MTD 139-390A User manual

FIFTY CENTS
ASSEMBLY
OPERATIOIVI
PARTS
MAIIMTEIMAIMCE
MODEL
IMOS.
139-390A
139-395A
30 ”
RIDING
MOWERS
IMPORTAfl
READ SAFET
fi INSTRUCI^
PRINTED IN U.S.A,
FORM No. 770-8280
N

LIMITED WARRANTY
For one year from the date of original retail purchase, MTD PRODUCTS INC will either
repair or replace, at its option, free of charge, F.O.B. factory or authorized service firm,
any part or parts found to be defective in material or workmanship. Transportation charges
under this warranty must be paid by the purchaser unless return is requestec by MTD
PRODUCTS INC.
This warranty will not apply to any part which has become inoperative due to misuse,
excessive use, accident, neglect, improper maintenance, alterations,
has been operated and maintained in accordance with the instructions furnished. Tl^s
warranty doL not apply to the engine, motor, battery, battery charger or component parts
thereof. Please refer to the applicable manufacturers warranty on these items.
This warranty will not apply where the unit has been used commercially.
warranty service is available through your local authorized service dealer^or d^^
you do not know the dealer or distributor in your area, please write to the Customer Service
Department of MTD.
The return of a complete unit will not be accepted by the factory unless prior written
permission has been extended by MTD.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights. You may also have other rights which vary
from state to state.
WARNING TO PURCHASERS
OF INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE EQUIPPED
MACHINERY OR DEVICES IN THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA
The equipment which you have just purchased does not have a spark
any forest covered land, brush covered land, or grass covered unimproved land ®
before using on such land, the California law requires that a spark 'u.'" ®
arrester is required by law to be in effective working order. The spark arrester nn^jst be attached to the
Lhaust system and comply with Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code.

, IMPORTANT
It IS suggested that this manual be read in its entirety before attempting to assembie or operate. Keep this
manual in a safe place for future reference and for ordering replacement parts
Jr?per"fue?a'nSu"n ™ °''^ GASOLINE or OIL. After assembly, see operating section of this manual for
Mution'at airt?mes ^ P®'*'®'' equipment, not a plaything. Therefore exercise extreme
SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES FOR RIDING VEHICLES
1. Know the controls and how to stop quickly- riii^lI^Va VCniV^LCO
READ THE OWNER’S MANUAL.
Do not allow children to operate vehicle. Do
1
2 .
D.
3.
4.
5.
6 .
8 .
9.
10
11
12
13
14
15
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.
Do not carry passengers.
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 completely cleared of foreign
objects, a small obje.ct may have been over¬
looked and could be accidently thrown by the
mower in any direction.
Clear work area of objects which might be
picked up and thrown by the mower in anv
direction. ^
Disengage all attachment clutches and shift
into neutral before attempting to start engine.
7. Disengage power to attachment(s) and stop
engine before leaving operator position.
Disengage power to attachment(s) and stop
engine before making any repairs or adjust¬
ments. Disconnect the spark plug wire and
keep the wire away from the plug to prevent
accidental starting.
Before attempting to unclog the mower or
discharge chute, stop the engine and be sure
the blade(s) have stopped completely. Dis¬
connect the spark plug wire and keep the wire
away from the plug to prevent accidental
starting.
Disengage power to attachment(s) when
transporting or not in use.
Take all possible precautions when leaving
vehicle unattended such as disengaging
power-take-off, lowering attachments, shift¬
ing into neutral, setting parking brake,
stopping engine and removing key.
Do not stop or start suddenly when going
uphill or downhill. Mow up and down face of
steep slopes; never across the face.
Reduce speed on slopes and in sharp turns to
prevent tipping or loss of control. Exercise
extreme caution when changing direction on
slopes.
Stay alert for holes in terrain and other hidden
hazards.
Use care when pulling loads or using heavy
equipment.
A. Use only approved drawbar hitch points.
B. Limit loads to those you can safelv
control.
C. Do not turn sharply. Use care when
backing.
16.
18.
B.
C.
19.
20 .
Use counterweight(s) or wheel weights
when suggested in owner’s manual.
Watch out for traffic when crossing or near
roadways.
17. When using any attachments never direct dis¬
charge of materiai toward bystanders nor
aiiow anyone near vehicle while in operation.
Handle gasoline with care—it is highly
flammable.
A. Use approved gasoline container.
Never remove cap or add gasoline to a
running or hot engine or fill fuel tank
indoors. Wipe up spilled gasoline.
Open doors if engine is run in garage-
exhaust fumes are dangerous. Do not run
engine indoors.
Keep the vehicle and attachments in good
operating condition, and keep safety devices
in place. Use guards as instructed in owner’s
manual.
Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be
sure the equipment is in safe working condi¬
tion.
21. Never store the equipment with gasoline in
the tank inside a building where fumes may
reach an open flame or spark. Allow engine to
cool before storing in any enclosure.
To reduce fire hazard keep engine free of
grass, leaves or excessive grease.
The vehicle and attachments should be
stopped and inspected for damage after
striking a foreign object, and the damage
should be repaired before restarting and
operating the equipment.
24. Do not change the engine governor settings or
overspeed the engine.
25. When using the vehicle with mower, proceed
as follows:
(1) Mow only in daylight or in good artificial
light.
Never make a cutting height adjustment
while engine is running if operator must
dismount to do so.
Shut the engine off and wait until the
blade comes to a complete stop before
removing the grass catcher.
Check blade mounting bolts for proper
tightness at frequent intervals.
Check grass catcher bags frequently for wear
or deterioration. For safety protection replace
only with new bag meeting original equip¬
ment specifications.
Look behind to make sure the area is clear
before placing the transmission in reverse and
backing up.
22 .
23.
( 2 )
(3)
(4)
26.
27.

