETY. BE
SURE TO FOLLOW THEM.
WARNING: This unit is equipped with an interi lal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unim¬
proved forest-covered, brush-covered or grass ^covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with
a spark arrester meeting applicable local or st jte 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 lav ^s apply on federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available
through your nearest engine authorized service dealer or contact the Service Department of MTD Products Inc.
2

SLOPE GAUGE
3
Do
not
mow
on
inclines
with
a
slope
in
excess
of
15
degrees
(a
rise
of
approximately
2Vz
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.

I
CONTENTS DF HARDWARE PACK
Remove this sheet from your owner’s manual and lay the hardware on the illustration for 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.)
INSTALLING THE BATTERY
ATTACHING THE STEERING MECHANISM
Flat Washer
5/8" I.D.
X 11 / 4 " O.D.
O
Steering-
Bellow
Steering-
Column Bearing
-Hex
Flange
Bearing
o
Countersunk
Screw #10
X 5/8" Long
I- ex Nut
5/16 24 Thread
Spacer
Cupped Washer
5/16" I.D. X
7/8" O.D.
-Flat Washer
5/16" I.D.
X 1-1/8" O.D.
Lock
Washer
5/16" I.D.
Q| ATTACHING THE SEAT
Steering Wheel
Cap
-Hex Bolt
5/16-18 X
5/8" Long
Self-Tapping Screws
3/8-16 X 3/4" Long
IGNITION KEYS
(May Be
Attached to
T ractor)
I I I I I I I I M I I I I I I I I I I I I r
Cut
Alov
This
Line

IMPORTANT
RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION
4
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- A HEED ITS WARNING.
Ai
DANGER
Your unit was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this manuai. 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 of 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 all 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, wall« 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 ail 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 starting.
16. Before attempting to unclog the mower or discharge chute, stop
the engine. The mower blade(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 attachment(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 of engine braking action. Choose
a low enough gear so that you 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 for traffic when crossing or near roadways.
24. When using any attachments, never direct discharge of 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 cutting 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 as 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 before restarting and operating the equipment.
31. Do not change the engine governor settings or overspeed the
engine.
5

I
Rules for Sale Operation (continued)
32. When using the vehicle with mower, proceed as folbws:
(1) Mow only in daylight or in good artificial light.
(2) Never make a cutting height adjustment while engino is running
if operator must dismount to do so.
(3) Shut the engine off and wait until the blade comes to ;i complete
stop before removing the grass catcher.
(4) Check blade mounting bolts for proper tightness at fi equent in¬
tervals.
33. Check grass catcher bags frequently for wear or deteric ration. For
safety protection, replace only with new bag meeting orininal equip¬
ment specifications.
34. Look behind to make sure the area is clear before placing the
transmission in reverse and continue looking behind while back¬
ing up. Disengage blades before shifting 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 jverfill.
After assembly, service engine with gasol ine 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.
UNPACKING
1. Remove the lawn tractor from the carton as follows.
Open the top flaps. Remove all loose parts and car¬
ton inserts. Cut the front corners of the carton.
Make certain brake is released, and push the unit
out of the carton.
2. Remove page four from this manual anc lay the
contents of the hardware pack on the ilk stration
for identification.
BAHERY 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
further discomfort, 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 the battery as the hydrogen gas
generated during charging can be combustible.
G. As a further precaution, only charge the battery in
a well-ventilated area.
*Always shield eyes, protect skin and clothing
when working near batteries.
6

Screwdriver
FIGURE 2.
A DANGER
Battery contains sulfuric acid. Refer to warning
on page 6. Antidote: EXTERNAL—Flush 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 BAHERY
Do 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 with a screwdriver. Be careful not to damage
-the fill caps. 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 after the 30 minute standing
period. SLOW CHARGE THE BATTERY (DO NOT
FAST CHARGE) at a maximum bench rate of 1.4
amperes until the specific gravity reading is
1.260-1.280. Charge for a minimum of 2 hours and
a maximum of 8 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 for the first time.
2. Before winter storage.
3. Before using the lawn tractor after winter storage.
NOTE: Charging rate after battery has been put into
operation—the battery is to be charged for a period of
14-16 hours. NO LONGER THAN 30 HOURS.
After battery has been charged, add only distilled
water. Do not add acid.
7

