MTD 138-320-000 User manual

$ 1 .
OWNER'S GUIDE
OUTDOOR POWER EQUIPMENT
for all seasons
IMPORTANT:
Read Safety Rules and
Instructions Carefully
TRANSMATIC
FRONT
ENGINE
LAWN
TRACTORS
Model Numbers
138 - 32 0 -000 138 - 340-000
138 - 322-000 138 - 342-000
138 - 327-000 138 - 347-000
138 - 330-000 138 - 350-000
138 - 332-000 138 - 352-000
138 - 337-000 138 - 357-000
Thank you for purchasing
an American-built product.
FORM NO. 770-5904C

INDEX
Slope Gauge.3
Contents of Hardware Pack.4
Rules for Safe Operation.5
Assembly Instructions.6
Controls.10
Operation.11
Adjustments.13
Lubrication.16
Maintenance.17
Off-Season Storage.20
Trouble Shooting Chart.21, 22
Illustrated Parts for Lawn Tractor.23-31
Illustrated Parts for Transaxle.32, 33
Electrical System .34
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.
4
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V
LIMITED WARRANTY
For one year from the date of orig nal retail purchase, MTD PRODUCTS INC will either
repair or replace, at its option, free c f charge, F.O.B. factory or authorized service firm, any
part or parts found to be defective in material or workmanship. Transportation charges for
the movement of any power equipm ant unit or attachment are the responsibility of the pur¬
chaser. Transportation charges for £ ny parts submitted for replacement under this warran¬
ty must be paid by the purchaser un ess such return is requested by MTD PRODUCTS INC.
This warranty will not apply to any part which has become inoperative due to misuse, ex¬
cessive use, accident, neglect, imp oper maintenance, alterations, or unless the unit has
been operated and maintained in accordance with the instructions furnished. This warran¬
ty does not apply to the engine, motor, battery, battery charger or component parts thereof.
Please refer to the applicable mani. facturer’s warranty on these items.
This warranty will not apply where he unit has been used commercially.
Warranty service is available through your local authorized service dealer or distributor. If
you do not know the dealer or distrit utor in your area, please write to the Customer Service
Department of MTD.
The return of a complete unit will n ct be accepted by the factory unless prior written per¬
mission has been extended by MTD.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights. You may also have other rights which vary
from state to state.
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WARNING: This unit is equipped with an interr al 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 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 lavs apply on federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available
through your nearest engine authorized service center.
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 OF 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 whic i is on the reverse side of this sheet for future use.
(Hardware pack may contain extra items which are not used on your unit.)
0 12 3
INCHES 4
Cut
Alch.^,
This
Line

