MODEL NO. AG17542STB 17.5 HP 42 INCH LAWN TRACTOR • Assembly • Operation • Maintenance • Service and Adjustments • Storage • Troubleshooting • Repair Parts For Parts and Service, contact our authorized distributor: call 1-800-849-1297 For Technical Assistance: call 1-800-829-5886 191878 Rev. 1 7.28.04 TR/MH PRINTED IN U.S.A.
TABLE OF CONTENTS Warranty ................................................ 2 Safety Rules .......................................... 3 Product Specifications ........................... 6 Assembly/Pre-Operation ....................... 8 Operation............................................. 11 Maintenance Schedule ........................ 17 Maintenance ........................................ 17 Service and Adjustments..................... 21 Storage ................................................
SAFETY RULES IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death. • Be aware of the mower discharge direction and do not point it at anyone. Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass catcher or the guard in place. • Slow down before turning. • Never leave a running machine unattended.
SAFETY RULES • Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles. • Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so that you will not have to stop or shift while on the slope. • Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for wheel weights or counterweights to improve stability. • 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.
SAFETY RULES • Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc. • Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles. • Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so that you will not have to stop or shift while on the slope. • Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope. • If machine stops while going uphill, disengage blades, shift into reverse and back down slowly.
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES Gasoline 1.25 Capacity and Unleaded Type: Regular Oil Type SAE 30 (above 32°F) (API-SG-SL): SAE 5W-30(below 32°F) Oil Capacity: 3 Pints Spark Plug: Champion RC12YC (Gap: .030") Ground Speed (MPH): Forward: 1st 1.1 2nd 1.4 3rd 2.2 4th 3.3 5th 4.4 6th 4.9 Reverse: 1.4 Tire Pressure: Front: 14 PSI Rear: 12 PSI Charging 3 Amps Battery System: 5 Amps Headlights Battery: Amp/Hr: 28 Min. CCA: 230 Case Size: U1R Blade Bolt Torque: 27-35 Ft. Lbs.
UNASSEMBLED PARTS Steering Wheel Steering Wheel Insert (1) Hex nut 1/2-20 (1) Large Flat Washer Steering Extension Shaft (1) Hex Bolt 1/4-28 x 1-1/4 (1) Locknut 1/4-28 Steering Wheel Adapter Steering Boot Seat (1) Washer 17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge (1) Lock Washer 1/2 (1) Bolt Slope Sheet (1) Oil Drain Tube For Future Use Keys (2) Keys 7
ASSEMBLY/PRE-OPERATION Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your tractor all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools as necessary to insure proper tightness. Review the video cassette before you begin. TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY Insert 1/2 Hex Nut Large Flat Washer A socket wrench set will make assembly easier.
4. Push down on seat to engage shoulder bolt in slot and pull seat towards rear of tractor. 5. Pivot seat and pan forward and assemble adjustment bolt, lockwasher and flat washer loosely. Do not tighten. 6. Lower seat into operating position and sit in seat. 7. Slide seat until a comfortable position is reached which allows you to press clutch/brake pedal all the way down. 8. Get off seat without moving its adjusted position. 9. Raise seat and tighten adjustment bolt securely.
✓CHECKLIST CHECK TIRE PRESSURE The tires on your tractor were overinflated at the factory for shipping purposes. Correct tire pressure is important for best cutting performance. • Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in “PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS” section of this manual. Before you operate your new tractor, we wish to assure that you receive the best performance and satisfaction from this Quality Product. Please review the following checklist: ✓ All assembly instructions have been completed.
OPERATION These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand their meaning.
KNOW YOUR TRACTOR READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR TRACTOR Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
00155 The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recommend a wide vision safety mask over spectacles or standard safety glasses. • Never use choke to stop engine. IMPORTANT: Leaving the ignition switch in any position other than "STOP" will cause the battery to discharge and go dead.
TO OPERATE MOWER Your tractor is equipped with an operator presence sensing switch. Any attempt by the operator to leave the seat with the engine running and the attachment clutch engaged will shut off the engine. You must remain fully and centrally positioned in the seat to prevent the engine from hesitating or cutting off when operating your equipment on rough, rolling terrain or hills. 1. Select desired height of cut. 2. Start mower blades by engaging attachment clutch control.
ADD GASOLINE • Fill fuel tank to bottom of filler neck. Do not overfill. Use fresh, clean, regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane. (Use of leaded gasoline will increase carbon and lead oxide deposits and reduce valve life). Do not mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in quantities that can be used within 30 days to assure fuel freshness. CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open flame.
WARM WEATHER STARTING (50° F and above) 6. When engine starts, move the throttle control to the fast position. • The attachments and ground drive can now be used. If the engine does not accept the load, restart the engine and allow it to warm up for one minute using the choke as described above. MOWING TIPS • Mower should be properly leveled for best mowing performance. See “TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING” in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.
MAINTENANCE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE FILL IN DATES AS YOU COMPLETE REGULAR SERVICE E E RS S AG RS RS US OU SON OR UR OU HOU H T O H A 0 S E 8H SE RE 25 10 50 Y Y Y Y Y RE ER VER VER VER VER EFO FO V E B SERVICE E E E E E B H AC DATES Check Brake Operation Check Tire Pressure T R A C T 0 R Check Operator Presence and Interlock Systems Check for Loose Fasteners 5 Sharpen/Replace Mower Blades 3 Lubrication Chart Check Battery Level 4 Clean Battery and Terminals Check Transaxle Cooling Check V-Belts Che
IMPORTANT: To ensure proper assembly, center hole in blade must align with star on mandrel assembly. 4. Reassemble blade bolt, lock washer and flat washer in exact order as shown. 5. Tighten blade bolt securely (27-35 Ft. Lbs. torque). IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is heat treated. If bolt needs replacing, replace only with approve bolt shown in the Repair Parts. TRACTOR Always observe safety rules when performing any maintenance.
