Walker T23 User manual

Operator’s Manual
Safety, Assembly, Operating, and Maintenance Instructions
Please Read and Save These Instructions
For Safety, Read All Safety and Operation
Instructions Prior to Operating Machine Beginning S/N: 134242
P/N 8000-27

Foreword
Thank you. . .for purchasing a Walker mower. Every effort has been made to provide you with the
most reliable mower on the market, and we are sure you will be among our many satised custom-
ers. If for any reason this product does not perform to your expectations, please contact your local
dealer. Every customer is important to us. Your satisfaction is our goal.
Please. . .read this manual thoroughly! This manual is to be used in conjunction with the engine
manufacturer’s manual for the specic engine on the mower model you have purchased. Before
you operate your new mower, please read this entire manual. Some of the information is crucial for
proper operation and maintenance of this mower - it will help protect your investment and ensure
that the mower performs to your satisfaction. Some of the information is important to your safety
and must be read and understood to help prevent possible injury to the operator or others. If any-
thing in this manual is confusing or hard to understand, please contact your local authorized dealer
or call our service department, at [phone], for clarication before operating or servicing this
mower.
This manual covers Model T23 with the Kohler Command Pro CH680 (23 HP) gasoline engine.
All shields and guards must be in place for the proper and safe operation of this machine.
Where they are shown removed in this manual, it is for illustration purposes only. Do not operate
this machine unless all shields and guards are in place.
Specications given are based on the latest information available at the time this manual was pro-
duced for a tractor with standard equipment. Optional equipment is available and may affect the
standard specications listed.
Walker Mfg. Co. is continually striving to improve the design and performance of its products. We
reserve the right to make changes in specications and design without thereby incurring any obliga-
tion relative to previously manufactured products.
Sincerely,
WALKER MANUFACTURING COMPANY
Bob Walker, President

Table of Contents
General Information ________________ 1
HIGHLIGHTED INFORMATION _____________ 1
GLOSSARY ____________________________ 1
IDENTIFYING NUMBER LOCATIONS ________ 1
ENGINE SERIAL NUMBER LOCATION_______ 2
SERVICING OF ENGINE AND
DRIVETRAIN COMPONENTS ______________ 2
Specications________________________ 3
ENGINE________________________________ 3
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM ___________________ 3
TRANSMISSION _________________________ 3
BLADE DRIVE __________________________ 4
TIRE SIZE ______________________________ 4
TIRE PRESSURE ________________________ 4
DIMENSIONS (Tractor and Mower) _________ 5
GHS SYSTEM___________________________ 5
MOWER DECK __________________________ 6
DRIVE BELTS ___________________________ 6
SEAT __________________________________ 6
FRAME/BODY CONSTRUCTION ___________ 6
Component Identication ___________ 7
Safety Instructions _________________ 10
BEFORE OPERATING ___________________ 10
OPERATING ___________________________ 12
MAINTENANCE ________________________ 14
SAFETY, CONTROL,
AND INSTRUCTION DECALS _____________ 15
Assembly Instructions______________ 19
SETUP INSTRUCTIONS__________________ 19
Tire Installation (Tractor) _______________ 19
Battery Service _______________________ 19
Wet Battery Service __________________ 19
Dry Battery Service___________________ 19
Battery Charging_____________________ 20
Battery Installation ___________________ 20
Mower Deck Assembly_________________ 21
Deck Caster Wheels Installation _________ 21
Deck Discharge Chute Installation _______ 21
Deck Discharge Deector
Shield Installation ____________________ 21
PTO Shaft Guard Installation ___________ 22
Tilt-Up Roller Wheel Installation _________ 22
Mower Deck Installation on Tractor_______ 22
Deck Installation _____________________ 22
Deck Leveling _______________________ 25
PREOPERATING CHECKLIST _________ 26
Operating Instructions _____________ 28
CONTROL IDENTIFICATION,
LOCATION, AND FUNCTION _____________ 28
Operating Controls____________________ 28
Engine Choke _______________________ 28
Engine Throttle ______________________ 29
Forward Speed Control (FSC) __________ 29
Steering Levers______________________ 29
Blade Clutch (PTO)___________________ 29
Front Body Latch Release______________ 29
Parking Brake _______________________ 31
Transmission Lockout Levers ___________ 31
Instrument Panel _____________________ 32
Hourmeter__________________________ 33
Voltmeter __________________________ 33
Oil Pressure Warning Light/Horn ________ 33
Water Temperature Warning Light/Horn ___ 33
Ignition Switch_______________________ 34
Light Switch (For Optional Lights) ________ 34
Warning Horn _______________________ 34
Circuit Breakers _____________________ 34
STARTING THE ENGINE _________________ 34
ADJUSTING GROUND
SPEED AND STEERING__________________ 35
ENGAGING THE BLADE DRIVE ___________ 37
STOPPING THE MACHINE _______________ 39
ADJUSTING CUTTING HEIGHT____________ 40
TRANSMISSION LOCKOUT ______________ 40
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR MOWING ______ 41
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR TILT-UP DECK
OPERATION/TRANSPORT _______________ 43
GRASS HANDLING SYSTEM (GHS) ________ 44
General Information ___________________ 45
Clogging Checklist____________________ 46
Using the Tilt-Up Deck _________________ 47
Using the GHS Catcher ________________ 47
Powerl ®__________________________ 47
“Full” Signal Horn ____________________ 47
Cleaning the GHS Exhaust Screen _______ 48
Dumping the Catcher __________________ 48
Tailgate Dumping ____________________ 48
Using the Dump Bag__________________ 49
Power Dump Option __________________ 50
Hi-Dump®Option ____________________ 50