IMPORTANT
RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION
&
THIS SYMBOL POINTS OUT IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS WHICH, IF NOT FOLLOWED, COULD EN¬
DANGER 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 I
WARNING. «
HEED ITS '
Your unit was built to 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 attempting 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 per¬
sons 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
1 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 possibil¬
ity of upset or collision, operate the tractor smoothly.
Avoid erratic operation and excessive speed.
9. Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, particular¬
ly small children and pets. Stop engine when they are
in the vicinity of your mower. Although the area of opera¬
tion should be completely 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. Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel drives, walks or
roads.
11. Disengage all attachment clutches and shift into neutral
before attempting to start engine.
12. Disengage power to attachment(s) and stop engine
before leaving operating position.
13. 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.
I 14. Disengage power to attachment(s) and stop engine
! before making any repairs or adjustments. Disconnect
the spark plug wire and keep the wire away from the plug
to prevent accidental starting.
15. Before attempting to unclog the mower or discharge
chute, stop the engine. The mower blade(s) may con¬
tinue to rotate for a few seconds after the engine is shut
off. Therefore, be sure the blade(s) have stopped com¬
pletely. Disconnect the spark plug wire and keep the wire
away from the plug to prevent accidental starting.
16. Disengage power to attachment(s) when transporting or
not in use.
17. Take all possible precautions when leaving vehicle un¬
attended such as disengaging power take-off, lowering
attachments, shifting into neutral, setting parking brake,
stopping engine and removing key.
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 seriotis 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 tractor 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 gear
when going down steep hills to take advantage of engine
braking action.
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 sug¬
gested 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.
C. Open doors if engine is run in garage. Exhaust fumes
are dangerous. Do not run engine indoors.
5
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Rules for Sa1 ! e Operation (continued)
26. Keep the vehicle and attachments in good oper iting con¬
dition, and keep safety devices in place. Use guards as
instructed in operator's manual.
27. Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure i he equip¬
ment is in safe working condition.
28. Never store the machine with fuel in the fuel te nk inside
a building where ignition sources are present such as
hot water and space heaters, clothes dryers, an 1 the like.
Allow the engine to cool before storing in any enclosure.
29. To reduce fire hazard, keep engine free of gra: s, leaves
or excessive grease.
30. The vehicle and attachments should be stoppe d and in¬
spected for damage after striking a foreign otject. The
damage should be repaired before restarting and
operating the equipment.
31. Do not change the engine governor settings or c verspeed
the engine.
32. When using the vehicle with mower, proceed as follows:
(1) M ow 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 intervals.
33. Check grass catcher bags frequently for wear or
deterioration. For safety protection, replace only with new
bag meeting original equipment specifications.
34. Look behind to make sure the area is clear before plac¬
ing the transmission in reverse and continue looking
behind while backing up. Disengage blades before shift¬
ing 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 personal injury. The unit must be pushed
manually to load properly.
IMPORTANT: This unit is shipped WITHOUT GASOLINE or OIL; however, a small amount of oil may
be present from the fat tory. 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 I aft hand side of the unit is observed from the driver’s seat, fac¬
ing forward.
ASSEMBLY
UNPACKING
1. Remove the lawn tractor from the carton a:; 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 and lay the
contents of the hardware pack on the illustration
for identification.
BATTERY INFORMATION
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 (gogc les, 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 theru is any
further discomfort, seek prompt medical eMention.
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 1.
FIGURE 2.
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 battery (drain tube)
) is always open.
KEEP BATTERIES
OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN!
ACTIVATING THE BATTERY
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 fjours and
a maximum of 8 hours.
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
FIGURE 5.
NOTE
This engine is equipped with an
alternator. The current for the bat¬
tery charger alternator is unregu¬
lated. 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.
INSTALLING THE BATTERY (Hardware A)
—1. Raise the seat bracket (on top of the fenders). Push
any electrical wires out of the way so they are not
disconnected when installing the battery box.
Place the plastic battery box into the opening
beneath the seat bracket. The hinge on the bat¬
tery box goes toward the left side of the unit. Snap
the battery box in place so the retaining edges on
the box are beneath the fender. Make certain the
battery cables are routed up along each side of the
box. See figure 3.
2. 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.
3. Slide the hex nut (provided with battery hardware)
into the positive ( + ) terminal. Place the positive
(heavy red wire) cable on the positive terminal.
Secure with bolt provided. See figure 3. Slide the
rubber boot over the positive terminal.
4. Slide the hex nut (provided with battery hardware)
into the negative (-) terminal. Place the negative
(heavy black wire) cable on the negative terminal.
Secure with bolt provided.
-5. 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.
6. 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.

FIGURE 6.
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
—7.
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
Hex Self-Tapping
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.
ATTACHING THE CHUTE DEFLECTOR
(If Unassembled)
If the chute deflector has not been assembled on your
unit, remove the truss machine screws, lock washers
and hex jam nuts which are attached to the deck next
to the chute opening.
Place the chute deflector in position as shown in figure
■ * —10. Secure with hardware just removed.
Do not operate your unit unless the
chute deflector has been properly
installed.
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.
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, 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 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.
■ 1^ NOTE
The clutch-brake pedal must be de¬
pressed to start the engine.
FIGURE 12.
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.
INTERLOCKS (Not Shown)
Interlock safety switches are located on the clutch-
brake pedal, the lift and disengagement lever, the gear
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 lever 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 all 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
Set the deck wheels so that the wheels are 'A to V 2 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 OOWNHILL
• BE SURE BLADE(S) AND ENGINE ARE STOPPED BEFORE PLAC¬
ING HANDS OR FEET NEAR BLADE(S)
• BEFORE LEAVING OPERATOR'S POSITION. SHUT ENGINE OFF
..AND REMOVE KEY
TIRE PRESSURE
For shipping purposes, the tires on your unit may
be over-inflated. Tire pressure should be reduced
before unit is put into operation. Recommended
operating tire pressure should be 10 p.s.i.
Check sidewall of tire for manufacturer’s maximum
tire pressure. If this information does not appear on
your tire, maximum tire pressure under any cir¬
cumstances is 30 p.s.i. Equal tire pressure should
be maintained on all tires.
11

