FORM NO. 3321–939 Wheel Horse 518xi Tractor Model No. 73471 – 9900001 & Up Operator’s Manual IMPORTANT: Read this manual carefully. It contains information about your safety and the safety of others. Also become familiar with the controls and their proper use before you operate the product.
Introduction Thank you for purchasing a Toro product. All of us at Toro want you to be completely satisfied with your new product, so feel free to contact your local Authorized Service Dealer for help with service, genuine replacement parts, or other information you may require. Whenever you contact your Authorized Service Dealer or the factory, always know the model and serial numbers of your product.
Contents Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Safe Operating Practices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Slope Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Safety and Instruction Decals . . . . . . . . . . Check Before Operating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Opening the Hood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Closing the Hood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Removing the Side Panels . . . . . . . . . . . . . Adding Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Safety This machine meets or exceeds the B71.1–1996 specifications of the American National Standards Institute, in effect at the time of production. However, improper use or maintenance by the operator or owner can result in injury. To reduce the potential for injury, comply with these safety instructions and always pay attention to the safety alert symbol, which means CAUTION, WARNING, or DANGER—“personal safety instruction.” Failure to comply with the instruction may result in personal injury or death.
Safety 17. Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into a trailer or truck. DO NOT • 18. Do not touch equipment or attachment parts which may be hot from operation. Allow to cool before attempting to maintain, adjust or service. Do not operate machine on hillsides or slopes exceeding 15°. • Avoid turning on slopes. If you must turn, turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible. Slope Operation • Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments.
Safety Children Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to the machine and the mowing activity. Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them. The following requirements must be followed to prevent injury to children. 1. Keep children out of the mowing area and under the watchful care of another responsible adult. 2. Be alert and turn the machine off if children enter the area. 3.
Safety Slope Chart Read all safety instructions on pages 2–4.
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Safety Safety and Instruction Decals Safety decals and instructions are easily visible to the operator and are located near any area of potential danger. Replace any decal that is damaged or lost. ON DRIVE SHAFT COVER (Part No. 99–6090) ON FRONT OF SEAT BRACKET (Part No. 99–5339 ON FRONT OF SEAT BRACKET (Part No. 99–2985 ON BATTERY STRAP (Part No. 93–1265) ON ENGINE BULKHEAD (Part No. 98–5012) ON DRIVE SHAFT TUNNEL (Part No. 80–8760) (2) UNDER SIDE SHIELD (Part No.
Check Before Operating Each time before operating your tractor, check the following: • Fuel level • Engine oil level • Debris on the (3) air intake screens • Debris in the engine area • Debris on the rear transaxle cover • The safety interlock system • The brake 1 m–3314 Figure 1 1. Hood latch Some of these steps will require that you open the hood or remove the side panels on the tractor. Opening the Hood To open the hood: 1.
Check Before Operating Closing the Hood 2 1 The hood catch is located at the left hand corner of the grille. 1. Press rearward on the hood catch as you begin to lower the hood. 2. Push the hood down until the latch closes. 1 m–3318 Figure 3 2 1. Side panel latch 2. Open slot 2 Front of tractor Figure 2 1. Hood catch 2. Hood hinges Removing the Side Panels 1.
Check Before Operating Adding Fuel Use UNLEADED Regular Gasoline suitable for automotive use (85 pump octane minimum). Leaded regular gasoline may be used if unleaded regular is not available. POTENTIAL HAZARD • When fueling, under certain circumstances, a static charge can develop, igniting the gasoline. IMPORTANT: Never use methanol, gasoline containing methanol, or gasohol containing more than 10% ethanol because the fuel system could be damaged. Do not mix oil with gasoline.
Check Before Operating 2. 3. Clean around the fuel tank cap and remove the cap. Use a funnel and add fuel until the fuel level is 1/4 to 1/2 inch (6 mm to 13 mm) below the bottom of the filler neck. This space in the tank allows for expansion of the fuel. When filling the tank, make sure that the machine is on a level surface so that adequate air space is allowed. Do not fill the fuel tank completely. 1 2 Install the fuel tank cap securely. Wipe up any gasoline that may have spilled.
