Brake Operation; Tires; Operator Presence System; Blade Removal - Craftsman ELECTRIC START 42" MOWER AUTOMATIC LAWN TRACTOR 944.602951 Owner's Manual

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
MANDREL ASSEMBLY
TRACTOR
Always observe safety rules when performing any mainte-
nance.
BRAKE OPERATION
Iftractor requires more than six (6) feet stopping distance at
high speed in highest gear, then brake must be adjusted.
(See =1O ADJUST BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual).
TIRES
• Maintain properair pressure in alltires (See =PRODUCT
SPECIFICATIONS" section of this manual).
• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect control chemi-
cals which can harm rubber.
• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp objects and
other hazards that may cause tire damage.
NOTE: To seal tire punctures and prevent flat tires due to
slow leaks, tire sealant may be purchased from your local
parts dealer. Tire sealant also prevents tire dry rot and
corrosion.
OPERATOR PRESENCE SYSTEM
Be sure operator presence and interlock systems are work-
ing properly. If your tractor does not function as described,
repair the problem immediately.
• The engine should not start unless the clutch/brake
pedal isfullydepressed and attachement clutch control
is in the disengaged position.
• When the engine is running,any attempt bythe operator
to leave the seat without first setting the parking brake
should shut off the engine.
• When the engine is runningand the attachment clutch is
engaged, any attempt by the operator to leave the seat
should shut off the engine.
• The attachment clutch should never operate unlessthe
operator is in the seat.
BLADE CARE
For best results mower blades must be kept sharp. Replace
bent or damaged blades.
BLADE REMOVAL
(See Fig. 13)
• Raise mower to highest position to allow access to
blades.
• Remove hex bolt, Iockwasher and flat washer securing
blade.
• Install new or resharpened blade with trailing edge up
towards deck as shown.
IMPORTANT: TO ENSURE PROPER ASSEMBLY, CENTER
HOLE IN BLADE MUST ALIGN WITH STAR ON MANDREL
ASSEMBLY.
• Reassemble hex bolt, lock washer and flat washer in
exact order as shown.
• Tighten bolt securely (27-35 Ft. Lbs. torque).
IMPORTANT: BLADE BOLT IS GRADE 8 HEAT TREATED.
16
TRAILING
UP
BLADE
CENTER
HOLE
FLAT
LOC KWASHB_ _
WASHER ,_ STAR
J
_--_HEX BOLT (GRADE 8)*
*A GRADE 8 HEAT TREATED BOLT CAN BE
IDENTIRED BY SIX UNES ON THE BOLT HEAD.
FIG. 13
TO SHARPEN BLADE (See Fig. 14)
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening blade- but ifyou
do, be sure the blade is balanced.
Care should be taken to keep the blade balanced. An
unbalanced blade will cause excessive vibration and even-
tual damage to mower and engine.
• The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a grinding
wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen while on the mower.
• To check blade balance, you will need a 5/8" diameter
steel bolt, pin, or a cone balancer. (When using a cone
balancer, follow the instructionssupplied with balancer).
NOTE: Do not use a nail for balancing blade. The lobes of
the center hole may appear to be centered, but are not.
• Slide blade on to an unthreaded portion of the steel bolt
or pinand hold the bolt or pin parallel with the ground. If
blade is balanced, it should remain in a horizontal
position. If either end of the blade moves downward,
sharpen the heavy end until the blade is balanced.
CENTER//
5/8" BOLT _ _.___,_-_ BLADE
FIG. 14
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.
• Keep small vent holes open.
• Rechargeat 6-10 amperes for I hour.
NOTE: The original equipment battery on your tractor is
maintenance free. Do not attempt toopen or remove caps or
covers. Adding or checking level of electrolyte is not
necessary.