Reelmaster® 3550 Traction Unit

Before starting the machine each day, perform the Each Use/Daily procedures listed in .

1. Start the engine, raise the cutting units, disengage the parking brake, and move the machine to an open flat area.

2. Engage the parking brake (Figure 28).

   

   Figure 28

3. Press the traction pedal to move the machine forward.

   Note: If the machine moves forward with the parking brake engaged, adjust parking brake; refer to Adjusting the Parking Brake.

   Note: Moving the machine forward with the parking brake engaged will cause the engine to shutoff.

4. If you adjusted the parking brake, repeat steps 2 and 3.

   Note: If the machine moves forward with the parking brake engaged: service the parking brakes, check left and right brake linkage for damage, and check the brake lever pivot for damage; refer to Servicing the Parking Brakes.

5. Shut off the engine, remove the key, and wait for all moving parts to stop before leaving the operator’s seat.

Use only clean, fresh diesel fuel or biodiesel fuels with low (<500 ppm) or ultra low (<15 ppm) sulfur content. The minimum cetane rating should be 40. Purchase fuel in quantities that can be used within 180 days to ensure fuel freshness.

The fuel tank capacity is approximately 42 L (11 US gallons).

Use summer-grade diesel fuel (Number 2-D) at temperatures above -7°C (20°F) and winter-grade diesel fuel (Number 1-D or Number 1-D/2-D blend) below -7°C (20°F ). Using winter-grade fuel at lower temperatures provides lower flash-point and cold-flow characteristics that ease starting and reduce plugging of the fuel filter.

Using summer-grade fuel above -7° C (20° F) will contribute toward longer fuel pump life and increased power compared to winter-grade fuel.

Biodiesel Ready

This machine can also use a biodiesel blended fuel of up to B20 (20% biodiesel, 80% petrodiesel). The petrodiesel portion should be low or ultra-low sulfur. Observe the following precautions:

• The biodiesel portion of the fuel must meet specification ASTM D6751 or EN14214.

• The blended fuel composition should meet ASTM D975 or EN590.

• Painted surfaces may be damaged by biodiesel blends.

• Use B5 (biodiesel content of 5%) or lesser blends in cold weather

• Monitor seals, hoses, and gaskets in contact with fuel as they may be degraded over time.

• Expect plugging of the fuel filter for a time after converting to biodiesel blends.

• Contact your authorized Toro distributor for more information on biodiesel.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting units, engage the parking brake, shut off the engine, and remove the key.

2. Clean the area around the fuel-tank cap (Figure 29).

3. Remove the fuel-tank cap.

4. Fill the tank to the bottom of the filler neck. Do not overfill the tank. Install the cap.

5. Wipe up any spilled fuel.

   

   Figure 29

   1. Fuel-tank cap

   Danger

   Under certain conditions, fuel and fuel vapors are highly flammable and explosive. A fire or explosion from fuel can burn you and others and can cause property damage.

   Do not fill the fuel tank completely full. Add fuel to the fuel tank until the level is 6 to 13 mm (1/4 to 1/2 inch) below the bottom of the filler neck. This empty space in the tank allows the fuel to expand.

Torque the wheel nuts to 61 to 88 N∙m (45 to 65 ft-lb).

You may need to bleed the fuel system if any of the following situations have occurred; refer to Bleeding the Fuel System:

• Initial startup of a new engine

• The engine has ceased running due to lack of fuel.

• Maintenance has been performed upon the fuel system components; i.e. filter replaced, etc.

1. Ensure that the parking brake is engaged and the cutting unit drive switch is in the DISENGAGE position.

2. Remove your foot from the traction pedal and ensure that the pedal is in the NEUTRAL position.

3. Move the throttle lever to the 1/2 throttle position.

4. Insert the key into the switch and rotate it to the ON/PREHEAT position until the glow-plug indicator light goes out (approximately 7 seconds); then rotate the key to the START position to engage the starter motor.

   Note: Release the key when the engine starts. The key will move automatically to the ON/RUN position.

