Toro 74213 User manual

Operator’s Manual
Domestic English (EN)
Form No. 3329-527 Rev A
Z287L
Z Masterwith 62SFS Side Discharge Mower
Model No. 74213—Serial No. 230006001 and Up

2
All Rights Reserved
Printed in the USA
2003 by The Toro Company
8111 Lyndale Avenue South
Bloomington, MN 55420-1196
The engine exhaust from this product contains
chemicals known to the State of California to cause
cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
Warning
Because in some areas there are local, state, or federal
regulations requiring that a spark arrester be used on the
engine of this mower, a spark arrester is incorporated with
the muffler assembly.
Important This engine is equipped with a spark
arrester muffler. It is a violation of California Public
Resource Code Section 4442 to use or operate this engine
without a spark arrester muffler on any forest–covered,
brush–covered or grass–covered land. Other states or
federal areas may have similar laws.
This spark ignition system complies with Canadian
ICES-002.
Ce système d’allumage par étincelle de véhicule est
conforme à la norme NMB-002 du Canada.
The enclosed Engine Owner’s Manual is supplied for
information regarding The U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Emission
Control Regulation of emission systems, maintenance
and warranty.
Keep this engine Owner’s Manual with your unit.
Should this engine Owner’s Manual become damaged
or illegible, replace immediately. Replacements may be
ordered through the engine manufacturer.
Contents
Page
Introduction 3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Safety 3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Safe Operating Practices 3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Slope Chart 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Safety and Instruction Decals 8. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gasoline and Oil 13. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Recommended Gasoline 13. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Using Stabilizer/Conditioner 13. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Filling the Fuel Tank 13. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking the Engine Oil Level 13. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Setup 14. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loose Parts 14. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing the Drive Wheels 14. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking the Tire Pressure 14. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing the Seat 15. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing the Motion Control Levers 15. . . . . . . . . . .
Activating the Battery 16. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Page
Checking the Engine Oil Level 16. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking the Side Discharge Chute 16. . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking the Leveling of the Mower Deck 16. . . . . .
Checking the Radiator Coolant 16. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Greasing the Bearings 16. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking the Hydraulic Fluid 17. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operation 17. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Think Safety First 17. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Controls 18. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating the Parking Brake 18. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Starting and Stopping the Engine 19. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating the Power Take Off (PTO) 20. . . . . . . . . .
The Safety Interlock System 20. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Driving Forward or Backward 21. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stopping the Machine 21. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjusting the Height-of-Cut 21. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjusting the Anti-Scalp Rollers 22. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Positioning the Seat 22. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pushing the Machine by Hand 23. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Using a Rollover Protection System (ROPS) 23. . . .
Transporting the Machine 23. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loading Machines 24. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Using the Z Stand 24. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Using the Lift Assist Lever 25. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tips for Mowing Grass 26. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Maintenance 27. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Recommended Maintenance Schedule 27. . . . . . . . .
Servicing the Cutting Blades 28. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Servicing the Air Cleaner 30. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Servicing the Engine Oil 30. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Servicing the Cooling System 32. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Servicing the Spark Plug 34. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Replacing the Fuel Filter 35. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Draining the Fuel Tank 35. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Servicing the Spark Arrester 36. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Greasing and Lubrication 36. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking the Tire Pressure 37. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Servicing the Hydraulic System 37. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjusting the Handle Neutral 39. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Setting the Hydraulic Pump Neutral 40. . . . . . . . . . .
Adjusting the Tracking 41. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjusting the Caster Pivot Bearing 42. . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking the Wheel Hub Slotted Nut 42. . . . . . . . . .
Adjusting the Mower Level 42. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cleaning Under the Deck 43. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Belt Inspection 43. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Replacing the Deck Belt 43. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Replacing the PTO Drive Belt 44. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Replacing the Pump Drive Belt 45. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3
Page
Adjusting the Parking Brake 45. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Servicing the Fuses 46. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Servicing the Battery 46. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Replacing the Grass Deflector 49. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Waste Disposal 49. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mercury Tilt Switch 49. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mercury Tilt Switch Disposal 50. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wiring Diagram 51. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cleaning and Storage 52. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Troubleshooting 53. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The Toro Total Coverage Guarantee 56. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Introduction
Read this manual carefully to learn how to operate and
maintain your product properly. The information in this
manual can help you and others avoid injury and product
damage. Although Toro designs and produces safe
products, you are responsible for operating the product
properly and safely.
Whenever you need service, genuine Toro parts, or
additional information, contact an Authorized Service
Dealer or Toro Customer Service and have the model and
serial numbers of your product ready. Figure 1 illustrates
the location of the model and serial numbers on the
product.
1
Figure 1
1. Location of the model and serial numbers
Write the product model and serial numbers in the space
below:
Model No.
Serial No.
This manual identifies potential hazards and has special
safety messages that help you and others avoid personal
injury and even death. Danger, Warning, and Caution are
signal words used to identify the level of hazard. However,
regardless of the hazard, be extremely careful.
Danger signals an extreme hazard that will cause serious
injury or death if you do not follow the recommended
precautions.
Warning signals a hazard that may cause serious injury or
death if you do not follow the recommended precautions.
Caution signals a hazard that may cause minor or moderate
injury if you do not follow the recommended precautions.
This manual uses two other words to highlight information.
Important calls attention to special mechanical
information and Note: emphasizes general information
worthy of special attention.
Note: Determine the left and right sides of the machine
from the normal operating position.
Safety
This machine meets or exceeds the B71.4 1999
specifications of the American National Standards
Institute, in effect at time of production.
Note: The addition of attachments made by other
manufacturers that do not meet American National
Standards Institute certification will cause noncompliance
of this machine.
Improper use or maintenance by the operator or owner
can result in injury. To reduce the potential for injury,
comply with these safety instructions and always pay
attention to the safety alert symbol, which means
CAUTION, WARNING, or DANGER—“personal
safety instruction.” Failure to comply with the
instruction may result in personal injury or death.
This product is capable of amputating hands and feet and
throwing objects. Always follow all safety instructions to
avoid serious injury or death.
This product is designed for cutting and recycling grass or,
when equipped with a grass bagger, for catching cut grass.
Any use for purposes other than these could prove
dangerous to user and bystanders.
Safe Operating Practices
The following instructions are from ANSI standard
B71.4—1999.

