MODEL NO. PO15538A 15.5 HP 38 Inch Lawn Tractor For Parts and Service, contact our authorized distributor: call 1-800-849-1297 For Technical Assistance: call 1-800-829-5886 188695 11.13.03 TR PRINTED IN U.S.A.
SAFETY RULES Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers IMPORTANT: THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OBJECTS. FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. 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 RULES Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area. Never carry passengers or children even with the blades off. Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing. Never carry children.They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine operation.
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new tractor. It has been designed, engineered and manufactured to give you the best possible dependability and performance. Should you experience any problem you cannot easily remedy, please contact your nearest authorized service center/ department. We have competent, well-trained technicians and the proper tools to ser vice or repair this tractor. Please read and retain this manual. The instructions will enable you to assemble and maintain your tractor properly.
UNASSEMBLED PARTS Steering Wheel Seat (1) Washer 17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge (1) Lock Washer 1/2 Steering Wheel Insert Steering Wheel Adapter Steering Boot Steering Extension Shaft (1) Bolt (1) Oil Drain Tube For Future Use Keys (2) Keys Slope Sheet (1) Large Flat Washer (1) Hex Bolt 1/4-28 x 1-1/4 (1) Locknut 1/2-20 (1) Locknut 1/4-28 5
ASSEMBLY Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your tractor all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools as necessary to insure proper tightness. TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY INSERT A socket wrench set will make assembly easier. Standard wrench sizes are listed.
ASSEMBLY HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR INSTALL SEAT (See Fig. 2) SEAT PAN Adjust seat before tightening adjustment bolt. • Remove adjustment bolt, lock washer and flat washer securing seat to cardboard packing and set aside for assembly of seat to tractor. • Pivot seat upward and remove from the cardboard packing. Remove the cardboard packing and discard. • Place seat on seat pan so head of shoulder bolt is positioned over large slotted hole in pan.
ASSEMBLY ✓CHECKLIST CHECK TIRE PRESSURE The tires on your tractor were overinflated at the factory for shipping purposes. Correct tire pressure is important for best cutting performance. • Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in “PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS” section of this manual. BEFORE YOU OPERATE AND ENJOY YOUR NEW TRACTOR, WE WISH TO ASSURE THAT YOU RECEIVE THE BEST PERFORMANCE AND SATISFACTION FROM THIS QUALITY PRODUCT. PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING CHECKLIST: ✓ All assembly instructions have been completed.
OPERATION These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand their meaning.
OPERATION KNOW YOUR TRACTOR READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR TRACTOR Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference. IGNITION SWITCH ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER LIGHT SWITCH POSITION LIFT LEVER PLUNGER THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL MOWER DECK HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT POSITIONS GEARSHIFT LEVER PARKING BRAKE FIG.
OPERATION The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recommend a wide vision safety mask over spectacles or standard safety glasses. IMPORTANT: LEAVING THE IGNITION SWITCH IN ANY POSITION OTHER THAN "OFF" WILL CAUSE THE BATTERY TO BE DISCHARGED, (DEAD). HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR TO SET PARKING BRAKE (See Fig.
OPERATION • TO OPERATE MOWER (See Fig. 6) Your tractor is equipped with an operator presence sensing switch. Any attempt by the operator to leave the seat with the engine running and the attachment clutch engaged will shut off the engine. You must remain fully and centrally positioned in the seat to prevent the engine from hesitating or cutting off when operating your equipment on rough, rolling terrain or hills. • Select desired height of cut. • Start mower blades by engaging attachment clutch control.
OPERATION MOWING TIPS CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be emptied before storage of 30 days or longer. Drain the gas tank, start the engine and let it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next season.