   Important: To prevent overheating of the starter motor, do not engage the starter for longer than 15 seconds. After 10 seconds of continuous cranking, wait 60 seconds before engaging the starter motor again.

5. When the engine is started for the first time or after an overhaul of the engine, operate the machine in forward and reverse for 1 to 2 minutes. Also operate the lift lever and cutting unit drive switch to ensure proper operation of all parts.

   Turn the steering wheel to the left and right to check steering response; then shut off the engine and check for oil leaks, loose parts, and any other noticeable malfunctions.

   Caution

   Contact with moving parts could result in injury.

   Shut off the engine and wait for all moving parts to stop before checking for oil leaks, loose parts, and other malfunctions.

Move the throttle control to the IDLE position, move the cutting unit drive switch to DISENGAGE, and rotate the starter key to OFF. Remove the key from the switch to prevent accidental starting.

To achieve a consistent, high quality of cut and a uniform after cut appearance, it is important that you set the reel speed controls (located under the seat) correctly. Adjust the reel speed controls as follows:

1. Select the height of cut at which the cutting units are set.

2. Choose the desired ground speed best suited for conditions.

3. Use the graph on the reel speed chart decal (Figure 31), to determine the proper reel speed setting.

   

   Figure 31

   1. 8-blade reel adjustment
   2. 11-blade reel adjustment
   3. Read the Operator’s Manual for information on adjusting the reel.

4. To set the reel speed, rotate the knob (Figure 32) until the indicator arrow is in line with the number designating the desired setting.

   

   Figure 32

   1. Reel speed control knob

   Note: You can increase or decrease the reel speed to compensate for turf conditions. When using baskets, increase the reel speed to improve collection performance.

You can adjust the counterbalance on the lift arms of the rear cutting units to compensate for different turf conditions and to maintain a uniform height of cut in rough conditions or in areas of thatch buildup.

You can adjust each counterbalance spring to 1 of 4 settings. Each increment increases or decreases counterbalance on the cutting unit by 2.3 kg (5 lb). You can position the springs on the back side of the first spring actuator to remove all counterbalance (fourth position).

1. Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting units, engage the parking brake, shut off the engine, and remove the key from the ignition switch.

2. Insert a tube or similar object onto the long spring end to relieve the spring tension during the adjustment (Figure 33).

   Caution

   The springs are under tension and could cause personal injury.

   Use caution when adjusting them.

3. While relieving the spring tension, remove the bolt and locknut securing the spring actuator to the bracket (Figure 33).

   

   Figure 33

   1. Spring
   2. Spring actuator
   3. Additional hole locations

4. Move the spring actuator to the desired hole location and secure it with the bolt and the locknut.

5. Repeat the procedure on the remaining spring.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting units, engage the parking brake, shut off the engine, and remove the key.

2. Ensure that the fuel tank is at least half full.

3. Unlatch and raise the hood.

4. Open the air-bleed screw on the fuel-injection pump (Figure 34).

   

   Figure 34

   1. Fuel-injection pump bleed screw

5. Turn the key in the ignition switch to the ON position. The electric fuel pump will begin operation, thereby forcing air out around the air-bleed screw.

   Note: Leave the key in the ON position until a solid stream of fuel flows out around the screw.

6. Tighten the screw and turn the ignition key to OFF.

Note: Normally the engine should start after the above bleeding procedures are followed. However, if the engine does not start, air may be trapped between the injection pump and injectors; refer to Bleeding Air from the Injectors.

The machine is equipped with a diagnostic light that indicates if the electronic controller senses an electronic malfunction. The diagnostic light is located on the control panel (Figure 35). When the electronic controller is functioning correctly and you move the key switch to the ON position, the controller diagnostic light turns on for 3 seconds and turn off to indicate that the light is working properly. If the engine shuts off, then the light turns on steady until the you change key position. The light blinks if the controller detects a malfunction in the electrical system. The light stops blinking and automatically resets when you turn the key switch to the OFF position once the fault has been resolved.

Figure 35

1. Diagnostic light

When the controller diagnostic light blinks, 1 of the following problems has been detected by the controller:

• An output has been shorted.