4
Training
•Read the Operator’s Manual and other training material.
If the operator(s) or mechanic(s) can not read English it
is the owner’s responsibility to explain this material to
them.
•Become familiar with the safe operation of the
equipment, operator controls, and safety signs.
•All operators and mechanics should be trained. The
owner is responsible for training the users.
•Never let children or untrained people operate or
service the equipment. Local regulations may restrict
the age of the operator.
•The owner/user can prevent and is responsible for
accidents or injuries occurring to himself or herself,
other people or property.
Preparation
•Evaluate the terrain to determine what accessories and
attachments are needed to properly and safely perform
the job. Only use accessories and attachments approved
by the manufacturer.
•Wear appropriate clothing including hard hat, safety
glasses and hearing protection. Long hair, loose
clothing or jewelry may get tangled in moving parts.
•Inspect the area where the equipment is to be used and
remove all objects such as rocks, toys and wire which
can be thrown by the machine.
•Use extra care when handling gasoline and other fuels.
They are flammable and vapors are explosive.
•Use only an approved container
•Never remove gas cap or add fuel with engine
running. Allow engine to cool before refueling.
Do not smoke.
•Never refuel or drain the machine indoors.
•Check that operator’s presence controls, safety switches
and shields are attached and functioning properly. Do
not operate unless they are functioning properly.
Operation
•Never run an engine in an enclosed area.
•Only operate in good light, keeping away from holes
and hidden hazards.
•Be sure all drives are in neutral and parking brake is
engaged before starting engine. Start the engine only
from the operator’s position.
•Never raise deck with the blades running.
•Never operate without the PTO shield, or other guards
securely in place. Be sure all interlocks are functioning
properly.
•Never operate with the discharge deflector raised,
removed or altered, unless using a grass catcher.
•Do not change the engine governor setting or overspeed
the engine.
•Stop on level ground, lower implements, disengage
drives, engage parking brake, shut off engine before
leaving the operator’s position for any reason including
emptying the catchers or unclogging the chute.
•Stop equipment and inspect blades after striking objects
or if an abnormal vibration occurs. Make necessary
repairs before resuming operations.
•Keep hands and feet away from the cutting units.
•Never carry passengers and keep pets and bystanders
away.
•Be alert, slow down and use caution when making
turns. Look behind and to the side before changing
directions.
•Slow down and use caution when crossing roads and
sidewalks. Stop blades if not mowing.
•Be aware of the mower discharge direction and do not
point it at anyone.
•Do not operate the mower under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
•Use extreme care when loading or unloading the
machine into a trailer or truck.
•Use care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees,
or other objects that may obscure vision.
Slope Operation
•Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees.
•Do not mow near drop–offs, ditches, steep banks or
water. Wheels dropping over edges can cause rollovers,
which may result in serious injury, death or drowning.
•Do not mow slopes when grass is wet. Slippery
conditions reduce traction and could cause sliding and
loss of control.
•Do not make sudden turns or rapid speed changes.
•Use a walk behind mower and/or a hand trimmer near
drop–offs, ditches, steep banks or water.
•Reduce speed and use extreme caution on slopes.
•Remove or mark obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs,
etc. from the mowing area. Tall grass can hide
obstacles.