I
Battery Red
INSTALLING THE BATTERY (Hardware A)
1. Raise the seat bracket (on top of the fenders).
2. Make certain the positive cable (heavy red wire)
extends through the retainer on the right side of
the battery box. The negative cable (heavy black
wire) should be routed up along the left side of the
battery box.
3. Place the battery inside the battery box so that the
positive terminal is toward the right side of the unit.
-See figure 3. Route the battery drain tube down
beside the battery box.
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 3.
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. Route the drain tube through the opening between
the transaxle reinforcement bracket and the frame
on the left rear of the unit. Secure the drain tube
to the transaxle reinforcement bracket, using the
—cable tie as shown in figure 4. Be certain drain tube
is routed away from the wheel rim. Trim excess end
of cable tie.
7. Close the top of the battery box.
INSTALLING THE STEERING MECHANISM
(Hardware B)
1. Open the hood of the lawn tractor by lifting up on
both sides of the hood. Position the front wheels
of the tractor so they are pointing straight forward.
2. Insert the hex bearing into the hole in the frame
-shown in figure 5.
3. Insert the end of the steering shaft which has the
pinion gear attached through the hole in the dash
panel. Place 5/8" I.D. flat washer on the end of the
steering shaft, and insert shaft through hex bear¬
ing. Make certain the pinion gear is fully seated
against the flat washer and hex bearing.
8

4. S ecure bottom of the steering shaft as follows. See
figure 6.
a. Lower the deck by moving the lift and
disengagement lever (located on the right
fender) all the way down.
b. Place the plastic spacer over the end of the
steering shaft. Secure with 5/16" I.D. flat
washer, lock washer and hex bolt. A 1/2"
wrench is required (socket wrench with an ex¬
tension would be helpful).
5. P lace the steering column bearing (solid side up)
over the upper end of the steering shaft. Seat the
steering column bearing into the hole in the dash
panel. Secure with countersunk screw. See figure
FIGURE 8.
6. Attach one end of steering bellow to the steering
wheel as shown in figure 8.
7. With the wheels of the tractor pointing straight for¬
ward. place the steering wheel and steering bellow
over the steering shaft, positioning steering wheel
as desired.
8. Place the washer with the cupped side down over
the steering shaft. Secure with 5/16" hex lock nut.
—See figure 7.
9. Place the steering wheel cap over the center of the
steering wheel and seat it with your hand.
9

I
ATTACHING THE SEAT (Hardware C)
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 hex self-tapping screws. See figure 9.
AHACHING THE CHUTE DEFLECTOR
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.
A WARNING: Do not operate your unit unless
the chute deflector has been properly In¬
stalled.
CONTROLS
FIGURE 11.
THROniE 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 manuai packed with
your unit. See figure 11.
SPEED CONTROL LEVER
The speed control lever allows you to regulate the
ground speed of the lawn tractor. See figure 11. To
select the ground speed, depress clutch pedal. Push
speed control lever inward and move downward to slow
lawn tractor, move upward to increase speed. When
desired speed has been obtained, release lever in that
position. Whenever clutch is engaged, unit will
automatically go to the pre-set speed.
10

IGNITION SWITCH
Turn the key to the START position to start the engine.
When the engine is running, iet 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 accidental
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 .
SHIFT LEVER
The shift lever is located on the left fender and has three
positions, FORWARD, NEUTRAL and REVERSE. See
figure 12. The clutch-brake pedal must be depressed
and the lawn tractor must not be moving 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.
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 inward and all the
way down. Release the speed control lever and the
clutch-brake pedal.
To release the parking brake, depress the clutch-brake
pedal, press the speed control lever inward 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.
INTERLOCKS (Not Shown)
Interlock safety switches are located by the clutch-brake
pedal, the lift and disengagement iever, 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 and disengage¬
ment iever must be in the disengaged position.
Before the unit can be shifted into reverse or if the
operator leaves the seat, the lift and disengagement
lever must be in the disengaged position.
CUTTING CONTROLS
A. LIFT AND DISENGAGEMENT LEVER
The lift and disengagement lever is used to raise and
lower the cutting deck which determines the cutting
height. Pulling it ali the way back and locking it
disengages the blades. The lift and disengagement
lever must be in the disengaged position when start¬
ing the engine, when shifting into reverse or if the
operator leaves the seat. See figure 12.
B. DECK WHEEL HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
If your unit is equipped with deck wheels, set the wheels
so they are V4 to Vz inch above the ground, by moving
the deck wheels to the desired hole location in the deck.
OPERATION
CAUTION
• READ OPERATOR'S MANUAL(S) • NEVER CARRY CHILDREN
• KNOW LOCATION AND FUNCTION OF ALL CONTROLS
• KEEP SAFETY DEVICES (GUARDS. SHIELDS AND SWITCHES)
IN PLACE AND WORKING
• REMOVE OBJECTS 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 BLADECS) AND ENGINE ARE STOPPED BEFORE PLAC¬
ING HANDS OR FEET NEAR BLADE(S)
• BEFORE LEAVING OPERATOR'S POSITION, DISENGAGE THE
BLADElSL 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 ali tires.
11

