Sears craftsman ez3 917.251492 User manual

®
ODEL 917.251492
®Assembly
Operation
Customer Responsibilities
®Service and Adjustments
®Repair Parts
OWNER'S MANUAL
CAUTION: Read and follow all safety rules and instructions before operating this equipn
FOR CONSUMER ASSISTANCE HOT LINE, C_LLTHIS TOLLFREE NUMBER: 1,800-659-5917
IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII ................................................ i_':

SAFETY RULES
_Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers
IMPORTANT: THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OBJECTS,
FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT 1N SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
!. GENERAL OPERATION
' Read, understand,.and follow all Instruct_on_-_the manual
and on the mach{he before starting. _.
•Only allow responsible adu{ts, who are familiar with the
Instructions, to operate the machine_ ,.
•Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc.,
which could be picked up and thrown by the blade.
•Be suretheareaisclear ofotherpeople before mowing Stop
machine if anyone enters the area.
•Never carry passengers.
°Donotmow in reverse unlessabsolutelynecessary. Always
lookdown and behind before and while backing,
°Be aware of the mower discharge directionand do notpoint
It at anyone. Do not operate the mower withouteither the
entire grass catcher or the guard in place.
•Slow down before turning.,
•Never leave arunning machine unattended, Alwaysturnoff
blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and remove keys
before dismounting.
•"rumoff blades when not mowing.
°Stop engine before removing grass catcher or'unclogging
chute.
•Mow onlyin daylight or good artificiallight.
•Do not operate the machine while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
•Watch for traffic when operating near orcrossing roadways.
• Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine Into
atrailer or truck
II, SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and
tipover accidents, which can result in severe injury or death.
All slopes require extra caution, if you cannot back up the
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.
• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could
overturn the machine. Taftgrass can htde obstacles.
• Use slow speed. Choose a!owgear so that you wilfnot have
to stop or shift while on the slope.
° Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for wheel
weights or counterweights to improve stability,.
• Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments.
These can change the stability of the mactltne.
• Keep all movement on the slopes slowand gradual Do not
make suddenchanges Inspeed or direction.,
• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction,
disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the
slope,
DO NOT:
°Do not turnonslopes unlessnecessary and then, turnslowly
and gradual y downhil, if possible.
°Do not mow near' drop-oils, ditches, or embankments. The
mower could suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the edge
of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.
•Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could cause
sliding..
•Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot or}the
ground.
°Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.
2
ill. CHILDREN
_r_gtc 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 andunderthe watchful
care of another responsible adulL
• Be alert and turn machine off if childrenenter the area_
•Before and when backing, look behind and down for small
children_
• Never carry children., They may fall off and be seriously
injuredor interfere with safe machine operation°
• Never allow children to operate the machine,.
° Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs,
trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.
IV. SERVICE
•Useextra careinhandlinggasoline and otherfuels.. Theyare
flammableand vapors are explosive_
Use onlyan approved container.
Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine
running, Allow engine to cool before refueling, Do not
smoke.
Never refuel the machine indoors.
Never storethe machine or fuel container inside where
there is an open flame, such as a water heater.
• Never run a machine inside a closed area_
°Keepnuts and bolts, especially blade attachment bolts, tight
and keep equipment in good conditlon_
°Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper
operation regularly
°Keep machinefree ofgrass, leaves, orother debris build-up.
Clean 0il or fuel spillage.. Allow machine to cool before
storing_
• Stop and inspect the equipment if you stdke an object.
Repair, if necessary, before restarting.
•Never make adjustmentsor repairswith the engine running.
•Grasscatcher componentsare subjecttowear, damage,and
deterioration, which could expose moving parts or allow
objects to be thrown. Frequently check components and
replacewith manufacturer's recommended parts,when nec-
essary.
• Mower blades are sharp and can cuL Wrap the blade(s) or
wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.
• Check brake operation frequently_ Adjust and service as
required_
I"Look for this symbol to point out im"' I
& portant safety p_ecautions. It means I i CAUTION!!! BECOMEALERTt!! YOUR
! SAFETY IS INVOLVED. ...........................
