Poulan Pro PR18542STC User manual

OWNER'S MANUAL
MODEL:
PR18542STC
LAWNTRACTOR
Always Wear Eye Protection During Operation
WARNING:
Read the Owner's Manual and follow
all Warnings and Safety Instructions.
Failure to do so can result in serious
injury.
IMPORTANT MANUAL Do Not Throw Away
175682 01.08.01 RH
Printed in U.S.A.

2
SAFEOPERATIONPRACTICESFORRIDE-ONMOWERS
IMPORTANT: THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OBJECTS.
FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
SAFETYRULES
I. GENERALOPERATION
• Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the
manualandonthemachinebeforestarting.
• Onlyallowresponsibleadults,whoarefamiliarwiththe
instructions, to operate the machine.
• Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire,
etc., whichcouldbepickedupandthrownbytheblade.
• Besuretheareaisclearofotherpeoplebeforemowing.
Stop machine if anyone enters the area.
• Nevercarrypassengers.
• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary.
Alwayslookdownandbehindbeforeandwhilebacking.
• Beawareofthemowerdischargedirectionanddonot
point it at anyone. Do not operate the mower without
either the entire grass catcher or the guard in place.
• Slowdownbeforeturning.
• Never leave a running machine unattended. Always
turn off blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and
removekeysbeforedismounting.
• Turnoffbladeswhennotmowing.
• Stopenginebeforeremovinggrasscatcherorunclog-
gingchute.
• Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
• Donotoperatethemachinewhileundertheinfluence
of alcohol or drugs.
• Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing
roadways.
• Useextracarewhenloadingorunloadingthemachine
into a trailer or truck.
• Dataindicatesthatoperators,age60yearsandabove,
are involved in a large percentage of riding mower-
relatedinjuries. Theseoperatorsshouldevaluatetheir
ability to operate the riding mower safely enough to
protect themselves and others from serious injury.
II. SLOPEOPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and
tipoveraccidents,whichcanresultinsevereinjuryordeath.
Allslopesrequireextra caution. Ifyoucannotbackupthe
slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not mow it.
DO:
• Mow up and down slopes, not across.
• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.
• Watchforholes,ruts,orbumps. Uneventerraincould
overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
•Useslowspeed. Choosealowgearsothatyouwillnot
have to stop or shift while on the slope.
•Followthemanufacturer’srecommendationsforwheel
weights or counterweights to improve stability.
•Use extra care with grass catchers or other attach-
ments. Thesecanchangethestabilityofthemachine.
•Keepallmovementontheslopes slow and gradual . Do
not make sudden changes in speed or direction.
•Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose
traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly
straight down the slope.
DONOT:
• Do not turn on slopesunless necessary, andthen, turn
slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.
• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments.
Themowercouldsuddenlyturnoverifawheelisoverthe
edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.
• Donot mowonwetgrass.Reducedtractioncouldcause
sliding.
• Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot
ontheground.
• Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.
III. CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the
presence of children. Children are often attracted to the
machine and the mowing activity.
Never assume that
children will remain where you last saw them.
•Keep children out of the mowing area and under the
watchfulcareofanotherresponsibleadult.
•Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area.
•Beforeandwhenbacking,lookbehindand
down forsmall
children.
•Nevercarrychildren. Theymayfall offandbeseriously
injuredorinterferewithsafemachineoperation.
•Neverallowchildrento operatethemachine.
•Useextracarewhenapproachingblindcorners,shrubs,
trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.
IV. SERVICE
•Useextracareinhandlinggasolineandotherfuels. They
areflammableandvaporsareexplosive.
- Useonlyanapprovedcontainer.
- Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine
running. Allowenginetocoolbeforerefueling. Donot
smoke.
- Neverrefuelthemachineindoors.
- Never store the machine or fuel container inside
wherethereisanopenflame,suchasawaterheater.
•Never run a machine inside a closed area.
•Keepnutsandbolts,especiallybladeattachmentbolts,
tightandkeep equipment in good condition.
•Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper
operationregularly.
•Keepmachinefreeofgrass,leaves,orotherdebrisbuild-
up. Clean oil or fuel spillage. Allow machine to cool
beforestoring.
•Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object.
Repair,ifnecessary,beforerestarting.
•Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine
running.
•Grasscatchercomponentsaresubjecttowear,damage,
and deterioration, which could expose moving parts or
allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check compo-
nents and replace with manufacturer's recommended
parts,whennecessary.
•Mowerbladesaresharpandcancut. Wraptheblade(s)
or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing
them.
•Checkbrakeoperationfrequently. Adjustandserviceas
required.

3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SAFETY RULES ........................................................ 2-3
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS....................................... 4
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ......................4, 14-17
ASSEMBLY................................................................ 6-8
OPERATION............................................................. 9-13
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE....................................... 14
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS .............................18-23
STORAGE ................................................................... 24
TROUBLESHOOTING .............................................25-26
REPAIR PARTS ......................................................28-43
WARRANTY ................................................................ 45
•Besuretheareaisclearofotherpeoplebeforemowing.
Stop machine if anyone enters the area.
•Nevercarrypassengersorchildrenevenwiththeblades
off.
•Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary.
Alwayslookdownandbehindbeforeandwhilebacking.
•Nevercarrychildren.Theymayfalloffandbeseriously
injuredorinterferewithsafemachineoperation.
•Keep children out of the mowing area and under the
watchfulcareofanotherresponsibleadult.
•Bealertandturnmachineoffifchildrenenterthearea.
•Before and when backing, look behind and down for
smallchildren.
•Mow up and down slopes (15°Max), not across.
•Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.
•Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could
overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
•Useslowspeed.Choosealowgearsothatyouwillnot
have to stop or shift while on the slope.
•Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose
traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly
straightdown the slope.
•If machine stops while going uphill, disengage blades,
shift into reverse and back down slowly.
•Donotturnonslopesunlessnecessary,andthen,turn
slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.
Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers
SAFETY RULES
Look for this symbol to point out im-
portant safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BECOMEALERT!!! YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
CAUTION: Inordertopreventacciden-
talstartingwhensettingup,transport-
ing, adjusting or making repairs, al-
ways disconnect spark plug wire and
placewirewhereitcannotcontactspark
plug.
CAUTION: Do not coast down a hill in
neutral, you may lose control of the
tractor.
CAUTION: Tow only the attachments
thatarerecommended byandcomply
withspecificationsofthemanufacturer
of your tractor. Use common sense
when towing. Operate only at the low-
est possible speed when on a slope.
Too heavy of a load, while on a slope,
is dangerous. Tires can lose traction
withthe groundandcauseyoutolose
controlofyourtractor.
WARNING
Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and cer-
tainvehiclecomponentscontainoremitchemicals
knowntotheStateofCaliforniatocausecancerand
birthdefectsorotherreproductiveharm.
WARNING
Battery posts, terminals and related accessories
containleadandleadcompounds,chemicalsknown
to the State of California to cause cancer and birth
defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands
afterhandling.

