MAINTENANCE
TRACTOR
Always observe safety rules when performing any main- tenance.
BRAKE OPERATION
If tractor requires more than five (5) feet to stop at highest speed in highest gear on a level, dry concrete or paved surface, then brake must be serviced. (See “TO CHECK BRAKE” in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual).
TIRES
•Maintain proper air pressure in all tires (See PSI on tires).
•Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect control chemi- cals which can harm rubber.
•Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp objects and other hazards that may cause tire damage.
NOTE: To seal tire punctures and prevent flat tires due to slow leaks, tire sealant may be purchased from your local parts dealer. Tire sealant also prevents tire dry rot and corrosion.
OPERATOR PRESENCE SYSTEM AND REVERSE OP- ERATION SYSTEM (ROS)
Be sure operator presence and reverse operation systems are working properly. If your tractor does not function as described, repair the problem immediately.
•The engine should not start unless the brake pedal is fully depressed, and the attachment clutch control is in the disengaged position.
•When the engine is running with the ignition switch in the ROS "ON" position and the attachment clutch en- gaged, any attempt by the operator to shift into reverse should NOT shut off the engine.
BLADE CARE
For best results mower blades must be sharp. Replace worn, bent or damaged blades.
CAUTION: Use only a replacement blade approved by the manufacturer of your tractor. Using a blade not approved by the manufacturer of your tractor is hazardous, could damage your tractor and void your warranty.
BLADE REMOVAL (See Fig. 13)
•Raise mower to highest position to allow access to blades.
NOTE: Protect your hands with gloves and/or wrap blade with heavy cloth.
•Remove blade bolt by turning counterclockwise.
•Install new blade with stamped "GRASS SIDE" facing the ground.
IMPORTANT: To ensure proper assembly, center hole in blade must align with star on mandrel assembly.
•Install and tighten blade bolt securely
IMPORTANT: Special blade bolt is heat treated.
CHECK OPERATOR PRESENCE SYSTEM
•When the engine is running, any attempt by the operator to leave the seat without first setting the parking brake should shut off the engine.
•When the engine is running and the attachment clutch is engaged, any attempt by the operator to leave the seat should shut off the engine.
•The attachment clutch should never operate unless the operator is in the seat.
| Engine "ON" Position |
ROS "ON" Position | (Normal Operating) |
BLADE
CENTER
HOLE
BLADE BOLT 
(SPECIAL) 
MANDREL
ASSEMBLY
02 | 544 |
|
STAR
02828
CHECK REVERSE OPERATION (ROS) SYSTEM
•When the engine is running with the ignition switch in the engine "ON" position and the attachment clutch engaged, any attempt by the operator to shift into reverse should shut off the engine.
FIG. 13
BATTERY
Your tractor has a battery charging system which is sufficient for normal use. However, periodic charging of the battery with an automotive charger will extend its life.
•Keep battery and terminals clean.
•Keep battery bolts tight.
•Keep small vent holes open.
•Recharge at
15