MAINTENANCE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE FILL IN DATES AS YOU COMPLETE REGULAR SERVICE E E S S RS S AG US UR OUR OU SON OR UR O H T O H H A 0 S H SE RE 25 10 50 EE Y 8 R RY ERY ERY ERY FO OR E E F BE SERVICE EV EV EV EV EV BE H AC DATES Check Brake Operation Check Tire Pressure T R A C T 0 R Check Operator Presence and Interlock Systems Check for Loose Fasteners 5 Sharpen/Replace Mower Blades 3 Lubrication Chart Check Battery Level 4 Clean Battery and Terminals Check Transaxle Cooling Check V-Belts Check
MAINTENANCE TRACTOR MANDREL ASSEMBLY TRAILING EDGE UP Always observe safety rules when performing any maintenance. CENTER HOLE BRAKE OPERATION If tractor requires more than six (6) feet stopping distance at high speed in highest gear, then brake must be adjusted. (See “TO ADJUST BRAKE” in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual). LOCK WASHER STAR TIRES • Maintain proper air pressure in all tires (See “PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS” section of this manual).
MAINTENANCE NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils (5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve starting in cold weather, these multi-viscosity oils will result in increased oil consumption when used above 32°F. Check your engine oil level more frequently to avoid possible engine damage from running low on oil. Change the oil after every 25 hours of operation or at least once a year if the tractor is not used for 25 hours in one year.
MAINTENANCE CLEAN AIR SCREEN IN-LINE FUEL FILTER (See Fig. 12) Air screen must be kept free of dirt and chaff to prevent engine damage from overheating. Clean with a wire brush or compressed air to remove dirt and stubborn dried gum fibers. The fuel filter should be replaced once each season. If fuel filter becomes clogged, obstructing fuel flow to carburetor, replacement is required. • With engine cool, remove filter and plug fuel line sections.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS WARNING: TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY, BEFORE PERFORMING ANY SERVICE OR ADJUSTMENTS: • Depress clutch/brake pedal fully and set parking brake. • Place gearshift lever in neutral (N) position. • Place attachment clutch in “DISENGAGED” position. • Turn ignition key to “STOP” and remove key. • Make sure the blades and all moving parts have completely stopped. • Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in contact with plug.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS • • • Push clutch cable housing guide into bracket, slide collar onto guide and secure with large retainer spring. Place flat washer and clutch spring on idler pulley bolt and secure with small retainer spring. Install belt onto engine pulley. FRONT-TO-BACK ADJUSTMENT (See Figs. 16 and 17) IMPORTANT: DECK MUST BE LEVEL SIDE-TO-SIDE. IF THE FOLLOWING FRONT-TO-BACK ADJUSTMENT IS NECESSARY, BE SURE TO ADJUST BOTH FRONT LINKS EQUALLY SO MOWER WILL STAY LEVEL SIDE-TO-SIDE.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS TO REPLACE MOWER BLADE DRIVE BELT (See Fig. 18) TO CHECK AND ADJUST BRAKE (See Fig. 19) Your tractor is equipped with an adjustable brake system which is mounted on the right side of the transaxle. If tractor requires more than five (5) feet to stop at highest speed in highest gear on a level, dry concrete or paved surface, then brake must be checked and adjusted. The mower blade drive belt may be replaced without tools. Park the tractor on level surface. Engage parking brake.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS TO REPLACE MOTION DRIVE BELT (See Fig. 20) FRONT WHEEL TOE-IN/CAMBER The front wheel toe-in and camber are not adjustable on your tractor. If damage has occurred to affect the front wheel toe-in or camber, contact your nearest authorized service center/department. Park the tractor on level surface. Engage parking brake. For assistance, there is a belt installation guide decal on bottom side of left footrest.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS TO REMOVE CABLES, REVERSE ORDER • BLACK cable first from chassis and then from the fully charged battery. • RED cable last from both batteries. KEPS NUT TERMINAL COVER HEX BOLT 02603 POSITIVE (RED) CABLE 02614 WEAK OR DEAD BATTERY FIG. 24 FULLY CHARGED BATTERY TO REPLACE HEADLIGHT BULB FIG. 22 • • REPLACING BATTERY (See Figs. 23 and 24) • WARNING: Do not short battery terminals by allowing a wrench or any other object to contact both terminals at the same time.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS TO REMOVE HOOD AND GRILL ASSEMBLY (See Fig. 25) • • • • ENGINE TO ADJUST THROTTLE CONTROL CABLE Raise hood. Unsnap headlight wire connector. Stand in front of tractor. Grasp hood at sides, tilt toward engine and lift off of tractor. To replace, reverse above procedure. The throttle control has been preset at the factory and adjustment should not be necessary. If adjustment is necessary, see engine manual.
