Yazoo/Kees ZMBI42180 User manual

Operators manual Models:
Please read these instructions carefully and make
sure you understand them before using the machine.
MANUAL NO. 108999 REV. IR (09/01/03)
For Serial No. 033600000 & Higher
ZMBI42180
ZMBI48180
ZMKW48170
ZMKW48190
ZMKW48210
ZMKW52230
ZMKH52230
ZMKW61230

2
©2003 Yazoo/Kees Power Equipment. All right reserved.
Beatrice, NE. Printed U.S.A.

3
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION .................................. 4
SYMBOLS & DECALS ......................... 6
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS .................... 7
General use and saftey rules ...... 7-8
Driving on slopes ........................ 9
Children safety............................ 10
Maintenance safety ..................... 10-11
Transportation Safety ................. 12
PRESENTATION................................... 13
SETUP AND ADJUSTMENTS .............. 14
Setup .......................................... 14
Cutting height ............................. 14
Mower deck leveling ................... 15
Throttle lever tension .................. 15
Reverse spring detent adj........... 15
Park brake adj............................. 16
Motion control lever adj. .............. 16
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ............ 17
Starting and operation ................. 17
Controls ...................................... 17-18
MAINTENANCE .................................... 19
Engine oil .................................... 19
Mower blades ............................. 19
Safety interlock system .............. 19
Cutter housings .......................... 19
Hardware .................................... 20
Air filter........................................ 21
Hydraulic system ........................ 21
Deck belt .................................... 21
Pump belt ................................... 21
Lubrication .................................. 21
Tire pressure .............................. 21
Caster wheels ............................ 21
Fuel filter ..................................... 21
Winter storage ............................ 21
TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS ............... 22
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ............... 23
TROUBLE SHOOTING ........................ 24
WIRING DIAGRAMS ............................. 25-28

4
INTRODUCTION
Introduction
Congratulations
Thank you for purchasing a Yazoo/Kees ride-on mower. This machine is built for the greatest effi-
ciency and rapid mowing of large areas. Convenient controls and a hydrostatic transmission regu-
lated by steering levers also contribute to the machine’s performance.
This manual is a valuable document. Following the instructions (use, service, maintenance, etc.)
can considerably increase the life-span of your machine and even increase its resale value.
If you sell your machine, be sure to give the operator’s manual to the new owner.
The final chapter of this operator’s manual comprises a Service Journal. Ensure that service and
repair work is documented. A well kept service journal reduces service costs of the season-based
maintenance and affects the machine’s resale value. Take the operator’s manual along when the
machine is left at the service center for service.
General
In this operator’s manual, left and right, backward and forward are used in relation to the machine’s
normal driving direction.
Driving and Transport on Public Roads
Check applicable road traffic regulations before driving and transporting on public roads. If the
machine is transported, you should always use approved fastening equipment and ensure that the
machine is well anchored.
Operating
This machine is constructed only for mowing grass on lawns and other free and even ground with-
out obstacles such as stones, tree stubs, etc. The machine can also be used for other tasks when
equipped with special accessories provided by the manufacturer, for which the operating instruc-
tions are provided in conjunction with delivery. All other types of use are incorrect. The
manufacturer’s directions concerning operation, maintenance, and repairs must be carefully fol-
lowed.
The machine must only be operated, maintained, and repaired by persons that are familiar with the
machine’s special characteristics and who are well versed in the safety instructions.
Accident prevention regulations, other general safety regulations, occupational safety rules, and
traffic regulations must be followed without fail.
Unauthorized modifications to the design of the machine may absolve the manufacturer from liability
for any resulting personal injury or property damage.

5
INTRODUCTION
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
Manufacturing Number
The machine’s manufacturing number can be found on the printed decal affixed to the left side of the
frame under the seat.
•The machine’s type designation (I.D.).
•The manufacturer’s type number (Model).
•The machine’s serial number (Serial no.)
Please state the type designation and serial number when ordering spare parts.
The engine’s manufacturing number is stated on a decal. This is placed on the right side on the top
of the engine.
•The engine’s serial number (E/NO).
•The engine’s type designation (Code).
Please state these when ordering spare parts.
The hydraulic pump’s manufacturing number is stated on a barcode decal affixed to the left side of
the pump housing. The plate states:
•The pump’s type designation.
•The pump’s serial number.
The hydraulic motor’s manufacturing number is stated on a round metal plate. This is placed on the
gable inside the motor. The plate states:
•The hydraulic motor’s type designation and design version.
•The hydraulic motor’s serial number.

