Craftsman 917255919 User Manual GT TWIN GARDEN TRACTOR Manuals And Guides L1004534

WER L1004534

User Manual: Craftsman 917255919 917255919 CRAFTSMAN GT TWIN GARDEN TRACTOR - Manuals and Guides View the owners manual for your CRAFTSMAN GT TWIN GARDEN TRACTOR #917255919. Home:Lawn & Garden Parts:Craftsman Parts:Craftsman GT TWIN GARDEN TRACTOR Manual

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OWNERS
MANUAL

MODEL NO.
917.255919

Caution:
Read and Follow
All Safety Rules
And instructions
Before Operating
This Equipment

GT 18HP TWiN
6 SPEED - 44"" MO WER
GARDEN TRACTOR
Assembly
Operation
Maintenance
Repair
Repair

Sears,

Roebuck

and Co.

and Adjustment
Parts

Chicago,

IL 60684

U_S,Ao

LOOK FOR THIS SYMBOL TO POINT
OUT IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS. IT MEANS - ATTENTION! BECOME ALERT! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

CAUTION: LOOK FOR THIS WORD 3"0 POINT OUT
IMPORTANT EQUIPMENT PRECAUTIONS.

RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION
WARNING: This unitis equipped with an internal combustionengine and should not be us'edon or near any unimproved forest-covered,
brush.covered or grass covered land unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrestet meeting applicable Iocal orarea
laws (if any). ff a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective workingorder be the operator)°
See your local Sears Authorized Service Centre for spark arrester, See Repair Parts page 34°

1o Know the controls and how to stop quickly, READ THIS
OPERATOR'S MANUAL and instructions furnished with
attachments.
2, Do not allow children to operate the machine. Do not allow
adults to operate it without proper instruction°
3_ Do not carry passengers. Do not mow when children and
others are around,
4. Always wear substantialfootwear. Do not wear loose fitting
clothing that couldget caught in moving parts_
5. Keep your eyes and mind on your tractor, mower, and the
area being cut. Do not let other interests distract you.
6.. Do not attempt to operate your tractoror mower when not in
the drivers seal
7. AIways get on or offyour tractorfrom the operator's laft hand
side.
8o Clear the work area of objects (wire, rocks, etco) which might
be picked up and thrown.
9. Disengage all attachment clutches before attempting to start
the engine°
10. Disangage powerto attachmants and stap the angine before
leaving the operators position°
11. Disengage powerto mower, stoP the engine, and disconnect
spark plug wire(s)from sparkplug(s) before cleaning, making
an adjustment, or repa#: Be careful to avoid touching hot
muffler or engine components°
12. Disengage powerto attachments when transporting or not in

24.
25_

26.

2Z
28°
29°
30,

USer

13. Take all possible precautions when leaving the vehicle
unattended. Disengage thepower-take-off, lower the attach,
ments, shift into neutral, set the parking brake, stop the
engine, and remove the key.
14 Do not stop or start suddenly when going uphill or downhill.
Mow up and down the face of slopes (not greater than 15_);
never across the face. Refer to page 51.
1_ Reduce speed on slopes and make turns gradually toprevent
tipping or loss of control. Exercise extreme caution when
changing direction on slopes_
16. While _loing up or down slopes, place Gear Shift Control
Lever in 1st gear position to negotiate the slope without
stopping°
17, Nevermow in wet or slippery grass, when traction is unsure,
or at a speed which could cause a skid,
18. Stay alert for holes in the terrain and other hidden hazards°
Keep away from drop-otis.
19o Do not drive too close to creeks, ditches, and public highways.
20, Exercise special care when mowing around fixed objects in
order to prevent the blades from striking them. Never deliberately run tractor or mower into or over any foreign objects.
21. Never shift gears until tractor comes to a stop.
22. Never place hands or feet under the mower, in discharge
chute, or near any moving part s while tractor' or mower are
running. Always keep clear of discharge chute_
23. Use care when pulling loads or using heavy equipment.
a. Use only approved drawbar hitch points.

31.
32,
33.

34.
35.

36°
3Z

38.

b. Limit loads to those you can safely control.
c. Do not turn sharply° Use care when backing.
do Use counterweight or wheel weights when suggested in
owners manuals,
Watch out fortraffic when crossing or near roadways.
When using any attachments, never direct discharge of
material toward bystanders nor allow anyone near the ve_
hic/e while in operation.
Handle gasoline with care - it is highly flammable°
a. Use approved gasoline containers.
b. Never remove the fuel cap of the fuel tank or add
gasoline to a running or hot engine or an engine that has
not been allowed to cool for several minutes after run.
ning. Never fill tank indoors, always clean up spilled
gasoline°
c. Open doors if the engine is tun in the garage - exhaust
fumes are dangerous. Do not run the engine indoors.
Keep the vehicle and attachments in good operating condition, and keep safety devices in place and working°
Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the equip.
ment is in safe working condition.
Never store the equipment with gasoline in the tank inside a
building where fumes may reach an open flame or spark
Allow the engine to cool before storing in any enclosure:
To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine free of grass, leaves,
ot excessive grease, Do not clean product while engine is
runmng.
Except for adjustments, DO NOT operate Engine ff air
cleaner or cover directly over carburetor air intake is removed, Removal of such part could create a fire hazard.
Do not operate without a muffler, or tamper with exhaust
system. Damaged mufflers or spark attesters could create a
fire hazard, inspect pen'odicallyand replace if necessary.
The vehicle and attachments should be stopped and inspected for damage after striking a foreign object, and the
damage should be repaired before restarting and operating
the equipment.
Do not change the engine governor settings or overspeed the
engine; severe damage or injury may result.
When using the vehicle with mower, proceed as follows:
a, Mow only in daylight or in good artificial light.
bo Shut the Engine off when unclogging chute,
c. Check the blade mounting bolts forproper tightness at
frequent intervals.
Do not operate the mower' without either the entire grass
catcher, on mowers so equipped, or the the deflector shield
in place,
Disengage power to mower before backing up. Do not mow
in reverse unless absolutely necessary and then only after
careful observation of the entire area behind the mower.
Undernorma/usagethegrasscatcherbagmateria/issubject
todeterioration and wear. it should be checked frequentlyfor
bag replacement Replacement bags should be checked to
ensure compliance with the original manufacturer's recommendations or specifications,

CONGRATULATIONS
on your purchase of a Sears GT
18HP Garden Tractor, It has been designed, engineered
and manufactured to give you the best possible dependability and performance,
Should you experience any problem you cannot easily
remedy, please contact your nearest Sears Service
Department.
We have competent, well-trained technicians and the proper tools to service or repair this unit,

MAINTENANCE

A Sears Maintenance Agreement is available on this
product_ Contact your nearest Sears store for details°

YOUR NEW GT 18 HP GARDEN
TOR FEATURES...

TRAC-

CRAFTSMAN
18HOP. TWIN--CYLINDER
ENGINE--cool running performance
and long fife with plenty of power
to take on a variety of yard, gardening or snow removal
tasks_

Please read and retain this manual, The instructions will
enable you to assemble and maintain your Tractor propeflyo Always observe the "'SAFETY RULES",
MODEL
NUMBER

ALL GEAR TRANSAXLE--six
speeds
forward,
two
reverse speeds-.to let you select the proper speed for
the terrain and the job. Automotive-.type
differential
helps guard against turf scuffing

SERIAL
NUMBER
.......
DATE OF
PURCHASE
i_lL i
i
THE MODEL AND SERIAL NUMBERS WILL BE
FOUND ON THE MODEL PLATE ATTACHED TO
THE FENDER.
YOU SHOULD RECORD BOTH SERIAL NUMBER
AND DATE OF PURCHASE AND KEEP IN A
SAFE PLACE FOR FUTURE REFERENCE,

CUSTOMER

A GREEMENT

CONTROL PANEL--with
Throttle, Choke, Light Switch,
Ignition Switch, Parking Brake Lever and Clutch Switch-.
conveniently
grouped for ease of use,

ATTACHMENT VERSATILITY--handles
a large va, iety of
Sears Yard and Garden Tractor
Attachments
See
pages 49-50

RESPONSIBILITIES

Read and observe the safety rules. Always use care when using your
DO NOT work on your tractor with engine running_ Always keep your
Follow a regular schedule in maintaining, caring for and using your tractor,
Follow the instructions under "Maintenance"
and "Storage"
se.ctions

tractor° Keep away from moving parts,
tractor and mower clean,
A well cared for tractor will run and last longer
of this Owner's Manual

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY
ON ELECTRIC START RIDING EQUIPMENT
For two years from date of purchase, when this riding equipment is maintained, lubricated, and tuned up
according to the operating and maintenance instruction in the owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge
any defect in material or workmanship
in this electric start riding equipment.
This warranty excludes blade(s), blade adapter(s),
dable and become worn during normal use_

spark plug(s),

air cleaner and belt(s),

which

are expen-

This warranty does not cover:
Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects (such as nails, thorns, stumps,
or glass); and
repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including the failure to maintain the
equipment according
to instructions
contained
in the owner's manual; and
riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes_

