ZEETER Safety Instructions & Operator’s Manual Model Year 2005
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. The information contained in this manual applies to all Dixon® ZEETER™mowers.
TABLE OF CONTENTS Page SAFETY & WARNING....................................4-15 WARRANTY.........................................................16 SPECIFICATIONS..............................................17 CONTROLS...................................................18-22 OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS....................23-33 CARE & MAINTENANCE............................34-45 TROUBLESHOOTING..................................46-47 STANDARD SERVICE PARTS LIST...............
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 Failure to observe the following safety 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., which could be picked up and thrown by the blade. Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing.
WARNING Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death. GENERAL OPERATION (continued): Never leave a running mower unattended. Always turn off blades, set parking brake, stop engine and remove key before dismounting. 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.
WARNING Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death. GENERAL OPERATION (continued): Protect your eyes. Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields when operating mower. Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above, are involved in a large percentage of riding mowerrelated injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the riding mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from serious injury.
WARNING Failure to observe the following safety 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 uneasy on a 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 Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death. SLOPE OPERATION (continued): DO (continued): Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual. Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction. Use extreme caution when operating the mower with attachments to prevent tip-over or roll-over. If front wheels lift off the ground, pull levers back to stabilize the mower.
WARNING Failure to observe the following safety 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. The mower could suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the edge of a cliff or ditch or if an edge caves in. Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could cause sliding.
WARNING Failure to observe the following safety 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 Failure to observe the following safety 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 Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death. CHILDREN: Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children. Children are attracted to lawn mowers and the mowing activity. NEVER assume children will stay where they were last seen. Be alert to avoid accidents. Keep children out of the mowing area and under the watchful care of another responsible adult. Be alert and turn mower off if a child enters the area.
WARNING Failure to observe the following safety 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® RESIDENTIAL WARRANTY POLICY ZEETER™ - Residential Mower 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. RESIDENTIAL APPLICATION - (used only at owner’s primary place of residence): a.
SPECIFICATIONS CHASSIS: 11 GA welded channel frame BODY: All body parts made of rotational molded polyethylene. Front body contains access panel for battery service. Seat tilts forward to allow transmission service. MOWER DECK: 11 GA stamped steel construction. Single 30 cut blade. Cut height approximately 1-1/2- 4 via 7-position lift handle.
CONTROLS CONTROL LEVERS 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. TURNING •Turning is controlled by moving one control lever slightly forward or rearward of the other. •To turn left, move left lever rearward of the right lever. •To turn right, move right lever rearward of the left lever.
CONTROLS PARKING BRAKE: The parking 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 parking brake is engaged while the control levers are in the drive position. CAUTION Engage parking brake before starting engine. TO SET PARKING BRAKE: The hand operated parking brake is located on the right side of the mower. •To engage brake, pull lever up (to the rear). •To release brake, move lever forward (down).
CONTROLS BEFORE OPERATING MOWER: 1. Read engine manufacturer’s operating and maintenance instructions. 2. Read and observe all safety instructions on your mower and in the manual. 3. Check engine oil. 4. Check fuel cap to be sure it is in place. 5. Be sure parking brake is on. 6. Be sure mower blade drive is off. 7. Know how to stop engine. (Turn key to off position).
CONTROLS The Dixon® ZEETER™ has a unique transaxle that requires only two drive levers to control braking, turning, speed and direction. On initial operation set throttle speed to slow. Operate with mower blade in “OFF” position. To avoid “over-controlling” the mower, use a light touch on the drive levers. Slight movements using fingertip control is all that is necessary. TRANSMISSION DRIVE SYSTEM Allows the mower to turn on its own axis “ZERO TURNING RADIUS”. Each lever controls one side of the mower.
CONTROLS BLADE DRIVE: •Located to the left of the operator. •To engage the mower blade, turn lever on floor slowly to the “ON” position. •To disengage mower blade, turn lever to the “OFF” position. THROTTLE CONTROL LEVER: •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 The safe and successful operation of the ZEETER™ mower will depend upon 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 to operate the mower without complete knowledge of all controls and their functions. During initial operation, “learning to drive”, set throttle at slow speed. Sound judgement by the operator will prevent accidents.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS CAUTION Failure to follow these instructions may result in personal injury. STARTING INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Parking brake must be on and blade drive disengaged. 2. Position throttle lever to 1/2 speed setting. If engine is cold, position lever to the choke position. NOTE: Engine may require 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. When engine starts, release ignition key.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS TESTING OF SAFETY INTERLOCK SYSTEMS: Failure to observe the following testing instructions could result in serious injury or death. The following tests should be performed at the start of each mowing day. PARKING BRAKE SWITCH TEST: a) Put parking brake in OFF position b) Turn ignition switch to START Engine should not turn over or attempt to start. BLADE DRIVE SWITCH TEST: a) Put parking brake in ON position b) Engage blade drive switch. c) Turn ignition switch to START.
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 build-up 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.
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/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. 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 & 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 1/3 of the total grass blade length.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE WARNING Failure to observe the following instructions may result in personal injury. Before performing any maintenance, turn off engine, allow to cool & 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 drive belt..........................................after 20 hours break-in •Check crankcase oil level............................
