™ RAM SERIES ™ BLACK BEAR ® ZTR ZTR® Safety Instructions and Operator’s Manual RAM 44, BS/968999551 RAM 50, BS/968999552 RAM MAG 44, HON/968999559 RAM MAG 44, KOH/968999560 RAM MAG 50, KAW /968999561 RAM 50 MAG, HON/968999562 RAM 50 MAG KOH/968999563
IMPORTANT - READ CAREFULLY The Dixon® ZTR® mower is both easy and fun to operate. However, any power mower must be operated properly to be safe. It is not a toy or a recreational vehicle. Before you start to use the mower, read this Operator’s Manual carefully. It contains valuable information that is necessary for the safe operation of the machine. Observe all safety rules and become completely familiar with the controls.
TABLE OF CONTENTS GENERAL OPERATION .................................................................. 8-9 SLOPE OPERATION .................................................... 10-11 FIRE HAZARDS ............................................................ 12-13 CHILDREN, BYSTANDERS AND PETS ............................ 14 SERVICE ............................................................................ 15 SPECIFICATIONS .......................................................................
SAFETY ! RIDING LAWN MOWERS, IF IMPROPERLY OPERATED, CAN CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH Pictured below are the most common causes of injury to the operator or bystander. Please read and understand this manual to prevent injuries.
SAFETY ! Safety Alert Symbol When you see this symbol, BE ALERT to the potential for injury. Follow the recommended safety precautions and safe operating practices. DANGER (highlighted in red) indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury. WARNING (highlighted in orange) indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
WARNING ! WARNING Failure to observe the following instructions could result in serious injury or death. GENERAL OPERATION Read, understand, and follow all instructions in this manual and on the mower before starting. Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the instructions, to operate the mower. Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc., that could be picked up and thrown by the blade. Be sure the area is clear of bystanders before mowing.
WARNING ! WARNING Failure to observe the following instructions could result in serious injury or death. GENERAL OPERATION (continued) Turn off blades when not mowing. Injury could occur from contact with moving parts. Under no circumstances should you place hands or feet under the mower deck or in the chute while blades or impeller are still running. To avoid personal injury from accidental clutch engagement, stop engine before removing grass catcher or unclogging chute.
WARNING ! WARNING Failure to observe the following instructions could result in serious injury or death. SLOPE OPERATION Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and tip-over accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. All slopes require extra caution. If you feel unsure on any slope, do not mow it! DO Mow across the slope with your Dixon ZTR — never up or down. This will decrease the risk of tip-over.
WARNING ! WARNING Failure to observe the following instructions could result in serious injury or death. SLOPE OPERATION (continued) DO NOT Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible. Rapid uphill turns may cause tip-over. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. Unstable ground may cause loss of control. Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could cause sliding. Do not try to stabilize the mower by putting your foot on the ground.
WARNING ! WARNING Failure to observe the following instructions could result in serious injury or death. FIRE HAZARDS Use extra care when handling gasoline and other fuels. They are flammable and vapors are explosive. Store all fuel in approved containers specifically designed for that purpose. Allow engine to cool before refueling. Never remove fuel cap or add fuel with engine running. Do not smoke while refueling or operating the mower.
WARNING ! WARNING Failure to observe the following instructions could result in serious injury or death. FIRE HAZARDS (continued) To prevent fire or explosion, keep sparks and open flames away from battery. Keep electrical connections clean and tight. Inspect them often. Loose connections and corrosion increase fire risk. Before disconnecting the negative ground cable, make sure all switches are off. This decreases the chance of sparking and fire.
WARNING ! WARNING Failure to observe the following instructions could result in serious injury or death. CHILDREN, BYSTANDERS AND PETS Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children, bystanders and pets. Children are attracted to lawn mowers and the mowing activity. NEVER assume children, bystanders and pets will stay where they were last seen. Be alert to avoid accidents.
