power King 1200 Series User manual

98-7213
Owners Manual
FOR
1200 SERIES TRACTORS
from Serial Number 60600
A IMPORTANT! A
READ THIS MANUAL COMPLETELY
BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE TRACTOR
ENGINEERING PRODUCTS CO., INC.
2021 MacArthur Rd., P.O. Box 1510
Waukesha,
Wisconsin 53187

INTRODUCTION
II s
This manual contains operational, maintenance and adjustment instructions for Power King 1200
Series garden tractors. We urge you to read it thoroughly and to understand its contents completely.
Proper use and careful attention to' routine services and preventive maintenance practices are
important factors in the continuing satisfactory performance of t e tractor.
It is a good idea to record the model and serial number of 0r ,rac! r as s~o'" as )V~ ge
o
makeiteasiertoorderrepairpartslfneeded,and oiden:, y re:rc.c: r's' e- :::a:::e -':: :::::: 0" s
manual
for that purpose.
Certain references are made in this manual 10 ngh
direction the operator IS facing when POSI Ie
A number of safety rnterloc swnches a e bee
protect the operator in various stages of start. ar;
are in operation at all times.
IMPORTANT OTE FOR OWNER'S IVI G I CA IFOR fA! The engme on this tractor is NOT
equipped with aspark arresting muffler. Use of seqUIpment In grass. brush or forest land without a
properly maintained and functioning exhausl spar arres er IS in violation of California State law
Section 4442 PRC.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction , " .
Safety Rules , , , " , .
Tractor Serial Number , , -
Specifications _ _ _ _ .
Controls, , " .. , -. , . , .. -. , , , .
System
Checks , ,. , ,. ,. _. , .. , . , _.
Tractor Operation , _ .
Preventive
Maintenance, , .. , ' _. , ,. , . , . , .
Maintenance Chart , , .
Wheels and Tires , ,
.. , , , .
Adjustments , .. , .
Lubrication .
Tractor Storage , . , . _ " _ .
Allachments .
Minor Troubleshooting Guide .
Parts
lists and Exploded View Drawings
Hood, Body, Fuel Tank and Frame Groups 0 •••• " ••••••••••••••
Console Group .
Steering and
Front Wheel Groups 0 ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Clutch and Clutch/Brake Groups {Gear odel);
Motion Control Group (Hydrostatic Model) 0' •••• 0 ••• 00 •••••••••••
Transmission Group - Gear Model .. '" 0 ••••••••••••• _ ••••• " ••••••••••••••
Transmission Group - Hydrostatic ode!. '" __ ._ .
Transaxle and Rear Wheel Groups 0 •••••••••••••
Engine Group - Models 1212 and 1217 _ .
Electrical
Group __ .
Manual Lift Group , .
Repair Parts
Ordering, Maintenance and Serial m er ec r _ .
Page
2
3, 4
4
5
6. 7, 8
9
10, 11
12, 13, 14
14
15
16. 17
18, 9
20
21
22. 23
24, 25
26
27
28, 29
30
31,32,33
34, 35
36, 37
38
39
40
2

AWARNING! A
READ THESE SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY AND FOLLOW THEM CLOSELY. FAILURE TO
ADHERE TO THESE RULES COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF VEHICLE CO TROL, PERSONAL INJURY TO
YOURSELF, BYSTANDERS, PROPERTY DAMAGE OR DAMAGE TO THE EQUIPMENT.
~ "~ega age
s
er.
a. Use approve gaso.",
b. Stop engine De are
cap/gauge
c. Do not I'll
gasoline. A
d. Open doors Ie e~
-exha s' . ~mes are
12. When using any attach me, t. e er direc e
discharge of material to ard bys anders nor
allow anyone near the trac r" Ie popera on.
13. Handle gasolme Ith care -i IS hIy
flammable:
e. Do not run he e g re
14. Never store the racto "e "~e "0
inside abUilding
open flame or spar. A a ~e e"'~ e
before storing In any e c 0- re
"'5. Keep the tractor and a:'a ~~e~"s
operating condition. an ee
functioning properly aall ""'es
16. Keep all nuts, bolts, and scre S" r-" a De s e
the equipment is isafe r ~g co a to.
