MODEL NO. WE1538A 15 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 ® 180083 Rev. 1 06.05.02 RH 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. I. GENERAL OPERATION • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope.
SAFETY RULES Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Look for this symbol to point out important safety precautions. It means CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED. 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.
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS 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 service or repair this tractor. Please read and retain this manual.
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 Keys (1) Hex Bolt 3/8-16 x 1 (2) Keys Slope Sheet (1) Lockwasher 3/8 (1) Large Flat Washer (1) Hex Bolt 5/16-18 x 1-1/4 (1) Locknut 5/16-18 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 A socket wrench set will make assembly easier. Standard wrench sizes are listed.
ASSEMBLY HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR SEAT CHECK BATTERY (See Fig. 2) • • Lift seat pan to raised position. If this battery is put into service after month and year indicated on label (label located between terminals) charge battery for minimum of one hour at 6-10 amps. (See “BATTERY” in Customer Responsibilities section of this manual for charging instructions). SEAT PAN SHOULDER BOLT SEAT PAN FLAT WASHER LOCK WASHER ADJUSTMENT BOLT FIG. 2 FIG. 3 INSTALL SEAT (See Fig.
ASSEMBLY 3CHECKLIST TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Operation section, page 10, for location and function of controls) 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. ✓ No remaining loose parts in carton. ✓ Battery is properly prepared and charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps).
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 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) TO TRANSPORT 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. • Select desired height of cut. • Start mower blades by engaging attachment clutch control. • TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disengage attachment clutch control. • Raise attachment lift to highest position with attachment lift control.
OPERATION TO START ENGINE (See Fig. 5) MOWING TIPS When starting the engine for the first time or if the engine has run out of fuel, it will take extra cranking time to move fuel from the tank to the engine. • Sit on seat in operating position, depress clutch/brake pedal and set parking brake. • Place gear shift lever in neutral (N) position. • Move attachment clutch to “DISENGAGED” position. • Move throttle control to choke position.
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE FILL IN DATES AS YOU COMPLETE REGULAR SERVICE E E S S RS AG US RS UR OUR OU SON OR U O H O H H A 0 ST E 8H SE RE 25 50 10 Y Y Y Y Y RE O R R R R R O F E E E 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 Coolin
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES 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 BLADE • Maintain proper air pressure in all tires (See “PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS” section of this manual).
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES 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.
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES CLEAN AIR SCREEN AIR FILTER (See Fig. 13) 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. Your engine will not run properly using a dirty air filter. Clean the foam pre-cleaner after every 25 hours of operation or every season. Service paper cartridge every 100 hours of operation or every season, whichever occurs first.
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES MUFFLER Inspect and replace corroded muffler and spark arrester (if equipped) as it could create a fire hazard and/or damage. CLAMP CLAMP SPARK PLUGS Replace spark plugs at the beginning of each mowing season or after every 100 hours of operation, whichever occurs first. Spark plug type and gap setting are shown in “PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS” section of this manual. FUEL FILTER FIG. 14 IN-LINE FUEL FILTER (See Fig. 14) The fuel filter should be replaced once each season.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS CAUTION: 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 “OFF” 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. TO REMOVE MOWER (See Fig. 15) TO INSTALL MOWER (See Fig.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING • Adjust the mower while tractor is parked on level ground or driveway. Make sure tires are properly inflated (See “PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS” section of this manual). If tires are over or underinflated, you will not properly adjust your mower. • SIDE-TO-SIDE ADJUSTMENT (See Figs. 16 and 17) • Raise mower to its highest position. • At the midpoint of both sides of mower, measure height from bottom edge of mower to ground.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS • R.H. SUSPENSION ARM • ENGINE PULLEY MANDREL PULLEY Pull belt toward front of tractor and remove downwards from around engine pulley. Install new belt by reversing above procedure. ENGINE PULLEY 42 38 CLUTCHING IDLER IDLER PULLEYS RETAINER SPRING STATIONARY IDLER TRANSAXLE PULLEY MANDREL PULLEY FIG. 20 FIG. 22 TO ADJUST BRAKE (See Fig.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS TO START ENGINE WITH A WEAK BATTERY (See Fig. 24) REPLACING BATTERY (See Figs. 25 and 26) CAUTION: Do not short battery terminals by allowing a wrench or any other object to contact both terminals at the same time. Before connecting battery, remove metal bracelets, wristwatch bands, rings, etc. Positive terminal must be connected first to prevent sparking from accidental grounding. CAUTION: Lead-acid batteries generate explosive gases.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS TO REPLACE HEADLIGHT BULB ENGINE • • • TO ADJUST THROTTLE CONTROL CABLE (See Fig. 28) • Raise hood. Pull bulb holder out of the hole in the backside of the grill. Replace bulb in holder and push bulb holder securely back into the hole in the backside of the grill. Close hood. The throttle control has been preset at the factory and adjustment should not be necessary. Check adjustment as described below before loosening cable.
