OPERATOR’S MANUAL IS3100Z Series N o R tf ep o r ro du ct io n Zero-Turn Riding Mower Zero-Turn Rider & Mower Deck Zero-Turn Rider Model No.: 5900784 5900788 5900786 5900791 5900793 5900794 5900872 5900969 5900559 5900302 5900301 Model No.
This manual contains safety information to make you aware of the hazards and risks associated with this machine and how to avoid them. This machine is designed and intended to be used and maintained according to the manual and operated by trained professionals for finish cutting of established lawns and is not intended for any other purpose. It is important that you read and understand these instructions thoroughly before attempting to start or operate this equipment.
Table of Contents Identification Numbers ..........................................11 Safety Alert Symbol and Signal Words.................11 Safety Icons ..........................................................11 Safety Decal Location ...........................................12 Safety Interlock System ........................................13 Features & Controls ......................................... 14 Control Functions ..................................................14 Operation..............
Operator Safety Operating Safety Congratulations on purchasing a superior-quality piece of lawn and garden equipment. Our products are designed and manufactured to meet or exceed all industry standards for safety. Do not operate this machine unless you have been trained. Reading and understanding this operator’s manual is a way to train yourself. Power equipment is only as safe as the operator.
Operator Safety Slope Operation Operation on slopes can be dangerous. Using the unit on a slope that is too steep where you do not have adequate wheel traction (and control) can cause sliding, loss of steering, control, and possible rollover. You should not operate on a slope greater than a 5.4 foot rise over a 20 foot length (15 degrees). Always mow across slopes, not up and down (to maintain traction on the wheels) and avoid sudden turns or rapid speed changes.
Operator Safety Roll Bar Use Keep the roll bar in the raised position and fasten the seat belt. There is no roll over protection when the roll bar is down! Do not jump off if the mower tips (it is safer to be secured by the seat belt with the roll bar raised.) N o R tf ep o r ro du ct io Retaining Walls, Dropoffs, and Water n Lower the roll bar only when necessary (such as to temporarily clear a low overhanging obstacle) and NEVER remove it. Do NOT use the seat belt when the roll bar is down.
Operator Safety Fuel and Maintenance Always disengage all drives, shutoff the engine, and remove the key before doing any cleaning, refueling, or servicing. Gasoline and its vapors are extremely flammable. Do not smoke while operating or refueling. Do not add fuel while engine is hot or running. Allow engine to cool for at least 3 minutes prior to adding fuel. Do not add fuel indoors, in an enclosed trailer, garage, or any other enclosed area that is not well ventilated.
Operator Safety Read these safety rules and follow them closely. Failure to obey these rules could result in loss of control of unit, severe personal injury or death to you, or bystanders, or damage to property or equipment. This mowing deck is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. The triangle in text signifies important cautions or warnings which must be followed. PREPARATION 1.
Operator Safety WARNING It is a violation of California Public Resource Code, Section 4442, to use or operate the engine on any forest-covered, brush-covered or grass-covered land unless the exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester, as defined in Section 4442, maintained in effective working order. Other states or federal jurisdictions may have similar laws. Contact an Authorized Service Dealer to obtain a spark arrester designed for the exhaust system installed on this engine. 25.
Operator Safety 1. Engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known, in certain quantities, to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm. 2. Look for the relevant Emissions Durability Period and Air Index information on the engine emissions label. IGNITION SYSTEM (GASOLINE MODELS) 1. This spark ignition system complies with Canadian ICES-002. SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE To avoid personal injury or property damage, use extreme care in handling gasoline.
Operator Safety leaks. Make sure all hydraulic fluid connections are tight and all hydraulic hoses and lines are in good condition before applying pressure to the system. If leaks occur, have the unit serviced immediately by your authorized dealer. 26. WARNING: Stored energy device. Improper release of springs can result in serious personal injury. Springs should be removed by an authorized technician. 27. Models equipped with an engine radiator: WARNING: Stored energy device.