5
•Watch for ditches, holes, rocks, dips, and rises that
change the operating angle, as rough terrain could
overturn the machine.
•Avoid sudden starts when mowing uphill because the
mower may tip backwards.
•Be aware that loss of traction may occur going
downhill. Weight transfer to the front wheels may cause
drive wheels to slip and cause loss of braking and
steering.
•Always avoid sudden starting or stopping on a slope. If
tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed
slowly off the slope.
•Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for wheel
weights or counterweights to improve stability.
•Use extreme care with grass catchers or other
attachments. These can change the stability of the
machine and cause loss of control.
Using the Rollover Protection System (ROPS)
•A rollbar is available and its use is recommended for
areas where there are slopes, drop–offs or water.
•When operating a machine with ROPS always use the
seat belt.
•Be certain that the seat belt can be released quickly if
the machine is driven or rolls into ponds or water.
•Check carefully for overhead clearances (i.e. branches,
doorways, electrical wires) before driving under any
objects and do not contact them.
Maintenance and storage
•Disengage drives, lower implement, set parking brake,
stop engine and remove key or disconnect spark plug
wire. Wait for all movement to stop before adjusting,
cleaning or repairing.
•Clean grass and debris from cutting units, drives,
mufflers, and engine to help prevent fires. Clean up oil
or fuel spillage.
•Let engine cool before storing and do not store near
flame.
•Shut off fuel while storing or transporting. Do not store
fuel near flames or drain indoors.
•Park machine on level ground. Never allow untrained
personnel to service machine.
•Use jack stands to support components when required.
•Carefully release pressure from components with stored
energy.
•Disconnect battery or remove spark plug wire before
making any repairs. Disconnect the negative terminal
first and the positive last. Reconnect positive first and
negative last.
•Use care when checking blades. Wrap the blade(s) or
wear gloves, and use caution when servicing them.
Only replace blades. Never straighten or weld them.
•Keep hands and feet away from moving parts. If
possible, do not make adjustments with the engine
running.
•Charge batteries in an open well ventilated area, away
from spark and flames. Unplug charger before
connecting or disconnecting from battery. Wear
protective clothing and use insulated tools.
•Keep all parts in good working condition and all
hardware tightened. Replace all worn or damaged
decals.
•Use only Toro-approved attachments. Warranty may be
voided if used with unapproved attachments.

6
Slope Chart

7

8
Safety and Instruction Decals
Safety decals and instructions are easily visible to the operator and are located near any area
of potential danger. Replace any decal that is damaged or lost.
1-633345
1-633706
1-633462
65-2690
1-523552
1-633766
1-643401

9
1-633818
43-8480
66-1340
67-5360
104-8569
93-1122
93-7818
1. Warning—read the Operator’s Manual for instructions on
torquing the blade bolt/nut to 115–149 N⋅m (85–110 ft.-lb.).
98-3798
98-4387
1. Warning—wear hearing protection.

