Yazoo/Kees ZCBI48181 User manual

Operators Manual
ZCBI48181
Models:
Please read these instructions carefully and make
sure you understand them before using the machine.
MANUAL NO. 109994 REV. IR (09/01/04)

2
Congratulations on the purchase of your Yazoo/Kees mower. It has been designed, engineered
and manufactured to give you the best possiblbe dependability and performance. This manual has
been prepared for the owners and operators of the models called out on the front cover of this
manual. Read, understand and follow the safety and operating instructions. Follow a regular sched-
ule in maintaining, caring for and using your mower. Follow the instructions under “Customer Re-
sponsibilities” and “Storage” sections of this owner’s manual.
Continuous dedication to improve our products require that specifications and design are
subject to change without notice.
WARNING
Failure to follow cautious operating practices can result in serious injury to the operator or other per-
sons. The owner must understand these instructions, and must allow only trained persons who un-
derstand these instructions to operate the mower. Each person operating the mower must be of
sound mind and body and must not be under the influence of any mind altering substance.
CAUTION
1. Keep all shields, guards and safety devices in place and in proper working condition.
2. Stop engine and remove spark plug wires or remove key before adjusting, servicing, or perform-
ing maintenance.
Engine exhaust, some of it’s constituents, and certain vehicle componets contain or emit
chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other repro-
ductive harm.
Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead com-
pounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or
other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.
©2004 Yazoo/Kees Power Equipment. All Rights Reserved.
Beatrice, NE. Printed in U.S.A.
WARNING
WARNING
GOOD SERVICE
Yazoo/Kees products are sold all over the world and only in specialized retail stores with complete
service. This ensures that you as a customer receive only the best support and service. Before the
product is delivered, the machine has, for example, been inspected and adjusted by your retailer,
see the certificate in the Service Journal in this operator’s manual.
When you need spare parts or support in service questions, warranty issues, etc., please consult
the following professional:
This Operator’s Manual belongs to the
machine with manufacturing number:
Engine Transmission

3
CONTENTS
SYMBOLS & DECALS ......................... 4
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS .................... 5
General use and saftey rules ...... 5
Driving on slopes ........................ 7
Children safety............................ 8
Service safety ............................. 8
Transportation ............................ 10
SPECIFICATIONS ................................. 11
ASSEMBLY ........................................... 12
Tools Required............................ 12
Unpacking ................................... 12
Seat Attachment ......................... 12
Control Lever Attachment ........... 12
Check Tire Pressure .................. 14
Assembly Checklist .................... 14
OPERATION.......................................... 15
Controls ...................................... 15
Operation Instructions ................ 16-21
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ...... 22
Maintenance Schedule ............... 22
Lubrication Chart ........................ 23
Tires ........................................... 23
Operator Presence System ....... 23
Blade Care ................................. 23
V-Belts ........................................ 25
Engine ........................................ 25
Air Screen & Air Filter ................. 26
Oil Filter ...................................... 26
Spark Plugs ................................ 26
Fuel Filter .................................... 26
Cleaning ..................................... 26
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENT ............. 27
Mower ......................................... 27
Deck Level .................................. 27
Deck Belt Replacement ............. 28
IZT (Integraded Zeroturn
Transaxle) Belt Replacement ..... 29
Seat Adjustment ......................... 30
Control Levers Adjustment ......... 30
Wheel Removal .......................... 30
Jump Starting Engine ................. 30
Battery Replacement .................. 31
Park Brake .................................. 31
Tracking Adjustment ................... 32
STORAGE ............................................. 33-34
TROUBLESHOOTING ......................... 35-36
WIRING SCHEMATIC ........................... 37

