Troy-Bilt Pony 175 Manual

							 WARNING
READ AND FOLLOW ALL SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS MANUAL BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE THIS MACHINE.   
FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THESE INSTRUCTIONS MAY RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY.
Form No. 769-11949A  (December 9, 2016)
Safe Operation Practices
 ........................................2
Assembly & Set-Up .................................................. 7
Controls & Operation  ............................................. 11Service
 ..................................................................... 15
Troubleshooting  .................................................... 20
Parts/Warranty .............. See Separate Supplement 
Table of Contents
NOTE: This Operator’s Manual covers several models. Features may vary by model. Not all features in this manual are applicable to all 
models and the model depicted may differ from yours.
Lawn Tractor
Safe Operation Practices 
						

							2
WARNING! This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, could endanger the personal safety and/or property of 
yourself and others. Read and follow all instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these 
instructions may result in personal injury. 
When you see this symbol.  HEED ITS WARNING!
DANGER! This machine was built to be operated according to the safe operation practices in this manual. As with any type of power equipment, 
carelessness or error on the part of the operator can result in serious injury. This 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.
CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65
WARNING! Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to State of California 
to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. 
 
WARNING! Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to 
cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling
General Operation
1.   Read, understand, and follow all instructions 
on the machine and in the manual(s) before 
attempting to assemble and operate. Keep this 
manual in a safe place for future and regular 
reference and for ordering replacement parts. 
2.  Be familiar with all controls and their proper 
operation. Know how to stop the machine 
and disengage them quickly.
3.  Never allow children under 14 years of 
age to operate this machine. Children 14 
and over should read and understand the 
instructions and safe operation practices in 
this manual and on the machine and should 
be trained and supervised by an adult. 
4.  Never allow adults to operate this machine 
without proper instruction. 
5.   To help avoid blade contact or a thrown 
object injury, keep bystanders, helpers, 
children and pets at least 75 feet from 
the machine while it is in operation. Stop 
machine if anyone enters the area.
6.  Thoroughly inspect the area where the 
equipment is to be used. Remove all stones, 
sticks, wire, bones, toys, and other foreign 
objects which could be picked up and 
thrown by the blade(s). Thrown objects can 
cause serious personal injury. 
7.   Plan your mowing pattern to avoid 
discharge of material toward roads, 
sidewalks, bystanders and the like. Also, 
avoid discharging material against a wall or 
obstruction which may cause discharged 
material to ricochet back toward the 
operator. 
8.  Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles 
during operation and while performing an 
adjustment or repair to protect your eyes. 
Thrown objects which ricochet can cause 
serious injury to the eyes.  9.
  Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes 
and close-fitting slacks and shirts. Loose 
fitting clothes and jewelry can be caught in 
movable parts. Never operate this machine 
in bare feet or sandals.
10.   For extended use of this product, hearing 
protection is recommended.
11 .   Be aware of the mower and attachment 
discharge direction and do not point it at 
anyone. Do not operate the mower without 
the discharge cover or entire grass catcher 
in its proper place.
12 .   Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts 
or under the cutting deck. Contact with the 
blade(s) can amputate hands and feet.
13 .   A missing or damaged discharge cover 
can cause blade contact or thrown object 
injuries. 
14 .   Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel 
drives, walks, or roads and while not cutting 
grass. 
15 .   Watch for traffic when operating near or 
crossing roadways. This machine is not 
intended for use on any public roadway. 
16 .   Do not operate the machine while under 
the influence of alcohol or drugs. 
17.   Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
18 .   Never carry passengers.
19.   Disengage blade(s) before shifting into 
reverse. Back up slowly. Always look down 
and behind before and while backing to 
avoid a back-over accident.
20.   Slow down before turning. Operate the 
machine smoothly. Avoid erratic operation 
and excessive speed.
21.   Disengage blade(s), set parking brake, stop 
engine and wait until the blade(s) come 
to a complete stop before removing grass 
catcher, emptying grass, unclogging chute, 
removing any grass or debris, or making any 
adjustments.  22. 
Never leave a running machine unattended. 
Always turn off blade(s), place transmission 
in neutral, set parking brake, stop engine 
and remove key before dismounting.
23.  Use extra care when loading or unloading 
the machine into a trailer or truck. This 
machine should not be driven up or down 
ramp(s), because the machine could tip 
over, causing serious personal injury. The 
machine must be pushed manually on 
ramp(s) to load or unload properly.
24.   Muffler and engine become hot and can 
cause a burn. Do not touch.
25.   Check overhead clearances carefully 
before driving under low hanging tree 
branches, wires, door openings etc., where 
the operator may be struck or pulled from 
the machine, which could result in serious 
injur y.
26.   Disengage all attachment clutches, depress 
the brake pedal completely and shift into 
neutral before attempting to start engine.
2 7.   Your machine is designed to cut normal 
residential grass of a height no more than 10”. 
Do not attempt to mow through unusually 
tall, dry grass (e.g., pasture) or piles of dry 
leaves. Dry grass or leaves may contact the 
engine exhaust and/or build up on the mower 
deck presenting a potential fire hazard.
28.   Use only accessories and attachments 
approved for this machine by the machine 
manufacturer. Read, understand and follow 
all instructions provided with the approved 
accessory or attachment. 
29.   Data indicates that operators, age 60 
years and above, are involved in a large 
percentage of riding mower-related injuries. 
These operators should evaluate their 
ability to operate the riding mower safely 
enough to protect themselves and others 
from serious injury. 
Important Safe Operation Practices2  
						

