MODEL NO. PO16542B
16.5 HP 42 Inch
LawnTractor
For Parts and Service, contact our authorized distributor: call 1-800-849-1297
For Technical Assistance: call 1-800-829-5886
183188 3.22.02 TR
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
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SAFETY RULES
Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers
•
Besuretheareaisclearofotherpeoplebeforemowing. Stop
Look for this symbol to point out im-
portant safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BECOMEALERT!!! YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
machine if anyone enters the area.
•
•
Never carry passengers or children even with the blades off.
Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always
look down and behind before and while backing.
•
•
Never carry children. They may fall off and be seriously
injured or interfere with safe machine operation.
Keep children out of the mowing area and under the watchful
care of another responsible adult.
Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area.
Before and when backing, look behind and down for small
children.
CAUTION: Inordertopreventacciden-
talstartingwhensettingup,transport-
ing, adjusting or making repairs, al-
ways disconnect spark plug wire and
placewirewhereitcannotcontactspark
plug.
•
•
•
•
•
Mow up and down slopes (15° Max), not across.
Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.
Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could over-
turn the machine. Tall 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.
Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction,
disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the
slope.
If machine stops while going uphill, disengage blades, shift
into reverse and back down slowly.
Donotturnonslopesunlessnecessary, andthen, turnslowly
and gradually downhill, if possible.
CAUTION: Do not coast down a hill in
neutral, you may lose control of the
tractor.
•
•
CAUTION: Tow only the attachments
that are recommended by and comply
withspecificationsofthemanufacturer
of your tractor. Use common sense
when towing. Operate only at the low-
est possible speed when on a slope.
Too heavy of a load, while on a slope,
is dangerous. Tires can lose traction
with the ground and cause you to lose
control of your tractor.
•
•
WARNING
Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and cer-
tain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals
knowntotheStateofCaliforniatocausecancerand
birth defects or other reproductive harm.
WARNING
Battery posts, terminals and related accessories
containleadandleadcompounds,chemicalsknown
to the State of California to cause cancer and birth
defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands
afterhandling.
3
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CONGRATULATIONS onyourpurchaseofanewtractor. It
has been designed, engineered and manufactured to give
you the best possible dependability and performance.
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
GASOLINE CAPACITY
AND TYPE:
1.25 GALLONS
UNLEADED REGULAR
Should you experience any problem you cannot easily
remedy, please contact your nearest authorized service
center/department. Wehavecompetent,well-trainedtech-
nicians and the proper tools to service or repair this tractor.
OIL TYPE (API-SF-SJ):
SAE 30 (above 32°F)
SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F)
OIL CAPACITY:
3 PINTS
Please read and retain this manual. The instructions will
enable you to assemble and maintain your tractor properly.
Always observe the “SAFETY RULES”.
SPARK PLUG:
(GAP: .030")
CHAMPION RC12YC
GROUND SPEED (MPH): FORWARD:
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
1st
1.1
1.4
2.2
3.3
4.4
4.9
•
•
Read and observe the safety rules.
2nd
3rd
4th
5th
6th
Followaregularscheduleinmaintaining,caringforand
using your tractor.
•
Follow the instructions under “Customer Responsibili-
ties” and “Storage” sections of this owner’s manual.
REVERSE: 1.4
WARNING: This tractor is equipped with an internal com-
bustion 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.
TIRE PRESSURE:
CHARGING SYSTEM:
BATTERY:
FRONT:
REAR:
14 PSI
12 PSI
3 AMPS BATTERY
5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS
AMP/HR:
MIN. CCA:
28
230
A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your
nearest authorized service center/department (See RE-
PAIR PARTS section of this manual).