4
CONGRATULATIONS onyourpurchaseofanewtractor. It
has been designed, engineered and manufactured to give
youthebestpossibledependability and performance.
Should you experience any problem you cannot easily
remedy, please contact your nearest authorized service
center/department. Wehavecompetent,well-trainedtech-
niciansandthe propertoolstoserviceorrepairthistractor.
Please read and retain this manual. The instructions will
enableyoutoassembleandmaintainyourtractorproperly.
Always observe the “SAFETY RULES”.
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
•Read and observe the safety rules.
•Followaregularscheduleinmaintaining,caringforand
usingyour tractor.
•Follow the instructions under “Customer Responsibili-
ties”and “Storage”sections of this owner’s manual.
WARNING: This tractor is equipped with an internal com-
bustion engine and should not be used on or near any
unimproved forest-covered, brush-covered or grass-cov-
ered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped
withasparkarrestermeetingapplicablelocalorstatelaws
(ifany). If a sparkarrester is used, itshould be maintained
ineffective working orderby the operator.
A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your
nearestauthorizedservicecenter/department(SeeREPAIR
PARTS section of this manual).
InthestateofCaliforniatheaboveisrequiredbylaw(Section
4442oftheCaliforniaPublicResourcesCode). Otherstates
mayhavesimilarlaws. Federallawsapplyonfederallands.
GASOLINE CAPACITY 2.00 GALLONS
AND TYPE: UNLEADED REGULAR
OILTYPE(API-SF-SJ): SAE 30 (above 32°F)
SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F)
OILCAPACITY: W/FILTER: 4.0 PINTS
W/OFILTER: 3.75 PINTS
SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION RC12YC
(GAP: .040")
GROUND SPEED (MPH): FORWARD: 1st 1.2
2nd 1.5
3rd 2.4
4th 3.5
5th 4.8
6th 5.3
REVERSE: 1.5
TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI
REAR: 10 PSI
CHARGING 3 AMPS BATTERY
5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS
BATTERY: AMP/HR: 30
MIN. CCA: 240
CASESIZE: U1R
BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 27-35 FT. LBS.
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

5
(1) Large Flat
Washer
(1)
Locknut
5/16-18
(1) Hex Bolt 5/16-18 x 1-1/4
(1) Hex Bolt
3/8-16 x 1
(1) Lock
washer
3/8
Steering
Wheel Insert
Steering
Extension
Shaft
Steering
Sleeve
Steering Wheel
Steering
Wheel
Adapter
(1) Knob
(1) Washer
17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge
Seat
(2) Keys
Keys Slope Sheet
(2) Mulcher Blades
Blades
(1) Oil Drain Tube
For Future Use
UNASSEMBLEDHARDWARE

6
ASSEMBLY
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY
A socket wrench set will make assembly easier. Standard
wrench sizes are listed.
(2) 1/2" wrenches Utility knife
(1) 9/16"wrench Tirepressuregauge
Pliers
Whenrightorlefthandismentionedinthismanual,itmeans
when you are in the operating position (seated behind the
steeringwheel).
TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON
UNPACK CARTON
•Remove all accessible loose parts and parts cartons
fromcarton.
•Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on all four corners
of carton, and lay panels flat.
•Check for any additional loose parts or cartons and
remove.
Yournewtractorhasbeenassembledatthefactorywithexceptionofthosepartsleftunassembledforshippingpurposes. To
ensure safe and proper operation of your tractor all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the
correct tools as necessary to insure proper tightness.
FIG. 1
5/16
LOCKNUT
LOWER
STEERING
SHAFT
TABS
EXTENSION
SHAFT
5/16 HEX
BOLT
STEERING
WHEEL
INSERT
ADAPTER
3/8 HEX BOLT
3/8 LOCK WASHER
LARGE FLAT
WASHER
STEERING
BOOT
TAB
SLOTS
BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR FROM
SKID
ATTACH STEERING WHEEL (See Fig. 1)
ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND BOOT
•Slide extension shaft onto lower steering shaft. Align
mountingholesinextensionandlowershaftsandinstall
5/16 hex bolt and locknut. Tighten securely.
•Place tabs of steering boot over tab slots in dash and
pushdown to secure.
INSTALLSTEERINGWHEEL
•Positionfrontwheelsofthetractorso they are pointing
straightforward.
•Removesteeringwheeladapterfromsteeringwheeland
slide adapter onto steering shaft extension.
•Positionsteeringwheelsocrossbarsarehorizontal(left
to right) and slide inside boot and onto adapter.
•Assemble large flat washer, 3/8 lock washer, 3/8 hex
bolt and tighten securely.
•Snapsteeringwheelinsertintocenterofsteeringwheel.
•Removeprotectivematerialsfromtractorhoodandgrill.
IMPORTANT: CHECKFORANDREMOVE ANYSTAPLES
INSKIDTHATMAYPUNCTURETIRESWHERETRACTOR
IS TO ROLL OFF SKID.
HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR
CHECK BATTERY (See Fig. 2)
•Lift seat pan to raised position and open battery box
door.
•If this battery is put into service after month and year
indicated on label (label located between terminals)
charge battery for minimum of one hour at 6-10 amps.
(See"BATTERY"inCUSTOMERRESPONSIBILITIES
section of this manual for charging instructions).

7
ASSEMBLY
FIG. 2
TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Opera-
tion section, page 10, for location and
function of controls)
•Pressliftleverplungerandraiseattachmentliftleverto
its highest position.
•Releaseparkingbrakebydepressingclutch/brakepedal.
•Place gearshift lever in neutral (N) position.
•Roll tractor forward off skid.
•Remove banding holding deflector shield up against
tractor.
TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Opera-
tion section, page 10, for location and func-
tion of controls)
WARNING:Beforestarting,read,understandandfollow
all instructions in the Operation section of this manual. Be
sure tractor is in a well-ventilated area. Be sure the area in
front of tractor is clear of other people and objects.
•Be sure all the above assembly steps have been
completed.
•Check engine oil level and fill fuel tank with gasoline.
•Sit on seat in operating position, depress clutch/brake
pedaland set theparking brake.
•Place gear shift lever in neutral (N) position.
•Pressliftleverplungerandraiseattachmentliftleverto
its highest position.
•Starttheengine.Afterenginehasstarted,movethrottle
control to idle position.
•Depress clutch/brake pedal into full “BRAKE”position
and hold. Move gearshift lever to 1st gear.
•Slowly release clutch/brake pedal and slowly drive
tractor off skid.
•Applybraketostoptractor,setparkingbrakeandplace
gearshiftlever in neutralposition.
•Turn ignition key to “OFF”position.
Continue with the instructions that follow.
BATTERY
BOX DOOR
SEAT PAN
LABEL
TERMINAL TERMINAL
FIG. 3
SEAT PAN
SHOULDER
BOLT
ADJUSTMENT
KNOB
FLAT WASHER
SEAT
NOTE: You may now roll or drive your tractor off the skid.
Follow the appropriate instruction below to remove the
tractor from the skid.
INSTALL SEAT (See Fig. 3)
Adjust seat before tightening adjustment knob.
•Removeadjustmentknobandflatwashersecuringseat
tocardboardpackingandsetasideforassemblyofseat
to tractor.
•Pivot seat upward and remove from the cardboard
packing.Removethecardboardpackinganddiscard.
•Place seat on seat pan so head of shoulder bolt is
positionedover large slotted hole inpan.
•Pushdownonseattoengageshoulderboltinslotand
pull seat towards rear of tractor.
•Pivot seat and pan forward and assemble adjustment
knob and flat washer loosely. Do not tighten.
•Lower seat into operating position and sit on seat.
•Slideseatuntilacomfortablepositionisreachedwhich
allowsyoutopressclutch/brakepedalallthewaydown.
•Get off seat without moving its adjusted position.
•Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob securely.

