Safety Instructions & Operator’s Manual for REAR ENGINE RIDING MOWER SERIES 23 MODELS 281123BV 2811523BV 281223BVE 2812523BVE 2813523BVE 301123BV 3011523BV 301223BVE 3012523BVE 3013523BVE 331323HVE 331523KVE 331623BVE 331723BVE MODEL NUMBER EXPLANATION 33 15 23 K V E CUTTING WIDTH ENGINE HP * SERIES DESIGNATION 28 - 28” Cutting Deck 30 - 30” Cutting Deck 33 - 33” Cutting Deck 11 – 11.0 HP Engine 115 – 11.5 HP Engine 12 – 12.0 HP Engine 125 – 12.5 HP Engine 13 – 13.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS WARNING: This powerful cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and can throw objects that can cause injury and damage! Failure to comply with the following SAFETY instructions could result in serious injury or death to the operator or other persons. The owner of the machine must understand these instructions and must allow only persons who understand these instructions to operate machine.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS PREPARATION OPERATION (Continued From Previous Page) 6. Check the area to be mowed and remove all objects such as toys, wire, rocks, limbs and other objects that could cause injury if thrown by blade or interfere with mowing. 7. Keep people and pets out of mowing area. Immediately STOP blades, STOP engine, and STOP machine if anyone enters the area. 8. Check shields, deflectors, switches, blade controls and other safety devices frequently for proper operation and location. 9.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS TOWING MAINTENANCE 1. Tow only with a machine that has a hitch designed for towing. DO NOT attach towed equipment except at the hitch point. 2. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for weight limits for towed equipment and towing on slopes. 3. DO NOT allow children or others on towed equipment. 4. On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment may cause loss of traction and loss of control. 5. Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop.
TABLE OF CONTENTS IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ........................................................................2-4 TABLE OF CONTENTS ..................................................................................................... 5 SECTION 1 - FAMILIARIZATION ...................................................................................... 6 SECTION 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ...............................................................7-13 Pre-start Checklist ..........................
Section 1 - FAMILIARIZATION IMPORTANT: The figures and illustrations in this manual are provided for reference only and may differ from your specific model. Contact your Snapper dealer if you have questions. STEERING WHEEL FUEL TANK ENGINE SPEED CONTROL (HIDDEN) TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER IGNITION SWITCH CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL PARK BRAKE LATCH OVERRIDE CONTROL DISCHARGE DEFLECTOR BLADE PEDALS BLADE LEVER FIGURE 1.1 1.
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 2.1 PRE-START CHECK LIST Make the following checks and perform the service required before each start-up. 2.1.1. Check tires and add or release air as needed to bring pressure to 12 PSI in front and 12 PSI in rear tires. 2.1.2. Check guards, deflectors and covers to make sure all are in place and securely tightened. 2.1.3. Check engine oil and add oil as needed to bring level up to the FULL mark. Refer to engine owner’s manual for oil specifications. See Figure 2.1. 2.
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 2.3 STARTING & OPERATION 2.3.1. ENGINE (ELECTRIC START) IMPORTANT: When the ignition key is turned to “START”, the engine will turn over, but will not start unless the Clutch/Brake pedal is pressed all the way down, the Blade Lever is in the “OFF” position (See Figure 2.5). The operator should be in the seat. Start engine as follows: 1. Move transmission shift lever to (N) Neutral position. DO NOT start engine with transmission shift lever in a drive position.
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 4. Open vent on fuel filler cap by turning counterclockwise. NOTE: Failure to open vent on the fuel filler cap can cause engine to stall. 5. Move engine speed control to the choke position to start a cold engine. See Figure 2.6. 6. Turn key to “ON” position. See Figure 2.9. 2.3 STARTING & OPERATION 2.3.1. ENGINE (ELECTRIC START) (Continued) 8.
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS WARNING WARNING Once blade is disengaged, it should come to a complete stop in 3 seconds or less. If the blade continues to rotate after 3 seconds, the blade brake must be adjusted. Refer to Section “BLADE BRAKE ADJUSTMENT” for adjustment procedures or return machine to an authorized SNAPPER dealer for adjustment. DO NOT CONTINUE to operate machine until blade brake is adjusted and functioning properly. DO NOT operate blades in reverse. STOP BLADES.
