Craftsman 917256541 tractor User Manual

MODEL NU 937.256541 OWNER'S MANUAL

° Assembly

° Operation

° Customer Responsibilities

Service and Adjustments

° Repair Parts

CAUTION:Read and follow all safety rules and instructions before operating this equipment.

FOR CONSUMER ASSISTANCE HOT LINE, CALL THIS TOLL FREE NUMBER: t-800-659_5917

, , i ,

SAFETY RULES

Safe Operation Practices for Ride=On Mowers

IMPORTANT: THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OBJECTS

FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH

1. GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow a]f instructions in the manual

and on the machine before starting.

• Only allow responsible adults, who are faro[tier with the

instructions, to operate the machine,

• Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc,,

which could be picked up and thrown by the biade_

• Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing Stop

machine if anyone enters the area

= Never carry passengers

• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary Always

took down and behind before and while backing,

° Be aware of the mower discharge direction and do not point

it at anyone, Do not operate the mower without either the

entire grass catcher or the guard in place

= Slow down before turning

. Never leave a running machine unattended Always turn off

blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and remove keys

before dismounting

• Turn off blades when not mowing

• Stop engine before removing grass catcher or unclogging

chute

- Mow only in daylight or good artificial light

• Do not operate the machine while under the influence of

alcohol or drugs

• Watch for traffic when operating near of crossing roadways=

• Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into

a trailer or truck.

II. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and

tipover accidents, which can result in severe injury or

death,. All slopes require extra caution. If you cannot back

up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not mow it.

DO:

o Mow up and down slopes, not across

• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc

• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps: Uneven terrain could

overturn the machine Tatf grass can hide obstacles

• Use slow speed Choose a low gear so that you will not have

to stop or shift while on the slope

,, Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for wheel

weights or counterweights to improve stability.

• Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments,,

These can change the stability of the machine,

• Keep alt movement on the slopes slow and gtaduat. Do net

make sudden changes in speed or direction.

• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope, If tires lose traction,

disengage the blades and proceed sIowly straight down the

slope

DO NOT:

= Donot turn on s]opes unless necessary, andthen, turn slowly

and gradually downhill, if possible_

° Do not mow near' drop-offs, ditches, or embankments., The

mower could suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the edge

of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.

= Do not mow on wet grass, Reduced traction could cause

sliding,

o Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on the

ground°

• Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes

IlL CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the

presence of children° Children are often attracted to the

machine and the mowing activity Never assume that

children will remain where you last saw them.

• Keep children out of the mowing area and under the watchful

care of another responsible adult

. Be aled and turn machine off if children enter the area

• Before and when backing, look behind and down for small

children

° Never carry chiIdren They may fall off and be seriously

injured or interfere with safe machine operation

• Never allow children to operate the machine.

- Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs,

trees, or other objects that may obscure vision

IV. SERVICE

• Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They are

flammable and vapors are explosive

Use only an approved container

Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine

running Allow engine to cool before refueling Do not

smoke

Never refuel the machine indoors

Never store the machine or fuel container inside where

there is an open flame, such as a water heater,

• Never run a machine inside a closed area.

= Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment bolts, tight

and keep equipment in good condition

° Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper

operation regularly,,

° Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris build-up

Clean oil or fuel spillage. Allow machine to cool before

storing

• Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object

Repair, if necessary, before restarting

• Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine running.

° Grasscatcher components are subject to wear, damage, and

deterioration, which could expose moving parts or allow

objects to be thrown. Frequently check components and

replace with manufacturer's recommended parts, when nec-

essary.

• Mower blades are sharp and can cut Wrap the blade(s) or

wear gloves, and useextra caution when servicing them.

o Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service as

required.

Look for this symbol to point out important

safety precautions. It means

CAUTION!!I BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR

SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

CAUTION: Always disconnect spark plug

wire and place wire where it cannot contact

spark plug in order to prevent accidental

starting when setting up, transporting,

adjusting or making repairs°

WARNING ,&

The engine exhaust from this product contains

chemicals known to the State of California to

cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproduc-

tive harm.

i i

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a Sears

Tractor, It has been designed, engineered and manufac-

tured to give you the best possible dependability and

performance.

Should you experience any problem you cannot easily

remedy, please contact your nearest Sears Authorized

Service Center/Department We have competent, well-

trained technicians and the proper tools to sewice or repair

this tractor.

Please read and retain this manual, The instructions will

enable you to assemble and maintain your tractor properly.

Always observe the "SAFETY RULES"

MODEL

NUMBER

SERIAL

NUMBER

917.256541

DATE OF PURCHASE

THE MODEL AND SERIAL NUMBERS WILL BE FOUND

ON A PLATE UNDER THE SEAT.

YOU SHOULD RECORD BOTH SERIAL NUMBER AND

DATE OF PURCHASE AND KEEP IN A SAFE PLACE

FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT

A Sears Maintenance Agreement is available on this prod-

uct. Contact your nearest Sears store for details,

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

o Read and observe the safety rules.

• Follow a regular schedule in maintaining, caring for and

using your tractor.

• Follow the instructions under "Customer Responsibili-

ties" and "Storage" sections of this owner's manual.

PRODUCT SPECIFDCATtONS

HORSEPOWER: 15,0

GASOLINE CAPACITY 5 QUARTS

AND TYPE: UNLEADED REGULAR

OfL TYPE (API-SF/SG): SAE 10W30 (above 32°F)

SAE 5W-30 (below 32_F)

OlL CAPACITY: Wi FILTER: 4 0 PINTS

W/O FILTER: 3.5 PINTS

SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION RC12YC

(GAP: .040")

VALVE CLEARANCE: NOT ADJUSTABLE

GROUND SPEED (MPH): FORWARD:

1st 1 1

2rid 15

3rd 23

4th 3 5

5th 4 4

6th 5 7

REVERSE: 1.7

TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSi

REAR: 10 PSi

CHARGING SYSTEM: 3 AMPS BATTERY

5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS

BATTERY: AMP/HR: 30

MIN. CCA: 240

CASE SIZE: U1R

BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 30-35 FT LBS

WARNING: This tractor is equipped with an internal

combustion engine and should not be used on or near any

unimproved forest-covered, brush-covered or grass-cov-

ered land unless 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 maintained

in effective working order by the operator

In the state of California the above is required by law

(Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code).

Other states may have similar laws Federal laws apply on

federal lands A spark arrester for the muffler is available

through your nearest Sears Authorized Service Center/

Department (See REPAIR PARTS section ofthis manual).

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT

For two (2) years from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Riding Equipment is maintained, lubricated and tuned up according to

the instructions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair or replace, free of charge, any parts found to be defective in material or

workmanship,

This Warranty does not cover:

• Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as blades, spark plugs, air cleaners, belts, etc

• Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails, thorns, stumps, or glass

. Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, negligence, improper storage or accident or the failure to maintain the

equipment according to the instructions contained in the owner's manual

• Riding equipment used for commercia! or rental purposes

LIMITED 90 DAY WARRANTY ON BATTERY

For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery included with this riding equipment proves defective in material or

workmanship and our testing determines the battery will not hold a charge, Sears will replace the battery at no charge

IN-HOME WARRANTY SERVICE ON YOUR CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT IS AVAILABLE AT NO-CHARGE FOR 30 DAYS

FROM THE DATE OF PURCHASE PLEASE CONTACT YOUR NEAREST SERVICE CENTER. AFTER 30 DAYS FROM THE

DATE OF PURCHASE, WARRANTY SERVICE iS AVAILABLE BY TAKING YOUR CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT TO YOUR

NEAREST SEARS SERVICE CENTER. (IN-HOME WARRANTY SERVICE WILL STILL BE AVAILABLE AFTER 30 DAYS FROM

THE DATE OF PURCHASE BUT A STANDARD TRIP CHARGE WtLL APPLY ) THIS WARRANTY APPLIES ONLY WHILE THIS

PRODUCT IS IN THE UNITED STATES,

This Warranty gives you specific legat rights, and you may also have other rights which may vary from state to state

SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, IL 60179

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SAFETY RULES ............................................................ 2

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS ...................................... 3

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ..................... 3, 15-19

WARRANTY ................... ;.............................................. 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS ................................................. 4

INDEX ............................................................................ 4

TRACTOR ACCESSORIES .......................................... 5

ASSEMBLY ............................................................... 7-9

OPERATION .......................................................... 10-14

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ..................................... 15

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS ........................... 20-25

STORAG E ................................................................... 26

TROUBLESHOOTING ........................................... 27-28

REPAIR PARTS - TRACTOR ................................ 30-47

REPAIR PARTS - ENGINE .................................... 48-53

PARTS ORDERING/SERVICE .................. BACK PAGE

INDEX

Accessodes ..................................................5

Adjustments:

Brake ...................................................22

Carburetor ........................................25

Mower:

Front-To-Back .......................... 21

Side-To-Side .......................................21

Throttle Control Cable ....................24

Air Filter, Engine .......................................18

Air Screen, Engine ................................. 18

Assembly .......................................................7-9

Battery:

Charging .............................................. 8

Cleaning ............................................17

Starting with Weak Battery .............23

Storage ..........................................................26

Terminals ...........................................17

Belts:

Motion Drive

Removal/Replacement ...............22

Mower Blade Drive

Removal/Replacement ...............22

Biade:

Sharpening .............................................16

Replacement .................................. 16

Brake Adjustment ..........................................22

Cmburetor Adjustment ................................25

Controls, Tractor ...........................................11

Customer Responsibilities ............. 15-19

Engine:

Air Filter .................................. 18

Air Screen, Engine ...........................18

Battery ............................................17

Cooling Fins, Engine ..................18

Engine Oil .......................................17

Fuel Filter .........................................19

Spark Plugs ....................................19

Tractor:

Blades ..............................................16

Lubrication Chart ...................... t 5

Maintenance Schedule ................15

Tire Care ..................................9,16,23

Cutting Height, Mower ............................ 12

Electrical:

Interlocks and Relays ................. 24

Schematic .........................................29

Wiring Diagram .......................... 30

Engine:

Air Filter, ...................................................18

Air Screen ............................................! 8

Cooling Fins, Engine .........................18

Oil Change ..................................................17

Oil Level ........................................13,17

Oil Type ............................................. 17

Preparation ..................................... 13

Repair Parts ......................................48-53

Starting ...............................................14

Storage ..............................................26

Fiffers:

Air ..................................................... 18

Fuel ...............................................................19

Fuel:

Type ................................................. 13

Storage .......................................................26

Fuse ..........................................................................24

Gauge Wheels ............................................. 9

Hood Removal/Installation ........................24

Leveling Mower Deck ..................... 21

Lubrication Chart .................................... 15

Maintenance Schedule ....................................15

Mower:

Adjustment, Front4o-Back ..............21

Adjustment, Side-to-Side ...............21

Blade Sharpening ............................... 16

Blade Replacement ........................16

Cutting Height .............................................12

Installation ................................................20

Operation ...................................... 13

Removal ..............................................20

Mowing Tips ...................................................... 14

Muffler, .........................................................I9

Spark Arrester ........................... 3,40

Mulcher Plate ......................................................9

Oil:

Cold Weather Conditions ....... 13,17

Engine ........................................................17

Storage ............................................ 26

Operation ................................................10-14

Operating Mower .......................................13

Options:

Accessories ...............................................5

Spark Arrester .................:................3,40

Parking Brake .....................................11-12

Parts Bag ...........................................................6

Parts, Replacement/Repair ..............30-47

Product Specifications ................................3

Repair Parts ..........................................30-47

Safety Rules ....................................................2

Seat ....................................................................... 8

Service and Adjustments ......................20-25

Brake ................................................................22

Carburetor ....................................................25

Fuse ........................................................24

Hood Removal/Installation .......... 24

Motion Drive Belt

RemovaVReplacement .............22

Mower Blade Drive Belt

Removal/Replacement ......... 22

Mower Adjustment:

Front-to-Back ............................ 21

Side-to-Side .....................................21

Mower Installation .......................... 20

Mower Removal ................................20

Tire Care ..................................9,16,23

Slope Guide Sheet ...................................... 55

Spark Plugs .............................................. 19

Specifications ..................................................3

Starting the Engine .............................13-14

Steedng Wheel ........................................7,23

Stopping the Tractor ............................... 12

Storage ..................................................... 26

Throttle Control Cable Adjustment ..... 24

Tires ............................................................9,16,23

Trouble Shooting Chart .........................27-28

Transaxle Repair Parts ......................46*47

Warranty ......................................................3

Wiring Diagram .............................................. 30

Wiring Schematic .....................................29

ACCESSO ES ANDATTACH ENTS

These accessories and attachments were available through most Sears retait outlets and service centers when the tractor was purchased

Most Sears stores can order these items for you when you provide the model number of your tractor

ENGINE

SPARK PLUG GAS CAN

ENGINE OIL FUEL STABILIZER AIR FILTER

MAINTENANCE

BLADES BELTS

PERFORMANCE

Sears offers awide variety of attachments that fit your tractor Many of these are listed below with brief explanations of how they can help

you This list was current at the time of publication; however, it may change in future years - more attachments may be added changes

may be made in these attachments, or some may no longer be avai abe or f t your model Contact your nearest Sears store for the

accessories and attachments that are available for your tractor.

Most of these attachments do not require additional hitches or conversion kits (those that do are indicated) and are designed for easy

attaching and detaching

AERATOR promotes deep root growth for a healthy lawn. Ta-

pered 2o5-inch steel spikes mounted on 10-inch diameter discs

puncture holes in soil at close intervals to let moisture soak in

Steel weight tray for increased penetration.

BAGGER lets you collect grass clippings and leaves for a

healthier, heater looking lawn Two Permanex containers hold

30-gallon plastic bags

BUMPER protects front end of tractor from damage

CARTS make hauling easy Variety of sizes available, plus

accessories such as side panel kits, tool caddy, cad cover,

protective mat and dolly

CORING AERATOR takes small plugs out of soil to allow mois-

ture and nutrients to reach grass roots 36-inch swath. 24

hardened steel coring tips. t50 tb capacity weight tray.

EASY OIL DRAIN VALVE makes oil changes easier, faster.

FRONT NOSE ROLLER canters infront of mower deck to reduce

chances of "scalping" on uneven terrain.

GANG HITCH lets you tow 2or 3 pull-behind attachments at once,

such as sweepers, dethatchers, aerators (not for use with rollers,

carts or other heavy attachments)

GAUGE WHEELS on both sides of the mower deck reduce

chances of "scalping" on uneven terrain F0r mower decks not so

equipped,

MULCH RAKEJDETHATCHER loosens soil and flips thatch and

matted leaves to lawn surface for easy pickup Twenty spring tine

teeth.. Useful to prepare bare areas for seeding. Available for front

or rear mounting. HIGH PERFORMANCE REEL-ACTION

SPRING TtNE DETHATCHER covers 36-inch wide path and

tosses thatch into large hopper Mounts behind tractor.

MULCHING CLOSE-OUT PLATE KIT, once installed, lets you

mulch, discharge or bag clippings (bagger optional) without

changing blades For models not equipped as 3-in-1 Convertible

mowers See "MOWER" in the Repair Parts section of this

manual.

RAMP TOPS AND FEET let you load and unload tractor from a

pickup truck. Use with 2 x 8 or 2 x 10 lumber

ROLLER for smoother lawn surface. 36-inch wide, 18-inch

diameterwater-tightdrumholdsupto390Ibs ofweight Rounded

edges prevent harm to turf Adjustable scraper automatically

cleans drum

SNOW BLADE for snow removal only. 14-inch high, 48-inch wide

bfade clears 42-inch path when angled teft or right Raises, lowers

with side lever Adjustable skids; replaceable, reversible scraper

bar (Use with tire chains and wheeI weights and/or rear drawbar

weight )

SNOWTHROWER has 40-inch swath Drum-type auger handles

powdery and wet/heavy snow Mounts easily with simple pin

arrangement. Discharge chute adjusts from tractor seat 6-inch

diameter spout discharges snow 10 to 50 feet Lift controlled at

tractor seat. (Use with chains and wheel weights and!or rear

drawbar weight )

SPRAYERS use 12-volt DC electric motor that connects to the

tractor battery or other 12-volt source Includes booms for

automatic spraying and hand held wand for spot spraying Wand

has adjustable spray pattern For applying herbicides, insecti-

cides, fungicides and liquid fertilizers

SPREADERISEEDERS make seeding, fertilizing, and weed kill-

ing easy. Broadcast spreaders are also useful for granular de-

icers and sand

SWEEPERS let you collect grass clippings and leaves

TILLER has 5hp engine and 36-[nch swath to prepare seed beds,

cultivate and compost garden residue. Tiller has its own built-in

lift and depth controt system and does NOT require asleeve hitch

Fits any lawn, yard or garden tractor Simply hook up to the tractor

drawbar and go! Optional accessories convert unit for

dethatching, aerating, hilling without tools

TIRE CHAINS are heavy duty; closely spaced extra-large cross

links give smooth ride, outstanding traction

TRACTOR CAB has heavy duty vinyl fabric over tubular steel

frame, ABS plastic top; ctear plastic windshield offers 360 degree

visibility. Hinged metal doors with catch. Keeps operator warm

and dry Remove vinyl sides and windshields for use as sun

protector in summer Optional accessories include; tinted!

tempered solid safety glass windshield with hand operated wiper;

12-volt amber caution Iight for mounting on cab top°

VACS for powerful collection of heavy grass clippings and leaves

Optional wand attachment to pick up debris in hard-to-reach

places VAC/CHIPPER includes a chipper-shredder

WEIGHT BRACKET for drawbar for snow removal applications

Uses (t) 55 Ib weight

WHEEL WEIGHTS for rear wheels provide needed traction for

snow removal or dozing heavy materials

i -- -- =

CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK

Parts Bag contents shown full size

1) Large Flat Washer

(1) Locknut

5/16-18

(1) Locknut

3/8-24

(1) Hex Bolt

5/16-18 x t-1/4

(1) Shoulder Bolt

5/16-18

(1) Hex Bolt

_ N N _

(1) Lock Washer 1/2

(1) Washer

17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge

#10 x 5/8 (2) Lock Washers #10

.........._(2) Washers

(2) Weld Nuts #10 _ I

,RJ

3/16 x 3/4 x 16 Gauge

, ix ut,@

O "

(2) Washers@

__ 9/32 x 5/8 x16 Gauge (2) Lock Washers 1/4

Parts packed separately in carton

Seat

Video

Cassette

Steering

Wheel

Mulcher

Plate

Manual

Steering

Boot

Parts Bag

(2) Shoulder

Bolts

Steering Wheel

Adapter

Parts bag contents not shown full size

2) Washers 318

x 7/8 x 14 Gauge

_ok

Assemblys

Slope Sheet

(2) Gauge

Wheels

Q(2) Center-

lock Nuts

,,_'k_!Swteering

heel

Insert

I teering

Extension

Shaft

(2) Keys

ASSEMBLY

i l i i iH,i i,, i i lllll ,mmll,l l ,, ,,m ...................

Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes.

To ensure safe and proper operation of your tractor all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use

the correct tools as necessary to insure proper tightness,

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

A socket wrench set will make assembly easier Standard

wrench sizes are listed.

(1) 5/16" wrench (1) 3/4" Socket w/drive rachet

(2) 7/16" wrenches Phillips Screwdriver

(1) 112" wrench Tire pressure gauge

(1) 9/16" wrench Utility knife

When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, it

means when you are in the operating position (seated

behind the steering wheel)

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

• Remove all accessible loose parts and parts cartons

from carton (See page 6),

- Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on all four corners

of carton, and lay panels flat.

o Check for any additional loose parts or cartons and

remove.

