Craftsman 28970 Operation Manual - Page 17

TRACTOR BLADE CARE Always observe safety rules when performing any maintenance. BRAKE OPERATION If tractor requires more than five (5) feet to stop at highest speed in highest gear on a level, dry concrete or paved surface, then brake must be serviced. (See "TO CHECK BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual). TIRES • Maintain proper air pressure in all tires (See PSI on tires). • Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect control chemicals 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 dueto slow leaks, tire sealant may be purchased from your local parts dealer. Tire sealant also prevents tire dry rot and corrosion. OPERATOR PRESENCE SYSTEM AND REVERSE OPERATION SYSTEM (ROS) Be sure operator presence and reverse operation systems are working properly, if your tractor does not function as described, repair the problem immediately. • The engine should not start unlessthe brake pedal is fully depressed, and the attachment clutch control is inthe disengaged position. For best results mower blades must be sharp. Replace worn, bent or damaged blades. A CAUTION: Use only a replacement blade approved bythe manufacturer of your tractor. Using a blade not approved by the manufacturer of your tractor is hazardous, could damage your tractor and void your warranty. BLADE REMOVAL 1. Raise mower to highest position to allow access to blades. NOTE: Protect your hands with gloves and/or wrap blade with heavy cloth. 2. Remove blade bolt by turning counter- clockwise. 3. Install new blade with stamped "GRASS SIDE" facing the ground. IMPORTANT: To ensure proper assembly, center hole in blade must align with star on mandrel assembly. 4. Install and tighten blade bolt securely (45-55 Ft. Lbs. torque). IMPORTANT: treated. Special blade bolt is heat Blade Mandrel Blade (st Center Hole CHECK OPERATOR PRESENCE SYSTEM • When the engine is running, any attempt by the operator to leave the seat without first setting the parking brake should shut off the engine. • When the engine is running and the attachment clutch is engaged, any attempt by the operator to leave the seat should shut off the engine. • The attachment clutch should neveroperate unless the operator is in the seat. BATTERY Your tractor has a battery charging system which is sufficient for normal use. How- ever, 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. • Recharge at 6-10 amperes for 1 hour. NOTE: The original equipment battery on your tractor is maintenance free. Do not attempt to open or remove caps or covers. Adding or checking level of electrolyte is not necessary. TO CLEAN BATTERY AND TERMINALS Corrosion and dirt on the battery and termi- Ros "On" Position Engine "On" Position (Normal Operating) CHECK REVERSE OPERATION SYSTEM nals can cause the battery to "leak" power. 1. Disconnect BLACK battery cable first then RED battery cable and remove battery from tractor. • When the engine is running with the ignition 2. Rinsethe batterywith plain waterand dry. switch in the engine "ON" position and the 3. Clean terminals and battery cable attachment clutch engaged, any attempt ends with wire brush until bright. by the operator to drive in reverse should 4. Coat terminals with grease or petroleum shut off the engine. jelly. • When the engine is running with the ignition switch in the ROS "ON" position and the 5. Reinstall battery (See "REPLACING BATTERY" in the SERVICE AND AD- attachment clutch engaged, any attempt JUSTMENTS section of this manual). by the operator to drive in reverse should NOT shut off the engine. 17