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS TO APPLY BRAKES, PUSH CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL ALL THE WAY DOWN WARNING DO NOT leave the machine with the engine running. STOP Blade. STOP engine. Shift to neutral and engage park brake. Remove key. CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL 2.4 STOPPING - ENGINE, WHEEL DRIVE, BLADE 2.4.1. ENGINE 1. Stop engine by turning key to the “OFF” position. See Figure 2.13. TURN TO “OFF” POSITION PARK BRAKE LATCH SHOWN ENGAGED KEY FIGURE 2.14 BLADE LEVER IN “OFF” POSITION FIGURE 2.13 2.4.2.
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 2.5. CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT 1. Adjust cutting height as desired to any one of five positions using deck lift lever. Move deck lift lever up or down to desired cutting height and then move over to secure in the height of cut notch. See Figure 2.18. 2.4 STOPPING - ENGINE, WHEEL DRIVE, BLADE 2.4.4. PARK BRAKE 1. Engage park brake by pushing clutch/brake pedal “DOWN” and moving the park brake latch to the “ENGAGED” position.
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 2.6 REVERSE LOCKOUT MECHANISM 2.6.1. Reverse Lockout Mechanism Override 1. Stop machine. Stop blade. 2. Depress and hold Override Lever. 3. Depress and hold Blade Pedals. Release Override Lever. 4. Move blade lever forward to “ON” position. Data indicates that tragic back-over accidents occur each year. These accidents usually involve unsupervised children.
Section 3 – MAINTENANCE 5. After all the oil has drained, close the drain and wipe up any oil that may have spilled. See Figure 3.1. Dispose of used oil properly. 6. Fill engine crankcase with new oil. Refer to your engine owner’s manual for oil specifications. 7. Change oil filter on engines equipped with oil filters at every oil change. Refer to your engine owner’s manual for service instructions. WARNING DO NOT attempt any adjustments, maintenance, service or repairs with the engine running.
Section 3 - MAINTENANCE IMPORTANT: The blade drive belt on 33” decks does not require tension adjustment. If the belt becomes worn or slack it must be replaced. Refer to Section “BLADE DRIVE BELT REPLACEMENT”. WARNING DO NOT attempt any adjustments, maintenance, service or repairs with the engine running. STOP engine. STOP blade. Engage parking brake. Remove key. Remove spark plug wire from spark plug and secure away from plug. Engine and components are HOT.
Section 3 – MAINTENANCE 3.2 SERVICE - AFTER FIRST 5 HOURS 3.2.7. SAFETY INTERLOCK SYSTEM CHECKS Perform the following interlock system checks periodically during the operating season. Contact your authorized Snapper dealer if you have questions. 1. Change engine oil. Refer to Section “CHANGE ENGINE OIL”. Refer to engine owner's manual for oil specification. 2. Change air filter. Pull up and rotate the air cleaner latch to remove cleaner cover. See Figure 3.4.
Section 3 - MAINTENANCE WARNING SPINDLE GREASE FITTING DO NOT attempt any adjustments, maintenance or service with the engine or blades running. Stop blades. Stop engine. Engage parking brake. Remove key. Remove spark plug wires from spark plugs and (gas only) secure wires away from spark plugs. Engine and components are HOT. Avoid serious burns by allowing all parts sufficient time to cool. Fuel Filler Cap and Vent must be closed securely to prevent fuel spillage. 3.
Section 3 – MAINTENANCE 2. To check lubricant, remove fill/level plug and visually inspect for lubricant on the internal parts of the differential. If no lubricant is visible on the internal parts of the differential, add transmission grease as needed. See Figure 3.8. WARNING DO NOT attempt any adjustments, maintenance, service or repairs with the engine running. Stop engine. Stop blade. Engage parking brake. Remove key. Remove spark plug wire from spark plug and secure away from plug.