INDEX
Limited Warranty.^
Safe Operation Practices . 3
Index and Assembly Instructions . 4
Installing the Battery. 6
Controls.-7
Operating Instructions...10
Maintenance and Adjustment . 1 1
Lubrication. 12
Belt Removal.13
Trouble Shooting Chart for Recoil Start Model. 15
Trouble Shooting Chart for Electric Start Model 16
Belt Trouble Shooting Chart.17
Illustrated Parts for Transmission.18
Parts List for Transmission. 1 9
Illustrated Parts for Rider. 20, 22, 24
Parts List for Rider.... 21,22, 25
Electrical Diagrams...26
Wheel Chart. 2 7
Deck Linkage.27
Differential. 28
Parts Information.Back Cover
IMPORTANT
After striking a foreign object, stop
the engine. Remove wire from spark
plug, thoroughly inspect the mower
for any damage, and repair the dam¬
age before restarting and operating
the mower.
Step 3. Secure with Belleville washer and hex nut.
See figure 2.
Step 4. Press the cap on the steering wheel by
hand. See figure 2.
The steering wheel and seat, with the necessary
hardware, are easily assembled to the machine.
Cn the electric starter models, the battery must be
activated and installed as outlined in this section.
FOR SHIPPING PURPOSES, THE TIRES ON
YOUR UNIT MAY BE OVER-INFLATED. TIRE
PRESSURE SHOULD BE REDUCED BEFORE
UNIT IS PUT INTO OPERATION. RECOMMENDED
PRESSURE SHOULD BE APPROXIMATELY 15
P.S.I. EQUAL TIRE PRESSURE SHOULD BE
MAINTAINED ON ALL TIRES. MAXIMUM TIRE
PRESSURE IS 30 P.S.I.
CAUTION
Installation of tire to rim;
1. Lubricate tire beads and rim
flanges.
2. Do not exceed 30 P.S.I. when
seating beads.
3. Adjust to recommended pressure
after beads are sealed.
ASSEMBLY
Step 1. Remove the lawn mower and all parts
from the carton. Make certain that all
loose parts and literature have been
removed before the carton is discarded.
NOTE
Reference to right-hand or left-hand
side of machine is from the driver’s
seat facing forward.
D
Hex Bolt
1/4—20x5/8
E f
dn
Hex Nut
1/4—20
Lock Washer 1/4”
G H
3/8—16 Belleville Washer 3/8”
Step 2. Place steering wheel over steering shaft.
4
FIGURE 1. HARDWARE SUPPLIED

