950-2300 Series ZTR® Model Y ear 200 4 Year 2004
IMPORTANT - READ CAREFULLY The Dixon® ZTR® Mower is both easy and fun to operate. However, any power mower must be operated properly to be safe. It is not a toy or a recreational vehicle. Before you start to use the mower, read the operator’s manual carefully and become completely familiar with the controls. The information contained in this manual applies to all Dixon® ZTR® 1950 and 2300 Series Mowers. Your Dixon dealer will gladly answer any questions.
INDEX Page Safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12 Warranty Policy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Seat Adjustment Instructions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Controls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16-19 Operation Instructions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-32 Care & Maintenance. . . . .
SAFETY RIDING LAWN MOWERS, IF IMPROPERLY OPERATED, CAN CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. The most common causes of injury to the operator or bystander... BLADE CONTACT TIP OVER RUN OVER BACK OVER ...read and understand this manual to prevent injuries.
SAFETY Safety Alert Symbol When you see this symbol, BE ALERT to the potential for injury. Follow recommended safety precautions and safe operating practices. DANGER (highlighted in red) indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury. WARNING (highlighted in orange) indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
SAFETY Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death. GENERAL OPERATION: •Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual and on the mower before starting. •Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the instructions, to operate the mower. •Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc., which could be picked up and thrown by the blade. •Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing.
SAFETY GENERAL OPERATION (continued): •Turn off blades when not mowing. •Stop engine before removing grass catcher or unclogging chute. •Mow only in daylight or good artificial light. •Do not operate the mower while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. •Watch for traffic when operating near or crossingroadways. •Use extra care when loading or unloading the mower into a trailer or truck. Do not ride the mower when loading and unloading.
SAFETY SLOPE OPERATION: Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and tip-over accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. All slopes requires extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not mow it! DO Mow across the slope with your Dixon ZTR - never up or down. Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc. Watch for holes, ruts or bumps. Uneven terrain could overturn the mower. Tall grass can hide obstacles. Use slow speed.
SAFETY SLOPE OPERATION (continued): DO (continued): Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly down the slope. If front wheels lift off the ground, pull the levers back to stabilize the mower. DO NOT Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments.
SAFETY SERVICE: •Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They are flammable and vapors are explosive. Use only an approved container. Never remove fuel cap or add fuel with engine running. Allow engine to cool before refueling. Do not smoke while refueling. Never refuel the mower indoors. Never store the mower or fuel container inside a building where there is an open flame. If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing immediately.
SAFETY SERVICE (continued): •Never run a mower inside a closed area. The exhaust fumes aretoxic. •Keep nuts and bolts tight, especially blade attachment bolts, and keep equipment in good condition. •Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly. •Keep mower free of grass, leaves, or other debris buildup. Clean up oil or fuel spillage. Allow mower to cool before storing. •Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object. Repair, if necessary, before restarting.
SAFETY CHILDREN: Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children. Children are attracted to lawn mowers and the mowing activity. NEVER assume children will stay where they were last seen. Be alert to avoid accidents. •Keep children out of the mowing area and under the watchful care of another responsible adult. •Be alert and turn mower off if a child enters the area. •Before and during backing, look BEHIND and DOWN for small children. •Never carry children.
DIXON LIMITED WARRANTY POLICY Pro Models 1950 ~ 2300 ~ 2560 DIXON ZTR MOWERS ARE WARRANTED AGAINST DEFECTS IN MATERIALS AND WORKMANSHIP AND PROVIDES FOR REPLACEMENT OR REPAIR OF PARTS INCLUDING LABOR COSTS. THIS WARRANTY IS SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS AND LIMITATIONS. 1. Home Owner Application: Dixon Pro Model used only at owner’s primary place of residence is warranted for a period of two (2) years from date of purchase. Frame, body panels and fenders are warranted for the life of the mower. 2.
SPECIFICATIONS Model ZTR 1950 and 2300 CHASSIS: 11 GA - rectangular tube SEAT: Designed for operator comfort by use of high-density closed cell foam padded back and arm rests, upholstered with CorduraTM waterrepellent fabric. Seat is adjustable fore and aft. Mounted on operator suspension system. MOWER DECK: Two decks are available. The 60” is made of stamped steel. The 50” is made of 11 GA fabricated welded construction with external reinforcement ribs. Three blades combine for a 50” or 60” cut width.
SEAT ADJUSTMENT INSTRUCTIONS Models 1950 & 2300 1. Grasp seat slide adjuster and move it into adjustment position. 2. Slide seat forward or backward. 3. Release seat slide adjuster.
CONTROLS CONTROL LEVERS Note: For access to the seat, move control levers to neutral position and swing them outward. TO GO FORWARD: •From neutral position, gently push both control levers forward. •To increase speed, move levers further forward. TO GO BACKWARD: •From neutral position, gently pull both control levers toward you. TURNING: •Turning is controlled by moving one control lever slightly forward or rearward of the other. •To turn left, move left lever rearward of the right lever.
