Wright Velke V-TURN User manual

V-TURN
Commercial Mower Owner’s Manual
WARNING: READ THIS MANUAL BEFORE USING
For your safety and for proper operation and maintenance read
carefully and keep readily available for future reference.
Additional replacement owner’s manuals as well as illustrated parts lists are
available from your authorized Wright Dealer for a nominal charge. Also check
www.wrightmfg.com for the most up to date product literature. Please note the
model number and serial number of your Wright product.
For reference please note the following information at the time of purchase:
SERIAL #: ______________________________
MODEL #: ______________________________
DATE OF PURCHASE: ____________________
WRIGHT MANUFACTURING, INC.
4600X WEDGEWOOD BLVD
FREDERICK, MD 21703

Foreword
Welcome to the progressive group of mowing professionals who use Wright mowers. We are focused
on giving you advanced engineering and quality construction in each mower we build.
This manual explains the features and promotes safer use of the mower. Please read it and follow the
instructions carefully so you can have many years of productive mowing.
For service, remember that your Wright dealer knows your mower best and is interested in your
satisfaction. He can provide you with quality maintenance and other assistance you may need.
Please give this manual to anyone who may use the mower for them to study before they operate it.
Give the manual to anyone to whom you may sell the mower in the future. It is important for the next
owner to receive this information also.
As Wright Manufacturing, Inc. is constantly seeking ways to improve its products, the mower you have
may differ slightly from the information and specifications in this manual. Because of our continuous
product improvement, Wright reserves the option to make changes at any time without notice.
Wright Manufacturing, Inc.
SAFETY ALERT
This is the safety alert symbol. It is used throughout this manual and on the mower’s
safety labels to alert you to potential personal injury hazards. Obey all safety messages
that follow this symbol to avoid possible injury or death. Read these instructions
carefully. It is essential that you read the instructions and safety precautions before you
attempt to work on or use this unit.
WARNING
This symbol with the word “WARNING” indicates a potentially hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION
This symbol with the word “CAUTION” indicates a potentially hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.

©2002 Wright Manufacturing, Inc. All rights re roduced or copied, in whole or part, without
written permission from Wright Manufacturing obbler, Turbo10, Velke, Pro 1, X2 and
Velke Mower are trademarks of Wright Manufacturing, Inc.
served. This material may not be rep
, Inc. Grass Gobbler, Gobbler, Leaf G

Table of Contents
R BY DEALERPRE-DELIVERY SERVICE OF MOWE .........................................................1
SAFETY INSTRUCTION MA
INTRODUCTION............. 3
GENERAL SAFETY INST 3
Owner/User Notice: .........
User Experience and Qualifications: 4
4
pection:....................................................................................4
Initial Operating Safety Guidelines:.........................................................................................5
................................................................................5
.......................................6
....6
Op 7
.....8
8
Ho
......9
..............................................9
Ho he Mower On Varying Terrain........................................................................10
.................................10
g and Neutral Adjustment..........................................................10
Ho 1
Se
...............................11
.....11
..................................................13
...............................14
..........................15
....
NUAL...........................................................................................3
.......................................................................................................
RUCTIONS....................................................................................
.......................................................................................................3
.......................................................................................3
User Clothing:.........................................................................................................................
Inspect Mower Before Each Use:...........................................................................................
Scheduled Mower Maintenance Safety: .................................................................................4
Work Area Conditions and Ins
Operation on Slopes:..............................
Replacement Parts:.........................................................................
Operation in Reverse:.........................................................................................................
eration in Forward Direction:..............................................................................................6
Operation During Zero-Radius Turns:.....................................................................................
Fuel Safety: ............................................................................................................................7
Hydraulic Safety:.....................................................................................................................7
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS..................................................................................................8
Inspect Mower Before Each Use:......................................................................................
How to Start the Mower:.........................................................................................................
w to Drive the Mower: ........................................................................................................8
V-Turn™ Technique............................................................................................................9
Velke Mower Controls – Straight.........................................................................................9
Velke Mower Controls – Right Turn ..............................................................................
Velke Mower Controls – Left Turn.........................................
How to Stop and Park the Mower.........................................................................................10
w To Use T
How to Change the Speed/Sensitivity Adjustment...............................
How to Perform the Trackin
How to Test/Use the Blade Clutch/Brake Switch..................................................................11
w to Test the Operator Presence Control (OPC) Switch..................................................1
rvice and Adjustments......................................................................................................11
Tire Maintenance and Pressure.........................................................
Hydraulic Motor Support Adjustment............................................................................
Blade Adjustment and Height-of-Cut.................................................................................12
Belt Tension Adjustment ...................................................................................................12
How to Move the Mower If the Engine Won’t Start............................................................12
Bleeding Air from the Hydraulic System............................................................................12
Battery Service (if electric start) ........................................................................................13
Cleaning the Mower........................................................
Maintenance Schedule............................................................................
Maintenance Record....................................................................................