Check Before Operating 1. Park the machine on a level surface, disengage the power take off (PTO), set the parking brake, lower the attachment lift, and turn the ignition key to “STOP” to stop the engine. Remove the ignition key. 2. Check for debris on the (3) air intake screens (Fig. 6). Wipe away debris before each use and/or during use, if required.
Check Before Operating 5. The rear transaxle cover is an air intake area for cooling the transaxle. Clean debris from the rear transaxle cover before operating the tractor (Fig. 9). Check the Safety Interlock System Always check the interlock system before operating the tractor. Instructions for checking the interlock system are found in the Operation section, page 14. Check the Brake Refer to Checking and Adjusting the Brake, page 32. 1 m–3436 Figure 9 1.
Operation Think Safety First “Key Choice” Key Please carefully read all the safety instructions on pages 2–7. Knowing this information could help you, your family, pets or bystanders avoid injury. A turn and release switch used for deactivating the “Operating–In–Reverse” interlock feature. Located on the seat bracket in front of and just below the seat (Fig. 11). Controls Become familiar with all the controls (Fig. 10) before you start the engine and operate the machine.
Operation Releasing the Parking Brake 1. Push down on the brake pedal (Fig. 10). The parking brake lever should release. 2. Release the brake pedal. 2 1 Starting and Stopping the Engine 3 m–3257 Figure 12 Starting 1. Sit down on the seat. 2. Depress the brake pedal. Note: The engine will not start unless you fully depress the brake pedal. 3. Push the PTO (power take off) switch to OFF (Fig. 12). 4. Move the choke lever to ON (if the engine is cold) (Fig. 12). 5. 6. 3.
Operation Operating the Power Take Off (PTO) The Safety Interlock System Understanding the Safety Interlock System The power take–off (PTO) switch engages and disengages power to the electric clutch. If the ignition key is in the RUN or LIGHTS position and the power take off (PTO) is engaged, the PTO indicator light will be on. When this light is on, it is a reminder: the implement is being powered and the starter will not crank while the PTO is engaged.
Operation Before deactivating this feature, be sure there are no children present on or near the property where you are using the tractor, and that none are likely to appear while you are mowing or operating an attachment. Be extra observant after you have chosen to deactivate the interlock feature because the sound of the tractor’s engine might prevent you from being aware that a child or a bystander has entered the area where you are operating the tractor.
Operation 1 5. Fully depress the brake pedal, set the parking brake, push the PTO switch to OFF and start the engine. Pull the PTO switch to ON. Rise slightly from the seat; the engine should stop. 6. With the parking brake released, turn the ignition key to RUN without starting the engine. Pull the PTO switch to ON. You should hear an audible click indicating the PTO is activated and the PTO light will illuminate. Move the foot pedal to reverse.
Operation Gauges and Indicator Lights Operating–in–Reverse Warning Light The indicator lights (Fig. 17) illuminate when certain controls are activated and when major malfunctions occur that need immediate attention. 1 2 3 4 The Operating–in–Reverse warning light will illuminate whenever the “Key Choice” key is used to deactivate the operating–in–reverse interlock. It is a reminder that the interlock system is deactivated.
Operation Driving Forward or Backward 1. 4. Place your foot on the traction control pedal and slowly press on the top of the pedal to move forward, or on the bottom of the pedal to move backward (Fig. 18). The farther you move the pedal in either direction, the faster the machine will move in that direction. 5. To slow down, release the pressure on the traction control pedal and step on the brake pedal. Stop the tractor. IMPORTANT: Never attempt to shift gears with the tractor in motion.
Operation Raising Attachments POTENTIAL HAZARD • Someone could move or attempt to operate the tractor while it is unattended. 1. Start the tractor. 2. Pull the lift lever UP to raise the attachment (Fig. 20). This will lift and hold the attachment in the raised position. WHAT CAN HAPPEN • Children or bystanders may be injured if they use the tractor. HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD POTENTIAL HAZARD • When the engine is off, attachments in the raised position can gradually lower.
Operation Positioning the Seat The seat can move forward and backward. Position the seat where you have the best control of the machine and are most comfortable. 1. To adjust, move the lever sideways to unlock seat (Fig. 21). 2. Slide the seat to the desired position and release the lever to lock the seat into position. 1 m–3312 Figure 22 1. Lights IMPORTANT: Be sure that the seat is locked in position before operating. Positioning the Tilt Steering Wheel The steering wheel has four tilt locations.