FULL 90-DAY

WARRANTY

ON BATTERY

For 90 days from the date of purchase, if any battery included with this riding equipment
in material or workmanship
and our testing determines the battery will not hold a charge,
the battery at no charge.

proves defective
Sears will replace

WARRANTY SERVICE IS AVAILABLE BY CONTACTING
THE NEAREST SEARS SERVICE CENTER/DEPARTMENT IN THE UNITED STATES, This warranty applies on!y while this product is in use in the United States°
This warranty gives you specific
to state°

SEARS,

ROEBUCK

legal rights,

and CO.,

and you may also have other rights which

D/698-731A,

Sears Tower,

Chicago,

may vary from state

II 60684

INDEX
A
Adjustments:
Attachment
Lift Spring
Brake
Carburetor
Electric Clutch
Gauge Wheels
Mower Drive Belt
Mower
Front- To-Rear
Side-To-Side
.
Throttle Control Cable
Air Filter
Cleaning
Paper Cartridge
.
Air Intake Screen, Engine

Stopping
Your Tractor •
Tractor Operation on Hills
25
16
20
21
13
10

Filter, Air
Fuel:

Type
Storage
Fuse

12
26
23

Gauge

Wheels

13
Parts Bag

H
17
I 7
_ 19

Hood Removal

.7
18
.8
17
7
19
26
18

Removal/Replacement
Motion Drive, Remove/Replace
Mower Drive (Engine-to-Mower
Adjustment
Mower Drive Belt Installation
Blade.:

25
21

Sharpening
Replacement
Brake Adjustment

17
26
16

10
10

C
Carburetor
Adjustment
Clutch,_ Electric, Adjustment
Controls, Tractor
Cutting Level, Mower

20
21
11
10

18
19
18

M
Maintenance
Air Filter .
Air Filter Paper Cartridge
Air Screen
Battery
Blade Sharpening
Brake Adjustment
Engine oil
Lubrication
Spark Plugs
Tire Care
Mower:
Adjustment,
Front-to-Rear
Adjustment,
Side-to-Side
Blade Sharpening
Blade Replacement
Cutting Level
Installation
Operation
Removal •
Mowing
Tips
Muffler
Spark Attester

15-19
t7
17
19
t 7
17
16
15
18
19
17
24
24
17
26
10
10
13
23
14
19
2

E
Engine:'
Air Screen
Oil Change
Off Level
Oil Type
Starting
Storage

Oil

19
18
16
I6
12
26

5,6

Lubrication,:
Chart
Steering & Front Wheels
Tractor Pivot Points

Preparation ....
Starting with Weak Battery
Storage.
Terminals
Belt;
Blade Drive (Blade-to- Blade)

................
49,50
...................
2

G
24
24
20

10
Assembly
•
Attachment Lift Spring Adjustment S'-25
Attachments
.................
49-50

Battery;
Charging
Cleaning:_
Installation
Levels

Options
Attachments
Spark Attester

12
14

Cold Weather
Conditions
Engine
Transaxle
Storage
Operation
Operating/7¥actor
and Mower
Speed
Starting the Engine

16
15
23
26
11-14
13
14
12

Repair and Adjustments
Attachment
Lift Spring
Blade Drive Belt
Blade
Carburetor
Electric Clutch

20-26
25
25
26
20
21

Fuse
,
Hood Removal

23
23

Motion
Motion
Mower
Mower
Mower
Throttle

21
21
24
24
23
20

Drive Belt •
•
Drive Belt Replacement
Front-to-Rear
Side-to.Side
Removal,
Control Cabie

Transaxle

Oil Level

S
Safety Rules
Seat
Service Record

2
,7
28

Slope Guide Sheet
Spark Plugs
Speed Control Chart

51
19
14

Starting the Engine
Steering Wheel
Stopping the Tractor
Storage

12
_B
12
26

Throttle Control Cable Adjustment
Tires
Transaxle Oil Levei

20
17
23

Trouble

Shooting

Chart

W
Warranty
Wiring (Schematic)

•3
29

Unpacking

instructions

Remove
box from
shown below,

Cut down four corners of the carton
knife
and fold down sides,,
Remove
mower
deck from skid_

4.
5.

carton..

The box contains
with

The operation
of any tractor can result in
foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which
can result in severe eye damage
Always
wear safety glasses or eye shields before
starting your tractor and while mowing
We
recommend
Wide Vision Safety Mask for
over the spectacles
or standard
safety
glasses, available at Sears Retail or Catalog
Stores,

the items
a utility

Shift tractor into "N" neutral position and release park.
ing brake
Carefully guide the tractor backwards off the skid.

Parts

Bag

]_""_

Contents

Not

Shown

Full

Size:

ilflf"lti'ltlli[tl"l't')_tlililt!l{'H"l'!l
!ltjl'j{ Hjtl ll fl

(2) Battery Carriage Bolts - I/4 - 20 x 7 - 7/2

Terminal

Guard

{21 Keys
a..

15 o Slope Instruction

Sheet

Battery Caps
And Instructions

a_ seat
b, steering
c, battery

wheat

d,, battery acid
e,. owner's manual
f,, parts bag

V-Belt

Steering

Wheel

Cap

ASSEMBL Y
ASSEMBLY
LOCATION

PARTS

BAG

CONTENTS

SHOWN

FULL

SIZE

BATTER Y

(2) Wing Nut - 1/4 - 20

(2) Hex Bolt,

1/4 - 20 x 3/4

BATTERY
TERMINALS

(2) Washer
{2) Lockwasher

9/32

x 5/8 x 16 Ga°

1/4

@
(2) Hex Nut,

1/4 - 20

SUSPENSION
ARMS

(4) Spring

Retainer

(4) Washer

17/32

x 1 - 1/16 x 13 Ga.

SEA T

(J) Lockwasher

(1) Hex Bolt, 1/2- 13 x 1
Grade5

1/2

(1) Washer 17/32 x 1-3/16
x 12 Ga.

tlJ Shoulder

bolt 5/16

- 18

ASSEMBL Y

To assemble and adjust your tractor you will need:

(2) 1/2" wrenches
Tire Pressure Gauge
Screwdriver
Utility Knife

(2) 7/t6"
wrenches
(1) 3/4"" wrench
(2) 9/16" wrench

Place seat in operating
position
Sit on the seat and
press clutch/brake
pedal all the way down /f operating position
is not comfortable,
adjust seat

To adjust
Raise
seat to desired
securely

NOTE: RIGHT HAND (R.H,) AND LEFT HAND (L.H.) ARE
DETERMINED FROM OPERATOR'S
POSITION WHILE
SEATED ON THE TRACTOR.

WEAR EYE AND FACE SHIELD.
WASH HANDS OR CLOTHING IMMEDIATELY IF ACCIDENTALLY tN CONTACT
WITH BATTERY ACID.
DO NOT SMOKE, FUMES FROM
CHARGED BATTERY ACID ARE EXPLOSIVE.

seat, Loosen adjustment
bolt
position
Tighten
adjustment

CUTAWAYVIEW
___...................

_-VENT

LIQUID
LEVEL

BATTERY
CELL

Prepare Battery

READ

CAP

BATTERY
TUBE

NOTE: THIS TRACTOR
IS EQUIPPED
WITH AN
OPERATOR PRESENCE SENSING SWITCH, ANY ATTEMPT BY THE OPERATOR TO LEAVE THE SEAT WITH
THE ENGINE RUNNING AND ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH
ENGAGED WILL SHUT OFF THE ENGINE°

Slide
bolt

FIGURE

INSTRUCTIONS

INCLUDED

WITH

OF PARTS, ALWAYS
WEAR GLOVES,
THE
BATTERY
VENT
CAPS FOUND
IN BAG
CLOTHING
AND
GOGGLES
TO PROTECT
YOUR HANDS, SKIN AND EYES,,

andc aitery
b,

d,,
e,

berore
in talling).,
NbTE'SEE
"

DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS PACKAGED WITH BATTERY VENT CAPS IN BAG OF PARTSFill battery with battery acid to bottoms of tubes in cells
(Fig. I) NOTE:' DO NOT OVERFILL OVERFILLING
WILL RESULT tN DAMAGE TO TRACTOR.
Check level of battery acid after 30 minutes. Add addi.
tional battery acid if necessaryr, NOTE: TIGHTEN VENT
CAPS SECURELY,,

SEAT

SHOULDERBO_

DJUSTMENT

It is recommended, that the battery, be charged
betor use. Charge oattery at a rate of six amperes
for one hour.
Neutralize excess battery acid for disposal by adding #
to four inches of water in a five ga!lon plastic container,
Stirwith a wooden or plastic paddle while adding baking
soda until the addition of more soda causes no more
foaming°

=UEL
CAP

Install Seat

Seat position should be adjusted forward or backward
so that
the operator can comfortably reach Clutch/Brake
Pedal and
safely operate the tractor (Fig. 2J.
a

b.
co

CLUTCH!BRAKE

Place Seat on Seat Pan° Screw Adjustment Bolt, Flat
Washer and Lockwasher, and ShoulderBolt into Seat(Figo
oAdjustment Bolt, Washers, and Shoulder Bolt Found
Bag of Parts.,,

PEDAL

FIGURE

I - MACH,NE
ScREW-'oCKWASHER*
!
T

TightenShoulderBoltusinga
1/2"wrench_Notethatthe
Shoulder Bolt witl be loose in the Seat Pan sloL
Tighten hex bolt (adjustment bolt), lockwasher and flat
washer using a 3/4" wrench.