BEFORE ROLLING TRACTOR OFF SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL (See Fig. 1)

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND BOOT

o Slide extension shaft onto lower steering shaft.. Align

mounting holes in extention and lower shafts and install

5/16 hex bolt and Iocknut Tighten securely.

IMPORTANT: TIGHTEN BOLT AND NUT SECURELY

TQ 18-22 FT. LBS TORQUE,

• Place tabs of steering boot over tab slots in dash and

push down to secure,.

INSTALL STEERING WHEEL

o Position front wheels of the tractor so they are pointing

straight forward

o Slide steering wheel adapter onto steering shaft extem

stono

. Position steering wheel and sleeve assembly so cross

bars are horizontal (left to right) and slide onto adapter°

o Assemble large flat washer and 3/8-24 tocknut and

tighten securely.

• Snap steering wheel insert into center of steering

wheel

o Remove protective plastic from tractor hood and grill

IMPORTANT: CHECK FOR AND REMOVE ANY

STAPLES IN SKID THAT MAY PUNCTURE TIRES

WHERE TRACTOR IS TO ROLL OFF SKID

TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Fig. 8)

o Raise attachment lift lever to its highest position

o Release parking brake by depressing clutch/brake

pedal

o Place gearshift lever in neutral (N) position,

,' Roll tractor backwards off skid.,

o Remove banding holding discharge guard up against

tractor.. 7

FIG, 1

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR

CONNECT BATTERY (See Figs. 2 and 3)

CAUTION: Do not short battery termi-

nals. Before connecting battery, re-

move metal bracelets, wristwatch

bands, rings, etc.

Positive terminal must be connected

first to prevent sparking from acciden-

tal grounding.

• Remove cardboard packing from seat pan and lift seat

pan to raised position

o Open battery box door.

o Remove terminal protective caps and discard

o If this battery is put into service after month and year

indicated on label (label located between terminals)

charge battery for minimum of one hour at 6-10 amps.

o First connect RED battery cable to positive (+) terminal

with hex bolt, flat washer, lock washer and hex nut as

shown Tighten securely

o Connect BLACK grounding cable to negative (-) termi-

na! with remaining hex bolt, flat washer, lock washer

and hex nut Tighten securely

= Close battery box door

ASS

Open battery box doer for':

. Inspection for' secure connections (to tighten hard-

ware)_

. Inspection for corrosion,

° Testing battery

o Jumping (if required),

° Periodic charging

DISCARD

TERMINAL

POSITIVE PROTECTIVE

(RED) CABLE CAPS

HEX

NUT

LOCK

WASHER

FLAT

WASHER

NEGATIVE

(SLACK) CABLE

FIG. 2

SEAT

PAN

BATTER _

BOX DOOR

FIG, 3

INSTALL SEAT (See Fig. 4)

Adjust seat before tightening adjustment boil

= Remove cardboard packing on seat pan.

SEAT PAN

HEX

BOLT

SHOULDER

BOLT

ADJUSTMENT

BOLT

SEAT

LOCK WASHER

LARGE FLAT WASHER

The tires on your tractor were ovednflated at the factory for

shipping purposes. Correct tire pressure is important for

best cutting performance.

o Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in "PRODUCT

SPECIFICATIONS" on page 3 of this manual.

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS

For best cutting results, mower housing should be properly

leveled. See "TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the

Service and Adjustments section of this manual°

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF ALL

BELTS

See the figures that are shown for reptacing motion and

mower blade drive belts in the Service and Adjustments

section of this manual Verify that the belts are routed

correctly.

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM

After you learn how to operate your' tractor, check to see

that the brake is properly adjusted, See "TO ADJUST

BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments section of this

manual

ASSEMBLE GAUGE WHEELS TO MOWER

° Place seat on seat pan and assemble shoulder' boll

. Assemble adjustment bolt, lock washer and flat washer

loosely. Do not tighten_

• Tighten shoulder bolt securely.

• Lower seat intooperating position and sit on seat.

. Slide seat until a comfortable position is reached which

allows you to press clutch/brake pedal all the way

down,

• Get off seat without moving its adjusted position.

° Raise seat and tighten adjustment bolt securely,

DECK (See Fig. 5)

Assemble gauge wheels with tractor on a flat level surface.

• Adjust mower' to desff'ed cutting height (See 'q-o AD-

JUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT" in the Operation

section of this manual).

- With mower in desired height of cut position, gauge

wheels should be assembled so they are slightly off the

ground. Install gauge wheel in appropriate hole with

shoulder bolt, 3/8" washer and 3/8-16 Iocknut and

tighten securely.

- Repeat for opposite side installing gauge wheel in

same adjustment hole..

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

FIG. 4

GAUGE WHEEL

MOUNTING

LOCKNUT

318" WASHER

GAUGE WHEEL'

ASSEMBLY

,,i,,,i,,llm i i,i ill ,ll

TO CONVERT TO BAGGING OR

DISCHARGING

Simply remove mulcher plate and store in a sate place.

Your mower is now ready for discharging or installation of

optional grass catcher accessory,

NOTE: Itis not necessary to change blades° The mulcher

blades are designed for discharging and bagging also.

SHOULDER BOLT

FIG. 5

INSTALL MULCHER PLATE

(See Figs, 6 & 7)

• install two latch hooks to mutcher plate using screw,

washer, lock washer, and we}d nut as shown

NOTE: Pre-assemble weld nut to latch hook by inserting

weld nut from the top with hook pointing down.

= Tighten hardware securely,

° Raise and hold deflector shield in upright position

. Place front of mulcher plate over front of mower deck

opening and slide into place, as shown..

° Hook front latch into hole on front of mower deck

= Hook rear latch into hole on back of mower deck

CAUTION: Do not remove discharge

guard from mower, Raise and hold

guard when attaching mulcher plate

and allow it to rest on plate while in

operation.

WELD NUT FROM THE TOP

LOCK

WELD WASHER

NUT _ SCREW

LATCH

WASHER

HOOK POINTS DOWN

LOCK

WASHER

__-...--_SCREW

HOOK

WELD

NUT

FIG, 6

MULCHER

PLATE

DEFLECTOR

SHIELD

LATCH

HOOKS

FIG, 7

,/CHECKL IS T

BEFORE YOU OPERATE AND ENJOY YOUR NEW

TRACTOR, WE WISH TO ASSURE THAT YOU RECEIVE

THE BEST PERFORMANCEAND SA TISFA CTION FROM

THIS QUALITY PRODUCT

PLEASE REWEW THE FOLLOWING CHECKLIST"

v" All assembly instructions have been completed..

,,/ No remaining loose parts in carton.

v" Battery is properly prepared and charged.. (Minimum

1 hour at 6 amps)

,/ Seat is adjusted comfortably and tightened securely.

¢" Al! tires are properly inflated. (For shipping purposes,

the tires were overinflated at the factory).

¢" Be sure mower deck is properly leveled side-to-side/

front-to-rear for best cutting results. (Tires must be

properly inflated for leveling)

v" Check mower and drive belts. Be sure they are routed

properly around pulleys and inside all belt keepers

,/ Check wiring. See that all connections are still secure

and wires are properly clamped.

WHILE LEARNING HOWTO USE YOUR TRACTOR, PAY

EXTRA A TTENTION TO THE FOLL OWING IMPORTANT

ITEMS.:

v" Engine oil is at proper level

,/ Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean, regular unleaded

gasoline..

,/ Become familiar with at! controls - their location and

function. Operate them before you start the engine

,/ Be sure brake system is in safe operating condition..

OPERATION

These symbols may appear on your tracto_ or in literature supplied with the product,. Learn and understand their meaning.

BATTERY CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW

WARNING

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE CLUTCH LIGHTS ON LIGHTS OFF

FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT DIFFERENTIAL PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED

LOCK LOCKED

MOWER LIFT

REVERSE NEUTRAL

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH ENGAGED

HIGH LOW

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

PARKING BRAKE

IGNITION

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

HYDROSTATIC FREE WHEEL

(Hydro Models only)

OPERATBON

KNOW YOUR TRACTOR

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR TRACTOR

Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of vadous controls and adjustments., Save

this manual for future reference,

THROTTLE/CHOKE

CONTROL

IGNITION LIGHT

AMMETER SWITCH SWITCH

POSITION

r, ",

LIFT LEVER

PLUNGER

CLUTCH/

BRAKE

PEDAL

ATTACHMENT

L1FTLEVER

HEIGHT

ADJUSTMENT

KNOB

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH LEVER

PARKING BRAKE

GEARSHIFT

LEVER

FIG. 8

Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the American National Standards Institute

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER: Used to engage the

mower blades, or other attachments mounted to your

tractor,

LIGHT SWITCH: Turns the headlights on and off,

THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL: Used to control engine

speed,

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL: Used for dectutching and brak-

ing the tractor and starting the engine

PARKING BRAKE: Locks clutch!brake pedal into the

brake position

GEAR SHIFT LEVER - Selects the speed and direction of

the tractor

ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER: Used to raise and lower the

mower deck or other attachments mounted to your tractor,

LIFT LEVER PLUNGER: Used to release attachment lift

lever when changing its position,,

IGNITION SWITCH: Used for starting and stopping the

engine.

HEIGHTADJUSTMENT KNOB: Used to adjust the mower

cutting height,

AMMETER: Indicates battery charging (+) or discharging

(-)

OPEIRATIO

The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can

result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields while operating your

tractor or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recommend a wide vision safety mask

over the spectacles or standard safety glasses.

HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR

TO SET PARKING BRAKE (See Fig. 9)

Yourtractor isequipped with an operator presence sensing

switch. When engine is running, any attempt by the

operator to leave the seat without first setting the parking

brake will shut off the engine.,

• Depress clutch/brake pedal into full "BRAKE" position

and hold.

o Place parking brake lever in "ENGAGED" position and

release pressure fromclutch/brake pedal.. Pedal should

remain in"BRAKE" position_ Make sure parking brake

will hold tractor secure.

THROTTLIFJCHOKE

CONTROL

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER

"ENGAGED" POSITION

"DISENGAGED"

PARKING BRAKE

"ENGAGED"

"BRAKE" GEARSHIFI r

POSITION

"DISENGAGED"

POSITION

CLUTCHIBRAKE HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT

PEDAL"DRIVE" KNOB

POSITION

FIG. 9

STOPPING (See Fig. 9)

MOWER BLADES -

= Move attachment clutch lever to "DISENGAGED" po-

sition,.

GROUND DRIVE -

• Depress clutch/brake pedal into full "BRAKE" position.

• Move gearshift lever to neutral (N) position.

ENGINE -

o Move throttle control to stow ('_) position.

NOTE: Failure to move throttle control to slow (_,)

position and allowing engine to idle before stopping may

cause engine to "backfire".

. Turn ignition key to "OFF" position and remove key.

Always remove key when leaving tractor to prevent

unauthorized use,,

° Never use choke to stop engine.

NOTE: Under certain conditions when tractor is standing

idle with the engine running, hot engine exhaust gases may

cause "browning" of grass. To eliminate this possibility,

always stop engine when stopping tractor on grass areas

CAUTION: Always stop tractor com-

pletely, as described above, before leav-

ing the operator's position; to empty

grass catcher, etc.

TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL (See Fig, 9)

Always operate engine at full throttle_

• Operating engine at less than full throttle reduces the

battery charging rate.

. Full throttle offers the best bagging and mower perfor-

mance

3"0 MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD

(See Fig. 9)

The direction and speed of movement is controlled by the

gearshift lever

. Start tractor with clutch/brake pedal depressed and

gearshift lever in neutral (N) position

- Move gearshift lever to desired position.

- Slowly release clutch/brake pedal to start movement,

IMPORTANT: BRING TRACTOR TO A COMPLETE STOP

BEFORE SHIFTING OR CHANGING GEARS. FAILURE

TO DO SO WILL SHORTEN THE USEFUL LIFE OF YOUR

TRANSAXLE

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT

(See Fig. 9)

The cutting height iscontrolled by turning the height adjust-

merit knob in desired direction,

o Turn knob clockwise ((_'-_) to raise cutting height.

o Turn knob counterclockwise (_#'-"0 to lower cutting

heighL

The cutting height range is approximately 1-1/2" to 4". The

heights are measured from the ground to the blade tip with

the engine not running, These heights are approximate

and may vary depending upon soil conditions, height of

grass and types of grass being mowed,

o The average lawn should be cut to approximately 2-1/2

inches during the cool season and to over3 inches

during 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 desired height.

OPERATION

m,, ill

,m, i ,,m i, ,i

TO OPERATE MOWER (See Fig. 10)

Your tractor is equipped with an operator presence sens-

ing switch, Any attempt by the operator to leave the seat

with the engine running and the attachment clutch engaged °

wi!l shut off the engine,

= Select desired height of cut,, °

o Lower mower with attachment liftcontrol,

• Start mower blades by engaging attachment clutch

control°

• TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disengage attachment

clutch control,,

CAUTION: Do not operate the mower

without either the entire grass catcher,

on mowers so equipped, or the dis-

charge guard in place.

FIG, 10

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

tA !

CAUTION: Do not drive up or down

hills with slopes greater than 15° and

do not drive across any slope,

, Choose the slowest speed before starting up or down

hills

• Avoid stopping or changing speed on hills°

o If slowing is necessary, move throttle control lever to

slower position

° If stopping is absolutely necessary, push clutch/brake

pedal quickly to brake position and engage parking

brake.

Move gearshift lever to 1st gear. Be sure you have

allowed room for tractor to roll slightly as you restart

movement,

To restart movement, slowly release parking brake and

clutch/brake pedal

Make all turns slowly

TO TRANSPORT

o Raise attachment lift to highest position with attach-

ment fft control

° When pushing or towing your tractor, be sure gearshift

lever is in neutral (N) position

= Do not push or tow tractor at more than five (5) MPH

NOTE: To protect hood from damage when transporting

your tractor on a truck or a trailer, be sure hood isclosed and

secured totractor. Use an appropriate means of tying hood

to tractor (rope, cord, etc,).

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE

CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL (See Fig. '17)

. The engine in your tractor has been shipped, from the

factory, already filed with summer weight oil

° Check engine oil with tractor on level ground°

° Unthread and remove oif fill cap/dipstick; wipe oil off

Reinsert the dipstick into the tube and rest oil fill cap on

the tube. Do net thread the cap onto the tube. Remove

and read oil Ievel if necessary, add oil until "FULL"

mark on dipstick is reached. Do not overfill.

• For cold weather operation you should change oil for

easier starting (See "OIL VISCOSITY CHART" in the

Customer Responsibilities section of this manual).,

° To change engine oi!, see the Customer Responsibili-

ties section in this manuat

ADD GASOLINE

o 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 assure fuel freshness.

IMPORTANT: WHEN OPERATING IN TEMPERATURES

BELOW 32°F(0°0), USE FRESH, CLEAN WINTER GRADE

GASOLINE TO HELP INSURE GOOD COLD WEATHER

STARTING,

WARNING: Experience indicates that alcohol blended

fuels (called gasohoI or using ethanol or methanol) can

attract moisture which leads to separation and formation of

acids during 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 stor-

age of 30 days or longer. Drain the gas tank, start the

engine and let it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are

empty. Use fresh fuel next season, See Storage Instruc-

tions for additional information. Never use engine or

carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent

damage may occur

CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank

filler neck, Do not overfill. Wipe off any

spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or

use gasoline near an open flame.

OPERATHON

TO START ENGINE (See Fig. 9)

This engine on this product is designed for maximum

performance and life if operated with the choke (I\J) fully

open and the throttle control in the fast (,_) position_ To

open the choke fully requires an engine warm-up period of

several seconds to several minutes, depending on the

temperature.

After starting the engine, first open the choke slowly until

the engine just begins to run smoothly_ Then open the

choke in small steps, allowing the engine to accept small

changes in speed and toad, until the choke is fully open

During engine warm-up, the equipment can be operated.

When starting engine for the first time or if engine has run

out of fuel, it will take extra cranking time to move fuel from

the tank to the engine_

• Depress clutch/brake pedal and set parking brake_

• Piece gearshift fever in neutral (N) position..

• Move attachment clutch to "DISENGAGED" position.

• Move throttle control lever to choke ( \ ) position for

co d eng ne start. For warm engine start, move throttle

control to fast (,_) position.

. Insert key into ignition and turn key clockwise to"START"

position and release key as soon as engine starts. Do

not run starter continuously for' more than fifteen

seconds per minute If engine does not start after

several attempts, move throttle control to fast ('_)

position, wait a few minutes and try again_

° When engine starts, move throttle control to desired

position.

° Mow engine to warm up for a few minutes before

engaging drive or attachments.

NOTE: If at a high altitude (above 3000 feet) or in coid

temperatures (below 32°F), the carburetor fuel mixture

may need to be adjusted for' best engine performance° See

'q'O ADJUST CARBURETOR" in the Service and Adjust-

ments section of this rnanuai.

MOWING TIPS

. Tire chains cannot be used when the mower housing

is attached to t_actoro

• Mower should be properly leveled for best mowing

performance. See"TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING"in

the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

. The left hand side of mower should be used for trim-

ming

• Drive so that clippings are discharged onto the area

that has been cut. Have the cut aiea to the right of the

machine._ This will result in a more even distribution of

clippings and more uniform cutting_

• When mowing large areas, start by turning to the right

so that clippings will discharge away from shrubs,

fences, driveways, etc After one or two rounds, mow

in the opposite direction making left hand turns ur_til

finished (See Fig 11 )_

• If grass is extremely tall, it should be mowed twice to

reduce toad and possible fire hazard from dried clip-

pings. Make first cut relatively high; the second to the

desired height

. Do not mow grass when it is wet. Wet grass will plug

mower and leave undesirable clumps. Allow grass to

dry before mowing°

o Always operate engine at full throttle when mowing to

assure better mowing performance and proper dis-

charge of material. Regulate ground speed by select-

ing a low enough gear to give the mower cutting

performance as well as the quality of cut desired_

When operating attachments, select a ground speed

that wil! suit the terrain and give best performance of

the attachment being used

FIG. 11

MULCHING MOWING TIPS

IMPORTANT; FOR BEST PERFORMANCE, KEEP

MOWER HOUSING FREE OF BUILT-UP GRASS AND

TRASH. CLEAN AFTER EACH USE..

o The special mulching blade will recut the grass ctip-

pings many times and reduce them in size so that as

they fall onto the lawn they will disperse into the grass

and not be noticed. Also, the mulched grass will

biodegrade quickly to provide nutrients for the Iawn.

Always mulch with your highest engine (blade) speed

as this witl provide the best recutting action of the

blades.

° Avoid cutting yourtawn when it iswet Wet grass tends

to form clumps and interferes with the mulching action

The best time to mow your lawn is the early afternoon.

At this time the grass has dried and the newly cut area

will not be exposed to the direct sun..

• Forbest results, adjust the mower cutting height so that

the mower cuts oft only the top one-third of the grass

blades (See Fig. 12)_ For extremely heavy mulching,

reduce your width of cut and mow slowly.

o Certain types of grass and grass conditions may re-

quire that an area be mulched a second time to com-

pletely hide the clippings. When doing a second cut,

mew across or perpendicular to the first cut path.