CARE AND MAINTENANCE CUTTER BLADE 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. 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 diagram.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE ENGINE: For complete maintenance and operating information of the engine, please refer to the maintenance instructions furnished by the engine manufacturer included in your Zero Turn Radius mower information packet. CAUTION Battery contains sulfuric acid electrolyte which is poisonous and corrosive. BATTERY: This is a maintenance-free battery and the fluid level cannot be checked. •Charge battery if required. OFF SEASON BATTERY STORAGE: •DO NOT remove battery from mower.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE LUBRICATION: CHASSIS: (5) grease zerks LOCATIONS: (1) each front wheel caster (1) each front wheel hub (1) each mower deck hub SERVICE INTERVALS: Every 50 hours of operation or once per season.
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 Rear tires 9 x 3.50 - 4 16-21 lbs. 16 x 6.50 - 8 8-14 lbs. Lug nuts or lug bolts should be checked regularly for tightness. BELTS: Check belts every 50 hours. Replace any belts found to be in poor condition. BELT TENSION: Engine to Transmission Belt - P/N 7650 Manual adjustment.
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.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE CAUTION HOT oil may cause burns. Allow engine to cool before draining oil. CHANGING THE ENGINE OIL: 1. The oil drain valve is located on the lower left side of the engine crankcase. 2. Place a suitable container under the drain valve. 3. To drain, remove plug from 90 degree fitting. 4. After engine is drained, replace drain plug. NOTE: Refer to engine manufacturer’s recommendations for frequency of oil changes.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE CAUTION HOT oil may cause burns. Allow engine to cool before draining oil. OIL FILL: 1. Clean any spilled oil from engine and chassis. 2. Refill engine with type, and quantity of oil recommended by the engine manufacturer in engine literature. NOTE: Engine oil changes on the ZEETER™ mower will require replacement of the oil filter. These filters may be available from your local Dixon® Dealer. Protect your environment. Please dispose of used oils at proper collection centers.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE MOWER DECK LEVELING PROCEDURE: 1. Place mower on a smooth, level surface and check tire pressures to insure correct stance. Tires should be inflated as follows. Front: 16 - 21 lbs Rear: 8 - 14 lbs 2. Turn blade so tips align with the deck in a side to side manner. 3. Measure from the floor surface up to the bottom of the blade tip on the discharge side of the mower. Retain this measurement. Move to the opposite side and check to see if that measurement is the same.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE Illustration A IllustrationB 41
CARE AND MAINTENANCE REAR CHAIN ADJUSTMENT: CAUTION Stop engine, remove key and set parking brake before attempting to adjust the rear chain. Proper tension for the rear chains is accomplished through the use of an adjuster located at mid-point of each rear chain. To adjust, tighten the nut on top of the rubber spring until the chain has approximately 1/4” movement up and down when measured at mid-point. Refer to Illustration B, page 41.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE DECK REMOVAL: 1. Place cut height lever in lowest cut position. 2. Loosen belt keepers. 3. Remove deck drive belt from engine pulley. 4. Using a slight upward twisting motion, remove link from engagement handle. 5. Turn handle fully to the left until handle clears stop on moer deck pan. Lift handle then remove handle down through hole in lower fender. 6. Remove hair pin cotter and washer from one end of deck support cross shaft.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE DRIVE SYSTEM ADJUSTMENTS: Due to both the complex nature of the transmission and the number of special tools required for service, adjustments should be entrusted to your dealer. There are a number of simple owner service items which greatly influence the performance of the drive system. 1. Front and rear tires must be inflated to proper specifications. 2. Rear drive chain tension. 3. Tighteness of all controls and linkages pertaining to the drive levers. 4.
STANDARD SERVICE PARTS LIST BLADES *Hi-Lift - P/N 13928 Standard Lift - P/N 13927 Gator - P/N 13929 *Factory installed BELTS Engine to Mower Deck - P/N 7725 Engine to Transmission - P/N 7650 ENGINE AIR AND OIL FILTERS Refer to Engine Operator’s Manual for correct service intervals for engine oil changes and air filter maintenance. Protect your engine investment, use only original equipment filters. Refer to the Engine Operator’s Manual or ask your dealer for correct replacement parts.
TROUBLESHOOTING 1.
TROUBLESHOOTING 6. ENGINE RUNS BUT MOWER WON’T MOVE FORWARD Drive belt broken or slipping- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - replace drive belt Damaged transmission- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -consult dealer 7. MOWER LOSES POWER OR TRANSMISSION OVERHEATS Engine air filter-- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - clean or replace Transmission damage- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -consult dealer 8.
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OWNER’S INFORMATION Date of Purchase Mower Model Number Mower Serial Number Purchased From Name Address DATE OIL CHANGED DATE ENGINE TUNED Dixon Industries, Inc.~P.O.
Dixon® and ZTR® are registered trademarks of Dixon Industries, Inc. WARNING: The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. DIXON INDUSTRIES, INC. P.O. Box 1569 Coffeyville, Ks 67337-0945 620-251-2000 ZEETER™ Part No.
