Swisher LV87551 User manual

LAWN VACUUM
OWNER’S
MANUAL
MODEL NO.
LV87551
LV87551-CA
Assembly
Operation
Service and Adjustment
Repair Parts
Rev. 07-270
Read and follow all Safety
Precautions and Instructions
before operating this
equipment.
IMPORTANT
1602 CORPORATE DRIVE, WARRENSBURG, MISSOURI 64093
PHONE [phone] FAX [phone]
Manufacturing quality lawn care equipment since 1945
Made In The
USA
swisherinc.com
Wand Adaptor Kit sold
separately. Part Number 10756
STARTING SERIAL #:
L107-243001
14018

LIMITED WARRANTY
The manufacturer’s warranty to the original consumer purchaser is: This product is free from defects in
materials and workmanship for a period of one (1) year from the date of purchase by the original
consumer purchaser. We will repair or replace, at our discretion, parts found to be defective due to
materials or workmanship. This warranty is subject to the following limitations and exclusions:
1) Engine Warranty All engines utilized on our products have a separate warranty extended to
them by the individual engine manufacturer. Any engine service
difficulty is the responsibility of the engine manufacturer and in no way is
Swisher Mower Co., Inc. or its agents responsible for the engine
warranty. The Briggs & Stratton Engine Service Hot-Line is 1-800-233-
3723. The Tecumseh Engine Service Hot-Line is 1-800-558-5402.
2) Limitations This warranty applies only to products which have been properly
assembled, adjusted, and operated in accordance with the instructions
contained within this manual. This warranty does not apply to any
product of Swisher Mower Co., Inc., that has been subject to alteration,
misuse, abuse, improper assembly or installation, shipping damage, or to
normal wear of the product.
3) Exclusions Excluded from this warranty are normal wear, normal adjustments, and
normal maintenance.
In the event you have a claim under this warranty, you must return the product to an authorized service
dealer. All transportation charges, damage, or loss incurred during transportation of parts submitted for
replacement or repair under this warranty shall be borne by the purchaser. Should you have any
questions concerning this warranty, please contact us toll-free at 1-800-222-8183. The model number,
serial number, date of purchase, and the name of the authorized Swisher dealer from whom you
purchased the mower will be needed before any warranty claim can be processed.
THIS WARRANTY DOES NOT APPLY TO ANY INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES AND ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES ARE LIMITED TO THE SAME TIME PERIODS
STATED HEREIN FOR ALL EXPRESSED WARRANTIES. Some states do not allow the limitation
of consequential damages or limitations on how long an implied warranty may last, so the above
limitations or exclusions may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you
may have other rights, which vary from state-to-state. This is a limited warranty as defined by the
Magnuson-Moss Act of 1975.
Please fill in the serial numbers and model numbers for both the engine and the lawn vacuum on the
back of this manual.
2

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
This Safety Alert Symbol indicates important messages in this
manual. When you see this symbol, carefully read the message that
follows and be alert to the possibility of personal injury.
Read this manual completely. This machine can amputate hands, feet, and throw
objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious
injury or death.
WARNING: The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the
state of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.
DANGER: Your lawn vacuum is intended to be operated according to the rules for
safe operation in this manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or
error on the part of the operator can result in serious injury. If you violate any of
these rules, you may cause serious injury to yourself or others.
•Read the manual. Learn to operate this equipment in a safe manner.
•Do not under any circumstances alter this lawn vacuum. This equipment was
designed in accordance with operating instructions. Altering this
equipment, or using this equipment in such a way as to circumvent its design
capabilities and capacities, could result in serious injury or fatality and WILL
VOID THE WARRANTY.
•Allow only responsible adults who have read this manual to operate this machine.
Never allow children to operate this machine.
•Inspect turf for any rocks, string, toys, wire, etc. that may cause an obstruction; and
remove them.
•Identify all in-ground objects that will need to be avoided, such as, sprinkler heads,
stakes, water valves, etc.
•Stop the engine if you pick up a foreign object and after all moving parts have
stopped; inspect the vacuum for any damage.
•Use the proper boot for your mower deck.
•Only use vacuum for collecting grass clippings and leaves from yards.
•When crossing gravel areas, stop the vacuum and mower blades.
•Only a single operator is to operate the lawn vacuum. Keep all others, including pets
and children, a minimum of 20 feet away from your work area.
•Always disconnect the spark plug wires and place them where they cannot contact
the spark plug, to prevent accidental starting of the engine when setting up,
transporting, adjusting or repairing.
•Always wear protective gear such as safety goggles and protective hearing devices.
•Never wear loose clothing or jewelry that can be caught by moving parts of the
vacuum and pull you into it. Keep hair away from moving parts. There are
rotating blades inside these openings.
3

