Operator’s Manual N o R tf ep o r ro du ct io n Zero-Turn Riding Mower 400Z Series Mfg. No.
Thank you for purchasing this quality-built SNAPPER product. We’re pleased that you’ve placed your confidence in the SNAPPER brand. When operated and maintained according to the instructions in this manual, your SNAPPER 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 Safety Rules and Information..................................2 Safety Decals...........................................................8 Safety Interlock System...........................................9 Features & Controls.......................................... 10 Identification Numbers...........................................10 Control Functions...................................................11 Operation............................................................
Operator Safety Safety Rules and Information 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 Retaining Walls, Drop-offs, and Water 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. Wheels dropping over retaining walls, edges, ditches, embankments, or into water can cause rollovers, which may result in serious injury, death, or drowning.
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. Preparation 3. Be sure all drives are in neutral and parking brake is engaged before starting engine.
Operator Safety WARNING It is a violation of California Public Resource Code, Section 4442, to use or operate the engine in any forest-covered, brush-covered, or grass-covered land unless the exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester as defined in Section 4442, maintained and in effective working order. Other states or federal jurisdictions may have similar laws. Contact an Authorized Service Dealer to obtain a spark arrester designed for the exhaust system installed on this engine. 25.
Operator Safety To avoid personal injury or property damage, use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive. Safe Handling of Gasoline N o R tf ep o r ro du ct io 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.
Operator Safety Safety Decals Before operating your unit, read the safety decals. The cautions and warnings are for your safety. To avoid a personal injury or damage to the unit, understand and follow all safety decals. WARNING If any safety decals become worn or damaged, and cannot be read, order replacement decals from your local dealer. 1 1 N o R tf ep o r ro du ct io 2 n Decal, Main Safety Part No.: 5103595 Decal, Amputation and Thrown Objects Part No.
Operator Safety Safety Icons DANGER This indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, will result in serious injury or death. WARNING This indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, could result in serial injury or death. CAUTION This indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, might result in minor or moderate injury.
Features and Controls Identification Numbers SA M PRODUCT ID. X, XXX, XXXXXXXX PL MODEL NO. XXXXXXX-XX SERIAL NO. XXXXXXXXXX E BRIGGS & STRATTON CORPORATION / Milwaukee, WI 53201 WWW.XXXXXXXXXX.COM 1-800-XXX-XXXX Assembled in USA When contacting your authorized dealer for replacement parts, service, or information you MUST have these numbers. Record your part number, serial number and engine serial numbers in the space provided on the inside front cover for easy access.
Features and Controls Control Functions Parking Brake: 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. E F D C Releases the parking brake. ENGAGE Locks the parking brake. Pull the parking brake lever up to engage the parking brake.
Features and Controls Instrument Control Panel: Hour Meter: The hour meter measures the number of hours the PTO has been engaged. The hour meter has a self contained power source so that total hours are always visible. A B C D E Description A Throttle Control B Choke C PTO (Power Take Off) Switch D Ignition Switch E Hour Meter N o R tf ep o r ro du ct io Callout n Figure 2B. Instrument Control Panel Throttle Control: The throttle controls engine speed.
Operation 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. WARNING • Check that crankcase is filled to full mark on the engine oil dipstick (A, Figure 3). 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 Pressure psi bar Front 25 1,72 Rear 15 1,03 Figure 4. Checking Tire Pressure Seat Adjustment n A N o R tf ep o r ro du ct io See Figure 5.
Operation Mowing Height Adjustment The cutting height adjustment pin (A, Figure 6) controls the mower cutting height. The cutting height is adjustable between 1-1/2” (3,37 cm) and 4-1/2” (11,47 cm) in 1/4” (0,64 cm) increments. 1. Depress the deck lift foot pedal (B) until it locks into the 4-1/2” (11,47 cm) position. 2. Place the cutting height adjustment pin in the desired cutting height. 3. Depress the deck lift foot pedal then pull the lock lever (C) towards the rear of the machine. 4.