Table of Contents
Maintenance Instructions __________ 54
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE CHART _______ 54
IMPORTANT TIPS FOR CARE
OF THE KOHLER ENGINE ________________ 55
Fuel System _________________________ 55
Starting/Stopping _____________________ 55
Cooling System ______________________ 55
Air Cleaner System____________________ 55
Oil__________________________________ 55
LUBRICATION _________________________ 56
Engine Oil ___________________________ 56
Engine Break-In Oil___________________ 56
Checking Engine Crankcase Oil Level ____ 56
Changing Engine Crankcase Oil/Oil Filter__ 57
Mower Deck Gearbox Lubrication________ 58
DS52 or DS62 Mower Deck Lubrication ___ 58
Mower Deck Spindle Lubrication ________ 59
Tractor PTO Gearbox Lubrication ________ 59
Checking Gearbox Oil Level ____________ 59
Changing Gearbox Oil ________________ 59
Gear Axle Lubrication _________________ 59
Hydrostatic Transmission Fluid _________ 60
Checking Hydrostatic
Transmission Fluid Level ______________ 60
Grease Fitting and Oil Point Lubrication __ 60
CLEANING ____________________________ 63
Engine Air Cleaner System _____________ 63
Turbine Precleaner ___________________ 63
Donaldson Radialseal™ Air Cleaner______ 64
Engine Cooling System ________________ 66
Cooling Air Intake Screen ______________ 66
Cylinder Head Cooling Fins ____________ 66
Grass Buildup in Mower Deck Housing ___ 67
GHS Blower__________________________ 67
GHS Exhaust Screen __________________ 68
Hydrostatic Transmission Cooling Fins ___ 68
CHECKING/SERVICING__________________ 69
Security of Air Filtration Components ____ 69
Battery______________________________ 69
Electrolyte Level _____________________ 69
Cleaning the Terminals ________________ 69
Charging the Battery__________________ 69
Tire Pressure_________________________ 70
Wheel Bolt Torque ____________________ 70
Sharpen Mower Blades ________________ 70
Drive Belts___________________________ 71
Mower Deck Gearbox Oil Seals __________ 71
Spark Plugs__________________________ 71
Ignition Wires ________________________ 71
Fuel Lines and Clamps_________________ 72
Engine Starter________________________ 72
Transmission Control Setting ___________ 72
Neutral-Park ________________________ 72
Straight Ground Tracking ______________ 72
Blade Brake Action____________________ 72
PTO U-Joints ________________________ 72
Safety Switch System__________________ 73
Forward Speed Control Friction Lock_____ 73
REPLACING/REPAIRING_________________ 74
Drive Belts___________________________ 74
Engine PTO Drive Belt ________________ 75
Jackshaft Drive Belt __________________ 76
GHS Blower Drive Belt ________________ 77
Hydrostatic Ground Drive Belt___________ 78
Fuel Filter ___________________________ 79
Blade Overload Shear Bolts_____________ 80
Mower Blades ________________________ 81
ADJUSTMENTS ________________________ 82
Transmission Control__________________ 82
Set FSC Travel Limits (Stop)____________ 82
Set Maximum Forward
Travel Speed (Stop) __________________ 83
Neutral Function Adjustment____________ 83
Straight Ground Travel Adjustment _______ 84
Blade Clutch (PTO)____________________ 85
Clutch Engagement/Belt Tension ________ 86
Clutch Disengagement/Brake Action _____ 86
Stop Block Eccentric Adjustment ________ 87
Clutch Idler Pulley Travel Adjustment _____ 87
Blade Brake Band Adjustment __________ 88
Forward Speed Control Friction Lock_____ 89
Steering Handles _____________________ 90
Tilt-Up Deck Adjustable Stop____________ 90
GHS “Full” Signal Horn Adjustment ______ 91
Warranty _____________________ 92