,iHi,Ui/.==l I=l=l= I=l
CAUTION: Always disconnect spark plug
wireand place wirewhereit cannot contact
spark plug In order to prevent accidental
starting when setting up, transporting,
adjusting or making repairs.
& WARNING A .....
The engine exhaust from this product con-
tains ct_emicals known to the State of Califor-
nia to cause cancer, birth defects, or other
reproductive harm. ..................................................................

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of aSears
Tractor. It has been designed, engineered and manufac-
tured to give you the best possible dependability and
performance.
Should you experience any problem you cannot easily
remedy, please contact your nearest Sear_ Authorized
Service Center/Department Department. V_h.ave com-
petent, well-trained technicians and the prol_ertools to
service or repair this tractor. ,;.
Please read and retain this manual. The instructions wil!
enable you to assemble and maintain your tractoi-properly.
Always observe the "SAFETY RULES".
MODEL
NUMBER 917.251492
SERIAL
NUMBER
DATEOFPURCHASE
THE MODELAND SERIALNUMBERS WILLBE FOUND
ON A PLATE UNDER THE SEAT.
YOU SHOULD RECORD BOTH SERIAL NUMBER AND
DATE OF PURCHASE AND KEEP IN A SAFE PLACE
FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.
MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT
A Sears Maintenance Agreement is available on this prod-
uct. Contact your nearest Sears store for details°
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
o Read and observe the safety rules°
° Foltowa regular schedule inmaintaining, caring for and
using your tractor.
° Follow the instructionsunder "Customer Responsibili-
ties" and "Storage" sections of this owner's manual°
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
HORSEPOWER: 185
GASOLINE CAPACITY , 3.5 GALLONS
AND TYPE: UNLEADED REGULAR
OIL TYPE (API_SF/SG): SAE30 (above 32°F)
SAE 5W_30 (below 32°F)
OiL CAPACITY: W/FILTER: 4.0 PINTS
W/O FILTER: 3_5PINTS
SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION RV17YC
(GAP: ,025")
VALVE CLEARANCE: INTAKE: _003"- _006"
EXHAUST: ,.013"- ,016"
GROUND SPEED (MPH): FORWARD; 0- 5,7
REVERSE: 0- 2_t
TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSt
REAR: 10 PSI
CHARGING SYSTEM: 15 AMPS @ 3600 RPM
BATTERY: AMP/HR: 30
MIN_ CCA: 240
CASE SIZE: U_R
BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 30-35 FT. LBS.
WARNING: This tractor is equipped with an internal
combustion engine and should not be used on or near any
unimprovedforest-covered, brush-covered or grass-cow
ered land unless the engine's exhaust system isequipped
with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws
(ifany)° Ifa spark arrester is used, itshould be maintained
in effective working order by the operator.,
In the state of California the above is r_.quired by law
(Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code)°
Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on
federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available
through your nearest Sears Authorized Service Center/
Department (See REPAIR PARTS section of this manual)..
LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT
For two (2) years from the date of purchase, ifthisCraftsman RidingEquipmentis maintained, lubricatedand tuned up according
to the instructions in the owner's manual, Sears willrepair or replace,free ofcharge, any parts found to be defective in material
orworkmanship.
This Warranty does not cover:
°Expendable items whichbecome worn duringnormal use, such as blades, spark plugs,air cleaners, belts, etc.
oTire replacement or repair caused by puncturesfrom outside objects,such as nails,thorns, stumps, or glass.
°Repairs necessary because ofoperator abuse, negligence,improperstorage or accidentor the failure to maintain the
equipment according tothe instructions contained inthe owner'smanual..
°Ridingequipment used for commercial or rentalpurposes.
LIMITED 90 DAY WARRANTY ON BATTERY
For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery included wilh this riding equipment proves defective in material or
workmanshipand our testing determines thebattery willnot hold a charge, Sears will replace the battery at no charge.
