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INTRODUCTION Introduction (“INTENDED USE”). Use in any other way is considered as Thank You for Purchasing a SABO Product contrary to the intended use. We appreciate your business and wish you many years of The manufacturer accepts no liability for damage or injury safe and satisfied use of your machine.
Product Identification Record Identification Numbers SABO Lawn Tractors SABO 97-14 HS PIN (010001 - ) SABO 107-17 HS PIN (010001 - ) If you need to contact an Authorized Service Center for information on servicing, always provide the product model and serial number.
SAFETY Safety AVOID INJURY FROM TIPPING Understanding The Machine Safety Labels The machine safety labels shown in this section are placed in important areas on your machine to draw attention to potential safety hazards. The hazard is identified by a pictorial in a warning triangle M96445 .
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SAFETY AVOID INJURY FROM BATTERY GASES AND AVOID INJURY FROM ROTATING BLADES ACIDS M96445 M96445 Picture Note: Located on Right-Hand side of deck Picture Note: Located on Battery under seat DO NOT put hands or feet under or into mower when Batteries contain explosive gases and sulfuric acid.
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SAFETY AVOID INJURY FROM ROTATING BLADES DRAWBAR LOAD M96445 M96445 Picture Note: Located on Left-Hand side of deck Picture Note: Located on rear of tractor. DO NOT put hands or feet under or into mower when DO NOT exceed recommended drawbar loads stated on engine is running.
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SAFETY Sound Labels • Do not wear radio or music headphones while operating the machine. Safe operation requires your full attention. • Older adults are involved in a large percentage of riding mower accidents involving injury. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate a mower safely enough to protect the operator and others from serious injury.
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SAFETY Rotating Blades are Dangerous trees, or other objects that may block your vision. • Do not let children or an untrained person operate the HELP PREVENT SERIOUS OR FATAL ACCIDENTS: machine. • Do not carry or let children ride on machine or any attachment.
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SAFETY Keep Riders Off Practice Safe Maintenance • Only allow the operator on the machine. Keep riders off. • Understand service procedure before doing work. Keep area clean and dry. • Riders on the machine or attachment may be struck by foreign objects or thrown off the machine causing serious •...
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• DO NOT refuel machine while you smoke, when machine is near an open flame or sparks, or when engine • See your local Recycling Center or SABO dealer to is running. STOP engine. learn how to recycle or get rid of waste products.
OPERATING MACHINE Operating Machine E - Locking Lever Daily Operating Checklist F - Free Wheeling Knob ❏ Test safety systems. G - Transmission Shift Lever ❏ Check tire pressure. H - Park Brake ❏ Check fuel level. I - PTO Drive Lever ❏...
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OPERATING MACHINE Using the Park Brake IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Do not operate starter more than 20 seconds at a time, or you may damage LOCKING PARK BRAKE: it. If engine does not start: Wait two minutes before you try again. See Troubleshooting section. CAUTION: Avoid injury! Always LOCK park NOTE: Engine will not start unless: PTO lever is brake before getting off tractor or leaving...
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OPERATING MACHINE Using Throttle Control Stopping Engine Always operate the engine at FULL ( )THROTTLE. Operating the engine at less that full throttle reduces the battery charging rate and reduces fan cooling efficiency of the engine. Full throttle offers the best bagging and mower performance.
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OPERATING MACHINE strongly discouraged. The Reverse Implement Option should be used ONLY when operating another attachment or when the operator deems it necessary to reposition the machine with the mower engaged. 1. Stop the machine FORWARD travel with mower engaged. 2.
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OPERATING MACHINE Use the following checkout procedure to check for normal operation of machine. If there is a malfunction during one of these procedures, DO NOT operate machine. (See your Authorized Service Center for service.) Perform these tests in a clear open area. Keep bystanders away.
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OPERATING MACHINE 2. Push brake pedal down. 3. Push PTO lever (A) forward to ENGAGE. 4. Try to start engine. 5. Engine MUST NOT start. If engine starts, there is a problem with your safety interlock circuit. (See your Authorized Service Center.) Test 3 1.
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OPERATING MACHINE 3. Try to push machine manually. 4. Park brake MUST prevent machine from moving. If machine moves, parking brake needs to be adjusted. (See your Authorized Service Center.) 5. Push free-wheeling lever back in. Test 7 CAUTION: Avoid injury! Before moving rearward, make sure area is clear of 3.
