Cub Cadet Lawn Mower 20HP Z Force 44 User Manual

Hydrostatic Zero-Turn

Residential Riding Mower

Turf Equipment

MODEL

20HP Z-Force 44

23HP Z-Force 50

OPERATOR’S AND SERVICE MANUAL

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FORWARD

The Hydrostatic Zero-Turn Riding Mower provides superb maneuverability and mid-mount cut-

ting. The machine incorporates many safety features that should be studied by all operators

before use. The list of safety precautions should receive particular attention.

This manual presents all of the operating and maintenance instructions necessary to keep

your mower at peak efficiency. If operated and maintained properly, your mower will give

dependable service.

CAUTION:

Only thoroughly trained persons should operate and maintain this

mower. This machine can cause serious injury to anyone who mis-

uses it and does not understand its operation. For their personal

safety, all operators are required to read this entire manual before

operating the mower.

Hazard control and accident prevention are partially dependent

upon the design and configuration of the equipment. Awareness,

concern, prudence and proper training of the personnel involved in

the operation, transport, maintenance and storage of the equip-

ment, are essential for hazard control and accident prevention.

The engine manufacturer is responsible for all engine-related issues with

regards to performance, power-rating, specifications, warranty and service.

Please refer to the engine manufacturer’s owner’s/operator’s manual,

packed seperately with your unit, for more information.

NOTE:

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WARNING

•

The engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals

known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.

This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved

forest-covered, brush-covered, or grass-covered land 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 main-

tained 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 to federal lands. A spark arrester muffler

may be available.

IMPORTANT

SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES

THIS SYMBOL POINTS OUT IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS WHICH, IF NOT FOLLOWED,

COULD ENDANGER THE PERSONAL SAFETY AND/OR PROPERTY OF YOURSELF AND OTH-

ERS. READ AND FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS MANUAL BEFORE ATTEM PTING TO

OPERATE YOUR UNIT. FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THESE INSTRUCTIONS MAY RESULT IN

PERSONAL INJURY. WHEN YOU SEE THIS SYMBOL-

HEED ITS WARNING.

Your lawn mower was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation

in this manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the

part of the operator can result in injury. This lawn mower is capable of amputating

hands and feet or throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instruc-

tions could result in serious injury or death.

DANGER

5. Be sure the area is clear of other people

GENERAL SAFETY

OPERATIONS

before mowing. Stop machine if anyone

enters the area.

6. Never carry passengers.

7. Disengage the blades before shifting into

reverse and backing up. Always look down

and behind before and while backing.

8. Be aware of the mower and attachment dis-

charge direction and do not point it at anyone.

Do not operate the mower without either the

entire grass catcher or the chute guard in

place.

A. GENERAL OPERATION

1. Read, understand and follow all instructions in

the manual and on the machine before start-

ing. Keep this manual in a safe place for

future and regular reference and for ordering

replacement parts.

2. Only allow responsible individuals familiar with

the instructions to operate the machine. Know

the controls and how to stop the machine

quickly.

9. Slow down before turning. Operate the

machine smoothly. Avoid erratic operation

and excessive speed.

3. Do not put hands or feet under the cutting

deck or near rotating parts.

10. Never leave a running machine unattended.

Always turn off the blades, place the transmis-

sion in neutral, set the parking brake, stop the

engine and remove key before dismounting.

11. Turn off blades when not mowing.

12. Stop the engine and wait until the blades

come to a complete stop before (a) removing

the grass catcher or unclogging chute, or (b)

making any repairs, adjusting or removing any

grass or debris.

13. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.

14. Do not operate the machine while under the

influence of alcohol or drugs.

15. Watch for traffic when operating near or cross-

ing roadways.

4. Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys,

wire, etc. which could be picked up and thrown

by the blades. A small object may have been

overlooked and could be accidentally thrown

by the mower in any direction and cause injury

to you or a bystander. To help avoid a thrown

objects injury, keep children, animals,

bystanders and helpers at least 75 feet from

the mower while it is in operation. Always

wear safety glasses with side shields or safety

goggles during operation or while performing

and adjustment or repair, to protect eyes from

foreign objects. Stop the blades when cross-

ing gravel drives, walks or roads.

16. Use extra care when loading or unloading the

machine into a trailer or truck. This unit

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should not be driven up or down a ramp onto

a trailer or truck under power, because the

unit could tip over causing serious personal

injury. The unit must be pushed manually on

a ramp to load or unload properly.

• Use slow speed. Choose a low enough speed

so that you will not have to stop while on the

slope.

• Follow the manufacture’s recommendations for

counterweights with attachments to improve sta-

bility.

• Use extra care with grass catchers or other

attachments. These can change the stability of

the machine.

• Keep all movement on the slopes slow and

gradual. Do not make sudden changes in speed

or direction. Rapid acceleration or deceleration

could cause the front of the machine to lift and

rapidly flip over backwards, which could cause

serious injury.

17. Never make a cutting height adjustment while

the engine is running if the operator must dis-

mount to do so.

18. Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and

closefitting slacks and shirts. Do not wear

loose fitting clothes or jewelry. They can be

caught in moving parts. Never operate a unit

in bare feet, sandals or sneakers.

19. Check overhead clearance carefully before

driving under power lines, wires, bridges or

low hanging tree branches, before entering or

leaving buildings, or in any other situation

where the operator may be struck or pulled

from the unit, which could result in serious

injury.

• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If the

tires lose traction, disengage the blades and pro-

ceed slowly straight down the slope.

DO NOT:

20. Disengage all attachment clutches, set the

parking brake to the on position and put the

lap bars to the neutral or out position, before

attempting to start the engine.

21. Your mower is designed to cut normal resi-

dential grass of a height no more than 10”.

Do not attempt to mow through unusually tall,

dry grass (e.g. pasture) or piles of dry leaves.

Debris may build up on the mower deck or

contact the engine exhaust presenting a

potential fire hazard.

• Do not turn on slopes unless necessary; then,

turn slowly and use extra care.

• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or embank-

ments. 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.

• Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting

your foot on the ground.

• Do not use the grass catcher on steep slopes.

22. Use only accessories approved for this

C. CHILDREN

Cub Cadet. Read, understand

and follow all instructions provided with the

approved accessory.

machine by

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.

B. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to loss of con-

trol and tip-over 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.

1. Keep children out of the mowing area

and in watchful care of an adult other than the

operator.

2. Be alert and turn the machine off if children

enter the area.

For your safety, use the slope gauge included as

a part of this manual (see pg. 27) to measure

slopes before operating this unit on a sloped or

hilly area. If the slope is greater than 15 degrees

as shown on the slope gauge, do not operate this

unit on that area or serious injury could result.

3. Before and when backing up, look behind and

down for small children.

4. Never carry children, even with the blades off.

They may fall off and be seriously injured or

may interfere with safe machine operation.

5. Never allow children under 14 years old to

operate the machine. Children 14 years and

over should only operate the machine under

close parental supervision and proper instruc-

tion.

DO:

• Mow across slopes, not up and down.

• Remove obstacles such as rocks, limbs, etc.

• Watch for holes, ruts or bumps. Uneven terrain

could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide

obstacles.

6. Use extra care when approaching blind cor-

ners, shrubs, trees or other objects that may

obscure your vision of a child or other hazard.

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7. Remove the key when the machine is left

unattended to prevent unauthorized opera-

tion.

Repair the damage before restarting and

operating the machine.

9. Grass catcher components are subject to

wear, damage and deterioration, which could

expose moving parts or allow objects to be

thrown. For your safety protection, frequently

check the components and replace with man-

ufacturers recommended parts when neces-

sary.

10. Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap

the blades or wear gloves, and use extra cau-

tion when servicing blades.

11. Check park brake operation frequently. Adjust

and service as required.

12. Muffler, engine and belt guards become hot

during operation and can cause a burn. Allow

to cool down before touching.

13. Do not change the engine governor settings

or overspeed the engine. Excessive engine

speeds are dangerous.

14. Observe proper disposal laws and regula-

tions. Improper disposal of fluids and materi-

als can harm the environment and the

ecology.

D. SERVICE

1. Use extreme care in handling gasoline and

other fuels. They are extremely flammable

and the vapors are explosive.

Use only an approved con-

tainer.

Never remove fuel cap or add fuel with

the engine running. Allow the engine

to cool at least two minutes before

refueling.

Replace the fuel cap securely and

wipe off any spilled fuel before starting

the engine as it may cause a fire or

explosion.

Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes

and other sources of ignition.

Never refuel the machine indoors

because fuel vapors will accumulate in

the area.

Never store the fuel container or

machine inside where there is an open

flame or spark, such as a gas hot

water heater, space heater or furnace.