CASE SIZE: U1R
BLADE BOLT TORQUE:
27-35 FT. LBS.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SAFETY RULES ........................................................ 2-3
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS ....................................... 4
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ......................4, 14-18
ASSEMBLY................................................................ 6-8
OPERATION............................................................. 9-13
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE....................................... 14
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS .............................19-23
STORAGE ................................................................... 24
TROUBLESHOOTING .............................................25-26
REPAIR PARTS ......................................................28-43
WARRANTY ................................................................ 45
4
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UNASSEMBLEDPARTS
Steering Wheel
Seat
Steering
Wheel
Adapter
(1) Washer
17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge
(1) Lock
Washer 1/2
Steering
Wheel
Insert
(1) Bolt
Steering
Extension
Shaft
Steering
Boot
(1) Oil Drain Tube
For Future Use
Keys
(2) Keys
Slope Sheet
(1) Locknut 1/2-20
(1) Large Flat Washer
(1) Locknut 1/4-28
(1) Hex Bolt 1/4-28 x 1-1/4
5
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ASSEMBLY
Yournewtractorhasbeenassembledatthefactorywithexceptionofthosepartsleftunassembledforshippingpurposes. 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.
STEERING
WHEEL INSERT
(1) 3/4" wrench
Pliers
1/2 HEX NUT
(2) 7/16" wrenches
Tirepressuregauge
Utility knife
LARGE FLAT
WASHER
Whenrightorlefthandismentionedinthismanual,itmeans
when you are in the operating position (seated behind the
steeringwheel).
STEERING
WHEEL
TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CAR-
TON
STEERING
BOOT
TABS
UNPACK CARTON
•
•
•
Remove all accessible loose parts and parts cartons
from carton.
Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on all four corners
of carton, and lay panels flat.
ADAPTER
EXTENSION
SHAFT
Check for any additional loose parts or cartons and
remove.
1/4 LOCKNUT
1/4 HEX BOLT
BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR FROM
SKID
LOWER
STEERING
SHAFT
ATTACH STEERING WHEEL (See Fig. 1)
ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND BOOT
•
Slide extension shaft onto lower steering shaft. Align
mounting holes in extension and lower shafts and install
1/4 hex bolt and locknut. Tighten securely.
TAB
SLOTS
IMPORTANT: TIGHTEN BOLT AND NUT SECURELY TO
10-12 FT. LBS TORQUE.
FIG. 1
•
Place tabs of steering boot over tab slots in dash and push
down to secure.
HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR
INSTALL STEERING WHEEL
•
•
•
•
Position front wheels of the tractor so they are pointing
straight forward.
Remove steering wheel adapter from steering wheel and
slide adapter onto steering shaft extension.
Position steering wheel so cross bars are horizontal (left to
right) and slide inside boot and onto adapter.
CHECK BATTERY (See Fig. 2)
•
•
Lift seat pan to raised position.
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.
(See"BATTERY"inCUSTOMERRESPONSIBILITIES
section of this manual for charging instructions).
Assemble large flat washer, 1/2 hex nut and tighten se-
curely.
•
•
Snap steering wheel insert into center of steering wheel.
Remove protective materials 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.
SEAT PAN
LABEL
TERMINAL
TERMINAL
FIG. 2
6
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ASSEMBLY
INSTALL SEAT (See Fig. 3)
Adjust seat before tightening adjustment bolt.
TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Opera-
tion section, page 10, for location and func-
tion of controls)
•
Remove adjustment bolt, lock washer and flat washer
securing seat to cardboard packing and set aside for
assembly of seat to tractor.
•
Press lift lever plunger and raise attachment lift lever to
its highest position.
•
•
•
•
Pivot seat upward and remove from the cardboard
packing. Remove the cardboard packing and discard.
Place seat on seat pan so head of shoulder bolt is
positioned over large slotted hole in pan.
Push down on seat to engage shoulder bolt in slot and
pull seat towards rear of tractor.
Pivot seat and pan forward and assemble adjustment
bolt, lockwasherandflatwasherloosely. Donottighten
Lower seat into operating position and sit on seat.
Slide seat until a comfortable position is reached which
allowsyoutopressclutch/brakepedalallthewaydown.
Get off seat without moving its adjusted position.
Raise seat and tighten adjustment bolt securely.
•
•
•
•
Releaseparkingbrakebydepressingclutch/brakepedal.
Place gearshift lever in neutral (N) position.
Roll tractor forward off skid.
Remove banding holding deflector shield up against
tractor.
TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Opera-
tion section, page 10, for location and func-
tion of controls)
WARNING:Beforestarting,read,understandandfollow
all instructions in the Operation section of this manual. Be
sure tractor is in a well-ventilated area. Be sure the area in
front of tractor is clear of other people and objects.