6
SYMBOLS AND DECALS
Symbols and Decals
These symbols are found on the machine and in the operator’s manual.
Study them carefully so that you know what they mean.
WARNING!
Xxxxxxx xxxx xxxxxxxx xxx x
Xxxxx xxxxxx xx.
xx xxxx x xxx xxxxx xx x x x.
Used in this publication to notify the reader of a risk of personal injury, particularly if the reader
should neglect to follow instructions given in the manual.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Xxxxxxx xxxx xxxxxxxx xxx xxx
xxxx xxxxxx xx.
Used in this publication to notify the reader of a risk of material damage, particularly if the reader
should neglect to follow instructions given in the manual. Used also when there is a potential for
misuse or misassembly.
R
N
Reverse Neutral Fast Slow Fuel
Ignition
Stop Run Start Warning
Danger
Caution
Parking brake
Do not stand here
Warning! Rotating
blades, keep away from
the discharge deck Do not touch rotating parts
Battery acid is corrosive,
explosive, and flammable
Use on a slope no greater
than 10°.
No
passengers
Careful going
forward, watch
for other people.
Careful backing
up, watch for
other people. Shut off engine and remove key before
performing any maintenace or repair work.
Read
Operators
Manual.
Whole body
exposure to
thrown objects. Severing of fingers and toes.
Do not open
or remove
safety shields
while engine
is running.
Keep a safe
distance from
the machine.

7
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
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.
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 con-
trols 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 starting
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 dur-
ing reversing maneuvers. Keep a look out for
both large and small obstacles.
•Slow down before turning.
•Shut down the blades when not mowing.
8011-512
Read the operator’s manual before starting the machine.
8011-513
Clear the area of objects before mowing.
8011-520
Never take passengers.

8
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
•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, judgement, or coordination.
•Beware of traffic when working near or cross-
ing 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.
Engine exhaust and certain vehicle
components contain or emit chemi-
cals considered to cause cancer,
birth defects, or other reproductive
system damage. The engine ex-
haust contains carbon monoxide,
which is colorless, poisonous gas.
Do not use the machine in en-
closed spaces.
WARNING!
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.
•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.
8011-292
Personal protective equipment.
8011-518
Keep children away from the work area.

9
6003-004
Mow up and down, not side-to-side.
Driving on Slopes
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
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 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 direc-
tion.
•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 equip-
ment, 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.
8011-519
Be extra cautious when driving on slopes.

10
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Children:
•Serious accidents may occur if you fail to be
on guard for children in the vicinity of the ma-
chine. Children are often attracted to the ma-
chine 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 pre-
vent 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.
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.
•Stop the engine. Prevent the engine from start-
ing by removing the ignition key before mak-
ing any adjustments or performing mainte-
nance.
•Never fill the fuel tank indoors.
•Fuel and fuel fumes are poisonous and ex-
tremely flammable. Be especially cautious
when handling fuel, as carelessness can re-
sult 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.
Maintenance:
8011-517
Never allow children to operate the machine.
8011-516
Never fill the fuel tank indoors.

11
•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 evapo-
rated 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, con-
tact a doctor immediately.
•Be careful when servicing the battery. Explo-
sive 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 fas-
tening bolts for the blade attachments, are
properly tightened and that the equipment is
in good condition.
•Do not modify safety equipment. Check regu-
larly to be sure it works properly. The machine
must not be driven with defective or un-
mounted protective plates, protective cowl-
ings, safety switches, or other protective de-
vices.
•Do not change the settings of governors and
avoid running the engine with overly high en-
gine speed. If you run the engine too fast, you
risk damaging the machine components.
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
The engine, the exhaust system,
and the hydraulic system’s compo-
nents 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.
WARNING!
8011-563
Do not smoke when performing maintenance on the
battery. The battery can explode and cause serious
injury/damage.

