Greensmaster® 3250-D 2-Wheel Drive Traction Unit

• Fuel tank capacity: 22.7 L (6 U.S. gallons)

• Recommended Fuel:

  • For best results, 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.

  • Use summer-grade diesel fuel (No. 2-D) at temperatures above -7° C (20° F) and winter-grade (No. 1-D or No. 1-D/2-D blend) below that temperature. Use of winter-grade fuel at lower temperatures provides lower flash point and cold flow characteristics which will ease starting and reduce fuel filter plugging.

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

  • 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, gaskets in contact with fuel as they may be degraded over time.

    • Fuel filter plugging may be expected for a time after converting to biodiesel blends.

    • Contact your distributor if you wish for more information on biodiesel.

1. Clean around the fuel-tank cap and remove it (Figure 21).

   

   Figure 21

   1. Fuel-tank cap

2. Fill the tank until the level is 6 to 13 mm (1/4 to 1/2 inch) below the bottom of the filler neck.

   Important: Do not overfill.

3. Install the cap.

4. Wipe up any fuel that may have spilled.

Before starting the machine each day, perform the following procedures:

• Check the engine-oil level—refer to Checking the Engine Oil.

• Drain water from the fuel filter—refer to Draining Water from the Fuel Filter.

• Check the cooling system—refer to Cooling System Maintenance.

• Check the tire pressure—refer to Checking the Tire Pressure.

• Check the hydraulic-fluid level—refer to Checking the Hydraulic-Fluid Level.

• Check the reel-to-bedknife contact—refer to Checking the Reel-to-Bedknife Contact.

Refer to the engine manual supplied with the machine for oil change and maintenance procedures recommended during the break-in period.

Only 8 hours of operation is required for the break-in period.

Since the first hours of operation are critical to future dependability of the machine, monitor its functions and performance closely so that minor difficulties, which could lead to major problems, are noted and can be corrected. Inspect the machine frequently during break-in for signs of oil leakage, loose fasteners, or any other malfunction.

Important: Do not use ether or other types of starting fluid.

Note: You may need to bleed the fuel system before starting the engine if any of the following situations have occurred:

• Initial start up of a new engine.

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

• Maintenance has been performed upon fuel system components.

Refer to your engine Owner’s Manual.

1. Sit on the seat, lock the parking brake, disengage the raise/lower mow control and move the functional-control lever to the NEUTRAL position.

2. Remove your foot from the traction pedal and make sure the pedal is in the NEUTRAL position.

3. Move the throttle lever to the SLOW position.

4. Insert the key into the switch and rotate it to the ON position. Hold it in the ON position until the glow-plug-indicator light goes off (approximately 6 seconds).

5. Turn the ignition key to the START position.

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

6. Release the key when the engine starts and allow it to move to the ON position.

7. Allow the engine to warm up for a few minutes before operating.

   Important: When starting the engine for the first time or after an overhaul of the engine, operate the machine in forward and reverse for 1 to 2 minutes. Turn the steering wheel to the left and right to check the steering response. Then shut the engine off and wait for all moving parts to stop; refer to Shutting Off the Engine. Check for oil leaks, loose parts and any other noticeable malfunctions.

1. Move the throttle lever to the FAST position.

2. Move the raise/lower mow control lever forward momentarily.

   The cutting units should lower and all the reels should rotate.

   Note: The function lever should be in the middle (mow) position for the reels to run when lowering the cutting units

3. Move the raise/lower mow control lever rearward.

   The cutting reels should stop rotating and the cutting units should raise to the full transport position.

4. Engage the brake to keep the machine from moving, and operate the traction pedal through the forward and reverse positions.

5. Continue the above procedure for 1 to 2 minutes. Move the functional-control lever to the NEUTRAL position, lock the parking brake, and shut off the engine.

6. Check for fluid leaks and tighten the hydraulic fittings if any leaks are found.

   Note: When the machine is new and the bearings and reels are tight, it is necessary to use the FAST throttle lever position for this check. A fast throttle setting may not be required after the break-in period.

   Note: If fluid leaks continue to appear, contact your authorized Toro distributor for assistance and, if necessary, replacement parts.

   Important: A trace of fluid on the motor or wheel seals is normal. Seals require a small amount of lubrication to perform properly.

1. Move the throttle lever to the SLOW position, pull back the raise/lower mow control, and move the functional-control lever to the NEUTRAL position.

2. Rotate the ignition key to the OFF position to shut off the engine. Remove the key from the switch to prevent accidental starting.

