Dixon RAM 52ZT Operator's Manual
Dixon RAM 52ZT Operator's Manual

Dixon RAM 52ZT Operator's Manual

Ride-on mower
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Operator Manual
RAM 52ZT / 966038601
RAM 48ZT / 966495301
RAM 52ZT BF / 966054301
RAM 48ZT BF / 966495401
Please read the operator's manual carefully and make sure you
understand the instructions before using the machine.

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Summary of Contents for Dixon RAM 52ZT

  • Page 1 Operator Manual RAM 52ZT / 966038601 RAM 48ZT / 966495301 RAM 52ZT BF / 966054301 RAM 48ZT BF / 966495401 Please read the operator’s manual carefully and make sure you understand the instructions before using the machine.
  • Page 2 ©2009 HTC. All rights reserved. Beatrice, NE. Printed in U.S.A.
  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Contents INTrodUCTIoN ............5 Engine Cooling Air Intake ........38 driving and Transport on Public roads ....5 Throttle Cable .............38 Towing ..............5 Choke Cable ............38 operating .............5 Air filter ..............39 Good Service ............6 Briggs & Stratton Engine .........39 SymBolS ANd dECAlS .........7 Kohler Engine ..........40 SAfETy ..............9 fuel filter ............41...
  • Page 4 WARNING! Failure to follow cautious operating practices can result in serious injury to the operator or other persons. The owner must understand these instructions, and must allow only trained persons who understand these instructions to operate the mower. Each person operating the mower must be of sound mind and body and must not be under the influence of any mind altering substance.
  • Page 5: Introduction

    IntRoDUCtIon Congratulations Towing Thank you for purchasing a dixon ride-on mower. If machine is equipped with a tow hitch, use extreme This machine is built for superior efficiency to caution when towing. Never allow children or others in rapidly mow primarily large areas. A control panel or on the towed equipment.
  • Page 6: Good Service

    IntRoDUCtIon Good Service dixon’s products are sold only in specialized retail stores with complete service. This ensures that you as a customer receive only the best support and service. Before the product is delivered, the machine has, for example, been inspected and adjusted by your retailer. See the certificate in the Service Journal in this operator’s manual.
  • Page 7: Symbols And Decals

    symbols anD DeCals These symbols are found on the machine and in the operator’s manual. Study them carefully so that you know what they mean. WARNING! Xxxx xxxxxx xxxxx xxxx xxxxxxxxx xxxxxx xxxxxxxxx. xx xxxxxxxx xxxx xxxxxx. Used in this publication to notify the reader of a risk of personal injury or death, particularly if the reader should neglect to follow instructions given in the manual.
  • Page 8 symbols anD DeCals read Shut off engine and Keep a safe Use on slopes No passengers operator’s remove key before distance from no greater manual performing any the machine than 10° maintenance or repair work Whole body Severing of fingers do not open or Careful backing up, Careful going...
  • Page 9: Safety

    saFety Safety Instructions These instructions are for your safety. read them carefully. WARNING! This symbol means that important safety instructions need to be emphasized. It concerns your safety. IMPORTANT: THIS CUTTING mACHINE IS CAPABlE of AmPUTATING HANdS ANd fEET ANd THroWING oBJECTS.
  • Page 10 saFety • Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways. • Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into a trailer or truck. • Always wear eye protection when operating machine. • data indicates that operators age 60 years and above are involved in a large percentage of riding mower-related injuries.
  • Page 11: Personal Safety Equipment

    saFety Personal Safety Equipment WARNING! When using the machine, approved personal protective equipment (shown in illustrations) shall be used. Personal protective equipment cannot eliminate the risk of injury but it will reduce the degree of injury if an accident does happen. Ask your retailer for help in choosing the right equipment.
  • Page 12 saFety Children Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to the machine and the mowing activity. Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them. • Keep children out of the mowing area and in the watchful care of a responsible adult other than the operator.
  • Page 13: Safe Handling Of Gasoline

    saFety WARNING! The engine must not be started when the driver’s floor plate or any protective plate for the mower deck’s drive belt is removed. Safe Handling of Gasoline To avoid personal injury or property damage, use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive.
  • Page 14: General Maintenance

    saFety General Maintenance • Never use the machine indoors or in spaces lacking proper ventilation. The exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide, an odorless, poisonous, and lethal gas. • Keep all nuts and bolts tight to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition. •...
  • Page 15 saFety • Ensure that nuts and bolts, especially the fastening bolts for the blade attachments, are properly tightened, torqued and that the equipment is in good condition. • The machine is tested and approved only with the equipment originally provided or recommended by the manufacturer.
  • Page 16: Transport