General Information
1
HIGHLIGHTED INFORMATION
Walker Manufacturing recommends that any service
requiring special training or tools be performed by
an authorized Walker Mower dealer. There are sev-
eral general practices to be aware of in the area of
safety. Most accidents associated with the opera-
tion or maintenance of a Walker Mower are caused
by disregarding basic safety precautions or specic
warnings. Such accidents, in most cases, can be
prevented by being aware of the dangers present.
Information of special importance has been high-
lighted in bold type in this manual. Refer to Safety
Instructions for the meanings of DANGER, WARN-
ING, CAUTION, IMPORTANT, and NOTE.
GLOSSARY
There are many terms that are either unique to this
equipment or that are used as acronyms. The
following terms and their denitions will help while
using this manual:
●DECK is the mowing attachment mounted on
the front of the tractor which includes the carrier
frame, deck housing, belt or gear drive compo-
nents, and cutter blades.
●FORWARD SPEED CONTROL (FSC) controls
the maximum forward speed of the tractor;
functioning as a cruise control.
●GRASS HANDLING SYSTEM (GHS®) collects
mowed material and deposits it in the catcher.
●GRASS-PAK® SWITCH is mounted on the
grass delivery spout (in the catcher) and acti-
vates the “full” signal horn when the grass
catcher is full.
●GROUND DRIVE refers to the dual hydrostatic
transmissions which drive the main wheels.
●HYDROSTATIC TRANSMISSION transmits
and controls power from the ground drive belt
to the main drive wheel.
●LEFT HAND (LH) refers to the left-hand side of
the tractor when the operator is seated facing
forward in the tractor seat.
●POWER TAKE-OFF (PTO) transmits engine
power to run the cutter blades and GHS blower.
●POWERFIL® spreads the mowed material
throughout the interior of the grass catcher by
an oscillating delivery spout.
●RIGHT HAND (RH) refers to the right-hand
side of the tractor when the operator is seated
facing forward in the tractor seat.
●SIDE DISCHARGE (SD) discharges mowed
material from the right side of the mower deck.
●STEERING LEVERS steer the tractor by con-
trolling the dual hydrostatic transmissions.
●TRACTOR is the prime mover, including the
engine, drivetrain, operator seat, and controls
to operate the mower.
●TRANSMISSION LOCKOUT releases the hy-
drostatic transmissions to permit freewheeling
the tractor.
IDENTIFYING NUMBER LOCATIONS
The tractor serial number plate is afxed to the trac-
tor body just below the left rear corner of the seat.
The mower deck serial number plate is afxed
alongside the angle iron framing on the LH side of
the LH mower blade drive. Model and serial num-
bers are helpful when obtaining replacement parts
and maintenance assistance. For ready reference,
please record these numbers in the space provided.
Tractor Model No. ______________________
Tractor Serial No. ______________________
Deck Serial No. ______________________
Engine Model No. ______________________
Engine Serial No. ______________________
Date of Purchase ______________________
Fill In By Purchaser

General Information
2
Serial Number
Tractor Serial Number Location
Serial Number
Mower Deck Serial Number Location
ENGINE SERIAL NUMBER LOCATION
Refer to the engine manual that accompanies this
manual or photo below for the location of the engine
serial number.
Serial Number
Engine Serial Number Location
SERVICING OF ENGINE AND DRIVETRAIN
COMPONENTS
The detailed servicing and repair of the engine,
hydrostatic transmission, and gearboxes are not
covered in this manual. Only routine maintenance
and general service instructions are provided. For
the service of these components during the limited
warranty period, it is important to nd a local, au-
thorized servicing agent of the component manu-
facturer. Any unauthorized work done on these
components during the warranty period may void
the warranty. If you have any difculty nding an
authorized outlet or obtaining warranty service,
please contact our Service Department for assis-
tance:
Walker Manufacturing Company
5925 E. Harmony Road
Fort Collins, CO 80528
1-970-221-5614
www.walkermowers.com
Service manuals are available for each of these
components from their respective manufacturers as
follows:
Kohler Engines Kohler Company
Kohler, WI 53044
800-544-2444
www.kohlerengines.com
Hydrostatic Eaton Fluid Power Group
Transmissions Hydraulics Business USA
14615 Lone Oak Road
Eden Prairie, MN 55344 USA
952-937-9800
www.eaton.com/hydraulics
Gearboxes (Deck) Peerless Gear
1555 South Jackson St.
Salem, IN 47167 USA
866-536-8310
www.peerlessgear.com

Specications
3
MODEL T23
ENGINE
Manufacturer/Model Kohler Command Pro®CH680 CH23, 2 Cyl., Gasoline (Air-Cooled)
Displacement cu. in. (cc) 41.1 (674)
Max. Power HP (kW) 23 (17.2) @ 3600 RPM
Governed RPM 3600
Max. Torque lb·ft (N·m) 37.9 (51.4)
Idle RPM 1200
Spark Plug Type Champion®RC12YC
Spark Plug Gap in. (mm) .030 (0.76)
Crankcase Capacity qt (L) 1.7 (1.6)
Crankcase Lubricant API SJ or Higher Grade Oil Only with 10W-30 Viscosity Above 0° F
(-18° C), or 5W-20 or 5W-30 Viscosity Below 32° F (0° C)
Oil Filter Kohler P/N 12 050 01 S
Cooling System Air-Cooled
Fuel Tank Capacity gal (L) 4.7 (17.8)
Fuel Regular Grade Unleaded
Gasoline (87 Octane Minimum, 10% Ethanol Maximum)
Air Cleaner Remote Mounted Donaldson RadialsealTM
(Walker P/N 5090-1 Primary/5090-3 Safety Filter)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Battery 12 Volt, 35AH, 300 CCA
Charging System Flywheel Alternator
Charging Output 15 Amp DC (Regulated)
System Polarity Negative Ground
Ignition Electronic Capacitive Discharge
Starter 12 Volt Electric Ring-Gear Type, Solenoid Shift
Interlock Switches Ignition Lockout by Seat Switch, Transmission Neutral and Blade
Clutch
Circuit Breaker Auto Reset (30A)
TRANSMISSION
Manufacturer/Model Dual Hydrostatic, Eaton Model 7, Each Wheel Independently Driven
Steering Hand Lever Control / Individual Wheel
Forward Speed Control Precision Friction Lock Lever, Cruise Control, with
Neutral-Park Position
Service Brake Dynamic Braking through Hydrostatic Transmission
Parking Brake Mechanical Pin Lock in Transmission Gear
Neutral Transmission Release by Manual Dump Valve
Final Drive Gear Drive Axle

