Safe Operation Practices • Set-Up • Operation • Maintenance • Service • Troubleshooting • Warranty Operator’s Manual Z-Force S WARNING READ AND FOLLOW ALL SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS MANUAL BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE THIS MACHINE. FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THESE INSTRUCTIONS MAY RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY. CUB CADET LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019 Printed In USA Form No.
1 To The Owner Thank You Thank you for purchasing a Cub Cadet Zero-Turn Tractor. It was carefully engineered to provide excellent performance when properly operated and maintained. If applicable, the power testing information used to establish the power rating of the engine equipped on this machine can be found at www.opei.org or the engine manufacturer’s web site. Please read this entire manual prior to operating the equipment.
Important Safe Operation Practices 2 WARNING! This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, could endanger the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow all instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal injury. When you see this symbol.
12. A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause blade contact or thrown object injuries. 13. Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads and while not cutting grass. 14. Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways. This machine is not intended for use on any public roadway. 15. Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. 16. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light. 17. Never carry passengers. 18. Back up slowly.
Children 1. Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to the machine and the mowing activity. They do not understand the dangers. Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them. a. b. c. d. e. f. g. 2. Service Safe Handling of Gasoline: 1. Keep children out of the mowing area and in watchful care of a responsible adult other than the operator. Be alert and turn machine off if a child enters the area.
3. 4. 5. 6 Periodically check to make sure the blades come to complete stop within approximately (5) five seconds after operating the blade disengagement control. If the blades do not stop within the this time frame, your machine should be serviced professionally by an authorized dealer. Regularly check the safety interlock system for proper function, as described later in this manual.
Safety Symbols This page depicts and describes safety symbols that may appear on this product. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine before attempting to assemble and operate. Symbol Description READ THE OPERATOR’S MANUAL(S) Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual(s) before attempting to assemble and operate WARNING— ROTATING BLADES Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the cutting deck. Contact with the blade(s) can amputate hands and feet.
Section 2 — Safe Operation Practices Figure 1 line Figure 2 (TOO STEEP) 15° Slope WARNING! Slopes are a major factor related to tip-over and roll-over accidents which can result in severe injury or death. Do not operate machine on slopes in excess of 15 degrees. All slopes require extra caution. Always mow across the face of slopes, never up and down slopes. To check the slope, proceed as follows: 1. Remove this page and fold along the dashed line. 2.
3 Assembly & Set-Up Contents of Crate • One Lawn Tractor • One Oil Drain Hose (If equipped) • One Z-Force S Tractor Operator’s Manual • One Engine Operator’s Manual • One Deck Wash Hose Coupler Tractor Preparation Steering Wheel 1. Remove the upper crating material from the shipping pallet, and cut any bands or tie straps securing the tractor to the pallet. 1. Remove the hardware for attaching the steering wheel from beneath the steering wheel cap.
2. Remove the two shoulder bolts and lock nuts in the seat pan as shown in Fig. 3-3. Adjusting the Seat To adjust the position of the seat, push the seat adjustment lever to the left. Slide the seat forward or rearward to the desired position; then release the adjustment lever. Make sure seat is locked into position before operating the tractor. See Fig. 3-5. Figure 3-3 3. Rotate the seat into position and secure the seat into place with the previously removed shoulder bolts and lock nuts.
2. Install the hitch bracket and muffler mount bracket as shown in Fig. 3-7 and secure with the hex flange screws and flange lock nuts removed in step 1. Connecting the Battery Cables CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING! Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.
4 Controls & Features Ignition Switch Module Parking Break Engagement Lever Hour Meter/ Indicator Panel PTO Switch Fuel Tank Cap Choke Control Index Plate Deck Lift Pedal Throttle Control Seat Adjustment Lever Drive Pedal Reverse Pedal Figure 4-1 NOTE: References to LEFT, RIGHT, FRONT, and REAR indicate that Ignition Switch Module position on the tractor when facing forward while seated in the operator’s seat. WARNING! Never leave a running Deck Lift Pedal machine unattended.
PTO (Power Take-Off ) Switch Indicator Panel Features The PTO switch is located on the LH console to the left of the operator’s seat. Battery Indicator Illuminates and the battery voltage is displayed briefly when the ignition switch it turned to the “ON” position. The PTO switch operates the electric PTO clutch mounted on the bottom of the engine crankshaft. Pull the switch knob upward to engage the PTO clutch, or push the knob downward to disengage the clutch.
Choke Control The choke knob controls the position of the engine choke and is located on the RH console. Pull the knob out to choke the engine; push the knob in to open the choke. Steering Tilt Pedal CHOKE Parking Brake Engagement Lever The steering tilt pedal is located at the bas of the steering column. To increase or decrease the angle of the steering column press down on the steering tilt pedal, move the steering wheel column to the desired position and release the pedal.
