Walker T27i 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: 124812
Eective Date: 10.02.13
P/N 8000-21

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 satisfied 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 specific 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 clarification 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.
Specifications 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 specifications listed.
Walker Mfg. Co. is continually striving to improve the design and performance of its products. We
reserve the right to make changes in specifications 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 ENGINEAND
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 DeckAssembly_________________ 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_______________________ 24
PREOPERATING CHECKLIST_____________ 25
Operating Instructions _____________ 27
CONTROL IDENTIFICATION,
LOCATION,AND FUNCTION _____________ 27
Operating Controls____________________ 27
Engine Choke_______________________ 27
Engine Throttle ______________________ 28
Forward Speed Control (FSC) __________ 28
Steering Levers______________________ 28
Blade Clutch (PTO)___________________ 28
Front Body Latch Release______________ 28
Parking Brake_______________________ 30
Transmission Lockout Levers ___________ 30
Instrument Panel _____________________ 31
Hourmeter__________________________ 32
Voltmeter __________________________ 32
Oil Pressure Warning Light_____________ 32
Over Temperature Warning Light ________ 32
Ignition Switch_______________________ 33
Light Switch (For Optional Lights)________ 33
Warning Horn _______________________ 33
Circuit Breaker ______________________ 33
STARTING THE ENGINE _________________ 33
ADJUSTING GROUND
SPEEDAND STEERING__________________ 34
ENGAGING THE BLADE DRIVE ___________ 36
STOPPING THE MACHINE _______________ 38
ADJUSTING CUTTING HEIGHT____________ 39
TRANSMISSION LOCKOUT ______________ 39
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR MOWING ______ 40
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR TILT-UP DECK
OPERATION/TRANSPORT _______________ 42
GRASS HANDLING SYSTEM (GHS) ________ 43
General Information ___________________ 44
Clogging Checklist____________________ 45
Using the Tilt-Up Deck _________________ 46
Using the GHS Catcher ________________ 46
Powerl ®__________________________ 46
“Full” Signal Horn ____________________ 46
Cleaning the GHS Exhaust Screen _______ 47
Dumping the Catcher __________________ 47
Tailgate Dumping ____________________ 47
Using the Dump Bag__________________ 48
Power Dump Option __________________ 49
Hi-Dump®Option ____________________ 50

Table of Contents
Maintenance Instructions __________ 53
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE CHART _______ 53
IMPORTANT TIPS FOR CARE
OF THE KOHLER ENGINE________________ 54
Fuel System _________________________ 54
Starting/Stopping_____________________ 54
Cooling System ______________________ 54
Air Cleaner System____________________ 54
Oil__________________________________ 54
LUBRICATION _________________________ 55
Engine Oil ___________________________ 55
Engine Break-In Oil___________________ 55
Checking Engine Crankcase Oil Level ____ 55
Changing Engine Crankcase Oil/Oil Filter__ 56
Mower Deck Gearbox Lubrication________ 57
DS52 or DS62 Mower Deck Lubrication ___ 58
Mower Deck Spindle Lubrication ________ 58
Tractor PTO Gearbox Lubrication________ 58
Checking Gearbox Oil Level ____________ 58
Changing Gearbox Oil ________________ 58
Hydrostatic Transmission Fluid _________ 59
Checking Hydrostatic
Transmission Fluid Level ______________ 59
GearAxle Lubrication _________________ 59
Grease Fitting and Oil Point Lubrication __ 59
CLEANING ____________________________ 62
EngineAir Cleaner System _____________ 62
Turbine Precleaner ___________________ 62
Donaldson Radialseal™Air Cleaner______ 63
Engine Cooling System ________________ 65
CoolingAir Intake System______________ 65
Cylinder Head Cooling Fins ____________ 65
Grass Buildup in Mower Deck Housing ___ 65
GHS Blower__________________________ 66
GHS Exhaust Screen __________________ 67
Hydrostatic Transmission Cooling Fins___ 67
CHECKING/SERVICING__________________ 68
Security ofAir Filtration Components ____ 68
Battery______________________________ 68
Electrolyte Level _____________________ 68
Cleaning the Terminals ________________ 68
Charging the Battery__________________ 68
Tire Pressure_________________________ 69
Wheel Bolt Torque ____________________ 69
Sharpen Mower Blades ________________ 69
Drive Belts___________________________ 70
Mower Deck Gearbox Oil Seals __________ 70
Spark Plugs__________________________ 70
Ignition Wires ________________________ 70
Fuel Lines and Clamps_________________ 70
Engine Starter________________________ 70
Blade BrakeAction____________________ 71
PTO U-Joints ________________________ 71
Safety Switch System__________________ 71
Forward Speed Control Friction Lock_____ 71
REPLACING/REPAIRING_________________ 72
Drive Belts___________________________ 72
Engine PTO Drive Belt ________________ 73
Jackshaft Drive Belt __________________ 74
GHS Blower Drive Belt ________________ 75
Hydrostatic Ground Drive Belt___________ 76
Fuel Filter ___________________________ 77
Blade Overload Shear Bolts_____________ 78
Shear Pin (If Equipped) ________________ 78
Mower Blades ________________________ 79
ADJUSTMENTS ________________________ 80
Steering Handles _____________________ 80
Tilt-Up DeckAdjustable Stop____________ 80
GHS “Full” Signal HornAdjustment ______ 81
Operator’s Notes _______________ 82
Warranty _____________________ 83