WARNING ! WARNING Failure to observe the following instructions could result in serious injury or death. SERVICE Never run a mower inside a closed area or without proper ventilation. Keep nuts and bolts tight, especially blade attachment bolts, and keep equipment in good condition. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly. Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object. Repair, if necessary, before restarting.
DIXON® ZTR® COMMERCIAL / RESIDENTIAL WARRANTY POLICY RAM 44, RAM 50, RAM 44 MAG™ & RAM 50 MAG™ DIXON® WARRANTS ITS ZTR® MOWERS AGAINST DEFECTS IN MATERIAL AND WORKMANSHIP FOR THE PERIODS SET FORTH BELOW. THE SOLE REMEDY UNDER THIS WARRANTY IS REPLACEMENT OR REPAIR OF PARTS INCLUDING LABOR COSTS. THIS WARRANTY IS SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS AND LIMITATIONS: 1. COMMERCIAL WARRANTY (use other than, or in addition to, mowing at owner’s primary place of residence): a.
SPECIFICATIONS RAM SERIES™ 44 Model 968999551 Chassis: 1½" square tube side frame Mower Deck: Made of 11 gauge fabricated welded construction with external reinforcement ribs. Three blades combine for a 42" (107cm) cut width. Cut height approximately 1½" (38mm) to 4½" (114 mm). Blade Drive: Electric clutch Drive System: Each rear wheel is independently driven by a Hydro Gear hydrostatic drive ZT2800 7" cooling fan.
SPECIFICATIONS RAM SERIES™ 50 Model 968999552 Chassis: 1½" square tube side frame Mower Deck: Made of 11 gauge fabricated welded construction with external reinforcement ribs. Three blades combine for a 48" (122cm) cut width. Cut height approximately 1½" (38mm) to 4" (114 mm). Blade Drive: Electric clutch Drive System: Each rear wheel is independently driven by a Hydro Gear ZT2800 hydrostatic drive 7" cooling fan.
SPECIFICATIONS RAM MAG SERIES™ 44 Model 968999559 Chassis: 1½" square tube side frame Mower Deck: Made of 11 gauge fabricated welded construction with external reinforcement ribs. Three blades combine for a 42" (107cm) cut width. Cut height approximately 1½" (38mm) to 4" (114 mm). Blade Drive: Electric clutch Drive System: Each rear wheel is independently driven by a Hydro Gear ZT2800 hydrostatic drive with integral charge pump and 7" cooling fan.
SPECIFICATIONS RAM MAG SERIES™ 44 Model 968999560 Chassis: 1½" square tube side frame Mower Deck: Made of 11 gauge fabricated welded construction with external reinforcement ribs. Three blades combine for a 42" (107cm) cut width. Cut height approximately 1½" (38mm) to 4" (114 mm). Blade Drive: Electric clutch Drive System: Each rear wheel is independently driven by a Hydro Gear ZT2800 hydrostatic drive with integral charge pump and 7" cooling fan.
SPECIFICATIONS RAM MAG SERIES™ 50 Model 968999561 Chassis: 1½" square tube side frame Mower Deck: Made of 11 gauge fabricated welded construction with external reinforcement ribs. Three blades combine for a 48" (122cm) cut width. Cut height approximately 1½" (38mm) to 4" (114 mm). Blade Drive: Electric clutch Drive System: Each rear wheel is independently driven by a Hydro Gear ZT2800 hydrostatic drive with integral charge pump and 7" cooling fan.
SPECIFICATIONS RAM MAG SERIES™ 50 Model 968999562 Chassis: 1½" square tube side frame Mower Deck: Made of 11 gauge fabricated welded construction with external reinforcement ribs. Three blades combine for a 48" (122cm) cut width. Cut height approximately 1½" (38mm) to 4" (114 mm). Blade Drive: Electric clutch Drive System: Each rear wheel is independently driven by a Hydro Gear ZT2800 hydrostatic drive with integral charge pump and 7" cooling fan.
