Safety Instructions & Operator’s Manual for REAR ENGINE RIDING MOWER SERIES 23 MODEL 421823BVE W421623BVE MODEL NUMBER EXPLANATION 42 18 23 B V E CUTTING WIDTH ENGINE HP SERIES DESIGNATION W – Model Designation ENGINE OPTIONS ENGINE TYPE ENGINE MODEL 42 - 42” Cutting Deck 16 -16.0 HP Engine 18 -18.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS WARNING: This powerful cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and can throw objects that can cause injury and damage! Failure to comply with the following SAFETY instructions could result in serious injury or death to the operator or other persons. The owner of the machine must understand these instructions and must allow only persons who understand these instructions to operate machine.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS PREPARATION OPERATION (Continued From Previous Page) 7. Keep people and pets out of mowing area. Immediately STOP blades, STOP engine, and STOP machine if anyone enters the area. 8. Check shields, deflectors, switches, blade controls and other safety devices frequently for proper operation and location. 9. Make sure all safety decals are clearly legible. Replace if damaged. 10. Protect yourself when mowing and wear safety glasses, long pants and substantial footwear. 11.
TABLE OF CONTENTS IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS.........................................................................2-3 TABLE OF CONTENTS......................................................................................................4 SECTION 1 - FAMILIARIZATION .......................................................................................5 SECTION 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS................................................................6-12 Pre-start Checklist ...........................
Section 1 - FAMILIARIZATION ENGINE SPEED AND CHOKE FUEL FILLER CAP AND VENT FUEL TANK LOCATED LEFT OF SEAT DECK LIFT LEVER TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL OVERRIDE LEVER PARK BRAKE LATCH DISCHARGE DEFLECTOR BLADE LEVER BLADE PEDALS FIGURE 1.1 1.1 INTRODUCTION This manual has been prepared for the operator’s of the SNAPPER Rear Engine Rider.
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 2.1 PRE-START CHECK LIST Make the following checks and perform the service required before each start-up. 2.1.1. Check tires and add or release air as needed to bring pressure to 12 psi in front and 12 psi in rear tires. 2.1.2. Check guards, deflectors and covers to make sure all are in place and securely tightened. 2.1.3. Check engine oil and add oil as needed to bring level up to the FULL mark. Refer to engine owner’s manual for oil specifications. See Figure 2.1.
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 2.3 STARTING & OPERATION 2.3.1. ENGINE (ELECTRIC START) IMPORTANT: When the ignition key is turned to “START”, the engine will turn over, but will not start unless the Clutch/Brake pedal is pressed all the way down, the Blade Lever is in the “Off” position (See Figure 2.4). The operator should be in the seat. Start engine as follows: 1. Move transmission shift lever to (N) Neutral position. DO NOT start engine with transmission shift lever in a drive position.
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 2.3 STARTING & OPERATION 2.3.1. ENGINE (ELECTRIC START) (Continued) 8. Should the battery be too weak to start the engine, Refer to Section “ENGINE (MANUAL START)” to manually start the electric start engines. 4. Open vent on fuel filler cap by turning counterclockwise. NOTE: Failure to open vent on the fuel filler cap can cause engine to stall. See Figure 2.6. 5.
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS WARNING WARNING Once blade is disengaged, it should come to a complete stop in 3 seconds or less. If the blade continues to rotate after 3 seconds, the blade brake must be adjusted. Refer to Section “BLADE BRAKE ADJUSTMENT” for adjustment procedures or return machine to an authorized SNAPPER dealer for adjustment. DO NOT CONTINUE to operate machine until blade brake is adjusted and functioning properly. DO NOT operate blades in reverse. STOP BLADES.
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS WARNING TO APPLY BRAKES, PUSH CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL ALL THE WAY DOWN. DO NOT leave machine with the engine running. Stop engine. Stop blade. Shift to neutral. Engage parking brake. Remove key. CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL 2.4 STOPPING - ENGINE, WHEEL DRIVE, BLADE 2.4.1. ENGINE 1. Stop engine by turning key to the “OFF” position. See Figure 2.13. TURN TO “OFF” POSITION PARK BRAKE LATCH SHOWN ENGAGED KEY FIGURE 2.14 BLADE LEVER IN “OFF” POSITION FIGURE 2.13 2.4.2. WHEEL DRIVE 1.
