MODEL NO. MC16H38ST (96011024900) 16.0 HP 38 Inch Lawn Tractor www.mcculloch.biz 532 40 88-72 09.12.06 CL PRINTED IN U.S.A.
SAFETY RULES Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers 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. • WARNING: In order to prevent accidental starting when setting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs, always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark plug.
SAFETY RULES Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers III. CHILDREN GENERAL SERVICE • Never operate machine in a closed are. • Keep all nuts and bolts tight to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition. • Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly. • Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel spillage and remove any fuelsoaked debris. Allow machine to cool before storing.
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new tractor. It has been designed, engineered and manufactured to give you the best possible dependability and performance. Should you experience any problem you cannot easily remedy, please contact your nearest authorized service center/ department. We have competent, well-trained technicians and the proper tools to service or repair this tractor. Please read and retain this manual. The instructions will enable you to assemble and maintain your tractor properly.
UNASSEMBLED PARTS Steering Wheel Seat (1) Washer 17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge (1) Knob Steering Wheel Insert Battery Steering Boot (2) Hex Bolts 1/4-20 x 3/4 Steering Wheel Adapter (2) Keps Nut 1/4-20 Steering Extension Shaft (1) Oil Drain Tube For Future Use Keys (2) Keys Slope Sheet (1) Large Flat Washer (1) 5/16 Lock Washer (1) Hex Bolt 5/16-18 x 4 5
ASSEMBLY Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with 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. TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY A socket wrench set will make assembly easier. Standard wrench sizes are listed.
ASSEMBLY DISCARD TERMINAL PROTECTIVE CAPS SEAT KEPS NUT TERMINAL COVER HEX BOLT SEAT PAN 02617 SHOULDER BOLTS 02604 POSITIVE (RED) CABLE NEGATIVE (BLACK) CABLE FIG. 3 FLAT WASHER SEAT PAN 02615 LABEL ADJUSTMENT KNOB FIG. 2 CONNECT BATTERY (See Figs. 3 and 4) 02602 CAUTION: Do not short battery terminals by allowing a wrench or any other object to contact both terminals at the same time. Before connecting battery, remove metal bracelets, wristwatch bands, rings, etc. FIG.
ASSEMBLY • Place freewheel control in "transmission engaged" position (see "TO TRANSPORT" in Operation section of this manual). • Sit on seat in operating position, depress clutch/brake pedal and set the parking brake. • Place motion control lever in neutral (N) position. • Press lift lever plunger and raise attachment lift lever to its highest position. • Start the engine. After engine has started, move throttle control to idle position. • Release parking brake.
OPERATION 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. ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER ROS "ON" POSITION IGNITION SWITCH LIFT LEVER PLUNGER LIGHT SWITCH ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT INDICATOR CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL PARKING BRAKE MOTION CONTROL LEVER 02829 FIG.
OPERATION 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. IMPORTANT: LEAVING THE IGNITION SWITCH IN ANY POSITION OTHER THAN "STOP" WILL CAUSE THE BATTERY TO BE DISCHARGED, (DEAD). HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR TO SET PARKING BRAKE (See Fig.
OPERATION These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand their meaning.
OPERATION REVERSE OPERATION SYSTEM (ROS) "ENGAGED" POSITION ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER HIGH POSITION Your tractor is equipped with a Reverse Operation System (ROS). Any attempt by the operator to travel in the reverse direction with the attachment clutch engaged will shut off the engine unless ignition key is placed in the ROS "ON" position. LOW POSITION WARNING: Backing up with the attachment clutch engaged while mowing is strongly discouraged.
OPERATION TOWING CARTS AND OTHER ATTACHMENTS Tow only the attachments that are recommended by and comply with specifications of the manufacturer of your tractor. Use common sense when towing. Too heavy of a load, while on a slope, is dangerous. Tires can lose traction with the ground and cause you to lose control of your tractor. Transmission Engaged TO START ENGINE (See Fig.
OPERATION • PURGE TRANSMISSION CAUTION: Never engage or disengage freewheel lever while the engine is running. • To ensure proper operation and performance, it is recommended that the transmission be purged before operating tractor for the first time. This procedure will remove any trapped air inside the transmission which may have developed during shipping of your tractor.
MAINTENANCE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE FILL IN DATES AS YOU COMPLETE REGULAR SERVICE E E S S RS AG US RS UR OUR OU SON OR U O H O H H A 0 ST E 8H SE RE 25 10 50 Y Y Y Y Y RE O R R R R R O F E E E E E F BE SERVICE EV EV EV EV EV BE 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-Belt
MAINTENANCE TRACTOR BLADE CARE Always observe safety rules when performing any maintenance. For best results mower blades must be kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged blades. BRAKE OPERATION 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. (See “TO ADJUST BRAKE” in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual).