Specications
4
MODEL T23
TRANSMISSION (continued)
Transmission Fluid
Factory Service Mobil 1 Synthetic Motor Oil (15W-50)
Transmission Oil Capacity  oz (L) 19 (0.56)
Transmission Cooling Cooling Fan Mounted on Drive Pulley
Ground Travel Speed
Forward MPH (km/h)
Reverse MPH (km/h)
0-7 (0-11) Innitely Variable
0-5 (0-8) Innitely Variable
BLADE DRIVE
PTO Shaft Quick Disconnect Splined Shaft with Two (2) High-Speed U-Joints
Blade Drive Clutch and Brake Manual Belt Tightener Clutch and Band Brake
[Stops Blades within Five (5) Seconds of Disengagement]
TIRE SIZE
Deck Caster 8 x 3.00-4 Semi-Pneumatic (Standard)
8 x 3.00-4 Pneumatic 4-Ply (Optional)
11 x 4.00-5 (Pneumatic 4-Ply, DS52, DS62, DS74 Only)
Drive 18 x 9.50-8 (Pneumatic 4-Ply, Standard)
18 x 10.50-10 (Pneumatic 4-Ply, Optional Low-Prole)
Tailwheel 13 x 5.00-6 (Pneumatic 4-Ply, Standard Dual)
13 x 8.00-6 (Pneumatic 4-Ply, Optional Single)
TIRE PRESSURE PSI (KPA)
Deck Caster Wheel* 20 (137)
Drive 15 (103)
Tailwheel 20 (137)
*If equipped with optional pneumatic tires
DRIVE BELTS
Engine PTO Walker P/N 8230
Jackshaft Drive Walker P/N 6250-1
Ground Drive, Micro-V Walker P/N 7248
Blower (GHS Model) Walker P/N 7234-2
SEAT Contour-Molded, with Nylon Backed Vinyl Cover and
Integral Foam Cushion
FRAME/BODY CONSTRUCTION
Frame All Welded Unitized Steel Chassis
Body 14 Gauge Steel
Deck 11 Gauge Steel
GHS Catcher and Chutes Molded Cross-Linked Polyethylene (High Impact Material,
UV Stabilized)

Specications
5
MODEL T23
DIMENSIONS (Tractor and Mower)
Length in. (cm)
Tractor Only 64.25 (164)
Tractor Wheel Base 41 (104)
Tractor with Tilted Deck
(Approximate)
77 (196)
Tractor with 48" Collection Deck
(DC48-1)
93 (236)
Width in. (cm)
Tractor Only (Outside Tire) 39 (99)
Tractor with 48" Collection Deck
(DC48-1)
49.25 (125)
Tread Width 30 (77)
Height in. (cm)
Tractor 50 (127)
Weight lb (kg)
Tractor Only 790 (358)
Tractor with 48" Collection Deck
(DC48-1)
1009 (458)
GHS SYSTEM (Optional)
Blower 10.5 in. Diameter, Three-Blade Paddle Wheel
Blower Brake Band Brake [Works in Combination with PTO Clutch, Stops
Blower within Five (5) Seconds of PTO Disengagement]
Max. Blower RPM 4000
Hi-Dump Option
Max. Lift Capacity lb (kg)
200 (91)
Grass Catcher Capacity
gal / bu / L
93 / 10 / 352
Full Signal (Grass-Pak®Switch) Oscillating Vane Switch Mounted on Grass Delivery Spout Triggers
Horn Signal
Powerl ®Oscillating Delivery Spout Driven by 12 Volt Electric Gearmotor
Spreads Material throughout Interior of Catcher @ 35 Cycles/Min
MOWER DECK
Recommended Cut Width
Collection 42 to 52 in. (107 to 132 cm)
Side Discharge 42 to 74 in. (107 to 188 cm)
Mulch 42 to 52 in. (107 to 132 cm)
Cutting Height 1.5 to 4 in. (4 to 10 cm) or
1.5 to 4.5 in. (4 to 11.5 cm) (DS52 & DS62 Belt Driven Decks Only)
Deck Suspension Independent Torsion-Flex Frame with Caster Wheels and
Counterweight Springs
NOTE: The manufacturer reserves the right to make changes in specications shown herein at any time
without notice or obligation. The specications listed are for a standard conguration tractor, and may
change with the addition of optional equipment.

