National Mower Lawn Mower 99500500 8400 User Manual

Triplex Reel Mower  
Owner/Operator Manual  
Model  
99500500 – 8400  
03296500 4/08  
Printed in USA  
ENGLISH  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
PRODUCT REGISTRATION  
DEALER DELIVERY  
The National Mower dealer must register the  
product at the time of purchase. Registering  
the product will help the company process  
warranty claims or contact you with the latest  
service information. All claims meeting  
requirements during the limited warranty  
period will be honored, whether or not the  
product registration card is returned. Keep a  
proof of purchase if you do not register your  
unit.  
Dealer should:  
1. Check that all assembly and  
adjustments have been properly  
completed.  
2. Fill out Original Purchaser Registration  
Card and return the card to National  
Mower.  
3. Explain Turf Products Limited Warranty  
Policy.  
4. Explain recommended lubrication and  
maintenance. Advise customer on  
adjustments.  
5. Instruct customer on controls and  
operation of unit. Discuss and  
emphasize the Safety Rules. Advise  
customer to thoroughly read and  
understand all operating manuals  
supplied with the unit.  
Customer Note: If the Dealer does not  
register your product, please fill out, sign and  
return the product registration card to  
National Mower or go to  
UNAUTHORIZED REPLACEMENT  
PARTS  
DISCLAIMER  
Use only National Mower replacement parts.  
Replacing any part on this vehicle with  
anything other than a National Mower  
authorized replacement part may adversely  
affect the performance, durability, or safety of  
this unit and may void the warranty. National  
Mower disclaims liability for any claims or  
damages, whether warranty, property  
damage, personal injury or death arising out  
of the use of unauthorized replacement parts.  
To locate your nearest National Mower  
internet.  
reserves the right to discontinue, make  
changes to, and add improvements upon its  
products at any time without public notice or  
obligation.The descriptions and specifications  
contained in this manual were in effect at  
printing. Equipment described within this  
manual may be optional. Some illustrations  
may not apply to your unit.  
SAFETY  
SAFETY ALERT  
SYMBOL  
These are safety alert  
symbols. They mean:  
ATTENTION!  
YOUR SAFETY IS  
INVOLVED!  
WARNING: This cutting machine is  
capable of amputating hands and  
feet and throwing objects. Failure to  
observe the safety instructions in  
the manuals and on decals could  
result in serious injury or death.  
Slopes are a major factor related to  
loss-of-control and tip-over  
accidents. Operation on all slopes  
requires extra caution.Tragic  
accidents can occur if the operator  
is not alert to the presence of  
children. Never assume that  
children will remain where you last  
saw them. Gasoline is extremely  
flammable and the vapors are  
explosive, handle with care.  
Disengage attachment, stop unit  
and engine, remove key, engage  
parking brake, and allow moving  
parts to stop before leaving  
OL1253  
When you see this  
symbol:  
BECOME ALERT!  
•OBEY THE MESSAGE!  
OL3900  
SIGNAL WORDS  
The safety alert symbols above and signal  
words below are used on decals and in this  
manual.  
Read and understand all safety messages.  
operator’s position.  
GB - 3  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
SAFETY DECALS  
National Mower has provided decals in many  
locations throughout the machine to aid the  
operator in identifying, controlling and  
operating the 8400 safely and correctly. It is  
important that all decals are clean and visible  
at all times. Replace decals that are  
DANGER: IMMINENTLY  
HAZARDOUS SITUATION! If not  
avoided, WILL RESULT in death or  
serious injury.  
WARNING: POTENTIALLY  
HAZARDOUS SITUATION! If not  
avoided, COULD RESULT in death  
or serious injury.  
damaged, missing or accidently painted over.  
1. DANGER! KEEP HANDS AND FEET  
AWAY  
CAUTION: POTENTIALLY  
HAZARDOUS SITUATION! If not  
avoided, MAY RESULT in minor or  
moderate injury. It may also be used  
to alert against unsafe practices.  
NOTATIONS  
NOTE: General reference information for  
proper operation and maintenance practices.  
NOTE: Specific procedures or information  
required to prevent damage to unit or  
attachment.  
PRACTICES AND LAWS  
Practice usual and customary safe working  
precautions, for the benefit of yourself and  
others. Understand and follow all safety  
messages. Be alert to unsafe conditions and  
the possibility of minor, moderate, or serious  
injury or death. Learn applicable rules and  
laws in your area, including those that may  
restrict the age of the operator.  
1
2. CAUTION!  
Read  
Owner/Operator  
Manual before  
servicing machine.  
REQUIRED OPERATOR  
TRAINING  
Original purchaser of this unit was instructed  
by the seller on safe and proper operation. If  
unit is to be used by someone other than  
original purchaser (loaned, rented or sold),  
ALWAYS provide this manual and any  
needed safety training before operation.  
Reduce ground speed when  
operating unit down hill.  
Keep people away from unit  
while operating.  
Emission Control System  
Certification Label  
NOTE: Tampering with emission control and  
components by unauthorized personnel may  
result in severe fines or penalties. Emission  
controls and components can only be  
adjusted by EPA and/or CARB authorized  
service centers. Contact your National Mower  
retailer concerning emission controls and  
component questions.  
GB - 4  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Inspect unit before each use for: missing or  
damaged decals and shields, correctly  
operating safety interlock system, and  
deterioration of grass catchers. Replace or  
repair as needed.  
ALWAYS check overhead and side  
clearances carefully before operation.  
ALWAYS be aware of traffic when operating  
along streets or curbs.  
Keep children and people away.  
Keep children out of work area and under  
watchful care of a responsible adult.  
Keep area of operation clear of all toys, pets,  
and debris. Thrown objects can cause injury.  
Check for weak spots on docks, ramps or  
floors. Avoid uneven work areas and rough  
terrain. Stay alert for hidden hazards or traffic.  
DO NOT operate near drop-offs, ditches, or  
embankments. Unit can suddenly turn over if  
a wheel is over the edge of a cliff or ditch, or if  
an edge caves in.  
Data indicates that operators, age 60 and  
above, are involved in a larger percentage of  
riding mower related injuries. These  
operators should evaluate their ability to  
operate the riding mower safely enough to  
protect themselves and others from serious  
injury.  
Read the entire Owner/Operator manual and  
other training material. If the operator or the  
mechanic cannot read the manual, it is the  
owner’s responsibility to explain it to them.  
Only the user can prevent and is responsible  
for accidents or injuries occurring to  
themselves, other people or property.  
Only trained adults may operate or service  
unit. Training includes actual operation.  
Local regulations may restrict the age of the  
operator.  
NEVER allow children to operate or play on  
or near unit. Be alert and shut off unit if  
children enter area.  
NEVER operate unit after or during the use of  
medication, drugs or alcohol. Safe operation  
requires your complete and unimpaired  
attention at all times.  
2
SAFETY RULES  
Read, understand, and follow all safety  
practices in Owner/Operator Manual before  
beginning assembly. Failure to follow  
instructions could result in personal injury  
and/or damage to unit.  
DO NOT wear loose clothing or jewelry and  
tie back hair that may get caught in rotating  
parts.  
Wear adequate outer garments.  
NEVER wear open sandals or canvas shoes  
during operation. Wear adequate safety gear,  
protective gloves and footwear.  
Complete a walk around inspection of unit  
and work area to understand:  
• Work area Your unit • All safety decals  
Wear proper footwear to improve footing on  
slippery surfaces.  
Determine which attachments are needed  
and can be used safely.  
GB - 5  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses  
with side shields when operating mower.  
Never direct discharge towards persons or  
property that may be injured or damaged by  
thrown objects. Use extreme caution on  
gravel surfaces.  
Moving parts can cut or amputate fingers or a  
hand. Wrap blade(s) or wear gloves to  
service. On multiblade mowers, rotation of  
one blade will cause all blades to rotate.  
Always stand clear of the discharge area.  
ALWAYS disengage PTO, stop unit and  
engine, remove key, engage parking brake  
and allow moving parts to stop before leaving  
operator’s position.  
NEVER place your hands or any part of your  
body or clothing inside or near any moving  
part while unit is running.  
ALWAYS keep hands and feet away from all  
rotating parts during operation. Rotating parts  
can cut off body parts.  
Never engage PTO while raising attachment  
or when attachment is in raised position.  
DO NOT operate at too fast a rate. DO NOT  
change engine governor settings or over-  
speed engine. Slow down before turning.  
ALWAYS keep body and hands away from  
pin holes or nozzles which eject hydraulic  
fluid under pressure.  
DO NOT operate in reverse unless absolutely  
necessary. ALWAYS look down and behind  
before and while backing.  
DO NOT touch parts which are hot. Allow  
parts to cool.  