WASHER MUST SE TIGHTENED SECURELY TO PREVENT MOVEMENT
OF SEAT

l ..........................
7

, .............
I

Install

Steering

NOTE: POSITION
STEERING

WHEEL

Wheel

FRONT WHEELS

FORWARD.

CAP

Use a 9/16"" wrench to remove hex bolt,
Iockwasher and 2-3/8" diameter washer (shown
full size below) hom steering shaft (Fig 3)

2 - 3/8" DIA, WASHER

,,.,_,----

STEERING

EERING

WHEEL

ADAPTER

FIGURE 3
HOOD

BATTERY
COMPARTMENT

b ,. Position

steering

wheel

over steering

adaptor.

Secure steering wheel
hex bnlt, tockwasher
washer (Fig 3L

Snap steering
wheel cap in place on steering
wheel,, Steering wheel cap found in bag of partso

Check

to steering shaft using
and 2-3/8"
diameter

Tires

Reduce tire pressure to 14 PSI in front and 10 PSI in rear
tires, (Tires were overinflated
for shipping purposes),
GFIILL

DO NOT SHORT

BATTERY

TERMINALS,

FIGURE 4
BEFORE INSTALLING BATTERY, REMOVE
METAL
BRACELETS,
WRISTWATCH
BANDS, RINGS, ETC.

NUT

LOCKWASHER

5o Install Battery

WASHER

Remove

hood

- See page

LOCKWASHER

b. Remove tape from plastic tray, Make sure drain
tube (Fig. 5) is fastened to drain hole in battery
tray and battery tray is positioned in hole of battery support.
HEX
BOLTS

c , Place battery in plastic tray (Battery terminals to
front of tractor)(Fig=
5),

BLACK
(NEGATIVE)
CABLE

FIGURE

5
DRAIN TUBE

ASSEMBL Y

NECTED
TO PREVENT
SPARKS
POSITIVE FIRST
TERMINAL
MUST
BE
CONFROM ACCIDENTAL GROUNDING,
do

Connect RED battery cable to positive (+) battery
terminal
with hex bolt,
flat
washer,
iockwasher and hex nut (shown full size on page
6) found in bag of parts (Fig. 6}. Tighten securely
with two 7/16" wrenches°

WING
NUT
/

WING

NUT

,t'

Cor}nect
BLACK ground cable to negative
(-) bat- ._.
tery
terminal
with
remaining
hex
bolt,
flat
washer,
Iockwasher
and hex nut (shown
full size
on page
securely.

6) found

in bag, of parts

(Fig

Tighten

NOTE: tF YOU HAVE A WEAK BATTERY,
SEE "STARTING
_fOUR TRACTOR
WITH A WEAK BATTERY"
PAGE 19

Using the square hole on one side of the battery
support (Fig. 6) insert one battery bolt, head of bolt
down. Fasten the battery bolt to the terminal guard
using wing nut as shown in (Fig. 6)_
FIGURE 6

Assemble the remaining battery bolt to other side
of battery support and fasten tern'final guard to it
with remaining wing nut,, Tighten wing nuts securely by hand (Fig,, 6)°

HEIGHT
ADJUSTMENT
KNOB

.... > ;+_,'
-I:"_'_

ATTACHMENT
LiFT LEVER
"'HIGHEST"
POSITION

LIFT
LEVER
ATTACHMENT

_,p._

MOWER

73
h+ Remove

Plastic

on tractor

hood

-,,,_

ARM
MOWER
BRACKET

J \'tJ

and close

NOTE: USE TERMINAL ACCESS DOORS (FIG. 6) FOR:
1o INSPECTION
FOR SECURE
CONNECTIONS
(TIGHTEN HARDWARE)
2. INSPECTION FOR CORROSION
3o TESTING BATTERY
4o JUMPING (IF REQUIRED)
5. CHARGING (IF REQUIRED)

RELEASE
PiN

,,..,,.

FRONT
SUSPENSION
BRACKET
FIGURE

FIGURE

KEEP TERMINAL
ACCESS" DOORS
CLOSED WHEN NOT IN USE.
DO NOT
START
ENGINE
UNTIL
MOWER SUSPENSION
BRACKET HAS
BEEN-RELEASED.
SEE MOWER DRIVE
BELT INSTALLATION,
PAGE 10,,

SPRING

Y
MOWER

Installation

ao Remove band from mower suspension bracket,
b_ Remove banding from suspension arms (Fig. 7),
c_ Slide mower under tractor, deflector to R_H.
side°
d._ Slide front suspension brackets into mower
brackets° Retain with release pins (Fig° 7)_
e o Turn depth adjustment knob counterclockwise
( _
) until it stops_
f,
Push attachment
rift lever forward
to lower
mower to ground (page 11).,
g, Slide studs through lift links on both sides of
tractor (Fig. 8)° Retain with washers and retainer springs found in bag of parts.
h • Place the suspension arms on brackets on both
sides of frame (Fig. 8). Retain with washers and
retainer springs found in bag of parts.
i,
Turn height adjustment
knob (Fig. 7) clockwise
(
_
) to remove
slack
from
mower
suspension,
j ,. Roll drive belt over primary mandrel (Fig_ 9)°

DRIVE

FIGURE 9

WHEEL
GAUGE/
BAR

Mower

ETAINER
SPRING

GAUGE
WHEEL

Mower

Drive Belt Installation

BRACKET

a
b

/
FIGURE

CLEVIS

10/PIN
d_

CLUTCH
PULLEY

8,
MOWER
DRIVE
BELT

Mower

Drive

Belt Adjustment

a,
b,

Lower mower using attachment
lift lever.
If dimension
-A" on idler bracket assembly
measures 1/4" or less, mower drive belt must
be adjusted (Fig_ 1 l-Inset).
c, Disengage attachment
clutch switch_
d. Using two 9/t6"'
wrenches,
remove bolt, (2)
washers, lock washer and nut from idler pulley
(Fig_ 1 t-Inset) (original position),
e
Place v-belt and idler pulley #1 'WEW" pulley
position
(Fig_ 11-Inset).
Replace bolt,
(2)
washers, Iockwasher and nut. Tighten securely,
f _ Check v-belt for properinstallation
on all pulley
grooves°

IDLER
PULLEY
TENSION
PULLEY

FIGURE

Remove hood and grill (See page 23),
Pull mower drive belt over front mower suspension bracket (Fig. 9)_
Place mower drive belt over clutch pulley and
under idler pulley and tension pulley (Fig. 1 I).
NOTE: PULL LEVER UP TO SWING TENSION
PULLEY FOR BELT CLEARANCE,
Make sure
narrow
"'V'" side of belt is engaged in each
pulley,. _
Replace hood and grill

Check the Cutting Level

The blade housing was set at the factory to cut level°
After mowing a short distance, look at the area that was
cut.. if the blade housing cuts uneven; see the instructions on "Side-to-Side
And Front-to Rear Mower Adjustmen/'" (page 24)"_

10. Final Assembly
a ,, Make sure aft fasteners are tight_
b. Read and follow the operation instructions
Know the location and purpose of aft controls.
c_

Check oil and gasoline before starting
the tractor_

OPERA TI ON
KNOW

YOUR TRACTOR

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL BEFORE OPERATING YOUR GARDEN TRACTOR_ If you understand the machine and
its operation, you will achieve efficient and peak performance,
While reading the manual, compare the illustrations with
Your Garden Tractor to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments. Study the operating
instructions and safety precautions
thoroughly
to insure proper functioning of your Garden Tractor and to prevent injury to yourself and others, Be sure to pay strict attention to all notes and cautions; they are included for your safety.
Save this manual for future reference.

Control

Attachment

Clutch

Switch

Attachment

Ammeter
Clutch/Brake

Lift Lever

Pedal
Switch
Ignition

Choke

Height
Adjustment
Knob
Gear Shift

................