IN-HOME WARRANTY SERVICE ON YOUR CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT iS AVAILABLE AT NO-CHARGE FOR 30
DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PURCHASE. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR NEAREST SERVICE CENTER, AFTER 30 DAYS
FROM THE DATE OF PURCHASE, WARRANTY SERVICE IS AVAILABLE BY TAKING YOUR CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIP-
MENT TO YOUR NEAREST SEARS SERVtQE CENTER. (IN-HOME "WARRANTY SERVICE WILL STILL BE AVAILABLE
AFTER 30 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PURCHASE BUT. A STANDARD TRIP CHARGE WILL APPLY.) THIS WARRANTY
APPLIES ONLY WHILE THIS PRODUCT IS IN THE UNITED STATES.
Thts Warranty gives you speciftc legal dghts, and you may also have other rights which may vary from state to state.
SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, IL 60179
3

TABLE OF CONTENTS
SAFETY RULES ............................................................ 2
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS ...................................... 3
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ................ .:.. 3, 17-20
WARRANTY ........................... ,........ :........... _;., ....... ,..3
TRACTOR ACCESSORIES .......................... _.............. 5
ASSEMBLY ................................................... _........ 7-10
OPERATION ..................................... ,; .......... ._,.=...11-16
INDEX A
Accessories ..........................................................5
Adjustments:
Brake ...................._........................ 23
Carburetor .........................................27
Clutch Pulley .................................. 23
Gauge Wheels ..................................14
Mower
Front-To-Back ......................... 22
Side-To-Side ............................ 21
Throttle Control Cable .................. 27
Air Filter; Engine......................................20
Air Screen, Engine ....................................20
Assembly............................................. 7-10
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ..................................... 17
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS .......... ................. 21-27
STORAGE ............. ;..................................................... 28
I_'TROUBLESHOOTING ........................................... 29-30
REPAIR PARTS -TRACTOR ................................ 32-47
REPAIR PARTS -ENGINE .................................... 51-60
RARTS ORDERINGtSERVICE ............... BACK COVER
B
Battery:
Charging ...................................................8
Cleaning .......................................... 20
Starting with Weak Battery .......... 25
Storage ..............................................27
Terminals ...................................... 18
Belt:Motion Drive
RemovatlReplacement .............24
Mower Drive
Removal/Replacement ........... 22
Mower Blade Ddve
Removal/RePlacement .............23
Blade:
Sharpening ...................................................18
Replacement ...................................t8
Brake Adjustment ................................. 23
C
Carburetor Adjustment .............................27
Clutch Pulley .......................................... 23
Controls, Tractor ......................................12
Customer Responsibilities ............. 17-20
Engine:
Air Filter ................................................20
Air Screen ...................................19
Cooling Fins ................................20
Engine Oil ............................ 15,19
Fuel Filter ........................................20
Spark Plug(s) ..................................20
Tractor:
Battery....................................... 18
Blade ............................................18
Lubrication Chart ....................... 17
Maintenance Schedule ............ 17
Tire Care .................................8,18,25
TransaxIe ...........................................19
Cutting Height, Mower ................................13
E
Electrical:
Interlocks and Relays ..........................26
Schematic ..................................... 31
Wiring Diagram ............................. 32
Engine:
Air Filter........................................ 19
Air Screen .......................................L............19
Cooling Fins ................................. 20
Oil Change ........................................19
Oil Level .......................................... 15
Oil Type..............................................19
Preparation .................................. 14
Repair Parts .....................................51-60
Starting..........................................................15
Storage ......................................... 28
F
Filter:.
Air Filter ..................................................................._ 20
Fuel ..................................................20
Oil.............................................................20
Fuel:Storage ............................................28
Type ..............................................................t5
Fuse ............................................................26
H
Headlights ...............................................26
Hood Removal/Installation ...........................26
L
Leveling Mower Deck .............................21
Lubrication:
Chart ............................................ 17
Engine......................................................19
M
Maintenance Schedule ...........................17
Mower:.