• An output is open circuited.

Using the diagnostic display, determine which output is malfunctioning; refer to Checking the Interlock Switches.

If the diagnostic light is not illuminated when the key switch is in the ON position, this indicates that the electronic controller is not operating. Possible causes are as follows:

• The loop-back is not connected.

• The light is burned out.

• Fuses are blown.

• It is not functioning correctly.

  Check the electrical connections, input fuses, and diagnostic light bulb to determine the malfunction. Ensure that the loop-back connector is secured to the wire harness connector.

The machine is equipped with an electronic controller which controls most machine functions. The controller determines what function is required for various input switches (i.e., seat switch, key switch, etc.) and turns on the outputs to actuate solenoids or relays for the requested machine function.

For the electronic controller to control the machine as desired, each of the input switches, output solenoids, and relays must be connected and functioning properly.

Use the Diagnostic ACE display to help verify and correct electrical functions of the machine.

The purpose of the interlock switches is to prevent the engine from cranking or starting unless the traction pedal is in the NEUTRAL position, the Enable/Disable switch is in the DISABLE position, and the Lower Mow/Raise control is in the NEUTRAL position. In addition, the engine should shut off when you press the traction pedal with no one in the seat or if the parking brake is engaged.

• Remove the key and shut off the fuel (if equipped) before storing or transporting the machine.

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

• Use full-width ramps for loading the machine into a trailer or truck.

• Tie the machine down securely.

1. Unlatch and raise the hood.

2. Remove the hairpin cotter securing the hood pivot to the mounting brackets (Figure 39).

   

   Figure 39

   1. Hairpin cotter

3. Slide the hood to the right side, lift the other side, and pull it out of the brackets.

Note: Reverse the procedure to install the hood.

Loosen the knobs and remove the battery cover (Figure 40).

Note: Refer to Servicing the Battery for more information.

Figure 40

1. Battery cover

Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting units, engage the parking brake, shut off the engine, and remove the key from the ignition switch.

Lubricate the grease fittings regularly with No. 2 lithium grease. Lubricate the bearings and bushings daily when operating conditions are extremely dusty and dirty. Dusty and dirty operating conditions could cause dirt to get into the bearings and bushings, resulting in accelerated wear. Lubricate the grease fittings immediately after every washing, regardless of the interval specified.

The grease fitting locations and quantities are as follows:

• Steering pivot (Figure 41)

  

  Figure 41

• Front lift-arm pivots and lift cylinders (3 each); refer to Figure 42.

  

  Figure 42

• Rear lift-arm pivots and lift cylinders (3 each side); refer to Figure 43.

  

  Figure 43

• Cutting unit pivots (2 each); refer to Figure 44.

  

  Figure 44

• Neutral adjust mechanism (Figure 45)

  

  Figure 45

• Mow/transport slide (Figure 46)

  

  Figure 46

• Belt tension pivot (Figure 47)

  

  Figure 47

The engine is shipped with oil in the crankcase; however, the oil level must be checked before and after the engine is first started.

Crankcase capacity is approximately 3.8 L (4 US qt) with the filter.

Use high-quality engine oil that meets the following specifications:

• API Classification Level Required: CH-4, CI-4 or higher.

• Preferred oil: SAE 15W-40 (above 0ºF (-17ºC))

• Alternate oil: SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30 (all temperatures)

Note: Toro Premium Engine Oil is available from your distributor in either 15W-40 or 10W-30 viscosity. Refer to the Parts Catalog for part numbers.

Note: The best time to check the engine oil is when the engine is cool before it has been started for the day. If it has already been run, allow the oil to drain back down to the sump for at least 10 minutes before checking. If the oil level is at or below the Add mark on the dipstick, add oil to bring the oil level to the Full mark. Do not overfill the engine. If the oil level is between the Full and Add marks, no oil addition is required.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting units, engage the parking brake, shut off the engine, and remove the key.

2. Remove the dipstick (Figure 48) and wipe it with a clean rag.

   

   Figure 48

   1. Dipstick

3. Push the dipstick down into the dipstick tube and make sure that it is seated fully. Pull the dipstick out and check the oil level.