•
•
•
•
•
Be sure all the above assembly steps have been
completed.
SEAT
•
•
Check engine oil level and fill fuel tank with gasoline.
Sit on seat in operating position, depress clutch/brake
pedal and set the parking brake.
•
•
Place gear shift lever in neutral (N) position.
Press lift lever plunger and raise attachment lift lever to
its highest position.
SEAT PAN
•
•
•
•
•
Starttheengine.Afterenginehasstarted,movethrottle
control to idle position.
Depress clutch/brake pedal into full "BRAKE" position
and hold. Move gearshift lever to 1st gear.
Slowly release clutch/brake pedal and slowly drive
tractor off skid.
Applybraketostoptractor, setparkingbrakeandplace
gearshift lever in neutral position.
SHOULDER
BOLT
FLAT WASHER
LOCK WASHER
Turn ignition key to "OFF" position.
Continue with the instructions that follow.
ADJUSTMENT
BOLT
FIG. 3
NOTE: You may now roll or drive your tractor off the skid.
Follow the appropriate instruction below to remove the
tractor from the skid.
7
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ASSEMBLY
CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
The tires on your tractor were overinflated at the factory for
shipping purposes. Correct tire pressure is important for
best cutting performance.
CHECKLIST
BEFOREYOUOPERATEANDENJOYYOURNEW TRAC-
TOR, WE WISH TO ASSURE THAT YOU RECEIVE THE
BESTPERFORMANCEANDSATISFACTIONFROMTHIS
QUALITYPRODUCT.
•
Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in “PRODUCT
SPECIFICATIONS” section of this manual.
PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING CHECKLIST:
✓
✓
✓
All assembly instructions have been completed.
No remaining loose parts in carton.
Batteryisproperlypreparedandcharged. (Minimum1
hour at 6 amps).
Seat is adjusted comfortably and tightened securely.
All 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).
Check mower and drive belts. Be sure they are routed
properly around pulleys and inside all belt keepers.
CHECK DECK LEVELNESS
For best cutting results, mower housing should be properly
leveled. See“TOLEVELMOWERHOUSING”intheService
and Adjustments section of this manual.
✓
✓
CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF ALL
BELTS
See the figures that are shown for replacing 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
Afteryoulearnhowtooperateyourtractor,checktoseethat
the brake is properly adjusted. See “TO ADJUST BRAKE”
in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.
Check wiring. See that all connections are still secure
and wires are properly clamped.
WHILELEARNINGHOWTOUSEYOURTRACTOR,PAY
EXTRA ATTENTION TO THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT
ITEMS:
✓
Engine oil is at proper level.
✓
Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean, regular unleaded
gasoline.
✓
✓
Become familiar with all controls - their location and
function. Operate them before you start the engine.
Be sure brake system is in safe operating condition.
8
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OPERATION
These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand their meaning.
BATTERY
CAUTION OR
WARNING
REVERSE
FORWARD
LIGHTS ON
FAST
SLOW
OVER TEMP
LIGHT
ENGINE ON
ENGINE OFF
OIL PRESSURE
PARKING BRAKE
LOCKED
UNLOCKED
MOWER LIFT
FUEL
CHOKE
MOWER HEIGHT
P
ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH ENGAGED
REVERSE
NEUTRAL
HIGH
LOW
PARKING BRAKE
15
15
15
KEEP AREA CLEAR
SLOPE HAZARDS
ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH DISENGAGED
(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)
IGNITION
FREE WHEEL
(Automatic Models only)
DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY
9
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OPERATION
KNOW YOUR TRACTOR
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR TRACTOR
Comparetheillustrationswithyourtractortofamiliarizeyourselfwiththelocationsofvariouscontrolsandadjustments. Save
this manual for future reference.
LIGHT SWITCH
POSITION
ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH
LEVER
IGNITION
SWITCH
LIFT LEVER
PLUNGER
THROTTLE/CHOKE
CONTROL
ATTACHMENT
LIFT LEVER
MOWER DECK
HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
POSITIONS
CLUTCH/BRAKE
PEDAL
GEARSHIFT
LEVER
PARKING
BRAKE
FIG. 4
Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the American National Standards Institute.
ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER: Used to engage the
GEARSHIFT LEVER: Selects the speed and direction of
tractor.
ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER: Used to raise, lower, and
adjustthemowerdeckorotherattachmentsmountedtoyour
tractor.
LIFT LEVER PLUNGER: Used to release attachment lift
lever when changing its position.
IGNITION SWITCH: Used for starting and stopping the
engine.
mowerblades,orotherattachmentsmountedtoyourtractor.
LIGHT SWITCH POSITION: Turns the headlights on and
off.
THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL: Used for starting and
controllingenginespeed.
CLUTCH/BRAKEPEDAL: Usedfordeclutchingandbrak-
ing the tractor and starting the engine.
PARKINGBRAKE:Locksclutch/brakepedalintothebrake
position.
10
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OPERATION
Theoperationofanytractorcan resultinforeignobjectsthrownintotheeyes,whichcan
resultinsevereeyedamage. Alwayswearsafetyglassesoreyeshieldswhileoperating
your tractor or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recommend a wide vision
safetymaskoverspectaclesorstandardsafetyglasses.
IMPORTANT: LEAVING THE IGNITION SWITCH IN ANY
HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR
TO SET PARKING BRAKE (See Fig. 5)
Yourtractorisequippedwithanoperatorpresencesensing
switch. Whenengineisrunning,anyattemptbytheoperator
to leave the seat without first setting the parking brake will
shut off the engine.
POSITION OTHER THAN "OFF" WILL CAUSE THE BATTERY
TO BE DISCHARGED, (DEAD).
NOTE: Under certain conditions when tractor is standing
idlewiththeenginerunning,hotengineexhaustgasesmay
cause “browning” of grass. To eliminate this possibility,
always stop engine when stopping tractor on grass areas.
•
Depress clutch/brake pedal into full “BRAKE” position
andhold.
Place parking brake lever in “ENGAGED” position and
releasepressurefromclutch/brakepedal. Pedalshould
remain in “BRAKE” position. Make sure parking brake
will hold tractor secure.
CAUTION: Alwaysstoptractorcom-
pletely, as described above, before
leaving the operator's position; to
empty grass catcher, etc.
•
TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL (See Fig. 5)
Always operate engine at full throttle.
ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER
"ENGAGED" POSITION
•
Operating engine at less than full throttle reduces the
batterychargingrate.
THROTTLE/CHOKE
CONTROL LEVER
•
Full throttle offers the best bagging and mower perfor-
mance.
IGNITION KEY
"DISENGAGED"
POSITION
TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD
(See Fig. 5)
The direction and speed of movement is controlled by the
gearshift lever.
PARKING BRAKE
"ENGAGED"
POSITION
"BRAKE"
POSITION
•
Start tractor with clutch/brake pedal depressed and
gearshift lever in neutral (N) position.
GEARSHIFT
LEVER
•
•
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
SOWILLSHORTENTHEUSEFULLIFEOFYOURTRANSAXLE.
PARKING BRAKE
CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL
"DRIVE" POSITION
"DISENGAGED" POSITION
TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT
(See Fig. 5)
FIG. 5
The position of the attachment lift lever determines the
STOPPING (See Fig. 5)
MOWERBLADES-
cutting height.
•
•
Grasp lift lever.
Press plunger with thumb and move lever to desired
position.
•
Tostopmowerblades,moveattachmentclutchleverto
“DISENGAGED”position.
GROUNDDRIVE-
Thecutting height rangeis approximately1-1/2to 4". The
heights are measured from the ground to the blade tip with
theenginenotrunning. Theseheightsareapproximateand
may vary depending upon soil conditions, height of grass
and types of grass being mowed.
•
To stop ground drive, depress clutch/brake pedal into
full “BRAKE” position.
•
Move gearshift lever to neutral (N) position.
ENGINE-
•
Theaveragelawnshouldbecuttoapproximately2-1/2
inches during the cool season and to over 3 inches
during hot months. For healthier and better looking
lawns, mow often and after moderate growth.