5 Operation General Safety Before Operating Your Tractor • RECEIVE INSTRUCTION — Entirely read this operator’s manual. Learn to operate this machine SAFELY. Do not risk INJURY or DEATH. Allow only those who have become competent in its usage to operate this tractor. • Before you operate the tractor, study this manual carefully to familiarize yourself with the operation of all the instruments and controls. It has been prepared to help you operate and maintain your tractor efficiently.
Starting the Engine WARNING! This tractor is equipped with a safety interlock system designed for the protection of the operator. Do not operate the tractor if any part of the interlock system is malfunctioning. Periodically check the functions of the interlock system for proper operation. WARNING! For personal safety, the operator must be sitting in the tractor seat when starting the engine.
Driving The Tractor Reverse Caution Mode WARNING! Avoid sudden starts, excessive speed and sudden stops. The REVERSE CAUTION MODE position of the key switch module allows the tractor to be operated in reverse with the blades (PTO) engaged. NOTE: Mowing in reverse is not recommended. 1. Release the parking brake. Move the throttle lever into the FAST (rabbit) position. 2. To travel FORWARD, slowly press the drive pedal forward until the desired speed is achieved. See Fig. 5-2.
Driving On Slopes • For best results it is recommended that the first two laps be cut with the discharge thrown towards the center. After the first two laps, reverse the direction to throw the discharge to the outside for the balance of cutting. This will give a better appearance to the lawn. • Do NOT attempt to mow heavy brush and weeds or extremely tall grass. Your tractor is designed to mow lawns, NOT clear brush. Keep the blades sharp and replace the blades when worn.
6 Maintenance & Adjustments Maintenance Schedule Before Each use Every 10 Hours P Clean Battery Terminals P Lube Front Caster Wheels and Wheel Spindles Check Engine Cooling Fins for Debris (Clean as Necessary) Every 25 Hours P P Lube Deck Spindles P Lube Pedal Pivot Points Maintenance WARNING! Before performing any maintenance or repairs, disengage PTO, set parking brake, stop engine and remove key to prevent unintended starting. 3.
4. If your engine has the oil drain hose setup in Fig. 6-2, see the Oil Drain Hose section below. Oil Fill Cap/Dipstick Oil Filler Oil Fill Tube Oil Drain Hose (If equipped) 1. Remove the hose from the retaining loop-clamp. Route the free end of the oil drain hose toward an appropriate oil collection container with at least a 2.5 quart capacity, to collect the used oil. Remove the oil fill cap/dipstick from the oil fill tube. 2.
Tractor Storage Removing The Tractor From Storage If your tractor is not going to be operated for an extended period of time (thirty days to approximately six months), the tractor should be prepared for storage. Store the tractor in a dry and protected location. If stored outside, cover the tractor (including the tires) to protect it from the elements. The procedures outlined below should be performed whenever the tractor is placed in storage. 1. Check the engine oil. 2.
Cleaning the Tractor Any fuel or oil spilled on the machine should be wiped off promptly. Do NOT allow debris to accumulate around the cooling fins of the engine, the transmission’s cooling fan or on any other part of the machine, especially the belts and pulleys. Smart Jet™ Your tractor’s deck is equipped with a water port on its surface as part of its deck wash system. Use the Smart Jet™ to rinse grass clippings from the deck’s underside and prevent the buildup of corrosive chemicals.
Deck Spindle 3. Grease fittings can be found on top of each spindle bolt. See Fig. 6-6. Lubricate with 251H EP grease or an equivalent No. 2 multipurpose lithium grease. Using a grease gun, apply two strokes (minimum) or sufficient grease to the spindle shaft. Loosen, but do NOT remove, the hex bolt on the front left deck hanger link. See Fig. 6-7.
Adjusting the Belt Tension Setting the Deck Wheels To tighten or loosen the tension on the belt, tighten or loosen the jam nuts on the U-rod, see Fig. 6-8, until a ten-pound pull with a spring scale deflects the belt about 1⁄2”. Move the tractor on a firm and level surface, preferably pavement, and proceed as follows 1. Select the height position of the cutting deck by placing the deck lift pedal in the normally desired mowing height setting. 2.
7 Service WARNING! Before performing any service, place the PTO switch in the “OFF” position, engage the parking brake lever, turn the ignition key to the “OFF” position and remove the key from the switch. Charging the Battery Test and, if necessary, recharge the battery after the tractor has been stored for a period of time. • Battery Removal WARNING! Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds. Wash hands after handling.
Deck Removal 4. Remove the mower deck from the tractor as follows: 1. Move the tractor to a level surface, disengage the PTO, stop the engine, and set the parking brake. 2. Place the deck lift pedal in the lowest mowing position and replace the lock pin in front of pedal in the deck height bracket and secure by locking the lock pin. See Fig. 7-3. Pull the cotter pins out of the four deck lift adjustment brackets. See Fig. 7-5.