							3
30. If situations occur which are not covered 
in this manual, use care and good 
judgment. Contact your customer service 
representative for assistance.
Slope Operation
Slopes are a major factor related to loss of control 
and tip-over accidents which can result in severe 
injury or death. All slopes require extra caution. If 
you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy 
on it, do not mow it. 
For your safety, use the slope gauge included 
as part of this manual to measure slopes before 
operating this machine on a sloped or hilly area. If 
the slope is greater than 15 degrees as shown on 
the slope gauge, do not operate this machine on 
that area or serious injury could result.
Do:
1.  Mow up and down slopes, not across. 
Exercise extreme caution when changing 
direction on slopes.
2.  Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or 
other hidden objects. Uneven terrain could 
overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide 
obstacles.
3.  Use slow speed. Choose a low enough 
speed setting so that you will not have to 
stop or shift while on the slope. Tires may 
lose traction on slopes even though the 
brakes are functioning properly. Always 
keep machine in gear when going down 
slopes to take advantage of engine braking 
action.
4.  Follow the manufacturer’s 
recommendations for wheel weights or 
counterweights to improve stability.
5.   Use extra care with grass catchers or other 
attachments. These can change the stability 
of the machine.
6.  Keep all movement on the slopes slow and 
gradual. Do not make sudden changes in 
speed or direction. Rapid engagement 
or braking could cause the front of the 
machine to lift and rapidly flip over 
backwards which could cause serious injury.
7.   Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires 
lose traction, disengage the blade(s) and 
proceed slowly straight down the slope.
Do Not: 
1.  Do not turn on slopes unless necessary; 
then, turn slowly and gradually downhill, if 
possible.
2.  Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or 
embankments. The mower could suddenly 
turn over if a wheel is over the edge of a cliff, 
ditch, or if an edge caves in.
3.  Do not try to stabilize the machine by 
putting your foot on the ground.
4.  Do not use a grass catcher on steep slopes. 
5.   Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction 
could cause sliding.
6.  Do not shift to neutral and coast downhill. 
Over-speeding may cause the operator to 
lose control of the machine resulting in 
serious injury or death. 7.
  Do not tow heavy pull behind attachments 
(e.g. loaded dump cart, lawn roller, etc.) 
on slopes greater than 5 degrees. When 
going down hill, the extra weight tends 
to push the tractor and may cause you to 
loose control (e.g. tractor may speed up, 
braking and steering ability are reduced, 
attachment may jack-knife and cause tractor 
to overturn).
Children
1.  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. They do not 
understand the dangers. Never assume 
that children will remain where you last saw 
them.
a.  Keep children out of the mowing 
area and in watchful care of a 
responsible adult other than the 
operator. 
b.  Be alert and turn machine off if a 
child enters the area. 
c.  Before and while backing, look 
behind and down for small children. 
d.  Never carry children, even with the 
blade(s) shut off. They may fall off and 
be seriously injured or interfere with 
safe machine operation.
e.  Use extreme care when approaching 
blind corners, doorways, shrubs, 
trees or other objects that may block 
your vision of a child who may run 
into the path of the machine.
f.   To avoid back-over accidents, always 
disengage the cutting blade(s) 
before shifting into Reverse. If 
equipped, the “Reverse Caution 
Mode” should not be used when 
children or others are around.
g.  Keep children away from hot or 
running engines. They can suffer 
burns from a hot muffler. 
h.  Remove key when machine is 
unattended to   prevent 
unauthorized operation.
2.  Never allow children under 14 years of 
age to operate this machine. Children 14 
and over should read and understand the 
instructions and safe operation practices in 
this manual and on the machine and should 
be trained and supervised by an adult.
Towing
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 manufacturers recommendation 
for weight limits for towed equipment and 
towing on slopes.
3.  Never allow children or others in or on 
towed equipment. 4. 
On slopes, the weight of the towed 
equipment may cause loss of traction and 
loss of control.
5.   Always use extra caution when towing with 
a machine capable of making tight turns 
(e.g. “zero-turn” ride-on mower).  Make wide 
turns to avoid jack-knifing.
6.  Travel slowly and allow extra distance to 
stop.
7.   Do not shift to neutral and coast downhill.
Service
Safe Handling of Gasoline:
1.  To avoid personal injury or property 
damage use extreme care in handling 
gasoline. Gasoline is extremely 
flammable and the vapors are explosive
. 
Serious personal injury can occur when 
gasoline is spilled on yourself or your 
clothes which can ignite.  Wash your skin 
and change clothes immediately.
a.  Use only an approved gasoline 
container.
b.  Never fill containers inside a vehicle 
or on a truck or trailer bed with a 
plastic liner. Always place containers 
on the ground away from your 
vehicle before filling.
c.  When practical, remove gas-
powered equipment from the truck 
or trailer and refuel it on the ground. 
If this is not possible, then refuel 
such equipment on a trailer with a 
portable container, rather than from 
a gasoline dispenser nozzle.
d.  Keep the nozzle in contact with the 
rim of the fuel tank or container 
opening at all times until fueling is 
complete. Do not use a nozzle lock-
open device.
e.  Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, 
pipes and other sources of ignition.
f.   Never fuel machine indoors.
g.  Never remove gas cap or add fuel 
while the engine is hot or running. 
Allow engine to cool at least two 
minutes before refueling.
h.  Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to 
no more than ½ inch below bottom 
of filler neck to allow space for fuel 
expansion.
i.  Replace gasoline cap and tighten 
securely.
j.  If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off 
the engine and equipment. Move 
machine to another area. Wait 5 
minutes before starting the engine. 
k.  To reduce fire hazards, keep machine 
free of grass, leaves, or other debris 
build-up. Clean up oil or fuel spillage 
and remove any fuel soaked debris. 
SECTION 2 
						