Adjustment, Front-to-Back ........... 22
Adjustment, Side-to-Side ................21
Blade ReplacEment ..................... 18
Blade Sharpening ......................... 18
Cutting Height .........................................13
installation ...............................................21
Operation ...................................... 14
Removal ....................................... 2t
Mowing Tips ......................................... I6
:Muffler ......................................_................ 20
Spark Arrester':_...................................3,40
Oil:
0
Cold Weather Conditions........ 15,19
Engine .....................................................19
Storage ................................................... 28
4
Operation ..................................................11-16
Operating Mower ........................................14
Options:
Accessories ..................................................5
Spark Arrestor ............................ 3,40
P
Parking Brake .........................................12
Parts Bag ................................................. 6
Parts, Rep[acemenURepair °........... 31-47
Product Specifications ...............................3
R
Repair Parts ........................................31-47
S
Safety Rules .............................................. 2
Seat ...................................................................8
Service and Adjustments .................2t-27
Carburetor ..................................... 27
Clutch Pulley .............................................23
Fuse .............................................................26
Hood Removal/Insta_|ation ................26
Motion Drive Belt
Removal/Replacement ............ 24
Mower Ddve Belt
Removal/Replacement ............22
Mower Blade Drive Belt
Removal/Replacement ...............23
Mower Adjustment
Front-to-Back ........................... 22
Side-to-Side ...................................21
Mower Removal/installation .......... 21
Tire Care .................................... 8,25
Slope Guide Sheet .............................. 63
Spark Plug(s) ........................................ 20
Specifications ............................................................. 3
Starting the Engine .................................. 15
Steering Wheel ................................ 7,24
Stopping the Tractor ................................13
Storage ................................................... 28
T
Throttle Control Cable Adjustment .......27
Tires ....................................................................8,18,25
Troubleshooting Chart .................... 29_0
Transaxle ...................................................i19
W
Warranty ....................................................3
Widng Diagram ...................................... 32
Wiring Schematic .................................. 31

AND ATTACHMENTS
These accessories and attachments were available throughmost Sears retailoutlets andservice centers when the tractor was purchased
Most Sears stores can order these items for you when you provide the model number of your tractor.
ENGINE
SPARK PLUG GAS CAN ENGINEOIL FUELSTABILIZER AIR FILTER
_AINTENANCE
BLADES BELTS
PERFORMANCE r'
Sears offersawide variety ofattachments thatfit yourtractor.,Many of these are listedbelow withbrief explanations ofhowthey can heiR
you° This listwas current _t the time of publication;however, it may change tnfuture yea_ _more attachments may be added, change_
may be made in these attachments, orsome may no longer be available orfit your model, Contact your nearest Sears store for the
accessories and attachments that are available for your tractor°
Most ofthese attachments do not require additional hitches or conversionkits (those thatdo are indicated) and are designed for easy
attaching and detaching_
AERATOR promotes deep root growth for a healthy lawn.. Tapered
2,5-inch steel spikes mounted on lO-inch diameter discs puncture
holes insoll atcloseintervals toletmoisture soak in Steelwetght tray
for increasedpenetration,
BUMPER protects front end of tractor from damage.
CARTSmake haultng easy. Variety ofsizes available, plusaccesso-
riessuch assidepanel kits, tool caddy, cart cover, protectivemat and
dolly.
CORING AERATOR takes small plugs out of soil to allow moisture
andnutrientsto reach grass roots. 36-inch swath. 24 hardenedsteel
coring tips. !50 tb.capacity weight tray.
DISC HARROW has 2gangs of 4 steel bladesthat angle from10to
20degrees, 40 inches wide Can hook 2units intandem. (Requires
sleeve hitch,)
DOZER BLADE removes snow; grades dirt, sand and gravel,48
incheswide,17incheshigh, clears44-tnch pathwhenangled,Master
liftcontrollever for operatorease, Spring tripfor snow removal on
uneven pavement;built-infloat for blade tofollow groundcontour.
Reversible,replaceablescraperbar, (Use withtire chainsend wheel
welghtsand/or rear drawbarwelghto)
EASY OIL DRAIN VALVE makes oil changes easier, faster.
FRONT NOSE ROLLER canters in front of mower deck to reduce
chances of "scalping" on uneven terrain.