4. If the oil level is low, remove the oil-fill cap (Figure 49) and gradually add small quantities of oil, checking the level frequently, until the level reaches the Full mark on the dipstick.

   

   Figure 49

   1. Oil-fill cap

5. Install the oil-fill cap and close the hood.

• Check the air-cleaner body for damage which could cause an air leak. Replace it if it is damaged. Check the whole intake system for leaks, damage, or loose hose clamps.

• Service the air cleaner at the recommended service interval or earlier if engine performance suffers due to extremely dusty, dirty conditions. Changing the air filter before it is necessary only increases the chance of dirt entering the engine when you remove the filter.

• Be sure that the cover is seated correctly and seals with the air-cleaner body.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting units, engage the parking brake, shut off the engine, and remove the key.

2. Release the latches securing the air-cleaner cover to the air-cleaner body (Figure 50).

3. Remove the cover from the air-cleaner body (Figure 50).

4. Before removing the filter, use low-pressure air (276 kPa [40 psi], clean and dry) to help remove large accumulations of debris packed between outside of primary filter and the canister.

   Note: Avoid using high-pressure air, which could force dirt through the filter into the intake tract. This cleaning process prevents debris from migrating into the intake when you remove the primary filter.

5. Remove and replace the filter (Figure 50).

   Do not clean the used element because it could damage the filter media.

   

   Figure 50

   1. Air-cleaner cover
   2. Filter

6. Inspect the new filter for shipping damage, checking the sealing end of the filter and the body.

   Important: Do not use a damaged element.

7. Insert the new filter by applying pressure to the outer rim of the element to seat it in the canister.

   Important: Do not apply pressure to the flexible center of the filter.

8. Clean the dirt-ejection port located in the removable cover.

9. Remove the rubber outlet valve from the cover, clean the cavity and replace the outlet valve.

10. Install the cover orienting the rubber outlet valve in a downward position—between approximately 5 o’clock to 7 o’clock when viewed from the end.

11. Secure the cover latches.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting units, engage the parking brake, shut off the engine, and remove the key.

2. Remove either drain plug (Figure 51) and let the oil flow into a drain pan. When the oil stops flowing, install the drain plug.

   

   Figure 51

   1. Engine-oil drain plugs

3. Remove the oil filter (Figure 52).

   

   Figure 52

   1. Engine oil filter

4. Apply a light coat of clean oil to the new filter seal, and install the filter.

   Important: Do not overtighten the filter.

5. Add oil to the crankcase; refer to Checking the Engine-Oil Level.

Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting units, engage the parking brake, shut off the engine, and remove the key.

Drain and clean the tank if the fuel system becomes contaminated or if the machine will be stored for an extended period of time. Use clean fuel to flush out the tank.

Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting units, engage the parking brake, shut off the engine, and remove the key from the ignition switch.

Inspect the fuel lines and connections for deterioration, damage, or loose connections.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting units, engage the parking brake, shut off the engine, and remove the key from the ignition switch.

2. Place a clean container under the fuel filter.

3. Loosen the drain valve on the bottom of the filter canister (Figure 53).

   

   Figure 53

   1. Water separator/filter canister
   2. Vent plug
   3. Drain valve

4. Tighten the valve after draining.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting units, engage the parking brake, shut off the engine, and remove the key from the ignition switch.

2. Clean the area where the filter canister mounts (Figure 53).

3. Remove the filter canister and clean the mounting surface.

4. Lubricate the gasket on the filter canister with clean oil.

5. Install the filter canister by hand until the gasket contacts the mounting surface; then rotate it an additional 1/2 turn.

Note: Use this procedure only if the fuel system has been purged of air through normal priming procedures and the engine does not start; refer to Bleeding the Fuel System.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting units, engage the parking brake, and shut off the engine.

2. Loosen the pipe connection to the No. 1 nozzle and holder assembly.

   

   Figure 54

   1. Fuel injectors

3. Move the throttle to the FAST position.

4. Turn the key in the key switch to the START position and watch the fuel flow around the connector. Turn the key to the OFF position when there is a continuous flow.