12
•Never use the machine indoors or in spaces
lacking proper ventilation. The exhaust fumes
contain carbon monoxide, and odorless, poi-
sonous, 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 run-
ning.
•The machine is tested and approved only with
the equipment originally provided or recom-
mended by the manufacturer.
•The blades are sharp and can cause cuts and
gashes. Wrap the blades or us protective
gloves when handling them.
•Check the parking brake’s functionality regu-
larly. 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 accu-
mulated on the machine. Allow the machine
to cool before putting it in storage.
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
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 ma-
chine. Activate the parking brake, turn off the
fuel supply, and fasten the machine with ap-
proved 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.
8011-515
Never drive the machine in an enclosed space.
8011-514
Clean the machine regularly.
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 ma-
chine onto the transport vehicle to avoid
tipping it over.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION

13
PRESENTATION
Presentation
Thank you for buying YAZOO/KEES! Before
operating your new mower, read, understand
and follow the safety instructions and other
directions in this manual.
Lawnmowers and all power equipment, can be
potentially dangerous if used improperly.
Safety requires good judgement, careful use in
accordance with these instructions and com-
mon sense.
Motion Control Levers
Fuel Cap
Key Switch
Blade Engagement Switch
Park Brake Lever
Deck Lift Lever
Hour Meter
Throttle

14
SETUP AND ADJUSTMENTS
WARNING: No settings or adjustments are
to be made unless: Engine is stopped, key
has been removed, park brake is on and
battery cable removed from battery.
Setup
Uncrate machine.
Mount rear drive wheels using the lug nuts
installed on the hubs.
Check the tire pressure in all four tires. All tires
should be 15 psi.
Remove top bolt in control arm and loosen
bottom bolt, rotate the control levers to the
upright position. Align the levers so they are
even in the neutral position. Reinstall hardware
and tighten. FIG - 1
Install seat rod to the seat frame with cotter pin
in plastic bag. Seat rod is located under the seat
in the hydraulic pump area.
Check engine oil with dip stick. Add if needed
per the engine manufactures specifications.
See engine manual for oil type and filling specifi-
cations. FIG - 2
Loosen the discharge chute slightly and lower
into position. Chute should be snug but still pivot
freely.
Install armrests to seat. Hardware and armrests
are in the plastic bag.
Adjustments
Cutting Height
Stop the mower and disengage the blades.
Raise the deck height lever to the transport
position.
Remove the height adjustment pin and place it
in the desired cutting height hole. Lower the lift
lever down onto pin. NOTE: Anti-scalp rollers
must be in the proper position for maximum
deck floatation. See the decal on the front deck
for proper settings. FIG - 3
Lift Lever
Deck Height
Adjusment Plates
Motion
Control
Lever
Control
Arm
“F” Full
Mark
Operating
Range
FIG - 1
FIG - 2
FIG - 3

15
SETUP AND ADJUSTMENTS
Mower Deck Leveling
Position machine on a flat surface. Preferably
level concrete.
Check the tire pressure in all four tires. Inflation
should be 15 psi.
Place 2x4’s on edge under the cutting deck from
front to rear and lower the deck down onto
2x4’s.
Adjust the four upper chain bolts to the center
slots in the deck lift arms. NOTE: Make sure the
lift blocks under the frame are tightly bolted to
the frame.
Check the chains for equal tension. If unequal
adjust upper chain bolt in slot.
Place the deck in the 5” cutting height and
measure from the cutting edge of the blade to
the flat level surface to check the deck cutting
height.
Throttle Lever Tension
Stop engine and remove key.
Throttle lever tension may be adjusted by
tightening the pivot bolt. The pivot bolt secures
the throttle arm to the mounting bracket which is
mounted to the console. Access is gained by
removing the console.
Reverse Spring Detent Adjustment
Stop engine and remove key.
Pull the motion control lever back to the reverse
position and release the lever. When the lever
stops it should be in line with the neutral slot, so
you can move the lever into neutral slot with out
hitting the side of the console frame.
If adjustment is required put the seat in the rear
most position on the slide, tilt the seat forward,
remove the seat rod from seat frame and fold
seat over forward onto the frame.
On the back of the console where the spring is
fastened, loosen the 3/8” nut and bolt enough to
allow the bolt to slide in the slot. FIG - 4
Motion
Control
Lever
Reverse Detent
Adjustment Slot
Reverse Detent
Spring
Rotate the motion control lever out into the
neutral slot. While the lever is swung out into
the neutral slot pull it against the the back edge
of the neutral slot. Holding the lever adjust the
spring by sliding the bolt in the slot to remove
all the slop and retighten the bolt.
Check your adjustment by repeating the sec-
ond step in this process.
If no more adjustment is needed reassemble
the seat rod to the seat frame.
FIG - 4