GANG HITCH lets you tow 2 or 3 pull-behind attachments at
once, such as sweepers, dethatchers, aerators (not for use with
rollers, cartsor other heavyattachments)_
MULCH RAKE/DETHATCHER loosens soi! and flips thatch and
matted leavesto lawn surfacefor easy pickup Twentyspringline
teeth°Usefulto preparebare areas forseeding. Availableforfront or
rear mounting. HIGH PERFORMANCE REEL-ACTION SPRING
TINE DETHATCHERcovers36-inchwidepathandtossesthatchinto
largehopper, Mounts behind tractor
PLOW turnssoil 6 inchesdeep, cuts 10-]nchfurrow, Crankadjust-
mentcontrolsdepth,3-positionyokesetswidth.Heavysteel landside
forstraightfurrowing° (Requiressleeve hitch,)
RAMP TOPS AND FEET let you load and.unload tractorfrom a
_.pickuptruck, Usewith2x 8or2 x 10 lumber,
REARGRADER BLADE is42 Incheswideandoperatedfromdriver's
seal Revers_le steelbladecanbe angled at30 degreesforgrading_
Reversesfor pushingsnow backwards, (Requiressleeve hitch)
ROLLER forsmootherlawn surface. 36-1nchwide,18-inchdtameter
water-tightdrum holds up to 390 lbs_of weight. Roundededges
preventharmtoturf, Adjustable scraper automaticallycleansdrum
SLEEVE CULTIVATOR Is 43 Inches wide. Prepares ground for
seeding, helpsweedcontrol,Steelframe holds 5adjustable sweeps.
Adjusts vertically,horizontally, (Requires sleeve hitch,) Optional
accessory: steel furrowopenerfor wider openingsfor potatoes,
corn,and otherdeep-seededcrops,
SLEEVE HITCH for use withmasterliftsystem Singlepincouples/
uncouples,
SNOWTHROWER has 42-_nchswath, Drum-type auger handles
powderyandwet/heavy snow. Mountseasilywithsimple pinarrange-
ment, Dischargechute adjustsfrom tractor seat, 6-inch diameter
spoutdtschargessnow 10 to50 feet,, Liftcontrolledat tractorseat,
(Use withchainsand wheel weightsand/or rear drawbarweight.)
SPRAYERS use 12-voltDCelectricmotorthat_onnectstothetractor
battery or other 12wolt soume, Includes booms for automatic
spraying and handheld wandfor spotspraying° Wand hasadjustable
spraypattern. For applying herbicides, insecticides, fungicides and
liquid fertilizers°
SPREADER/SEEDERS make seeding, fertltiztng, and weed killing
easy. Broadcast spreaders arealso usefulfor granular de-icers and
sand.
SWEEPERS letyou collect grass clippings and leaves.
TILLER has8hpengineto prepareseedbeds,cultivate, and compost
garden residue. Chain-drive transmission.Six 11-inch diameterone
pieceheat-treated steel tines. T_lls30-inch path. (Requires sleeve
hitch°) Oruse 5 hptow-behind TILLER with 36-Inchswath toprepare
seed beds,cultivate and compost garden residue. Tiller has its own
built-in itffand depth controlsystem and does NOT require a sleeve
hitch. Fits any lawn, yard or garden tractor, Simply hook upto the
tractor drawbar and go! Optional accessories for5hp tiller convert
unit for dethatchtng,aerating, htllingo..withouttools,
TIRE CHAINSare heavyduty; closelyspacedextra-largecrossIinks
give smooth ride,outstandingtraction,
TRACTOR CAB has heavydutyvinylfabric overtubularsteelframe,
ABS plasttctop;clearplasticwindshieldoffers360 degree visibility
Hinged metal doors with catch. Keeps operator warm and dry
Remove vinyl sides and windshieldsfor use as sun protectorin
summer. Optional aocessorles Include: tinted/tempered solid
safety glass windshieldwith hand operatedwiper;,12-volt amber
cautionlight for mounting on cabtop,
VACS for powerfulcollectionof heavygrassclippingsand leaves
Optional wandattachment topickupdebrisin hard-to.reachplaces,
VAC/CHIPPER includesa chipper-shredder,
WEIGHTBRACKET fordrawbarforsnow removalapplications,Can
be mounted on front oftractorforplowlngapplications, Uses (1) 55
Ib°weight,
WHEEL WEIGHTS for rear wheelsprovideneededtractionforsnow
removalordozing heavy materials
5

CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK
'iiiii i .............................. IIIIIIIIjIUlUlLUJ[[IJIIIILIJ[ iii iii LIIIIII II1' ii I I
Parts Bag contents shown fu!l size
i
(1) Shoulder Bolt 5/16-"_
Knob!iiY !