8
ASSEMBLY
3 CHECKLIST
BEFOREYOUOPERATEANDENJOYYOURNEW TRAC-
TOR, WE WISH TO ASSURE THAT YOU RECEIVE THE
BESTPERFORMANCEANDSATISFACTIONFROMTHIS
QUALITYPRODUCT.
PLEASEREVIEWTHEFOLLOWINGCHECKLIST:
3 All assembly instructions have been completed.
3 Noremaining loose parts in carton.
3 Batteryisproperlypreparedandcharged. (Minimum1
hour at 6 amps).
3 Seat is adjusted comfortably and tightened securely.
3 All tires are properly inflated. (For shipping purposes,
the tires were overinflated at the factory).
3 Be sure mower deck is properly leveled side-to-side/
front-to-rear for best cutting results. (Tires must be
properlyinflatedforleveling).
3 Checkmoweranddrivebelts. Besuretheyarerouted
properlyaroundpulleysandinside all belt keepers.
3 Check wiring. See that all connections are still secure
andwiresareproperlyclamped.
WHILELEARNINGHOWTOUSEYOURTRACTOR,PAY
EXTRAATTENTIONTOTHEFOLLOWINGIMPORTANT
ITEMS:
3 Engine oil is at proper level.
3 Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean, regular unleaded
gasoline.
3 Become familiar with all controls - their location and
function. Operate them before you start the engine.
3 Be sure brake system is in safe operating condition.
CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
Thetiresonyourtractor wereoverinflatedatthefactoryfor
shipping purposes. Correct tire pressure is important for
bestcuttingperformance.
•Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in “PRODUCT
SPECIFICATIONS”section of this manual.
CHECK DECK LEVELNESS
Forbestcuttingresults,mowerhousingshouldbeproperly
leveled. See“TOLEVELMOWERHOUSING”intheService
and Adjustments section of this manual.
CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF ALL
BELTS
See the figures that are shown for replacing motion and
mower blade drive belts in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual. Verify that the belts are routed
correctly.
CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM
Afteryoulearnhowtooperateyourtractor,checktoseethat
thebrakeisproperlyadjusted. See“TOADJUSTBRAKE”
in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.
TO INSTALL MULCHER PLATE (See Fig. 4)
NOTE:Ifyouinstalledthemulchingbladesyouwillneedtoinstall
themulcherplate.
•Raise and hold deflector shield in upright position.
•Place front of mulcher plate over front of mower deck
opening and slide into place, as shown.
•Hook front latch into hole on front of mower deck.
•Hook rear latch into hole on back of mower deck.
CAUTION:Donotremovedeflectorshield
frommower.Raiseandholdshieldwhen
attaching mulcher plate and allow it to
rest on plate while in operation.
DEFLECTOR
SHIELD
FIG. 4
LATCH
HOOKS
TO SET UP YOUR MOWER FOR MULCHING
•Remove high performance blades and install mulcher
blades, (see BLADE REMOVAL in the CUSTOMER
RESPONSABILITY section of this manual).
YOUR MOWER CAME FACTORY EQUIPPED WITH HIGH
PERFORMANCE BLADES, WHICH ARE THE BEST
BLADES FOR BAGGING AND DISCHARGING. TO USE
YOURMOWERWITHTHEHIGHPERFORMANCEBLADES
THE MULCHER PLATE MUST BE REMOVED FROM THE
MOWER (See Fig. 4).
IMPORTANT: FOR SHIPPING PURPOSES, THE
MULCHER PLATE WAS PREATTACHED TO YOUR
MOWER. THE MULCHER PLATE MUST ONLY BE USED
WITH THE MULCHING BLADES THAT CAME PACKED
SEPARATELY IN THE CARTON.
TO CONVERT TO BAGGING OR
DISCHARGING
NOTE:Themulcherbladeswilldischargeandbaggrass,but
forbestbagginganddischarginginstallthehighperformance
blades.
•Remove mulcher plate and mulcher blades and install
highperformanceblades,(seeBLADEREMOVALinthe
CUSTOMERRESPONSABILITYsectionofthismanual).
•Storemulcherbladesandmulcherplateinasafeplace.
Yourmowerisnowreadyfordischargingorinstallation
of optional grass catcher accessory.
MULCHER
PLATE

9
OPERATION
These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand their meaning.
BATTERY CAUTION OR
WARNING REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW
ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON
FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE
LOCKED UNLOCKED
REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW
ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH ENGAGED
MOWER LIFT
DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY FREE WHEEL
(Automatic Models only)
OVER TEMP
LIGHT
PARKING BRAKE
IGNITION ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH DISENGAGED
P
KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS
15
15
15
(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

10
OPERATION
KNOW YOUR TRACTOR
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR TRACTOR
Comparetheillustrationswithyourtractortofamiliarizeyourselfwiththelocationsofvariouscontrolsandadjustments. Save
thismanualforfuturereference.
FIG. 5
Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the American National Standards Institute.
THROTTLE CONTROL: Used for starting and controlling
enginespeed.
CHOKECONTROL:Usedforstartingacoldengine.
CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL:Usedforclutchingand braking
the tractor and starting the engine.
IGNITION SWITCH: Used for starting and stopping the
engine.
LIGHT SWITCH: Turns the headlights on and off.
AMMETER: Indicates charging (+) or discharging (-) of
battery.
HEIGHTADJUSTMENTKNOB:Usedtoadjustthemower
cuttingheight
ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER: Used to engage the
mowerblades,orotherattachmentsmountedtoyourtractor.
LIFT LEVER PLUNGER: Used to release attachment lift
leverwhen changing its position.
ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER: Used to raise and lower the
mowerdeck or other attachmentsmounted to your tractor.
PARKINGBRAKELEVER:LocksClutch/BrakePedalinto
thebrakeposition.
GEARSHIFT LEVER: Selects the speed and direction of
tractor.
THROTTLE
CONTROL
LIFT LEVER
PLUNGER
ATTACHMENT
LIFT LEVER
PARKING
BRAKE LEVER
GEARSHIFT
LEVER
CLUTCH/
BRAKE
PEDAL
CHOKE
AMMETER
ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH LEVER
IGNITION
SWITCH LIGHT
SWITCH
POSITION
HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
KNOB