3. Close the fuel-shutoff valve before storing the machine.

The purpose of the safety-interlock system is to prevent operation of the machine where there is possible injury to you or damage to the machine.

The safety-interlock system prevents the engine from starting unless:

• The traction pedal is in the NEUTRAL position.

• The functional-control lever is in the NEUTRAL position.

The safety-interlock system prevents the machine from moving unless:

• The parking brake is disengaged.

• You are seated in the operator's seat.

• The functional-control lever is in the MOW position or the TRANSPORT position.

The safety-interlock system prevents the reels from operating unless the functional-control lever is in the MOW position.

• Ensure that the cutting units are fully raised.

• Move the functional-control lever to the TRANSPORT position.

• Use the brakes to slow the machine while going down steep hills to avoid loss of control.

• Always approach rough areas at a reduced speed and cross severe undulations carefully.

• Familiarize yourself with the width of the machine. Do not attempt to pass between objects that are close together to prevent costly damage and downtime.

Important: If the leak detector alarm (if equipped on your model) sounds or you notice an oil leak while cutting on a green, immediately raise the cutting units, drive directly off the green, and stop the machine in an area away from the green. Determine the cause of the leak and correct the problem.

Before mowing greens, find a clear area and practice performing basic machine functions (e.g., starting and stopping the machine, raising and lowering the cutting units, and turning).

Inspect the green for debris, remove the flag from the cup, and determine the best direction to mow. Base the direction to mow on the previous mowing direction. Always mow in an alternate pattern from the previous mowing so that the grass blades are less apt to lay down and therefore be difficult to trap between the reel blades and the bedknife.

After mowing, thoroughly wash the machine with a garden hose without a nozzle so that excessive water pressure does not contaminate and damage the seals and bearings. Do not wash a warm engine or the electrical connections with water.

Important: Do not use brackish or reclaimed water to clean the machine.

Important: Do not use power-washing equipment to wash the machine. Power-washing equipment may damage the electrical system, loosen important decals, or wash away necessary grease at friction points. Avoid excessive use of water near the control panel, engine, and battery.

Important: Do not wash the machine with the engine running. Washing the machine with the engine running may result in internal engine damage.

After cleaning the machine, do the following:

• Inspect the machine for possible hydraulic fluid leaks, damage or wear to hydraulic and mechanical components.

• Inspect the cutting units for sharpness.

• Lubricate the brake-shaft assembly with SAE 30 oil or spray lubricant to deter corrosion and help keep the machine performing satisfactorily during the next mowing operation.

In case of an emergency, you can tow the machine for up to 0.4 km (1/4 mile).

Important: Do not tow the machine faster than 3 to 5 km/h (2 to 3 mph) to avoid damaging the drive system. If you must move the machine more than 0.4 km (1/4 mile), transport it on a truck or trailer.

1. Locate the bypass valve on the pump and rotate it counter-clockwise 2 full turns (Figure 24).

   

   Figure 24

   View from below

   1. Bypass valve

2. Before starting the engine, close the bypass valve by rotating it clockwise 2 full turns (Figure 24).

   Important: Do not start the engine when the valve is open.

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

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

• Tie the machine down securely using straps, chains, cable, or ropes. Both front and rear straps should be directed down and outward from the machine (Figure 25).

  

  Figure 25

  1. Tie-down loop (each side)
  2. Rear tie-down loop

The machine has grease fittings that must be lubricated regularly with No. 2 general-purpose, lithium-base grease. If the machine is operated under normal conditions, lubricate all bearings and bushings after every 50 hours of operation. Lubricate fittings immediately after every washing, regardless of the interval listed.

The following machine bearings and bushings must be lubricated:

• Rear wheel hub (1) (Figure 26)

  

  Figure 26

• Castor bearing (1) (Figure 26)

• Steering cylinder (2) (Figure 26)

• Lift arms (3) (Figure 27)

  

  Figure 27

• Traction pedal pivot (1) (Figure 28)

  

  Figure 28

• Carrier frame pivot (3) (Figure 29)

  

  Figure 29

1. Wipe the grease fitting clean so foreign matter cannot be forced into the bearing or bushing.

2. Pump grease into the bearing or bushing.

3. Wipe up excess grease.

4. Apply grease to the reel motor spline shaft and onto the lift arm when the cutting unit is removed for service.

5. Apply a few drops of SAE 30 engine oil or spray lubricant (WD 40) daily to all pivot points after cleaning.

Note: Refer to the Cutting Unit Operator’s Manual for cutting unit lubrication requirements.