q
(1) Washer 17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge
(2) Screws #10 x5/8 (2) Lock Washers #10
(2) Weld Nuts #10 i
J
(2) Washers 3/16 x 3/4 x 16 Gauge
(3) Retainer Springs (double loop)
I_lltlltil{!i!llilllililitf0
(2) Hex Bolts 1/4-20 x 3/4
(2) Washers 9132 x 5/8
x 16 Gauge
(2) Hex:Nuts 1/4-20
(2) Lock Washers 1/4
Parts packed separately in carton
,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
Seat
_ Mulcher
Steering Plate
Wheel
Video
Cassette
Manual Parts Bag
Parts bag contents not shown full size
x718 x 14 Gauge
\ _///(2) Gauge Q (2) Center-
Wheels lock Nuts
t_wm(2) Front LinkAssemblies
_/_ Steering
Wheel
Insert (2) Latch Hook
u u Assemblys
Steering
Sleeve
(2) Keys
Slope Sheet
6

LY
.... i1,, ,i,, =H ,... i,, i,,i inlnmm ,.,,,,,.,., ..........
Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes,,
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 prop_ertightness.
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSP_._BLY
&
A socket wrench set wi!l make assembly easie_i, Standard
wrench sizes are listed.
(2) 7/16" wrenches (1) Tire pressure gauge
(1) 9/16" wrench (1) Utility knife
('1) t/2" wrench (1) 3/4" socket w/drive ratchet
When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, it
means when you are in the operating position (seated
behind the steering wheel)_
TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON
UNPACK CARTON
oRemove all accessible loose parts and parts cartons
from carton (See page 6).
oCut, from top to bottom, along lines on all four comers
of carton, and lay panels flat.
°Remove mower and packing materials°
° Check for any additional loose parts or cartons and
remove.
BEFORE ROLLING TRACTOR OFFSKID
ATTACH STEERING WHEEL (See Fig. 1)
°Remove hex bolt, lock washer and large flat washer
from steering shaft°
°Position front wheels of the tractor so they are pointing
straight forward_
°Slide the steering sleeve over the steedng shaft°
° Position steering wheel so cross bars are horizontal
(left to right) andslide onto steering wheel adapter.
° Secure steering wheel to steering shaft with hex bolt,
lock washer and large fiat washer previously removed.
Tighten securely.
° Snap steering wheel insert into center of steering
wheel.
°Remove protective plastic from tractor hood and grill
IMPORTANT: CHECK FORAND REMOVE ANYSTAPLES
IN SKID THAT MAY PUNCTURE TIRES WHERE TRACTOR
IS TO ROLL QFF SKID,
.-_ STEERtNG WHEEL
INSERT
.,_p HEX BOLT
LOCK
,_._ WASHER
LARGE FLAT
wttt=P..LADAPTER_/
|/ / STEERING
, ;;o' __.__ /SLEEVE
tt_/ /
I/
/ t ii ! /
_, I
FIG. 1
TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Opera-
tion section for location and function of con-
trols)
• Press lift lever plunger and raise attachment lift lever to
its highest position.
-Release parking brake by depressing clutch/brake
pedal.
•Place freewheel control in freewheeling position to
disengage transmission (See 'q'O TRANSPORT" in
the Operation section of this manual).
°Roll tractor backwards off skid.
7

ASSEMBLY
HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR INSTALLSEAT(See Fig. 3)
CONNECT BATTERY (See Fig. 2)
ii_ CAUTION: Do not short battery_ermi-
nals. Before connecting batte_, re-
move metal bracelets, wristw_t¢h
bands, rings, etc.