•Familiarize yourself with all of the controls in a safe environment
before starting to work with this machine.
•Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.
•Only operate vacuum on slopes of 35% grade or less.
•Never operate or allow someone to operate this equipment while
under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
•Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine running.
•Do not remove top cover or attempt to empty contents or make any
adjustments of cart while engine is running.
•Do not use lawn vacuum if any guards, hoses, adapters, boot or any
other parts are damaged or repairs are needed.
•Vehicle braking and stability are affected by the addition of this
equipment. Do not fill the lawn vacuum to its full capacity without
checking the towing capacities of the tow vehicle.
Replace decal immediately if damaged. Order by part number from Swisher Mower and Machine Co. Inc.
SAFETY AND OPERATIONAL DECALS
OD70142-DANGER STOP ENGINE
DECAL
OD38-CAUTIONS DECAL
OD55-TRIANGLE DANGER DECAL
4

Decal Locations
5
OD99125
OD99156
Both Sides

UNCRATING ANDASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
1. Remove crate top, sides, and end panels and set aside.
2. Remove small components and identify each piece.
3. Be sure the cart release latch is securely fastened.
4. Roll trailer off of pallet.
5. Do not remove the motor base assembly from the crate at this time. The motor base
assembly has been located on the crate in a position to aid in the alignment and assembly
of the motor base to the lawn vac frame. Remove the plastic ties securing the motor base
to the crate. See UNCRATING INSTRUCTIONS page.
6. Align holes in motor base assembly and frame and install 3/8-16 X 1” Hex Head bolt and
lock nuts. (see Fig. 1)
7. Tighten all four bolts securely.
8. Insert the Hitch Tube (5) into the front of the hitch and lock in place with the snap pin.
(see Fig. 1)
9. Roll the assembled cart off of the crate base.
10. Assemble the Bag Support Structure to the Hinged Bag Frame Pieces.
a) Align the holes on the Bag Support Structure with the corresponding holes on the
Hinged Bag Frame Pieces (27 & 28). Install the two lower bolts only.
b) Next, simply remove the bolts that hold the Frame Support (31) in place (one at a
time) and align the corresponding holes on the Bag Support Structure and replace
nuts. Repeat this step on the other side. Next, install the remaining hardware and
securely fasten to hold the Bag Support Structure to the Hinged Bag Frame (27 &
28). (see Fig. 2 )
11. Install the Lift Handle (33) using the hardware provided. (see Fig. 2)
12. Unfold the Fabric Bag (15) and spread over the top of the Bag Support Structure (Note
location of Chute Connection).
13. Align holes in the Fabric Bag and the Bag Support Structure. Install the eyebolt (provided)
and fasten with washer & nut (provided).
14. Stretch the sides of the Bag (15) downward and slip the plastic edging under the rim of the
Hinged Bag Frame (27 & 28) (see Fig. 3). (Make sure plastic flaps are to the inside of the
plastic cart.).
15. Insert the Bag Adaptor (4) into the bag sleeve at the front upper left hand corner of the
Bag (15).
16. Install the Plastic Chute (3) onto the Blower Housing (19) and lock into place. Be sure that
the base of the Plastic Chute (3) contacts the Interlock Switch (23) when the Chute (3) is
secured in the operating position. Use the Hinged Clip to insure that the Clasp will remain
in the closed position.
17. Attach the support cable between the bag support frame and the motor base assembly.
(see Fig. 4 & 5)
18. Place the suction hose onto the front of the blower housing and secure with hose clamp.
19. (see Fig. 6)
20. Cut boot to fit deck and install to deck. See the following section of this manual for
detailed instructions.
21. Assemble end of suction hose with a hose clamp over the round opening of the boot and
tighten the hose clamp securely. (see Fig. 6)
6