11
OPERATION
CAUTION: Always stop tractor com-
pletely,asdescribedabove,beforeleav-
ing the operator's position; to empty
grasscatcher,etc.
Theoperationofanytractorcan resultinforeignobjectsthrownintotheeyes,whichcan
resultinsevereeyedamage. Alwayswearsafetyglassesoreyeshieldswhileoperating
your tractor or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recommend a wide vision
safetymaskoverspectaclesorstandardsafetyglasses.
HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR
TO SET PARKING BRAKE (See Fig. 6)
Yourtractorisequippedwithanoperatorpresencesensing
switch. Whenengineisrunning,anyattemptbytheoperator
to leave the seat without first setting the parking brake will
shut off the engine.
•Depress clutch/brake pedal into full “BRAKE”position
andhold.
•Placeparkingbrakelever in“ENGAGED”positionand
releasepressurefromclutch/brakepedal. Pedalshould
remainin“BRAKE”position. Makesureparkingbrake
will hold tractor secure.
STOPPING (See Fig. 6)
MOWERBLADES-
•Tostopmowerblades,moveattachmentclutchleverto
“DISENGAGED”position.
GROUNDDRIVE-
•To stop ground drive, depress clutch/brake pedal into
full “BRAKE”position.
•Move gear shift lever to neutral (N) position.
ENGINE-
•Move throttle control to slow position.
NOTE: Failuretomovethrottlecontroltoslowpositionand
allowingenginetoidlebeforestoppingmaycauseengineto
“backfire”.
•Turn ignition key to “OFF”position and remove key.
Always remove key when leaving tractor to prevent
unauthorizeduse.
•Never use choke to stop engine.
IMPORTANT: LEAVING THE IGNITION SWITCH IN ANY
POSITION OTHER THAN "OFF" WILL CAUSE THE
BATTERY TO BE DISCHARGED, (DEAD).
NOTE: Undercertainconditionswhentractorisstandingidle
with the engine running, hot engine exhaust gases may
cause “browning”of grass. To eliminate this possibility,
alwaysstop engine whenstopping tractor on grass areas.
PARKING BRAKE
"ENGAGED" POSITION
GEAR SHIFT
LEVER
CHOKE
CONTROL
IGNITION
KEY"DISENGAGED"
POSITION
ATTACHMENT CLUTCH
LEVER "ENGAGED"
POSITION
"BRAKE"
POSITION
PARKING BRAKE
"DISENGAGED" POSITION
FIG. 6
THROTTLE
CONTROL TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD
(See Fig. 6)
The direction and speed of movement is controlled by the
gearshift lever.
•Start tractor with clutch/brake pedal depressed and
gearshiftleverin neutral (N) position.
•Move gear shift lever to desired position.
•Slowly release clutch/brake pedal to start movement.
IMPORTANT: BRING TRACTOR TO A COMPLETE STOP
BEFORESHIFTINGOR CHANGINGGEARS.FAILURETO
DO SO WILL SHORTEN THE USEFUL LIFE OF YOUR
TRANSAXLE.
TO USE CHOKE CONTROL (See Fig. 6)
Usechokecontrolwheneveryouarestartingacoldengine.
Do not use to start a warm engine.
•To engage choke control, pull knob out. Slowly push
knobin to disengage.
TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL (See Fig. 6)
Always operate engine at full throttle.
•Operating engine at less than full throttle reduces the
batterychargingrate.
•Full throttle offers the best bagging and mower perfor-
mance.
TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS (See Fig. 6B)
Gaugewheels areproperlyadjustedwhentheyareslightly
offthegroundwhenmowerisatthedesiredcuttingheightin
operating position. Gauge wheels then keep the deck in
proper position to help prevent scalping in most terrain
conditions.
CLUTCH/BRAKE
PEDAL "DRIVE"
POSITION
HEIGHT
ADJUSTMENT
KNOB
TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT
(See Fig. 6)
Thecuttingheightiscontrolledbyturningtheheightadjust-
mentknob in desired direction.
•Turn knob clockwise ( ) to raise cutting height.
•Turn knob counterclockwise ( ) to lower cutting
height.
Thecuttingheightrangeisapproximately1-1/2"to4". The
heightsare measured from thegroundto the blade tipwith
theenginenotrunning. Theseheightsareapproximateand
may vary depending upon soil conditions, height of grass
and types of grass being mowed.
•Theaveragelawnshouldbecuttoapproximately2-1/2
inches during the cool season and to over 3 inches
during hot months. For healthier and better looking
lawns,mowoftenandaftermoderategrowth.
•For best cutting performance, grass over 6 inches in
height should be mowed twice. Make the first cut
relatively high; the second to desired height.

12
OPERATION
ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH LEVER
"DISENGAGED"
POSITION
ATTACHMENT
LIFT LEVER
HIGH POSITION
"ENGAGED" POSITION
LOW
POSITION
FIG. 7
DEFLECTOR
SHIELD
TO OPERATE ON HILLS
3/8 WASHER
3/8-16
LOCKNUT
GAUGE WHEEL
MOUNTING
BRACKET SHOULDER
BOLT
GAUGE WHEEL
FIG. 6B
•If slowing is necessary, move throttle control lever to
slowerposition.
•If stopping is absolutely necessary, push clutch/brake
pedal quickly to brake position and engage parking
brake.
•Move gearshift lever to 1st gear. Be sure you have
allowed room for tractor to roll slightly as you restart
movement.
•Torestartmovement,slowlyreleaseparkingbrakeand
clutch/brakepedal.
•Make all turns slowly.
TO TRANSPORT
•Raiseattachmentlifttohighestpositionwithattachment
lift control.
•Whenpushing or towing yourtractor,be sure gearshift
lever is in neutral (N) position.
•Do not push or tow tractor at more than five (5) MPH.
NOTE: Toprotecthoodfromdamagewhentransportingyour
tractor on a truck or a trailer, be sure hood is closed and
securedtotractor. Useanappropriatemeansoftyinghood
to tractor (rope, cord, etc.).
TOWING CARTS AND OTHER ATTACH-
MENTS
Tow only the attachments that are recommended by and
comply with specifications of the manufacturer of your
tractor. Use common sense when towing. Too heavy of a
load,whileonaslope,isdangerous.Tirescanlosetraction
withthegroundandcauseyoutolosecontrolofyourtractor.
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE
CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL
•The engine in your tractor has been shipped, from the
factory, already filled with summer weight oil.
•Check engine oil with tractor on level ground.
•Removeoilfillcap/dipstickandwipeclean,reinsertthe
dipstick and screw cap tight, wait for a few seconds,
remove and read oil level. If necessary, add oil until
“FULL”mark on dipstick is reached. Do not overfill.
•For cold weather operation you should change oil for
easier starting (See “OIL VISCOSITY CHART”in the
Customer Responsibilities section of this manual).
•Tochangeengineoil,seetheCustomerResponsibilities
section in this manual.
ADD GASOLINE
•Fillfueltank. Usefresh,clean,regularunleadedgaso-
line with a minimum of 87 octane. (Use of leaded
gasoline will increase carbon and lead oxide deposits
and reduce valve life). Do not mix oil with gasoline.
Purchase fuel in quantities that can be used within 30
days to assure fuel freshness.
IMPORTANT: WHEN OPERATING IN TEMPERATURES
BELOW32°F(0°C),USEFRESH,CLEAN WINTERGRADE
GASOLINE TO HELP INSURE GOOD COLD WEATHER
STARTING.
WARNING: Experienceindicatesthatalcoholblendedfuels
(called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract
moisture which leads to separation and formation of acids
during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of
an engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, the
fuelsystemshouldbeemptiedbeforestorageof30daysor
longer. Drainthegastank,starttheengineandletitrununtil
thefuellinesandcarburetorareempty. Usefreshfuelnext
TO OPERATE MOWER (See Fig. 7)
Yourtractorisequippedwithanoperatorpresencesensing
switch. Any attempt by the operator to leave the seat with
the engine running and the attachment clutch engaged will
shut off the engine.
•Select desired height of cut.
•Lowermower with attachment liftcontrol.
•Start mower blades by engaging attachment clutch
control.
•TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disengage attachment
clutch control.
CAUTION: Do not operate the mower
without either the entire grass catcher,
onmowerssoequipped,orthedeflector
shield in place.
CAUTION: Donotdriveupordownhills
withslopesgreaterthan15°anddonot
driveacrossanyslope.
•Choosethe slowest speed beforestarting up ordown
hills.
•Avoid stopping or changing speed on hills.
•Adjustgaugewheelswithtractoronaflatlevelsurface.
•Adjust mower to desired cutting height (See “TO AD-
JUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT”in the Operation
section of this manual).
•With mower in desired height of cut position, gauge
wheelsshouldbeassembledsotheyareslightlyoffthe
ground. Install gauge wheel in appropriate hole with
shoulderbolt,3/8washer,and3/8-16locknutandtighten
securely.
•Repeatforoppositesideinstallinggaugewheelinsame
adjustmenthole.