STORAGE Immediately prepare your tractor for storage at the end of the season or if the tractor will not be used for 30 days or more. ENGINE FUEL SYSTEM IMPORTANT: IT IS IMPORTANT TO PREVENT GUM DEPOSITS FROM FORMING IN ESSENTIAL FUEL SYSTEM PARTS SUCH AS CARBURETOR, FUEL FILTER, FUEL HOSE, OR TANK DURING STORAGE. ALSO, EXPERIENCE INDICATES THAT ALCOHOL BLENDED FUELS (CALLED GASOHOL OR USING ETHANOL OR METHANOL) CAN ATTRACT MOISTURE WHICH LEADS TO SEPARATION AND FORMATION OF ACIDS DURING STORAGE.
TROUBLESHOOTING POINTS PROBLEM Will not start CAUSE 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Out of fuel. Engine not “CHOKED” properly. Engine flooded. Bad spark plug. Dirty air filter. Dirty fuel filter. Water in fuel. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Loose or damaged wiring. Carburetor out of adjustment. 8. 9. 10. Hard to start CORRECTION Engine valves out of adjustment. 10. Fill fuel tank. See “TO START ENGINE” in Operation section. Wait several minutes before attempting to start. Replace spark plug.
TROUBLESHOOTING POINTS PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION Engine continues to run when operator leaves seat with attachment clutch engaged 1. Faulty operator-safety presence control system. 1. Check wiring, switches and connections. If not corrected, contact an authorized service center/ department. Poor cut - uneven 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Worn, bent or loose blade. Mower deck not level. Buildup of grass, leaves, and trash under mower. Bent blade mandrel.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PO15538A SCHEMATIC RED BLACK BATTERY RED A RED FUSE AMMETER (OPTIONAL) M STARTER BLACK WHITE SOLENOID RED B S G BLACK L M CLUTCH / BRAKE (PEDAL UP) A1 A2 WHITE SEAT SWITCH (NOT OCCUPIED) IGNITION SWITCH WHITE BLACK BLACK BLACK BLACK HOUR METER ATT'MENT CLUTCH (CLUTCH OFF) GROUNDING CONNECTOR (OPTIONAL) BLUE SPARK PLUG GAP (2 PLUGS ON TWIN CYL.
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PO15538A ELECTRICAL 22 21 42 24 41 43 27 27 40 26 27 27 25 16 16 33 30 48 52 29 8 27 28 2 1 90 28
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PO15538A ELECTRICAL KEY NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION 1 2 8 16 21 22 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 33 40 41 42 43 48 52 90 163465 74760412 176689 176138 183759 4152J 4799J 146147 175158 73510400 4207J 121305X 175566 140401 179720 71110408 131563 178861 140844 141940 180449 Battery Bolt Hex Hd 1/4-20 unc x 3/4 Box Battery Switch Interlock Harness Asm Light W/4152j Bulb Light #1156 Cable Battery 6 Ga. 11"red Cable Battery Fuse 20 AMP Nut Keps Hex 1/4-20 unc Cable Ground 6 Ga.
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PO15538A CHASSIS 29 212 17 28 30 24 39 18 24 166 26 25 26 25 5 31 209 9 11 208 5 209 15 209 209 8 209 6 26 1 16 35 13 209 145 37 33 10 2 35 205 34 208 26 38 206 37 209 209 38 205 30 Chassis-Elite_Basic_LT_5
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PO15538A CHASSIS KEY NO. PART NO.
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PO15538A DRIVE 57 120 63 21 8 212 59 12 70 66 116 7 61 10 65 12 13 56 55 64 14 112 18 113 16 41 11 51 30 170 32 6 38 48 6 6 32 47 62 3 77 49 30 52 4 35 79 26 120 37 36 263 34 25 19 28 24 36 77 96 26 74 78 1 35 53 2 15 151 51 27 39 263 150 5 18 52 202 50 76 29 75 22 26 27 drive-saddle_33 32
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PO15538A DRIVE KEY NO. PART NO.