Prior to disposal, contact your local

Environmental Protection Agency to

determine the proper method for dis-

posing of the waste. Recycling cen-

ters are established to properly

2. Never run a machine inside a closed area.

3. To reduce fire hazard, keep the machine free

of grass, leaves or other debris build-up.

Clean up oil or fuel spillage. Allow the

machine to cool at least 5 minutes before stor-

ing.

4. Before cleaning, repairing or inspecting, make

certain the blade and all moving parts have

stopped. Disconnect the spark plug wire, and

keep the wire away from the spark plug to pre-

vent accidental starting.

5. Check the blade and engine mounting bolts at

frequent intervals for proper tightness. Also

visually inspect blades for damage (e.g.,

excessive wear, bent, cracked). Replace with

blades which meet original equipment specifi-

cations.

dispose of materials in an environmen-

tally safe fashion.

Use proper containers when draining

fluids. Do not use food or beverage

containers that may mislead someone

into drinking from them. Properly dis-

pose of the containers immediately fol-

lowing the draining of fluids.

DO NOT pour oil or other fluids into the

ground, down drain or into a stream,

pond, lake or other body of water.

Observe Environmental Protection

Agency regulations when disposing of

oil, fuel, coolant, brake fluid, filters, bat-

teries, tires and other harmful waste.

15. We do not recommend the use of high pres-

sure washers to clean your unit. They may

cause damage to electrical components; spin-

dles; pulleys; bearings; or the engine.

6. Keep all nuts, bolts and screws tight to be

sure the equipment is in safe working condi-

tion.

7. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their

proper operation regularly. Use all guards as

instructed in this manual.

8. After striking a foreign object, stop the engine,

remove the wire from the spark plug and thor-

oughly inspect the mower for any damage.

WARNING-YOUR RESPONSIBILITY: Restrict the use of this power machine to persons who

read, understand and follow the warnings and instructions in this manual and on the machine.

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SAFETY DECALS AND LABELS

DANGER

KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY.

DO NOT OPERATE MOWER

UNLESS CHUTE DEFLECTOR

OR ENTIRE GRASS CATCHER IS

IN ITS PROPER PLACE.

Belt

Routing

S30503

ASSEMBLE CHUTE DEFLECTOR TO THIS UNIT BEFORE OPERATING.

Part Number: 777I22421 (for 44” Deck)

Part Number: 777S30503

To unlock, pull part of handle inward.

Lift unlocked handle to increase cutting height.

To lock, release upper part of handle to move outward.

I22093

Part Number: 777I22093

Part Number: 777S32161

Part Number: 777I22094

Part Number: 777I22290

Part Number: 777S30015

TO REDUCE THE RI SK OF INJURY,

D O N OT O P E R AT E M OWE R U N LE S S

DISCHARGE CHUTE COVER OR GRASS

CATCHER IS IN ITS PROPER PLACE.

DANGER

KEEP HANDS and FEET AWAY

Part Number: 777I22291

Part Number: 777S30145

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SPECIFICATIONS

Engine:

20HP & 23HP Kohler

Type:

Vertical air cooled V-Twin

Paper element

Pressurized with oil filter, drain valve with hose

12-volt electric

Air Cleaner:

Lube System:

Starter:

Traction Drive:

Engine to two variable-speed integrated hydraulic pump and

wheel motors on each drive wheel

Cutter Deck;Drive:

Clutch:

44" & 50” belt driven

Electric

Deck Lift:

Hand lever w/ lock for height adjustment

1-1/2" to 4"

3, belt-driven, power take-off from engine

Engine ignition and start switch; throttle & choke; left and right

steering levers; electric blade clutch switch; parking brake; mower

deck lift

Cutting Height:

No. of Blades

Controls:

Parking Brake:

Front Caster Wheels:

Tire Pressure:

Drive Wheels:

Frame:

Seat:

Fuel Tank:

Ground Speed:

Instrumentation:

Net Weight:

Mechanical linkage attached to the brake handle

11 x 5.00 - 5

8-10 psi rear, 20-25 psi front caster

18 x 8.50 - 8 for 44” & 18 x 9.50-8 for 50”

Structural steel, all welded construction

Adjustable seat. 4" Adjustment, w/ arm rests

One 5 gallon with shut off valve

0-7 MPH forward. 0-3 MPH reverse

Hour meter

598 lbs w/44" & 618 lbs w/50”

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OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

Figure. 1

Figure. 2

Choke

Engine throttle

Electric Blade

Hour Meter

Clutch Switch

Ignition Switch

maintain the uphill side lap bar “essen-

tially” in a fixed position.

A. General

1. When Mowing:

k. Be careful when crossing gravel paths or

roadways. Always turn off the blade clutch

switch and wait until the blades stop rotat-

ing and raise the cutting deck to the trans-

port position. Always allow other vehicles

to have the right of way.

l. If you hit a solid object while mowing, turn

off the blade clutch switch, place the steer-

ing levers in the neutral, opened-out posi-

tion, move the throttle to slow, set the

parking brake, shut off the engine, and

take the key from the ignition switch.

Inspect for damage. Repair the damage.

Make sure the blades are in good condition

and that the blade bolts are tight before

restarting the engine.

m. Never leave the mower unattended without

performing the following: turn off the blade

clutch switch, placing the steering levers in

the neutral open-out position, moving the

throttle to slow, setting the parking brake,

shutting off the engine and taking the key

from the ignition switch.

n. Never walk or stand on the discharge side

of the mower when the engine is running.

Turn off the blade clutch switch if another

person approaches while you are operat-

ing the mower.

a. Keep adults, children, and pets away from

the area to be mowed.

b. When operating this mower, in the forward

direction, do not allow the steering levers

to return to neutral on their own. Always

maintain a firm grip on the levers, operate

them smoothly and avoid any sudden

movements of the levers when starting and

stopping.

c. If the mower is equipped for side dis-

charge, never use the mower without the

discharge chute installed and placed in the

down position.

d. Always remove debris and other objects

from the area to be mowed (Note: debris

and loose grass will reduce traction).

e. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.

f. Watch for holes, sprinkler heads, and other

hidden hazards.

g. Avoid driving too close to trees, creeks,

ditches, sand traps, and other obstacles.

h. Before backing up, check behind and

watch where you are going.

i. Always reduce speed when making a turn,

and when grass is wet.

j. Always mow across slopes, never up and

down the slope. Do not operate on steep

slopes and slow down before turning.

Avoid turning downhill if possible, start at

the bottom and work up to the top. Use

extra care and go slowly when turning

downhill. Control the speed and direction

of the zero turn machine “primarily” with

the speed/directional control (lap bar) of

the downhill side of the machine...I.E.,

o. Never attempt to operate the traction unit

without having the mowing deck attached.

p. Keep the mower and especially the engine

and hydraulic components clean and free

of grease, grass, and leaves to reduce the

chance of fire and permit proper cooling.

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2. Safety Awareness when Mowing

a. Do not operate on steep slopes, those

above 15 degrees (27% slope).

next and each subsequent time that the

area is mowed.

B. Controls

b. Avoid turning downhill if possible, use extra

care and go slowly.

1. Engine Ignition and Start Switch: (See Fig-

ure 1.) Located on the instrument housing

below the right side of the operator’s seat.

When the key is inserted and turned clock-

wise, 45 degrees, the ignition circuit is closed.

Turning the switch further against spring pres-

sure starts the engine. The engine will only

start if the blade clutch switch is in the “off”

position, the parking brake is engaged and

the left and right steering levers are in the

neutral, opened-out position. The key should

always be removed from the switch if the

operator leaves the mower’s seat.

c. Avoid turning when going downhill, traction

is at a minimum going downhill.

d. Do not operate with discharge side of the

mower toward streets, buildings, play-

grounds, parking lots, other machines, ani-

mals, and other people.

e. Avoid operation or use extreme care if the

traction surface is wet, unstable, or slip-

pery.

f. Use extra care when grass clippings,

leaves, pine needles, or debris are present

as traction can be reduced.

2. Engine Throttle Control: (See Figure 2.)

Located on the left side of the mower next to

the operator’s seat. Moving the throttle control

from the rear to the front will increase the

engine speed from slow to fast. Stop at the

detent, or the choke will be activated.

g. Slow-down before turning and come to a

complete stop before any zero turn maneu-

ver.

h. Do not stop machine or park machine over

combustible materials such as dry grass,

leaves, debris, etc.

3. Left and Right Steering Levers: (See Figure

3.) These hinged levers open out to the side in

the neutral position to permit the operator to

be seated or to leave the mower’s seat. The

operator, when seated, can pull the levers up

to the operating position, a comfortable fore-

arm’s length away. These levers control all of

the movements of the mower. Pushing both

levers forward causes the mower to move for-

ward. Pulling both levers back causes the

mower to move backward. Pushing one lever

ahead of the other lever causes the traction

wheel on the side where the lever is ahead to

rotate faster than the other traction wheel,

making the mower turn toward the side where

the lever is behind. When one lever is pushed

forward and the other lever pulled back the

same amount, one traction wheel will turn in

reverse and the mower will turn within its own

length.