5. Tighten the pipe connector securely.

6. Repeat the procedure on the remaining nozzles.

Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting units, engage the parking brake, shut off the engine, and remove the key from the ignition switch.

Maintain the battery electrolyte level and keep the top of the battery clean. Store the machine where the temperature is cooler rather than warmer to prevent the battery from discharging more rapidly.

Maintain the cell level with distilled or demineralized water. Do not fill the cells above the bottom of the split ring inside each cell. Install the filler caps with the vents pointing to the rear (toward the fuel tank).

Keep the top of the battery clean by washing it periodically with a brush dipped in ammonia or bicarbonate of soda solution. Flush the top surface with water after cleaning. Do not remove the filler caps while cleaning.

The battery cables must be tight on the terminals to provide good electrical contact.

If corrosion occurs at the terminals, disconnect the cables, negative (–) cable first, and scrape the clamps and terminals separately. Connect the cables, positive (+) cable first, and coat the terminals with petroleum jelly.

The fuses in the electrical system are located under the control panel.

The tires are over-inflated for shipping. Therefore, release some of the air to reduce the pressure. The correct air pressure in the tires is 83 kPa (12 psi).

Note: Maintain the recommended pressure in all tires to ensure a good quality of cut and proper machine performance.

If the machine moves when the traction pedal is in the NEUTRAL position, adjust the traction cam.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting units, engage the parking brake, shut off the engine, and remove the key from the ignition switch.

2. Raise a front wheel and a rear wheel off the floor and place support blocks under the frame.

   Warning

   If the machine is not supported adequately, it may accidentally fall, injuring anyone under the machine.

   A front wheel and a rear wheel must be raised off the ground; otherwise, the machine will move during adjustment.

3. Loosen the locknut on the traction adjustment cam (Figure 55).

   

   Figure 55

   1. Traction adjustment cam
   2. Locknut

   Warning

   The engine must be running so that you can make a final adjustment of the traction adjustment cam. Contact with hot or moving parts can result in personal injury.

   Keep your hands, feet, face, and other body parts away from the muffler, other hot parts of the engine, and rotating parts.

4. Start the engine and rotate the cam hex in both directions to determine the mid position of the neutral span.

5. Tighten the locknut securing the adjustment.

6. Shut off the engine.

7. Remove the support blocks and lower the machine to the shop floor. Test drive the machine to ensure that it does not move when the traction pedal is in neutral.

Clean debris off the radiator daily (Figure 56). Clean the radiator hourly if conditions are extremely dusty and dirty; refer to Cleaning the Engine Cooling System.

Figure 56

1. Radiator

The cooling system is filled with a 50/50 solution of water and permanent ethylene glycol antifreeze. Check the coolant level at the beginning of each day before starting the engine.

The capacity of the cooling system is approximately 5.7 L (6 US qt).

1. Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting units, engage the parking brake, shut off the engine, and remove the key.

2. Check the coolant level in the expansion tank (Figure 57). With a cold engine, the coolant level should be approximately midway between the marks on the side of the tank.

3. If the coolant level is low, remove the expansion-tank cap and replenish the system. Do not overfill the tank.

4. Install the expansion-tank cap.

   

   Figure 57

   1. Expansion tank

Remove debris from the radiator daily. Clean it more frequently in dirty conditions.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting units, engage the parking brake, shut off the engine, and remove the key from the ignition switch.

2. Raise the hood.

3. Clean the engine area thoroughly of all debris.

4. Clean both sides of the radiator thoroughly with compressed air (Figure 58).

   

   Figure 58

   1. Radiator

5. Close the hood.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting units, engage the parking brake, shut off the engine, and remove the key from the ignition switch.

2. Loosen the setscrew securing the knob to the parking-brake lever (Figure 59).

   

   Figure 59

   1. Parking-brake lever
   2. Knob
   3. Set screw

3. Rotate the knob until a force of 133 to 178 N (30 to 40 lb) is required to actuate the lever.

4. Tighten the setscrew after the adjustment has been attained.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting units, engage the parking brake, shut off the engine, and remove the key from the ignition switch.