7
Remove contents from the cart. As noted previously. Remove the plastic ties securing the motor base
assembly to the crate but leave the motor base in position on the crate to aid in assembling to the cart.
Remove the cart from the crate base and turn it to align with motor base as shown in the illustration.
Roll the cart forward, sliding the cart frame into the motor base. Using the hardware provided, bolt the
cart and motor base assembly together. Take the tongue and align it to the guide on the front of the unit
and push it through until the pin holes align, allowing the pin to be installed and secured. Lift up on the
tongue and roll the cart assembly away from the crate base.
UNCRATING INSTRUCTIONS
Align these two holes and use 3/8-16X1” Hex Head
bolts and lock nuts (provided) to fasten together.
Cart Motor Base Tongue
Deck Boot
Fig. 1
Fig. 2
Fig. 3
Eyebolt Fabric Bag
H 1 1/4-20 X1 1/2 Bolt
H 2 SAE Flat Washer 1/4-Zinc Yellow
H 3 Nylock Nut 1/4-20
H 1
H 2
H 3
Bag Support
Structure
Safety Hitch Pin

Fig. 5
Quick Link
Fig. 4
35
Quick Link
Fig. 6
Hose
Blower Front
Boot
Tarp Strap
8

PREPARING THE DECK BOOT
• View the boot templates that are provided. Select the template that corresponds with the
discharge opening of your mowing deck. If a template does not exist for your mower, then
one will need to be created.
•To create a custom template:
¾mark around your discharge opening on a piece of cardboard.
¾Tape the template to the face of the boot, locating the template approximately ½” from
the front edge and ¼” down from the top (keep as close to the top as possible).
¾Mark the outline of the template onto the face of the boot using a white crayon, nail, or
scribe.
¾Drill a starting hole inside the outline. Use a key-hole saw or equivalent to cut out the
opening. Be sure not to cut the hole too big the first time.
¾Position the boot over the deck opening and check for fit of cutout. If necessary, trim
the cutout. Keep the fit as close as possible for best vacuum suction.
• A selection of boot brackets are provided. Some bending may be required. Drilling of
holes into your existing deck may be necessary, as well as drilling into the top of the boot.
ATTENTION!
WE HAVE MADE EVERY ATTEMPT TO PROVIDE HARDWARE
TO MOUNT THE DECK BOOT TO VARIOUS LAWN MOWING
MANUFACTURERS. DUE TO CONSTANT CHANGES IN DESIGNS
OF MOWING DECKS SOME ADAPTATION MAY BE NECESSARY.

The operation of any lawn vacuum can produce foreign objects to be thrown into
the eyes, resulting in severe eye damage. Always wear certified safety glasses or
wide-vision safety goggles over spectacles before starting any cutting machine
and while operating such a machine.
The operation of any engine produces sound waves that are damaging to the
human ear. Ear protection is recommended.
CAUTION!
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of
children. Children are often attracted to the machine and the mowing
activity. Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them.
OPERATING YOUR LAWN VACUUM
INTENDED USE
The Lawn Vacuum is designed to vacuum grass clippings and leaves from yards. It is not
intended to vacuum over gravel, sand, rock, etc., or any other material that will damage the
impeller blades. The Lawn Vacuum is not designed to exceed 5 MPH. It should be towed by an
approved lawn tractor only. Refer to the owners manual of the lawn tractor and be sure not to
exceed the tow rating . The combined weight of the Lawn Vacuum and its contents will vary
depending upon the fill level of the bag and the moisture content of the grass clippings. The
vehicle tow rating should be at least 1000 lbs.
The Lawn Vacuum is not designed to tow behind our patented Trailmowers®.
TO START ENGINE
See engine manufacturer’s recommendation for the type and amount of oil and fuel used.
• Make sure the tow vehicle parking brake is set and vacuum is level. Engine must be
level to accurately check and fill oil. Do not overfill.
• Check spark plug wire, oil, and fuel.
• Set engine idle to CHOKE position.
• Grasp pull-rope handle and pull out slowly until engine reaches start of compression
cycle. Pull the rope with a single fluid motion. Let the rope recoil slowly. Repeat the
above instruction 4 or 5 times until engine fires.
• Once engine is running, move CHOKE control to RUN position.
TO STOP ENGINE
• Move the throttle control lever to the OFF position.
• Disconnect spark plug wire from plug to prevent accidental starting while equipment is
unattended or is being worked on.
9