13
OPERATION
MOWING TIPS
•Mower should be properly leveled for best mowing
performance. See“TOLEVELMOWERHOUSING”in
the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.
•Thelefthandsideofmowershouldbeusedfortrimming.
•Drivesothatclippingsaredischargedontotheareathat
has been cut. Have the cut area to the right of the
machine. This will result in a more even distribution of
clippingsand more uniform cutting.
FIG. 8
MULCHING MOWING TIPS
IMPORTANT: FORBESTPERFORMANCE,KEEPMOWER
HOUSING FREE OF BUILT-UP GRASS AND TRASH.
CLEAN AFTER EACH USE.
•Thespecialmulchingbladewillrecutthegrassclippings
manytimesandreducetheminsizeso thatastheyfall
ontothelawntheywilldisperseintothegrassandnotbe
noticed. Also, the mulched grass will biodegrade
quicklytoprovidenutrientsforthelawn. Alwaysmulch
with your highest engine (blade) speed as this will
provide the best recutting action of the blades.
•Avoidcuttingyourlawnwhenitiswet. Wetgrasstends
toformclumpsandinterfereswiththemulchingaction.
The best time to mow your lawn is the early afternoon.
At this time the grass has dried and the newly cut area
will not be exposed to the direct sun.
•Forbestresults,adjustthemowercuttingheightsothat
the mower cuts off only the top one-third of the grass
blades (See Fig. 9). For extremely heavy mulching,
reduceyourwidthofcutoneachpassandmowslowly.
•Certaintypesofgrassandgrassconditionsmayrequire
that an area be mulched a second time to completely
hide the clippings. When doing a second cut, mow
across or perpendicular to the first cut path.
•Change your cutting pattern from week to week. Mow
northtosouthoneweekthenchangetoeasttowestthe
nextweek. This will help prevent matting and graining
of the lawn.
season. SeeStorageInstructionsforadditionalinformation.
Neveruseengineorcarburetorcleanerproductsinthefuel
tankorpermanentdamagemayoccur.
CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank
fillerneck. Donotoverfill. Wipeoffany
spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or
use gasoline near an open flame.
TO START ENGINE (See Fig. 6)
Whenstartingtheengineforthefirsttimeoriftheenginehas
run out of fuel, it will take extra cranking time to move fuel
from the tank to the engine.
•Sit on seat in operating position, depress clutch/brake
pedalandsetparkingbrake.
•Place gear shift lever in neutral (N) position.
•Move attachment clutch to “DISENGAGED”position.
•Move throttle control to fast position
•Pullchokecontroloutforacoldenginestartattempt.For
awarmenginestartattemptthe choke controlmaynot
beneeded.
NOTE: Before starting, read the warm and cold starting
proceduresbelow.
•Insert key into ignition and turn key clockwise to
“START”position and release key as soon as engine
starts. Do not run starter continuously for more than
fifteensecondsperminute.Ifthe engine doesnotstart
afterseveralattempts,pushchokecontrolin,waitafew
minutesandtry again. If engine stilldoesnotstart, pull
the choke control out and retry.
WARMWEATHERSTARTING (50°Fandabove)
•When engine starts, slowly push choke control in until
the engine begins to run smoothly. If the engine starts
torunroughly,pullthechokecontroloutslightlyforafew
secondsandthencontinuetopushthecontrolinslowly.
•Theattachmentsand grounddrivecannowbeused.If
theenginedoes notaccepttheload,restarttheengine
andallow it to warmupfor one minute usingthechoke
asdescribedabove.
COLDWEATHERSTARTING(50°Fandbelow)
•When engine starts, slowly push choke control in until
theenginebeginstorunsmoothly.Continuetopushthe
choke control in small steps allowing the engine to
acceptsmallchangesinspeedandload,untilthechoke
controlisfullyin.Iftheenginestartstorunroughly,pull
thechokecontroloutslightlyforafewsecondsandthen
continuetopushthecontrolinslowly.Thismayrequire
an engine warm-up period from several seconds to
severalminutes,dependingonthetemperature.
•Theattachmentscanbeusedduringtheenginewarm-
upperiodandmayrequirethechokecontrolbepulledout
slightly.
NOTE: If at a high altitude (above 3000 feet) or in cold
temperatures(below32F)the carburetor fuelmixturemay
needtobeadjustedforbestengineperformance.See“TO
ADJUST CARBURETOR”in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual.
MAX 1/3
•Whenmowinglargeareas,startbyturningtotherightso
thatclippingswilldischargeawayfromshrubs,fences,
driveways, etc. After one or two rounds, mow in the
opposite direction making left hand turns until finished
(See Fig. 8).
•If grass is extremely tall, it should be mowed twice to
reduce load and possible fire hazard from dried clip-
pings. Make first cut relatively high; the second to the
desiredheight.
•Do not mow grass when it is wet. Wet grass will plug
mowerandleaveundesirableclumps. Allowgrasstodry
beforemowing.
•Alwaysoperateengineatfullthrottlewhenmowing
to assure better mowing performance and proper dis-
chargeofmaterial. Regulategroundspeedbyselecting
a low enough gear to give the mower cutting perfor-
mance as well as the quality of cut desired.
•When operating attachments, select a ground speed
thatwillsuittheterrainandgivebestperformanceofthe
attachmentbeingused.
FIG. 9