PRE-DELIVERY SERVICE OF MOWER BY
DEALER
If you are not completely familiar with the Safety Instructio
Manual read it now before proceeding with the Pre-Delivery
Service of the mower. Only your authorized Wright Mowe
dealer should perform the Pre-Delivery Service of the mower.
right Mower is shipped completely assembled and has been adjusted and tested at the factory.
ver, due to the jostling of the shipping process and the delivery ti
n
r
The W
WARNING
Howe me lapse, the following items
need to be repeated again before starting the mower. After you have uncrated the mower, follow these
procedures in the order indicated:
move spark plug wire from spark plug(s).
pect the mower for a
•Re
d
•Ch on.
e
e
ot
•Ro
•Ins ny damage, unusual conditions or missing parts.
•Inspect the mower for all of its decals, especially the warning decals. There should be one blade
warning decal on each side of the deck, the “shield missing” decal under the blade belt cover, an
the dash decal.
eck to ensure belt guard is in place before operation.
•Check (and fill if necessary) engine oil level according to the engine manufacturer’s recommendati
•Check (and fill if necessary) hydraulic fluid level. The level should be about 2-3” below the top of th
oil fill. Use fully SYNTHETIC oil: Mobil-1 15W-50.
•Check rear tire pressure. 8 to 12 psi. is recommended. It should be even on both sides. Use the
higher pressures for heavier operators. Set the tire pressure in the front caster tires between 35
and 46 psi. Higher pressures will help keep the caster tires on their rims when impacted from th
side but give a stiffer ride. Some Front Casters are equipped with non-pneumatic tires and do n
required any air.
•Remove the blade belt cover and check (and tighten if necessary) all belt tensions according to
specifications further in this manual. DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN.
tate the blade pulleys slightly to see if they all turn together. (Note: Clutch Brake will create some
resistance.)
•Lubricate all moving parts (see Maintenance Items section of this manual).
Replace the blade belt cover.
ove battery (if electric start version) from machine and fully charge (if necessary) in an open, well
ventilated area according to the recommendations of the battery charger manual. The battery is
12 volts. After fully charged, install on mower and attach battery cables, positive first (from starter
motor) and negative last (from ground).
fuel tank with regular unleaded gasoline. Open fuel valve under gas tank.
NOT START THE ENGINE AT THIS TIME. FOLLOW THE NEXT PROCEDURE BEFORE
STARTING. The hydraulic system MUST be checked for proper operation before allowing wheels
to operate on the ground.
•
•Rem
•Fill
•DO
•Set the rear of the machine on jack stands or blocks to raise rear wheels off the ground two or three
inches and
u
With hand controls in the middle or neutral position, apply the parking brake.
Open the manual valves on top of each motor a half-of-a-turn counterclockwise.
Reattach spark plug wires to spark plugs.
Before starting the engine be ready to stop it if the wheels begin to turn with the brake on. (If this
happens, check that the manual valves on top of each motor are open at least a half-of-a-turn
counterclockwise.)
check to be sure that the mower will not fall off the supports you devise. The stand(s)
must be able to secure the mower from rolling off or away during the next procedures. Check
nder the mower deck for any debris or unusual conditions.
•
•
•
•
1

•Start the engin run at low
RPM for se Release the
parking brake. Now gradually close the manual bypass valves on top of each pump one at a time,
and see if the wheels start to move. If the wheels move when the hand controls are in neutral
pos ion, a nt allen screw located on each pump until they stop. The
uld now b ontrol
d. Che
s. If no wheels
ral o plied.
e parking brake locking system
while engaged. If not, service the parking brake locking syste .
•Before testing the blade clu ng
vulnerable to possible th the mower
de discharge at this or at any time. The discharge chute deflector should be in
the down brake should now Move the engine throttle to ¾ speed
minute or so. Try engaging and disengaging the
If the blades do n seconds
With
sw es
rvice th
t o
lot. It is r
furt
nt.) Check that the m
controls are held to the full speed position which
n trac
oise
afety in
r. Instruct the customer
lo
sic operation and use of t
tion
e according to the engine manufacturer’s recommendation. Let the engine
veral minutes to get the hydraulic fluid circulating through the pumps, etc.
it djust the neutral adjustme
manual valves on top of each pump sho
levers, one at a time, forward and backwar
backward according to position of the lever
stop when the hand controls are in the neut
Now check if th
e firmly closed. Now try moving the hand c
ck to see if the wheels move forward and
t, service the hand control system. If the
sition the parking brake should now be app
(if applicable) prevents the unit from being driven
m
tch/brake operation, make sure the area is clear and there is nothi
rown objects from under the mower. No one should be near
ck or in its line of
position. The parking be applied.
setting.
•Turn on the blade clutch switch. Run blades for a
blades a few times about 10 seconds apart.
each time, service the blade brake system.
switch to test the Operator Presence Control
should stop in several seconds. If not, se
•Disengage the blades, set the parking brake, shu
stand(s).
•Drive the mower around on a level parking
Speed/Sensitivity Adjustment be used. (See
Speed/Sensitivity Adjustme
ot start and stop in a few
the blades on, now try disengaging the OPC
itch (OPC). The engine should die and the blad
e OPC system. Try this a couple of times.
ff the engine and remove the mower from the
ecommended that the slower setting of the
her in this manual for information on
ower drives in a straight line when both hand
is up against the stationary control bar. If not,
king adjustment.
s and test for irregular operation and adjust or
formation and operating procedures in this
in proper operation and observe the customer
t. Make sure the customer is familiar and
he mower.
see further in this manual for information o
•As you drive the mower, listen for any unusual n
service as necessary. Next, go over the s
manual with the custome
during their initial operation on a level parking
comfortable with the ba
•Dealer: Please fill out and follow the instruc on the Product Registration Form and have
tomer fill out his part of the form. Afte the Product Registration Card is filled out
senta ive from your dealership, please mail or fax it
your Wright Commercial
rections
eep y
ucts
the
and ou
y for
the cus r
and signed by the customer and a repre
immediately (within 14 days from date of retail purchase) to
t
Products Distributor according to the di
copy of the registration form and then k on the Card. Then give the customer his our copy and mail the remaining copies of the
Distributor. The limited warranty is not valid
above steps are taken. Remember, the
his satisfaction is very important. Thank y
delivery to your customer.
form to your Wright Manufacturing Prod
unless the mower is registered and all of
purchaser is both your and our customer
for supporting our products.
•The mower is now read
2