VACUUM AND EMPTY
• Inspect the Lawn Vacuum to make sure all covers, tilt latch lever, elbow, hose adapter, and
hose are properly attached.
• Check tires for proper inflation.
• Check for proper oil and gas levels in both vacuum and lawn tractor engines.
• Begin operation at low speed. Adjust forward speed to match grass height and/or moisture
conditions to prevent clogging. Should your Lawn Vacuum become clogged, shut off both
the tractor and lawn vacuum engines. Before attempting to unclog, remove spark plug wire
to prevent accidental starting.
• To empty the Lawn Vacuum, shut off the tractor engine and set the parking brake. Make
sure that the Lawn Vacuum is on a level surface.
• Shut off Lawn Vacuum engine.
• Disengage the plastic bag adapter from the upper section of the blower connecting tube.
• Remove the plastic blower connecting tube from the top of the blower and set aside.
• Make sure that the cart is on a level surface. Release the latch holding the cart to the tongue
by lifting up on the handle. Use caution when releasing the latch. If the cart is positioned on
a downhill slope, the additional weight of the contents may cause the cart to release
abruptly. Always make sure that the area is clear of bystanders prior to dumping the cart
contents.
• Tilt the cart backwards until Support Cable is taut.
• Go to the rear of the Lawn Vac and lift up on the handle (this will allow the cart to tilt
completely).
• Using a rake or other suitable tool, pull the grass clippings from the cart.
• After cart is emptied, return cart to tongue making sure the tilt latch is engaged.
• Re-Install the plastic blower, connecting tube to the top of the blower. Make sure that the
tube is positioned correctly to depress the interlock switch. Secure the latches using the
Hinged Clip.
• Re-attach the plastic bag adapter to the top of the blower connecting tube. Make sure that
the plastic flaps at the front and rear of the bag are inserted inside the trailer.
CAUTION!
VEHICLE BRAKING AND STABILITY MAY BE AFFECTED WITH THE
ADDITION OF AN ACCESSORY OR AN ATTACHMENT. BE AWARE OF
CHANGING CONDITIONS ON SLOPES. DO NOT OVER FILL CART.
10
CAUTION!
USE CAUTION WHEN RELEASING THE CART TILT LATCH!
VARIATIONS IN THE WEIGHT OF THE CONTENTS AS WELL THE
INCLINE OF THE TERRAIN CAN CAUSE THE CART TO TILT SUDDENLY
UPON RELEASE OF THE TILT LATCH. ALWAYS MAKE SURE THE AREA
IS CLEAR!

DANGER!
DO NOT USE THE LAWN VACUUM WITH JUST THE ENGINE AND THE
BLOWER TUBE. THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS. USE OF THE LAWN
VAUUM AS A STATIONARY VACUUM REQUIRES THE ADDITION OF A
P/N 10756 WAND ADAPTOR KIT. (SOLD SEPARATELY)
TWO – IN – ONE APPLICATION
Your Swisher Lawn Vacuum has been designed to perform two functions with one product.
While you are not using your Lawn Vacuum to collect leaves and grass clippings, the
engine assembly, fabric cover, and upper frame may be disassembled to leave you with a
utility trailer.
• Empty all fuel from the engine.
• Remove the plastic connecting chute from the top of the blower.
• Remove the Support Cable from the bag frame.
• Remove bag by un-clipping it from the lip of the bag frame. Shake out loose debris,
fold, and store in a dry area.
• Unbolt the bag support frame. Lift the supports out of the cart, fold and store with the
fabric bag.
• Block up the formed motor base and motor assembly to aid in removal. Remove the
bolts and nuts from the motor base assembly that attach it to the cart frame. Roll the
cart portion of the unit back to remove the cart from the supported motor base
assembly. Install the tongue into the receiver tube on the cart frame and insert the
attachment pin.
11