CONTROLS CHOKE CONTROL LEVER: •Located on control panel to operator’s right. •Used to start a cold engine. THROTTLE CONTROL LEVER: •Located on control panel to operator’s right. •Controls engine speed, slow to maximum. •While moving, throttle control should be set to MAXIMUM for wide open setting to insure adequate cooling of the engine and to maintain mower deck blade speed.
CONTROLS PARKING BRAKE: The parking brake is designed to hold the mower from moving and is not intended for use in stopping the mower while it is in motion. CAUTION Engage parking brake before starting engine. TO SET PARKING BRAKE: The hand operated brake is located at the left hand side of the mower. To engage brake, pull lever up (to the rear). To release brake, move lever forward (down). Note: Always set parking brake before dismounting. Release parking brake before moving mower.
CONTROLS BLADE DRIVE: •Located on control panel to operator’s right. To engage blade: Pull up on switch. To disengage blade: Push down. CIRCUIT BREAKER: •Located on control panel to operator’s right. •Protection of the electrical system is by (1) 15 amp circuit breaker. •If circuit breaker trips, push button to reset. •If this condition repeats, consult dealer for inspection and repair. MOWER DECK CUT HEIGHT LIFT LEVER: •Located to the right and front of operator. •Controls the cutting height.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS The safe and successful operation of the 1950 or 2300 Series will depend upon the operator having the correct knowledge of all controls used on the mower and making good judgements about the terrain to be mowed. NEVER allow anyone to operate the mower without complete knowledge of all the controls and their functions. During initial operation, “learning to drive”, set throttle at slow speed.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE OPERATING MOWER: 1. Read and observe all safety instructions on your mower and in the manual. 2. Read engine manufacturer’s operating and maintenance instructions. 3. Discuss proper maintenance with your dealer. 4. Check engine oil. 5. Check fuel cap to be sure it is in place. 6. Be sure parking brake is on. 7. Be sure mower blade drive is off. 8. Know how to stop engine. (Turn key to off position).
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS TO FREE WHEEL MACHINE (UNLOCK TRANSMISSION): Always turn off engine before engaging or disengaging the hydro release (free wheel) valves. Never attempt to move the valves with the engine running. The hydro release valves are located beneath the seat, on the front side of the hydro pumps. To access the release valves, lift the seat frame assembly, use a 5/8” wrench to rotate bolt counter-clockwise two full turns to disengage pump. Repeat procedure for opposite pump.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS TESTING OF SAFETY INTERLOCK SYSTEMS: Do not operate mower if safety switches are not operating properly. PARKING BRAKE SWITCH TEST: a) Place parking brake in OFF position. b) Turn ignition switch to START. ENGINE SHOULD NOT TURN OVER OR ATTEMPT TO START! BLADE DRIVE SWITCH TEST: a) Place parking brake in ON position. b) Engage blade drive switch. c) Turn ignition switch to START.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS SIDE DISCHARGE OF THE CLIPPINGS: In order to achieve optimum performance when side discharging the grass clippings, please read and follow the tips listed below. Additional information can be found in the troubleshooting guide. CAUTION Be sure that the deflector is properly installed on the discharge chute. 1. Set engine speed control to the wide open or full setting. 2. Do Not Attempt To Cut Grass When It Is Wet. Wet grass will clog the underside of the deck and discharge area. 3.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS GRASS HEIGHT AND CUTTING SUGGESTIONS: Do not attempt to cut grass when it is wet. If the grass is tall, place the mower deck cut height lever in the top or second notch. “Initially” overlap cutting swaths instead of a full swath with each pass. Some applications may require a second cutting. As a rule of thumb, never cut off more than 1/3 of the total grass blade length. Correct mowing height can reduce weeds and disease by 50% to 80%.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS STARTING INSTRUCTIONS (cold engine): 1. Position choke control in “on” position. 2. Position throttle control at 1/2 speed setting. 3. Insert ignition key and turn to “start” position. When engine starts, release ignition key. Key will return to “run” position. 4. Once engine starts to warm up, slowly move choke control to “off” position. 5. Move throttle control to the “fast” position. 6.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS STARTING INSTRUCTIONS (engine has been operated): 1. Move throttle control to 1/4 to 1/2 setting. 2. Insert ignition key and turn to “start” position. When engine starts, release ignition key. Key will return to “run” position. 3. Move throttle control to “fast” position. Note: Engine may require partial choke setting to start even if the engine has been operated for a period of time. 4.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS MOWING WITH A MULCHING ATTACHMENT: Mulching or recycling the grass clippings requires a totally different mowing approach than would be normal when side discharging or bagging the grass. There may be instances or conditions where it is not possible to hide all of the recycled or mulched clippings. In order to achieve the best results, please read and follow the mulching tips listed below: 28 1. Set the engine speed control to the wide open or full setting. 