• 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.

• Changing the air filter before it is necessary increases the chance of dirt entering the engine when the filter is removed.

• Ensure that the cover is seated correctly and seals with the air cleaner body.

1. Release the latches that secure the air-cleaner cover to the air-cleaner body (Figure 30).

   

   Figure 30

   1. Air-cleaner latches
   2. Dust cap
   3. Filter
   4. Outlet valve

2. Remove the cover from the air-cleaner body.

3. Before removing the filter, use low pressure air (275 kPa (40 psi), clean and dry) to help remove large accumulations of debris packed between the outside of the primary filter and the canister. This cleaning process prevents debris getting into the intake when you remove the primary filter.

   Important: Avoid using high pressure air which could force dirt through the filter into the intake tract.

4. Remove and replace the primary filter, as follows:

   Important: Do not clean the used element.

   1. Inspect the new filter for shipping damage; do not use a damaged element.

   2. Carefully pull the old filter out of the filter body and discard it.

   3. Insert the new filter by applying pressure to the outer rim of the element to seat it in the canister, checking the sealing end of the filter and the body.

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

5. Clean the dirt ejection port located in the removable cover. Remove the rubber outlet valve from the cover, clean the cavity and replace the outlet valve.

6. 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.

7. Ensure that the latches secure the cover to the body (Figure 30).

1. Position the machine on a level surface and shut off the engine.

2. Place a drain pan under the fuel filter.

3. Open the drain plug on the fuel filter approximately one turn and drain any accumulated water (Figure 34).

   

   Figure 34

   1. Fuel filter

4. Tighten the plug after draining.

   Note: Because the accumulated water will be mixed with diesel fuel, drain the fuel filter into a suitable container and dispose of it properly.

1. Close the fuel shutoff valve (Figure 35) below the fuel tank.

   

   Figure 35

   1. Fuel shut-off valve

2. Clean the area where the filter canister mounts.

3. Place a drain pan under the fuel filter.

4. Open the filter drain plug and breather valve (Figure 36).

   

   Figure 36

   1. Breather valve
   2. Fuel filter
   3. Filter drain plug

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

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

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

8. Tighten the drain plug on the bottom of the filter canister and open the fuel shut off valve.

9. Dispose of the fuel and filter according to local regulations.

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

The battery is located under the cover to the left of the operator’s seat (Figure 37).

Remove the screws (Figure 37), washers, and nuts to remove the cover. After accessing the battery, use the hardware to secure the cover to the machine.

Figure 37

1. Screws
2. Cover

1. Access the battery; refer to Accessing the Battery.

2. Remove the negative battery cable from the battery post (Figure 38).

   

   Figure 38

   1. Negative battery cable
   2. Positive battery cable

3. Lift the insulator and remove the positive battery cable from the battery post (Figure 38).

1. Access the battery; refer to Accessing the Battery.

2. Connect the positive cable to the battery and tighten the battery-clamp nut (Figure 39).

   

   Figure 39

   1. Positive battery cable
   2. Negative battery cable

3. Connect the negative cable to the battery and tighten the battery-clamp nut (Figure 39).

1. Disconnect the battery; refer to Disconnecting the Battery.

2. Remove the fasteners that secure the battery to the tray and lift out the battery.

3. Connect a 2 to 4 A battery charger to the battery posts. Charge the battery for at least 2 hours at 4 A or for at least 4 hours at 2 A until the specific gravity is 1.250 or higher and the temperature is at least 16°C (60°F) with all cells gassing freely.

   Warning

   Charging the battery produces gasses that can explode.

   Never smoke near the battery and keep sparks and flames away from the battery.

   Important: If you do not charge the battery for at least the time specified above, you may reduce the life of the battery.

4. When the battery is charged, disconnect the charger from the electrical outlet and battery posts.

5. Place the battery on the battery tray and secure it with the battery clamp and fasteners removed previously.

6. Connect the battery; refer to Connecting the Battery.

   Warning

   Incorrect battery cable routing could damage the tractor and cables, causing sparks. Sparks can cause the battery gasses to explode, resulting in personal injury.

   Always connect the positive (red) battery cable before connecting the negative (black) cable.

The fuses in the electrical system of the machine are located under the seat (Figure 40).

Figure 40

1. Fuses

Vary the tire pressure for the front wheels, depending upon your turf conditions, from a minimum of 55 kPa (8 psi) to a maximum of 83 kPa (12 psi).