General Information
1
HIGHLIGHTED INFORMATION
Walker Manufacturingrecommends thatany 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 specific
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 definitions 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 isthe prime mover,includingtheen-
gine, 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 affixed to the trac-
tor body just below the left rear corner of the seat.
The mower deck serial number plate is affixed
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.
Fill In By Purchaser
Tractor Model No. ______________________
Tractor Serial No. ______________________
Deck Serial No. ______________________
Engine Model No. ______________________
Engine Serial No. ______________________
Date of Purchase ______________________

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 ENGINEAND 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 find 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 difficulty finding 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 fl 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) Infinitely Variable 0-5 (0-8) Infinitely 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 (Pneumatic 4-Ply, All Decks Except DS52, DS62, DS74)
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-Profile)
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)

Specications
5
MODEL T23
DIMENSIONS (Tractor and Mower)
Length in. (cm)
Tractor Only 64.5 (164)
Tractor Wheel Base 42.25 (107.5)
Tractor with Tilted Deck
(Approximate) 77 (195.5)
Tractor with 48" Collection Deck
(DC48-1) 93 (236)
Width in. (cm)
Tractor Only (Outside Tire) 39.25 (100)
Tractor with 48" Collection Deck
(DC48-1) 49.25 (125)
Height in. (cm)
Tractor 49 (124.5)
Weight lb (kg)
Tractor Only 786 (357)
Tractor with 48" Collection Deck
(DC48-1) 984 (446)
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
Powerfil ®Oscillating Delivery Spout Driven by 12 Volt Electric Gearmotor
Spreads Material throughout Interior of Catcher @ 35 Cycles/Min

Specications
6
MODEL T23
MOWER DECK
Recommended Cut Width
Collection 36 to 52 in. (91 to 132 cm)
Side Discharge 36 to 74 in. (91 to 188 cm)
Mulch 36 to 48 in. (91 to 122 cm)
Cutting Height 1 to 4 in. (2.5 to 10 cm) or 1.5 to 4.5 in. (4 to 11.5 cm)
(DS52 and DS62 Belt Driven SD Decks Only)
Deck Suspension Independent Torsion-Flex Frame with Caster Wheels and
Counterweight Springs
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 (UV Stabilized)
NOTE: The manufacturer reserves the right to make changes in specifications shown herein at any time
without notice or obligation. The specifications listed are for a standard configuration tractor, and may
change with the addition of optional equipment.

Component Identication
7
Front View and Right Side View
NOTE: Control Identification
shown in Operating
Instructions section.
Anti-Scuff
Roller
Grass Handling System
10.0 Bushel Catcher
Deck
Caster Wheels
Turbine
Precleaner
Tilt-Up
Latch
Counterweight Spring
and Protective Cover
Spring Clip
Deck Support Pins
and HeightAdjustment
Hitch Pins
Transmission Control Rod
Adjustment Nuts
Catcher Lift /
Dump Handle
FuelTank
and Cap
Deck Lift Handle
(Cutting HeightAdjustment)
Tilt-Up Hook
(Not Visible)
Tilt-Up
Deck Handle
Footrests
Deck Support
Arms

Component Identication
8
Rear View and Left Side View
Anti-Scuff
Roller
Catcher
Door
Left Hand
Drive Wheel
Removable Grass
Catcher Screen
(Not Visible)
Oil Drain Plug
(Not Visible)
Instrument Panel
Guard
Instrument Panel Box
(Shock Mounted) Dump
Plate
Oil
Filter
Muffler Tailpipe
Tailwheel Fork
and Wheels
Catcher Lift /
Dump Handle
Catcher Door
Gas Spring
(Not Visible)
CatcherAir
Exhaust
Catcher
Door Handle
Fuel Filter
(Not Visible)