SPECIFICATIONS RAM MAG SERIES™ 50 Model 968999563 Chassis: 1½" square tube side frame Mower Deck: Made of 11 gauge fabricated welded construction with external reinforcement ribs. Three blades combine for a 48" (122cm) cut width. Cut height approximately 1½" (38mm) to 4½" (114 mm). Blade Drive: Electric clutch Drive System: Each rear wheel is independently driven by a Hydro Gear ZT2800 hydrostatic drive with integral charge pump and 7" cooling fan.
SEAT ADJUSTMENT INSTRUCTIONS 1. Grasp seat slide adjuster and move it into adjustment position. 2. Slide seat forward or backward. 3. Release seat slide adjuster. Seat Slide Adjuster —Fig.
CONTROLS CONTROL LEVERS For access to the seat, move control levers to neutral position and swing them outward. NEUTRAL SLOW FORWARD FAST FORWARD 90o RIGHT —Fig. 2— SLOW REVERSE TURN Left Turn Opposite TO GO FORWARD • From neutral position, gently push control levers forward. • To increase speed, move levers further forward. TO GO BACKWARDS • From neutral position, gently pull control levers toward you.
CONTROLS PARK BRAKE The park brake is designed to hold the mower from moving and is not intended for use in stopping the mower while it is in motion. The engine will stop if the park brake is engaged while the control levers are in the drive position. ! CAUTION Engage park brake before starting engine. TO SET PARK BRAKE The hand-operated park brake is located on the left hand side. •To engage brake, pull lever up (to the rear). •To release brake, move lever forward (down).
CONTROLS BLADE DRIVE • • • Located on the control panel, on operator’s right. To engage the mower blade, pull up on the switch. To disengage mower blade, push down. CHOKE AND THROTTLE CONTROL LEVER • • 27 ON —Fig. 4— STOP BLADES • • Located on control panel to operator’s right. Throttle control for engine speed. Choke for engine starting. Throttle control should be set to MAXIMUM or wide open setting to insure adequate cooling of the engine and to maintain mower deck blade speed while mowing.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS MOWER DECK CUT HEIGHT LIFT LEVER • • • • • Use right foot to operate deck foot pedal at right front foot area. To raise mower deck, push forward with right foot on top portion of foot pedal. When desired deck height is reached, push with right foot on lower portion of foot pedal until the bottom of the foot pedal engages in deck positioning notch.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS The safe and successful operation of the RAM will depend on the operator having the correct knowledge of all controls used on the mower and making good judgements about the terrain to be mowed. NEVER allow anyone without complete knowledge of all controls and their functions to operate the mower. During initial operation, “learning to drive”, set throttle at slow speed. Sound judgement by the operator will prevent accidents. BEFORE OPERATING MOWER 1.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS ! CAUTION Failure to observe the following instructions could result in personal injury. STARTING INSTRUCTIONS 1. Park brake must be on, control levers in outward position and blade drive disengaged. 2. Position throttle to desired speed setting. If engine is cold, position choke lever in the ON position. NOTE: Engine may require partial choke setting to start even if the engine has been operated for a period of time. 3. Insert ignition key and turn to START position.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS TESTING OF SAFETY INTERLOCK SYSTEMS ! WARNING Failure to observe the following instructions could result in serious injury or death. The following tests should be performed at the start of each mowing day. PARK BRAKE SWITCH TEST 1. 2. 3. 4. Swing control levers to outward position. Disengage blade drive. Put park brake in OFF position. Turn ignition switch to START. Engine should not turn over or attempt to start. CONTROL LEVER SWITCH TEST 1. 2. 3. 4. Disengage blade drive.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS TESTING OF SAFETY INTERLOCK SYSTEMS ! WARNING Failure to observe the following instructions could result in serious injury or death. The following tests should be performed at the start of each mowing day. BLADE DRIVE SWITCH TEST 1. 2. 3. 