Operation The Smart Turn Steering Feature The Smart Turn Steering feature automatically lowers the speed of the tractor in tight turns. The decrease in speed is directly proportional to the sharpness of the turn, up to a maximum speed reduction of 40 percent. This allows you to make turns at higher speeds without having to change the speed control position. After the turn, the original speed is automatically restored. Pushing the Machine by Hand IMPORTANT: Always push the machine by hand.
Maintenance Service Interval Chart Service Operation Each Use 5 Hours 25 Hours 50 Hours 100 Hours 200 Hours Storage Service Engine Oil—check level X X Brake—check X X Safety System—check X X (3) Air Intake Screens—clean* X X Engine Area—clean* X X Rear Transaxle Cover—clean* X X Engine Oil—change Initial X X Engine Air Precleaner—clean* X X Tires—check pressure X X Battery—check electrolyte level X X Transaxle—check oil level X Transaxle—change oil Initial X X Tr
Maintenance POTENTIAL HAZARD • If you leave the key in the ignition switch, someone could start the engine. WHAT CAN HAPPEN • Accidental starting of the engine could seriously injure you or other bystanders. HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD • Remove the key from the ignition switch and pull the wire(s) off the spark plug(s) before you do any maintenance. Also push the wire(s) aside so it does not accidentally contact the spark plug(s).
Maintenance Cleaning the Foam Element 1. Wash the foam element in liquid soap and warm water. When the element is clean, rinse it thoroughly. 2. Dry the element by squeezing it in a clean cloth. 3. Put one or two ounces of oil on the element (Fig. 25). Squeeze the element to distribute the oil. 1 2 IMPORTANT: Replace the foam element if it is torn or worn. m–3248 2 Figure 26 1. Paper element 2.
Maintenance Engine Oil Service Interval/Specification POTENTIAL HAZARD • Components under the hood will be hot if the tractor has been running. Change oil: • After the first 5 operating hours. • After every 100 operating hours. WHAT CAN HAPPEN • Touching hot components can cause burns. HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD • Allow the tractor to cool before performing maintenance or touching components under the hood. Oil Type: Detergent oil (API service SG or SH) Crankcase Capacity: w/filter, 2.1 qts. (2.
Maintenance 3 2 1 1 1256 m–3262 Figure 27 1. Oil drain IMPORTANT: Overfilling the crankcase with oil may cause engine damage. Figure 28 1. Oil filter 2. Gasket 4. Install the replacement oil filter to the filter adapter. Turn the oil filter clockwise until the rubber gasket contacts the filter adapter, then tighten the filter an additional 1/2 turn (Fig. 28). 5. Fill the crankcase with the correct type of new oil; refer to Changing/Draining Oil, page 27.
Maintenance Spark Plugs Checking the Spark Plugs 1. Service Interval/Specification Look at the center of the spark plug(s) (Fig. 30). If you see light brown or gray on the insulator, the engine is operating properly. A black coating on the insulator usually means the air cleaner is dirty. Change the spark plugs after every 200 operating hours. Make sure the air gap between the center and side electrodes is correct before installing the spark plugs.
Maintenance Greasing and Lubrication 3. Service Interval/Specification Open the drive shaft maintenance cover on the tractor tunnel near the seat by unscrewing the two screws securing it, then raising it (Fig. 32). Grease the machine after every 50 operating hours or yearly, whichever occurs first. Grease more frequently when operating conditions are extremely dusty or sandy. Grease Type: General-purpose grease. How to Grease 1. 2.
Maintenance 4. Lubricate the three grease fittings (Fig. 33). m–3409 Figure 35 m–4224 Figure 33 Tire Pressure 5. Replace and secure the cover. Service Interval/Specification 6. Grease the fitting on the brake pedal (Fig. 34). Maintain the air pressure in the front and rear tires as specified. Check the pressure at the valve stem after every 25 operating hours or monthly, whichever occurs first (Fig. 36). Check the tires when they are cold to get the most accurate pressure reading.