Component Identication
9
Top View (Engine Compartment)
FuelTank
Turbine
Precleaner
Muffler Heat
Shield
Air Cleaner
Cover
Donaldson
Air Cleaner
Air Filter
Restriction Gauge
PTO
Clutch Lever
Positive (+)
Battery Cable
Negative (-)
Battery Cable Battery
Muffler
GHS Blower
Rubber Bumper
(Catcher Support)
Oil Dipstick / Oil Fill
Fuel Filter
RH Hydrostatic
Transmission
LH Hydrostatic
Transmission
20Amp Fuse
(Starter Solenoid)
Fuel Pump Air Intake
Plenum
Exhaust Grass
Shield
Voltage Regulator /
Rectifier
Fuel Pickup
Line
Precleaner
Tube
Jackshaft
PTO Gearbox
Dipstick
RHTransmission
Lockout Lever
30Amp
Circuit Breaker
LHTransmission
Lockout Lever
Throttle and
Choke Linkage
Neutral Safety
Switch
Roll Over Valve
Fuel Gauge
Air Intake Hose
EVAPLine

Safety Instructions - Before Operating
10
Pay particular attention to any information labeled
DANGER, WARNING, CAUTION, IMPORTANT,
and NOTE in this manual.
Whenyouseethe SafetyAlertSymbol ( ), read,
understand, and follow the instructions. Failure to
comply with safety instructions may result in person-
al injury.
The seriousness or degree of importance of each
type of information is defined 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: Identifies mechanical information
demanding special attention, since it deals with the
possibility of damaging a part or parts of the ma-
chine.
NOTE: Identifies information worthy of special at-
tention.
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
Manufacturingmusttakefullresponsibilityforsafety.
The Walker Rider Lawnmower has been designed
withmanysafetyfeaturestoprotecttheoperatorfrom
personal harm or injury. However, it is necessary for
the operator to use safe operating procedures at all
times. Failure to follow safety instructions con-
tained in this manual may result in personal in-
jury or damage to equipment or property.
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
safedistanceaway from theareabeing mowed.
Do not mow with bystanders in the area.
5. Donotoperate themachinebarefootor wearing
sandals, sneakers, tennis shoes, or similar
lightweight footwear. Wear substantial pro-
tective footwear.

Safety Instructions - Before Operating
11
6. Do not wear loose fitting clothing that could get
caughtinmovingparts. Do not operate thisma-
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
protectivedevice,suchasearmuffsorearplugs.
8. Keep all protective shields and safety de-
vices in place. If a protective shield, safety
device,ordecalisdamaged,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)
outoftheNEUTRAL-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
flammable and its vapors are explosive:
a. Use an approved fuel container.
b. Never add fuel to a running engine or hot
engine(allowhotenginetocoolseveralmin-
utes).
c. Keep matches, cigarettes, cigars, pipes,
open flames, or sparks away from the fuel
tank and fuel container.
d. Alwaysfillthefueltankoutdoorsusingcare.
Filltoaboutoneinchfromthetopofthetank.
Use a funnel or spout to prevent spilling.
e. Replacethemachinefuelcapandcontainer
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
specifically 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
The engine exhaust from this product
contains chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer, birth defects
or other reproductive harm.

Safety Instructions - Operating
12
1. Operate the mower only in daylight or in
goodartificiallight withgoodvisibilityofthearea
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
configuration, 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. If either of the transmission drive belts break
during slope operation, the machine will free-
wheel down the slope. To maintain control,
immediately(1)Release thesteeringlevers and
simultaneously (2) Move the FSC to the NEU-
TRAL-PARK position. 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
anyhiddenobstacles. Then, cleanthearea 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 traffic 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
13
14. The maximum recommended slope operat-
ing angle is 15 degrees or 26% grade. When
operatingthemachineonaslope,reducespeed
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 five (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 deflector 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 fingers
and hands away from the hinge and pinch
points when the door is being closed. Also,
keep fingers 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) 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, disconnect
the spark plug wires. Thoroughly inspect the
mowerandrepairanydamage before restarting
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 (90 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
14
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.
Checktheblade mounting nutsfrequently, mak-
ing sure they are tight.
4. Perform only maintenance instructions de-
scribed in this manual. Unauthorized mainte-
nance operations or machine modifications
may result in unsafe operating conditions.
5. Iftheengine mustberunningto performamain-
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
modifications 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. Makesure thebatterychargerisunplugged
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, flames, 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
15
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–readOperator’sManualbeforeservic-
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 notoperatethemachinewithouta
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 fingers and hands.
• Neverreachdown intotheblowerdischarge
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
16
Location: Jackshaft SupportAdjacent
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.
• Keepanydischargedeflectorinplaceandin
the lowest position.
2. Warning – rotating mower blades are a cutting/
dismemberment hazard to hands and feet.
• Keepallbodypartsawayfromrotatingmow-
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.
5848-2
1.
Location: Deck Discharge Shield
(SD Decks Only)
Part Number: 5848-2
1. Warning – thrown object hazard.
• Alwayskeepthedischargeshield inthelow-
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: GearAxle
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.