. Change your cutting pattern from week to week.. Mow

north to south one week then change to east to west the

next week_ This will help prevent matting and graining

of the lawn.

MAX 1/3

FIG. 12

CUSTOMER ESPONS BULmES

FILL IN DATES _'£y.O_" g

AS YOU COMPLETE _ _.____# _.,_'_

REGULAR SERVICE /'_T"/£X_/_'/_ '_/_>"£,_4._"_4_ySERVICE DATES

Check Brake Operation 1_

Check Tire Pressure _

T Check {or Loose Fasteners _ _'z ................6_ .......

R "'sharpen/Replace Mower Blades _ _ ! 6/4 ............

.....L b,ioationChart V' .........................V'

T Check Battery Level/Recharge _

0 Clean Battery and Terminals _ 6/'

R Check Transaxle Cooling I6/

Adjust Blade Belt(s) Tension ! . Ks

Adjust Motion Drive Belt(s) Tension 6_5

Check Engine Oil Level

Change Engine Oil ..

Clean Air Filter

N Clean Air Screen

G Inspect Muffler/Spark Arreeter

I Replace Oil Filter (If equipped)

N Clean Engine Cooling Fins I I

Replace Spark Plug

................................................ [i ]

Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge

w--

IV'2

Iv'2

e'%

Replace Fuel Filter

1 - Change mere ellen when operating under a heavy load or in high ambient lemperalu_'es

2 - Service moreellen whenoperatingin dirtyor dustyconditions

3 - If equippedwithoil filler, changeoil every50heels

4 - Replace blades moreellen when mowing in sandy soil

V'2

5 _ II equipped wilh adjustable system

6 - Nol required if equipped wilh maintenance4ree battery

7 - Tighten front a×te pivot boll Io 35 Itqbs maximum

Do not ovedighten

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this tractor does not cover items that have

been subjected to operator abuse or negligence To

receive full value from the warranty, operator must maintain

tractor as instructed in this manual

Some adjustments will need to be made periodically to

properly maintain your tractor

All adjustments in the Service and Adjustments section of

this manual should be checked at least once each season

Once a year you should replace the spark plug, clean

or replace air filter, and check blades and belts for

wear, A new spark plug and clean air filter assure

proper air-fuel mixture and help your engine run better

and last longer

LUBRICATION CHART

(_)SPINDLE ZERK_-'_/....___.__ _[_ SPINDLE ZERK (_)

NE®

(_ ATTACHMENT"

CLUTCH

PIVOT(S)

BEFORE EACH USE

,, Check engine oil level

- Check brake operation,

. Check tire pressure

• Check for loose fasteners

PIVOTS

(_) SAE 30 OR 10W30 MOTOR OIL

(_ GENERAL PURPOSE GREASE

(_ REFER TO CUSTOMER RESPONStBILtTtES "ENGINE" SECTION

IMPORTANT: DO NOT OIL OR GREASE THE PIVOT POINTS

WHICH HAVE SPECIAL NYLON BEARINGS VISCOUS LUBRI-

CANTS WILL ATTRACT DUST AND DIRT THAT WILL SHORTEN

THE LIFE OF THE SELF-LUBRICATING BEARINGS 1F YOU

FEEL THEY MUST BE LUBRICATED. USE ONLY A DRY. POW-

15 DERED GRAPHITE TYPE LUBRICANT SPARINGLY

R ....

CUSTOMER RESPONSiBILITiES

TRACTOR TO SHARPEN BLADE (See Fig. 14)

Aiways observe safety rules when performing any mainte- Care should be taken to keep the blade balanced_ An

nance, unbalanced blade will cause excessive vibration and even-

tual damage to mower and engine

BRAKE OPERATION

If tractor requires more than six (6) feet stopping distance

at high speed in highest gear, then brake must be adjusted

(See "TO ADJUST BRAKE" in the Service and Adjust-

ments section of this manuat).

TIRES

• Maintain proper air pressure in al! tires (See "PROD-

UCT SPECIFICATIONS" on page 3 of this manual).

• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect control chemi-

o The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a grinding

wheel, Do not attempt to sharpen while on the mower°

° To check blade balance, you will need a 5/8" diameter

steel bolt, pin, ora cone balancer. (When using a cone

balancer, follow the instructions supplied with bal_

ancer)

° Slide blade on toan unthleaded portion of the steel bolt

or pin and hofd the boit or pin paralfel with the ground.

If blade is balanced, it should remain in a horizontal

position, If either end of the blade moves downward,

sharpen the heavy end until the blade [s balanced,

NOTE: Do not use a nail for balancing blade. The lobes of

the center hole may appear to be cente{ed, but are not,

cals which can harm rubber.

Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp objects and

other hazards that may cause tire damage.

BLADE CARE

For' best results mower blades must be kept sharp, Re-

place bent or damaged blades

BLADE REMOVAL (See Fig, 13)

* Raise mower to highest position to allow access to

btades.

* Remove hex bolt, lock washer and flat washer securing

blade,

° Install new or resharpened blade with trailing edge up

towards deck as shown.

. Reassemble hex bolt, lock washer and flat washer in

exact order as shown.

o Tighten bolt securely (30-35 Ft. Lbs. torque).

IMPORTANT: BLADE BOLT IS GRADE 8 HEATTREATED.

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening blade- but ifyou

do, be sure the blade is balanced,

BLADE _--_ MANDREL

(GRADE 8)"_ "_

IDENTIFIED BY SIX LINES ON THE BOLT HEAD.

CENTER HOLE

518" BOLT BLADE

OR PiN

FIG. 14

BATTERY

Your tractor has a battery charging system which is suffi-

cient for normal use_ However, periodic charging of the

battery with an automotive charger will extend its life,

• Keep battery and terminals clean,

• Keep battery bolts tight,.

• Keep small vent holes open,

° Recharge at 6-10 amperes for 1 hour,.

TO CLEAN BATTERY AND TERMINALS

Corrosion and dirt on the battery and terminals can caase

the battery to "leak" power_

- Remove terminal guard.

° Disconnect BLACK battery cable first then RED bat-

tery cable and remove battery from tractor,,

° Rinse the battery with plain water and dry.

. Clean terminals and battery cable ends with wire brush

until bright.

o Coat terminals with grease o_ petroleum jelly.,

• Reinstall battery (See "CONNECT BATTERY" in the

Assembly section of this manual),.

FIG. 13

CUSTOM5

: i, in

ESPONS BtL ES

V-BELTS

Check V-belts for deterioration and wear after 100 hours of

operation and replace if necessary. The belts are not

adjustable, Replace belts ifthey begin to slip from wear,

TRANSAXLE COOLING

Keep transaxfe free from build-up of dirt and chaff which

can restrict cooling

ENGINE

LUBRICATION

Only use high quality detergent oil rated with API service

classification SForSG. Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade

according to your expected operating temperature.,

SAE VISCOSITY GRADES

°F -20° 0° 3o_ 32° 40_ 60° 80_ 1o0"

TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT O_L CHANGE

FIG, 15

NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils (5W30. t 0W30 etc,,)

improve starting in cold weather, these multi-viscosity oils

will result in increased oil consumption when used above

32°F. Check your engine oil level more frequently to avoid

possible engine damage from running low on oil

Change the oil after the first two hours of operation and

every 50 hours thereafter or at least once a year if the

tractor is not used for 50 hours in one year,

Check the crankcase oil level before starting the engine

and after each eight (8) hours of operation. Tighten oil fill

cap/dipstick securely each time you check the oil level,,

TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL (See Figs 15 and 16)

Determine temperature range expected before oil change,

All oil must meet API service classification SF or SG

o Be sure tractor is on level surface,

• Oil will drain more freely when warm

• Catch oil in a suitable container

o Remove oil fil! cap/dipstick Be careful not to allow dirt

to enter the engine when changing oil,

• Remove drain plug,

° After oil has drained completely, replace oil drain plug

and tighten securely.,

° Refill engine with oil through oil fill dipstick tube. Pour

slowly, Do not overfill, For approximate capacity see

"PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" on page 3 of this

manual,

Use gauge on oil fill cap!dipstick for checking level

fnsert dipstick into the tube and rest the oil fill cap on the

tube, Do not thread the cap onto the tube when taking

reading, Keep oil at "FULL" line on dipstick Tighten

cap onto the tube securely when finished,

AIR CLEANER KNOB

COVER WING NUT

FOAM

PRE-CLEANER

AIR

SCREEN

PAPER CARTRIDGE

BASE

OIL FILL

CAP/DIPSTICK

OIL DRAIN

PLUG

FIG, 16

i i,i ii, i,illl i,i , iii

CUSTOMER RESPONSHBmLITIES

ill nilili,, in,l,n nil n nul I

CLEAN AIR SCREEN (See Fig. 16) CLEAN AIR INTAKE/COOLING AREAS

Air screen must be kept free of dirt and chaff to prevent

engine damage from overheating, Clean with a wire brush

or compressed air to remove dirt and stubborn dried gum

fibers_

AIR FILTER (See Fig. 16)

Your engine will not run properly using a dirty air filter_

Clean the foam pre-oleaner after every 25 hours of opera-

tion or every season. Service paper cartridge every t00

hours of operation or every season, whichever occurs first.

Service air cleaner' more often under dusty conditions

= Remove knob and cover..

= Remove wing nut and air cleaner from base.

TO SERVICE PRE-CLEANER

o Slide foam pre-cleaner off cartridge.

o Wash it in liquid detergent and water.

o Squeeze it dry in a cfean cloth.

° Saturate it in engine oil. Wrap it in clean, absorbent

cloth and squeeze to remove excess oil.

TO SERVICE CARTRIDGE

° Gently tap the flat side of the paper cartridge to dis-

lodge dirt_ Do not wash the paper cartridge or use

pressurized air, as this wilt damage the cartridge..

