N ep o ro t fo du r ct io n Operator’s Manual Champion Series Massey Ferguson ZT 1844 5900706 Snapper 400ZB2450 5900608 Snapper ZT18441KHC 5900728 Massey Ferguson ZT2450 5900609 Snapper ZT19441KWV 5900705 Simplicity Champion 26BS50 2690449 Simplicity Champion 20K44 5900728 Simplicity Champion 26BS52 5900961 Simplicity Champion 27BS52 R 2690487 2690483 Simplicity Champion 20K44 (AUS/NZ) 2690451 Simplicity Champion 20BS50 2690452 Simplicity Champion 20BS50 (CE) 2690484 Simplicity C
Thank you for purchasing this quality-built product. We’re pleased that you’ve placed your confidence in the Simplicity and Snapper brand. When operated and maintained according to the instructions in this manual, your product will provide many years of dependable service. This manual contains safety information to make you aware of the hazards and risks associated with this machine and how to avoid them.
Table of Contents Safety Rules & Information................................ 4 Identification Numbers..................................... 10 Safety Decals .................................................... 11 Safety Interlock System ................................... 12 Safety Icons ...................................................... 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 Retaining Walls, Drop-offs, and Water Retaining walls and drop-offs around steps and water are a common hazard. Give yourself a minimum of two mower widths of clearance around these hazards and hand-trim with a walk behind mower or string trimmer. Wheels dropping over retaining walls, edges, ditches, embankments, or into water can cause rollovers, which may result in serious injury, death, or drowning.
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. GENERAL OPERATION 20. Keep in mind the operator is responsible for accidents occurring to other people or property. 21.
OPERATOR SAFETY SLOPE OPERATION WARNING Do not use this machine on slopes greater than 15 degrees.* Select slow ground speed before driving onto slope. Use extra caution when operating on slopes with rear-mounted grass catchers. Mow across the face of slopes, not up and down,use caution when changing directions and DO NOT START OR STOP ON SLOPE. TOWED EQUIPMENT (RIDE-ON UNITS) 1. Tow only with a machine that has a hitch designed for towing. Do not attach towed equipment except at the hitch point. 2.
OPERATOR SAFETY SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE N ep o ro t fo du r ct io n Safe Handling of Gasoline 1. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other sources of ignition. 2. Use only approved gasoline containers. 3. Never remove the gas cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow the engine to cool before refueling. 4. Never fuel the machine indoors. 5. Never store the machine or fuel container where there is an open flame, spark, or pilot light such as near a water heater or other appliance. 6.
OPERATOR SAFETY IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS Unit ID Tag M SA North American / CE Models Mower ID Tag PL E M SA Model xxxxxxx CE Models (Only) xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Serial xxxxxxxxxx XXX PL BRIGGS & STRATTON CORP. POWER PRODUCTS GROUP, LLC MILWAUKEE, WI 53201 USA 20xx kg: xxx kW: x.xx xxxx max E When contacting your authorized dealer for replacement parts, service, or information you MUST have these numbers.
OPERATOR SAFETY SAFETY DECALS This unit has been designed and manufactured to provide you with the safety and reliability you would expect from an industry leader in outdoor power equipment manufacturing. Although reading this manual and the safety instructions it contains will provide you with the necessary basic knowledge to operate this equipment safely and effectively, we have placed several safety labels on the unit to remind you of this important information while you are operating your unit.
OPERATOR SAFETY NORTH AMERICAN MODELS ONLY: SAFETY INTERLOCK SYSTEM EXPORT MODELS ONLY: 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. This unit is equipped with safety interlock switches.
OPERATOR SAFETY Safety Icons CE SAFETY ICONS The alert symbol is used to identity safety information about hazards that can result in personal injury. A signal word (DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION) is used with the alert symbol to indicate the likelihood and the potential severity of the injury. In addition, a hazard icon may be used to represent the type of hazard. An explanation of hazard levels and icons are as follows: Warning: Read Operator’s Manual.
N ep o ro t fo du r ct io n FEATURES AND CONTROLS 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 R These levers control the ground speed of the rider.
FEATURES AND CONTROLS Hour Meter The hour meter measures the number of hours the key has been in the RUN position. The hour meter has a self contained power source so the total hours are always visible. PTO Switch The PTO (Power Take-Off) switch engages and disengages attachments that use the PTO. To engage the PTO, pull UP on the switch. Push DOWN to disengage. Note that the operator must be seated firmly in the rider seat for the PTO to function.
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 brake lever or set the parking brake. CHECKS BEFORE STARTING • Check that crankcase is filled to full mark on dipstick.
OPERATION WARNING DO NOT TOW RIDER 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 PUSHING THE RIDER BY HAND 1. Disengage the PTO, engage the parking brake, turn the ignition OFF, and remove the key. 2. Lift the seat plate to gain access to the hydraulic pumps. 3.