3. To Mow Grass and Produce a Striped Pat-

tern

a. Pick a point on the opposite side of the

area to be mowed (post, tree, shrub, etc.).

b. If on a hillside, start at the bottom so that

the turns are uphill rather than downhill.

c. Align the mower so as to head directly

toward the object on the far side.

d. Slowly increase the speed of the machine

to match cutting conditions, terrain, and

operator familiarity with the controls and

keep the machine headed directly toward

the alignment object. Do not go fast as to

reduce cut quality or to be uncomfortable

in controlling the speed and direction of the

machine.

e. When approaching the other end of a strip,

slow down or stop before turning. A U-turn

is recommended unless a zero turn is

required. The speed of a U-turn that will

allow for machine controllability and mini-

mal turf defacement will be dependent on

several factors including: the speed during

turning, the radius of the turn, the tire tread

pattern, the traction coefficient of the tire to

the traction surface, the slope of the trac-

tion surface.

In order to start the engine, both steering

levers must be opened out to the side in the

neutral position; the parking brake must be

engaged; and the blade clutch switch must be

“off”. However, once the engine starts, the

parking brake must be released before the

operator places the steering levers into the

operating position or the engine will

f. Remember, a zero turn requires that the

forward or reverse travel of the machine be

stopped prior to the initiation of the turn or

severe turf defacement can occur.

g. To prevent rutting or grooving of the turf,

change the direction that the strips are

mowed by approximately 45 degrees the

automatically shut off.

Note: ^{The Steering Lever will return toward}

neutral when released, but they should be

placed in neutral by the driver. If the Drive

Handles are not placed in neutral, the tractor

may creep.

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Steering Levers

Brake

Figure. 4

Fuel Shutoff Valve

Figure. 3

Deck Lift Handle

8. Seat Adjustment Lever: The Seat Adjust-

ment Lever is located beneath the seat. The

Seat Adjustment Lever is used to move the

seat forward and backward. To place the seat

in the desired position pull the seat adjust-

ment lever to the left then push the seat for-

ward or back to the desired position. Release

the lever so the seat will lock in place.

4. Electric Blade Clutch Switch: (See Figure

1.) Located on the right side of the mower

beside the ignition switch. This is an “on/off”

push-pull switch that controls the electric

blade clutch which supplies power to the cut-

ting blades through the PTO. The switch must

be turned off to start the engine and should

be turned off for safety any time another per-

son approaches the mower or the mowing

deck is raised to the transport position. Power

to the electric clutch will also be cut off if the

operator leaves the operator’s seat.

5. Parking Brake: (See Figure 3.) Located on

the left side of the traction unit. The handle is

an overcenter lever which applies the drum

brakes on the drive wheels when the handle is

pulled to the rear. The brake must be engaged

in order to start the engine.

9. Hour Meter: (See Figure 1) Located on the

right side of the mower behind the ignition

switch. The hour meter displays running time.

Note:^{There will be a flashing “LUBE” for}

each recommended lubrication interval. There

is a flashing “OIL” at each recommended

engine oil and filter change.

10. Choke Lever: (See Figure 2) The Choke is

integrated into the throttle control which is

operated manually. Having the Choke in the

ON (full forward) position helps the engine to

start during initial start-up. During normal

operation the Choke should be in the OFF

(the detent for full throttle) position.

6. Deck Lift Handle: (See Figure 3.) Located on

the panel in front of the seat. Raise the mow-

ing deck to the transport position, by pulling

the handle to the rear and moving it upward

for transport. To lower the mowing deck, pull

the deck lift handle to the rear and lower it to

the desired position.

7. Fuel Shutoff Valve: (See Figure 4.) Located

on top of the fuel tank. When turned in a

clockwise direction until it stops, it will shut off

the flow of fuel to the engine. When turned in

a counterclockwise direction it will open and

allow fuel to flow to the engine. Close this

valve if you are not going to run the mower for

a period of 30 minutes or more to prevent

flooding the engine.

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plugs and using the transport lever, lower

the mowing deck into the cutting position.

b. Using a ruler, pencil and paper, measure

and note the distance from the paved sur-

face to the bottom edge of the mowing

blade at the front and the back of the deck

on each side of the mower. (Four dimen-

sions.)

C. Initial Adjustments

1. Check the fluid levels and tires:

Note:^{These checks should be made daily,}

before starting the engine.

a. Fuel: Using a good grade of unleaded,

regular gasoline, fill the fuel tank (beside

the engine on the left side of the mower).

When the fuel reaches one inch from the

top of the tank, stop. DO NOT OVERFILL.

Space must be left for expansion.

b. Engine Oil: (Filled at the factory before

shipment.) Pull out the oil dipstick, wipe it

off and reinsert it. Pull it out again and read

the oil level. If it is below the operating

range, add oil through the fill tube using a

funnel to bring it up to the top of the operat-

ing range.

Note:^{The front edge of the mowing deck}

should be 1/8"-1/4" below the rear edge of the

deck so that the blades are cutting grass in

only the front half of their circular path. This

decreases friction and reduces the drive

power required.

c. If the dimension at the front of the mowing

deck is 1/8"-1/4" lower than the dimension

at the rear of the deck (pitch) on each side

of the mower, do not adjust. If not, you will

need to adjust the Deck Front Links (See

Figure 5).

Note:^{Gasoline Engine: For the recom-}

mended oil weight refer to engine manual.

c. Hydraulic Oil: (Filled at the factory before

shipment.) The hydraulic oil is contained

within the integrated hydrostatic transaxles

and does not need to be checked or

replaced.

Deck Front Links

Deck Lift Links

d. Tires: 8-10 psi rear, 20-25 psi front caster

tires

Note:^{New tires are overinflated in order to}

properly seat the bead to the rim. The normal

working pressure for the traction tires is 8-10

psi. The front caster wheels should be inflated

to 20-25 psi.

Figure. 5

2. Check that all Nuts, Bolts and Screws are

Tight.

3. Check the tension of the deck drive belts.

a. Remove the deck cover

b. The tension of the deck drive belts are

maintained by a spring mechanism that

adjusts for wear and stretch.

c. Examine the belts for cuts, fraying, and

excessive wear. Replace if any of these

are detected.

d. Lower the mower deck to the cutting posi-

tion. With a wrench, loosen the inner rear

nuts on the Deck Front Links adjust the

deck up or down, use a wrench and with a

few turns, adjust clockwise or counter

clockwise the outer rear nut of the Deck

Front Links. Repeat this procedure on the

opposite side of the Mower. Once the deck

is adjusted, retighten bolts.

d. Replace the deck cover.

e. With the deck still in the cutting position,

adjust the level (side to side). With a

wrench loosen the top inner nut of the left

side of the Deck Lift link. To adjust the side

of the deck up or down turn the lower nut

clockwise or counter clockwise a few turns.

Retighten nuts.

f. Raise the mowing deck to the transport

position using the transport lever.

g. Use the transport lever to lower the mow-

ing deck to the cutting position and repeat

step “b.” above to make sure that the

desired cutting height and pitch and level

4. Adjust the Mowing Deck: The cutting height

is set in 1/2” increments in the range of 1-1/2"

to 4". Do not attempt to raise the mower deck

higher than 4” because you will damage com-

ponents on your mower. You may need to

adjust the mowing deck to achieve the proper

angle for mowing. Follow the procedures

below to set the appropriate angle to the

mowing deck.

a. Park the mower on a flat paved surface,

engage the parking brake, shut off the

engine, remove the key from the ignition

switch, remove connection of the spark

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have been attained. If the dimensions are

not correct, repeat steps “c.” through “f.”

above.

4. That no non-approved devices are

installed.

5. That all safety signs and decals are

properly installed and legible.

5. Lubricate all fittings listed in the mainte-

nance section.

e. This is a one person machine, operator

only! Riders are not permitted under any

circumstance!

f. To start the engine on the machine:

1. Make sure the park brake is set to the

“ON” position, both lap bars are in the

neutral/start (opened-out) position, and

the Power Take Off (PTO also referred to

as blade control switch) is in the “off”

(down) position.

D. Zero Turn Break-In And Operating

Procedures

DANGER:

Reread the “When Mowing” Safety Precautions.

The following procedures are suggested for opera-

tors of ride-on machines which have zero turn

capabilities.

2. Move the choke and the engine speed

control (throttle) forward to the end of the

slot.

3. Insert the ignition key, turn the switch

toward the spring-loaded “Start” position,

maintain the Start position until the

engine begins to run, then release the

switch (it will return to the “Run” posi-

tion).