4
SYMBOLS AND DECALS
R
N
Reverse Neutral
Fast
Slow
Fuel
Ignition
Stop Run Start
Mower
deck
engaged
Mower
deck
disengaged
Choke
Parking
brake
Warning
Danger
Caution
Do not stand here Do not put pressure on
drive levers.
Read Operator’s Manual.
Cutting
height
Do not touch rotating parts.
Do not tow or push mower
unless you engage the IZT
(Intergraded Zeroturn
Transaxle) bypass linkages
Battery acid is corrosive, explosive, and flammable.
Read
Operator’s
Manual
Shut off engine
& remove key
before perform-
ing any
maintenance or
repair work.
Keep a
safe
distance
from the
machine.
Use on
slopes no
greater
than 10°
No passen-
gers
Whole
body
exposure
to thrown
objects.
Severing
of fingers
& toes.
Do not open
or remove
safety
shields while
engine is
running.
Careful
backing up,
watch for
other people.
Careful going
forward,
watch for
other people.

5
General Use
•Read all instructions in this operator’s
manual and on the machine before starting
it. Ensure that you understand them and
then abide by them.
•Learn how to use the machine and its
controls safely and learn how to stop quickly.
Also learn to recognize the safety decals.
•Only allow the machine to be used by adults
who are familiar with its use.
•Make sure nobody else is in the vicinity of the
machine when you start the engine, engage
the drive, or run the machine.
•Make sure animals and people maintain a
safe distance from the machine.
•Stop the machine if someone enters the
work area.
•Clear the area of objects such as stones,
toys, steel wire, etc. that may become
caught in the blades and thrown out.
•Beware of the discharge deck and do not
point it at any one. Do not use the machine
without the discharge deck in place.
•Stop the engine and prevent it from start-ing
before you clean the discharge deck.
•Remember that the operator is responsible
for dangers or accidents.
•Never take passengers. The machine is only
intended for use by one person.
•Always look down and behind before and
during reversing maneuvers. Keep a look out
for both large and small obstacles.
•Slow down before turning.
•Shut down the blades when not mowing.
Safety Instructions
These instructions are for your safety. Read them carefully.
WARNING!
This symbol means that important safety instructions need to be emphasized.
It concerns your safety.
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Read the operator’s manual before starting the
machine
8011-512
Clear the area of objects before mowing 8011-513
8011-520

6
•Be careful when rounding fixed objects, so
that the blades do not hit them. Never drive
over foreign objects.
•Only use the machine in daylight or in other
well-lit conditions. Keep the machine a safe
distance from holes or other irregularities in
the ground. Pay attention to other possible
risks.
•Never use the machine if you are tired, if
you have consumed alcohol, or if you are
taking other drugs or medication that can
affect your vision, judgment, or
coordination.
•Beware of traffic when working near or
crossing a road.
•Never leave the machine unsupervised with
the engine running. Always shut down the
blades, pull back the parking brake, stop the
engine, and remove the ignition key before
leaving the machine.
•Never allow children or other persons not
trained in the use of the machine to use or
service it. Local laws may regulate the age
of the user.
•Make sure that you have first aid equipment
close at hand when using the machine.
•Never use the machine when barefoot.
Always wear protective shoes or boots,
preferably with steel toecaps.
•Always wear approved protective glasses or
a full visor when assembling or driving.
•Never wear loose clothing that can get
caught in moving parts.
WARNING!
Engine exhaust and certain
vehicle components contain
or emit chemicals considered
to cause cancer, birth defects,
or other reproductive system
damage. The engine exhaust
contains carbon monoxide,
which is a colorless, poisonous
gas. Do not use the machine
in enclosed spaces.
8011-518
WARNING!
When using the machine, approved personal protective equipment shall be
used. Personal protective equipment cannot eliminate the risk of injury but it
will reduce the degree of injury if an accident does happen. Ask your retailer
for help in choosing the right equipment.
Personal protective equipment 8011-292
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

