USER’S MANUAL 18HP Zero-Turn Riders Mfg. No. 2690487 5900608 Description Massey Ferguson ZT 1844 Snapper ZT18441KHC 19HP Zero-Turn Riders Mfg. No. 5900609 Description Snapper ZT19441KWV 20HP Zero-Turn Riders Mfg. No.
Table of Contents Safety Rules & Information.................................2 Identification Numbers........................................5 Safety Decals .......................................................6 Safety Icons & Interlock System ........................7 Features & Controls ............................................8 Troubleshooting, Adjustments & Service .......22 Troubleshooting the Rider .....................................22 Troubleshooting the Mower ................................
Safety Rules and Information 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.
Safety Rules and Information SLOPE OPERATION WARNING 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.
Safety Rules and Information SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE 12. Do not use gasoline containing METHANOL, gasohol containing more than 10% ETHANOL, gasoline additives, or white gas because engine/fuel system damage could result. 13. If the fuel tank must be drained, it should be drained outdoors. 14. Replace faulty silencers/mufflers. 15. Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels as necessary. 16. Use only factory authorized replacement parts when making repairs. 17.
Identification Numbers Identification Numbers Unit ID Tag SA Mower ID Tag M North American / CE Models PL E SA M CE Models (Only) PRODUCT REFERENCE DATA Model Description Name/Number PL E When contacting your authorized dealer for replacement parts, service, or information you MUST have these numbers. Record your model name/number, manufacturer’s identification numbers, and engine serial numbers in the space provided for easy access. These numbers can be found in the locations shown.
Safety Decals 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. All DANGER, WARNING, CAUTION and instructional messages on your rider and mower should be carefully read and obeyed. Personal bodily injury can result when these instructions are not followed. The information is for your safety and it is important! The safety decals below are on your rider and mower.
Safety Icons & Interlock System SAFETY ICONS Warning: Read Operator’s Manual. Read and understand the Operator’s Manual before using this machine. 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. Danger: Thrown Objects. This machine is capable of throwing objects and debris. Keep bystanders away.
Features & 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. Throttle Control Ground Speed Levers The throttle controls engine speed. Move the throttle forward to increase engine speed and back to decrease engine speed.
Features & Controls Fuel Tank 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. Fuel Level Gauge To remove the cap, turn counterclockwise. The fuel gauge is mounted in the fuel tank and indicates the amount of fuel in the tank. Mower Height of Cut Adjustment & START Cranks the engine for starting.
Operation GENERAL OPERATING SAFETY CHECKS BEFORE STARTING Before first time operation: • Check that crankcase is filled to full mark on dipstick. See the engine Operator’s Manual for instructions and oil recommendations. • Make sure all nuts, bolts, screws and pins are in place and tight. • Adjust the seat position, and make certain you can reach all controls from operator’s position. • Fill the fuel tank with fresh fuel. Refer to engine manual for fuel recommendations.
Operation WARNING MOWING 1. Engage the parking brake. Make sure the PTO switch is disengaged, the motion control handles are locked in the NEUTRAL position and the operator is on the seat. 2. Start the engine (see STARTING THE ENGINE). 3. Set the mower cutting height. 4. Set the throttle to FULL. 5. Engage the PTO by pulling up on the PTO switch. 6. Begin mowing. See Section LC for tips on mowing patterns, lawn care, and trouble shooting information. 7. When finished, shut off the PTO. 8.
Operation ZERO TURN DRIVING PRACTICE Smooth Travel The lever controls of the zero turn rider are responsive . 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. The BEST method of handling the ground speed control levers is in three steps — as shown in Figure 3.
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 ATTACHING A TRAILER A The maximum weight of a towed trailer should be less than 200 lbs (91kg). Secure the trailer with an appropriately sized clevis pin (A, Figure 9) and clip (B). Excessive towed loads can cause loss of traction and loss of control on slopes. Reduce towed weight when operating on slopes. The surface being driven on greatly impacts traction and stability. Wet or slippery surfaces can greatly reduce traction and the ability to stop or turn.
