OPERATOR’S MANUAL SERIES 2500 TRACTOR Model Number GT 2550 IMPORTANT: READ SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY Warning: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forestcovered, brush-covered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.
TABLE OF CONTENTS Section I II III IV V VI VII Page Tractor and Deck Preparation.............. Safe Operation Practices..................... Product Graphics ................................. Slope Gauge........................................ To The Owner...................................... Calling Service Information.................. Recording Model & Serial Number ...... Know Your Tractor .............................. Operation ............................................. Adjustments .............
TRACTOR PREPARATION Remove the deck wash system nozzle adapter from the manual bag and store for future use. STEERING WHEEL COVER MOWER DECK The mower deck may have been installed on the tractor at the factory, or it may be secured to the side panel of the tractor’s shipping crate. HEX LOCK SCREW FLAT WASHER STEERING WHEEL If the deck has been installed on the tractor: • Remove the tractor assembly from the shipping crate.
WARNING c • The engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. • This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush-covered, or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any).
DO: 1. Mow up and down slopes, not across. Exercise extreme caution when changing directions on slopes. 2. Remove obstacles such as rocks, limbs, etc. Watch for holes, ruts or bumps. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles. 3. Use slow speed. Choose a low enough speed setting so that you will not have to stop or shift while on the slope. Tires may lose traction on slopes even though the brakes are functioning properly.
ground. If this is not possible, then refuel such equipment on a trailer with a portable container, rather than from a gasoline dispenser nozzle. 3. Before and when backing up, look behind and down for small children. 4. Never carry children, even with the blades off. Children may fall off and be seriously injured or may interfere with safe machine operation. 5.
10. Never attempt to make adjustments or repairs to the machine while the engine is running. 5. Check the blade(s) and engine mounting bolts at frequent intervals for proper tightness. Also, visually inspect blade(s) for damage (e.g., excessive wear, bent, cracked). Replace the blades with the original equipment manufacturer’s blades only. “Use of parts which do not meet the original equipment specifications may lead to improper performance and compromise safety!” 11.
PRODUCT GRAPHICS Keep product safety graphics (decals) clean. Replace any safety graphic that is damaged, destroyed, miss- ing, painted over or can no longer be read. Replacement safety graphics are available through your dealer. STARTING INSTRUCTIONS 1. BE FAMILIAR WITH CONTROLS BEFORE STARTING ENGINE AND OPERATING. 2. SET CHOKE, MOVE THROTTLE TO MID POSITION AND DEPRESS BRAKE PEDAL. 3. TURN KEY TO THE START POSITION. 4. AFTER ENGINE STARTS OPEN CHOKE. STOPPING INSTRUCTIONS 1.
SLOPE GAUGE , RE PRE S E NTIN G A1 5 ° S LOP E OR A FENCE POST A CORNER OF A BUILDING A POWER POLE SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH A VERTICAL TREE USE THIS PAGE AS A GUIDE TO DETERMINE SLOPES WHERE YOU MAY NOT OPERATE SAFELY. FOL D ON D OT T E D LIN E 15° WARNING Do not mow on inclines with a slope in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10 feet). A riding mower could overturn and cause serious injury.
TO THE OWNER This Operator’s Manual is an important part of your new tractor. The information contained in this manual has been prepared in detail to help you better understand the features, correct operation, adjustments, and maintenance of your tractor. The performance and dependability of this tractor rely greatly on the manner in which it is operated and maintained. Therefore, it is recommended that all operators of the tractor carefully read this manual and fully understand its operation.
SECTION I. KNOW YOUR TRACTOR B C A H E I F D M G J K L O Q Q N P A. B. C. D. E. F. G. H. I. Hour Meter/Battery Display Indicator Panel/Hour Meter Key Switch Module Power Take-Off (PTO) Control Switch Throttle Control Lever Choke Control Parking Brake/Cruise Lever Brake Pedal Forward Control Pedal J. K. L. M. N. O. P. Q.
A. HOUR METER/BATTERY DISPLAY The hour meter records and digitally displays the hours that the tractor has been operated (tenths of an hour-right most digit). NOTE: The hour meter is activated whenever the ignition switch is turned to an ‘On’ position. Keep a record of the actual hours of operation to assure all maintenance procedures are completed according to the instructions in this manual.
WARNING: To prevent accidental starting and/or battery discharge, remove the key from the key switch when the tractor is not in use. REVERSE PUSH BUTTON — The orange/triangular button at the top/right corner of the key switch module activates the system that allows the tractor’s blades (PTO) to remain engaged when the tractor is driven in the reverse direction.
