Use and Care Manual

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PRODUCT CARE
WARNING
A poorly balanced blade will cause excessive vibration,
may damage the riding mower, and/or result in
personal injury.
5. Test the blade’s balance using a blade balancer. Grind metal
from the heavy side until it balances evenly.
NOTE: When replacing the blade, be sure to install the blade
with the side of the blade marked “grass-side”, ‘‘Bottom’’ or with
a part number stamped in it facing the ground when the riding
mower is in the operating position.
CAUTION
Use a torque wrench to tighten the blade spindle hex
flange nut to between 70 ft-lbs (95 N-m) and 90 ft-lbs
(122 N-m).
CHANGING THE TRANSMISSION DRIVE BELT
NOTE: Several components must be removed and special tools
(i.e. air/impact wrench) used in order to change the riding
mower’s drive belt. See an authorized service dealer to have the
drive belt replaced or phone Customer Support to find a dealer
near you.
TROUBLESHOOTING
WARNING
Before performing any type of maintenance/service, disengage all controls and stop the engine. Wait until all moving
parts have come to a complete stop. Allow the engine to cool. Disconnect spark plug wire(s) and negative battery cable to
prevent unintended starting. Always wear safety glasses during operation or while performing any adjustments or repairs.
This section addresses minor service issues. To locate the nearest authorized service center consult the separate supplement for
contact information.
Problem Cause Remedy
Excessive vibration 1. Cutting blade loose.
2. Cutting blade damaged, unbalanced or bent.
1. Tighten cutting blade and deck spindle.
2. Replace the cutting blade.
Uneven cut 1. Deck not properly leveled.
2. Cutting blade dull or damaged.
3. Uneven tire pressure.
1. Perform front-to-rear deck adjustment.
2. Sharpen or replace cutting blade.
3. Check and correct tire pressure in all
four tires.
Engine fails to start 1. PTO/Blade engaged.
2. Blown fuse.
3. Parking brake not engaged.
4. Deck chute or mulch plug not
properly installed.
5. Engine still does not start.
1. Place blade engage lever in disengaged
(OFF) position.
2. Replace fuse(s).
3. Engage parking brake.
4. Check the installation of the deck chute or
mulch plug.
5. See Engine Operator’s Manual.
Mower will not
mulch grass
1. Engine speed too low.
2. Wet grass.
3. Excessively high grass.
4. Dull blade.
1. Place throttle in FAST position.
2. Do not mulch when grass is wet.
3. Mow once at a high cutting height, then mow
again at desired height or make a narrower
cutting swath.
4. Sharpen or replace blade.