4. Move the choke/speed control slowly by

moving it rearward. If the engine is

“cold”, the choke may need to be par-

tially applied for a few minutes. Be sure

to move the choke/throttle after the

engine has “warmed up” to the detent.

g. Check safety devices:

1. With the park brake engaged, move one

of the lap bars (speed/directional control)

from the neutral/start position to the neu-

tral position (out of the slot, toward the

center of the machine) — the engine

should stop running. Move the lap bars

back to the neutral/start position and the

engine should run.

1. Orientation:

a. Read the entire Operator’s Manual.

b. Sit on the machine, adjust the seat fore-

and-aft, then adjust the speed/directional

(lap bar) controls (they can be adjusted

fore-and-aft, as well as up-and-down — 9/

16" wrench required).

c. Become familiar with all of the machine

controls, instrumentation, safety and

instruction signs, and safety devices.

d. Move (or have moved) the machine to a

safe, level area with no obstructions includ-

ing objects, pedestrians, and animals.

2. Initial Operation:

a. Use protective equipment for eyes, hands,

hearing, feet, legs, head and other areas of

the body if needed — safety eye glasses,

gloves, earplugs, boots, hats, etc.

WARNING:

2. Repeat this procedure with the opposite

side lap bars.

Hearing Protection is required for all operator

exposure exceeding two (2) hours.

3. With the park brake engaged and the lap

bars in the neutral/start position,

advance the engine speed control com-

pletely forward (Hi-idle), engage the PTO

control switch (pull upward), then lift off

the seat — the engine should stop run-

ning. Sit down and the engine should

run. Turn off the PTO by pushing the

control switch down.

h. To drive in the FORWARD direction:

1. Set the engine speed to 2000 to 2500

rpm (refer to optional tachometer on

right control panel). This must be

increased to full speed (3525-3675 rpm)

after becoming familiar with the machine.

2. Release the park brake.

b. Ensure that the area is free of animals and

bystanders, especially children!

c. Survey the area where the equipment is to

be used to make sure it is free of debris,

sticks, stones, wires, bones, and other for-

eign objects which could cause injury to

bystanders, damage to the machine, or

damage to nearby facilities.

d. Inspect the machine to make sure:

1. All guards, shields (including mower

chute deflector) are in their proper place,

are secure, and are functional.

2. That there are no spilled or leaking fuel

or oil sources, nor loose fuel or hydraulic

tank caps, hoses or fittings.

3. That there are no loose or missing hard-

ware nor any missing items.

3. Move both lap bars out of the neutral/

start position to the neutral position

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(toward center of machine). Slowly, move

both lap bars toward the front of the

machine until the machine begins to

move forward — release the lap bars

and the machine should stop. The more

that the lap bars are moved toward the

front of the machine, the faster the

machine will move in the forward direc-

tion. Release the lap bars and the

machine should stop traveling forward.

(This is a safety check, the normal pro-

cedure is for the operator to slowly bring

the lap bars to the neutral position).

4. Do not advance the lap bars rapidly as

this could cause turf defacement, loss of

traction, and/or instability.

5. To turn, advance one lap bar ahead of

the other and the machine will turn

toward the opposite from the side that

was advanced — I.E. to turn clockwise

(to the Right), move the LEFT lap bar for-

ward more than the right side, and to

turn counter-clockwise (to the LEFT),

move the RIGHT lap bar forward more

than the left side. NOTE: If one lap bar is

in the neutral position and the other is

advanced, the turn side tire will not

rotate and a “pivot turn” will be executed

— turf defacement could occur (if on

grass) as well as potential damages to

the traction surface and the tire. If the lap

bar on the turn side is not brought all the

way to neutral, then the turn side tire will

continue to rotate and a “U-turn” will be

executed with a low potential for turf

defacement as well as traction surface

and tire damage.

the same side that was moved — I.E., to

turn counter-clockwise (to the LEFT),

move the LEFT lap bar rearward more

than the right side, and to turn clockwise

(to the RIGHT), move the RIGHT lap bar

rearward more than the left side. NOTE:

If one lap bar is in the neutral position

and the other is moved, the turn side tire

will not rotate and a “pivot turn” will be

executed. Turf defacement could occur (if

on grass) as well as potential damages

to the traction surface and the tire. If the

lap bar on the turn side is not brought all

the way to neutral, then the turn side tire

will continue to rotate and a “U-turn” will

be executed with a low potential for turf

defacement as well as traction surface

and tire damage.

j. To perform a “zero turn”:

1. Please note, a zero turn maneuver can

not be executed while the machine is

moving in the forward or, reverse direc-

tions, the machine must come to a stop

first.

2. To turn clockwise, slowly move the LEFT

lap bar forward while simultaneously

moving the RIGHT lap bar rearward.

Release both lap bars and the machine

should stop turning.

3. To turn counter-clockwise, slowly move

the RIGHT lap bar forward while simulta-

neously moving the LEFT lap bar rear-

ward. Release both lap bars and the

machine should stop turning (this is a

safety check, the normal procedure is for

the operator to slowly bring the lap bars

to the neutral position).

i. To drive in the REVERSE direction:

1. Make sure no bystanders, animals, or

objects are behind the machine. Look

behind the machine, and use extreme

care.

3. Start the Engine:

a. Open the fuel shutoff valve.

b. Sit on the Seat. Set the parking brake

“On”.

c. Move the left and right steering levers to

the neutral, opened-out position.

d. Turn the electric blade clutch switch “Off”.

e. Push the choke/throttle control to the full

forward position.

f. Insert the key in the ignition and start

switch and turn the switch to “On”.

g. Turn the ignition key in a clockwise direc-

tion to the “Start” position until the engine

starts.

2. Slowly, move both lap bars toward the

rear of the machine until the machine

begins to move rearward. Release the

lap bars and the machine should stop.

The more the lap bars are moved toward

the rear of the machine, the faster the

machine will move in the reverse direc-

tion. Release the lap bars and the

machine should stop traveling in reverse

(this is a safety check, the normal proce-

dure is for the operator to slowly bring

the lap bars to the neutral position).

3. Do not move the lap bars rapidly as this

could cause turf defacement and/or loss

of traction.

Note:^{Do not hold the key in the “Start”}

position for more than 10 seconds or you may

damage the starter. If the engine does not start

in this time, wait about 30 seconds and try

again.

4. To turn, move one lap bar ahead of the

other and the machine will turn toward

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h. Gasoline Engine: Once the engine starts,

move the choke/throttle to the detent as

the engine warms.

b. Use the Deck Lift Handle to raise the mow-

ing deck to the transport position.

c. Drive the mower to the cleanup or storage

area.

d. Move the throttle to slow.

e. Place the steering levers in the neutral

position.

f. Set the parking brake.

g. Turn off the ignition switch and take the key

from the switch.

4. Operating the Mower: Operating a zero-turn-

ing-radius mower is not like operating a trac-

tor-type riding mower. The zero-turning-radius

mower is much more maneuverable and

much less fatiguing to operate. However, get-

ting used to the fingertip control of the zero-

turning-radius mower takes some practice.

We strongly recommend that you locate a

“test area” where you can operate the mower

for about 30 minutes without being disturbed.

a. Get into the operator’s seat.

h. Close the fuel shutoff valves.

MAINTENANCE AND

SERVICE

b. Start the engine.

c. Use the transport lever to raise the mowing

deck to the transport position. Make sure

the blade clutch switch is off.

d. After the engine has warmed, adjust the

throttle to the fast position.

e. Release the parking brake.

f. Fold in the steering levers to the operating

position.

WARNING:

Disconnect the spark plug wires or remove the

key from the ignition to prevent the engine

from accidentally starting before performing

any maintenance on this mower.

A. Cleaning your Deck

Use the Deck Wash System to rinse grass clip-

pings fro the deck’s underside and prevent the

buildup of corrosive chemicals. Complete the fol-

lowing steps after each mowing:

WARNING:

When operating this mower forward, do not

allow the steering levers to return to the neu-

tral position on their own. Always maintain a

firm grip on the steering levers, operate them

smoothly and avoid any sudden movements of

the levers when starting or stopping.

IMPORTANT: Make certain the machine’s dis-

charge chute is directed away from people, chil-

dren, animals, and your house, garage, parked

cars, etc.

a. Drive the machine to a level, clear spot on

your lawn, near enough to a water faucet

(spigot) for your garden hose to reach.

b. Make sure that the PTO (mower deck

blade engage) control is in the “OFF” posi-

tion.

c. Move shift lever or speed control into the

“Neutral” position.

d. Set the parking brake, and turn the ignition

key to the “STOP” position to stop the

engine.

e. Thread hose coupler (packaged with this

manual) onto the end of your garden hose.