10
98-5954
99-4686
103–0262
103-0368
104-4163
1. Explosion hazard
2. No fire, open flames, or
smoking.
3. Caustic liquid/chemical
burn hazard
4. Wear eye protection
5. Read the
Operator’s
Manual.
6. Keep bystanders a safe
distance from the battery.
104-7759
104-8172
104-2449

11
99-4612
1. Engine stop
2. Engine run 3. Engine start
103-1027
1-643339
E643253
ROTATING BLADES!
STOP ENGINE BEFORE
REACHING UNDERNEATH.
CAUTION
1-643253
104-4164
1. Contains lead; do not
discard.
2. Recycle
3. Wear eye protection;
explosive gases can cause
blindness and other injuries
4. No sparks, flame, or
smoking
5. Sulfuric acid can cause
blindness or severe burns.
6. Flush eyes immediately with
water and get medical help
fast.
7. Maximum fill line
8. Minimum fill line
9. Instructions for activating the
battery

12
103-2433
106-6571
106-6570

13
Gasoline and Oil
Recommended Gasoline
Use UNLEADED Regular Gasoline suitable for automotive
use (85 pump octane minimum). Leaded regular gasoline
may be used if unleaded regular is not available.
Important Never use methanol, gasoline containing
methanol, or gasohol containing more than 10% ethanol
because the fuel system could be damaged. Do not mix oil
with gasoline.
Danger
In certain conditions, gasoline is extremely
flammable and highly explosive. A fire or
explosion from gasoline can burn you and others
and can damage property.
•Fill the fuel tank outdoors, in an open area,
when the engine is cold. Wipe up any gasoline
that spills.
•Never fill the fuel tank inside an enclosed trailer.
•Do not fill the fuel tank completely full. Add
gasoline to the fuel tank until the level is 1/4 to
1/2 inch (6 to 13 mm) below the bottom of the
filler neck. This empty space in the tank allows
gasoline to expand.
•Never smoke when handling gasoline, and stay
away from an open flame or where gasoline
fumes may be ignited by a spark.
•Store gasoline in an approved container and
keep it out of the reach of children. Never buy
more than a 30-day supply of gasoline.
•Always place gasoline containers on the ground
away from your vehicle before filling.
•Do not fill gasoline containers inside a vehicle or
on a truck or trailer bed because interior
carpets or plastic truck bed liners may insulate
the container and slow the loss of any static
charge.
•When practical, remove gas–powered
equipment from the truck or trailer and refuel
the equipment with its wheels on the ground.
•If this is not possible, then refuel such
equipment on a truck or trailer from a portable
container, rather than from a gasoline dispenser
nozzle.
•If a gasoline dispenser nozzle must be used, keep
the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel
tank or container opening at all times until
fueling is complete.
Gasoline is harmful or fatal if swallowed.
Long–term exposure to vapors can cause serious
injury and illness.
•Avoid prolonged breathing of vapors.
•Keep face away from nozzle and gas tank or
conditioner opening.
•Keep gas away from eyes and skin.
Warning
Using Stabilizer/Conditioner
Use a fuel stabilizer/conditioner in the machine to provide
the following benefits:
•Keeps gasoline fresh during storage of 90 days or less.
For longer storage it is recommended that the fuel tank
be drained.
•Cleans the engine while it runs
•Eliminates gum-like varnish buildup in the fuel system,
which causes hard starting
Important Do not use fuel additives containing
methanol or ethanol.
Add the correct amount of gas stabilizer/conditioner to the
gas.
Note: A fuel stabilizer/conditioner is most effective when
mixed with fresh gasoline. To minimize the chance of
varnish deposits in the fuel system, use fuel stabilizer at all
times.
Filling the Fuel Tank
1. Shut the engine off and set the parking brake.
2. Clean around each fuel tank cap and remove the cap.
Add unleaded regular gasoline to both fuel tanks, until
the level is 1/4 to 1/2 inch (6 to 13 mm) below the
bottom of the filler neck. This space in the tank allows
gasoline to expand. Do not fill the fuel tanks completely
full.
3. Install fuel tank caps securely. Wipe up any gasoline
that may have spilled.
Checking the Engine Oil Level
Before you start the engine and use the machine, check the
oil level in the engine crankcase; refer to Checking the Oil
Level, page 31.

