Snapper SW20 Series User manual

OPERATOR'S
MANUAL
SW20Series
Walk-BehindMowers
Model Humber:
5900700
5900702
Description
SW20KAV1748, 17HP Kawasaki, 48" Cut Walk-Behind Mower
SW20KAV133B, 13HP Kawasaki, 36" Cut Walk-Behind Mower
Briggs &Stratton Power ProductsGroup
5375 North Main Street
Munnsville, NY 13409
800-933-6175
5101263
RevisionIR
Rev.Date:11/2007
TP100-7359-1R-WD-SP

Thankyoufor purchasingthis quality-built SnapperPro product. We'repleasedthat
you've placedyour confidencein the SnapperPro brand. Whenoperatedand maintained
accordingto the instructions in this manual,your SnapperPro product will providemany
yearsof dependableservice.
This manualcontainssafetyinformationto makeyou awareof the hazardsand
risksassociatedwith this machineand howto avoidthem. Thismachineis designedand
intendedto beusedand maintainedaccordingto the manualandoperatedbytrained
professionalsfor finish cutting of establishedlawnsand is not intendedfor any other
purpose. It is importantthat you readand understandtheseinstructionsthoroughly
beforeattemptingto start or operatethis equipment
Unit Model Number
MowerDeck ModelNumber
DealerName
Unit SERIALNumber
Mower DeckSERIALNumber
DatePurchased
EngineMake EngineModel
EngineType/Spec EngineCode/SerialNumber
SeeFeatures and Controls for the location of Identification Numbers
DATEPURCHASED
Briggs & Stratton PowerProducts Group
Copyright {©2008 Briggs & Stratton Corporation
Milwaukee, WI, USA. All rights reserved.
TheSnapper Pro logo is atrademark of Briggs & Stratton
Corporation Milwaukee,WI, USA.
Contact Information:
Briggs & Stratton PowerProducts Group
5375 N. MainSt.
Munnsville, NY 13409-4003
[phone]
www.SnapperPro.com
,AI WARNING
The engineexhaustfrom this product contains chemicals
known to theState of California to causecancer, birth
defects, or other reproductive harm.

Table of Contents
Operator Safety ..................................................... 2
Safety Rulesand Information...........................................2
Safety Decals....................................................................8
Safety InterlockSystem....................................................9
Features& Controls.............................................. 10
IdentificationNumbers...................................................10
Control Functions...........................................................11
Operation ........................................................... 13
General...........................................................................13
Checks BeforeStarting.................................................. 13
CheckingTire Pressures.................................................14
Pushingthe Unit by Hand...............................................14
Cutting HeightAdjustment..............................................15
Starting the Engine.........................................................17
Stopping the Mower .......................................................17
Driving the Mower..........................................................18
Mowing...........................................................................20
Mowing Recommendations............................................20
Mowing Methods............................................................21
Attaching a Trailer...........................................................22
RegularMaintenance ............................................ 23
MaintenanceSchedule....................................................23
Checking/Adding Fuel.....................................................24
FuelFilter........................................................................24
Oil & FilterChange..........................................................24
Lubrication......................................................................25
Check/Fill Transmission Oil...........................................26
Transmission Oil Filter Change.......................................26
Servicing the Mower Blades...........................................27
NeutralAdjustment .........................................................29
Speed BalancingAdjustment ..........................................29
ParkingBrakeAdjustment ..............................................30
DeckLevelingAdjustment ..............................................31
Mower Belt Replacement................................................32
Transmission Drive Belt Replacement............................34
ReverseSpeedControl LeversAdjustment ....................35
Storage...........................................................................36
Starting After Long Term Storage...................................36
Troubleshooting................................................... 37
Troubleshootingthe Mower............................................37
Troubleshootingthe Mower Deck...................................38
Troubleshooting Common Cutting Problems..................39
Specifications ...................................................... 40
Slope identification Guide....................................... 41
NOTE,"In this manual, "left" and "rigtit" are referred to as seen
from the operating position.

$a{etyRules& Ifl{ormUofl
OperatingSafety
Congratulations on purchasing a superior-quality pieceof lawn and
garden equipment. Our products are designedand manufactured to meet
or exceedall industry standardsfor safety.
Do not operatethis machine unless you havebeentrained. Readingand
understanding this operator's manual is a way to train yourself.
Power equipment is only as safe asthe operator. If it is misused, or not
properly maintained,it can be dangerous! Remember,you are
responsible for your safety and that of those around you.
Use common sense,and think through what you are doing. If you are
not surethat the task you are about to perform can be safely done with
the equipment you havechosen ask a professional: contact your local
authorized dealer.
Readthe Manual
Theoperator's manualcontains important safety information
you needto be awareof BEFOREyou operateyour unit as
well as DURINGoperation.
Safeoperatingtechniques, an explanation of the product's
features andcontrols, and maintenanceinformation is
included to helpyou get the most out of your equipment
investment.
Be sureto completely readthe Safety Rulesand Information
found on the following pages. Also completely readthe
Operationsection.
Children
Tragic accidents can occur with children. Do not
allowthem anywherenear the areaof operation.