The safety interlock system will automatically shut off the engine if the operator leaves the seat with the PTO in the “RUN” position, regardless of whether the brake lock is engaged. The PTO switch must be moved to the “OFF” position to restart the engine. L. LIFT HANDLE The lift handle is located in the left fender and is used to raise and lower equipment used with the tractor.
SECTION II. OPERATION NOTE: Purchase gasoline in small quantities. Do not use gasoline left over from the previous season, to minimize gum deposits in the fuel system. WARNING: Before you operate the tractor, study this manual carefully. Familiarize yourself with the operations of all the instruments and controls. Learn to operate this machine safely. Don’t risk INJURY or DEATH. Gasohol (up to 10% ethyl alcohol, 90% unleaded gasoline by volume) is an approved fuel.
COLD WEATHER STARTING HINTS STARTING THE ENGINE WARNING: Engine exhaust gases are dangerous. Do not run the engine in a confined area such as a storage building any longer than is necessary. Immediately move the tractor outdoors. WARNING: For personal safety, the operator must be sitting in the tractor seat when starting the engine. Never try to start the engine while standing on the ground. 1.
5. Disengage the cruise control using one of the following methods: DRIVING THE TRACTOR NOTE: Avoid sudden starts, excessive speed and sudden stops. WARNING: Do not leave the seat of the tractor without disengaging the PTO and engaging the parking brake. If leaving the tractor unattended, turn the ignition key off and remove the key. IMPORTANT: When using PTO driven equipment, the throttle lever should be in the “FAST” position.
Operate the PTO clutch as follows: STOPPING THE TRACTOR • WARNING: Always engage the brake pedal lock, push the PTO switch to the “OFF” position, lower the equipment and shut off the engine before dismounting. 1. Move the throttle control lever to approximately the mid throttle position. Fully depress the brake pedal to bring the tractor to a complete stop (and disengage the cruise control).
MODE” (Yellow) position of the key switch module. Refer to Figure 10. USING THE “REVERSE CAUTION MODE” KEY POSITION NOTE: Mowing in reverse is not recommended. The “REVERSE CAUTION MODE” position of the key switch module allows the machine to be operated in reverse with the blades (PTO) engaged. To utilize, proceed as follows: WARNING: Use extreme caution while operating the tractor in the “REVERSE CAUTION MODE”. Always look down and behind before and while backing.
SECTION III. ADJUSTMENTS This section contains information for the various adjustments on the tractor. Adjustment information for the mower deck is located in Section V – Mower Deck. ADJUSTING THE SEAT WARNING: Do not adjust the seat when the tractor is moving. Adjusting the seat while the tractor is moving could cause the operator to lose control of the tractor. Both seat arm rests can be rotated upward for mounting and dismounting the tractor, or for the personal comfort of the operator.
WHEEL ALIGNMENT The front wheels should toe-in approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch, as measured across dimensions A and B shown in Figure 13. Viewed from beneath the tractor 4. Loosen the jam nuts from the ball joints (See Figure 14). 5. Disconnect the front ball joints from the steering arms by removing the hex lock nuts (Refer to Figure 14). Manually move each wheel to achieve the required toe-in and equal D measurements.
2. Raise the rear of the tractor, so that the rear tires are at least one inch above the surface, and set it on jack stands. Make certain the jack stands are positioned to balance the tractor and prevent tipping. PIVOT AXLE ADJUSTMENT BOLTS WARNING: The operator presence safety circuit will stop the engine if the seat is empty when the brake pedal is released. If an assistant is seated when adjusting the neutral setting, use extreme caution to prevent the tractor from tipping or rolling.
3 10 2 4 CONTROL CAM 5 1 6 7 9 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. Front Control Rod Rear Control Rod Hex Tap Screw Hex Wash Hd Tapp Screw Control Arm Control Arm Pin Neutral Arm Centering Pin Neutral Return Adjust. Brkt.
CARBURETOR ADJUSTMENTS WARNING: When making adjustments to the carburetor while the engine is running, disengage the PTO clutch and engage the brake pedal lock. Keep clear of all moving parts and be careful of all hot surfaces. WARNING: Carbon monoxide fumes can be fatal! Do not make any adjustments to the carburetor in a confined area such as a storage building. Move the tractor outside into the open air. NOTE: Carburetor adjustments should be made only after the engine has warmed up. 1.