Operator Safety WARNING INSPECT BUCKLE & LATCH Failure to properly inspect and maintain the seat belt can cause serious injury or death. INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE OF THE ROLL BAR SEAT BELT • The seat belt like the ROLL BAR, needs to be periodically inspected to verify that the integrity has not been compromised through normal machine use, misuse, age degradation, modifications, or a roll over. If the seat belt does not pass all of the following tests, it should be replaced.
Operator Safety Identification Numbers CAUTION or NOTICE These messages presented without the alert symbol indicate a situation where the unit or property could be damaged. SA M PL All Models Safety Icons E A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P When contacting your authorized dealer for replacement parts, service, or information you MUST have these numbers. Record your model/serial number and engine serial numbers on the space provided for easy access.
Operator Safety Safety Decal Location A Before operating your unit, read the safety decals. The cautions and warnings are for your safety. To avoid a personal injury or damage to the unit, understand and follow all safety decals. WARNING If any safety decals become worn or damaged, and cannot be read, order replacment decals from your local dealer. B C D A E C C F B N o R tf ep o r ro du ct io n B D * D * G ** G ** G F E * Located near the hydraulic pump fans.
Operator Safety Safety Interlock System This unit is equipped with safety interlock switches. These safety systems are present for your safety, do not attempt to bypass safety switches, and never tamper with safety devices. Check their operation regularly. Operational SAFETY Checks Test 1 — Engine should NOT crank if: • PTO switch is engaged, OR • Parking brake is not engaged, OR • Motion control handles are not in the NEUTRAL position, OR • Operator is not on the seat.
Features & Controls N o R tf ep o r ro du ct io n Features and Controls A Control Functions The information below briefly describes the function of individual controls. Starting, stopping, driving, and mowing require the combined use of several controls applied in specific sequences. To learn what combination and sequence of controls to use for various tasks see the OPERATION section. Ground Speed Levers These levers control the ground speed of the rider.
Features & Controls PTO (Power Take Off) Switch The PTO switch engages and disengages the mower. Pull UP on the switch to engage the mower, and push DOWN to disengage the mower. Fuel Tank Cap To remove the cap, turn counterclockwise. Fuel Level Gauge Throttle Control Displays the fuel level in the tank. Moving the throttle control fully forward is FULL throttle position. Always operate the unit at FULL throttle when mowing.
Operation Checks Before Starting Operation General Operating Safety Before first time operation: • Be sure to read all information in the Safety and Operation sections before attempting to operate this tractor and mower. • Become familiar with all of the controls and how to stop the unit. • Drive in an open area without mowing to become accustomed to the unit. • Check that crankcase is filled to full mark on dipstick. See the engine Operator’s Manual for instructions and oil recommendations.
Operation If you do not understand how a specific control functions, or have not yet thoroughly read the FEATURES & CONTROLS section, do so now. Do NOT attempt to operate the tractor without first becoming familiar with the location and function of ALL controls. Starting the Engine DO NOT TOW RIDER Towing the unit will cause hydraulic pump and wheel motor damage. Do not use another vehicle to push or pull this unit. 1. Disengage the PTO, engage the parking brake, turn the ignition OFF, and remove the key.
Operation Zero-Turn Driving Practice Smooth Travel The lever controls of the Zero Turn rider are responsive, and learning to gain a smooth and efficient control of the rider’s forward, reverse, and turning movements will take some practice. The lever controls of the Zero Turn rider are responsive. Locate a smooth, flat area of your lawn — one with plenty of room to maneuver. (Clear the area of objects, people and animals before you begin.
Operation Practice Turning Around a Corner Practice Turning In Place While traveling forward allow one handle to gradually return back toward neutral. Repeat several times. To turn in place, “Zero Turn,” gradually move one ground speed control lever forward from neutral and one lever back from neutral simultaneously. Repeat several times. NOTE: To prevent pivoting directly on the tire tread, it is best to keep both wheels going at least slightly forward.