17. To reduce fire hazard, ee "e e g e f ee 0
grass. leaves. or excessl e _ ease
18. The tractor and attac mer' _ -
and inspected for amage at er s"r
object. Any dama e sho e 'e
restarting and opera I"g e e ...
19. Do not change the eng'I1e go er or se mgs or
overspeed the engine
20. When using he trac or ..fl a0er. 0ser e
the follOWing addltlona preca 10 s:
a. Before starting to rro c ec mo er
carefully to Insure hat 1£ s proper Ins aile
and all nuts and bolts are ight.
b. Determine the bes method of mo ing
according to Size, terrain and obstructions In
the lawn. Chec the lawn for any foreIgn
objects which might De picked up and hrown
by the mower.
c Mow only in daylight or in good artificial light.
SAFETY RULES
1. Know the controls and how to stop quickly.
Read all instructions carefUlly and familiarize
yourself with all controls.
2, Do not allow children to operate the tractor. Do
not allow adults to operate It without proper
instruction,
3. Do not carry passenge rs. Keep area of operal ion
clear of all persons. Keep children and pets a
safe distance away.
4. Be sure attachment clutch switch (PTO) is
pushed "down", operator IS seated and tractor's
foot pedal is fully depressed and locked before
attempting to start engine.
5. Take all possible precautions when leaving the
tractor unattended. such as disengaging he
power take-off. lowering the attachment, setting
the parking brake latch with your foot, shifting
the transaxle into "Hi" or "Lo", stopping the
engine, and removing the ignition key. Also, on
gear models, shift the transmission into low
gear. Avoid parking on slopes.
6. Follow Rule 5before making any repairs or
adjustments.
7. Disengage PTO clutch when transporting or not
actually using attachment.
8. Reduce speed on slopes and in sharp turns to
prevent tipping or loss of control. Exercise
extreme caution when changing direction on
slopes. Use maximum tread width and wheel
weights on slopes.
9. Stay alert for holes in the terrain and other
hidden hazards.
10. 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 counterweights on weight platform when
suggested in the owner's manual.
11. Watch out for traffic when crossing or near
roadways.
3

•
d. Do not stop or start suddenly when going up
or down hill. Mow up and down the face of
steep slopes; never across the face.
e. Never make a cutting height adjustment while
the engine is running.
f. Stop the engine before attempting to unclog
the discharge chute.
g. ChecK the blade mounting bolts for proper
tightness at frequent intervals. Keep blades
sharp and in balance.
h. Engage mower with engine in low rpm.
Tractor engine should operate at 1/2 to full
speed f()( mowing operation. Regulate
ground speed with transmission and
transaxle settings.
I. Always look behind when moving tractor in
reverse.
Do not mow with tractor in reverse
gear.
J. Never grasp the edge of the mower deck or
reach under it while the engine is running.
21 Rp.move body sections and disconnect the
rectifier leads before performing any electrical
welding on the frame.
22. Operator's clothing should be free of tears,
bulging pockets, frayed edges and heavy cuffs.
23. Wear heavy shoes (with steel toes if possible).
24. Wear ear muffs in conditions of excessive noise.
25. Wear a respirator in extremely dusty conditions
and when sing dusters, sprayers, rakes,
sweepers
or blowers.
26. Wear safe:y ~ asss- or goggles that have
tempered0
~:::rca E:::;:Co eses when operating
dusters, IT' e:. ,ee ers and blowers or when
operator's ,e ere exposed to dust or insects.
Do
not ea _asses, goggles or sunglasses
made
of oro "'a 1 ; a erable material.
27. Keep alert Fa' g~e orry, preoccupation, and
illness
wor a~a ~S' safety. Drugs and alcohol
impair ape so s s Iand judgement.