OPERATION Smooth Travel ZERO TURN DRIVING PRACTICE 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. Spending some time going through the maneuvers shown and becoming familiar with how the unit accelerates, travels, and steers — before you begin mowing —is absolutely essential to getting the most out of the Zero Turn rider.
OPERATION Practice Turning Around a Corner Practice Turning In Place While traveling forward bring one handle gradually 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 A C B B A A A D Figure 9. Mower Belt Routing A. Arbor Pulleys B. Back-Side Idlers C. PTO Pulley D. Belt Tension Release Lever Figure 10. Release Belt Tension A. Belt Tension Release Lever B. Guard Notch (44” & 50” Models Only) MOWER REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION E C M H NOTE: Perform mower installation and removal on a hard flat surface such as a concrete floor. Removal R N ep o ro t fo du r ct io n 1.
OPERATION MOWING 4. Engage the PTO by pulling up on the PTO switch. Before mowing, set the cutting height as described in the Troubleshooting, Adjustments & Service section. 5. Begin mowing. See Mowing Recommendations section for tips on mowing patterns and lawn care. See Troubleshooting section for information on trouble shooting common cutting problems. 1. Engage the parking brake. Make sure the PTO switch is disengaged and the motion control lever is in the NEUTRAL position. 2.
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.
OPERATION Proper Mulching 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. NOTE: When mulching under heavy cutting conditions, a rumbling sound may be present and is normal.
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.
MAINTENANCE Oil: LUBRICATION Lubricate the unit at the following lubrication points shown in Figures 13 through 16. • control handle pivots • discharge chute hinge Grease: • front caster wheel axles • front caster yokes • roller straps (deck lift pivots) • mower deck idler arm pivot Generally, all moving metal parts should be oiled where contact is made with other parts. Keep oil and grease off belts and pulleys. Remember to wipe fittings and surfaces clean both before and after lubrication.
MAINTENANCE WARNING For your personal safety, do not handle the sharp mower blades with bare hands. Careless or improper handling of blades may result in serious injury. WARNING For your personal safety, blade mounting capscrews must each be installed with a hex/spline washer and spring washer, then securely tightened. Torque blade mounting capscrew to 45-55 ft. lbs. (61-75 N.m.) Figure 17. Blade Removal SERVICING THE MOWER BLADES Service Interval: Every 10 Hours or As Required Workbench 1.
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. CHECKING / ADDING FUEL Tire To add fuel: 1. Stop the engine and allow to cool for at least 3 minutes. 2. Remove the fuel cap (see A, Figure 21). 3.
MAINTENANCE CHECK / FILL TRANSMISSION OIL B Oil Type: 20W-50 conventional detergent motor oil. A D 1. Check the oil level when the unit is cold. The inspection port is located on the inside of the right tank cover. The oil level should be within 1/2” (1.3 cm) of the horizontal level mark (D, Figure 22). If the oil is below this level, proceed to step 2. 2. Before removing the reservoir cap, make sure the area around the reservoir cap and fill neck of the reservoir is free of dust, dirt, or other debris.
MAINTENANCE BATTERY MAINTENANCE Cleaning the Battery and Cables 1. Disconnect the cables from the battery, negative cable first (B, Figure 22). 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 (see A, Figure 22) WARNING Be careful when handling the battery. Avoid spilling electrolyte. Keep flames and sparks away from the battery.
MAINTENANCE SEAT ADJUSTMENT The seat and ground speed control levers should be adjusted so that operator’s elbows are supported by the arm rests when his/her hands are on the controls, and the ground speed control levers can be moved through their full range of motion without contacting the operator’s legs. Seat Position Adjustment The seat can be adjusted forward and back.
MAINTENANCE SPEED BALANCING ADJUSTMENT C WARNING DO NOT adjust the rider for a faster overall speed forward or reverse than it was designed for. If the rider veers to the right or left when the ground speed control levers are in the maximum forward or reverse position, the top speed of each of these levers can be balanced by turning the adjustment bolt(s) (A & C Figure 25). Only adjust the speed of the wheel that is traveling faster. TO REDUCE THE SPEED OF THE FASTER WHEEL 1.
MAINTENANCE PARKING BRAKE ADJUSTMENT B 1. Disengage the PTO, stop the engine, block the front wheels, remove the ignition key, and engage the parking brake. 2. Elevate the rear end of the unit and remove the rear wheels. A 3. Check the brake spring (A, Figure 27) length (both wheels). With the brake engaged the compressed spring length should be 2” (5 cm). If not, adjust the locknut (C) to achieve the compressed spring length of 2” (5 cm). 4.
MAINTENANCE SUSPENSION ADJUSTMENT (SELECT MODELS) The shock assembly can be adjusted to vary the amount of pre-load applied to the springs. This allows the operator to customize the ride according to operator’s weight and operating conditions.