SECTION IV. MAINTENANCE ENGINE MAINTENANCE • Maintenance, repair, or replacement of the emission control devices and systems, which are being done at the customer’s expense, may be performed by any engine repair establishment or individual. Warranty repairs must be performed by an authorized Kohler service outlet. • ENGINE OIL The engine-crankcase is filled with 10W-30 ship-away oil at the factory. This oil may be used for the first 25 hours of engine operation at temperatures between 0°F and 80°F.
NOTE: For best results, fill to the “FULL” mark on the dipstick as opposed to adding a given quantity of oil. Always check the level on the dipstick before adding more oil. Refer to the LUBRICATION TABLE for information regarding the proper type of oil to add to the crankcase. 1. Place the tractor on a level surface and engage the brake pedal lock. Stop the tractor engine and remove the ignition key. 2.
10. Apply a light coating of clean oil on the gasket of the new oil filter. Thread the filter on by hand until the gasket contacts the oil filter adapter, then tighten the filter an additional 2/3 to 1 turn. Refer to the LUBRICATION TABLE and follow the instruction in the following sub-section to refill the crankcase with the quantity and type of oil specified. FILLING THE CRANKCASE WARNING: Never overfill the engine crankcase.
3. Remove the oil fill plug/dipstick from the oil fill port and SLOWLY pour oil into the oil fill port. Fill the transmission case until the oil level reaches the “FULL” mark on the dipstick (Refer to Figure 21). 4. Reinstall the oil fill plug/dipstick securely into the oil fill port. IMPORTANT: The oil fill plug/dipstick must be installed securely into the fill port at all times when the engine is operating. HYDROSTATIC DRIVE OIL FILTER WARNING: Never overfill the transmission case.
4. Saturate the foam precleaner with new engine oil. Squeeze out all excess oil. 5. When servicing the air cleaner, check the air cleaner base. Make sure it is secured and not bent or damaged. Also check the element cover for damage or improper fit. Replace all damaged air cleaner components. 6. Inspect the rubber grommet (Refer to Figure 23) for deterioration, cracks, and for a snug fit on the air cleaner stud. Replace if damaged or worn. 1 7.
FUEL FILTER WARNING: Do not replace the fuel filter when engine is hot. To replace a fuse, pull the old fuse from the fuse holder and install the new fuse. GENERAL BATTERY INFORMATION The engine is equipped with an inline fuel filter. Visually inspect the filter periodically for a build-up of residue inside the filter body, and for a dirty element which can be indicated by discoloration. Replace the fuel filter when dirty. WARNING a.
STORAGE OF THE BATTERY HOLDDOWN ROD 1. When storing the tractor for extended periods, disconnect the negative battery cable. It is not necessary to remove the battery. 2. All batteries discharge during storage. Keep the exterior of the battery clean, especially the top. A dirty battery will discharge more rapidly. 3. The battery must be stored with a full charge. A discharged battery can freeze sooner than a charged battery. A fully charged battery will store longer in cold temperatures than hot.
JUMP STARTING WARNING: Failure to use this jump starting procedure could cause sparking, which could result in an explosion of either battery. 1. Attach the first jumper cable from the positive terminal of the good battery to the positive terminal of the dead battery. 2. Attach the second jumper cable from the negative terminal of the good battery to the FRAME OF THE UNIT WITH THE DEAD BATTERY. IMPORTANT: If the jumper battery is installed on a vehicle (e.g.
SECTION V. MOWER DECK A. INSTALLATION AND REMOVAL OF DECK SLOT IN REAR DECK BRACKET (BOTH SIDES) INSTALLATION OF DECK WARNING: Before performing the mower deck installation, place the PTO switch in the “OFF” position, engage the parking brake, turn the ignition key to the “OFF” position and remove the key from the switch. Disconnect the spark plug wires for additional safety. When handling the mower deck, be careful not to cut yourself on the sharp blades. IMPLEMENT LIFT LINK (BOTH SIDES) 1.
tension will push the pins inward and, if aligned, through the hole in each implement lift link (Refer to Figure 32). 5. While holding the front lift rod up, slide the mower deck forward until the rod aligns with both front roller bracket slots. Lower the lift rod into the front roller bracket slots and slide the deck rearward to engage the lift rod fully forward in the slots of the deck front roller bracket (See Figure 30).
14. Working from the left/rear of the mower deck, install the rearward end of the PTO belt on the upper pulley of the deck center double-pulley (Refer to Figure 36). Ensure that the narrow side of the belt engages the groove of the upper pulley, and that there is no more than a 1/4 twist in the belt between the front pulleys and the double pulley. 10.