28. FrequentJy reaa are ew the safety rules and
maintenance c e v;:).
TRACTOR SERIAL NUMBER
The Serial Number of your tractor is shown on
decals placed in two locations. One is visible on the
upper dashboard panel. The other is located on the
rig
ht sheet metal console panel, under the fiberglass
body section. Record this number in the space
provided in this Owner's Manual, and always specify
it and the tractor model number if it is necessary to
order repair parts at some future time.
Photo 1. Tractor Serial Number
4

SPECIFICATIONS
POWER KING 1200 SERIES
.Vanes with tire size, intla ion and load factor.
GEAR
REDUCTIONS AND GROUND SPEEDS:
Gear Transmission Models:
ENGINES:
Model 1212: Kohler Model
K301 S, 12 hpat 3600 rpm
22.1 ftllb torque at 2200 rpm. Single cylinder witt
3-3/8" bore and 3-1/4" stroke, 29.07 cu. in
displacement, governed
at 31 00 rpm. Fourcycle, air,
cooled. 15 amp. negative
ground battery ignition.
Model 1217: Kohler Model KT17, 17 hp at 3600 rpm
29.5
ft/lb torqueat 2200 rpm. Two opposed cylinder~
with 3-1/8" bore and 2-3/4" stroke. 42.18 cU.in
displacement. governed
at3100 rpm. Fourcycle, air·
cooled 15 amp negative ground battery ignition.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: 12 volt starting motor witt
Bendix type drive, geared to engine flywheel. Three
position key switch, 15 amp. flywheel-mountec
alternator and rectifier-regulator supply 12-vol
battery current.
32 amp. hour battery in Model 1212
45 amp. hour battery in Model 1217.
CLUTCH-GEAR MODEL: 4-7/8" multi disc with bal
bearing
throwout. Foot operated, 35 ftllb torquE
rating.
TRANSMISSION-GEAR MODEL: Four speeds
forward, one reverse. "H" shift pattern with
extension
for "first" gear. 50 ftllb torque rating.
Reductions: First, 7.83:
1; Second, 2.64:1; Third,
1.47:1;
rourth, 1.00:1; Reverse, 1.92:1.
TRANSMISSION-HYDROSTATIC MODEL: Eaton
Model
11. Infinitely variable speeds. Output torque:
Continuous: 30 ft/lb:
Intermittent: 45 ft/lb.
TRANSAXLE: Peerless Model 2500 Series. Two
speed. Cut gears of heat treated steel. Torque
capacity: 1200 tt/lb. Reductions: Gear Model: High,
27.3:1;
LoW, 40.0:1; Hydrostatic Model: High. 14:1;
Low, 27.3:1.
STEERING GEAR: Helical
gear and sector with 6:1
reduction. 13" steering wheel.
BRAKE:
Caliper and 6" disc on transaxle. Foot
operated pedal with
parking brake latch, also
activates
clutch on gear models; transmission
linkage on
hydrostatic models .
FRAME: 3/8" x
3" welded construction. Front wheel
support bar 3/4" x 2-1/4" solid steel, pivots on 7/8"
diameter pivot stud and -3/4" long bushing.
POWER TAKE-OFF:
Controlled by safety lock
switch on dashboard,
electromagnetic clutch on
front
of engine drives mower, tiller, snowthrower,
optional rear PTO attachment and other equipment.
Engineering Products Co" Inc. reserves the right to
make improvements and change product
speci lications without notice.
68"
48"
41"
42th"
8-9/16"
32"
661 Ibs.
691 Ibs.
6641bs.
694 Ibs.
371bs,
51 Ibs.
10.50-12
(22.8"
00)
31 "-32th"
6-10Ibs.
6.50-8
(16" 00)
34"
6-14Ibs.
Approx.
Speed
(mph)'
.58
1.75
3,12
4,60
2.39
.86
2,56
4.58
6.75
3.51
68"
48"
40"
42th"
8-9/16"
32"
6531bs.
6831bs.
6561bs.
6861bs.
371bs.