Vary the tire pressure for the rear wheel from a minimum of 55 kPa (8 psi) to a maximum of 103 kPa (15 psi).

Wheel nut torque specification: 95 to 122 N∙m (70 to 90 ft-lb)

Note: To ensure even distribution, torque the wheel nuts in a X pattern.

If the machine creeps when the traction control pedal is in the NEUTRAL position, adjust the neutral-return mechanism.

1. Block up under the frame so that one of the front wheels is off of the floor.

   Note: If the machine is equipped with a 3-Wheel Drive Kit, raise and block the rear wheel.

2. Start the engine, move the throttle to the SLOW position, and ensure that the front wheel that is off of the floor is not rotating.

3. If the wheel is rotating, shut off the engine and proceed as follows:

   1. Loosen both jam nuts securing the traction-control cable to the bulkhead on the hydrostat (Figure 41). Ensure that the jam nuts are loosened equally and sufficiently to allow adjustment.

      

      Figure 41

      1. Traction cable
      2. Bulkhead
      3. Jam nuts
      4. Eccentric
      5. Locknut

      Note: Loosen the nut securing the eccentric to the top of the hydrostat (Figure 41).

   2. Move the functional-control lever to the NEUTRAL position and the throttle lever to the SLOW position.

   3. Start the engine.

   4. Rotate the eccentric until creep does not occur in either direction.

   5. When the wheel stops rotating, tighten the nut locking the eccentric and the adjustment (Figure 41).

   6. Verify the adjustment with the throttle lever in the SLOW and FAST position.

   7. From each side of the bulkhead, tighten the locknuts evenly, securing the traction cable to the bulkhead (Figure 41). Do not twist the cable.

      Note: If cable tension exists when the functional-control lever is in the NEUTRAL position, the machine may creep when you move the lever to the MOW or TRANSPORT position.

The machine is adjusted at the factory, but speed may be varied if desired.

1. Loosen the jam nut on the trunnion bolt (Figure 43).

2. Loosen the nut securing the lock and mow brackets on the pedal pivot.

   

   Figure 43

   1. Jam nut
   2. Nut
   3. Trunnion bolt

3. Rotate the trunnion bolt clockwise to reduce the mowing speed and counterclockwise to increase the mowing speed.

4. Tighten the jam nut on the trunnion bolt and the nut on the pedal pivot to lock the adjustment (Figure 43). Check the adjustment and adjust as required.

To prevent the system from overheating, the radiator screen and radiator must be kept clean. Check and clean the screen and radiator daily or, if necessary, hourly. Clean these components more frequently in dusty, dirty conditions.

1. Remove the radiator screen (Figure 44).

2. Working from the fan side of the radiator, blow out the radiator with compressed air.

   

   Figure 44

   1. Radiator screen
   2. Radiator

3. Clean the screen and install it.

The capacity of the cooling system is approximately 3.2 L (3.3 US qt).

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

1. Park the machine on a level surface.

2. Check the coolant level (Figure 45).

   It should be between the lines on the reserve tank when the engine is cold.

   

   Figure 45

   1. Reserve tank

3. If the coolant is low, remove the reserve tank cap and add a 50/50 mixture of water and permanent ethylene glycol antifreeze. Do not overfill.

4. Install the reserve-tank cap.

Firmly apply the brakes and drive the machine at mowing speed until the brakes are hot, as indicated by their smell. You may need to adjust the brakes after the break-in period; refer to Adjusting the Brakes.

A brake adjustment rod is located on each side of the machine so that you can adjust the brakes equally.

1. While moving forward in transport speed, press the brake pedal; both wheels should lock equally.

   Caution

   Testing the brakes in a confined area where others are present could cause injury.

   Always check the brakes in a wide, open-spaced, flat area free from people and obstructions before and after the adjustment.

2. If the brakes do not lock equally, adjust the brakes as follows:

   1. Disconnect the brake rods by removing the cotter pin and clevis pin (Figure 46).

      

      Figure 46

      1. Clevis pin and cotter pin
      2. Jam nut
      3. Clevis
      4. Brake shaft

   2. Loosen the jam nut and adjust the clevis accordingly (Figure 46).

   3. Assemble the clevis to the brake shaft (Figure 46).

   4. Check the amount of free travel of the brake pedal. There should be 13 to 26 mm (1/2 to 1 inch) travel before the brake shoes make contact with the brake drums. Adjust, if necessary, to achieve this setting.