I
STARTING THE ENGINE
NOTE: To open the hood, simply lift up on bo 'h sides
of the hood.
1. Service the engine with oil and gasoline as de¬
scribed in the engine manual.
2. Depress the clutch-brake pedal and set the park¬
ing brake.
3. Piace the lift and disengagement ievei in the
DISENGAGED position. See figure 12.
NOTE: This unit is equipped with a safety interlock
system for your protection. The purpose of th 3 safety
interlock system is to prevent the engine from < ranking
or starting unless the clutch-brake pedal is deoressed
and the lift and disengagement lever is in the dis¬
engaged position. In addition, the lift aid dis¬
engagement lever must be in the disengaged oosition
when the unit is put into reverse or the engine vill shut
off. If the operator leaves the seat with the lift and
disengagement lever engaged and/or without se tting the
parking brake, the engine will shut off.
A WARNING: Do not operate the lawn tractor
if the interlock system is malfunctioning
because it is a safety device, designed for
protection.
4. S et the throttie control in the FAST position. See
figure 11.
5. P ull out choke knob to choke engine. i\ warm
engine may not require choking.
6. T urn the ignition key to the START positior. When
the engine is running, let the key return to the ON
position. See figure 11.
7. P ush choke knob in 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 20.
OPERATING THE LAWN TRACTOR
1. S tart the engine as instructed above.
2. M ove throttle control to % or full throttle to prevent
strain on the engine and to operate the cutting
blades.
3. P lace the shift lever in either the FORWARD or
REVERSE position.
A WARNING: Look to the rear before back¬
ing up.
4. R elease 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.
5. R elease clutch-brake pedal slowly to put unit into
motion.
6. 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 certain to change oil in the
crankcase after the first 5 hours of operation.
Be sure that the lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire,
or other objects which could damage lawn tractor, or
the debris could be thrown by the blade in any direc¬
tion and cause an injury. For best results and to insure
more even grass distribution, do not mow when lawn
is excessively wet.
A WARNING: Before leaving the operator’s
position for any reason, disengage the
biades, place the shift iever 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 stalis 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. P lace shift lever in NEUTRAL.
2. R estart engine.
3. P lace speed control lever in high speed position.
4. R elease clutch-brake pedal fully.
5. D epress clutch-brake pedal.
6. P lace speed control lever in desired position.
7. P l a ce 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.
12

A WARNING: When the blade drive is en¬
gaged, keep feet and hands away fronn the
discharge opening, the biades or any part
of the deck. When the unit is used for other
than mowing, the biade drive shouid be
disengaged.
Move the lift and disengagement lever into the
DISENGAGED position to raise the deck and
disengage the blades.
GRASS COLLECTOR AVAILABLE
GRASS COLLECTOR Model 063 is available as op¬
tional equipment for the lawn tractor shown in this
manual (requires mounting kit model 084).
A 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
repiacement bag.
SEAT ADJUSTMENT
To adjust the position of the seat, loosen the four self¬
tapping screws on the bottom of the seat. See figure
9. Slide the seat fonward or backward as desired.
Retighten the self-tapping screws.
DECK LEVELING ADJUSTMENT
If an uneven cut is obtained, the deck may be leveled
as follows.
1. Move the lift and disengagement lever forward
(lower the cutting deck).
2. With unit on hard, level surface, measure the
distance from the bottom edge of the center of the
left side of deck to the ground. Measure the same
distance just behind the chute area on the right
side of the deck. Or, place the blades in a straight
line, and measure the distance from the outside
edge of the blade tips to the ground.
3. Disconnect the adjustable deck links from the deck
lift pivot bracket and the deck stabilizer bracket on
the right side of the unit by removing the hairpin
clips and flat washers. Refer to illustration on page
31, reference no. 44.
4. Thread the adjustable links in or out as necessary.
Reassemble the links. Check the adjustment, and
readjust as necessary.
SPEED CDNTRDL ADJUSTMENT (See Figure 13)
NOTE: When operating the unit initialiy or after repiac-
ing the beits, there wili be iittie difference between the
highest two speeds until after the belts have gone
through a break-in period and have seated themseives
into the pulieys.
First, adjust the speed control lever as follows:
1. Place the shift lever in Neutral position.
2. Start the engine.
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 disengaged
position). Hold the pedal in this position.
5. Turn the engine off.
6. After engine stops completely, release the clutch-
brake pedal.
7. Disconnect the speed control link from the variable
speed bracket by removing the hairpin clip and flat
washer from the stud located on the bottom side
of the variable speed bracket.
8. Depress the clutch-brake pedal forward until the
stop on the clutch-brake pedal assembly hits solid¬
ly against the underside of the frame.
9. Remove the hairpin clip and flat washer from the
rod attached to the back of the speed control lever.
FIGURE 13.
13