•
Move throttle control to slow position.
NOTE: Failuretomovethrottlecontroltoslowpositionand
allowingenginetoidlebeforestoppingmaycauseengineto
“backfire”.
•
For best cutting performance, grass over 6 inches in
•
Turn ignition key to “OFF” position and remove key.
Always remove key when leaving tractor to prevent
unauthorizeduse.
•
Never use choke to stop engine.
11
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OPERATION
TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS (See Fig. 6)
CAUTION: Do not operate the mower
without either the entire grass catcher,
onmowerssoequipped,orthedeflector
shield in place.
Gaugewheels areproperlyadjustedwhentheyareslightly
offthegroundwhenmowerisatthedesiredcuttingheightin
operating position. Gauge wheels then keep the deck in
proper position to help prevent scalping in most terrain
conditions.
TO OPERATE ON HILLS
NOTE:Adjust gauge wheels with tractor on a flat level
surface.
CAUTION: Donotdriveupordownhills
with slopes greater than 15° and do not
drive across any slope.
•
Adjust mower to desired cutting height (See “TO AD-
JUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT” in the Operation
section of this manual).
•
Choose the slowest speed before starting up or down
hills.
Avoid stopping or changing speed on hills.
If slowing is necessary, move throttle control lever to
slowerposition.
If stopping is absolutely necessary, push clutch/brake
pedal quickly to brake position and engage parking
brake.
•
With mower in desired height of cut position, gauge
wheelsshouldbeassembledsotheyareslightlyoffthe
ground. Install gauge wheel in appropriate hole with
shoulder bolt, 17/32 washer, 3/8 washer, and 3/8-16
locknut and tighten securely.
•
•
•
Repeatforoppositesideinstallinggaugewheelinsame
adjustmenthole.
•
•
GAUGE
WHEEL
MOUNTING
BRACKET
Move gearshift lever to 1st gear. Be sure you have
allowed room for tractor to roll slightly as you restart
movement.
•
•
Torestartmovement,slowlyreleaseparkingbrakeand
clutch/brakepedal.
Make all turns slowly.
3/8-16
LOCKNUT
17/32 WASHER
TO TRANSPORT
3/8 WASHER
SHOULDER
BOLT
•
•
•
Raiseattachmentlifttohighestpositionwithattachment
lift control.
GAUGE WHEEL
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.
FIG. 6
TO OPERATE MOWER (See Fig. 7)
Yourtractor isequippedwithanoperatorpresencesensing
switch. Any attempt by the operator to leave the seat with
the engine running and the attachment clutch engaged will
shut off the engine.
NOTE: Toprotecthoodfromdamagewhentransportingyour
tractor on a truck or a trailer, be sure hood is closed and
securedtotractor. Useanappropriatemeansoftyinghood
to tractor (rope, cord, etc.).
•
•
Select desired height of cut.
Start mower blades by engaging attachment clutch
control.
TOWING CARTS AND OTHER ATTACH-
MENTS
Tow only the attachments that are recommended by and
comply with specifications of the manufacturer of your
tractor. Use common sense when towing. Too heavy of a
load, while on a slope, is dangerous. Tires can lose traction
withthegroundandcauseyoutolosecontrolofyourtractor.
•
TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disengage attachment
clutch control.
"ENGAGED" POSITION
ATTACHMENT LIFT
LEVER HIGH POSITION
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE
LOW
POSITION
CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL
•
The engine in your tractor has been shipped, from the
factory, already filled with summer weight oil.
•
•
Check engine oil with tractor on level ground.
Remove oil fill cap/dipstick and wipe clean, reinsert the
dipstick and screw cap tight, wait for a few seconds,
remove and read oil level. If necessary, add oil until
“FULL” mark on dipstick is reached. Do not overfill.
ATTACHMENT
DEFLECTOR
SHIELD
CLUTCH LEVER
"DISENGAGED"
POSITION
•
•
For cold weather operation you should change oil for
easier starting (See “OIL VISCOSITY CHART” in the
Customer Responsibilities section of this manual).
Tochangeengineoil,seetheCustomerResponsibilities
section in this manual.