Operation Mowing 1. Engage the parking brake. Make sure the PTO switch is disengaged, the motion control handles are locked in the NEUTRAL position and the operator is on the seat. 2. Start the engine (see STARTING THE ENGINE). 3. Set the mower cutting height. 4. Set the throttle to FULL. 5. Engage the PTO by pulling up on the PTO switch. 6. Begin mowing. 7. When finished, shut off the PTO. 8. Stop the engine (see STOPPING THE RIDER).
Operation When and How Often to Mow The time of day and condition of the grass greatly affect the results you’ll get when mowing. For the best results, follow these guidelines: 1. Mow when the grass is between three and five inches high. 2. Mow with sharp blades. Short clippings of grass one inch or shorter decompose more quickly than longer blades. Sharp mower blades cut grass cleanly and efficiently, preventing frayed edges which harm the grass. 3. Mow at time of day when the grass is cool and dry.
Operation Proper Mulching Attaching a Trailer Mulching consists of a mower deck which cuts and recuts clippings into tiny particles and which then blows them down INTO the lawn. These tiny particles decompose rapidly into by-products your lawn can use. UNDER PROPER CONDITIONS, your mulching mower will virtually eliminate noticeable clippings on the lawn surface. The maximum weight of a towed trailer should be less than 300 lbs (138kg).
Operation Raise & Lower the Roll Bar To lower the roll bar: C 1. Pull the hair pin clips (A, Figure 10) out of the retainer pins (B). 2. Push or pull the top of the roll bar (C) forward against the rubber stops (D) and remove the retainer pins (B). 3. Lower the roll bar and reinstall the retainer pins and hair pin clips to secure the roll bar in the down position (see insert, Figure 10). D C To raise the roll bar: B D Figure 10. Raise & Lower the Roll Bar A. Hair Pin Clip B. Retainer Pin C.
Operation Storage WARNING Remember, the fuel tank will still contain some gasoline, so never store the unit indoors or in any other area where fuel vapor could travel to any ignition source. Fuel vapor is also toxic if inhaled, so never store the unit in any structure used for human or animal habitation. Here is a checklist of things to do when storing your unit temporarily or in between uses: • Keep the unit in an area away from where children may come into contact with it.
Regular Maintenance Maintenance Maintenance Schedule & Procedures The following schedule should be followed for normal care of your rider and mower. You will need to keep a record of your operating time. Determining operating time is easily accomplished by observing the elapsed time recorded by the hour meter.
Regular Maintenance Check Tire Pressures Tire pressure should be checked periodically, and maintained at the levels shown in the chart. Note that these pressures may differ slightly from the “Max Inflation” stamped on the side-wall of the tires. The pressures shown provide proper traction, improve cut quality, and extend tire life. Tire Pressure Front 25 psi (1,72 bar) Rear 15 psi (1,03 bar) Figure 11. Checking Tire Pressure Checking / Adding Fuel To add fuel: n 1. Remove the fuel cap. 2.
Regular Maintenance Inspect Muffler and Spark Arrester Inspect the muffler for cracks, corrosion, or other damage. Remove the spark arrester, if equipped, and inspect for damage or carbon blockage. If replacement parts are required, make sure to use only original equipment replacement parts. WARNING Replacement parts must be the same and installed in the same position as the original parts or fire could result. Check Hydraulic Oil Level NOTE: Do not open the hydraulic reservoir unless oil is being added.
Regular Maintenance Cooling System (Liquid Cooled Models Only) Check Engine Coolant Level The engine coolant level and quality should be checked before each use, when the engine is cool and off. WARNING PRESSURIZED SYSTEM Hot coolant can cause serious burns. Never open the radiator cap. Wait until the engine is cool before checking the coolant level or removing the reservoir cap. The cooling system is a closed type. Never open the radiator cap.
Regular Maintenance Lubrication Lubricate the unit at the locations shown in Figures 16 through 19 as well as the following lubrication points. Grease: • • • • front caster wheel axles & yokes deck lift pivot blocks mower deck spindles mower deck idler arm Figure 16. Deck Lift Linkage Pivots Use grease fittings when present. Disassemble parts to apply grease to moving parts when grease fittings are not installed. Not all greases are compatible.
