OPERATOR’S MANUAL Cobalt Series 30HP Zero-Turn Riders Mfg. No. Description 5900763 Simplicity 30HP Cobalt Zero-Turn Rider with 61” Mower 5101604 Revision A Rev.
Thank you for purchasing this quality-built Simplicity product. We’re pleased that you’ve placed your confidence in the Simplicity brand. When operated and maintained according to the instructions in this manual, your Simplicity product will provide many years of dependable service. This manual contains safety information to make you aware of the hazards and risks associated with this machine and how to avoid them.
Table of Contents Operator Safety ..............................................2 Safety Rules & Information ..............................................2 Safety Decals ..................................................................11 Safety Icons & Interlock System ....................................12 Features & Controls ....................................... 13 Identification Numbers ...................................................13 Control Functions ..........................................
Operator Safety Operator Safety Operating Safety Congratulations on purchasing a superior-quality piece of lawn and garden equipment. Our products are designed and manufactured to meet or exceed all industry standards for safety. Do not operate this machine unless you have been trained. Reading and understanding this operator’s manual is a way to train yourself. Power equipment is only as safe as the operator.
Operator Safety Slope Operation Operation on slopes can be dangerous. Using the unit on a slope that is too steep where you do not have adequate wheel traction (and control) can cause sliding, loss of steering, control, and possible rollover. You should not operate on a slope greater than a 5.4 foot rise over a 20 foot length (15 degrees). Always mow across slopes, not up and down (to maintain traction on the wheels) and avoid sudden turns or rapid speed changes.
Operator Safety Roll Bar Use Keep the roll bar in the raised position and fasten the seat belt. There is no roll over protection when the roll bar is down! Do not jump off if the mower tips (it is safer to be secured by the seat belt with the roll bar raised.) Lower the roll bar only when necessary (such as to temporarily clear a low overhanging obstacle) and NEVER remove it. Do NOT use the seat belt when the roll bar is down. Raise the roll bar as soon as clearance permits.
Operator Safety Fuel and Maintenance Always disengage all drives, shutoff the engine, and remove the key before doing any cleaning, refueling, or servicing. Gasoline and its vapors are extremely flammable. Do not smoke while operating or refueling. Do not add fuel while engine is hot or running. Allow engine to cool for at least 3 minutes prior to adding fuel. Do not add fuel indoors, in an enclosed trailer, garage, or any other enclosed area that is not well ventilated.
Operator Safety Read these safety rules and follow them closely. Failure to obey these rules could result in loss of control of unit, severe personal injury or death to you, or bystanders, or damage to property or equipment. This mowing deck is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. The triangle in text signifies important cautions or warnings which must be followed. General Operation 1. Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual and on the unit before starting. 2.
Operator Safety Slope Operation Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and tipover accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. Operation on all slopes requires extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not operate on it. Control of a walk-behind or ride-on machine sliding on a slope will not be regained by the application of the brake.
Operator Safety Service and Maintenance Safe Handling of Gasoline 1. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other sources of ignition. 2. Use only approved gasoline containers. 3. Never remove the gas cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow the engine to cool before refueling. 4. Never fuel the machine indoors. 5. Never store the machine or fuel container where there is an open flame, spark, or pilot light such as near a water heater or other appliance. 6.
Operator Safety Roll Bar Instructions For models equipped with factory-installed Roll Over Protection System (ROPS). WARNING In order to avoid serious injury or death from roll over, it is important to follow the warnings listed below. Operational Warnings • Always use the seat belt when the roll bar is in the raised position. • Never use the seat belt when the roll bar is in the down position.
Operator Safety Inspection and Maintenance of the Roll Bar Seat Belt INSPECT BUCKLE & LATCH WARNING Failure to properly inspect and maintain the seat belt can cause serious injury or death. • The seat belt like the ROLL BAR, needs to be periodically inspected to verify that the integrity has not been compromised through normal machine use, misuse, age degradation, modifications, or a roll over. If the seat belt does not pass all of the following tests, it should be replaced.
Operator Safety Safety Decals This unit has been designed and manufactured to provide you with the safety and reliability you would expect from an industry leader in outdoor power equipment manufacturing. Although reading this manual and the safety instructions it contains will provide you with the necessary basic knowledge to operate this equipment safely and effectively, we have placed several safety labels on the unit to remind you of this important information while you are operating your unit.
Operator Safety Safety Icons Safety Interlock System This unit is equipped with safety interlock switches. These safety systems are present for your safety, do not attempt to bypass safety switches, and never tamper with safety devices. Check their operation regularly. The alert symbol ( ) is used to identity safety information about hazards that can result in personal injury.