WARNING: The exhaust system is HOT. To avoid personal injury, allow the engine and exhaust system to cool before proceeding with the following PTO belt removal instructions. REMOVAL OF DECK WARNING: Before removing the mower deck, place the PTO switch in the “OFF” position, engage the parking brake, turn the ignition key to the “OFF” position and remove the key from the switch. Disconnect the spark plug wire for additional safety.
9. From the front of the tractor, push downward and hold the tractor quick-attach rod. Pull the front lift rod/bracket assembly forward to release the shoulder bolts on each side of the bracket from the left and right tractor latch receivers. Release the tractor quick-attach rod ( See Figure 44). 6. Pull the deck support pins outward, turn downward and release so both spring-loaded pins are held in the disengaged position against the outer surface of the deck brackets (See Figure 42).
B. DECK LEVELING ADJUSTMENTS blade is lower or higher than the left blade, then proceed to steps 6, 7 and 8. If the two blade heights are within 1/16 inch, proceed to FRONT TO BACK LEVELING ADJUSTMENT. In order to achieve even cutting, the mower deck must be properly leveled. This leveling procedure will result in the left and right blades having corresponding cutting-edge-to ground measurements within 1/16 inch of each other.
FRONT TO BACK LEVELING ADJUSTMENT DECK FRONT HANGER ROD 1. Raise the deck to its highest position. OUTER HEX NUT 2. Position the mower blades so the ends of each outer blade point toward the front and the rear of the tractor (See Figure 48). Lower the tractor implement lift handle to a mid-height setting. INNER HEX NUT Lower Front of Deck Raise Front of Deck Figure 50 5.
IMPORTANT: Gauge wheels are intended to prevent scalping of the lawn, and are not designed to be used to set the cutting height. Do not run the deck on the gauge wheels. 3. If the gauge wheels have excessive clearance with the surface below, lower the wheels to the index hole that provides the approximate 1/2" clearance as described above. To adjust the height of the gauge wheels, place the tractor on a firm and level surface.
When removing the blades, use a 1-1/8 inch wrench to hold the hex head of the spindle bolt when loosening the hex nut securing the blade. A block of wood may be placed between the deck housing and the cutting edge of the blade to help in breaking loose the hex nut securing the blade (Refer to Figure 52). • Attach the nozzle adapter to a standard garden hose connected to a water supply.
LUBRICATION SPINDLE DRIVE BELT REPLACEMENT After every 10 hours of operation and/or before putting the deck into winter storage, lubricate the spindle assemblies and the spindle belt idler arm with 251H EP grease or an equivalent No. 2 multipurpose lithium grease. Excess grease will be expelled from the inverted upper seals of the spindle assemblies. Listen for the muffled crackling noise of grease being expelled through the seal to indicate the spindle assembly is fully greased. Refer to Figure 54.
SECTION VI. OFF-SEASON STORAGE If the machine is to be inoperative for a period longer than 30 days, the following procedures are recommended: WARNING: Never store the tractor with fuel in the tank indoors or in poorly ventilated enclosures, where fuel fumes may reach an open flame, spark or pilot light as on a furnace, water heater, clothes dryer, etc. IMPORTANT: Fuel left in the fuel tank during warm weather deteriorates and will cause serious starting problems.
SECTION VII. MOWING MOWING WARNING: To avoid possible injury, do not allow anyone in the area opposite the discharge chute while mowing. Although the area has been supposedly cleared of foreign objects, small objects may be picked up and discharged by the mower. Never direct the discharge of material toward bystanders or allow anyone near the machine while in operation. IMPORTANT: Do not engage the mower deck when lowered in grass.
OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT AND ACCESSORIES When you purchased your tractor, you probably had it completely equipped for your particular needs at the time. However, later you may wish to obtain optional equipment or accessories. Refer to the chart below for a list of optional equipment and accessories currently available through your Cub Cadet dealer. Description 50" Mulch Kit Triple Bagger 32 Cu. Ft.