7
Driving on Slopes
Driving on slopes is one of the operations where the
risk is greatest that the driver will lose control or the
machine will tip over, which can result in serious
injury or death. All slopes require extra caution. If
you cannot reverse up a slope or if you feel unsure,
do not mow the slope.
Do as follows
•Remove obstacles such as stones,
tree branches, etc.
•Mow up and down, not side-to-side.
•Never drive the rider on terrain that slopes more
than 10°.
•Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If the tires
begin to slip, shut down the blades and drive
slowly down the slope.
•Always drive evenly and slowly on slopes.
•Make no sudden changes in speed or direction.
•Avoid unnecessary turns on slopes, and if it
proves necessary, turn slowly and gradually
downward, if possible.
•Watch out for and avoid driving over furrows,
holes, and bumps. On uneven terrain, the
machine can tip more easily. Long grass can
hide obstacles.
•Drive slowly. Use small movements of the
steering controls.
•Be extra cautious with any additional
equipment, which can alter the machine’s
stability.
•Do not mow near verges, ditches, or banks.
The machine can suddenly spin around if a
wheel goes over the edge of a drop or ditch, or
if an edge gives way.
•Do not mow wet grass. It is slippery, and the
tires can lose their grip, so that the machine
slides.
•Try not to stabilize the machine by putting a foot
on the ground.
•When cleaning the chassis, the machine may
never be driven near verges or ditches.
Mow up and down, not side-to-side 8003-004
Be extra cautious when driving on slopes 8011-519
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
•Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires
lose traction, disengage the blades and pro-
ceed slowly straight down the slope.
•If machine stops while going uphill, disengage
blades and back down slowly.
•Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and
then, turn slowly and gradually downhill, if pos-
sible.

8
Children
•Serious accidents may occur if you fail to be
on guard for children in the vicinity of the
machine. Children are often attracted to the
machine and mowing work. Never assume
that children will stay put where you last saw
them.
•Keep children away from the mowing area
and under close supervision by another
adult.
•Keep an eye out and shut off the machine if
children enter the work area.
•Before and during a reversing maneuver,
look backward and downward for small
children.
•Never allow a child to ride with you. They can
fall off and injure themselves seriously or
prevent risk-free maneuvering of the
machine.
•Never allow children to operate the machine.
•Be particularly cautious near corners,
bushes, trees, or other objects that block
your view.
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING!
The engine must not be started when the driver’s floor plate or any protective
plate for the mower deck’s drive belt is removed.
Never allow children to operate the machine 8011-517
8011-516
•Stop the engine. Prevent the engine from
starting by removing the ignition key before
making any adjustments or performing
maintenance.
•Never fill the fuel tank indoors.
•Fuel and fuel fumes are poisonous and
extremely flammable. Be especially cautious
when handling fuel, as carelessness can
result in personal injury or fire.
•Only store fuel in containers approved for the
purpose.
•Never remove the fuel tank cap and never fill
the fuel tank while the engine is running.
Never fill the fuel tank indoors

9
•Allow the engine to cool before refueling. Do
not smoke. Do not fill fuel in the vicinity of
sparks or open flames.
•If leaks arise in the fuel system, the engine
must not be started until the problem has been
resolved.
•Store the machine and fuel in such a way that
there is no risk of leaking fuel or fuel vapor
leading to damages.
•Check the fuel level before each use and leave
space for the fuel to expand, because the heat
from the engine and the sun may otherwise
cause the fuel to expand and overflow.
•Avoid overfilling. If you spill fuel on the machine,
wipe up the spill and wait until it has evaporated
before starting the engine. If you have spilled
fuel on your clothing, change your clothing.
•Allow the machine to cool before taking any
actions in the engine compartment.
•Be very careful when handling battery acid.
Acid on skin can cause serious corrosive
burns. If you spill battery acid on your skin,
rinse immediately with water.
•Acid in the eyes can cause blindness, contact
a doctor immediately.
•Be careful when servicing the battery.
Explosive gases form in the battery. Never
perform maintenance on the battery when
smoking or near open flames or sparks. The
battery can explode and cause serious injury/
damage.
•Ensure that nuts and bolts, especially the
fastening bolts for the blade attachments, are
properly tightened and that the equipment is in
good condition.
•Do not modify safety equipment. Check
regularly to be sure it works properly. The
machine must not be driven with defective or
unmounted protective plates, protective
cowlings, safety switches, or other protective
devices.
•Do not change the settings of governors and
avoid running the engine with overly high
engine speeds. If you run the engine too fast,
you risk damaging the machine components.
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING!
The engine, the exhaust system,
and the hydraulic system’s
components become very warm
during operation.
Risk for burns if touched.
WARNING!
The battery contains lead and
lead compounds, chemicals
that are considered to cause
cancer, birth defects, and
other reproductive system
damage. Wash your hands
after touching the battery.
Do not smoke when performing maintenance on
the battery. The battery can explode and cause
serious injury/damage
8011-563