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 2.4 STOPPING - ENGINE, WHEEL DRIVE, BLADE 2.4.4. PARK BRAKE 1. Engage park brake by pushing clutch/brake pedal “DOWN” and moving the park brake latch over to the “ENGAGED” position. While holding the park brake latch “ENGAGED”, release clutch/brake pedal to set park brake. See Figure 2.16. 2.5. CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT 1. Adjust cutting height as desired to any one of six positions using deck lift lever.
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 2.6 REVERSE LOCKOUT MECHANISM 2.6.1. Reverse Lockout Mechanism Override 1. Stop machine. Stop blade. 2. Depress and hold Override Lever. 3. Depress and hold Blade Pedals. Release Override Lever. 4. Move blade lever forward to “ON” position. Data indicates that tragic back-over accidents occur each year. These accidents usually involve unsupervised children.
Section 3 - MAINTENANCE 5. After all the oil has drained, close the drain and wipe up any oil that may have spilled. See Figure 3.1. Dispose of oil properly. 6. Fill engine crankcase with new oil. Refer to your engine owner’s manual for oil specifications. 7. Change oil filter at every oil change. Refer to your engine owner’s manual for service instructions. WARNING DO NOT attempt any adjustments, maintenance, service or repairs with the engine running. STOP engine. STOP blade. Engage parking brake.
Section 3 - MAINTENANCE TOP VIEW OF BELT ROUTING WARNING DO NOT attempt any adjustments, maintenance, service or repairs with the engine running. STOP engine. STOP blade. Engage parking brake. Remove key. Remove spark plug wire from spark plug and secure away from plug. Engine and components are HOT. Avoid serious burns, allow all parts to cool before working on machine. Fuel Filler Cap and vent must be closed securely to prevent fuel spillage. LEFT SPINDLE PULLEY 3.2 SERVICE - AFTER FIRST 5 HOURS 3.2.4.
Section 3 – MAINTENANCE 5. Air Filter Refer to engine owner’s manual for service instructions. a. Change air filter. Remove bolts that secure air cleaner cover. See Figure 3.4. IMPORTANT: When cover is removed, you are viewing the carburetor side of the air filter, which will appear clean. Remove filter and pre-cleaner for inspection. 3.2 SERVICE - AFTER FIRST 5 HOURS 3.2.8. REVERSE LOCKOUT MECHANISM Check function of Reverse Lockout Mechanism with engine off. 1. Depress and hold blade pedals. 2.
Section 3 – MAINTENANCE 3.3.2. BATTERY FLUID LEVEL 1. Remove battery. Refer to Section “BATTERY REMOVAL”. 2. Remove battery caps. Check fluid level. 3. Add water only to bring fluid to proper level – approximately 3/16” above plates. DO NOT OVERFILL. 4. Reinstall battery. Refer to Section “BATTERY INSTALLATION”. WARNING DO NOT attempt any adjustments, maintenance, service or repairs with the engine running. Stop engine. Stop blade. Engage parking brake. Remove key.
Section 3 – MAINTENANCE WARNING DO NOT attempt any adjustments, maintenance, service or repairs with the engine running. STOP engine. STOP blade. Engage parking brake. Remove key. Remove spark plug wire from spark plug and secure away from plug. Engine and components are HOT. Avoid serious burns, allow all parts to cool before working on machine. Fuel Filler Cap and vent must be closed securely to prevent fuel spillage. FRONT WHEEL GREASE FITTING 3.3 SERVICE - EVERY 25 OPERATING HOURS 3.3.5.
Section 3 - MAINTENANCE IMPORTANT: To stop flow of fuel, tank may be removed from bracket and set on the floor so the fuel level will be below the filter. Refer to Section “REMOVING FUEL TANK”. 1. Remove hose clamps from fuel filter. 2. Remove fuel lines from filter. Discard filter. 3. Install new fuel filter. See Figure 3.10. 4. Reinstall fuel tank into bracket. 5. Carefully reinstall fuel clamps. 6. Check fuel system for leaks.