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OPERATING MACHINE Avoid Using Ground Engaging Equipment LOCK park brake. Be sure trailer has all the necessary lights and signs IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! This tractor is NOT required by law. intended for use with ground engaging equipment. Fasten machine to trailer with heavy-duty straps, chains, or Use of such equipment could result in damage to cables.
OPERATING MOWER Operating Mower Using Lift Lever to Raise and Lower Mower Check Ground Conditions • Clear mowing area of objects that might be thrown. 1. Push down on lift lever (A) slightly and hold locking lever Keep people and pets out of mowing area. (B) down with thumb.
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Be careful, sharp edges on mower blades. Always wear gloves when handling mower blades. NOTE: A deck leveling gauge (Part Number TY15272) to aid in deck leveling may be obtained through your local SABO Service Center at a nominal cost. Operating Mower - 17...
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OPERATING MOWER 4. Turn blades so front blade tips (A) point straight forward. 7. Loosen top clamping nut (C) facing inside of mower, on left hand side J-bolt (B), approximately one turn. 5. Measure from the front of each blade tip to the level surface.
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OPERATING MOWER 2. Move throttle lever (A) to the FAST ( ) position. 2. Pull PTO drive lever (A) back to DISENGAGE mower blades. 3. Lower mower to cutting height. 3. Move throttle lever to SLOW ( ) position. 4. Push PTO drive lever (B) forward to ENGAGE mower blades.
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OPERATING MOWER M96105 M96105 To set-up and operate the 107 cm (42-Inch) deck for side To set-up and operate the 107 cm (42-Inch) deck for discharge operation the factory installed mulch cover (A) mulching operation the factory installed mulch cover (A) must be removed.
If a number changes, your dealer will have the latest number. Item Part Number When you order parts, your SABO dealer needs your machine serial number and engine serial number. These Blades: are the numbers that you have recorded in the Introduction...
SERVICE INTERVALS Service Intervals • Adjust drive belt tension. Before Each Use • Replace oil filter. • Check fuel level. • Clean/Service air cleaner elements.* • Clean air intake screen. • Replace spark plug. • Test safety systems. • Replace fuel filter. (On models equipped) •...
If engine is operated at altitudes above 1829 m (6,000 ft), some carburetors may require a special high altitude main jet. See your SABO dealer. Possible engine surging will occur at high rpm with no load (with transmission in “N” neutral and mower blade engagement lever disengaged).
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Specifications section for crankcase (See Engine Oil in this section.) capacity.) 8. Install and tighten dipstick. Lower hood. Changing Engine Oil (97-14 HS) CAUTION: Avoid injury! Engine may be hot, be careful not to burn hands. 1. Run engine to warm oil.
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SERVICE ENGINE 11.Run engine at idle for 30 seconds. Stop engine. Wait 30 seconds and check oil level. 12.If necessary, add oil to bring level to FULL mark on dipstick. DO NOT OVERFILL. Changing Engine Oil and Filter (107-17 HS) CAUTION: Avoid injury! Engine may be hot, be careful not to burn hands.
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SERVICE ENGINE 1. Lift hood. IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! A damaged paper 2. Clean any dirt and debris from the air cleaner before element (C) can allow dirt into the carburetor and removing cover. can cause poor engine performance, engine damage or failure: •...
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SERVICE ENGINE • Pitted or damaged electrodes. • Other wear or damage. 5. Replace spark plug(s) if necessary. 4. Using pliers, slide hose clamps (A) away from fuel filter (B). 5. Disconnect hoses from filter and remove filter. 6. Connect hoses to new filter. 7.
SERVICE STEERING AND BRAKES Service Steering and Brakes Lubricating Front Wheel Spindles, Wheel Grease Bearings and Axle Pivot Use grease based on the expected air temperature range during the service interval. Greases that may be used are: 50°C 122°F 40°C 104°F 30°C 86°F...
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SERVICE STEERING AND BRAKES foot tread area on left-hand side of transmission). Distance (C) should be 2-10 mm (0.08-0.40 in). 4. If distance is less than or equal to 2 mm (0.08 in): • Gradually adjust jam nuts (D) until specified measurement is obtained.