14
CUSTOMERRESPONSIBILITIES
BEFOREEACHUSE
T
R
A
C
T
0
R
Adjust Motion Drive Belt(s) Tension
Inspect Muffler/Spark Arrester
Lubrication Chart
Check Brake Operation
Clean Air Filter
Change Engine Oil
Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge
Replace Spark Plug
Check Battery Level
Check Tire Pressure
Clean Battery and Terminals
FILL IN DATES
AS YOU COMPLETE
REGULAR SERVICE
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
EVERY 8 HOURS EVERY 25 HOURS EVERY 50 HOURS EVERY 100 HOURS
EVERY SEASON
SERVICE DATES
Check for Loose Fasteners
BEFORE STORAGE
Check Engine Oil Level
Clean Engine Cooling Fins
Sharpen/Replace Mower Blades
Check Operator Presence and
Interlock Systems
Clean Air Screen
1 - Change more often when operating under a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures.
2 - Service more often when operating in dirty or dusty conditions.
3 - If equipped with oil filter, change oil every 50 hours.
4 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil.
E
N
G
I
N
E
Replace Oil Filter (If equipped)
Check Transaxle Cooling
Adjust Blade Belt(s) Tension
Replace Fuel Filter
1
4
2
2
2
2
5 - If equipped with adjustable system.
6 - Not required if equipped with maintenance-free battery.
7 - Tighten front axle pivot bolt to 35 ft.-lbs. maximum.
Do not overtighten.
1 ,
12,3 ,
2
5
5
6
7
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
Thewarrantyonthistractordoesnotcoveritemsthathave
beensubjectedtooperatorabuseornegligence. Toreceive
fullvaluefromthewarranty,operatormustmaintaintractor
as instructed in this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made periodically to
properlymaintainyourtractor.
All adjustments in the Service and Adjustments section of
thismanualshouldbecheckedatleastonceeachseason.
•Onceayearyoushouldreplacethesparkplug,cleanor
replaceairfilter,andcheckbladesandbeltsforwear. A
newsparkplugandcleanairfilterassureproperair-fuel
mixtureandhelpyourenginerunbetterandlastlonger.
BEFORE EACH USE
•Check engine oil level.
•Checkbrakeoperation.
•Checktirepressure.
•Checkoperatorpresenceand
interlocksystemsfor proper operation.
•Check for loose fasteners.
À GEARSHIFT
PIVOTS
LUBRICATION CHART
Á SPINDLE
ZERK
Á FRONT WHEEL
BEARING ZERK
À SAE 30 OR 10W30 MOTOR OIL
Á GENERAL PURPOSE GREASE
 REFER TO CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES “ENGINE”
SECTION
IMPORTANT: DO NOT OIL OR GREASE THE PIVOT
POINTS WHICH HAVE SPECIAL NYLON BEARINGS.
VISCOUSLUBRICANTSWILLATTRACTDUSTANDDIRT
THAT WILL SHORTEN THE LIFE OF THE SELF-
LUBRICATINGBEARINGS. IFYOUFEELTHEYMUSTBE
LUBRICATED,USEONLYADRY,POWDEREDGRAPHITE
TYPE LUBRICANT SPARINGLY.
Á SPINDLE
ZERK
Á FRONT WHEEL
BEARING ZERK
 ENGINE

15
CUSTOMERRESPONSIBILITIES
TRACTOR
Always observe safety rules when performing any mainte-
nance.
BRAKE OPERATION
Iftractorrequiresmorethansix(6)feetstoppingdistanceat
high speed in highest gear, then brake must be adjusted.
(See“TOADJUSTBRAKE”intheServiceandAdjustments
section of this manual).
TIRES
•Maintainproperairpressureinalltires(See“PRODUCT
SPECIFICATIONS”section of this manual).
•Keeptiresfreeof gasoline, oil, or insect control chemi-
calswhich can harm rubber.
•Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp objects and
other hazards that may cause tire damage.
NOTE: To seal tire punctures and prevent flat tires due to
slow leaks, tire sealant may be purchased from your local
parts dealer. Tire sealant also prevents tire dry rot and
corrosion.
OPERATOR PRESENCE SYSTEM
Besureoperatorpresenceandinterlocksystemsarework-
ingproperly. Ifyour tractordoesnotfunction asdescribed,
repairtheproblemimmediately.
•The engine should not start unless the clutch/brake
pedalisfullydepressedandattachementclutchcontrol
is in the disengaged position.
•Whentheengineisrunning,anyattemptbytheoperator
to leave the seat without first setting the parking brake
should shut off the engine.
•Whentheengineisrunningandtheattachmentclutchis
engaged,anyattemptbytheoperatortoleavetheseat
should shut off the engine.
•Theattachmentclutchshouldneveroperateunlessthe
operator is in the seat.
BLADE CARE
Forbestresultsmowerbladesmustbekeptsharp. Replace
bentordamagedblades.
BLADE REMOVAL (See Fig. 10)
•Raise mower to highest position to allow access to
blades.
•Removehexbolt,lockwasherandflatwashersecuring
blade.
•Install new or resharpened blade with trailing edge up
towards deck as shown.
IMPORTANT:TOENSUREPROPERASSEMBLY,CENTER
HOLEINBLADE MUSTALIGNWITH STARON MANDREL
ASSEMBLY.
•Reassemble hex bolt, lock washer and flat washer in
exact order as shown.
•Tighten bolt securely (27-35 Ft. Lbs. torque).
IMPORTANT: BLADEBOLTISGRADE8HEATTREATED.
TO SHARPEN BLADE (See Fig. 11)
NOTE: Wedonotrecommendsharpeningblade-butifyou
do, be sure the blade is balanced.
Care should be taken to keep the blade balanced. An
unbalancedbladewillcauseexcessivevibrationandeven-
tualdamagetomowerandengine.
•Thebladecanbesharpenedwithafileoronagrinding
wheel. Donotattempt tosharpenwhileonthemower.
•Tocheck blade balance,you will need a 5/8" diameter
steelbolt,pin,oraconebalancer. (Whenusingacone
balancer, follow the instructions supplied with bal-
ancer.)
NOTE: Donotuseanailforbalancingblade. The lobesof
the center hole may appear to be centered, but are not.
•Slidebladeontoanunthreadedportionofthesteelbolt
orpinandholdtheboltorpinparallelwiththeground. If
blade is balanced, it should remain in a horizontal
position. If either end of the blade moves downward,
sharpen the heavy end until the blade is balanced.
FIG. 10
BLADE
CENTER HOLE
5/8" BOLT
OR PIN
FIG. 11
MANDREL
ASSEMBLY
BLADE
TRAILING
EDGE UP
FLAT WASHER
LOCK WASHER
HEX BOLT (GRADE 8)*
*A GRADE 8 HEAT TREATED BOLT CAN BE
IDENTIFIED BY SIX LINES ON THE BOLT HEAD.
CENTER
HOLE
STAR
BATTERY
Your tractor has a battery charging system which is suffi-
cient for normal use. However, periodic charging of the
battery with an automotive charger will extend its life.
•Keepbattery and terminalsclean.
•Keep battery bolts tight.
•Keep small vent holes open.
•Rechargeat 6-10amperesfor 1 hour.
NOTE: The original equipment battery on your tractor is
maintenancefree.Donotattempttoopenorremovecapsor
covers. Adding or checking level of electrolyte is not
necessary.