Positive te_-minal must be connected
first to prevent sparking from acciden-
tal grounding.
HIIH III I LI I I II
•Lifthood to raised position_
•Open terminal access doors, remove terminal protec-
tivecaps and discard;
°if this battery isput intoservice after month and year
indicated on label (label located between terminals)
charge battery for minimumofone hourat 6-10 amps.
• FirstconnectRED battery cable topositive(+) battery
terminalwithhexbolt, flat washer, lock washer andhex
nut as shown. Tighten securely.
•Connect BLACK groundingcable to negative (-) bat-
teryterminal with remaining hex bolt, flat washer, lock
washer and hex nut. Tighten securely.
-Close terminal access doors.
Use terminal access doors for:
°Inspection for secure connections (to tighten hard-
ware).
°Inspectionfor corrosion.
° Testing battery°
° Jumping (ifrequired).
• Periodic charging.
LOCK FLAT
HEX NUT WASHER WASHER
DISCARD TERM,NAL "\. ._ HEX
PROTECTIVE CAPS \ _ "'=""'_/ BOLT
TERMINAL .... ",_ !_/_ .._.JL.=_e _
ACCESS.'FL.. jj_'J!_,
DOOR _. __<:_ _ PosmvE
_.._.._/__ v - (RED)
Adjust seat before tightening adjustment knob.
Remove cardboard packing on seat pan_
Place seat on seat pan and assemble shoulder bolt.
=Assemble adjustment knob and flat washer ioosely,
Do not tighten_
o Tighten shoulder bolt securely.
°Lower seat intooperating position and sit on seat°
° Slide seat until acomfortable position isreached which
allows you to press clutch/brake pedal all the way
down,
•Get off seat without moving its adjusted position,
Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob securely°
SEAT PAN
SHOULDER
BOLT
SEAT
,\
ADJUSTMENT
KNOB
FLAT
WASHER
FIG. 3
CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
The tires on your tractorwere overinflated at the factory for
shipping purposes, Correct tire pressure is important for'
best cuttingperformance.
• Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in "PRODUCT
SPECIFICATIONS" on page 3 of this manual
CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM
After you learn how to operate your tractor, check to see
that the brake is properly adjusted. See "TO ADJUST
BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments section of this
manual
FIG. 2
8

i rl II
INSTALL MOWER _'_AND DRIVE BELl: (See "
Figs. 4 and 7)
Be sure tractoris on level surface and mowe_suspension
arms are raised with attachment lift control. E_gage park-
ingbrake. '_: .
o Cut and remove ties securing anti-sway barand belts°
Swing anti-sway bar to left side of mower deck =
•Slide mower undertractorwith discharge guardto right
side of tractor, °
IMPORTANT: CHECK BELt FOR PROPER ROUTING IN °
ALL MOWER PULLEY GROOVES. INSTALL BELT INTO
ELECTRIC CLUTCH PULLEY GROOVE,
° Install one front link in top hole of the R.H. front mower
bracket and R.H. front suspension bracket° Retain with
two single loop retainer springs as shown.
otnstail secondfront linkinL,H. front suspensionbracket
only and retain with single loop retainer spring as
shown°
=Turn height adjustment knob counterclockwise until it
stops.
° Lower mower linkage with attachment lift control.
°Placethe L.H. suspension arm on inward pointing deck
pin. Ifnecessary, rock and raise front of mower to align
deck pin with the hole in suspension arm° Retain with
double loop retainer spring with loops down as shown.
= Slide left Sideof mowerback and install the unattached
front link in top hole of the L.H, front mower bracket_
Retain with single loop retainer spring as shown.
LY
Place the R°H_suspension arm on inward pointing
deck pin. If necessary', rock and raise front of mower
to align deck pin with the hole in suspension arm
Retain with double loop retainer spring with loops
down as shown.
Connect anti-sway bar to chassis bracket under left
footrest and retain with double loop retainer spring°
Turn height adjustment knob clocl_vise to remove
slack from mower suspensiono
Raise mower to highest position°
Assemble gauge wheels (See "TO ADJUST GAUGE
WHEELS" Inthe Operation section of this manual).