Childrenare often attractedto the unit and mowing
activity. Neverassumethat children will remain
where you last saw them. If there is a risk that
children may enterthe areawhere you are mowing,
haveanother responsibleadult watch them.
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SafetyRules& Iflformatiofl
Slope Operation
2O
5.4
You could be seriously injured if you usethis unit on too steep of a slope.
Usingthe unit on a slope that is too steep whereyou do not haveadequate
footing and unit traction (and control) cancause you to losecontrol and
possibly slip and fall or roll the unit over.
Always mow across slopes, not up and down (you could slip and fall.)
You should not operateon a slope greaterthan a 5.4 foot rise overa 20
foot length (15 degrees).
Also, notethat the surface you are on can greatly impactyour ability to
safely operatethis machine. Wet grass or soft soil can seriously affect your
footing and traction of the unit. Do not operateon slopesthat are slippery,
wet, or havesoft soil.
Thrown Objects
Thisunit has spinning mower blades. Thesebladescar/pick upand throw
debris that could seriously injure a bystander. Be sureto clean up tile areato
be mowed and remove objects that could bethrown by the blade BEFOREyou
start mowing.
Do not operatethis unit without the entiregrass catcher or discharge guard
(deflector) in place.
Also, do not allow anyonein the areawhile the unit is running! If someone
does enterthe area.shut the unit off immediately until they leave.
Moving Parts
This equipment has many moving parts that can injure you or
someone else. However,if you stay in the operator zone(area
behind the handlesand controls), and follow the safety rules in
this operator's manual,the unit is safeto operate.
The mower deck hasspinning mower bladesthat canamputate
hands and feet, Do not allow anyonenear the unit while it is
running! Keepsafetydevices (guards, shields, and switches) in
placeand working.
Tohelp you, the operator, usethis equipment safely, it is
equippedwith an operator-presentsafety system. Do NOT
attempt to alter or bypassthe system. Seeyour dealer
immediately if the system does not passall the safety interlock
system tests found in this manual.

Sa{etyRules& Ifl{ormUofl
Fueland Maintenance
Always disengageall drives, shutoff the engine and removethe
key beforedoing anycleaning, refueling or servicing.
Gasolineand its vapors are extremely flammable. Do not smoke
while operating or refueling. Do not add fuelwhile engine is hot
or running. Allow engine to cool for at least 3 minutes prior to
adding fuel.
Do not addfuel indoors, in an enclosedtrailer, garage or other
enclosed areathat is not well ventilated. Gasolinespills should
be cleanedup promptly and before operation begins.
Gasolineshould be stored only in sealedcontainers approvedfor
fuel.
Proper maintenanceis critical to the safety and performance of
your unit. Keepthe unit free of grass, leavesand excessoil. Be
sureto perform the maintenanceprocedures listed in this
manual, especially periodicallytesting the safety system.
EnclosedAreas
Only operatethis unit outdoors and away
from unventilatedareassuch as inside
garagesor enclosedtrailers. Theengine
emits poisonous carbon monoxide gas and
prolonged exposure in an enclosedarea can
result in serious injury or death.
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SsfetyRules& information
Readthese safety rules and follow them closely. Failureto obeythese rulescould result in loss of control of unit,
severe personal injury or deathto you, or bystanders, or damageto property or equipment. This mowing deck is
capableof amputating hands and feet and throwin_ Thetriangle _ in text signifies important cautions
or warnings which must be followed.
TRAINING
1. Read,understand,and follow all instructions in the
manualand on the unit beforestarting. If the
operator e or mechanic s can not read Englishit is the
ownersresponsb tytoexpanthsmatera to them.
2. Becomefamiliar with the safeoperation of the
equipment, operator controls, and safety signs.
3. All operators and mechanics should betrained. The
owner is responsiblefor training the users.
4. Onlyallow responsible adults,who are familiar with the
instructions, to operatethe unit.
5. Neverlet children or untrained people operateor service
the equipment. Localregulations may restrict the age of
the operator.
6. The owner/user can preventand is responsible for
accidents or injuries occurring to themselves, other
people or property.
7. Dataindicatesthat operators, age60 years and above,
are involved in a large percentageof riding mower-
relatedinjuries. Theseoperators should evaluatetheir
ability to operatethe riding mower safelyenough to
protect themselvesand others from serious injury.
PREPARATION
1. Evaluatetheterrain to determine what accessoriesand
attachments are neededto properly and safely perform
the job. Use only accessoriesand attachments
approved by the manufacturer.
2. Wearappropriate clothing including safety shoes,safety
glassesand ear protection. Long hair,loose clothing or
jewelry may get tangled in moving parts.
3. Inspect the areawhere the equipment isto beusedand
removeall objects such as rocks, toys and wire, which
can be thrown by the machine.
4. Useextra carewhen handling gasoline and other fuels.
They are flammable and vapors areexplosive.
a) Useonly an approvedcontainer.
b) Neverremove fuel cap or add fuel with the engine
running. Allow engineto cool beforerefueling. Do
not smoke.
c) Neverrefuel or drain the machine indoors.