Lever

Parking

Brake

Shift

Lever

AMMETER: Each time you start your tractor, check your
ammeter.
The needle should move towards
the I + )
charging mark indicating
the battery is being charged as
you operate the tractor, The headlights will not show a
discharge on the ammeter
because they are not connected to the battery
(they have their own electrical
$our_e),

ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH SWITCH: Pull switch out and
up to engage attachment,
There will be an engine hesita _
t/on as the clutch engages.
ATTACHMENT
LiFT LEVER: Use the attachment rift lever
to raise and lower the attachment
mounted to your tractor, Move the lift lever forward to lower attachment.
CHOKE: To start a cold engine, pull choke out to engage,

LIGHT SWITCH:

CLUTCH/BRAKE
PEDAL: The pedal has 2 functions: a
clutch and a brake,. To engage push the pedal cornp/etely down.

PARKING BRAKE LOCK: To set the parking brake, push
the clutch/brake
pedal completely
forward° Place the
parking brake lever in "Engaged"
position and release
pressure from pedal., Clutch/brake
pedal will remain in
brake position,

HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
KNOB: Use the height adjustment knob to adjust the mower height. With attachment
rift lever in the furl "'UP" position, turn clockwise (_)
to raise mower end counterclockwise
(4"-_) to lower
mower,
GEARSHIFT: Press the c/utch/brake pedal down firmly
and move gear shift lever to desired speed.
IGNITION:
start.

Turns

on and off the headlights

RANGE SHIFT LEVER: The HioLo range shift lever gives
you the versatility of 6 speed selections: Lo 1, 2, 3, and
Hii,
2,3.
THROTTLE CONTROL: Use the throttle control to in.
crease or decrease the speed of the engine.

Place key in ignition and turn to the right to

OPERA TI ON

1. Stopping

Your Tractor

NOTE: REMOVE KEY WHEN LEAVING
PREVENT UNAUTHORIZED
USE,

TRACTOR

a. Push clutch/brake pedal into furl "'BRAKE'"
position.
b. Place parking brake in "ENGAGED"
position and
release pressure from clutch/brake. Pedal should
remain in "BRAKE" position. NOTE: MAKE SURE
PARKING
BRAKE
WiLL
HOLD
TRACTOR
SECURE_
c. Move gear shift lever to "NEUTRAL'"
position_
d_=Place attachment clutch switch in "DISENGAGED'" position_
e. Move throttle control to "'S" (slow) position°
f_ Turn ignition key to "OFF" position.
Never use
choke to stop engine,
DIPSTICK

ENGINE

Starting

The Engine

FIGURE 12
SEAT
SEAT

PAN

IIW|TCH

HAT

LEARN TO START, STOP AND REVERSE I
YOUR TRACTOR IN A LARGE, OPEN AREA_

NOTE: THIS TRACTOR IS EQUIPPED WITH INTERLOCK
SWITCHES TO PREVENT STARTING OF THE TRACTOR
ENGINE WHILE THE ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH OR THE
CLUTCHIBRAKE
PEDAL IS ENGAGED,
IMMEDIATELY REPLACE SWITCHES THAT
ARE NOT IN PROPER WORKING ORDER,
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO DEFEAT THE PURPOSE OF THESE SWITCHES,

CLUTCH
BRAKE/PEDAL

FUEL

FIGURE

TANK

CAP

ATTACHMENT
CLUT(

CHOKE
THROTTLE

KEY

CAUTION: EXPERIENCE INDICATES THAT ALCOHOL
BLENDED FUELS (CALLED GASOHOL OR
USING ETHANOL OR METHANOL) CAN ATTRACT MOISTURE
WHICH LEADS TO
SEPARATION AND FORMATION OF ACIDS
DURING STORAGE.
ACIDIC GAS CAN
DAMAGE THE FUEL SYSTEM OF AN ENGINE
WHILE IN STORAGE.

HEIGHT
ADJUSTMENT'
KNOB

TO AVOID ENGINE PROBLEMS, THE FUEL
SYSTEM SHOULD BE EMPTIED BEFORE
STORAGE FOR 30 DAYS OR LONGER. DRAIN
THE GAS TANK, START THE ENGINE AND
LET IT RUN UNTIL THE .FUEL LINES AND
CARBURETOR ARE EMPTY. USE FRESH
FUEL NEXT SEASON. SEE STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS
FOR ADI_ITIONAL INFORMATION (PAGE 26)°

PARKING
BRAKE

RANGE
LEVER

FIGURE

This engine has been shipped filled with summer
weight oil (for cold weather operation see Chart
page t6)_ Check engine oil level with tractor on
level ground. Wipe dipstick (Fig. 12) clean, screw
it in tight for a few seconds, remove and read oil
level If necessary, add oil until "'FULL'" mark is
reached,

NEVER USE ENGINE OR CARBURETOR
CLEANER PRODUCTS IN THE FUEL TANK
OR PERMANENT DAMAGE MAY OCCUR.

GEAR SHIFT
CONTROL LEVER

TION

b. Fill fuel tank "(Fig,, 13). Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded automotive
gasoline.
(Use of leaded
gasoline
will increase carbon and lead oxide
deposits and reduce valve life)o Capacity is 3-1/2
gallons.,
co Place attachment
clutch switch in "'DISENGAGED'" position.
do Push clutch/brake pedal fully into brake position_
e o Place gear shift lever in "'N'" neutral, start position (Fig. 14).
f o Place range shift lever in "'N" neutral position (Fig,
14)_
go Pull choke out {Fig

DO NOT OPERATE THE MOWER WITHOUT
EITHER THE ENTIRE GRASS CATCHER,
ON UNITS SO EQUIPPED, OR THE DEFLECTOR GUARD IN PLACE.

CAUTION

t4)_

h _ Move throttle control to middle position (Fig, 14)_
i.

: DO NOT ADD ADDITIONAL
WEIGHT
TO THE TRACTOR OTHER THAN THE
OPTIONAL
WHEEL WEIGHTS,
EXCESSIVE WEIGHT MAY OVERLOAD
AND DAMAGE THE TRANSM4SSlON
PLUNGER

ADJUSTMENT
DEPT.

Turn ignition to "START"
position until engine
starts (Fig, 14). NOTE: DO NOT RUN STARTER
CONTINUOUSLY
FOR MORE THAN FIFTEEN
SECONDS PER MINUTE, tf engine does not start
after several attempts, move throttle control to
"'F'" (fast) position, wait a few minutes and try
again_
After engine is warm, push choke in,

ATTACHMENT
LIFT LEVER

The first time you start the engine, it will take extra
cranking time to move fuel from tank to engine, NOTE:
ALLOW ENGINE TO WARM UP FOR A FEW MINUTES
BEFORE ENGAGING CLUTCHtBRAKE
PEDAL OR ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH SWITCH,
k o When restarting
a warm engine, move throttle
control midway between "'S'" (slow) and "'F'"
(fast) position, Choke may not have to be used.

BEFORE DRIVING THETRACTOR, INSTALL
MOWER OR REMOVE FRONT MOWER SUSPENSION BRACKET AND SUSPENSION
ARMSo(FIG.8)

TO AVOID

GAUGE

WHEEL _

Operating

CLEVIS
_,*

FIGURE

Your Tractor and Mower

NOTE: THIS TRACTOR
IS EQUIPPED
WITH
AN
OPERATOR PRESENCE SENSING SWITCH,
ANY ATTEMPT BY THE OPERATOR TO LEAVE THE SEAT WITH
TI;IE ENGINE RUNNING
AND THE ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH ENGAGED WILL SHUT OFF THE ENGINE,

INJURY

!_
24
3.

Read owner's manual
Know location and function of al! controls
Keep guards, safety shield and switches in place
and working,
4,. Remove objects that can be thrown by blades.
5o Do not mow when children and others are around.,
6. Never carry children or passengers,
7. Always look behind machine before backing
8. Do not mow where machine can tip or slip
9. If machine stops going uphill, stop blades and back
slowly down.
10. Be sure blades and engine have stopped before
placing hands or feet near the blades,
11. Remove key when leaving machine.•

L _

BEFORE
OPERATING YOUR MOWER.
READTHE"SAFETYRULES"CAREFULLY

Use the height
adjustment
knob (Fig
!4) to adjust
mower height
With the attachment
lift lever in the furl
"UP" position,
turn height adjustment
knob clockwise
('-_) to raise cutting height and counterclockwise
(_-'}
to lower cutting height
Lower attachment
hft lever to
check adjustment

NEVER PLACE YOUR HANDS OR FEET IN
OR UNDER ANY POWERED ATTACHMENT
OR NEAR ANY MOVING
PART WHILE
TRACTOR
OR ANY POWERED ATTACH_
MENT IS RUNNING.

DO NOT OPERATE THE MOWER WITHOUT
THE DEFLECTOR SHIELD IN PLACE
13

a° To adjust gauge wheels (Fig, 15) lower attachment rift lever,
b . Remove retainer spring and clevis pin from gauge
wheels°
c. Move gauge wheels to the adjustment
hole that
will provide the desired cut,,
d,, Replace retainer spring and clevis pin.
e. Move attachment
rift lever to its full "UP"
position.
f o With engine running and warm, place throttle con_
trol midway between "'S" (slow) and "F'" (fast)
position (Fig° 14)oo.
g. To engage mower puff attachment
clutch switch
(Fig. 14) out and up.