Operation A C B B A A D A Figure 10. Mower Belt Routing A. Arbor Pulleys B. Back-Side Idlers C. PTO Pulley D. Belt Tension Release Lever Figure 11. Release Belt Tension A. Belt Tension Release Lever B. Guard Notch E MOWER REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION C M H NOTE: Perform mower installation and removal on a hard flat surface such as a concrete floor. Removal I 1. Disengage the PTO, engage the parking brake, turn off the ignition, remove the key, and wait for all moving parts to stop. 2.
Regular Maintenance MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE & PROCEDURES 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 LUBRICATION Lubricate the unit at the following lubrication points shown in Figure 13. Oil: Grease: • control handle pivots • front caster wheel axles • discharge chute hinge • front caster yokes • rear suspension pivots (select models) Generally, all moving metal parts should be oiled where contact is made with other parts. Keep oil and grease off belts and pulleys. Remember to wipe fittings and surfaces clean both before and after lubrication.
Regular Maintenance WARNING For your personal safety, do not handle the sharp mower blades with bare hands. Careless or improper handling of blades may result in serious injury. WARNING For your personal safety, blade mounting capscrews must each be installed with a hex/spline washer and spring washer, then securely tightened. Torque blade mounting capscrew to 45-55 ft. lbs. (61-75 N.m.) Figure 14. Blade Removal SERVICING THE MOWER BLADES Service Interval: Every 10 Hours or As Required Workbench 1.
Regular Maintenance 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. CHECKING / ADDING FUEL Tire Pressure To add fuel: Front 40 psi (2,76 bar) 1. Remove the fuel cap (see A, Figure 18). 2. Fill the tank to the bottom of the filler neck.
Regular Maintenance 4. Reinstall the reservoir cap, move the locking tab between two notches, and tighten the locking capscrew. B A D TRANSMISSION OIL FILTER CHANGE Change Interval: Every 250 Hours Filter Part Number: 1719168 1. Locate the transmission oil filter (C, Figure 19) at the rear of the battery compartment under the seat. C 2. Lubricate the new filter base with a few drops of transmission oil. Fill the filter half full of oil. 3. Clean the area around the filter base and remove the filter.
Regular Maintenance BATTERY MAINTENANCE STORAGE Cleaning the Battery and Cables 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: 1. Disconnect the cables from the battery, negative cable first (B, Figure 19). • Disengage the PTO, set the parking brake, & remove the key. 2. Clean the battery terminals and cable ends with a wire brush until shiny.
Troubleshooting, Adjustments, & Service 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. To avoid serious injury, perform maintenance on the rider or mower only when the engine is stopped and the parking brake engaged.
Troubleshooting, Adjustments, & Service Rider Troubleshooting Continued. PROBLEM CAUSE REMEDY Engine runs, but rider will not drive. 1. 1. Turn valve(s) clockwise to close. Rider drive belt slips. Brake will not hold. Rider steers or handles poorly. 2. 3. 4. 1. 2. 1. 2. 1. 2. Hydraulic release valve(s) in “open” position. Belt is broken. Drive belt slips. Brake is not fully released. Pulleys or belt greasy or oily. Belt stretched or worn. Brake is incorrectly adjusted. Brake caliper pads worn.
Troubleshooting, Adjustments, & Service SEAT ADJUSTMENT The seat and ground speed control levers should be adjusted so that operator’s elbows are supported by the arm rests when his/her hands are on the controls, and the ground speed control levers can be moved through their full range of motion without contacting the operator’s legs. Seat Position Adjustment The seat can be adjusted forward and back.
Troubleshooting, Adjustments, & Service SPEED BALANCING ADJUSTMENT C WARNING DO NOT adjust the rider for a faster overall speed forward or reverse than it was designed for. A If the rider veers to the right or left when the ground speed control levers are in the maximum forward or reverse position, the top speed of each of these levers can be balanced by turning the adjustment bolt(s) (A & C Figure 22). Only adjust the speed of the wheel that is traveling faster. B Figure 22. Top Speed Adjustment A.
