SPEEDZTR™ ZTR® Safety Instructions and Operator’s Manual Models ZTR ®44/968999538 ZTR®36/968999539 ZTR®42/968999546 ZTR®44/968999547
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 use the mower, read this Operator’s Manual carefully. It contains valuable information that is necessary for the safe operation of the machine. Observe all safety rules and become completely familiar with the controls. The information contained in this manual applies to all Dixon ZTR SpeedZTR™ mowers.
TABLE OF CONTENTS SAFETY AND WARNINGS ............................................................ 4-13 General Operation ............................................................. 6-7 Slope Operation ................................................................ 8-9 Fire Hazards .................................................................. 11-11 Children, Bystanders And Pets .......................................... 12 Service .....................................................................
SAFETY Blade Contact Tip Over 4
SAFETY ! Safety Alert Symbol When you see this symbol, BE ALERT to the potential for injury. Follow the 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.
WARNINGS ! WARNING Failure to observe the following instructions could result in serious injury or death. GENERAL OPERATION Read, understand, and follow all instructions in this manual and on the mower before starting. In this operator’s manual, left and right, backward and forward are used in relation to the machine’s normal driving direction. 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.
WARNINGS ! WARNING Failure to observe the following instructions could result in serious injury or death. GENERAL OPERATION (continued) Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the machine. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times. Disengage blade(s) when not mowing. Shut off engine and wait for all parts to come to a complete stop before cleaning the machine, removing the grass catcher, or unclogging the discharge guard. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
WARNINGS ! WARNING Failure to observe the following instructions could result in serious injury or death. SLOPE OPERATION Slopes are a major factor related to loss-ofcontrol and tip-over accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. All slopes require extra caution. If you feel unsure on any slope, do not mow it! DO Mow across the slope with your Dixon ZTR -- never up or down. This will decrease the risk of tip-over.
WARNINGS ! WARNING Failure to observe the following instructions could result in serious injury or death. SLOPE OPERATION (continued) DO NOT Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible. Rapid uphill turns may cause tip-over. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. Unstable ground may cause loss of control. Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could cause sliding. Do not try to stabilize the mower by putting your foot on the ground.
WARNINGS ! WARNING Failure to observe the following instructions could result in serious injury or death. FIRE HAZARDS Use extra care when handling gasoline and other fuels. They are flammable and vapors are explosive. Store all fuel in approved containers specifically designed for that purpose. Allow engine to cool before refueling. Never remove fuel cap or add fuel with engine running. Do not smoke while refueling or operating the mower.
WARNINGS ! WARNING Failure to observe the following instructions could result in serious injury or death. FIRE HAZARDS (continued) To prevent fire or explosion, keep sparks and open flames away from battery. Keep electrical connections clean and tight. Inspect them often. Loose connections and corrosion increase fire risk. Before disconnecting the negative ground cable, make sure all switches are off. This decreases the chance of sparking and fire.
WARNINGS ! WARNING Failure to observe the following instructions could result in serious injury or death. CHILDREN, BYSTANDERS AND PETS Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children, bystanders and pets. Children are attracted to lawn mowers and the mowing activity. NEVER assume children, bystanders and pets will stay where they were last seen. Be alert to avoid accidents.
WARNINGS ! WARNING Failure to observe the following instructions could result in serious injury or death. SERVICE Never run a mower inside a closed area or without proper ventilation. 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. Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object. Repair, if necessary, before restarting.
DIXON® ZTR® RESIDENTIAL WARRANTY POLICY SpeedZTR™ & RAM 42 - Residential Mowers DIXON® WARRANTS ITS ZTR® MOWERS AGAINST DEFECTS IN MATERIAL AND WORKMANSHIP FOR THE PERIODS SET FORTH BELOW. THE SOLE REMEDY UNDER THIS WARRANTY IS REPLACEMENT OR REPAIR OF PARTS INCLUDING LABOR COSTS. THIS WARRANTY IS SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS AND LIMITATIONS: 1. RESIDENTIAL APPLICATION - (used only at owner’s primary place of residence): a.
SPECIFICATIONS SpeedZTR™ 36 Model 968999539 Chassis: 1½" x 2" rectangle tubular side frame Body: Body parts are made of steel Mower Deck: 36" (91cm) 11 gauge fabricated construction with reinforced ribs. Blade Drive: Electric clutch Transmission: Each rear wheel is independently driven by a Hydro Gear EZT hydrostatic drive with cooling fan. Engine: 16.
SPECIFICATIONS SpeedZTR™ 42 Model 968999546 Chassis: 1½" x 2" rectangle tubular side frame Body: Body parts are made of steel Mower Deck: 42" (91cm) 13 gauge stamped 2 blade deck Blade Drive: Electric clutch Transmission: Each rear wheel is independently driven by a Hydro Gear EZT hydrostatic drive with cooling fan. Engine: 16.
SPECIFICATIONS SpeedZTR™ 44 Model 968999547 Chassis: 1½" x 2" rectangle tubular side frame Body: Body parts are made of steel Mower Deck: 44" (112cm) 11 gauge fabricated construction with reinforced ribs.