SAFETY INSTRUC
WER
E U
ury
r death. Accident and hazard prevention are
ependent upon the awareness, concern,
isdom, and pro personnel
volv
and s ry
g
the blades will brake in seconds
Letting go of th ll stop the
wheels instant
Ow :
he owner’s/use instruct
emselves and all potential users in the safe
op
e
w
f
n
TION MANUAL
USERS & OWNERS: READ THIS
SING. PLEASE BE CAREFUL!
trajectory of thrown objects
•Belt/pulley covers on cutter deck and at rear
under pump pulleys
TO WRIGHT MO
MANUAL BEFOR
INTRODUCTION
The Velke Mower is built to the highest standards
in the industry. However, carelessness or
operator error may result in serious bodily inj
o
d
w per training of the
in ed in the operation, transport, maintenance,
torage of the equipment. Make sure eve
operator is properly trained and thoroughly
familiar with all of the information in this manual
before operating the equipment.
GENERAL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
The Velke Mower is designed with your safety in
mind. It has the following safety systems with
which you should be familiar:
•The warning decals on the mower including the
instrument panel warning
•The blade switch must be “off” before startin
the engine
•You must engage the OPC switch in order to
engage the blades
•You must engage the OPC switch in order for
the engine to run if the blades are engaged
•If the OPC switch becomes disengaged while
the blades are running the engine will stop and
read and follow the instructions in this safety
manual and other material provided by Wright
Manufacturing, Inc. before using or allowing
others to operate the equipment. Do not operat
this unit unless you carefully read, understand
and follow the assembly, installation, and safety
instructions contained in this manual and the
warning decals provided on the unit. Do not allo
other persons to use this unit unless you make
sure they carefully read, understand and follow
these instructions. Never allow children to
operate or play on the unit.
User Experience and Qualifications:
This product is designed for use by physically fit,
experienced, professional commercial mower
operators who have a minimum of 160 hours o
experience operating twelve horsepower and
greater industrial mowers. Operators must be 18
years or older. They must have read and
understood this manual. DO NOT allow childre
to operate the mower. Do not allow adults to
operate the mower without proper instruction
mentioned above. Never allow passengers on
the mower.
•e hand controls wi
ly
•Spring loaded chute deflector helps reduce
ner/User Notice
r’s obligation is toT
th eration of this equipment and be sure they
WARNING
WARNING
WARNING
WARNING
This symbol with the word “WARNING”
indicates a potentially hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, could result in death
CAUTION
This symbol with the word “CAUTION”
indicates a potentially hazardous
situation which, if not avoided, could
r
esu
l
t
in min
o
r
o
r m
ode
r
ate
in
ju
r
y
.
o
r
se
ri
ous
in
ju
r
y
.
3

U
O NOT operate the mower while wearing
andals, tennis shoes, sneakers or shorts.
Alw -
ad,
soft-r smooth
the Velke™ or sulky. NEVER wear loose-fitting
s
hand
drive. Wearing safety glasses, ear protection and
ome
lo
DO N
maintained in good operating condition. Examine
ex
parts
“hair” e
opera
equip
opera s
and the required operat
switc
instru
ser Clothing:
D
says wear long non-baggy pants. Wear high
top leather work boots with thick, textured tre
ubber soled at all times. Hard or
soled shoes are too slippery for a good footing
clothing which could get caught in moving part
or jacket pockets that can get caught to the
lebars or control levers of any mower you
safety shoes is advisable and required by s
cal ordinances and insurance regulations.
Inspect Mower Before Each Use:
OT use the mower if any parts are not
the moving parts prior to each use. Look for
cessive wear, bald or worn tires, cracks in
, loose or missing bolts, cotter, linchpin or
pins or cable yoke pins and replace befor
ting the mower. Make sure all safety
ment provided with the mower is in good
ting order, including all the warning decal
or-presence device which
stops the engine and blades when the hand-
operated Operator Presence Control (OPC)
h is released. (To test the OPC, follow
ctions in the Operating Instructions section
s manual.) Be sure that all parts of the hand
ted transmission control system are tight
ecure. This is to reduce the possibility that
control or safety.
of thi -
opera
and s
the mower could have a loss of
Sc
Repla
fitting
governor settings or over-rev the engine contrary
to en
Wrigh condition, and
ce and in
work
screw
bolts urs of
opera
and s f
Shar
used
strike
S
heduled Mower Maintenance Safety:
ce worn tire(s) with less than 3/32” of any
tread groove left. Use tires with the tread pattern
specified by Wright Mfg., Inc. only. Grease all
s daily. DO NOT change the engine
gine manufacturer specifications. Keep the
t mower in good operating
keep safety devices and shields in pla
ing condition. Keep all nuts, bolts, and
s tight to be sure the equipment is in safe
WARNING working condition. Check the blade mounting
for proper tightness every eight (8) ho
tion. Check the blades for excessive wear
harpness every four to eight (4-8) hours o
operation. Replace excessively worn blades.
pen dull blades. The mower should not be
after the blades or other part of the mower
s a foreign object, until conducting a
thorough inspection and any damage is repaired.
ee the instructions in the Recommended
Maintenance section of this manual for other
items of required maintenance.
Work Area Conditions and Inspection:
n
r s,
mowe
oss ark the location of all immovable
bjects or irregular areas and be sure not to hit
em with any part of the mower, its deck or the
lades. Obstacles s
ground contour, tree trunks, stumps or roots,
tub pipes p paving
uptly
is
ou
Prior to operating the unit, carefully inspect all
lawn/ground areas where you plan to use the
vemower for hidden, hard-to-see objects or une
ground that may be hidden in the grass. Clea
the work area of movable objects such as wire
rocks, glass, etc. that might be picked up by the
r and dangerously thrown. Remove, if
ible, or mp
o
th
b such as holes, abrupt change
in
s rotruding from the ground,
edges, etc. in the path of operation can abr
turn or stop the mower. This could throw you off
the Velke™ or sulky or into and possibly over the
handle bars causing serious injury or death. The
faster you are moving the more potential there
for injury. Mow only in daylight or in good artificial
light. Keep away from drop-offs, the edges of
ponds, streams, pools, etc. especially at the
bottom of slopes. Do not mow when children or
others are around. When the Wright mower is in
use, never direct the grass discharge toward
bystanders, traffic, cars or buildings nor allow
nyone near the machine while in operation.a
Thrown objects can pass through glass windows
and some walls of buildings. There is extreme
risk of danger from thrown objects or being cut by
the blades of the mower or being run over if y
lose control. Never operate the mower in an
WARNING
WARNING
WARNING
4

