TRACTOR
Always observe safety rules when per- forming any maintenance.
BRAKE OPERATION
If tractor requires more than six (6) feet stopping distance at high speed in highest gear, then brake must be adjusted. (See "1"OADJUST BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual).
TIRES
•Maintain proper air pressure in all tires (See =PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" section of this manual).
•Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect control chemicals which can harm rub-
bero
•Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp objects and other hazards that may cause tire damage.
NOTE: To seal tire punctures and prevent fiat tires due to slow leeks, tire sealant
may be pumhased from your local parts dealer. "l'ire sealant also prevents tire dry rot and corrosion.
OPERATOR PRESENCE SYSTEM
Be sure that operator presence and inter-
lock systems are working properly, if your tractor does not function as descdbed
below, repair the problem immediately.
•The engine should not start unless the
clutch/brake pedal is fully depressed and attachment clutch control is in the
disengaged position.
•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.
BLADE CARE
For best results mower blades must be
kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged blades.
BLADE REMOVAL
•Raise mower to highest position to allow access to blades.
•Remove hex bolt, lock washer and flat washer securing blade.
•install new or resharpened blade with
trailing edge up towards deck as shown. IMPORTANT: To ensure proper assembly, center hole in blade must align with star on mandrel assembly.
•Reassemble hex bolt, lock washer and flat washer in exact order as shown.
•Tighten bolt securely
torque).
IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is Grade 8 heat treated.
Trailing Blade Mandrel Assembly
(Grade 8)_,,_,. Flat
*A Grade 8 heat treated bolt can be identified by six lines on the bolt head.
TO SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening
blade, but if you do, be sure the blade is balanced.
Care should be taken to keep the blade balanced. An unbalanced blade will cause
excessive vibration and eventual damage to mower and engine.
•The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a gdnding wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen while it is on the mower.
•To check blade balance, you will need a 5/8" diameter steel bolt, pin, or a cone balancer. (When using a cone balancer, follow the instructionssupplied with bal-
ancer).
NOTE: Do not use a nail for balancing blade. The lobes of the center hole may appear to be centered, but are not.
•Slide blade onto an unthreaded portion of the steel bolt or pin and hold the bolt or pin parallel with the ground. If blade is balanced, itshould remain in a hod- zontal position. If either end of the blade moves downward, sharpen the heavy end untilthe blade is balanced.
Center Hole
or
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
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