Replace a dirty, bent, or damaged cartridge

• Reinstall the pre-cleaner (cleaned and oiled) over the

paper cartridge.

° ReassembLe air cleaner, wing nut, cover and tighten

knob securely._

To insure proper cooling, make sure the grass screen,

cooling fins, and other external surfaces of the engine are

kept clean at all times.

Every 100 hours of operation (more often under extremely

dusty, dirty conditions), remove the blower housing and

other cooling shrouds. Clean the cooling fins and external

surfaces as necessary. Make sure the cooling shrouds are

reinstalle&

NOTE: Operating the engine with a blocked grass screen,

dirty or' plugged cooling fins, and/or cooling shrouds re-

moved will cause engine damage due to overheating.

MUFFLER

Inspect and replace corroded muffler and spark arrester (if

equipped) as it could create a fire hazard and/or damage.

SPARK PLUGS

Replace spark plugs at the beginning of each mowing

season or after every 100 hours of operation, whichever

occurs first. Spark plug type and gap setting are shown in

"PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" on page 3 of this manual°

i u

CUSTOME

ESPONS B LmTtES

ENGINE OIL FILTER (See Fig. 17)

Repface the engine oil filter every season or every other oil

change if the tractor is used more than 100 hours in one

year.

• Drain oil from engine crankcase (See "TO CHANGE

ENGINE OIL" in this section of this manual, through

step remove drain plug)

• Remove oil filter and wipe off filter adapter

• Appfy a thin coating of new engine oil to the rubber

gasket on replacement oil filter

o Install replacement oil filter on filter adapter Turn oil

filter clockwise until rubber gasket contacts the filter

adapter, then tighten filter an additional !/2 turn.

, Fill crankcase with new oil (See "TO CHANGE EN-

GINE OIL" in this section of this manual). For approxi-

mate capacity see "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" on

page 3 of this manual

• Start the engine and check for oil leaks Correct any

leaks before placing engine into full operation.

OIL FILTER

IN-LINE FUEL FILTER (See Fig. 18)

The fuel filter should be replaced once each season If fuel

filter becomes clogged, obstructing fuel flow to carburetor,

replacement is required

• With engine cool, remove filter and plug fuel line

sections_

• Place new fuel filter in position in fuel line with arrow

pointing towards carburetor.

. Be sure there are no fuel line leaks and clamps are

properly positioned

• Immediately wipe up any spilled gasoline

CLAMP

FUEL

FILTER

FIG. 18

CLEANING

• Clean engine, battery, seat, finish, etc, of all foreign

matter.

. Keep finished surfaces and wheels free of all gasoline,

oi!, etc.

. Protect painted surfaces with automotive type wax_

We do not recommend using a garden hose to clean your

tractor unless the electrical system, muffler, air filter and

carburetor are covered to keep water out Water in engine

can result in a shortened engine fife

FIG. 17

CAUTION: BEFORE PERFORMING ANY SERVICE OR ADJUSTMENTS:

Depress clutch/brake pedal fully and set parking brake=

Place gearshift lever in neutral (N) position.

Place attachment clutch in "DISENGAGED" position.

Turn ignition key "OFF" and remove key°

Make sure the blades and all moving parts have completely stopped,

Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in contact with

plug.

TRACTOR

TO REMOVE MOWER (See Fig. 19)

Mower willbe easier to remove from the right side of tractor..

• Place attachment clutch in "DISENGAGED" position.

, Move attachment lift lever forward to lower mower to its

lowest position.

o Roll belt off engine pulley.

• Disconnect clutch rod from clutch lever by removing

retainer spring_

° Disconnect anti-sway bar from chassis bracket by

removing retainer spring.

o Disconnect suspension arms from rear deck brackets

by removing retainer springs.

• Disconnect front links from deck by removing retainer

springs..

• Raise lift lever to raise suspension arms. Slide mower

out from under tractor'.

IMPORTANT: IF AN ATTACHMENT OTHER THAN THE

MOWER iS TO BE MOUNTED TO THE TRACTOR. THE

R.H. AND L.H. SUSPENSION ARMS MUST BE REMOVED

FROM TRACTOR..

TO INSTALL MOWER (See Fig. 19)

• Raise attachment lift lever to its highest position_

° Slide mower under tractorwith discharge guard to right

side of tractor.

° Lower lift lever to its lowest position.

, Instali mower in reverse order of removal instructions.

CLUTCH R4

SUSPENSION

RETAINER

SPRING J"

ANTI-SWAY BAR

RETAINER

SPRINGS

(BOTH SIDES)

FIG. 19

LEVER

SPRING

PULLEY

RETAINER

SPRINGS

SIDES

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS

TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING FRONT-TO-BACK ADJUSTMENT (See Figs, 22 and 23)

Adjust the mower while tractor is parked on level ground or

driveway_ Make sure tires are properly inflated (See

"PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" on page 3 of this manuat)..

Iftires are over or underinflated, you will not properly adjust

your mower

SIDE-TO-SIDE ADJUSTMENT (See Figs. 20 and 21)

. Raise mower to its highest position..

. At the midpoint of both sides of mower, measure height

from bottom edge of mowerto ground Distance"A" on

both sides of mower should be the same or within 1/4"

of each other..

If adjustment is necessary, make adjustment on one

side of mower only.

To raise one side of mower, tighten lift link adjustment

nut on that side

• To lower one side of mower, loosen lift link adjustment

nut on that side

NOTE: Each full turn of adjustment nut will change mower

height about 1/8"

• Recheck measurements after adjusting.

BOTTOM EDGE BOTTOM EDGE

OF MOWER TO OF MOWER TO

GROUND GROUND

IMPORTANT: DECK MUST BE LEVEL SIDE-TO-SIDE IF

THE FOLLOWING FRONT-TO-BACK ADJUSTMENT lS

NECESSARY, BE SURE TO ADJUST BOTH FRONT LINKS

EQUALLY SO MOWER WILL STAY LEVEL SIDE-TO-

SIDE

TO obtain the best cutting results, the mower housing

should be adiusted so that the front isapproximately 1/4" to

3/4" lower than the rear when the mower is in its highest

position.

Check adjustment on right side of tractor Measure dis-

tance "D" directly infront and behind the mandrel at bottom

edge of mower housing as shown.

° Before making any necessary adjustments, check that

both front links are equal in length. Both links should be

approximately 10-3/8".

• If links are not equal in length, adjust one link to same

length as other link.

° To lower front of mower loosen nut "E" on both front

links an equal number of turns.

° When distance "D" is 1/4" to 3/4" lower at front than

rear, tighten nuts "F" against trunnion on both front

links.

. To raise front of mower, toosen nut"F" from trunnion on

both front links. Tighten nut "E" on both front links an

equal number of turn&

° When distance "D" is 1/4" to 3/4" lower at front than

rear, tighten nut "F" against trunnion on both front links

• Recheck side-to-side adjustment.

GROUND LINE

FIG. 20

SUSPENSION

ARM

LIFT LINK

ADJUSTMENT NUT

FIG, 21

FIG. 22

BOTH FRONT LINKS MUST BE EQUAL IN LENGTH

NUT "F"

FRONT LINKS TRUNN!ON

NUT "E"

21 FIG. 23

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS

WITH PARKING BRAKE "ENGAGED"

TO REPLACE MOWER BLADE DRIVE BELT

(See Fig. 24)

The mower blade drive belt may be replaced without tools°

Park the tractor on level surface, Engage parking brake,.

BELT REMOVAL -

• Remove mower from tractor (See "TO REMOVE

MOWER" in this section of this manual).

. Work belt off both mandrel pulleys and idler pulleys,

, Pull belt away from mower

BELT iNSTALLATION -

o Install new belt in reverse order of removal.

• Make sure belt isin all pulley grooves and inside all belt

guides,

• Install mower in reverse order of removal instructions

FIG. 25

MANDREL IDLER

PULLEY PULLEYS

MANDREL

PULLEY

FIG. 24

TO REPLACE MOTION DRIVE BELT

(See Fig. 26)

Park the tractor on level surface, Engage parking brake_

For assistance, there is a belt installation guide decal on

bottom side of left footresL

= Remove mower (See "TO REMOVE MOWER" in this

section of this manuaL)

, Remove upper' belt keeper

, Remove belt from stationary idler and clutching idler.

. Pull belt slack toward rear" of tractor,, Remove belt

upwards from transaxle pulley by deflecting belt keep-

et_s.

° Puli belt toward front of tractor and remove downwards

from around engine pulley_

. Install new belt by reversing above procedure,,

IMPORTANT: MAKE SURE UPPER BELT KEEPER IS'

POSITIONED PROPERLY BETWEEN LOCATOR TABS.

TO ADJUST BRAKE (See Fig. 25)

Your tractor is equipped with an adjustable brake system

which is mounted on the right side of the transaxle_

If tractor requires more than six (6) feet stopping distance

at high speed in highest gear, then brake must be adjusted_

- Depress clutch/brake pedal and engage parking brake_

• Measure distance between brake operating arm and

nut "A" on brake rod.

. If distance isother than 1-1/2", loosen jam nut and turn

nut "A" until distance becomes 1-1/2'L Retighten jam

nut against nut "A",

° Road test tractor for proper stopping distance as stated

above,1 Readjust if necessary. If stopping distance is

still greater than six (6) feet in highest gear, further

maintenance is necessary° Contact your nearest au-

thorized service center/department.