See Figure 7.

f. Attach the hose coupler to the water port

on your mower deck’s surface. See Figure

7. Turn the water on.

g. While sitting in the machine operator’s

position, re-start the engine and place

throttle lever in the Fast (rabbit) position.

h. Move the PTO control to the “ON” position.

i. Remain in the machine operator’s position,

and with the mower deck engaged for a

minimum of two minutes per wash out,

start with the trim (operator’s left) side, and

g. To go forward, move both steering levers

slightly forward and the mower will slowly

move forward. The farther you move the

levers forward the faster the mower will go

forward.

h. To back up, move both steering levers

slightly backward and the mower will slowly

move backward. The farther you move the

levers backward the faster the mower will

go backward.

i. To turn, pull the lever back on the side to

which you want to turn. The farther back

you pull the lever, the faster and more

sharply you will turn. Initially, you will have

to be careful to avoid turning too fast and

too far.

j. After you have mastered operating the

mower, use the transport lever to lower the

mowing deck to the cutting position and

pull on the electric blade clutch switch to

start the blades rotating.

k. Practice mowing in straight passes. When

you feel confident, slowly practice mowing

around obstacles such as trees.

5. Parking the Mower:

a. Push off the electric blade clutch switch.

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Linch Pins

Figure. 6

“J” Pin

allow the underside of the cutting deck to

thoroughly rinse.

j. Move the PTO control to the “OFF” posi-

tion.

Note:^{There is a certain amount of spring}

tension due to the weight of the deck. When

removing the lift linkage from the deck the ten-

sion of the springs will go from the deck to the

lift handle. Not capturing the lift handle while

removing the lift linkage from the deck will

cause it to snap back.

k. Turn the engine off.

l. Turn the water off, and detach the hose

coupler from the water port on your mower

deck.

d. Detach the mower drive belt.

m. Clean up the grass clippings and other

materials washed from underneath the

mower deck, and dispose of them properly.

e. Remove two linchpins (See Fig. 6) from the

front of the mower. Pull the two (2) spring-

loaded “J” pins on the left and right rear

side of the cutter deck.

f. Turn front caster wheels outward.

g. Shift the deck toward the ignition switch

side of the mower and remove.

Hose Coupler

(Shown without

Hose Attached)

h. To install reverse the process.

2. Changing a Blade:

a. Remove the key from the ignition and dis-

connect the spark plugs.

Water Port

b. Jack up the front of the mowing deck about

one foot and block it in that position.

c. Wrap a rag around one end of the blade

and grasp it to prevent it from turning, or

secure the blade by placing a block of

wood between the blade and the deck

housing.

Figure. 7

d. Use a 1-1/8" socket wrench on the pulley

side of the spindle bolt.

B.Mower Deck

e. Remove the hex nut at the blade using a 1-

1/8" wrench.

f. Remove the blade.

g. To replace the blade reverse the above

process and tighten nut to 100-120 lb ft.

1. Removing the Mower Deck:

a. Apply the parking brake. Remove ignition

key and both spark plug caps.

b. Lower the cutter deck to the ground. Cap-

ture the lift handle by placing the height of

cut clevis pin above the lift handle.

c. Remove tension of the PTO belt by moving

the belt tensioning rod.

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WARNING:

Never mow with dull blades! Blades that are

bent should be replaced! The cutting blades

are sharp and can cause severe injury. Wrap

the cutting surface of the blade with a rag to

avoid injury.

3. Sharpening the Blade:

a. Set the parking brake.

b. Clean any debris from the blades. Keep

blades sharp and free of build up at all

times.

c. Sharpen blades evenly at the original 30°

angle to maintain balanced cutting blades.

Do not sharpen the underside of the

blades. Use a electric blade sharpener, a

conventional electric grinder or a hand file

to sharpen the blades.

Figure 8

Spindle

d. Replace any blade with severe nicks or

dents that cannot be removed by filing.

e. Check the balance of the blade after

sharpening by placing it on a blade bal-

ancer. Do not use un-balanced blades.

f. If the blade dips on one end, file stock off

of the cutting surface on that end.

5. Changing the Spindle Assembly

a. Jack up the front of the mowing deck about

one foot and block it in that position.

b. Make sure the blade clutch is disengaged.

c. Remove the deck cover.

d. Remove the drive belts. (See 3. Changing

Blade Drive Belts.)

e. Remove the cutter blade. (See 2. Chang-

ing a Blade.)

Note:^{Blades that cannot be easily bal-}

anced—REPLACE.

4. Changing the Blade Drive Belts:

a. Set the parking brake. Remove ignition key

and both spark plug caps.

f. Using a wrench or socket ratchet remove

four hex nuts, and the four hex head cap

screws. Remove the spindle assembly.

g. Reverse the process to install the spindle

assembly.

b. Unscrew the wing nuts from the deck cov-

ers and remove both covers.

c. Using a 3/8" socket breaker bar or socket

ratchet insert the drive end into the 3/8"

square opening in the lower idler arm

assembly and push the idler arm counter-

clockwise. While holding the idler arm

back, loosen the blade drive belt from the

pulley and slide the belt away from the pul-

ley.

C.Hydrostatic Drive System

1. Your zero turn riding mower is equipped with

dual integrated hydrostatic pumps, motors, and

planetary gear reduction transaxles that are

sealed and do not require service, maintenance,

or adjustments.

d. Remove tension of the PTO belt by moving

the belt tensioning rod. Loosen the belt

retaining bolt.

e. Pull the tensioner pulley away from the belt

and remove the PTO belt then remove the

blade drive belt.

f. Reverse the process to install the belt.

Note:^{When replacing belts do not over-}

tighten. Adjust the idler pulley so that a ten-

pound pull with a spring scale between two

pulleys deflects the belt about 1/2".

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c. Store the battery with a full charge. A dis-

charged battery will freeze (refer to the

table below).

Specific Gravity

Freezing Temp (°F)

1.265

1.250

1.200

1.150

1.100

-71

-62

-16

Hydrostatic

Transaxles

Figure 9

d. Recharge battery when ever the specific

gravity value is less than 1.225

4. Installing the Battery

D.Electrical Circuit

Note:^{The battery is delivered from the fac-}

Danger:

tory fully charged and filled with electrolyte.

Read General Safety Precautions Nos. 9 and 10.

a. Attach the positive (red) cable.

b. Attach the negative (black) cable.

c. Attach the rubber battery strap.

5. Jump Starting

1. Battery: The battery is located beneath the

operator’s seat. If so equipped, remove the fill-

caps and check the level of the liquid electro-

lyte in the battery every 50 operating hours. If

the level in any of the six cells has dropped

below the bottom of the split ring inside the fill

hole, refill the cell with distilled water. To keep

the outside of the battery clean, brush on a

strong solution of bicarbonate of soda and

water and rinse with clean water. Keep the

contacts and cable ends clean with a wire

brush and make sure the connections are

tight. Coat the terminals with petroleum jelly

to prevent corrosion.

Warning:

Failure to use this starting procedure can

cause sparking, and the gases in the battery

to explode.

a. Attach the end of the red jumper cable to

the positive terminal (+) of the charged bat-

tery.

b. Attach the other end of the red jumper

cable to the positive terminal (+) of the low

charge battery.

2. Battery Removal

c. Attach the end of the black jumper cable to

the negative terminal of the charged bat-

tery.

Warning:

When removing the cables from the battery

follow these steps to avoid a short between

the wrench and the frame.

d. Attach the other end of the black jumper

cable to the frame of the unit with the low

charge battery.

6. Fuses: There is one fuse located in the wiring

between the ignition and start switch and

other electrical components. This is a stan-

dard plug-in type automotive fuse rated at 7.5

amp.

7. Safety Switches: There are seven safety

switches in the electrical circuit which control

the engine. They are (1) the blade clutch

switch, (2) the parking brake switch, (3) the

left and (4) the right steering lever switches,

(5) the seat switch, (6 and 7) the no cut in

reverse switches.They operate so that in order

to start the engine, the blade clutch switch

a. Remove the negative (black) cable.

b. Remove the positive (red) cable.

c. Release the hold down straps.

d. Remove the battery without tipping.

3. Battery Storage: When storing the mower for

long periods of time the following guidelines

should be performed.

a. Disconnect the battery cables from the ter-

minals and remove the battery.

b. Clean the battery before storing. A dirty

battery will lose its charge over time.

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must be off, the parking brake must be

engaged, and both steering levers must be

opened-out to the side in the neutral position.

Once the engine is started, the seat must be

occupied and the parking brake must be

released before either of the steering levers is

folded up to the operating position or the

engine’s electronic ignition will be grounded

out and the engine will stop. Also, the seat

must be occupied before the blade clutch

switch can cause the blades to rotate.