I
10. Place the speed control lever in parking brake
position.
11. Thread the ferrule on the rod until the ferrule slips
into the bottom end of the slot in the spee d con¬
trol lever, then thread the ferrule down on he rod
one full turn (to shorten).
12. Position speed control lever as follows:
a. 7-speed units: Place speed control I jver in
second position.
b. 5-speed units: Place speed control leve in first
position.
13. Place ferrule into speed control lever slot, and
secure with flat washer and hairpin clip. Release
the clutch-brake pedal.
Next, adjust the speed control link as follows tc obtain
the correct neutral adjustment.
1. Push the clutch-brake pedal backward by f and as
far as it will go using light pressure. Hold i in this
position as you make the following adjus ment.
2. Thread the speed control link into or out of the fer¬
rule until the eyelet on the opposite end of :he link
slips onto the stud on the bottom side of the
variable speed bracket.
3. Secure the speed control link to the variable speed
bracket with flat washer and hairpin clip.
NEUTRAL ADJUSTMENT (Wheel Drive)
1. P lace 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 shit lever
assembly to the shift lever adjusting link. Se e figure
14.
3. Place the shift lever in the netural slot. See figure
14.
4. Tighten the bolt to 13 foot pounds.
CUTTING DECK ENGAGEMENT ADJUSTMENT
The cutting deck engagement may be adjusted to make
certain deck is disengaged when lift handle is in the
disengaged position, or to obtain more drive in the cut¬
ting positions. Correct adjustment as follows.
Place the lift handle in the highest cutting position (first
notch down from disengaged position). The approx¬
imate adjustment is to have the lock nut on the thread¬
ed rod (above the rear of the deck) touching the end
of the tubing. See figure 15.
Move the lock nut toward the tubing to start to
disengage the deck earlier. Move the lock nut away
from the tubing to obtain more drive in the cutting
positions.
A WARNING: Make certain the unit is ad¬
justed so that the cutting blades are
disengaged when the lift handle is in the
disengaged position.
Threaded
Rod
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.
14

BRAKE ADJUSTMENT (See figure 18)
The brake is located by the left rear wheel inside the
frame. During normal operation of this machine, the
brake is subject to wear and will require periodic
examination and adjustment.
A WARNING: Do not have the engine running
when you adjust the brake.
To adjust the brake, remove the cotter pin. Adjust the
castle nut so the brake starts to engage when the brake
lever is V^'' to 5/16" away from the axle housing.
NOTE: Figure 18 is shown with the unit tipped up on
rear wheels for clarity only.
* 1 ^
FIGURE 16.
Dimension “B” should be approximately 1/8" less than
Dimension “A.” See figure 17.
A. ) To increase Dimension “B,” thread the ferrule onto
the tie rod.
B. ) To decrease Dimension “B,” unscrew the ferrule
from the tie rod.
C. ) Reassemble tie rod. Check dimensions. Readjust
if necessary.
Cotter Pin
Axle Housing
FIGURE 18.
Brake
Lever
LUBRICATION
A
WARNING: Always stop engine and
disconnect spark plug wire before clean¬
ing, lubricating or doing any kind of work
on lawn tractor.
FIGURE 17.
CARBURETOR ADJUSTMENT
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 adjusting carburetor.
STEERING GEARS
Lubricate teeth of steering gears with automotive multi¬
purpose grease after every 25 hours of operation or
once a season.
STEERING SHAFT
Lubricate steering shaft at least once a season with light
oil.
VARIABLE SPEED PULLEY
Lubricate needle bearings inside the variable speed
pulley with light oil once a season. Also lubricate the
bearings inside the pulley by 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.
15