Component Identication
6
Front View and Right Side View
NOTE: Control Identication
shown in Operating
Instructions section.
Anti-Scuff
Roller
Grass Handling System
10.0 Bushel Catcher
Deck
Caster Wheel
Turbine
Precleaner
Tilt-Up
Latch
Counterweight Spring
and Protective Cover
Spring Clip
Deck Support Pins
and Height Adjustment
Hitch Pins
Catcher Lift /
Dump Handle
Deck Lift Handle
(Cutting Height Adjustment)
Fuel Tank
and Cap
Footrests
Transmission Control Rod
Adjustment Nuts
Tilt-Up
Deck Handle
Deck Support
Arms
Tilt-Up Hook
(Not Visible)

Component Identication
7
Rear View and Left Side View
Anti-Scuff
Roller
Catcher
Door
Left Hand
Drive Wheel
Removable Grass
Catcher Screen
(Not Visible)
Oil Drain Plug
Instrument Panel
Guard
Instrument Panel Box
(Shock Mounted) Dump
Plate
Mufer
Tailwheel Fork
and Wheels
Catcher Air
Exhaust
Catcher
Door Handle
Fuel Filter
(Not Visible)
Oil
Filter
Tailpipe
Catcher Door
Gas Spring
(Not Visible)
Catcher Lift /
Dump Handle
Gas Spring
Cover

Component Identication
8
Top View (Engine Compartment)
Fuel Tank
Turbine
Precleaner
Mufer Heat
Shield
Air Cleaner
Cover
Donaldson
Air Cleaner
Air Filter
Restriction Gauge
Negative (-)
Battery Cable
Battery
GHS Blower
Rubber Bumper
(Catcher Support)
Oil Dipstick / Oil Fill
Fuel Filter
RH Hydrostatic
Transmission
LH Hydrostatic
Transmission
20 Amp Fuse
(Starter Solenoid)
Fuel Pump
Air Intake
Plenum
Exhaust Grass
Shield
Voltage Regulator /
Rectier
Fuel Pickup
Line
Precleaner
Tube
Jackshaft
PTO Gearbox
Dipstick
RH Transmission
Lockout Lever
30 Amp
Circuit Breaker
LH Transmission
Lockout Lever
Throttle and
Choke Linkage
Roll Over Valve
Fuel Gauge
Air Intake Hose
EVAP Line
Mufer
Neutral Safety
Switch
PTO
Clutch Lever
Positive (+)
Battery Cable
RH Steering Lever
Spring / Dampener
LH Steering Lever
Spring / Dampener

Safety Instructions - Before Operating
9
Pay particular attention to any information labeled
DANGER, WARNING, CAUTION, IMPORTANT,
and NOTE in this manual.
When you see the Safety Alert Symbol ( ), read,
understand, and follow the instructions. Failure to
comply with safety instructions may result in per-
sonal injury.
The seriousness or degree of importance of each
type of information is dened as follows:
DANGER
An IMMEDIATE hazard that WILL result in
severe personal injury or DEATH, if warn-
ing is ignored and proper safety precau-
tions are not taken.
WARNING
A POTENTIAL hazard that COULD result in
severe personal injury or DEATH, if warn-
ing is ignored and proper safety precau-
tions are not taken.
CAUTION
Possible hazards or unsafe practices that
MAY result in MODERATE personal injury
or property damage, or machine damage, if
warning is ignored and proper safety pre-
cautions are not taken.
IMPORTANT: Identies mechanical information
demanding special attention, since it deals with the
possibility of damaging a part or parts of the ma-
chine.
NOTE: Identies information worthy of special
attention.
Walker Manufacturing cannot predict every poten-
tially dangerous situation. Therefore, items labeled
as such in this manual do not cover all conceivable
situations. Any person using procedures, tools, or
control techniques not recommended by Walker
Manufacturing must take full responsibility for safety.
The Walker Rider Lawnmower has been designed
with many safety features to protect the operator
from personal harm or injury. However, it is neces-
sary for the operator to use safe operating proce-
dures at all times. Failure to follow safety instruc-
tions contained in this manual may result in
personal injury or damage to equipment or prop-
erty.
If you have any questions concerning setup, opera-
tion, maintenance, or safety, please contact your
authorized Walker Mower Dealer or call Walker
Manufacturing Company at [phone].
BEFORE OPERATING
1. Read and understand the contents of this
Operator’s Manual before starting and oper-
ating the machine. Become thoroughly famil-
iar with all machine controls and how to stop the
machine and disengage the controls quickly.
Replacement Operator’s Manuals are available
by sending the Model and Serial Number to:
Walker Manufacturing Company
5925 East Harmony Road
Fort Collins, CO 80528
2. Never allow children to operate rider mower.
Do not allow adults to operate without proper
instruction.
3. Clear the area to be mowed of any foreign
objects which may be picked up and thrown by
cutter blades. Pick up all sticks, stones, wire,
and any other debris.
4. Keep everyone, especially children and pets, a
safe distance away from the area being mowed.
Do not mow with bystanders in the area.
5. Do not operate the machine barefoot or wearing
sandals, sneakers, tennis shoes, or similar
lightweight footwear. Wear substantial pro-
tective footwear.