16
SETUP AND ADJUSTMENTS
Motion Control Linkage Adjustment
This adjustment must be made with the rear
wheels rotating. Raise the rear of the machine
and block it up so the wheels are free to rotate.
CAUTION: Keep hands, feet and clothing
away from rotating tires.
Tilt seat forward and remove the seat rod so the
seat may rotate forward onto the frame.
Place a 2x4 board between the foot plate and
the center of the seat to engage the seat safety
switch.
Loosen the nuts directly behind each ball joint
on both rods that connect the pump arm to the
motion control assemblies. FIG - 7
Start the engine. The park brake must be en-
gaged and the motion control levers in the
neutral slots to start the engine. Run the engine
approximately half throttle
Release park brake to allow the wheels to
rotate.
1. Stop engine and remove key. Release park
brake and measure the length of the spring. The
distance between the washer on each end of
the spring should be 2-7/8". FIG - 5
2. If adjustment is needed, loosen the nut below
the spring. Then rotate nut to desired position so
the proper distance between the washers is
obtained. Check other side for proper adjust-
ment.
3. Engage the brake lever and measure the
distance between the trunnion pin and the collar
welded to the brake rod. Distance should be 3/
16" to 1/4". FIG - 5
4. If adjustment is needed, loosen the lock nut
directly below the yoke. Using a wrench, rotate
the rod by turning the double nuts using the nuts
below the yoke and the nut you just loosened, to
obtain the 3/16" to 1/4" distance. Tighten nut
against yoke and check other side for proper
adjustment.
FIG - 5
Park Brake Adjustment
For Models: ZBMI42180, ZBMI48180
Park Brake Adjustment
For Models: ZMKW48170, ZMKW48210,
ZMKW52230, ZMKH52230,
ZMKW61230
1. Stop engine and remove key, release park brake
and check the gap between the rear tire and the
brake arm. The gap should be 1/8” to 1/4”.
3. Make sure the brake arm on both sides does
not touch the tire when the brake is in the off
position. FIG - 6
2. If adjustment is needed, loosen the lock nut
next to the yoke. Remove the pin from the front
yoke so you can rotate the yoke on the adjust-
ment link until the proper gap is achieved.
FIG - 6

17
OPERATION
Motion Control Lever Pattern
(Right Side)
FIG - 8
Run engine full throttle to make sure wheels do
not rotate. Readjust if any rotation occurs.
Repeat the whole process for the opposite side
and tighten the nuts against the ball joints.
Turn machine off.
Reinstall the seat rod and check the wiring
harness to the seat safety switch for a good
connection and return the seat to the normal
position.
Starting and operation
Operator must be sitting in the seat. Engage the
park brake, blades disengaged and the motion
control levers in the neutral slots.
Set choke (if needed) turn key and release as
soon as engine starts. Adjust throttle to half and
shut choke off.
Release parking brake.
Close motion control levers.
Engage blades and set RPM to maximum.
CAUTION: Be sure all persons are clear of the
area before engaging blades.
Controls
Be familiar with all controls their function and
how to operate them before starting the ma-
chine.
Motion control levers on each side of the con-
sole control the direction of movement. See
page 13. The left lever controls the flow of oil
from the left hydro pump to the left wheel motor.
The right lever controls the flow of oil from the
right hydro pump to the right wheel motor.
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 - 8
Operating instructions
Turn Here
To Adjust
Loosen Here
Loosen Here
(Lt. Hand Thds.)
Motion
Control
Lever
FIG - 7
Begin with either side and put the motion control
lever into the neutral position. Adjust the motion
control linkage by rotating the double nuts in the
proper direction until the wheel stops rotating.
FIG - 7 Move the motion control lever forward
then into the neutral position and place it into the
neutral slot. The wheel must be stopped com-
pletely at this point. Now do the same in reverse
and release the lever. The lever should return to
neutral on its own. If not see reverse spring
detent adjustment.

