50in Bagger

Model No. 79398-Serial No. 400000000 and Up

Introduction

Read this information carefully to learn how to operate and maintain your product properly and to avoid injury and product damage. You are responsible for operating the product properly and safely.

Whenever you need service, genuine parts, or additional information, contact an Authorized Service Dealer or Customer Service and have the model and serial numbers of your product ready. Figure 1 identifies the location of the model and serial numbers on the product. Write the numbers in the space provided.

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Figure 1

  1. Model and serial number location

This manual identifies potential hazards and has safety messages identified by the safety-alert symbol (Figure 2), which signals a hazard that may cause serious injury or death if you do not follow the recommended precautions.

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Figure 2

Safety-alert symbol

This manual uses 2 words to highlight information. Important calls attention to special mechanical information and Note emphasizes general information worthy of special attention.

Safety

Danger

The engine can become hot when operating. Severe burns can occur from contacting hot surfaces.

Allow engines, especially the muffler, to cool before touching.

Danger

Debris, such as leaves, grass, or brush can catch fire. A fire in the engine area can cause personal injury and property damage.

  • Keep the engine and muffler area free of debris.

  • Take care when opening the bagger cover to keep debris from falling onto the engine and muffler area.

  • Allow the machine to cool before storing it.

  • Become familiar with the safe operation of the equipment, with the operator controls, and safety signs.

  • Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments. These can change the operating characteristics and the stability of the machine.

  • Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for adding or removing wheel weights or counterweights to improve stability.

  • Do not use a grass catcher on steep slopes. A heavy grass catcher could cause loss of control or overturn the machine.

  • Slow down and use extra care on hillsides. Be sure to travel in the recommended direction on hillsides. Turf conditions can affect the stability of the machine. Use extreme caution while operating near drop-offs.

  • Keep all movement on slopes slow and gradual. Do not make sudden changes in speed, directions or turning.

  • The grass catcher can obstruct the view to the rear. Use extra care when operating in reverse.

  • Use care when loading or unloading the machine into a trailer or truck.

  • Never operate with the discharge deflector raised, removed or altered, unless using a grass catcher.

  • Keep hands and feet away from moving parts. Do not make adjustments with the engine running.

  • Stop the machine on level ground, disengage the drives, chock or block the wheels, shut off the engine, and remove the key before leaving the operator's position for any reason, including emptying the grass catcher or unclogging the chute.

  • If you remove the grass catcher, install any discharge deflector or guard that might have been removed to install the grass catcher. Do not operate the machine without either the entire grass catcher or the grass deflector in place.

  • Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage and deterioration, which could expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check components and replace with manufacturer's recommended parts, when necessary.

Safety and Instructional Decals

Graphic

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 missing.
decal109-6809

109-6809

  1. Crushing hazard of hand—do not remove the whole bagger from the machine; open the bagger top and then remove the bag(s) from the bagger. Do not remove the bagger top when it is closed; open the bagger top and then remove it.
decal131-4036

131-4036

  1. The maximum drawbar pull is 36 kg (80 lb).
  2. Read the Operator's Manual.
decal110-6691

110-6691

  1. Thrown object hazard—keep bystanders a safe distance from the machine.
  2. Thrown object hazard, mower—do not operate without the deflector, discharge cover, or grass collection system in place.
  3. Cutting/dismemberment of hand or foot—stay away from moving parts.

Setup

Installing the Weight

Parts needed for this procedure:

Bolt (3/8 x 1-1/4 inches)4
Locknut (3/8 inch)4
Left weight mounting bracket1
Right weight mounting bracket1
Washers4
Weight bracket1
Bolt (3/8 x 1 inch)2
Flat weight1
Suitcase weight1
Keyed crossbar1

Note: This procedure is only for models with control levers. Steering wheel models do not need weights installed.

Caution

The bagger changes the weight distribution of the machine. Operating the machine without the front weights may cause an unstable condition which could result in a loss of control.

Ensure the front weights are properly installed before operating the machine with the bagger attachment.

  1. If you are installing this bagger on a machine equipped with MyRIDE, perform the following steps:

    1. Remove the bolt and nut from the front shock assembly (Figure 3); retain the hardware.

      Note: This allows you to raise the foot platform so that you may remove the rail guards.

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      Figure 3

      1. Nut
      2. Bolt

    2. Remove the 2 rail guards and 6 hex-washer head screws (1/4 x 13/16 inch) from the platform (Figure 4).

      Retain the removed hardware.