    IMPORTANT INFORMATION A spark arrester for the muffler is available through The parking brake is not sufficient to lock the your authorized dixon dealer. machine in place during transport. Ensure that the machine is well fastened to the transport vehicle. Always reverse the machine onto the transport vehicle to avoid tipping it over.
  • Page 17: Controls

    ContRols This operator’s manual describes the dixon Zero Turn belt-driven hydraulic pumps, which in turn drive a rider. The rider is fitted with a Kohler or Briggs & hydraulic motor for each drive wheel. Using the left Stratton four-stroke overhead valve engine developing and right steering controls, the flow is regulated and 24-26* horse power.
  • Page 18: Motion Control Levers

    15 psi. (1 bar) Tracking must be checked on a flat and level concrete or blacktop surface. If the unit still does not track straight contact your dixon workshop for adjustments. 8011-7912a 1.
  • Page 19: Cutting Height Adjuster

    ContRols Cutting Height Adjuster The deck cutting height is obtained by pressing the button on the lift lever and pulling backward to lift the deck. To lower the deck, push button on the lift lever and push forward allowing the deck to lower to the correct cutting height.
  • Page 20: Ignition Switch

    ContRols Ignition Switch The ignition key is placed on the control panel and is used to start and stop the engine. 8050-839 Ignition switch Hour Meter The hour meter displays the total operating time. It will flash CHG oIl (Change oil) at 50 hour intervals. The flash duration is one hour before and one hour after the interval.
  • Page 21: Fuses

    ContRols Fuses fuses are located on the left hand side of the machine. They are accessed by tilting the seat forward. They are flat pin fuses of the same type used in automobiles. There are two fuses with ratings and functions: 20 Amp Primary fuse 7.5 Amp mower deck coupling 8011-420...
  • Page 22: Fuel Tank

    ContRols Fuel Tank The machine has one fuel tank, just behind the seat. The tank capacity is 4.5 gallons (17 liters). The engine will run on a minimum of 85-octane unleaded gasoline (no oil mix). Environmentally adapted alkylate gasoline can be used. See also Technical data concerning ethanol fuel.
  • Page 23: Operation

    opeRatIon read Safety Instructions section and following pages, at this time, rotate control levers inward. As long if you are unfamiliar with the machine. as the control levers have not been moved forward or backwards, mower will not move. Slowly move Training both control levers forward slightly.
  • Page 24: Before Starting

    opeRatIon Before Starting • read the sections Safety Instructions and Controls before starting the machine. • Perform the daily maintenance before starting (see Maintenance Schedule in the Maintenance section). • Check that there is sufficient fuel in the fuel tank. •...
  • Page 25 opeRatIon move the steering controls outward to the locked (outer) neutral position. 8061-020 Place controls in neutral, locked position move the throttle to the middle position. 8050-817-1 Set the throttle If the engine is cold, push the choke lever to oN. 8050-817-1 Set the choke control...
  • Page 26 opeRatIon open the fuel valve for the fuel tank. 8011-419-1 Fuel shut off valve in the OPEN position Press in and turn the ignition key to the start position. STOP IMPORTANT INFORMATION Do not run the starter for more than 5 seconds 8011-419-1 Turn to the start position each time.
  • Page 27 opeRatIon Gradually pull choke control back when the engine has started. 8050-817-1 Release choke Set the desired engine speed with the throttle. Allow the engine to run at a moderate speed (half throttle) for 3-5 minutes before loading it too heavily. USE FULL THROTTLE WHEN MOWING (no choke).
  • Page 28: Weak Battery

    opeRatIon Weak Battery WARNING! Lead-acid batteries generate explosive gases. Keep sparks, flame and smoking materials away from batteries. Always wear eye protection when around batteries. If your battery is too weak to start the engine, it should be recharged. (See Battery in the Maintenance section.) IMPORTANT INFORMATION Your mower is equipped with a 12-volt...
  • Page 29: Running