16
CLEAN AIR SCREEN
Air screen must be kept free of dirt and chaff to prevent
enginedamagefromoverheating. Cleanwithawirebrushor
compressedairtoremovedirtandstubborndriedgumfibers.
CUSTOMERRESPONSIBILITIES
V-BELTS
CheckV-beltsfordeteriorationandwearafter100hoursof
operation and replace if necessary. The belts are not
adjustable. Replace belts if they begin to slip from wear.
TRANSAXLE COOLING
Keeptransaxlefreefrombuild-upofdirtandchaffwhichcan
restrict cooling.
FIG. 12
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Only use high quality detergent oil rated with API service
classification SF-SJ. Select the oil’s SAE viscosity grade
accordingtoyourexpectedoperatingtemperature.
NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils (5W30, 10W30 etc.)
improve starting in cold weather, these multi-viscosity oils
will result in increased oil consumption when used above
32°F. Checkyour engine oil levelmorefrequently to avoid
possibleenginedamagefrom runninglowonoil.
Change the oil after every 50 hours of operation or at least
onceayearifthetractorisnotusedfor50hoursinoneyear.
Checkthecrankcaseoillevelbeforestartingtheengineand
after each eight (8) hours of operation. Tighten oil fill cap/
dipstick securely each time you check the oil level.
TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE
SAE VISCOSITY GRADES
-20°0°30°40°80°100°
-30°-20°0°20°30°40°
°F
°C
32°
-10°10°
60°
5W-30 SAE 30
CLEAN AIR INTAKE/COOLING AREAS
To insure proper cooling, make sure the grass screen,
cooling fins, and other external surfaces of the engine are
kept clean at all times.
Every 100 hours of operation (more often under extremely
dusty, dirty conditions), remove the blower housing and
other cooling shrouds. Clean the cooling fins and external
surfacesasnecessary.Makesurethecooling shrouds are
reinstalled.
NOTE: Operatingtheenginewithablocked grassscreen,
dirtyorpluggedcoolingfins,and/orcoolingshroudsremoved
willcauseenginedamageduetooverheating.
AIR FILTER (See Fig. 13)
Yourenginewillnotrunproperlyusingadirtyairfilter. Clean
the foam pre-cleaner after every 25 hours of operation or
every season. Service paper cartridge every 100 hours of
operation or every season, whichever occurs first.
Service air cleaner more often under dusty conditions.
•Removeknobs and cover.
TOSERVICEPRE-CLEANER
•Washit in liquid detergent and water.
•Squeeze it dry in a clean cloth.
•Saturateitinengineoil. Wrapitinclean,absorbentcloth
and squeeze to remove excess oil.
•Ifverydirtyordamaged,replacepre-cleaner.
TO CLEAN BATTERY AND TERMINALS
Corrosionanddirtonthebatteryandterminalscancausethe
batteryto“leak”power.
•Openbatteryboxdoor.
•DisconnectBLACKbatterycablefirst thenRED battery
cable and remove battery from tractor.
•Rinse the battery with plain water and dry.
•Cleanterminalsandbatterycableendswithwirebrush
untilbright.
•Coatterminals with grease or petroleumjelly.
•Reinstallbattery(See“REPLACINGBATTERY”inthe
SERVICEANDADJUSTMENTSsectionofthismanual).
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL (See Fig. 12)
Determinetemperaturerangeexpectedbeforeoilchange.
All oil must meet API service classification SF-SJ.
•Be sure tractor is on level surface.
•Oilwilldrain more freely when warm.
•Catch oil in a suitable container.
•Removeoil fill cap/dipstick. Be careful notto allow dirt
toentertheenginewhenchangingoil.
•Removecapfrombottomfittingofdrainvalveandinstall
the drain tube onto the fitting.
•Unlockdrainvalvebypushinginwardandturningcoun-
terclockwise.
•To open, pull out on the drain valve.
•Afteroilhasdrainedcompletely,closeandlockthedrain
valvebypushinginwardandturningclockwiseuntilthe
pin is in the locked position as shown.
•Removethedraintubeandreplacethecapontotothe
bottom fitting of the drain valve.
•Refill engine with oil through oil fill dipstick tube. Pour
slowly. Do not overfill. For approximate capacity see
“PRODUCTSPECIFICATIONS”sectionofthismanual.
•Usegaugeon oilfillcap/dipstickforcheckinglevel. Be
sure dipstick cap is tightened securely for accurate
reading. Keep oil at “FULL”line on dipstick.
CLOSED AND
LOCKED
POSITION
CAP DRAIN
TUBE
OIL DRAIN VALVE

17
CUSTOMERRESPONSIBILITIES
MUFFLER
Inspectandreplacecorrodedmuffler and sparkarrester(if
equipped)asit could create a firehazardand/ordamage.
SPARK PLUGS
Replace spark plugs at the beginning of each mowing
season or after every 100 hours of operation, whichever
occurs first. Spark plug type and gap setting are shown in
“PRODUCTSPECIFICATIONS”sectionof this manual.
CLAMP
FUEL
FILTER
CLAMP
FIG. 14
CLEANING
•Clean engine, battery, seat, finish, etc. of all foreign
matter.
•Keepfinishedsurfacesandwheelsfreeofallgasoline,
oil, etc.
•Protect painted surfaces with automotive type wax.
We do not recommend using a garden hose to clean your
tractor unless the electrical system, muffler, air filter and
carburetorarecoveredtokeepwaterout. Waterinengine
can result in a shortened engine life.
FIG. 13
FOAM
PRE-CLEANER
KNOBS
COVER CARTRIDGE
TOSERVICECARTRIDGE
•Cleancartridgebytappinggentlyonflatsurface. Ifvery
dirtyordamaged,replacecartridge.
•Reinstall precleaner cartridge, cover and secure with
knobs.
IMPORTANT: PETROLEUM SOLVENTS, SUCH AS
KEROSENE, ARE NOT TO BE USED TO CLEAN THE
CARTRIDGE. THEY MAY CAUSE DETERIORATION OF
THE CARTRIDGE. DO NOT OIL CARTRIDGE. DO NOT
USEPRESSURIZEDAIRTOCLEANORDRYCARTRIDGE.
ENGINE OIL FILTER
Replacetheengineoilfiltereveryseason or every other oil
changeifthetractorisusedmorethan100hoursinoneyear.
IN-LINE FUEL FILTER (See Fig. 14)
Thefuelfiltershouldbereplacedonceeachseason. Iffuel
filter becomes clogged, obstructing fuel flow to carburetor,
replacementisrequired.
•With engine cool, remove filter and plug fuel line sec-
tions.
•Place new fuel filter in position in fuel line with arrow
pointingtowardscarburetor.
•Be sure there are no fuel line leaks and clamps are
properlypositioned.
•Immediately wipe up any spilled gasoline.

18
SERVICEANDADJUSTMENTS
CAUTION: BEFOREPERFORMINGANYSERVICEORADJUSTMENTS:
•Depressclutch/brakepedalfullyand setparkingbrake.
•Place gearshift lever in neutral (N) position.
•Place attachment clutch in “DISENGAGED”position.
•Turn ignition key “OFF”and remove key.
•Make sure the blades and all moving parts have completely stopped.
•Disconnectsparkplugwirefromsparkplugandplacewirewhereitcannotcomeincontactwith
plug.
FIG. 15
TRACTOR
TO REMOVE MOWER (See Fig. 15)
Mowerwillbeeasiertoremovefromtherightsideoftractor.
•Place attachment clutch in “DISENGAGED”position.
•Moveattachmentliftleverforwardtolowermowertoits
lowestposition.
•Roll belt off engine pulley.
•Remove small retainer spring, and lift clutch spring off
pulley bolt.
•Removelarge retainer spring,slide collar off and push
housing guide out of bracket.
•Disconnect anti-swaybar from chassis bracket by re-
movingretainerspring.
•Disconnect suspension arms from rear deck brackets
byremovingretainersprings.
•Disconnect front links from deck by removing retainer
springs.
•Raise lift lever to raise suspension arms. Slide mower
outfromundertractor.
IMPORTANT: IF AN ATTACHMENT OTHER THAN THE
MOWER DECK IS TO BE MOUNTED ON THE TRACTOR,
REMOVE THE FRONT LINKS AND HOOK THE CLUTCH
SPRING INTO SQUARE HOLE IN FRAME.
TO INSTALL MOWER (See Fig. 15)
•Raise attachment lift lever to its highest position.
•Slidemowerundertractorwithdischargeguardtoright
side of tractor.
•Lower lift lever to its lowest position.
•Install mower in reverse order of removal instructions.
SUSPENSION ARMS
RETAINER SPRINGS
(BOTH SIDES)
RETAINER SPRING
ANTI-SWAY BAR
HOUSING GUIDE
FRONT LINK
COLLAR
ENGINE PULLEY
LARGE RETAINER
SPRING
CLUTCH SPRING
SMALL RETAINER SPRING
BRACKET
SQUARE HOLE