I
TRANSAXLE
The transaxle is lubricated and sealed at the lactory
and does not require checking. If disassembled lor any
reason, lubricate with 10 oz. of grease, part n jmber
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 greas 3 .
PIVOT POINTS
Lubricate all pivot points with light oil at least c^nce a
season.
MAINTENANCE
WARNING: Disconnect the spark pfuij wire
and ground against the engine befors per¬
forming any repairs or maintenance;.
TROUBLE SHOOTING
Refer to page 20 of this manual for trouble shooting
information.
CRANKCASE OIL
Check the oii level in the crankcase before each use
of the machine and after every five hours of opeiation.
Oil level should be maintained as instructed n 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 he oil
every 25 hours of operation. Refer to the engine
manual.
AIR CLEANER
Under normal operating conditions, the air cluaner,
located on top of the carburetor, must be service( I after
every ten hours of use. Under extremely dusty
operating conditions, the air cleaner must be sei viced
after every hour of operation. To service the air cluaner,
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 viped
off promptly. Grass, leaves, and other dirt must not be
left to accumulate around the cooling fins of the e ngine
or on any part of the machine.
Clean the underside of the blade housing after each
mowing.
SPARK PLUG
The spark plug 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 BLADE
A. Removal for Sharpening or Replacement
WARNING: Be sure to disconnect and
ground the spark plug wire and remove ig¬
nition key before working on the cutting
biade to prevent accidentai engine start¬
ing. Protect hands by using heavy gloves
or a rag to grasp the cutting biades.
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 blade by following the directions
of the preceding section.
When sharpening the blade, 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 the blade, be certain the wide blade
is assembled on the right side of the deck. Be sure to
install the blades with the side of the blades 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. min., 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.
16

DRIVE BELT REMOVAL AND REPLACEMENT
WARNING: Disconnect the spark plug wire
and ground it against the engine. Block the
wheels of the unit.
NOTE: When changing the beits, a spring pulier or
other suitable tool is required to remove some of
the springs. A spring puller (part number 732-0571)
is available to assist in removal of springs.
Removing the Deck Belt
NOTE: Figures 19, 22 and 23 are shown with the unit
tipped up for clarity. It is not necessary to tip the unit
to remove the belts.
1. Place the lift lever in the disengaged position.
2. Remove the two hex bolts (belt keepers) from the
engine pulley belt guard. See figure 19.
NOTE: Make certain hex bolts are reassembled as
shown in figure 19.
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 from the left rear transmis¬
sion support bracket. See figure 20.
6. Disconnect the two front deck links by removing
the hairpin clips and flat washers.
7. Remove the belt guards at each deck pulley by
removing the hex bolts, lock washers and hex nuts.
See figure 21.
8. Remove and replace the belt, following the instruc¬
tions in reverse order.
Hex Bolts Hex Bolts
Lock Lock Washers
Washers Hex Nuts
Removing the Rear Drive Beit (Refer to figure 22)
1. Start the engine. Place shift lever in neutral. Place
speed control lever in high speed position and turn
engine off. Engage lift lever (move ail the way for¬
ward). Do not set parking brake.
2. Disconnect the large spring from the transmission
support bracket, using a spring puller or other
suitable tool.
Variable Loosen
3. D isconnect the idler spring from the bolt on the
right side of the frame and transmission support
bracket.
17

I
4. Loosen (do not remove) the hex nut which; iecures
the variable speed pulley bracket tc allow
clearance in order to remove the belts. /\ 9/16"
socket wrench is required.
5. Remove belt from transmission pulley and idler
pulley. Remove the rear drive belt from aro jnd the
top of the variable speed pulley.
6. Reassemble new belt, following instructions in
reverse order.
Removing the Forward Drive Belt (See figi re 23)
1. To remove the forward drive belt, first rem Dve the
rear drive belt (steps 1 through 5 of the prc ceding
instructions).
2. Remove the deck belt from the engine pulle f (steps
1 through 3 of “Removing The Deck Bel ”).
3. Remove the engine pulley belt guard by re noving
two self-tapping screws from each side of the
frame. Remove the engine pulley belt gi ard by
moving it back and to the left.
4. Remove the forward drive belt from the engine
pulley and from the variable speed pulley.
5. Reassemble new belt, following instruct ons in
reverse order.
Engine
BATTERY REMOVAL OR INSTALLATION
WARNING: When removing the battery,
follow this order of disassembly to f revent
the screwdriver from shorting agai ist 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.
COMMON CAUSES FOR BATTERY FAILURE ARE:
1. Overcharging
2. Undercharging
3. Lack of water
4. Loose hold downs and/or corroded connections
5. Excessive loads
6. Battery electrolyte substitutes
7. Freezing of electrolyte
18

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 for 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 manual for correct engine
storage instructions. The engine must be com¬
pletely drained of fuel to prevent gum deposits from
forming on essential carburetor parts, fuel lines
and fuel tanks.
4. Refer to battery storage instructions on page 18.
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 iight oii or
siiicone, coat the equipment, especiaily any chains,
springs, bearings and cabies.