51 Ibs.
6.50-8
(16" 00)
34"
6-14Ibs.
8.50-12
(20.8"00)
Reduction
313.4:1
105.4:1
58.8:1
40.0:1
76.8:1
213,9:1
71.9:1
40.1 :1
27.3:1
52.4:1
Transmission
FIRST
SECOND
THIRD
FOURTH
REVERSE
FIRST
SECOND
THIRD
FOURTH
REVERSE
Trans8xle
LOW
LOW
LOW
LOW
LOW
HIGH
HIGH
HIGH
HIGH
HIGH
Front: Lawn, 2-pJy , .
Tread
29W'-31'h"
Air Pressure. ....... .. 6-22 Ibs.
Tread , .
Air Pressure .
TIRES:
Rear: Lug,
2-ply .
Lawn.
2-ply .
DIMENSIONS:
Length Overall .
Wheelbase .
Width .. , .
Height (at steering wheel) .
Ground Clearance .
Turning Radius .
WEIGHT:
Tractors:
Gear Model 1212 .
Hydrostatic Model 1212 .
Gear Model 1217 .
Hydrostatic Model 1217 .
Wheel Weights,
Pro Front .
Wheel Weights,
Pro Rear .. , ..
Hydrostatic Transmission Models:
Transaxle ApprOXimate Speed
(mph)"
LOW Variable from 0to 3.8
HIGH Variable from 0to 7.5
CAPACITIES: (See Lubrication Chart)
Fuel Tank 5 Gallons (approx.)
Engine Crankcase
Model 1212 4Pints (approx.)
odel 1217 3-1/2 Pints (approx.)
Gear Models:
Transmission
,7/8 to 1-1/2 Pints
Transaxle 3to 4
Quarts
Hydrostatic Models:
Transaxle
(Includes Transmission) .... 3 to 4 Quarts
5

CHOKE
KNOB
PTO SWITCH
TRANSMISSION
SHIFT LEVER
Photo 2. Traclor Controls
CONTROLS
8e sure you are familiar with and know how to
operate each of the tractor"s controls before
attempting to start and run it.
BASIC TRACTOR
Refer 0the callout reference in photo #2 to identify
and locate each of the tractor"s controls.
1. IGNITION SWITCH. This isa three position, key
actuated switch. Turn the key all the way to the
right into the "START" position to start engine.
When released, the key
will automatically return
left to the "ON" position. Turn key left to the
"OFF" position 0stop engine.
2. HEADLIGHT SWITCH. When ignition switch
key is In the "ON" position, this knob controls
6
the tractor's headlights. Pull knob out to turn
headlights on, push in to turn them off. (Note:
Headlights will also go off when ignition key is
turned to "OFF" position.)
3. THROTTLE LEVER. This lever controls the
amount of fuel being fed into the engine. Moved
upward. the engine's speed (rpm) will Increase.
The speed will decrease when the throttle lever
is
moved downward. Set lever midway between
"FAST" and ··SLOW" when starting engine.
4. PTO CLUTCH SWITCH. This starts and stops
the
electromagnetic clutch for the Power Take-
Off on the tront of the engine. The switch
engages the clutch when pulled out and pushed
"up", and disengages it when pushed ··down".

Pulled to the left and rearward from its neutral
position, it determines the reverse speed.
Tractor speed in either direction may be
increased or decreased at any time with or
without the use of the motion control pedal.
8. TRANSAXLE SHIFT LEVER Use this lever to
select the transaxle speed range you wish to use.
5. CHOKE KNOB. By cable extension this knob
can rols he uel-air mixture in the engine's
carbure:or. The knob should be pulled out when
--a1 the engine and then pushed in shortly
a::er engine begins to run.
-. STEERING WHEEL. Controls the front wheels
of the tractor for steering.
7. TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER. In conjunction
with throttle and transax/e settings, this lever
determines the direction and speed the tractor
will move over the ground.