5. Checkthat operator's presencecontrols, safety switches
and shields are attachedand functioning properly. Do
not operate unlessthe _are functioning properly.
OPERATION
1. Neverrun an engine In an enclosed area.
2. Mow only in the daylight or with good artificial light,
keepingawayfrom holesand hidden hazards.
3. Besure all drives are in neutraland parking brakeis
engaged beforestarting engine. Only start engine from
the operator's position. Useseat belts if provided.
4. Besure of your footing while using pedestriancontrolled
equipment, especiallywhen backing up. Walk,don't
run. Reducedfooting could causeslipping.
5. Slow down and useextra careon hillsides. Besure to
travel in the recommendeddirection on hillsides. Turf
conditions can affect the machinesstability. Use caution
when operating neardrop-offs.
6. Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary.
Always look down and behind beforeand while traveling
in reverse.
7. Beawareof the mower discharge direction and do not
point it at anyone. Do not operatethe mower without
either the entire grass catcheror the deflector in place.
8. Slow down and usecaution when makingturns and
when changing directions on slopes.
9. Neverraise deckwith the blades running.
10. Neverleavea running unit unattended.Always
disengagethe PTO,set parking brake,stop engine,and
remove keysbefore dismounting. Keephandsand feet
away from the cutting units.
11. Turn off the PTOswitch to disengagethe bladeswhen
not mowing.
12. Neveroperatewith guards not securely in place. Be
sure all interlocks are attached,adjusted properly and
functioning properly.
13. Neveroperatewith the discharge deflector raised,
removed or altered, unless using a grass catcher.
14. Do not changethe engine governor setting or overspeed
the engine.
15. Stop on levelground, lower implements, disengage
drives, engageparking brake, shut off engine before
leavingthe operator's position for anyreason including
emptying the grass catchers or unclogging the chute.
16. Stop equipment and inspect bladesafter striking objects
or abnormalvibration occurs. Make necessaryrepairs
before resuming operations.
17. Keephandsand feet awayfrom the cutting units.
18. Look behind and down before backing up to be sure of a
clear path.
19. Nevercarry passengersand keeppets and bystanders
away.
20. Do not operatethe unit while underthe influence of
alcohol or drugs.
21. Slow down and usecautionwhen makingturns and
crossing roadsand sidewalks. Stop bladesif not
mowing.
22. Usecare when loading or unloading the machine into a
trailer or truck.
23. Usecare whenapproaching blind corners, shrubs, trees
or other objects that may obscure vision.
24. To reducefire hazard,keepunit free of grass, leaves&
excess oil. Do not stop or park over dry leaves,grass or
combustible materials.
25. The engine in this unit is not factory equippedwith a

SafetyRules& information
spark arrester. It is a violation of California Public
ResourceCodeSection 4442 to useor operatethe
engine on or near anyforest-covered, brush-covered, or
grass-covered land unless the exhaustsystem is
equipped with a spark attester meeting any applicable
local or state laws. Otherstates or federal area may
havesimilar laws.
26. OSHAregulations may require the use of hearing
protection when exposedto sound levels greaterthan 85
dBA for an 8 hour time period.
tLCAUTION
Thismachine produces sound levels in
excess of 85 dBAat the operator's ear and
cancausehearing lossthoughextended
periods of exposure.
Wear hearingprotection when operating this machine.
SLOPEOPERATION
Slopesare a majorfactor relatedto loss-of-controland tip-
overaccidents,which canresult in severeinjury or death.All
slopes requireextra caution.If you cannot backupthe slope
or if youfeel uneasyon it, do not driveon it.
, WARNING
Never operate on slopes greater than 15°which isa
rise of 5.4 feet (165 cm) vertically in 20 feet (607 cm)
horizontally.
Select slew ground speed before driving ontoslope.
Useextra cautionwhen operating on slopes with rear-
mounted grass catchers.
l/low across theface of slopes, not up and down, use
caution when changingdirections and DONOTSTART
ORSTOPONSLOPE.
Do
1, Mow across slopes, not up and down.
2. Removeobstaclessuch as rocks, tree limbs, etc.
3. Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneventerrain could
overturn the unit. Tallgrass can hide obstacles.
4. Useslow speed. Choosea slow speedso that you will
not haveto stop or changespeedwhile on the slope.
5. Useextra carewith grass catchers or other attachments.
Thesecan changethe stability of the unit.
6. Keepall movement on the slopes slow and gradual. Do
not make suddenchanges in speedor direction.
7. Seeyour authorized dealerfor recommendations of
availableweights to improve stability.
Do Not
1. Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a slope. If tires
losetraction (i.e. machine stops forward motion on a
slope), disengagethe blade(s) (PTO)and drive slow off
the slope.
2. Do not turn on slopes unless necessary,andthen, turn
slowly.
3. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments.
The operator could losefooting or balanceor mower
could suddenly turn over if a wheel is overthe edge of a
cliff or ditch, or if an edge cavesin.
4. Do not mow on wet grass. Reducedfooting or traction
could causesliding.