    opeRatIon Running release the parking brake by moving the lever downward. your mower is equipped with an operator presence system. When the engine is running, any attempt by the operator to leave the seat without first setting the parking brake will shut off the engine.
  • Page 30: Operating On Hills

    opeRatIon Engage the mower deck by pulling out the blade switch. move throttle control to full throttle (not choke). The machine’s speed and direction are continuously variable using the two steering controls. When both controls are in the neutral position, the machine stands still. By moving both controls an equal amount forward or backward, the machine moves in a straight line forward or backward respectively.
  • Page 31: Mowing Tips

    opeRatIon Mowing Tips WARNING! • observe and flag rocks and other fixed objects to avoid collisions. Clear the lawn of stones and other objects that can be thrown out by the • Begin with a high cutting height and reduce it blades.
  • Page 32: Stopping The Engine

    opeRatIon Stopping the Engine Allow the engine to idle a minute in order to attain normal operating temperature before stopping it, if it has been worked hard. Avoid idling the engine for longer periods, as there is a risk of the spark plugs fouling.
  • Page 33: Manual Transport

    opeRatIon Manual Transport Bypass Linkages When pushing or pulling the mower, engage the ZT-2800 (Integrated Zero turn Transaxle) bypass linkages. The ZT-2800 bypass linkages are located on the rear of the frame, below the rear engine guard. raise the deck into the highest cutting position.
  • Page 34: Maintenance

    maIntenanCe Maintenance Schedule The following is a list of maintenance procedures that must be performed on the machine. for those points not described in this manual, visit an authorized service workshop. An annual service carried out by an authorized service workshop is recommended to maintain your machine in the best possible condition and to ensure safe operation.
  • Page 35 maIntenanCe Maintenance Maintenance least interval once Daily Wkly in hours each Before After year ● Check/adjust throttle cable ● ● Check the condition of belts, belt pulleys ● ● Change the engine oil ● ● replace the engine oil filter ●...
  • Page 36: Battery

    maIntenanCe Battery your mower is equipped with a maintenance free STANdArd STATE APProXImATE BATTEry CHArGING TImE* To fUll CHArGE AT 80 f / 27 battery and does not need servicing. However, periodic charging of the battery with an automotive maximum rate at: BATTEry type battery charger will extend its life.
  • Page 37: Ignition System

    maIntenanCe Ignition System IMPORTANT INFORMATION The engine is equipped with an electronic ignition system. only the spark plug requires maintenance. Fitting the wrong spark plug type can damage the engine. for recommended spark plug, see Technical data. remove the ignition cable boot and clean Inadequately tightened spark plug can around the spark plug.
  • Page 38: Engine Cooling Air Intake

    maIntenanCe Engine Cooling Air Intake Check that the engine’s cooling air intake is free from leaves, grass, and dirt. If the cooling air intake is clogged, engine cooling deteriorates, which can lead to engine damage. The cooling air intakes rotates when the engine is running.
  • Page 39: Air Filter

    maIntenanCe Air Filter Briggs & Stratton Engine loosen screws and remove air filter cover. remove the filter cartridge by pulling upwards along the outside edge. WARNING! The engine and the exhaust system become very hot during operation. Risk for burns if touched. Allow engine and exhaust system to cool at least two (2) minutes.
  • Page 40: Kohler Engine

    maIntenanCe Kohler Engine IMPORTANT INFORMATION These engines are equipped with a replaceable, high density paper air cleaner element. Some engines Operating the engine with loose or damaged are also equipped with an oiled, foam precleaner air cleaner components could allow unfiltered surrounding the paper element.
  • Page 41: Fuel Filter

    maIntenanCe Fuel Filter replace the line-mounted fuel filter every 100 hours (once per season) or more regularly if it is clogged. replace the filter as follows: move the hose clamps away from the filter. Use flat-nosed pliers. Pull the filter loose from the hose ends. Push the new filter into the hose ends.
  • Page 42: Parking Brake