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      Figure 4

      1. Rail guard
      2. Hex-washer head screw (1/4 x 13/16 inch)

  2. Locate the front bolts on the underside of the frame (Figure 5 and Figure 6).

  3. Remove the 2 bolts (3/8 x 1 inch) and 2 locknuts (3/8 inch) as shown in Figure 5 and Figure 6.

    Retain the locknuts.

    g014875

    Figure 5

    1. Front, right caster (caster fork and wheel not shown for clarity)
    2. Front hole (right side)
    3. Bolt (3/8 x 1 inch)
    4. Locknut (3/8 inch)
    g014877

    Figure 6

    1. Locknut (3/8 inch)
    2. Front hole (left side)
    3. Front, left caster (caster fork and wheel not shown for clarity)
    4. Bolt (3/8 x 1 inch)

  4. Locate the left and right weight-mounting brackets in loose parts.

  5. Install the left bracket to the under side of the frame using 2 bolts (3/8 x 1-1/4 inches), 2 washers and 2 locknuts (3/8 inch) as shown in Figure 7.

    Note: One locknut is from loose parts and the other is used from earlier removal.

    g014878

    Figure 7

    1. Existing locknut (3/8 inch)
    2. Forward hole on the left side
    3. Front, left caster (caster fork and wheel not shown for clarity)
    4. Locknut (3/8 inch) from loose parts
    5. Existing hole in the frame
    6. Washer
    7. Bolt (3/8 x 1-1/4 inches)
    8. Left mounting bracket

  6. On the right side of the machine, install the right weight-mounting bracket as follows:

    • For machines without a foot assist lift pedal, secure the bracket using 2 bolts (3/8 x 1-1/4 inches), 2 washers and 2 locknuts (3/8 inch) as shown in Figure 8.

      Note: A locknut is from loose parts and the other is used from earlier removal.

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      Figure 8

      1. Front, right caster (caster fork and wheel not shown for clarity)
      2. Forward hole on the right side
      3. Existing locknut (3/8 inch)
      4. Right mounting bracket
      5. Bolt (3/8 x 1-1/4 inches)
      6. Washer
      7. Existing hole in the frame
      8. Locknut (3/8 inch) from loose parts

      Note: For machines with a foot assist lift pedal, the washers are not used.

    • For machines with a foot assist lift pedal, Remove the forward fasteners in the foot assist lift pedal bracket and secure the bracket using 2 bolts and 2 locknuts (Figure 9).

      Note: One locknut is from loose parts and the other is used from earlier removal.

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      Figure 9

      1. Front, right caster (caster fork and wheel not shown for clarity)
      2. Front hole on right side
      3. Existing locknut (3/8 inch)
      4. Right mounting bracket
      5. Bolt (3/8 x 1-1/4 inches)
      6. Foot-assist lift pedal bracket
      7. Existing hole in the bracket
      8. Locknut (3/8 inch) from loose parts

  7. Install the weight bracket to the mounting brackets by aligning the outboard holes in the bracket with the mounting brackets installed previously (Figure 10).

    Note: Ensure that the bracket is centered on the frame.

  8. Secure the weight bracket with 2 bolts (3/8 x 1 inch) and 2 locknuts (3/8 inch) as shown in Figure 10.

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    Figure 10

    1. Locknut (3/8 inch)
    2. Weight bracket
    3. Left mounting bracket
    4. Bolt (3/8 x 1 inch)
    5. Right mounting bracket

  9. Install a flat weight to the weight bracket and move it rearward, flush with the bracket (Figure 11).

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    Figure 11

    1. Keyed crossbar
    2. Flat weight
    3. Suitcase weight

  10. Install a suitcase weight in front of the flat weight (Figure 11).

  11. Secure the weights to the weight bracket with a keyed crossbar (Figure 11). Install the bar and rotate it 90 degrees downward to lock it in place.

  12. Once all the weights and brackets have been installed, check that all the fasteners are tight. Tighten as necessary.

    Important: Whenever you remove the bagger attachment, remember to remove the front weights to return the proper stability to the machine.

  13. If you are installing this bagger on a machine equipped with MyRIDE, perform the following steps:

    1. Install the previously removed 2 rail guards using the 6 hex-washer head screws (1/4 x 13/16 inch) as shown in Figure 4.

    2. Install the previously removed bolt and nut to the front shock; refer to Figure 3.

Installing the Attachment Mount

Parts needed for this procedure:

Stabilizer bracket1
Carriage bolt (5/16 x 3/4 inch)2
Locknut (5/16 inch)4
Self-tapping screw (5/16 x 3/4 inch)2
Bolt (5/16 x 1 inch)2
Pivot frame 1
Hairpin cotter 2
Rod 2
Washer 2
Drawbar decal1

  1. Install the stabilizer bracket to the engine guard using 2 carriage bolts (5/16 x 3/4 inch) and 2 locknuts (5/16 inch) as shown in Figure 12.