Safety Instructions - Before Operating
10
6. Do not wear loose tting clothing that could get
caught in moving parts. Do not operate this ma-
chine while wearing shorts; always wear ade-
quate protective clothing, including long
pants. Wearing safety glasses, safety shoes,
and a helmet is advisable and required by some
local ordinances and insurance regulations.
7. Prolonged exposure to loud noise can cause
impairment or loss of hearing. Operator hear-
ing protection is recommended; particularly
for continuous operation of the GHS Model due
to blower noise level. Wear a suitable hearing
protective device, such as earmuffs or earplugs.
8. Keep all protective shields and safety de-
vices in place. If a protective shield, safety
device, or decal is damaged, unusable, or miss-
ing, repair or replace it before operating the
machine.
9. Be sure interlock switches are functioning
correctly, so the engine cannot be started un-
less the Forward Speed Control lever is in the
NEUTRAL-PARK position, and the PTO clutch
is in the DISENGAGED position. Also, the en-
gine should stop if the operator lifts off the seat
with either the Forward Speed Control (FSC)
out of the NEUTRAL-PARK position or the PTO
clutch in the ENGAGED position.
NOTE: There is a 1/2 second time delay func-
tion on the seat switch to avoid engine power
interruption when driving over bumps.
10. Handle gasoline with care. Gasoline is highly
ammable and its vapors are explosive:
a. Use an approved fuel container.
b. Never add fuel to a running engine or hot
engine (allow hot engine to cool several
minutes).
c. Keep matches, cigarettes, cigars, pipes,
open ames, or sparks away from the fuel
tank and fuel container.
d. Always ll the fuel tank outdoors using
care. Fill to about one inch from the top of
the tank. Use a funnel or spout to prevent
spilling.
e. Replace the machine fuel cap and container
cap securely and clean up any spilled fuel
before starting the engine.
11. Never attempt to make any adjustments
while the engine is running, except where
specically instructed to do so.
12. The electrical system battery contains sulfuric
acid. Avoid any contact with skin, eyes, and
clothing. Keep the battery and acid out of reach
of children.
WARNING
This product can expose you to
chemicals including Phenylethane which
is known to the State of California to
cause cancer, and N-Methyl-2-Pyrrolidone,
which is known to the State of California
to cause birth defects or other reproductive
harm. For more information go to www.
P65Warnings.ca.gov.

Safety Instructions - Operating
11
1. Operate the mower only in daylight or in
good articial light with good visibility of the area
being mowed.
2. Sit on the seat when starting the engine and
operating the machine. Keep feet on the deck
footrests at all times when the tractor is moving
and/or mower blades are operating. Never op-
erate the tractor without a deck or imple-
ment installed.
3. For a beginning operator, learn to steer (ma-
neuver) the tractor with a slow engine speed
before attempting any mowing operation.
Be aware that, with the front mounted mower
conguration, the back of the tractor swings to
the outside during turns.
DANGER
Do not mow around overhanging tree
branches or bushes at the same height as
the operator’s torso and head where inad-
vertent contact may cause injury.
4. Remember, for an emergency stop, the forward
motion of the tractor can always be stopped by
pulling the Forward Speed Control (FSC) into
the NEUTRAL-PARK position.
5. In case either of the transmission drive belts
break during operation, and if the machine is on
a slope, the machine will freewheel down the
slope. To maintain control, immediately (1)
Release the steering levers and simultaneously
(2) Move the FSC to the NEUTRAL-PARK posi-
tion. When the machine is stopped or moving
slowly, engage the parking brake.
NOTE: The emergency stop procedure is ex-
actly the same procedure as used to normally
stop and park this machine.
6. Disengage the blade clutch and put the FSC in
the NEUTRAL-PARK position before starting
the engine (an ignition interlock switch normally
prevents starting of the machine if these con-
trols are in the OPERATING position).
7. Do not operate machine if the operator pres-
ence safety switch system is not working.
Verify proper operation by having the operator
lift off the seat with the engine running and mov-
ing two controls, one at a time; (1) Move the
FSC lever out of the NEUTRAL-PARK position,
and (2) Engage the PTO Clutch. Moving either
control should stop the engine after a 1/2 sec-
ond delay.
8. Do not run the engine in a conned area
without adequate ventilation. Exhaust fumes
are hazardous and can be deadly.
9. Do not carry passengers - maximum seating
capacity is one (1) person.
10. Watch for holes, rocks, and roots in the terrain
and for other hidden hazards. When mowing
tall grass, mow higher than desired to expose
any hidden obstacles. Then, clean the area and
mow to the desired height.
11. Avoid sudden starts or stops. Before back-
ing the machine up, look to the rear to be sure
no one is behind the machine. Watch carefully
for trafc when crossing or working near road-
ways.
12. When moving forward, do not suddenly put the
tractor in reverse by rapidly pulling on the steer-
ing levers, especially when going downhill, as
this can lift the tractor tail wheel off the ground
and set up a bucking motion due to operator
overcontrol. If bucking does occur, immediately
stop the bucking action by pulling the Forward
Speed Control (FSC) lever into the NEUTRAL-
PARK position.
13. Disengage the blade drive when transporting
the machine across drives, sidewalks, etc. Nev-
er raise the mower deck while blades are
rotating.
DANGER
Do not mow or dump grass within 5 feet
(1.5 meters) of an embankment or retaining
wall with drop off.