8. Safety Switch Operation Checks: The fol-

lowing operational checks should be made

daily.

ing brake switch must be repositioned or

perhaps replaced. If the engine does not

start, engage the parking brake and start

the engine. Swing one steering lever up to

the operating position and the engine

should stop. If the engine does not stop,

the parking brake switch must be reposi-

tioned or replaced.

c. Left and Right Steering Lever Switches:

Sit in the operator’s seat. With both steer-

ing levers opened-out in the neutral posi-

tion, the parking brake engaged and the

blade clutch switch “off”, swing the left

steering lever up to the operating position

and try to start the engine. The engine

should not start. If it does, the left steering

lever switch must be repositioned or per-

haps replaced. Open the left steering lever

to the neutral position and swing the right

steering lever up to the operating position

and try to start the engine. The engine

should not start. If it does, the right steer-

ing lever switch must be repositioned or

perhaps replaced. If the engine does not

start, open the right steering lever to the

neutral position and start the engine.

Swing the left steering lever up to the oper-

ating position and the engine should stop.

If the engine does not stop, the left steering

lever switch must be repositioned or

a. Blade Clutch Switch: Sit in the operator’s

seat. With both steering levers opened-out

in the neutral position and the parking

brake engaged, turn the blade clutch

switch “on” and try to start the engine. The

engine should not start. If it does, the blade

clutch switch must be replaced. If the

engine does not start, turn the blade clutch

switch “off” and start the engine. Now turn

the blade clutch switch “on” and the blades

should rotate. If the blades do not turn, the

blade clutch switch must be replaced, the

seat switch must be replaced or the elec-

tric PTO clutch must be repaired. The air-

gap should be checked every 200 hrs. (or

less, if severe operating conditions exist

such as when there are many on/off

replaced. Open the left steering lever out to

the neutral position and start the engine.

Swing the right steering lever up to the

operating position and the engine should

stop. If the engine does not stop, the right

steering lever switch must be repositioned

or replaced.

cycles, mulching operations, material col-

lection systems used, and dusty/dirty con-

ditions), and the air-gap adjusted if more

than 0.035". To inspect, remove the “nega-

tive” cable from the battery and all spark-

plug wires. The air-gap should be checked

with feeler gages in the three slots of the

BBC. The air-gap should be adjusted to

0.013" to 0.015". There are three inspec-

tion slots I the brake cover. To adjust, suc-

cessively tighten each of the three gap

adjustment nuts an equal amount. Insert a

feeler gage (0.013" to 0.015") into each

slot as the air gap adjustment nut are tight-

ened. The correct adjustment occurs when

slight contact with the feeler gage occurs.

Engage the BBC a couple of times, and re-

check the air-gap. If it is not between

0.013" and 0.015", repeat the adjustment

procedure.

d. Seat Switch: With both steering levers

opened-out to the neutral position, the

parking brake engaged and the blade

clutch switch in the “off” position, start the

engine. Now release the parking brake,

hold down on the back of the operator’s

seat against spring pressure, and swing

one of the steering levers up to the operat-

ing position. Release the operator’s seat

and the engine should stop. If the engine

does not stop, the seat switch must be

replaced. With both steering levers folded

out in the neutral position, the parking

brake engaged and the blade clutch switch

in the “off” position, sit in the operator’s

seat and start the engine. Turn the blade

clutch switch to the “on” position and the

blades should start to rotate. Raise up

slightly off the operator’s seat and the

blades should stop. If the blades do not

b. Parking Brake Switch: Sit in the opera-

tor’s seat. With both steering levers

opened-out in the neutral position and the

blade clutch switch “off”, release the park-

ing brake and try to start the engine. The

engine should not start. If it does, the park-

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stop when you dismount from the opera-

tor’s seat, the seat switch must be

replaced.

that leaks about an inch off the ground.

Loosen and remove the lug nuts and remove

the wheel. Mount a wheel and tire, replace the

lug nuts, and using a torque wrench, tighten

them to 60 ± 10 ft-lbs.

e. Electric PTO Clutch: This clutch operates

when the engine is running, the operator is

in the operator’s seat and the blade clutch

switch is turned on. This electric clutch is a

fairly trouble free device. If a problem

develops and the blades do not turn, first

check the 20 amp fuse in the yellow, 16-

gauge wire between terminal “L” on the

ignition switch and the hour meter and then

investigate the wiring harness and the con-

nections to the seat switch, the blade

clutch switch and the electric blade clutch.

Then check the seat switch, the blade

clutch switch and finally the electric blade

clutch.

f. No Cut in Reverse Switches: When both

speed/direction levers are moved past

“neutral” to reverse the PTO Clutch will be

deactivated and the mower blades will stop

rotation. The PTO will be reactivated when

one or both of the levers are moved back to

“Neutral”.

If the leaking tire is on a front caster wheel,

block both traction wheels and raise the

caster wheel so that the tire is an inch off the

ground. Loosen and remove the locknut from

the axle assembly and pull the axle assembly

from the caster yoke. The wheel and two

spacer sleeves will drop free. Slip the axle

assembly through one side of the caster

yoke, through a spacer sleeve, a wheel, the

other spacer sleeve and finally through the

other side of the caster yoke. Then tighten

the locknut on the end of the axle assembly.

Lower the mower off the jack and continue

mowing. The wheel with the leaking tire

should be inflated to 20 psi and the wheel

placed in a large bucket of water. Carefully

inspect the tire, rim and valve for escaping air

bubbles which indicate a leak. Mark each

leak with a yellow marking crayon and then

deflate the tire to 8 psi and repeat the

inspection. If the leaks you find are pin hole

size to 1/16" diameter, the tire can be

repaired. If the leaks are larger than 1/16"

diameter, the tire can be repaired. If the tire

bead is damaged, the tire can be repaired or

the tire will have to be replaced.

E.Tires

The two front wheels are caster wheels that are free

to swivel to accommodate the direction of the mower.

The two rear wheels are used to propel the mower in

the direction of input from the drive handles. Inflation

pressure of the rear tires is important for stability

while the mower is in operation. If the tire diameter is

not equal between the two tires, the mower will pull to

one side.

3. Creeping: Creeping is the slight forward or

backward movement of the mower when the

throttle is on and the lapbars are in the

opened-out position. If your mower creeps do

the following.

a. Jack up rear of unit.

b. Place Lapbars in neutral opened-out posi-

tion.

c. Locate jam nuts on transaxle control arms.

(They are on the vertical linkage on the

front of the transaxles)

d. Loosen jam nuts on both ends of rod con-

nectors.

e. Start unit and push throttle all the way on.

f. If unit creeps forward, rotate vertical rod

links counter-clockwise. If unit creeps in

reverse, rotate clockwise.

1. Inflation Pressure:

a. Traction Tires—20 psi max; 8-10 psi rec-

ommended

b. Front Caster Wheel—28 psi max; 20-25

psi recommended

c. Cutting Deck Ball Wheels—Solid Polyure-

thane.

Use the Following guidelines for maintaining the tires:

a. Balance inflation pressure between the

rear tires to help maintain straight travel

(see tire side wall for proper inflation pres-

sure).

b. Keep the valve caps tightened to prevent

air pressure loss.

Adjust the appropriate rod connector. The

left rod for the left side of the mower and

the right rod for the right side of mower.

Afterward, retighten jam nuts.

2. Leaking Tires: When a flat tire occurs, repair

or replace immediately. The normal procedure

is to remove the wheel and replace it. If a tire

is getting soft, park the mower on the nearest

level, paved area. If the leaking tire is on a

traction wheel, put blocks on each side of the

opposite traction wheel and jack up the tire

F. Brakes

While the mower is in motion, all braking is performed

dynamically through the hydraulic pumps and traction

motors, controlled by the two steering levers. When the

mower is parked with the engine shut off, the hydraulic

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system locks the traction wheels.

2. Steering Lever Adjustments: Place the

mower on level ground with the engine run-

ning, parking brake off and steering levers

opened out to the neutral position. If the

mower begins to creep, adjust the steering

levers.

Note:^{To move the mower forward or in}

reverse by pushing, you must release the

dynamic braking. Locate the release levers at

the rear of the machine. Pull them toward the

rear and lower the wide area of the rod into the

keyhole slot. (See photo below).

If the mower creeps, first determine whether it

creeps to the right or left side and which direc-

tion the mower moves — to the front or the

rear. To make the adjustment, place the steer-

ing levers in the opened-out neutral position

and set the parking brake, shutoff the engine,

take the key from the ignition switch and pivot

the seat forward. If the mower creeps to the

right, you will adjust the linkage on the left

side of the mower and vice-versa. Loosen the

jam nut which prevents the linkage rod from

turning. If the mower creeps forward, turn the

linkage rod counterclockwise. If the mower

creeps backward, turn the linkage rod clock-

wise. Then tighten the jam nuts.