5. Do not try to stabilizethe unit by putting your foot on
the ground. (ride-on units)
6. Do not mow excessivelysteep slopes.
7. Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.
TOWEDEQUIPMENT(RIDE-ONUNITS)
1. Tow only with a machinethat hasa hitch designedfor
towing. Do not attachtowed equipment except atthe
hitch point.
2. Follow the manufacturer's recommendationsfor weight
limit for towed equipment and towing on slopes. See
attaching a trailer under OPERATION.
3. Neverallow children or others in or on towed
equipment,
4. Onslopes, the weight of the towed equipment may
cause loss of traction and loss of control.
5. Travelslowly and allow extra distanceto stop.
6. Do not shift to neutraland coast down hill.
CHILDREN
Tragicaccidentscanoccur if the operatoris notalertto the
presenceof children.Childrenareoften attractedto the unit
andthe mowing activity. Neverassumethat childrenwill
remainwhereyou lastsawthem.
1. Keepchildren out of the mowing areaand under the
watchful care of another responsible adult.
2. Bealert and turn unit off if children enter the area.
3. Beforeand during reverseoperation, look behind and
down for small children.
4. Neverallow children to operatethe unit,
5. Useextra carewhen approachingblind corners, shrubs.
trees, or other objectsthat may obscure vision.
EMISSIONS
1. Engineexhaustfrom tHs product contains chemicals
known, in certain quantities, to cause cancer,birth
defects, or other reproductive harm.
2. Lookfor the relevant Emissions Durability Periodand Air
Index information onthe engine emissions label.
iGNiTiON SYSTEM (GASOLINE MODELS)
1. ThissparkignitionsystemcomplieswithCanadian
ICES-O02.
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SafetyRules& Iflformtiofl
SERVICEAND MAINTENANCE
Toavoid personal injuryor property damaqe, use extreme
care in handling gasoline. Gasolineis extremely flammable
and thevaporsare explosive.
Safe Handling ofGasoline
1. Extinguishall cigarettes,cigars, pipes, and other
sources of ignition.
2. Useonly approvedgasolinecontainers.
3. Neverremove the gas cap or add fuel with the engine
running. Allow the engineto cool beforerefueling.
4. Neverfuel the machine indoors.
5. Neverstore the machine or fuel container where there is
an open flame, spark, or pilot light such as near a water
heateror other appliance.
6. Neverfill containers insidea vehicle or on a truck bed
with a plastic bed liner. Always placecontainers on the
ground away from your vehicle beforefilling.
7. Removegas-powered equipment from the truck or
trailer and refuelit on the ground. If this is not possible.
then refuelsuch equipment on a trailer with a portable
container, ratherthan from a gasoline dispenser nozzle.
8. Keepnozzlein contact with the rim of the fuel tank or
container opening at all times until fueling is complete.
Do not use a nozzlelock-open device.
9. If fuel is spilled on clothing, changeclothing
immediately.
10. Neverover-fill the fuel tank. Replacegas capand
tighten securely.
11. Useextra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They
are flammable and vapors are explosive.
12. If fuel is spilled, do not attempt to start the engine but
move the machine awayfrom the area of spillage and
avoid creating anysource of ignition until fuel vapors
havedissipated.
13. Replaceall fuel tank capsand fuel container caps
securely.
Maintenance and Storage
1. Always observe safe refueling and fuel handling
practices when refuelingthe unit after transportation or
storage.
2. Always follow the engine manualinstructions for storage
preparations beforestoring the unit for both short and
long term periods.
3. Always follow the engine manualinstructions for proper
start-up procedureswhen returning the unitto service.
4. Neverstore the machine or fuel container insidewhere
there is an openflame, such as in awater heater. Allow
unit to cool beforestoring.
5. Shut off fuel while storing or transporting. Donot store
fuel near flames or drain indoors.
6. Keepall hardware,especiallyblade attachment bolts.
tight and keepall parts in good working condition.
Replaceall worn or damageddecals.
7. Nevertamper with safety devices. Checktheir proper
operation regularly.
8. Disengagedrives, lower implement, set parking brake,
stop engineand remove key or disconnect spark plug
wire. Wait for all movement to stop before adjusting,
cleaning or repairing.
9. Cleangrass and debris from cutting units, drives,
mufflers, and engineto prevent fires. Cleanup oil or
fuel spillage.
10. Let enginecool before storing and do not store near
flame.
11. Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object.
Repair,if necessary,before restarting.
12. Park machine on levelground. Neverallow untrained
personnelto service machine.
13. Usejack stands to support components when required.
14. Carefully releasepressure from components with stored
energy.
15. Disconnect batteryor removespark plug wire before
making any repairs. Disconnectthe negativeterminal
first and the positive last. Reconnectpositive first and
negativelast.
16. Usecare whenchecking blades. Wrapthe blade(s) or
wear gloves, and use caution when servicing them.
Onlyreplaceblades. Neverstraighten or weld them.
17. Keephandsand feet awayfrom moving parts. If
possible, do not makeadjustments with the engine
running.
