Scag Power Equipment FREEDOM Z SFZ User manual

OPERATOR’S MANUAL
THIS MANUALCONTAINSTHE OPERATING
INSTRUCTIONS AND SAFETY INFORMA-
TION FOR YOUR SCAG MOWER. READING
THIS MANUAL CAN PROVIDE YOU WITH
ASSISTANCE IN MAINTENANCE AND AD-
JUSTMENT PROCEDURES TO KEEP YOUR
MOWER PERFORMING TO MAXIMUM EFFI-
CIENCY. THE SPECIFIC MODELS THATTHIS
BOOK COVERS ARE CONTAINED ON THE
INSIDECOVER. BEFORE OPERATINGYOUR
MACHINE, PLEASE READ ALL THE INFOR-
MATION ENCLOSED.
PART NO. 03243
PRINTED 1/2008
PRINTED IN USA
©2007
SCAG POWER EQUIPMENT
DIVISION OF METALCRAFT OF MAYVILLE, INC.
Made in the USA by
R
MODEL SFZ

REMEMBER - YOUR MOWER IS ONLY AS SAFE AS THE OPERATOR!
Hazard control and accident prevention are dependent upon the awareness,
concern, prudence, and proper training of the personnel involved in the
operation, transport, maintenance, and storage of the equipment.
* Read this manual completely as well as other manuals that came
with your mower.
* DO NOT operate on steep slopes. To check a slope, attempt to back
up it (with the cutter deck down). If the machine can back up the slope
without the wheels slipping, reduce speed and use extreme caution.
Under no circumstances should the machine be operated on slopes
greater than 15 degrees. ALWAYS FOLLOW OSHA APPROVED
OPERATION.
* DO NOT mow on wet grass. Wet grass reduces traction and steering
control.
* Keep all shields in place, especially the grass discharge chute.
* Before performing any maintenance or service, stop the machine and
remove the spark plug wire and ignition key.
* If a mechanism becomes clogged, stop the engine before cleaning.
* Keep hands, feet and clothing away from power-driven parts.
* Keep others off the mower (only one person at a time)
This manual covers the operating instructions
and illustrated parts list for:
SFZ36-17KA with a serial number of E2800001 to E2899999
SFZ36-20BS with a serial number of E3000001 to E3099999
SFZ48-19KA with a serial number of D8600400 to D8699999
SFZ48-26BS with a serial number of D8500400 to D8599999
SFZ52-19KA with a serial number of D8800250 to D8899999
SFZ52-26BS with a serial number of D8700300 to D8799999
SMFZ-36 with a serial number of E3100001 to E3199999
SMFZ-48 with a serial number of D9700001 to D9799999
SMFZ-52 with a serial number of D9800001 to D9899999
Always use the entire serial number listed on the serial number
tag when referring to this product.
FAILURE TO FOLLOW SAFE OPERATING PRACTICES
MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY.
WARNING:

I
TABLE OF CONTENTS
4.14 Towing ................................................................................................................................. 18
SUBJECT PAGE
Section 1 - General Information
1.1 Introduction .............................................................................................................................1
1.2 Directional Reference.............................................................................................................1
1.3 Servicing the Engine and DriveTrain Components ................................................................1
1.3 Symbols ............................................................................................................................... 2-3
Section 2 - Safety Information
2.1 Introduction .............................................................................................................................4
2.2 SignalWords ...........................................................................................................................4
2.3 Before Operation Considerations ...........................................................................................4
2.4 Operation Considerations ........................................................................................................5
2.5 Roll-Over Protection System ..................................................................................................7
2.6 Maintenance Considerations ................................................................................................... 8
2.7 Safety and Instructional Decals ..............................................................................................9
Section 3 - Specifications .................................................................................................... 10-11
Section 4 - Operating Instructions
4.1 Controls and Instrument Identification ................................................................................. 12
4.2 Safety Interlock System ....................................................................................................... 13
4.3 Initial Run-In Procedures ..................................................................................................... 14
4.4 Starting the Engine ............................................................................................................... 14
4.5 Ground Travel and Steering ................................................................................................. 14
4.6 Engaging the DeckDrive ......................................................................................................15
4.7 HillsideOperation ................................................................................................................. 16
4-8 Parking the Mower............................................................................................................... 16
4.9 After Operation .................................................................................................................... 16
4.10 RemovingCloggedMaterial ................................................................................................. 17
4.11 MovingMower with Engine Stopped ................................................................................... 17
4.12 Recommendationsfor Mowing ............................................................................................ 17
4.13 AdjustingCuttingHeight....................................................................................................... 17
Section 5 - Troubleshooting Cutting Conditions .............................................................. 19-21