OPERA TION
FUNCTION

GEARSHIFT

Normal
Mowing

2H*

Heavy
Mowing

1H or 2L

Snow

Removal

Tilling
Plowing

Do i°g

Grading

h ,, Move range shift lever to "'LO" (low) postion (Fig_
14L
i. Move gear shift lever to desired gear (Fig 14L
jr Use attachment lift lever to lower mower into cutting position,
k,. Release clutch/brake
pedal SLOWLY
to start
movement,
I, Start mowing at slow and increase ground speed
by increasing throttle as conditions
will permtt,

THROTTLE

or 3L*

NOTE: BRING TRACTOR
SHIFTING GEARS
4.

FAST

Mowing

TO COMPLETE

Tips

NOTE: TIRE CHAINS CANNOT
MOWER HOUSING ATTACHED

MID
THROTTLE

STOP BEFORE

BE USED WITH

THE

L.....

,,,,,,,,

BEFORE OPERATING
YOUR
MOWER,
READ THE "SAFETY RULES" CAREFULLY
REFER TO PAGE 2o
a_ Use the runner on the R,H, side as a guide; the
blade cuts approximately
an inch outside the runner (Fig_ t 7).
b, Drive so that clippings are discharged onto the
area that has been cutu Have the cut area to the
right of the machine,
This will result in a more
even distribution of clippings and more uniform
cutting_
c, When mowing large areas (Fig. 18), start by turning to the right so that the clippings
will be
discharged away from shrubs, fences, driveways,
etc. After two or three rounds, mow in the opposite direction
making
left hand turns until
finished.
d, If grass is extremely
tall, it should be mowed
twice. The first time cut relatively high_ The second time to the desired height,,
e, The left hand side of mower should be used for
trimming,

Transport

SLOW-FAST
FIGURE

" Indicates
Range Shift Lever position:
"'H" for High "'L" for low

RH,

RUNNER

f,, DO not mow tall, dry grass over 6 inches talL It is a
fire hazard
DISCHARGE

FIGURE

GUARD

Operating The Tractor On Hills
a. Choose the lowest gear BEFORE starting
do wn hills_

up or

DO NOT DRIVE UP OR DOWN HILLS WITH
SLOPES GREATER THAN 15 ° AND DO
NOT DRIVE ACROSS ANY SLOPE, REFER
TO PAGE 51,
%

i-_

Jtr

b=, Avoid ,stopping or shifting on hills.
c ,. If slowing is necessary, move throttle
to middle position,,

....

lIT.'._

LEAVE ENOUGH ROOM WHEN STOPPING
AND STARTING TO ALLOW SLIGHT TRACTOR ROLL DOWNHILL AS CLUTCH/BRAKE
PEDAL
MOVES
THROUGH
CLUTCH
.................................
POSITION.

FIGURE

control lever

d, tf stopping
is absolutely
necessary,
push
clutch/brake
pedal quickly to brake pbsition and
engage parking brake,

To restart your tractor, make sure tractor is in 7st
gear and that you have allowed room to roll slightly downhill. Disengage parking brake and release
clutch/brake pedal SLOWLY to start tractor forward movement°

Make all turns slowly°

INTENANCE

To keep
your tractor
running
better,
longer, perform necessary
service using
the following
maintenance
schedule:
BEFORE MAKING ANY INSPECTION,
ADJUSTMENT
OR REPAIR: (FIG. 19):
!, PUSH TRACTOR CLUTCH/BRAKE
PEDAL COMPLETELY INTO BRAKE
POSITION.
2o MOVE
GEAR SHIFT CONTROL
LEVER TO NEUTRAL POSTION.
3_ PLACE
PARKING
BRAKE
IN
"ENGAGED"
POSITION .AND REMOVE FOOT FROM PEDAL.
4, TURN
OFF
ATTACHMENT
FIGURE

5o CLUTCH
SHUT OFFSWITCH°
THE ENGINE,
6o MAKE ABSOLUTELY
SURE THE
BLADES AND ALL MOVING PARTS
HAVE COMPLETELY STOPPED.
7. DISCONNECT
THE SPARK PLUG
WIRES FROM THE SPARK PLUGS
AND KEEP WIRES AWAY FROM
THE SPARK PLUGS TO PREVENT
INJURY
FROM
ACCIDENTAL
STARTING.
BE CAREFUL
TO
AVOID TOUCHING
HOT ENGINE
OR MUFFLER COMPONENTS,

With

ENGINE OIL
DIPSTICK
AND FILL TUBE

Every Mowing

SIDE

Io Make sure all nuts on bolts are tight and cotter pins
and retainer springs are secure,
2.

Observe

a!l safety

Keep tractor

precautions

well lubricated

First 2 Hours (Two

(refer to page

18),

Mowings)

1o Change Engine Oil
Changing off after the first two hours (or two mowings) will help eliminate break-in residue which might
be damaging to your engine.
NOTE: BE CAREFUL NOT TO ALLOW DIRT TO ENTER
THE ENGINE WHEN (_HANGING OIL.

FIGURE

a,, Drain oil with engine warm.,
b .. Remove hood and grill (see page 23)_
co Loosen oil drain wing nut (Fig, 20 - Inset),
Catch oil in a suitable container.
d. Tighten oil drain wing nut after all oil has been
removed from engine°
eo Refill engine oil., Refill capacity is 3 pints.
NOTE: DO NOT OVERFILL.
f o Replace dipstick.

MAINTENANCE

Recommended

SAE

Viscosity

Grades

Determine temperature expected before next oil change,
All oil must meet A_PJ_ service classification SD, SE or
SF.
60 °
80 °
100 °
0o
32 °

SHIFT
COVER

, ,,,.,.,

Ill .......
lily, k,
30 or 10W-30

Capacity is 3 pints, NOTE: DO NOT OVERFILL. Dipstick
assembly must be securely tightened
into tube at atl
times when eng/ne is operating,

CAUTION:

FIGURE

TO AVOID DAMAGE TO THE STARTING SYSTEM, USE SAE 5W30 OIL
WHEN THE TEMPERATURE
FALLS
BELOW 32°_

Every

5 Hours

(Five

Mowings)

1. Check Engine Oil Level
NOTE:
D

DO NOT CHECK ENGINE
WITH ENGINE RUNNING.

OIL LEVEL

Several minutes after stopping engine, check engine oil
level with tractor on level ground. Wipe dipstick (Fig, 20)
clean, screw it down tight for a few seconds, remove
and read oil level. If necessary, add oil until "FULL ""mark
is reached. NOTE: DO NOT OVERFILL

Every
FIGURE 22

25 Hours

(Twice

a Mowing

Season)

(Operating in dusty conditions may require more frequent
servicing3
1o Brake Adjustment
IF TRACTOR

..... 1

FIGURE

MORE THAN

HIGHEST
SIX
FEET GEAR
STOPPING
ON ADISTANCE
LEVEL DRY
IN
CONCRETE
OR PAVED
SURFACE
THEN BRAKE MUST BE ADJUSTED.

BLADE

REQUIRES

a. Remove (4) hex washer head tapping screws from
shift cover plate (Fig° 21), located on top of tractor frame. Remove the cover plate,

Loosen jam nut (G) on brake rod (B) at clevis (c)
(Fig. 22). If you find it difficult to loosen jam nut
(G), remove cover plate in LoHo frame tail.
c, Rotate brake rod (B) counterclockwise
(V"_) turning brake rod out of clevis (C) four to six turns.
d. Start tractor with tramsmission
in 'W" (neutral)
position.

e_ Depress clutch/brake
stops moving.

pedal to the point where belt

f . Engage parking brake to hold clutch/brake pedal
in position° If belt begins to move after engaging
parking brake, depress clutch/brake
pedal to next
notch on parking brake,

CUT AWAY VIEW

g, Shut engine off. Rotate brake rod (B) clockwise
(('_) by hand, turning brake rod into clevis (C),
until tight° Tighten jam nut (G) on brake rod. (B)
at clevis (C) (Fig, 22)°

LIQUID
LEVEL
BATTERY
TUBE

h, Reinstafl shift cover plate and four (4) mounting
screws, Replace cover plate if removed in step b.
2.