I
STARTING THE ENGINE
NOTE
To open the hood, simply lift up on
both 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 tf e park¬
ing brake.
3. Place the lift and disengagement lever in the
DISENGAGED position. See figure 12.
■ ^NOTE
This unit is equipped with a safety
interlock system for your protec¬
tion. The purpose of the safety inter¬
lock system is to prevent the engino
from cranking or starting unless tho
clutch-brake pedal is depressed
and the lift and disengagement
lever is in the disengaged position.
In addition, the lift and disen¬
gagement lever must be in the dis¬
engaged position when the unit i s
put into reverse or the engine wi I
shut off. If the operator leaves the sest
with the lift and disengagement lever
engaged, the engine will shut off.
A i WARNING 1
Do not operate the lawn tractor f
the interlock system is malfunctior -
ing because it is a safety device,
designed for protection.
4. S et the throttle control in the FAST position. See
figure 11.
5. P ull out choke knob to choke engine.
NOTE
A warm engine may not require chok¬
ing.
6. T urn the ignition key to the START positio i. When
the engine is running, let the key return tc 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.
NOTE
A brief break-in period is essential
to ensure maximum engine and
mower life. The break-in consists of
running the engine at half speed for
a period of time required to use one
tank of gasoline. It is also recom¬
mended to change crankcase oil
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
engine. For best results and to insure more even grass
distribution, do not mow when lawn is excessively wet.
IMPORTANT
If you strike a foreign object, stop
the engine. Remove wire from spark
plug, thoroughly inspect the unit
for any damage, and repair the dam¬
age before restarting and operating
the mower.
NOTE
If any problems are encountered, refer
to the Trouble Shooting Chart on page
21 .
OPERATING THE LAWN TRACTOR
1. Start the engine as instructed in previous column.
2. Move throttle control to % or full throttle to prevent
strain on the engine and to operate the cutting
blades.
3. Place the shift lever in either the FORWARD or
REVERSE position.
A CAUTION
Look to the rear before backing up.
4. Release the parking brake by depressing the
clutch-brake pedal, pressing outward on the speed
control lever and moving to desired position.
NOTE
Use first speed position when operating
operating the lawn tractor for the first
time.
5. Release clutch-brake pedal slowly to put unit into
motion.
6. The 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
during the break-in period.
12

A CAUTION
If the unit is not to be used for a
long period, place the gear shift
lever in NEUTRAL, stop the engine,
set the parking brake and remove
the key. DO NOT leave the machine
on an incline.
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.
A t WARNING !
When the blade drive is engaged,
keep feet and hands away from the
discharge opening, the blades or
any part of the deck.
Move the lift and disengagement lever into the
DISENGAGED position to raise the deck and
disengage the blades.
NOTE
When the machine is used for other
than mowing operations, the blade
drive should be disengaged.
GRASS CATCHER Model 064 is available as optional
equipment for the lawn tractor shown in this manual.
A l WARNING t
♦ ♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦
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 manufacturer’s recommen¬
dations.
For replacement bags, use only fac¬
tory authorized replacement bag.
ADJUSTMENTS
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 forward 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). Make certain the deck
wheels are not resting on the ground.
2. Using a 1/2" wrench, loosen the jam nut located
at the right rear deck link. See figure 13. It may
be helpful to raise the cutting deck slightly to
loosen the jam nut and to move the adjusting
screw.
FIGURE 13.
3. W ith 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.
13

I
4. A djust the deck as follows: To raise the i ight side
of the deck, tighten the adjusting screw. To lower
the right side of the deck, back the adjusting screw
off several turns. Remeasure the dec< as de¬
scribed in step 3, and readjust if necessary.
Tighten the jam nut to secure the adjusti ig screw
when the deck is level.
SPEED CONTROL ADJUSTMENT (See fig ire 14)
BB^NOTE
When operating the unit initially or after
replacing the belts, there will be litile
difference between the highest tv/o
speeds until after the belts have gone
through a break-in period and ha /e
seated themselves into the pulleys.
First, adjust the speed control lever by pushing the
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. Position speed control lever as follows.
a. 7-speed units: Place speed control lever in
second position.
b. 5-speed units: Place speed control lever in first
position.
clutch-brake pedal forward until the stop on tie brake
rod is 1/8" to 1/4" away from the variable spesd pulley
bracket. See figure 14. Have another person hold the
pedal in this position as you make the following adjust¬
ment. Place the speed control lever in parking brake
position. Remove the hairpin cotter and fla washer
from the rod attached to the back of the speed control
lever. Adjust the ferrule on the rod so the stc p on the
brake rod is between 1/8" and 1/4" away 'rom the
bracket. See figure 14. Replace the flat washer and
hairpin cotter.
8. Remove the cotter pin and flat washer which
secures the ferrule on the speed control link to the
bracket on the clutch-brake pedal 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 ferrule on or off the
speed control link until it lines up with the hole in
the clutch-brake pedal assembly.
10. Secure the ferrule on the speed control link to
clutch-brake pedal assembly with flat washer and
14