II
TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONT'D)
SUBJECT PAGE
Section 6 - Adjustments
6.1 Parking BrakeAdjustment.................................................................................................... 22
6.2 TravelAdjustments............................................................................................................... 23
6.3 Throttle Control and ChokeAdjustments ............................................................................. 24
6.4 BeltAdjustment.................................................................................................................... 24
6.5 BeltAlignment ...................................................................................................................... 24
6.6 Cutter DeckAdjustments ..................................................................................................... 25
Section 7 - Maintenance
7.1 MaintenanceChart ............................................................................................................... 27
7.2 Hydraulic System ................................................................................................................. 28
7.3 Engine Oil ............................................................................................................................. 30
7.4 Engine FuelSystem .............................................................................................................. 31
7.5 EngineAirCleaner................................................................................................................ 31
7.6 Battery.................................................................................................................................. 32
7.7 Drive Belts ........................................................................................................................... 33
7.8 CutterBlades........................................................................................................................ 33
7.9 Tires ..................................................................................................................................... 34
7.10 Body, Deck and Upholstery ................................................................................................. 34
Section 8 - Replacement Parts
Cutter Deck - SFZ36 ................................................................................................................ 36-37
Cutter Deck - SFZ48 & SFZ52................................................................................................ 38-39
Cutter Deck Controls - SFZ36 ................................................................................................. 40-41
Cutter Deck Controls - SFZ48 & SFZ52 ................................................................................. 42-43
Sheet Metal Components.......................................................................................................... 44-45
SFZ Roll-Over Protection System ............................................................................................ 46-47
Drive System Components - SFZ36 ......................................................................................... 48-49
Drive System Components - SFZ48 & SFZ52 ......................................................................... 50-51
Fuel and Electrical System - SFZ36 ......................................................................................... 52-53
Fuel and Electrical System - SFZ48 & SFZ52 ......................................................................... 54-55
ZT-2800 HydraulicAxleAssembly........................................................................................... 56-57
Replacement Decals................................................................................................................. 58-59
Electrical Schematic .......................................................................................................................60
Warranty Statement...........................................................................Following Illustrated Parts List

1
Scag approved attachments and accessories:
GC-SFZ (p/n9068,requiresp/n9069,9070or9071bafflekit)
Hurricane Mulch (p/n 920D, 9293, 9294)
MulchPlate (p/n 920G, 9298, 9299)
SFZ Hitch (p/n 9296 - SFZ48 & SFZ52 Only)
SFZ - Lights (p/n 920A)
Freedom Striper (p/n 9297 - SFZ48 & SFZ52 Only)
GC-4D (p/n 9054 - SFZ48 & SFZ52 Only)
GC-F4 (p/n 9055 - SFZ48 & SFZ52 Only)
Blade Buddy (p/n 9212)
GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1 INTRODUCTION
Yourmowerwas builttothe higheststandardsin theindustry.
However, the prolonged life and maximum efficiency of
your mower depends on you following the operating,
maintenance and adjustment instructions in this manual.
If additional information or service is needed, contact your
Scag Power Equipment Dealer.
We encourage you to contact your dealer for repairs. All
Scag dealers are informed of the latest methods to service
this equipment and provide prompt and efficient service in
the field or at their service shop. They carry a full line of
Scag service parts.
THEREPLACEMENTOFANYPARTONTHIS
PRODUCTBYOTHERTHANTHE
MANUFACTURER'SAUTHORIZED
REPLACEMENTPARTMAYADVERSELY
AFFECTTHEPERFORMANCE,DURABILITYOR
SAFETYOFTHISPRODUCT.
USEOFOTHERTHANORIGINALSCAG
REPLACEMENTPARTSWILLVOIDTHE
WARRANTY.
For pictorial clarity, some illustrations and figures
in this manual may show shields, guards or plates
open or removed. Under no circumstances should
your mower be operated without these devices in
place.
All information is based upon product information
available at the time of approval for printing. Scag
Power Equipment reserves the right to make changes
at any time without notice and without incurring any
obligation.
1.2 DIRECTION REFERENCE
The“Right” and “Left”, “Front” and “Rear” ofthe machine
are referenced from the operator’s right and left when
seated in the normal operating position and facing the
forward travel direction.
1.3 SERVICING THE ENGINE AND DRIVE
TRAIN COMPONENTS
Thedetailservicingand repairof theengine,hydraulicpumps
and gearboxes are not covered in this manual; only routine
maintenance and general service instructions are provided.
Forserviceofthese components during the limited warranty
period, it is important to contact your Scag dealer or find a
local authorized servicing agent of the component
manufacturer. Any unauthorized work done on these
components during the warranty period may void your
warranty.
Section 1
When ordering parts, always give the model and serial
number of your mower. The serial number plate is located
under the seat as shown in Figure 1-1.
Figure 1-1 Mower Serial Number Plate Location
WARNING:
USE ONLY SCAG APPROVED ATTACHMENTS
ANDACCESSORIES. Scag recommendsthat all
approvedattachmentsandaccesoriesbeinstalledbyan
AuthorizedScag Dealer.
Attachments and accessories manufactured by companies
otherthanScagPowerEquipmentarenotapprovedforuse
onthismachine.
SERIAL NUMBER
PLATE LOCATION
2007 SFZ-SPL