Operation WARNING If you do not understand how a specific control functions, or have not yet thoroughly read the FEATURES & CONTROLS section, do so now. Do NOT attempt to operate the tractor without first becoming familiar with the location and function of ALL controls. NOTICE DO NOT TOW RIDER Towing the units will cause transmission damage. Do not use another vehicle to push or pull this unit. 1. Disengage the PTO, engage the parking brake, turn the ignition OFF, and remove the key. 2.
Operation Zero Turn Driving Practice Smooth Travel 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 lever controls of the Zero Turn rider are responsive.
Operation Practice Turning Around a Corner Practice Turning In Place While traveling forward allow one lever 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 Mowing Mowing Recommendations Height of Grass 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. Consider using a grass collection system and starting a compost pile.
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).
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.
Maintenance Fuel Filter E Change Oil & Filter B D A C Figure 19. Engine Oil Drain (Briggs & Stratton shown) A. Oil Drain Hose B. Cap C. Oil Filter D. Fuel Filter E. Fuel Tank Selection Valve F. Oil Dipstick N o R tf ep o r ro du ct io 1. Warm engine by running for a few minutes. (Refer to the engine operator’s manual for oil and filter replacement instructions.) 2. Locate the oil drain hose (A, Figure 19) on the left side of the engine and route the oil drain hose over the rear of the engine deck.
Maintenance Lubrication Lubricate the unit at the locations shown in Figures 20 through 23 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 20. Deck Lubrication Not all greases are compatible.
Maintenance Check / Fill Transmission Oil Oil Type: 20W-50 conventional detergent motor oil. 1. Check the oil level when the unit is cold. Locate the transmission oil reservoirs (A, Figure 24) located on the seat support plate. The oil should be up to the “FULL COLD” mark (B). If the oil is below this level, proceed to step 2. A 2. Before removing the reservoir caps, make sure the area around the reservoir cap and fill neck of the reservoir is free of dust, dirt, or other debris. Remove the reservoir cap.
Maintenance Servicing the Mower Blades Removing the Mower Blade CAUTION Avoid injury! Mower blades are sharp. • Always wear gloves when handling mower blades or working near blades. 1. To remove the mower blade, use a 1” wrench on the flats of the spindle shaft and remove the mower blade mounting bolt with a 15/16” wrench (Figure 26). 2. If there are no flats on the spindle shaft, wedge a wooden block between the mower blade and the mower deck housing to keep the mower blade from turning. Figure 26.
Maintenance Sharpening the Mower Blade A CAUTION Avoid injury! Mower blades are sharp. • Always wear gloves when handling the mower 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.
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. B A To Adjust the Handle Alignment Loosen the mount bolts (A, Figure 32) and pivot the lever(s) (B) to align with each other.
Maintenance Parking Brake Adjustment 1. Disengage the PTO, stop the engine, engage the parking brake, and remove the key from the ignition. 2. Raise the seat plate to gain access to the parking brake components. 3. Measure the distance from the top of the brake spring rod (C, Figure 34) to the top of the lock nut (D) on both sides of the unit. The measurement should be .50” (1,27 cm). If not, adjust the locknut to achieve the measurement of .50” (1,27 cm) 4.
Maintenance Return-to-Neutral Adjustment To determine if it is necessary to adjust the neutral return, perform the following steps. 1. Disengage the PTO, engage the parking brake and turn off the engine. 2. Move the ground speed control levers into the operating position, pull the levers rearward and release. 3. Move the ground speed control levers out towards the neutral position.
Maintenance Deck Rod Timing Adjustment Figure 36. Check Lift Rod Timing n Figure 37. Adjust Lift Rod Timing N o R tf ep o r ro du ct io 1. Park the machine on a flat, level surface. Disengage the PTO, engage the parking brake, turn off the engine, and remove the ignition key. 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.
Maintenance CAUTION A Avoid injury! Mower blades are sharp. Always wear gloves when handling blades or working near blades. to rest on the 2 x 4’s and 1/4” spacers. Slide the chains down in the slots until the chains are tight and tighten the nuts. See Figure 39. 6. Remove all 2 x 4 blocks and spacers from under the mower deck. 7. See Figure 40. Position the outside mower blades so they face front-to-back. 8. Measure the front tip of the blade from the cutting edge to the ground.