Regular Maintenance Battery Maintenance Cleaning the Battery and Cables B A 1. Disconnect the cables from the battery, negative cable first (B, Figure 20). 2. Clean the battery terminals and cable ends with a wire brush until shiny. 3. Reinstall the battery and reattach the battery cables, positive cable first (A) 4. Coat the cable ends and battery terminals with petroleum jelly or non-conducting grease. Be careful when handling the battery. Avoid spilling electrolyte.
Regular Maintenance Servicing the Mower Blades Removing the Mower Blade CAUTION Avoid injury. Mower blades are sharp. • Always wear gloves when handling mower blades or working near blades. 1. To remove the mower blade, wedge a wooden block between the mower blade and the mower deck housing to keep the blade from turning and remove the mower blade mounting bolt with a 15/16” wrench (Figure 22). Figure 22.
Regular Maintenance Sharpening the Mower Blades A CAUTION Avoid injury. Mower blades are sharp. • Always wear gloves when handling mower blades or working near blades. • Always wear safety eye protection when grinding B 1. Sharpen the mower blade with a grinder, hand file, or electric blade sharpening. 2. Sharpen the mower blade by removing an equal amount of material from each end of the mower blade. 3. Keep the original bevel (A, Figure 25) when grinding. Do NOT change the mower blade bevel. 4.
Troubleshooting, Adjustment & Service Troubleshooting WARNING While normal care and regular maintenance will extend the life of your equipment, prolonged or constant use may eventually require that service be performed to allow it to continue operating properly. The troubleshooting guide below lists the most common problems, their causes and remedies. See the information on the following pages for instructions on how to perform most of these minor adjustments and service repairs yourself.
Troubleshooting, Adjustment & Service RIDER TROUBLESHOOTING CONTINUED. PROBLEM CAUSE REMEDY 1. Hydraulic release valve(s) in “open” position. 2. Belt is broken. 3. Drive belt slips. 4. Brake is not fully released. 1. Turn valve(s) clockwise to close. Rider drive belt slips. 1. Pulleys or belt greasy or oily. 2. Belt stretched or worn. 1. Clean as required. 2. Replace belt. Brake will not hold. 1. Brake is incorrectly adjusted. 2. Brake caliper pads worn. 1. See Brake Adjustment. 2.
Troubleshooting, Adjustment & Service TROUBLESHOOTING COMMON CUTTING PROBLEMS PROBLEM CAUSE REMEDY Streaking 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Blades are not sharp. Blades are worn down too far. Engine speed is too slow. Ground speed is too fast. Deck is plugged with grass. Not overlapping cutting rows enough. Not overlapping enough when turning. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Sharpen your blades. Replace your blades. Always mow at FULL throttle. Slow down. Clean out the mower. Overlap you cutting rows.
Troubleshooting, Adjustment & Service Seat Adjustment See Figure 28. The seat can be adjusted forward and back. Move the lever to the left, position the seat as desired, and release the lever to lock the seat into position. Seat Adjustment Lever Seat Adjustment (Suspension Seat) See Figure 26. In addition to the forward and backward seat adjustment, models equipped with a suspension seat can be adjusted for lumbar support, suspension and back angle. Forward and Backward Adjustment: Figure 28.
Troubleshooting, Adjustment & Service Speed Balancing Adjustment A If the rider veers to the right or left when the ground speed control levers are in the maximum forward position, the top speed of each of these levers can be balanced by turning the adjustment bolt(s) (A, Figure 31). Only adjust the speed of the wheel that is traveling faster. To Reduce the Speed of the Faster Wheel 1. Loosen the flange nuts. 2. turn the top speed adjustment bolt COUNTERCLOCKWISE to reduce the speed. 3.