2.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS MOWING WITH A MULCHING ATTACHMENT (continued): 6. Keep the Underside Of The Mower Deck Clean. Remove all grass and dirt build-up from the underside of the pan, the baffles and deflectors after each use. 7. Alternate mower direction. This will evenly disperse the mulched grass clippings over the lawn for even fertilization. If the mulching quality of the mower does not seem to be satisfactory, try one or more of the following tips: 1. Raise the height-of-cut setting on your mower. 2.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS MOWING WITH A GRASS CATCHER ATTACHMENT: In order to achieve optimum performance when mowing with a grass catching attachment, please read and follow the tips listed below. 30 1. Set engine speed control to the wide open or full setting. Allow engine, mower deck and blower to reach full RPM before attempting to mow. 2. Do Not Attempt To Cut Grass When It Is Wet. Wet grass will clog both the underside of the deck and the attachment chutes. Empty bags often to prevent plugging. 3.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS MOWING WITH A GRASS CATCHER ATTACHMENT (continued): 7. Operate the mower at a slower ground speed than when mowing without a grass catching attachment. 8. Some mowing applications/use of grass catchers may require that an optional weight box be fitted to the mower to counter the weight of grass in the bags. Please consult with your dealer for more information regarding installation and adding weight to the box.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS DECK ROLLERS (60” deck): Purpose: The spring loaded deck rollers located at the front corners of the 60” mower deck are designed as an aid to limit turf scalping when mowing on uneven ground. Height: Normal height settings as installed at the factory allows each roller to ride slightly above the turf. This setting should prove ideal under most mowing conditions. Adjustment: Some mowing applications may require lowering of each front roller.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE CAUTION Before performing any maintenance, turn off engine, allow to cool & remove key. Use extreme care when working on machinery. Do not wear watch or jewelry. Do not wear loose fitting clothes, and observe all common safety practices with tools. MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE • Adjust traction drive idler........................................after 5 hours break-in • Check deck serpentine belt...........................................
CARE AND MAINTENANCE ENGINE: For complete maintenance and operating information of the engine,please refer to the maintenance instructions furnished by the engine manufacturer and included in your Zero Turn Radius mower information packet. BATTERY: CAUTION Battery contains sulfuric acid electrolyte which is poisonous and corrosive. •This is a maintenance-free battery and the fluid level cannot be checked. •Charge battery if required. OFF SEASON BATTERY STORAGE: •DO NOT remove battery from mower.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE CUTTER BLADE MAINTENANCE: CAUTION Stop engine and remove ignition key for safety. Wear heavy, thick gloves when holding onto cutter blade, avoid the sharp edge of the blade. Check sharpness of mower blades after every 10 hours of operation. Observe proper blade position prior to removal. 1. Safely raise front of mower. 2. Hold or block blade from turning. 3. Loosen blade bolt and remove blade. 4. When replacing blade, tighten blade bolt securely. Refer to diagram.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE BELTS: Check belts every 50 hours. Replace any belts found to be in poor condition. BELT TENSION: Engine to Mower Deck Belt: P/N 6111 (50”) P/N 6938 (60”) The engine to mower deck drive belts are automatically held in proper tension by springs which push the deck assembly forward and do not require any additional adjustment to be made. Mower Deck Serpentine Belt: P/N 1300 (50”) P/N 6939 (60”) Refer to illustration for adjustment procedure.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE FUEL SHUT OFF VALVE: The fuel shut off valve is located at the bottom front of the fuel tank. Always turn the valve to the “OFF” position when the mower is stored or not in use. LUBRICATION: CHASSIS: (7) grease zerks used LOCATIONS: (1) each brake band shaft (1) each front wheel caster tube (1) each mower deck hub SERVICE INTERVALS: Every 50 hours of operation RECOMMENDED GREASE: Name brand wheel bearing or multi-purpose grease.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE CAUTION Hot oil may cause burns. Allow engine to cool before draining oil. CHANGING THE ENGINE OIL: 1. The “Dapco” oil drain valve is located on the right side of the engine crankcase on the 1950 and on the left side of the engine crankcase on the 2300. 2. Place a suitable container under the drain valve. The fitting of a short piece of hose will help direct the oil. 3. To drain, turn hex head valve stem counter--cockwise with 10mm wrench or socket.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE OIL FILL: 1. Drain oil. 2. Clean any spilled oil from engine and chassis. 