ALWAYS keep hands and feet away from all  
pinch points.  
Stop and inspect equipment if you strike an  
object or if there is an unusual vibration.  
Repair, if necessary, before restarting. Never  
make adjustments or repairs with the engine  
running.  
Read, understand, and follow all instructions  
in the manual and on the machine before  
starting.  
Mower blades are sharp and can cut you.  
Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and use  
extra caution when servicing them. NEVER  
weld or straighten mower blades.  
Understand:  
How to operate all controls  
The functions of all controls  
How to STOP in an Emergency  
Braking and steering characteristics  
Turning radius and clearances  
Rotation of one blade may cause rotation of  
the other blades.  
Take all possible precautions when leaving  
unit unattended. Shut off engine. Remove  
wire from spark plug and secure it away from  
spark plug.  
Keep safety devices or guards in place and  
functioning properly. NEVER modify or  
remove safety devices.  
ALWAYS remove key to prevent unauthorized  
use.  
Do not operate without either entire grass  
catcher or the discharge guard in place.  
Know the weight of loads. Limit loads to those  
you can safely control and the unit can safely  
handle.  
Stop engine before removing grass catcher or  
unclogging chute.  
Ensure Safety Interlock System is functioning  
properly. DO NOT operate unit if safety  
interlock is damaged or disabled.  
Disengage PTO when attachment is not in  
use. ALWAYS turn off power to attachment  
when travelling, crossing driveways, etc.  
Use care when approaching blind corners,  
shrubs, trees or other objects that may  
obscure vision.  
Mow up and down slopes, not across them.  
Dust, smoke, fog, etc. can reduce vision and  
cause an accident. Mow only in daylight or  
good artificial light.  
Keep all movements on the slope slow and  
gradual. Do not make sudden changes in  
speed or direction.  
Avoid slippery surfaces. Always be sure of  
your footing.  
Avoid starting or stopping on the slope. If tires  
lose traction, disengage the blades and  
proceed slowly straight down the slope.  
DO NOT mow on wet grass. Reduced  
traction could cause sliding and effect the  
machine’s stability.  
If you cannot back up a slope or you feel  
uneasy on it, do not mow it.  
Watch for traffic when operating near or  
crossing roadways.  
DO NOT park on slopes unless necessary.  
When parking on slope always chock or block  
wheels. Always set parking brake.  
Never carry passengers.  
DO NOT try to stabilize the machine by  
putting your foot on the ground.  
GB - 6  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Use a slow speed. Tires may lose traction on  
slopes even though the brakes are  
functioning properly.  
ALWAYS block wheels and know all jack  
stands are strong and secure and will hold  
weight of unit during maintenance.  
Do not bypass transmission when on a slope.  
Release pressure slowly from components  
with stored energy.  
Tow only with a machine that has a hitch  
designed for towing. Do not attach towed  
equipment except at the hitch point.  
NEVER attempt to make any adjustments to  
unit while engine is running (except where  
specifically recommended). Stop engine,  
remove key or spark plug wire and wait for all  
moving parts to stop before servicing or  
cleaning.  
Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations  
for weight limits for towed equipment and  
towing on slopes.  
NEVER allow children or others in or on  
towed equipment.  
Check parking brake operation frequently.  
Adjust and service as required.  
On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment  
may cause loss of control.  
ALWAYS maintain unit in safe operating  
condition.  
Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop.  
Maintain or replace safety and instruction  
labels, as necessary.  
Use extra care when loading or unloading  
unit onto trailer or truck.  
Lower cutting deck unless a positive  
mechanical lock is used.  
Secure unit chassis to transport vehicle.  
NEVER secure from rods or linkages that  
could be damaged.  
Use only attachments or accessories  
designed for your unit.  
DO NOT transport machine while engine is  
running.  
Check all hardware at regular intervals,  
especially blade attachment bolts. Keep all  
hardware properly tightened.  
ALWAYS turn off power to attachment and  
shut off fuel when transporting unit.  
Check attachment components frequently. If  
worn or damaged, replace with  
manufacturer’s recommended parts.  
Keep unit free of debris. Clean up oil or fuel  
spills.  
GB - 7  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
OPERATION  
CONTROLS AND FEATURES  
Figure 1  
Ignition Switch  
Hour Meter  
Insert key in switch (1, Figure 1) and turn  
clockwise as far as it will go to start engine,  
then release. The reel control switch must be  
in the off position and the traction control  
pedal in the neutral position before starting  
engine.  
The hour meter (2, Figure 1) indicates the  
operated. It can be used to keep track of  
maintenance intervals and the amount of time  
required to perform various tasks. The hour  
meter operates whenever the ignition key is  
in the “on” position.  
Do not hold key in “on” position more than 30  
seconds at a time.  
Amp Meter  
Key should be removed when tractor is not in  
use to prevent unauthorized operation.  
The amp meter (3, Figure 1) indicates the  
condition of the charging circuit. It should  
indicate a positive charge during normal  
mowing. If the amp meter indicates a  
negative reading, refer to the Briggs and  
Stratton engine manual.  
See STARTING THE ENGINE on page 11 for  
complete starting information.  
GB - 8  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
Choke  
Parking Brake  
When starting a cold engine, pull the choke  
control (4, Figure 1) out to close the choke  
plate and allow a richer fuel mixture to enter  
the engine. After the engine starts, push the  
choke control about halfway in to keep the  
choke pate partially closed. Push the choke  
control all the way in to open the choke plate  
for normal operation after the engine is  
properly warmed. A warm engine usually  
requires less choke to start.  
A convenient parking brake (9, Figure 1) is  
located just below the right side of the  
Pulling back and over center will engage the  
parking brake, and moving it forward, as  
shown, will release it.  
IMPORTANT: Always make sure brake is  
released before moving forward, and ensure  
that the brake is engaged when leaving the  
mower. Never try to stop the forward motion  
of the unit with the parking brake.  
Throttle Lever  
Reel Drive Control  
Push throttle lever (5, Figure 1) forward to  
increase engine speed; pull back to decrease  
the engine speed.  
By toggling the reel drive control switch ON  
(10, Figure 1), an electric clutch is activated  
which engages power to the reels.  
Position throttle at full throttle or slightly less  
for optimum power and reel speed during  
mowing.  
Pushing the switch to the OFF position  
disengages the clutch. This control must be in  
the OFF position before mower will start.  
Traction Pedal  
Seat Position Lever  
The traction pedal (6, Figure 1) operates the  
forward and reverse direction and speed of  
the tractor.  
The position of the seat is adjusted forward or  
backward by actuating the seat lever (11,  
Figure 1).  
Moving forward: push the forward or toe of  
the pedal down with the ball of your foot to  
increase the forward speed.  
Releasing the lever will lock the seat at its  
present position.  
Moving backward: push the heel of the pedal  
down with the heel of your foot to increase  
the reverse speed.  
Rear Mower Lift Lever  
Move the rear mower lift lever (1, Figure 2) up  
and forward over center; the rear mower will  
be held off the ground.  
When the traction pedal is released, the  
machine will slow down and stop. The  
traction pedal must be in neutral position  
before mower will start.  
Pull the lever up and back; the rear mower is  
lowered for operation or storage.  
Speed Control  
The speed control (7, Figure 1) is meant to  
ease operator fatigue by holding the forward  
speed to a constant that is best suited for the  
present mowing conditions.  
Adjust the hex head bolt up or down and lock  
it with the lock nut to limit the pedal travel.  
Swing the speed control away from the  
traction pedal to again allow a full range of  
forward speeds.  
Wing Mower Lift  
Positioning the wing mower lift lever (8,  
Figure 1) will lower the side mowing units to  
the ground.  
Figure 2  
Pulling lever back and over center holds the  
mowers off the ground. Always keep mowers  
up when not mowing or transporting. Keep  
mower down during storage.  
Free-Wheeling Valve  
To permit moving the machine without  
starting the engine, a free-wheeling device or  
tow valve has been provided. The lever (1,  
Figure 3) is located between the engine and  
hydraulic pump.  
CAUTION: Do not stand on mowers  
when in lifted position.  
GB - 9  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
         
To open the valve to permit free-wheeling,  
simply lift up on the rod and latch washer face  
(2, Figure 3) onto the bracket slot.  
5. Check oil level in hydraulic reservoir. Oil  
level should be the level shown on the  
decal on the side of the oil tank when  
unit is sitting on a level surface.  
6. Check reels for desired cutting height.  
To provide a satisfactory cut, it is  
essential for all reels to be accurately  
adjusted to exactly the same height. See  
HEIGHT OF CUT ADJUSTMENT on  
page 18.  
Reverse the procedure for normal operation  
of the machine.  
NOTE: Valve must be closed to operate  
machine.  