19
SERVICEANDADJUSTMENTS
NUT "E"
TRUNNION
"D"
"D"
MANDREL
FIG. 18
NUT "F"
FRONT LINKS
FIG. 19
FRONT-TO-BACKADJUSTMENT(SeeFigs.18and19)
IMPORTANT: DECK MUST BE LEVEL SIDE-TO-SIDE. IF
THE FOLLOWING FRONT-TO-BACK ADJUSTMENT IS
NECESSARY,BESURETOADJUSTBOTHFRONTLINKS
EQUALLY SO MOWER WILL STAY LEVEL SIDE-TO-
SIDE.
Toobtainthebestcuttingresults,themowerhousingshould
be adjusted so that the front is approximately 1/8" to 1/2"
lowerthantherearwhenthemowerisinitshighestposition.
Checkadjustmentonrightsideoftractor. Measuredistance
“D”directlyin front and behindthemandrel at bottom edge
ofmowerhousingas shown.
•Beforemakinganynecessaryadjustments,checkthat
bothfrontlinksareequalinlength. Bothlinksshouldbe
approximately10-3/8".
•If links are not equal in length, adjust one link to same
length as other link.
•Tolowerfrontofmowerloosennut“E”onbothfrontlinks
anequalnumberofturns.
•Whendistance“D”is1/8"to1/2"loweratfrontthanrear,
tighten nuts “F”against trunnion on both front links.
•Toraisefrontofmower,loosennut“F”fromtrunnionon
both front links. Tighten nut “E”on both front links an
equalnumberofturns.
•Whendistance“D”is1/8"to1/2"loweratfrontthanrear,
tighten nut “F”against trunnion on both front links.
•Recheckside-to-sideadjustment.
BOTH FRONT LINKS MUST BE EQUAL IN LENGTH
SUSPENSION ARM
LIFT LINK ADJUSTMENT
NUT
FIG. 17
FIG. 16
GROUND LINE “A”
“A”
BOTTOM EDGE
OF MOWER
TO GROUND
BOTTOM EDGE
OF MOWER
TO GROUND
TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING
Adjustthemowerwhiletractorisparked on level groundor
driveway. Makesuretiresareproperlyinflated(See“PROD-
UCTSPECIFICATIONS”sectionofthismanual). Iftiresare
over or underinflated, you will not properly adjust your
mower.
SIDE-TO-SIDEADJUSTMENT(See Figs. 16 and17)
•Raise mower to its highest position.
•Atthemidpointofbothsidesofmower,measureheight
frombottomedgeofmowertoground. Distance“A”on
both sides of mower should be the same or within 1/4"
of each other.
•If adjustment is necessary, make adjustment on one
side of mower only.
•To raise one side of mower, tighten lift link adjustment
nut on that side.
•Tolower one sideof mower, loosenlift link adjustment
nut on that side.
NOTE: Eachfullturnof adjustmentnutwillchangemower
heightabout1/8".
•Recheckmeasurementsafteradjusting.

20
TRANSAXLE GEAR SHIFT LEVER NEUTRAL
ADJUSTMENT (See Fig. 23)
Thetransaxleshouldbeinneutralwhenthegearshiftlever
isinneutral(N)(lockgate)position.Theadjustmentispreset
atthefactory;however,ifadjustmentisneeded,proceedas
follows:
•Make sure transaxle is in neutral (N).
NOTE: When the tractor rear wheels move freely, the
transaxle is in neutral.
•Loosen adjustment bolt in front of the right rear wheel.
•Position the gear shift lever in the neutral (N) position.
•Tighten adjustment bolt securely.
NOTE: Ifadditionalclearanceisneededtogettoadjustment
bolt, move mower deck height to the lowest position.
ADJUSTMENT
BOLT
NEUTRAL
LOCK GATE
GEARSHIFT LEVER
FIG. 23
SERVICEANDADJUSTMENTS
1-1/2"
NUT "A"
OPERATING
ARM
JAM NUT
FIG. 21
FIG. 22
WITH PARKING BRAKE
"ENGAGED"
TRANSAXLE
PULLEY
STATIONARY
IDLER
CLUTCHING
IDLER
ENGINE
PULLEY
TO REPLACE MOTION DRIVE BELT
(See Fig. 22)
Parkthetractoronlevelsurface. Engageparkingbrake. For
assistance,thereisabeltinstallationguidedecalonbottom
side of left footrest.
•Remove mower (See “TO REMOVE MOWER”in this
section of this manual.)
•Remove belt from stationary idler and clutching idler.
•Pull belt slack toward rear of tractor. Remove belt
upwards from transaxle pulley by deflecting belt keep-
ers.
•Pullbelttowardfrontoftractorandremovedownwards
fromaroundenginepulley.
•Installnewbeltby reversing above procedure.
TO ADJUST BRAKE (See Fig. 21)
Your tractor is equipped with an adjustable brake system
which is mounted on the right side of the transaxle.
Iftractorrequiresmorethansix(6)feetstoppingdistanceat
highspeed inhighestgearonaleveldryconcreteorpaved
surface, then brake must be adjusted.
•Depressclutch/brakepedalandengageparkingbrake.
•Measuredistancebetweenbrakeoperatingarmandnut
“A”onbrakerod.
•Ifdistanceisotherthan1-1/2",loosenjam nutandturn
nut“A”untildistancebecomes1-1/2". Retightenjamnut
against nut “A”.
•Roadtesttractorforproperstoppingdistanceasstated
above. Readjust if necessary. If stopping distance is
still greater than six (6) feet in highest gear, further
maintenance is necessary. Contact your nearest au-
thorizedservicecenter/department.
TO REPLACE MOWER BLADE DRIVE BELT
(See Fig. 20)
Themower blade drive belt maybe replaced without tools.
Park the tractor on level surface. Engage parking brake.
BELTREMOVAL
•Remove mower from tractor (See “TO REMOVE
MOWER”in this section of this manual).
•Work belt off both mandrel pulleys and idler pulleys.
•Pull belt away from mower.
BELTINSTALLATION
•Install new belt in reverse order of removal.
•Makesurebeltisinallpulleygroovesandinsideallbelt
guides.
•Install mower in reverse order of removal instructions.
IDLER
PULLEYS
MANDREL
PULLEYS
FIG. 20