Safety Instructions - Operating
12
14. The maximum recommended slope operat-
ing angle is 15 degrees or 26% grade. When
operating the machine on a slope, reduce speed
and use caution to start, stop, and maneuver.
To prevent tipping or loss of control of the ma-
chine, avoid sharp turns or sudden changes in
direction. Do not operate the machine on a
slope greater than 15 degrees.
15. Never adjust cutting height with the engine
running. Before adjusting cutting height or
servicing, disengage the blade clutch (PTO),
stop the engine, and remove the ignition key.
Wait for all movement to stop before getting off
the seat.
NOTE: A blade/blower brake should normally
stop drive line rotation within ve (5) seconds of
disengaging the PTO clutch.
16. For side discharge mower decks, do not oper-
ate with the grass deector shield removed.
Keep the deector in the lowest possible posi-
tion.
17. When using the tilt-up deck, observe the fol-
lowing:
a. Do not move tractor with deck in tilt-up
position.
b. Never tilt body forward with deck in tilt-up
position.
18. For GHS equipped models, do not operate the
machine with the grass catcher in the DUMP
position or with the back door OPEN. Dan-
gerous projectiles may be thrown out of the dis-
charge chute or the back of the grass catcher.
19. For GHS equipped models, use care when
closing the grass catcher door. Keep ngers
and hands away from the hinge and pinch
points when the door is being closed. Also,
keep ngers and hands clear of the door frame.
The door may slam shut with considerable
force.
20. In case of a clogged or plugged mower deck
or GHS catching system:
a. Disengage the blade clutch (PTO), engage
the parking brake, and turn the engine off
before leaving the seat.
b. LOOK to make sure blade drive shaft and
blower drive pulley movement has stopped
before trying to unclog the system.
c. Disconnect the spark plug wires.
d. Never place hands under the deck or in the
GHS blower - use a stick or similar tool to
remove clogged material.
21. If the cutting blades strike a solid object or the
machine begins to vibrate abnormally, immedi-
ately disengage the blade clutch (PTO), stop
the engine, and wait for all moving parts to
stop. To prevent accidental starting, discon-
nect the spark plug wires. Thoroughly inspect
the mower and repair any damage before re-
starting the engine and operating the mower.
Make sure cutter blades are in good condition
and blade nuts are torqued to 60 lb·ft (81 N·m)
for gear driven decks, and blade bolts torqued
to 70 lb·ft (95 N·m) for belt driven decks.
22. Do not touch the engine or mufer while the
engine is running or immediately after stop-
ping the engine. These areas may be hot
enough to cause serious burns.
23. When leaving the machine unattended, disen-
gage the blade clutch (PTO), stop the en-
gine, and remove the key.
CAUTION
Use leg muscles and rm footing when lift-
ing the catcher to dump; avoid bending at
the waist and using back muscles in order
to prevent back injury.

Safety Instructions - Maintenance
13
1. To prevent accidental starting of the engine
when servicing or adjusting the machine, re-
move the key from the ignition switch and dis-
connect the spark plug wires.
2. To reduce re hazards, keep the engine free
of grass, leaves, excessive grease, and dirt.
3. Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to ensure
the machine is in a safe, working condition.
Check the blade mounting nuts frequently, mak-
ing sure they are tight.
4. Perform only maintenance instructions de-
scribed in this manual. Unauthorized mainte-
nance operations or machine modications
may result in unsafe operating conditions.
5. If the engine must be running to perform a main-
tenance adjustment, keep hands, feet, and
clothing away from moving parts. Do not wear
jewelry or loose clothing.
6. Always use the proper engine service
manual when working on the engine.
Unauthorized maintenance operations or
modications to the engine may result in unsafe
operating conditions.
7. Altering the equipment or engine in any manner
which adversely affects its operation, perfor-
mance, durability, or use will VOID the war-
ranty and may cause hazardous conditions.
8. Never attempt to disconnect any safety devices
or defeat the purpose of these safety devices.
9. Do not change the engine governor settings or
overspeed the engine. The governor has been
factory-set for maximum-safe engine operating
speed.
10. Use genuine factory replacement parts.
Substitute parts may result in product malfunc-
tion and possible injury to the operator and/or
others.
11. Use care when charging the battery or per-
forming maintenance on the battery and electri-
cal system:
a. Make sure the battery charger is unplugged
before connecting or disconnecting cables
to the battery.
b. Charge the battery in a well-ventilated
space, so gases produced while charging
can dissipate. Make sure the battery vents
in the caps are open.
c. Keep sparks, ames, and smoking materi-
als away from the battery at all times. To
avoid sparks, use care when removing bat-
tery cables from posts.
d. Disconnect both battery cables before un-
plugging any wiring connectors or making
repairs on the electrical system.
IMPORTANT: Keep all applicable manuals im-
mediately accessible to anyone who may oper-
ate or service this machine.