SPECIFICATIONS SpeedZTR™ 44 Model 968999538 Chassis: 1½" x 2" rectangle tubular side frame Body: Body parts are made of steel Mower Deck: 44" (112cm) 11 gauge fabricated construction with reinforced ribs.
CONTROLS CONTROL LEVERS For access to the seat, move control levers to neutral position and swing them outward. —Fig. 1— LEFT TURN OPPOSITE TO GO FORWARD • From neutral position, gently push control levers forward. • To increase speed, move levers further forward. TO GO BACKWARDS • From neutral position, gently pull 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 PARK BRAKE The park brake is designed to hold the mower from moving and is not intended for use in stopping the mower while it is in motion. The engine will stop if the park brake is engaged while the control levers are in the drive position. ! CAUTION Engage park brake before starting engine. TO SET PARK BRAKE The hand operated park brake is located on the operator’s left. •To engage brake, pull lever up (to the rear). •To release brake, move lever forward (down). —Fig.
CONTROLS BLADE DRIVE • • • Located on the operator’s right. To engage the mower blade, pull the knob to the ON position. To disengage mower blade, push the knob to OFF position. THROTTLE CONTROL LEVER • • • Choke Position BLADE DRIVE Maximum Throttle Setting STOP 15 PU Located on control panel to operator’s right. Throttle control for engine speed.
CONTROLS MOWER DECK CUT HEIGHT LIFT LEVER • Use right foot to operate deck foot pedal at right front foot area. • To raise mower deck, push forward with right foot on top portion of foot pedal. When desired deck height is reached, push with right foot on lower portion of foot pedal until bottom of the pedal engages in deck positioning notch. • To lower deck, push forward with right foot on top portion of foot pedal until bottom edge of pedal disengages deck positioning notch.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS The safe and successful operation of the SpeedZTR 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 who does not have complete knowledge of all controls and their functions to operate the mower. NEVER dismount mower without applying park brake or stopping engine. During initial operation, “learning to drive”, set throttle at slow speed.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS ! WARNING Failure to observe the following instructions could result in serious injury or death. STARTING INSTRUCTIONS 1. Park brake must be on, control levers in outward position and blade drive disengaged. 2. Position throttle to choke position if engine is cold. Full throttle if warm. 3. Insert ignition key and turn to START position. When engine starts, release ignition key. Key will return to RUN position. 4. Move throttle to maximum speed position. 5. Release park brake. 6.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS TOWING TRAILERS AND OTHER ATTACHMENTS Towing a trailer or other attachment that is too heavy could damage the drive or cause the mower to become unstable. Limit loads to 250 pounds (113 kg) or less with this mower. TO FREE WHEEL MACHINE (Unlock Transmission) Always turn off engine before engaging or disengaging the hydro release (free wheel) lever. Never attempt to move the lever with the engine running. Lift the seat to access release levers.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS TESTING OF SAFETY INTERLOCK SYSTEMS ! WARNING Failure to observe the following instructions could result in serious injury or death. The following tests should be performed at the start of each mowing day. PARK BRAKE SWITCH TEST 1. Swing control levers to outward position. 2. Disengage blade drive. 3. Put park brake in OFF position. 4. Turn ignition switch to START. ENGINE SHOULD NOT TURN OVER OR ATTEMPT TO START. CONTROL LEVER SWITCH TEST 1. Disengage blade drive. 2.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS TESTING OF SAFETY INTERLOCK SYSTEMS ! WARNING Failure to observe the following instructions could result in serious injury or death. The following tests should be performed at the start of each mowing day. BLADE DRIVE SWITCH TEST 1. Put park brake in ON position. 2. Swing control levers to outward position. 3. Engage blade drive switch. 4. Turn ignition switch to START. ENGINE SHOULD NOT TURN OVER OR ATTEMPT TO START. SEAT SWITCH TEST 1.
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 the recycled or mulched clippings. In order to achieve the best results, please read and follow the mulching tips listed below: 1. Read and follow the installation instructions that are included with your mulcher. 2.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS MOWING WITH A MULCHING ATTACHMENT (continued) 7. Keep the underside of the mower deck clean. Remove all grass and dirt buildup from the underside of the pan, the baffles and deflectors after each use. Never, under any circumstances, should you place hands or feet under the mower deck or in the chute while blades or impeller are still turning. 8. Alternate mower direction. This will evenly disperse the mulched grass clippings over the lawn for even fertilization.
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. 1. Read and follow the installation instructions that are included with your grass catcher. 2. Set engine speed control to the wide open or full setting. 3. 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.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS MOWING WITH A GRASS CATCHER ATTACHMENT (continued) 7. Maintain sharp blades throughout the cutting season. Some grass catching attachments require a “high-lift” blade. See your dealer for advice on the type of blade(s) needed for your mower. 8. Some mowing applications/use of grass catchers may require that an additional weight kit be fitted to the mower to counter the weight of grass in the bags.
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 on Page 44-45. ! CAUTION To avoid personal injury, 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.