enclosed area without good, approved
ventilation. Exhaust fumes are dangerous.
ition, even
•Wh nt
ing lots
ss, turn off the
•Bef
wire
tops from
excessive speeds may cause serious injury.
The grass discharge chute deflector must be
e down hen
alled.
•If the mower discharge clogs, turn off the blade
blade
rear wheels,
blades, engine flywheel, belts and pulleys.
•
aves and lubricant spills from
surfaces after use to prevent fire hazard.
Be alert for traffic when crossing roads or
operating ne
Before crossing walks or
roads, t for them
d
p
se
rp turns to
revent tipping or loss of control. Be especially
autious when changing direction on slopes.
he Wright mower is capable of greater traction
n slopes than typical riding mowers because of
e be
Initial Operating Safety Guidelines:
•Read and understand the warning on the
instrument panel of the mower.
•Keep a firm hold on the stationary handle at all
times.
•Know the controls and how to stop quickly.
•Before attempting to start the engine, follow all
starting instructions below and in the engine
operator’s manual.
•Look behind before backing up and use
extreme caution when backing up while
standing on the Velke.
•Before leaving the operator’s pos
momentarily, turn off the blade clutch
engagement switch and apply the parking
brake. Keep others from coming near the
mower. Return to the operator position as
soon as possible.
en leaving the Wright mower unattended,
turn off the blade clutch engageme
switch, apply the parking brake, stop the
engine and remove the key. Never leave
the machine unattended on a slope. If the
parking brake becomes disengaged, the
mower could roll which would be
hazardous.
•When transporting, driving onto transport
vehicles, into buildings, across park
or otherwise not mowing gra
blade clutch engagement switch to reduce
risk of thrown objects and rotating blade
hazard. After coming to a stop, apply the
parking brake, stop the engine and remove
the key.
ore performing any maintenance or repair
service, mowing height or other
adjustments, disengage power to blades,
apply the parking brake, stop the engine,
remove ignition key and spark plug
from spark plug(s).
•DO NOT allow inexperienced people to operate
the mower until they have read and
understood these safety instructions.
Operate the mower at slower speeds while
becoming familiar with it.
•Speeding is dangerous for even an
experienced operator. Sudden s
•installed at all times and in th
position except that it may be raised w
the grass catcher is completely inst
clutch switch, apply the parking brakes,
stop the engine and remove the key before
removing obstruction.
•Keep all shields and covers in place, especially
grass discharge chute deflector, the
belt cover, and the pump belt/pulley cover.
•Keep hands, feet and clothing away from
rotating parts, especially the
Do not touc engine is
running or soon after it is stopped. These
areas can be so hot as to cause severe
burns.
•Clean grass, le
h engine or muffler while
•ar roadways.
gravel drives, side•turn off the blades and wai
.to stop
Operation on Slopes:
DO NOT operate on steep slopes. Do not
operate the mower on slopes steeper than you
can feel secure about the traction of the tires an
the stability of the mower. Do not operate the
mower on slopes at all when the grass is wet.
There is a danger of suddenly sliding sideways or
down the hill. When operating on a slope, travel
across the grade whenever possible, not in an u
or down pattern. Reduce speed and exerci
xtreme caution on slopes and in shae
p
c
T
o
th nefits of a lower center of gravity. It is
tial for you to know more about theessen
handling characteristics of the mower so that you
WARNING
WARNING
5

can enjoy more efficient mowing technique
for increasing your safety.
The Wright mower handles differently at differen
angles of attack on a slope. It is important to
understand the following differences so that you
can use or avoid using the mower at different
angles for the best advantage. Be aware that if
the following orientations to a slope and must
handle the mower accordingly. As you use the
mower you will gain the technique to mow
lawn than ever before.
When pointing up a slope, the mower ha
most weight on the drive wheels and therefore
s and
t
more
s the
e most traction at the tires. However, this is the
ngle that it has the most tendency to tip back
pop-a-wheelie.” rred angle for
owing small ar es.
Re
th
a
(“ ) This is the prefe
eas of steeper slopm
commendations for this angle:
•Do not accelerate quickly to avoid “popping-a-
wheelie.”
•If backing down the hill, do not stop sud
but slow down gradually and maintain an
upward force on the handles to keep the
front of the mower on the ground.
When pointing down a slope, the mower has
the least weight on the drive wheels a
denly
nd
erefore the least traction at the tires. This is the
ngle that the mower has the most tendency to
lide. However, t it has the
ast tendency to tip back. Avoid this angle, as it
as the least advantage for the mower.
th
a
s this is the angle tha
le
h
Recommendations for this angle:
•Do not change speed suddenly to minimize
tendency of going into a slide. Accelerate
and slow down gently. If you ever go into a
uncontrolled slide while pointing down a
slope, the recommended procedure is to
go of the handles and move up-hill from th
mower. Otherwise, control the mower
gently and stay off slopes that tend to make
the wheels slide at this orientation.
When cros
the
n
let
e
sing a slope sideways, the mower
as the average amount of weight on the drive
heels versus the front wheels, similar to level
round. However, this angle leaves the least
eight on the higher side drive wheel, tending to
make it slip. This is the preferred angle for
mowing large area
s of gentle slopes.
h
w
g
w
Recommendations for this angle:
•Do not accelerate quickly to minimize the
tendency of “popping-a- wheelie”.
Accelerate gently.
Note: Excessively worn tire tread is dangerous.
Replace tire(s) with less than 3/32” of any tread
groove left. Use tires with the tread pattern
recommended by Wright Mfg., Inc. only. Keep
the tire pressure in the drive tires at the
recommended level. Higher pressures will cause
the tires to have less traction which will force you
to go slower and with less safety.
Replacement Parts:
Use of parts other than specified parts s
by Wright Manufacturing, Inc. may comp
upplied
romise
e safe use of the mower and are not
Us
while standing on the Velke. Always keep a firm
grip on t s.
Operate the mower very slowly, inching it
backward until you become familiar with how the
mower operates. Always operate slowly if in an
awkward location or position. While backing up
never place your foot or feet on the ground near
the back edge of the mower to prevent serious
personal injury if mower were to run over you.
Look behind you before backing to prevent
injuring yourself or anyone behind you. Operate
at slow speeds in forward and reverse if not
completely familiar with mower operation. See
the “How to change the Speed/Sensitivity
Adjustment” section of this manual.
Operation in Forward Direction:
Always keep a firm grip on the mower handles
with both hands. Operate the mower slowly until
th
recommended.
Operation in Reverse:
e extreme caution when operating in reverse
he mower handles with both hand
WARNING
WARNING
6