2
TransmissionChoke
On/Start Spring Tension on Idler
Oil
Off/Stop
SYMBOL DESCRIPTION
SYMBOL DESCRIPTION
ISO Symbols
SpinningBlade
48071S
Parking Brake
WARNING
FALLING HAZARD
USE ONLY SCAG APPROVED
RIDING ATTACHMENTS
SEE OPERATOR'S MANUAL
481109
FallingHazard Thrown Object Hazard

3
Slow
Fast
Cutting Element - Engage
Cutting Element - Basic symbol
Cutting Element - Disengage
Continuously Variable - Linear
Read Operator's Manual
Keep Bystanders Away
Pinch Point
481039S
SYMBOL DESCRIPTION SYMBOL DESCRIPTION
Hourmeter/Elapsed Operating Hours
Thown Object Hazard

4
SAFETY INFORMATION
2.1 INTRODUCTION
Your mower is only as safe as the operator. Carelessness
or operator error may result in serious bodily injury or
death. Hazard control and accident prevention are
dependent upon the awareness, concern, prudence, and
proper training of the personnel involved in the operation,
transport, maintenance and storage of the equipment.
Make sure every operator is properly trained and
thoroughly familiar with all of the controls before
operating the mower. The owner/user can prevent and is
responsible for accidents or injuries occurring to
themselves, other people or property.
READ THIS OPERATOR’S MANUAL BEFORE
ATTEMPTING TO START YOUR MOWER.
A replacement manual is available from your authorized
Scag Service Dealer or by contacting Scag Power
Equipment, Service Department at P.O. Box 152,
Mayville, WI 53050 or via the Internet at
www.scag.com. The manual for your machine can be
downloaded by using the model and serial number or use
the contact form to make your request. Please indicate
the complete model and serial number of your Scag
product when requesting replacement manuals.
2.2 SIGNAL WORDS
This symbol means “Attention! Become Alert! Your
Safety is Involved!" The symbol is used with the
following signal words to attract your attention to safety
messages found on the decals on the machine and
throughout this manual. The message that follows the
symbol contains important information about safety. To
avoid injury and possible death, carefully read the
message! Be sure to fully understand the causes of
possible injury or death.
Signal Word:
It is a distinctive word found on the safety decals on the
machine and throughout this manual that alerts the
viewer to the existence and relative degree of the
hazard.
The signal word “WARNING” denotes that a hazard
exists on or near the machine that can result in injury or
death if proper precautions are not taken.
The signal word “DANGER” denotes that an extremely
hazardous situation exists on or near the machine that
could result in high probability of death or irrepairable
injury if proper precautions are not taken.
CAUTION:
The signal word “CAUTION” is a reminder of safety
practices on or near the machine that could result in
personal injury if proper precautions are not taken.
Your safety and the safety of others depends significantly
upon your knowledge and understanding of all correct
operating practices and procedures of this machine.
2.3 BEFORE OPERATION
CONSIDERATIONS
1. NEVER allow children to operate this riding mower.
Do not allow adults to operate this machine without
proper instructions.
2. DO NOT mow when children and/or others are
present. Keep children out of the mowing area and
in the watchful care of a responsible adult other than
the operator. Be alert and turn machine off if a child
enters the area.
3. DO NOT allow children to ride on or play on the
machine, it is not a toy.
4. Clear the area to be mowed of objects that could be
picked up and thrown by the cutter blades.
5. DONOT carry passengers.
6. DO NOT operate the machine under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
WARNING:
Section 2