							4
l. Never store the machine or fuel 
container inside where there is an 
open flame, spark or pilot light as 
on a water heater, space heater, 
furnace, clothes dryer or other gas 
appliances. 
m.  Allow a machine to cool at least five 
minutes before storing.
General Service
1.  Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly 
ventilated area. Engine exhaust contains 
carbon monoxide, an odorless, and deadly 
gas.
2.  Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, 
make certain the blade(s) and all moving 
parts have stopped. Disconnect the spark 
plug wire and ground against the engine to 
prevent unintended starting.
3.  Periodically check to make sure the 
blades come to complete stop within 
approximately (5) five seconds after 
operating the blade disengagement control. 
If the blades do not stop within the this time 
frame, your machine should be serviced 
professionally by an authorized MTD Service 
Dealer.
4.  Check brake operation frequently as it is 
subjected to wear during normal operation. 
Adjust and service as required.
5.   Check the blade(s) and engine mounting 
bolts at frequent intervals for proper 
tightness. Also, visually inspect blade(s) for 
damage (e.g., excessive wear, bent, cracked).   
Replace the blade(s) with the original 
equipment manufacturer’s (O.E.M.) blade(s) 
only, listed in this manual. “Use of parts 
which do not meet the original equipment 
specifications may lead to improper 
performance and compromise safety!” 
6.  Mower blades are sharp. Wrap the blade or 
wear gloves, and use extra caution when 
servicing them.
7.   Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to 
be sure the equipment is in safe working 
condition.  8. 
Never tamper with the safety interlock 
system or other safety devices. Check their 
proper operation regularly.
9.   After striking a foreign object, stop the 
engine, disconnect the spark plug wire(s) 
and ground against the engine. Thoroughly 
inspect the machine for any damage. Repair 
the damage before starting and operating.
10.   Never attempt to make adjustments or repairs 
to the machine while the engine is running.
11 .   Grass catcher components and the 
discharge cover are subject to wear and 
damage which could expose moving parts 
or allow objects to be thrown. For safety 
protection, frequently check components 
and replace immediately with original 
equipment manufacturer’s (O.E.M.) parts 
only, listed in this manual. “Use of parts 
which do not meet the original equipment 
specifications may lead to improper 
performance and compromise safety!”
12 .   Do not change the engine governor settings 
or over-speed the engine. The governor 
controls the maximum safe operating speed 
of the engine. 
13 .   Maintain or replace safety and instruction 
labels, as necessary. 
14 .   Observe proper disposal laws and 
regulations for gas, oil, etc. to protect the 
environment.
15 .   According to the Consumer Products 
Safety Commission (CPSC) and the U.S. 
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 
this product has an 
Average Useful Life of 
seven (7) years, or 270 hours of operation. 
At the end of the 
Average Useful Life have 
the machine inspected annually by an 
authorized service dealer to ensure that all 
mechanical and safety systems are working 
properly and not worn excessively. Failure 
to do so can result in accidents, injuries or 
death.
Do not modify engine
To avoid serious injury or death, do not modify 
engine in any way. Tampering with the governor 
setting can lead to a runaway engine and cause it 
to operate at unsafe speeds. Never tamper with 
factory setting of engine governor.
Notice Regarding Emissions
Engines which are certified to comply with 
California and federal EPA emission regulations for 
SORE (Small Off Road Equipment) are certified to 
operate on regular unleaded gasoline, and may 
include the following emission control systems: 
Engine Modification (EM), Oxidizing Catalyst 
(OC), Secondary Air Injection (SAI) and Three Way 
Catalyst (TWC) if so equipped.
When required, models are equipped with 
low permeation fuel lines and fuel tanks for 
evaporative emission control. California models 
may also include a carbon canister. Please contact 
Customer Support for information regarding the 
evaporative emission control configuration for 
your model.
Spark Arrestor
WARNING! This machine is 
equipped with an internal 
combustion engine and should not 
be used on or near any unimproved 
forest-covered, brush covered or 
grass-covered land unless the 
engine’s exhaust system is equipped 
with a spark arrestor meeting 
applicable local or state laws (if any).
If a spark arrestor is used, it should be maintained 
in effective working order by the operator. In the 
State of California the above is required by law 
(Section 4442 of the California Public Resources 
Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal 
laws apply on federal lands.  
A spark arrestor for the muffler is available through 
your nearest engine authorized service dealer or 
contact the service department, P.O. Box 361131 
Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019. 
SECTION 2 
						

							5
WARNING! Your Responsibility—Restrict the use of this power machine to persons who read, understand and follow the 
warnings and instructions in this manual and on the machine. 
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
Safety Symbols
This page depicts and describes safety symbols that may appear on this product.  Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine before 
attempting to assemble and operate.
Symbol Description
READ THE OPERATOR’S MANUAL(S) 
Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual(s) before attempting to assemble and 
operate
DANGER — ROTATING BLADES  
Never carry passengers. Never carry children, even with the blades off.
DANGER — ROTATING BLADES  
Always look down and behind before and while backing to avoid a back-over accident.
DANGER — ROTATING BLADES  
Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the cutting deck. Contact with the blade(s) can 
amputate hands and feet. Be sure blades and engine are stopped before placing hands or feet near 
blades.
DANGER — BYSTANDERS  
Mowing in reverse is not recommended. Do not mow when children or others are around. Keep 
bystanders, helpers, children and pets at least 75 feet from the machine while it is in operation .
DANGER — THROWN OBJECTS 
This machine may pick up and throw and objects which can cause serious personal injury. Remove 
objects which could be thrown by the blades.
DANGER — SLOPE OPERATION  
Go up and down slopes, not across. Use extra caution on slopes. Do not mow slopes greater than 15 
degrees. Avoid sudden turns. Use low speed. Do not operate machine where it could tip or slip. If 
machine stops going uphill, stop blades and back down slowly.
DANGER — ROTATING BLADES  
Before leaving operator’s position, disengage blades, engage parking brake, shut off engine and 
remove key. Keep safety devices (guards, shields, switches, etc.) in place and in working order.
DANGER — HOT SURFACES  
Allow machine to cool before fueling or storing.
ma x10DANGER — HOT SURFACES  
Do not drive through piles of dry leaves or tall dry grass. Keep machine free of debris.
WARNING — HOT SURFACES  
Operation of this equipment may create sparks that can start fires around dry vegetation. A spark 
arrestor may be required. The operator should contact local fire agencies for laws or regulations 
relating to fire prevention requirements. 
SECTION 2 
						