you become familiar with how the mower
operates. Do not operate the mower faster than
conditions allow. For
bumpy ground, dim l
be conditions where you should
normal. Never operate the mowe
speed un el, w
of clearly visible ground ransp
areas. Speeding with any mower
nd so is traveling faster than con m the
See
urns:
er wheel
ving
om
if you
l of
and
Neve asoline to a
that has not
s
ipment
here
nd not hands
icient force to
fl ust be surgically
r
w ult.
S ntion immediately. Make sure
all hydraulic fluid connections are tight and all
es and lines are in good condition
lic fluid
y
a
W
til
y e
Y
example, hills, wet or
ight or high grass would all Hydraulic Saf
work slower than
r at the highest
ide, open areas
orting on paved
is dangerous,
ditions should
ety:
Keep body and hands away from pin holes or
fittings that eject hydraulic fluid under high
pressure. Use paper or cardboard a
to search for leaks. Hydraulic fluid escaping
under high pressure may have suff
penetrate skin and cause serious injury. If foreign
less you are on lev
or t
a
permit on this mower. Sudden stops from
excessive speed or becoming detached fro
mower may cause serious injury or death.
the “How to change the Speed/Sensitivity
Adjustment” section of this manual.
Operation During Zero-Radius T
During zero-radius turns (when one mow
rotates backwards while the other is mo
forward) drive extra slowly to reduce the
possibility of losing traction, or control, or
becoming dizzy. This will help prevent you fr
losing control of the mower. Be aware that
do a turn on a slope you may go through al
the orientations to a slope mentioned above
must handle the mower accordingly.
Fuel Safety:
Handle gasoline with care – it is HIGHLY
FLAMMABLE. Do not smoke while handling
gasoline. Use an approved gasoline container.
r remove the fuel cap or add g
or an enginerunning or hot engine
been allowed to cool for several minutes after
running. Never fill the tank indoors and alway
clean up spilled gas. NEVER store the equ
with gasoline in the tank inside a building w
fumes may reach an open flame or spark. Allow
the engine to cool before storing in any
enclosure.
uid is injected into the skin, it m
emoved within a few hours by a doctor familiar
ith this form of injury or gangrene may res
eek medical atte
hydraulic hos
before starting the Wright mower. Hydrau
is under high pressure. If you need service on
our hydraulic system, please see your
uthorized Wright dealer.
e really want you to be as safe as possible.
Please read the above again and again un
ou fully understand the methods to promot
the safest operation possible.
REMEMBER – YOUR MOWER CAN BE ONL
AS SAFE AS THE OPERATOR.
FAILURE TO FOLLOW SAFE OPERATING
PRACTICES MAY RESULT IN
SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
WARNING
WARNING
WARNING
7

OPERATI
If you ar
Manu
the mow
PRECA
NOW TAK
Inspect
NG
e no ion
al, rea proceeding with the operation of
er. REMEMBER THERE ARE CERTAIN
UTIONS U MUST
E BEF E MOWER.
Mower Before Each Use:
spection of Mower: Do not use the mower if
any parts a rating
condition. Examine all moving parts prior to each
operated transmission control system are tight
at
INSTRUCTIONS
t completely familiar with the Safety Instruct
d it now before
LISTED IN THIS MANUAL THAT YO
ORE STARTING TH
In re not maintained in good ope
use. Look for excessive wear, bald drive tires or
worn out front tires (normally smooth), cracks in
parts, loose or missing bolts, cotter, linchpin or
“hair” pins and replace before operating the
mower. Make sure all safety equipment provided
with the mower is in good operating order,
including all warning decals and the operator-
presence device which stops the engine and
blades when the hand-operated Operator
Presence Control (OPC) switch is released. To
test the OPC, follow the instructions further down
in this manual. Ensure that all parts of the hand-
and secure. This is to reduce the possibility th
the mower could have a loss of control or safety.
Basic Operation: The following procedures are
to guide you through the basic operation of the
mower. You should be a qualified mower operator
according to the safety section of this manual. If
this is your first time, operation should only be
done with the assistance of your dealer on a level
area. You should go through each step, in the
order indicated, every time you start the mower.
How to Start the Mower:
Before starting the engine
•Make sure the control levers are in the exact
neutral position
•Apply the parking brake if it is not already
set.
•Turn OFF the blade engaging switch if it is
on.
Starting the engine
Recoil Start:
•Turn the ignition key to the “Run” position
•Check to see if the equipment has a separate
choke knob or whether it is incorporated into
g
g
in mind that various models use different
choke controls.
Electric Start:
•Start the engine according to the engine
manufacturer’s recommendation (see engine
manual). You will need to start the engine by
turning the key on the mower’s instrument
panel. Do not engage the starter for more than
ten (10) seconds at a time. This may overheat
does not start within ten tries or stalls
frequently, take the mower in for service.
After starting the engine according to the engine
manufacturer’s recommendation, let the engine
run for several minutes to get the hydraulic fluid
circulating through the pumps, etc. and to allow
the engine to warm up. Do not over-rev a cold
engine.
Unusual Noises or Irregular Operation
As you drive the mower listen for any unusual
noises and test for irregular operation and adjust
or service as necessary.
In
way from idle. Release the parking brake. Now try
moving the hand control levers, one at a time,
very slightly, forward and backward. Check to see
if the wheels move forward and backward
according to the position of the levers. (If not,
service the hand control system.) If the wheels
stop when the hand controls are in the neutral
position the parking brake should now be applied.
Now check if the parking brake locking system (if
applicable) prevents the unit from being driven. (If
not, service the parking brake locking system.)
Increase the engine speed to about half of the
way from idle speed. Release the parking brake.
the throttle control. Start the engine accordin
to the engine manufacturer’s
recommendation, see engine manual, keepin
the starter and the wiring systems. Wait ten
(10) seconds between attempts. If the engine
How to Drive the Mower:
crease the engine speed about one fourth of the
WARNING
8