NOTE: If adjustments are necessary, see  
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS on page 16  
for instructions.  
OPERATING SUGGESTIONS  
Engine  
Your machine is powered by a twin cylinder, 4  
cycle Briggs and Stratton Vanguard engine  
which uses unleaded gasoline, 85 octane  
minimum. DO NOT MIX OIL WITH  
GASOLINE! Engine speed is controlled by  
means of a throttle lever mounted on the  
dash panel.  
Figure 3  
Interlock Switches  
There are three safety switches on your  
8400. They are a safety precaution which will  
allow you to start your mower only when the  
traction pedal is in neutral, the reel control  
switch is in the disengaged position, and the  
operator is seated on the tractor. If you are  
able to start your mower with the pedal or  
switch in any other position, adjustment of the  
switched is required.  
A separate Engine Manual, prepared by the  
engine manufacturer, is supplied. Study the  
manual carefully until you are familiar with the  
maintenance, operation, adjustment and  
repair of your equipment. Proper attention to  
the engine manufacturer’s directions will  
assure maximum service life of the engine  
and highest operating efficiency.  
Traction Drive Train  
CAUTION: Under no circumstances  
should the engine be started with  
the operator or bystander standing  
next to tractor or cutting units.  
Power from the engine is transmitted by belt  
to the variable displacement pump. The  
pump supplies hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic  
motors.  
1. When starting the engine, the operator  
must be seated on the seat, reel control  
switch must be off, and traction pedal  
must be in neutral (the center position).  
2. The operator should practice mowing in  
an open clear area to become  
thoroughly familiar with the operation of  
the tractor.  
Reel Drive  
Power to the reels is transmitted from the  
engine to a countershaft shaft, which is  
controlled by an electric clutch switched on  
and off at the dash.  
PRIOR TO STARTING THE UNIT  
3. Never operate the mowers when they  
are not cutting grass, as excessive  
friction and heat will develop between  
the bedknife and reel, damaging the  
cutting edge.  
4. Plan your cutting pattern to avoid any  
unnecessary stops or sharp, frequent  
turns. Study the area to determine the  
best mowing procedure. Consider the  
height of the grass and the type of  
terrain (level, hilly, or rough). Each  
condition will require certain adjustments  
or precautions.  
1. Fill the gas tank with good quality, clean,  
regular unleaded gasoline, 85 octane  
minimum. DO NOT use hi-test gasoline  
or an oil/gasoline mixture. Fill tank to 1  
inch (25 mm) below filler neck. Do not  
overfill.  
2. Check oil in the engine crankcase. It  
should be filled to the full mark on the  
dipstick. See Lubrication Specifications  
in this manual for recommend oil  
viscosity.  
3. Check all lubrication points outlined in  
LUBRICATION on page 23.”  
4. Check tires for proper inflation. See  
Mower Specifications in this manual.  
GB - 10  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
5. Before leaving the mower, always lower  
wing mowers so that when exiting the  
mower and stepping on the non-skid  
pads of the wing mowers, it will not put  
excessive strain on the lift mechanism.  
6. Operate at speeds which allow you to  
have complete control of the tractor and  
allow you to stop the tractor or  
maneuver safely in case of an  
emergency. It is recommended that you  
adjust the Speed Control (7, Figure 1) to  
maintain a constant pedal  
8. Push choke control in as engine warms  
up (or immediately if engine is warm).  
DRIVING THE TRACTOR  
1. Position throttle at full throttle or slightly  
less for optimum power and reel speed.  
2. Release parking brake (9, Figure 1).  
3. Moving forward: Push the toe of the  
traction pedal forward with the ball of  
your foot to increase the forward speed.  
4. Moving backward: Push the heel of the  
traction pedal in with the heel of your  
foot to increase the reverse speed.  
position/speed and reduce the operator  
fatigue.  
7. To obtain maximum mower life, the  
operator must use discretion when  
mowing near gravel areas (roadway,  
parking areas, cart paths etc.). By  
operating too close to overlapping gravel  
areas, stones maybe picked up by the  
mower and forced between bedknife  
and reel, causing wear and serious  
damage to the cutting unit.  
5. To return traction pedal to neutral, rock  
pedal with foot until pedal stops. The  
pedal will stay in neutral when you  
remove your foot.  
DANGER: To avoid possible loss of  
control and/or serious bodily injury,  
avoid abrupt changes in the traction  
pedal position. Reduce speed on  
slopes, rough terrain, and in sharp  
turns to prevent tipping or loss of  
control.  
STARTING THE ENGINE  
MOWING OPERATION  
1. Check the turf area for debris that would  
cause damage to the reels. Never  
operate the mowers when they are not  
cutting grass, as excessive friction and  
heat will develop between the bedknife  
and reel, which will damage the cutting  
edge.  
2. When cutting large areas, the most  
satisfactory method is to first cut the  
outer area and then mow clockwise  
toward the center. The next time you cut,  
it is advised that you mow in the  
opposite direction to prevent grass  
matting.  
3. Cutting speeds are governed by  
conditions of turf, type of terrain, and  
obstacles to be encountered. Operate  
tractor at slow speeds when turning.  
Figure 4  
1. Open the fuel tank shut off valve (1,  
Figure 4) (located by the fuel tank) on  
the fuel line by turning knob  
counterclockwise.  
2. Sit in operator’s seat.  
3. Place reel control switch in the “Off”  
position.  
4. Place the traction pedal in “Neutral”  
position.  
5. Pull choke control out and move throttle  
control lever to mid position.  
6. Engage parking brake.  
7. Insert ignition key, turn clockwise to  
“start” position, and release key when  
engine starts. Do not hold key in “start”  
position for more than 30 seconds or  
damage to the starter may result. If  
engine does not start within this time,  
release the key and wait for a few  
minutes before trying again.  
GB - 11  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
MOWING  
HILLSIDE OPERATION  
1. Stop tractor by releasing the traction  
pedal (8, Figure 1), then slowly lower the  
mower units.  
The 8400 has been designed for good  
conditions. However, caution must still be  
used during slope operation, especially when  
the grass is wet.  
CAUTION: Dropping cutting units  
abruptly could damage them or the  
H-frame of the wing mowers.  
In order to minimize the possibility of tipping,  
the least dangerous method of operating on  
hills and terraces is to travel horizontally to  
the hill. It is also advisable to avoid any  
unnecessary turns while operating on hills.  
Use extreme caution and travel at reduced  
speeds.  
2. Engage reel control switch (10, Figure 1)  
to the "On" position.  
3. Depress traction pedal to the desired  
speed (see Traction Pedal on page 9  
and Speed Control on page 9). Reel  
speed is constant and ground speed is  
variable with the traction pedal. Do not  
try to regulate ground speed with engine  
throttle (see Throttle Lever on page 9).  
1. When operating on hillsides or slopes,  
maintain full engine speed, but let up on  
the traction pedal as power  
maintain the performance necessary.  
VERTICAL MOWING UNIT  
1. Be aware that the blades can extend  
below the roller. Use care when lowering  
cutting units down onto a hard surface to  
avoid bending the blades.  
2. It is best to mow along the side of the  
hill, starting at the bottom and working  
upwards. This allows the machine to  
negotiate the slope without mowing in a  
downhill direction.  
3. It is essential for the correct tire pressure  
to be established for maximum traction  
and hillside holding.  
2. Setting the depth of cut: Always start  
with shallow, less aggressive cuts. Set  
the blades to zero (blade tips even with  
bottom of roller). Gradually increase  
depth of cut until suitable results are  
obtained (see HEIGHT OF CUT  
PUSHING OR TOWING  
INSTRUCTIONS  
The 8400 has a free-wheeling valve, or “tow  
valve,” which will permit moving the machine  
at slow speeds without starting the engine.  
ADJUSTMENT on page 18).  
3. Keep in mind that vertical mowing is  
similar to cutting grass; you can be too  
aggressive. When vertical mowing grass  
that has never been vertical mowed,  
avoid going too deep to start with.  
Gradually increase the depth of cut to  
obtain desired results.  
Do not exceed 2 mph (3 km/h) while pushing  
or towing (see Free-Wheeling Valve on  
page 9).  
CAUTION: Dropping the vertical  
cutting units abruptly could damage  
the blades and/or the H-frame of the  
wing mowers.  
AFTER OPERATION  
1. Clean the entire mower after use.  
Remove loose grass clippings and  
caked grass to prevent clogging the  
vented lubrication points and corroding  
parts.  
2. The engine is air cooled. Do not permit  
dirt or grass clippings to accumulate on  
the air intake screen, cylinder heads, or  
on hydraulic pump cooling fan to prevent  
serious heat damage to the engine or  
hydraulic pump.  