18. Chargebatteries in an open well ventilated area, away
from spark andflames. Unplug charger before
connecting or disconnecting from battery. Wear
protective clothes and useinsulated tools.
19. Grasscatcher components are subject to wear,damage,
and deterioration, which could expose moving parts or
allow objectsto bethrown. Frequentlycheck
components and replacewith manufacturer's
recommendedparts, when necessary.
20. Checkbrake operationfrequently. Adjust and service as
required.
21. Useonly factory authorized replacementparts when
making repairs.
22. Always comply with factory specifications on all settings
and adjustments.
23. Only authorizedservice locations should be utilized for
major service and repair requirements.
24. Neverattempt to makemajor repairs on this unit unless
you have been properlytrained. Improper service
procedures can result in hazardous operation,
equipment damageand voiding of manufacturer's
warranty.
25. Unitswith hydraulic pumps, hoses,or motors:
WARNING:Hydraulic fluid escaping under pressure may
havesufficient force to penetrateskin and causeserious
injury. If foreign fluid is injected into the skin it must be
surgically removed within a few hours bya doctor
familiar with this form of injury or gangrenemay result.
Keepbody and hands awayfrom pin holes or nozzles
that eject hydraulic fluid under high pressure. Use paper
or cardboard, and not hands,to search for leaks. Make
sure all hydraulic fluid connections are tight and all
hydraulic hosesand lines are in good condition before
applying pressureto the system. If leaks occur, have
the unit serviced immediately byyour authorized dealer.
26. WARNING:Storedenergy device. Improper releaseof
springs can result in serious personal injury. Springs
should be removed by an authorizedtechnician.

OperatorSafety
Safety Decals
Thisunithasbeendesignedandmanufacturedto provide
youwiththesafetyandreliabilityyouwouldexpectfroman
industryleaderin outdoorpowerequipmentmanufacturing.
Although reading this manualand the safety instructions it
contains will provideyou with the necessary basic
knowledge to operatethis equipment safely and effectively,
we haveplacedseveral safety labelson the unit to remind
you of this important information while you are operating
your unit.
All DANGER,WARNING, CAUTIONand instructional
messageson your mower and mower deckshould be
carefully read and obeyed. Personalbodily injury can result
whenthese instructions are not followed. The information is
for your safetyand it is important! Thesafety decals below
are on your mower and mower deck.
If any of these decals are lost or damaged, replacethem at
once. Seeyour local dealerfor replacements.
Theselabelsare easilyapplied and will act as a constant
visual reminderto you, and others who may usethe
equipment,to follow the safety instructions necessaryfor
safe,effective operation.
J
77
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\\\ 4
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OperatorSafety
SafetyinterlockSystem
this unit isequipped with safety interlockswitches. These
_afetysystems are presentfor your safety,do not attempt
:o bypasssafety switches, and nevertamper with safety
Jevices. Checktheir operation regularly.
Operational SAFETYChecks
rest1 -- Engine shouldNOTcrank if:
,, PTOswitch is engaged,OR
,, Parking brakeis not engaged,OR
,, Forward SpeedControl Leveris not in the NEUTRAL
position.
rest2 -- EngineSHOULDcrankif:
,, PTOswitch is NOTengaged,AND
,, Parking brakeis engaged,AND
,, Forward SpeedControl Leveris in the NEUTRAL
position.
rest3 -- EngineshouldSHUTOFFif:
', Operatorreleasesthe operator presencebandieswitb
PTOengaged,OR
• Operatorreleasesthe operator presencehandleswith
the parking brakedisengaged.
rest4 -- BladeBrakeCheck
_ower bladesand mower drive belt should come to a
:;ompletestop within seven (7) seconds after electric PTO
_witchis turned off (or operator rises off seat). If mower
Jrive belt does not stop within seven (7) seconds, seeyour
Jealer.
_IOTE:Oncethe enginehas stopped, PTOswitch must be
turned off, parking brake must be engaged,and themotion
:ontml handlemust be returned to theNEUTRALposition
_norder to start the engine,
, WARNING
if the unit does notpassa safety test, do notoperate
it. See your authorized dealer. Underno
circumstanceshouldyou attempt to defeat the purpose
of the safety interlocksystem.
Safety icons
Thealert symbol '_ is usedto identity safety information
about hazardsthat can result in personalinjury. A signal
word (DANGER,WARNING,or CAUTION)is usedwith the
alert symbol to indicatethe likelihood and the potential
severity of the injury. In addition, a hazardicon may be
usedto represent the type of hazard. An explanation of
hazardlevels and icons are asfollows:
DANGER
This indicatesa hazardwhich, if not avoided, will result in
serious injuryor death.
WARNING
This indicatesa hazardwhich, if not avoided, could resultin
serial injury or death.
CAUTION
This indicatesa hazardwhich, if not avoided, might result in
minor or moderate injury.
CAUTIONor NOTICE
Thesemessages presentedwithout tbe alert symbol indicate
a situation wherethe unit or property could be damaged.
