Safety Instructions & Operator's Manual for REAR ENGINE RIDING MOWER SERIES 18 MODELS 281318BE 301318BE 3314518BVE 331518KVE MODEL NUMBER EXPLANATION I 33114sl18I B I v I E I CUTTING WIDTH ENGINE HP SERIES DESIGNATION 28 -28" Cutting Deck 30 - 30" Cutting Deck 33 -33" Cutting Deck I 13 - 13.0 HP Engine 145 - 14.5 HP Engine 15 - 15.
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) 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. Make sure all safety decals are clearly legible. Replace if damaged. 10. Protect yourself when mowing and wear safety glasses, long pants and substantial footwear. 11.
TABLE OF CONTENTS IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS .......................................................... TABLE OF CONTENTS ...................................................................................... SECTION 1 - FAMILIARIZATION ....................................................................... SECTION 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ................................................. Pre-start Checklist .............................................................................................
Section 1 - FAMILIARIZATION FUEL TANK FUEL FILLER CAP STEERING WHEEL VENT / / I REAR BUMPER / OPERATOR'S SEAT PANEL (See Insert) SHIFT LEVER CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL DECK LIFT LEVER DISCHARGE DEFLECTOR MOWER DECK CONTROL PANEL BLADE LEVER IGNITION SWITCH ENGINE SPEED CONTROL BELT MOWER COVER BLADE PEDALS PARK BRAKE LEVER FIGURE 1.1 1.1 INTRODUCTION This manual has been prepared for the operator's of the SNAPPER Rear Engine Rider.
Section 2 - OPERATING 2.1 INSTRUCTIONS 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 2.3 INSTRUCTIONS 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 2.3 INSTRUCTIONS STARTING & OPERATION 2.3.1. ENGINE (ELECTRIC START) (Continued) 8. Should the battery be too weak to start the engine, Refer to Section "ENGINE (MANUAL START)" to manually start the electric start engines. 9. On Model 331418BVE, the engine is equipped with a fuel shut-off solenoid. If the battery is dead, the engine can be started with the recoil back-up starter if the throttle control is in the choke position (HOT engine or COLD engine). 5.
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS WARNING IL 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. 2.3 WARNING DO NOT operate blades in reverse. STOP BLADES.
Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS WARNING TO APPLY BRAKES, PUSH CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL ALL THE WAY DOWN DO NOT leave the machine with the engine running. STOP Blade. STOP engine. Shift to neutral and engage park brake. Remove key. 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. RUN OFF FIGURE 2.14 KEY BLADE LEVER IN "OFF" POSITION RELEASE BLADE PEDALS FIGURE 2.13 2.4.2. WHEEL DRIVE 1.
Section 2 - OPERATING 2.4 INSTRUCTIONS 2.5. CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT 1. Adjust cutting height as desired to any one of six positions using deck lift lever. When in desired height of cut, release latch, then try to move deck lift lever to ensure lift lever latch is fully engaged. See Figure 2.18. 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 lever to the "ON" position.
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 14HP Kohler engines 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. STOP engine. STOP blade.
Section 3 - MAINTENANCE WARNING SPINDLE PULLEY 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. 3.2 SERVICE - AFTER FIRST 5 HOURS 3.2.4.
Section 3- MAINTENANCE 3.2.8. LUBRICATION - GREASE FITTINGS The following components on the Rear Engine Rider are equipped with grease fittings and require periodic lubrication. Apply General Purpose grease (NLGI No.2) with a grease gun. 1. Front Wheel Bearings. Refer to Section "FRONT WHEEL BEARINGS - LUBRICATION". 2. Rear Axle Bearing. Refer to Section "REAR AXLE BEARING - LUBRICATION". 3. Mower Blade Spindle.
Section 3 - MAINTENANCE 3.3 SERVICE - EVERY 25 OPERATING HOURS 3.3.8. REAR AXLE BEARING - LUBRICATION 1. The left rear axle bearing on 28" and 30" machines requires three shots of general purpose grease from grease gun. See Figure 3.7. DIFFERENTIAL NOTE: Some models are equipped with a prelubricated sealed bearing and require no additional lubrication. 2. The right rear axle bearing is lubricated by the differential lubricant and requires no grease. \ LEFT REAR AXLE BEARING GREASE FITTING FIGURE 3.
Section 3 - MAINTENANCE 3.4 SERVICE - ANNUALLY 3.4.1. ENGINE 1. Perform all maintenance as specified in "MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE" Section of this manual. 3.4.2. FUEL FILTER Service fuel filter as instructed below, on COLD ENGINE ONLY! 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 4 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR 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. 4.
Section 4 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR 7. Turn eccentric "UP" or "DOWN" as required until blade tips are within 1/8" of each other. See Figure 4.3. 8. Tighten shoulder bolt loosened in Step 6. 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. WARNING DO NOT attempt any adjustments, maintenance, service or repairs with the engine running. STOP engine. STOP blade.
Section 4 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR 4.3.1 WHEEL BRAKE ADJUSTMENT Test the wheel brake on a dry concrete surface. When properly adjusted, the Rear Engine Rider will stop within 5 feet from fastest speed. If stopping distance is more than 5 feet, the wheel brake should be adjusted as follows: 1. Follow WARNING statement found on this page. Check fuel level in tank. Refer to Section "REMOVING FUEL TANK". If over 3/4 full, remove tank.