Features and Controls Features and Controls Identification Numbers M SA PL North American Models E M SA Mfg. No.: 169XXXX XXXX dB(A) CE Models Identification Tag PL Serial No.: XXXXX kW: XX Engine RPM XXXX LpA: XXX dB(A) Vibration @ Wheel: XXX m/s² Vibration @ Seat: XXX m/s² E Simplicity Mfg. Inc. Port Washington, WI USA 53074-0997 XXXXXXX When contacting your authorized dealer for replacement parts, service, or information you MUST have these numbers.
Features and Controls Control Functions The information below briefly describes the function of individual controls. Starting, stopping, driving, and mowing require the combined use of several controls applied in specific sequences. To learn what combination and sequence of controls to use for various tasks see the OPERATION section. Deck Lift Pedal, Cutting Height Adjustment Pin & Deck Lift Lock Lever These control the cutting height of the mower deck.
Features and Controls Ignition Switch The ignition switch starts and stops the engine, it has three positions: OFF Stops the engine and shuts off the electrical system. RUN Allows the engine to run and powers the electrical system. Seat Adjustment Lever The seat can be adjusted forward and back. Move the lever towards the left, position the seat as desired, and release the lever to lock the seat in position. Fuel Tank Cap To remove the cap, turn counterclockwise.
Operation Operation General Operating Safety Before first time operation: • Be sure to read all information in the Safety and Operation sections before attempting to operate this tractor and mower. • Become familiar with all of the controls and how to stop the unit. • Drive in an open area without mowing to become accustomed to the unit. Checks Before Starting • Check that crankcase is filled to full mark on dipstick (B, Figure 1). See the engine Operator’s Manual for instructions and oil recommendations.
Operation Check Tire Pressures Tire pressure should be checked periodically, and maintained at the levels shown in the chart. Note that these pressures may differ slightly from the “Max Inflation” stamped on the side-wall of the tires. The pressures shown provide proper traction, improve cut quality, and extend tire life. Tire Front Pressure 25 psi (1,72 bar) Rear 15 psi (1,03 bar) Figure 2. Checking Tire Pressure Seat Adjustment A See Figure 3. The seat can be adjusted forward and back.
Operation Mowing Height Adjustment The cutting height adjustment pin (A, Figure 5) controls the mower cutting height. The cutting height is adjustable between 1-3/4” (4,4 cm) and 5” (12,7 cm) in 1/4” (0,64 cm) increments. 1. Depress the deck lift foot pedal (B) until it locks into the 5” (12,7 cm) position. 2. Place the cutting height adjustment pin in the desired cutting height. 3. Depress the deck lift foot pedal then push the lock lever (C) towards the right to release the lock. 4.
Operation WARNING Read the Operator’s Manual before attempting to operate the machine. • If you do not understand how a specific control functions, or have not yet thoroughly read the FEATURES and CONTROLS section, do so now. • Do NOT attempt to operate the tractor without first becoming familiar with the location and function of ALL controls. Starting the Engine Stopping the Rider 1.
Operation Zero-Turn Driving Practice The lever controls of the Zero Turn rider are responsive, and learning to gain a smooth and efficient control of the rider’s forward, reverse, and turning movements will take some practice. Spending some time going through the maneuvers shown and becoming familiar with how the unit accelerates, travels, and steers — before you begin mowing —is absolutely essential to getting the most out of the Zero Turn rider.
Operation Practice Turning Around a Corner Practice Turning In Place While traveling forward allow one handle to gradually return back toward neutral. Repeat several times. To turn in place, “Zero Turn,” gradually move one ground speed control lever forward from neutral and one lever back from neutral simultaneously. Repeat several times. NOTE: To prevent pivoting directly on the tire tread, it is best to keep both wheels going at least slightly forward. Executing Turns Figure 10.
Operation Raise and Lower the Roll Bar WARNING C Avoid serious injury or death from roll over. D C • Keep the roll bar in the raised position and use seat belt. • There is no roll over protection when the roll bar is down. • Lower the roll bar only when necessary and NEVER remove it. • Do NOT use the seat belt when the roll bar is down. • Raise the roll bar as soon as clearance permits. • Do NOT jump off if mower tips. To Lower the Roll Bar: 1.
Operation Mowing Before mowing, set the cutting height as described in the Operation section. 1. Engage the parking brake. Make sure the PTO switch is disengaged and the ground speed control levers are in the NEUTRAL position. 2. Start the engine (see Starting the Engine). 3. Set the throttle to FULL. 4. Engage the PTO by pulling up on the PTO switch (E, Figure 1). 5. Begin mowing. See Mowing Recommendations section for tips on mowing patterns and lawn care.