MAINTENANCE ENGINE CENTER HOLE LUBRICATION Only use high quality detergent oil rated with API service classification SG-SL. Select the oil’s SAE viscosity grade according to your expected operating temperature. BLADE 5/8" BOLT OR PIN SAE VISCOSITY GRADES SAE 30 5W-30 -20 F C FIG. 11 -30 0 -20 -10 32 40 0 100 80 60 10 20 30 40 TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE BATTERY FIG. 12 Your tractor has a battery charging system which is sufficient for normal use.
MAINTENANCE • • IN-LINE FUEL FILTER (See Fig. 14) Refill engine with oil through oil fill dipstick tube. Pour slowly. Do not overfill. For approximate capacity see “PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS” section of this manual. Use gauge on oil fill cap/dipstick for checking level. For accurate reading, insert dipstick into the tube and push down firmly into place before removing. Keep oil up to, but not over, the “FULL” line on dipstick. Push dipstick down firmly into the tube when finished.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS WARNING: TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY, BEFORE PERFORMING ANY SERVICE OR ADJUSTMENTS: • Depress clutch/brake pedal fully and set parking brake. • Place motion control lever in neutral (N) position. • Place attachment clutch in “DISENGAGED” position. • Turn ignition key to “STOP” and remove key. • Make sure the blades and all moving parts have completely stopped. • Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in contact with plug.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS • 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. • • SIDE-TO-SIDE ADJUSTMENT (See Figs. 16 and 17) • Raise mower to its highest position. • At the midpoint of both sides of mower, measure height from bottom edge of mower to ground.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS WITH PARKING BRAKE “ENGAGED” WIRE BELT KEEPER BELT KEEPER NUT “A” MANDREL PULLEY 1-9/16” JAM NUT ENGINE PULLEY IDLER PULLEYS MANDREL PULLEY OPERATING ARM 02844 DO NOT TOUCH THIS NUT. IF FURTHER BRAKE ADJUSTMENT IS NECESSARY CONTACT YOUR NEAREST AUTHORIZED SERVICE CENTER/DEPARTMENT FIG. 20 TO CHECK AND ADJUST BRAKE (See Fig. 21) Your tractor is equipped with an adjustable brake system which is mounted on the right side of the transaxle.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS TRANSMISSION REMOVAL/REPLACEMENT ENGINE PULLEY Should your transmission require removal for service or replacement, it should be purged after reinstallation and before operating the tractor. See “PURGE TRANSMISSION” in the Operation section of this manual.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS TO START ENGINE WITH A WEAK BATTERY (See Fig. 25) TO REPLACE FUSE Replace with 20 amp automotive-type plug-in fuse. The fuse holder is located behind the dash. WARNING: Lead-acid batteries generate explosive gases. Keep sparks, flame and smoking materials away from batteries. Always wear eye protection when around batteries. TO REMOVE HOOD AND GRILL ASSEMBLY (See Fig. 26) • • • If your battery is too weak to start the engine, it should be recharged.
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. ENGINE FUEL SYSTEM IMPORTANT: IT IS IMPORTANT TO PREVENT GUM DEPOSITS FROM FORMING IN ESSENTIAL FUEL SYSTEM PARTS SUCH AS CARBURETOR, FUEL FILTER, FUEL HOSE, OR TANK DURING STORAGE. ALSO, EXPERIENCE INDICATES THAT ALCOHOL BLENDED FUELS (CALLED GASOHOL OR USING ETHANOL OR METHANOL) CAN ATTRACT MOISTURE WHICH LEADS TO SEPARATION AND FORMATION OF ACIDS DURING STORAGE.
TROUBLESHOOTING POINTS PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION Will not start 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Out of fuel. Engine not “CHOKED” properly. Engine flooded. Bad spark plug. Dirty air filter. Dirty fuel filter. Water in fuel. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Loose or damaged wiring. Carburetor out of adjustment. 8. 9. 10. Hard to start Engine valves out of adjustment. 10. Fill fuel tank. See “TO START ENGINE” in Operation section. Wait several minutes before attempting to start. Replace spark plug.
TROUBLESHOOTING POINTS PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION Engine continues to run when operator leaves seat with attachment clutch engaged 1. Faulty operator-safety presence control system. 1. Check wiring, switches and connections. If not corrected, contact an authorized service center/ department. Poor cut - uneven 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Worn, bent or loose blade. Mower deck not level. Buildup of grass, leaves, and trash under mower. Bent blade mandrel.
SUGGESTED GUIDE FOR SIGHTING SLOPES FOR SAFE OPERATION FOL D A L ONG THIS DO I T S T A ED L 1 5 DEG INE R E E SLO PE ONLY RIDE UP AND DOWN HILL, NOT ACROSS HILL 15 DEGREES MAX. 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. Make turns gradually to prevent tipping or loss of control. Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on slopes. 1. Fold this page along dotted line indicated above. 2.
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