14
Setup
Note: Determine the left and right sides of the machine from the normal operating position.
Loose Parts
Note: Use the chart below to verify all parts have been shipped.
DESCRIPTION QTY. USE
Rear wheels 2Installing the wheels to the traction unit
Suspension Seat
Nut 1 4Installing the seat
Control lever—right
Control lever—left
Bolt, 3/8 x 1 inch
Spring washer, 3/8 inch
1
1
4
4
Installing the motion control levers
Key
Operator’s Manual
Engine Operator’s Manual
Parts Catalog
2
1
1
1
Read before operating machine.
Registration card 1Fill out and return to Toro.
Installing the Drive Wheels
1. Uncrate the mower.
2. Remove the wheel nuts from the rear wheel hubs.
3. Align the holes. Mount the drive wheels with the valve
stem to the outside of the traction unit.
4. Secure the wheels using the wheel nuts provided.
Torque to 95 ft.-lb. (128 N⋅m).
Checking the Tire Pressure
Check the air pressure in the front and rear tires (Fig. 2).
Pressure: 13 psi (90 kPa)
m–1872
1
Figure 2
1. Valve stem

15
Installing the Seat
1. Remove seat from crate.
2. Position seat on the studs in the adjustable tracks
(Fig. 3).
3. Install nuts onto studs (Fig 3).
4
1
m–4817
2
3
Figure 3
1. Seat
2. Studs 3. Adjustable track 4. Nuts
Installing the Motion Control
Levers
There are two positions to install the control levers: high
and low. Install the levers in the top and middle holes for
the high position. Install the levers in the middle and
bottom holes for the low position.
1. Remove the 4 bolts (3/8 x 1 inch) and 4 spring washers
(3/8 inch) which attach the motion control levers to the
control arm shafts for shipping (Fig. 4).
2. Place the levers (with the mounting plate toward the
rear) on the outside of the control arm shaft and secure
them with 4 bolts (3/8 x 1 inch) and 4 spring washers
(3/8 inch) (Fig. 4).
3. Position the lever so that the bolts are in the center of
the slots on the lever mounting plate and tighten until
snug.
4. Align the front\rear position of the levers, with each
other, in the neutral position. Loosen the hardware and
adjust by sliding/tilting the lever(s) forward or
backward until they are properly aligned (Fig. 4).
1
2
3m–5596
4
5
6
Figure 4
1. Mounting plate
2. Bolt, 3/8 x 1 inch
3. Spring washer, 3/8 inch
4. Top hole
5. Middle hole
6. Bottom hole
5. If the ends of the levers hit against each other while in
the drive position (Fig. 5) (levers rotated in as far as
possible), make adjustments by moving the levers
outward to the neutral lock position and carefully bend
them outward. Move them back to the drive position
and check for clearance. Repeat if necessary.
FRONT
OF
UNIT
LEVERS IN
ALIGNMENT
Figure 5

16
Activating the Battery
Bulk electrolyte with 1.265 specific gravity must be
purchased from a local battery supply outlet.
Danger
Battery electrolyte contains sulfuric acid which is a
deadly poison and causes severe burns.
•Do not drink electrolyte and avoid contact with
skin, eyes or clothing. Wear safety glasses to
shield your eyes and robber gloves to protect
your hands.
•Fill the battery where clean water is always
available for flushing the skin.
•Follow all instructions and comply with all
safety messages on the electrolyte container.
1. Remove the battery from the machine; refer to
Removing the Battery, page 47.
2. Clean the top of the battery with a paper towel.
Note: Never fill the battery with electrolyte while the
battery is installed in the machine. Electrolyte could be
spilled on other parts and cause corrosion.
3. Remove the vent caps from the battery (Fig. 6).
4. Slowly pour electrolyte into each battery cell until the
level is up to the upper line (Fig. 6) on the battery case.
Important Do not overfill the battery because
electrolyte (sulfuric acid) can cause severe corrosion and
damage to the chassis.
5. Wait five to ten minutes after filling the battery cells.
Add electrolyte, if necessary, until the electrolyte level
is up to the upper line (Fig. 6) on the battery case.
6. Reinstall battery filler caps.
1
2
3
m–5004
Figure 6
1. Filler caps
2. Upper line 3. Lower line
Charging battery produces gasses that can explode
and cause serious injury.
•Keep cigarettes, sparks and flames away from
battery.
•Make sure the ignition switch is off.
•Ventilate when charging or using battery in an
enclosed space.
Warning
7. Charge the battery; refer to Charging the Battery,
page 48.
8. Install the battery into the machine; refer to Installing
the Battery, page 47.
Note: Do not run the machine with the battery
disconnected, electrical damage may occur.
Checking the Engine Oil Level
Before you start the engine and use the machine, check the
oil level in the engine crankcase; refer to Checking the Oil
Level, page 31.
Checking the Side Discharge
Chute
Remove the plastic tie holding the side discharge chute up
and lower it into place.
Checking the Leveling of the
Mower Deck
Check the level of the deck before the machine is first put
in use.
Refer to Adjusting the Mower Level on page 42.
Checking the Radiator Coolant
Check the cooling system level before the engine is first
started.
Refer to Checking the Radiator Coolant, page 32.
Greasing the Bearings
Important Make sure that the cutting unit spindles are
full of grease before the engine is first started.
Grease with No. 2 general purpose lithium base or
molybdenum base grease.