The h ls
,
r
V-Turn™ Technique
do
but now there’s the V-turn™. After a
et
ou tak s, while standing
aking
f
You will maintain
pressure on
outside handleba ngled toward you,
Com go
of t our inside hand
forw of the handlebar.
While keeping your thumb hooked on the
han
squeeze the control lever from underneath the
handlebar (see picture).
To trace a small circle with the inside wheel to
protect the tu the inside
control lever with your four fingers from
rd
ly
urn,
r’s
igher engine speed will make the contro
much more responsive and the mower much
quicker; Use with caution. Now try moving the
hand control levers, one at a time, very slightly
forward and backward. Gradually increase you
speed until you are well acquainted with the
operation of the hand controls and the mower’s
behavior. After gaining a good feel for how the
mower handles, gradually attempt higher engine
speeds until familiar with operation at full throttle
engine speed.
This is a unique method only possible with the
Wright Velke mower. You already know how to
a U-turn –
few minutes of practice, the V-turning™ will l
y e smoother, quicker turn
up straighter, feeling more comfortable, m
smooth maneuvers. V-turning™ especially works
well with one or two-wheeled Velke™ sulkies.
Caution: be sure that you have no baggy,
loose clothing or jacket pockets that can get
caught to the handlebars or control levers o
any mower you drive.
How to V-turn™. Begin to learn by gradually
slowing the mower so the turn will be slow, then:
•Gradually let off the forward pressure of your
thumb on the control lever on the inside of the
turn you want to take.
the outside control lever at the
speed of the turn you desire. Since the
r is now a
your outside hand and arm will be comfortably
positioned during the turn.
•pletely allow your inside thumb to let
he control lever and roll y
ard and around the front
dle bar get your four fingers ready to
•rf, slightly squeeze
underneath. With this new orientation of your
forearm, the inside handlebar is angled towa
you so your inside hand will be comfortab
positioned during the turn.
•When nearing the end of your desired t
just further squeeze the inside control levers
forward with your four fingers. As the mowe
direction straightens out roll your hand
naturally back to the normal position and
begin again to hold pressure on the control
lever with your thumb as before the turn
began.
For a video demonstration, please go to
www.wrightmfg.com.
Velke Mower Controls – Straight
ols – Right Turn
Velke Mower Contr
Velke Mower Controls – Left Turn
9

10
er
t
ve
d. Do not leave unit parked unattended
ithout engaging the parking brake and do not
How to Stop and Park the Mow
Come to a complete stop. If the blades are on,
turn them off using the switch on the instrumen
panel. Make sure the control levers are in the
exact neutral position. Set the parking brake,
reduce the engine speed to idle, shut off the
ignition switch to stop the engine and then remo
the key from the ignition switch. The mower is
now parke
w
leave the unit parked unattended on a sloped
surface.
How to Drive the Mower Over a Curb
To climb a curb, first see the Safety Instruction
Manual section of this manual, especially the
parts on:
•Initial Operating Safety Guidelines
•Operation In Reverse
•Operation In Forward Direction
To drive over and up a curb proceed forward
he curb to , lift the front wheels off the ground by t
pushing down on the handlebar and move slowly
forward allowing the front wheels to rest on the
ground beyond the curb. Then proceed slowly
while driving the rear wheels over the curb. To
drive over and down a curb proceed slowly
forward to the curb and allow the front wheels to
slowly roll off of the curb and down to the ground
below the curb. Then move slowly forward until
the rear wheels roll over the curb and down to the
ground below. NEVER stand on the Velke (sulky)
hile driving over a curb.w
How To Use The Mower On Varying
Terrain
See the Safety Instruction Manual section of this
manual, especially the parts on:
•Initial Operating Safety Guidelines
•Operation On Slopes
•Operation In Reverse
•Operation In Forward Direction
ty
in
rs
nd
by
ontrol
andle pivot bushings (toward the back of the
mow g
and the hole shings are
BOLT/NUT IN THE
ACH
TIME YOU REMOVE
THEM. You must
rform the
g Adjustment,
further described
l
th
or
e used for this
djustm he
rods sev
rod
til you
put the swivel in the hole in the lever and test it by
•Operation During Zero-Radius Turns
How to Change the Speed/Sensitivi
Adjustment
The controls are initially set with the Speed/
Sensitivity Adjustment in the faster, more
sensitive position. The adjustment can be
changed to the slower setting. This will increase
the ground speed approximately 25-30%. The
slower setting has a corresponding decrease
the sensitivity of the controls. In other words, a
given amount of movement of the control leve
will cause about a 25-30% change in the grou
speed making the controls more sensitive. After
stopping the engine, the adjustment is made
removing the control rods from the current holes
in the control levers and reinstalling them in the
alternate holes. The holes closest to the c
her) are for this slower, less sensitive settin
s farthest from the pivot bu
the faster, more sensitive setting.
BE SURE THE
CONTROL ROD
ENDS ARE
SECURELY
REPLACED E
then pe
Trackin
below.
Ho Adjustment
First ensure that the tire pressure is equal on bo
rear drive tires. Drive the mower on a level
parking lot with engine at full throttle. Check that
the mower drives in a straight line when both
hand controls are held to the full speed position.
If not, park the mower and stop the engine. The
adjustment is made by removing the control rod
from one or the other of the swivel ends at the
lower ends of the control rods and screwing the
swivel to either make the control rod longer
shorter. The turnbuckle may also b
w to Perform the Tracking and Neutra
a ent. Before changing the length of t
eral facts are important to know.
In the “faster” Speed/Sensitivity setting neither
should be lengthened so much that at full speed it
pulls the pump control lever (on the sides of the
pumps) against the pump stop. Therefore, to
reach the maximum capable speed, the rods
should be lengthened one turn at a time un
can feel in the hand control that the pump stop
has been contacted. Then shorten the rod one
turn. You will feel the slight resistance. There is
no need to start the engine or even replace the
hair pin while checking this incrementally. Just
WARNING