Troubleshooting, Adjustment & Service Return-to-Neutral Adjustment To determine if it is necessary to adjust the neutral return, perform the following steps. 1. Disengage the PTO, engage the parking brake and turn off the engine. 2. Move the ground speed control levers into the operating position, pull levers rearward and release. 3. Move the ground speed control levers towards the neutral position.
Troubleshooting, Adjustment & Service C E B D A N o R tf ep o r ro du ct io n A Figure 36. Suspension Adjustment A. Pre-load Adjuster B. Shock Mounting Bolt C. Top Jam Nut D. Bottom Jam Nut E. Adjuster Bolt Suspension Adjustment The shock assembly can be adjusted to vary the amount of pre-load applied to the springs. This allows the operator to maintain the ride height. Use less pre-load for light weight operators. Use more pre-load for heavy weight operators.
Troubleshooting, Adjustment & Service Cutting Height Adjustment WARNING Before checking mower, shut off PTO and engine. Allow all moving parts to stop. Remove ignition key, then disconnect the spark plug wire and fasten it away from the spark plug. A C B The cutting height adjustment pin (A, Figure 37) controls the mower cutting height. The cutting height is adjustable between 1-1/2” (3,8cm) and 5” (12,7cm) in 1/4” (0,64cm) increments. 1.
Troubleshooting, Adjustment & Service Deck Lift Rod Timing Adjustment (S/N: 2016270588 & Below) Inner Rod 1. Park machine on a flat, level surface. Disengage the PTO, stop the engine and engage the parking brake. Rear tires must be inflated to 15 psi (1,03 bar); front tires to 25 psi (1,72 bar). nd e2 r su a Me t re u as Me 2. To check the inner lift rod timing, measure and record the distance between the inner lift pivots and the inner rod pivots. Repeat for other side of unit. See Figure 40.
Troubleshooting, Adjustment & Service Deck Lift Rod Timing Adjustment (S/N: 2016270589 & Above) Inner Rod 1. Park machine on a flat, level surface. Disengage the PTO, stop the engine and engage the parking brake. Rear tires must be inflated to 15 psi (1,03 bar); front tires to 25 psi (1,72 bar). 2. To check the inner lift rod timing, measure and record the distance between the inner lift pivots and the inner rod pivots. Repeat for other side of unit. See Figure 43. 4.
Troubleshooting, Adjustment & Service Deck Leveling Adjustment NOTE: Before adjusting the deck level, the deck lift rod timing must be checked and/or adjusted. Figure 45. 2 x 4 Locations n Adjust Here N o R tf ep o r ro du ct io 1. Park machine on a flat, level surface. Disengage the PTO, stop the engine and engage the parking brake. Rear tires must be inflated to 15 psi (1,03 bar); front tires to 25 psi (1,72 bar). 2. Lock the deck lift pedal in the 5” (12,7cm) position.
Troubleshooting, Adjustment & Service PTO Clutch Adjustment WARNING B B To avoid serious injury, perform adjustments only with engine stopped, key removed and tractor on level ground. All other Models: S/N: All Briggs & Stratton 543777-0120-E1 Models: S/N: 2013556397 & Above: Figure 49. PTO Clutch Adjustment A. Adjustment Window (Qty. 3, one shown) B. Adjustment Nut B N o R tf ep o r ro du ct io 1.
Troubleshooting, Adjustment & Service 2. Using needle nose pliers, take hold of the tab and remove the re-gap shim (C). 3. Re-torque each brake mounting bolt to 10 ft. lbs. (13,5 Nm) 4. Using a .010” thick feeler gauge (A, Figure 52), verify that the gap is present between the rotor and armature face on both sides of the brake pole as shown. • If the gap is less than .010, the clutch will need to be replaced; B A C • If sufficient gap is present, procedure to BLADE BRAKE CHECK procedure.
Troubleshooting, Adjustment & Service Hydraulic Pump Drive Belt Replacment FRONT B E A F D 7-3/4” (19,7cm) C C H G Figure 53. Hydraulic Pump Drive Belt Replacement A. Pump Drive Belt B. Crankshaft Pulley C. Pump Pulley D. Idler Pulley (stationary) E. Idler Pulley F. Idler Arm G. Spring H. Spring Anchor Hook N o R tf ep o r ro du ct io n 1. Park the tractor on a smooth, level surface such as a concrete floor.