10
•Never use the machine indoors or in spaces
lacking proper ventilation. The exhaust fumes
contain carbon monoxide, an odorless,
poisonous, and lethal gas.
•Stop and inspect the equipment if you run over
or into anything. If necessary, make repairs
before starting.
•Never make adjustments with the engine
running.
•The machine is tested and approved only with
the equipment originally provided or
recommended by the manufacturer.
•The blades are sharp and can cause cuts and
gashes. Wrap the blades or use protective
gloves when handling them.
•Check the parking brake’s functionality
regularly. Adjust and service as necessary.
•The mulch deck shall only be used when
higher quality mowing is desired in familiar
areas.
•Reduce the risk of fire by removing grass,
leaves, and other debris that may have
accumulated on the machine. Allow the
machine to cool before putting it in storage.
Transport
•The machine is heavy and can cause serious
crushing injuries. Be extra cautious when it is
loaded on or unloaded from a vehicle or trailer.
•Use an approved trailer to transport the
machine. Activate the parking brake, turn off
the fuel supply, and fasten the machine with
approved fastening devices, such as bands,
chains, or ropes, when transporting.
•Check and abide by local traffic regulations
before transporting or driving the machine on
any road.
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Never drive the machine in an enclosed space 8011-515
8011-514
Clean the machine regularly
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
The parking brake is not sufficient to
lock the machine in place during
transport. Ensure that the machine is
well fastened to the transport vehicle.
Reverse the machine onto the transport
vehicle to avoid tipping it over.

11
SPECIFICATIONS
GASOLINE CAPACITY 5.6 GALLONS
AND TYPE UNLEADED REGULAR
OIL TYPE (SPI-SF-SJ): SEE YOUR ENGINE
OWNERS MANUAL
SPARK PLUG: SEE ENGINE MANUAL
GROUND SPEED (MPH): FORWARD: 0 - 5.5
REVERSE: 0 - 2.5
TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 15 PSI
REAR: 15 PSI
CHARGING SYSTEM: BRIGGS & STRATTON 16 AMP
@ 3600 RPM
BATTERY: MIN. CCA: 300
CASE SIZE: 5 1/4W X 7 3/4 L X 6 T
BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 45-55 FT./LBS.
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
• Read and observe the safety rules.
• Follow a regular schedule in maintaining,
caring for and using your mower.
• Follow the instructions under "Customer
Responsibilities” and "Storage” sections of
this owner’s manual.
WARNING
This mower is equipped with an internal
combustion engine and should not be used
on or near any unimproved forest-covered,
brush-covered or grass-covered land un-
less the engine’s exhaust system is
equipped with a spark arrester meeting
applicable local or state laws (if any). If a
spark arrester is used, it should be main-
tained in effective working order by the op-
erator.
A spark arrester for the muffler is available
through your nearest authorized engine service
center/department.
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a
new mower. It has been designed, engineered
and manufactured to give you the best possible
dependability and performance.
Should you experience any problem you cannot
easily remedy, please contact your nearest
authorized service center/ department. We
have competent, well-trained technicians and
the proper tools to service or repair this mower.
Please read and retain this manual. The in-
structions will enable you to assemble and
maintain your mower properly. Always observe
the "SAFETY RULES”.

