TROUBLESHOOTING POINTS

PROBLEM

CAUSE

CORRECTION

 

 

 

 

 

Engine dies when

1.

Reverse operation system

1.

Turn ignition key to

tractor is shifted

 

(ROS) is not "ON" while

 

ROS "ON" position.

into reverse

 

mower or other attachment

 

See Operation section.

 

 

is engaged.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Engine continues to run

1.

Faulty operator-safety presence control system.

1.

Check wiring, switches and connections. If not

when operator leaves seat

 

 

 

corrected, contact an authorized service center/

with attachment clutch

 

 

 

department.

engaged

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Poor cut - uneven

1.

Worn, bent or loose blade.

1.

Replace blade. Tighten blade bolt.

 

2.

Mower deck not level.

2.

Level mower deck.

 

3.

Buildup of grass, leaves, and trash under mower.

3.

Clean underside of mower housing.

 

4.

Bent blade mandrel.

4.

Replace blade mandrel.

 

5.

Clogged mower deck vent holes from buildup of

5.

Clean around mandrels to open vent holes.

 

 

grass, leaves, and trash around mandrels.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mower blades will not

1.

Obstruction in clutch mechanism.

1.

Remove obstruction.

rotate

2.

Worn/damaged mower drive belt.

2.

Replace mower drive belt.

 

3.

Frozen idler pulley.

3.

Replace idler pulley.

 

4.

Frozen blade mandrel.

4.

Replace blade mandrel.

 

 

 

 

 

Poor grass discharge

1.

Engine speed too slow.

1.

Place throttle control in “FAST” position.

 

2.

Travel speed too fast.

2.

Shift to slower speed.

 

3.

Wet grass.

3.

Allow grass to dry before mowing.

 

4.

Mower deck not level.

4.

Level mower deck.

 

5.

Low/uneven tire air pressure.

5.

Check tires for proper air pressure.

 

6.

Worn, bent or loose blade.

6.

Replace/sharpen blade. Tighten blade bolt.

 

7.

Buildup of grass, leaves and trash under mower.

7.

Clean underside of mower housing.

 

8.

Mower drive belt worn.

8.

Replace mower drive belt.

 

9.

Blades improperly installed.

9.

Reinstall blades sharp edge down.

 

10.

Improper blades used.

10.

Replace with blades listed in this manual.

 

11.

Clogged mower deck vent holes from buildup of

11.

Clean around mandrels to open vent holes.

 

 

grass, leaves, and trash around mandrels.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Headlight(s) not working

1.

Light switch is “OFF”.

1.

Turn light switch “ON”.

(if so equipped)

2.

Bulb(s) or lamp(s) burned out.

2.

Replace bulb(s) or lamp(s).

 

3.

Faulty light switch.

3.

Check/replace light switch.

 

4.

Loose or damaged wiring.

4.

Check wiring and connections.

 

5.

Blown fuse.

5.

Replace fuse.

 

 

 

 

 

Battery will not charge

1.

Bad battery cell(s).

1.

Replace battery.

 

2.

Poor cable connections.

2.

Check/clean all connections.

 

3.

Faulty regulator (if so equipped).

3.

Replace regulator.

 

4.

Faulty alternator.

4.

Replace alternator.

 

 

 

 

 

Engine “backfires” when

1.

Engine throttle control not set between half and

1.

Move throttle control between half and full speed

turning engine “OFF”

 

full speed (fast) position before stopping engine.

 

(fast) position before stopping engine.

 

 

 

 

 

27

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Image 27
Poulan PP18542 owner manual Engine dies when
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PP18542 specifications

The Poulan PP18542 is a powerful and efficient lawn mower designed for residential yard care, delivering impressive performance and reliability. Equipped with a robust 18.5 horsepower Briggs & Stratton engine, this riding mower ensures easy starts and steady power, making it ideal for tackling a variety of lawn sizes and terrains.

One of the standout features of the PP18542 is its 42-inch cutting deck, which allows for quick and efficient mowing. The wide cutting path reduces the number of passes needed to cover a lawn, saving both time and effort. The mower offers an adjustable cutting height feature, providing users with the flexibility to choose from six different height settings, accommodating the specific needs of their grass type and preference.

The Poulan PP18542 utilizes a hydrostatic transmission system, which offers seamless speed control and is incredibly user-friendly. This technology allows for smooth acceleration and deceleration without the need for shifting gears, making it a great choice for users of all skill levels. The responsive driving controls ensure ease of maneuverability around obstacles, improving overall efficiency during lawn maintenance.

Comfort is also a priority in the design of the PP18542. The mower comes equipped with a comfortable high-back seat that provides support during extended use. The strategically placed ergonomic steering wheel and foot pedal controls enhance the user experience, reducing fatigue even during longer mowing sessions.

Durability and maintenance are key considerations for the Poulan PP18542. The mower features a rugged frame and heavy-duty construction, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of regular use. Routine maintenance is simplified thanks to the easy-access oil filter and an integrated deck wash system, which allows users to clean the underside of the cutting deck without needing special tools.

In addition to its core features, the PP18542 is compatible with various accessories and attachments, enabling users to expand its functionality beyond mowing. Options include mulch kits, baggers, and towing trailers, making it a versatile tool for yard care.

Overall, the Poulan PP18542 combines power, comfort, and durability, making it an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a reliable riding mower to maintain their lawns efficiently.
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