VACUUM MAINTENANCE
CAUTION!
ALWAYS STOP ENGINE AND DISCONNECT SPARK PLUG WIRE
BEFORE MAKING ANY ADJUSTMENTS AND/OR REPAIRS.
• Replace the spark plug at the beginning of each mowing season.
• Keep the air cleaner free of debris.
• Change the oil after the first 5 hours of operation then change the oil every 25
hours of operation.
• Rotate hose from end to end after every 25 hours of use and rotate each hose
¼ turn after every mowing season. This keeps debris from building up in one
area.
• Regular cleaning and scheduled maintenance will prolong the life and
performance of your Swisher Lawn Vacuum.
• Remove debris as it accumulates, paying special attention to the hoses.
• Replace or repair any damaged or worn parts immediately.
• Check the fabric bag periodically for any tears, rips or deterioration.
• Lubrication may be needed to keep the release latch functioning correctly.
ATTENTION:
GRASS CATCHER COMPONENTS ARE SUBJECT TO WEAR,
DAMAGE, AND DETERIORATION, WHICH COULD EXPOSE
MOVING PARTS OR ALLOW OBJECTS TO BE THROWN.
FREQUENTLY CHECK COMPONENTS AND REPLACE WITH
SWISHER’S RECOMMENDED PARTS, WHEN NECESSARY.
• Clean the vacuum.
• Before storing be sure Lawn Vacuum is thoroughly dried, especially
the fabric bag. Mildew can cause the fabric to deteriorate.
• Remove fuel from the gas tank.
• Change oil and air filters.
• Store vacuum in a dry covered area or indoors (in a well ventilated
area).
ONLY A QUALIFIED MECHANIC SHOULD MAKE ANY
ADJUSTMENTS, DISASSEMBLY OR OTHER KINDS OF REPAIRS.
STORAGE
12

DETAIL A
DETAIL B
Ground for Mag.
Shroud Bolt
8-16-07
SEE DETAIL B
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13 14
15
16
17
18
See Detail A
25
26
27
28
29 30
31
33
32

SERVICE PARTS
Please have Model and Serial Numbers ready when ordering parts.
Color cannot be guaranteed on service parts.
13
ITEMNO. QTY. PART NO. DESCRIPTION
1 1 14056 Tub, 750 lbs, Safari Trailers (#10911)
2 1 14046TK Weldment - Cart Frame
3 1 5470 Tube Blower
4 1 5407 Adapter Bag
5 1 14053TK Weldment - TONGUE
6 1 5462 Axle 3/4 x 36.8
7 1 5439TK Latch Weldment
8 1 5468TK LATCH PLATE WELDMENT
9 1 2079 KNOB-YELLOW
10 2 F44157LV Tires
11 1 5467TK Suspension Arm Weldment
12 1 5402 Hose Inlet 6"X7'
13 1 5404 Boot Deck
14 1 14033TK Weldment - Frame - Carrier
15 1 14241 Bag - Lawn Vac (LV87551)
16 1 H11 SafetyHitch Pin
17 2 14228 Ball Stud (10mm)
18 1 14229 20" Gas Spring (81LBS)
19 1 14048TK Weldment - Formed Motor Base
20 1 5426 Impeller Weldment
21 1 5405 Blower Front
22 1 5410TK Front Ring
23 1 10885 INTERLOKSWITCH LAWN VAC
24 1 5487 Switch Mount
25 1 14146TK Frame - Lift Support Weldment, Painted
26 1 14149TK Hinge - Tube
27 1 14150TK Lift - Arm - Right
28 1 14156TK Lift - Arm - Left
29 1 14152TK Loop - Bag Frame
30 1 14154TK Frame - Support
31 2 14155TK Lift - Handle
32 1 14157 Connector Plate - Cable
33 1 14158 Cable - (1/8" coated)

OWNER’S
MANUAL
MODEL NO.
LV87551
LV87551-CA
HOW TO ORDER
REPAIR PARTS:
LAWN VACUUM
Each Lawn Vacuum has its own serial number. Each engine
has its own serial number. The serial number for the Lawn
Vacuum will be found on the left hand side of the motor base.
The serial number for the engine will be found on the top of the
blower fan housing.
All Lawn Vacuum parts listed herein may be ordered directly
from Swisher Mower & Machine Co. Inc., your nearest
Swisher dealer, or from our website. www.swisherinc.com
All engine parts may be ordered from the nearest dealer of the
engine supplied with your mower.
WHEN ORDERING PARTS, PLEASE HAVE THE
FOLLOWING INFORMATION AVAILABLE:
* PRODUCT – LAWN VACUUM
* SERIAL NUMBER - _______________
* MODEL NUMBER - _______________
* ENGINE MODEL NUMBER - _______________
TYPE - _______________
* PART NUMBER
* PART DESCRIPTION
www.swisherinc.com
TELEPHONE - 1-800-222-8183
FAX - 1-660-747-8650
SWISHER MOWER & MACHINE CO. INC.
1602 CORPORATE DRIVE
WARRENSBURG, MO 64093
SWISHER MOWER & MACHINE CO. INC.
www.swisherinc.com