Operation When and How Often to Mow The time of day and condition of the grass greatly affect the results you’ll get when mowing. For the best results, follow these guidelines: 1. Mow when the grass is between three and five inches high. 2. Mow with sharp blades. Short clippings of grass one inch or shorter decompose more quickly than longer blades. Sharp mower blades cut grass cleanly and efficiently, preventing frayed edges which harm the grass. 3. Mow at time of day when the grass is cool and dry.
Operation Proper Mulching Attaching a Trailer Mulching consists of a mower deck which cuts and recuts clippings into tiny particles and which then blows them down INTO the lawn. These tiny particles decompose rapidly into by-products your lawn can use. UNDER PROPER CONDITIONS, your mulching mower will virtually eliminate noticeable clippings on the lawn surface. The maximum weight of a towed trailer should be less than 200 lbs (91kg).
Regular Maintenance Regular Maintenance Maintenance Schedule The following schedule should be followed for normal care of your rider and mower. You will need to keep a record of your operating time. Determining operating time is easily accomplished by observing the elapsed time recorded by the hour meter.
Regular Maintenance Checking / Adding Fuel WARNING To add fuel: 1. Stop the engine and allow to cool for at least 3 minutes. 2. Remove the fuel cap (see Figure 1). 3. Fill the tank to the bottom of the filler neck. This will allow for fuel expansion. NOTE: Do not overfill. Refer to your engine manual for specific fuel recommendations. 4. Install and hand tighten the fuel cap. Fuel Filter The fuel filter is located in the fuel line between fuel tank and carburetor, near the fuel pump.
Regular Maintenance Check Hydraulic Oil Level 1. Before removing the reservoir cap, make sure the area around the reservoir cap and fill neck of the reservoir is free of dust, dirt, or other debris. 2. Unscrew the reservoir cap (B, Figure 19). 3. Look down the filler neck of the hydraulic oil reservoir (A) and observe the oil level. When cold, the oil level should be approximately 4” (10 cm) below top of the filler neck. 4.
Regular Maintenance Lubrication Lubricate the unit at the locations shown in Figures 21 through 25 as well as the following lubrication points. Grease: • front caster wheel axles & yokes • deck lift pivot blocks • mower deck spindles • mower deck idler arm Use grease fittings when present. Disassemble parts to apply grease to moving parts when grease fittings are not installed. Figure 22. Control Handle Pivots & Seat Plate Pivots Not all greases are compatible. Use automotive-type lithium grease.
Regular Maintenance Servicing The Mower Blades Removing the Mower Blade WARNING Avoid injury! Mower blades are sharp. Always wear gloves when handling mower blades or working near blades. 1. Wedge a wooden block between the mower blade and the mower deck housing to keep the mower blade from turning. 2. To remove the mower blade, use a 15/16” wrench to remove the mower blade mounting bolt (Figure 26). Figure 26.
Regular Maintenance Sharpening the Mower Blade A WARNING Avoid injury! Mower blades are sharp. • Always wear gloves when handling mower blades or working near blades. • Always wear safety eye protection when grinding. 1. Sharpen the mower blades with grinder, hand file, or electric blade sharpener. 2. Sharpen the mower blade by removing an equal amount of material from each end of the mower blade. 3. Keep the original bevel (A, Figure 29) when grinding. DO NOT change the mower blade bevel. 4.
Regular Maintenance Battery Charging A dead battery or one too weak to start the engine may be the result of a defect in the charging system or other electrical component. If there is any doubt about the cause of the problem, see your dealer. If you need to replace the battery, follow the steps under Cleaning the Battery & Cables in the Regular Maintenance section.
Regular Maintenance Ground Speed Control Lever Adjustment The control levers can be adjusted in three ways. The alignment of the control levers, the placement of the levers (how close the ends are to one another) and the height of the levers can be adjusted. A B To Adjust the Handle Alignment Loosen the mount bolts (A, Figure 33) and pivot the lever(s) (C) to align with each other.
Regular Maintenance Neutral Adjustment If the tractor “creeps” while the ground speed control levers are locked in NEUTRAL, then it may be necessary to adjust the linkage rod. 1. Park the machine on a hard, level surface such as a concrete floor. Disengage the PTO, engage the parking brake, and turn off the engine. B CAUTION D A This adjustment should not be performed while the machine is running. 2. The locking nuts (D, Figure 35) are to be used together to turn the rod.
Regular Maintenance Parking Brake Adjustment 1. Disengage the PTO, engage the parking brake, stop the engine and remove the ignition key. 2. Raise the seat plate. 3. Locate the brake spring (A, Figure 37). 4. With the parking brake engaged, measure the compressed spring length. The spring should be 1-15/16” - 2” (4,9 - 5,1 cm) when compressed. 5. If the spring is not within this range, release the parking brake and turn the adjustment nut (B) to compress or relax the spring. 6.