3. If fan blades become damaged, replace  
the fan.  
GB - 12  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
ASSEMBLY  
Check Tire Pressure  
TRACTOR  
CAUTION: Avoid injury! Explosive  
CAUTION: Handle banding  
material with caution. Use heavy  
leather gloves. Banding is sharp!  
separation of tire and rim parts is  
possible when they are serviced  
incorrectly:  
1. Remove crating top, front, and sides.  
2. Cut banding from around tractor, tires,  
and armrest box.  
3. Separate steering wheel from tire.  
4. Remove rear mower belt shield from  
manual lift handle.  
Do not attempt to mount a  
tire without the proper  
equipment and experience to  
perform the job.  
Do not inflate the tires above  
the recommended pressure.  
Do not weld or heat a wheel  
and tire assembly. Heat can  
cause an increase in air  
pressure resulting in an  
explosion. Welding can  
structurally weaken or  
deform the wheel.  
Do not stand in front or over  
the tire assembly when  
inflating. Use a clip-on chuck  
and extension hose long  
enough to allow you to stand  
to one side.  
CAUTION: Use jack stands under  
tractor whenever elevated off the  
tires.  
Lift tractor up off axle crate supports to  
sufficiently assemble tire and wheels to the  
tractor.  
Lower tractor down onto crate. Tractor may  
now be driven or rolled off the crate. To allow  
the tractor to roll freely without engaging the  
engine or drive, a tow valve is provided. It is  
located under the hood directly behind the  
engine (see Figure 3).  
SEAT  
1. Fasten seat /slide assembly studs (1,  
Figure 7) into slotted holes in hinge  
mounting plate (2, Figure 7) four places  
and fasten with four 5/16” flat washers  
and nuts.  
2. Remove armrests (3, Figure 8) from box  
strap to the crate. Attach to seat with  
fasteners provided.  
REAR MOWER  
1. Remove rear mower from crate and  
position behind tractor as shown in  
Figure 5.  
2. Pivot rear mower lifter handle (1,  
Figure 5) up and back to lower rear  
mower pull plate on the pull yoke.  
Position mounting flange (2, Figure 6)  
on the center front of the rear mower  
frame under the pull plate (3, Figure 6)  
and fasten securely with two fasteners  
already installed in pull plate.  
3. Install V-belt (4, Figure 5) onto double  
groove pulley (5, Figure 5) located on  
the right rear side of the frame. Raise  
rear mower belt idler (6, Figure 5), and  
run V-belt under idler pulley as shown.  
4. Position rear mower clutch guard (7,  
Figure 5) over rear mower shaft and  
pulley area, and fasten right side to  
support (8, Figure 5) with a 1/4”–20 x  
1/2” round-head slotted screw. Secure  
rear flange of guard with (2) 1/4”–-20 x  
1/2” hex head cap screws, lock washers,  
and nuts.  
Figure 5  
GB - 13  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
Figure 8  
STEERING WHEEL  
1. Remove nut and washer (1, Figure 9)  
from steering shaft (2, Figure 9).  
2. Remove steering wheel cap (3,  
Figure 9) from steering wheel (4,  
Figure 9).  
3. Assemble steering wheel onto shaft,  
positioning the steering wheel cross  
bars parallel when the front tires are in  
the straight-ahead position and secure  
with the nut and washer. Replace  
steering wheel cap.  
Figure 6  
Figure 9  
Figure 7  
Figure 10  
GB - 14  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
         
4. Remove the cap screw (4, Figure 12)  
closest to the inside of the tractor  
fastening the shield to the cross bar.  
5. Attach chain bracket (5, Figure 12),  
positioning the bracket with the longest  
leg to the outside of the cutting unit.  
6. Fasten the shorter length of chain to the  
chain bracket by using similar fasteners  
and method described above.  
7. Repeat lift chain installation procedure  
on the other side of the mower.  
WING MOWERS  
1. Remove wing mowers from crate.  
Position on each side of tractor with the  
yoke pins (1, Figure 10) facing the  
tractor.  
2. Remove the two wing mower belts (2,  
Figure 11) fastened to the rear cutting  
unit and install over lower countershaft  
pulleys (3, Figure 11) on each side of the  
tractor. Place belt loosely over the end of  
the wing mower pull yoke (4, Figure 10).  
8. Test wing mower lift operation by pulling  
lift lever all the way back (toward the  
rear). Wing mowers should raise 2” to 3”  
above ground level. Adjust, if necessary,  
by fastening through another link in the  
chain at the upper end of the lift  
assembly.  
3. Move left and right cutting units into  
position so that the yoke pins enter the  
pivot holes in the pull yoke.  
NOTE: Forward yoke pins must pass inside  
belt before attaching pins to pull yokes.  
4. Secure yoke pins in pull yoke with 3/4”  
I.D. flat washers and 1/4” x 1–1/2” cotter  
pins (5, Figure 10). Extra washers  
supplied are to be used as spacers, if  
needed, to allow a snug but free-moving  
pivot connection.  
5. Pull cutting units forward so that the H  
Frames (6, Figure 10) will compress the  
springs (7, Figure 10), and install belts  
over reel pulleys (8, Figure 10).  
6. Compress belts by hand to check for  
free movement of the H-frames back  
and forth on the H-frame shafts (9,  
Figure 10).  
Figure 12  
ENGINE CRANKCASE  
Crankcase oil has been installed at the  
factory. However, it is recommended that the  
engine be checked for proper oil level before  
starting. Refer to separate engine manual  
included with each 8400 Mower.  
Figure 11  
WING MOWER LIFT  
1. Position lift chain (1, Figure 12) that has  
been previously attached to lift lever (2,  
Figure 12) so that the longest chain  
extends away from the tractor.  
2. Attach it to attachment tab (3, Figure 12)  
located on the middle of the front edge  
of the wing mower using a 3/8”-24 x 1-  
3/4” bolt, two 3/8” flat washers, and two  
3/8”-24 lock nuts.  
HYDRAULIC OIL  
1. The hydraulic oil has been installed in  
the oil tank (1, Figure 13) at the factory,  
however, it is recommended that the oil  
level be checked before operation.  
3. Place bolt through the ends of the chain  
so that lock nuts on each side of  
attachment tab allow chain to move  
freely between the flat washers.  
GB - 15  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
2. Check oil level by removing pipe plug (2,  
Figure 13). The oil level should be at the  
bottom edge of the hole, as indicated by  
decal (3, Figure 13). If it becomes  
necessary to add a small amount of oil  
to the tank, it is added in the pipe plug  
hole, possibly using a flexible spout  
funnel.  
The 8400 is not shipped with a battery. A  
group size 70, 12-volt side post battery is  
recommended such as Exide model 70-LT-  
60, which is approximately 7-3/16” high, 6-  
3/4” wide and 8-5/8” long.  
Recommended oil is Chevron Rykon 100 or  
Exxon Univus N100, or equivalent hydraulic  
oil.  
Figure 14  
1. Place battery in battery holder (1,  
Figure 14) with terminals facing the left  
wheel. Insert the hook end of the battery  
support rods (2, Figure 14) into holes on  
the back vertical surface of the battery  
holder.  
2. Place battery hold down (3, Figure 14)  
over support rods and upper corner of  
battery and secure with flat washers and  
hex nuts.  
Figure 13  
BATTERY  
3. Attach the ground wire (4, Figure 14) to  
the frame as shown. Connect the  
ignition wire (5, Figure 14) to the positive  
(+) terminal of the battery.  
4. Attach the ground wire last to the  
negative (–) terminal of the battery.  
DANGER: Read and follow the  
battery manufacturer’s instructions  
on safety, maintenance and  
installation procedures.  
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS  
Read each instruction completely, and make  
sure you understand it before making any  
adjustments. Follow all the safety  
precautions.  
TRACTION PEDAL  
ADJUSTMENTS  
The traction pedal (1, Figure 15) is equipped  
with a safety switch (2, Figure 15) and a  
neutral centering device. The switch prevents  
the engine from starting when the pedal is  
positioned in reverse or forward. The  
centering device locates neutral positioning of  
the pump.  
DANGER: To avoid possible  
serious injury, before making any  
adjustments or performing  
maintenance, engage parking  
brake, place all tractor controls in  
neutral, lower cutting units to the  
ground, turn ignition switch “off” and  
remove key.  
1. Prior to adjusting for creep, elevate the  
wheels off the ground and support the  
vehicle with jack stands. Any  
adjustments should be done while the  
hydraulic oil is warm.  
2. To adjust the creep of the drive wheels,  
loosen the fastener attaching the ball  
bearing (3, Figure 15) to the control arm  
(4, Figure 15), and move and secure the  
bearing within the slot to achieve  
neutral.  