NorthAmerican Safety Icons
Hazard Safety icon Hazard Safety icon
Alert _ Amputation _---"1_
Footin Blade
ToxicFumes _ThrOwnObjects
Read the Maintain a •
Manual [[_ Safe _ _"">T
Distance
OpenFlame @ Keep [_ ,_,_
Hazard Children
Away
Fire Hazard _,_ BatSurface _
,JI_IIII_IN}I)_,
Amputation _) Wear
Rotating Protective
Parts Gear
AmputatiOnHandin _r_%'_ PinchPoint I_11
Blade A
9

OperatorSafety
FeaturesandControls
Identification N.rnbers
Whencontactingyourauthorized dealer for replacement
parts, service, or informationyou MUSThavethese
numbers.
Recordyour part number, serial number and engine serial
numbers in the space provided on the inside front cover for
easyaccess. These numbers can be found in the locations
shown in Figure1.
NOTE,Forlocationof engineidentification numbers, refer to
theengine owner's manual. Figure 1. Identification Numbers
A. Identification Tag
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,FeaturesandControls
Figure2, Control Locations
Control Functions
Theinformation below briefly describes the tiJnctionof individual controls. Starting, stopping, driving, and mowing require
thecombined use of several controls applied in specific sequences. Tolearn what combination and sequenceof controls to
usefor various tasks seethe OPERATIONsection.
_F_ Forward Speed Control Lever
r--'_ Reverse Speed Control Levers
Theseleverscontrol the ground speed of the mower,
Theforward speedcontrol levercontrols the forward ground
speedof both drive wheels.
The left reverse speedcontrol levercontrols the steering and
reverse ground speedof the left drive wheel. The right
reverse speedcontrol levercontrols the steering and reverse
ground speedof the right drive wheel.
Seethe Operationsection for proper steering instructions.
BO ignition Switch
The ignition switch starts and stops the engine, it hastwo
positions:
] OFF Stops the engine
] RUN Rotatethe ignition switch to the RUN
position before pulling on the starter rope
to start the engine.
r__ Recoil Starter Handle
The recoil starter handle is usedto start the engine.
11

Features&Centrols
ParkingBrake
DISENGAGE Releasesthe parking brake.
[ ENGAGE Locks the parking brake.
Pullthe parking brake handleup to engagethe parking
brake. Pushthe parking brakehandle down to disengage
the parking brake. NOTE,Tostart the unit theparking brake
must be engaged.
[PTO (Power TakeOff) Switch
The PTOswitch engagesand disengagesthe mower. Pull UP
on the switch to engage,and push DOWNto disengage.
r_ Neutral Return Pedal
The neutralreturn pedal provides a hands-free return to
neutral. The pedal is used in conjunction with the Reverse
SpeedControl Leversto properly stop the machine.
Seethe Operationsection for Driving Instructions.
ThrottleControl
Thethrottle controls the engine speed. Movethe throttle
control forward towards the FASTposition to increasethe
engine speedand back towards the SLOWposition to
decreasethe enginespeed. Always operateat FULLthrottle.
FAST Speedsup the engine speed.
SLOW Slows down the engine speed.
Fuel Tank Cap
Toremove the cap, turn counterclockwise.
Engine Kill /Operator Presence Handles
Thesehandlesare a major factor in the safety interlock
system of the mower. Both handlesare tied together so
depressing one handledepressesboth. Theoperator must
depressthe handlesin order to deactivatethe engine kill
system. Handlesmust bedepressed to disengagethe
parking brakeand engagethe PTOswitch.
Transmission Release Valves
Thetransmission releaseleversdeactivatethe transaxle so
that the unit can be pushedby hand. SeePUSHINGTHE
UNIT BY HANDfor operational information.
TransmissionOil Fill
Transmissionoil is addedthrough the transmission oil
reservoirs. It also servesas extra holding capacity for oil as
the transmissions heat up and the oil expands. SeeCHECK
TRANSMISSIONOILfor oil levelcheck andfill procedures.
[]Choke Control
Closethe choke for cold starting. Openthe choke oncethe
engine starts. A warm engine may not requirechoking. Pull
the knob UPto close the choke. Pushthe knob DOWNto
open the choke.
Cutting HeightAdjustment Handles
Thecutting height adjustment handlescontrol the mower
deck cutting height. To raisethe mower deck cutting height
crank the cutting heightadjustment handlesclockwise. To
lower the mower deck cutting height, crank the cutting
height adjustment handlescounter-clockwise. Toensure an
evencut, both cutting height adjustment handles must be
adjusted to the same height.
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Operatiofl
Operation
GeneralOperatingSafety
Beforefirst time operation:
,. Besure to read all information in the Safetyand
Operationsections before attempting to operatethis
unit.
,. Becomefamiliar with all of the controls and how to stop
the unit.
,. Drive in an open areawithout mowing to become
accustomedto the unit.
AWARNING
Never operate on slopesgreater than 15°which isa
rise of 5.4 feet (1,6 m) vertically in 20 feet (607 cm)
horizontally.
Select a slowground speedbeforedriving ontoa
slope.
Mow across theface of slopes, not up and down, use
cautionwhen changingdirections and DONOTSTART
ORSTOPONSLOPE.