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    Figure 12

    1. Stabilizer bracket
    2. Carriage bolt (5/16 x 3/4 inch)
    3. Locknut (5/16 inch)

  2. Install the pivot frame to the machine frame as shown in Figure 13. Secure the pivot frame to the machine frame using 2 bolts (5/16 x 1 inch) and 2 locknuts (5/16 inch).

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    Figure 13

    1. Machine frame
    2. Locknut (5/16 inch)
    3. Hole
    4. Bolt (5/16 x 1 inch)
    5. Pivot frame

  3. Secure the pivot frame to the bottom of the machine frame using 2 self-tapping screws (5/16 x 3/4 inch) as shown in Figure 14.

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    Figure 14

    1. Self-tapping screw (5/16 x 3/4 inch)
    2. Pivot frame

  4. Attach the drawbar decal 1.3 cm (1/2 inch) to the left of the attachment mount (Figure 15).

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    Figure 15

    1. Drawbar decal

  5. Install the bent, flared end of a rod into the keyed slot in the left side of the machine frame, and move the rod rearward to seat it in the frame (Figure 16).

    Note: Repeat this step for the right side of the machine.

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    Figure 16

    Left side shown

    1. Pivot frame hole
    2. Washer
    3. Hairpin cotter
    4. Support rod
    5. Keyed slot, existing
    6. Bent, flared end of rod

  6. Insert the bent ends of the rods into the attachment mount as shown in Figure 16 and secure the end of each rod with a washer and hairpin cotter.

Installing the Latch Rod

Parts needed for this procedure:

Latch rod1
Hairpin cotter1

Install the latch rod with a hairpin cotter (Figure 17).

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Figure 17

  1. Hairpin cotter
  2. Latch rod

Assembling the Bagger Top

Parts needed for this procedure:

Bagger top1
Bagger screen1

  1. Turn the bagger top over.

  2. Install the screen as shown in Figure 18 and that it slopes down toward the collection bags.

    Note: Ensure that the screens snap into place and the tabs engage the bagger top.

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    Figure 18

    1. Bagger top
    2. Screen
    3. Screen tab
    4. Slot in bagger top

Installing the Bagger Top

Parts needed for this procedure:

Grass bag2
Upper bagger tube1

  1. Install the bagger top to the bagger frame.

  2. Rotate the bagger top to align the key holes in the bagger top brackets with the keys in the posts on the bagger frame (Figure 19).

  3. Slide the brackets over the posts and rotate the bagger top down to the operating position.

    Note: The bagger top is easier to install if 2 people work together.

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    Figure 19

    1. Bagger top
    2. Bagger frame
    3. Key hole
    4. Bracket, bagger top
    5. Key
    6. Post

  4. Lift the bagger top and install the bags by sliding the bag frame hooks onto the retaining brackets (Figure 20).

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    Figure 20

    1. Bag
    2. Bagger frame
    3. Retaining bracket
    4. Bag frame hook

  5. Lower the bagger top onto the bags (Figure 21).

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    Figure 21

  6. Secure the hood with the latch (Figure 21).

  7. Install the upper bagger tube by inserting the curved end into the opening in the bagger top.

    Note: Ensure that the flared end with the retention post is pointing down and forward in preparation to be mated with the Finishing Kit.

Installing the Chute

Parts needed for this procedure:

Chute1
Knob1
Carriage bolt (5/16 x 1-3/8 inches)1
Flange nut (5/16 inch)1

  1. Remove the plate assembly that includes the side-discharge chute (Figure 22).

    Note: The baffle comes off at the same time. Save this hardware and plate assembly.

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    Figure 22

    1. Flange nuts
    2. Plate assembly with discharge chute
    3. Carriage bolts
    4. Existing baffle
    Installing the Chute

    Video 1

  2. Install the existing baffle with the existing bolts and nuts after removing the plate assembly (Figure 23).

  3. Install a carriage bolt and flange nut into the front hole shown in Figure 23.

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    Figure 23

    1. Existing nuts
    2. New flange nut (5/16 inch)
    3. New carriage bolt (5/16 x 1-3/8 inches)
    4. Existing bolts
    5. Existing baffle

  4. Align the hole in the chute and install it onto the bolt. Secure the chute to the mower deck with the knob and flat washer (5/16 inch) as shown in Figure 24.