BATTERY
CELL

Tire Care

Maintain tire pressure
at 10 PSI,
3o

in front at 14 PSI and rear tires

FIGURE 24

Blade Care

KNOB

For best results mower blades must be kept sharp° The
blades can be sharpened with a few strokes of a file or on
a grinding wheel We suggest they be sharpened after
every24 hours of mowing. Do not attempt to sharpen while
on mower, ff you mow in sandy soil check the blades after
each two reDwings. The sand wears the blades away
rapidly,

COVER

NUT
WASHER
CARTRIDGE
PLATE

When grinding, care should be taken to maintain blade balance and the blade should be
checked for proper balance before reinstallation
on mower.
Unbalanced or bent blade will cause excessive
vibration when running and eventual damage to
mower
or engine, Replace bent or damaged
blades,

PAPER
CARTRIDGE

OIL FOAM
PRE-CLEANER

TO check blade balance, drive a nail into a beam or wafl.
Leave about one inch of the straight nail exposed° Place
center hole of clean blade over the head of the nail (Fig.
23), NOTE: CENTER HOLE OF BLADE ON NAIL.. tF
BLADE tS PROPERLY BALANCED, BLADE SHOULD REMAIN IN POSITION SHOWN tN F1G. 23. IF EITHER END
OF THE BLADE MOVES DOWNWARD,
BLADE IS NOT
BALANCED,
SHARPEN THE HEAVY END UNTIL THE
BLADE IS BALANCED.

Every

(Operating
servicing)
1,

Hours

(Once

a Mowing

in dusty conditions

BODY

FIGURE 25
2_

Clean A# Filter
a.

Unscrew

Remove nut and washer to remove cartridge
plate, paper cartridge and oil foam pre-cleaner

Season)

may require more frequent

b o Keep battery and terminals
t8,

than twist)

go
c_

Keep battery

bolts

Keep vent caps
caps open.

tight.

tight

and small

Rinse, squeeze
throughly,

vent holes in

(rather

cover

and water,
allow

to dry

Lightly
coat with S A E 30 engine oil Do not
saturate
Squeeze in a rag or towel to distribute
evenly and remove excess

f o Check
dirty,

clean. Refer to page

25) to remove

in detergent

Battery ac_ solution level in each battery cell shouldbe
even with t_ottoms of tubes in cells (Fig, 24)_ Add only
distilled water if necessary. NO TE: DO NO TO VERFIL L
DO NOT ADD ACID,

(Fig

c _ Wash foam pre-cleaner

Check Battery
a,

knob

paper

cartridge,

Replace

if excessively

Reassemble paper cartridge and re-position
on
tractor_ NOTE: NEVER RUN ENGINE WITH AIR
FILTER REMOVED
AS DIRT (DUST) WILL
DAMAGE THE ENGINE,

MAINTENANCE
3°

Clean Battery

and Terminals

Corrosionand dirt on the battery and terminals cause the
battery to "leak" power and hindersthe operation of the
charger.
a ,. Remove terminal guard_

The best time to drain engine all is at the end of a day's
operation when all dirt and foreign materials are suspended in the hot oil Refer to page 15o
5,

Remove the battery from the tractor and wash
with four tablespoons of baking soda to on_
gallon of water, NOTE: BE CAREFUL NOT TO
GET THE SODA SOLUTION INTO THE CELLS,

c .. Clean terminals
until bright.
do

plain

water,

Lubricate Pivot Points

Place several drops of S.A.E. 30 oil at points where parts
move against each other, especially:
a,
b,.
c.
d.
eo

and cable ends with a wire brush

Rinse the battery with
reinstall on tractor°

Change Engine Oil

dry and

Front Axle Pivot
Hood Hinges
Foot Pedal Shaft {both ends)
Lift Shaft {both ends)
Secl_x" gear pivot points

e . Replace cables and terminal guard. Refer to page
8.

Lubrication

Chart
HINGES @
SPINDLE @

WHEEL BEARINGS @

®
BOTH
FOOT ENDS
PEDAL OF
SHAFT-

SECTOR GEAR Q

BOTH ENDS LIFT SHAFT@

]L_) SAE 30 (SC, SD OR SE)
MOTOR OIL
@

CHASSIS GREASE
SEARS PART NO,, 2557R

TRANSAXLE
{CHECK LEVEL AT REAR
FILL PLUG)

REFER TO ENGINE OIL SPEC'S.
(UNDER INITAL PREPARATION
IN OWNERS MANUAL)
CHASSIS
GREASE
WITH BRUSH

Clean Air Screen

MAINTENANCE

Air screen (Fig. 26) must allow free-flow of air to prevent engine damage from overheating. Clean with a wire
brush or compressed air to remove dirt, stubborn dried
gum and fibers.
7.

MUFFLER

Clean Front Grill

Lubricate

ENGINE

of air,

COOLING
FINS

Steering and Front Wheels

There are four grease fittings on your tractor (Fig° 27).
Using a grease gun, give each grease fitting two shots
of chassis grease (available through your Sears Service
Center). Sears Part No. 2557R_
9.

SHIELD

Brush debris from front grill to allow free-flow
preventing engine damage from overheating.
8.

.,,,,e'_ HEAT

AIR
SCREEN
AIR GUIDE
COVER

Figure 26

Check Muffler

Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it could create
a fire hazard and/or engine damage,

EVERY

100 HOURS

(Every

Two

Years)

DISCONNECT SPARK PLUG WIRES TO PRE-_
VENT
ACCIDENTAL
STARTING
BEFOREMAK_J
ING ANY
INSPECTION,
ADJUSTMENT
OR_
REPAIR (EXCEPT CARBURETOR)_
1.

Replace Spark Plugs

Replace spark plugs at the beginning of each season or
every 100 hours,whichever comes firsL Gap shou/dbe set
at 0°030 inch (Fig. 28), Refer to Page 45 for replacement
information.
2.

Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge

Refer to page 17_

FRONT
AXLE
PIVOT

FRONT SPINDLE
(GREASE FITTING)
|LEFT & RIGHT)
LUBRICATE
THE
STEERING PLATE
IN AREA OF SECTOR
GEAR

WHEEL
GREASE FITTING)
(LEFT & RIGHT)

FIGURE

REPAIR AND ADJUSTMENT
1. Starting Your Tractor with a Weak Battery
If your battery is too low to start the engine, it should
be recharged.. If "jumper cables" are used for emergency starting follow this procedure:
NOTE: YOUR TRACTOR IS EQUIPPED WITH A 12 VOLT
NEGATIVE GROUNDED SYSTEM, THE OTHER VEHICLE
MUST ALSO BE A 12 VOLT NEGATIVE GROUNDED
SYSTEM_
FIGURE 28

_'lk

LEAD-ACID BATTERIES GENERATE EXPLOSIVE_
GASES. KEEP SPARKS, FLAME AND SMOKING 4
MATERIALS
AWAY
FROM
BATTERIES.I
ALWAYS WEAR EYE PROTECTION AROUND[
BATTERY.

NEGATIVE
(BLACK CABLE)
TERMINAL

a o Connect each end of the RED cable to the
POSITIVE (+) terminals of each battery (taking
care not to short against chassis). (Fig. 29).
b,_ Connect one end of the BLACK cable to the
NEGATIVE (-1 terminal of fully charged battery,
co Connect the other end of the cable to L H, side
panelbolt (Fig. 19). NOTE: KEEP AWAY FROM
GAS TANK AND BATTERY.
do Disconnect cables in reverse order:
1., L_H_ Side Panel Bolt (Fig_ ! 9).
2_ Negative Terminal of fully charged Battery
3. Postive Terminals

BATTERY

CAUTION:
POSITIVE
(RED CABLE)
TERMINAL

FIGURE

DO NOT USE YOUR BATTERY
START OTHER VEHICLES.

THROTTLE

CONTROL

CABLE ADJUSTMENTS

Never attempt
to change maximum
engine speed This is
preset at the factory (3400
± 100 RPM) and should only
be change by a qualified
service technician who has the
necessary equipment
a
Remove hood page 23
b
Loosen casing clamp screw until throttle cable is free
to move(Fig_ 30).
c
Move throttle control {on the dash board) to "Fast "_
position
d
Pull thro_tle cable tight (until swivel is against side of
quarte_ circte) Fig 30 Retighten casing clamp screw

CHOKE
CABLE

REFER TO "STARTING
PAGE

CARBURETOR

THE ENGINE",|

12o

ADJUSTMENT

NOTE: Adjust throttle control cable before making any adjustment
to carburetor
Air cleaner must be assembled to
carburetor
when running engine
Minor carburetor
adjustments
may be required to compensate for differences
in fuel. temperature
or altitude
_djusz
the carburetor
fuel mixture as follows:
a

FIGURE 30

Gently turn idle mixture valve clockwise
('"_)
Fig, 31
until it just closes and then counterclockwise
P"-'_)
1 1!2 turns
CAUTION:
Valve may be damaged if turned in too far
Start engine and allow to warm for five minutes
Make
final adjustments
with engine running and choke pushed in

FtEPA
c
d

Move throttle
control
leve_ Ion dashboard)
to slow
position
Hold governor control lever against idle speed screw.
and adjust idle speed screw to obtain t 200 to 1400 RPM
Fig
31
Whg slJ_lholding the governor control lever against idle speed
screw, tum idle mixture vaJveslowly clockwise (F_)(lean
mixture) until speed just starts to slow, Then tum counterclockwise (('-"_) (fic_hmixture) until engine begins to run rough

Turn idle mixture
rich and lean

Adjust the idle speed screw to obtain 900 to 1200
RPM Release governor control lever
Move throttle control (on the dashboard)
to _FAST'"

AND ADJUSTMENT

valve

back to the midpoint

between

FIGURE 31

If engine hesitates or dies, turn idle mixture valve approximately
I/8 turn counterclockwise
(Y-'_) until
engine wit! accelerate
"SLOW"
to "FAST"

as throttle

control

is moved from

4_ Electric Clutch Adjustment
The electric clutch (Fig° 32) should provide years of service, The clutch incorporates a built-in brake that stops
the pulley almost immediately, Eventually, the internal
brake will wear so the mower blades will not stop as
recommended.
Adjustment
must be made by a Sears
Service Technician,,
5.