Steering Wheel Cap-—
FIGURE 2. STEERING WHEEL ASSEMBLY
Step 5. Your molded seat comes with the
mounting bolt molded in the seat.
A. Select one of three hole locations on
seat spring.
B. Place seat on spring and secure with
lockwasher (A) and hex nut (B). See
figures 1 and 3.
FIGURES. SEAT assembly
NOTE
Check all nuts and bolts for correct
tightness.
BATTERY INFORMATION FOR ELECTRIC START
MODELS
A, B attery acid must be handled with great care
as it will blister the skin and damage clothing.
It is advisable to wear goggles, rubber gloves,
and a protective apron when working with it.
B. Neutralize acid spilled on clothing with dilute
ammonia water or a water solution of baking
soda. If acid gets on clothes, dilute it with
clean water first, then neutralize.
C. If for any reason acid should be spattered in
the eyes, wash it out immediately with clean
cold water. Seek medical aid if discomrort
continues.
D. Since battery acid is corrosive to metals, do
not pour into any sink or drain. Rinse empty
electrolyte containers and mutilate before dis¬
carding.
BATTERIES CONTAIN SULFURIC
ACID MAY CONTAIN EXPLOSIVE
GASES (when electrolyte has been
added)
A. Keep sparks, flame, cigarettes away.
B. Hydrogen gas is generated during charging
and discharging.
C. Ventilate when charging or using in enclosed
space.
D. When using a charger—to avoid sparks—
NEVER connect or disconnect charger clips to
battery while charger is turned on.
E. Always shield eyes, protect skin and clothing
when working near batteries.
A. Activating the Battery
1. Place battery to be filled on bench or
workbench. NEVER activate battery in unit.
Remove vent caps from all cells.
2. Fill each cell carefully using battery grade
1.250—1.265 specific gravity. Sulfuric acid to
be 3/8 above the top of the separators or to
the split ring.
3. Allow battery to set for 20 minutes to Vz
hour. Add additional acid if necessary to
bring it up to the proper level.
4. Replace the vent caps.
5. The battery can now be charged after the 20
minutes setting period. Battery can be SLOW
CHARGED (DO NOT FAST CHARGE) at a
maximum bench rate of 4-5 amperes until the
specific gravity reading is 1.265—1.275. A
charging rate in excess of this will buckle and
warp the positive plates and perforate the
sepa.'’ators. If electrolyte bubbles violently
while charging, reduce charging rate until
excessive bubbling action subsides, then
continue charging until specific gravity is
reached.
5

CAUTION
After the battery has been in service,
add only approved water. DO NOT
ADD ACID.
B. To Install Battery
To install the battery in this unit, refer to next
column.
C. Maintenance
1. Check periodically (every two weeks or before
and after charging) to be sure electrolyte level
is 9/16” above separator plates. Add only
distilled water or good quality drinking water.
NEVER add additional acid or other chemicals
to battery after initial 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 electro¬
lyte 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.
D. Storage
1. Charge battery using normal methods.
NEVER store discharged battery as it will not
recover.
2. Store in cold, dry place.
3. Recharge battery whenever the specific
gravity is less than 1.225 before returning to
service or every two months, whichever
occurs first.
E. Common Causes for Battery Failure Are:
1. Overcharging
2. Undercharging
3. Lack of water
4. Loose hold downs and / o r corroded
connections
5. Excessive loads
6. Battery electrolyte substitutes
7. Freezing of electrolyte
NOTE
THESE FAILURES DO NOT CON¬
STITUTE WARRANTY.
INSTALL THE BATTERY
A. O p en the hood of the mower.
B. P l a ce the battery with the terminals to the
FRONT in the battery case. See figure 4.
C. H o ok both hold-down rods under the battery
case and place the hold down over the battery
caps and secure with wing nuts D.
CAUTION
Be sure the flared edge of the hold
down is facing up to avoid damage
to the battery.
D. A ttach the free end of the positive cable and
the small wire from the ammeter, to the
positive battery terminal with bolt E, washer F
and nut G. The battery terminal is marked + .
E. A ttach the free end of the negative cable to the
negative terminal with bolt E, washer F and
nut G. Battery terminal is marked -.
FIGURE 4. INSTALLING THE BATTERY
6