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. • CAUTION: Never store the tractor with gasoline in the tank inside a building where fumes may reach an open flame or spark. Allow the engine to cool before storing in any enclosure. 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.
TROUBLESHOOTING POINTS PROBLEM CAUSE Will not start 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 WE1538A 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 WE1538A ELECTRICAL 21 22 42 24 41 43 27 27 40 26 27 27 25 16 16 33 30 48 52 8 29 27 28 2 1 90 28
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE1538A ELECTRICAL KEY NO. PART NO.
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE1538A CHASSIS 212 17 30 24 29 18 58 24 26 12 28 25 26 25 53 5 51 52 31 55 5 3 209 57 9 11 208 15 209 209 8 54 209 6 26 1 16 13 3 35 145 37 37 33 10 3 35 2 205 34 38 206 208 26 3 38 205 30
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE1538A CHASSIS KEY NO. PART NO.
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE1538A DRIVE 57 51 63 21 8 212 59 12 70 66 116 7 61 10 65 12 56 13 55 64 14 112 18 113 52 41 11 51 150 5 18 52 30 170 32 6 38 48 6 6 49 30 52 4 47 62 3 120 35 77 79 26 37 36 250 34 25 19 28 24 36 77 96 74 78 29 76 22 1 26 35 53 2 145 151 51 27 39 32 250 202 50 75 32 26 27
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE1538A DRIVE KEY NO. PART NO.
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE1538A STEERING 38 63 11 39 1 41 42 37 37 36 44 51 54 88 91 43 71 68 67 67 29 46 8 47 6 9 17 67 13 65 46 85 2 8 7 85 6 9 9 5 47 7 3 32 9 5 68 11 82 29 26 4 43 15 40 15 43 29 28 15 10 30 34 6 8
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE1538A STEERING KEY NO. PART NO.
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE1538A ENGINE 3 2 72 62 1 81 13 78 14 15 32 78 16 44 38 46 45 33 23 37 31 33 29 40 OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT Spark Arrester 36 4
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE1538A ENGINE KEY NO. PART NO.
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE1538A 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 KEY NO. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 12 13 PART NO. 127426X 140551 71110616 19131610 145006 73800600 124181X 17000616 19131614 174894 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 X10Ga. 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 WE1538A DECALS 12 7 5 5 2 6 14 15 11 9 16 4 10 3 1 17 KEY NO. PART NO. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 10 11 12 14 15 101892X 180888 180972 170563 180521 157140 162398 171448 162391 162392 162389 162390 145005 KEY NO.
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE1538A MOWER LIFT 7 8 5 1 3 13 2 4 6 6 11 5 4 12 13 19 20 13 15 31 32 13 19 20 17 18 20 16 20 15 31 32 40
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE1538A MOWER LIFT KEY NO. PART NO.
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE1538A MOWER DECK 40 146 89 42 157 68 148 107 67 38 108 158 36 156 153 151 89 155 56 152 36 153 154 69 33 32 55 31 40 54 150 2 123 45 110 113 21 122 53 30 1 21 88 109 87 89 24 25 28 26 97 96 21 2 86 2 21 2 23 15 16 29 14 3 5 27 13 4 6 11 19 21 10 9 8 149 42
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER WE1538A 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 54 55 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.
SERVICE NOTES 44
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.
SERVICE ® TECUMSEH Issued January 1980 Revised January 1991 POLICY WARRANTY ® TECUMSEH LIMITED WARRANTIES FOR NEW PEERLESS GEAR POWER TRAIN COMPONENTS A.
SUGGESTED GUIDE FOR SIGHTING SLOPES FOR SAFE OPERATION FOL D AL ONG THIS D OT IS A TED 15 D LINE EGR EE S LOP E 47 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.
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