_WARNING
Beforeleavingthe operator'sposition for any reason,
engagethe parking brake, disengage the PTO,stopthe
engineand removethekey.
Toreducefire hazard,keepthe engine, unit free of
grass, leavesand excessgrease. Do notstopor park
unit overdry leaves, grass or combustiblematerials.
Gasolineis highlyflammable and must behandled
with care. Never fill the tankwhen the engineis still
hotfrom recent operation.Donotallow openflame,
smokingor matchesin thearea. Avoid over-fillingand
wipe up any spills.
Checks Before Starting
,. Checkthat crankcaseis filled to full mark on the engine
oil dipstick (B, Figure3). Seethe engine Operator's
Manualfor instructions and oil recommendations.
,. Fillthe fuel tank (A) with fresh fuel. Referto engine
manualfor fuel recommendations.
,. Makesure all nuts, bolts, screws and pins are in place
and tight.
,. Checkthe tire pressures. See CheckTirePressures.
,. Checkthe hydraulic oil tank (C) and make surethat the
oil level is up to the FULLCOLDmark.
,. Adjust the height ofthe mower deck to the desired
position. SeeMowing Height Adjustment,
Figure3. Pro-start Checks
A. Fuel TankFiller Neck
B, Engine Oil Dipstick
C, Hydraufic Oil Fill
13

Operation
CheckTire Pressures
Tire pressure should bechecked periodically,and
maintained at the levels shown in the chart. Note that these
pressures may differ slightly from the "Max Inflation"
stamped on the side-wall of the tires. Thepressures shown
provide proper traction, improve cut quality, and extendtire
life.
Tire Pressure
Front 25 psi (1,72 bar)
Rear 15 psi (1,03 bar) Figure4. CheckingTirePressure
Pushing the Mower By Hand
NOTICE
DONOTTOW MOWER
Towingthe units will causehydraulic pumpand wheel
motor damage. De nat use another vehicleto pushor
pull this unit.
1. Disengagethe PTO,engagethe parking brake,turn the
ignition OFEand remove the key.
2. Locatethe transmission releaselevers (A, Figure5) by
the rear wheels of the unit.
3. To disengagethe pumps (free-wheel position), pull both
transmission releaselevers back and out sothey lock in
the disengaged(free-wheel) position.
4. Disengagethe parking brake.
The unit can now be pushed by hand.
5. After moving the unit, re-engagethe pumps (drive
position) by pulling the transmission releaselevers
rearwardand inward to releasethem from the
disengaged position andthen allow them to moveto the
engaged (drive) position.
I
t
I
J
Figure5. TransmissionReleaseLevers (LH Shown
A. TransmissionReleaseLevers
B, EngagedPosition (Drive Position)
C. DisengagedPosition (Free-WheelPosition)
,/
//
/
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Operatiofl
CuttingHeightAdjustment
Thecutting height can be adjusted within two different
ranges. Thelower cutting rangeis adjustable between
1-1/2" (3,8 cm) and2-3/4" (6,9 cm). Theupper cutting
range is adjustable between 2-3/4" (6,9 cm) and 4-1/2"
(11,5 cm).
Beforeadjusting the cutting height, you must first determine
the averagecutting height. Dependingon the rangeyou
plan to use, it may be necessaryto adjust which pulley the
deck drive belt runs in.
ToAdjust the CuttingRange:
1. Removethe mower deck guard (A, Figure6) to gain
access to the mower deck drive belt.
, ,WARNING
Useextremecautionwhen rotating theidler arm with
the breaker bar, due tothe increasedtensionin the
spring as the idler arm isbeing rotated, injurymay
result if the breaker bar is prematurely released while
the spring isunder tension.
2. Using a 1/2" breakerbar (A, Figure7), placethe square
end in the squarehole locatedon the end of the idler
arm (B). Carefullyrotate the breakerbar CLOCKWISE,
which will relievethetension on the beltexerted from
the idler arm.
3. Slidethe drive belt over the edge of the Stationary idler
pulley (C). Carefullyreleasethe tension on the breaker
bar until the idler arm comes to a stop.
4. SeeFigure8. If you are adjusting the cutting height
range between1-1/2" (3,8 cm) and 2-3/4" (6,9 cm)
position the belt in the lower pulley on PTOclutch. If
you areadjusting the cutting height range between2-
3/4" (6,9 cm) and 4.5" (11,5 cm) position the belt in the
upper pulley on the PTOclutch.
5. Carefullyrotate the breakerbar CLOCKWISEand install
the drive belt onthe stationary idler pulley. Carefully
releasethetension on the breakerbar. The belt should
be routed exactly as shown in figure 9.
6. Reinstallthe mower deck guard.
Figure 6, Removethe CutterDeckGuard
A. Cutter DeckGuard
Figure 7. Removethe CutterDeckBelt
A. BreakerBar
B, Idler Arm
C. Stationary Idler Pulley
15

,Operation
ToAdjust the gutting Height:
Thecutting range must be adjusted to the correct range
beforethe cutting height can beadjusted. Thecutting
height indicators will help you identify the cutting height.