MAINTENANCE CHART Operation to be performed Before each use Check engine oil level X Fill fuel tank X 10 hours or once a month Change engine oil & oil filter Check transmission oil level Every 25 hours 50 hours or twice a season After first 25 hours, engine oil only Before storage Every 100 hours thereafter X X Replace transmission oil filter After first 10 hours X After first 50 hours X Clean & re-oil foam air precleaner Every 100 hours thereafter X X Check battery terminals and case X
LUBRICATION TABLE Check at Hours Change at Hours Capacity Engine crankcase Check before each use 100 Approx. 4 pints Hydro transmission and transaxle with filter Check before each use Add as needed Approx. 6 qts Point of Lubrication Anticipated Air Temperature Above + 32°F Below + 32°F Cub Cadet Engine Oil SAE 10W30 Cub Cadet Engine Oil SAE 5W20 or 5W30 Cub Cadet Drive System Fluid Plus NOTE: Cub Cadet Drive System Fluid Plus is specially formulated for this application.
CHECK OIL — 2 LEVEL BEFORE EACH USE 10 — 6 12 — 50 8— 10 10 — 7 50 50 10 — 6 10 — 6 10 — 4 50 — 11 100 — 14 — 13 10 — 5 25 — 10 — 12 25 — 10 1— BOTH SIDES 25 — 9 BOTH SIDES 10 — 3 LEFT SIDE 100 — 15 CHECK OIL LEVEL BEFORE EACH USE LUBRICATION GUIDE
LUBRICATION GUIDE —Before Each Use 1. Engine filler cap and Check the oil (with the engine stopped) and add sufficient new oil to bring it to dipstick the “FULL” mark on the dipstick. Do not overfill. Do not operate the engine if the oil level is below the “LOW” mark on the dipstick. 2. Transmission oil level and fill port Check the oil with the engine stopped. Keep the lubricant up to the “FULL” mark on the dipstick. NOTE: The transmission oil level and fill port services the following: 1. Rear axle 2.
PTROUBLE SHOOTING Possible Cause Possible Remedy HARD TO START No gasoline in fuel tank or carburetor ..................... Fill the tank with gasoline. Check the fuel line, carburetor and fuel filter. Fuel line or carburetor clogged ............................... Clean the fuel line and carburetor with a commercial carburetor cleaner. Fuel filter plugged ................................................... Replace. Water in gasoline ....................................................
TROUBLE SHOOTING Possible Cause Possible Remedy LACK OF POWER Air cleaner clogged ................................................. Service the air cleaner element. Refer to “MAINTENANCE.” Engine overload ...................................................... Reduce the load. Engine overheated .................................................. Make sure the air intake screen, shrouding, and engine cooling fins are free of accumulated dirt and debris. Refer to “MAINTENANCE.
SPECIFICATIONS GT 2550 CAPACITIES Fuel Tank ........................................................................ Crankcase (approximately) ............................................. Transmission Case (approximately) ................................ HYDROSTATIC DRIVE Speed: Forward................................................................ Reverse ................................................................ ENGINE Make and Model ..............................................................
KOHLER CO. FEDERAL AND CALIFORNIA EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEMS LIMITED WARRANTY SMALL OFF-ROAD EQUIPMENT ENGINES The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the California Air Resources Board (CARB), and Kohler Co. are pleased to explain the Federal and California Emission Control Systems Warranty on your small off-road equipment engine. For California, engines produced in 1995 and later must be designed, built and equipped to meet the state’s stringent anti-smog standards.
CUB CADET LLC MANUFACTURER’S LIMITED WARRANTY FOR 2500 SERIES GARDEN TRACTORS RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL WARRANTY The limited warranty set forth below is given by Cub Cadet LLC with respect to new merchandise purchased and used in the United States and/ or its territories and possessions, and by MTD Products Limited with respect to new merchandise purchased and used in Canada and/or its territories and possessions (either entity respectively, “Cub Cadet”).
CALIFORNIA EMISSION CONTROL WARRANTY STAT EMENT YOUR W ARRANTY RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS The California Air Resources Board and MTD Consumer Group Inc. are pleased to explain the evaporative emission control system warranty on your 2007 lawn mower. In California, new lawn mower must be designed, built and equipped to meet the State’s stringent anti-smog standards. MTD Consumer Group Inc.
MAINTENANCE PARTS CHART MODEL GT 2550 ENGINE OIL SERIES 2500 22 HP KOHLER Engine Oil Requirements approx. . . 4 pints Part No. Cub Cadet engine oil (Grade SG,SH,SJ or higher) Ambient temperature viscosity Above +32°F SAE 10W30 Below +32°F SAE 5W20 or 5W30 AIR FILTER CARTRIDGE Air Filter Requirements Part No. Clean air filter per instructions in your Operator’s Manual . . . . under Maintenance - Air cleaner.