GB - 16  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
3. Once the traction pedal has been  
adjusted, the safety switch (2, Figure 15)  
may have to be re-adjusted by moving  
the switch in the range of the slot  
provided in the switch bracket. Adjust  
the switch so that the engine cannot be  
started unless the pedal is in the neutral  
position.  
Adjusting the hex head bolt (7, Figure 1) up  
or down and locking it with the lock nut will  
limit the pedal travel. Swing the speed control  
away from the traction pedal to allow a full  
range of forward speeds.  
WING MOWER BELT TENSION  
Proper belt tension allows mowers to be  
driven without slippage but with belt loose  
enough to be deflected slightly at a point  
midway between pulleys. An overly tight belt  
will cause excessive belt wear. Never allow  
oil or grease to get on belt, which would  
cause slipping.  
1. The wing mowers must slide freely on  
pull rods to allow the pull yoke springs to  
properly tension the belt. If slippage  
occurs, it could be due to a weakened  
spring, a stretched belt, or sticky pull  
rods.  
2. Clean and oil pull rods frequently and  
check to see that H-frames are sliding  
freely on shafts.  
Figure 15  
LOWER COUNTERSHAFT CHAIN  
ADJUSTMENTT  
Chain adjustment is taken up automatically  
by the torsion spring-assisted idler arm; no  
adjustment is necessary. Periodically check  
to see that the idler arm is free to pivot.  
UPPER COUNTERSHAFT BELT  
ADJUSTMENT  
The upper countershaft belt is driven by the  
electric clutch located on the engine stub  
shaft.  
Belt adjustment is taken up automatically by  
the torsion spring assisted idler arm; no  
adjustment is necessary. If belt slippage does  
occur, check the idler arm for free movement.  
If slippage still occurs, replace belt.  
REAR MOWER LIFT  
The rear mower lift height has been preset at  
the factory and normally will not need to be  
adjusted.  
PARKING BRAKE ADJUSTMENT  
REAR MOWER DRIVE BELT  
TENSION  
Rear mower belt adjustment is provided by a  
spring tensioned belt idler pulley (1,  
Figure 16). The idler pulley must be pressing  
down on the lower portion of the rear mower  
The parking brake should be set so that it  
holds the tractor securely. The parking brake  
must be released before the traction pedal is  
engaged.  
1. Adjust the brake by loosening set screw  
in the brake knob and turning knob  
clockwise to tighten, or counterclockwise  
to loosen, then retighten set screw.  
2. After making any adjustments, check  
brake on flat ground so that the tractor  
will not move with brake engaged.  
3. Test further by putting tractor on a hill,  
leave the engine on, and engage park  
brake. Then test with the engine off.  
If further adjustment is necessary due to belt  
stretching, relocate the spacers (3, Figure 16)  
on the pull rod pivot from position 3 to  
position 4 (4, Figure 16), between the pull rod  
pivot and the rear mower pull plate.  
If proper tension cannot be accomplished by  
the above procedure, replace the belt.  
GROUND SPEED CONTROL  
The speed control (see Speed Control on  
page 9) is meant to ease operator fatigue by  
holding the forward speed constant.  
GB - 17  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Figure 16  
HEIGHT OF CUT ADJUSTMENT  
To set the height of cut, lift the Socket/Vinyl  
Figure 17  
TM  
Cap of the Dial-A-Height (1, Figure 17) up  
then turn clockwise (viewed from above) to  
lower the roller (4, Figure 17) (raise the height  
of cut), or counter-clockwise to raise the roller  
(lower the height of cut).  
REEL TO BEDKNIFE  
ADJUSTMENT  
DANGER: Use heavy gloves and  
be careful. Bedknife and reel blades  
are very sharp.  
NOTE: Each quarter turn (90°) of the  
Socket/Vinyl Cap will raise or lower the height  
of cut by approx. 1/32”. A full turn (360°) will  
raise or lower the height of cut by approx.  
1/8”.  
The reel is adjusted to a fixed position  
bedknife. This makes a more rugged and  
durable frame and retains proper adjustment  
longer. The reel adjuster bolt (5, Figure 17)  
regulates the reel distance from the bedknife.  
IMPORTANT: Rollers must be adjusted to the  
same height so that there will be uniform  
cutting the entire width of the mower.  
The Height Adjustment Scale Decal (2,  
Figure 17) will provide approximate height of  
cut corresponding to the Socket/Vinyl Cap  
rotation.  
1. To reduce the distance, turn the locking  
hex nut on each side of the reel down  
with special reel adjustment wrench (6,  
Figure 17) and then tighten top nut.  
2. Proceed slowly and do not over adjust—  
about 1/6 (one flat) of a turn on each  
side to begin with. Do not get the reel so  
tight that it is hard to turn by hand. A too  
tight reel will wear much faster. The reel  
should “wipe” or lightly touch the  
bedknife.  
3. Check to see that blades are cutting the  
paper all the way across, using paper  
strips held between reel and bedknife.  
4. Make sure adjustment nuts are tight  
before mowing.  
1. Sight along the bottom edge of the  
Adjuster Tube (3, Figure 17) to achieve  
the desired cut height.  
2. When making large adjustments to the  
height of cut (over 1/2”), it is easier to  
make small incremental adjustments to  
each side until the desired change is  
achieved, making sure the Socket/Vinyl  
Cap is locked in position.  
3. If very accurate cutting heights are  
required, place a board or other gage  
plate (of desired thickness) on a smooth  
flat surface under each bedknife back  
bar (1, Figure 22) and adjust the roller  
height accordingly.  
REEL END PLAY ADJUSTMENT  
As the reel is used, normal wear of the reel  
bearings will cause end play. This condition  
could cause uneven wear to moving parts  
and uneven cutting of turf.  
GB - 18  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
       
Test for end play periodically by trying to  
move the reel from side to side in the frame. If  
there is any movement, end play is present.  
DANGER: Be extremely careful not  
to let tools, your fingers, or clothing  
get caught in the reels. Use  
approved safety glasses to protect  
eyes from flying particles and  
abrasives.  
1. Loosen the lock nut on the adjustment  
screw (7, Figure 17) and (Figure 18),  
(inside right end of the reel) and turn  
adjustment bolt in 1/2 turn or less. Do  
not over tighten as excessive bearing  
wear can occur.  
2. Test again for endplay. If reel is rotating  
freely and endplay can not be detected,  
retighten the locking nut on adjustment  
bolt.  
1. Make sure to adjust the reel to the  
bedknife so that the reel is parallel with  
the bedknife and light contact is  
maintained.  
2. Reels must be run in reverse direction to  
be lapped. Remove drive belts and  
attach a backlapping machine to the  
reel. Follow the instructions furnished by  
the backlapping machine manufacturer.  
Locknut  
and  
Screw  
3. With reel running, apply the lapping  
compound using a 2” or 3” wide brush.  
Apply the compound evenly to the  
mowing blades.  
4. Stop the reel and examine both bedknife  
and reel blades to see that the cutting  
edges are uniformly sharp. If not,  
gradually tighten nut adjuster (see REEL  
TO BEDKNIFE ADJUSTMENT on  
page 18), and repeat step 3 above until  
the proper sharpness results.  
Figure 18  
5. Rinse off the compound thoroughly with  
water to remove all abrasives. Check for  
sharpness and readjust the bedknife if  
necessary.  
6. Check reel adjustment on each mower  
and adjust if necessary so that they will  
cut paper cleanly across the full length of  
the bedknife when paper is held 90° to  
the bedknife and pinched when held  
horizontally.  
Many types of compounds are available for  
lapping. However, we recommend a good  
pre-mixed water-soluble compound.  
Premixed compound saves the time required  
to mix, eliminates the waste, and is available  
in all grit ranges from coarse to extra fine.  
VERTICAL MOWING UNIT -  
BLADE CHANGING  
1. To change the blades, remove the  
vertical mowing unit from the frame.  
Unbolt the (2) hangers (see Parts  
Manual) from the frame.  
2. Remove bearing from the hangers.  
Remove by loosening the bearing collet  
setscrews.  
NOTE: It is also advised to check the  
bearings for wear and replace if necessary.  
3. Remove nut from the shaft and slide the  
blade and spacer off.  
4. Reassemble with new blades. Make  
sure you time the blades so they are on  
a spiral and so that the blades are  
pointed in the proper direction. Check to  
make sure there is no side play with the  
blades when tightening the nut.  
Contact your local Dealer for types and  
ordering information.  
5. Re-attach the vertical mowing unit to the  
frame.  
BACKLAPPING PROCEDURE  
Backlapping is a very important step in  
maintaining sharp reel blades on the rear and  
wing mowers.  