CHECK MOWER LEVELNESS
For best cuttingresults mower should be properly leveled,
See 'qrO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual.
CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF ALL
BELTS
See thefigures that are shown for replacing motion, mower
ddve, and mower blade drive belts in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual Verify that the belts
are routed correctly.
ELECTRIC
CLUTCH
PULLEY'
FRONT
SUSPENSION
BRACKETS"
DOUBLE LOOP
RETAINER SPRING
CHASSIS (inward pointing
BRACKET deck pins)
SUSPENSION
ARMS FRONT
MOWER
BRACKET
FRONT
LINK
SHOULDER
BOLT
GAUGE
WHEEL /
3/8 WASHER
USE PLIERS FOR
RETAINER SPRINGS
31846
CENTER
LOCKNUT
DOUBLE LOOP
RETAINER
SPRING ANTI-SWAY
BAR
IDLER /
PULLEY
FIG. 4
SINGLE
LOOP
RETAINER
SPRINGS
DISCHARGE GUARD
9

DEFLECTOR
SHIELD
INSTALL MULCHER PLATE (See Figs. 5 and 6)
* Installtwo latch hooks to mulcher plate using screw,
washer, !ockwasher, and weld nut as sho_n.
NOTE: Pre-assembIe weld nut to latch hook b_ inserting
weld nutfrom the top with hook pointingdown_
, Tighten hardware securely.
o Raise and hold deflector shield in upright position.
*Place front of mutcher plate over front of mower deck
opening and slide intoplace, as shown.
= Hook front latch intohole on front of mower deck°
° Hook rear latch intohole on back of mower deck.
CAUTION: Do not remove discharge
guard from mower. Raise and hold
guard when attaching mulcher plate
and allow it to rest on plate whde in
operation.
TO CONVERT TO BAGGING OR
DISCHARGING
Simply remove mulcher plate and store in a safe place.
Your' mower is now ready for discharging or installation of
optional grass catcher accessory.
NOTE: Itis not necessary to change blades. The mulcher
blades are designed for' discharging and bagging also_
HOOK POINTS
WELD NUT DOWN
FROM THE TOP,
LOCK
WASHER
SCREW
LATCH
HOOK
WASHER
MULCHER
PLATE
LOCK
WASHER
\
WASHER
'_'-'--SCREW
WELD
NUT
FIG. 5
FIG. 6
LATCH
HOOKS
,/CHECKLIST
BEFORE YOU OPERATE AND ENJOY YOUR NEW
TRACTOR, WE WISH TOASSURE THAT YOU RECEIVE
THE BEST PERFORMANCEAND SATISFACTIONFROM
THIS QUALITY PRODUCT.
PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING CHECKLIST:
,/ All assembly instructions have been compietedo
v" No remaining loose parts in carton.
,/ Battery is properly prepared and charged° (Minimum
1 hour at 6 amps).
,/ Seat is adjusted comfortably and tightened securely.
v" All tires are properly inflated. (For shipping purposes,
the tires were overinflated at the factory)_
,/ Be sure mower' deck is properly leveled side-to-side/
front-to-rear for' best cutting results_ (Tires must be
properly inflated for leveling),
,f Check mowerand drive belts. Be sure they are routed
properly around pulleys and inside all belt keepers.
,/ Check widngo See that all connections are still secure
and wires are properly clamped.
J" Before driving tractor, be sure freewheel control is in
drive position.
WHILE LEARNtNG HOW TOUSE YOUR TRACTOR, PAY
EXTRA A TTENTION TO THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT
ITEMS:
,/ Engine oilis at proper level.
4" Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean, regular unleaded
gasoline.
€" Become familiar with all controls - their location and
function. Operate them before you start the engine.
,/ Be sure brake system is in safe operating condition° _
#" Itis importantto purge the transmission before operat-
ingyourtractorfor the first time. Followproperstarting
and transmissionpurginginstructions(See "TO START
ENGINE and PURGE TRANSMISSION in Opera-
tion sectionofthis manual),.
10