CONTROLS (s« figure 5.)
This manual should be read in its entirety before
you operate your Riding Mower. The more you
know and understand about the machine and its
operation, the better job it will do for you. While
reading the manual, compare the illustrations
with your mower to famiiiarize yourself with the
locations of various controls, lubrication points,
attachments and adjustment features.
Study the operating instructions and safety
precautions thoroughly to insure proper function¬
ing of your mower and to prevent injury to yourself
and others. Be sure to save this manual for future
reference.
THROTTLE CONTROL
The throttle control is used to regulate the engine
speed and to activate the choke on the engine. To
get maximum efficiency-from cutting, the throttle
should be in the FAST position when operating
the mower. Pushing the throttle all the way
forward, past FAST will choke the engine. See
figures.
IGNITION KEY
Recoil Model. The key must be turned to the ON
position before you pull the recoil handle to start
the engine. Remove the key when the mower is
not in use. Turn the key to the left to the OFF
position to stop the engine. See figure 10.
Electric Model. The key must be turned to the
START position to start the engine. After the
engine is running let the key return to the ON
position. Remove the key when the mower is not
in use. Turn the key to the OFF position to stop
the engine. See figure 5.
FIGURES. CONTROLS
INTERLOCKS (Not Shown)
An interlock safety switch is located on the clutch
pedal and the lift and disengagement lever.
The clutch pedal must be depressed all the way
down and can be locked and the lift and
disengagement lever must be in the disengaged
position before the engine can be started.
On the recoil start model, the ignition will be
grounded and on the electric start model, the
starter will not run.
BRAKE
The brake pedal is located on the right hand side
of the mower and is operated by depressing it with
your right foot. See figure 6.
BRAKE LOCK
The brake lock is located on the right hand side of
the mower. To lock the brake, depress the brake
pedal and lift up the lock button. The pedal will
stay depressed. To release, depress the brake
pedal. Always lock the brake when you park the
mower. See figure 6.
CLUTCH
The clutch pedal is located on the left hand side of
the mower and is operated with your left foot.
Depress the pedal to disengage the drive
mechanism. Release the clutch slowly to engage.
The clutch and brake pedals must both be
depressed when stopping the mower. When
shifting gears, the clutch pedal must be
disengaged and the mower cannot be moving. See
figure?.
FIGURE 6. BRAKE AND BRAKE LOCK

1
CLUTCH LOCK
When the clutch pedal is depressed all the way it
can be locked by lifting up the lock button. The
pedal will stay depressed. To release, depress the
pedal. See figure 7.
The clutch pedal must be depressed
to start the engine.
[2
FIGURE?. CLUTCH AND CLUTCH LOCK
GEAR SHIFT LEVER
Three Speed—The three speed transmission has
three forward speeds, neutral and reverse. The
clutch pedal must be depressed to shift gears. It
may be necessary to release the clutch pedal
slightly to shift the gear shift lever. Do not force
the shift lever.
1 St Gear—Heavy Cutting
2nd Gear—Medium Cutting
3rd Gear—Medium Cutting
N —Neutral
R—Reverse
See figures 5 and 8.
FIGURE 8. THREE SPEED TRANSMISSION
RECOIL STARTER HANDLE
The recoil starter handle is located on the right
side of the dashboard. The recoil starter handle
can'either be pulled while seated on the rider or
pulled while standing behind the rider. The
ignition key must be on before the engine will
start. After the engine starts, the recoil starter
handle must be returned and locked into the
dashboard before the blade or clutch are engaged.
The engine will stop if you do not follow these
instructions. See figure 9.
FIGURES. RECOIL STARTER
LIFT AND DISENGAGEMENT LEVER
It is used to raise the cutting deck. Pulling it all
the way back and locking it disengages the blade.

NOTE
The engine will not start unless the
lift and disengagement lever is in the
disengaged position. See figure 10.
CUTTING CONTROLS
To set the cutting deck in the full float position:
set the wheel height adjusters in the desired
cutting height as indicated in figure 11. Set height
of cut stop in the lowest position. See figure 10.
To set the cutting deck in the suspended
position: set the height of cut stop in the desired
cutting height and then set the deck wheel so they
just clear the ground.
The cutting controls consist of the height of cut
stop and the wheel height adjusters.
Height of Cut Stop. See figure 10. Lift the stop
and set it at the desired cutting height. Allow the
lift and disengagement lever to come forward to
rest against the height of cut stop.
Wheel Height Adjuster. Move the lever towards
the wheel and set it in the desired cutting height
position. See figure 11. Both wheels must be in
the same relative position.
CAUTION
Parking Brake must be disengaged
before unit is put into motion.
NOTE
Unit is equipped with separate brake
and clutch pedals. To efficiently
stop, it is necessary to disengage
clutch when applying brakes.
SETTING THE CUTTING HEIGHT
The cutting height of the mower can be set in two
different ways: Full Float position where the deck
follows the contour of the ground, and the
Suspended position where the deck hangs from
the frame of the rider. The suspended position is
normally used for cutting rough uneven ground.