This procedure should be performed when  
the reel blades and bedknife become slightly  
rounded and the grass cannot be cut cleanly  
after adjusting the reel to bedknife clearance  
(see REEL TO BEDKNIFE ADJUSTMENT on  
page 18).  
GB - 19  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
GRINDING PROCEDURE  
LAPPING COMPOUND  
See your authorized Dealer to order these  
Reel must be ground at 25° in the direction  
shown (Figure 19). Back grind until reel  
blades are free from roundness, dents, and  
nicks. Spin grind to remove all burrs. All  
blades must be on the same diameter.  
lapping compounds.  
Lapping Compound  
80 Grit – 1-lb.  
02841500  
59501400  
59501700  
02071600  
59501500  
59501800  
59501600  
02841600  
59501900  
02841800  
59502000  
After grinding the bedknife and reels, backlap  
to establish a perfect match between the  
bedknife and reel blades.  
80 Grit – 11-lb.  
80 Grit – 25-lb.  
100 Grit – 10-lb.  
120 Grit – 11-lb.  
120 Grit – 25-lb.  
180 Grit – 11-lb.  
180 Grit – 1-lb.  
180 Grit – 25-lb.  
220 Grit – 1lb.  
220 Grit – 25-lb.  
Back grind in  
the direction of  
the arrow at 25°  
25°  
Note centerline  
position of reel  
to blades.  
Figure 19  
For maximum cutting efficiency, grind  
bedknife top and front edges at 5° (see  
Figure 20).  
Grind bedknife at  
angles shown.  
5°  
5°  
Figure 20  
GB - 20  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
MAINTENANCE  
DANGER: To avoid possible  
DANGER: Always wear protective  
glasses or goggles and protective  
clothing when working with  
serious bodily injury, before  
performing any adjustments,  
maintenance, or lubrication, place  
all controls in “neutral,” lower the  
mowers to the ground, engage  
parking brake, turn ignition switch  
off, and remove key.  
batteries. Always connect the  
“ground” (black) cable last and  
remove it first whenever performing  
any maintenance. Batteries contain  
sulfuric acid and generate explosive  
mixtures of hydrogen and oxygen  
gases. Keep any device which may  
cause sparks or flames away from  
the battery to prevent explosions.  
Read and follow the battery  
GENERAL MAINTENANCE  
The long trouble-free life of your machine  
depends on the maintenance it receives. Set  
up a maintenance program for your 8400 to  
cover the following points:  
manufacturer’s instructions on  
safety, maintenance, and installation  
procedures.  
Keep tractor and mowers clean.  
Keep all moving parts properly  
lubricated (see LUBRICATION on  
page 23).  
Keep all parts properly adjusted.  
Inspect for loose, worn or damaged  
parts.  
3. When the battery is being installed or  
removed, make sure that the positive  
and negative terminals do not come in  
contact with metal tractor parts at the  
same time, or severe damage may  
result.  
4. Battery connections must be kept clean  
and tight at all times. Loose cables will  
cause eventual battery failure. Keep  
terminal covers in place.  
5. Use soap and water to clean the battery  
as required. Care must be taken to  
prevent soap and water from getting  
inside battery.  
6. Clean the terminal contact surfaces with  
a battery terminal brush or steel wool.  
Keep shields in place at all times.  
Keep tires properly inflated.  
If your inspection reveals worn or damaged  
parts, replace these parts before operating  
machine or before actual breakdown occurs.  
DANGER: To avoid injury from hot,  
high-pressure oil, never disconnect  
hydraulic hoses with attachments in  
up position. Never rub hands across  
tubes, hoses, or fittings to check for  
leaks. Hydraulic fluid escaping  
7. Tighten cables securely to battery  
terminals.  
8. Apply a light coat of petroleum jelly or  
chassis lubricant to terminals and cable  
ends after assembly to prevent  
corrosion.  
under pressure can have sufficient  
force to penetrate the skin.  
ASSEMBLY AND DISASSEMBLY  
CHARGING A BATTERY  
Use the illustrations in the Parts Manual as  
reference for disassembly and assembly of  
components. Always maintain relative  
position of parts when disassembling. Clean  
and lubricate individual parts and  
DANGER: To avoid possible injury,  
stand away from battery when  
charger is turned on. A damaged  
battery or a battery with an internal  
short could explode.  
components as required.  
BATTERY  
1. Make certain the ignition switch is in the  
“off” position and the keys have been  
removed.  
2. Refer to the Mower Specifications in this  
manual for battery specifications.  
Charge battery only in a well-vented location,  
away from sparks or open flame.  
1. Remove the battery from the tractor  
before charging.  
2. Be sure charger is “off.“  
battery terminal.  
4. Charge the battery using one of the  
methods shown below. Follow the  
manufacturer’s instructions on the  
charger.  
3. Connect charger leads to battery.  
Connect the positive (+) connector from  
the charger to the positive battery  
terminal. Connect the negative (–)  
connector of the charger to the negative  
GB - 21  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
Slow charge:  
2. Keep wire harness and all individual  
wires away from moving parts, hot parts,  
or sharp edges. This will prevent  
10 hours @ 5 amps  
3 hours @ 10 amps  
abrasive wear or potential short circuits.  
Fast charge:  
3. Exercise extreme care when working  
with electrical system.  
2-1/2 hours @ 20 amps  
1-1/2 hours @ 30 amps  
1 hour @ 45 amps  
HYDRAULIC HOSES  
5. If when charging the battery, violent  
gassing or spewing of electrolyte occurs,  
or the battery case feels hot (125°F -  
52C), reduce or temporarily halt  
DANGER: To avoid serious bodily  
injury, always lower mowers to the  
ground, place all controls in neutral  
and shut off engine before  
charging to avoid damaging battery.  
6. Always turn charger to “off” before  
removing a charger lead from the  
battery.  
inspecting hydraulic lines or hoses.  
Never run hands across tubes,  
hoses or fittings to check for leaks.  
JUMPER CABLES  
The battery on the 8400 is located at the rear  
of the tractor (see Figure 14).  
Hydraulic hose and tube lines should be  
inspected every week to check for cuts, loose  
connections, kinks, and wear.  
Be sure tubes and hoses do not come in  
contact with other frame parts which could  
cause abrasive wear. Always replace worn  
hoses or tubes before operating machine.  
1. Stop the engine on the vehicle with the  
good battery.  
2. Connect one jumper cable to the  
positive terminal on the good battery.  
Connect the other end of the jumper  
cable to either the positive terminal on  
the dead battery or the battery side of  
the solenoid located on the right front of  
the engine.  
3. Connect one jumper cable to negative  
terminal on dead battery. Connect the  
other end to ground (frame) of vehicle  
with the good battery.  
1. Assemble nut, sleeves and tube to fitting  
body with minimum torque (finger tight)  
until flare contacts seat on fitting body.  
2. For tightening reference, mark a line  
lengthwise on both the nut and adapter  
fitting with a marker.  
3. Using a wrench, rotate the nut to tighten.  
Turn the nut to the amount shown in the  
chart below. The line will show which  
fitting has been tightened and how  
much.  
4. On hoses with “o-ring” fittings, make  
sure o-rings are clean and hose fittings  
are properly seated by hand before  
wrench tightening.  
BELTS  
For efficient performance of your machine,  
worn or frayed belts must be replaced. Check  
belt tensions as instructed (see SERVICE  
AND ADJUSTMENTS on page 16).  
5. Hold the fixed portion of the hose  
coupling with one wrench; use a second  
wrench to tighten or loosen the hose nut.  
This will prevent damage to the fitting  
seal. When tightening a hose, do not  
allow it to twist; hold it in a normal,  
straight position.  
ENGINE FUEL FILTER  
Before servicing the fuel filter, thoroughly  
clean outside of filter housing and fuel hoses.  
Dirt must not be allowed to enter into fuel or  
fuel system. Refer to manufacturer’s Engine  
Manual for instructions.  
ENGINE  
Tube O.D. or  
Hose  
Rotate # of Flats  
Refer to manufacturer’s Engine Manual for  
maintenance schedule recommendations.  
Change oil and oil filter after the first 5 to 8  
hours of operation.  
3/8"  
1/2"  
5/8"  
1"  
2
2
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM  
Make certain all terminals and connections  
are kept clean and properly secured.  
1-1/2-2  
3/4-1  
1. Check switches regularly to be sure they  
are kept clean and operating correctly.  
GB - 22  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
5. Torque shoulder nuts 35 to 40 lbf/ft  
(47.4 to 54.2 N•m).  
HYDRAULIC OIL FILTER  
To prevent damage to the hydraulic system,  
the hydraulic oil filter (1, Figure 21), located  
under right fender, should be changed after  
the first 25 hours of operation and every 250  
hours thereafter.  