3. Refill engine with type, and quantity of oil recommended by the engine manufacturer in engine literature. OIL FILTERS: 1. Replace filter each time the oil is changed. 2. These filters can be obtained from your authorized engine dealer. Kawasaki (P/N 49065-2078) Kohler (P/N 12-050-01-5) 3. The use of any other oil filter may cause damage to the engine. PLEASE DISPOSE OF USED OILS AT PROPER COLLECTION CENTERS.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE HYDROSTATIC TRANSMISSION OIL & FILTER SERVICE: Dirt or water in oil can ruin the hydrostatic transmissions. SERVICE INTERVALS: 1. Initial filter service - 50 hours 2. Every 250 hours or once a year thereafter. OIL REQUIREMENTS: Any high quality engine oil with an API classification of SG/CD is recommended.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE HYDROSTAT OIL MAINTENANCE PROCEDURE: Check the oil level in hydrostatic transmisison oil reservoir after every 25 hours of usage. Clean the oil reservoir cap and the area around it prior to removal. Check the oil level. Oil should be approximately 1-3/8” below top of oil tank. Replenish as needed with SAE 20W-50 motor oil. DO NOT OVERFILL. When checking the oil level, be very careful to keep the reservoir clean.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS: Keep all connections clean and tight. CLEANING THE MOWER: Wash mower periodically. Clean above and below deck. High pressure washing and alkaline based soaps can cause damage to bearings and other parts of the mower. After washing your mower, start the engine and engage the mower deck for a few minutes to disperse any water that may have accumulated in bearings, pulleys or fans. Note: Allow mower to cool before washing.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE MOWER DECK REMOVAL: 1. Remove mower deck drive belt. To relieve belt tension, insert 5283 link (at front of lift frame) into tab illustrated below. Move lift handle into the lowest cut position. Belt can now be removed from mower deck pulley. Insert end of link here 5283 Link Front of lift frame 2. Remove front and rear deck hanger pins, as illustrated below. 3. Slide deck from beneath chassis. 4. Reverse procedure to re-install deck to chassis.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE MOWER DECK LEVELING PROCEDURE: There are a total of (4) threaded adjusters which will control the attitude or pitch of the mower deck. The adjusters have locknuts on the bottom which can be turned up or down to raise or lower the front and rear of the mower deck. Deck should be level or pitched slightly higher in rear. A . Place the mower on a smooth level surface with front casters positioned t owards deck. Check tire pressures to insure the mower has a correct stance.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE MOWER DECK LEVELING PROCEDURE (continued): D. Turn both outer blades to align with the deck in frontto-rear manner. Turn left rear adjuster nut up or down until rear of mower deck is positioned level to 1/8” higher in the rear than the side-to-side measurement. At this time, the mower deck will be suspended on (3) points (both front adjusters and the left rear adjuster). Move the right rear adjuster and take out the slack which will be present by turning adjuster locknut up. E.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE STEERING CONTROL ADJUSTMENTS: To adjust neutral: 1. Lift seat. 2. Block up the unit so that the drive wheels are off the ground. 3. Loosen ball joint jam nuts on control rod. Note: The front jam nuts are left hand threads. 4. With steering control arms in the “out” neutral position, start the engine and run at fast idle. 5. Adjust the neutral position by turning the control rod until the wheels do not rotate. 6.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE STEERING CONTROL ADJUSTMENTS (continued): To adjust neutral springs: 1. Loosen set screws on center spring stop collar located on the control rods. (Requires a 1/8” Allen wrench). 2. Swing control lever out. Tighten set screw on lock collar. 3. Repeat for opposite side. 4. Engage parking brake and lower seat frame. Release parking brake and swing control levers in. If wheel creeps, repeat steps 1 and 2. 5. Stop engine and remove rear of machine from jack or blocks. 6.
TROUBLESHOOTING 1.
TROUBLESHOOTING 6. ENGINE RUNS BUT MOWER WON’T MOVE FORWARD Drive belt broken or slipping- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -replace drive belt Transmission oil low- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -add oil Transmission locks in free-wheel position- - - - lock position(see pg.22) Hydrostat oil filter plugged- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - replace filter 7.
STANDARD SERVICE PARTS LIST 50” Deck Blades Hi-Lift - P/N 9444 (Standard) Lo-Lift - P/N 9443 Belts Engine to Mower Deck - P/N 6111 Serpentine - P/N 1300 Engine to Hydros - P/N 2469 60” Deck Blades P/N 9445 (Hi-Lift) Belts Engine to Mower Deck - P/N 6938 Serpentine Belt - P/N 6939 Engine to Hydros - P/N 2469 50
OWNER INFORMATION DIXON INDUSTRIES, INC. a BLOUNT International Inc. Co. P.O.
ZTR®Mowers WARNING: The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. Dixon® and ZTR® are registered trademarks of Dixon Industries, Inc. DIXON INDUSTRIES, INC. a BLOUNT International Inc. Co. P.O. Box 1569 Coffeyville, Ks 67337-0945 620-251-2000 1950/2300 Part No.