							6
WARNING! Slopes are a major factor related to tip-over and roll-over accidents which can result in severe injury or death. 
 Do not operate machine on slopes in excess of 15 degrees. All slopes require extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not mow it.  Always mow up 
and down slopes, never across the face of slopes. 
SECTION 2 
						

							7
NOTE: This Operator’s Manual covers several models. Features may vary by model. Not all features in this manual are applicable to all models and the model 
depicted may differ from yours. Refer to Figure 2-1 to match your transmission style; Foot Control CV T (Continuously Variable Transmission), CV T (Continuously 
Variable Transmission) or Hydrostatic.
Thank you for purchasing this product. It was carefully engineered to provide 
excellent performance when properly operated and maintained. 
Please read this entire manual prior to operating the equipment. It instructs 
you how to safely and easily set up, operate and maintain your machine. 
Please be sure that you, and any other persons who will operate the machine, 
carefully follow the recommended safety practices at all times. Failure to do so 
could result in personal injury or property damage. 
All information in this manual is relative to the most recent product 
information available at the time. Review this manual frequently to familiarize 
yourself with the machine, its features and operation. Please be aware that 
this Operator’s Manual may cover a range of product specifications for various 
models. Characteristics and features discussed and/or illustrated in this 
manual may not be applicable to all models. We reserve the right to change 
product specifications, designs and equipment without notice and without 
incurring obligation.
If applicable, the power testing information used to establish the power rating of 
the engine equipped on this machine can be found at www.opei.org or the engine 
manufacturer’s web site.
If you have any problems or questions concerning the machine, phone your 
local authorized service dealer or contact us directly. We want to ensure your 
complete satisfaction at all times.
Throughout this manual, all references to right
 and left side of the machine are 
observed from the operating position.
Thank You
Contents of Carton
•  Lawn Tractor (1) • Steering Wheel (1) -- Cup Washer (1) & Hex Bolt (1) • Operator’s Manual (1)
•  Ignition Key (2) • S e a t  (1) • Engine Operator’s Manual (1)
•  Plastic Oil Drain Sleeve (1)  † • Dash Shroud (1) † • Fast Start Guide (1)†
•  Oil Drain Hose (1) † • Deck Wash Nozzle (1) † • Parts/Warranty Document (1)
•  Hood Scoop (1) † • Hose Coupler (1) † • Product Registration Card (1) †
† — If Equipped
Foot Control CVT(Page 9) CVT
(Page 9) Hydrostatic
(Page 9)
Figure 2-1
Assembly & Set-Up2  
						