1. Pull the cutting height adjustment handle (A, Figure10)
up and out of the handle lock position (B) and crank the
handle CLOCKWISEto raisethe deckto the desired
cutting height. Crankthe handle COUNTER-CLOCKWISE
to lower the deck to the desired cutting height. After the
desired cutting heights are achievedposition the cutting
height adjustment handlesinto the handle lock position.
2. Repeatthe processfor the other side of the machine.
NOTE,BoB1sides of the cutter deck must be adjusted to the
same height to insure a proper cut.
Figure8. BeltPositioning for Cutting Range
A. Deck DriveBelt Positioned for Lower Cutting Range
B. Deck Drive Belt Positioned for Upper Cutting Range
Figure 9. Mower DeckBeltRouting
A. Mower DeckBelt
B, Adjustable Idler Pulley
C. Spindle Pulley
D. Stationary Idler Pulley
Figure 10. Removethe CutterDeckGuard
A. Cutter Height Adjustment Handle
B, HandleLock Position
C. Cutting Height Indicator
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Operation
Starting the Engine
AWARNING
ifyoude netunderstandhow a specificcontrol
functions, or havenotyet thoroughlyread the
FEATURES&CONTROLSsection, do sonew.
DoNOTattempt to operate theunit without first
becoming familiar with the locationand function ofALL
controls.
1. Engagethe parking brakeand make surethat the PTO
switch is disengagedand the forward speedcontrol
leveris in the NEUTRALposition.
2. NOTE:A warm enginemay not requirechoking.
Setthe enginethrottle control to FULLthrottle position,
Thenfully close the choke by pulling the knob OUTfully.
3. Insert the key into the ignition switch and turn it to RUN.
4. Graspthe recoil starter handle and pull slowly until
resistance isfelt and then pull rapidly. (You may haveto
pull severaltimes beforethe engine starts. If the engine
fails to start within a reasonablenumber of attempts,
discontinue and check engine manualfor further
instructions.
, WARNING
_impactHazard
Rapid retractionof startercord(kickback) will pull
handand arm towardengine faster thanyou canlet go.
Brokenbones, fractures, bruises orsprainscould
result.
Stopping the Mower
1. Gentlysqueezeboth reversespeedcontrol leversevenly
to stop the unit.
2. Oncethe unit is stopped, firmly depressthe neutral
return pedalto placethe transmission in neutral.
3. Disengagethe PTOby pushing down on the PTOswitch.
3. Engagethe parking brakeby pulling the handleup until
it locks into position.
4. Move thethrottle control to mid-throttle position and
turn the ignition keyto OFE Removethe key.
When startingengine,pull starter cordslowlyuntil
resistanceis felt and then pull rapidlytoavoid
kickback.
4. After the engine starts, gradually openthe choke (push
knob down fully). Reduceto half throttle speedand
allow to warm up.
Warm up the engineby running it for at least a minute
before engaging the PTOswitch or driving the uniL
5. After warming the engine,ALWAYSoperate the unit at
FULLTHROTTLEwhen mowing.
In the eventof an emergencytheenginecan he stopped
hy simply turning the ignition switch to STOP. Use this
method only in emergencysituations. Fornormal engine
shut down follow theprocedure given in STOPPINGTHE
MOWER,
17

Operation
DrivingThe Mower
NOTE:Before attempting to drive themower make sureyou
haveread theFeaturesand Controlssection and understand
thelocation and function of the controls.
The hydrostatictransmission hasan infinite number of
speeds betweenfull speedforward and reverse,with the
faster speeds being achievedby moving the forward speed
control leverand reversespeedcontrol leversfarthest in the
direction of travel.
For normal use, the throttle should be kept fully open and
the ground speedof the machinedetermined bythe forward
speedcontrol lever. When transporting the machine or when
loading or unloading from a truck or trailer, partial throttle
should be usedto slow the reaction time of the controls and
reduce noise.
Practicemaneuveringthe machineat a slow engine speedon
levelground with the PTOswitch in the "OFF"position until
you are familiar with the controls.
TO MOVEFORWARDAND SETFORWARDSPEED(See
Figure 11.)
1. Disengagethe parking brake.
2. Gentlymove the forward speedcontrol lever (A, Figure
11) forward until desired speedis achieved.
\
Figure 11. Forward Travel
A. Forward SpeedControl Lever
TOMOVEBACKWARD(See Figure12.)
1. Disengagethe parking brake.
2. Gentlysqueezeboth reversespeedcontrol levers (A,
Figure12) evenly,until desired speed is achieved.
TOSLOWORSTOPMACHINE
1. Gentlysqueezeboth reversespeedcontrol leversevenly
to slow the machine.
2. Continuing to squeezethe reverse speedcontrol levers
will stop the machine.
3. Oncethe machine is stopped,firmly depress the neutral
return pedalto placethe transmissions in neutral.
4. Engagethe parking brake.
NOTE,Continuing to squeezethe reverse speedcontrol
levers after themachine is stopped, will causethe
machine to move in reverse.
|
Figure 12. ReverseTravel
A. ReverseSpeedControl Levers
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