Hydro Release Valve

When the mower is parked with the engine running

and the steering levers opened out in the neutral

position, the parking brakes should be applied. The

parking brakes are gear/pawl brakes mounted on

each traction wheel. They are both engaged by the

same operating lever.

H. Storage

1. General: If your mower will not be in service

for a few months, it should be stored in a dry

location that is not subject to drastic changes

in temperature. Before storing, the following

maintenance procedures should be per-

formed.

1. Adjustments: The parking brake handle is a

lever in a “j” slot that should engage with mod-

erate force. The parking brakes provide a

positive means to hold a machine stationary

that is similar to “Park” on an automobile.

a. Clean the mower. The entire tractor and

cutting deck should be washed and

cleaned.

b. Sharpen the blades so that the mower will

be ready to use when needed.

Note:^{The parking brakes normally do not}

need to be adjusted.

c. Protect the metal surfaces. Repair

scratches with the appropriate touch-up

spray paint. Brush a rust preventive oil on

any unpainted surfaces including the pul-

leys and blades. (Be careful not to get any

oil on the drive belts.)

To adjust either brake individually, loosen the jam nuts

on the cable near the brake arm on the transaxle.

Adjust the nuts so that the brake/pawl comes closer to

the gear, but not in contact with the gear teeth.

2. Repair: The mower is equipped with external

gear/pawl brakes and will not normally require

maintenance. If they are not working properly,

please contact your service center.

d. Lubricate the mower.

e. Drain the engine oil. The engine should be

warm so that all the oil drains. Replace the

engine oil filter and refill the crankcase with

fresh oil.

G. Hydraulic System

f. Gasoline Engine: Drain all the fuel. Close

the fuel tank shutoff valve. Disconnect the

fuel line from the carburetor and put the

end into an approved fuel container. Open

the fuel tank shutoff valve and drain the

fuel tank and line into the approved con-

tainer. Replace the fuel line on the carbure-

tor. Start the engine and allow it to run out

of fuel. This will prevent gum and varnish

1. Hydrostatic Pumps and Motors: The pumps

in the transaxles are the hardest-working

components in the hydraulic system. They are

in operation all the time the engine is running.

Because of extremely close tolerances, wear

is an important factor in their life.

Note:^{The pumps and motors are not}

owner-repairable. If a pump fails, contact your

Cub Cadet dealer. Do not disassemble the

pump/motors.

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deposits from forming. Replace the fuel fil-

ter.

B. Every 25 Hour Checks

1. Service the engine foam element air cleaner.*

2. Grease the three spindle bearings.

g. Gasoline Engine Only: Remove the spark

plugs and pour approximately one ounce

of oil into each cylinder. Crank the engine

one or two turns to spread the oil evenly on

the cylinder walls. Replace the spark

plugs.

h. Clean the battery and make sure it is fully

charged.

i. Jack the mower up and store it on blocks to

take the weight off of the tires.

2. To Put the Mower Back in Service:

a. Check the battery. Charge if necessary.

b. Gasoline Engine Only: Remove the spark

plugs and wipe them off. Using the starter,

crank the engine to pump the excess oil

out of the spark plug holes. Replace the

spark plugs and the ignition leads. Refill

the fuel tank with fresh gasoline.

c. Check the level of the oil in the crankcase

and the hydraulic tank.

d. Lower the mower off the block and check

the tire pressure.

C. Every 50 Hour Checks

1. Change the engine oil. (Every 25 hours under

heavy duty operation.)

2. Clean or replace the engine’s paper air

cleaner element.*

3. Check the battery’s electrolyte level, if

equipped with fill caps.

4. Clean the engine cooling fins and external

surfaces.*

5. Lubricate wear points. Follow the Oil Chart.

6. Lubricate all grease fittings. Follow the

Lubrication Chart.

D. Every 100 Hour Checks

1. Change the engine oil filter. (Every 50 hours

under heavy duty operation.)

2. Check the engine spark plugs.

3. Check the air gap on the blade brake clutch

(PTO Clutch) and if it exceeds 0.025” adjust to

0.012” - 0.015”.

* Perform maintenance more frequently under dusty

conditions.

e. Push the mower outdoors and start the

engine. Let the engine idle until it has

warmed up completely (4 to 5 minutes).

**Reference Engine Owner’s Manual

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

A. Daily Checks

1. Before starting engine:

a. Check the fuel level by viewing in the tank.

b. Check the engine oil level.**

c. Check the hydraulic transaxels for leaks.

d. Check the tires and tire pressure.

Drive Tires: 8-10 psi.

Front Caster Wheels: 20-25 psi.

e. Check the spindle belt, the mower drive

belt and the hydro drive belt.

f. Check the blades. Make sure they are

sharp and that the blade securing cap

screws are tight.

g. Check the cutting height.

2. When ready to start the engine:

a. Check the seven safety switches for proper

operation.

3. After mowing:

a. Clean the mower.

b. Clean the engine air screen.

c. lubricate the wear points. Follow the Lubri-

cation Chart.

d. After the first five hours, change the engine

oil and engine oil filter.

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OIL CHART

Apply a few drops of SAE 20W-50 engine oil, grease, or use a spray

lubricant. Apply the oil to both sides of pivot points. Wipe off any excess.

Start engine and operate mower briefly to insure that oil spreads evenly.

Number of Oil Points

Description

DAILY

Deck Suspension Pivots

Height Adjustment Turnbuckle Clevis Pin

Height Adjustment Handle Pivots

Height Adjustment Stop Pivots

Deck Lift Linkage Pivots

Transport Handle Pivots

Transport Handle Pin

Deck Frame Up-and-Down Pivots

WEEKLY

Seat Hinge

Steering Lever Linkage Rod End Bearings

Lever Return Assembly Rod End Bearings

Pump Control Lever Pivots

Grass Collection System Lid Hinges

(If Mower is so equipped)

LUBRICATION CHART

Use a grease-gun filled with NO. 2 Multipurpose Lithium Base Grease

No. of Grease Fittings

Description

EVERY 25 HOURS

Blade Spindle Bearings

WEEKLY

Front Caster Wheels

Front Caster Wheel Spindles

Mowing Deck Pivots

Deck Take-Up Idler Pivots

Mower Deck Ball Wheels

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B. Engine RPM Check and Adjustment

Performance Adjustments

Table 1

Description

20 Kohler

23 Kohler

High RPM Spec. Low RPM Spec.

A. High Speed Tracking Adjustment

3400 +/-75

3475 +/-75

1550 +/-100

If mower tracks to one side with both lap bars in fully

forward position:

NOTE: RPM Specs. are for free running engines under no load.

1. Check air pressure in all four tires:

a. Pressure should be within specified ranges

and balanced side-to-side.

1. Verify that the lap bars are in the neutral posi-

tion, the parking brake is on, and the PTO

drive is disengaged.

2. Start the mower and let it run at approximately

half throttle for 3-5 minutes to bring the engine

up to operating temperature.

b. Rear tires 8-10 psi recommended (20 psi

MAX.)

c. Front tires 20-25 psi recommended (28 psi

MAX.

3. Locate the (optional) Hour Meter/Tachome-

ter/ Service Minder display on the right hand

operator control panel if so equipped, or use a

hand-held tachometer. (see Fig.1 on page 9

of the manual) This display defaults to the

tachometer mode when engine is running.

4. Move the throttle lever to the high speed posi-

tion and note the RPM reading on the display.

5. Move the throttle lever back to the low speed

position and again note the displayed RPM’s.

6. Compare these noted RPM readings to the

specifications in Table 1, for the engine that is

on your mower.

7. If the readings do not correspond to the

ranges in the table, refer to the engine owner’s

manual for the proper adjustment procedures.

8. If adjustments per the engine operator’s man-

ual do not result in proper RPM readings, con-

tact your service technician.

9. Note: The throttle cable sheath may shrink or

slip over time, changing the relationship

between the throttle lever on the left hand

operator control panel and the throttle arm on

the engine. To readjust the throttle cable:

a. Make sure the engine is off, place lap bars

in the neutral position, set the parking

brake, and disconnect and ground both of

the spark plug wires.

2. Verify that the mower does not creep when

the engine is running, the lap bars are in the

neutral position and the parking brake is

released. (Refer to section D-3 on page 19 of

this manual if this condition exists).

3. Recheck the tracking after any adjustments

based on the above.

4. If uneven tracking persists, adjust as follows.

(see Fig. 10)

a. Unit tracks to the RIGHT, adjust Left lap

bar stop bolt to make it longer.

b. Unit tracks to the LEFT, adjust Right lap

bar stop bolt to make it longer.

5. Re-check the tracking and make any fine tun-

ing adjustments to the lap bar stop bolts as

required.