							8
Tools Required
• Adjustable Wrench or Socket Set
Connecting the Battery Cables
California PROPOSITION 65 
WARNING : Battery posts, terminals, 
and related accessories contain lead 
and lead compounds, chemicals 
known to the State of California to 
cause cancer and reproductive 
harm. Wash hands after handling.
CAUTION:  When attaching battery 
cables, always connect the POSITIVE 
(Red) wire to its terminal first, 
followed by the NEGATIVE (Black) 
wire.
For shipping reasons, both battery cables on your 
equipment may have been left disconnected from 
the terminals at the factory. To connect the battery 
cables, proceed as follows:
NOTE:  The positive battery terminal is marked Pos. 
(+). The negative battery terminal is marked Neg. (–).
1.   Remove the plastic cover, if present, from the 
positive battery terminal and attach the red 
cable to the positive battery terminal (+) with 
the bolt (a) and hex nut (b). See Figure 2-2.
(b) (b)
(a)(a)
(c)
Figure 2-2
2.  Remove the plastic cover, if present, from the 
negative battery terminal and attach the black 
cable to the negative battery terminal (–) with 
the bolt (a) and hex nut (b). See Figure 2-2.
3.  Position the red rubber boot (c) over the 
positive battery terminal to help protect it 
from corrosion.
NOTE:  If the battery is put into service after 
the date shown on top/side of battery, charge 
the battery as instructed in the Service section 
your Operator’s Manual on page 8 prior to 
operating the tractor.
Shipping Brace Removal
WARNING!  Make sure the tractor’s 
engine is OFF, remove the ignition 
key, and set the parking brake before 
removing the shipping brace. Refer 
to the Controls & Operations section 
on page 8 for instructions on how to 
set the parking brake.
4.  Check the cutting deck for a shipping 
brace (a) that may be holding the chute 
def lector (b) upward for shipment. If the 
shipping brace (a) is present, it must be 
removed before operating the tractor. 
Holding the chute deflector (b) fully upward, 
remove the shipping brace (a). Lower the 
chute deflector (b) and discard the shipping 
brace (a). See Figure 2-3.
(a)
(b)
Figure 2-3
WARNING! The shipping brace (a) is 
used for packaging purposes only, it 
must be removed and discarded 
before operating your tractor.
WARNING! The cutting deck is 
capable of throwing objects. Failure 
to operate the tractor without the 
chute deflector in the proper 
operating position could result in 
serious personal injury and/or 
property damage.
Attaching the Steering Wheel 
1.
  If the steering wheel (a) for your tractor 
did not come attached, the hardware for 
attaching it has been packed within the 
steering wheel (a), beneath the steering 
wheel cap (b). Carefully pry OFF the steering 
wheel cap (b) and remove the cupped 
washer (c) and hex bolt (d).
(d) (b)
(a) (e)
(c)
Figure 2-4
2. 
With the wheels of the tractor pointing 
straight forward, place the steering wheel (a) 
over the steering shaft (e).
3.  Place the cupped washer (c) -- cupped side 
down -- over the steering wheel (a) and 
secure with the hex bolt (d). See Figure 2-4.
4.  Place the steering wheel cap (b) over the 
center of the steering wheel (a) and push 
downward until it “clicks” into place.
Attaching the Seat
If the seat for your tractor was not attached at the 
factory, refer to the following steps.
NOTE: For shipping reasons, seats are either 
fastened to the tractor seat’s pivot bracket with 
a cable tie, or mounted backward to the pivot 
bracket. In either case, remove the seat from its 
shipping position.
1.  Remove the seat adjustment knob (a) from 
the bottom of the seat (b). See Figure 2-5.
(a)(b)
(c)
Figure 2-5
2.  Align the seat (b) over the seat pivot bracket (c) 
as shown in Figure 2-5 and fit the seat (b) onto 
the seat pivot bracket (c) inserting the two tabs 
on the seat (b) bottom into the slots on the seat 
pivot bracket (c).
3.  Slide the seat (b) rearward in the seat pivot 
bracket (c), lining up the center rear slot in 
the seat pivot bracket (c) with the remaining 
hole in the seat (b) base.  See Figure 2-6.
(b)
(c)
(a)
Figure 2-6
NOTE: Be certain the two seat tabs engage 
the seat pivot bracket as shown in the 
bottom right inset of Figure 2-6.
4.  Select the desired position for the seat (b), 
and secure with the adjustment knob (a) 
removed in Step 1. See Figure 2-6. 
SECTION 2 
						