12
ASSEMBLY
Your new mower has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those parts left un-
assembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your mower, all
parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools as
necessary to insure proper tightness.
TOOLS REQUIRED
FOR ASSEMBLY
1. 9/16" wrench or 9/16" socket w/ drive
ratchet
2. Tire pressure gauge
3. Nail bar or claw hammer
4. Wire snips
When right or left hand is mentioned in this
manual, it means when you are in the operating
position (seated).
TO REMOVE THE MOWER
FROM CRATE
UNPACK CRATE
• Using the nail bar or hammer, remove the
top of the crate first. Then remove the
sides of the crate and place these out of
the way. Be careful of any exposed nails
or staples.
• Remove the plastic bag that covers the
mower.
• Using the wire snips, cut any plastic ties
that are holding the mower to the crate.
• Remove the seat off of the front of the
mower and place in a safe location.
BEFORE REMOVING THE
MOWER FROM THE SKID
ATTACH SEAT (See Fig. 1)
The seat position should be adjusted forward or
backward so that the operator can comfortably
reach the deck lift pedal and safely operate the
mower. See "Service and Adjustment" Section
of this manual.
• Remove protective wrap from the seat.
• Remove the three prong knobs and
washers from the seat and place in the
storage area in the right side console.
• Raise the seat pan up so that the bottom
can be easily accessed.
• Securing one of the three prong knobs
and washers, insert it thru the seat pan
slot and into the corresponding threaded
hole in the seat bottom.
• Repeat for the other three holes.
• Tighten the three prong knobs in the
approximate position desired for the
seat.
• Connect the wiring harness to the seat
switch.
Adjustments may be required to position the
seat in the desired position. Refer to the
"Service and Adjustment" section of this
manual.
FIGURE 1
ATTACH CONTROL LEVERS (See Fig. 2)
• Using the 9/16" wrench or socket and
ratchet, remove the bottom hex bolt and
spring washer from the control arm.
• Rotate the control lever up until the bolt
and spring washer can be placed thru
the slot in the bottom of the control lever
and threaded back into the control arm.
• Center the hex bolt in the slot on the
control lever. Using the wrench or
ratchet, tighten both the top and bottom
hex bolts.
• Repeat on opposite side of the mower.
KNOBS
WIRE
HARNESS
SEAT PAN
CZ-1

13
NOTE: You may now roll or drive the mower off
of the skid. Follow the appropriate instruction
below to remove the mower from the skid.
Adjustments may be required to get uniform
positioning of the control lever. Refer to the
"Service and Adjustment" section of this manual.
FIGURE 2
TO ROLL THE MOWER OFF OF THE SKID
(See Operation section for location and
function of controls
• Move to the rear of the mower, and place
the IZT (Integraded Zeroturn Transaxle)
bypass linkages into the bypass position
to disengage the IZT’s (See “TO
TRANSPORT” in the Operation section
of this manual).
• Sitting on the mower, press the deck lift
pedal in to the highest cutting position.
• Release park brake lever.
• Roll the mower forward or backward off
of the skid.
TO DRIVE THE MOWER OFF OF THE
SKID (See Operation section for location
and function of controls)
WARNING
Before starting, read, understand and
follow all instructions in the Operation
section of this manual. Be sure the mower
is in a well-ventilated area. Be sure the area
in front of the mower is clear of other people
and objects.
• Be sure all of the above assembly
steps have been completed.
• Check engine oil level and fill fuel
tank with gasoline.
• Place the IZT(Integraded Zeroturn
Transaxle) bypass linkages into the
drive position (See “TRANSPORT” in
the Operation section of this manual).
• Sit on the seat in the operating
position, set the park brake lever to
the on position.
• Rotate the control levers outward
into the neutral slot.
• Press forward on the deck lift pedal
to raise the deck into the highest
cutting position.
• Place the throttle control into the
choke position.
• Start the engine. After the engine
has started, move the throttle control
to the idle position.
• Release the park brake.
• Move the control levers into the
operate position.
• Slowly move the control levers
forward and slowly drive the mower
off of the skid.
• Return the control levers back to the
neutral position.
• Apply the park brake.
• Turn the ignition key to the “OFF”
position.
ASSEMBLY
CONTROL
LEVER
CONTROL
ARM
HEX
BOLTS
NEUTRAL
SLOT
CZ-2