I
TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART FOR ELECTRIC START MODELS
TROUBLE
LOOK FOR
Engine will not
crank
Battery installed Incor¬
rectly
Blown fuse or circuit
breaker
Mechanical failure
(Wires and switches)
Engine cranks
but will not start
The battery must be installed with the negative terminal, identified at the terminal post by (Neg, N
or -), grounded The positive terminal (Pos, P or +) attaches to the large cable from the solenoid.
The small red w re from the fuse holder or circuit breaker is also attached to the positive terminal.
Replace fuse witn 7W amp. fuse 'A x VM" Ig. Circuit breaker will reset itself when it cools oft. Fuses
or circuit breaks s seldom open or fail without a reason. The problem must be corrected. Check for
loose connectior s in the fuse holder. Replace fuse holder if necessary. A dead short may be in the
cranking or charging circuit where the Insulation may have rubbed through and exposed the bare
wire. Replace ths wire or repair with electrician's tape if the wire strands have not been damaged.
Note: Look for a wire pinched between body panels, burned by the exhaust pipe or muffler or rubbed
against a movin') part.
Use a hydrometer to check the condition of the battery. The Specific Gravity (s.g.) should be 1.265
at SO^F. (1.215 i .g. minimum needed for cranking engine). The reason for the battery failing must
be determined. (1) Defective battery. Battery will not accept or hold a full charge. (2) Short circuit.
Check for groun Jed wire. (3) Charging system not working.
The charging system is an alternator located under the flywheel. It is unregulated and rated 3 amp.
at 3600 r.p.m. A diode (rectifier) is located in the output lead just before the wire harness plug on
the engine side.
Diode
Shrink
Tube
To Alternalor
0 : :
3 AMP DC
(Batt.)
7 AMP AC
(Lamps)
Black
Wire
Polarized
Plug
Throttle or choke not in
starting position
No spark to spark plug
The diode chanj es A.C. to D C. to charge the battery. A bad diode can either fail to charge the bat¬
tery or discharge the battery if the alternator is shorted as well as the diode. To test: (1) Disconnect
charger lead from the battery (small red wire). (2) Connect 12 V small test lamp between the 3 amp.
D.C. charge lea'l and the positive terminal of the battery. (3) With the engine off, the lamp should
not light. If it doss, the diode and possibly the alternator should be replaced. (4) Start the engine.
The lamp shoulc light. If it does not, the alternator (stator) or lead wire is bad and should be replaced.
The interlock system includes two mechanical activated switches which are wired in series in the
circuit used to energize the starter solenoid. While testing the interlock system, you will make the
mower temporarily unsafe by permitting the engine to be started with the blade and clutch engaged.
WARNING: Whi e testing, disengage the clutch, shut off the blade control, set the parking brake and
place the gear s lift lever in neutral. Attach a wire (minimum 16 gauge) to the positive terminal of the
battery and toucti the other end to the small terminal on the solenoid. If the engine does not crank; (1)
There is a loose' ;onnection or poor ground. (2) The solenoid may be bad. The solenoid can be checked
by using a heavy wire (#8 gauge minimum) and jumping between the two large terminals. If the engine
cranks, the sole ioid is bad. (3) If the engine does not crank when you jump the solenoid, have the
starter motor tested by an authorized engine dealer. If the engine does crank, the problem is with
one of the safety switches, ignition switch or the wire between the fuse holder (or circuit breaker) and
the small terminal on the solenoid. Note: Look for a poor connection at the switches or a defective
switch. Replace if necessary.
Check owner’s juide for correct position for throttle control and choke for starting.
Spark plug lead disconnected. Connect lead. Hold spark plug lead away from engine block about
1/8". Crank eng ne. There should be a spark. If not, have engine repaired at authorized engine ser¬
vice dealer.
Faulty spark plu'). To test, remove spark plug. Attach spark plug lead to spark plug. Ground the spark
plug body against the engine block. Crank the engine. The spark plug should fire at the electrode.
Replace if it dons not.
20