Section 3 – MAINTENANCE 3.5 EVERY TWO YEARS In addition to regular maintenance, the following components of the Rear Engine Rider should be carefully inspected every two years for wear or damage. Replace worn or damaged parts with genuine SNAPPER replacement parts available from an authorized SNAPPER dealer. 3.5.1. All bushings and pivot areas. 3.5.2. Check both front wheel king pins. 3.5.3. Transmission shift lever and detent. 3.5.4. Clutch disc. 3.5.5. Clutch Yoke. 3.5.6.
Section 4 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR WARNING WARNING DO NOT attempt any adjustments, maintenance, service or repairs with the engine running. Stop engine. Stop blade. Engage parking brake. Remove key. Remove spark plug wire from spark plug and secure away from plug. Engine and components are HOT. Avoid serious burns, allow all parts to cool before working on machine. Fuel Filler Cap and Vent must be closed securely to prevent fuel spillage.
Section 4 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR 7. Move lift arm up or down as required until blade tips are within 1/8” of each other. See Figure 4.3. 8. Tighten shoulder bolt & nut loosened in Step 6. Recheck both sides of deck for correct levelness. 9. Readjust rear hanger chain pivots to align with holes in support brackets. See Figure 4.4. 10. Remove angle iron, pipe, or similar object and proceed to check front to rear levelness.
Section 4 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR WARNING SLIDE FRONT END ASSMBLY DO NOT attempt any adjustments, maintenance, service or repairs with the engine running. STOP engine. STOP blade. Engage parking brake. Remove key. Remove spark plug wire from spark plug and secure away from plug. Engine and components are HOT. Avoid serious burns, allow all parts to cool before working on machine. Fuel Filler Cap and vent must be closed securely to prevent fuel spillage. LOOSEN HARDWARE 4.2.4.
Section 4 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR 6. If measurement is not 3/4”, loosen the two jamnuts. See Figure 4.10. Hold the clutch/brake cable to the chain case bracket. 7. Adjust cable up or down using the jam-nuts to obtain a distance of 3/4” between end of clutch/brake cable (adjustment shown in inset of Figure 4.9) and bottom of housing. See Figure 4.9. 8. After adjustment is complete, securely tighten cable jam-nuts. 9. Retest wheel brake.
Section 4 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR 5. Inspect condition of blade. See Figure 4.11. 6. If blade is in good condition, sharpen at 22 to 28 degrees. DO NOT sharpen beyond existing cutting edge. See Figure 4.13. 7. Check blade balance after sharpening. If necessary, correct blade balance by grinding the heavy end of blade. 8. Reinstall blade. See Figure 4.12. Torque blade mounting bolts to recommended range of 30 to 40 ft. lbs.
Section 4 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR 9. Route belt onto spindle pulley. Make sure belt is inside spindle belt guide and idler belt guide. Route belt as shown in Figure 4.15 or 4.16. 10. Reinstall idler removed in Step 8. The idler belt guide tab should be positioned in the hole located on idler arm. Tighten idler pulley bolt securely. 11. Adjust belt guide. See Figure 4.15 or 4.16 for proper belt-to-belt guide clearances. 12. Check mower drive belt tension and adjust if necessary (28” & 30” decks only).
Section 4 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR WARNING RED POSITIVE (+) CABLE DO NOT attempt any adjustments, maintenance, service or repairs with the engine running. Stop engine. Stop blade. Engage parking brake. Remove key. Remove spark plug wire from spark plug and secure away from plug. Engine and components are HOT. Avoid serious burns, allow all parts to cool before working on machine. Fuel Filler Cap and Vent must be closed securely to prevent fuel spillage.
Section 4 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR WARNING WARNING The electrolyte (acid) produces a highly explosive gas. Keep all sparks, flame and fire away from area when charging battery or when handling electrolyte or battery. Electrolyte (acid) is a highly corrosive liquid. Wear eye protection. Wash affected areas immediately after having eye or skin contact with electrolyte (acid). Battery acid is corrosive. Rinse empty acid containers with water and mutilate before discarding.