MAINTENANCE A B B B C B A Figure 30. Adjust PTO Clutch A. Window B. Adjustment Nut C. .016”-.018” (0,40-0,45mm) Feeler Gauge Figure 29. PTO Clutch Adjustment A. Adjustment Window (Qty. 3, one shown) B. Adjustment Nut PTO CLUTCH ADJUSTMENT WARNING N ep o ro t fo du r ct io n Check the PTO clutch adjustment after every 100 hours of operation. Also perform the following procedure if the clutch is slipping or will not engage, or if a new clutch has been installed. 1.
MAINTENANCE MOWER DECK LEVELING Perform these adjustments on a flat level surface. SIDE-TO-SIDE LEVELING 1. With the mower installed, place the rider on a smooth, level surface such as a concrete floor. Turn the front wheels so they are straight. 2. Check for bent blades and replace if necessary. 3. Place the mower cutting height pin in the 4th hole from the bottom (see insert, Figure 33). Arrange the outside mower blades so that they are pointing from side-to-side (Figure 31). 4.
MAINTENANCE ROLLER BAR LEVELING (SELECT MODELS) The rollers on this Zero Turn unit are not intended to ride on the ground. DO NOT adjust rollers to ride on the ground. Rollers riding on the ground will damage turf and or unit. A 1. First level the mower deck using the procedure found in MOWER DECK LEVELING. 2. With the mower installed, place the rider on a smooth, level surface such as a concrete floor. Turn the front wheels so they are straight. 3.
MAINTENANCE MOWER DECK WASHOUT PORT (52” MOWER DECKS ONLY) A The washout port allows you to connect a typical garden hose to the trim side (L.H.) of the mower deck to remove grass and debris from the underside. This ensures proper and safe operation of the mower. 1. Place the unit on a smooth level surface. WARNING B Before running the mower, make sure the hose is properly connected and does not come into contact with the blades.
MAINTENANCE HYDRAULIC PUMP DRIVE BELT REPLACEMENT B 1. Park the rider 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. 2. Remove the PTO drive belt (see MOWER BELT REPLACEMENT for removal instructions). 3. Loosen the nut towards the front of the machine on the spring anchor hook (H, Figure 39) to release the majority of the belt tension. Use caution and remove the nut to completely release the tension. 4.
TROUBLESHOOTING TROUBLESHOOTING 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 Rider Troubleshooting Continued. PROBLEM CAUSE REMEDY Engine runs, but rider will not drive. 1. 1. Turn valve(s) clockwise to close. Hydraulic release valve(s) in “open” position. 2. Belt is broken. 3. Drive belt slips. 4. Brake is not fully released. Rider drive belt slips. 2. See Drive Belt Replacement. 3. See problem and cause below. 4. See authorized service dealer 1. 2. Pulleys or belt greasy or oily. Tension too loose. 3. Belt stretched or worn. 1. Clean as required. 2.
TROUBLESHOOTING TROUBLESHOOTING COMMON CUTTING PROBLEMS PROBLEM CAUSE REMEDY Streaking. 1. Blades are not sharp. 2. Blades are worn down to far. 3. Engine speed is too slow. 4. Ground speed is too fast. 5. Deck is plugged with grass 6. Not overlapping cutting rows enough. 7. Not overlapping enough when turning. 1. Sharpen your blades. 2. Replace your blades. 3. Always mow at full throttle. 4. Slow down. 5. Clean out the mower. 6. Overlap your cutting rows. 1. Lawn is uneven or bumpy. 2.
SPECIFICATIONS SPECIFICATIONS NOTE: Specifications are correct at time of printing and are subject to change without notice. ENGINE: 18 Gross HP¹ Kohler Make Model Displacement Electrical System Oil Capacity Kohler Courage 18 32.6 Cu. in (535 cc) 12 Volt, 15 amp. Alternator, Battery: 340 CCA 1.6 qt. ( 1.5L) w/ Filter 19 Gross HP† Kawasaki Make Model Displacement Electrical System Oil Capacity Kawasaki FH580V 35.7 Cu. in (585 cc) 12 Volt, 13 amp. Alternator, Battery: 340 CCA 1.9 qt. ( 1.
BRIGGS & STRATTON POWER PRODUCTS GROUP, L.L.C. OWNER WARRANTY POLICY LIMITED WARRANTY Briggs & Stratton Power Products Group, LLC will repair and/or replace, free of charge, any part(s) of the equipment that is defective in material or workmanship or both. Briggs & Stratton Corporation will repair and/or replace, free of charge, any part(s) of the Briggs and Stratton engine* (if equipped) that is defective in material or workmanship or both.
N ep o ro t fo du r ct io n R MANUFACTURING, INC. PO Box 702 Milwaukee, WI, 53201-0702 PRODUCTS, INC. 535 Macon Street McDonough, GA., 30253 www.simplicitymfg.com www.snapper.