Section 4 - ADJUSTMENTS _IL & REPAIR 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. 4.3.1 WHEEL BRAKE ADJUSTMENT (Continued from previous page) 8.
Section 4 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR 5. Inspect condition of blade. See Figure 4.9. 6. If blade is in good condition, sharpen at 22 to 28 degrees. DO NOT sharpen beyond existing cutting edge. See Figure 4.11. 7. Check blade balance after sharpening. If necessary, correct blade balance by grinding the heavy end of blade. 8. Reinstall blade. See Figure 4.10. Torque blade mounting bolts to recommended range of 30 to 40 ft. Ibs.
Section 4 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR 9. Route belt onto spindle pulley. Make sure belt is inside belt guide. Route belt as shown for the individual models shown in Figure 4.14. 10. Reinstall fixed idler removed in Step 8. Tighten idler pulley bolt securely. 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 4 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR WARNING RED 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 lj , 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 4.6.6. & REPAIR BATTERY TESTING Batten/Condition State of Charge 100% Charged w/Sulfate 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 Stop SNAPPER PART NO. Chart Digital Voltmeter 12.80v 12.60v 12.40v 12.10v 11.90v Less than 11.
TROUBLESHOOTING PROBLEM EngineWill Not Start Using Recoil Starter Engine Will Not Start Using Electric Starter PROBABLE CAUSE CORRECTIVE ACTION , Fuel tank empty. 2. Engine needs choking. 3. Spark plug wire disconnected. 4. Faulty parking brake, blade or ignition switch. 5. Park brake not engaged. 6. Ignition is in the OFF position. 1. Fuel tank empty. 2. Engine needs choking. 3. Spark plug wire disconnected. 4. Faulty parking brake, blade or ignition switch. 5. Park brake not engaged. 6. Blown Fuse.
TROUBLESHOOTING PROBLEM Rider Will Not Move Loss Of Traction Blade(s) Not Cutting Cutting Grass Improperly PROBABLE CAUSE CORRECTIVE ACTION 1. Drive disc worn or dama,qed. 2. Rubber drive disc is not tracking properly on drive disc. 3. Tapered axle bolt and nut missing. 4. Axle bearing seized. 5. Insufficient lubrication in chain case or transmission/differential. Discharge 1. Move lever to the "ON" position. 2. Adjust or replace mower belt. 3. Sharpen or replace cutting blade. 1.
MAINTENANCE SUBJECT SCHEDULE 6 HOURS 26 HOURS 60 HOURS 100 HOURS Engine Page 6 Engine Initial Oil Change Page 12 Engine Periodic Oil Change Page 13 Air Pre-Cleaner Service Sponge PreCleaner Element Engine Manual Air Cleaner Replace Element Engine Manual. Spark Plug Replace Plugs Engine Manual.
MAINTENANCE/REPLACEMENT MAINTENANCE PARTS Engine Speed Control (Briggs Engine) Engine Speed Control (Kohler Engine) Clutch/Brake Cable Brake Cable 28" Cutter Blade IStandard - Not Air Lift Compatible) 28" Cutter Blade (Standard - Air Lift Compatible) 28" Cutter Blade IMulchin_) 28" Cutter Blade (Ninja - Quad Edge) 30" Cutter 30" Cutter 30" Cutter Blade IStandard - Not Air Lift Compatible) Blade (Standard - Air Lift Compatible) 33" Cutter Blade INinia - Quad Eddie) Blade (Standard - Not Air Lift Compati
3 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY For three (3) 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 ® an illustration of how dirt can [e & how maintenance can protect it! Snapper uses the best available engines and components In their products in order to provide long, satisfactory service. However, proper care is essential In _" prolonging engine life.
PRIMARY MAINTENANCE g that dirt will quickly ruin an engine, manufacturers equip their engines with extremely efficient air cleaners to filter out the harmful dirt. °;. ° "; .. o The engine must gulp about 12,000 gallons of air for :o used. Because of its working environment, the air available to your Snapper engine Is " heavily saturated with airborne dirt particles. As the dirt particles are stopped, they build up and begin to clog the outside of the filter.
PRIMARY MAINTENANCE Air Is also needed to keep your engine cool. Dirt, dust & debris build up to restrict and clog cooling air Intake screens and fins. Clean screens and fins at frequent Intervals. The engine blower housing and shrouds should be removed at least once each season or more often t under dry, dusty conditions for a thorough cleaning of fins. Generally, wash foam-type filters In a dlshwashlng detergent and water solution. Rinse and wring dry, then saturate with oil and squeeze out excess.
PRIMARY MAINTENANCE On 2-cycle engines, lubrication must be provided by an exact mixture of gasoline and 2-cycle air-cooled engine oil A 2-cycle engine that Is mistakenly run on straight gasoline will be ruined in less than 5 minutesl If you keep straight gasoline In addlUon to pre-mixed 2-cycle engine fuel, be sure the containers are clearly marked to avoid mix-up. Snapper 2-cycle engines require a 32 to 1 mixture of gasoline and BIA certified TC-W oil such as Snapper's 2-cycle engine o11.
SERVICE NOTES 35
Safety Instructions & Operator's Manual for REAR ENGINE RIDING MOWER SERIES 18 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.