11
if the
peed/Sensitivity Adjustment is in the slower
of t
slow
mo
nee
righ
sh
The
from be
position e
ins
slo
on
trac
the
Ret
nec
from
H
Bef /brake operation,
ak d there is nothing
uln
mower r
in its lin
deflecto
parking the
engine
mowing
highest
the eng
conditio
switch
blades
sec
in a
bra
Un
the
Wit
swi ould kill
e engine.
With the des
e w
gher
cause the tires to have less traction
hic ty
and ill
help keep th rims when
Hydraulic Motor Support
The various holes in frame and the
squeezing the handle to full fast position.
Remember, this procedure does not apply
S
setting. Otherwise you will wind the swivels way
illup the rods and the mower will go faster but w
lose most or all of its reverse capability and then
the gap between the handlebar and the control
levers becomes excessive when at the neutral
osition.p
If the rod is made longer it will speed up that side
he mower and if the rod is made shorter it will
down that side of the mower. So, if the
wer is tracking to the left, either the left side
ds to go faster (by lengthening the rod) or the
t side needs to go slower (by shortening the
rod). If the mower is tracking to the right, either
the right side needs to go faster (by lengthening
the rod) or the left side needs to go slower (by
ortening the rod). It is important that neither rod
should be lengthened too far, as mentioned
above.
only reference point to limit the adjustment
coming extremely off is the relative
of the pump stop and the handlebar in th
efaster Spe d/Sensitivity setting. Therefore, if
everything is way off either because you are
talling new parts (or other reasons) you should
only use the faster Speed/ Sensitivity setting to
get the tracking accurate and then change to the
wer speed range and adjust the tracking only
e or two turns on either side.
BE SURE THE BOLT/NUT IN THE CONTROL
ROD IS SECURELY REPLACED EACH TIME
YOU REMOVE THEM. After getting the mower to
k straight, readjust the neutral adjustment on
pump by using a ¼” allen wrench at the
urn-to-Neutral (RTN) mechanism, if
essary. It is normal to make these adjustments
time to time.
ow to Test/Use the Blade Clutch/Brake
Switch
ore testing the blade clutch
e sure the area is clear anm
v erable to thrown objects from under the
. No one should be near the mower deck o
e of discharge. The discharge chute
r should be in the down position. The
brake should now be applied. Move
throttle to ¾ speed setting. (When
, the engine speed should always be at its
setting. The engine governor will regulate
ine according to the different mowing
ns at that setting.) Engage the OPC
and turn on the blade clutch switch. Run
for a minute or so. Try engaging and
disengaging the blades a few times about 10
onds apart. If the blades do not start and stop
few seconds each time, service the blade
ke system or contact your local Wright dealer.
der mowing load, the clutch’s longevity will be
greatest at the highest RPM setting.
How to Test the Operator Presence
Control (OPC) Switch
h the parking brake applied, engage the OPC
tch on the Handle Bar. This action sh
th parking brake OFF and with the bla
ON, disengage the OPC switch. The engin
should kill and the blades should stop within a fe
seconds. If not, service the OPC system.
Service and Adjustments
Tire Maintenance and Pressure
Excessively worn tire tread is dangerous on all
hills. Replace drive tires with less than 3/32” of
any tread groove left. Use tires with the tread
pattern recommended by Wright Mfg., Inc. only.
Keep the tire pressure at the proper level. Hi
ressures will
p
w h will force you to go slower, with less safe
give you a harder ride. Higher pressures w
e front caster tires on their
impacted from the side but give a harder ride.
They do not have any tread but should be
replaced when excessively worn.
Adjustment
the mower
hydraulic motor supports may be used to make a
fine forward/rearward adjustment to the balance
of the Velke Mower. This adjustment should
always be made in combination with the coarse
height-of-cut adjustment and anti-tip roller
adjustment as described below. When the motor
supports are set in the forward position, the Velke
Mower will be balanced lighter in the front than
when set in the rearward position, giving more
traction to the drive tires. Heavy operators (over
WARNING

12
250 pounds) may find that the rearward position
helps keep the front of the mower down.
Blade Adjustment and Height-of-Cut
Before Adjusting the Height-of-Cut be sure of
proper air pressure in all four tires and check for
even tire wear. The height-of-cut can be adjusted
the following ways:
•Coarse Adjustment: For the coarse
adjustment the rear wheels, the front casters
should be adjusted at the same time. Adjust
the rear wheel motor supports equally in one
of the three settings up or down 0.75” each i
a 1.5” total range. n
e
factory
e
f the
seven settings up or down 0.25” each
through a 1.5” total range.
a. This should be done with two shims (or
spacers) on the bottom and one shim
on the top of the caster support arm.
b. The front-to-rear leveling of the blades
c.
•Temp
a. Use the highest holes in tractor frame
for cutting heights of 1.75”-3.0”.
b. Use the middle holes in tractor fram
for cutting heights of 2.5”-3.75”,
setting.
c. Use the lowest holes in tractor frame
for cutting heights of 3.25”-4.5”.
Adjust the front caster arms at their respectiv
support brackets equally in one o
should be between level (preferred) to
.25” lower at the front of the blades but
never higher at the front.
Use the lowest holes in tractor frame
for heights of 3.25”-4.5”.
orary Height-of-Cut Adjustment: Using
aster shims (or spacers) you can adjust
lades downward temporarily .5” or 1”
the c
the b
below the original coarse setting as described
above. Th
with two s
one shim on the top of the ca
With the blades level at this assumed starting
point, you should never move all of the shims
to the bottom since that would make the
blades higher at the front.
The angle of attack of the blades should
always be level or lower at the front. This
makes the blade cut the grass only once
and saves fuel and wear on the whole
mower. It also allows more efficient
mowing and grass catching or dispersal. If
you mow in an area of the country where
the lawn is very thick and spongy you may
have to set these two adjustments as they
would appear on the grass and not on a
hard ting” up
is assumes that the blades are level
hims (or spacers) on the bottom and
ster support arm.
surface due to the tires “floa
on or “sinking” down into the lawn.
•Fine Adjustment: Adjust the blades equally in
five settings up or down 0.25” each in a 1.25”
total range. The shims on the blade bolts are
moved from un
spindle. If possible,
der the spindle to the top of the
leave at least one shim at
d
ain
ent is
de drive belts should be
tightened only so that you can deflect the belt
about ½ inch when pushing 8 lbs. with your
thumb. DO NOT OVER TIGHTEN OR THE
SPINDLE AND IDLER BEARINGS WILL WEAR
PREMATURELY OR YOU COULD DAMAGE
THE ENGINE BEARINGS. This adjustment
should be checked at forty (40) hour intervals
except new belts should be checked every four
loose
If the
oth of the manual “dump” valve levers on
f each hydraulic pump about ½ turn
again before
r tighten)
Bleeding Air from the Hydraulic
System
When any of the hydraulic parts are disconnected
or removed or when the oil is changed, air must
be bled from the system. Disconnect the small
hose line from each of the pumps going to the oil
filter. When oil starts to flow without bubbles from
end of hose, plug the hose. When oil starts to flow
without bubbles from the disconnected open port
on the pump, reconnect hose to pump. Set the
rear of the machine on jack stands or blocks to
raise rear wheels off of the ground two or three
inches and check that the mower will not fall off
the top and the bottom of the spindle shaft.
Using the maximums and minimums of these
methods gives you a total range of 2.75” from
1.75” to 4.5” in eleven distinct settings. The
factory setting is 3” when measured to a hard
floor surface at the front of the deck.
Belt Tension Adjustment
The pump drive belt is self-adjusting, an
normally requires no adjustment, just
replacement. It is spring loaded to prevent str
on the pump bearings. However, if adjustm
necessary, the bla
(4) hours for the first twenty (20) hours. A
belt will not cut grass, will run hot and wear
prematurely.
How to Move the Mower
Engine Won’t Start
Rotate b
the top o
counterclockwise. Tighten the valves
starting the mower again. (Do not ove