OPERATING
INSTRUCTIONS
14 .
CAUTION
Keep all shields and guards in place.
Before leaving operator’s position:
Shift controls into neutral
Set parking brake
Disengage attachment drive
Shut off engine
Remove ignition key
Wait for all movement to stop before servicing
machine.
Keep people and pets a safe distance avway
from machine.
STARTING THE ENGINE
FIGURE 12. RECOIL STARTER
Electric Start Model. Turn the ignition key to the
START position. As soon as the engine starts let
the key return to the ON position. See figure 5.
Slowly return the throttle to the running position
as soon as the engine starts.
8. To stop either model, turn the ignition key to
the OFF position and remove the, key when
the unit is not in use.
1. Be sure the crankcase is filled with oil as
recommended in the engine manual and put
regular gasoline in the gasoline tank.
2. If the engine is equipped with a fuel shut off
valve, be sure it is open.
3. Attach the wire to the spark plug.
PUTTING THE RIDER IN MOTION
1. Advance the throttle control from % to full
throttle to prevent strain on the engine and to
operate the cutting blades.
2. Depress the clutch pedal so the clutch lock
releases.
4. Depress the clutch pedal and lock it down
with the speed control lever.
5. Move the lift and disengagement lever
backward to the disengaged position and lock
it.
6. Set the throttle control lever in the CHOKE
position.
7. Recoil Model. Turn the ignition key to the ON'
position, twist the recoil starter handle until it
is free and pull it with a quick steady motion.
After the engine starts, return the recoil
starter handle and twist it until it locks. See
figures 9 and 12.
NOTE
The engine will stop when clutch or
blades are engaged if this procedure
is not follovyed.
3. Place the gear shift lever in the number 1
position on the three speed unit.
4. Slowly release the clutch pedal.
5. To stop the unit, depress the clutch pedal and
the brake pedal.
6. The blade can be engaged either while moving
or while standing still. Move the lift and
disengagement lever forward slowly until the
blade is running.
NOTE
As you become more familiar with
the four speed transmission, stop
the unit and shift into a higher gear.
10

STOPPING
Engine—Turn the ignition key to the left to the
OFF position.
Rider—Depress the clutch and brake pedals.
Blades—Move the lift and disengagement lever
all the way to the rear and lock it.
The deck may be cleaned by tilting the mower on
its rear wheels. Scrape clean with a suitable tool
or by washing with a stream of water from a
garden hose.
Be sure to disconnect the spark plug wire and
ground it while performing this maintenance.
MAINTENANCE
CRANKCASE OIL
To ensure maximum engine performance, perform
the following periodic maintenance;
Check oil level before starting engine and after
every 5 hours of operation. Be sure oil level Is
maintained to FULL POINT OF OVERFLOWING or
to FULL MARK on dipstick.
Change Oil after first 5 hours of operation.
Thereafter change oil every 25 hours of operation.
Remove oil drain plug and drain oil while engine is
warm. Replace drain plug. Remove dipstick or
filler plug and refill with new oil of proper grade.
Replace dipstick or plug.
FIGURE 13. CHECKING OIL
NOTE
To insure safe operation, ALL nuts
and bolts must be checked periodi¬
cally for correct tightness.
BLADES
WARNING {
Disconnect the spark plug wire and
remove the ignition key before re¬
moving the blades.
Sharp and balanced blades are essential for
efficient mowing and long mower and engine life.
When sharpening blades, file equal amounts of
metal from each side. The blades should be
balanced before they are reinstalled. An unbal¬
anced blade will cause excessive vibration and
undue wear on the mower and the engine. When
reassembling, all parts must be installed in the
proper order and fastened securely.
Remove the 3/8” bolt and lockwasher. Pull the
blade and adapter off the mower deck. To remove
the adapter form the blade, remove the two 5/16”
bolts, lockwashers and nuts. See figure 14.
MOWER DECK
The underside of the mower deck should be
cleaned after each period of use as grass
clippings, leaves, dirt and other matter will
accumulate. This accumulation of grass clip¬
pings, etc., is undesirable as it will invite rust and
corrosion and may cause an uneven discharge of
grass clippings at the next mowing.
BRAKE ADJUSTMENT See figure 16.
To adjust the brake tighten the locknut one half
turn and then test the brakes. After attaining the
proper adjustment, replace the cotter pin.
The brake is located by the right rear wheel inside
the frame.
11