Motion

Drive Belt Renloval

The belt on this tractor is special for this application.
Always replace wffh the Sears belt number in the parts
list. It is not necessary to remove mower.

FIGURE

a o Raise hood and disconnect negative ground battery cable°
b. Set parking brake (to get belt slack).
c., Loosen (do not remove) two engine pulley belt
guide bolts and swivel R.H. side of belt guide up.
Tighten LHo bolt to hold belt guide in position
(Fig,, 33).
d,, Roll belt off engine pulley,
e. Roll belt off "'V" idler, flat idler and adjustable
idler pulleys (Fig. 34),
f o Pult belt off clutch pulley - between pulley and
frame.

BELT
GUI

LOOSEN

ENGINE
PULLEY

FIGURE 33

Motion

Drive Belt Replacement

NOTE: THERE IS A BELT INSTALLATION
Loll,, FOOTREST°

DECAL UNDER

a. Push belt down from engine pulley area.. Place
back (flat) side of belt on flat idler. (Flat idler is
next to frame),.
b. Place belt on adjustable idler and over clutch
pulley. "'V" (narrow) part of belt should engage
clutch pulley.,

"'V'"

IDL£R

CLUTCH

ADJUSTABLE

PULLEY

IDLER

TRANSAXLE
PULLEY

FIGURE

AND ADJUSTMENT
c.

Place belt around transaxle pulley. "'V'" part of
belt should engage transaxle pulley_

d, Make sure "'V" part of belt engages "V'" idler°

Roll belt over engine pulley,

BELTGUIDE

Loosen L.H. engine pulley belt guide bolt and
swivel belt guide bolt and swivel belt guide onto R, Ho belt. Tighten L.H, and R.Ho belts securely
(Fig. 35)°

Release parking brake. NOTE: WHEN A NEW
BELT HAS BEEN INSTALLED, YOU MUST
CHECK BRAKE ADJUSTMENT,

Idler Bracket

Removal

NOTE: WHEN OPERATING TRACTOR WITHOUT
MOWER, REMOVE IDLER BRACKET FROM FRONT OF
TRACTOR.
a,

IDLER
BRACKET
' LOCKWASHER
NUT

FIGURE36

Pull belt up through idler bracket and out of tractor. Use lever to swing tension pulley for belt
removal

b . Remove Iockwashers and nuts from idler bracket
(Fig° 36).

8. Fu_

ADJUSTMENT

Replacement

Fuse is located under dash to the left of the battery., ff
fuse replacement is necessary, replace with 30 amp
automotive- type plug4n fuse_Fuses can be purchased
at all Sears Service Centers and most retail stores,
9,

Check Transaxle

011 Level

Block up rear axle (Fig. 39)
tractor jack°

b o Remove left rear wheel
C_

d.
10.

securely

or use a

I FIGURE 37

by removing hub bolts°

Remove filler plug (Fig 37) from transaxle.
Oil
level must be even with plug threads. See your Sears
Service Center ff additional oil is required. Replace
filler plug,,
Reposition

TRANSAXLE
PLUG

wheel. Secure

with

WIRE
CONNECTION
_.

,/7 >

hub bolts°

Hood Removal
SCREW

Lifthood° Disconnect
tion (Fig° 38).

headlight

wiring connec-

b. Unscrew one screw at rear of each side panel
(Fig. 38)_
c° Pivot hood and side panel forward
tractor (Fig. 39).
d.
11,

To replace,

Mower

reverse

the above

and rift off

procedure.

Removal

a. Lower

mower.,

Puff the four 14) release pins out of suspension
brackets
(Fig. 40).

Puff tJack on attachment
place.

Slide mower forward
primary mandrel.

e. Slide

FIGURE 3B

mower

out from

lift lever and lock into

and remove

belt

from

under tractor.
ATTACHMENT
HANDLE

NOTE: IF AN ATTACHMENT OTHER THAN THE
MOWER DECK IS TO BE MOUNTED ON THE
TRACTOR, REMOVE THE LH. AND R;H. SUS _
PENTION ARMS AND THE FRONT SUSPENTION BRACKET° (FIG,, 40)

U_I=ENSIONARM
SUSPENSION'
BRACKETS
RELF_SE.

- SUSPENSION

- RELEASE
Pm

AND ADJUSTMENT
12.

Level Mower

Front to Rear Mower

Housing

Move attachment rift lever to full "UP" position. After
leveling side to side, measure Bottom of Curl at FRONT
AND REAR OF MOWER. The bottom of curl at the R.H.
front flanges should measure 3/4" lower than at the R.H.
REAR flange (Fig° 42Z If adjustment is required follow
the procedure betow,_

Adjust the mower while tractor is parked on level ground
or driveway. Make sure tire pressures are 14 PSI in front;
10 PSI in rear.
Side to Side Mower

Adjustment

a. Move attachment
(Fig. 44).

rift lever to full "UP"

a ,, To raise front of mower loosen nuts "D'. Screw
nuts "'C'" up onto suspension arms (Fig. 43 )_
NOTE: SCREW NUTS "C" ON BOTH SUSPENSION ARMS THE SAME NUMBER OF TURNS
SO MOWER WiLL REMAIN LEVEL Tighten nuts
"'D'" securely_

position

b ,. Use a ruler to make sure bottom of curl at rear of
mower deck is the same height from the ground
on each side (Fig. 42)°
C_

If adjustment is required, snap out access cover
on L,,H. side of tractor above footrest (Fig. 41)o
To raise left side of mower, loosen nut "'B'" and
screw nut "'A'" down on adjustment
rod.
Adjust until both rear mower
flanges are the
same height above the ground, Tighten nuts
"'A'" and "'B'" securety,_

Snap access cover

in ptace_

NUT

Adjustment

To lower front of mower loosen nuts "'C'"
Screw nuts "'D" down suspension arms. NOTE:
SCREW NUTS "D"
THE SAME NUMBER OF
TURNS SO MOWER
WILL REMAIN LEVEL
Tighten nuts "'C'" securely,
With mower deck at desired height, set gauge
wheels (Fi9 44) to lowest
position without
touching the ground,
Use attachment rift lever to set mower at the approximate cutting height you need,
Use clevis pin (Fig. 44 ) to set gauge wheels
lowest point without touching the ground.

"'A"

FIGURE

NUT

"B'"

OF CURL
(REARFLANGES)

FIGtlRE 42

ADJUSTMENT
13. Blade Drive Belt Removal and Replacement
BELT ROUTING

DECAL UNDER MOWER DECK COVER.

a, Remove mower

from tractor

(see page 23).

Remove
top cover
self
tapping
screws,
Iockwashers
and nuts from idler arm bolt.

Ro!! belt over the top of'the

Pull belt off all other mandrels,

R.H. mandrel,

e, Remove any dirt and grass which may have accumulated around mandrels and idler arm,
f.

Check deck idler arm assembly and flat idler to
see that they rotate freely (Fig° 45)
NUT

SUSPENSION
ARMS

°'D"

Be sure spring is hooked in deck idler arm
assembly and on bolt in mower housing (Fig_45).

h, Install new belt in groove
of L,H. mandrel
sheave, lower groove of center mandrel sheave
and around flat idler as shown (Fig. 45).,
i

From a position at discharge end of mower, roll
belt into groove of RH. mandrel sheave (Fig,
45),

Rotate center mandrel sheave by hand to make
sure belt is in grooves properly_

MANDREL
SHEAVES,,
BLADES WILL
ROTATE

t _

14.

Reassemble
top
screws securely_

Install mower

Attachment

cover

to tractor

WITH
deck.

(see page

RETAINER
SPRING

CENTER
Tighten

GAUGE
WHEEL

aft

10),

IDLER ARM

_
FLAT IDLER
L.H, MANDREL
\
SHEAVE

Due to different weights of attachments,
the attchment
lift spring may require adjustment.
The adjustment bolt
is located on rear of tractor top left side (Fig 46).
a, Holding spring bushing with wrench,
nuts,
b,

CENTRAL

MANDREL

NUT

Lift Spring Adjustment

SHEAVE

//
/

R.H, MANDREL
SHEAVE

loosen jam

Turn adjustment bolt clockwise {:'-_) to extend
spring
and reduce
lift effort
(for heavier
attachments),
Turn adjustment bolt counterclockwise
{for lighter attachments).

