Weed Eater WE12538J Owner's Manual
Weed Eater WE12538J Owner's Manual

Weed Eater WE12538J Owner's Manual

12.5 hp 38 inch lawn tractor
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MODEL NO. WE12538J
12.5 HP 38 Inch
Lawn Tractor
For Parts and Service, contact our authorized distributor: call 1-800-849-1297
For Technical Assistance: call 1-800-829-5886
®
178106
Rev. 1 07.09.01 RH
PRINTED IN U.S.A.

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Summary of Contents for Weed Eater WE12538J

  • Page 1 MODEL NO. WE12538J 12.5 HP 38 Inch Lawn Tractor For Parts and Service, contact our authorized distributor: call 1-800-849-1297 For Technical Assistance: call 1-800-829-5886 ® 178106 Rev. 1 07.09.01 RH PRINTED IN U.S.A.
  • Page 2: Safety Rules

    SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES FOR RIDE-ON MOWERS IMPORTANT: THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OBJECTS. FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. I. GENERAL OPERATION • Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual and on the machine before starting.
  • Page 3 Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers • Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area. • Never carry passengers or children even with the blades off. • Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Al- ways look down and behind before and while backing.
  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS GASOLINE CAPACITY 1.25 GALLONS AND TYPE: UNLEADED REGULAR OIL TYPE (API-SF-SJ): SAE 30 (above 32°F) SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F) OIL CAPACITY: 3 PINTS SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION RJ19LM (GAP: .030") GROUND SPEED (MPH): FORWARD: REVERSE: TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: REAR: CHARGING SYSTEM: 3 AMPS BATTERY 5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS...
  • Page 5: Unassembled Parts

    UNASSEMBLED PARTS Steering Wheel Steering Extension Shaft Steering (1) Lockwasher 3/8 Boot (1) Large Flat Washer (1) Hex Bolt 5/16-18 x 1-1/4 Steering Wheel Adapter (1) Washer 17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge Steering Wheel Insert (1) Bolt (1) Locknut 5/16-18 (1) Hex Bolt 3/8-16 x 1...
  • Page 6: Assembly

    Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your tractor all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools as necessary to insure proper tightness.
  • Page 7: How To Set Up Your Tractor

    HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR CHECK BATTERY (See Fig. 2) • Lift seat pan to raised position and open battery box door. • If this battery is put into service after month and year indicated on label (label located between terminals) charge battery for minimum of one hour at 6-10 amps.
  • Page 8: Assembly

    TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Opera- tion section, page 10, for location and func- tion of controls) WARNING: Before starting, read, understand and follow all instructions in the Operation section of this manual. Be sure tractor is in a well-ventilated area. Be sure the area in front of tractor is clear of other people and objects.
  • Page 9: Operation

    These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand their meaning. BATTERY CAUTION OR WARNING ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF FUEL CHOKE REVERSE ATTACHMENT CLUTCH ENGAGED ATTACHMENT CLUTCH DISENGAGED IGNITION DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY OPERATION REVERSE FORWARD...
  • Page 10 KNOW YOUR TRACTOR READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR TRACTOR Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference. THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL GEARSHIFT LEVER...
  • Page 11: How To Use Your Tractor

    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 while operating your tractor or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recommend a wide vision safety mask over spectacles or standard safety glasses.
  • Page 12: Before Starting The Engine

    TO OPERATE MOWER (See Fig. 6) Your tractor is equipped with an operator presence sensing switch. Any attempt by the operator to leave the seat with the engine running and the attachment clutch engaged will shut off the engine. • Select desired height of cut.
  • Page 13: Operation

    TO START ENGINE (See Fig. 5) When starting the engine for the first time or if the engine has run out of fuel, it will take extra cranking time to move fuel from the tank to the engine. • Sit on seat in operating position, depress clutch/brake pedal and set parking brake.
  • Page 14: Customer Responsibilities

    CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE FILL IN DATES AS YOU COMPLETE REGULAR SERVICE Check Brake Operation Check Tire Pressure Check Operator Presence and Interlock Systems Check for Loose Fasteners Sharpen/Replace Mower Blades Lubrication Chart Check Battery Level Clean Battery and Terminals Check Transaxle Cooling Adjust Blade Belt(s) Tension Adjust Motion Drive Belt(s) Tension...
  • Page 15: Operator Presence System

    CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES TRACTOR Always observe safety rules when performing any mainte- nance. BRAKE OPERATION If tractor requires more than six (6) feet stopping distance at high speed in highest gear, then brake must be adjusted. (See “TO ADJUST BRAKE” in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual).
  • Page 16 CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES BATTERY Your tractor has a battery charging system which is suffi- cient for normal use. However, periodic charging of the battery with an automotive charger will extend its life. • Keep battery and terminals clean. • Keep battery bolts tight. •...
  • Page 17 CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES CLEAN AIR SCREEN Air screen must be kept free of dirt and chaff to prevent engine damage from overheating. Clean with a wire brush or compressed air to remove dirt and stubborn dried gum fibers. ENGINE COOLING FINS (See Fig. 12) Remove any dust, dirt or oil from engine cooling fins to prevent engine damage from overheating.
  • Page 18 CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES MUFFLER Inspect and replace corroded muffler and spark arrester (if equipped) as it could create a fire hazard and/or damage. SPARK PLUGS Replace spark plugs at the beginning of each mowing season or after every 100 hours of operation, whichever occurs first.
  • Page 19: Service And Adjustments

    SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS CAUTION: BEFORE PERFORMING ANY SERVICE OR ADJUSTMENTS: • Depress clutch/brake pedal fully and set parking brake. • Place gearshift lever in neutral (N) position. • Place attachment clutch in “DISENGAGED” position. • Turn ignition key “OFF” and remove key. •...
  • Page 20: To Level Mower Housing

    SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING Adjust the mower while tractor is parked on level ground or driveway. Make sure tires are properly inflated (See “PROD- UCT SPECIFICATIONS” section of this manual). If tires are over or underinflated, you will not properly adjust your mower.
  • Page 21 SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS TO ADJUST BRAKE (See Fig. 21) Your tractor is equipped with an adjustable brake system which is mounted on the right side of the transaxle. If tractor requires more than six (6) feet stopping distance at high speed in highest gear on a level dry concrete or paved surface, then brake must be adjusted.
  • Page 22: Interlocks And Relays

    SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS TO ATTACH JUMPER CABLES - • Connect each end of the RED cable to the POSITIVE (+) terminal of each battery, taking care not to short against chassis. • Connect one end of the BLACK cable to the NEGATIVE (-) terminal of fully charged battery.
  • Page 23 SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS TO REMOVE HOOD AND GRILL ASSEMBLY (See Fig. 27) • Raise hood. • Unsnap headlight wire connector. • Stand in front of tractor. Grasp hood at sides, tilt toward engine and lift off of tractor. • To replace, reverse above procedure. HOOD FIG.
  • Page 24: Storage

    Immediately prepare your tractor for storage at the end of the season or if the tractor will not be used for 30 days or more. CAUTION: Never store the tractor with gasoline in the tank inside a building where fumes may reach an open flame or spark.
  • Page 25: Troubleshooting

    TROUBLESHOOTING POINTS PROBLEM CAUSE Will not start Out of fuel. Engine not “CHOKED” properly. Engine flooded. Bad spark plug. Dirty air filter. Dirty fuel filter. Water in fuel. Loose or damaged wiring. Carburetor out of adjustment. Engine valves out of adjustment. Hard to start Dirty air filter.
  • Page 26: Schematic

    TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE12538J SCHEMATIC AMMETER (OPTIONAL) WHITE IGNITION SWITCH IGNITION SWITCH POSITION CIRCUIT “MAKE” M+G+A1 NONE RUN/LIGHT B+A1 A2+L B+A1 NONE START B + S + A1 NONE BATTERY FUSE CLUTCH / BRAKE (PEDAL UP) WHITE BLACK...
  • Page 27: Repair Parts

    REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE12538J ELECTRICAL...
  • Page 28 REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE12538J ELECTRICAL PART DESCRIPTION 144925 Battery 12 Volt 25 Amp 74760412 Bolt Hex Hd 1/4-20unc X 3/4 156417 Case Battery Mech Hiinge 153664 Switch Interlock Push-In 166181 Harness Asm Light W/4152j 4152J Bulb Light #1156 4799J Cable Battery 6 Ga 11"red...
  • Page 29 REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE12538J CHASSIS...
  • Page 30 REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE12538J CHASSIS NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S. inches PART DESCRIPTION 174620 Chassis 176554 Drawbar, Stretch 17060612 Screw 3/8-16 x 3/4 155272 Bumper, Hood/Dash 155924X011 Saddle Silkscreen Flt Sdl 155138 Clip Retainer Slide-On...
  • Page 31 REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE12538J DRIVE...
  • Page 32 REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE12538J DRIVE PART DESCRIPTION - - - - - - - Transaxle Peerless Model 205-544c (Order parts from transaxle manufacturer) 146682 Spring Return Brake 123666X Pulley Transaxle 18"tires 12000028 Ring Retainer # 5100-62...
  • Page 33 REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE12538J STEERING...
  • Page 34 REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE12538J STEERING NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S. inches PART DESCRIPTION 140044X428 Wheel Steering Ayp/P/L Blk 154427 Axle Asm 169840 Spindle Asm LH 169839 Spindle Asm RH 6266H Bearing Race Thrust Harden...
  • Page 35 REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE12538J ENGINE OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT Spark Arrester...
  • Page 36 REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE12538J ENGINE NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S. inches PART DESCRIPTION 170551 Control Th/ch Flag 17720410 Screw Hex Thd Cut 1/4-20x5/8 T - - - - - - - - Engine, B&S 289707...
  • Page 37 REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE12538J SEAT PART DESCRIPTION 127426X Seat 140551 Bracket Seat Pivot 71110616 Bolt Hex 3/8 - 16 X 1 19131610 Washer 13/32 X 1 X10Ga. 145006 Clip Push-In Hinged 73800600 Nut Lock Hex w/Ins 3/8 - 16...
  • Page 38 REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE12538J DECALS PART DESCRIPTION 101892X Decal, Clutch/Brake Eng/Fr 170839 Decal, Engine HP 170563 Decal Warning 168421 Decal, Pnl Sd 157140 Decal, Fender Danger English 162398 Decal Ins Str Wh 171448 Decal Fender 162391...
  • Page 39 REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE12538J MOWER LIFT 17 18...
  • Page 40 REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE12538J MOWER LIFT PART DESCRIPTION 159460 Wire Asm Inner/Sprg w/plunger 159471 Shaft Asm Lift RH 105767X Pin Groove 1 500 Zinc 12000002 E Ring #5133-62 19211621 Washer 21/32 X 1 X 21 Ga...
  • Page 41 REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE12538J MOWER DECK 153 154...
  • Page 42 REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE12538J MOWER DECK PART DESCRIPTION 170280 Mower Housing Assembly 72140506 Bolt Carriage 5/16-18 x 3/4 138017 Bracket Asm Fr. Sway Bar 169970 Bracket Deck Sway Bar 38"/42" 4939M Retainer Spring 130832 Arm, Suspension, Rear 850857 Bolt 3/8-24 x 1.25 Grade 8...
  • Page 43 SERVICE NOTES...
  • Page 44: Limited Warranty

    The Manufacturer warrants to the original consumer purchaser that this product as manufactured is free from defects in materials and workmanship. For a period of two (2) years from date of purchase by the original consumer purchaser, we will repair or replace, at our option, without charge for parts or labor incurred in replacing parts, any part which we find to be defective due to materials or workmanship.
  • Page 45: Warranty

    P O L I C Y ® Issued January 1980 Revised January 1991 NEW PEERLESS GEAR POWER TRAIN COMPONENTS Peerless Gear and Machine Division of Tecumseh Products Company (“Tecumseh”), subject to the limitations contained below, will, at its option, repair or replace, without charge for parts or labor only, any part of a new Power Train Component (which as used herein means and includes the transaxle, gear box, transmission, differential and right angle drives, and any part of the Power Train Component), EXCEPT any new Power Train Component incorporated in equipment used for commercial or rental purposes, which is found upon examination by any Tecumseh Authorized Service Outlet or...
  • Page 47 ®...
  • Page 48: Troubleshooting Points

    TROUBLESHOOTING POINTS PROBLEM CAUSE Engine continues to run Faulty operator-safety presence control system. when operator leaves seat with attachment clutch engaged Poor cut - uneven Worn, bent or loose blade. Mower deck not level. Buildup of grass, leaves, and trash under mower. Bent blade mandrel.

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