Deck Installation 5. Z-Force S60/54 After all four cotter pins are secure, slide the deck forward and hook the deck to the U-rod. 6. Route the PTO belt as shown in Fig. 7-8. After routing the belt around the PTO pulley, use a 1⁄2” drive in the idler pulley bracket and turn towards the back of the tractor to finish routing the belt around the idler pulley. Install the deck on the tractor as follows: 1.
6. Route the belt as shown in Fig. 7-9. After routing the belt around the PTO pulley, use a 1⁄2” drive in the idler pulley bracket and turn towards the back of the tractor to finish routing the belt around the idler pulley. Replacing the Deck Belt Z-Force S60/54 1. Remove the deck from beneath the tractor, (refer to Deck Removal on page 24). 2. Remove the hex washer screws securing the belt covers to the deck. See Fig. 7-10.
Replacing the Belt 3. 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. To reinstall the blades, reverse the above process and tighten nut to 100-120 lb ft. 4. Reinstall the deck (refer to Deck Installation on page 25 ). Z-Force 48 1. Remove the deck from beneath the tractor, (refer to Deck Removal on page 24). 2.
Changing the Spindle Assembly 1. Remove the deck from beneath the tractor, (refer to Deck Removal on page 25). 2. Remove the hex washer screws securing the belt covers to the deck and remove the belt from the spindle pulleys. Refer to Fig. 7-9. 1. Remove the drive belts. (See Replacing the Belt) 2. Remove the blade. (See Mower Blade Care). 3. Use a 3⁄4” wrench to hold the hex nut on top of the spindle assembly when loosening the hex nut securing the blade.
8 Troubleshooting Problem Excessive vibration Uneven cut Mower will not mulch grass (If Equipped w/Mulching Kit) Cause Remedy 1. Cutting blade loose or unbalanced. 1. Tighten blade and spindle. 2. Damaged or bent cutting blade. 2. Replace blade. 1. Deck not leveled properly. 1. Perform side-to-side deck adjustment. 2. Dull blade. 2. Sharpen or replace blade. 3. Uneven tire pressure. 3. Check tire pressure in all four tires. 1. Engine speed too low. 1.
9 Replacement Parts Component Part Number and Description 759-3336 Spark Plug KM-11013-7049 Air Filter KM-49019-0707 Fuel Filter (Z-Force S48/54) KM-49040-7008 Fuel Filter (Z-Force S60) KM-49065-7007 Oil Filter 32 754-04044A Deck Belt (Z-Force S48) 754-04137A Deck Belt (Z-Force S54) 01005376 Deck Belt (Z-Force S60) 954-04262 PTO Belt (Z-Force S54/60) 754-04250 Drive Belt 02005017 02005017-X 02005018 02005018-X 02005019 02005019-X Mowing Blade (Z-Force S48) Xtreme Mowing Blade (Z-Force S48
Component Part Number and Description 618-04426 Deck Spindle 734-04155 634-3159 Deck Wheel (Z-Force S48) Deck Wheel (Z-Force S54/60) 925-1707D Battery 751-12193A Gas Cap 946-1086 Throttle Control Cable 746-04057 Choke Control Cable 925-2054A Ignition Key 01006693 Chute Deflector 634-04128 634-04295 Wheel Assembly (Z-Force S48) Wheel Assembly (Z-Force S54/60) 634-04629 Caster Wheel Assembly Section 9 — Replacement Parts 33
10 Attachments & Accessories 34 Part No.
Notes 11 35
Section 11— Notes
Section 11 — Notes 37
FEDERAL and/or CALIFORNIA EMISSION CONTROL WARRANTY STATEMENT YOUR WARRANTY RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS MTD Consumer Group Inc, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and, for those products certified for sale in the state of California, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) are pleased to explain the emission (evaporative and/or exhaust) control system (ECS) warranty on your outdoor 2006 and later small off-road spark-ignited engine and equipment (outdoor equipment engine) In California, n
WARRANTED PARTS: The repair or replacement of any warranted part otherwise eligible for warranty coverage may be excluded from such warranty coverage if MTD Consumer Group Inc demonstrates that the outdoor equipment engine has been abused, neglected, or improperly maintained, and that such abuse, neglect, or improper maintenance was the direct cause of the need for repair or replacement of the part.
CUB CADET LLC MANUFACTURER’S LIMITED WARRANTY FOR Z-FORCE S/Z-FORCE ZERO-TURN RIDING MOWER IMPORTANT: To obtain warranty coverage owner must present an original proof of purchase and applicable maintenance records to the servicing dealer. Please see the operator’s manual for information on required maintenance and service intervals. In the U.S.A.: Check your Yellow Pages, or contact Cub Cadet LLC at P.O. Box 361131, Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019, call 1-877-282- 8684 or log on to our website at www.cubcadet.