    Visually check that no damage is found on the lever, links, or switch belonging to the parking brake. Perform a standstill test and check that there is sufficient braking action. To adjust the parking brake, contact the dixon service workshop. WARNING! Faulty adjustment can result in reduced braking ability and can cause an accident.
  • Page 43: Pump Belt

    maIntenanCe Deck Belt Installation NoTE: for ease in installing the deck belt, refer to the routing decal on the top of the deck. Wrap the deck belt around the electric clutch pulley that is located on the engine shaft. route the belt forward and up onto the deck. Place belt around spring loaded idler pulley.
  • Page 44: Cutting Blades

    Install and tighten blade bolt securely. Torque blade bolt to 90 ft/lbs (122 Nm). IMPORTANT INFORMATION Special blade bolt is heat treated. Replace with a Dixon bolt if required. Blade Do not use lower grade hardware than Blade bolt (special) specified.
  • Page 45: Adjusting The Mower Deck

    maIntenanCe Adjusting the Mower Deck Leveling deck Adjust the deck while the mower is on a level surface. make sure the tires are inflated to the correct pressure. See Transmission under Technical Data. If tires are under or over inflated, the deck cannot be properly adjusted.
  • Page 46: Anti-Scalp Rollers

    maIntenanCe Anti-scalp rollers Anti-scalp rollers are properly adjusted when they are just slightly off of the ground when the deck is at the desired cutting height in the operating position. Anti-scalp rollers then keep the deck in the proper position to help prevent scalping in most terrain conditions.
  • Page 47: Cleaning

    maIntenanCe Cleaning regular cleaning and washing, especially under the mower deck, will increase the machine’s life-span. make it a habit to clean the machine directly after use (after it is cooled), before the dirt sticks. do not spray water on the top of the mower deck. Use compressed air to clean the top side of mower deck.
  • Page 48: Parking Brake Adjustment

    maIntenanCe Parking Brake Adjustment Jack up unit and support properly with jack stands. Allow clearance to work at rear transaxles. Before making any adjustments: Set park brake. measure the distance between the rod swivel pin and the brake arm washer. With the brake engaged, there should be a gap of "...
  • Page 49: Lubrication

    lUbRICatIon Lubrication Schedule 12/12 Every year lubricate with grease gun filter change 1/52 Every Week oil change level check 1/365 Every day General remove the ignition key to prevent unintentional Wipe away excess grease after lubrication. movements during lubrication. It is important to avoid getting lubricant on the belts When lubricating with an oil can, it must be filled with or the drive surfaces on the belt pulleys.
  • Page 50: Front Wheel Mount

    lUbRICatIon Front Wheel Mount lubricate with a grease gun, one zerk for each wheel mount, until the grease is forced out. Use only good quality bearing grease. Grease from well-known brand names (petrochemical companies) usually maintains a good quality. Front Wheel Bearings lubricate with a grease gun, one zerk for each set of wheel bearings, until the grease is forced out.
  • Page 51: Engine Oil

    lUbRICatIon Engine Oil WARNING! Engine oil can be very hot if it is drained directly after stopping the engine. Allow the engine to cool to a safe temperature before draining. Engine Oil Filter • drain the engine oil in accordance with the work description under the heading Engine oil/Change Engine oil.
  • Page 52: Changing The Engine Oil

    lUbRICatIon See the Technical data section for oil amounts. Changing the Engine Oil The engine oil should be changed for the first time after 5-8 hours of operation. Thereafter, it should be changed every 50 hours. The oil drain valve is located on the left side of the unit, below the oil filter.
  • Page 53: Transaxle (Transmission) Fluid Change

    lUbRICatIon Transaxle (Transmission) Fluid Change This transaxle is designed with an external filter for ease of maintenance. To ensure constant fluid quality levels and longer life, an oil filter change interval of every 200 hours is recommended. The following procedure is performed with the transaxles installed in the mower and the mower on level ground.
  • Page 54: Purging

    lUbRICatIon Purging WARNING! due to the effects air has on efficiency in hydrostatic drive applications, it is critical to purge the system. Escaping hydraulic oil under pressure can have sufficient force to These purge procedures should be implemented penetrate the skin, causing serious any time a hydrostatic system has been opened to injury.
  • Page 55: Troubleshooting

    tRoUblesHootInG Problem Cause Engine will not start • Blade switch is engaged. • Steering controls are not locked in the neutral position • Parking brake is not activated • Battery is dead • Contamination in the carburetor or fuel line. •...
  • Page 56: Troubleshooting

    tRoUblesHootInG Problem Cause Engine overheats • Clogged air intake or cooling fins • Engine overloaded • Poor ventilation around engine • defective engine speed regulator • Too little or no oil in the engine • Contamination in the carburetor or fuel line. •...
  • Page 57: Storage