Note:^{If stop bolt is adjusted too far, track-}

ing problem will change sides. Make the fine

tuning adjustments by shortening the same

bolt.

b. Locate and loosen the cable clamp on the

engine throttle plate.

c. Place the operator’s throttle lever to the

high speed position and then slide the

cable through the clamp until the throttle

arm is in the full throttle position. (ref.

engine owner’s manual)

d. Tighten the cable clamp.

e. Move the operator’s throttle lever between

high and low speed and verify that the

engine throttle arm also moves through it’s

full range of motion.

Figure. 10

Lap Bar Stop Bolt

f. Repeat as required to obtain proper throt-

tle adjustment.

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g. Verify proper throttle adjustment by check-

ing RPM readings as outlined above.

b. Remove the bolts and lap bar and reposi-

tion to the second set of holes in the mount-

ing block.

c. Replace the bolts and nuts, and tighten to

28-34 ft-lbs.

1. If angular adjustments are also required,

nuts can be tightened until snug at this

point.

C. Deck Corner Ball Wheel Roller Settings

1. Matching the set heights of the ball rollers on

the four corners of the mower deck to the

desired cut height will prevent edge scalping

and minimize any side-to-side variance in cut

height.

2. There are five height adjustment holes in the

bracket that mount the ball rollers to the deck.

a. Use the top set of holes for cut heights of

1-1/2 inches or lower.

d. The same adjustments should be made to

both sides of the mower.

6. To adjust the front-to-rear angle of the lap bars,

a. Loosen the nuts on the lap bar mounting

bolts, leaving the bottom one fairly snug.

b. The top hole is slotted, allowing the lap bar

to pivot on the bottom bolt.

b. Use the middle set of holes for a 2-1/2 - 3-1/2

inch cut height.

c. Use the bottom set of holes for cut heights of

4 inches or higher.

c. Move lap bar to the desired angle and

tighten the nuts to 28-34 ft-lbs.

Note:^{In the neutral position, the handles of}

the lap bars should be aligned with approxi-

mately a one inch gap between the tips. Widen

the gap by adding shim washers to the top

mounting bolt between the lap bar and the

mounting block.

D. Deck Center Anti-Scalp Roller

1. The front roller helps prevent the scalping of

high spots and uneven terrain across the cen-

ter section of the deck.

2. The roller on the front of the deck is fixed at

the factory and can not be adjusted.

d. Check the results of any adjustments to

the conditions described in section a,

above. Repeat any adjustment procedures

as required until all conditions are met.

E. Lap Bar Adjustment

1. Proper lap bar and seat adjustment will result

in the following:

a. In the neutral position with hands on the

lap bars,

1. Operator’s upper arms should be relaxed

and approximately vertical.

2. Operator’s forearms should be approxi-

mately horizontal.

b. In the full forward position,

1. Operator’s back should stay in contact

with the seat back.

2. Lap bars should not contact operator’s

legs.

Figure. 11

Lap Bar Mounting Bolt and Nuts

c. In the full reverse position,

1. Lap bars should not contact the opera-

tor’s legs or torso.

F.Deck leveling Procedure

1. Park the mower on a flat paved surface, engage

the parking brake, shut off the engine, remove

the key from the ignition switch, disconnect the

spark plug wires and using the transport lever,

position the mowing deck into the 4" height of

cut (top) position. (The 4" height of cut position

is recommended in order for one to see and

obtain a measurement. Any height of cut posi-

tion is acceptable as long as a proper measure-

ment can be taken.)

2. Set the seat to the preferred operating position.

a. Adjustment lever is located under the front

edge of the seat.

b. The seat has five inches of front-to-rear

adjustment available.

4. Check factory settings of lap bars for the con-

ditions listed above.

Note:^{If lap bar adjustments are required,}

height adjustments should be made prior to

angular adjustments.

2. Check the right and left front tire pressure.

Adjust as necessary to 20-25 psi. Tire pressure

can affect blade height by as much as a 1/4”.

5. To adjust the height of the lap bars,

a. Remove the nuts from the lap bar mounting

bolts (see Fig. 11 ).

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3. Check the right and left rear Drive tire pressure.

Adjust as necessary to 8-10 psi.

Front

of Unit

4. Measure blade-to-ground height at the front tip

of the right blade. To obtain an accurate mea-

sure, align blades in parallel with mower center-

line, (i.e. front to back).

Left Side

Point C

5. Measure blade-to-ground height at the front tip

of the left blade. Be sure to measure at the

blade tip with the blades arranged in proper

position.

6. To level the deck, (side to side) adjust the

threaded link at the left side of the deck (Point B)

so that the blade-to-ground height at the right

front blade tip matches that of the left front blade

tip. This is done by loosening the jam nuts on

the threaded link and tightening the lower nut to

raise the deck and loosening the nut to lower the

deck.

Right

Side

Point B

Jam Nuts

Point C

Jam Nut

Figure. 12

7. Measure the blade-to-ground height at the right

rear blade tip. Again be sure to measure at the

blade tip at the rear of the right blade when

aligned along the mower centerline. The blade-

to-ground height at the rear of the blade tip

should be 1/8" to 1/4” higher than the front tip.

This is referred to as blade pitch. The same

height difference should be true for the left

blade, measured front and back.

8. To adjust the blade pitch, the deck pitch must be

adjusted. Loosen the inner jam nuts at the rear

of the horizontal threaded links. Start at Point C

to raise the rear of the deck, tighten the front

outer jam nut to raise the front of the deck.

Adjust the rear jam nut at Point C to take the

slack out of the threaded link.

9. The final adjustment would be to take the “slack”

out of the front linkage (Point C) by adjusting the

jam nuts on the threaded link. Loosen the jam

nuts and tighten the inner nut to remove “slack”.

10. In many cases it will be necessary to adjust

deck height using both eyebolt adjustments and

pitch adjustment to achieve the correct blade-to-

ground heights. If you remember that the front

right blade tip adjustment is fixed and you level

to that height, adjusting the decks will be simpli-

fied.

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WIRING DIAGRAM

GD: 02000461

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USE THIS PAGE AS A GUIDE TO DETERMINE SLOPES WHERE YOU MAY NOT OPERATE SAFELY.

SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH A VERTICAL TREE

A POWER POLE

A CORNER OF A BUILDING

OR A FENCE POST

15°

WARNING

Do not mow on inclines with a slope in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10 feet). A riding mower

could overturn and cause serious injury. If operating a walk-behind mower on such a slope, it is extremely difficult to maintain

your footing and you could slip, resulting in serious injury.

Operate ZERO-TURN mowers across the face of slopes, never up and down slopes.

Operate WALK-BEHIND mowers across the face of slopes, never up and down slopes.

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MAINTENANCE RECORD

DATE

WORK PERFORMED

DATE

WORK PERFORMED

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MAINTENANCE RECORD

DATE

WORK PERFORMED

DATE

WORK PERFORMED

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MAINTENANCE RECORD

DATE

WORK PERFORMED

DATE

WORK PERFORMED

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MANUFACTURER’S LIMITED WARRANTY FOR:

TWO-YEAR RESIDENTIAL

ONE-YEAR COMMERCIAL

Proper maintenance of your Cub Cadet equipment is the owner’s responsibility. Follow the instructions in

your operator’s manual for correct lubricants and maintenance schedule. Your Cub Cadet dealer carries a

complete line of quality lubricants and filters for your equipment’s engine, transmission, chassis and

attachments.

Riding mowers, lawn tractors, garden tractors, utility vehicles,

Cub Cadet attachments and home maintenance products

This limited warranty for residential users, covers any defect in materials or workmanship in your Cub

Cadet equipment for two years from the date of purchase for the first user purchaser. We will replace or

repair any part or parts without charge through your authorized Cub Cadet dealer.

Batteries have a one-year prorated limited warranty with 100% replacement during the first three months.

V-belts for either the traction drive or any attachments are covered for one year only.

Cub Cadet equipment used commercially is warranted for one year only.

(Commercial use is defined as either having hired operators or used for income producing purposes.)

Items not covered

The warranty does not cover routine maintenance items such as lubricants, filters (oil, fuel, air and hydrau-

lic), cleaning, tune-ups, brake and/or clutch inspection, adjustments made as part of normal maintenance,

blade sharpening, set-up, abuse, accidents and normal wear. It does not cover incidental costs such as

transporting your equipment to and from the dealer, telephone charges or renting a product temporarily to

replace a warranted product.

There is no other express warranty.

How to obtain service

Contact your authorized Cub Cadet servicing dealer who sold you your Cub Cadet equipment. If this

dealer is not available, see the Consumer Yellow Pages under “lawn mowers” for the name of a dealer

near you.

If you need further assistance in finding an authorized Cub Cadet servicing dealer, contact:

Cub Cadet LLC

Post Office Box 361131

Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0119

Phone: 877-282-8684

How does state law apply?

This limited warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from

state to state.

Form No. 02000457 Rev. 04-1 10/28/2004

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