   5. While moving forward in transport speed, press the brake pedal; both brakes should lock equally. Adjust them, if necessary.

Important: Burnish the brakes annually; refer to the Burnishing the Brakes section.

Ensure that the belt is properly tensioned to ensure proper operation of the machine and prevent unnecessary wear.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, shut off the engine, engage the parking brake, remove the key, and wait for all moving parts to stop.

2. Apply moderate thumb pressure to the belt between the pulleys (10 kg or 22 lb). The belt should deflect 7 to 9 mm (0.28 to 0.35 inch). If not, complete the following procedure to adjust the belt tension:

   

   Figure 47

   1. Alternator belt—apply pressure here
   2. Alternator
   3. Adjusting strap

   1. Loosen the bolts securing the alternator to the engine and adjusting strap.

   2. Inspect the belt for wear or damage and replace if it is worn.

   3. Using a lever placed between the alternator and the engine block, pull the alternator out to obtain the correct belt tension and tighten the bolts.

The cutting unit lift/drop circuit comes with a flow-control valve (Figure 48). This valve is preset at the factory at approximately 3 turns open, but you may need to adjust it to compensate for differences in hydraulic fluid temperatures, mowing speeds, etc.

Note: Allow the hydraulic fluid to reach full operating temperature before adjusting the flow-control valve.

1. Raise the seat and locate the flow-control valve for the center-pull frame (Figure 48), which is located on the side of the hydraulic manifold.

   

   Figure 48

   1. Flow-control valve

2. Loosen the jam nut on the adjusting knob on the flow control valve.

3. Rotate the knob counterclockwise if the center cutting unit is dropping too late or clockwise if the center cutting unit is dropping too early. You should not need to rotate it more than 1/32 to 1/16 of a turn.

4. Test the adjustment and repeat step 3 as needed; when finished, tighten the jam nut.

Important: Regardless of the hydraulic fluid type used, any traction unit used for off-green applications, verticutting or used during ambient temperatures above 29° C (85°F) should have the Oil Cooler Kit installed; refer to Installing the Oil Cooler.

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

Each day before operating the machine, check the reel-to-bedknife contact, regardless if the quality of cut had previously been acceptable. There must be light contact across the full length of the reel and bedknife; refer to the Cutting Unit Operator’s Manual.

To achieve a consistent, high-quality cut and a uniform after-cut appearance, you must correctly set the reel speed control (located on the manifold block under the cover to the left of the seat). Adjust the reel speed control as follows:

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

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

3. Use table that follows to determine the reel-speed setting for your 5-, 8-, 11-, or 14-blade cutting units (Figure 51).

   

   Figure 51

4. Tilt the operator’s seat forward and support it with the prop rod (Figure 52).

   

   Figure 52

5. To adjust the reel speed by rotating the knob of the reel-speed control (Figure 53) until the indicator arrow are in line with the number that you determined in step 3.

   

   Figure 53

   1. Knob (reel-speed control)
   2. Handle (backlap lever)
   3. Indicator arrow

   Note: You can increase or decrease the reel speed to compensate for turf conditions.

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

2. Tilt the operator’s seat forward and support it with the prop rod (Figure 54).

   

   Figure 54

3. Make initial reel to bedknife adjustments appropriate for honing all the cutting units that you are backlapping; refer to the Cutting Unit Operator's Manual.

4. Rotate the backlap lever to the R position (Figure 55).

   

   Figure 55

   1. Knob (reel-speed control)
   2. Handle (backlap lever)
   3. R position
   4. F position

5. Rotate the reel-speed knob to setting 1 (Figure 55).

6. Start the engine and run at low idle speed.

   Important: Do not change the engine speed while backlapping or the reels may stall. Only backlap at idle engine speed.

7. With the mow/transport lever in the NEUTRAL position, move the raise/lower mow control forward to start the backlapping operation on the reel.

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

   • If the reels 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.

   • To make an adjustment to the cutting units while backlapping, turn the reels off by moving the raise/lower mow control rearward and shut off the engine. After completing adjustments, repeat steps 4 through 8.

9. Repeat the steps 4 through 8 for all cutting units that you want to backlap.

10. When finished, return the backlap lever to the F position, move the reel speed knob to the desired reel-speed setting, lower the seat, and wash all lapping compound off of the cutting units. Adjust cutting unit reel to bedknife as needed.

    Important: If you do not return the backlap lever to the F position after backlapping, the cutting units will not raise or function properly.