17
Grease the fittings on the three spindle bearings. Grease
until it comes out of the lower seals (Fig. 7).
1
M–5035
Figure 7
1. Spindles
Checking the Hydraulic Fluid
Check the hydraulic fluid level before the engine is first
started; refer to Checking the Hydraulic Fluid, page 37.
Operation
Note: Determine the left and right sides of the machine
from the normal operating position.
Think Safety First
Please read all safety instructions and symbols in the safety
section. Knowing this information could help you or
bystanders avoid injury.
Danger
Mowing on wet grass or steep slopes can cause
sliding and loss of control.
Wheels dropping over edges can cause rollovers,
which may result in serious injury, death or
drowning.
A rollbar is available and its use is recommended
for areas where there are slopes, drop–offs or
water.
To avoid loss of control and possibility of rollover:
•Do not mow near drop–offs or near water.
•Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees.
•Reduce speed and use extreme caution on slopes.
•Avoid sudden turns or rapid speed changes.
2
3
1
m–6478
Figure 8
1. Safe Zone—use the
Z Master here on slopes
less than 15 degrees or
flat areas.
2. Use walk behind mower
and/or hand trimmer near
drop–offs and water.
3. Water
The use of protective equipment for eyes, ears, feet, and
head is recommended.
This machine produces sound levels in excess of
85 dBA at the operators ear and can cause hearing
loss through extended periods of exposure.
Wear hearing protection when operating this
machine.
Caution
Figure 9
1. Warning—wear hearing protection.

18
Controls
Become familiar with all the controls (Fig. 10) before you
start the engine and operate the machine.
3
7
10
1
2
5
8
4
6
9
M–4494
11
Figure 10
1. Ignition switch
2. Motion control lever
3. Parking brake lever
4. Throttle
5. Choke
6. Power take off (PTO)
7. Height-of-cut lever
8. Fuel cap
9. Fuel shut off lever
10. Hour meter
11. Temperature gauge
Using the Hour Meter
The hour meter records the number of hours the engine has
operated. It operates when the engine is running. Use these
times for scheduling regular maintenance.
1
m–3077
Figure 11
1. Hour meter
Switching the Fuel Tanks
The unit has two fuel tanks, one located on the left side and
one on the right side. Each tank connects to the fuel shut off
valve in the control panel. From there a common fuel line
leads to the engine (Fig. 12).
To use the right side fuel tank, rotate the fuel shut off valve
1/4 turn to the right from the off location. This uses fuel
from the right side tank only. When the right fuel tank is
empty, move the fuel shut off valve 1/4 turn to the left from
the off position.
Close the fuel shut off valve, on the front panel, before
transporting or storing the machine.
1
Figure 12
1. Shut off valve
Operating the Parking Brake
Always set the parking brake when you stop the machine or
leave it unattended.
Setting the Parking Brake
1. Move the motion control levers (Fig. 10) out to the
neutral lock position.
2. Pull back and up on the parking brake lever to set the
parking brake (Fig. 13). The parking brake lever should
stay firmly in the Engaged position.
Parking brake may not hold machine parked on a
slope and could cause personal injury or property
damage.
Do not park on slopes unless wheels are chocked or
blocked
Warning
Releasing the Parking Brake
Push forward and down on the parking brake lever to
release the parking brake (Fig. 13). The parking brake is
disengaged and the lever rests against the brake stop.