4. Put park brake in ON position. Swing control levers to outward position. Engage blade drive. Turn ignition switch to START. Engine should not turn over or attempt to start. SEAT SWITCH TEST 1.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS MOWING WITH A MULCHING ATTACHMENT Mulching or recycling the grass clippings requires a totally different mowing approach than would be normal when side discharging or bagging the grass. There may be instances or conditions where it is not possible to hide all the recycled or mulched clippings. In order to achieve the best results, please read and follow the mulching tips listed below: 1. Read and follow the installation instructions that are included with your mulcher. 2.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS MOWING WITH A MULCHING ATTACHMENT (continued) 7. Keep the underside of the mower deck clean. Remove all grass and dirt buildup from the underside of the pan, the baffles and deflectors after each use. Never, under any circumstances, should you place hands or feet under the mower deck or in the chute while blades or impeller are still turning. 8. Alternate mower direction. This will evenly disperse the mulched grass clippings over the lawn for even fertilization.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS MOWING WITH A GRASS CATCHER ATTACHMENT In order to achieve optimum performance when mowing with a grass catching attachment, please read and follow the tips listed below. 1. Read and follow the installation instructions that are included with your grass catcher. 2. Set engine speed control to the wide open or full setting. 3. Do not attempt to cut grass when it is wet. Wet grass will clog both the underside of the deck and the attachment chutes. Empty bags often to prevent plugging.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS MOWING WITH A GRASS CATCHER ATTACHMENT (continued) 7. Maintain sharp blades throughout the cutting season. Some grass catching attachments require a “high-lift” blade. See your dealer for advice on the type of blade(s) needed for your mower. 8. Some mowing applications or use of grass catchers may require that an additional weight kit be fitted to the mower to counter the weight of grass in the bags.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS SIDE DISCHARGE OF THE CLIPPINGS In order to achieve optimum performance when side discharging the grass clippings, please read and follow the tips listed below. Additional information can be found in the Troubleshooting guide on Page 48-49. ! CAUTION To avoid personal injury, be sure that the deflector is properly installed on the discharge chute. 1. Set engine speed control to the wide open or full setting. 2. Do not attempt to cut grass when it is wet.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS GRASS HEIGHT AND CUTTING SUGGESTIONS Do not attempt to cut grass when it is wet. If the grass is tall, place the mower deck cut height lever in the top or second notch. “Initially” overlap cutting swaths instead of a full swath with each pass. Some applications may require a second cutting. Keep the underside of the mower deck clean. Maintain sharp blades throughout the cutting season. As a rule of thumb, never cut off more than one third of the total grass blade length.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS TOWING TRAILERS AND OTHER ATTACHMENTS Towing a trailer or other attachment that is too heavy could damage the drive or cause the mower to become unstable. Limit loads to 250 pounds (113 kg) or less with this mower. To Free Wheel Machine (Unlock Transmission) When pushing or pulling the mower, be sure to engage the hydro release levers. Always turn off engine before engaging or disengaging the hydro release (free wheel) lever. Never attempt to move the lever with the engine running.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE ! CAUTION Failure to observe the following instructions could result in personal injury. Before performing any maintenance, turn off engine, allow to cool and remove key. Use extreme care when working on machinery. Do not wear watch or jewelry. Do not wear loose fitting clothes, and observe all common safety practices with tools. MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE •Check deck belt ............................................... after 20 hours break-in •Check crankcase oil level ..................