5
Section 2
9. Keep the machine and attachments in good operating
condition. Keep all shields and safety devices in
place. If a shield, safety device or decal is defective
or damaged, repair or replace it before operating the
machine.
This machine is equipped with an interlock
system intended to protect the operator and
others from injury. This is accomplished by
preventing the engine from starting unless the
deck drive is disengaged, the steering control
levers are in the neutral position and the
operator is in the seat. The system shuts off the
engine if the operator leaves the seat with the
deck drive engaged and/or the steering control
levers are not in the neutral postion and the
parking brake is not engaged. Never operate
equipment with the interlock system
disconnected or malfunctioning.
10. Be sure the interlock switches are functioning
correctly.
11. Fuel is flammable; handle it with care. Fill the fuel
tank outdoors. Never fill it indoors. Use a funnel or
spout to prevent spillage. Clean up any spillage
before starting the engine.
12. DO NOT add fuel to a running or hot engine. Allow
the engine to cool for several minutes before adding
fuel. Never fuel indoors or in enclosed trailers.
13. Keep flammable objects (cigarettes, matches, etc.),
open flames and sparks away from the fuel tank and
fuel container. Use only approved containers.
14. Equipment must comply with the latest requirements
per SAE J137 and/orANSI/ASAE S279 when driven
on public roads.
If the mower is driven on public roads, it must
comply with state and local ordinances as well as
SAE J137 and/or ANSI / ASAE S279 requirements.
Contact your local authorities for regulations and
equipment requirements.
15. DONOT operate without the side discharge chute
installed and in the down position or with an optional
grass catcher or mulch plate completely installed.
16. Check the blade mounting bolts at frequent intervals
for proper tightness.
17. Make sure all hydraulic fluid connections are tight and
all hydraulic hoses and lines are in good condition
before starting the machine.
2.4 OPERATION CONSIDERATIONS
1. Know the function of all controls and how to stop
quickly.
DO NOT operate on steep slopes. To check a
slope, attempt to back up it (with the cutter deck
down). If the machine can back up the slope
without the wheels slipping, reduce speed and
use extreme caution. Under no circumstances
should the machine be operated on slopes
greater than 15 degrees.ALWAYS FOLLOW OSHA
APPROVED OPERATION.
this material to them.
8. DONOT wear loose fitting clothing. Loose
clothing, jewelry or long hair could get tangled in
moving parts. Do not operate the machine wearing
shorts; always wear adequate protective clothing
including long pants. Wearing safety glasses, safety
shoes and a helmet is advisable and is required by
somelocal ordinances and insurance regulations.
Always wear hearing protection. Operating this
machine over prolonged periods of time can
cause loss of hearing.
7. If the operator(s) or mechanic(s) cannot read English
or Spanish, it is the owner's responsibility to explain
WARNING:
-NOTE-
WARNING:
WARNING:

6
Section 2
2.4 OPERATION CONSIDERATIONS
(CONT'D)
2. Reduce speed and exercise extreme caution on slopes
and in sharp turns to prevent tipping or loss of
control. Be especially cautious when changing
directions on slopes.
3. To prevent tipping or loss of control, start and stop
smoothly,avoidunnecessaryturnsandtravel at reduced
speed.
4. When using any attachment, never direct the discharge
of material toward bystanders or allow anyone near
the machine while in operation.
5. Before attempting to start the engine, with the operator
in the seat, disengage power to the cutter deck, place
the steering control levers in the neutral position and
engage the parking brake.
6. If the mower discharge ever plugs, shut off the engine,
remove the ignition key, and wait for all movement to
stop before removing the obstruction.
DO NOT use your hand to dislodge the clogged
discharge chute. Use a stick or other device to
remove clogged material after the engine has
stopped running and the blades have stopped
turning.
7. Bealertforholes,rocks,rootsand other hidden hazards
in the terrain. Keep away from any dropoff. Beware
ofoverheadobstructions(lowlimbs,etc.),underground
obstacles(sprinklers,pipes,treeroots,etc.). Cautiously
enter a new area. Be alert for hidden hazards.
8. Disengage power to cutter deck before backing up. Do
not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary and
then only after observation of the entire area behind
the mower. If you must mow in reverse, maintain a
constant lookout to the rear of the machine and mow
slowly.
9. DO NOT turn sharply. Use care when backing up.
10. Disengage power to cutter deck before crossing roads,
walks or gravel drives.
11. Mowonlyindaylight or good artificial light.
12. NEVERraise the deck with the blades engaged.
13. Takeallpossibleprecautionswhenleavingthemachine
unattended, such as disengaging the mower, lowering
theattachments, setting the parking brake, stoppingthe
engine, and removing the key.
14. Disengagepower to theattachments when transporting
or when not in use.
15. The machine and attachments should be stopped and
inspected for damage after striking a foreign object,
and damage should be repaired before restarting and
operating the machine.
DO NOT touch the engine or the muffler while the
engine is running or immediately after stopping.
These areas may be hot enough to cause a burn.
DO NOT run the engine inside a building or a
confined area without proper ventilation.
Exhaust fumes are hazardous and contain carbon
monoxide which can cause brain injury and
death.
16. Keep hands and feet away from cutter blades and
moving parts. Contact can injure.
17. Use care when loading or unloading the machine onto
a trailer or truck.
18. Usecarewhenapproachingblindcorners,shrubs,trees,
or other objects that may obscure vision.
19. NEVERleave the machine running unattended.
WARNING:
CAUTION: