Operator's Manual Hydrostatic Lawn Tractor Models 1515 1517 IMPORTANT: READ SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY Warning: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should net be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush-covered or gross-covered land unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped with a spark attester meeting applicable local or state lows (if any). If a spark orrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.
TABLEOFCONTENTS Content Page Important Safe Operation Practices ............................................................................... 3 Slope Gauge .................................................................................................................. 7 Tractor Set-up ................................................................................................................ 8 Know Your Lawn Tractor ............................................................................
SECTION1: IMPORTANT SAFEOPERATION PRACTICES WARNING: This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, could endanger the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow all instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal injury. When you see this symbol--heed its warning.
23. Mufflerandenginebecomehotandcancausea burn.Donottouch. 24. Checkoverhead clearances carefullybeforedriving underlowhangingtreebranches, wires,door openingsetc.,wheretheoperatormaybestruckor pulledfromtheunit,whichcouldresultinserious injury. 25. Disengage allattachment clutches,depressthe brakepedalcompletely beforeattempting tostart engine. 26. Yourmachineisdesignedtocutnormalresidential grassofa heightnomorethan10".Donotattempt tomowthroughunusually tall,drygrass(e.g., pasture)orpilesofdryleaves.
e. f. g, Use extreme care when approaching blind corners, doorways, shrubs, trees or other objects that may block your vision of a child who may run into the machine. Disengage the cutting blade(s) before traveling in reverse. The "No-Cut-In Reverse" feature is a reminder not to cut in reverse and f. 2. Tow only with a machine that has a hitch designed for towing. Do not attach towed equipment except at the hitch point. Follow the manufacturers recommendation for 3.
8. Nevertamperwiththesafetyinterlocksystemor othersafetydevices.Checktheirproperoperation regularly. 9. Afterstrikinga foreignobject,stoptheengine, disconnect thesparkplugwire(s)andground againsttheengine.Thoroughly inspectthe machineforanydamage.Repairthedamage beforestartingandoperating. 10. Neverattempttomakeadjustments orrepairsto themachinewhiletheengineis running. 11. Donotchangetheenginegovernor settingsor over-speed theengine.Thegovernorcontrolsthe maximumsafeoperating speedoftheengine. 12.
SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH A VERTICAL TREE iq A POWER POLE A CORNER OFA BUILDING OR A FENCE POST W 1,1.1 ..I &i Z n 1.1.1 _lb wARNING Do not mow on inclines with a slope in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10 feet). A riding mower could overturn and cause serious injury. If operating a walk-behind mower on such a slope, it is extremely difficult to maintain your footing and you could slip, resulting in serious injury.
SECTION3: TRACTORSET-UP AttachingtheBatteryCables The positive battery terminal is marked Pos. (+). The negative battery terminal is marked Neg. (-). • • • The positive cable (heavy red wire) is secured to the positive battery terminal (+) with a hex bolt and hex nut at the factory. Make certain that the rubber boot covers the terminal to protect it from corrosion. Lift the tractor's hood and remove the hex bolt and wing nut from the negative cable (thick black wire).
SECTION4: KNOWYOURLAWNTRACTOR A C IIIIII NOTE: Steering Wheel not shown for clarity. Figure 3 A B Systems Indicator Monitor/Hour Meter Throttle Control Lever H I Ignition Switch Brake Pedal C Choke Control J Drive Pedal D Parking Brake Lever K Cruise Control Lever E Fuel Tank Cap L Deck Lift Lever F Seat Adjustment Lever M Cup Holder G PTO (Power Take-off) Knob NOTE: Any reference in this manual to the RIGHT or LEFT side of the tractor is observed from operator's position.
ThrottleControlLever IgnitionSwitch The throttle control lever is located on the left side of the tractor's dash panel. This lever controls the speed of the engine. When set in a given position, the throttle will maintain a uniform engine speed. See Figure 4. WARNING: Never leave a running machine unattended Always disengage the PTO, set parking brake, stop engine and remove key to prevent unintended starting.
HourMeter Electric PTO Located in the center of the tractor's console, the hour meter operates whenever the engine is running and records the actual hours of tractor operation. See Figure 6. (PowerTake-off)Knob To engage the power to the cutting deck or other (separately available) attachments, pull outward on the PTO knob. Push the PTO knob inward to disengage the power to the cutting deck.
SeatAdjustmentLever DeckLiftLever To adjust the seat forward or backward, slide the seat adjustment lever to the left and reposition the seat to the desired position. Once a comfortable position is found, release the seat adjustment lever to lock the seat in place. Refer to SeatAdjustmenton page 18 of this manual for more detailed instructions. Found on your tractor's right fender, the deck lift lever is used to change the height of the cutting deck.
NOTE: Upon starting the engine, a metallic ticking may occur. This is caused by the hydraulic lifter leakdown during storage. Run the engine for five minutes. The noise will normally cease in the first minute. If noise continues, run the engine at mid-throttle for twenty minutes. If noise persists, have the engine serviced by your Cub Cadet dealer. \\\\\\ Shoulder Screws Flat Washer NOTE: Do NOT leave the choke control on while operating the tractor.
• • Briefly depress the brake pedal to release the parking brake. Move the throttle lever into the FAST (rabbit) position. To travel FORWARD, slowly depress the upper portion of the drive pedal forward until the desired speed is achieved. See Figure 8. SettingTheCruiseControl NOTE: The cruise control feature should only be utilized while traveling in the forward direction. • • • • Slowly depress the upper portion of the drive pedal until the desired speed is achieved.
MovingTheTractorManually Front View Pull Out Your tractor's transmission is equipped with a hydrostatic relief valve for occasions when it is necessary to move the tractor manually. Opening this valve permits the fluid in the transmission to bypass its normal route, allowing the rear tires to "freewheel." To engage the hydrostatic relief valve, proceed as follows: • Push In Locate the hydrostatic bypass rod in the rear of the tractor. See Figure 9.
Mulching Cardag, Model 1515 & 1517 lawn tractors come equipped with a mulch kit which incorporates special blades, already standard on your tractor, in a process of recirculating grass clippings repeatedly beneath the cutting deck. The ultra-fine clippings are then forced back into the lawn where they act as a natural fertilizer. Observe the following points for the best results when mulching. • • • • Never attempt to mulch if the lawn is damp.
Troubleshooting If engine troubles are experienced that appear to be fuel system related, check the following areas before adjusting the carburetor. 3 Low Idle Speed Setting: Place the throttle control into the "idle" or "slow" position. Set the low idle speed to 1200 RPM* (+ 75 RPM) by turning the low idle speed adjusting screw in or out. Check the speed • using a tachometer. • • • • • Make sure the fuel tank is filled with clean, fresh gasoline.
• Locate the two lock nuts on the opposite side of the stabilizer bracket. See Figure 14. Tighten the lock nuts to raise the front of the deck; loosen the lock nuts to lower the front of the deck. • Retighten the two jam nuts loosened earlier when proper adjustment is achieved. If the tractor does not come to a complete stop when the brake pedal is completely depressed, or if the tractor's rear wheels can roll with the parking brake applied, the brake is in need of adjustment.
Front tire toe-in can be measured as follows: Hex Nut and Lock Washer • Place the steering wheel in position for straight ahead travel. In front of the axle, measure the distance horizontally from the inside of the left rim to the inside of the right rim. Note the distance. Behind the axle, measure the distance horizontally from the inside of the left rim to the inside of the right rim. Note the distance.
• • • • • Allowtheenginea fewminutesto restafteroperation.Thiswillgivetheoiltimetodrainintothecrankcasesumpandresultin a moreaccuratedipstick reading. Cleantheareaaroundtheoilfillcap/dipstick topreventdebrisfromenteringthecrankcase. Removethe oil fill cap/dipstickby unthreadingit (counterclockwise) andliftingitoutoftheoilfilltube. Wipethedipstickcleanbeforepushingit backinto theoilfilltube.Do NOT thread the cap back onto the fill tube. Withdraw the dipstick to check the oil level. Refer to Figure 18.
• • Grasp the side panel just behind the grille and pull outward to release the side panel from the tapered bushings on the grille. Slide the side panel forward and out of the groove in the dash panel. • • Drainingthe Oil • Run the engine for a few minutes to allow the oil in the crankcase to warm up. Warm oil will flow more freely and carry away more of the engine sediment which may have settled at the bottom of the crankcase. Use care to avoid burns from hot oil.
Air Filter The engine is equipped with a replaceable, high density paper air cleaner element and an oiled, foam precleaner which surrounds the paper element. See Figure 21. Always examine the air cleaner before starting the engine. Check for a buildup of dirt and debris around the air cleaner system. Keep this area clean. Also check for loose or damaged components. Replace all bent or damaged air cleaner components.
NOTE: Refer to the Attachments& Accessoriestable Visually inspect the filter periodically for a build-up of residue inside the filter body, and for a dirty element which can be indicated by discoloration. Replace the fuel filter when dirty. found on page 32 of this manual for the proper spark plug type. • • • • • Lift the tractor's hood and locate the spark plug wire on the front, right area of the engine. Carefully pull the spark plug wire boot off of the spark plug.
Pivot Points& Linkage Lubricate all the pivot points on the drive system, parking brake and lift linkage at least once a season with light oil. Deck Wheels Each of the tractor deck's front gauge wheels is equipped with a grease fitting. Lubricate with a grease gun after every 25 hours of tractor operation Front Wheels Each of the front wheel axles and rims is equipped with a grease fitting. See Figure 24. Lubricate with a grease gun after every 25 hours of tractor operation.
The blade can be tested by balancing it on a round shaft screwdriver. Grind metal from the heavy side until it balances evenly. CuttingBlades WARNING: Be sure to shut the engine off, remove ignition key, disconnect the spark plug wire(s) and ground against the engine to prevent unintended starting before removing the cutting blade(s) for sharpening or replacement. Protect your hands by using heavy gloves or a rag to grasp the cutting blade.
Charging If the unit has not been put into use for an extended period of time, charge the battery with an automotivetype 12-volt charger for a minimum of one hour at six amps. A WARNING: Batteries give off an explosive gas while charging. Charge battery in a well ventilated area and keep away from an open flame or pilot light as on a water heater, space heater, furnace, clothes dryer or other gas appliances.
Model1515 Electric PTOClutch PTOIdlerBracket (mounted on deck) _ Deck/PTO belt Left Hand Pulley beneath belt guard). Right Hand Pulley (beneath belt guard) Deck Idler Pulleys Figure 28 Electric PTO Clutch PTOIdler Bracket (mounted on tractor) / Left Hand Pulley Model1517 / Deck belt (Bottom) PTO belt (Top) Right Hand Pulley (beneath belt guard) Deck Idler Pulley Center Pulley NOTE: Self-Tapping Screws Left hand belt cover not shown for cladty.
NOTE: Proper removal of the drive belt requires the • removal of several tractor components. Read through the following procedure prior to attempting it to determine if you feel you could successfully complete it. If you don't, see your Cub Cadet dealer to have the belt changed. • IMPORTANT: Note the routing of the lower drive belt around all the pulleys and the belt keepers (if present) BEFORE performing the following steps.
Hydrostatic Transmission The hydrostatic transmission is sealed at the factory and is maintenance free. The fluid level cannot be checked nor can the oil be changed. Always keep the area around the transmission cooling fan free of grass and debris at all times. SECTION9: OFF-SEASON STORAGE Clean and lubricate the tractor as instructed in Section7: MAINTAINING YOURLAWNTRACTOR on page 19 of this manual before storing for an extended period.
SECTION11: TROUBLESHOOTING Trouble Possible Engine fails to start PTO knob engaged. Parking brake not engaged. Spark plug wire(s) disconnected. Throttle control lever not in correct starting position. Choke not activated Place knob in disengaged (OFF) position. Engage parking brake. Connect wire to spark plug. Place throttle lever to FAST position. Fuel tank empty, or stale fuel. Blocked fuel line. Faulty spark plug. Engine flooded. Unit running with CHOKE applied. Spark plug wire loose.
SECTION12: SPECIFICATIONS 1515 1517 3 gallons (11.4 liters) 3 gallons (11.4 liters) 4 pints / 64 oz. (1.9 liters) 4 pints / 64 oz. (1.9 liters) 4.9 pints / 78.8 oz. (2.3 liters) 4.9 pints / 78.8 oz. (2.3 liters) Capacities Fuel Tank Crankcase (approximately) Transmission Case (approximately) Hydrostatic Transmission Make and Model Hydro-Gear 311-0710 Gear Ratio Hydro-Gear311-0710 22.2:1 22.2:1 Forward Speed 0 m.p.h. - 5.5 m.p.h. 0 m.p.h. - 5.5 m.p.h. Reverse Speed 0 m.p.h. - 2.5 m.p.h.
SECTION13: ATTACHMENTS & ACCESSORIES The following attachments and accessories are compatible for Model 1515 & Model 1517. See your Cub Cadet dealer or the retailer from which you purchased your tractor for information regarding price and availability. Cub Cadet lawn tractor models 1515 and 1517 are NOT designed for use with any type of groundengaging attachments (e.g. tiller or mulboard plow). Use of this type of equipment WILL void the tractor's warranty.
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FEDERAL KOHLER CO. AND CALIFORNIA EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEMS LIMITED WARRANTY UTILITY AND LAWN AND GARDEN ENGINES The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the California Air Resources Board (CARB), and Kohler Co. are pleased to explain the Federal and California Emission Control Systems Warranty on your small off-road equipment engine. For California, engines produced in 1995 and later must be designed, built and equipped to meet the state's stringent anti-smog standards.
MANUFACTURER'S CUB CADET LLC ONE YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY (COMMERCIAL USE) The limited warranty set forth below is given by CUB CADET LLC ("CUB CADET") with respect to new merchandise purchased and used in the United States, its possessions and territories.
CUB MANUFACTURER'S CADET LLC LIMITED WARRANTY (RESIDENTIAL The limited warranty set forth below is given by CUB CADET LLC ("CUB CADET") with respect to new merchandise purchased and used in the United States, its possessions and territories.