13
the supports you devise. The s
able to secure the mower from
during the next procedures. Check under the
mower for any debris or unusual conditions. After
starting the engine, run at full forward speed for
about a minute and then reverse speed for
another minute. Repeat until the air noise in the
system quiets down and full power is restored.
Check (and fill if necessary) hydraulic fluid level.
The level should be about 2”-3” below the top of
the oil fill. Use fully synthetic oil: Mobil-1 15W-50.
Whenever servicing the hydraulic system, it is of
the utmost importance to keep any dirt or debris
from getting into the system. Clean off all parts
before disassembly and assembly.
Battery Service (if electric start)
Remove battery (if electric start version) from
machine and fully charge in an open, well
ventilated area according to the recommendations
of the battery charger manual. The battery is 12
volts. After fully charged, install on mower and
attach battery cables, positive first (from starter
motor) and negative last (from ground).
Cleaning the Mower
The underside of the mower deck should be
checked and cleaned twice daily, and more often
if the grass being mowed is lush or wet. The
entire mower should be cleaned daily at the end
of the work day.
Cleaning should be done with a leaf blower or
low-pressure compressed air. Wash with water
only when necessary and do not use a pressure
washer or nozzle as the water can enter electrical
connections causing an electrical short, rust and
corrosion. When washing with water, do so when
the unit has cooled down. Washing a hot
machine can cause various unseen system
damage. If water is used for cleaning,
immediately dry it with a leaf blower or low-
pressure compressed air. Once the wash is
complete, always lubricate and grease all
applicable areas.
tand(s) must be
rolling off or away
MAINTENANCE SERVICE INTERVALS (see chart on following page)
It is very important to keep good maintenance records. Use the hour meter
on the mower to record the hour reading of each maintenance service
so you will not forget how long it has been since you last did certain
maintenance. The more faithful and consistent you are, the longer the
mower will last and slower it will depreciate.
NOTE: THE FOLLOWING ITEMS ARE REQUIRED TO AVOID
INVALIDATING THE WARRANTY.

14 14
Maintenance Schedule
MAINTENANCE ITEM
ENGINE
ITEMS
SEENOTE
BELOW
FIRST8
HOURS
DAILY
EVERY25
HOURS
EVERY100
HOURS
EVERY200
HOURS
EVERY300
HOURS
ANNUALLY
Inspect for cracks in frame, cutter deck or other steel parts *3 XX
Inspect all belts for wear, adjustment and alignment XX X
Check allbolts and nuts for tightness (tighten as necessary) XX
Lubricate hand control leverpivot shafts with waterproof grease XX
Check hydraulic oil reservoir level and fill as needed - Use SYNTHETIC oil -
Mobil1 15W-50 *2 XX
Grease caster wheel bearings XX X
Check tire pressure; Rear tires 18-22 psi-Front tires 30-40 psi. Some Front
Casters are equipped with non-pneumatic tires and do not required any air. XX X
Check and clean engine cooling fins Engine *1 XX X
Lubricate Operator Presence Control pivots and controlrod with waterproof
grease XX X
Replace fuel filter Engine *1 XX
Lubricate choke control cable (if equipped) with WD-40 XX X
Check engine oiland add as needed Engine *1 XX
Check for fuel or oil leakage - correct as needed Engine *1 XX
Check and clean air intake screen Engine *1 XX
Clean engine blower screen and fins with compressed air Engine *1 XX
Clean mower with compressed air-do NOT use a pressure washer XX
Check allbolts and nuts for tightness (tighten as necessary) XX
Check for loose hardware (e-clips, snap rings, nuts, etc.) XX
Check blades for wear and sharpness (sharpen and balance or replace as
necessary) XX
Check and adjust tire pressures to no more than maximum pressure listed on
tire and maintaining good traction and comfort XX
Clean out debris under blade belt cover XX
Scrape clean underside of cutterdeck XX
Check blade mounting bolts for proper tightness XX
Check blade spindle mounting bolts for proper tightness XX
Clean air cleaner foam element Engine *1 XX
Inspect tires, replace as needed XX
Inspect and tighten all hydraulic hoses XX
Adjust parking brake shoes to firmly stop wheels when engaged XX
Clean air cleaner paper element Engine *1 XX
Clean and re-gap spark plug (replace as necessary) Engine *1 XX
Change engine oil Engine *1 XX X
Change engine oil filter Engine *1 XX
Replace air cleaner paper element Engine *1 XX
Replace hydraulic oil filter with Original Wright filter XX
Completely inspect for excessive wear in all parts of mower, including control
system (replace worn parts) XX
Inspect and replace (ifnecessary) worn main cutter deck idler pulleys or
pulley bearings (if applicable) XX
Replace (if necessary) excessively worn caster wheels and roller bearings XX
Remove battery and clean battery, battery box and battery cable ends XX
Clean combustion chamber Engine *1 X
Check and adjust valve clearance Engine *1 X
Clean and lap valve seating surface Engine *1 X
NOTES:
*1 - Refer to Engine Manufacturers Owners Manual
*2 - Hydraulic fluid level should be 1"-2" below the top of the oil fill
*3 - Contact an authorized Dealer immediately if any cracks are found
*The service intervals indicated are to be used as a guide. Service should be performed more frequently as necessaryby operating conditions*

Maintenance Record
Date Maintenance/Service Performed Unit
Hours Shop/Technician
15