SERVICE MOWER Service Mower Avoid Injury From Contacting Blades 50°C 122°F 40°C 104°F 30°C 86°F 20°C 68°F 10°C 50°F 0°C 32°F - 10°C 14°F - 20°C - 4°F CAUTION: Avoid injury! Before you unplug, adjust or service mower: - 30°C - 22°F - DISENGAGE PTO switch to stop mower blades.
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SERVICE MOWER 97 cm (38-Inch) Mower Deck IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Spindle brake engagement must be checked every time the mower belt tension is adjusted or belt damage may occur. 1. Park tractor on a hard, level surface. 2. Stop the engine, remove key, wait for moving parts to stop.
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SERVICE MOWER Adjusting Spindle Brake 9. Repeat on all brakes. 10.Install belt guard. CAUTION: Avoid injury! Rotating blades are dangerous. Mower blades must stop within 5 Checking Mower Blades seconds after mower is turned off. Check spindle brake measurement every 25 hours or once a year (whichever comes first).
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SERVICE MOWER Servicing 107 cm (42 Inch) Mower Deck Blades REMOVING MOWER BLADES CAUTION: Avoid injury! Be careful, sharp edges on mower blades. Always wear gloves when handling mower blades. 1. Raise mower deck to gain access to mower blades. If necessary, remove mower deck.
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SERVICE MOWER Balancing Blades CAUTION: Avoid injury! Wear goggles and gloves when you handle blades. 1. Clean blade. 2. Put blade on nail in vise or on vertical wall stud. Turn blade to horizontal position. M88112g 2. Install deflector cup (D) on spindle. 3.
SERVICE ELECTRICAL Service Electrical Checking the Battery CAUTION: Avoid injury! Sulfuric acid in battery electrolyte is poisonous. It is strong enough to burn skin, eat holes in clothing, and cause blindness if splashed into eyes. Wear eye protection and avoid spilling or dripping electrolyte.
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SERVICE ELECTRICAL CAUTION: Avoid injury! BE VERY CAREFUL: Battery fluid (electrolyte), is a solution of water and sulfuric acid. It is very harmful to eyes, skin, or clothing. - Wear goggles or an eye shield when you work with a battery. - If the acid contacts your eyes, skin, or clothing, flush the area immediately with water.
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SERVICE ELECTRICAL 2. Connect positive (+) charger cable to positive (+) battery 1. Connect positive (+) booster cable to booster battery (A) terminal. positive (+) post (B). 3. Connect negative (-) charger cable to negative (-) 2. Connect the other end of positive (+) booster cable to battery terminal.
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SERVICE ELECTRICAL Replacing Fuse 1. Open hood. MX1535 2. Pull defective fuse (A) out of socket. 3. Check metal clip in fuse window and discard fuse if clip is broken. 4. Push new fuse into socket. 5. Close hood. Service Electrical - 38...
Repairing Deep Scratches (bare metal or primer showing): 1. Clean area to be repaired with rubbing alcohol or mineral spirits. 2. Use paint stick with factory-matched colors available from your SABO dealer to fill scratches. Follow directions Service Miscellaneous - 39...
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SERVICE MISCELLANEOUS included on paint stick for use and for drying. 3. Smooth out surface using an automotive polishing compound. Do not use power buffer. 4. Apply wax to surface. Service Miscellaneous - 40...
REMOVING MOWER Removing Mower Removing Mower CAUTION: Avoid injury! Before removing mower on machine: STOP engine. Remove key. Wait for all moving parts to STOP. 1. STOP engine, LOCK park brake, DISENGAGE PTO lever, turn key to the OFF position, and remove key. 2.
INSTALLING MOWER Installing Mower Installing Mower CAUTION: Avoid injury! Before installing mower on machine: STOP engine. Remove key. Wait for all moving parts to STOP. • Mower blades are sharp. To avoid injury, always wear gloves when handling mower deck. •...
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INSTALLING MOWER 12.Raise tension rod (N) and attach to blade drive arm (O) using flat washer (P) and spring locking pin (Q). 13.Raise deck by pressing the lift lever lock and pulling the mower deck lift lever to its highest point. 14.Remove wood blocks from under deck.
Using Troubleshooting Chart If you are experiencing a problem that is not listed in this chart, see your authorized SABO dealer for service. When you have checked all the possible causes listed and you are still experiencing the problem, see your authorized SABO dealer.