Clamp this edge  
Figure 21  
1. Remove the old filter.  
2. Install new filter, filling filter with oil  
before re-installing. Apply oil to the  
o-ring of the filter prior to installation.  
Hand-tighten only.  
3. Run engine at idle speed with  
hydrostatic pump in neutral for five  
minutes.  
Figure 22  
LUBRICATION  
4. Check hydraulic oil level, and add oil if  
necessary. Frequently check oil level in  
the hydraulic tank. Should the pump run  
short of oil, immediate and permanent  
damage will result.  
Figure 23 shows the top view of the 8400 with  
guards removed. Lubricate your tractor at the  
recommended locations and intervals using  
proper lubricants so that maximum service  
and long life of the machine may be obtained.  
BEDKNIFE REPLACEMENT  
When the bedknife becomes damaged or too  
worn to keep sharp, it must be replaced.  
Follow the procedure below.  
CAUTION: Before doing any work  
on your machine, stop the engine,  
remove the ignition key, and set  
parking brake.  
1. The backbar (1, Figure 22), bedknife (2,  
Figure 22), and fasteners have been  
assembled at the factory under tension.  
To ease replacement and prevent  
misalignment of components, you may  
wish to clamp the leading edge of the  
backbar two or three places before  
removing the old fasteners.  
2. Remove shoulder nuts (3, Figure 22)  
and flathead screws (4, Figure 22). If  
shoulder nuts are badly rusted or  
corroded, they may have to be cut off  
and the screws driven out.  
3. Clean the bottom surface of the backbar  
for maximum metal contact with the new  
bed bar.  
4. Fasten the new bed knife to the bottom  
of the backbar in the position shown  
(bent edge up). Shoulder of shoulder  
nuts must be seated firmly in the  
backbar and screws must be flush with  
the bottom of the bed knife.  
GB - 23  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
Figure 23  
Symbols  
GREASE - Lithium base  
or Equivalent  
OIL - Light machine oil.  
GB - 24  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Item  
Frequency  
(Hrs.)  
Location  
Type of  
Lubrication  
No. of  
Places  
1
2
Daily  
Daily  
Daily  
Daily  
25  
Mower Reel Roller Bearing  
Wing Mower Pull Rod Bushing  
Idler Sprocket Chain  
Grease, Lithium  
Oil  
6
4
1
2
3
2
1
1
2
2
6
1
2
1
2
1
3
Oil  
4
Lower Countershaft Bearing  
Front Axle Ball Joints  
Axle Yoke  
Grease, Lithium  
Grease, Lithium  
Grease, Lithium  
Grease, Lithium  
Grease, Lithium  
Grease, Lithium  
Grease, Lithium  
Grease, Lithium  
Grease, Lithium  
Grease, Lithium  
Grease, Lithium  
Grease, Lithium  
Grease, Lithium  
5
6
Daily  
25  
7
Neutral Return Pivot  
8
25  
Front Axle Pivot  
9
25  
Upper Countershaft Bearing  
Pedal Support Bearing  
Roller Bracket Bushing  
Rear Mower Pull Yoke Pivot  
Rear Mower Countershaft  
Rear Mower Lifter Bracket Pivot  
Countershaft Bearing  
Steering Motor  
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
15  
16  
Daily  
Daily  
25  
Daily  
25  
Daily  
Yearly  
GB - 25  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
STORAGE  
GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS  
TIRES  
When you do not plan to use your vehicle for  
some time, it should be stored in a dry and  
protected place. Unnecessary exposure to  
the elements may deteriorate its appearance  
and shorten the usual service life.  
1. Before storing the vehicle, clean the tires  
thoroughly.  
2. Jack up the vehicle so that the load is off  
the tires. If it is not jacked up, check the  
tires at regular intervals and re-inflate as  
necessary to keep them at the  
recommended maximum pressure  
(Indicated on tire’s side wall).  
3. Store the vehicle so that the tires are  
protected from sunlight.  
ENGINE  
1. Drain the fuel from the fuel tank and  
carburetor.  
2. Operate the engine until the gasoline in  
the carburetor is completely consumed.  
3. While the engine is still warm, drain the  
oil form the crankcase and refill with  
fresh oil. Refer to Engine Manual for  
manufacturer’s instructions.  
4. After engine has cooled, remove the  
spark plugs and put about one  
tablespoon of SAE 30 oil into the  
cylinder.  
5. Clean exterior of engine. Paint the  
exposed metal or coat it with a light  
coating of rust preventative oil.  
STARTING THE ENGINE AFTER  
STORAGE  
If mower is cold, move the mower to a heat  
location and allow it to come to room  
temperature (70°F - 22°C) before starting.  
This will prevent premature wear of hydraulic  
system components.  
Follow the towing procedure (see PUSHING  
OR TOWING INSTRUCTIONS on page 12).  
1. Check and recharge the battery  
according to recommendations (see  
CHARGING A BATTERY on page 21).  
2. Reinstall the battery  
3. Check oil level in crankcase and  
hydraulic oil tank.  
4. Fill the fuel tank with fresh gasoline.  
Check fuel filter. Check fuel shut off  
valve; open if necessary.  
5. Before driving the vehicle, check to  
make certain that the tires are properly  
inflated to the proper pressure.  
BATTERY  
1. Remove battery and clean it. Refer to  
manufacturer’s manual for specific  
instructions.  
2. Maintenance-free batteries should be  
stored in an upright position in a cool dry  
place. Storage above 80° F (28 °C)  
greatly increases self-discharge. If wet  
batteries are discharged, the electrolyte  
will freeze when stored below  
20° F (-7 °C).  
IMPORTANT: The battery should be checked  
every 60 to 90 days while in storage and  
should be recharged if necessary.  
CAUTION: Avoid injury! Explosive  
separation of tire and rim parts is  
possible when they are serviced  
incorrectly:  
TRACTOR  
Wash, clean and completely lubricate the  
tractor. Paint any exposed metal.  
Do not attempt to mount a  
tire without the proper  
equipment and experience to  
perform the job.  
Do not inflate the tires above  
the recommended pressure.  
Do not weld or heat a wheel  
and tire assembly. Heat can  
cause an increase in air  
pressure resulting in an  
explosion. Welding can  
structurally weaken or  
deform the wheel.  
Do not stand in front or over  
the tire assembly when  
inflating. Use a clip-on chuck  
and extension hose long  
enough to allow you to stand  
to one side.  
GB - 26  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
6. Remove the spark plugs and wipe dry.  
Crank the engine (with spark plug  
removed) using the starter until excess  
oil has been expelled through the spark  
plug hole. Replace the plug and connect  
the ignition lead wires.  
7. Move the vehicle outdoors or keep doors  
and/or windows wide open to provide  
sufficient ventilation before starting  
engine. This will prevent danger from  
carbon monoxide gas in the exhaust.  
8. Start the engine but do not operate at  
high speed immediately after starting.  
Allow time for it to become properly  
warmed and lubricated.  
TROUBLESHOOTING  
ENGINE WILL NOT START  
REEL WILL NOT TURN  
The operator must be seated.  
Check for debris jammed between the  
reel and bedknife.  
Check for proper belt tension. Belt  
tension is not adjustable.  
Test wing mower H-frames so that  
they are sliding easily. Lubricate, if  
necessary.  
Check rear mower belt tension idler to  
see that idler is moving freely.  
Check drive belts between engine  
clutch and countershaft pulley to  
ensure that spring loaded idler is  
moving freely. If slippage still occurs  
as a result of belt wear and belt  
stretch, replace belt.  
Check position of reel control switch  
(on dash). Switch must be in the OFF  
position.  
Check to see that the traction pedal is  
in neutral (neutral is in the center  
position).  
Check all safety switches for  
conductivity.  
Replace switches, if necessary.  
Check fuel in tank.  
Check if fuel is at the end of fuel line at  
carburetor. If not, clean filter or, if  
necessary, replace fuel filter.  
Check battery. Check charge level;  
charge or replace as needed. Clean  
battery terminals, if necessary.  
Check spark plugs. Check for spark at  
spark plugs, check for foul conditions,  
or replace spark plugs, if necessary.  
Refer to Briggs and Stratton engine  
manual for recommended spark plug  
and gap.  
Check electrical wiring and safety  
switch operation. Check wiring or  
check traction pedal neutral safety  
switch and adjust to allow current flow  
from the “S” terminal to the starter  
solenoid.  
REEL WILL NOT CUT  
Check the reel to bedknife clearance  
with common newspaper. The reel  
should cut through paper the entire  
length of the bedknife.  
Inspect reel and bedknife for damage.  
Service, if necessary.  
If reel is cutting grass too high, too low,  
or not at all, the reel height is out of  
adjustment. See HEIGHT OF CUT  
ADJUSTMENT on page 18.  