Troubleshooting, Adjustment & Service Mower Belt Replacment A To avoid damaging belts, DO NOT PRY BELTS OVER PULLEYS. B 1. Park the tractor on a smooth, level surface such as a concrete floor. Disengage the PTO, engage the parking brake, turn off the engine, and remove the ignition key. WARNING B A N o R tf ep o r ro du ct io 2. For 61” deck: Using a 1/2” breaker bar, place the square end in the square hole located in the end of the idler arm (A, Figure 54).
Troubleshooting, Adjustment & Service Check the Mower Belt Idler Tensioner Spring Length Adjusting the Mower Belt Idler Spring Length 1. Loosen the jam nut (C). 2. Turn the adjustment nut (D) until a measurement as designated in the chart is achieved. 3. Retighten the jam nut. A B C D Figure 57. Mower Belt Idler Spring Length A. Mower Belt Tensioner Spring B. Anchor Eyebolt C. Jam Nut D. Adjusment Nut E. Measurement N o R tf ep o r ro du ct io Mower Belt Idler Spring Length E n 1.
Troubleshooting, Adjustment & Service polarity (usually red to [+] positive and black to [-] negative). 5. While charging, periodically measure the temperature of the electrolyte. If the temperature exceeds 125° F (51.6° C), or if violent gassing or spewing of electrolyte occurs, the charging rate must be reduced or temporarily halted to prevent battery damage. 6. Charge the battery until fully charged (until the specific gravity of the electrolyte is 1.
Specifications For your personal safety, use extreme care when jump starting. Never expose battery to open flame or electric spark – battery action generates hydrogen gas which is flammable and explosive. Do not allow battery acid to contact skin, eyes, fabrics, or painted surfaces. Batteries contain a sulfuric acid solution which can cause serious personal injury or property damage. When removing or installing battery cables, disconnect the negative cable FIRST and reconnect it LAST.
Specifications engine may not develop the rated gross power when used in a given piece of power equipment. This difference is due to a variety of factors including, but not limited to, the variety of engine components (air cleaner, exhaust, charging, cooling, carburetor, fuel pump, etc.), application limitations, ambient operating conditions (temperature, humidity, altitude), and engine-to-engine variability.
52 www.ferrisindustries.com 2 ALIGN THIS EDGE WITH A VERTICAL SURFACE (TREE, POLE, FENCE POST, BUILDING, ETC) EGREE GRE E 15 D E A 10 D IS A THIS IS THIS n 3 COMPARE THE ANGLE OF THE FOLD TO THE ANGLE OF THE SLOPE 1. Fold this page along the dotted line indicated above. 2. Align the left edge of this guide with a vertical tree, a power line pole, a fence post, or any vertical structure. 3. Compare the angle of the fold with the angle of the hill.
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BRIGGS & STRATTON PRODUCTS WARRANTY POLICY September 2012 LIMITED WARRANTY Briggs & Stratton warrants that, during the warranty period specified below, it will repair or replace, free of charge, any part that is defective in material or workmanship or both. Transportation charges on product submitted for repair or replacement under this warranty must be borne by purchaser. This warranty is effective for and is subject to the time periods and conditions stated below.
California, U.S. EPA, and Briggs & Stratton Corporation Emissions Control Warranty Statement Your Warranty Rights And Obligations The California Air Resources Board, U.S. EPA, and Briggs & Stratton (B&S) are pleased to explain the emissions control system warranty on your Model Year 2012--2013 engine/equipment. In California, new small off-road engines and large spark ignited engines less than or equal to 1.0 liter must be designed, built, and equipped to meet the State’s stringent anti-smog standards.
OPERATOR’S MANUAL IS3100Z Series N o R tf ep o r ro du ct io n Zero-Turn Riding Mower