1
FIGURE 16. CHAIN ADJUSTMENT
LUBRICATION
1. Front Wheel Bearings (4). Lubricate with SAE
30 oil once a season or after every 25 hours of
operation. See figure 17.
2. King Pin Bearings (4). Lubricate with SAE 30
oil once a season or after every 25 hours of
operation. See figure 17.
3. Steering Gears. Lubricate the two gears with
automotive multi-purpose grease once a
season. See figure 18.
4. Pivot Bolt. Lubricate with SAE 30 oil once a
season. See figure 17.
5. Deck Wheel Bearings (4). Remove the axle
bolt and lubricate with multi-purpose auto¬
motive grease once a season or after every 25
hours of operation. See figure 19.
6. Differential. Lubricated at the factory with 2
ounces of high temperature grease (450°F.).
The grease should only be checked or
replaced if the differential Is disassembled for
repair. See figure 20.
7. Transmission. Lubricated at the factory with
12 ounces of E.P. Lithium grease. The grease
should only be checked or replaced if the
transmission is disassembled for repair.
FIGURE 18
FIGURE 17
FIGURE 15. BRAKE ADJUSTMENT
CHAIN ADJUSTMENT
After the first five hours of operation the initial
slack should be removed from the chain. The
chain should be tight enough so that it defiects
approximately y 2 ” when it is depressed with the
thumb.
To tighten the chain, loosen the two locking nuts
on each side of the rear axle.
Tighten the adjusting nuts until the proper chain
tension is obtained.
Tighten the locking nuts on the rear axle. See
figure 17.
Locknut
12

8. Steering Column Bearings (2). Oil once a
season with SAE30 oil. See figure 18.
9. Rear Axle Bearings (3). Requires no lubrica¬
tion. See figure 20.
10. Steering Shaft Bearings (2). Requires no
lubrication. See figure 18.
11. Chain. Remove and clean with kerosene.
Lubricate with an oil soaked rag. See figure
20 .
Do not get oil on the sprocket or
brake pads.
The following items have sealed bearings and
require no further lubrication.
Blade Spindle Bearings
Tie Rod Ends
Idler Bearings
BELTS REMOVAL AND REPLACEMENT
Before up-ending vehicle for main¬
tenance, position it on a hard level
surface and ensure area is clear of
children and pets.
Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it
against the engine.
To prevent gasoline from leaking from the
gasoline tank, remove the cap, place a piece of
plastic film over the neck of the tank and screw on
the cap or drain tank.
1. Put the lift lever in the disengaged position.
2. Remove the belt keeper and shoulder bolt on
the engine pulley. See figure 21.
3. Remove the blade belt from the engine pulley.
4. Put the lift lever In the engaged position.
5. Remove the two tension springs on the rear of
the deck.
6. Remove the six pins holding the deck to the
frame. See figure 22.
7. Liftoff the deck and set it aside.
FIGURE 21
FIGURE 20
13

BLADE BELT See figure 23.
1. Take off both belt guards on the deck.
2. Remove and replace the belt with a new one.
TRANSMISSION BELT See figure 22.
1. Remove the engine belt guard from the engine
pulley by removing the two front engine bolts.
2. Remove the two belt guards from the trans¬
mission pulley.
3. Remove the V-idler pulley.
4. Remove and replace the transmission pulley.
FIGURE 22
FIGURE 23
14

TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART FOR RECOIL START MODELS
CAUTION: ALWAYS DISCONNECT SPARK PLUG BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY REMEDY.
TROUBLE
LOOK FOR
REMEDY
Engine fails to start.
Safety System
If the engine will not start be sure the clutch control is
disengaged; blade controls disengaged, the throttle control
is set and the key is turned on.
A. Disconnect the yellow wire from the engine. This comes
from the ignition switch.
B. If the engine fails to start the problem is with the engine,
not the safety system.
C. If the engine starts, the problem is with the safety
system. Check the yellow wire for a ground.
D. Check the operation of the switch behind the recoil
starter handle.
E. If the engine stops when the clutch or blade is engaged,
the recoil handle is not pushed into the receptacle and
twisted a quarter turn.
Blocked fuel line or
empty gas tank.
Clean fuel line; check fuel supply. Also check fuel shut-off
valve.
Defective spark
plug.
Spark plug lead wire disconnected.
Faulty spark plug—spark should jump gap between control
electrode and side electrode. If spark does not jump, replace
spark plug.
NOTE: Use insulated pliers to hold the spark plug wire.
Throttle setting.
Throttle control lever not in the starting position.
Loose connections.
Spark plug wire loose.
Hard starting or loss of
power.
Dirty air cleaner.
Remove air cleaner and clean as outlined in Engine Manual.
Carburetor improp¬
erly adjusted.
Review paragraph Carburetor Adjustment.
Excessive vibration.
Bent or damaged
blade spindle.
Stop engine immediately; tighten all bolts and make all
necessary repairs. If vibration continues, have the unit
serviced by a competent repairman.
Unit fails to discharge
grass.
Discharge chute
clogged.
Cleon discharge chute and inside of deck.
Foreign object
lodged in deck.
Remove object from deck. See CAUTION following step 1 in
paragraph Operation.
Engine overheats.
Obstructions in air
passages.
Remove any obstruction from air passages in shroud. Grass
and dirt in engine shroud. Clean cooling fins.
Oil level.
Fill crankcase to proper oil level.

I
TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART FOR ELECTRIC START MODELS
TROUBLE
LOOK FOR
REMEDY
Engine fails to start.
Safety System
A. Check for a blown fuse in the wire leading from the
positive terminal of the battery.
B. Before checking the safety system further, be sure the
clutch control and the blade control are disengaged; only
the starting system is being checked. Therefore remove
the spark piug lead and ground it to prevent the engine
from starting.
C. Attach a wire (minimum 18 gauge) to the positive ter¬
minal of the battery and touch the other end to the
small termirial (coil primary) of the solenoid. If the en¬
gine cranks, the problem is in the safety system.-
D. Check for continuity from the battery to the solenoid.
NOTE; The positive terminal of the batteiy should have
a large cable (#8 guage) and a small wire ( ■ # l8 gauge)
attached to it.
E. Check all wires and cable for tightness.
F. Use a #8 gauge wire and jump between the two large
terminals of the solenoid. If the unit starts, replace the
solenoid.
G. If the unit fails to start after following the above pro¬
cedure the problem is probably in the starting motor of
the engine.
Blocked fuel line or
empty gas tank.
Clean fuel line; check fuel supply. Also check fuel shut-off
valve.
Defective spark
plug.
Spark plug lead wire disconnected.
Faulty spark plug—spark should jump gap between control
electrode and side electrode. If spark does not jump, re¬
place spark plug.
NOTE: Use insulated pliers to hold the spark plug wire.
Throttle setting. Throttle control lever not in the starting position.
Loose connections
Spark plug wire loose.
Hard starting or loss of
power.
Dirty air cleaner.
Remove air cleaner and clean as outlined in Engine
Manual.
Carburetor improp
erly adjusted.
Review paragraph Carburetor Adjustment.
Excessive vibration.
Bent or damaged
blade spindle.
Stop engine immediately; tighten all bolts and make all nec¬
essary repairs. If vibration continues, have the unit serviced
by a competent repairman.
Unit fails to discharge
grass.
Discharge chute
clogged.
Clean discharge chute and inside of deck.
Foreign object
lodged in deck.
Remove object from deck. See CAUTION following step 1 in
paragraph Operation.
Engine overheats.
Obstructions in air
passages.
Remove any obstruction from air passages in shroud.
Grass and dirt in engine shroud. Clean cooling fins.
Oil level.
Fill crankcase to proper oil level.
16