							9
5.  To adjust the position of the seat, remove 
the adjustment knob (a) on the bottom 
of the seat (b). Slide the seat (b) forward 
or backward as desired. Reinstall the 
adjustment knob (a). See Figure 2-6.
Dash Shroud (If Equipped)
There are two shroud types. One shroud for the 
1/3/5/K/T-Style and one for the S-Style dash.
Continue below for the 1/3/5/K/T-Style, skip ahead 
to the S-style section for the S-style dash.
1/3/5/K /T-Style Dash
1.  If the dash shroud (a) was shipped loose, the 
hardware for attaching the dash shroud (a) is 
shipped installed in the dash (c). Remove the 
two bolts (b) from the dash (c) . See Figure 2-7.
(b) (a)
(c)
(a)
(b)
Figure 2-7
2.  Mount the dash shroud (a) and align the 
mounting holes. See Figure 2-7.
3.  Secure the dash shroud (a) to the dash (c) 
with the bolts (b) removed in Step 1. See 
F i g u r e  2 -7.
S-Style Dash
1.  If the dash shroud (a) was shipped loose, the 
hardware for attaching the dash shroud (a) is 
shipped installed in the dash shroud (a) and the 
dash (b). Remove the two bolts (c) and washers 
(d) from the dash (g) and two bolts (e) and clips 
(f ) from the dash shroud (b). See Figure 2-8.
(g)
(b)
(a)
(c) (c)
(d) (d)
(e) (e)
(f) (f)
Figure 2-8
2.  Mount the dash shroud (a) and align the 
mounting holes. Using the bolts (c/e), 
washers (d) and clips (f ) install the dash 
shroud (a) and snug the bolts (c) so that the 
dash shroud (a) can be adjusted.
3. Close the hood and align the dash shroud 
(a) to the hood (g) leaving a uniform gap 
between the hood (g) and the dash shroud (a).
4.  Raise the hood (g) and tighten the bolts (c/e) 
that hold the dash shroud (a) on the dash (b). 
Tire Pressure
WARNING! Equal tire pressure 
should be maintained at all times. 
Never exceed the maximum 
inflation pressure shown on the 
sidewall of the tire.
The recommended operating tire pressure is:
•  Approximately 10 psi for the rear tires 
•  Approximately 14 psi for the front tires
IMPORTANT: Refer to the tire sidewall for exact 
tire manufacturer’s recommended or maximum 
psi. Do not overinflate. Uneven tire pressure could 
cause the cutting deck to mow unevenly.
Gas & Oil Fill-up
Oil
IMPORTANT: Your tractor is shipped with motor 
oil in the engine. However, you MUST check the oil 
level before operating. Be careful not to overfill.
Service and check the engine oil as instructed 
in the Engine Operator’s Manual. Read the 
instructions carefully.
Gasoline
The gasoline tank is located under the hood. Do 
not overfill. 
WARNING!  Use extreme care when 
handling gasoline. Gasoline is 
extremely flammable and the vapors 
are explosive. Never fuel machine 
indoors or while the engine is hot or 
running. Extinguish cigarettes, cigars, 
pipes, and other sources of ignition.
NOTE  : Purchase gasoline in small quantities. Do not 
use gasoline left over from the previous season, to 
minimize gum deposits in the fuel system.
•  This engine is certified to operate on 
unleaded gasoline. For best results, fill the 
fuel tank with only clean, fresh, unleaded 
gasoline with a pump sticker octane rating 
of 87 or higher.
•  Gasohol (up to 10% ethyl alcohol, 90% 
unleaded gasoline by volume) is an 
approved fuel. Other gasoline/alcohol 
blends, such as E85, are not approved.
•  Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether (MTBE) and 
unleaded gasoline blends (up to a maximum 
of 15% MTBE by volume) are approved 
fuels. Other gasoline/ether blends are not 
approved.
•  Fill fuel tank outdoors or in well-ventilated 
area.
•  Never remove gas cap or add fuel while the 
engine is hot or running. Allow engine to 
cool at least two minutes before refueling.
•  If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and 
equipment. Move machine to another area. 
Wait five minutes before starting the engine.
To Add Gasoline
Refer to Figure 2-1 and proceed to your applicable 
model for your gas tank.
Hydrostatic Models
1.  Turn the engine OFF and let the engine cool 
at least two minutes before removing the 
fuel cap. The gasoline tank is located under 
the hood. Remove the fuel cap by turning it 
counter-clockwise. 
2.  Fill the fuel tank with gasoline. Use only 
clean, fresh (no more than 30 days old), 
unleaded gasoline. Fill tank to the base 
of the filler neck to allow space for fuel 
expansion. DO NOT TOP OFF THE TANK 
WITH FUEL. See Figure 2-9.
Figure 2-9
3.  Reinstall the fuel cap.
STOP
STOP!  Continue to Setting the Deck 
Gauge Wheels (If Equipped) on 
page 9.
 