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TROUBLESHOOTING CHECK Loss of power Cutting too much grass /too fast. Throttle in “CHOKE” position. Buildup of grass, leaves and trash under mower. Dirty air filter. Low oil/dirty oil. Faulty spark plug. Dirty fuel filter. Stale or dirty fuel. Water in fuel. Spark plug wire loose.
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TROUBLESHOOTING CHECK Engine Stops When Shift Lever Is Moved Rearward Normal condition. (See Using Reverse Implement Option in the and Mower Is Engaged OPERATING section.) Mower CHECK Discharge Chute Plugging Belt worn or installed incorrectly. Grass too wet. Buildup of grass, leaves and trash under mower. Worn, bent or loose blade.
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TROUBLESHOOTING CHECK Grass Tips Are Jagged And Turn Grayish Brown Dull mower blades. After Mowing Bent blades. Front-to-rear blade adjustment not set properly. Mower Stops When Shift Lever Is Moved Rearward Normal condition. (See Using Reverse Implement Option in the and Mower Is Engaged OPERATING section.) Troubleshooting - 47...
STORAGE NOTE: Try to anticipate the last time the tractor will be Storage Storing Safety used for the season so very little fuel is left in the fuel tank. CAUTION: Avoid injury! Fuel vapors are 2. Turn on engine and allow to run until it runs out of fuel. explosive and flammable.
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STORAGE 3. Check battery electrolyte level. Charge battery if necessary. 4. Install battery. 5. Check spark plug gap. Install and tighten plugs to specified torque. 6. Lubricate all grease points. 7. Run the engine 5 minutes without the mower or any attachments running to allow oil to be distributed throughout engine.
ASSEMBLY Assembly Identify Parts NOTE: If you are missing any parts see the Replacement Parts section for additional service part numbers. M97124 2. Remove wire band (A) securing front axle. 3. Remove steering wheel, seat, and bag of parts from seat base.
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ASSEMBLY Remove Tractor From The Skid CAUTION: Avoid injury! Do not start and drive tractor from the skid. 1. Move to the rear of the tractor. On the rear of the tractor locate free-wheeling knob (A) and pull it rearward until it locks into a fully extended position.
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ASSEMBLY Connect and Check Battery CAUTION: Avoid injury! The battery produces a flammable and explosive gas. The battery may explode: - Keep sparks, lighted matches, and open flame away from the top of battery. Battery gas can explode. - Never check battery charge by placing a metal object across the posts.
CERTIFICATE OF CONFORMITY Certificate of Conformity SABO 97-14 HS John Deere Horicon Works Horicon, Wisconsin 53032, USA declares that the lawn mower: Type ................SABO 97-14 HS Serial Number Range .
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CERTIFICATE OF CONFORMITY Certificate of Conformity SABO 107-17 HS John Deere Horicon Works Horicon, Wisconsin 53032, USA declares that the lawn mower: Type ................SABO 107-17 HS Serial Number Range .
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY Declaration of Conformity SABO 97-14 HS Deere & Company John Deere Road Moline, IL 61265-8098 USA I, the undersigned: declare that these machines Type ................SABO 97-14 HS Serial Number .
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DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY Declaration of Conformity SABO 107-17 HS Deere & Company John Deere Road Moline, IL 61265-8098 USA I, the undersigned: declare that these machines Type ................SABO 107-17 HS Serial Number .
Parts, Replacement ............21 Engine Oil and Filter, Changing - 107-17 HS ....25 Plastic Surface Cleaning and Repairing Surfaces ..39 Engine Oil, Changing - 97-14 HS ........24 Plastic and Painted Surfaces ..........8 Engine and Fuel Storage, Preparing ......48 Pushing Machine ............11...
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INDEX Storage, Preparing Machine for ........48 Storage, Removing Machine from ........48 Storing Safety ..............48 Throttle Control, Using ........... 10 Tire Chains, Using ............15 Tractor from the Skid, Removing for Assembly ....51 Transporting ..............15 Troubleshooting Chart, Using ......... 44 Vibration .................
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SERVICE STATEMENT Service Statement Well-Trained Technicians SABO Parts School is never out for SABO service technicians. We help minimize downtime by putting genuine SABO parts in your hands in a hurry. Training schools are held regularly to be sure our personnel know your equipment and how to maintain it.
SERVICE RECORD Service Record Record Service Dates Oil Change Oil Filter Lubricate Air Cleaner Fuel Filter Change Machine Element Change Check/ Clean Service Record - 64...
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