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    Figure 24

    1. Knob
    2. Flat washer (5/16 inch)
    3. Chute
    4. Bolt

  5. Hook the flexible latch on the chute to the retaining clasp welded on the mower deck to the rear of the opening (Figure 25).

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    Figure 25

    1. Chute
    2. Flexible latch
    3. Retaining clasp (welded to the mower deck)

  6. Rotate the latch until it hooks into the hole in the mower deck stiffener (Figure 26).

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    Figure 26

    1. Latch
    2. Hole in the mower deck stiffener

Connecting with the Discharge Tube

Parts needed for this procedure:

Discharge tube1

  1. Slide the curved end of the discharge tube into the opening in the bagger top (Figure 27).

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    Figure 27

    1. Discharge tube
    2. Opening in bagger top
    3. Flared end of the discharge tube
    4. Peg
    5. Rubber strap

  2. Slide the flared end of the discharge tube over the end of the chute. Move the rubber retaining strap on the chute snaps over the peg on the discharge tube to secure it (Figure 27).

  3. After the bagger installation, install the wire onto the spark plug(s).

Operation

Note: Determine the left and right sides of the machine from the normal operating position.

Warning

To avoid personal injury, follow these procedures:

  • Become familiar with all operating and safety instructions in the Operator's Manual for the mower before using this attachment.

  • Never remove the discharge tube, bags, bagger top, or the chute while the engine is running.

  • Always shut off the engine, wait for all moving parts to stop, and remove the key before clearing an obstruction from the bagging system.

  • Never do maintenance or repairs while the engine is running.

Emptying the Grass Bags

Be careful when lifting or handling a grass bag that is full. To empty the grass bags:

  1. Park the machine on a level surface and disengage the blade control switch.

  2. Move the motion control levers outward to the neutral lock position, stop the engine, remove the key, set the parking brake and wait for all moving parts to stop before leaving the operating position.

  3. Open (raise) the bagger top (Figure 28).

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    Figure 28

  4. Compress debris into the bags. With both hands, lift up on the bag and unhook it from the retaining bracket. Empty the bag. Repeat the procedure for the other bag.

  5. Install the bags by sliding the bag frame hooks onto the retaining brackets (Figure 29).

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    Figure 29

    1. Bag
    2. Bagger frame
    3. Retaining bracket
    4. Bag-frame hook

  6. Lower the bagger top onto the bags.

Clearing Obstructions from the Bagger

  1. Park the machine on a level surface and disengage the blade control switch.

  2. Move the motion control levers outward to the neutral lock position, stop the engine, remove the key, set the parking brake and wait for all moving parts to stop before leaving the operating position.

  3. Check the grass bags and empty them if they are full.

  4. Separate the discharge tube and chute.

  5. Remove the discharge tube and chute from the bagger top and mower deck. Using a stick or similar object, carefully remove and clear the obstruction from the mower, discharge tube, chute, and the bagger top.

  6. After you remove the obstruction, install the complete bagger system and resume operation.

Removing the Bagger

Caution

Failing to remove the front bagger weights and operating the machine without the bagger attachment may cause an unstable condition which could result in a loss of control.

  • Always remove the front weights when removing the bagger attachment.

  • Never operate the machine without the bagger attachment and the front weights still installed.

The bagger can be removed by repeating the Setup sections from all installed bagger related kits in reverse order. If weights are installed, always remove the front bagger weights when removing the bagger attachments.

Note: It is only necessary to remove the cutoff baffle when installing a mulching kit.

Using the Drawbar

The bagger support bracket has a drawbar feature that can be used for towing.

  • Read and understand all the operating instructions of the machine.

  • When turning, slow down and observe the clearance.

  • Make wide turns and keep towed equipment clear of the towing vehicle.

  • The maximum drawbar pull is 36 kg (80 lb).

  • Excessive drawbar pull may cause hydrostatic transmission failure.

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    Figure 30

    1. Bagger support bracket with drawbar

Operating Tips

Tips for Bagging

Remembering the Size

Remember that the machine is longer and wider with this attachment installed. By turning too sharply in confined places you may damage the attachment.

Trimming

Always trim with the left side of the mower. Do not trim with the right side of the mower because you could damage the bagger chute and discharge tube.

Cutting Height

Do not set the mower cutting height too low because long grass surrounding the mower can prevent air from getting under the mower and entering the bagging system. If enough air does not get under the mower, the bagging system will plug.

Cutting Frequency

Cut the grass often, especially when it grows rapidly. You will have to cut your grass twice if it gets excessively long.