Maintenance Brake 2” Always set the parking brake when you stop the machine or leave it unattended. Check the brake before each use. If the parking brake does not hold securely, an adjustment is required. Checking the Brake 1. 2. Park the machine on a level surface, disengage the power take off (PTO), put the High–Low range lever in “N,” set the parking brake, and turn the ignition key to “STOP” to stop the engine. Remove the ignition key.
Maintenance IMPORTANT: With the parking brake released, the rear wheels must rotate freely when you push the tractor. If brake action and free wheel rotation cannot be achieved, contact your Authorized Service Dealer immediately. Fuel Tank 1 m–3263 Draining The Fuel Tank Figure 39 1. Fuel shut-off valve POTENTIAL HAZARD • In certain conditions gasoline is extremely flammable and highly explosive. WHAT CAN HAPPEN • A fire or explosion from gasoline can burn 3 you, others, and cause property damage.
Maintenance 5. Install the fuel line onto the fuel shut-off valve. Slide the hose clamp close to the valve to secure the fuel line (Fig. 40). The fuel shut–off valve should normally be left open, except for service on the fuel system or when the tractor is transported on a trailer. 1 2 Fuel Filter 3 Service Interval/Specification Replace the fuel filter after every 100 operating hours. 4 m–3365 Figure 41 1. Hose clamp 2. Fuel line 3. Filter 4. Flow direction arrow Replacing the Fuel Filter 1.
Maintenance Front Wheel Toe-In Service Interval/Specification Maintaining correct front wheel toe–in is important for safety, Automatic Speed Reduction operation, and ease of use. If uneven tire wear, lawn scuffing or hard steering develop, adjustment may be required. Check the toe-in after every 100 operating hours or once a year, whichever occurs first (Fig. 42). 2 Maintain the following specification: 1/8–1/4 inch (3.5–6.5 mm) toe-in on the front wheels. 2 1 1 m–3397 Figure 43 1. Jam nut 2.
Maintenance Transaxle Fluid 6. Slide the dipstick fully into the filler tube (Fig. 5). Pull the dipstick out and look at the metal end. When the transaxle is cold, oil should be in the operating range, below the FULL line on the dipstick (Fig. 46). 7. If the oil level is low, slowly pour only enough SAE 10W–30 detergent oil into the filler tube to raise the level to the FULL line. Service Interval/Specification Check the fluid level every 25 hours.
Maintenance 2. 3. 4. Park the machine on a level surface to assure the oil drains completely. Then turn off the power take off (PTO), set the parking brake, lower the attachment lift, and turn the ignition key to “STOP” to stop the engine. Remove the ignition key. Place a pan below the transaxle drain. Open the drain by removing the plug (Fig. 47). 6. Slowly pour the specified refill capacity of oil into the filler tube (Fig. 45). 7.
Maintenance 4. 5. Install the replacement transaxle filter to the filter adapter. Turn the filter clockwise until the rubber gasket contacts the filter adapter, then tighten the filter an additional 3/4 turn (Fig. 48). Headlights Fill the transaxle with the proper type of new oil; refer to Changing/Draining Transaxle Fluid, page 36. Removing the Bulb Specification: Bulb # 1156 Automotive Type 1.
Maintenance Installing the Bulb Checking the Electrolyte Level 1. 1. Park the machine on a level surface. Disengage the power take off (PTO), set the parking brake, lower the attachment lift, and turn the ignition key to “STOP” to stop the engine. Remove the ignition key. 2. Remove the front grille by pulling it outward toward you. 3. Remove the battery shield. 4. Open the cell covers to see into the cells. The electrolyte must be up to the lower part of the tube (Fig. 52).
Maintenance Adding Water to the Battery 5. Disconnect the positive (red) cable from the battery post (Fig. 53). 6. Remove the battery by lifting it up, then pulling it out (directly toward you) from the tractor. IMPORTANT: Use only distilled water. The best time to add distilled water to the battery is just before you operate the machine. This lets the water mix thoroughly with the electrolyte solution. 1. Clean the top of the battery with a paper towel. 2. Lift off the filler caps (Fig. 52). 3.