14
CHECKLIST
PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING
CHECKLIST
• All assembly instructions have been
completed
• No remaining loose parts in crate
• Seat is adjusted properly and securely
fastened
• All tires are properly inflated
• Check wiring. See that all connections
are still secure, and wires are properly
clamped.
• Before driving the mower, be sure the
IZT(Integraded Zeroturn Transaxle)
bypass linkages are in the drive position.
WHILE LEARNING HOW TO USE
YOUR MOWER, PAY EXTRA
ATTENTION TO THE FOLLOWING
ITEMS:
• Engine oil is at proper level
• Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean,
regular unleaded gasoline. Check your
engine manual for fuel requirements.
• Become familiar with all controls – their
location and function. Operate them
before you start the engine.
• Become familiar with unit operation on a
flat and level area with the mower deck
shut off.
• Be sure the brake system is in a safe
operating condition. If adjustment is
needed see Service and Adjustment
section.
ASSEMBLY
CHECK THE TIRE PRESSURE
Correct tire pressure is important for best cutting
performance.
• Check the tire pressure and adjust
accordingly. Refer to the
“SPECIFICATIONS” section in this
manual.

15
OPERATION
CONTROLS
1. PTO SWITCH – Used to engage or
disengage the deck blades.
2. FOOT PEDAL – Used to raise, lower and
select various cutting heights of the deck.
3. CONTROL LEVERS – Sets the speed of
the mower in both forward and reverse
directions and turns the mower.
4. CHOKE CONTROL – Used when starting
a cold engine.
5. THROTTLE CONTROL – Used to control
Engine Speed.
6. IZT (Integraded Zeroturn
Transaxle)BYPASS LINKAGES –
Bypasses IZT’s for pushing or pulling
mower.
7. IGNITION SWITCH – Used to start or stop
the engine.
8. PARKING BRAKE LEVER – Engages
and disengages the park brakes.
9. TENSION RELIEF LEVER – Used to
release the belt tension on the deck belt for
ease in removing or replacing the belt.
10. HOUR METER – Indicates hours of
operation.
FIGURE 3
8
9
6
2
33
CZ-10
CZ-5
CZ-6
10
5
1
7
4
CZ-3

16
OPERATION
HOW TO USE YOUR MOWER
TO SET PARKING BRAKE (See Fig. 3)
Your mower is equipped with an operator
presence system. When the engine is running,
any attempt by the operator to leave the seat
without first setting the park brake will shut off
the engine.
• Pull park brake lever up and to the right
to engage the park brake. Make sure the
lever is secured to the right.
DECK BLADES
• To stop the deck blades, press down on
the PTO Switch into the disengaged
position.
ENGINE
• Move throttle control to slow position.
NOTE: Failure to move the throttle control to
slow position and allow engine to idle before
stopping may cause engine to “backfire”.
• Turn ignition key to “OFF” position and
remove key. Always remove key when
leaving the mower to prevent
unauthorized use.
• Never use choke to stop engine.
IMPORTANT: LEAVING THE IGNITION
SWITCH IN ANY POSITION OTHER THAN
“OFF” WILL CAUSE THE BATTERY TO BE
DISCHARGED, (DEAD).
WARNING
Always stop mower completely before
leaving the operators position; to empty a
grass catcher, etc.
TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL (See Fig. 3)
Always operate engine at full throttle. The
Throttle control is equipped with a choke detent.
Pressing the throttle control all of the way
forward will choke the engine. For full throttle,
press throttle control forward until you feel
resistance.
• Operating engine at less than full throttle
reduces the battery charging rate
• Full throttle offers the best mower
performance.
TO USE CHOKE CONTROL (See Fig. 3)
Use choke control whenever you are starting a
cold engine. Do not use to start a warm engine.
• To choke, pull up on the choke knob.
• To take out of choke, push down on the
choke knob.
TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD
(See Fig. 4)
IMPORTANT: CONTROL LEVERS RETURN
TO NEUTRAL WHEN RELEASED. THIS MAY
CAUSE A SUDDEN STOP OF THE MOWER.
The direction and speed of movement is
controlled by the control levers on either side of
the mower.
The left lever controls the flow of oil in the left IZT
(Integraded Zeroturn Transaxle) to the left wheel.
The right lever controls the flow of oil in the right
IZT to the right wheel.
Motion Control Lever Pattern
(Right Side)
FIGURE 4
FRONT OF
MOWER
NEUTRAL SLOT
NEUTRAL LOCK
FORWARD
NEUTRAL
REVERSE