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 6-10 amperes for 1 hour. NOTE: The original equipment battery on your tractor is maintenance free. Do not attempt to open or remove caps or covers. Adding or checking level of electrolyte is not necessary.
CLEAN AIR SCREEN Air screen must be kept free of dirt and chaff to prevent engine damage from overheating. Clean with a wire brush or compressed air to remove dirt and stubborn dried gum fibers. IN-LINE FUEL FILTER The fuel filter should be replaced once each season. If fuel filter becomes clogged, obstructing fuel flow to carburetor, replacement is required. 1. With engine cool, remove filter and plug fuel line sections. 2.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS WARNING: TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY, BEFORE PERFORMING ANY SERVICE OR ADJUSTMENTS: 1. Depress clutch/brake pedal fully and set parking brake. 2. Place gearshift lever in neutral (N) position. 3. Place attachment clutch in “DISENGAGED” position. 4. Turn ignition key to “STOP” and remove key. 5. Make sure the blades and all moving parts have completely stopped. 6. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in contact with plug.
TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING Adjust the mower while tractor is parked on level ground or driveway. Make sure tires are properly inflated (See “PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS” section of this manual). If tires are over or underinflated, you will not properly adjust your mower. • If links are not equal in length, adjust one link to same length as other link. • To lower front of mower loosen nut “E” on both front links an equal number of turns.
TO REPLACE MOWER BLADE DRIVE BELT The mower blade drive belt may be replaced without tools. Park the tractor on level surface. Engage parking brake. TO CHECK AND ADJUST BRAKE Your tractor is equipped with an adjustable brake system which is mounted on the right side of the transaxle. 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 checked and adjusted. BELT REMOVAL 1.
TO REPLACE MOTION DRIVE BELT Park the tractor on level surface. Engage parking brake. For assistance, there is a belt installation guide decal on bottom side of left footrest. TO ADJUST STEERING WHEEL ALIGNMENT If steering wheel crossbars are not horizontal (left to right) when wheels are positioned straight forward, remove steering wheel and reassemble with crossbars horizontal. Tighten securely. BELT REMOVAL 1. Remove mower (See “TO REMOVE MOWER” in this section of manual).
TO START ENGINE WITH A WEAK BATTERY WARNING: Lead-acid batteries generate explosive gases. Keep sparks, flame and smoking materials away from batteries. Always wear eye protection when around batteries. If your battery is too weak to start the engine, it should be recharged. (See "BATTERY" in the MAINTENANCE section of this manual). If “jumper cables” are used for emergency starting, follow this procedure: IMPORTANT: Your tractor is equipped with a 12 volt system.
INTERLOCKS AND RELAYS Loose or damaged wiring may cause your tractor to run poorly, stop running, or prevent it from starting. • Check wiring. See electrical wiring diagram in the Repair Parts section. TO REPLACE FUSE Replace with 20 amp automotive-type plug-in fuse. The fuse holder is located behind the dash. TO REMOVE HOOD AND GRILL ASSEMBLY 1. Raise hood. 2. Unsnap headlight wire connector. 3. Stand in front of tractor. Grasp hood at sides, tilt toward engine and lift off of tractor. 4.
STORAGE Immediately prepare your tractor for storage at the end of the season or if the tractor will not be used for 30 days or more. WARNING: Never store the tractor with gasoline in the tank inside a building where fumes may reach an open flame or spark. Allow the engine to cool before storing in any enclosure. TRACTOR Remove mower from tractor for winter storage. When mower is to be stored for a period of time, clean it thoroughly, remove all dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Store in a clean, dry area. 1.
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART PROBLEM Will not start CAUSE 1. Out of fuel. 2. Engine not “CHOKED” properly. 3. Engine flooded. CORRECTION 1. Fill fuel tank. 2. See “TO START ENGINE” in Operation section. 3. Wait several minutes before attempting to start. 4. Bad spark plug. 4. Replace spark plug. 5. Dirty air filter. 5. Clean/replace air filter. 6. Dirty fuel filter. 6. Replace fuel filter. 7 Water in fuel. 7. Empty fuel tank and carburetor, refill tank with fresh gas oline and replace fuel filter. 8.
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART PROBLEM Loss of power (continued) CAUSE 3. Build-up of grass, leaves and trash under mower. 4. Dirty air filter. 5. Low oil level/dirty oil. 6. Faulty spark plug. CORRECTION 3. Clean underside of mower housing. 4. Clean/replace air filter. 5. Check oil level/change oil. 6. Clean and regap or change spark plug. 7. Dirty fuel filter. 7. Replace fuel filter. 8. Stale or dirty fuel. 8. Empty fuel tank and refill tank with fresh, clean gasoline. 9. Water in fuel. 9.
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART PROBLEM Poor grass discharge CAUSE CORRECTION 1. Engine speed too slow. 2. Travel speed too fast. 3. Wet grass. 4. Mower deck not level. 5. Low/uneven tire air pressure. 6. Worn, bent or loose blade. 7. Buildup of grass, leaves and trash under mower. 8. Mower drive belt worn. 9. Blades improperly installed. 10. Improper blades used. 11. Clogged mower deck vent holes from buildup of grass, leaves, and trash around mandrels. Headlight(s) not working (if so equipped) 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
47 1. Fold this page along dotted line indicated above. 2. Hold page before you so that its left edge is vertically parallel to a tree trunk or other upright structure. 3. Sight across the fold in the direction of hill slope you want to measure. 4. Compare the angle of the fold with the slope of the hill. WARNING: To avoid serious injury, operate your tractor up and down the face of slopes, never across the face. Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees.