Hi
N
Lo
Shift Pattern - Gear Models
Transaxle Shift Pattern
Moved to the right into the "LO" position the
transaxle will operate in its low speed range.
Moved to the left into the "HI" position the
transaxle will allow the tractor to move in its
highest speed ranges. (Note: while not
recommended, this lever must be in the
"neutral" position to keep the engine running
when the operator leaves the seat.)
9. BRAKE/CLUTCH PEDAL (Gear Models). A
th ree function, foot operated control, this pedal,
when depressed halfway down, disengages the
drive train clutch allowing for a gear change with
the transmission lever. Depressing the pedal all
the way down activates the two pressure padson
the disc brake, stopping the forward or rearward
motion of the tractor.
10. MOTION CONTROL PEDAL (Hydrostatic
Models). When fUlly depressed, this foot
operated control also activates the pressure
pads on the disc brake, stopping the tractor. As
the pedal is raised, it releases the brakes and
begins to activate the hydrostatic transmission
linkage putting the tractor in motion in the
direction set by the transmission shift lever. As
the pedal is released fully, the tractor will
accelerate up to and hold the speed established
by the transmission shift lever setting.
11. PARKING BRAKE LATCH. Once the foot pedal
is fully depressed, a slight additional rotating
action with the operator's toecauses this latch to
hook over arod on the frame of the tractor.
Properly adjusted. this keeps the brake pads
locked on the disc and prevents the tractor from
moving.
12. HOOD LATCH. Retains the lower edges of the
hood preventing bounce on rough terrain.
13. ADJUSTABLE SEAT. Contoured seat may be
moved forward or rearward up to 3" in 1"
increments. Tilt seat forward and remove quick
change keys and pins. Slide seat assembly back
or forth so that hole lines up with one in seat
bracket. Reinsert pin and quick change key.
N
Shift Pallern Hydrostatic Models
HYDROST ATIC MODELS: Pushed to the right
and forward from its center "neutral" position.
the location of this lever determines the
maximum forward speed the tractor will attain
hen the motion control pedal is fully released.
GEAR MODELS: This shift lever has abasic "H"
pattern with a "first" gear extension in the right
far forward position. "Second" gear is in the
right short forward position. "Third" is in the left
forward position while "fourth" or "high" is in the
left rearward position. "Reverse" gear is in the
right rearward position behind first and second
gear positions.
7

LIFT CONTROLS
The manual implement lift lever raises or lowers the
rotary mower down into or up out of its operating
position. To raise the mower for transporting,
depress the spring loaded lock knob on top of the
lever and
pull the lever back toward rear of tractor.
When desired lift distance is reached, release the
lock knob and it will spring up locking the lever at
that
position. Reverse the procedure and the mower
will be lowered into its operating position.
Two optional kits are available for use with heavier
implements suCh as the BUlldozer Blade. A Spring
Assist Kit can be attached to the manual lift Ie er to
reduce the amount of effort required to raise and
lower the attachments. An Electric Lift Kit will
eliminate all lifting effort on the part of the operator.
Instructions for operating each kit a re enclosed with
the kits themselves. Also, arear Weight Platform
with up to 200 Ibs. of weight will counterbalance the
implement on the front and add efficiency to trae or
operation by redistributing the weight over the full
length
of the tractor, implement and weight
platform.
MANUAL
IMPLEMENT
LIFT LEVER

SYSTEM CH CKS
-.
Before s'a '19 the tractor it should be checked over
thoro 9 }' to insure that it is complete and ready for
opera- on. Use the following checklist to be sure
: all systems are intact and functioning. Refer to
·.e Preventive Maintenance and Lubrication
sections for details.
1. GENERAL CHECK. Make avisual check for any
damaged area.
a. Be sure all guards and shields are in place.
b. Check and tighten any ioose nuts.
c.
Check operation of all controls.
2. TIRE PRESSURE Check tire pressure with an
accurate gauge. Do not depend on tire
appearance.