J
FIGURE

SPRING
BUSHING

UV-_)

•/ATTACHMEN"I
SPRING

d. Retighten jam nut against spring bushing,
NOTE: DO NO,,T ADJUST FOR MAXIMUM SPRING
TENSION WHEN USING LIGHT ATTACHMENTS SUCH
AS A MOWER. ADJUST LIFT LEVER SPRING TO AID IN
LIFTING ATTACHMENT. DO NOT OVERPOWER
SPRING,. WHEN REMOVING ATTACHMENT, ALWAYS
ADJUST WITH SPRING TENSION TO ITS LOWEST
POSITION.

JAM NUT
FIGURE 46

AND ADJUSTMENT
A.

Fuel System
it is important to prevent gum deposits from forming
in essential fuel system parts such as the carburetor,
fuel filter, fuel hose, or tank during storage A/so,
experience indicates that alcohol blended fuels (ca/led
gasoho/ or using ethanol or methanol) can attract mois*
ture which leads to separation and formation of acids
during storage, Acidic gas can damage the fuel system
of an engine whi/e in storage_ To avoid engine ptoblems,
the fuel system shou/d be emptied before storage of 30
days or longer:

Engine Oil

FLAT WASHER

LOCKWASHER---_(_
HE)( HEAD HEAT --_1
TREATEDBOLT
GRACE 5

Drain (with engine warm) and replace with clean
engine oil, ( Refer t6 page 16).

FIGURE 47
C,
15o Blade Replacement

Cylinders
1_ Remove spark plugs°

it is not necessary to remove mower from tractor for
blade replacement,
Moving adjustment lift lever to up
(Rear) position wilt permit access to blades_

2 _ Pour one ounce of oil through spark plug holes
into cylinders°

a = Remove the hex head bont, tockwasher and flat
washer (Fig, 47L

Turn ignition key to "START"position
seconds to distribute oil.

Remove and discard old btade.

Replace with new Spark P/ugs_ Refer to Page 45
for replacement information,

Clean top and bottom of mower

Install new blade with SHARP EDGE DOWN and
secure with flat washer; iockwasher and hex
head boll TIGHTEN SECUREL Yo

D .

housing,

Battery
1,

ALWAYS USE GRADE 5 HEAT TREATED
BOLTS TO ATTACH
BLADES.
CHECK
BOLTS IN BLADES OCCASIONALLY
TO
MAKE SURE BOLTS ARE TIGHT. TORQUE
BOLTS 30 - 35 FT. LBS,

Remove batter'/ff tractoris not used regularly during
winter months, Store in coot, dry p/ace (above 50QFIo

Re-charge each month ff necessary. NOTE: BATTERIES NOT IN USE FOR SEVERAL MONTHS AND NOT
KEPT FULL Y CHARGED, PRODUCE SULFATE DEPOSITS ON PLA TES WHICH CANNOT BE REMOVED
BY RECHARGING.

General Cleaning

Clean engine,
matter°

A GRADE 5 HEAT TREATED BOLT
CAN BE IDENTIFIED BY THREE
LINES ON THE BOLT HEAD AS
SHOWN ON LEFT°

16, Storage

Remove mower from tractor for winter storage. When
mower is to be stored for a period of time, clean it
thoroughly, remove all dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Store in
a clean dry area.

fore few

battery,

seat,

finish, etc_ of all foreign

Store in a Clean Dry Area

TROUBLESHOOTING
CAUSE/REMEDY

POSSIBLE CAUSE

(SEE INDEX)

Push Clutch/Brake
Pedal into Brake
Move Attachment
Clutch Switch to
Fill Tank with Gasoline, Check Fuel
{clean if necessary) Replace Fuel
Check fuse for fault and replace
Recharge or replace Battery
Check Wiring
Rep,lac,e Spark Plugs and adjust gap
Charge Battery
Replace Ignition Switch
Engage Clutch/Brake
Pedal
Move Attachment
Clutch Switch
to
Replace interlock Switch
Replace Solenoid

WILL NOT START

WILL NOT TURN OVER

Position
"Disengaged
Position
Line and Carburetor
Filter

"Disengaged

Replace Starter
Charg e or Reptace Battery
Place Throttle
Control in "FAST"
position
and run starter several times to clear out gas
Remove and clean Fuel Tank and lines
Replace Fuel
Remove Air Filter and clean
Replace Spark Plugs and adjust gap
Replace Battery
Check the wiring and Spark Plugs
Drain Fuet Tank and Carburetor.
use fresh fuet and

HARD TO START

Replace Spark Plug s
Make necessary
adjustments

to Carburetor

..............Major Engine Overhaul
Shift to a lower gear or reduce load
Remove and clean Tank; replace Fuel
Remove and clean Air Cleaner

ENGINE MISSES

Filter

Make necessary carburetor
adjustments
Clean Air Screen
Replace Spark Plugs
Add or change
oil
Check Spark Plugs and check for any loose
Major Engine overhaul
Drain Gas Tank and Carburetor
and refill

OR LACKS POWER

Clean

Air

Screen

Add or change oil
Clean Engine Cooling Fins
Remove and clean Muffler
or replace
Remove and clean Air Filter

ENGINE OVERHEATS

Use

NO LIGHTS

WON'T

Poaition

Replace Fuse
Check All Wire Connections

ENGINE CLICKS BUT WON'T START

fresh fuel and adjust

Carburetor

Check Fuse, Switch and Wire Connections
Replace Headlight
Bulbs
Check for Fuse fault and replace
Replace Battery
Replace Regulator
Replace Alternator

CHARGE

OPERATOR
PRESENCE
SYSTEM
WILL NOT SHUT
DOWN
ENGINE
WHEN
OPERATOR
LEAVES
SEAT
NOTE: THIS TRACTOR IS EQUIPPED WITH AN OPERATOR
PRESENCE SENSING SYSTEM, ANY ATTEMPT BY THE
OPERATOR TO LEAVE THE SEAT WiTH THE ENGINE RUNNiNG AND THE ATTACHMENT CLUTCH ENGAGED WiLL SHUT
DOWN THE ENGINE,

Engage
Check
Check
Check
Check

Attachment
Clutch
All Wire Connections
Seat Switch
Operator Presence Relay
PTO Switch

wires

Filter

TROUBLESHOOTING
UNSATISFACTORY
MOWER PERFORMANCE
UNEVEN DISTRIBUTION OF CLIPPINGS

Place throttle controla in "FAST" position.
Check air pressure in tires
Check front to rear and side to side mower adjust_
ment
Use a slower ground speed
Replace mower blades
Reinstall mower blades with top of blades up
Re-adjuet mower drive belt
Clean underside of mower deck
Sharpen blades

MOWER

Install new Mower Drive Belt
Reinstall Mower Drive Belt
Replace Attachment
Clutch Switch
Replace Frozen Mandrel
Replace Frozen Pulley

BLADES WILL NOT ROTATE

EXCESSIVE

MOWER

Replace
Replace

VIBRATION

WIND ROWlNGpSTRIPPING,fOR
OF GRASS CLIPPINGS

Bent or Unbalanced
Mandrel, Straighten

Let grass dry out
Clean underside of Mower
Level Mower
Replace Blades

DROPPING

Blade
Deck or replace

Deck

Level Mower

UNEVEN CUT OR SCALPING

Adjust Gauge Wheels
Replace Blades

SERWCE
SERVICE RECORD
Fill in dates as you complete regular service

SCHEDULE
FIRST
2
HOURS

EVERY
5
HOURS

EVERY
25
HOURS

Blades

Brake Adjustment

EVERY
50
HOURS

'EVERY
100
HOURS

....

Check Battery
Change Engine Oil

,, ,,

X
X

X
=

Check Engine Oil Level

Clean Air Cleaner Element

Check Muffler

Clean Air Screen

Clean Front Grill

Lubricate Tractor

,,,,,,,,,,,,,

Replace Spark Plugs

Replace Air Cleaner Element

Tires

Sears, Roebuck and Co. reserves the right to make any
changes in design or improvements
without imposing
any obligation to install the same upon its terms
heretofore manufactured,

GT TWIN GARDEN TRACTOR

- MODEL NUMBER

917.255919

SCHENIATaC

BLACK

RED

RED
CLUTCH/BRAKE
{PEDAL UPt
j
t
WHITE _
....WHITE

POWER
TAKE OFF

SW_TCH r--"_
RED

_CLUTCH

L'3_F
_F&"_--

f
!

t
j

.............

L"-""?,_;
_"_

....

'-S_)_'E N_ID

"°

WHITE

! J

___(

......... _

| C
L.-

ELECTRIC

BLACK

_,_

CLUTCH
RED

2°3°ASSl

M
BLACK

IGNITION
SWITCH

I
|

SEAT SWITCH
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Craftsman 917255919 User Manual GT TWIN GARDEN TRACTOR Manuals And Guides L1004534

WER L1004534

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