18
By moving the levers an equal amount forward
or back the machine will move in a straight line
in that direction. FIG - 9.
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
to far ahead of the other.
Blade engagement switch located on the con-
sole is engaged by pulling up on the switch and
pushed down to disengage. FIG - 10.
Choke control is located on the console. To
choke engine pull knob push to release. FIG - 10.
Throttle control is located on the console. Used
to control engine RPM. FIG - 10. Some models
have an intergated choke located on the throttle
control. Choke position for these models is
maximum forward on the throttle control.
Parking brake is located on the left side of the
machine and directly in front of the fuel tank. Pull
the lever back to engage the brake and push
lever forward to release the brake.
Key switch is located on the console. Used to
start the machine. NOTE: Do not run the starter
OPERATION
Key Switch
Throttle
Choke
Blade
Engagement
Motion Control Lever Pattern
(Right Side)
FIG - 9
FIG - 10
NOTE: Associated choke on some models.
for more than 5 seconds at a time. If the engine
will not start, wait about 10 seconds before
trying again. FIG - 10.
Hour Meter
The hour meter displays the total operating time
and reminds of service intervals.
Meter will indicate “CHG OIL” for engine oil and
“SVC” for general service at preset intervals.
The hour meter will reset itself at predetermined
times.
Engine “CHG” will come on after the first ten
(10) hours of operation, and will stay on for one
(1) hour of operation before it will reset itself. It
will come on every 99 hours thereafter, and stay
on for five (5) hours of operation before reset-
ting.
Mower “SVC” message will come on every 50
hours to remind to lubricate the unit, check
blades and fasteners, etc. This message will
stay on for two (2) hours of operation before
resetting.

19
Fuel shut off valve is located at the right rear of the
seat. The valve has three positions a right tank, left
tank and center is the off position. FIG - 11.
The pump release valves are located at the right
front corner of the pumps. Used to release the
system so the machine may be moved by hand
when not running. Tilt seat forward to gain
access to the pumps. Use a 5/8” wrench to
open valve. NOTE: Only rotate valve 1/4 turn to
release system.
Maintenance
WARNING: No settings, adjustments or
maintenance is to be made unless: Engine
is stopped, key has been removed, park
brake is on and battery cable removed from
battery.
Annual inspection and maintenance from an
authorized Yazoo/Kees dealer is recom-
mended to keep your machine in the best
condition mechanically and ensures safe
operation.
Engine oil
Engine oil should be checked daily before
starting the machine. See the engine manufac-
turers manual for specifications on type of oil,
filling instructions and service intervals. FIG - 12
Mower blades
Inspect blades and sharpen or replace as
needed. Check blades daily or as needed. Bent,
cracked or blades with large notches in them
should be replaced. Sharpen to an angle of 22
to 28 degrees. Always check the balance of the
blades after sharpening to prevent excessive
vibration.
MAINTENANCE
Safety interlock system
Check daily and never operate the machine if
the system is not functioning properly. The
starter should crank only when the operator is in
the seat, the parking brake is applied, blade
switch off and the motion control levers in the
neutral slots. If the machine starts with any of
these controls in an operating position, turn the
machine off and repair the system immediately.
“F” Full
Mark
Operating
Range
Fuel Valve
FIG - 11
FIG - 12
Cutter Housings
Grease housings once weekly or every 40 to 50
hours of use. Use a good synthetic grease.
Pump grease in until a small amount purges
from the popet on the underside of the deck.
Check the torque of the pulley bolt (45 ft/lbs)
should be maintained.

20
Hardware
Check daily. Inspect the entire machine for
loose or missing hardware.
Air filter
See engine manufacturers specifications for
cleaning and replacement intervals.
Hydraulic system
Check oil level in tank daily. Oil level should be
3/4” to 1” below the top of the tank. Check all
fittings, hoses and lines for damage or leaks.
Replace or repair any questionable lines or
fittings.
Change the oil and filter after the first 250 hours
of operation then annually after that. Drain tank
and remove filter, be sure to clean around the
tank and filter head before removal. Replace
filter and drain plug and refill hydraulic tank. Only
use MOBIL 1 synthetic oil. FIG - 13.
Raise and block up the rear of the machine so
the drive wheels can rotate freely. Start the
engine at the lowest RPM possible, move the
motion control levers forward and run machine
for several minutes. Stop engine and recheck
the oil level.
If the wheels do not respond an air lock has
occurred within the system. The system must
be bled off of air or let the machine set overnight
to allow the air time to dissipate out of the oil.
DO NOT run the machine with an air lock
serious damage can occur to the pumps and
wheel motors.
Deck belt
Check every 75 to 100 hours of operation.
Check for severe cracking and large nicks.
NOTE: The belt will show some small cracks in
normal operation.
To replace belt lower the deck to its lowest
position. Remove the foot plate and belt shields.
Use a ratchet with a 9/16” socket on the spring
idler bolt to relieve the tension on the belt. Slide
the belt off of pulley and fully remove the belt.
Reverse the proceedure for installation. See the
decal on the top of deck for belt routing informa-
tion. FIG - 14. After installation is complete
check the belt for twists.
MAINTENANCE
Tri-Synthetic Formula
0
ONLY USE
FIG - 13
FIG - 14