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. Keep the underside of the mower deck clean. Maintain sharp blades throughout the cutting season. As a rule of thumb, never cut off more than one third of the total grass blade length.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE ! WARNING Failure to observe the following instructions could result in serious injury or death. Before performing any maintenance, turn off engine, allow to cool and 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 •Check deck drive belt ..................................... after 20 hours break-in •Check crankcase oil level ..............
CARE AND MAINTENANCE 35
CARE AND MAINTENANCE ENGINE For complete maintenance and operating information of the engine, please refer to the maintenance instructions furnished by the engine manufacturer included in your Zero Turn Radius mower information packet. ! CAUTION Battery contains sulfuric acid electrolyte that is poisonous and corrosive. BATTERY 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 TIRES Correct tire pressure is essential for efficient operation of the mower. Check tire pressure periodically. Inflate tires to the pressure listed below. Front tires Rear tires 36" Rear tires 42" Rear tires 44" 11 x 4.00 - 5 18 x 7.50 - 8 18 x 8.50 - 8 18 x 9.50 - 8 16-21 PSI 8-14 PSI 8-14 PSI 8-14 PSI (110-145 kPa) (55-97 kPa) (55-97 kPa) (55-97 kPa) Lug nuts or lug bolts should be checked regularly for tightness.
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 left side of the engine crankcase. 2. Place a suitable container under the drain valve hose. 3. To drain, turn hex head valve stem counter-clockwise with a 10mm wrench or socket. (See Fig. 9) Open to full open (approximately 7 turns). Hex Head Valve Stem —Fig. 9— 4. After engine is drained, tighten hex stem. 5. Change oil filter. 6.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE BELTS Check belts every 50 hours. Replace any belts showing signs of wear or cracking. BELT TENSION Transmission Drive Belt - P/N 539 120772 No adjustment necessary. Engine to Mower Deck Belt 36" P/N 539 117811 42" P/N 539 122734 44" P/N 539 118156 To adjust the tension of the mower deck drive belt, turn adjuster nut on threaded eyebolt. Turning nut to the left will loosen the belt, see Fig 10. Idler arm, spring and eyebolt location/ appearance will vary on some models. —Fig.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE NEUTRAL ADJUSTMENT Drive machine until Hydrostatic Transmissions have warmed up. With engine running and the park brake off, swing the control levers outward. If machine starts to creep, follow the instructions below. 1. Stop the engine, engage park brake and raise rear of frame with jack or blocks so that rear tires do not contact the ground. 2. Swing control levers outward, start the engine and release the park brake. 3. Raise the seat to access hydro control linkage.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE MOWER DECK LEVELING PROCEDURE 1. Place mower on a smooth, level surface and rotate casters in the direction of forward travel. Tires should be inflated as follows. Front 16 - 21 PSI (110-145 kPa) Rear 8 - 14 PSI (55-97 kPa) 2. Put the mower deck in the mid-range cut height position. 3. Turn blade so the two outer blade tips each point outward. 4. Turn front adjuster nut(s) to level deck side to side. 5. Turn all bladed so tips point to the front and rear. 6.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE DECK REMOVAL 1. Place cut height pedal in lowest cut position. 2. Remove deck drive belt from engine pulley. 3. Release spring from trailing rod (2 places). Remove hairpin cotter from the other end of trailing rods (2 places) and detach rods from deck. 4. Remove hairpin cotter from top of front L-Rods (2 places) and detach L-Rods from lift arms. 5. Remove hairpin cotter from top of rear L-Rods (2 places) and detach L-Rods from lift arms. 6. Carefully raise and support front of chassis.
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.
STANDARD SERVICE PARTS LIST BLADES AND BELTS 36" Deck Blade * Hi-Lift Fusion Standard Lift Fusion Standard Lift Hi-Lift Gator Fusion Gator Transmission Belt P/N 539 118672 P/N 539 115536 P/N 539 115242 P/N 539 118673 P/N 539 125846 P/N 539 120772 Deck Belt P/N 539 117811 Deck Belt P/N 539 122734 Deck Belt P/N 539 118156 42" Deck Blade * Hi Lift Fusion Hi-Lift Transmission Belt P/N 539 119843 P/N 539 119851 P/N 539 120772 44" Deck Blade * Hi Lift Fusion Super Hi-Lift Fusion Standard Lift Fusion Gat
TROUBLESHOOTING 1.
TROUBLESHOOTING 8. ENGINE STALLS WHEN BLADES ARE ENGAGED Operator not on seat - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - sit on seat Faulty interlock system - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - consult dealer Faulty blade spindle bearing - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - consult dealer Deck drive belt not properly routed - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - reroute Blades blocked by foreign material - - - - - - - - - - - - clean under deck 9.
OWNER’S INFORMATION Date of Purchase ________________________________ Mower Model Number _____________________________ Mower Serial Number _____________________________ Purchased From ________________________________ Name ________________________________ Address ________________________________ DATE OIL CHANGED ____________________ DATE ENGINE TUNED _____________________ ____________________ _____________________ ____________________ _____________________ ____________________ _____________________
Dixon and ZTR® are registered trademarks of Dixon ! WARNING DIXON 401 Commerce Street Beatrice, NE 68310 The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. SpeedZTR 36/42/44 Part No.