NEUTRAL ADJUSTMENT (Wheel Drive)
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 adjusting link. See figure
15.
3. Place the shift lever in the netural slot. See figure
15.
4. Tighten the bolt to 13 foot pounds.
FIGURE 15.
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 jam nuts
on the threaded rod (above the rear of the deck) should
be approximately 1/16" from the end of the tubing. See
figure 16.
Move the jam nuts down the threaded rod to start to
disengage the deck earlier. Move the jam nuts up to
obtain more drive in the cutting positions.
A t WARNING t
I Make certain the unit is adjusted so
that the cutting blades are disengaged
when the lift handle is in the disengaged
position.
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 cotter pin and flat washer from the fer¬
rule on the tie rod end on the left side of the trac¬
tor. See figure 17. X'&ur
2. Adjust the tie rod for correct toe-in by threading the
ferrule in or out as necessary.
Dimension “B” should be approximately 1/8" less than
Dimension “A.” See figure 18.
A. ) To increase Dimension “B,” thread the ferrule onto
the tie rod.
B. ) To decrease Dimension “B,” unscrew the ferrule
from the tie rod.
15

I
C.) Reassemble tie rod. Check dimensions. Readjust
if necessary.
FIGURE 18. TOE-IN DIAGRAM
CARBURETOR ADJUSTMENT
Ac WARNING J
If any adjustments are made to th e
engine while the engine is running
(e.g. carburetor), disengage a I
clutches and blades. Keep clear cf
all moving parts. Be careful cf
heated surfaces and muffler.
Minor carburetor adjustment may be required to
compensate for differences in fuel, temperature,
altitude and load. To adjust the carburetor, ref dr to the
separate engine manual packed with your unit.
NOTE
A dirty air cleaner will cause ai
engine to run rough. Be certain a r
cleaner is clean and attached to tha
carburetor before adjusting carbureto '.
Refer to the separate engine manual.
BRAKE ADJUSTMENT (See figure 19)
The brake is located by the left rear wheel inside the
frame. During normaLoperation of this macf ine, the
brake is subject to wear and will require periodic
examination and adjustment.
A t WARNING i
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 t ie brake
lever is 'A" to 5/16" away from the axle housing.
■ ^NOTE
Figure 19 is shown with the unit tipped
up on rear wheels for clarity only.
FIGURE 19.
LUBRICATION
A
Always stop engine and disconnect
spark plug wire before cleaning,
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.
STEERING SHAFT
Lubricate steering shaft at least once a season with light
oil.
TRANSAXLE
The transaxle is lubricated and sealed at the factory
and does not require checking. If disassembled for any
reason, lubricate with 10 oz. of grease, part number
737-0148.
FRONT WHEELS
The front wheels are provided with grease fittings.
Lubricate at least once a season with automotive multi¬
purpose grease.
PIVOT POINTS
Lubricate all pivot points with light oil at least once a
season.
16

MAINTENANCE
A t WARNING i
> » ♦♦♦♦♦♦♦ « »
Disconnect ihe spark plug wire
and ground against the engine be¬
fore performing any repairs or main¬
tenance.
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.
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. R emoval 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 starting. 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 smali 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 737-01 70 j
E n gine oil may also be used. 1
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 incline fuel
filter. Replace filter whenever contamination or
discoloration is noticed. Order replacement filter
through your engine authorized service dealer.
DRIVE BELT REMOVAL AND REPLACEMENT
A t WARNING t
♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦
Disconnect the spark plug wire and
ground it against the engine. Block
the wheels of the unit.
17