Troubleshooting, Adjustments, & Service PARKING BRAKE ADJUSTMENT B 1. Disengage the PTO, stop the engine, block the front wheels, remove the ignition key, and engage the parking brake. 2. Elevate the rear end of the unit and remove the rear wheels. A 3. Check the brake spring (A, Figure 24) length (both wheels). With the brake engaged the compressed spring length should be 2” (5 cm). If not, adjust the locknut (C, Figure 24) to achieve the compressed spring length of 2” (5 cm). C 4.
Troubleshooting, Adjustments, & Service SUSPENSION ADJUSTMENT (SELECT MODELS) The shock assembly can be adjusted to vary the amount of pre-load applied to the springs. This allows the operator to customize the ride according to operator’s weight and operating conditions.
Troubleshooting, Adjustments, & Service A B B B C B Figure 27. Adjust PTO Clutch A. Window B. Adjustment Nut C. .016”-.018” (0,40-0,45mm) Feeler Gauge A Figure 26. PTO Clutch Adjustment A. Adjustment Window (Qty. 3, one shown) B. Adjustment Nut PTO CLUTCH ADJUSTMENT WARNING Check the PTO clutch adjustment after the initial 25 hour break-in period and then after every 100 hours of operation.
Troubleshooting, Adjustments, & Service MOWER DECK LEVELING Perform these adjustments on a flat level surface. SIDE-TO-SIDE LEVELING 1. With the mower installed, place the rider on a smooth, level surface such as a concrete floor. Turn the front wheels so they are straight. 2. Check for bent blades and replace if necessary. 3. Place the mower cutting height pin in the 4th hole from the bottom (see insert, Figure 30). Arrange the outside mower blades so that they are pointing from side-to-side (Figure 28).
Troubleshooting, Adjustments, & Service ROLLER BAR LEVELING (SELECT MODELS) The rollers on this Zero Turn unit are not intended to ride on the ground. DO NOT adjust rollers to ride on the ground. Rollers riding on the ground will damage turf and or unit. A 1. First level the mower deck using the procedure found in MOWER DECK LEVELING. 2. With the mower installed, place the rider on a smooth, level surface such as a concrete floor. Turn the front wheels so they are straight. 3.
Troubleshooting, Adjustments, & Service HYDRAULIC PUMP DRIVE BELT REPLACEMENT B 1. Park the rider 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. Remove the PTO drive belt (see MOWER BELT REPLACEMENT for removal instructions). G H E 3. Loosen the nut towards the front of the machine on the spring anchor hook (H, Figure 35) to release the majority of the belt tension.
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. ENGINE: CHASSIS: 18 HP* Kohler Fuel Tank Rear Wheels Make Model Horsepower Displacement Electrical System Oil Capacity Kohler Courage 18 18 @ 3400 rpm 32.6 Cu. in (535 cc) 12 Volt, 15 amp. Alternator, Battery: 340 CCA 1.6 qt. ( 1.
Lawn Care & Mowing Information HOW AND WHEN TO WATER, FERTILIZE & AERATE HOW TO WATER YOUR LAWN Most lawns are watered too often, but with too little water. However too much water can allow development of diseases with your lawn. It is best to water the lawn only when necessary, and then to water it slowly, evenly, and deeply—imitating a slow, soaking rain. HOW TO FERTILIZE YOUR LAWN The best method of watering a lawn is to imitate a slow, soaking rain, applying about 1 inch of water.
Lawn Care & Mowing Information 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: ● Mow when the grass is between 3”-4” (7,5-10 cm) high. ● 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.
PRODUCTS, INC. McDonough, GA., 30253 www.snapper.com M A N U FA C T U R I N G , I N C . 500 N Spring Street / PO Box 997 Port Washington, WI 53074-0997 www.simplicitymfg.com © Copyright 2005, Simplicity Manufacturing, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Printed in USA.