N ep o ro t fo du r ct io n Operator’s Manual ZT4000 Series Description ZT4000B2444, Zero-Turn Rider w/ 44” Mower ZT4000B2648, Zero-Turn Rider w/ 48” Mower ZT4000B2748, Zero-Turn Rider w/ 48” Mower R Mfg. No.
General Information 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 .................................................. 4 Safety Rules & Information ..............................................4 Safety Decals ..................................................................13 Safety Icons & Interlock System ....................................14 Features & Controls ......................................... 15 Identification Numbers ...................................................15 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 position and fasten the seat belt. Do not jump off if the mower tips (it is safer to be secured by the seat belt.) N ep o ro t fo du r ct io n NEVER remove the roll bar. Retaining Walls, Drop-offs, and Water R Retaining walls and drop-offs around steps and water are a common hazard. Give yourself a minimum of two mower widths of clearance around these hazards and hand-trim with a walk behind mower or string trimmer.
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 19. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for wheel weights or counterweights. 20.
OPERATOR SAFETY Slope Operation Towed Equipment (Ride-On Units) 1. Tow only with a machine that has a hitch designed for towing. Do not attach towed equipment except at the hitch point. 2. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for weight limit for towed equipment and towing on slopes. See attaching a trailer under OPERATION. 3. Never allow children or others in or on towed equipment. 4. On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment may cause loss of traction and loss of control. 5.
OPERATOR SAFETY Service and Maintenance N ep o ro t fo du r ct io n 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. 1) Check to make sure the machine GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight), including attachments, restrained payload, fuel and operator, is not in excess of the maximum weight specified on the ROLL BAR label. 2) Make sure there isn’t any missing, damaged, or loose mounting hardware.
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 Model xxxxxxx CE Models xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Serial xxxxxxxxxx PL Identification Tag XXX E BRIGGS & STRATTON CORP. POWER PRODUCTS GROUP, LLC MILWAUKEE, WI 53201 USA 20xx kg: xxx kW: x.xx xxxx max N ep o ro t fo du r ct io n When contacting your authorized dealer for replacement parts, service, or information you MUST have these numbers.
Control Functions N ep o ro t fo du r ct io n FEATURES AND CONTROLS 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. R 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 Seat Adjustment Lever 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. 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 Checks Before Starting 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. • Check that crankcase is filled to full mark on dipstick (B, Figure 1).
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 Serial Number Pressure psi bar Front 2013129510 & Below 40 2,76 Front 2013129511 & Above 25 1,72 Rear All 15 1,03 Figure 2.
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 4-1/2” (11,4 cm) in 1/4” (0,64 cm) increments. 1. Depress the deck lift foot pedal (B) until it locks into the 4-1/2” (11,4 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. 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.
OPERATION Storage Before you store your unit for the off-season, read the Maintenance and Storage instructions in the Safety Rules section, then perform the following steps: WARNING Fuel and its vapors are extremely flammable and explosive. Fire or explosion can cause severe burns or death. • Never store the unit, with gasoline in the engine or fuel tank, in a heated shelter or in enclosed, poorly ventilated enclosures.
OPERATION The amount of grass you are able to cut in one pass is also effected by the type of mowing system you are using (for example, broadcasting with side discharge decks can process a much larger volume of grass than mulching does). Tall Grass Requires Incremental Cutting For extremely tall grass, set the cutting height at maximum for the first pass, and then reset it to the desired height and mow a second or third time. Don’t cover the grass surface with a heavy layer of clippings.
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. If necessary, add SAE 20W-50 motor oil. DO NOT use synthetic oils. 5.
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 21. Deck Lubrication 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 25). Figure 25.
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. Balancing the Mower Blades Figure 28. Sharpening the Mower Blade A. Mower Blade Bevel B. Mower Blade Cutting Edge N ep o ro t fo du r ct io n 1. Sharpen the mower blades with grinder, hand file, or electric blade sharpener. 2.
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 31) 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. NOTE: Perform this adjustment on a hard, level surface such as a concrete floor. B D A Figure 33. Neutral Adjustment (RH side shown) A. Adjustment Linkage Rod B. Jam Nut C. Ball Joint D. Locking Nuts N ep o ro t fo du r ct io n 1. Disengage the PTO, engage the parking brake and turn off the engine. 2.
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 35). 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 Rear Suspension Adjustment The shock assembly can be adjusted to allow the operator to customize the ride according to operator’s weight and/or operating conditions. You have the option of adjusting the spring pre-load. Items to consider before adjusting the suspension. • Less spring pre-load should be used with light weight operators, which will provide a softer, more cushioned ride.
REGULAR MAINTENANCE Deck Lift Rod Timing And Leveling Adjustment Figure 38. Check Lift Rod Timing R N ep o ro t fo du r ct io n 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 40 psi (2,76 bar). 2. To check the lift rod timing, measure and record the distance between the lift pivots and the rod pivots. Repeat for other side of unit. See Figure 38. 3.
REGULAR MAINTENANCE Mower Belt Replacement B NOTICE To avoid damaging belts, do NOT pry belts over pulleys. 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. 2. Lower the mower deck to its lowest cutting position and remove the mower deck guards. A WARNING Spring loaded components can kick back causing injury.
REGULAR MAINTENANCE Check the Mower Belt Tensioner Spring Length - 44” Models (All) & 48” Models (S/N: 2014720668 & Below) A 7-1/4” (18,42 cm) With the spring anchor (A, Figure 44) adjusted in the second hole (B) of the spring bracket (C) the coil-to-coil spring length should measure 7-1/4” (18,42 cm). A A Figure 44. Check the Mower Belt Tensioner Spring Length A. Spring Anchor B. Second Hole C.
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. Blades are not sharp. Blades are worn down too far. Engine speed is too slow. Ground speed is too fast. Deck is plugged with grass. Not overlapping cutting rows enough. Not overlapping enough when turning. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 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. 6.
SPECIFICATIONS Specifications Specifications are correct at time of printing and are subject to change without notice. ENGINE: 24 Gross HP* Briggs & Stratton Make Model Displacement Electrical System Oil Capacity Briggs & Stratton 44M777-0113-E1 (S/N: 2013156319 & Below) 44M777-0133-G1 (S/N: 2013156320 & Above) 44.18 Cu. in (724 cc) 12 Volt, 16 amp. Alternator, Battery: 340 CCA 2 qt. (1.
2 EGREE 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.
N ep o ro t fo du r ct io n R Notes
N ep o ro t fo du r ct io n R Notes
BRIGGS & STRATTON POWER PRODUCTS GROUP, L.L.C. OWNER WARRANTY POLICY LIMITED WARRANTY Briggs & Stratton Power Products Group, LLC will repair and/or replace, free of charge, any part(s) of the equipment that is defective in material or workmanship or both. Briggs & Stratton Corporation will repair and/or replace, free of charge, any part(s) of the Briggs and Stratton engine* (if equipped) that is defective in material or workmanship or both.
N ep o ro t fo du r ct io n R MANUFACTURING, INC. PO Box 702 Milwaukee, WI, 53201-0702 1-800-837-6836 www.simplicitymfg.