CARE AND MAINTENANCE ! CAUTION Stop engine and remove ignition key for safety. Wear heavy, thick gloves when holding onto cutter blade, avoid the sharp edge of the blade. CUTTER BLADE MAINTENANCE Check sharpness of mower blades after every 10 hours of operation. Observe proper blade position prior to removal. 1. Safely raise front of mower. 2. Hold or block blade from turning. 3. Loosen blade bolt and remove blade. 4. When replacing blade, tighten blade bolt securely. Refer to Fig 6.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE BELTS Check belts every 100 hours. Replace any belts showing signs of severe cracking or large nicks. Belts are not adjustable, replace if they begin to slip from wear. ENGINE For complete maintenance and operating information of the engine, please refer to the maintenance instructions furnished by the engine manufacturer and included in your Zero Turn Radius mower information packet. ! CAUTION Battery contains sulfuric acid electrolyte that is poisonous and corrosive.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE TIRES Correct tire pressure is essential for efficient operation of the mower. Check tire pressure periodically. Inflate tires to the pressure listed below. Front tires 11 x 4.50 - 5 15 PSI (103 kPa) Rear tires 18 x 9.50 - 8 15 PSI (103 kPa) Lug nuts or lug bolts should be checked regularly for tightness.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE ! CAUTION HOT oil may cause burns. Allow engine to cool before draining oil. CHANGING THE ENGINE OIL 1. The “Dapco” oil drain valve is located on the left side of the engine crankcase. 2. Place a suitable container under the drain valve hose. 3. To drain, turn hex head valve stem counter-clockwise with a 10mm wrench or socket. Open to full open (approximately 7 turns). 4. After engine is drained, tighten hex stem. 5. Change oil filter. 6. Fill with oil (see steps below).
CARE AND MAINTENANCE TRACKING ADJUSTMENT If the mower is not tracking straight, check the air pressure in both rear tires. Recommended air pressure is 15 PSI (1 bar). If the unit will not track straight, follow the steps below. Tracking must be checked on a flat and level concrete or blacktop surface. Mower is tracking to the right. Increase the air pressure 2-3 PSI (0.1-0.2 bar) in the right rear tire or decrease the air pressure 2/3 PSI in the left rear tire. Mower is tracking to the left.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE MOWER DECK LEVELING PROCEDURE There are four (4) slots that will control the attitude or pitch of the mower deck. The deck should be level or pitched slightly higher in rear. 1. Place the mower on a smooth level surface with front casters positioned towards deck. Check tire pressures to insure the mower has a correct stance.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS Keep all connections clean and tight. CLEANING THE MOWER Wash mower periodically. Clean above and below deck. High pressure washing and alkaline based soaps can cause damage to bearings and other parts of the mower. After washing your mower, start the engine and engage the mower deck for a few minutes to disperse any water that may have accumulated in bearings, pulleys or fans. Note: Allow mower to cool before washing.
TROUBLESHOOTING 1.
TROUBLESHOOTING 6. ENGINE RUNS BUT MOWER WON’T MOVE FORWARD Drive belt broken or slipping - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - replace drive belt Transmission oil low - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - add oil Damaged transmission - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - consult dealer Transmission bypass may be engaged - - - - disengage (see page 37) 7.
STANDARD SERVICE PARTS LIST BLADES 44" Deck * Hi Lift Fusion Super Hi-Lift Fusion Standard Lift Fusion Gator Fusion Hi-Lift Standard Lift P/N 539 119836 P/N 539 119798 P/N 539 119860 P/N 539 119862 P/N 539 119858 P/N 539 119859 50" Deck * Hi Lift Fusion Super Hi-Lift Fusion Standard Lift Fusion Gator Fusion Hi-Lift Standard Lift P/N 539 119837 P/N 539 119799 P/N 539 119865 P/N 539 119867 P/N 539 119863 P/N 539 119864 * Factory installed BELTS 44" Deck Engine to Mower Deck Engine to Transmission P/N 53
OWNER’S INFORMATION Date of Purchase ________________________________ Mower Model Number _____________________________ Mower Serial Number _____________________________ Purchased From ________________________________ ________________________________ ________________________________ DATE OIL CHANGED ____________________ DATE ENGINE TUNED _____________________ ____________________ _____________________ ____________________ _____________________ ____________________ _____________________ _____________
Dixon and ZTR® are registered trademarks of Dixon ! WARNING DIXON 401 Commerce Street Beatrice, NE 68310 The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. Ram Series Part No.