Section 4 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR 4.6.6. BATTERY TESTING Battery Condition Chart State of Charge 100% Charged w/ Sulfate Stop 100% Charged 75% Charged 50% Charged 25% Charged 0% Charged Syringe Hydrometer 1.280 1.265 1.210 1.160 1.120 Less than 1.100 Digital Voltmeter 12.80v 12.60v 12.40v 12.10v 11.90v Less than 11.80v Five Ball Hydrometer Five Balls Floating Four Balls Floating Three Balls Floating Two Balls Floating One Ball Floating Zero Balls Floating SNAPPER REAR ENGINE RIDER ACCESSORIES PART NO.
TROUBLESHOOTING PROBLEM PROBABLE CAUSE CORRECTIVE ACTION 1. Fill fuel tank with fresh fuel to proper level. 2. Move choke control to “CHOKE” position. 3. Place spark plug wire onto spark plug. 4. Contact authorized SNAPPER dealer. 5. Engage park brake. 6. Turn ignition switch to the RUN position. 1. Fill fuel tank with fresh fuel to proper level. Engine Will Not 2. Move choke control to “CHOKE” position. Start Using 3. Place spark plug wire onto spark plug. Electric Starter 4.
TROUBLESHOOTING PROBLEM PROBABLE CAUSE Rider Will Not Move 1. Drive disc worn or damaged. 2. Rubber drive disc is not tracking properly on Loss Of Traction drive disc. 3. Tapered axle bolt and nut missing. 4. Axle bearing seized. 5. Insufficient lubrication in chain case or transmission/differential. Blade(s) Not Cutting 1. Blade engagement lever in the “OFF” position. 2. Mower belt slipping. 3. Cutting blade is dull, worn or damaged. 1. Uneven tire pressure. Cutting Grass Improperly 2.
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE SUBJECT EACH USE 5 HOURS 25 HOURS 50 HOURS 100 HOURS EACH SEASON Engine SERVICE TO BE PERFORMED Check Oil Level REFERENCE PAGES Page 7 Engine Initial Oil Change Page 14 Engine Periodic Oil Change Page 16 Air Pre-Cleaner Engine Manual X** Air Cleaner Service Sponge PreCleaner Element Replace Element Engine Manual X** Spark Plug Replace Plugs Engine Manual X Fuel Filter Replace Filter Page 19 X Engine Cooling System Battery Clean Shrouds & Fins Engine Manu
MAINTENANCE/REPLACEMENT PARTS MAINTENANCE PARTS Engine Speed Control (Briggs Engine) Engine Speed Control (Kohler Engine) Engine Speed Control (Honda Engine) Clutch/Brake Cable Clutch/Brake Cable (33” Deck Models Only) Brake Cable 28” Cutter Blade (Standard - Not Air Lift Compatible) 28” Cutter Blade (Standard - Air Lift Compatible) 28” Cutter Blade (Mulching) 28” Cutter Blade (Ninja - Quad Edge) 30” Cutter Blade (Standard - Not Air Lift Compatible) 30” Cutter Blade (Standard - Air Lift Compatible) 30” Cutt
2 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY For two (2) years from purchase date for the original purchaser's residential, non-commercial use, SNAPPER, through any authorized SNAPPER dealer will replace, free of charge (except for taxes where applicable), any part or parts found upon examination by the factory at McDonough, Georgia, to be defective in material or workmanship or both.
PRIMARY MAINTENANCE 34
PRIMARY MAINTENANCE 35
PRIMARY MAINTENANCE 36
PRIMARY MAINTENANCE 37
SNAPPER PRODUCT REGISTRATION FORM IMPORTANT: KEEP THIS INFORMATION FOR YOUR PERSONAL RECORDS (Complete the following information on your Snapper purchase) Model Number_____________________________________________________________ Serial Number _____________________________________________________________ Date of Purchase ___________________________________________________________ Retailer____________________________________________________________________ Retailer’s Phone Number ________________________
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Safety Instructions & Operator’s Manual for REAR ENGINE RIDING MOWER SERIES 23 IMPORTANT Snapper products are built using engines that meet or exceed all applicable emissions requirements on the date manufactured. The labels on those engines contain very important emissions information and critical safety warnings. Read, Understand, and Follow all warnings and instructions in this manual, the engine manual, and on the machine, engine and attachments.