PULLEY

IDLER

PULLEY

BELT

KEEPER

FIG. 26

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS

TRANSAXLE SHIFTER LINKAGE AND AD-

JUSTMENT (See Figs. 27 and 28)

The transaxle shoutd be in neutral when the gear shift lever

is in the neutral (N) (lock gate) position_ The adjustment is

preset at the factory; however, if adjustment is needed,

proceed as follows:

. Make sure transaxle is in neutral (N)

• Loosen two locknuts on tie rod,

° Turn center rod until gearshift lever falls into neutral

TO REMOVE WHEEL FOR REPAIRS

(See Fig. 29)

o Block up axle securely

o Remove axle cover, retaining ring and washers to allow

wheel removal (rear wheel contains a square key - Do

not lose).

o Repair tire and reassemble.,

° On rear wheels only: align grooves in rear wheel hub

and axle. Insert square key

lock gate on fender console,

Tighten locknuts securely,

o Replace washers and snap retaining ring securely in

axle groove

° Replace axle cover.,

WASHERS

RETAINING

RiNG

AXLECOVER

SQUARE KEY

(REAR WHEEL ONLY)

FIG. 29

TO START ENGINE WITH A WEAK BATTERY

See Fig. 30)

CAUTION: Lead-acid batteries gener-

ateexplosivegases. Keep sparks,flame

and smoking materials away from bat-

teries. Always wear eye protection

when around batteries.

TRANSAXLE

FIGo 28

TO ADJUST STEERING WHEEL ALIGNMENT

If steering wheel crossbars are not horizontal (left to right)

when wheels are positioned straight forward, remove steer-

ing wheel and reassemble per instructions in the Assembly

section of this manual,

FRONT WHEEL TOE-IN/CAMBER

The front wheel toe-in and camber are not adjustable on

your tractor, tf damage has occurred to affect the front

wheel toe-in or camber, contact your nearest authorized

service center/department.

If your battery is too weak to start the engine, it should be

recharged If "jumper cables" are used for emergency

starting, follow this procedure:

IMPORTANT: YQURTRACTOR IS EQUIPPED WITH A

12 VOLT NEGATIVE GROUNDED SYSTEM. THE OTHER

VEHICLE MUST ALSO BE A 12 VOLT NEGATIVE

GROUNDED SYSTEM. DQ NOT USE YOUR TRACTOR

BATTERY TO START OTHER VEHICLES

TO ATTACH JUMPER CABLES -

° Connect each end of the RED cable to the POSITIVE

(+) terminal of each battery, taking care not to short

against chassis,

° Connect one end of the BLACK cable to the NEGA-

TIVE (-) terminal of fully charged battery

° Connect the other end of the BLACK cable to good

CHASSIS GROUND, away from fuel tank and battery,

TO REMOVE CABLES, REVERSE ORDER -

• BLACK cable first from chassis and then from the fully

charged battery

o RED cable last from both batteries

=, =,=,, i

SERVWCE AND ADJUSTMENTS

POSITIVE TERMINAL

NEGATIVE TERMINAL

CABLES

CHARGED

BATTERY

POSITIVE NEGATIVE

TERMINAL TERMINAL

FIGo30

TO REPLACE HEADLIGHT BULB

. Raise hood

• Put1bulb holder out of the hole in the backside of the

grill

= Replace bulb in holder and push bulb holder securely

back into the hole in the backside of the grill

° Close hood.

INTERLOCKS AND RELAYS

Loose or damaged wiring may cause your tractor to run

poorly, stop running, or prevent it from starting.

• Check wiring See electrical wiring diagram in the

Repair Parts section of this manual.

TO REPLACE FUSE

Replace with 30 amp automotive-type plug-in fuse, The

fuse holder is located behind the dash°

TO REMOVE HOOD AND GRILL ASSEMBLY

(See Fig. 31)

• Raise hood_

. Unsnap headlight wire connectoL

= Stand in front of tractor. Grasp hood at sides, titttoward

engine and lift off of tractor,

• To replace, reverse above procedures_

HOOD

HEADLIGHT

WIRE

CONNECTOR

FIG, 31

SERWCE AND ADJUSTMENTS

ENGgNE

TO ADJUST THROTTLE CONTROL CABLE

(See Fig, 32)

The throttle controi has been preset at the factory and

adjustmentshould notbe necessary Checkadjustmentas

described below before loosening cable.. If adjustment is

necessary, proceed as follows:

o With engine not running, move throttle control lever

from slow (,_,) to choke (N) position. Slowly move

lever from choke (l\l) to fast (=f_) position.

o Check to see if hote in throttle lever and hole in speed

control bracket are aligned.

• if holes are not aligned, loosen cable clamp screw and

align the holes by inserting a pencil or a 1/4" drill bit

through both holes.

o Pull throttle cable up to remove slack and tighten cable

clamp screw Remove alignment pencil or drNtbiL

TO ADJUST CARBURETOR (See Fig. 33)

The carburetor has been preset at the factory and adjust-

ment shouid not be necessary However, minor ad}ust-

ment may be required to compensate fordifferences in fuel,

temperature, altitude or load If the carburetor does need

adjustment, proceed as follows:

in generai, turning the adjusting needles in (clockwise)

decreases the supply of fuel to the engine giving a leaner

fuel/air mixture° Turning the adjusting needtes out (counter-

clockwise) increases the supply of fuel to the engine giving

a richer fuel!air mixture.

IMPORTANT: DAMAGE TO THE NEEDLES AND THE

SEATS ]N CARBURETOR MAY RESULT IF NEEDLE IS

TURNED IN TOO TIGHT

NOTE: The carburetor on this engine is low emission_ it is

equipped with an idle fuel adjusting needle with a limiter

cap, which allows some adjustment within the limits allowed

bythe cap Do not attempt to remove the iimiter cap, The

Iimitercap can notbe removed without breaking the adjusting

needle.

o Be sure you have a ctean air filter" and the throttle

control cable is adjusted properly (see above),,

• Start engine and allow to warm for five minutes Make

adjustments with engine running and shift/motion control

lever in neutral (N) position,

• Idle speed setting - With throttle control tever in stow

(,,_,) position, engine should idle at 1750 RPM, If

engine idles too slow or fast, turn idle speed adjusting

screw in or out until correct idle is attained,

Idle fuel needle setting - With throttle control lever in

slow (._) position, turn idle fuel adjustment needle in

(clockwise) until engine begins to die and then turn out

(counterclockwise) until engine runs rough. Turn needle

to a point midway between those two positions

• Recheck idle speed. Readjust if necessary

ACCELERATION TEST -

o Move throttle control lever from slow (,_) to fast (._,)

position. If engine hesitates or dies, turn idfe fuel

adjusting needfe out (counterclockwise) 1/8 turn Re-

peat test and cont}nue to adjust, if necessary, until

engine accelerates smoothly.

High speed stop is factory adjusted. Do not adjust -

damage may result.

IMPORTANT: NEVER TAMPER WITH THE ENGINE

GOVERNOR, WHICH tS FACTORY SET FOR PROPER

ENGINE SPEED OVERSPEEDtNG THE ENGINE ABOVE

THE FACTORY HIGH SPEED SETTING CAN BE

DANGEROUS.. IF YOU THINK THE ENGINE-GOVERNED

HIGH SPEED NEEDS ADJUSTING, CONTACT YOUR

NEAREST AUTHORIZED SERVICE CENTER/

DEPARTMENT, WHICH HAS PROPER EQUIPMENT AND

EXPERIENCE TO

ADJUSTMENTS,

CABLE

CLAMP

SPEED CONTROL_-_...,_

BRACKET

MAKE ANY NECESSARY

THROTTLE

LEVER

FIG. 32

IDLE SPEED

ADJUSTING

IDLE FUEL /

ADJUSTING

NEEDLE

FIG. 33

STORAGE

Immediately prepare your tractor for storage at the end of

the season or if the tractor will not be used for 30 days or

more.

CAUTION: Never store the tractor with

gasoline in tile tank inside a building

where fumes may reach an open flame

or spark. Allow the engine to cool

before storing in any enclosure.

TRACTOR

Remove mower from tractor for winter storage When

mower is to be stored for a period of time, clean it thor-

oughly, remove all dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Store in a

clean, dry area.

• Clean entire tractor (See"CLEANING" inthe Customer

Responsibilities section of this manual).

• inspect and replace belts, if necessary (See belt re-

placement instructionsin the Service and Adjustments

section of this manual).

• Lubricate as shown in the Customer Responsibilities

section of this manual_

• Be sure that all nuts, bolts and screws are securely

fastened Inspect moving parts for damage, breakage

and wear. Replace if necessary

. Touch up all rusted or chipped paint surfaces; sand

Iightly before painting.

BATTERY

• Fully charge the battery for storage.

• After a period of time in storage, battery may require

recharging.

. To help prevent corrosion and power leakage during

long periods of storage, battery cables should be

disconnected and battery cleaned thoroughly (see "TO

CLEAN BATTERY AND TERMINALS" in the Cus-

tomer Responsibilities section of this manual).

o After cleaning, leave cables disconnected and place

cables where they cannot come in contact with battery

terminals_

. Be sure battery drain tube is securely attached.

- If battery is removed from tractor for storage, do not

store battery directly on concrete or damp surfaces.

ENGINE

FUEL SYSTEM

IMPORTANT: IT JS iMPORTANT TO PREVENT GUM

DEPOSITS FROM FORMING IN ESSENTIAL FUEL

SYSTEM PARTS SUCH AS CARBURETOR, FUEL FILTER,

FUEL HOSE, OR TANK DURING STORAGE. ALSO,

EXPERIENCE INDICATES THAT ALCOHOL BLENDED

FUELS (CALLED GASOHOL OR USING ETHANOL OR

METHANOL) CAN ATTRACT MOISTURE WHICH LEADS

TO SEPARATION AND FORMATION OF ACIDS DURING

STORAGE ACIDIC GAS CAN DAMAGE THE FUEL

SYSTEM OF AN ENGINE WHILE IN STORAGE.

= Drain the fuel tankr

. Start the engine and let it run until the fuel lines and

carburetor are empty°

= Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the

fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.

= Use fresh fuel next season.

NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable alternative in

minimizing the formation of fuel gum deposits during stor-

age° Add stabilizer' to gasoline in fuel tank or storage

container. Always follow the mix ratio found on stabilizer

container. Run engine at least 10 minutes after adding

stabilizer to allow the stabilizer to reach the carburetor. Do

not drain the gas tank and carburetor ifusing fuel stabitizer_

ENGINE OIL

Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace with clean engine

oil. (See "ENGINE" in the Customer Responsibilities

section of this manual).

CYLINDERS

o Remove spark plug(s).

= Pour one ounce of oil through spark plug hote(s) into

cylinder(s).

o Turn ignition key to"START" position for a few seconds

to distribute oil

- Replace with new spark plug(s).

OTHER

. Do not store gasoline from one season to another.

= Replace your gasoline can if your can starts to rust.

Rust and/or dirt in your gasoline will cause problems°

* If possible, store your tractor indoors and cover' it to

give protection from dust and dirt°

- Cover your tractor with a suitable protective cover that

does not retain moisture.. Do not use plastic. Plastic

cannot breathe which allows condensation to form and

will cause your tractor to rust..

IMPORTANT: NEVER COVERTRACTOR WHILE ENGINE

AND EXHAUST AREAS ARE STILL WARM

PROBLEM

Will not start

Hard to start

Engine will not turn over

Engine clicks but will not

start

Loss of power

Excessive vibration

CAUSE

LESHOOTUNG

1 Out of fuel

2 Engine not "CHOKED" properly

3 Engine flooded

4 Bad spark ptug

5 Didy air filter

6 Dirty fuel filter

7 Water inluei

8 Loose or damaged wiring

g Carburetor out of adjustment

I 0 Engine valves oul of adjustment

1 Dirty air filter

2 Bad spark plug

3 Weak or dead battery.

4 Dirty fuel filler

5 Staie or dirty fuel

6 Loose or damaged widng

7 Carburetor oul of adjustment

Engine valves out of adjustment

1 Clutch!brake pedal not depressed

2 Attachment dutch is engaged

3 Weaker dead battery

4 Blown fuse

5 Corroded batterytermina_s

6 Loose or damaged wiring

7. Faulty ignition switch.

8 Faulty solenoid or starter

9 Faulty operator presence switch(es)

I Weak or dead battery

2 Corroded battery terminals

3 Loose or damaged wiring

4 Faulty solenoid or starter

POmNTS

Jrll.qlrlr ...............................

CORRECTION

1 Fill fuel tank

2 See "TO START ENG1NE" in Operation section

3 Watt several minutes before attempting to start

4 Repface spark plug

5 Clean/replace air filter

6. Replace fuel filter

7 Drain rue! lank and carburetor, refill tank with fresh

gasoline and replace fuet filter

8 Check all wiring

9 Contact an authorized service center/depadment

10 Contact an authorized service center/department

::: .,,i,u i HU,HUUIH I I

1 Clean!replace air fitter

2. Replace spark plug

3 Recharge or replace battery

4 Replace fuel filter

5 Drain rue! tank and refill with fresh gasoline

6 Check all wiring

7 Contact an authorized service center/department

8 Contact an authorized service center/department

1 Depress c_utch/brake pedal

2 Disengage attachment clutch

3 Recharge or rep{ace battery

4 Replace fuse

5 Clean battery terminals

6 Check all wiring

7 Check/replace ignition switch

8 Check/replace solenoid or starter

9 Contact an authorized service centeddepadment

1 Recharge or replace battery

2 Clean battery terminals

3 Check alt wiring

4 Check!replace solenoid or starter

t. Cutting too much grass/too fast

2 Throttle in "CHOKE" pesilion

3 Build-up of grass, leaves and trash under mower.

I Set in "Higher Cut" position/reduce speed

2 Adjust throttle control

3 Clean underside el mower housing

4 Dirtyair filter

5 Low oil level/dirty oil

6 FauIty spark plug

7 Didy fue_ lifter.

8 State or didy fuet

9 Water in fueJ

10 Spark plug wire loose.

11 Dirty engine air screen/fins

12 Didy/clogged muffler

t3 Loose or damaged wiring

14 Carburetor out of adjustment

15 Engine valves out of adjustment

1 Worn, bent or loose blade

2 Bent blade mandrel

3 Loose/damaged pad(s).

4 Clean/replace air filter

5 Check oil level/change oil

6 Clean and regap or change spark plug.

7 Replace fuel fitfer

8 Drain fuel tank and refill with fresh gasoline.

g Drain fuel tank and carburetor, refill tank with fresh

gasoline and replace fuel filter

10 Connect and tighten spark plug wire

11 Clean engine air screen/fins

t2 Clean/rap]ace mufftar

13 Check all wiring

14 Contact an authorized service center/department

15 Contact an authorized service center/depadment

1 Reptece blade Tighten blade bolt

2 Replace blade mandrel

3 Tightenloose pad(s) Replace damaged parts

i ............................,ll,.,.nu.u. ii i .i- nil- il.-.u-,mlUl UI"H"U ' ' I I I

TRO LESHOOTmNG POmNTS

n i i lun un

PROBLEM

Engine continues to run

when operator leaves seat

with attachment clutch

engaged

Poor cut - uneven

Mower blades will not

rotate

Poor grass discharge

in ilU-lUl

Headlight(s) not working

(if so equipped)

Batterywill notcharge

Engine "backfires"

when turning engine

"OFF"

CAUSE

1 Faulty operator-safety presence control system

1 Worn, bent orloose blade

2 Mower deck not level

3 Buildup of grass, leaves, and trash under mower

4 Bent blade mandrel

5 Clogged mower deck vent holes from buildup of

grass, leaves, and trash around mandrels

1 Obstruction in clutch mechanism

2. Worn/damaged mower drive belt

3 Frozen idler pulley

4, Frozen blade mandrel

1. Engine speed too slow.

2. Travel speed too fast.

3 Wet grass.

4 Mower deck not level

5 Lowtuneven tire air pressure

6 Worn, bent or loose blade

7 Buildup of grass, leaves and trash under mower

8. Mower drive belt worn

9 Blades improperly installed

!0 Improper blades used.

11 Clogged mower deck vent holes from buildup of

grass, leaves, and trash around rnandre_s

1 Switch is "OFF"

2. Bulb(s) burned out

3 Faulty light switch

4 Loose or damaged wiring

5. Blown fuse

1, Bad batterycelt(s)+

2 Poop cable conr_ections,

3 Faulty regulator (if so equipped)

4 Faulty alternator

Engine throttle control not set at "SLOW"

position for 30 seconds before stopping engine

CORRECTION

1 Check wiring, switches and connections if not

corrected, contact an authorized service center/

department

1. Replace blade Tighten b]ade bolt

2 Level mower deck

3 C]ean underside of mower housing..

4 Replace blade mandrel

5 Clean around mandrels to open vent holes

1 Remove obstruction

2_ Replace mower drive belt

3 Replace idler pulley

4. Replace blade mandrel

1. Place throttle contro+in "FAST" position

2. Shift to slower speed.

3 Allow grass to dry before mowing.

4 Levelmower deck.

5 Checktires for proper air pressure

6 RepLacefsharpen blade. Tighten blade bolt

7 Ciean underside of mower housing

8 Reptace mower ddve belt

9 Reinstall blades sharp edge down

I 0 Replace with blades listed in this manual

11+ Clean around mandrels to open vent hole&

1 Turn switch "ON"

2 Replace bulb(s).

3 Check/replace light switch.

4, Check wiring and connections

5. Replace fuse.

! Replace battery.

2 Check]clean all connections.

3 Replace regulator

4 Replace alternator.

1 Move throttle control to "SLOW" position and allow

to idle for 30 seconds before stopping engine.

SCHEMATIC

RED

TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.256541

BATTERY

BLACK

AMMETER

nEED

WH iTE

_,_G B MLL__

FUSE 30 AMR

J RED

©;

l STARTER

BLACK

CLUTCH / BRAKE ...... J

(PEDAL UP) SOLENOID

BLUE

RED

I ........... i

AFTER FIRE SOLENOID

CHARGING SYSTEM OUTPUT

3 AMP DC @ 3600 RPM "_.

ORANGE

28 VOLTS AC MIN, e 3600 RPM

(CHARG}NG SYSTEM D_SCONNECTED)

--_---- NON-REMOVABLE

CONNECTIONS

DIODE ALTERNATOR

LtGHT_NG SYSTEM OUTP 1......... j

5 AMP AC @ 3600 RPM _ 14 VOLTS AC MIN @ 3600 RPM (LIGHTS OFF}

BROWN (__ BLACK

HEADLIGHTS

IGNITION SWITCH

POSITION

OFF

RUN/LIGHT

RUN

START

CIRCUIT "MAKE"

G+M+L NONE

B+L A+Y

B + L NONE

B + L + S NONE

REMOVABLE

CONNECTIONS

WIRING INSULATED CLIPS

NOTE: IF WIRING INSULATED

CLIPS WERE REMOVED FOR

SERVICING OF UNIT, THEY

SHOULD BE REPLACED TO

PROPERLY SECURE YOUR

WIRING

NOTE

YOUR TRACTOR IS EQUIPPED WITH

A SPECIAL ALTERNATOR SYSTEM, f

THE LIGHTS ARE NOT CONNECTED

TO THE BATTERY, BUT HAVE THEIR

OWN ELECTRICAL SOURCE.

BECAUSE OF THIS, THE BRIGHTNESS

OF THE LIGHTS WILL CHANGE WITH

ENGINE SPEED. AT IDLE THE LIGHTS

WILL DIM. AS THE ENGINE IS

SPEEDED UP, THE LIGHTS WILL

BECOME THEIR BRIGHTEST,

-7

Craftsman 917256541 tractor

Product's Documents

User Manual

Specifications

Craftsman 917256541 Questions and Answers