FIG. 7
12
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OPERATION
ADD GASOLINE
COLD WEATHER STARTING ( 50° F and below)
•
Fill fuel tank to bottom of filler neck. Do not overfill. Use
•
Whenenginestarts,allowenginetorunwiththethrottle
control in the choke position until the engine runs
roughly, thenmovethrottlecontroltofastposition. This
may require an engine warm-up period from several
secondstoseveralminutes,dependingonthetempera-
ture.
fresh,clean,regularunleadedgasolinewithaminimum
of 87 octane. (Use of leaded gasoline will increase
carbon and lead oxide deposits and reduce valve life).
Donotmixoilwithgasoline. Purchasefuelinquantities
thatcanbeusedwithin30daystoassurefuelfreshness.
•
The attachments can also be used during the engine
warm-upperiod.
CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or
fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline
near an open flame.
NOTE: If at a high altitude (above 3000 feet) or in cold
temperatures (below 32 F) the carburetor fuel mixture may
need to be adjusted for best engine performance. See “TO
ADJUST CARBURETOR” in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual.
IMPORTANT: WHEN OPERATING IN TEMPERATURES
BELOW32°F(0°C), USE FRESH, CLEAN WINTER GRADE
GASOLINE TO HELP INSURE GOOD COLD WEATHER
STARTING.
MOWING TIPS
•
Tire chains cannot be used when the mower housing is
attached to tractor.
Mower should be properly leveled for best mowing
performance. See “TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING” in
the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.
CAUTION: Alcoholblendedfuels(called
gasohol or using ethanol or methanol)
canattractmoisturewhichleadstosepa-
ration and formation of acids during
storage. Acidicgascandamagethefuel
systemofanenginewhileinstorage. To
avoidengineproblems,thefuelsystem
shouldbeemptiedbeforestorageof30
daysorlonger. Drainthegastank,start
the engine and let it run until the fuel
lines and carburetor are empty. Use
fresh fuel next season. See Storage
Instructionsforadditionalinformation.
Neveruseengineorcarburetorcleaner
products in the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.
•
•
•
Thelefthandsideofmowershouldbeusedfortrimming.
Drivesothatclippingsaredischargedontotheareathat
has been cut. Have the cut area to the right of the
machine. This will result in a more even distribution of
clippings and more uniform cutting.
Whenmowinglargeareas,startbyturningtotherightso
that clippings will discharge away from shrubs, fences,
driveways, etc. After one or two rounds, mow in the
opposite direction making left hand turns until finished
(See Fig. 8).
If grass is extremely tall, it should be mowed twice to
reduce load and possible fire hazard from dried clip-
pings. Make first cut relatively high; the second to the
desiredheight.
Do not mow grass when it is wet. Wet grass will plug
mowerandleaveundesirableclumps. Allowgrasstodry
beforemowing.
Alwaysoperateengineatfullthrottlewhenmowing
to assure better mowing performance and proper dis-
chargeofmaterial. Regulategroundspeedbyselecting
a low enough gear to give the mower cutting perfor-
mance as well as the quality of cut desired.
When operating attachments, select a ground speed
thatwillsuittheterrainandgivebestperformanceofthe
attachment being used.
•
•
TO START ENGINE (See Fig. 5)
Whenstartingtheengineforthefirsttimeoriftheenginehas
run out of fuel, it will take extra cranking time to move fuel
from the tank to the engine.
•
•
•
Sit on seat in operating position, depress clutch/brake
pedal and set parking brake.
Place gear shift lever in neutral (N) position.
Move attachment clutch to “DISENGAGED” position.
Move throttle control to choke position.
•
•
•
NOTE: Before starting, read the warm and cold starting
proceduresbelow.
•
•
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 the engine does not start
after several attempts, move throttle control to fast
position, wait a few minutes and try again. If engine still
does not start, move the throttle control back to the
choke position and retry.
WARM WEATHER STARTING (50° F and above)
•
Whenenginestarts,movethethrottlecontroltothefast
position.
•
The attachments and ground drive can now be used. If
the engine does not accept the load, restart the engine
and allow it to warm up for one minute using the choke
as described above.
FIG. 8
13
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