2. Position the throttle lever rearward so that it stops against the control panel slot.

3. Loosen the throttle cable connector on the injection pump lever arm (Figure 75).

   

   Figure 75

   1. Injection pump lever arm

4. Hold the injection pump lever arm against the low idle stop and tighten the cable connector.

5. Loosen the screws securing the throttle control to the control panel.

6. Push the throttle control lever all of the way forward.

7. Slide the stop plate until it contacts the throttle lever and tighten the screws securing the throttle control to the control panel.

8. If the throttle does not stay in position during operation, torque the locknut, used to set the friction device on the throttle lever, to 5 to 6 N∙m (44 to 53 in-lb).

   Note: The maximum force required to operate the throttle lever should be 89 N (20 lb).

The reservoir is filled at the factory with approximately 13.2 L (3.5 US gallons) of high-quality hydraulic fluid. Check the level of the hydraulic fluid before the engine is first started and daily thereafter.

The recommended replacement fluid is Toro Premium All Season Hydraulic Fluid (available in 19 L (5 US gallons) containers or 208 L (55 US gallons) drums—see the parts documentation or your Toro distributor for part numbers).

Alternative fluids: If the Toro fluid is not available, other conventional, petroleum-based fluids may be used, provided that they meet all of the following material properties and industry specifications. Check with your oil supplier to see whether the fluid meets these specifications.

Note: Toro will not assume responsibility for damage caused by improper substitutions, so use only products from reputable manufacturers who will stand behind their recommendation.

The proper hydraulic fluids must be specified for mobile machinery (as opposed to industrial plant usage), multiweight-type, with ZnDTP or ZDDP anti-wear additive package (not an ashless-type fluid).

Important: Many hydraulic fluids are almost colorless, making it difficult to spot leaks. A red dye additive for the hydraulic system fluid is available in 20 ml (2/3 fl oz) bottles. One bottle is sufficient for 15 to 22L (4 to 6 US gallons) of hydraulic fluid. Order Part No. 44-2500 from your Authorized Toro Distributor.

Synthetic, Biodegradable Hydraulic Fluid is available in 19 L (5 US gallons) containers or 208 L (55 US gallons) drums—see the parts documentation or your Toro distributor for part numbers.

This high-quality, synthetic, biodegradable fluid has been tested and found compatible for this Toro model. Other brands of synthetic fluid may have seal compatibility problems and Toro cannot assume responsibility for unauthorized substitutions.

Note: This synthetic fluid is not compatible with the Toro Biodegradable Fluid previously sold. See your Toro Distributor for more information.

Alternative fluids:

• Mobil EAL Envirosyn H 46 (US)

• Mobil EAL Hydraulic Oil 46 (international)

1. Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting units, engage the parking brake, shut off the engine, and remove the key from the ignition switch.

2. Clean the area around the filler neck and cap of the hydraulic tank (Figure 76).

   

   Figure 76

   1. Hydraulic-tank cap

3. Remove the cap.

4. Remove the dipstick from the filler neck and wipe it with a clean rag. Insert the dipstick into the filler neck; then remove it and check the fluid level. The fluid level should be within 6 mm (1/4 inch) of the mark on the dipstick.

5. If the level is low, add the appropriate fluid to raise the level to the full mark.

6. Install the dipstick and cap onto the filler neck.

Use a genuine Toro replacement filter, Part No. 86-3010.

Important: Use of any other filter may void the warranty on some components.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting units, engage the parking brake, shut off the engine, and remove the key from the ignition switch.

2. Clean around the filter mounting area. Place a drain pan under the filter (Figure 77) and remove the filter.

   

   Figure 77

   1. Hydraulic filter

3. Lubricate the new filter gasket and fill the filter with hydraulic fluid.

4. Ensure that the filter mounting area is clean. Screw the filter on until the gasket contacts the mounting plate; then tighten the filter 1/2 turn.