    Drain the fuel into Always use genuine dixon spare parts. an approved container outdoors and An annual check-up at an authorized service far away from open flame. Never workshop is a good way to ensure that your machine use gasoline for cleaning.
  • Page 58: Schematic

    sCHematICs...
  • Page 59: Technical Data

    teCHnICal Data Accessories Collection system Torque Specifications Engine crankshaft bolt 50 ft/lb (67 Nm) Standard ¼" fasteners 9 ft/lb (12 Nm) deck pulley bolts 150 ft/lb (203 Nm) Standard " fasteners 18 ft/lb (25 Nm) lug nuts 75 ft/lb (100 Nm) Standard "...
  • Page 60 teCHnICal Data 966038601, 966054301 966495301, 966495401 Engine manufacturer Kohler Briggs & Stratton Type Courage Power 24 hp* 26 hp* lubrication pressure with oil filter pressure with oil filter oil capacity excluding filter 1.78 qts / 1.68 liters 1.6 qt / 1.5 liter oil capacity including filter 2 qts / 1.89 liters 1.7 qt / 1.6 liter...
  • Page 61 teCHnICal Data 966038601, 966054301 966495301, 966495401 Frame Cutting Width 52" / 132 cm 48" / 155 cm Cutting Height 1½ - 4½" / 3.8 - 11.3 cm 1½ - 4½" / 3.8 - 11.3 cm Uncut Circle Number of Blades Blade length 18"...
  • Page 62: Conformity Certificates

    ConFoRmIty CeRtIFICates USA requirements labels are placed on the engine and/or in the engine compartment stating that the machine will fulfill the requirements. This is also applicable to special requirements for any of the states, (California emission rules etc.). do not remove any of these labels. Certificates can also be supplied with the machine at delivery or written in the Engine manual.
  • Page 63: Warranty

    Two years - 100% parts and labor subject to the conditions and limitations described herein for a period of two years from date of purchase by the original owner. Third year - limited to 100% parts cost as shown in the current dixon Parts Price list and subject to the conditions and limitations as described herein.
  • Page 64: Service Journal

    seRVICe JoURnal action Date, mtr reading, stamp, sign Delivery Service 1. Charge the battery. 2. Adjust the tire pressure of all wheels to 15 PSI (1 bar). 3. mount the steering controls in the normal position. 4. Connect the contact box to the cable for the seat’s safety switch.
  • Page 65 seRVICe JoURnal action Date, mtr reading, stamp, sign After the First 5-8 Hours 1. Change engine oil. action Date, mtr reading, stamp, sign 25-Hour Service 1. Check the engine air filter. 2. Sharpen/replace mower blades if required. 3. Check the tire pressures. 4.
  • Page 66 seRVICe JoURnal action Date, mtr reading, stamp, sign 50-Hour Service 1. Perform the 25-hour service. 2. Clean/replace the air cleaner’s filter cartridge (paper filter) (shorter intervals for dusty operating conditions). 3. Change engine oil. 4. lubricate according to lubrication chart. 5.
  • Page 67 seRVICe JoURnal action Date, mtr reading, stamp, sign 300-Hour Service 1. Perform the 25-hour service. 2. Perform the 50-hour service. 3. Perform the 100-hour service. 4. Check/adjust the mower deck. 5. Clean the combustion chamber and grind the valve seats. 6.
  • Page 68 seRVICe JoURnal action Date, mtr reading, stamp, sign...
  • Page 69 seRVICe JoURnal action Date, mtr reading, stamp, sign...
  • Page 70 seRVICe JoURnal action Date, mtr reading, stamp, sign...
  • Page 72 P/N 115 294527r1 09/21/09...

This manual is also suitable for:

Ram 48zt966038601966495301966054301966495401

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