Section 3 - MAINTENANCE 3.6 STORAGE (OUT OF SEASON) If desired, the Rear Engine Rider can be stored on the rear bumper. Perform the following procedures to insure the Rear Engine Rider will operate properly when taken out of storage. 3.6.1. Thoroughly clean the Rear Engine Rider by removing all grass clippings and debris. 3.6.2. Perform maintenance and lubrication as required. 3.6.3. Drain fuel from fuel tank. 3.6.4. Start engine and allow it to run until engine runs out of fuel.
Section 4 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR WARNING WARNING DO NOT attempt any adjustments, maintenance, service or repairs with the engine running. STOP engine. STOP blade. Engage parking brake. Remove key. Remove spark plug wire from spark plug and secure away from plug. Engine and components are HOT. Avoid serious burns, allow all parts to cool before working on machine. Fuel Filler Cap and vent must be closed securely to prevent fuel spillage.
Section 4 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR 4.2.4. MOWER DECK ADJUSTMENT (Side To Side Levelness) Before making deck leveling adjustments, check the tire pressure. Front tires 12 psi, rear tires 12 psi. If tires are properly inflated and mowing is still uneven, adjust side-to-side deck levelness as follows: 1. Place Rider on a smooth level surface. 2. Turn engine off and remove key, remove spark plug wire from spark plug and secure wire away from plug. 3.
Section 4 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR 4.2 MOWER DECK & COMPONENT ADJUSTMENTS 4.2.6. CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT The cutting height range of the mower can be adjusted. 1. Place the Rear Engine Rider on a smooth, level surface. 2. Place blocks under mower deck. Lower deck with deck lift lever until weight of mower is supported on the blocks. 3. Loosen lift quadrant mounting bolts. Raise or lower lift quadrant as desired. See Figure 4.6.
Section 4 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR 4.3.2. SERVICE BRAKE/PARK BRAKE ADJUSTMENT Test the wheel brake on a dry concrete surface. When properly adjusted, the Rear Engine Rider will stop within 5 feet from fastest speed. If stopping distance is more than 5 feet, the wheel brake should be adjusted as follows: 1. Follow WARNING statement found on this page. 2. Check fuel level in tank. If over 3/4 full, remove tank. Refer to Section “REMOVING FUEL TANK”. If 3/4 or less, proceed to next step. 3.
Section 4 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR WARNING CHAIN CASE BRAKE CABLE DO NOT attempt any adjustments, maintenance, service or repairs with the engine running. STOP engine. STOP blade. Engage parking brake. Remove key. Remove spark plug wire from spark plug and secure away from plug. Engine and components are HOT. Avoid serious burns, allow all parts to cool before working on machine. Fuel Filler Cap and vent must be closed securely to prevent fuel spillage. 4.3 REAR ENGINE RIDER DRIVE COMPONENTS 4.3.2.
Section 4 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR WARNING WARNING DO NOT attempt any adjustments, maintenance, service or repairs with the engine running. STOP engine. STOP blade. Engage parking brake. Remove key. Remove spark plug wire from spark plug and secure away from plug. Engine and components are HOT. Avoid serious burns, allow all parts to cool before working on machine. Fuel Filler Cap and vent must be closed securely to prevent fuel spillage.
Section 4 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR WARNING DO NOT attempt any adjustments, maintenance, service or repairs with the engine running. STOP engine. STOP blade. Engage parking brake. Remove key. Remove spark plug wire from spark plug and secure away from plug. Engine and components are HOT. Avoid serious burns, allow all parts to cool before working on machine. Fuel Filler Cap and vent must be closed securely to prevent fuel spillage. REMOVE STATIONARY IDLER RIGHT SPINDLE 4.5.2. BELT REPLACEMENT 1.