Foot Control CVT Models & CVT Models
1.   Turn the engine OFF and let engine cool 
at least two minutes before removing the 
fuel cap. The gasoline tank is located under 
the hood. Remove the fuel cap by turning it 
counter-clockwise. 
2.  Fill the fuel tank with gasoline. Use only 
clean, fresh (no more than 30 days old), 
unleaded gasoline. Fill tank to no more 
than 1⁄2 ” below bottom of filler neck to allow 
space for fuel expansion. See Figure 2-10.
Figure 2-10
3.  Reinstall the fuel cap.
IMPORTANT:  Do not overfill the tank. Fill 
tank to no more than 1 ⁄2 ” below bottom of  
SECTION 2 
						

							10
filler neck to allow space for fuel expansion. 
See Figure 2-10. 
STOP
STOP! Continue to Setting the Deck 
Gauge Wheels (If Equipped) on 
p age 10.
 
Setting the Deck Gauge Wheels 
(If Equipped)
Move the tractor to a firm and level surface, 
preferably pavement, and proceed as follows:
1.   Select the height position of the cutting 
deck by placing the deck lift lever in the 
normally desired mowing height setting 
(there are six different cutting height 
notches on the right fender).
2.  Check the deck gauge wheels for contact 
or excessive clearance with the surface 
below. The deck gauge wheels should have 
between ¼” and ½” clearance above the 
ground.
If the gauge wheels have excessive clearance or 
contact with the surface, adjust as follows: a. Raise the deck lift handle to its 
highest setting.
b.  Remove the front and rear deck 
gauge wheels (a) by removing the 
lock nuts (b) and shoulder screws (c) 
which secure them to the deck. See 
F i g u r e  2 -11 .
(b)
(a)
(c)
Figure 2-11
c.  Place the deck lift lever in the desired 
mowing height setting.
d.  Reinsert the shoulder screws (c) 
into the index hole that leaves 
approximately ½” between the 
bottom of the deck guage wheel (a)
and the pavement. Secure in place 
with the lock nuts (c).
Refer to Leveling the Deck in the Service section 
on page 10 of this manual for more detailed 
instructions regarding various deck adjustments.
Attaching the Hood Scoop (If Equipped)
On some tractors, a hood scoop may be included. 
If the hood scoop was not installed on the hood of 
your tractor at the factory, refer to the following 
steps to install the hood scoop:
1.   Cut the cable ties securing the hood scoop 
to the tractor.
2.  Remove the four screws pre-installed in the 
hood scoop and retain for Step 4.
3.  Snap the hood scoop into place using the 
hood as your guide. See Figure 2-12.
Figure 2-12
4.  Install the hood scoop onto the hood of the 
tractor and secure from the underside using 
the four screws removed in Step 2.
Moving the Tractor Manually
Refer to Figure 2-1 and proceed to your applicable 
model.
Hydrostatic Models
Hydrostatic models are equipped with a 
hydrostatic relief valve when it is necessary to 
move the tractor manually. Activating this valve 
forces the fluid in the transmission to bypass 
its normal route, allowing the rear tires to 
“freewheel.” To engage the hydrostatic relief valve, 
proceed as follows:
1.  Locate the hydrostatic bypass rod in the rear 
of the tractor. See Figure 2-13.
Figure 2-13 2. 
Pull the hydrostatic bypass rod outward, 
then down, to lock it in place.
NOTE: The transmission will NOT engage 
when the hydrostatic bypass rod is pulled 
out. Return the rod to its normal position 
prior to operating the tractor.
IMPORTANT: Never attempt to move the 
tractor manually without first engaging 
the hydrostatic relief valve. Doing so will 
result in serious damage to the tractor’s 
transmission.
STOP
STOP!  Continue to Controls & 
Operations section page 10.  
 
Foot Control CVT & CVT Models
CV T models can be placed in the NEUTRAL (N)
position when it is necessary to move the tractor 
manually. To move the tractor manually, place the 
shift lever in the NEUTRAL (N) position.
STOP
STOP!  Continue to Controls & 
Operations section page 10.  
  
SECTION 2