17
FIGURE 4A
OPERATION
The deck cutting height is obtained by pressing
the foot pedal forward to lift the deck. To lower
the deck, you apply pressure to the top side of
the foot pedal and allow it to pivot while allowing
the lift arm to rotate to the rear of the unit. To
stop in a desired cutting position, rotate the foot
pedal down into the notch in the height plate.
The cutting height range is from 1 1/2" to 4 1/2"
in 1/2" increments. The heights are measured
from the ground up to the blade tip with the
engine not running.
• The average lawn should be cut to 2 1/2"
during the cool season and to over 3"
during the hot months. For healthier and
better looking lawns, mow often and after
moderate growth.
• For best cutting performance, grass over
6 inches in height should be mowed
twice. Make the first cut relatively high;
the second to the desired height.
TO ADJUST THE DECK CUTTING
HEIGHT (See Fig. 5)
CONTROL
LEVER
CONTROL
ARM
HEX NUTS
AND
WASHERS
REVERSE
FORWARD
NOTE: To begin motion the operator must be in
the seat and the parking brake disengaged
before the motion control levers can be moved
from the neutral slots or the engine will kill. Fig. 4
and 4A.
By moving the levers an equal amount forward
or back the machine will move in a straight line
in that direction. Fig. 4 and 4A
Movement of either lever forward will cause the
right or left wheel to rotate in a forward direction.
To stop movement pull both levers into the
neutral position.
To turn right while moving in a forward direction
pull the right lever back towards the neutral
position, this will slow the rotation of the right
wheel and cause the machine to turn in that
direction.
To turn left while moving in a forward direction
pull the left lever back towards the neutral
position, this will slow the rotation of the left
wheel and cause the machine to turn in that
direction.
To zero turn pull one lever back beyond neutral
while holding the other slightly ahead of neutral.
NOTE: The direction of the zero turn will be
determined by which lever is pulled back beyond
neutral. Thus left lever back, left zero turn and
opposite for right zero turn.
Use extra care when using this maneuver
the machine can spin very rapidly if one
lever is positioned too far ahead of the
other.
NEUTRAL
SLOT
CAUTION
DO NOT apply excessive force to control
levers or use to assist in dismounting unit.
Misuse will result in bent control levers.
CZ-7

18
TO OPERATE MOWER
Your mower is equipped with an operator
presence system. When the engine is running,
any attempt by the operator to leave the seat
without first setting the park brake will shut off
the engine.
• Select desired height of cut.
• Start deck blades by pulling the PTO
switch up into the engaged position.
• To stop the deck blades, press down on
the PTO Switch into the disengaged
position.
WARNING
Do not operate the deck without either
the entire grass catcher, mulch kit or dis-
charge chute installed.
OPERATION
TO OPERATE ON HILLS
WARNING
Do not drive up or down hills with slopes
greater than 10 degrees. And do not drive
across any slopes.
FIGURE 6
ANTI-SCALP
ROLLER
TO ADJUST ANTI-SCALP
ROLLERS (See Figure 6)
Anti-scalp rollers are properly adjusted when
they are just slightly off of the ground when the
deck is at the desired cutting height in the
operating position. Anti-scalp rollers then keep
the deck in the proper position to help prevent
scalping in most terrain conditions.
NOTE: Adjust Anti-scalp rollers with the mower
on a flat level surface.
• Adjust the deck to the desired cutting
height (see “TO ADJUST DECK
CUTTING HEIGHT” in the operation
section of this manual).
FIGURE 5
• Using a 3/4" wrench and a 9/16" wrench,
remove the nut and shoulder bolt from
the anti-scalp roller.
• Lower the anti-scalp roller to the ground,
and raise it up to the next highest hole.
• Replace and tighten the nut and shoulder
bolt.
• Be sure to adjust all of the anti-scalp
rollers to the same position.
• Be sure to readjust the anti-scalp rollers
if the cutting height is changed.
IMPORTANT: THE ANTI-SCALP ROLLERS
MUST NOT BE USED FOR GAUGE WHEELS
OR THE ROLLER AND DECK MAY BE
DAMAGED.
HEIGHT
PLATE
FOOT
PEDAL
LIFT
ARM
CZ-8 CZ-9