I
H^NOTE
When changing the rear drive belt, a
spring puller or other suitable tool is
required to remove an extension sprinc.
A spring puller (part number 732-057")
is available to assist in removal cf
this spring.
NOTE
Figures 20, 24 and 25 are shown wit l
the unit tipped up for clarity. It is net
necessary to tip the unit to remove th ?
belts.
Removing the Deck Belt
1. Place the lift lever in the disengaged position.
2. Remove the three hex bolts (belt keepers) 1 rom the
engine pulley belt guard. See figure 20.
Engine He)
FIGURE 20.
NOTE
Make certain hex bolts are reassem¬
bled as shown in 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 from the left rear deck
bracket. See figure 21.
6. Disconnect the top of the four deck links by remov¬
ing the hairpin clips and flat washers.
7. Slide the threaded rod out of the tubing. Se 3 figure
21. Slide the deck from beneath the lawn tractor.
Disconnect
Deck Links
8. Remove the belt guards at each deck pulley by
removing the hex bolts, lock washers and hex nuts.
See figure 22.
9. Remove and replace the belt, following the instruc¬
tions in reverse order.
Removing the Rear Drive Belt (Refer to figure 24)
1. Remove the cutting deck, following steps 1 through
7 of “Removing the Deck Belt” instructions.
2. Start the engine. Place shift lever in neutral. Place
speed control lever in high speed position and turn
engine off. Do not set parking brake.
3. Disconnect the large spring from the transmission
support bracket, using a spring puller or other
suitable tool. An access hole is provided in the rear
of the frame for this purpose. See figure 23.
■ ^NOTE
A spring puller (part number 732-0571) is
available to assist in removal of this
spring.
18

4. Disconnect the small spring from the bolt on the
right side of the frame and transmission support
bracket.
5. Remove the brake rod out of the variable speed
pulley bracket.
6. Loosen (do not remove) the bolts which secure the
variable speed pulley bracket to allow clearance
in order to remove the belts. A 7/16" socket wrench
with extension is required.
7. Remove the rear drive belt from around the top of
the variable speed pulley. Remove belt from
transmission pulley and idler pulley.
8. Reassemble new belt, following instructions in
reverse order.
Removing the Forward Drive Belt (See figure 25)
1. To remove the forward drive belt, first remove the
rear drive belt (steps 1 through 7 of the preceding
instructions).
2. Remove the engine pulley belt guard by removing
two self-tapping screws from each side of the
frame. Remove the engine pulley belt guard by
moving it back and to the left.
3. Remove the forward drive belt from the engine
pulley and from the variable speed pulley.
4. Reassemble new belt, following instructions in
reverse order.
Variable
Speed Pulley
Bracket
Variable
Speed
Pulley
Idler
Pulley
Disconnect
Small
Transmission
Pulley
Transmission
Support
Bracket
Disconnect
Large Spring
FIGURE 24.
BATTERY REMOVAL OR INSTALLATION
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.
19

I
A t WARNING 1
> ♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦
Failure to use this starting pro¬
cedure could cause sparking, and
the gas in either battery could ex¬
plode.
BATTERY MAINTENANCE
1. C heck periodically (every two weeks or befoi e and
after charging) to be sure electrolyte level is, ibove
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 alter in¬
itial activation.
2. T he battery should be checked with a hydro neter
after every 25 hours of operation. If the specific
gravity is less than 1.225, remove batter/ and
recharge.
3. C oat the terminals and exposed wiring with a thin
coat of grease or petroleum jelly for longer s arvice
and protection against electrolyte corrosion.
4. T he 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 colls.
BATTERY STORAGE
1. C harge battery using normal methods. N EVER
store discharged battery as it will not recover.
2. W hen storing battery for extended periods, discon¬
nect battery cables. Removing battery from unit is
recommended.
3. S tore in cold, dry place.
4. R echarge battery whenever the specific gr£ vity is
less than 1.225, before returning to service, or
every two months, whichever occurs first.
COMMON CAUSES FOR BATTERY FAILURE! ARE:
1. O vercharging
2. U n dercharging
3. L ack of water
4. L oose hold downs and/or corroded conne ctions
5. E xcessive loads
6. B attery electrolyte substitutes
7. F reezing of electrolyte
NOTE
THESE FAILURES DO NOT CON
STITUTE WARRANTY.
INSTALLATION OF TIRE TO RIM
WARNING
> ♦♦♦♦♦ ■
The following procedure must be
followed when removing or install¬
ing a tire to the rim.
1. Be sure rim is clean and rust free.
2. Lubricate both the tire and rim generously.
3. Never inflate to over 30 p.s.i. to seat beads. Ex¬
cessive inflation pressure 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 in previous
column.
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.
20