Safety Instructions
14
SAFETY, CONTROL, AND INSTRUCTION DECALS
Safety, Control, and Instruction Decals are installed on the machine;
if any are missing, illegible, or damaged, a replacement should be ordered and installed before
putting the machine into operation. The Decal Part Number is listed below and in the Parts Manual.
1. Warning – read Operator’s Manual before servic-
ing or performing maintenance.
●Engage parking brake.
●Remove ignition key.
2. Forward Speed Control
●Move lever forward to increase speed; back
to stop.
3. Warning – do not operate the machine without a
deck or other implement attached.
4. PTO Clutch Lever
●Move lever forward to disengage PTO
clutch; back to engage.
5. Warning – do not engage PTO clutch with PTO
shaft disconnected.
Location: RH Fender
Part Number: 8600-33
Location: Adjacent to Blower Discharge
Chute through Body
Part Number: 8600-4
1. Warning - rotating impeller is a cutting/dismem-
berment hazard to ngers and hands.
●Never reach down into the blower discharge
chute.
2. Warning - thrown object hazard.
●Never engage the PTO with grass catcher
raised.
8600-4
1.
2.
Location: Engine Shroud
Part Number: 5855
8600-16
1.
Location: Rear Cross Member of Front Body
Part Number: 8600-16
1. Important - Lower front body before lowering
catcher box.
Location: Rear of Grass Catcher Exhaust Screen
Part Number: 5869
1. 2.
2.
3.
1.
4.
5.

Safety Instructions
15
Location: Jackshaft Support Adjacent
to Dipstick
Part Number: 7827
SAFETY, CONTROL, AND INSTRUCTION DECALS
Safety, Control, and Instruction Decals are installed on the machine;
if any are missing, illegible, or damaged, a replacement should be ordered and installed before
putting the machine into operation. The Decal Part Number is listed below and in the Parts Manual.
Location: Deck Carrier Frame
Part Number: 8600-14
8600-14
1.
1. Warning – do not operate the machine with the
deck tilted up.
1. Warning – thrown object hazard.
●Keep bystanders away from the machine
when operating.
●Clear lawn of debris before operating.
● Keep any discharge deector in place and in
the lowest position.
2. Warning – rotating mower blades are a cutting/
dismemberment hazard to hands and feet.
●Keep all body parts away from rotating mow-
er blades.
●Do not step on end of deck.
Location: Deck Carrier Frame
Part Number: 8600-15
1.
1. Warning – lock deck tilt-up hinge before operat-
ing the machine.
Location: Deck Discharge Shield
(SD Decks Only)
Part Number: 5848-3
1. Warning – thrown object hazard.
●Always keep the discharge shield in the low-
est position when operating.
●Do not remove the discharge shield.
Location: Each End of Mower Deck
Part Number: 8600-28
8600-28
1.
2.
Location: Precleaner Tube
Part Number: 5082-5
Location: Gear Axle
Part Number: 5810-1
Location: Deck Gearbox Cover
Part Number: 8600-39
1. Warning - stop engine and remove ignition key
before adjusting deck cutting height.
1.
1.

Safety Instructions
16
SAFETY, CONTROL, AND INSTRUCTION DECALS
Safety, Control, and Instruction Decals are installed on the machine;
if any are missing, illegible, or damaged, a replacement should be ordered and installed before
putting the machine into operation. The Decal Part Number is listed below and in the Parts Manual.
Location: Right Side, Behind Operator Seat
Part Number: 8600-23
1. Warning – entanglement hazard.
●Remove ignition key before raising front
body.
2. Body Tilt Latch
●Raise lever to release.
●Lift at back of body to raise.
1.
1. Caution - Pinch point.
• Keep all body parts clear when closing grass
catcher door.
Location: Catcher Door Hinge Bar,
LH and RH Sides
Part Number: 8600-10
Location: Hydrostat Oil Reservoir
Location: LH Gear Axle
Part Number: 5810-3
Location: Front Body, RH Side Adjacent to
Operator Seat
Part Number: 8600-30
1. Parking Brake
● Move lever forward to engage Parking Brake;
back to disengage.
1.
Location: Front Body, LH Side Adjacent to
Operator Seat
Part Number: 8600-31
1. Throttle
●Move lever forward to increase engine
speed; back to idle.
1.
Location: Front Body, LH Side Adjacent to
Operator Seat
Part Number: 8600-32
1. Choke
1.
8600-23
1.
2.