5. Start the engine and let it run for about 2 minutes to purge air from the system. Shut off the engine and check for leaks.

If the fluid becomes contaminated, contact your local Toro distributor because the system must be flushed. Contaminated fluid looks milky or black when compared to clean oil.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting units, engage the parking brake, shut off the engine, and remove the key from the ignition switch.

2. Disconnect the large hydraulic hose (Figure 78) from the reservoir and let the hydraulic fluid flow into a drain pan.

   

   Figure 78

   1. Hydraulic hose

3. Install the hydraulic hose when hydraulic fluid stops draining.

4. Fill the reservoir (Figure 79) with approximately 13.2 L (3.5 US gallons) of hydraulic fluid; refer to Checking the Hydraulic System.

   Important: Use only the hydraulic fluids specified. Other fluids could cause system damage.

   

   Figure 79

   1. Hydraulic fill cap

5. Install the reservoir cap. Start the engine and use all of the hydraulic controls to distribute the hydraulic fluid throughout the system.

6. Check for leaks; then shut off the engine.

7. Check the fluid level and add enough to raise the level to Full mark on the dipstick.

   Important: Do not overfill the reservoir.

Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting units, engage the parking brake, shut off the engine, and remove the key from the ignition switch.

Check the hydraulic lines and hoses for leaks, kinked lines, loose mounting supports, wear, loose fittings, weather deterioration, and chemical deterioration. Make all necessary repairs before operating the machine.

Each day before operating, check the reel-to-bedknife contact, regardless of whether the quality of cut had previously been acceptable. There must be light contact across the full length of the reel and the bedknife (refer to Adjusting the Reel to Bedknife in the cutting unit Operator's Manual).

Use the gauge bar (Figure 80) to adjust the cutting unit. Refer to the cutting unit Operator's Manual for the adjustment procedure.

Figure 80

1. Gauge bar
2. Height adjusting screw
3. Nut
4. Holes used for setting groomer HOG
5. Hole not used

Note: When backlapping, all the cutting units operate together.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting units, engage the parking brake, shut off the engine, and move the Enable/Disable switch to the DISABLE position.

2. Raise the floor panel to expose the controls.

3. Make the initial reel-to-bedknife adjustments appropriate for backlapping; refer to the cutting unit Operator's Manual.

4. Start the engine and allow it to run at low idle speed.

   Danger

   Changing the engine speed while backlapping may cause the cutting units to stall.

   • Never change the engine speed while backlapping

   • Backlap only at idle engine speed.

5. Set the reel speed control to position 1 (Figure 81).

   

   Figure 81

   1. Backlap lever
   2. Reel speed control knob

6. Move the backlap lever to the R (backlap) position (Figure 81).

   Danger

   Contacting the cutting units when they are moving could cause personal injury.

   To avoid personal injury, be certain that you are clear of the cutting units before proceeding.

7. With the Mow/Transport lever in the MOW position, move the Enable/Disable switch to the ENABLE position. Move the Lower Mow/Lift control forward to start the backlapping operation on the designated cutting units.

8. Apply lapping compound with a long-handle brush. Never use a short-handled brush.

9. If the cutting units stall or become erratic while backlapping, select a higher reel speed setting until the speed stabilizes, then return the reel speed to setting 1 or to your desired speed.

10. To make an adjustment to the cutting units while backlapping, turn the cutting units off by moving the Lower Mow/Raise lever rearward; the Enable/Disable switch to the DISABLE position, and shut off the engine. After completing the adjustments, repeat steps 5 through 9.

11. Repeat the procedure for all the cutting units that you want to backlap.

12. When you are finished, return the backlap lever to the MOW position, lower the floor panel, and wash all lapping compound off of the cutting units. Adjust the cutting unit reel-to-bedknife contact as needed. Move the cutting unit reel speed control to the desired mowing position.

    Important: If the backlap switch is not returned to the F (MOW) position after backlapping, the cutting units will not raise or function properly.

    Note: For a better cutting edge, run a file across the front face of the bedknife after lapping. This removes any burrs or rough edges that may have built up on the cutting edge.