19
1
2
m–4163
3
Figure 13
1. Parking brake—ON
2. Parking brake—OFF 3. Brake stop
Starting and Stopping the
Engine
Starting the Engine
1. Sit on the seat and move the motion controls to the
neutral locked position.
2. Set the parking brake; refer to Setting the Parking
Brake, page 18.
3. Move the PTO (power take off) switch to Off (Fig. 14).
4. Move the choke control to the On position before
starting a cold engine (Fig. 15).
Note: A warm or hot engine may not require choking.
After the engine starts, move the choke control to the Run
position.
5. Move the throttle control to the Fast position before
starting a cold engine (Fig. 16).
6. Turn the ignition key to Start to energize the starter.
When the engine starts, release the key (Fig. 17).
Important Do not engage the starter for more than 10
seconds at a time. If the engine fails to start, allow a 30
second cool-down period between attempts. Failure to
follow these instructions can burn out the starter motor.
7. After the engine starts, move the choke to Off (Fig. 15).
If the engine stalls or hesitates, move the choke back to
On for a few seconds. Then move the throttle lever to
the desired setting. Repeat this as required.
Figure 14
1. PTO—On
2. PTO—Off
Figure 15
1. Choke—On
2. Choke—Off
1
m–2719
2
1
2
m–4201
Figure 16
1. Throttle—Fast
2. Throttle—Slow
Figure 17
1. Off
2. Run
3. Start
2
1
m–2720
12
3
M–4268
Stopping the Engine
1. Push the PTO to off (Fig. 16).
2. Move the throttle lever midway between the slow and
fast positions (Fig. 16).
3. Let the engine idle for 60 seconds (Fig. 17).
4. Turn the ignition key to off (Fig. 17).
5. Pull wire off spark plug(s) to prevent possibility of
someone accidentally starting the machine before
transporting or storing machine.
6. Close fuel shut off valve, on front panel before
transporting or storing machine.

20
Important Make sure that the fuel shut off valve is
closed before transporting or storing the machine, as fuel
leakage may occur. Set the parking brake before
transporting. Make sure to remove the key as the fuel pump
may run and cause the battery to lose charge.
Children or bystanders may be injured if they
move or attempt to operate the tractor while it is
unattended.
Always remove the ignition key and set the
parking brake when leaving the machine
unattended, even if just for a few minutes.
Caution
Operating the Power Take Off
(PTO)
The power take off (PTO) switch engages and disengages
power to the electric clutch.
Engaging the PTO
1. While seated in the seat, release the pressure on the
traction control levers and place in neutral.
2. Place the throttle in the fast position.
3. Pull out on the power take off (PTO) switch to engage it
(Fig. 18).
12
m–4201
Figure 18
1. PTO—Off 2. PTO—On
Disengaging the PTO
To disengage, push the PTO switch to the Off position
(Fig. 18).
The Safety Interlock System
If safety interlock switches are disconnected or
damaged the machine could operate unexpectedly
causing personal injury.
•Do not tamper with the interlock switches.
•Check the operation of the interlock switches
daily and replace any damaged switches before
operating the machine.
Caution
Understanding the Safety Interlock
System
The safety interlock system is designed to prevent the
engine from starting unless:
•You are sitting on the seat.
•The parking brake is engaged.
•The power take off (PTO) is disengaged.
•The motion control levers are in the neutral locked
position.
The safety interlock system also is designed to stop the
engine when the traction controls are moved from the
locked position with the parking brake on engaged or if
you rise from the seat when the PTO is on or engaged.
Testing the Safety Interlock System
Test the safety interlock system before you use the machine
each time. If the safety system does not operate as
described below, have an Authorized Service Dealer repair
the safety system immediately.
1. Sitting on the seat, engage the parking brake, and move
the PTO On. Try starting the engine; the engine should
not crank.
2. Sitting on the seat, engage the parking brake, and move
the PTO to Off. Move either motion control lever (out
of neutral locked position). Try starting the engine; the
engine should not crank. Repeat for the other control
lever.
3. Sitting on the seat, engage the parking brake, move the
PTO to Off, and lock the motion control levers in
neutral. Now start the engine. While the engine is
running, release the parking brake, engage the PTO, and
rise slightly from the seat; the engine should stop.
4. Sitting on the seat, engage the parking brake, move the
PTO to Off, and lock the motion control levers in to
neutral. Now start the engine. While the engine is