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PO15538A STEERING 38 12 39 1 41 42 37 37 36 44 51 54 88 91 43 71 68 29 67 67 46 8 47 6 9 17 67 13 65 46 85 2 8 7 85 6 9 9 5 47 7 3 32 68 11 82 29 9 5 26 4 43 15 40 15 43 29 28 15 10 30 steering_pl.
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PO15538A STEERING KEY NO. PART NO.
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PO15538A ENGINE 3 2 72 1 81 13 4 78 38 14 32 78 44 46 45 33 23 37 31 29 33 40 OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT Spark Arrester engine-bs.1cyl_49 KEY NO. PART NO.
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PO15538A SEAT 1 8 8 9 14 9 7 7 10 5 6 22 21 2 24 5 26 16 25 15 23 4 13 17 seat_lt.bolt_1 KEY NO. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 12 13 PART NO. 175389 140551 71110616 19131610 145006 73800600 124181X 17000616 19131614 182493 121246X 121248X 3 12 KEY NO. 14 15 16 17 21 22 23 24 25 26 DESCRIPTION Seat Bracket Seat Pivot Bolt Hex 3/8 - 16 x 1 Washer 13/32 x 1 x10 Ga. Clip Push-In Hinged Nut Lock Hex w/Ins 3/8 - 16 Spring Seat Cprsn 2 250 Blk Zi Screw 3/8-16 x 1.
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PO15538A DECALS 2 12 7 14 6 15 9 5 5 16 4 3 1 17 KEY NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION KEY NO. PART NO.
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PO15538A MOWER LIFT 7 8 5 1 3 13 4 2 6 6 11 5 4 12 13 19 20 13 31 32 13 15 19 KEY NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 11 12 13 159461 159476 178981 12000002 19211621 120183X 109413X 124526X 139865 139866 4939M Wire Asm Inner/Sprg w/plunger Shaft Asm Lift RH Pin Groove 1 500 Zinc E Ring #5133-62 Washer 21/32 x 1 x 21 Ga.
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PO15538A MOWER DECK 67 158 40 89 185 146 68 107 148 42 38 108 152 36 89 56 36 45 33 96 32 55 97 31 54 40 150 2 45 123 113 21 98 99 101 110 100 122 53 30 1 21 88 109 87 89 24 21 2 86 2 28 26 21 2 23 15 16 25 29 14 3 4 5 6 149 11 19 27 13 10 9 8 21 38_deck-manual-mulch_2 40
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PO15538A MOWER DECK KEY NO. 1 2 3 4 5 6 8 9 10 11 13 14 15 16 19 21 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 36 40 45 53 PART NO. 170280 72140506 138017 169970 4939M 178024 850857 10030600 140296 138497 137645 DESCRIPTION Mower Housing Assembly Bolt Carriage 5/16-18 x 3/4 Bracket Asm Fr. Sway Bar Bracket Deck Sway Bar 38"/42" Retainer Spring Bar Sway Deck Bolt 3/8-24 x 1.25 Gr.
LIMITED WARRANTY The Manufacturer warrants to the original consumer purchaser that this product as manufactured is free from defects in materials and workmanship. For a period of two (2) years from date of purchase by the original consumer purchaser, we will repair or replace, at our option, without charge for parts or labor incurred in replacing parts, any part which we find to be defective due to materials or workmanship. This Warranty is subject to the following limitations and exclusions. 1.
SUGGESTED GUIDE FOR SIGHTING SLOPES FOR SAFE OPERATION FOL D AL ONG THIS DOT IS A TED 15 D LINE EGR EE S LOP E 43 ONLY RIDE UP AND DOWN HILL, NOT ACROSS HILL 15 DEGREES MAX. WARNING: To avoid serious injury, operate your tractor up and down the face of slopes, never across the face. Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees. Make turns gradually to prevent tipping or loss of control. Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on slopes. 1. Fold this page along dotted line indicated above. 2.