Maintenance bar CLOCKWISE and install the belt on the stationary idler pulley (B). Carefully release the tension on the breaker bar. 7. Reinstall the mower deck guards. 8. Run the mower under no-load condition for about 5 minutes to break-in the new belt. 7” (17,8 cm) Check the Mower Belt Idler Tensioner Spring Length Adjusting the Mower Belt Idler Spring Length B D C Figure 42. Adjusting the Mower Belt Idler Spring Length A. Mower Belt Tensioner Spring B. Anchor Eyebolt C. Jam Nut D.
Maintenance Hydraulic Pump Drive Belt Replacement 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. Remove the PTO drive belt (see MOWER BELT REPLACEMENT for removal instructions). WARNING STORED ENERGY DEVICE: Improper release of the belt tension spring can result in personal injury. Use extreme caution when removing this spring. 8. Reinstall the PTO drive belt.
Maintenance Battery Maintenance NOTE: This unit is equipped with a maintenance-free BCIU1 battery. Cleaning the Battery and Cables WARNING A Be careful when handling the battery. Avoid spilling electrolyte. Keep flames and sparks away from the battery. When removing or installing battery cables, disconnect the negative cable FIRST and reconnect it LAST. If not done in this order, the positive terminal can be shorted to the frame by a tool. n Figure 45. Battery Compartment A.
Maintenance WARNING Keep open flames and sparks away from the battery; the gasses coming from it are highly explosive. Ventilate the battery well during charging. Checking Battery Voltage A voltmeter can be used to determine condition of battery. When engine is off, the voltmeter shows battery voltage, which should be 12 volts. When engine is running, the voltmeter shows voltage of charging circuit which normally is 13 to 14 volts.
Maintenance A A D E B D C F Figure 47. Jump Starting N o R tf ep o r ro du ct io This hook-up is for negative grounded vehicles. WARNING For your personal safety, use extreme care when jump starting. Never expose battery to open flame or electric spark – battery action generates hydrogen gas which is flammable and explosive. Do not allow battery acid to contact skin, eyes, fabrics, or painted surfaces.
Maintenance Storage Remember, the fuel tank will still contain some gasoline, so never store the unit indoors or in any other area where fuel vapor could travel to any ignition source. Fuel vapor is also toxic if inhaled, so never store the unit in any structure used for human or animal habitation. Here is a checklist of things to do when storing your unit temporarily or in between uses: • Keep the unit in an area away from where children may come into contact with it.
Troubleshooting Troubleshooting Chart 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 Rider Troubleshooting Continued. Problem Cause Engine runs, but rider will 1. not drive. 2. 3. 4. Transmission release lever(s) in “open” position. Belt is broken. Drive belt slips. Brake is not fully released. Rider drive belt slips. Remedy 1. Move the transmission release lever(s) to the “closed” position. 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.
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. 6. 7. Sharpen your blades. Replace your blades. Always mow at FULL throttle. Slow down. Clean out the mower. Overlap you cutting rows.
Specifications NOTE: Specifications are correct at time of printing and are subject to change without notice. TRANSMISSIONS: ENGINE: 27 Gross HP* Briggs & Stratton Professional Series Oil Capacity Briggs & Stratton 44Q777-0146-G1 44.2 Cu. in (724 cc) 12 volt starter, 16 amp. alternator; Battery: 340 CCA 2.0 US qt. (1,9 L) w/ filter 25 Gross HP* Briggs & Stratton Commercial Turf Make Model Displacement Electrical System Oil Capacity Front Wheels 42 71” (180 cm) 49” (125 cm) 43” (109 cm) 770 lbs.
E E 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 N o R tf ep o r ro du ct io Notes
BRIGGS & STRATTON PRODUCTS WARRANTY POLICY September 2012 LIMITED WARRANTY Briggs & Stratton warrants that, during the warranty period specified below, it will repair or replace, free of charge, any part that is defective in material or workmanship or both. Transportation charges on product submitted for repair or replacement under this warranty must be borne by purchaser. This warranty is effective for and is subject to the time periods and conditions stated below.
Operator’s Manual N o R tf ep o r ro du ct io n Zero-Turn Riding Mower 1-800-317-7833 www.snapper.