Cutting Technique

For best lawn appearance, be sure to slightly overlap the mower into the previously cut area. This helps reduce the load on the engine and reduces the chance of plugging the chute and discharge tube.

Bagging Speed

Most often you will bag with the mower throttle in the Fast position and drive at a normal ground speed. However, in extremely dry and dusty grass, you may want to slightly reduce the throttle speed and increase the ground speed of the mower. The bagging system may plug if you drive too fast and the engine speed gets too slow. On hills it may be necessary to slow the mower ground speed. This helps maintain the engine speed and bagging efficiency. Mow downhill whenever possible.

Caution

As the bagger fills, extra weight is added to the back of the machine. If you stop and start suddenly on hills, you may lose steering control or the machine may tip.

  • Do not start or stop suddenly when going uphill or downhill. Avoid uphill starts.

  • If you do stop the machine when going uphill, disengage the blade control. Then back down the hill using a slow speed.

  • Avoid sudden turns or rapid speed changes on slopes.

  • Do not operate the machine without the bagger attachment and the front weights still installed.

Bagging Long Grass

Excessively long grass is heavy and may not be propelled completely into the grass bags. If this happens, the discharge tube and chute may plug. To avoid plugging the bagging system, mow the grass at a high height of cut, then lower the mower to your normal cutting height and repeat the bagging process.

Bagging Wet Grass

Always try to cut grass when it is dry because your lawn will have a neat appearance. If you must cut wet grass, use the conventional side discharge feature of the mower. Several hours later, when the clippings are dry, install the complete bagger attachment and vacuum up the grass clippings.

Signs of Plugging

As you are bagging, a small amount of grass clippings normally blow out the front of the mower. An excessive amount of clippings blowing out indicates that the bags are full or the system is plugged.

Maintenance

Note: Determine the left and right sides of the machine from the normal operating position.

Recommended Maintenance Schedule(s)

Maintenance Service IntervalMaintenance Procedure
After the first 10 operating hours
  • Inspect the bagger.
    		•
    Before each use or daily
  • Clean the bagger.
    		•
    Before storage
  • Inspect the bagger.
  • Clean the bagger.
    		•

    Caution

    If you leave the key in the ignition switch, someone could accidently start the engine and seriously injure you or other bystanders.

    Remove the key from the ignition and disconnect the wire from the spark plug before you do any maintenance. Set the wire aside so that it does not accidentally contact the spark plug.

    Danger

    Engines can become hot when they are operating. Severe burns can occur from contacting hot surfaces.

    Allow engines, especially the muffler, to cool before touching.

    Danger

    Debris, such as leaves, grass, or brush can catch fire. A fire in the engine area can cause personal injury and property damage.

    • Keep the engine and muffler area free of debris accumulation.

    • Take care when opening the bagger cover to keep debris from falling onto the engine and muffler area.

    • Allow the machine to cool before storing it.

    Inspecting the Bagger Attachment

    1. Check the chute, discharge tube, and the bagger top. Replace these parts if they are cracked or broken.

    2. Tighten all nuts, bolts, and screws.

    3. Inspect all fasteners and latches; replace any missing or damaged.

    4. Inspect the grass bags for deterioration.

      Warning

      You or bystanders could be severely injured by flying debris or thrown objects that may pass through torn, worn, or deteriorated grass bags.

      • Check the grass bags for holes, rips, wear, and other deterioration.

      • Do not wash the grass bags.

      • If the bag has deteriorated, install new grass bags supplied by the manufacturer of this bagger attachment.

    Inspecting the Mower Blades

    Inspect the mower blades regularly and whenever a blade strikes a foreign object.

    If the blades are badly worn or damaged, install new blades. Refer to your mower or mower Operator's Manual for complete blade maintenance.

    Cleaning the Bagger Attachment

    1. After each use, remove and wash the inside and outside of the bagger top, discharge tube, chute, and the underside of the mower, using water sprayed from a garden hose. Use a mild detergent to remove stubborn dirt.

    2. Remove matted grass from all parts.

    3. Flush the grass bags with water using garden hose to remove any debris.

    4. After washing, let all of the parts dry thoroughly.

    Storage

    Storing the Bagger Attachment

    Note: To prevent rapid deterioration of the bag material, store the bags where they will dry completely after each use.

    1. Clean the bagger attachment; refer to Cleaning the Bagger Attachment.

    2. Inspect the bagger attachment for damage; refer to Inspecting the Bagger Attachment.

    3. Ensure that the grass bags are empty and thoroughly dry.

    4. Store the bagger in a clean, dry place, out of direct sunlight. If you must store the bagger outside, cover it with a weatherproof cover.