Section 4 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR RED POSITIVE (+) CABLE WARNING DO NOT attempt any adjustments, maintenance, service or repairs with the engine running. Stop engine. Stop blade. Engage parking brake. Remove key. Remove spark plug wire from spark plug and secure away from plug. Engine and components are HOT. Avoid serious burns, allow all parts to cool before working on machine. Fuel Filler Cap and Vent must be closed securely to prevent fuel spillage.
Section 4 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR WARNING WARNING The electrolyte (acid) produces a highly explosive gas. Keep all sparks, flame and fire away from area when charging battery or when handling electrolyte or battery. Electrolyte (acid) is a highly corrosive liquid. Wear eye protection. Wash affected areas immediately after having eye or skin contact with electrolyte (acid). Battery acid is corrosive. Rinse empty acid containers with water and mutilate before discarding.
Section 4 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR 4.6.6. BATTERY TESTING Battery Condition Chart State of Charge 100% Charged w/ Sulfate Stop 100% Charged 75% Charged 50% Charged 25% Charged 0% Charged Syringe Hydrometer 1.280 1.265 1.210 1.160 1.120 Less than 1.100 Digital Voltmeter 12.80v 12.60v 12.40v 12.10v 11.90v Less than 11.80v Five Ball Hydrometer Five Balls Floating Four Balls Floating Three Balls Floating Two Balls Floating One Ball Floating Zero Balls Floating SNAPPER REAR ENGINE RIDER ACCESSORIES PART NO.
TROUBLESHOOTING PROBLEM Engine Will Not Start Using Recoil Starter Engine Will Not Start Using Electric Starter Engine Stalls After Running Engine Loses Power PROBABLE CAUSE CORRECTIVE ACTION 1. Fuel tank empty. 2. Engine needs choking. 3. Spark plug wire disconnected. 4. Faulty parking brake, blade or ignition switch. 5. Park brake not engaged. 1. Fill fuel tank with fresh fuel to proper level. 2. Move choke control to “CHOKE” position. 3. Place spark plug wire onto spark plug. 4.
TROUBLESHOOTING PROBLEM PROBABLE CAUSE Rider Will Not Move 1. Drive disc worn or damaged. 2. Rubber drive disc is not tracking properly on Loss Of Traction drive disc. 3. Tapered axle bolt and nut missing. 4. Axle bearing seized. 5. Insufficient lubrication in chain case or transmission/differential. Blade(s) Not Cutting 1. Blade engagement lever in the “OFF” position. 2. Mower belt slipping. 3. Cutting blade is dull, worn or damaged. 1. Uneven tire pressure. Cutting Grass Improperly 2.
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE SUBJECT EACH USE 5 HOURS 25 HOURS 50 HOURS 100 HOURS Engine SERVICE TO BE PERFORMED Check Oil Level REFERENCE PAGES Page 6 Tires Check Pressures Page 6 Engine Initial Oil Change Page 13 Engine Periodic Oil Change Page 15 Air Pre-Cleaner Engine Manual X** Air Cleaner Service Sponge PreCleaner Element Replace Element Engine Manual X** Spark Plug Replace Plugs Engine Manual X Fuel Filter Replace Filter Page 18 X Engine Cooling System Battery Clean Shrouds
3 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY For three (3) years from purchase date for the original purchaser's residential, non-commercial use, SNAPPER, through any authorized SNAPPER dealer will replace, free of charge (except for taxes where applicable), any part or parts found upon examination by the factory at McDonough, Georgia, to be defective in material or workmanship or both.
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SNAPPER PRODUCT REGISTRATION FORM IMPORTANT: KEEP THIS INFORMATION FOR YOUR PERSONAL RECORDS (Complete the following information on your Snapper purchase) Model Number ____________________________________________________________ Serial Number _____________________________________________________________ Date of Purchase ___________________________________________________________ Retailer ___________________________________________________________________ Retailer’s Phone Number____________________________
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Safety Instructions & Operator’s Manual for REAR ENGINE RIDING MOWER SERIES 23 IMPORTANT Snapper products are built using engines that meet or exceed all applicable emissions requirements on the date manufactured. The labels on those engines contain very important emissions information and critical safety warnings. Read, Understand, and Follow all warnings and instructions in this manual, the engine manual, and on the machine, engine and attachments.