BELT TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART
Failure
Probable Cause
Corrective Action
1 Broken Belt
1A Sudden stop or shock
load to belt
1A Inspect rider for cause such as foreign objects
stuck in between deck and frame or belt path.
Remove obstruction and inspect for damage.
Replace belt per parts list in this manual.
1B Incorrect belt used
1B Replace with proper belt only. See parts list in
this manual. Roll belt onto pulley. Do not use
screw driver to push or pry belt onto pulley.
The sharp bend can damage internal cords.
1C Abrupt engagement
1C Slower engagement required.
1D Defective or damaged belt
ID Refer to IB.
2 Belt Shredds
2A Belt guides or guards
incorrectly adjusted
2A Belt guides and guards should be adjusted to
approximately 1 /16 to 1 /8 inch from beit when
in the engaged position.
2B Pulleys not aligned
2B Realign pulleys to be within approximately
1/16 inch of each other. Check with straight
edge. Be sure fastening hardware is tight.
2C Bad pulley—rough, rusty
chipped, bent, frozen
bearing, etc.
2C Replace as necessary. Adjust as per 2B.
3 Belt Comes Off
3A Beit stretched
3A Adjust as necessary when applicable. Refer,to
1B
3B Broken or weak idler
spring
3B Replace.

ILLUSTR
PARTS F
TRANSM
717-0416
39

139-390A
139-395A
PARTS LIST FOR TRANSMISSION MODEL NO. 717-0416
REF.
NO.
PART
NO.
Qty.
Req’d.
DESCRIPTION
1
FF-1300
1
Ring, Retaining
2
FF-1084
1 Sprocket, 8 T
3 FF-1068
*
Washer, Plain (.040)
3
FF-1082
*
Washer, Plain (.031)
3 FF-1145
*
Washer, Plain (.060)
3
FF-1358
*
Was.her, Plain (.050)
3
FF-1423
*
Washer, Plain (.025)
3
FF-1424
*
Washer, Plain (.035)
3 FF-1425
*
Washer, Plain (.045)
3
FF-1441
*
Washer, Plain (.020)
4 FF-1106
1
Ring, Retaining
5
FF-1101
4 Bearing, Flange
6
FF-1072
1 Gear, Spur20T
7
FF-1444 1
Gear, Spur, 30T
8
FF-1083 2
Collar, Clutch
9 FF-1095
2
Spring, Compression
10
FF-1064-A 1 Housing, Lower
11 FF-1076
1
Gear, Spur, 25T
12 FF-1075
1 Gear, Spur, 25T
13
FF-1099 2
Ring, Retaining
14 FF-1325 1
Spacer
15 FF-1078
1
Gear, Spur, 30T
16
FF-1374 1 Key, Wdr., No. 9 Alloy
17
FF-1670
1 Cover, Nylon
18 FF-1091
1 Insert, Nylon
19
FF-1318
1
Knob, Shift
20 FF-2683 1 Assembly, Lever, Shift
21 FF-1100
1 Ring, Retaining
22 FF-1096
1 Washer, Wave
23
FF-1085
1
Gear, Bevel, 42T
24
FF-1071
1 Gear, Spur, 20T
25
FF-1087 1 Sprocket, 12T, Special
26
FF-1090
1 Chain
27 FF-1104 1 Sprocket, 12T, Special
28
FF-1371 2 Key, Wdrf., No. 4 Alloy
29 FF-1369
2 Key, Wdr., No. 3 Alloy
30 FF-1375 2
Key, Wdrf., No. 61 Alloy
31
FF-1094 1
Shaft, Output
32 FF-1443 1 Shaft, Drive
33 FF-1086 2 Key, Hi-Pro, Special
34 FF-1074 1
Plate, Lock-out
35
FF-1073
4 Screw, Shoulder
36
FF-1657
1 Fork, Shifter, R.H.
37 FF-1070
1 Fork, Shifter, L.H.
38
FF-1357 4 Screw, No. 10-24 x 1 /2
39 FF-1065-.
1 Housing, Upper
40
FF-1360 8
Boit, Hx. Hd., 1/4-20X
1-5/16
41 FF-1037 2 Ball, Detent
42
FF-1475 2
Spring, Detent
43 FF-1105
1
Pinion, Bevel, 16T
44 FF-1747 1 Shaft, Input
45 FF-1499
1
Washer, Thrust
46
FF-1102 2
Bearing, Needle
47 FF-1430
*
Washer, Plain (.040)
47 FF-1431
*
Washer, Plain (.050)
47
FF-1760
*
Washer, Plain (.015)
48
FF-1491
1 Ring, Retaining
* Indicates used in various combinations to
maintain proper clearances.,
19