Maintenance Charging the Battery 6 1 3 IMPORTANT: Always keep the battery fully charged (1.260 specific gravity). This is especially important to prevent battery damage when the temperature is below 32°F (0°C). 4 5 2 1. Remove the battery from the chassis; refer to Removing the Battery, page 40. 2. Check the electrolyte level; refer to Checking the Electrolyte Level, page 39, steps 2–5. 3. Remove the cell covers from the battery and connect a 3– to 4–amp battery charger to the battery posts.
BK BK OR PK BK D A BATTERY LIGHT MODULE B+ VOLTAGE COMPARATOR #194 LAMP BATTERY F #194 LAMP #194 LAMP PKPK GN T OR BK G S W BK FUEL SENDER BK #194 LAMP L FUEL GAUGE I B C K E PK A PK W J W GN T OR BK #194 LAMP OVER RIDE OIL PTO INDICATOR LIGHT HARNESS OR OR G I S Y GND HOUR METER TEMP.
Maintenance Cleaning and Storage 1. 2. Disengage the power take off (PTO), set the parking brake, and turn the ignition key to “STOP” to stop the engine. Remove both the ignition and “Key Choice” keys. 3. Check the brake; refer to Brake, page 32. 4. Service the air cleaner; refer to Air Cleaner, page 25. 5. Grease the chassis; refer to Greasing and Lubrication, page 30. 6. Change the crankcase oil; refer to Engine Oil, page 27.
Troubleshooting PROBLEM The starter does not crank. The engine cranks, but will not start. 44 POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTIVE ACTION 1. The PTO is ON. 1. Move the PTO to OFF. 2. The brake is not depressed or the parking brake is not on. 2. Set the parking brake. 3. The operator is not seated. 3. Sit on the seat. 4. The electrical connections are corroded or loose. 4. Check the electrical connections for good contact. 5. A fuse is blown or loose. 5. Correct or replace fuse. 6.
Troubleshooting PROBLEM The engine starts, but does not keep eep running u g The engine runs, but knocks or misses. sses The engine will not idle. POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTIVE ACTION 1. Misadjusted or faulty choke or throttle control cable. 1. Contact your Authorized Service Dealer. 2. The fuel tank vent is restricted. 2. Contact your Authorized Service Dealer. 3. Dirt or water in the fuel system. 3. Drain and flush the fuel system; add fresh fuel. 4. The fuel filter is clogged. 4.
Troubleshooting PROBLEM The engine overheats. POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTIVE ACTION 1. The crankcase oil level is incorrect. 1. Fill or drain to the full mark. 2. The fuel mixture is lean. 2. Contact your Authorized Service Dealer. 3. Excessive loading. 3. Reduce load; use lower ground speed. 4. (3) air intake screens are dirty. 4. Clean with every use. 5. The cooling fins and air passages under the engine blower housing and/or the rotating air intake screen are plugged. 5.
Troubleshooting The tractor will not operate in either direction. e t e d ect o The tractor operates erratically. The tractor operates in both directions, but with a loss of power. This condition becomes p worse as th the ttransmission i i becomes hot. 1. The High–Low range lever is in “N.” 1. Move the High–Low range lever to “L” or “H.” 2. The transmission oil is low. 2. Fill to the full “F” mark on the transmission oil dipstick when the transmission is cold. 3. The transmission is faulty. 3.
Troubleshooting Abnormal vibration or noise. PTO (cutter deck) belt comes off of pulleys, slips, or fails. 48 1. The engine mounting bolts are loose. 1. Tighten the engine mounting bolts. 2. The idler pulley or cutter deck blade is loose. 2. Tighten the appropriate pulley. 3. The transaxle cooling fan is loose. 3. Contact your Authorized Service Dealer. 4. There is a problem with the electric clutch 4. Contact your Authorized Service Dealer. 1. Belt tension is incorrect. 1.
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Consumer Riding Products THE TORO TOTAL COVERAGE GUARANTEE A Full TwoĆYear Warranty (Limited Warranty For Commercial Use) What Is Covered By This Express Warranty? The Toro Company promises to repair any TORO Product used for normal residential purposes* if defective in materials or workmanship for a period of two years from the date of purchase with the following exceptions: D Batteries are warranted for one year This warranty covers the cost of parts and labor as well as transportation within a 15 mil