If reel is cutting grass unevenly from  
side to side or not at all, the distance  
between the reel and the bedknife is  
out of adjustment. See REEL TO  
BEDKNIFE ADJUSTMENT on  
page 18.  
TRACTOR WILL NOT MOVE  
Check that parking brake is not  
engaged.  
Check towing (free-wheeling) valve to  
see that it is fully closed (in the down  
position).  
Check the linkage from the traction  
pedal to the pump control mechanism  
to ensure complete attachment of all  
linkages.  
GB - 27  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
SPECIFICATIONS  
Model Number  
Engine  
995005  
Type  
Model  
Horsepower  
Cooling  
Twin Cylinder, Air Cooled  
Briggs & Stratton Vanguard  
16HP (11.9 kW)  
Ducted Airflow  
Transmission  
Traction Drive  
Model 11 Variable  
Displacement  
Hydrostatic Pump  
Wheel Drive Motors  
Eaton Series 2000 Hydraulic Motor  
Steering  
Eaton Power Steering Control Unit  
Mower  
Fuel Tank  
Oil Tank  
Tires  
5 Gallons (19 liters)  
5 Gallons (19 liters) Approx.  
Front: 16x6.50 - 8 (28 psi (1.9 bar) max)  
Rear: 23x10.50x12 (20 psi (1.4bar) max)  
Welded Steel Construction  
0-7 MPH (0-11.3 KM/H)  
Frame  
Mowing Speed  
Controls  
Foot-operated Traction Pedal for Forward & Reverse  
Hand-operated Throttle and Choke Controls  
Free-wheeling Tow Valve  
Electric Clutch for Cutting Units  
Hand-operated Parking Brake  
Exide Model 70-LT-60  
Battery Type  
Group Size 70  
12-V Side Post  
7-3/16" (18 cm) Height  
6-3/4" (17 cm) Width  
8-5/8" (22 cm) Length  
Cutting Unit  
Unit  
Reels  
Bearings  
Bedknife  
3-30" (.76 m) Long Reels  
8" (20.3 cm) Diameter, 6 or 8 Blade  
Timken Tapered Roller  
13 x 64 x 2" with Upturned Lip of Alloy Steel  
(5.16mm x 50mm)  
Width of Cut  
Lubricants  
Engine Oil  
84" (2.13m)  
Refer to Enclosed Engine Manual  
Texaco Rando HDZ 100  
Hydraulic Oil  
Chevron Rykon 100 or Exxon Univus N100 or  
Equivalent  
Vertical Mowing Unit  
Cutting Unit  
Reels  
3-30" (.76m) Long Reels  
10" (25.4cm) Diameter, 26 Blades, 1" (2.54cm) Spaced  
PEER Bearing Block  
Bearings  
Width of Cut  
Height of Cut  
84" (2.13m)  
-3/8" to 1/2" (-.96 cm to 1.27 cm) Adjustment  
GB - 28  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Two-Year Limited  
Turf Products Warranty  
Ariens Company (Ariens) warrants to the original purchaser that all Gravely Turf, Locke Turf or National  
Mower brand commercial turf products will be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of  
two years after the date of purchase or 1000 hours of use, whichever comes first. An authorized Gravely Turf,  
Locke Turf or National Mower dealer will repair any defect in material or workmanship, and repair or replace  
any defective part, subject to the conditions, limitations and exclusions set forth herein. Such repair or  
replacement will be free of charge to the original purchaser (labor and parts), except as noted below.  
One-Year Limited Warranty on i-Trim Mowers and Pro Vac Lawn Vacuums  
Ariens Company (Ariens) warrants to the original purchaser that all Gravely Turf, Locke Turf or  
National Mower brand i-Trim mowers or Pro Vac lawn vacuums will be free from defects in material and  
workmanship for a period of one year after the date of purchase or 500 hours of use, whichever comes  
first. An authorized Gravely Turf, Locke Turf or National Mower dealer will repair any defect in material  
or workmanship, and repair or replace any defective part, subject to the conditions, limitations and  
exclusions set forth herein. Such repair or replacement will be free of charge to the original purchaser  
(labor and parts), except as noted below.  
90-Day Limited Warranty on Service Parts and Accessories  
Genuine Gravely Turf, Locke Turf or National Mower brand service parts and accessories are war-  
ranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of 90 days after the date of pur-  
chase. An authorized Gravely Turf, Locke Turf or National Mower dealer will repair or replace any such  
part or accessory free of charge, except for labor, during that period.  
If any product is rented or leased, then the duration of these warranties shall be 90 days after the date of  
purchase.  
Exceptions, Limitations, Exclusions  
Customer Responsibilities  
Register the product immediately at the time of sale. If the dealer does not register the product, the  
customer must complete the product registration card in the literature package and return it to the Ariens  
To obtain warranty service, the original purchaser must:  
Perform the maintenance and minor adjustments explained in the owner’s manual.  
Promptly notify Ariens or an authorized Gravely Turf, Locke Turf or National Mower service  
representative of the need for warranty service.  
Transport the product to and from the place of warranty service.  
Have the warranty service performed by an authorized Gravely Turf, Locke Turf or National Mower  
service representative.  
To find a Gravely Turf, Locke Turf or National Mower authorized service representative, contact Ariens at:  
655 W. Ryan Street  
Brillion, WI 54110  
(920) 756 - 2141  
Limitations  
Batteries are warranted only for a period of 12 months after date of purchase, on a prorated basis. For  
the first 90 days of the warranty period, a defective battery will be replaced free of charge. If the  
applicable warranty period is more than 90 days, Ariens will cover the prorated cost of any defective  
battery, for up to 12 months after the date of purchase.  
ARIENS COMPANY  
Com_Turf_2008  
29  
GRAVELY® | STENS® | LOCKE® | NATIONAL® | BYNORM® | EVERRIDE® | GREAT DANE®  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
Exclusions – Items Not Covered by This Warranty  
Engines and engine accessories are covered only by the engine manufacturer’s warranty and are not  
covered by this warranty.  
Parts that are not genuine Gravely Turf, Locke Turf or National Mower service parts are not covered by  
this warranty.  
The following maintenance, service and replacement items are not covered by this warranty unless  
they are noted in the Limitations section above: lubricants, spark plugs, oil, oil filters, air filters, fuel  
filters, brake linings, brake arms, shoes, runners, scraper blades, shear bolts, mower blades, mower  
vanes, headlights, light bulbs, knives, cutters.  
Mufflers, belts and tires on Gravely Turf, Locke Turf or National Mower turf products are not covered by  
this warranty.  
Any misuse, alteration, improper assembly, improper adjustment, neglect, or accident which requires  
repair is not covered by this warranty.  
This warranty applies only to products purchased in the United States (including Puerto Rico) and  
Canada. In all other countries, contact place of purchase for warranty information.  
Disclaimer  
Ariens may from time to time change the design of its products. Nothing contained in this warranty shall be  
construed as obligating Ariens to incorporate such design changes into previously manufactured products,  
nor shall such changes be construed as an admission that previous designs were defective.  
LIMITATION OF REMEDY AND DAMAGES  
Ariens Company’s liability under this warranty, and under any implied warranty that may exist, is limited to  
repair of any defect in workmanship, and repair or replacement of any defective part. Ariens shall not be  
liable for incidental, special, or consequential damages (including lost profits). Some states do not allow the  
exclusion of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.  
DISCLAIMER OF FURTHER WARRANTY  
Ariens Company makes no warranty, express or implied, other than what is expressly made in this  
warranty. If the law of your state provides that an implied warranty of merchantability, or an implied  
warranty of fitness for particular purpose, or any other implied warranty, applies to Ariens Company,  
then any such implied warranty is limited to the duration of this warranty. Some states do not allow  
limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitation may not apply to you.  
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which  
vary from state to state.  
ARIENS COMPANY  
Com_Turf_2008  
GRAVELY® | STENS® | LOCKE® | NATIONAL® | BYNORM® | EVERRIDE® | GREAT DANE®  
30  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
National Mower  
An Ariens Company  
655 West Ryan Street  
Brillion, WI 54110-0157  
920-756-2141  
Fax 920-756-2407  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  

Miele Dishwasher G5975 User Manual
Miele Microwave Oven H 4084 BM User Manual
Milwaukee Cordless Saw 6523 21 User Manual
National Instruments Switch 653X User Manual
NuVision Graphics Tablet TM785M3 User Manual
Omega Vehicle Security Switch PSW495B User Manual
Onkyo Stereo Receiver TX SR604E User Manual
OWI Portable Speaker Venus Speaker User Manual
Panasonic Electronic Keyboard 970 User Manual
ParaBody Home Gym 843101 User Manual