19
• The slowest speed possible should be
used before starting up or down hills.
• Avoid stopping or changing speed on
hills.
• If stopping is absolutely necessary, pull
drive levers into the neutral position and
push to the outside of the unit and
engage the park brake.
IMPORTANT: Control levers return to neutral
when released. This may cause a sudden stop
of the mower.
• To restart movement, release the park
brake.
• Pull the control levers back to the center
of the mower and press forward to
regain forward motion.
• Make all turns slowly.
TO TRANSPORT (See Fig. 7)
When pushing or pulling the mower, be sure to
engage the IZT (Integraded Zeroturn Transaxle)
bypass linkages. The IZT bypass linkages are
located on the rear of the frame, below the rear
engine guard.
CAUTION
Do not tow this vehicle, it may cause dam-
age to the drive system.
• Raise the deck into the highest cutting
position.
• Pull the IZT bypass linkages out and into
the slots and release so that it is held in
the bypass position.
• To reengage the IZT’s to drive, reverse
the above procedure.
WARNING
Do not tow any trailers, etc. with this mower.
They may jackknife or overturn causing
damage to the mower and possibly serious
injury to the operator.
OPERATION
FIGURE 7
FIGURE 7A
FIGURE 7B
HEAD INSIDE OF
REAR DECK
IZT BYPASS
LINKAGE IN
DRIVE POSITION
HEAD OUTSIDE
OF REAR DECK
IZT BYPASS
LINKAGE IN
BYPASS POSITION
IZT BYPASS LINKAGE
CZ-10
CZ-11
CZ-12

20
OPERATION
TO START ENGINE (See Fig. 3)
When starting the engine for the first time or if
the engine has run out of fuel, it will take extra
cranking time to move fuel from the tank to the
engine.
• Be sure IZT (Integraded Zeroturn
Transaxle) bypass linkages are in the
drive position.
• Sit on the seat in the operators position,
release park brake lever.
• Check to be sure the PTO switch is
disengaged.
• Move the throttle control to the choke
position.
• For a warm engine start, the choke
control may not be needed
CAUTION
Experience indicates that alcohol blended
fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or
methanol) can attract moisture which leads
to separation and formation of acids dur-
ing storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel
system of an engine while in storage. To
avoid engine problems, the fuel system
should be emptied before storage of 30
days or longer. Drain the gas tank, start
the engine and let it the run until the fuel
lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh
fuel the next season. See Storage Instruc-
tions for additional information. Never use
engine or carburetor cleaners in the fuel
tank or permanent damage may occur.
WARNING
Fill to bottom of filler neck. Do not over
fill. Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do
not store, spill or use gasoline near an
open flame.
ADD GASOLINE
• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87
octane. (Use of leaded gasoline will
increase carbon and lead oxide deposits
and reduce valve life). Do not mix oil
with gasoline. Purchase fuel in
quantities that can be used within 30
days to ensure fuel freshness.
IMPORTANT: WHEN OPERATING IN
TEMPERATURES BELOW 32° F. (0° C.), USE
FRESH, CLEAN WINTER GRADE GASOLINE
TO HELP INSURE GOOD COLD WEATHER
STARTING.
• Check engine oil with the mower on level
ground.
• Refer to you Engine Owners Manual for
correct oil level.
• To change engine oil, see the Customer
Responsibilities section of this manual.
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE
CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL
• The engine in your mower has been
shipped from the factory, already filled
with 10W-30 motor oil.