Regular Maintenance Suspension Adjustment To adjust the upper mounting position (Rear Shocks): The shock assembly can be adjusted to vary the amount of pre-load applied to the springs. This allows the operator to maintain the ride height. 1. Park machine on a flat, level surface. Disengage the PTO, stop the engine, and engage the parking brake. 2. Raise the rear of the machine and secure with jackstands. The jackstands must under the bumper. Chock the front wheels to prevent the machine from rolling. 3.
Regular Maintenance Deck Lift Rod Timing Adjustment Inner Rod Checking the Deck Lift Rod Timing Adjustment 1. Park machine on a flat, level surface. Disengage the PTO, stop the engine, and engage the parking brake. Rear tires must be inflated to 15 psi (1,03 bar); front tires to 25 psi (1,72 bar). nd e2 r su a Me t re u as 1s Me 2. To check the inner lift rod timing, measure and record the distance between the inner lift pivots and the inner rod pivots. Repeat for other side of unit.
Regular Maintenance Deck Leveling Adjustment A NOTE: Before adjusting the deck level, the deck lift rod timing must be checked and/or adjusted. 1. Park machine on a flat, level surface. Disengage the PTO, stop the engine and engage the parking brake. Rear tires must be inflated to 15 psi (1,03 bar); front tires to 25 psi (1,72 bar). 2. Lock the deck lift pedal in the 5” (12,7cm) position. Place the deck height adjustment pin in the 4” position and lower deck the lift pedal until the arm contacts the pin.
Regular Maintenance Mower Belt Replacement A NOTICE B To avoid damaging belts, do NOT pry belts over pulleys. D 1. Park the tractor on a smooth, level surface such as a concrete floor. Disengage the PTO, engage the parking brake, turn off the engine, and remove the ignition key. WARNING Spring loaded components can kick back causing injury. Use extreme caution when rotating the idler arm with the breaker bar, due to the increased tension in the spring as the idler arm is being rotated.
Troubleshooting Troubleshooting WARNING While normal care and regular maintenance will extend the life of your equipment, prolonged or constant use may eventually require that service be performed to allow it to continue operating properly. The troubleshooting guide below lists the most common problems, their causes and remedies. See the information on the following pages for instructions on how to perform most of these minor adjustments and service repairs yourself.
Troubleshooting Troubleshooting the Rider continued PROBLEM CAUSE REMEDY 1. Hydraulic release valve(s) in “open” position. 2. Belt is broken. 3. Drive belt slips. 4. Brake is not fully released. 1. Turn hydraulic release valve(s) clockwise to close. 2. See Drive Belt Replacement. 3. See Problem and Cause below. 4. See authorized service dealer. 1. Pulleys or belt greasy or oily. 2. Tension too loose. 3. Belt stretched or worn. 1. Clean as required. 2. Adjust spring tension. See Drive Belt Replacement.
Troubleshooting Troubleshooting Common Cutting Problems PROBLEM CAUSE REMEDY Streaking 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Sharpen your blades. Replace your blades. Always mow at FULL throttle. Slow down. Clean out the mower. Overlap you cutting rows. When turning you effective cutting width decreases—overlap more when turning. Lawn is uneven or bumpy. Mower deck cutting height is set too low. Ground speed is too fast. Deck is not levelled correctly. Tire pressure is low or uneven. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Specifications Specifications NOTE: Specifications are correct at time of printing and are subject to change without notice. * Actual sustained equipment horsepower will likely be lower due to operating limitations and environmental factors.
44 www.simplicitymfg.com 2 ALIGN THIS EDGE WITH A VERTICAL SURFACE (TREE, POLE, FENCE POST, BUILDING, ETC) EGREE E SLOPE LOP EE S EGR 15 D A 10 D IS A THIS IS THIS SLOPE INDENTIFICATION GUIDE 3 COMPARE THE ANGLE OF THE FOLD TO THE ANGLE OF THE SLOPE 1. Fold this page along the dotted line indicated above. 2. Align the left edge of this guide with a vertical tree, a power line pole, a fence post, or any vertical structure. 3. Compare the angle of the fold with the angle of the hill.
Product Quick Specs: ENGINE TRANSMISSIONS: 30 HP Briggs & Stratton** HydroGear PG-3H / HGM-12E 3131 Make Briggs & Stratton Type Pump and Wheel Motor Model 543777-0113-E1 Hydraulic Fluid Horsepower 30 @ 3200 rpm Mobil 1™ 15W-50 oil OR Castrol Syntec™ 5W-50 oil Displacement 54.62 Cu in. (895 cc) Speeds @ 3200 rpm Foward: 0-10 MPH (0-16.09 km/h) Reverse: 0-5 MPH (0-5 km/h) Electrical System 12 Volt, 20 amp. Alternator, Battery 340 CCA 2.