3. FUEL TANK. Check fuel tank for sufficient fuel
supply. Use clean, fresh regular grade leaded or
non-leaded gasoline with an octane rating of at
least 85. Do Not Add Oil to the Gasoline.
h CAUTION: Keep flames and sparks
.. away from area when refueling. Do not
permit smoking in the area. Turn off all electrical
systems.
Photo 4. Engine Oil Level Dipstick - Model 1212
(See
photo 12A, Page 19 for Model 1217)
Raise the hood and check the followi g:
4. ENGINE OIL. Check level of oil in the engine
crankcase with the dipstick provided, (See
photo above and on page 19). Add oiI as needed
to keep the oil level between "L" and "F" marks
on the dipstick
5. AIR CLEANER. Remove cover and check the air
cleaner element for damage or excessive dirt.
Replace If necessary.
6.
ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM:
a. Check the engine air screen on Model 1212
for dlrt or other obstructions to the passage of
air.
b.
Check engine cooling fins on both models,
They must be clean for maximum heat
dispersal. Remove metal air duct around
muffler to check and clean cooling fins.
AIR PUCT
/
COOLING
FINS
12 HP. ENGINE
7. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
a. Check for any loose or disconnected wires,
Keep
connections tight at all times.
b.
Remove battery caps (photo No.5 and 8) and
check the electrolyte level. Add clean distilled
water until level reaches bottom of filler tube
in each cell.
h CAUTION: Keep flames, sparks and
.. burning smoking materials away from
the battery when caps are remol/ed. If battery has
been charging, explosive hydrogen gas is present.
Photo 5. Battery - Model 1212
(See
Photo 8, Page 14 for Model 1217 Battery)
9

TRACTO
STARTING THE ENGINE
,. Be sure the fuel valve on the bottom side of the
fuel tank is open. (See
photo No.6). The valve is
closed when it is turned in. Turn out
(counterclockwise) all the way to open.
Photo 6. Fuel Shut-Oil Valve
2. The PTO CLUTCH must be disengaged. Do this
by pushing the switch on the dashboard down.
Asafety interlock prevents the engine from
starting if the PTO clutch is engaged.
Photo 7. Controls Set For Starling Engine
10
OPERATION
3. Sit in the tractor seat, depress the foot pedal and
lock the parking brake latch securely.
NOTE: Safety
interlocks will prevent the engine
from starting unless the foot pedal is depressed
and the
operator is in the tractor seat.
4. Check to be sure the transmission shift leverisin
the
"neutral" position.
5. Pull the choke knob out and set the throttle lever
up about half way between "SLOW" and "FAST".
6. Turn t e ignition key to "START" position.
Release the key as soon as engi ne starts. Push
cho e nob in.
7. her engine is warm, push throttle lever down
un I engine just idles.
STARTING ENGINE
IN COLD WEATHER
,. Keep battery fully charged. Cranking power IS
greatly reduced at low temperatures.
2. Do
not se starting fluids.
3. Follow same procedure as above except push
cho e knob only ha fway in until engine warms
up.
IMPORTANT
To prevent overheating of the starting motor,
limit continuous cranking to 60 seconds and
then
allow afull 2-minute delay before
attempting to recrank. If there is afalse start,
the
engine must be completely stopped before
making another attempt at starting.
SETTING TRACTOR AND
ATTACHMENT IN
MOTION
h CAUTION: Check to be sure that the
.. area around the tractor and attachment,
and in the path you intend to travel, is clear of
people, pets and
other obstructions.
1. While keeping the foot pedal depressed let the
engine run briefly and then reduce its speed.
2. Move the transaxle shift lever to "HI" or "LO"
depending on your desired speed range.
3. GEAR TRANSMISSION MODELS. Place the
transmission
shift lever in one of the 5 gear
positions. Then slowly release the brake/clutch
foot pedal ~nd increase engine speed.
NOTE: In very cold weather, drive the tractor in
low gear briefly to warm up transmission
lubricant.
To change forward gears or go into reverse.
depress the
brake/clutch foot pedal and stop the
tractor's motion completely. Shift into the